Tuesday, December 25, 2007

Holiday Parks in the UK

The UK Holiday Park has become one of the great national institutions. Generations of families, from the turn of the century onwards, have left the UK’s cities to head for their two weeks summer holidays on the British coastline.

The Holiday Park had a fairly humble beginning, essentially offering accommodation, entertainment and food all under one roof, more often than not on the edge of a large traditional seaside town like Blackpool, Skegness or Great Yarmouth.

These holiday parks were very popular with families looking for affordable holidays, at a time when overseas travel was expensive and unobtainable for a large percentage of the general public.

However as overseas travel became more affordable Britain saw the rise of the package holiday in the 70’s and 80’s, which meant that the UK holidays no longer offered the value that was such a unique selling point for many of the popular parks. With the new found competition from guaranteed sun, cheap accommodation, food and drink, UK holiday parks came under increasing pressure.

The challenging times that faced the industry were definitely compounded by a change in perception of the holiday park experience. When you mentioned holiday parks people began to think of the popular TV series Hi-de-Hi and never ending rounds of knobbly knees competitions, donkey rides and red coat style entertainment. Unfortunately combined with cold and windy chalets and indifferent food!

The holiday park has however come a long way since its humble beginnings and in the last ten years the industry has seen a massive revolution in the breadth, quality and style of holiday parks available in the UK.

Like many UK tourism business the independent and multiple holiday park owners began to see a decrease in the interest in their holiday offering. The park owners came up with a number of solutions to counter the perception and the improve the quality of the holiday park experience.

Firstly the accommodation was upgraded. Customers were no longer happy with basic facilities, so holiday parks spent millions on improving accommodation facilities, from upgrading the standard rooms to developing penthouse apartments with plasma TV’s, four poster beds and room service. This resulted in holiday parks giving a more upmarket feel to all their accommodation and provided customers with a much greater range of choice.

Secondly the entertainment offering changed enormously. Some UK parks began to specialise in just offering specific entertainment breaks. Top comedians, shows and musical acts have begun to top the bill and themed weekends specialising in entertainment like county western, 60’s revivals and dance and sport breaks. Parks have also become better at targeting key groups like adult weekends, family activity holidays or special nights for stag and hen groups.

Thirdly the traditional three meals a day offering of parks has probably seen the greatest change. To adapt to the change needs of holiday makers more and more parks have began to offer self catering options rather than providing full or half board and charging extra for meals. Some of the larger chain parks have gone even further and don’t offer any catering, just inviting the restaurants and fast food places to offer food on the Park. However, as the parks themselves have diversified, offering different things to different holiday markets, so has the catering, and some holiday parks now make a virtue of the fact that they offer three top quality meals all day.

One example of a company who stayed ahead of the game was Potters Leisure Resort (http://www.pottersholidays.com/). As the UK’s only Five Star Independent Park they had long been investing to top quality infrastructure, entertainment and catering and the initial costs of the project have been rewarded with a reputation for top quality holiday park experience.

But Potters aren’t the only company offering top quality park style holidays. More and more developments in the UK are building the lodge style accommodation away from the traditional holiday park centres of seaside towns. The inland lodge style developments have specifically moved away from the ‘park’ image and now offer champagne and hot tubs style breaks in a quiet and secluded rural environment.

Parks are springing up right across the UK on the coast and inland and more than ever before the UK holiday park experience offers something for everyone from traditional entertainment in Great Yarmouth, to five star luxury in the Cotswolds. With so much innovation in the industry holiday parks will continue to offer more of what the holidaymaker wants and needs – a top quality holiday experience.
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Thursday, October 18, 2007

Apollo Bay: Paradise by the Sea

by Gavin Wyatt
Nestled in at the base of the Otway Ranges, separating the lush green rainforest from the deep azure blue of the Southern Ocean, lies the peaceful coastal hamlet of Apollo Bay. Referred to by locals, and remembered by visitors, as 'paradise by the sea', Apollo Bay is built on a perfect, bow shaped beach whose white sands and gentle waves help justify this label, as does the relaxed atmosphere of the town and the laid back, no worries attitude of its residents.

With a history of fishing that dates back over 100 years, fishing, together with farming and tourism is one of the chief incomes of the town. The huge fleet moored in the towns harbour has become something of an attraction to visitors, who like to wander through the wharves observing the different boats coming in with their catch for the day. Seafood doesn't come much fresher than this, and lobsters and various other fish and crustaceans can be bought directly from the fishermen. If you fancy a bit of fishing yourself then charters are available from which you can fish out at sea or along the coastline, or you can hire rods and try your luck in the surf of the beaches around Apollo Bay. These beaches are swimming safe, so a dip could provide the perfect respite from your endeavours with the rod.

On the landward side of Apollo Bay lie the spectacular Otway Ranges. Characterised by the thick, lush rainforest vegetation and breath taking mountain scenery, you will need at least a couple of days to explore the exciting and enthralling attractions throughout this mountain range. There are thirteen impressive waterfalls in these mountains, and it is well worth your while to visit at least a few of them as they are all easily reachable from Apollo Bay. The Erskine Falls are the most visited, where water cascades down a steep rocky face into a fern lined gully, kicking up a wall of spray that coats everything around in a fine layer of moisture. Triplet Falls are just as impressive, sharing the same damp rainforest characteristics.

Heading slightly west from Apollo Bay you reach Cape Otway, a rugged peninsula that juts out into the ocean and marks the start of the treacherous Shipwreck Coast. The Cape Otway lighthouse towers over the coastline from the peninsula, built to guide ships into the Bass Strait. These days you are able to climb the lighthouse and enjoy the coastal views on either side from its top, taking in the broken cliffs and rocks that have proved so perilous to ships of the past. Behind the peninsula is the Otway National Park, which is a continuation of the rainforest that covers the mountains in the hinterland.

Back into town and you can spend some time browsing through the many art galleries and studios that have developed in the area. Apollo Bay has a strong tradition of arts and crafts, and many artists come here to find inspiration from its tranquil setting and picturesque surrounds. A lot of inspiration is taken from the sea, and in the foreshore of the centre of town there are twenty four sculptures that strongly represent this influence. Created by various artists from around the world, these sculptures are a large feature of the towns centre. On Saturday mornings a market opens on the foreshore, where local produce and arts and crafts is available for purchase, and many bargains can be found. In keeping with the strong cultural vibe of the town, the Apollo Bay Music Festival is held here each year in April. It attracts local and international artists and draws in people from all over the world.

If golf is your game then you will be delighted with the nine hole course in Apollo Bay. Hugging the coastline, each hole offers its own unique views of the ocean as well as its own challenges to the golfer. Its the perfect way to get some fresh air and take in some of the views the town offers. Talking about sports, the Great Ocean Road marathon is held in Apollo Bay annually and draws crowds from all over the region and contestants from all over the world. It takes place in May every year, so if you are sports mad then try and work your holiday around these dates.

Apollo Bay has a range of accommodation styles to suit all budgets and group sizes. If it seems a bit daunting trying to plan your stay and choose somewhere to stay, it shouldn't be. All you need to do is log onto www.accommodationinapollobay.com.au which is a simple and easy to use website that lists the details and information of all the accommodation options in the town. It also provides information on tourism operators in the region, and what sites and attractions you should see. The perfect means to planning your holiday!
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Top 10 Items To Buy In Singapore

by Gary Hendricks
Have you arrived in Singapore and are craving to go do some shopping? Well help and guidance is here!

In Singapore, shopping is upheld as a national pastime. You will find a lot of shopping malls, coupled with nice discounts, low taxes and tariffs, as well as a huge variety of goods.

Most stores in Singapore stay open 7 days a week and operate from 10 am to 9 pm. If you're planning to shop, keep in mind these opening times.

One nice event to look out for when you visit Singapore is definitely the Great Singapore Sale. What happens here you ask? Well, it is an event held during June and July of each year, where shopping centres go crazy with discounts to attract shoppers.

To help the avid shopper scouting Singapore for goods, I've come up with a list of ten items I think you can and should purchase from Singapore.

1. Antiques
Antiques are always a nice item to buy from SIngapore. Where can you find them? Where's the best place to get good value? Well, if you go to the 2nd floor of the Tanglin Shopping Centre, or perhaps the shops along South Bridge Road in Chinatown, you will find some rare gems.

2. Books
Who isn't looking for books? Many tourists come to Singapore and go away with tons of nice reading material. Definite good places to check out in clude Borders at Wheelock Place) and Kinokuniya at Ngee Ann City. I love these two bookstores - my wife can't tear me away from them sometimes.

3. Cameras
Right - the next item has got to be cameras. Whether you're hunting for digital or analog cameras, one of the best places to get them would be Peninsula Plaza. It is situated near the City Hall MRT station.

4. Computers
If you're a computer buff, you definitely want to check out Sim Lim Square, which is situated near Little India. This place stocks all manner of computer hardware and software. Another place for good computer stuff is Funan the IT Mall.

5. Electronics
Ok, next item - electronics. Electronics sales are very high in Singapre. You can find great bargains in Funan the IT Mall or Mustafa at Little India. I suggest you avoid those touristy places like Lucky Plaza or shops along Orchard Road. Oh, and please remember that the voltage requirements in Singapore are 220V - we follow a British-style three-pin plug.

6. Ethnic Items
Singapore stocks many ethnic items worth purchasing. You can go to Chinatown to buy these. Some interesting item I've come across include Buddha statues and glow-in-the-dark Merlion soap dispensers. Strange, but yes, many tourists go out of their way to buy the odd curio or two from the island to take home.

7. Fashion
Those interested in fashion items, listen up. The best places to shop for high-street fashion is Takashimaya and Paragon on Orchard Road. You'll find many rich folk (particular Japanese and Indonesians) shopping in boutiques there. For the more youthful and street-oriented look, try Bugis Junction. Here, you can find hip and young clothing very easily.

8. Fabrics
Talking about fashion, we might as well touch on fabrics. Without a doubt, the best places to obtain fabrics in Singapore (particular fabrics for Indian saris) include Arab Street and Little India. You can also find some batik there (exotic Malay fabrics).

9. Food
Well, food is not really a 'shopping item'. But food is such a major part of Singaporean life that I had to mention it. One absolutely great place to shop for gourmet food is Jason's Marketplace in the basement of Raffles City. You can get there by MRT and stopping at the City Hall station. Another great place for food is definitely Takashimaya's basement.

10. Music
Ah, who can forget music. Music is very well rooted in Singaporean culture and the best place to buy music CDs has got to be the HMV store in the Heeren. Situated along Orchard Road, it is Singapore's largest music shop and certainly one of my favorite leisure haunts.
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Visit Pontevedra and Enjoy the History

by Scott James
Galicia in particular and Northern Spain in general have long been considered to be a hidden jewel in the entire Spanish tourist industry and hidden away within Galicia itself are some further jewels and we are going to examine Pontevedra further.

If you look at all of the autonomous regions that make up modern day Spain, Galicia has to be the most remote and hidden away within that remoteness lies Pontevedra.

Historically, always classed as the poorer cousin to some of the other richer regions Galicia had an economy that did not easily lend itself to modernisation and herein lies a paradox in that it is this very reluctance to embrace modernity throughout that gives the region much of its appeal as far as tourism is concerned.

The natives of Galicia if you trace them back far enough have origins very similar to their Celtic cousins in the north and are justifiably proud of their language and culture and these connections no matter how stretched or tenuous give them their sense of regionalism and uniqueness.

Galicia always seemed to be a very closed and inward looking area being fiercely resistant to any formal external invasion and in many ways this degree of isolation was very much driven by the geographical location of the region.

Slowly but surely in the 20th century, Galicia began to develop and today traditional lifestyles rub shoulders with modernity throughout the region whilst at the same time the region has lost none of its more traditional culture and within the tourism economy this is starting to show real benefits.

For those who wish to visit somewhere slightly interesting and possibly out over the ordinary then a trip to Pontevedra is just the order for the day.

Pontevedra can be found on the main road leading from Vigo northwards to Santiago de Compostela on the N550. If you believe the stories that surround the town according to myths and legends and then Pontevedra was supposedly built by a character called Teucro who was one of the heroes of the Trojan War.

In reality however Pontevedra was actually constructed by the Romans who first constructed a bridge across the Lerez River and the present day town began to emerge round this bridge.

The original bridge has now been restored almost to its original condition and is now called A Ponte do Burgo and the bridge remains to this day one of the town's principal landmarks. The town is also one off the four provincial capitals within Galicia.

A total of Pontevedra and is probably best started on what is called the Alameda Boulevard which has often been described as the green lungs of the town. One of the more established parts of the city the boulevard houses many lovely 19th century buildings that are now home to many important offices.

If one had to provide a potential top five of "must see" sites in Pontevedra then I guess that the following would make it onto the list.

The first site would possibly be the Ruinos do Santa Domingo which are the ruins of a Gothic church which can be found at the end of the Alameda Boulevard. These ruins form part of the Museo de Pontevedra where it is possible to see Roman artefacts medieval coats of arms and tombs. The main buildings of the museum which is highly regarded and viewed as one of the best in Galicia can be found on the Praza da Lena.

All in all museums and collections house rare artefacts including Gold Celtic bracelets and necklaces and locally found Bronze Age treasures.

Alongside these ancient artefacts can be found rare paintings from down through the centuries including paintings by Zurbarin and Goya.

There are other attractions within Pontevedra amongst which is the huge Praza da Ferraria with its huge fountain in the centre. Alongside this and worthy of a mention is the Casa das Caras with its sculpted faces, the 14th Century Iglesia de San Francisco.

Perhaps the best site to see in Pontevedra is what could be described as one of the greatest monuments to Galician Architecture is the 16th Century Basilica de Santa Maria la Mayor.

The church, dedicated to Pontevedra's patron saint, the Virgin de la Peregrina and is built to a circular plan and features amongst its many highlights a bow fronted façade that is well worth a visit.

All in all Pontevedra is perhaps not the tiny, boring little town in the regions that many assume it to be.
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Enjoy the History that is Coruna

by Stephen Morgan
With regards to the tourist industry within Spain, Northern Spain and in particular Galicia especially have been very much a hidden treasure and hidden within lies a further particular treasure called Coruna. Of all of the autonomous regions of Spain Galicia is considered the most remote and therein lies the charm of Coruna hidden away longing to be discovered. Galicia has always been seen as a poor rural region, whose economy was dependent upon agriculture and fishing and did not lend itself to modernisation and yet as far as tourism is concerned it is this constant contact with the past that gives the region its appeal and charm. The Galicians are fiercely proud of their culture and language and their Celtic heritage; it is what makes them unique (they feel) within modern day Spain. Galicia always seemed to be a very closed and inward looking area being fiercely resistant to any formal external invasion and in many ways this degree of isolation was very much driven by the geographical location of the region. In what has been a mountain to climb slowly but surely Galicia is now trying to manage successfully the twin track of its regional lifestyle with a much more modern society and thankfully this appears to have had very positive results with regards to tourism with little sign of negative effects..

Corona is the oldest town in Galicia. It is even mentioned in Irish Celtic folklore as the destination of the Celtic hero Breogan who apparently travelled to the Iberian Peninsula, landed and where he landed built a tower.

There is a large tower outside Coruna, but this particular town is a famous lighthouse and is called the Torres de Hercules and dates back from Roman times. The tower is the world's oldest working lighthouse and has been the subject of a recent renovation project which has restored the lighthouse to almost its original splendour. The tower was originally built during the period of the Roman Emperor Trajan but legend attributes the construction to Hercules which as has been proven is not quite true but is a splendid tale nonetheless.

Coruna is also the birthplace to a local heroine of Galician folklore (in this case a story more substantiated) Maria Pitt who it is alleged became a heroine overnight when she was the focal point and leader of the Galician Resistance to the English sailor (and in this case probably privateer) Sir Francis Drake when he raided Coruna in 1589.

Coruna has been one of the most important ports within the whole country of Spain for centuries and is one of the centres for the Spanish fishing fleet that travels as far away as fishing grounds off the coasts of Iceland and Canada. Fishing is immensely important to the Spanish who actually probably consume more seafood than any other European country with the exception of Portugal.

The Galician fishing fleet which has been mentioned is centred in Coruna and Vigo supplies near the half of the fish and shellfish caught and consumed in Spain. The industry employs as a nation over 61,000 fishermen and over 16,000 boats with as has been said more than 50 percent of the fleet based in Galicia so you can see that Fishing is immensely important to the local economy.

There is more to Coruna, in fact a whole lot more than just fishing and the delights of Coruna are in fact many and varied.
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Planning a Camping trip

by Gemma Ogden
Many things go into planning a camping trip and the plans you make will vary from trip to trip depending on a range of circumstances. Here, however, are a few tips that should apply to most of your camping adventure preparations.

Consider the Weather The first thing you should do is to think about when planning a camping holiday is the climate at the location and the time of year you're heading off camping. Clothing that meets the weather challenges, be they hot or cold, is fundamental to your enjoyment of the trip. Clothes that are not too constricting are usually best and you should bring along enough clothes to last you for the duration of the your camping holiday. It's also worthwhile taking a couple of extra outer warmer layers. You can always get cooler but it's not quite so simple to keep warm.

Consider the Size of Your Party and How You're Getting There If you're off camping on foot as opposed to by car, you're going to be restricted in the amount of camping equipment you can carry on your person but ensure that there are enough tents, sleeping bags, food supplies and other items which you deem essential to accommodate your whole party.

Cooking Simple foods are best for cooking, and you are there to enjoy your camping holiday not spending hours cooking! Try to minimise the amount of fresh produce that you take with you. Whilst things like fresh meat, poultry and dairy produce can be taken, it provides you with the additional burden of keeping it fresh before arriving at your camp site. Also ensure that if you're taking a stove, you have enough gas or fuel supplies to last the whole trip. Campsites Whether you're camping off the beaten track or going to stay on a recreational camp site, make sure you know the level of facilities that are available once you're there as you may need to make extra provisions for example a family camping holiday. Try to find out what kind of access there is to drinking water as it's even more important to have enough water than food. Also, ensure you're familiar with the rules and regulations of the area in which you're camping. Find out in advance if there are any restrictions and/or regulations, especially around issues such as building a fire for cooking or warmth. First Aid kit Accidents do happen so make sure you take your first aid kit with you on your camping holiday and, more importantly, know how to use the things in it and what to do in the event of an accident or emergency.

Emergency A camping holiday often involves adventure and experiences of the great outdoors that you wouldn't normally get from a package holiday. With that, comes some element of risk so be sure you leave a family member or close friend an idea of your itinerary, what camp site you're likely to be located at any given time and, if you're planning on moving around from place to place, let them know when they can expect you back and agree to check in with them now and again. That way, if you fail to get in touch, it may be an indication that you are in difficulty and they can summon help.

Planning a camping holiday needn't be tedious. If all the family get involved, it can be great fun and provide a sense of anticipation and excitement at the trip ahead.
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Walk the Trials of New South Wales

by Jenny Brewer
Walking the trails in NSW Experienced bushwalkers are looking for challenges and diversity. Beginner bushwalkers are looking for safety and beauty. New South Wales has some of the most diverse walking tracks in Australia, and there is no doubt that there is something available for everyone. A campervan holiday is perfect for the flexibility to spend a few days at each national park if you wish, or base yourself in one and enjoy all the walks available.

You have the choice of the remote outback, famous mountains, magnificent coastlines and lush rainforests. There are hundreds of national parks in New South Wales, with a multitude of bushwalking tracks available for all levels of fitness. Close to Sydney, there are beautiful trails in every direction. If you are picking up your vehicle from the city, head to one of these parks to enjoy the magnificent views. One of my favourites is the stretch from Turrumurra to Berowra, which travels over close to fourteen kilometres of sweeping bushland and rainforest not far from the city centre. Lane Cove National Park is even closer, with a thirteen kilometre walk you can enjoy in stages or completed in close to three hours.

One of the most well known parks in New South Wales is the Blue Mountains, close to an hour from Sydney. Plan at least a few days to enjoy all this Australian wonder has to offer. There are plenty of camping grounds available, and most trails start with a family friendly picnic ground. There are a number of one kilometre walks which end in some spectacular views, from one through to a forty two kilometre walk to Jenolan Caves.

You can get off the beaten track to the interior of the park to experience some incredible canyons, cliffs and gorges on some of the lesser known tracks. There are all types of activities available as well such as mountain biking, abseiling and caving. One four hour walk which is popular is the Ruined Castle walk. You are rewarded with a 360 degree panoramic view of the Blue Mountains at the summit, and it is fairly easy for most levels of fitness.

Another well known walk is from Kanangra to Katoomba which takes close to three days to complete but offers some of the best mountainous scenery. Katoomba is perfect if you want to take day trips to the mountains and stay in one of the comfortable caravan parks. It is the central hub of visitors to the mountains, with the famous Three Sisters within easy reach, and the scenic skyway and the Katoomba Falls all worth visiting.

Wollemi National Park is huge and one of the best places to head to for thick forest, canyons and cliff faces that stretch on as far as the eye can see. Dunns Swamp and Wolgan River are popular camping bases, and just over an hour north west from Sydney.

Close to the capital is the Royal National Park, famous for being the second oldest national park in the world. Fantastic for a day trip to escape the traffic, there are plenty of walking tracks through the forests which take you to lookouts on the cliffs, picnic areas and beaches for a refreshing swim. You can opt for a two day walk taking in the park in all its diversity.

Head south close to 150 kilometres to Jervis Bay National Park, where you will find all types of scenery and attractions, including the lovely Lake Wollumboola. It is such a lovely area to visit, with pristine beaches and walking trails through the tranquil forests. You can take the White Sands Walk and then return by taking the Scribbly Gum Track to enjoy the diversity of the park. Make sure you visit Hammerhead Point which also has a great picnic area. There are caravan parks in the nearby towns or in Booderee National Park nearby.

There are simply too many national parks and walks in New South Wales to list, but choose a few areas and base your holiday around them. You will not only have a relaxing holiday, but experience incredible scenery, increase your fitness levels and spend some quality time with your friends and family. A campervan and bushwalking holiday is the ideal choice to make the most of the Australian outdoors at its best.
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The Lake District + the lakes in Cumbria

by Lakes lad and Ashley Gilmour
The Lake District is located in Cumbria, The North West of England and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in the world, it is also known as "the lakes" or "Lakeland". In 1951 some 886 square miles of the lake district became a national park and today it takes up a massive 885 square miles, the Lake District is the largest of England's 12 national parks and is the best known tourist destination in England, outside of London. The lakes are only a few hours travel time away from three international airports making the lakes easy to get to, via car, bus or train.

Home of the writer Beatrix Potter and loved by the poet William Wordsworth, the Lake District maintained by the UK's National Trust is now a world famous national park visited by up to 16 million people a year. The Lake District is a very beautiful and tranquil place to relax, but for those who like adventure there are lots of activities to get involved in. The area offers a wealth of interesting visitor attractions and outdoor activities with plenty of places to stay including hotels, hostels, camping and caravanning sites which are all ideal for a holiday in the Lake District. Travelling around Lakeland is very easy, with a number of services on offer including taxis, buses, even the traditional steamer boat on Lake Windermere.

The Lake District is a walker's paradise at any time of the year with many walking routes mapped out and is famous for its breathtaking scenery, charming Lakeland towns, villages and historical houses and castles that can be seen along the way it is also superb mountain biking territory with many paths and tracks to explore. Many Rock climbers visit the Lake District as it is home to Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain at 3210ft high. Windermere Lake a massive 10.5 miles long is popular with sailing boats, anglers and other water sports activities. Among the many lakes Wastwater, which is located at the foot of Scafell is the deepest lake in England at around 258 feet deep.

Whether you visit the area to unwind and relax surrounded by the natural beauty of the area or visit to participate in a sporting activity the Lake District is an enjoyable area for a wide range of age groups with lots to offer.

For more information about a holiday in the Lake District or Static Caravan Sale please contact South Lakeland Parks
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Rich Use Their Choppers More On Holiday

by Roger Munns
There's no hiding the fact that people in the French Riviera have money. They enjoy the finer things in life and can actually afford to have them. For years this meant owning property or taking a holiday in Monaco or owning a yacht. It seems that isn't enough anymore, though. Yacht owners not only need hot destinations, they also need transportation. Many yacht owners now have luxury cars and helicopters on board for easy transportation options.

The French Riviera to Monaco Helicopter rentals and charters have been popular for travel between the French Riviera and Monaco for some time. Heli Air Monaco makes flying from Nice to Monaco a breeze, with complete air time of only seven minutes.

Helicopter rides are also available for visitors to tour the Principality of Monaco, the areas surrounding Monaco, St. Paul, Nice and the French Riviera. Tours range from 10 to 40 minutes and provide a priceless view of the beautiful scenery.

Helicopters Used for the Monaco Grand Prix Heli Air Monaco is the official transportation of the F.O.C.A. The Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix run around the streets of Monte Carlo is a major sporting event that draws visitors from numerous locations around the world. Having helicopter transportation available during this event allows travelers and media personnel to get from Nice International Airport to Monaco in minutes versus hours.

Luxury Living in the French Riviera and Monaco The wealthy people of Monaco and the French Riviera want bigger and better things to make life easier. When owning a yacht became commonplace, a super yacht seemed to be the next step in major purchases. To fully explore the world at one's leisure, however, it is almost a necessity to own a private helicopter as well.

Some of the richest people in the world enjoy the luxuries of life in Monaco because of the tax regime. Monaco has been known for generally low income tax rates, making it a great place for the rich to invest their money without paying a large sum of money in taxes.

Aside from the benefits of the tax regime, Monaco and the French Riviera offer the lifestyle of the rich, with places to dock their yachts, tourist attractions, casinos, cultural events, annual yacht shows, and celebrity sightings.

Why Private Jets Have Become a Necessity Traveling between Monaco and the French Riviera is common for people who own property in one location or the other - and sometimes both. While travelling by yacht has been the norm for the rich in recent years, travellers seem to be in more of a hurry all the time. The addition of a helicopter and helicopter pad to a yacht makes it easier and faster to get from one place or another. It also means adding a pilot and mechanic to the crew.

With the British and Germans spending their holidays in Monaco and the French Riviera, travelling to and from Monaco can be a bit of a hassle. Holiday sales to Monaco are on the rise this year, making waterways and airways busier than ever. Having a private helicopter allows people to travel at a moment's notice in a fraction of the time it would take to travel by charter.

Traveling by personal helicopter is also less time consuming because it allows the rich to travel from the French Riviera to Monaco without dealing with tourists.
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South Africans sought to fill skills gap

by Amanda O'Brien
SOUTH Africans are to be recruited to fill council jobs in Western Australia as statewide skills shortages sparked by the booming mining sector threaten to decimate local government services.

The move comes on the heels of a new survey showing that difficulties attracting and retaining staff in the state are having a negative or very negative effect on a record 71 per cent of businesses.

State Local Government Association president Bill Mitchell said the shortage was so serious that the prospect of councils having to reduce services was "a very real possibility and probability".

Long delays for planning approvals and engineering work were likely if skilled staff could not be found.

Mr Mitchell said councils taking part in the South African recruitment drive would pay success fees of about $4000 for every vacancy filled but considered it well worth the money.

The association gave a shopping list of 80 jobs to recruiters, who will travel this week to South Africa hunting for town planners, engineers, accountants and environmental health officers.

Local government is Western Australia's third-biggest employer, with about 14,000 jobs, but Mr Mitchell said more than 10 per cent of jobs were unfilled as the sector competed with the booming resources industry.

The latest Commonwealth Bank-Chamber of Commerce and Industry business expectations survey found a record 76 per cent of businesses were worried about labour shortages, and many reported having to pay higher wages and incentives to keep staff.

Mr Mitchell said many councils were helping to pay HECS debts for new employees as one of a range of incentives.

In the September quarter, the index of non-wage labour costs surged to its highest level since the survey began in December 1997, and 38 per cent of respondents said they expected to raise prices in the next quarter as a result.

West Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief economist John Nicolaou said overcoming labour shortages must now be a priority for the state and federal governments.

"While shortages are still most pronounced among skilled workers and professionals, critical shortages have now also been observed among lower-skilled labouring jobs and junior workers," Mr Nicolaou said.

With business expansion and growth set to continue at a rapid pace, he said, labour shortages would remain a problem for some time. More than 40 per cent of respondents reported they wanted to hire more staff in the coming quarter.

Western Australia's record low unemployment rate of 3.1 per cent is causing problems for the state Government, which has more than 900 vacancies advertised. Last month alone, more than 3300 new jobs were created in the state.

Police have been forced to recruit overseas to cope with a shortfall of about 120 officers. The force's recent recruitment drive in South Africa attracted about 300 applications, which are now being worked through.

Police Minister John Kobelke said that in the past 18 months more than 270 officers had been recruited from countries including Britain, Ireland, South Africa, Singapore, Denmark and The Netherlands.

Mr Mitchell said councils would spend about $200,000 this year promoting local government as a career that offered a better quality of life for workers than the resources industry.

"You can get big money in the mining sector, but you need to weigh up lifestyle with a job that is two weeks on and two weeks off against what we offer - like flexible hours, childcare, job-sharing and the like."
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Get Information of Alabama Airports

by Anirban Bhattacharya
Alabama or the Yellowhammer is one of the important states of the United States. The state is the home of aerospace, education, healthcare, banking and various other heavy industries to become really advance in every area of interest. The state is further becoming a business center for many business activities to attract many entrepreneurs to establish their interest here. Due to increasing business interest and favorability, Alabama has become an instant flying destination. To serve the requirements of the visitors, Alabama airports provide its comfortable and enjoying journey. To get the best of air travel, you can actually hire Alabama air charter travel very conveniently and easily. Air charter is the safest and luxurious way to reach your destination. This also gives a facility to choose your own airports and land at any moment of time. Moreover, you need not to wait in a queue and just line up for your security clearance. In case of flight delays, Alabama charter airlines will give a leading edge. You will be king here, controlling the authoritative seat to reach your destination.

New in Alabama? No problem. We will give a brief idea about the airports of Alabama State. Birmingham International Airport is largest airport of the state, covering the needs of the Greater Birmingham area and surrounding Southeastern cities.

The airport is currently offering more than 160 arrivals and departures on regular daily basis to major cities throughout the United States. Due to its facility and convenience, the airport has ranked in the top 100 airports of the country. In addition, it is expected to serve more than 3 million travelers this year.

Besides this, the state has many other airports including Alexender City TC Russell Field, Dothan Regional Airport, Mobile Downtown Airport, Troy Municipal and others.

If you are visiting Alabama and just want to enjoy your journey, make sure you choose the best airline and airport to get the maximum satisfaction.
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Saturday, October 13, 2007

Things to do in Dubai

by James Heinefield
Are you going to be visiting Dubai sometime in the near future? If so, you will want to become familiar with the many attractions that will be sure to keep you busy. After all, if you are going to visit Dubai you might as well see as much as possible. You do not want to find yourself at home thinking that you could have done more. The nice thing about visiting Dubai is that there is something for everybody. No matter your tastes, you will find attractions in and around the area that will excite and educate. First off, you may want to consider stopping by some of the archaeological sites. These feature artifacts dating back to the seventh century. As you can imagine, these areas of Dubai are not only interesting but they can be quite educational as well.

Are you the adventurous type? If so, you will want to visit Bedouin Village. This is where you will have the chance to experience real desert living. You will have the ability to experience a desert safari, take camel riding lessons, and much more. Remember, there are many people in the world who live in the desert. By visiting Bedouin Village you will be able to experience their daily life.

If you like beautiful settings, make sure you stop by Dubai Creek. This is one of the calmest and most peaceful atmospheres in all of Dubai. No matter if you visit by yourself or with a loved one, you are sure to find peace when you visit Dubai Creek.

Overall, there is a lot to do in Dubai; listed above are only a few ideas. Take the time to plan out your trip before you leave so that you are sure to see all the sites of Dubai and the surrounding areas.
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A Bhutan Vacation In The Himalayas

by Peter R Stewart
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked haven between India and China , and it is often described as the last place you will find traditional Himalayan Buddhist culture. It is virtually surrounded by the Himalayas, and for centuries has been a difficult place to visit.

Bhutan opened its doors to tourism on a limited scale over thirty years ago, so now it is possible to think in terms of a Bhutan vacation.

The Kingdom of Bhutan is known locally as The Land of The Thunder Dragon, and it is one of the most isolated and least well developed nations in the world.

It is difficult to comprehend a place like Bhutan which is a kingdom whose main issue is with happiness. Everybody seems happy, cultural values and traditions remain unchanged since Buddhism began to be the dominant religion in the 7th Century. In other words the world that we live in today has left Bhutan largely untouched.

You will fall in love with the beauty of Bhutan, the lack of pollution, be it 21st century rubbish, or the noise of pop music machines. The scenery and architecture will hold you spellbound, and you will find the people quite the most charming, and very hospitable.

A Bhutan vacation will normally begin by entering the country by air using the national carrier Druk Air. The airline flies into Paro from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kathmandu every week, and it is the only airline that flies in and out of Bhutan. If you fly from Kathmandu ensure you get a seat on the left hand side of the airline, because the views of the Himalayas are exceptional. Departure tax is included in the ticket price, and you must ensure you have a visa organised before you set out from home.

You can enter by road through Phuentsholing on the southern border with India, and you could have a fantastic trip from Kathmandu to Darjeeling then to Sikkim prior to entering Bhutan.

To get around in Bhutan you need to hire a motor vehicle or walk!! There are no railways, no helicoptors, and public transport is packed and uncomfortable.

The entire country of Bhutan is mountainous apart from a small sub tropical plain area in the south. The mountains rise to as high as 7000 metres, so the climate has enormous variation. The rainy season lasts from May to September, and visits to altitude are at their best in October and November.

Apart from the sheer beauty of the Himalayas there is much to see and enjoy on your Bhutan Vacation, and space precludes large descriptions, but you ought to visit.

Bumthang which is the spiritual epicentre of Bhutan and home to its most ancient and precious Buddhist sites.

Thimpu is the only world capital without traffic lights, has a real medieval feel to it. Dechenphu Lhakhang at over 8000 feet this imposing chapel is accessed by a stone staircase Taktshang Goemba is the most famous monastery in Bhutan on the side of a cliff 2925 feet above the Paro Trongsa Dzong is the most impressive fort monastery in Bhutan and can be seen from far away.
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Amankora Lodges In The Kingdom Of Bhutan

by Ian SG Smith
Your journey of discovery in Bhutan will take you to the remote valleys and high passes , from Paro to Thimpu the capital, Punakha and Haa. You will visit and see dramatic unspoiled landscapes, awesome fortress monasteries known as dzongs, and you will be enthralled all the way.

Your next stop on this journey will be at Amankora Thimphu which has 16 suites and is secluded within a forest of enchanting blue-pines in the upper throngs of the Motithang area on the other side of the Thimpu valley at an altitude of 7709 feet. This is a 2 hour journey from Amankora Paro. It is close enough to the fascinating sights shops and sounds of the capital but is peacefully quiet. It is designed like a dzong.

To get to the Amankora Punakha is a journey of two and a half hours, you have to cross the Dochu La Pass, at over 10000 feet, and is accessed via a suspension bridge above the Mo Chhu (mother river). This quaint, three-storey structure containing 8 suites, has a preserved vegetable dye wall paintings is now the combined common guest area with a dining room, traditional altar room, a courtyard for alfresco dining and a tea pavilion. Just beyond is the Spa with two treatment rooms, steam room, changing areas and a Yoga/meditation room

Your next stop is the Amankora Bumtang, the newest of the Amankoras, and this will take over six hours. It has a beautiful position in a valley, within an orchard of apples and pears, situated between the First and Second King's palace.

The lodge has a Library, comfortable Living Room, regal Dining Room and cosy Spa with three treatment rooms, a steam room and changing areas. There are terrific views over the courtyard, palace and monastery

Bumtang is as far as you will travel, now returning to Amankora Gangtey which takes four hours. Amankora Gangtey is in total isolation with staggering views across a misty valley near the charming village of Gangtey. The accommodation is all under one roof in a rammed earth building and consists of 8 suites identical to Amankora Thimphu.

Finally a return to Amankora Paro, some last minute sightseeing, and departure. This will be a Bhutan holiday of a lifetime, taking in all the Amankoras and the breathtaking sights and sounds of Bhutan.
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Oahu Hawaii Center Of 2 worlds

by Frank Vanderlugt
Oahu is the third largest of the islands that make up the state of Hawaii. Oahu is the most heavily populated of the islands. It is approximately 44 miles long and 30 miles across. The land mass was formed by two separate volcanoes. The highest point on the island is Mt. Ka 'ala which rises 4003 feet above sea level. Oahu is home nearly 900,000 people.

The well-known city of Honolulu is the largest city on the island of Oahu. It also serves as the state capital for Hawaii. Other popular areas of Oahu include Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head and the North Shore.

Oahu's Waikiki area is a wonderful blending of influences. The area features high-end shopping to attract tourists. Oahu history is recounted through colorful, energetic performances. And the dining options utilize the abundance of fresh, local ingredients. Tourists can enjoy a relaxed, beach front restaurant or a fancy white linen experience in the Waikiki district on Oahu Hawaii.

Beach lovers flock to Oahu for some of the best sun and surf in the world. Just a short drive from Waikiki is the Eastern Shore area of Oahu and the island's longest, uninterrupted beach. The tradewinds provide breezes to cool the hot Hawaiian days. The waters here are a bit too calm for surfing but are excellent for Oahu tourists and residents who enjoy kayaking, diving and sailing.

Oahu Hawaii has a great deal to offer to those seeking to learn about the area marine life. At Makapu'u Beach, tourists can visit the Sea Life Park, Oahu's most popular marine attraction. The unique geography of the beach makes learning easy. This Oahu beach is situated on a sloping area between a cliff and lava rocks. The area is filled with large tidepools. These pools are filled with a wide array of marine creatures and the calm tidepools make exploration easy and fun.

Oahu has plenty of quiet, secluded beaches for a slower pace. Waimanalo Beach is an area with quaint farms and horse stables. The beach is a public park that allows Oahu visitors and residents plenty of room to enjoy a picnic or calm stroll on the beach.

For a view that is more than just beach, visitors to Oahu can head to the Kualoa Regional Park. The park is adjacent to the Kualoa Ranch and offers views of grassy plains. The beach area is a great place to find sea shells. A small islet is just off the coast and can be reached by kayak or sailboat.

Many residents of Oahu are involved in the agricultural industry. The Leilehua Plateau is a rich region which produces pineapple, coffee, papaya and other fruits and vegetables. Oahu has an amazing 11,500 acres devoted to pineapple fields. Dole runs a large harvesting and canning operation on Oahu.

The city of Wahiawa is more than 100 years old. It is located in central Oahu. Despite recent growth, the city still retains much of its rural charm. One such area of beauty if the Wahiawa Botanical Gardens. Here Oahu visitors can come and enjoy 27 acres of exotic plants from around the world. Just north of the gardens are the Kukaniloko birthing stones. According to Hawaiian legend, this spot on Oahu is where Hawaiian royalty came to give birth. The legend comes from the indentations in the stones that mimic the shape of a woman's body in labor.

For those who come to Oahu Hawaii to surf, the destination is the North Shore area. Here surfers know the names of Banzai Pipeline, Sunset, Ehukai and Waimea Bay as the places to catch the perfect wave. Some spots are promoting only by word of mouth from one surfer to the next.
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Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Flying from Gatwick - a guide to foreign currency exchange

by Paula Garrett
Foreign currency is essential when travelling abroad. However, the options available to you when paying for goods and services abroad is vast - do you take local currency, travellers cheques, credit card or a debit card? And where do should you obtain your currency - local bank at home, airport, hotel, high street travel agent, post office or online and which is going to give you the best rate?

Exchange rates and transaction charges vary considerably depending on where you change your money, so it's best to check out your options in advance and keep an eye on the exchange rates with an online currency converter (http://www.gatwickinformation.co.uk/gatwick-airport-BYL-currency-exchange.php).

It is advisable to change some money into local currency prior to departure to cover immediate costs on arrival such as taxi fare, refreshments and other necessities.

Money can be changed prior to travelling at a local bank, travel agent or online - generally the commission rates charged at hotels and airports can be significantly higher. For a time saving tip, order your currency online (http://www.gatwickinformation.co.uk/gatwick-airport-BYL-currency-exchange.php) - exchange rates are competitive and currency can be delivered to your door for roughly the same costs as buying currency on the high street but without the hassle. The convenience of changing money at hotels and airports abroad are often outweighed by the rates and commission charges imposed.

If you prefer not to carry large quantities of cash, purchases can be made using a credit card, or debit card and can be a good option as the exchange rates are usually quite favourable. However, be aware of the exchange rate fluctuations, currency conversions do not happen instantly, so if your home currency is on the slide your purchases could cost you more than you thought.

ATMs are a convenient way of obtaining cash abroad with your debit card (cirrus or maestro), but check the fees your bank charges before you travel.

Travellers cheques are another option and are regarded as one of the safest ways to carry money abroad. Using travellers cheques gives you great peace of mind, because if they are lost or stolen you will be able to get replacements, usually within 24 hours - keep a note of the cheque numbers to assist in your claim. Travellers cheques are not always the cheapest way to exchange money, but are available in the popular currencies of: Euro, Pounds Sterling, Australian Dollars, US Dollars, Canadian Dollars, Swiss Francs and Japanese Yen. Euros can be exchanged in Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain.

Travellers cheques do not expire, so unused cheques can be saved for future trips. Check around for exchange rates and bear in mind that commission free is not necessarily the cheapest option.

Whichever method of payment you choose, it is advisable to take some currency with you. Change it in advance, shop around for the best deals, and only change money at your hotel or airport if you have no other choice. If using your debit or credit card, check charges imposed by your bank prior to travel, but most importantly - have a great time!
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Buying Beautiful Cyprus Apartments

by kevin Moore
If you have always dreamt of owning a home in the sun but you though you could never afford one maybe you should think again. Cyprus apartments are the ideal choice for a holiday home or even somewhere to retire to in the sun. As the cost of villas in Cyprus continues to rise the luxury apartment is becoming a real affordable option. They come with virtually all the benefits of a house but will cost the buyer a fraction of the price. Compared with the cost of property in places like the U.K. Cyprus apartments could even be considered cheap. Perhaps this is why so many folks are selling up, leaving the cold and dark behind and buying themselves a beautiful luxury apartment in the sun.

Cyprus apartments are built to a very high standard and kitted out with every mod con including beautiful fitted kitchens. In fact many of the new builds coming onto the Cyprus property market feature granite work surfaces and a full complement of white goods too. Air conditioning is also often fitted as standard at least in all the bed rooms if not throughout the property. The bathrooms and kitchen area will most likely be fully tiled to complement the quality units. For those who buy their Cyprus apartments off plan there is often the option to choose the kitchen units and the tiles too so they get to put their own mark on the property from day one. Should buyers be prepared to shop around there are even some developers who are prepared to throw in a furniture package to clinch the deal too.

Living in Cyprus is all about lifestyle and that lifestyle is about as laid back as you can get. Much of the cooking and eating is done outdoors thanks to the mild Mediterranean climate so barbecues are the order of the day. Many newer Cyprus apartments will have an outside cooking area complete with barbecue either on the balcony or terrace. The design emphasis is often placed on usable outside space including large covered areas to facilitate this outdoor life style. If you are looking for a property either has a holiday home or a holiday rental investment a pool should be high on your wish list. The great news is that most developments of Cyprus apartments are built around a communal pool area with sun terraces and in some cases even a refreshment kiosk.

As property closer to the coast climbs in price many developers are looking further inland for building plots. This is not a problem if you are looking for a great deal on price but not so hot when you are relying on holiday rentals to pay for your property. Although there are savings to be made on Cyprus apartments that are built further inland they are outweighed by the potential loses in rental income. These properties do however make tremendously great sense for retired couples looking for a permanent home away from the hustle and bustle of the holiday resorts. Should you be considering purchasing such a property a car is likely to be a necessity that you should factor into the budget before you start. The buses in Cyprus are not that great and unless you are on route to a tourist area they are a rare animal indeed.

The best value for money option is probably a two bedroom apartment with a communual pool area. Although you are likely to pay a little more for them properties closer to the coast will make a better long term investment. Don't ever be tempted to rush into buying the first thing you see because there is always another one around the corner. Ignore the hard sell tactics that some Cyprus property agents may employ such as "it's the last one" or "the prices are about to go up". These guys sell for a living so if they don't sell they don't eat. Keep a level head and do your research before you commit to anything that way you are sure to get the best deal on Cyprus apartments.
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Beautiful Cyprus Villas For Sale

by kevin Moore
Buying that place in the sun is still a very affordable option for investment or as your personal holiday home and Cyprus villas make the perfect choice. Buying property abroad has never been easier than it is right now and thousands of people are at last reailizing their holiday home dreams. Cyprus is ideal for this type of property investment for a whole host of reasons and top of the list is the glorious Mediterannean climate. The Island boast over 320 days of sunshine every single year, the author wrote this article in October and it was still 31c on the East coast. The winters are real short too if you can call minimum temperatures of 17c a winter at all and the sea stays warm enough to swim in until the end of November.

More and more Brits are buying beautiful Cyprus villas either has their holiday homes or even as residential properties. Tired of the cold and dark at home many retirees are selling up to make their move to warmer climes. With reciprocal pension and tax arrangements between Cyprus and the U.K. sun loving pensioners can even have their benefits paid directly into their Cyprus bank accounts. The cost of living is cheaper and utility bills are a little more sensible too. All of that plus petrol at about a third less than the U.K. it's no wonder that so many are selling up at home to buy Cyprus villas in the sun. With the cost of property on the Island running at around half the price of comparable dwellings in other parts of Europe they should have some money left over too.

But it's all about so much more than just money and the cost of living when you own Cyprus villas. The Cypriot people must be amongst some of the friendliest you could ever wish to meet and it really is genuine, not just some patter reserved for the money spending tourist either. It never ceases to amaze me just how accommodating they actually are especially when you consider that Britain once ruled the Island by force. In fact over the centuries Cyprus has been home to many unwelcome visitors looking for more than just a sun tan or a cool beer. She has however seen them all come and go whist the Cypriots meanwhile have managed to retain their own unique culture. For some Brits this outgoing nature can at first be a little overwhelming but they soon lower the stiff upper lip and embrace the lifestyle.

Talking about lifestyle, it is well documented that the Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest in the world with all that oily fish and olive oil cooking too. Most of the living is in fact done outdoors courtesy of the beautiful Cyprus climate and so barbecues are a Cypriot way of life. Most Cyprus villas will have a purpose built barbecue area and the Cypriots are undoubtedly the masters of the art. O.K. then, maybe it's a close tie with the Aussies. The point being that the weather isn't going to turn up and spoil your alfresco dinning like it always does in rainy old England. If you book the barbi for Wednesday that's when you are going to be having it because in Cyprus at least you can rely on the weather.

The is only one real problem with Cyprus villas however. They keep going up in price due to the huge demand which threatens to outstrip the supply. Savvy investors wishing to secure a home in the sun now are making their move into the Cyprus property market early. Rather than wait until they are ready to retire in the sun they have chosen to secure their future early by buying at todays prices. Paying for this extra investment has not presented a problem for these astute individuals because they have spotted the potential in the Cyprus holiday rental market. Renting their property out to eager holiday makers has allowed them to purchase now and invest in their future. They plan to self finance the property with holiday lets until they are ready to retire in the sun by which time it may even be paid for in full. If you thought that a home in the sun was beyond your means perhaps you should take another look at beautiful Cyprus villas.
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Booking a Holiday, Tour or Vacation in Brazil

by Stuart Cheese
In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, one of my jobs is to ensure every client has the best tour possible, so here are my top suggestions for sites to take in during your holiday in Brazil.

Brazil is the largest country in Latin America and almost covers half of South America. The whole of the eastern coast of Brazil is lapped by the Atlantic Ocean. The Equator and Tropic of Capricorn cut through Brazil and it is home to varied fauna and flora.

1. This is only my opinion but Rio de Janeiro is one of the most beautiful and spectacular cities in the world. If you have travelled across the world to this the city then visiting the Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pao de Acucar) is a must. This peak is very recogniseable and whenever you see it on TV you instantly know that you are viewing Rio. If you are a seasoned climber then good luck to you, I prefer the gass panelled cable car to reach the top.The Rio-Niteroi bridge is located across the Bayand an awesome place to view Sugar Loaf Mountain. If this is not enough to whet your appetite then how about indulging yourself in the stunning natural harbour and beautiful surroundings such as the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

2. Iguacu Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil, is considered one the great natural wonders of South America. No matter how you choose to spell it you cannot help but be inspired these magnificent falls which change depending on whether it has rained or not. These impressive falls are bigger than the Niagra falls, spread for over 2 miles in the shape of a horse shoe.

3. Salvador Bahia is an exotic tropical city which is near the equator. Here you can enjoy the sandy beaches which are lapped by the warm turquoise waters of the ocean. If you are old enough to remember the young lady eating a coconut chocolate bar, then the beaches here are reminiscent of the taste of paradise.

4. The Amazonas territory is said to be over 95% rainforest, and is so called after the Amazon River.This is also where the highest mountain in Brazil can be found. It is quite something to ponder when you realise that the Amazon rainforest here in Brazil makes up over half of the planets remaining rainforests. The rainforest is truly a most stunning place to visit with it's flora and fauna and amazing natural beauty. Brazil is most certainly gem in South America's crown as not only does it offer some of the most awesome array of stunning beaches and, steamy jungles it is home to some of the most spectacular carnivals in the world. This country is so extremely breathtaking and boasts rainforests that have sections that remain to be explored and of course it is all overlooked by Christ the Redeemer. All that said it is important to consider the weather before planning a trip to Brazil. There are certain regions in the country that could have a major bearing on how you enjoy your trip.
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Is A Beautiful Cruise Vacation For You?

by Michael Manus
Beautiful cruise vacations are often the subject of fantasies for people caught in the daily grind of school or work. But, with the right research and cruise vacations information, a cruise fantasy can become reality because there are many opportunities these days for affordable cruising.

And, if you want to take the whole family along, there are now also many options in family cruise vacations. Spectacular cruise vacations that are geared to every member of the family are becoming more and more common. Many of the cruise lines now feature special activities, and even special designated areas of the ship, that are designed to keep the children entertained and busy while the adults have a chance to go sightseeing. However, there are still many opportunities for family interaction and memorable family experiences on such cruises as well.

When people start to think about voyaging on lovely cruise vacations, what comes immediately to mind are the vivid sights and sounds of their destination, and the cruising in between stops as well. There is no doubt that a cruise to tropical area will encompass stunning sunset, shimmering bright blue seas, and interesting excursions into the various ports-of-call on the itinerary.

Whether you are only able to get away for fantastic cruise vacations of a few days, or if you have the opportunity to be out on the seas for two or three weeks or more, there are many places you can go to partake of the beauty of the island and beach destinations around the globe. Following is some cruise vacations information on some of the locations you may choose to cruise.

Caribbean Cruises: Because there are so many islands and port-of-call to visit in the Caribbean, this is one of the most popular destinations for gorgeous cruise vacations. The scenery is spectacular and the people are warm and friendly and you will be able to choose from an almost endless array of Caribbean itineraries to match your mood.

Bahamas Cruises: Because the Bahamas are just a few hours east of Florida, it is often one of the easiest of the wonderful cruise vacations that are available, especially if you don't have much time. It's also a good destination if it is your first time ever cruising, because it gives you a good taste of the advantages of cruising and provides for many popular activities such as snorkeling, diving, wind-sailing, swimming with the dolphins, and sightseeing.

Mexican Cruises: For a taste of interesting culture, a huge variety of activities, and an array of scrumptious local dishes, wonderful cruise vacations to destinations in Mexico have a great deal to offer. Mexico boasts over 20 spectacular stops on their two fabulous shorelines to explore: the east side with the Gulf of Mexico, and the west side with the grand Pacific ocean.

Of course, these are only a few of the many destinations that you might choose from for discount cruise vacations. And, cruising is an option any time of year as well. Some people enjoy taking a break from the grey skies of winter to cruise, while others like to make a cruise part of good summer vacations.

Discover more about vacations that will help you learn about the various travel destinations one of which would be luxury cruise vacations advice.
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Holiday in Cape Town

by Celeste Y
Cape Town is one of the top 5 destinations to visit before you die, and there is a reason why. There are plenty of activities and beautiful sights to see in the Mother city. Cape Town, for most of the year, has exquisite weather.

If you wish to take full advantage of the gorgeous day, taking a picnic is a wonderful way to do it. There are numerous picnic spots in Cape Town. Chapman's Peak is one of the more popular ones, as you can just stop the car on the side of the road.

Chapman's Peak Drive between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, on the Atlantic Coast on the southwestern tip of South Africa, is one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world. It is opposite the inlet on which the town of Hout Bay is centred. While the eastern flank of the mountain rises fairly gradually, the western flank falls sharply for hundreds of metres into the Atlantic Ocean.

Kommetjie is another stunning option to enjoy the day at. Isolated by majestic mountains, it is delightfully rural and unspoiled. Although being conveniently close to Cape Town, the atmosphere of Kommetjie, even in peak season when holiday resorts are bustling, is one of peaceful isolation and tranquillity.

Cape Point is a gorgeous nature reserve,, at the tip of the Cape Peninsula - 60 km south-west of Cape Town - the rugged rocks and sheer cliffs cut deep into the ocean to split False Bay from the colder waters of the western seaboard. This outcrop of the Table Mountain National Park is called Cape Point.

In the afternoon, you can take a trip to Simons Town for a magnificent guided cruise. Simons Town is nestled on False Bay within easy distance of Cape Town International Airport. The village is rich in history, character, atmosphere and lots of warmth. Simons Town's neighbours are whales, penguins and seals with world heritage status bird life, famous deep-sea fishing and the beauty of Table Mountain and Cape Point.

Situated on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula on the shores of False Bay, Simons Town remains an important naval base to this day, and the town which rises steeply above the harbour up the mountain sides is rich in both architectural and natural beauty, as well as Cape history and strange legends and tales.

A famous resident of the town was Able Seaman, Just Nuisance, RN, the only dog ever to be enlisted in the Royal Navy, to whom a statue has been erected in Jubilee Square. The sailors' had a favourite Great Dane who was a resident in the town, and a request was sent to the British parliament asking for him to be enlisted in the Navy. Permission was granted and the dog was brought to the Recruiting Officer, who inquired: "Name?" "Nuisance, Sir", the sailor replied. "First name?" "Just Nuisance, Sir," the sailor stated, giving birth to a great legend.

One of the popular activities is taking a trip to the beautiful World of Birds. The World of Birds is the largest bird park in Africa and one of the few large bird parks in the World. Over 3 000 birds (and small animals) of 400 different species are uniquely presented in more than 100 spacious landscaped walk through aviaries, allowing you the most intimate closeness with nature.

A tropical garden setting in the Hout Bay Valley is the environment in which the aviaries are spaced over 4 hectares of land, framed by the back of Table Mountain, the Twelve Apostles, Constantiaberg, Chapman's Peak and Little Lion's Head. A paradise for nature lovers and photographers, the World of Birds is one of Cape Town's premier tourist attractions, which no visitor should miss.

Accommodation is easily found in Cape Town, with some beautiful villas nestled against signal hill in the city itself. Villa's and apartments can be found with ample space for you to feel at home within the warmth of the city. From this point, the magnitude of Table Mountain can be seen. During season, the mountain is lit up with exquisite calming blue lights, creating a festival feel to the city. Just around the corner is the ocean, with the waves crashing on the boulders at Clifton beach, and rolling on to the sand at Camps Bay.
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Planning a Ski Vacation

by S. Tanna
Skiing is a very popular type of family vacation:

- It can be a lot less expensive than you might think. Since lots of companies and resorts are competing for your business, there's plenty of great deals to be found if you spend some time looking around.

- Numerous resorts cater for families.

The tough part? Choosing your destination. However, thanks to the Internet, nowadays, it's easy to research exactly what various ski resorts have to offer, find the one that is most suitable for your family, and thus ensure that you have a wondeful vacation.

So what sort of things should you be looking for?

- Ski Schools - The first thing to consider is whether any members of you family will need instruction. If one does, then you will want to be absolutely sure to choose a resort which offers a ski school - because some resorts don't have one! You wouldn't want that one or more of your family members didn't have fun, simply because they don't know how to ski, and there's nobody to teach them.

- Suitables Slopes, Trails & Lifts - When researching resorts, you should also look at the ski slopes, trails and lifts that each offers. The idea is to make sure that there are options available that are suitable for all members of your family, especially if some family members are beginning skiers (who need easy slopes), while others are experts (who will be bored if there are not enough challenges). Additionally, if any member of your family is either already a budding snowboarder, or wants to get in, be sure to choose a resort which has a snowboarding park or terrain.

- Lodging - Whether you go for a hotel or a vacation rental, suitable lodging is very important. At many resorts, there may be a hotel at the base of the slopes, but don't blindly pick this option without at least considering the alternatives, because such hotels do not always offer the best value for money. Additionally, you'll want to ensure that whatever lodging you choose is comfortable, has whatever facilities your family needs, and if the lodging is some distance from the slopes, that transport to and from the slopes is available.

- Other Activities - Skiing can be a lot of fun, but you and your family may also want to try other activities too. For example, some resorts offer facilities for horse riding, dog sledding, sleight rides, snowmobiling or other Winter activities, some resorts hold special planned events at various times of the year, etc. So, when reviewing possible destinations, be sure to bear this in mind.

- Budget - Of course you'll need to choose a vacation that you can actually afford. However, if you're inventive, it's usually possible to save money on your ski vacation, and stretch your money further.

In summary, careful research and planning will ensure that you choose the most suitable resort and lodging for your family, and that in turn will result in a wonderful vacation for all!
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Kid Friendly Vacations in Washington DC

by Teresa Mills
There are kid friendly vacations locations throughout the United States and beyond. One of our family's favorite family vacation spots is Washington DC. Our family of six has traveled to Washington DC many times .... This article lists our favorite kid friendly Washington DC family vacation attractions...

Over time, and after many family vacations to Washington DC, we have found that the best amount of time spent in Washington DC with children is three days. There is just so much to see and do there, you will absolutely wear yourself out if you try to so it all at once.

The Smithsonian Museums You and your family can literally spend days in each of the Smithsonian Museums without seeing all that there is to see in each museum. The Smithsonian consists of 17 museums and the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and 2 museums in New York City

Of the museums in Washington DC, our favorites are The National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Zoo.

The National Air and Space Museum has a great number of kid friendly activities throughout the museum. Our favorite was the paper airplane contest - The contest consisted of constructing a paper airplane, and then flying is through a loop held by one of the attendants.

The National Museum of American History is a complete study in the culture and history of America and the American people. We really enjoy walking through all of the exhibits and being reminded of how far the American People have come in the arena of transportation through the years.

The National Museum of Natural History is dedicated to understanding the natural world, and our place in it. The animal exhibits are amazing. The dinosaur exhibit is a family favorite of ours. Be sure to see the Hope Diamond on display there.

The National Zoo is a fantastic place to walk and enjoy your family vacation time together. The apes were personal favorites at the National Zoo.

There is no charge to visit any of the Smithsonian Museums. The Museums open at 10:00 AM daily.

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing This tour is absolutely awesome. The tour was about 45 minutes long, and very informative. The tour guides were very open to answering any questions that the visitors might have. The tour is throughout the actual working Bureau. There is actual currency printing going on during the tour. The kids loved it, and the gift shop at the end of the tour was a real treat. The Bureau is located on 14th & C Sts. SW in Washington DC. If you are visiting in March - August, you will need a free ticket for the tour. The ticket booth, which is located on 15th Street, is open at 8:00 AM - get there early, the tickets are usually gone by 9:00 AM. Fords Theater The Fords Theater is a live, working theater in downtown Washington DC as well as a memorial serving as a living tribute to President Lincoln's love of the performing arts. The Theater is in excellent condition, and the tour allows you to spend as much time as you would like in the theater. The tour was simple and very interesting, and we were able to take photos inside the theater. The tour guides were very informative and willing to spend as much time with us as we wanted to spend in the theater. This tour is definitely a "must see" on any of your family vacations. Spy Museum The Spy Museum has many interactive exhibits making this a fun stop on a kid friendly family vacations itinerary. We added this stop to our list of family vacations fun stops because we were curious about it, and since we are all interested in espionage and spying. The visit turned out to be a great choice. The exhibits included a history of spying, school for spies, an introduction to espionage, the war of spies, and on into the 21st century of spying. There is a great deal of history rolled up in that one museum.

Washington DC offers many kid friendly vacation options. These are just a few of our favorites.
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Mystical Spain - Galicia

by Stephen Morgan
The unification of the various autonomous regions of Spain and the resultant product which of course as we all know as a constitutional democracy has inherited a wealthy and varied inheritance.

Travelling throughout the country it is possible to see a wealthy variety of influences and international flavours that have been left as an inheritance and heritage from former invaders and conquerors.

As befits a country that historically has been profoundly sacred there are numerous pilgrimage routes crossing the country and these are all wonderfully wealthy pieces of history that are well worth exploring.

The way of St. James otherwise known as the Camino de Santiago is possibly the most famous of all of these routes. It was in the ninth century that the Way of St. James became popular allegedly as a result of the remains of St. James being found. The alleged last resting place of St. James the Apostle has been such an attraction that in the centuries following its discovery pilgrims from around the world have walked this particular pilgrimage route.

Interest in this particular route has been extremely popular over the years but also there have been times when it has not been so popular. Probably the one time in history that this route was least popular was during the 16th and 17th centuries. Apparently was on the orders of one of the Popes of the day that prisoners serving time for petty misdemeanours could actually serve penance by taking part on a pilgrimage on the Way of St. James.

what possibly turned the fortunes of this particular pilgrimage route around was the fact that in the 20th century UNESCO after extensive lobbying finally recognized Santiago de Compostela as a World heritage site of some importance and the knock on benefit of this was increased visitor traffic and more pilgrims.

Nowadays the whole experience of travelling along the Way of St. James toward Santiago is more than just a mere sacred pilgrimage though the importance of this has not declined but rather the entire event has become a major tourist attraction.

Many people have asked what are the most common starting off points for the Way of St James and it has to be said that probably the English, the French and the Spanish routes are the most common. That having been said to be honest the most popular of all originates from the north of France right down through northern Spain to Santiago.

If most authorities are to be blunt and extremely honest they would have to admit that only the most ardent of pilgrims would start out alone the Camino from Roncesvalles and then journey along the 760 km route to Santiago. The experience and hardship of a 760 km pilgrimage is such that many pilgrims claim that having gone through this hardship on the way they therefore feel more spiritually prepared for the arrival at the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela at the end of the pilgrimage.

There are numerous markers long the way to help ensure that pilgrims do not deviate more than is necessary from the original route and the most common of these signs and markers are the ubiquitous yellow arrows that are found painted on trees and rocks along the way. Apparently the rise and usage of this informal traffic micro system was accredited to a certain Father Elias Valdinha who wanted to ensure that when pilgrims and travellers arrive in Santiago they arrived in the best possible shape.
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Cheap Airline Travel

by Andrew Thompson
Many of us may be getting ready to go on a travel vacation, within the next few months. This maybe on a vacation to visit relatives for Thanksgiving or possibly over Winter Break. Many of us may even already be looking at taking a vacation during Spring Break and planning accordingly. Let's that you have never purchased any plane tickets online, you have always relied on a toll free number or someone else did the purchasing for you, and now it is your turn to do the purchases. Well, first off it is always important to decide on accomodations before you purchase a plane ticket, but many people would disagree with this idea. You can always cancel lodging, but it is much more difficult to cancel an airline ticket. Let's say that you are just planning on finding a place to stay when you get down to your destination.

If you are only planning on finding a place, when you get down to your destination then it would make it much easier to get cheapier plane tickets. Let's say for example that you have dates picked out for your vacation, if you are planning on getting accomodations when you get down there, you could very easily go down there a few days earlier or later and come back the same way. This is a new option that is easily accesible by many of the online airline retailers. They allow you to check a box after you put in your dates, that usually says something like "It's okay to look for fairs a few days before and/or after the dates that you selected. Another good option, if you live close to multiple airports, is to check the box that says something like "compare surrounding airports." By clicking these two options you have given yourself many more opportunities and this will allow you to find a cheaper flight. It is always best to search multiple online airfare retailers, some good ones that come to mind are: Priceline, Orbitz, and Travelocity. It is always best to go to all three of these places and try and find the cheapest airfare. Also, once you have decided on dates, you might be able to find a cheaper fare on the exact airlines website. So, if you find a good deal on Priceline for Southwest airlines, it is worth a shot to go to Southwest airlines website and see if you can find an even better deal.
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Hokkaido Holiday Vacation

by Chris Chew
Hokkaido is one of Japan's 4 main islands and is located northern most part of Japan and when translated, Hokkaido literally means "Road of the North Sea". The island is a very popular destination for tourists on vacation holiday in Japan because of its natural beauty, especially during winter.

The island of Hokkaido is actually a huge land mass and is about twenty three percent of Japan's entire land mass. Even if you visit Hokkaido in summer, the weather can be very pleasant because of its low humidity.

Before the mainstream Japanese considered the island as suitable for human habitation after the Meiji Restoration, the island was home only to a few exile samurais and the native Ainu people who are the aboriginal tribesmen. The Ainu people are the last of Japan's indigenous people most of whom are still dwelling in Hokkaido.

In the past, the island's inhabitants are very concerned about their survival and thought that the island is spooked with the restless spirits of Ainu gods who often belch fire from the mountains (volcanic eruptions) and trampled the earth in anger (earthquakes).

There are many natural tourist attractions since the island is well endowed by the beauty of nature. For instance, you can travel to Mount Daisetsu National Park, which is sometimes called The Roof of Hokkaido and gaze in amazement the snow peaked mountain ranges or visit the Kushiro marshland which is home to many adorable marsh dwelling animals including the sacred crane.

If you are into adventure tourism, then the Shikotsu Toya National Park must be included in your holiday vacation itinerary. You will find many magnificent volcanoes and breathtaking scenic lakes in this national park and if you are tired after your sightseeing trips, go pamper yourself with natural spa treatments at the many hot springs such as in Noboribetsu, Jouzankei and Sohunkyo.

If you are in Hokkaido during winter, then you must make a beeline to Sapporo, which is Hokkaido's vibrant capital city which is famous for its pulsating nightlife and the extraordinary Snow Festival every February. Sapporo, with a population of about 1.8 million people is a city of fine restaurants and luxurious hotels. If you enjoy winter skiing, you may like to check into some winter ski resorts.

This outback island is sometimes referred to as Japan's 'Wild West' and still retains a distinct pioneer feel. This is the reason why the island is really the land of the backpackers.

Adventure tourists can enjoy exploring the vast wilderness, go winter skiing, even be a trout fisherman or go trekking in countless trails along rugged coastline, through wildflower fields or up the summits of snowcapped mountains.

So if you are going to Japan for your holiday vacation, do make sure you do not miss the beauty of Japan's Wild Wild West, the island of Hokkaido.
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Top Notch Reasons To Learn French

by Anthony Mcgarry
Learning a foreign language has its own advantages. Firstly, it opens one to a different culture. It thus widens your understanding of the varied customs in the world. Also, it helps one interact with the people of other countries without any hindrance. It is advisable that you speak a language that comes in handy irrespective of your location anywhere in the world. Learn French, for it is one of the top five influential languages in the world. French is the most widely taught language second only to English. There are many benefits of learning French. More than 80 million are native French speakers, while around 200 million have French as their secondary language. It is an official language in many international organizations like International Red Cross, United Nations and International Olympic Committee. French writers have won the maximum Nobel Prize in the field of literature. Having command over the language gives you an edge as you can work as an interpreter. French interpreters are very well paid as it is spoken as the official language in 28 countries.

The language is not only limited to literature or arts. Some 1200 French companies like Zenith, Dannon, Mack Trucks and RCA-Thomson have subsidiaries in the U.S. and generate around 700,000 jobs in the United States. In almost all the countries of the world, French embassys provides degree courses to its students. Anybody with an inclination towards the language can join the course.

However, there are some difficulties of learning French. The toughest part of learning the language its pronunciation. The silent letters, the new sounds and the liaisons make the learning of the language a bit tricky. It is advisable that you regularly speak the French language as it will help in improving your pronunciation and understanding of the French language. You can listen to the audio or read books written in French. Also, you can join French speaking groups in your area. This will motivate and enhance your fluency in the language. One can also visit the websites written in French languages. Regular visiting these sites will add to the knowledge and skills of an individual.

The French R, Nasal Vowels and the French U are some of the factors that have caused people difficulty in learning the French language. Anyone can learn the language depending on the purpose. Some people learn the language to be an interpreter or a teacher, while some learn just for fun and additional knowledge. Depending on the purpose, the courses offered by the institutes are, immersion, intensive and standard. For people who wish to be an expert at the language enroll themselves for immersion program.

Most of us are unable to commit to the time for such an intensive course. The best alternative is an on line French course.
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Traveling to Green Valley, Arizona

by Dave Winter
When was the last time you could just relax, explore some of the world's most scenic surroundings, and take the time to soak in a beautiful sunset? Next time you need to cut away your busy life's strings, consider a visit to Green Valley, Arizona, a place where time slows down to an unhurried pace and you can get back to nature. Set amongst the picturesque surroundings of the Santa Catalina foothills, Green Valley is a magnet for those with a spirit for adventure and discovery.

Located just twenty minutes south of Tucson, Green Valley offers a wide range of attractions and activities to choose from. For those who would prefer to stretch their legs out a bit, this Southern Arizona destination offers all kinds of great places to hike and explore. For example, the nearby Madera Canyon is a wooded valley right at the base of the Catalina Mountains with a wide range of trails to check out. This canyon is also world-renowned for birdwatchers, where it's easy to spot a wide range of hummingbirds, and frequent sightings of nighthawks, swifts, hawks, golden eagles, flycatchers, owls, and peregrine falcons are common.

At Green Valley, also enjoy natural wonders such as the Colossal Cave, one of the world's largest dry limestone caverns. Discover a new world underneath the Earth's crust with multiple tours throughout the day. If you'd like to dive more into the world of stalagmites and stalactites, try the Kartchner Caverns State Park, which features over 13,000 feet of underground cave formations. The Kartchner Caverns were only discovered in 1972 and have since become one of Arizona's most popular state parks, with over 2 ½ miles of cave passages to explore. The Asarco Mineral Discovery is also worth a visit, with its award-winning exhibit center, open-pit mission mine, and mill tour.

In the mood for a little history and culture? Be sure not to miss the San Xavier Mission, a fine example of Spanish Mission architecture that is known as the "White Dove of the Desert". As for culture, explore the Sonoita Vineyards and Santa Cruz Wineries, where you can sample impeccable wine of the Arizona variety. For a glimpse into America's day of old, venture over to the oldest European settlement in Arizona, Tubac, a vibrant village full of unique arts & crafts. Also, the Tucson Museum of Art is just up the road, featuring pre-Colombian artifacts and a wide variety of arts that help paint the picture of Arizona's rich history.

When it comes down to it, seeing is believing, and if you're planning on discovering the gems of Green Valley for yourself, consider the Wyndham Canoa Ranch Resort as your home base. A relaxing oasis that is in-tune with the beautiful natural surroundings, the Wyndham Canoa Ranch is a top-notch resort with two world-class golf courses featured on the pristine Santa Catalina foothills. Plus, on top of a relaxing outdoor pool & jacuzzi, fully-equipped fitness center, and health club, the resort features one & two-bedroom condos, with balconies, patios, full kitchens, living rooms, and dining room areas. Come heed the calling of the Arizona winds and explore a beautiful side of America you thought only existed on the sliver screen.
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South Africa and The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park

by Edward Kirwan
South Africa has become, in recent years an increasingly popular tourist destination. For many tourists the size and diversity is so huge that the whole is difficult to grasp. The National Game Parks have long been a favourite tourist destination. The formation of the The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park takes this to a new era. This is an ambitious, achievable and sustainable project between the governments of Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

South Africa enjoys tourism:

 Tourism is one of South Africa's fastest-growing industries  South Africa was rated the best holiday destination in Africa in 2005  South Africa caters for high-income travellers looking for "something unique"  The country's Shamwari Game Reserve was voted the World's best Safari and Game Reserve 2006

The breathtaking beauty and exciting activities that South Africa offers you, the international visitor, are as boundless as the majestic skies.

The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park (GLTP) will link:

 Limpopo National Park in Mozambique  Kruger National Park in South Africa  Gonarezhou National Park, Manjinji Pan Sanctuary and Malipati Safari Area in Zimbabwe  Additionally two areas between Kruger and Gonarezhou, namely the Sengwe communal land in Zimbabwe and the Makuleke region in South Africa.  GLTP will initially cover some 40,000sq. km. rising to 100,000 sq.km.

The famous Kruger National Park currently attracts 1.3 million visitors a year. It now has growing numbers of travellers heading to it via Phalaborwa Gate in Limpopo province, and driving across the park to Girriyondo Gate, a fairly recently opened border post into Mozambique's Limpopo National Park.

It is an 8 hour journey along rough roads to get to the coast in Mozambique, but the scenery is astounding and the journey certainly worth the effort. To travel through 'the world's greatest animal kingdom' is the thrill of a lifetime.

The Transfrontier Concept and Objectives:  The first proposal was in 1938, by ecologist Gomes de Sousa  Designed for the protection of eco-systems across international borders  To encourage collaboration and co-operation between Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe  To develop trans-border eco-tourism bringing social and economic development to the region  To remove artificial barriers that impedes the natural movement of animals.

This enormous undertaking in re-establishing the ecosystem of the area and demands the attention of the wider world as a lesson in peaceful co-operation. Visiting the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park will not only be memorable but will aid the local inhabitants to develop this mighty undertaking.

Kruger National Park, among others, has a well established tourist infrastructure. They are participants of this huge undertaking. By visiting The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park you will not only have the time of your life, you will be aiding a great eco-sensitive and peaceful cause. You will help you build a stepping-stone in the new African history.

South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe are to be congratulated for their vision.
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