tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-381588612024-03-08T14:17:08.018-08:00Car Insurance CaliforniaFrederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-78542724172592690922007-04-15T15:46:00.001-07:002007-04-15T15:46:32.020-07:00The Lighter Side of Company in Paradise<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>First, my name has been changed to protect the innocent. To the assorted six weeks of company that we just had arrive and leave one after the other, this has nothing to do with you and is definitely not about you.</p><p>When we live in paradise – is it any great surprise company is going to want to come? No, we expect visitors, but we always picture it will be way later – even years from now – I mean you just moved here only 5 short years ago right? But no, they wont wait, one day we all get that fateful call or email with the news that friends or family are coming for a visit, then life changes.</p><p>What to do we think? Then the answers become obvious – you only need to do a few things. Change the beds, clean the house, paint the house, fix the leaky tap, fix the door, fix everything that needs fixing, wash the curtains, bake some cookies, wash the car, dust the plants, fix up the garden, and stock up on food and alcohol. Boy, by the time the company comes you're ready for a holiday. Admit it. But do they want to lie around and relax with you? No way! What do you mean now we have to play tour guide? How many times have you been to Xcaret anyway?</p><p>Remember what it was like to have a 2 year old around who asked "why?" all the time? Your company will now sound like that two year old with their numerous questions on why do they do that? Why do they tear up all the roads at once? Why is that there? Why do they do it that way? How do you live like this? The good news is after about four visits they finally stop asking – like you, they have given up.</p><p>Oh yes and the food part – how come we are always eating? When you get tired of eating out you need to be able to cook something presentable. Having pancakes for dinner every night just doesn't seem to cut it.</p><p>The company has finally left? Quickly change the beds, wash the linens, re paint, clean the house and buy more food and alcohol because now it is all gone and you really need it. Have the family congratulate each other on a job well done and all pass out on the couch. Do not answer the phone, the door or check your e-mail for at least a month – incase they want to come back or someone else wants to come. Change your email and street address to prevent this.</p><p>One could maybe avoid all this by not telling people your address in the first place or even by telling people you actually live in a different country than you really do. If it is too late and they show up – you could take them to the beach and forget them there. No, no, I'm just kidding. Did I say that?</p><p>I really do say all this in jest. I enjoy company, but maybe just give me a couple of weeks before anyone asks to stay with us again. By the way, I now live in Alaska.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-86469339653958441882007-04-13T14:54:00.001-07:002007-04-13T14:54:27.240-07:00The Internet - Helping You Avoid The Loneliness Of Travel<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>Most people would acknowledge that travelling is one of life's most precious joys. While home is certainly where the heart is, being able to visit new places and see new sights is a crucial part of broadening your life experience and opening your eyes to unknown cultures. Thankfully, the last half of the twentieth century has seen technology advance to the stage where nearly everyone can travel with ease and in comfort.</p><p>Whether you're simply taking a weekend away at a country cottage in New England, or planning to go on a long-haul trip to Thailand, your vacation is sure to excite you with wonders untold and joys anew. However, while taking a vacation can unlock some of the wonders of the world, travelling can also be a lonely experience - and not just if you're travelling alone.</p><p>For instance, while many people long to get away from their everyday routine, you might be one of those people who find routines comforting. And if you have a fear of flying, travelling to your destination might turn out to be a heavily stressful experience rather than a peaceful break. What's more, large hotel rooms can often seem impersonal and invite feelings of restlessness or homesickness in you.</p><p>However, if you're looking for a way to prevent vacation anxiety, you might find your saviour in an unlikely place - the internet. The advent of many travel sites and social networking sites on the web in recent years has meant that more and more people can share their holiday experiences with each other. But travel blogs and holiday sites can do more than just offer you reviews of hotel resorts or ratings of local restaurants - they can offer you real, valuable advice on how best to overcome your fears and apprehensions when you're on a holiday.</p><p>The solution to this can be simpler than you might think: many travellers rely on taking simple home comforts with them - for example, your favourite pair of slippers or your most comfortable pyjamas - no matter how badly they're falling apart. It's also a good idea to take some of your favourite hobbies or pastimes with you on holiday to beat any feelings of loneliness that might creep up on you; if you play an instrument, for instance, take it with you. String and woodwind instruments, like guitars, violins or flutes, are fairly convenient to transport - and unless you're embarking on a backpacking tour of Europe and need to travel light - there's no excuse not to take them along with you.</p><p>If you're the sort of person who abhors soulless hotel rooms, then why not take some items from your home with you to help brighten up your room: simple things like family photographs or your bedside alarm clock can help make the atmosphere around you more familiar and welcoming, and can do wonders in curing any feeling of homesickness that might arise.</p><p>Since we now live in the internet age, many hotels let you share travel advice and tips online. Homewood Hotels, for example, provides a bulletin board, where past guests can share their experiences of their stay – from restaurants to places to visit or avoid – and pass on advice and tips to potential guests, helping them get the most out of their holiday. So, regardless of whether you're spending Easter weekend in Houston or Hawaii, you'll find the internet is your friend when it comes to beating travel anxiety.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-16420908323446813922007-04-11T08:25:00.001-07:002007-04-11T08:25:04.797-07:00Creature Comforts<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>Safari was originally as simple Arabic word meaning journey. But when we hear it today, we think of a whole lot more. We think of a civilised way of experiencing the wildest places on earth – of luxury in the heart of the wilderness.</p><p><b>Modern Day African Safaris</b><br></br><br /> The African camping journey is now aimed at younger people and those less attached to comfort, in the form of the 'overland expedition'.</p><p>The upmarket safari, however, has become a holiday where you wake in the <b>comfort of a gorgeous safari lodge</b> and spend the day out spotting game – before returning to a swim, a Gin and Tonic and a dinner around a table. Although safari lodges offer a magic you cannot find elsewhere – the animals – they still have to compete with a global travel industry that offers a lot of luxury.</p><p>And they do compete. Why else would the Sabi Sabi's renowned Earth Lodge have been voted one of the <b>world's top fifty destinations</b> by readers of renowned luxury publication Conde Nast Traveler? That particular safari lodge stands apart on account of its radical blend of ecological principles and futuristic design. But lodges like those at Sabi Sabi and others around South Africa also liberally play the Old World card. Although the world has left colonialism far behind, the <b>style and ambiance of the twenties and thirties</b> have an undeniable cachet. Hence travellers will also be able to choose the lamp-lit luxury of mosquito nets, silver service and morning tea.</p><p><b>Luxurious Bush Experiences</b><br></br><br /> But at the end of the day, all continents have luxury hotels. Only Africa has the bush. Only Africa has the wildebeest's stampede, the herds of gentle African Elephant, the huge dangerous hippo, the flash of a cheetah, the placid walk of the giraffe. And, of course, the roar of the lion and call of the fish eagle – sounds you will remember for the rest of your life. They will penetrate the walls of your cabin and send a shiver down your spine where it lies against the starched sheets. Gone will be the high fence and the sophistication of dinner as you realise <b>the bush is close enough to reach out and touch</b>. You will walk to the window and inhale air that has traveled thousands of miles across Africa, carrying smells from the Sahara and the Equatorial jungle and grinding them together with the dust of the bushveld. Smelling that, you might not even want to go back to bed.</p><p><b>Sublime Game Viewing</b><br></br><br /> During the day you will see <b>nature at its most beautiful</b> – and its most intense. The sound of a lion pride biting through the bones of its prey is so loud that, even at a safe distance, you will think it's right in front of you. But when they lie dozing in the sun afterwards, you will forgive them their bloodthirsty habits. You may have stopped to watch zebra drink from a river and be marvelling at the stillness of the water when the huge muscles of a crocodile drove it into the air and sent the depleted herd stampeding past you. When the shock has subsided and the zebra stopped struggling, you will find there is no need to mourn him. Life has continued like this for thousands of years and – with a bit of help and protection from us – should continue for a thousand more. The crocodile needs its lunch too.</p><p>But at the end of the day, watching Sacred Ibis's fly across an African sunset – an image that can barely be described in a photograph – let alone words – your <b>overwhelming feeling will be one of peace</b>. As you raise a glass and the animals join you at the watering hole below, you will find that The Circle of Life is more than just a song. And when you go home to take up your own daily round again, it might all make a tiny bit more sense.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-34834444333487721952007-04-09T07:50:00.001-07:002007-04-09T07:50:53.085-07:00Murcia Costa Calida - A Genuinely Unspoilt Region of Spain<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>Located on the South-East corner of the Iberian Peninsula, between the regions of, Andalusia, Castile-La Mancha and Valencia, the region of Murcia is characterized by its rich Phoenician and Arab history of commerce and agriculture.</p><p>The city of Murcia and Capital of the Murcia/Costa Calida region offers superb shopping and an abundance of historical sites. Founded in 825 AD by the Moors, Murcia has matured into a vibrant and dynamic city that hospitable, light-hearted and extroverted.</p><p>The province of Murcia is mainly a warm region which has made it very suitable for agriculture. Murcia is irrigated by the Rivers Segura, Murdo and Sangonera which create ideal farming conditions for the many citrus orchards. In contrast the area also has expanses of dry, arid land where olives and vines thrive. Excellent wineries have developed near the towns of Bullas, Yecla, and Jumilla, as well as olive oil production near Moratalla.</p><p>The beautiful 155 mile-long coastline of Costa Calida runs from the beach of El Mojon in the north to the beach of La Carolina in the town of Aguilas to the south. The beaches are complimented by a huge range of hotels, casinos, golf courses and everything a holiday-maker could wish for. All along the coast, there are charming traditional fishing villages and peaceful resorts, with the only truly major towns being the historical port of Cartagena and Torrevieja.</p><p>The region's brightest gem is the Mar Menor - at 170 square kilometres the Mar Menor is Europe's biggest saltwater lagoon. With warm waters and gentle winds this is one of the best places, not only in Spain, but in Europe to learn water sports. The smaller salt lakes that surround Mar Menor contain a mud rich in magnesium, calcium, sodium, bromide, iodine and flouride, and is very effective against arthritis, rheumatism, tendinitis, nervous and articulatory disorders. As a result many small towns have developed on the shore of Mar Menor, as health and spa resorts.</p><p>The Murcia/Costa Calida region is genuinely unspoilt - an unnoticed region, largely kept a secret, until now, and is perhaps the last major region of Spain to yield its secrets!</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-77726889612734607432007-04-06T06:42:00.001-07:002007-04-06T06:42:18.533-07:00Why You Should Choose Norwegian Cruise Line<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>Do you love good things? Most people do. That's what makes Norwegian Cruise Line a top choice among cruise travelers. You will find the best quality and finest service in every aspect of your journey aboard this ship.</p><p>The Norwegian Cruise line will usually charge you with the thirst for adventure, while at the same time can offer some excellent relaxation avenues. Your dream to have an excellent time on board the Norwegian Cruise line, while enjoying some of the stunning sites, can come true with these luxury cruises.</p><p>How do You Define Perfection? How do You Define the Norwegian Cruise Line?</p><p>This cruise liner is famous throughout the world. Guests from all over the world flock for an opportunity to get to see the most beautiful places and destinations in the world. Free-style dining was initiated by Norwegian Cruise Lines and was an instant and unrivalled success.</p><p>Before the free-style dining habits, the food was served between fixed timings (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and it was usually a formal-dress affair which many people found stuffy since the majority, if not everyone, was on the cruise to relax.</p><p>Everyone loves to be pampered – more so on cruises where people expect sheer magic. Now, the food in many of the dining spaces – and you will find at least 10-12 one of them – can be had at anytime of the day or night, much to the delight of people who love night life and its entertainment. This is important to know, because all your food and non-alcoholic drinks were paid up front as part of the cost of the cruise line ticket. Therefore, you can sit back and enjoy it to the fullest.</p><p>This is the occasion where you can put a napkin under your chin, and go on a "tasting" spree, since the Norwegian Cruise line particularly offers exceptional international cuisine, i.e. Asian, Chinese, French, Italian, etc. Here, expert chefs cater to the whims and fancies of the people who are lucky enough to be on the Norwegian Cruise line.</p><p>Since food is one of the major attractions of the Norwegian Cruise line, it is not surprising that you will find some of the best fitness centers available on board as well. Therefore, if you want to stay fit and healthy while at the same time indulging in a wide variety of food and delicious desserts, be sure to benefit from the well-equipped state-of-the-art work-out facilities.</p><p>You will also greatly enjoy the daily evening and night programs which would be offered at the pool side, theatre rooms, projector rooms, etc. Another great advantage is that the entertainment is also included in the all-inclusive price of the Norwegian cruise line ticket.</p><p>One of the greatest fun spots on the cruise liner is the Las Vegas casino. This casino can safely function because of the relaxation of the anti-gambling rules in USA and other parts of the world, as well as the ambiguity of law while at sea. Hence, for a once in a lifetime experience, treat yourself to a trip on one of the Norwegian Cruise Ships.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-10497351659882084152007-04-04T10:12:00.001-07:002007-04-04T10:12:57.392-07:00Cambridgeshire Employment Agency<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>If you are planning a longer stay in Cambridgeshire the chances are that you are going to have to find yourself a job and find yourself a place to stay. What you will certainly need is the contact details for a reputable Cambridgeshire Employment Agency to get you started.</p><p>The agencies can generally be categorised along the lines of the vacancies that they offer. Some will offer only office work for example whereas others will mainly deal in agricultural and other manual work. Some agencies might only offer part time positions and some full time. Most will have a good selection across the board but it's worth checking out what their primary work is before potentially wasting yours and their time.</p><p>Some agencies you might want to take a look at, in addition to the local job centre are Cambridge Recruitment, Reed, Monster, Fish4Jobs etc.</p><p>Any Cambridgeshire Employment Agency will want to see an up to date C?V so it's crucial that you prepare this before you travel, or at least make sure you will have access to a word processor and printer before you travel. If you don't have a CV most of the bigger agencies or local job centres will work with you to help you put one together.</p><p>The key things you need on your CV are your current contact details and a brief summary of your education and employment experience. Some potential employers also like to know about any outside interests you have or other skills that might help you in the role.</p><p>To find an agency near your destination follow the link below:</p><p>Cambridge Employment Agency</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-1681352812445012602007-04-02T07:07:00.001-07:002007-04-02T07:07:54.445-07:00Glimpses Of Golden Triangle Tours Of India<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>A visit to the trio of lively capital of India-Delhi, the glorious pink city-Jaipur and alluring state of Taj Mahal is popularly known as Golden Triangle Tours. Welcome to Golden Triangle Tours and travel to live the saga of India with us.</p><p>If you want to enjoy perfect leisure holiday trip then plan your leisure holiday trip with us and enjoy the majestic grandeur and beauty of India that Golden Triangle Tours of North India offer.</p><p>Golden Triangle Tours offer a great feast for visitor's eye. The package of Golden Triangle Tours of North India is a fine blend of enjoyment with relaxation. And probably this circuit offers the best range of accommodation as well.</p><p>As we believe in serving leisure with comfort to all kinds of tourists and visitors, we offer a great range of tour packages to the destinations of golden triangle of Northern India.</p><p>The Golden Triangle Tour trip of North India starts from the capital of the country- Delhi.</p><p>Delhi: - Delhi is a city where the past coexists with the present. Many dynasties ruled from here and the city is rich in the architecture of its monuments. Diverse cultural elements absorbed into the daily life of the city have enriched its character. Exploring the city can be a fascinating and rewarding experience....</p><p>The next halt of this Golden Triangle Tours circuit is the city of valor and royal heritage - Jaipur.</p><p>Jaipur: - Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan state and popularly known as the Pink City. Here you will be taken for the excursion and sight seeing of the city, which includes, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort Palace, City Palace, Jantar Mantar and gem factory where you can witness the art of gem cutting.</p><p>The final halt of the Golden Triangle Tours will be in Agra, the home of splendid beauty- Taj Mahal.</p><p>Taj Mahal: - The Taj Mahal is the star tourist attraction of India. It is also a World Heritage Monument. This white marble mausoleum commemorating Mumtaz Mahal, the beloved queen of the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, is an unparalleled beauty among all the historical monuments of India.</p><p>The Taj is situated on a raised platform at the southern end of a four-quartered garden. Taj complex has been designed on a grid pattern. Beginning from north, the first composition is a red sand-stone forecourt known as chowk-i iilo khana in chronicles. Next is 30 m high red sand-stone gateway through which one enters the garden complex on which the main building – Taj Mahal – is located. Through the gate entry is made to a four-part garden divided into quadrangles by waterways. They meet in the centre in a large tank.</p><p>The northern end of this garden has the Taj Mahal. Western plank of Taj is a mosque in red san-stone and eastern flank is its replice. In the centre of the platform is Taj Mahal with each corner having one four storied marble minaret.</p><p>The carving and inlaid patterns have been designed in such manner as to give you prominence to the white marble surface, rather than overshadowing it. The beauty of Taj offers a feast to visitor's eye. Taj Mahal inspires tourists to come and admire its beauty again and again.</p><p>It covers the Rajasthan Tours as well as Capital city of India and 7th wonder of the world i.e. Taj Mahal.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-40585418750681294902007-03-30T15:49:00.001-07:002007-03-30T15:49:24.745-07:00The Best All Inclusive Mexico Family Vacation<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>If you plan to take you family on a really great vacation, why not surprise them with an all inclusive family vacation Mexico.</p><p>You will be glad to know that all the all inclusive family vacation Mexico package are tailor made just for you, as we always keep all our customers in mind when we put our packages together. Many people make the mistake of thinking that taking a vacation or a holiday is really expensive, nut they are really not.</p><p>You can ask any travel agent to make up a package that will not only suit you needs, but you can ask them to make up a package that will suit you wallet too. So you do not have to worry about loosing tones of money the next time you plan for an all inclusive family vacation Mexico. All you need to do is ask you nearest travel agent and they really should be happy to help you.</p><p>Before you go to your travel agent, though, it will be a good idea if you went prepared. That means that you will need to know a bit about what you want out of your vacation. Do you want to go skiing, do you want to see snow, do you want to have endless white sandy beaches, do you want to go somewhere exotic, or do you want to go someplace with lot of trees?</p><p>You could take that whole thing a step further and tell them exactly what you want, so if you want to an all inclusive family vacation Mexico and all you need to do is to tell them that you want an all inclusive family vacation Mexico. It is really that simple. In fact, why not go to Mexico, there a millions of places to see there and the beaches are the best in the world.</p><p>An All Inclusive Family Vacation Mexico In Cancun</p><p>If you want a real treat, you will be glad to know that Cancun has a cool special that allows you the freedom to stay at any one of their beach resorts and you can visits any of the eight remaining resorts whenever you want. So if you decide to stay in one you can go to another one for a whole day to play golf, or to have drinks if you like. It is really all up to you, after all it is you all inclusive vacation Mexico.</p><p>You will be glad to know that if you decide to go to Mexico you will be in the presence of one of the best hotel chains in the world and the best hotel chain in Mexico. You will also be glad to know that this is the hotel chain that is running the offer that is called the stay at one play at the rest promotion.</p><p>So do not miss out, get you things packed and your family ready, and get you travel agents number ready, because you all inclusive family vacation Mexico is waiting for you.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-53001322934087037372007-03-27T09:10:00.001-07:002007-03-27T09:10:00.242-07:00Home Stay Opportunity in India<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p><b>Home stay opportunity emerging as the smart, cost-effective way to have a holiday with a local flavor!!</b></p><p>Though the concept of a home stay opportunity is popular globally, it is now slowly catching on in India as earlier, most cautious-by-nature natives were entrenched with feelings of insecurity, lack of communication with foreign guests due to language barriers (read not knowing English), the demands on privacy a home stays opportunity would cost in term of opening the doors of one's home to outsiders, especially in a joint-family set-up, like many Indian households were prone to have. All this has changed with the times and India too is fast emerging as a tourism-sector partner in budget accommodation provider in the form of home stays opportunities that Indian families have decided are an effective way to utilize free space of old bungalow plots and extra rooms in even high demand metro or seasonal tourism zones, so much so that older fears of lack of awareness about planning, offering and managing house-guests, planning board and lodging options, have given way to opening the doors to 'temporary members.'</p><p><b>How Indian home-stay opportunities grew as a concept on home shores</b></p><p>With the rise in number of educated Indians, joint-families giving way to nuclear family set-ups and more Indians going abroad to study or work, there has been a lot of scope for inter-cultural gatherings and eye-opening experiences afforded to most traditionally run Indian homes, with plentiful space available for practical use. When this could be translated into financial gain and cultural views exchange by offering affordable lodging options in the form of home stays opportunities, many Indian homes have realized the advantage they have in that extra bedroom or annexe, guesthouse or farmhouse they own: extending cozy and welcoming accommodation thus allows Indian home-owners to earn an extra income without having to invest more than housekeeping supplies and a cheery disposition.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-25884892181795605612007-03-25T10:12:00.001-07:002007-03-25T10:12:41.870-07:00Guide to Perthshire, Scotland<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>Introduction</p><p>Perthshire lies in central Scotland, around a one hour trip north of Glasgow or Edinburgh. Perth has a mainline rail station. If you don't have time or inclination to travel too far north when you visit Scotland then Perthshire is a perfect destination allowing you to see dramatic mountainous scenery at the start of the Scottish Highlands.</p><p>Unique Points</p><p>The scenery and natural beauty of Perthshire is stunning. There is so much countryside to see, full of trees, rivers and mountains with walks for all abilities. There are many typical small Scottish towns such as Pitlochry, Dunkeld, Aberfeldy and Crieff. Perth is a very attractive city which lies on the banks of the River Tay.</p><p>Perth</p><p>I really like Perth, it's quite a laid back yet grand small city. In central Perth there are 2 parks, a good selection of shops, cafes and restaurants, with promenade along the River Tay. I always think of Perth as the "Fair City". However it is not officially a city, it was not approved by the Scottish Executive in the its list of Scottish cities but that has not changed my perception. Perth is a city full of flowers. In Summer there are hanging baskets everywhere. Branklyn Gardens is an interesting small garden run by the National Trust for Scotland. Its star exhibits are blue poppies. Cherrybank Gardens boasts the largest heather collection in Europe.</p><p>Perth Museum and Art Gallery looks very impressive from outside with its copper dome and columns. The museum is one of the oldest local museums in Scotland, built in 1824 on the site of a Domenican friary. There is currently an exhibition of 19th century Scottish landscapes many of which portray Perthshire. The Black Watch Museum is on Dalhousie Castle and charts the history of the regirment. The Fergusson Gallery has a large collection by the Scottish Colourist Duncan Fergusson housed in a former water works building, dating from 1832. Perth Festival of the Arts runs annually during from mid May. Horsecross was set up to run Perth Theatre and the new Concert Hall. Various musical events are held around Perthshire.</p><p>The Caithness Glass Visitor Centre is located in a industrial estate, where the A9 heads north from Perth. You can watch the glass blowers making the paperwieghts. There is also a kids play area, a restaurant, shop and exhibition. Scone Palace, just outside Perth,was the location of the coronations of Scottish Royalty, when they would sit on the Stone of Scone during the ceremony.</p><p>When I am in Perth l like to do a circular walk starting by crossing the river on the railway bridge, at the end of the prom, then along the river bank and through Rodnay Gardens (pictured alongside) with the flower beds and scupltures. You can either take the first bridge back to across the river or continue along the riverbank to the next bridge. I was very sad a few years ago when the council cut down all the lovely mature trees along the river bank to improve flood defences, however I do like the new prom.</p><p>Dunkeld</p><p>Dunkeld lies 20 miles north of Perth. The Telford Bridge over the Tay was built in 1809 in response to a survey of the roads in Scotland. It is still quite a landmark. Dunkeld Cathedral was first built as a monastry in 730. Much of the town was destroyed during the 1689 Battle of Dunkeld. The "little houses" in Cathedral Road (pictured alongside) are 18th century merchants' houses which were renovated in the 1940s and are now let to local tenants.</p><p>The Beatrix Potter Garden is situated in the nieghbouring town of Birnam. to the west of the River Tay. Beatrix Potter spent 12 childhood summers holidaying in the area. During one holiday she wrote a picture letter to friend which developed in "The Tale of Peter Rabbit". The garden celebrates her books with bronze sculptures of several characters. Birnam is also associated with Shakespeare's Macbeth with the reference to moging Birnam Wood to Dunsinane, However the tale of the real Scottish King Macbeth has little in common with the protagonist of Shakespeare's play.</p><p>When I visit Dunkeld I usually park at the Hermitage, with its beautiful woodland and river walks. The Hermitage is just off the A9, just north of the Dunkeld exit. When I was doing research for this guide I was surprised to read about the 2 follies erected during the creation of the Hermitage by the Duke of Atholl in the 18th century. I felt pretty foolish as I always though the one of the follies was for real, Ossian's Cave the supposed home of the 3rd century poet. The other folly, Ossian's Hall, a grand room overlooks the Black Linn Falls in the River Braan. The Hall must have been magnificent when it was lined with mirrors to reflect the waterfall and had shutters of coloured glass. The Hall has been recently renovated by the National Trust for Scotland. Until recently the Hermitage was credited with containing the tallest tree in the UK. However recent measurements have meant that a tree near Inverness has knocked the Hermitage's contender into 2nd place. I like to walk from the car park at the Hermitage along to Ossian's Hall, cross the bridge there, turn left and walk along the path, then down to Rumbling Bridge and into Dunkeld. The Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre, home to a pair of breeding ospreys is a few miles north east of Dunkeld.</p><p>Pitlochry</p><p>Pitlochry is probably best known for the hydro electric dam and salmon fish ladder. The dam was constructed at the confluence of the River Tummel and Loch Faskally. A salmon ladder was also built to enable the estimated 5000 Atlantic salmon to return upstream to spawn. The ladder consists of 34 ascending chambers along 310 metres. I would recommend a fairly easy circular walk around Loch Faskally, which should take around one hour. Start at the salmon ladder go up the steps behind the salmon ladder and turn right walking alongside the Loch. Then go through a gate and turn right down hill on a minor road, You will come to a footbridge on your right, crossing the loch, after crossing bridge turn right, you will see cafe and boat hire on your left, walk up slope and you reach main road back into Pitlochry. The Dunfallandy Stone is an 8th century Pictish cross slab is located one mile west of Pitlochry. If you would like to visit a whisky distillery there is The Edradour Scotland's smallest distillery and The Blair Atholl one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland.</p><p>Pitlochry Festival Theatre started life in a tent in the early 1950s. due to rationing of bulding materials after the 2nd World War. The founder, John Stewart visited Pitlochry during WW2 and promised to return after victory. The present theatre building was constructed in 1981, If you stay in Pitlochry for a few days you can see a different play every evening. A Garden celebrating around 80 Scottish plant collectors and botanists as been developed around the theatre. Pitlochry Golf Course has been in existence for around 100 years and was christened the "Switzerland of Scotland" in a golf magazine in the 1950s.</p><p>The Battle of Killiecrankie was fought 3 miles north of Pitlochry and there is now a visitor centre there. You can admire the mangnificent Queens View, is best know as the stopping place or Queen Victoria on her journey north to her Highland retreat Balmoral. However it was evidently first named after Queen Isobel, the wife of Robert the Bruce Blair Castle is in Blair Atholl, 5 miles north of Pitlochry. It is quite unusual in that it is whitewashed. Just north of Blair Atholl is the House of Bruar, known as the home of country clothing, There is also an Art Gallery exhibiting over 450 pieces.</p><p>Aberfeldy</p><p>Aberfeldy is a charming small town on the banks of the River Tay. The landmark Wade Bridge opened in 1733. Aberfeldy can be reached via the Small Glen. turning north up to A822 a few miles east of Crieff, in the village of Gilmerton. and then onto the A826, just north of Amulree. It is a most beutiful drive with a scenic descent into Aberfeldy.</p><p>The Aberfeldy Distillery was first opened in 1898. If you are luck you may spot a red squirrel as there is a colony close by. The Birks of Aberfeldy is a circular walk up to the Falls of Moness. There is a large car park at the start of the walk, off the A826 as you approach Aberfeldy from the south. The walk can be muddy and bit slippery and there is a an elevation of 170 metres, You can see a plaque at the spot where Robert Burns rested to compose the Birks of Aberfeldy.</p><p>The Watermill houses the largest bookshop in the Highlands, an art gallery and a cafe in a Grade Alisted former oatmeal watermill. They offer story times and book reading session for kids and there is a Childrens' Book Festival running from 12 - 13 May 2007. There are various events on offer such as music evening and talks by authors. I was very impressed by the Watermill. It has been a very sympathetic renovation, leaving in many parts of the mill machinerry. There is as impressive selection of books. The cakes in the cafe look scrumptious, I had to refrain as I had to get on with taking photos in the daylight.</p><p>The Crannog Centre has an authentic recreation of ancient loch dwellings dating back over 5000 years. They offer events such as weaving with wood or willow, musical evenings, underwater archaeology. The centre is in Kemore, 6 miles west of Aberfeldy, on the banks of Loch Tay. The National Kayak School offers one day introductory courses in sea kayaking and white water kayaking with the only white water run in the UK guaranteed all year on their doorstep.</p><p>Crieff</p><p>Crieff is a pleasant small town taking it name from the Gaelic for among trees, There are two walks in Crieff which I really like, . The Knock the wooded hill behind Crieff has several possible walk variations. Lady Mary's Walk is a gentler stroll along banks of the River Earn. Crieff Visitor Centre combines a exhibtion about 18th century castle drovers, the Thistle pottery visitor centre, a garden centre and a restaurant. Crieff Highland Ganes started in 1870 and have taken place annually in August except during the First and Second World Wars.</p><p>Drummond Castle Gardens are said to be one of the finest formal gardens in Europe is a couple of miles south of Crieff, close the the village of Muthill. I lived in Muthill for 3 years in the mid 1980s. I learned to drive in Crieff so have many memories of stalling the car on the uphill starts in Crieff.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-4343530801491661822007-03-22T08:35:00.001-07:002007-03-22T08:35:32.926-07:00Geeks Get the Girl - Top 3 Vacations Spots for Geeks Looking for Romance<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>There are a lot of sexy hot travel destinations, but if you've got better things to do than work on your abs and your tan 7 days a week (like keep your blog current, obsess over your web stats, play World of Warcraft, etc), then those hot spots could leave you feeling mighty cold when you step off the plane and into an episode of the Real World.</p><p>If you're single, part of the allure of going on vacation is hooking up with an awesome foreigner for some fun times and perhaps even a little IM'ing once you get back home. But let's face it; if think you're going to jet off to Brazil or Hawaii stand out among the masses of tanned hard bodies, you're really slimming down the odds achieving that perfect vacation.</p><p>I don't know about you, but I prefer to go on vacation to have a great time, not to come back with a complex. Besides, I don't want to get sand in my laptop and I'm sure as hell not going to go a week without my G5. There are places in the world where a geek can go and have a heck of a good time, enjoy the company of like minded people, and even have a decent conversation with a good looking, intelligent companion.</p><p><b>Amsterdam:</b> If you haven't been to Amsterdam, get there ASAP. The fact that just about everything is legal there isn't what's so great—it's the fact that because it is, everyone is really down to earth and open. A lot of the coffee shops have high speed internet access and unlike Starbucks, people actually talk to other people so it's a good possibility that you'll meet new and interesting people on your travels. Plus, it rains a lot there so no one expects you to have a Coppertone body.</p><p>Queensday is a great time to head to Amsterdam if you're looking for a festive party where you'll have the opportunity to meet lots of fun-loving people. The party starts on April 30th and doesn't end until the next evening. Another good time to go is during the 3-week Holland Festival between May 29th and June 24th. Prepare to be up to your neck in of culture, visual arts, theater—and all with an avant-garde slant.</p><p><b>Sweden:</b> Yes, Sweden. Though you may not have heard much about Sweden, this is little country is a geek's paradise. The 2005 book "Flight of the Creative Class" states that states that "Sweden is the most creative country in Europe and is positioned to attract the top talent in the important and emerging creative class – which is defined as scientists, designers, writers, IT nerds, and other hard-working brains."</p><p>Not only that, but there is a lot good music coming out of Sweden—progressive music, punk, death metal, and all sorts of other emerging bands. There are even a quite a few nude beaches in Sweden and next door in Denmark, nude bathing is accepted just about everywhere.</p><p><b>Ireland:</b> Just about every geek, nerd, and role playing obsessive has harbored some sort of affinity for the lore of Ireland at some point or another. It's not going to be Middle Earth reincarnated, but when you get there, you won't be disappointed.</p><p>Definitely get there for St. Patrick's Day festivities in Dublin if possible which is celebrated between the 15th and 19th of March. When 1.5 million people are out in the streets partying to Celtic beats and drinking ale, it's sure to be a good time. Then in June there's the Dublin Writer's Festival and soon after the Dublin Pub Crawl where you get tour around with a bunch of literary and pint drinking fanatics through the pubs in downtown Dublin with literary connections.</p><p>If you're like me and into vacations where you can experience some culture, festivities, and may actually meet some really cool people, check into these geek-friendly locales. Instead of paying online for your European hotels, go to a place like EuroBookings where you don't actually pay first, but reserve the best price online—that way if the rates go down between now and your stay, you'll have more money to spend on pints, coffee, and good food.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-46383772244314987032007-03-20T15:28:00.001-07:002007-03-20T15:28:30.234-07:00Tall Tales In The Desert<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>For April Fools, head for the Anza Borrego Desert in California to spin your wildest yarn. Tell a tale of Pegleg Smith, a colorful desert character. Tell a tale of found gold, only to lose it again. Tell a tale that would make Pegleg proud.</p><p>Pegleg Smith was a mountain man, guide, horse thief and liar. In the mid-1800s, he and another man were taking a bunch of furs across the desert from the Colorado River to sell in Los Angeles. They were getting low on water and Pegleg, so called because he had a wooden leg, climbed to the top of a butte looking for water. It was one of three buttes in the area.</p><p>While on top of the butte, he gathered some black pebbles and stuck them in his pocket.</p><p>And so begins the tale of the legendary Pegleg Smith Lost Mine.</p><p>When Pegleg got to Los Angeles, he learned the black pebbles were gold nuggets, covered with a dark "desert varnish". He managed to put together a few expeditions to go back to the spot for more gold, but could never find it again.</p><p>He was willing to tell anyone who would listen (for a shot of whiskey or two) about his rich gold mine. He sold maps to it. He sold claims to it. And prospectors headed out to the desert to find the butte covered with gold nuggets.</p><p>Supposedly, more people have searched for the Lost Pegleg Smith Mine more than any other lost mine. If anyone has found it, they're not saying.</p><p>That is, unless they're at the Pegleg Monument the first Saturday in April, participating in the Pegleg Smith Liars' Contest.</p><p>Anyone can enter the contest. The only requirements are the fabricated fable has to either be about Pegleg Smith or searching for gold. Costumes and props add to the story.</p><p>The contest begins at sundown. It is free to watch. Bring blankets, a lawn chair and something warm to drink and sit back and enjoy the story telling.</p><p>Pegleg's Monument is a pyramid-shaped pile of rocks about 7 miles east of the town of Borrego Springs. For more information visit http://www.borregosprings.info/pegleg_liars-contest.html</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-65387456815540861022007-03-18T16:14:00.001-07:002007-03-18T16:14:59.932-07:00Hotel Charme Paris is a True Luxury Hotel<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>When we visit a new place we pay little or no attention to the hotel we are about to stay in and that is because we are engrossed in capturing as much as possible and enjoying the location itself. However, a hotel plays a huge role in your good disposition and ability to enjoy the place of choice and choosing the right hotel can in fact make or ruin your entire experience. Here is why once you have stayed in Hotel Charme Paris, you will never think of staying in another hotel again. Hotel Charme Paris does not only offer great location in order to get to any place of choice with ease but also combines it with great rates. If you are traveling alone on business, along with your partner on a romantic getaway or with the family for a vacation you will find that Hotel Charme Paris will get you the best possible packages available on the market.</p><p>Booking In Advance Will Bring You Rewards</p><p>If you are aware of your travels try and book in advance, as it always provides great rates and you will be rewarded with different types of extra facilities applicable at that time such as, champagne on arrival, discounted diners or lunches or free treatments in their own spa. To book Hotel Charme Paris contact a local travel agent, as they usually have the best prices for packages at any time of the year. Your agent will also be able to upgrade you to a suite depending on the occupancy of the hotel or on the occasion for which you are visiting, for example if you are celebrating your anniversary, honeymoon or any other special even, which your travel agent can use to get you special privileges.</p><p>A Stay To Remember</p><p>Hotel Charme Paris offers the unique fleur of the European city Paris and that is what it makes it so special to couples and not only. Intimate rooms with unique and romantic settings will set the mood as you step in and the luxurious bathrooms will provide even more choice of romantic rendezvous'. So whether you are in town for business or pleasure, why not make your hotel stay one to remember by staying at Hotel Charme Paris and pampering every sense from sleeping luxuriously to bathing in style and rejuvenating in their modern spas. You will be more than pleased with your vacation.</p><p>Copyright © John Hanna All Rights Reserved.</p><p>This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-89633216074273704462007-03-16T05:58:00.001-07:002007-03-16T05:58:53.522-07:00Philadelphia- the New Athens<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>A city not only known as the city of American freedom or the birthplace of America but also known for the revolutionary role it has played since centuries. Welcome to Philadelphia, a life-size city in Pennsylvania and the birthplace of America. Philadelphia is often referred as the New Athens, the name first suggested for the work done by the famous native of the city Benjamin Franklin. Rightly so as Benjamin Franklin was responsible for the country's first insurance company, the city's first public library and the first fire department; Franklin also played a great role in establishing the city's Postal system as well as inventing new conveniences such as bifocal lenses and the Franklin stove.</p><p>Philadelphia or "Philly" best known for its role in the American Revolutionary War saw the convening of the Continental Congress as well as the writing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States of America. Shortly after the nation's inception took place in Philadelphia, it was named the nation's capital between 1790 and 1800 before it was relocated to its present Washington D.C. Philly is now a big metropolitan which accommodates around 6.2 million inhabitants from almost all nationalities.</p><p>One of the unique factors about Philadelphia is that it is the most walkable city in the US and this factor is well used for the better part of it. Signs like "Walk! Philadelphia" well compliments the cities uniqueness and at the same time guide visitors toward shopping, dining, gallery perusing, cultural enjoyment, local must-sees and public transportation should it need to be taken. The city has two very walkable shopping districts as well as the walkable Benjamin Franklin Parkway, which is home to many museums, including the Franklin Institute and the Philadelphia Museum of Art that was made famous in the Rocky series of movies.</p><p>Its geographic location makes Philadelphia accessible by all modes of transport. The Philadelphia International airport is a busy one and you can find regular flights to almost all the locations. You can even enjoy the road trip to Philadelphia. Moreover as a visitor you can find hotels for every budget and if by any chance you are on a tight budget you can definitely find a suitable place in the Philadelphia districts. There is a place for every budget in Philadelphia. Some of the regular facilities offered by the hotels in Philadelphia include air conditioned rooms, car rentals, airport pick and drop facilities, swimming pools, health clubs, spas, restaurants etc. The city provides a unique nightlife to all and that definitely means that you can take a ballet in the nation's oldest grand opera house as well as knock back a Pabst and a shot of swill for three bucks. In all Philadelphia makes a great city for all and if you haven't taken a note of that you better mark it in your next holiday destination.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-43783235855455084152007-03-14T04:51:00.001-07:002007-03-14T04:51:49.800-07:00Student Travel: The Best Way to Travel<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><br /><br /><p>Traveling is a compelling pastime from time immemorial. Humans love traveling; they get restless if they stay put for too long a time in one place. Traveling answers to the quest for knowing more about other people, other cultures, other customs and traditions, other ways of living, other religions, and the list goes on.</p><p>All this makes traveling thrilling and one of the greatest ways of relaxation of all. Everybody loves traveling, but those who simply thrive on it are the students. Students, all over the world, undergo most trips in their pursuit of fun and adventure.</p><p>What Makes Student Travel so Special</p><p>Student travel is special simply because it is totally carefree. They have no worries to carry with them, they have their youth to support them, and they have the greatest possible discounts to encourage them. In short, student travel is actually the best travel experience you will ever have in your life. So, if you are a student, make sure you make the best of this opportunity.</p><p>The best way to get the most out of student travel is to seek out the special offers at different times of the year offered by different destinations and airlines. Work out an itinerary that would keep entertained for as long as you want - from one week to one year or more. Of course, the fun would be multiplied to no end if you decide to travel in groups. Groups are offered even better prices, and being together enhances the joy of any vacation trip to anywhere in the world.</p><p>Some Great Ideas for Student Travel Destinations</p><p>If you are bitten by the travel bug, you will do good if you indulge in it as much as you can during your student days. Once you leave the education stream and step into the world, the "free rides" are over. You have many, many choices, just make the best and the most out of it as soon as you can.</p><p>Visit all historic places in a continent, such as Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and so on. This type of a student travel trip is best endeavored with a group of colleagues and friends for three major reasons: traveling in group is great fun, traveling in group is safe, and traveling in a group gets the best discounts.</p><p>Volunteer with the UN Forces or any other world-famous volunteers, and travel wherever you are sent to help the fellow human beings out of economical, political or health problems. All over the world, students make for more than 75 percent of volunteers in development work, which is extremely commendable.</p><p>You might have learned to climb a mountain and you want to experience your prowess and strength. You might want to find out what it is like to raft down the rapids of a river, or the thrills that a Safari in an African jungle offers. The list is endless, because every day new quests are introduced by these youngsters, making impossible to know about everything all the time. However, the best thing is that you have some great choices waiting for you.</p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38158861.post-1170362778722275252007-02-01T07:44:00.000-08:002007-02-01T12:46:18.746-08:00California Auto Insurance Comparisons<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p> According to California’s insurance premium evaluation law, every insurance company is permitted to determine its ain rates based on its past loss experience and expenses. In position of the fact that every company’s experience is different, although they are within the indistinguishable geographic region, the rates will be different as a result.</p><p>By calling a few companies for rate comparisons, people can happen the cheapest policy and possibly salvage 100s of dollars a year. Shoppers will also have got an chance to choose the company that offers the most accessible terms and coverage to fit their personal requirements.</p><p>There are assorted beginnings people can name to measure policies and premiums. A good starting topographic point could be the local telephone directory. The Internet can supply name calling and telephone numbers for independent insurance brokers/agents, company agents, direct writers, and web sites.</p><p>It is critical to get quotes from numerous companies. People may not acknowledge it, but the insurance rates they pay for their car can differ considerably based on the insurance company they select. Consumers should always measure many companies before coming to a determination on a policy.</p><p>If person have problem determination a company that volition see them, they can always reach certain insurance companies that specialise in high-risk drivers. People should be vigilant when they make up one's mind to purchase insurance from one of these companies. It is of import to carefully read each eligibility demands and the monthly rates as they may change vastly from one supplier to the other. Obtaining liability coverage through the California Automobile Assigned Hazard Plan (CAARP) is another option.</p><p>The program operates by accepting the application and turning over it to an insurance company. Every insurance company licensed in the state is obliged to accept CAARP applicants. The measure of CAARP appliers insured depends on the insurance company’s market share. The rates used by the program are the same regardless of which insurance company issues the policy.</p><p> </p></div>Frederickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07990501590159195974noreply@blogger.com0