Fantastic Provence Towns

For many people thinking about booking one of the many luxury villas in France, picking where to stay can be tricky. This article looks at the Provence region and the types of towns that Provence villas have easy access to.

First on our list is the beautiful town of Uzès. The town could be considered a window to the past with its old towers rising up above the rooftops and its narrow winding streets. The town was also home to famous French figures like the dramatist Racine, who claimed the town inspired the only comedy he ever wrote Les Plaideurs. The town was also described by King Louis XIII as the "premier duchy of France" and this really comes though with its fantastic setting.

Next up is the fantastic town of Roussillon, set on a pretty little hilltop just Northeast of Gordes, and is surround by fantastic views out over the surrounding countryside. The towns name translates into "russet" in English, which perfectly describes the ochre coloured earth of the local area. The earthy red colour is also matched in the buildings of the town that are all shades of dark reds, burnt orange and dusky pink. This makes for a beautiful sight at sunset as the who town seems to glow with a breath taking brilliance.

Third on our list is the gorgeous medieval hill village of Roquebrune, located in the Eastern Riviera just south west of Menton. This gem of a village, said to be one of the finest along the Côte d'Azur, has been extensively restored over the years to a point where you get a real feel for what it must have felt like back in medieval times. The town features a series of winding alleys and steep stairways that converge at the feudal castle that crowns the village.

The penultimate choice on our list is the brilliant little town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, another hill top town filled with fascinating little snippets of history. The old houses, narrow alleys and prominent Gothic arches wont fail to charm you and the fantastic range of arts and crafts available in this town is astonishing.

Finally on the list, but in no way the worst, is another of Provence's fantastic hill villages. The village of Gordes, just east of Avignon, is perhaps one of the best known villages in Provence. The village today is populated by many artists escaping life in the busier cities. You can find silks, potters, weavers and many others in the village, and with its beautiful setting and fantastic traditional looks it's easy to see why.

AK Villas are experts in the field of Provence villas who also offer an extensive range of Luxury villas in France.

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Advanced Driving - The Diamond Special Test

On Passing the Diamond Special Test

After giving driving lessons in Nottingham for some years I decided to update my driving skills by taking the Diamond Special test again after some years without retraining. The following is article is a guide on using commentary driving to improve advanced driving skills both in terms of forward planning and hazard awareness.

After passing the Diamond Special test in 2005, I considered my driving to be of a very high standard. Upon learning that the test now has a three year life span, I decided it was time to take the test again and purchased the Diamond 'Manoeuvres and Hazard Perception' DVD to use as a study aid. Like most ADIs, I regularly demonstrate the manoeuvres to pupils and did not anticipate having any problems in this area. However, I was greatly impressed by the commentary drive section of the DVD and realised that this is perhaps something I have neglected in my own driving. I have used commentary techniques in a limited way when training PDIs for the part 2 test of driving ability, but have never utilized it as a major part of driver training. After a few 10 minute commentary drives I believed my hazard perception and planning skills to be up to scratch and made a date to re-take the test.

I met Diamond Examiner Russell Jones DipDI in a local area and began the test. After 30 minutes of driving in an unfamiliar area I noticed that my concentration was wavering and I was finding it very difficult to remain totally alert to the driving situation. The route for the Special test was quite complex, taking in many country roads and small villages. Working and living in a city environment, this is a type of driving which I am not practised in. Junctions were obscured by trees and hills which made them very difficult to approach at the correct speed. Driving in an unfamiliar urban location on a multi lane road made reading signs and markings, as well as navigating the traffic flow very challenging indeed.

After 90 minutes of driving the test was over and I was not really surprised to find I was unsuccessful on this occasion. Approaching junctions, timing of signals and late decisions regarding road markings had been the problem areas. The day after the test I had another look at the Diamond Hazard perception DVD and noticed how far below the standard I actually was.

Commentary - training for the intuitive drive

Commentary is a proven way to develop advanced driving skills. It enables skills to be brought into conscious awareness where they can be analysed and refined by the driver aiming for a point where they become intuitive and automatic. I find commentary driving greatly improves the effectiveness of early observations by encouraging an active scanning process, the driver becomes more actively interested in the drive which leads to a greater awareness of the driving environment. A greater sense of timing is achieved, encouraging smooth use of the MSPSL routine and greater vehicle sympathy. Without commentary it is easy for a driver to lapse into a daydreaming state, resulting in looking at a fixed point ahead and missing vital driving information, attention is focussed elsewhere rather than on the driving task.

I found it best to build a commentary system up using the Observation-Anticipation-Planning system shown in the DVD. Start by talking through the hazard routine as you use it, mentioning all stages of MSPSL including physical actions such as mirror checks, braking, gear change etc. This first stage improves the coordination of the controls, encouraging a higher level of vehicle sympathy. Mirror checks become more regular, acceleration sense is brought into play resulting in much less need for harsh braking. Questioning whether each gear change is absolutely necessary develops a much more economical driving style and smoother ride. Timing and consistency in the use of signals is brought to the attention, are you making best use of them? As you get through the awkward stage of talking to yourself expand into MSPSLADA and you will see this is a very flexible and comfortable system of car control, changing from the rigid by the numbers style taught to learners during their early stages into a fluid and involving system of driving.

Next, start to add other elements into the commentary. Road signs and markings can be seen and their meanings spoken aloud, along with the course of action taken as a result of seeing the sign. You may find that signs begin to appear that simply did not attract your attention before. 'Saying what you see' helps to develop an active scanning process. Keeping the eyes moving helps the driver to gain information to the front, sides and rear of the car. This is essential when driving in an unfamiliar area. Late and incorrect decisions are so easy if you are not sure where you are headed for, commentary helps a driver to sort and prioritise visual information leading to earlier decisions, alleviating stress and assisting in the forming of a driving plan. Lane changing, speed management and car control all improve when we see the signs and markings early.

Add the actions of other road users into the mix. The unpredictability of some road users combined with an ever changing traffic scene gives the commentary a sense of calm urgency. Attention is totally focussed on the drive, cutting down reaction times by allowing the driver to anticipate the actions of others at a much earlier stage. By talking through the actions of other road users, observation links can be made, helping prevent the driver from having to make last minute snap decisions. As a result all actions take on a smooth and unhurried approach, the driver has taken control of the situation and can more easily manage risk.

Finally, add environmental factors such as road and weather conditions. Notice the road surface, bends, trees and buildings, Is the road wet or dry? By describing the physical environment aloud during commentary, an awareness of how the vehicle is directly affected can be developed and the drive planned in accordance. Potholes and debris in the road can be avoided without the need for harsh steering, the vehicle can be positioned to gain the best possible view of the road ahead, speed can be altered early to allow for restricted zones of vision.

When all these elements are combined into a comprehensive commentary the driver is in a better position to produce the standard of drive demanded by the Special Test. I have also found that after regular practise of commentary, driving instruction improves as well. The learner's attention can be directed towards hazards earlier leading to greater opportunities for the use of Q & A. Inviting commentary from a pupil makes the lesson more interesting by involving them directly in the decision making process as well as developing planning skills.

After much practise of commentary driving I took the Diamond Special Test again and was successful in passing. I did notice a definite improvement in my drive compared with the first attempt. It is good to know my skills are back up to scratch and surprising how much they deteriorate if not practised regularly. I would recommend the Diamond Special test to any instructor who takes their profession seriously as it offers an excellent opportunity to improve a wide range of driving and teaching skills.

More info at http://www.mydrivinginstructortraining.com

My name is Russ Chaplin. I am a driving instructor working in the Nottingham area. I am a Diamond Advanced instructor, holding the Diploma in driving instruction and have passed the Diamond Advanced and Special driving tests. As an ORDIT registered driving instructor trainer, I am qualified to deliver training for all parts of the ADI qualifying examinations, as well as Check test re-assessment. I teach all levels of driving and also deliver the Pass Plus post test driving course.

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The Music Lovers Guide to the Balearics

More recently the Balearic Isles have been associated with being a clubbers paradise, especially Ibiza. And for good reason too. In Majorca too, you can head to Tito's or Araxes for classic dance anthems and cutting edge sounds. But the islands have a long history with music, and provide classical, traditional and modern music, catering for all tastes throughout the season, and it doesn't end when the tourists go home.

Jazz

Formentera has had jazz concerts on Saturday nights from 10:00 p.m. to approximately 1:00 a.m. all summer long in the Plaza de Sant Francesc. It's a tradition that's lasted 15 years now, and the number of concerts, as well as the number of listeners has been growing year on year.

Ciutadella, Majorca, is relatively quiet, but it does offer a wide variety of clubs, one of which is Jazzbah in Pla de Sant Joan. This jazz club offers a cool cats' refuge from the thumping dance beats providing high standards of live music every weekend.

Classical

Coves del Drac (Cuevas del Drac in Castilian) is a well known tourist spot, with throngs of tourists being lead through the lit cave system. The end of the walk leads to a massive natural amphitheatre and there, as in the Coves d'es Hams, the lucky travellers are treated to a classical music performance on a stage floating on an underground lake. The whole thing is really very well done, even if the actual caves are often heaving with tourists.

Pollença Music Festival is organized annually. Eleven classical music concerts are staged throughout July and August. In Palma, the Bellver Castle Music Festival takes place in the open air courtyard of Bellver Castle, creating a wonderful atmosphere. It takes place every year in July.

If opera is more your thing, you should try to get tickets to one of the annual Maó Opera Season in Menorca. Held at Maó's Teatre Principal since 1972 there are 2 opera seasons during June and December.

It's also worth checking what's on at the Auditorium Majorca. Concerts, spectacular opera or theatre performances are often staged.

Traditional

Various bars and hotels run regular flamenco nights, and most hotels will open these nights to all comers, not just residents. Other traditional music, specific to the Balearic Isles can be found during fiestas. Christmas Songs, Caramelles, are played traditionally in Formentera's and Ibiza's churches during the Christmas period. Or there is the traditional 'cantada'. Cantadas are a major part of the festival of Saint James, held every July 25th. The songs are intended to resolve the differences between the sexes, various churches and venues in Formentera will have performances around the time of the festival.

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Top Activities for Dublin Vacationers

Dublin is a very popular destination among backpackers from all over the globe. The city is known for its lively culture, warmth, history, strong traditions and the lovely landmarks it houses. Once you land in Dublin, there are such a wide variety of activities to choose from, that you might just end up missing out on few of them. Here is an easy to follow guide to touring the Irish capital.

Culinary Explorations: The Irish cuisine is not very widespread but for tasting authentic Irish food, what better place to be in, than Dublin. After all Ireland is incomplete without its traditional stew and steak. Get your mouth on some of the best cooked steaks, traditional soups and salads at the many restaurants in Dublin. While the smaller café's and pubs offer these delicacies at reasonable rates, the more high-end restaurants like Peploe's cater to fine dining. Irish fast food is unique too and the burgers and malts are lip smacking, to say the least. Taste awesome food, the Irish way at the numerous sea food restaurants. There is usually an international menu offered with high quality wines on the cards as well. However, on the alcohol front try some traditional Irish beer and if you dare, a forbidden taste of poteen. A couple of the best places to sit and enjoy the flavors of Dublin are the Temple Bar and the Porterhouse.

Historical Explorations: If the history student in you had been lying dormant for ages, Dublin provides the perfect trigger to awaken it. With the large number of sites which have interesting historical significance, the city of Dublin needs to be visited for the historic treats it houses. The best among these are the Dublin Castle, the Kilmainham Gaol, Guinness Storehouse, the National Museum of Ireland, Christ Church, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Leinster House, James Joyce Museum, National Library and the Custom House. These sights are all lovely and give visitors a feel of the Irish roots and what the Irish had been through over the ages.

Cultural Explorations: With such rich traditions and history, the Irish could never be far off on the cultural front. The first thing that creeps into one mind on this aspect is the famed Dublin theater scene. With the Abbey and the Gate theatre, the Dublin trip is indeed incomplete without having revisited the plays of Synge and Yeats, which put Ireland on the world map. The association of these theaters with historic actors, who made it big on the Broadway and New York stage, can be felt only on a theater trip here. Walk through the gardens of Trinity College and come face to face with intellectualism and a unique tranquility. Visit Andrew's Lane for a dose of Irish music or the Dublin Fringe Festival if you are lucky enough.

Shopping and Miscellaneous: Shop at the Grafton Street and Henry Street. The Cake Café, the Dubh Linn Gardens and the Loft Market are spots which must be visited at least once to savor the Irish cakes, scenery and the trends in fashion respectively. Explore the local pubs and cafes all over Dublin before your trip ends. With excellent brews and espressos on offer, these are not part of the culinary exploration but form an inseparable part of a vacation in Dublin. Visit the Dublin Spire or Spike, which marks the millennium celebrations of Dublin. The largest sculpture, the spire is a perfect spot to explore on the tail end of the trip.

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Things to Do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Over the past ten years, Costa Rica real estate has become very popular, especially for buyers from the U.S. and Canada. People flock to the country to enjoy the warm sun, long stretches of beach, and tropical mountains. Costa Rica is known for its diverse plant and animal life, with one in every 20 species of animals and plants in the world taking up residence here.

It goes without saying that Costa Rican beaches are popular. There are not many places in the world where people can reside by the shoreline and view nearby mountains. Manuel Antonio is considered one of the most exclusive areas of the country. What began as a small village with a lovely national park became more popular as tourists discovered the area.

Though Manuel Antonio National Park encompasses just 4,014 acres, it features beaches, offshore islands, wildlife, and a rainforest with walking trails. It is not uncommon to see a variety of monkeys, some sloths, and coatimundis here. If visitors look hard, they may even find a beautiful scarlet macaw. More than 150,000 people visit this park each year and the high volume caused the Park Service to begin limiting visitors to 600 daily.

When not visiting the park or relaxing on the beach, tourists and residents enjoy SCUBA diving, surfing, snorkeling, and sport fishing. Rafting on the Naranjo or Savegre River is a great way to spend a day in the gorgeous weather. Early morning or evening hours are the perfect times for a horseback ride. Riders travel to one of the pristine waterfalls like Tocori and enjoy the relaxing sights and sounds.

At night, there is plenty to do and see in Manuel Antonio. Popular restaurants include Bogart's, which features Lebanese cuisine, and multiple seafood establishments such as Claro Que Si and Marlintinis. There are even vegetarian dining options like Mira Olas. After dinner, the Byblos Resort located on the road to the park features a lively casino for those who enjoy gambling. An on-site sports bar allows patrons to catch up on the latest scores.

Whether real estate in Manuel Antonio is purchased as a vacation property, retirement residence, or to rent to tourists, the investment is a smart move. There is so much to experience here, all of it offered in an environment that continues to amaze. Sometimes, it will be awe-inspiring enough just to sit in a chair and take it all in because this truly is paradise.

Costa Rica real estate has become one of the hottest commodities in the real estate market. If you are considering purchasing Costa Rica real estate as an investment or to make a permanent move, visit CostaRicaEye.com today!

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Delivered Into Freedom

During a trip to South India in the 1990's, I was fortunate to travel with Loretta's group. By the time we taxied into Puttaparthi, it was too late for ashram life; we only had time for supper at one of the local hotels. Early the next morning after the rain stopped, we felt electrified as we landed in the front row at darshan (the sighting of a holy person). This was an extreme experience: first darshan, first row; and in those days, the first row really meant the first line. We didn't mind that the cement felt damp or that water puddles from the summer monsoon downpour collected near our feet.

Swami floated in on an ocean of silence. As he came closer, everyone reached toward him to offer letters, longing to receive a blessing. He strode intimately close and said, "Wait, wait, wait."

We felt elated that spoke to our group, and upon arrival at that. We hoped we were waiting for that sought after interview.

Liberation or Naught

A few days later we traveled to Whitefield. A handful of us stopped off at the Boy's College office after lunch. Dr. Anil Kumar, the principal, knew Loretta, and after a short conversation he invited us to tour the college.

We were treated like VIP's. As we entered each classroom in session, the boys stood in respect. Those moments felt extraordinary as we breezed through the college corridors in the company of Dr. Kumar. When we were about to leave, he guided us into the auditorium jingling his set of keys as a percussion instrument and singing in full crescendo-the man had a phenomenal bass voice.

Although his professional studies were in Botany, Dr. Kumar's true gift was public speaking. After the song he broke into a mystery, sharing secrets of an intimate conversation he had with the Master.

"Would you aspire for liberation?" Swami asked.

"Not really," he replied.

"And, why not?" The smile from the Master's lips was engaging and the look in his eye questioning.

"It sounds desirable, at least we've been told to renounce this world and strive for release, to reach moksha, and end the cycle of birth and death," Dr. Anil Kumar spoke while the Master's attention was riveted. "But, I've never experienced this, so how can I desire it? I have to trust, not knowing anything about that experience. But, the world-I know."

A New Life

This is the crux of the issue: to let go of the birth-death cycle is to aspire for a part of our journey that is unknown--it's a new world, uncharted territory-from which we will not return to this worldly life. We need to wait until the inspiration for this spiritual endeavor fires our passion.

To receive this blessing we need to burn the boats, so to speak, leap ahead knowing that we must fight or perish and never turn back. This will give us the confidence, directive, fortitude and will to implement the changes necessary so we succeed.

You have the potential. The ruby slippers are on your feet.

Diane Carol Mark brings a personal touch to her writing from fourteen years of extensive Asian travel. In addition to writing as a career for over ten years, Diane is a professional fine artist who lives in the Pacific Northwest. Dailey Swan Publishing has scheduled her novel Gold: The Zen of Dr. Shu Li for publication in July 2012. She has studied in an Intensive Individual Writers Program with author and teacher, Tom Bird. Her editor is the renowned Paul McCarthy, New York editor of nine #1 New York Times and international bestselling authors.

See her blogs at http://oracleofthewest.com/

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A Future of Flight Education in Everett, Washington

Have you ever wondered how Boeing puts together the massive 747 jets and other commercial airplanes that fly in and out of Seattle-Tacoma International airport and others worldwide every day? The Future of Flight Tour in Everett, Washington, gives visitors the opportunity to see how commercial jets are assembled, step by step. The Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour is the only place in North America where you'll find a publicly available tour of a commercial jet assembly plant, giving children and adults a unique opportunity to learn the inner workings of a Boeing jet.

The tour starts with a 28,000 square foot Aviation Center Gallery. The Gallery includes an Airplane Design Zone, where you can bring a commercial jet design of your own to life on the interactive touch-screen computers. Kids can even print their final jet airplane schematic to take home. The design process teaches children all of the technical details of jet airplane construction and flight.

The Passenger Experience Zone gives visits a sneak peek of the new 787 Dreamliner's in-flight entertainment system. The modern new jet includes flat screen HDTVs in the cabins and fold down TVs behind each chair. Once you've walked through the new jet, Boeing sends you to their Research Experience Lab to ask for your opinion as a potential passenger.

For curious science-minded visitors, the Future of Flight Tour offers a Flight Systems Zone. The Flight Systems area satisfies the curiosity of those who wonder "Just how did this plane get up so high?" during flight. The tour includes complexities of avionics, navigation and hydraulics. Children who start to yawn at learning about the level of air compression on the wings that makes a plane fly can be dropped off in an aviation play area. The kids zone is filled with aviation toys for children as young as toddler age.

Jet engine technology has drastically changed since its initial launch in commercial airplanes. The Future of Flight Tour's Propulsion & Jet Engine Zone shows video animation and real-life examples of parts and engines to commercial jets throughout history to today. The most modern exhibit shows the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 jet engine, which launched for its flight in December of 2009. The Trent 1000, currently flying in Boeing 787s, is the quietest, cleanest, and most fuel-efficient airframe in flight.

The Future of Flight Tour stays true to the name by launching a visitor in to the future of aviation and jet engine technology. The future focuses on sustainable, environmentally sound jet engines using alternative fuel. According to Boeing, the future of renewable jet fuel may not be far off.

The Future of Flight tour is in Everett, Washington, 25 miles north of Seattle. The Courtyard North Seattle-Lynnwood hotel offers a package special that includes tickets to the Boeing Future of Flight tour.

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Horton Plaza in San Diego

Before it was redeveloped as a shopping center in downtown San Diego in 1985, Horton Plaza was just a grassy area surrounded by banks of flowers and plants. The entire area seemed to be run-down by the 1960's and was home to a large population of homeless. Oddly enough, on November 2, 1960, then Senator John F. Kennedy spoke at Horton Plaza to make a last minute appeal for votes just six days prior to the 1960 Presidential Election.

Horton Plaza was definitely a departure from the standard mall design when it opened in August 1985. With its mismatched levels, long one-way ramps, drop-offs that seem to appear suddenly from nowhere, small and large cul-de-sacs and of course the brightly painted facades of the buildings, this outdoor shopping extravaganza was a risky and very radical design compared to other "standard-looking" shopping malls.

Anchored by Nordstrom and Macy's, it has five levels of shopping which include over 130 retail stores. In addition, there's a food court, fine dining, an ice-skating rink, the UA Horton Plaza 14 Movie Theatre, the Lyceum Theatres (Home of the San Diego Repertory Theatre), and so much more, all combined in a unique and colorful architectural design.

The Horton Plaza Parking Garage is an experience in itself. Pay close attention to where you park, because if you forget, you could spend hours looking for your car. Each area is designated with colorful painted walls with either a fruit or vegetable designed to help you remember when you parked.

Located on the west side of the Gaslamp Quarter between 1st and 4th Avenues, and near PETCO Park and additional downtown shopping, this unusual mall is in the middle of many tourist attractions throughout downtown San Diego. The Shopping Concierge Center on the 1st Floor provides a great deal of assistance to visitors - and sometimes even San Diego residents - needing help.

Be adventurous; take the Trolley to Downtown San Diego and Horton Plaza. Both the Blue and Orange Trolley Lines get you within four blocks of most attractions. Both lines stop at the Civic Center station, which is the closest to Horton Plaza. (The mall is two blocks south of the station.) Walking around Downtown San Diego is easy since it is mostly flat.

Horton Plaza, is more than just a mall, it's a place to spend your day or just a few hours having fun. So don't wast another minute and come see what your are missing.

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Cruise Back in Time Along the Canal Du Midi

Imagine journeying at a leisurely pace through the sun drenched countryside and historic villages of Southern France aboard a canal barge, at times forgetting not only what hour of the day it might be, but what century the boat is floating through. Dreams become a reality when touring by barge along the fabled Canal du Midi through the Languedoc region of France.

Just a portion of France's unique canal system linking major towns and tiny medieval villages, the Canal du Midi passes through the coastal plain and stony hills where wine grapes flourish in the brilliant sunshine. A fiercely independent region, its rich history and deep traditions strongly influence the scenic area.

Originally built to support the region's trade in wheat and wine, the Canal du Midi is today a major tourist attraction. Whether traveling by barge or bicycling along the old towpath bordering the canal, it makes a remarkable journey through one of France's most treasured regions. Lined with trees, the canal's route is perfect for today's pleasure craft. The thousands of planted trees act as natural air conditioning, keeping boat travelers comfortable in the hot summers. The entire 240 kilometer canal, from Toulouse to the Mediterranean, is a World Heritage Site.

Step aboard a barge and enter a world of cruising like no other. The gentle pace allows full immersion into the life of the area. Perfect for a family vacation, stops can be easily made to explore the area's intriguing scenery, cultural offerings and incredible cuisine and wines.

Self-drive tours are perfect for the adventuresome. No license is required and the pace is slow enough for safe and fun family cruising. Prefer to be pampered as you travel the waterway? Take a luxurious cruise on a fully crewed hotel barge, experiencing the ultimate in travel along the historic Canal du Midi.

A photographer's dream, the barge moves slowly so incredible photographs of stone bridges, vineyards and medieval villages can be taken from on board. Want to spend an afternoon exploring? Just stop, disembark and enjoy. Keep a photo-journal of the adventure to preserve the precious memories.

After its original course around the outskirts of the city of Carcassonne proved inconvenient, the Canal du Midi was reconstructed to flow through the city in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Now travelers on the canal can conveniently stop at the canal harbor in the city to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The ancient stone-walled city of Carcassonne rises majestically above the canal, astonishing visitors with its beautifully restored splendor. Unbelievably, the ancient town was in such disrepair in the mid-1800, France's government ordered it demolished. Restoration began after an uproar from the citizens of France stopped its planned destruction. Today, the double ringed walls and 52 turrets gracefully soar above the town.

Take a horse drawn carriage tour within the fortifications seeing the sites within the medieval city. Bike tours, self-guided walking tours, and guided visits of many of the historic sites are available.

Walk the narrow cobbled streets, exploring the museums and churches in both the walled city and the rest of the historic city across the Aude River. Summertime brings thousands of visitors for the fabulous firework display on July 14th and the month-long cultural festival featuring over 100 performances, many of them free. The climate is mild enough to enjoy the area during the Christmas holidays when the whole region is celebrating with lights and incredible food.

All along the Canal du Midi, open air markets in villages welcome the travelers. Savor the incredible aromas of fresh herbs, flowers and outdoor cooking. Stop and lunch on roasted chicken and herbed vegetables while sipping a glass of the region's famous wines. Traveling along the canal, notice the change in foods. Duck and goat cheeses change to sea food and shell fish as the canal nears the Mediterranean. Regional wines vary from the white Viognier to the red St Chinian, all a delicate accompaniment to an incredible meal.

Sites to not miss along the route include many medieval churches, chateaus and villages. The charming town of Narbonne is the site of the wonderful architectural gems, including the Archduke's Palace and cathedral. Once the capital of Roman Gaul, the Via Domitia, a 2,000 year old road passes through the area. Other examples of Roman architecture nearby include ancient storehouses and viaducts. The smells of delicious food greet the hungry at the famed indoor market in Narbonne.

Originally founded in 799, the historic Benedictine Lagrasse Abbey at one time was one of the most important in France. By the 18th century the abbey had faded in importance and part of it was sold to a private owner. Today, the remaining public portion is open for touring. Climb the bell tower, constructed in the 1500s, for a wonderful view of the village and surroundings. While in the village of Lagrasse be sure to see the lovely village center with its medieval streets, local craftsmen and interesting stone bridges.

The Cabrespine cave in the limestone rocks of the Black Mountains is a natural wonder, a cool retreat on a hot summer day. While enjoying nature, watch for wildlife along the canal. Eagles and vultures soar in the blue skies, while deer and even a wild boar might be spotted in the countryside. Carefully tended flower gardens, fields of sunflowers and ancient farmsteads of stone grace the landscape.

Feel the need to stretch your legs? The pace of barges is slow enough to walk along the towpath for an afternoon, delighting in the dappled sunshine shining through the leaves of the plane trees bordering the canal. Journeying through history along the canal, you'll build memories to last a lifetime.

This fabulous Canal du Midi information is brought to you by Barge Connection, experts in luxury barge travel since 1998.

THE BARGE CONNECTION is a leading tour operator in the United States specializing in barge vacations since 1998. Unparalleled experience in providing the best in luxury barge vacations for individuals, groups and travel agents, http://bargeconnection.com/.

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Enjoy a Historic Stirling Break in Scottish Castles to Rent

If you are looking for accommodation in a castle so that you can enjoy a truly memorable and luxurious getaway there is nowhere better than Scotland - and Stirling in particular.

Should you have selected Scottish castles for rent because of a desire to further explore this country's fascinating history, Stirling offers all you are looking for and plenty more besides.

With the chance to find out about some of the most iconic characters in the country's past while visiting a few of the most important buildings, this is truly a history buff's dream adventure.

Begin your tour at the National Wallace Monument, which overlooks the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge. This striking stone structure commemorates the great Scottish hero William Wallace, who battled against England for his country's freedom.

This is a beautiful site to behold as you take a stroll around it and once inside you will be able to learn all about a man who is one of the country's most cherished sons.

Following on from this you could head to Bannockburn Heritage Centre, which is managed by the National Trust for Scotland.

Here you can hear all about another chapter in the country's bloody war for independence.

In 1314, the troops of Robert the Bruce met those of King Edward II to go to battle and the performance of the Scots helped to seal the nation's independence. Close to the Borestone - where Robert the Bruce took up his position during the fighting - you will find a heritage centre that can fill in any gaps in your knowledge.

Should you have chosen castles to hire in Scotland when selecting your accommodation then you could head next to Stirling Castle to compare notes.

This is one of the most popular attractions in and around the city and over the years it has played host to such famous visitors as William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots.

A fascinating place to spend a day, here you can stroll around the gardens, explore the great hall and Chapel Royal or go to the Regimental Museum to learn more about the battles that have been fought in the area.

Back in the city itself you will find plenty more to keep you entertained, from great restaurants serving up traditional, local dishes, to an assortment of shops and boutiques where you can buy gifts and souvenirs.

And of course, don't forget to stop in at one of the pubs for a warming dram of whisky.

However, if you can't bear not to be somewhere historical, pop into the Stirling Old Town Jail. Here you can learn all about some of the city's less heroic former inhabitants and what it was like to be in prison during the Victorian period.

By the time you return to your holiday castle, you are certain to sleep soundly!

If you're looking for castles for hire in Scotland, come to Scotts Castle Holidays. We have a varied portfolio of holiday homes, including Scottish castles for rent to suit parties of all sizes. If you are looking for accommodation in a castle, visit us today.

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Trekking in Nepal - Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Sanctuary

Your Nepal tour cannot be complete without trekking in Nepal, which is undoubtedly one the best mountain trekking experiences in the world. Trekking Annapurna region is one of the most rewarding trekking activities in Nepal. Both Annapurna Base Camp trek and Annapurna Circuit trek are extremely rewarding adventures.

Annapurna base camp trek is a moderate trek with the combination of easy walking and majestic scenery, which makes the trek to Annapurna base camp (4200m) also known as Annapurna Sanctuary, one of the most popular treks in Nepal. It is the most intensely scenic trek in Nepal. The Annapurna Base Camp is a high glacial basin located north of Pokhara. This magnificent amphitheatre is called the sanctuary because of its natural serenity, beauty and the divine presence of the Hindu goddesses Annapurna and Gangapurna worshipped by local population. This isolated cirque of peaks can only be approached by one route, a deep gorge that carves into the fortress of mountains between Machhapuchhre and Hiunchuli. Many of the peaks are over 7000m, including the famous twin-peaked Machapuchare, as well as Annapurna I and lll, Annapurna South, Gangapurna and Glacier Dome. The trek takes typically 16 days from Kathmandu and can be combined with further activities in Pokhara such as paragliding or white water rafting.

The Annapurna circuit trek is one of the best long distance mountain treks in the world and one of the best trekking adventures in Nepal. Annapurna full circuit trek takes 20 days to walk the entire distance and if starting tour from Kathmandu it requires 24 days. This trek can also be modified for those with limited time or wishing to sample only a part of their Nepal tour. There are few options available such as half Annapurna circuit trek with option to fly out from Manang or Jomsom. There is an option to visit beautiful Tilicho Lake at the base of magnificent Tilicho peak as a part of half Annapurna circuit trek with the fly-out from Manang. Following Annapurna circuit, crossing almost 5000m Thorung La pass and flying out from Jomsom adds an extra dimension to the adventure of trekking in Nepal by visiting Mukinath and Jarakot, Buddhist villages with charming Tibetan character. Those with time to walk entire Annapurna region will be rewarded with the experience of trekking the deepest valley in Nepal the Kali Gandaki valley carving it between two 8000m peaks Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

About Author: This article was written by Tony Olejnicki an experienced Australian climber and the writer of travel, climbing, mountaineering and tourism related topics to help you to discover more about trekking in Nepal, adventure in Nepal and the unforgettable world class Annapurna Circuit Trek and Annapurna Sanctuary Trek.

http://EzineArticles.com/6494918

An Autumn in Las Vegas

Autumn is one of the best seasons to go on a holiday to some far-off destinations. Autumn marks the transition from summer to winter season and most of the countries in southern hemisphere experience this season in the months of August, September and October while in the northern hemisphere the months of March, April and May are the autumn time. This is the best season to enjoy an overseas tour with your friends and family to one of your dream destinations. You can easily get your air tickets booked and fly from the cheap flight to the destinations.

A trip to United States in autumn season is worth mesmerizing. You can either visit to New York, Los Angeles or Las Vegas to spend a fun-filled holiday with your family during autumn. There are a large number of attractions being offered by these cities for people of different age-group. Among them Las Vegas is one city where you can relax in luxurious hotel, enjoy plenty of games, indulge in some gambling and be part the city's vibrant nightlife.

A good travel company will help you in getting cheap flights for your destinations and will get your air tickets booked. There are many direct flights also available to these cities. Besides, if you feel like avoiding all the hassle of getting your air tickets booked, hotel booked then you can opt for a holiday package.

Las Vegas which was once a desert has become a premier holiday destination today. Mainly due to the adult entertainment that it offers, the city is sometimes also referred as Sin City. The city is worth a visit who wants to relax, enjoy and watch out some luxurious hotels, casinos and shopping malls. The beauty of the city gets enhanced during autumn with colorful withered leaves all around and cooler climate.

If you are on a holiday with your family, you need not worry about the kids' entertainment. Las Vegas is not only a gambling hub in United States but it also offers some of the best theme parks and wildlife parks.

Take your kids to Adventuredome, an indoor theme park where not only kids but adults can also enjoy some thrilling rides. You can also visit to the Desperado Roller Coaster which features the country's most adventurous rides. Other than these, visit to Death Valley National Park and Flamingo Wildlife Habitat.

If you wish to go for shopping, Las Vegas provides some ultimate shopping experience mostly an up-market shopping in its huge malls. You can visit to Fashion Show Mall, Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Mandalay Place etc to shop for some best designer wears, fashion accessories, gift items and latest electronic gadgets.

And after day's fun, you can head to happening nightclubs or bars and enjoy the dynamic nightlife of the lustrous city. For great fun head to either Lax Nightclub, Haze Nightclub, Cleopatra's Barge or B.B. King's Blues Club.

A visit to city like Las Vegas is something that will satisfy your urge for adventure and great fun. And holiday packages for destinations like these are good option to cease your tension. Come and visit Las Vegas to enjoy the beautiful autumn in this incredible city.

Shally Camroon is a English writer. She graduated from California State University in 2008 with English Literature. She is writing for different domain as health, services, travel and real estate. Presently she is writing for air tickets, holiday packages, Cheap flights, world tour.

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A Brief Guide of Golden Triangle Tour With Ajmer And Pushkar

Following Package Shows the Guideline of Golden Triangle Tour With Pushkar

Day 1: Delhi Arrival

Arrive at Delhi International Airport & meet our representative. After check in, day is free for relax or you can explore local market. Enjoy the nightlife of delhi & can go to pub or discothèque. After Dinner, stay overnight will be in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing

After breakfast begin your golden triangle tour from the capital city of India. Explore streets of Old & New Delhi. Major attractions of Delhi are India Gate, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple, National Museum, etc.

Post lunch explore Old Delhi. Visit Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandani Chowk & Rajghat. After dinner, overnight hotel.

Day 3: Delhi - Agra

After breakfast proceed to Agra, home to Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. En-route visit Fatehpur Sikri. On arrival, check in to the hotel and relax. Later in the noon, visit the Agra Fort which is almost a replica of Delhi Red Fort and another Mughal jewel the tomb of It-mad-ud-Daula. Later in evening explore local market. Overnight hotel.

Day 4: Agra- Jaipur

Fourth day of golden triangle tour starts with visit to The Taj Mahal, Agra. Explore the sheer beauty of the white marble as glint of sunlight falls upon it. TAJ MAHAL, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is the symbol of true love. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Other attractions at Agra are Agra Fort, Sikandrabad, Fatehpur Sikari, Chini ka Roza, Mankameshwar Temple etc. Later drive to Jaipur. On arrival in Jaipur, transfer to the hotel.

Day 5: Jaipur Sightseeing

Fifth Day of golden triangle tour starts in the capital city of Rajasthan & popularly known as Pink city because of pink washed buildings. The first attraction of the day is Amber Fort. This Rajput fort was built by Sawai Man Singh when Amber was the capital. Enjoy an elephant ride. Then visit the Jal Mahal and enjoy a camel ride enjoying the thrilling landscapes of the Aravalli Hills and the lake.

Later in second half visit other attractions in jaipur are Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, City Palace, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Albert Hall Museum, Ram Bagh Palace etc. Enjoy shopping in the evening & overnight stay at hotel.

Day 6: Jaipur-Pushkar

Your Golden Triangle Tour package will take you to the holy city of Pushkar. It is one of the holiest places of hindus. The major attractions here are Pushkar Lake, Brahma temple and the Ghats. On Arrival in Pushkar, check into hotel. Later in evening drive to Ajmer to visit the Dargah of Sufi Saint Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chisti. This is a revered Muslim Shrine. hen return back to Pushkar and then visit the Brahma temple and the Ghats. Then return back to pushkar, after dinner, stay overnight.

Day 7: Pushkar-Delhi

Check out of the hotel after breakfast & drive back to Delhi. Reach Delhi and drop at the airport for your flight back home. This brings end to your Golden Triangle Tour With Pushkar with sweet memories.

Swati are travelers who have been to many places in India & would like to share their experiences. All the articles published by them will help you understand better and answer all your holiday queries regarding Golden Triangle Tour With Pushkar. Find tourist info on travel packages, travel destination, and much more.

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Travelling Tips for Tampa

Tampa is located on the west coast of Florida and is usually referred as Tampa Bay area. It is quite a big city with the area of 170.6 square miles.

Tampa has every feature to make your vacation worthwhile. There are approximately 91 hotels scattered all around Tampa. Some of the hotels are right there beside the ocean and just 5 minutes from the airport. InterContinental Tampa, Wyndham Tampa Westshore, Best Western Bay Harbor Hotel, Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay are some of the hotels which are located right by the sea shore.

There are hotels of every taste and class. You can choose from modern day luxury hotel to old school bread and breakfast hotels. Once you are settled in your comfortable hotel room, it is time to make plans of places you want to visit. As you may have already known, some of the world's highest rated beaches are situated in Tampa Bay area. There are about 18 beach parks where you will be able to dive into the blue sea water, walk in the soft white sand, play volleyball, parasail, jet ski, kayak in the calm water and eat in the adjacent restaurants.

When you are done with the beaches, grab your towel, dry yourself up and get ready to discover the other features of this lovely city. This city has got some of the best amusement parks in the world. There's Busch Garden, a world famous amusement park where you get to enjoy exciting rides, live entertainment and a gigantic zoo. You can also visit Adventure Island, Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Centre, Big Cat Rescue which is a sanctuary for exotic cats like Leopard and Lions.

Do you take away your stress by drinking and dancing away? If yes, then experience the amazing Tampa nightlife. There are 32 bars where you can dine, drink and dance all night long. If you're a gambler, visit Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino or bet on your suitable horse in Tampa Bay Downs. In Tampa, the party never stops!

For sports lovers, there's plenty to do here. You can catch one the matches of Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Rays or Tampa Bay Lightning. There's scope for horseback riding and there are 14 world class golf courses here which are open for all.

The city is a heaven for food lovers. There are more than 140 restaurants all over. There are seaside restaurants, open air restaurant, specialized cuisine and specialized cuisine restaurants. No matter how much you eat, you will always crave for some more.

For people who are interested in science, culture arts and history, there's Tampa Theatre, Henry B Plant Museum, Tampa Bay History Centre, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Centre, SS American Victory Mariners' Memorial and Museum Ship, Museum of Science and Industry and many other places which will satisfy your interest.

There are many luxury car rental companies in Tompa, Florida to make your stay evermore satisfying. Pick the one that best suits you and roam around the city. The taxi service in also very efficient here. You can go one place to another in a quick time by hiring a taxi.

It is guaranteed that you will not be bored for a single second and you will end your vacation with a giant smile of satisfaction on your face.

Tompa, Florida is a fun place. There are so many things to do here. Just rent a car from any of the luxury car rentals and roam around the city.

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Get to Know Valencia Ahead of La Tomatina

Booking a trip to Valencia to coincide with the annual tomato-throwing festival - La Tomatina - held in Bunol no doubt holds appeal for many people around the world. However, those heading to the area to participate in the festival might want to make their way there a few days ahead of time, so they can explore the city and truly get a feel for its culture and history.

Travellers who do decide that this is a good idea will find that Valencia is rich in sightseeing opportunities - and they certainly won't find it hard to fill their days with activities and excitement.

Culture vultures and history buffs should perhaps start off in the old quarter of the city, which up until the middle of the 19th century was defended by a long wall.

Examples of this - such as the Torres de Serranos and the Torres de Quart - can still be seen in parts of the metropolis, while others can also be found in the Valencia Institute of Modern Arts. Anyone keen to see a few signs of Roman settlements should also head to the districts of Seu and Xerea as well.

Of course, it would be a sin not to take advantage of Valencia's good weather while on holiday in the area and people should definitely spend a bit of time exploring some of the local beaches, such as Peneda.

Here, you can enjoy a number of water sports such as windsurfing, jet skiing and sailing. However, anyone looking for a bit of calm before the storm of La Tominata might prefer the delights of La Devesa, an uncrowded and isolated sandy bay. Shy travellers may want to avert their eyes, however, as this is a nudist beach.

Of course, people shouldn't forget the real reason they are in Valencia - La Tomatina.

This festival is said to have begun back in 1945 after a fight broke out during a parade that ended up with the locals throwing tomatoes at each other, until police came and dissolved the brawl. By 1959, the festival was an accepted tradition, with the backing of the town hall.

Now, around 40,000 people head to the area every year to take part in this colourful event - so why not get there ahead of the crowds to indulge in some sightseeing and really make the most of your time in this part of Spain?

Considering a trip to Spain for the La Tomatina? Arrive in advance and fully explore the city of Valencia when you book a package with First Festival Travel, a leading provider of tours that take in a range of festivals in Europe.

http://EzineArticles.com/6503313

Travel Industry - The New Breed of City Tour Guides

Tour Guides have a lot to complain about. Whether it is the accessibility to safe legal convenient pick up/ drop off areas, unlicensed Guides working without consequences, or a respectable minimum rate of pay that is adhered to by all, you can find Guides sharing their thoughts and planning on how to solve the complaints.

It is interesting to note that one of the direst topics is not getting much press. Are local Guides becoming obsolete? I am not talking about the old debate of Tour Managers doing the job of a local Guide. I am talking about something that can have a much greater impact on the Guiding landscape. Electronic Guides. Today's city guide apps for smartphones are gaining in popularity as smartphone usage grows. They are cheaper than a live Tour Guide. They pause when we want to take a photo. They will endlessly repeat themselves if we did not hear the commentary over the horns of traffic. They are never overbooked and are available exactly when the clients want the information.

Imagine if you, as a Guide, had to compete with someone who had those characteristics. It is obvious that we would be seen as inferior. But since this competitor is a collection of computer programs, we maintain the one key advantage, we are alive. Nothing can beat a live, entertaining, knowledgeable, professional local Guide showing you around his or her beloved city. Or can it?

Today's electronic city guides are GPS based and automatically tell you all about your current location. They enable you to see and save a map of your tour, add photos, travel videos and notes. All of this can then be immediately shared with friends via social media. You can also plan out your own customized tour based upon your fitness level, specific dates, and interests or download one of the growing number of quality tours directly to your iPad. If you have a question that is not part of your electronic tour, you can pause it, then Google your question. Do you want recommendations as to which cafe in the square has the best cappuccino? Of course you can ask your live Tour Guide. Otherwise an online cafe search will yield ratings with comments left by your fellow travelers. Did I mention that such a search may also yield coupons or special offers?

An electronic city guide is another avenue to satisfy a travelers hunger for knowledge. These apps are increasingly becoming integrated with the mechanics of traveling. Today, if we want to know a train schedule, or opening time of a museum, or what are the museums special exhibits, we turn to our smart phones. So it is natural that an industry has sprung up to help guide the modern traveler. One interesting part of this new industry is that some of the best touring apps are tours created by those professionals with the best knowledge, namely, local Guides.

There are many opportunities that can come about from Guides sharing their knowledge to create a City Guide app. These range from commissions to branding rights. Local Guides might make a few hundred dollars touring a group while simultaneously earning another few hundred or thousand from the download commissions of all those travelers touring around listening to them on an iPhone. When all cities have guiding apps, then the competition over which app is better for the consumer really heats up. App providers may tout the credentials of the creator of the tour, with links to the Tour Guide's site. Or apps may find their information from local university professors or armchair Tour Guides. Hundreds of thousands of these tours are already being downloaded monthly in cities around the world. This will only increase as the city guide app industry evolves and further integrates itself into the hand, mind and pockets of travelers. What role does the professional Tour Guide play in this growing industry? Will the Tour Guides of the future be complaining that the information in the apps came from amateurs? Or will we use our share our knowledge and see this as a revenue making opportunity?

If you do not know what is coming, then you are destined to react to the effects of a situation. My advice is to understand how the competitive landscape is changing and plan for your personal success. This is just one small topic being covered in my lecture "Guiding in the Digital Age". If you cannot make it to the World Guide Summit to hear it live, you can of course watch the video of my lecture on your smart phone. But be forewarned, I will only be answering questions from those in attendance. There still is a benefit to interacting to a live Guide.

You have permission to use this article freely in any lawful publication as long as the resource box and byline are included as-is and any web links are made 'live' when published on websites.

Scott MacScott CTM is a seasoned Tour Manager with over 20 years of guiding experience and the Chairman of the International Association of Tour Managers (IATM) - Americas. Scott is a featured lecturer at the World Guide Summit, Oct 17-24, 2011 Quito Ecuador.
http://www.worldguidesummit.com/
http://www.tourmanager.org/Americas/new-breed-of-city-guides.html

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Great Reasons to Visit Malaysia

Over the last 15 or so years the number of people deciding to take a break with one of the excellent holidays to Malaysia has been on the up; when you take a look what's on offer it's easy to see why. The mix of Asian culture, food, and scenery means any holiday experience here can be a diverse and exciting experience. This article looks at some of the must see destinations in the country to really get the full taste of Malaysia.

First on the list is the brilliant Penang region. The mix of Asian cultures in Penang makes for an exciting place to visit. The variety of local foods is just one example of how this mix of influences can produce some delicious outcomes, and one of the must try experiences here is trying as many local dishes as you can fit in. The temples and general architecture are also something that's well worth having a look around and provide a great way to spend your time if you're not a fan of sunbathing on a beach.

Next on the list we have the fantastic city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital. The beautiful modern city contains all you would expect, bright lights, shopping, eating and drinking and many nights worth of entertainment. Petronas Twin Tower, Batu Caves, Orchid Garden and the Royal palace are just a few of the sites that are well worth a trip, and if you do plan to visit then make sure you're staying for a few nights as there's bound to be a lot you'll want to do and see in this brilliant city.

Finally if you want something a little less city based, then a trip out to the Cameron Highland might just be the thing for you. The highlands feature some of the most beautiful scenery in Malaysia, with its rolling hills and mountains. Cut into the side of many of the hills in this region are the Tea plantations that it's famous for. These plantations make for a great day out, experiencing life on the plantation, and they quite often have other features too, small cafes, flower gardens and pretty little restaurants. The region also features some great golf courses for those with a slightly more sporty persuasion.

There are many other great reasons to visit Malaysia, the selection above are only a few of the highlights, and a holiday to this area need not be expensive either as tour operators these days have a fantastic selection of trips to this part of the world. So whether its part of one of the many package holidays to Thailand or a holiday in its own right, Malaysia really does make for one of the best holiday experiences around.

Qantas Holidays offer an extensive range of Holidays to Malaysia and are specialists in the Package holidays to Thailand market.

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Party Themes for Themed Parties

Parties are supposed to be: fun, exciting, entertaining, relaxing. A good party naturally achieves all of that, but sometimes the party needs help to break the ice, create some more energy, and encourage social interaction. This kick-start can often be achieved by throwing a themed party.

Themed parties give everyone at the party something in common to talk about. A basic theme can at least help ease the awkward first segment of the party, when everyone is getting a feel for the party and the conversation. The basic themes may then be forgotten as the party moves on to different conversations and activities, depending on the whims of those involved. More involved themes may stay relevant for the entire party, and even direct the mood of the entire party.

First, the basic party themes:

80's party- Everyone dresses up like they are from the 1980's, you listen to music from the eighties, you use 80's pick-up lines. Maybe you even eat food from the 80's, if you can find some that isn't stale (haha, joke).

Greek party- simple once again: everyone wears togas and maybe some olive wreaths. You discuss about philosophy, pythagorean theorem, the Trojans, the flatness of the earth. You know, ancient Greek stuff.

So these are some basic party themes, to get everyone there, on the same page and talking until everyone has had enough to drink to make the party crazy by itself.

The more advanced themes:

Mustachio Bashio- Like the name suggests, you show up with hair on your upper lip, or you don't come at all. Women that can grow mustaches are strongly encouraged, but those that can't can make do with a fake. This event takes a couple months of prior planning, so that all attendees can work on creating the thick mustache of their dreams. When the party day comes, the costume and persona that attends to the mustache can take on a life of its own- pretentious French somelier? White trash? Charlie Chaplin? Only your imagination can hold you back.

Rubik's Cube- Guests show up with clothing of various different solid colors. Guests spend entire night swapping pieces of clothing, until every article of clothing on their body is all of one color. First one to get there wins.

These are just a few basic party ideas, but you can get creative or as boring as you would like. The idea does not always matter as much as the simple fact of having a theme to bring the party-goers together. If your theme sucks, at least everyone can spend the night bashing it and you. And they will probably enjoy themselves all them same.

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40% Of Brits Give Up Summer Holiday

Whilst the recession appears to be loosening its grip on the economy, the credit crunch continues to impact British wallets. A recent poll has revealed that 17 million Brits will be giving up their summer holiday this year because of money worries.

This means that 39% of the nation believe that maintaining a healthy bank balance is currently more important than taking a summer break. This is 2.7 million more Brits than those who cancelled their holiday when the credit crunch hit in 2008.

With prices of plane travel and overseas accommodation rising sharply during the peak season of July to August, it's not surprising that many Brits are now unwilling to pay 40% more to book a foreign holiday during the summer. Recent figures are already showing that the number of foreign breaks taken by British families last year was down 3% compared to statistics from 2009; a trend that looks set to continue.

The poll, conducted by ING direct, found that nine in ten of the Brits cancelling their holiday this year are those who normally stay in the UK for their break. Holidaymakers are also making efforts to save ahead of booking in the shadow of the recession, rather than paying via credit card and completing installments throughout the year.

ING Direct spokesman Richard Doe believes that British holidaymakers face a difficult 'balancing act':

'It's clear that a tough economic climate is causing consumers to pull off a very difficult balancing act - cutting down on debt while dealing with rising prices. So it's not surprising that the summer holiday is often being sacrificed.

'However, it is certainly a good thing that consumers are adopting a more sensible approach to holiday planning, saving in advance for their trips, rather than entirely relying on the plastic.'

Another study, however, has discovered that one area of the British tourist industry is booming. Research by insurer Hiscox has revealed that campsites are experiencing a surge in popularity, with bookings at their highest since the camping heyday in the 1950s.

Unfortunately, whilst there's a huge range of cheap hotels and holiday parks available, many cash-strapped Britons also still believe that staying in the UK for a summer break is too expensive.

Many Brits looking to remain in the UK for a 'staycation' this summer are opting for a more glamorous form of camping, known as 'glamping'.

The normal no-frills tents are being replaced by trendy teepees, which offer much more space and better waterproofing. Some 'glampers' are now investing in even more exotic temporary accommodation such as yurts; Mongolian shelters made from wood structures covered by felt. Brits are swapping their sleeping bags for airbeds, whilst electricity points for phone chargers and other entertainment products are now considered a necessity. Some 'glampers' are even hiring a fridge to chill champagne and are bringing their own glassware and best china from home.

Unfortunately, with price comparison experts Kelkoo recently calculating the cost of 'glamping' at a 4 day festival to be £967, it remains an expensive option for Brits worried by their finances.

An avid traveller and outdoor person

http://EzineArticles.com/6505737

The Independent Traveller to Bangkok

Introduction

You have just made that momentous decision to spend your vacation in Thailand but, before you make a final booking you really do need to decide where you are going to go. The distances in Thailand, from city to city and region to region are vast and it is impossible to experience the whole of Thailand in a single vacation. The international airport into which you will be flying is situated in Bangkok so, unless you are particularly limited to being elsewhere at a specific time, stopping off in Thailand's capital city for a few days is well worth it - even if it is just to get over jet lag!

Probably the most invaluable advice to you, reading this, is to book your flight and hotel stay independently. This will be more cost-effective and provide you with greater freedom to arrange your own itinerary: there are always plenty of really good hotels available to the independent traveller and the cheaper Thai hotels compare very favourably with the more expensive hotels aimed specifically at Western travellers.

Bangkok for a Few Days

For the independent traveller, try to book into the Bangphlat Resort if you can. Resort in Thailand has a slightly different connotation to what we imagine a resort might be in the West. This resort consists of two rows of traditionally-styled wooden chalets facing each other with a paved path running along the centre. The ground floor consists of a living room, double bedroom and shower with Western-style toilet.

You can book an additional bedroom or two if required. Breakfast comes as either Western or Thai food: take your choice. As with all traditional Thai hotels and guest houses, everywhere is spotless and immaculate and the Western traveller never need worry about booking into any places like this - even guest houses and hotels off the beaten track follow similar principles of cleanliness, order and attention to detail.

Suan Siam Park

While in Bangkok, if you only have a few days, you really should visit the Siam Water Park, part of the larger Siam Amusement Park. Locally, this amusement park is known as Suan Siam Park and is situated at 101 Sukhapibam 2 Road. There is a choice of pools for swimming in as well as water chutes, whirlpool and a very sedate lazy river. A day here is bound to relax you after your flight. Prices are reasonable, including the cost of purchasing food and drink while you are there. Admission costs are 400 baht for adults and 300 baht for children.

Floating Markets

A visit to one of Bangkok's floating markets is also an interesting experience, if somewhat more costly when compared with the value you get from a day at Suan Siam. It is important to note that you don't just catch a boat and off you go. The first thing to negotiate is the 'admission' cost, or rather, the cost to hire a boat to take you along the waterways known as klongs.

These waterways are, amazingly, quite extensive and seem to go on forever. The most touristy market is Damnoen Saduak, probably because it is open every day. There are other floating markets that you can visit but these are either open just at weekends or, in the case of Bang Khu Wiang, the market opens at 4am and closes up again at 7am - great if you're an early bird because this market is well worth getting up early to visit.

Emerald Buddha

If you are the kind of person who enjoys museums and visiting other monuments to the history of civilisations then a day visiting the Grand Palace which houses the Emerald Buddha, is an absolute must. Two words of advice, however: the grounds of the Grand Palace are very extensive and there is a huge amount to see. If you are intent on getting the most out of your visit to the Grand Palace, try to avoid taking children. There is absolutely nothing for them to do apart from trail after their care-givers.

Furthermore, if you are visiting Thailand during Songkhran which is held in April, it might be an idea to miss out a tour of the Grand Palace - the temperatures are just too high for comfortable sightseeing and, with most sights being outside, you are going to be subject to the heat of the day. April is the hottest time of year in Thailand so you would be better leaving the Grand Palace until a visit when the weather is cooler, such as the more comfortable temperatures in December. Believe me, there is a lot of walking involved, although most of the Grand Palace is fairly well accessible for people reliant on wheelchairs to get about.

The Emerald Buddha is housed within the exquisitely and extravagantly decorated Wat Phra Kaew Temple attached to the Grand Palace. Entry to the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and the many other buildings costs around 350 baht so entry is not expensive, especially when you consider how much upkeep all the buildings need to maintain them. Purchase a guide book as there is so much information to take in. Personally, what struck me when I saw the Emerald Buddha, was how small it actually was. Incidentally, there are adequate toilet facilities, all of which are spotlessly clean despite the crowds of visitors using the amenities.

Grand Pearl River Cruise

Personally, if this was the only thing you could fit in during your trip to Bangkok, I would not want to miss this. The food is superb, it takes place during the pleasant warmth of the evening with gentle breezes on the river to keep you comfortable and the entertainment rounds off the evening beautifully. Choose your cruise carefully, however, as there are different cruises available: those more suitable for Asians, serving only Indian and Thai food and the other cruise that is advertised as being more appropriate for the Western palate. Thai food is also served on this cruise but there is also an extensive choice of Italian dishes and other Western cuisine.

Moving On

After enjoying the pleasures offered by Bangkok you should be ready to move on to enjoy the rest of your holiday, whether you are headed to the beaches to the south of Thailand, north-west to Chiang Mai or north-east to the Isaan lands of north-east Thailand. Wherever your holiday takes you, remember to remove your shoes before entering a building [even many stores and restaurants]. To say hello to somebody a woman says 'Sa wa dee ka' and a man will say 'Sa wa dee kup'. If that is the only words of Thai you can remember, your Thai hosts will appreciate it.

Are you planning your coming holiday in Thailand and looking for Thailand travel guide If yes, then click on the links to get the best deal of Hotel in Thailand or you can visit Pattaya Hotel and Pattaya Hotel Booking website.

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Surviving Family Holidays

There are growing ideas now that family holidays are a thing to be hated. Images are easily conjured up of screaming children being dragged to public toilets and families huddled together in tents, being battered about by wind and rain. This kind of holiday doesn't have to be the norm if you plan it right, so here are a few top tips to make your holiday enjoyable.

Firstly make sure that your holiday destination suits all of you. Yes, that means taking into account what your children want to do. And no, this doesn't mean being limited to Disneyland. If your children actually want to go somewhere chances are they'll have more fun and you'll have more fun as they won't be grisly all the time. This doesn't mean choosing a holiday solely for the kids however.

Take Morocco for instance. In itself it's an exotic, interesting, totally-different-from-the-UK holiday. Adding kids doesn't mean sacrificing all that; activities that you can enjoy together include horse-drawn calesh rides and mountain treks where your kids can ride mules instead of walk. And you can all explore Marrakech together; visit a souk for a chance to barter for beautiful objects like Moroccan slippers and check out snake charmers in the medina too. Young children will be delighted, and you can relax.

Secondly, what you choose to do on your holiday is just as important as where you go. If your children are old enough to take on a more adventurous holiday packed full of activities, then don't be afraid to do just that. Perfect for teenagers who want a great story to tell their friends when they return is a trek in South America, the home of the Incas. Visit the famous ruins of Machu Picchu and mountain bike along the Sacred Valley, and to really challenge your teenagers you can travel along the Inca Trail. Be warned, you'll be climbing steep terraces followed by a night's camping. But don't worry about carrying heavy tent equipment; porters will carry this for you so you're left to enjoy the views with your family without too much stress on the body. Return from your holiday with great stories to tell and the knowledge that you worked hard and had fun together, as a family.

This article should really be called 'top tips for enjoying family holidays'; with holidays like this, surviving it will be the furthest thing on your mind. The third tip is for you all to go on holiday with a goal in mind, solely that of enjoying yourselves. If everyone bears in mind that you all want to enjoy yourselves as a family then making choices together will be easy. So don't dread your next family holiday, it could be just the fun you're looking for!

The Adventure Company offers trips that explore the Inca trail as well as other fantastic ideas for your next Family holiday.

http://EzineArticles.com/6500900

RV Rentals in California

California is home to some of the most beautiful weather for an RV rental in all of America. There is no other place in America for an RV rental that can match California in terms of beauty and diversity. There are many reasons why camper rentals in California are so popular. California also hosts, some of America's natural beauty with several national parks and many, many beaches. You will find a gorgeous sunset every night along the California coast. You could have a good time with travel trailer rentals, tent trailer rentals, motorhome rentals, toy hauler rentals or any of our camper rentals in California. The major cities such as San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles have a ton of cultural diversity between people, lifestyles, and cultures. Camper rentals in California are the perfect vacation.

The forests in California are abundant. With motorhome rentals you can visit the Sequoias, Redwoods, and the Bristlcone Pines. Yosemite, CA, a popular destination among our RV Rental customers, also has an array of different natural beauties including Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, which is the highest waterfall in the world, and Glacier Point which is one of the most breathtaking views you will ever experience. During your RV Rentals in California, you can find the highest mountain, Mount Whitney, in the 48 states, and after you travel to the highest point you can travel to the lowest elevation in America, Death Valley, which is the 2nd hottest place in the world which makes motorhome rentals with A/C an excellent choice. California is home to some of natures most incredible landmarks.

There are many campsites so close to the water that you can sleep in your camper rental to the sound of the surf. Some of the more popular camping beaches in California include: El Capitan State Beach, Carpinteria State Beach, Sycamore Canyon/Point Mugu State Park, Doheny State Beach, Malibu Beach RV Park, Newport Dunes. There are many beaches in that are perfect for RV rentals in California. There is nothing better than waking up to sound of waves crashing right outside the window of your motorhome rental. It's just as good as having a multi-million dollar beach front house but for a fraction of the price. There are also many more beaches that offer beach front camping for motorhome rentals and RV rentals. RV Rentals in California are the all around best choice when looking a place to sleep in this beautiful state.

http://EzineArticles.com/6468647

The City of Berlin and Its World Famous Zoologischer Garten

For the visitor there is much to do when in Berlin but arguably one of the most frequently visited attractions is the Berlin Zoologischer Garten which has fascinated visitors ever since it opened its doors more than 150 years ago.

The Zoologischer Garten happens to be the most visited zoo in the whole of Europe and this is largely due to the fact that it presents the widest range of animal species in the entire world. It opened for business in 1844 and was constructed as a gift to the city by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV. He actually provided the animals from his very own collection.

Initially the brainchild of Alexander von Humboldt and Heinrich Lichtenstein the zoo is situated in the southwest portion of the Tiergarten which is also the largest public park found in the middle of the city. The number of animals housed at the zoo increased rapidly after its inception and many thousands of different animals have called the zoo home over the years. During World War Two massive destruction took place to the zoo and as a result fewer than 100 animals remained.

Today visitors enter the Zoologischer Garten through either its Elephant or Lion Gates and there are now in excess of 15,000 animals that effectively represent more than 1,400 species on display. There are not many cages as most of the animals enjoy being able to roam freely in re-creations of their natural habitats which means that they are more contented.

Among the different species on offer are the Pandas and they are very popular with visitors especially when one reaches a significant birthday! The Birdhouse is also very popular and happens to be one of the most modern of its kind anywhere in Europe with more than five hundred different species of birds. Many of those represented are very rare making it an excellent opportunity for visitors to see birds they would not otherwise have the opportunity to see.

Knut, the polar bear cub, contributed to a significant rise in publicity both in Germany and indeed around the world. He was rejected by his mother and hand reared by one of the zookeepers. Unfortunately Knut has since passed on but the polar bears continue to attract attention and visitors to the zoo.

Of course the polar bears are not the only main attractions. They share that title with other animals such as the wolves, gorillas, pandas, seals, lions, giraffe, etc. A beautiful and technologically advanced aquarium sits adjacent to the zoo and tourists can purchase a combo ticket when they visit so that they can visit the zoo and the aquarium. There you will find more than just fish however as there are also insects, amphibians, and even reptiles to be seen.

For the children there is the kid's zoo and here they can get up close and personal with different animals in the petting zoo as well as expound pent up energy in the playground.

For family vacations the Berlin Zoo is definitely something that should not be missed!

There are a lot of hotels, B&B, Hostels and Guest Houses near Berlin zoo. But if you are traveling with kids I will recommend booking vacation apartments Berlin Not only because you can have more space and will be able to save money by cooking at home, but also because they are very well located. Apartment Berlin.

http://EzineArticles.com/6506077

Finding The Best Business Room Standards For Your Organization's Needs

There are many office spaces for rent out there which will be able to fit your organization's needs. All you have to do is find them and assess whether they offer services and characteristics that fulfill your organization's requirements.

Finding them is not too tricky. In fact all you have to do is pick up a local newspaper and see what is available in the classified section. You can also do some research online to find out which buildings in town are offering office spaces for small businesses. When you go to meetings in other buildings around the city, you might even be lucky to come across a building that you like.

Find out about the utilities that are available for the office space. A building with good management will provide water and electricity in the spaces that they let. They will also have meters that will measure usage for the rooms separately. Avoid buildings that do not have separate meters for utilities for their spaces because it will be a source of conflict in the future trying to figure out how your electric bill is determined.

Learn more about the janitorial services of the building. As a small organization, you may not even be able to afford to keep a janitor around on a fulltime basis. Many buildings will often offer this service for a minimal fee on top of the rent. Find out what the schedules are for janitorial services for your office so that you can assign an employee to be present while cleaning goes on.

Get more information about the security of the offices. Buildings that are concerned about the organizations that they house often provide very good security for the whole building. They will also have a good emergency plan for unprecedented disasters such as earthquakes, fires, and terrorist attacks. The cost for this is already included in the rent, so make sure that the services in security that are provided are competent.

Read all the terms and conditions on the contract so that you will be clear about your obligations as a lessee and what you can expect from the lessor. You can avoid a lot of conflict and misunderstandings in the future if you ask your questions about the contract before you sign it. Contracts will often run for not less than a year, so factor that into your organization's budget and future business plan.

When you find a place that reaches the business room standards that you are looking for, you can look forward to a more productive year ahead. It is always advantageous for an organization to have an official office space because it reflects competence and professionalism to their clients.

If you are looking for a business room for your organization, be sure to get as much information as possible before signing a contract. Useful information about business rooms in your town can also be found online.

http://EzineArticles.com/6491837

The Breath Taking Gardens of Johannesburg

The well known city of Johannesburg, or Jozi as many of us know it, is quite popularly reputed as the largest city in South Africa and a prosperous life line for the country not only in terms of financial and economic activities but also because it serves as an indispensable crossroad between Cape Town, Durban and Kruger National Park. Hence, Johannesburg traditionally receives a large chunk of its tourists in form of those who use it as a transit city. Building on this strength, the city has added numerous tourist attractions to its already breathtaking landscape over the years. Today, Johannesburg holds all the exhilarating tourist attractions that may be expected of a modern holiday destination.

If you're booking cheap flights to Johannesburg for your next holiday trip, except to have a truly elating experience as the city's glitzy and gutsy draws would absolutely sweep you off your feet. While Johannesburg has all the right idea to amuse its guests with various history museums, Large shopping centres, skyscraping buildings, amusement parks, delightfully decorated restaurants and cafes serving delectable meals and a whole larger assortment of attractions, the city is also home to some extremely beautiful gardens. Once you're in Johannesburg, a visit to these gardens and parks is a must, for it would not only open vistas of nature's dumb folding beauty upon you but would also prove to be a cherished experience. Let's have a look at the top few.

Bedford view:

Located only a few minutes from the downtown CBD area, the Bedford view is essentially a leafy suburb in Johannesburg but most part of the area comprises of finely leveled thick grasslands, colorful shades shouldering closely and dancing streams of lake running across these grassland; making it no less beautiful than a Park. The Bedford view is renowned as one of the most sere and beautiful suburbs in Johannesburg, perfect for living in the city but even if one is booking flights to the city for a visit, the enchanting parks of Bedford view are a must visit for their extreme prettiness and soothing aura.

The Zoo Lake:

You probably have already heard of this place as it's considered one of the most sparkling tourist attractions in Johannesburg. Posing right across the famous Johannesburg zoo, is the ravishing Zoo Lake; a mesmerizing site of twinkling aqua filled within dense and towering trees. The Zoo lake area, being a total paradise, is probably the best place for a family picnic or a romantic date in Johannesburg. Apart from a spell bounding atmosphere that this park possesses, there are a number of interesting activities for visitors to undertake for instance there are a number of restaurants, bowling places and sightseeing spots, built especially to let visitors have an exceptional time out.

The Rose Park-Symbol of Love:

Being a local park on the Rose Street in Lenasia, the Rose Park is one avenue for sheer family entertainment. The park features a dancing fountain, comfortable benches, deliciously serving snack bars, wide screens, Soccer Pitches and a lot more. This is place with its beautiful blend of activities, proves to be an entertaining area for both adults and children alike. Other amnesties of the park include kids' jungle gym, swings, jogging tracks and round-abouts.

Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve:

Be it an adventure pursuit or a desire to explore the various marvels of nature, Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is not only a place, but a whole enthralling experience. Spread on approximately 680 acres, this reserve is home to some 150 species of wildlife animals who roam free in this thickly planted land. the corners of the reserves are packed around with humongous peaks often seen peeping through thick clouds. Some of the most eminent animals seen in this reserve include Zebra, Black Wilde bees, Red Hartebeest and Springboks. There are 8 walking trails in Klipriviersberg, varying interms of their difficulty levels to match different abilities. The Reserve is truly an exceptional place for safari tours as well as for discovering the wilderness of Johannesburg's corners.

In case you're booking cheap flights to South Africa or any of its other important cities, do not forget to stop by at Johannesburg for a day or two to let your trip have an exciting dimension to it. Other parks in Johannesburg that can make for a pleasurable visit include Rietfontein Nature Reserve and Emmarentia Dam and JHB Botanical Garden.

Get cheap flights Johannesburg and cheap flights to South Africa. For more articles from Eva, visit travelhouseuk.co.uk.

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Hotels in Stamford, Connecticut Reviewed

Hotels in Stamford, Connecticut: Stamford has some really different things to see and do and the first one is the Stamford Cone; this is a 45 ft tall structure made of stained glass, in the downtown area, and is like being inside a child's kaleidoscope.

Cove Island Park is a beach area on Long Island Sound and here you can 'people watch' as they rollerblade, bike, and walk by or you can join in the fun and get the whole family doing some great keep fit. There are many things to do here from tennis courts to playgrounds.

Visit the Stamford Historical Society Museum and learn more about the changes in everything from food to technology. Something for everyone can be found at the Calf Pasture Beach and here you can walk the shore line or go fishing, boating, or even swimming as well as play a game of golf. Here they have restrooms, eating areas and changing rooms.

The golfer may like to play at the Sterling Farm Golf Course with wide fairways. There is also the public course called E. Gaynor Brennan Municipal GC. Stamford Museum and Nature Centre and here there is a small farm with animals and a Meadow for a family picnic. There is 80 acres of great natural trails to explore and enjoy.

Courtyard Stamford

Downtown 275 Summer Street

Stamford, Connecticut 06901 USA

This hotel is in the downtown area and has coffee in the lobby for the guest as well as a newsstand/ gift shop. There is a coin operated laundry on-site for the guests to use. This hotel will deliver a newspaper, to the room, on request. There is room service from 7am till 10pm. Here they also have vending machines, if you wish to have a snack.

Napa &Co is an American cuisine restaurant on-site, for the guests to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They have a nice wine list with many choices. R BaR is the lounge here and you can get a beverage and settle down in over sized chairs, to chill out after your days sightseeing. This hotel offers the guest towels when they use the indoor pool and whirlpool. There is a small seating area if you wish to watch your children swim. To help the guest to keep up their daily exercise while away from home there is an exercise room, with all the basics.

The rooms are of a good size and are nicely decorated and practical with a work area and air conditioning. There is a sofa bed, as well as the main bed. The room has bottled water, which is complimentary. There is a coffee maker as well as a mini fridge. The bathroom has a shower/ tub combination and if you need to then you can book a terrace room or a king whirlpool room. There are over 70 restaurants and lounges within walking distance of this hotel, so you are going to be able to find what you want in the local area.

For more hotel reviews and information about hotels in every state and many
cities in the United States please visit my site below.
HOTEL REVIEWS

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How to protect your jewelry when traveling

Packing for air travel can be especially difficult as trying to protect your valuable and sentimental jewelry often damages, without sacrificing too much space in your luggage. When traveling with jewelry, you want to ensure it reaches its destination and remains intact. Security Administration Transportation recommends that passengers refrain from metal-containing jewelry to expedite security checks, but also recommends that you keep valuables such as jewelry with you rather than in checked luggage when traveling. Many people do not want to give up on having jewelry with them during the trip, leading to the need to efficiently and ensure protection of jewelry in a handbag or purse.

One way to protect and conveniently transport the jewelry is to buy a jewelry travel case that is equipped to secure and protect the types and amount of jewelry you are wearing. Travel cases for jewelry are available from many sources and vary in capacity, price and design. When buying a travel case, be sure to take into account the types and amount of jewelry that will travel with you, and choose a case that accommodates their needs but use minimal space in your luggage.

Packing jewelry safely inside your suitcase, however, need not involve investment in a jeweler. You can safely and economically pack your jewelry, ensuring that with cardboard or heavy paper. Necklaces can be packed in individual cardboard boxes, created by first cutting cardboard rectangles that measure just over twice the length of each string. This can be achieved by ensuring each necklace in the two cuts have been reduced at one end of each rectangle, the rectangle and fold in half to cover the entire chain. The cardboard box can be attached or placed inside a plastic bag set that allows the minimum space to change the chain. Earrings and bracelets can be secured with cardboard or heavy paper in a similar way. The goal is to create a robust that prevents tangled necklaces and protects all the jewels of the damage caused by the compression and the potential impact.

Keep valuables such as jewelry with you on the trip ensures that you arrive at your destination in the unlikely circumstance that your baggage does not. Whether you opt for the approach made by itself or buy a jewelry travel case for your needs, keep in mind that you may request a private security screening if you are traveling with large amounts of valuables and prefer to protect their privacy.

http://goarticles.com/article/How-to-protect-your-jewelry-when-traveling/5177993/