All About Travel and Leisure

Bali Fashion Jewelry

2008-12-03T22:00:00.000-08:00

There are many types of fashionable jewelries available in the market for sale that is worn on various occasions as per choice. These jewelries come in bracelets, necklaces, and earrings design. You can buy it for various occasions at nominal cost. This is such a big industry that is growing every day. It's also called as costume jewelry.

This is great news for all the girls out there looking to stay stylish with the latest trends in fashion jewelry. Girls are very much conscious towards fashionable jewelry accessories. They always wear bracelets, necklaces, belts and other jewelries to look attractive during various occasions and regular lifestyle. You can buy hand painted jewelry, ethnic, agate stone, diamond cut, carved bone, beaded jewelry and many other fashion jewelries from any fashion jewelery store.
The quality of fashion jewelry accessories has increased and there are more unique styles than ever to choose from. Fashion Jewelry combines elegance, quality and affordability.

Traveling with Medical Disabilities

2008-01-02T02:39:00.000-08:00

Traveling America-ful with a medical disability can be challenging, but it is worth the effort you make to finally have a successful, fun filled vacation.

My wife and I were looking forward to my retirement. My wife had retired from her Licensed Therapist practice already and she was just waiting for me to make my retirement official. Our kids were “grown and gone” and we were looking forward to just picking up for weeks at a time on one of our spontaneous acts and traveling across this country of ours. We had upgraded our timeshare to accommodate our dream of traveling America.

However, strange things happen on the way to “life”. About 6 months before my official retirement my wife was diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). On August 4, 2006 she began a schedule of 3-day a week dialysis treatment at the Mayo Clinic. Each dialysis treatment is at least 4 hours long.

We had a tough time trying to make sense of what was happening. Why was this happening to us in the prime of our lives? How could we possibly take trips with a regimen of these 3-day a week 4 hour dialysis treatments (Monday, Wednesday and Friday)? There was at least 1 day between treatments and no more than 2 days (Saturday and Sunday). Needless to say we spent some time with our therapists and getting in touch with our spiritual side.

I think I was more stressed than my wife. She insisted that I get out, do something. I normally fish or try to play golf, but I thought I would try to do something creative. So I wrote a few lyrics (got them copyrighted) and thought about creating a website that would allow visitors to tell other visitors about their travel experiences.

Travel America-ful advisory and tips

If we wanted to do traveling of any kind while she is undergoing dialysis we would have some “road blocks” to overcome. For instance:

Because she had been placed on the kidney transplant list, in the event of an available kidney match (I am not a match to donate my kidney to my wife) we had to be able to get back to the kidney transplant unit within 2-3 hours after we are contacted.

Not all dialysis units were the same – some were cleaner than others (the fear of infection is always a consideration). Mayo has one of the best (if not the best) dialysis units in America.

Not considering the 2-3 hours window we could only be away for no more than 2 days because of the dialysis schedule. We could probably stretch it for another day, but that would be putting additional risk into the equation. We were not willing to do that.

But, we were determined to travel. We started out by taking little excursions of one day – leave Saturday morning and returning Sunday morning. Then we extended our travel time from Saturday morning and returning Monday morning to get her to her Monday dialysis treatment. Next, we began leaving on Friday evening after her dialysis treatment – she was normally very tired right after her treatment and absolutely famished. So, I would prepare her a meal (she had some food restrictions) and she would eat it in the car as we drove to wherever we were going and then take a nap.

Next the big one! My wife said “Why not plan a trip for one month?” I was not as sure of this as she was. My wife spoke with her physician and then worked with the Mayo Clinic Social Workers for several months to line up dialysis units in various states up the Northeast coast (Washington Area, New York City Area, Atlanta Area and New London, Connecticut Area).

Through careful planning and coordination with the Mayo Clinic Social Worker we were able to schedule 12 dialysis treatments over the 1 month period in 4 different states. My wife is a master at establishing relationships with new people and she was able to do that in each of the different dialysis locations without major incidents.

Getting out was absolutely wonderful. We are from New York and it was great getting back into the hustle-bustle for a few days. Although, my wife could not get as much activity as she would have normally, she thoroughly enjoyed herself. As did I.

Our experience has led us to offer a few suggestions to those who might be holding back on traveling because of your own medical disability.

1. Discuss your plans with your physician

2. Work with the resources available to you – Social Workers, Travel Agents, etc.

3. Have alternate plans – if you run out of medication; if your condition worsens, etc.

4. Plan, plan, plan

5. Enjoy

Travel America-ful and share your experiences with friends, strangers and family.

Have an America-ful day.

Why People Find Their Alaskan Cruise Enticing

2007-12-31T02:36:00.000-08:00

I am not at all amazed to see so many articles on cruising in Alaska.

While it is disturbing to see no fewer than 4 gigantic liners in the small port of Ketchikan on any day in season, for instance, they do seem to time their arrival so that our shore excursion into a tropical forest (yes tropical) was as memorable as promised.

We chose Alaska because we wanted to visit North America for the first time. But also because it sounded so exotic; it would be, coming from South Africa.

It was nothing short of breathtaking. But it was also the ship itself, Holland America's Volendam that made it especially so. Imagine sitting in a leather chair nine storeys up in an observation lounge with 270 degree views. Imagine this in almost utter silence, while the ship glides through a narrow passage, with less than 100 metres on either side. We could hear the waterfalls, see the wildlife, and watch in amazement as whales and seals swam passed us. When she approached a 'corner' my naval instincts and ocean experience that goes back 30 years said no. How was she going to negotiate what was literally a corner up ahead? Keep in mind this was the largest ship I had ever embarked: over 70 000 tons. I ran below decks to call my wife, and we both watched in amazement as her pods (much like movable outboard motors) and bow thrusters allowed her to sail through effortlessly.

When we reached the glacier it was an experience that was quite simply humbling. All the statistics about the melting ice and the glacier itself retreating many metres each year were disturbing, but then again it was as a result of this that we could approach and enter what was now a 'modern' bay, not accessible 20 years ago. In fact because of the sophisticated engines and designs, few ships, even with much less tonnage, have been able to negotiate the narrow passages and actually turn around when they get there.

I delighted in videoing how the captain, by using a pencil sized joystick, was able to program the ship so that she turned so silently and slowly over a period of an hour, without any movement forwards or backwards. I wondered if my small frigate, of just 2500 tonnes, from the South African Navy in 1973 might have done this ' I think not. Passengers on the bow, and those sitting astern were then afforded a view of the entire bay and the cathedral-like walls of the glacier itself as the ship turned slowly in the streaming sunshine of the Alaskan summer. The glacier itself was somewhat daunting, with pieces of ice ready to calve. We desperately hoped a large one would break off and crash with thunderous applause into the mottled green bay, but alas only slivers did so on that particular day. We were acutely aware that our very presence added to the environmental changes, but were somehow willing to compromise in order to live the moment; so much like most of us on our endangered planet.

In fact the entire cruising programme must be, for many people, not excluding the planners and ships owners, somewhat of a dilemma. Hundreds of summer cruises a year do take their toll: the air pollution itself is big a factor. But owners and cruise operators do everything they can to minimize the effect. Cigarette butts are a serious no-no, for example; don't even think of throwing one overboard, and I have do doubt that with technology, our gargantuan liner was probably less guilty of environmental damage than my tiny frigate all those years ago.

Skagway gives one a chance to take a memorable train ride up over the start of the Rockies and into Canada; one follows the path up the mountain on which hundreds of pack animals fell to their death as a result of their owner's greed for gold. We were simply delighted at the Humpback Whale food festival out in the bay at Juneau, Alaska's capital (the only one in the world that is not accessible by road). This 'shore excursion' of about three hours was well worth it. Our small-boat captain guaranteed, with typical American marketing gusto, that we would see them feed. And we did. What a feast! The glaciers retreated with the last ice age and carved a vertical passage down into the bay, meaning that the shoreline has a vertical drop of hundreds of metres into the sea. It was here that a family of Humpbacks secured their lunch with their sophisticated methods of diving and bubble netting their small prey.

Believe it or not, we experienced some disappointment with regard to wildlife. One can see more whales, and really up close, in October to January in Cape Town and surrounds than we did in Alaska. We were constantly reminded that on the multitude of islands we passed on the inside passage (essential method of cruising) that for each square kilometre there was one bear. Sadly, or luckily we encountered and saw not one. I turned to my wife one day and knew what she was thinking. For all the wilderness angle pursued by brochures and guides, we realised how privileged we were to live in a country with the greatest concentration of life on the planet. Alaska seem almost desert-like, but from this aspect only.

We did visit a salmon farm and see beautiful eagles. The whale feeding-frenzy (at home they entertain us with circus tricks) is now edited and copied to a much viewed DVD back home, and we realised that Alaska was not necessarily (for us, that was) a memorable wildlife experience.

But boy, it sure put on another display. One cannot visit without feeling one has been transported to a world of sublime and inexorably, stark, and primordial beauty. It is here, as with other 'last frontiers' that the world of yester era can be experienced. The beauty is both harsh and delicate, a place where ancient forces: enemies and allies met and struggled, and still do. I shall not easily forget the sun dispersing dark and ominous clouds, just in time for us to bask in its rays and then literally gasp at the spectacularly beautiful colours that the sunshine itself was able to entice from the seemingly cold and austere glacier.

She, the sun, seemed to thrust herself down onto the orchestra of icy protrusions and phallic structures, like an excited conductor might charge at his musicians with his baton, evoking their hidden talents.

We found our very spirits dancing with every ray that fell and in some weird neurological space my brain did summersaults. I remembered the testimony of a LSD-taking patient years back, and his description of how he 'heard' a sunset and could see colours in sounds. Here Nature was the intoxicating influence, and I swore blind that night that I had smelt the very colours that danced on the back of the retreating glacier, and heard every moan of the pristine and exquisitely beautiful blue that shimmered in every crevice and corner of the dazzling bay!

It is a wonder that many of these cruises are so inexpensive (I hate to use the word cheap). On the cusp of summer: April/August, September one can find them for as little as $499. This for an entire week of sublime luxury and relaxation.

Amazingly, with at least four meals a day, and at least one gourmet tray of delights at 2am, my wife and I actually lost weight! The food was nothing short of spectacular and while my wife faithfully journeyed through the entire menu each night, my waiter soon appeased my strange penchant for dining by serving no fewer than three small main courses from around the world. I would certainly not have been able to afford such delights in Paris of Vienna, some not even back home.

Choose your cruise line carefully; while Holland America's passenger list averaged around 45 in age, a small family of kids had the children's program and a full-time child minder to themselves, this a distinct advantage. But they might have been lonely. And if it's love, sex and rock 'n roll you're after you might like to take a peek at Carnival or a cruise line that majors in another kind of wildness. Personally I would prefer this type of party cruise in the Med, Caribbean or Mexico. Somehow the breathtaking setting of Alaska itself demands a quiet and humble respect, more in tune with sipping whiskies, and silently walking on the upper deck in the clean, ancient air.

Whatever your choice, go you must. You will not be the same again.

Vacations in Eastern Cuba

2007-12-31T02:35:00.000-08:00

Santiago de Cuba, located between the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Maestra mountain range, is the Eastern capital and home of the Cuban Son, which is the father of all Cuban rhythms of this century. It is the capital of the Santiago de Cuba Province in the eastern region of the island and the country’s second largest metropolis. This city, rich in culture, tradition, and also in natural and architectural treasures, provides travelers with amazing experiences in their Cuba vacations. From hill-walking and mountaineering to historical and cultural tours, Santiago de Cuba is a destination that will not disappoint you.

For those who love nature and who enjoy mountain-climbing and hill-walking activities, Santiago de Cuba offers several points of interest like: the Sierra Maestra mountain range and Baconao Biosphere Reserve, where La Gran Piedra (The Great Stone) stands out.

The rugged topography of the Sierra Maestra, with elevations of up to 1,300 m above sea level, is unique in the island and famous for its landscapes of breathtaking beauty and unbelievable variety. Among these elevations are the three highest peaks of Cuba: the Pico Real del Turquino with 1,974 m, the Pico Cuba with 1,872 m and the Pico Suecia with 1,734 m above sea level. This scenery gives the visitor the feeling of being at the top of the island, and you can literally touch the clouds in the sky. It is an exclusive place where one can get the best view of the rivers, forests, mountains and valleys that surround the region. It’s also considered as one of the most important well-preserved areas in Cuba, due to the great diversity of its flora and fauna. I highly recommend bringing your camera along to take some pictures of endemic flowers and animals of the zone. Bird watching is also a popular activity in this area.

Moreover the Sierra Maestra is an emblematic site where decisive moments of the Cuban Revolution took place. In an intricate zone of this territory explorers can find the Comandancia de la Plata, the First Front of the Rebel Army, a place with historical value.

If you are traveling with the whole family, Baconao Park will be an excellent choice in your itinerary. Located in the Sierra Maestra, the Baconao Park was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere Reserve List in 1987, including three well defined biogeographic zones: the “Meseta de Santiago”, the “Sierra de la Gran Piedra” and the “Meseta Santa Maria de Loreto”. It incorporates beaches, mountains, lakes, forests and ruins of French coffee plantations. Visitors can appreciate a high biodiversity in flora and fauna, being a wonderful experience for nature lovers. Moreover, there is an International Diving Center and the Land Transport Museum, which exhibits over 2,000 miniature vehicles along with an exposition of vintage cars. Also, one can enjoy a visit to the Aquarium where dolphins and seals put an excellent show for both children and adults, exhibiting their abilities.

One of the main attractions of this zone is La Gran Piedra (The Great Stone), a majestic and magnificent rock formation. This enormous rock of volcanic origin is on the top of a mountain at 1,125 meters. Due to its gorgeous sceneries, this place constitutes a natural viewpoint. It is said that in the clear nights the lights of Jamaica can be seen from there. It’s also considered one of the largest rocks in the world.

Have children? Take them to the Prehistory Valley, an amazing collection of reproductions of dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals made of stone in almost their natural size. These fantastic creatures are disseminated on a wide valley surrounded by mountains, in the same places where the legendary animals should have lived. This valley is a great venue for photography. Kids will love it!

On the other hand, Santiago de Cuba is an artistic and cultural centre of great prominence in the history of Cuba. Visitors have the chance to enjoy historical tours in the midst of marvelous natural landscapes. Characterized by a solid historical background and cultural traditions, this city offers a wonderful display of historic sites such as the Cathedral, the first one in Cuba (1522) and the Casagranda Hotel which can be found in the city centre: by the Céspedes Park. Santiago de Cuba is the home of Cuba’s oldest palaces and museums, including the Casa de Diego Velázquez also located in the Céspedes Park area. This zone continues to be a large part of the city’s social life and it is known as Céspedes Park in honor of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, a national hero also called the Founding Father or Father of the Homeland.

Among other significant buildings situated in the heart of the city is the Nuestra Señora de Asunción Cathedral. The Tour of the Revolution Square is also recommended. Best explored by foot, on your own or with one of the many guided tours available, Santiago de Cuba also has numerous museums and art galleries. One of the most popular museums is the Cuartel Moncada, the yellow barracks whose exterior is marked with carefully re-opened bullet holes, remindings of the July day in 1953 when Fidel Castro and a group of rebels launched an assault. It treasures the rebels' weapons, bloodstained uniforms, photographs, letters, and other documents. There’s also the Granjita Siboney Museum, which was the place of gathering for the attack of the Moncada garrison. It now shows memorabilia of the assault.

Santiago de Cuba was the homeland of many notorious Cubans as well. That’s why travelers can find in this city numerous museums that were the birthplace of famed figures of the Cuban history. One can visit the Native House of José María Heredia, one of Cuba's greatest poets; the Native House of Antonio Maceo, a leader of the war of independence and the Native House of Frank País, a hero who fought against the dictatorship of the 1950’s. Furthermore, there are other historical sights to see in Santiago de Cuba such as the Museum of Carnival, which aims to give an overview of the great tradition of carnival in Santiago. It’s also interesting the Emilio Bacardi Museum, one of Cuba's first museums that keep a valuable collection covering the period between the Spanish conquest and the Wars of Independence (from Spain). Other remarkable sights are the Museum of Rum that exhibits all about the great beverage and the Museum “La Isabelica”, which shows some history of the French settlements in the area and displays farming implements and archeological objects.

One more historic attraction is the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery. This large cemetery is a small city of the dead, populated by elaborate marble tombs including several spectacular mausoleums. One of these belongs to José Marti, National Hero and one Cuba’s most lucid and visionary men of all times. This cemetery gathers tombs for such historic notables as Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, the “Father of the Homeland”, and Emilio Bacardi, including graves from those who fought for revolution, like Frank País.

Another world heritage site: The San Pedro de la Roca del Morro Castle can be found on the outskirts of this historical city. This fortress is one of the most formidable defensive works constructed by the Spaniards in the island. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as "the most complete, best-preserved example of Spanish-American military architecture based on Italian and Renaissance design principles". From this fortification the visitor can see the whole bay of Santiago de Cuba where took place the famous naval battle in 1898 between US and Spanish troops. The fortress now houses the Museum of Piracy.

Santiago de Cuba is also a centre of great religious importance. Located about 20 km far from the city the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad (Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre Sanctuary) is the most important shrine in the island. The walls of the church are laden with gifts from people that were healed or asked for the Virgin's blessing. Many are the visitors who come to Santiago to climb the hill of this sanctuary dedicated to the Patron Saint of Cuba. Some of them come to keep a promise, others take offerings which are added to the hundreds of pieces and objects that have been dedicated to the Virgin among which, is Hemingway's Nobel Prize medal. Some people often collect copper stones from the mine close to the church.

Finally, a journey to Santiago de Cuba would not be complete without sampling its cultural activities. Santiago de Cuba is famous for its celebrations, including the Festival of Caribbean Culture sometimes known as the Feast of Fire, and the popular Santiago Carnival which takes place every July. With the many festivals it holds, the city is called the cultural capital of the Caribbean.

Even though July in Santiago de Cuba tends to be extremely hot, it's probably the best time to enjoy its famous festivities. When the carnival begins in Santiago the whole city turns into one big party. What most characterize the carnival are the congas, which can be heard in areas such as Trocha or on any street. Contagious drum rhythms draw local people and visitors alike into one long flowing dance. Popular orchestras make their way to Santiago for the festivities. For the locals: music to dance to and plenty of beer is enough to make the carnival a success.

For those who appreciate other cultural pursuits and those who favor music and nightlife, Santiago de Cuba has its share of things to offer. Many music and dance venues exist such as the Casa del Caribe where tourists go for authentic Afro-Cuban shows and lessons; but Tropicana Santiago deserves a required visit. It is called the Cabaret of the Caribbean and it is considered one of the largest nightclubs in Cuba. The fame of Tropicana Santiago's shows has gone beyond Cuban borders, thus is a popular place if you are seeking night-time entertainment. However, there are other trendy places like the Trova House, a bar club where visitors can enjoy Cuban and Santiago’s traditional music. Furthermore, the Heredia Street, very famous for its intense cultural and social life, leads visitors to better discovery of the best exponents of "son", bolero and a unique movement of troubadours.

London Tourist Attractions around Trafalgar Square

2007-12-30T02:31:00.000-08:00

Trafalgar Square is a famous public square and tourist attraction in the centre of London. It was created to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars in 1805.

Trafalgar Square was originally intended to be called the King William VI Square. However architect George Ledwell Taylor suggested the name Trafalgar Square.

The architecture around Trafalgar Square dates to between 1820 and 1845, when the Prince Region engaged John Nash, the imminent landscape architect, to redevelop the area. The project became known as the Charing Cross Improvement Scheme. The architecture of the square was the work of Sir Charles Barry, and was completed in 1845.

Trafalgar Square consists of a big public area bordered by roads. The roads that lead into Trafalgar Square or are within its vicinity include Whitehall, Northumberland Avenue, The Strand, Charing Cross Road, Haymarket, Pall Mall and The Mall. Also within the area are Trafalgar Square road and Cockspur Street.

The point where the Strand meets Whitehall was the original location of the Charing Cross. This is where the City of London meets the City of Westminster, and is accepted as the very heart of London. From here all distances are measured.

Exploring Trafalgar Square in clockwise fashion beginning from the north, we see the stairs that lead up to the National Gallery. The National Gallery began when the British government bought 36 paintings from banker John Julius Angerstain in 1824. From that minuscule collection, the National Gallery today houses over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900. Two thirds of the collection comes from donation. The collect is small compared to national galleries of continental Europe, however, it has important works with a broad historical representation, covering Early Renaissance to Post-Impressionism.

The present structure at Trafalgar Square was built in 1832-8. However only the facade is recognizable from the original, with much of the inside having been renovated and expanded. This is the third building to house the National Gallery, and despite the many expansions, is still inadequate.

The site at Trafalgar Square made creating an impressive gallery a challenging task. It cannot be extended in further than one room, as there was a workhouse and a barracks immediately behind. The architect whose design was chosen, William Wilkins, also had to comply to several stipulations, among them, he has to used columns from the demolished Carlton House, and sculptures which were intended for John Nash's Marble Arch. As a result, the National Gallery opened to much public ridicule.

To the east of Trafalgar Square is the St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, an Anglican church dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours.

A burial dating back to Roman times was discovered here during an excavation in 2006. It led to a reappraisal of the importance of Westminster during Roman times. The reason is, although the Romans usually bury their dead outside city limits, the site of St Martin was way outside the Roman city limits, so it surprised archaeologists to find a burial spot so far out of the city.

The earliest documentation of St Martin-in-the-Fields Church was found in 1222, where a dispute between the Abbot of Westminster and the Bishop of London over who had control over St Martin was recorded. King Henry VIII rebuilt the church in 1542, so that plague victims do not have to pass by his residence at the Palace of Whitehall. At that time, the church was literally "in the fields", isolated and away from the cities of Westminster and London.

Although the old St Martin-in-the-Fields building was not destroyed by the Great London Fire of 1666, it was nevertheless replaced with a new building, by James Gibbs, in 1726. Though the new design was greeted with much criticism, it eventually found favor and became famous, leading to many similar copies built in the United States.

Due to its strategic location, St Martin-in-the-Fields is one of the most famous non-cathedral churches in London. It is famous for the social work done for the homeless. It is also a regular venue for lunchtime and evening concerts. A 36 million pound renewal project began in January 2006 is scheduled to be fully completed by early 2008.

At little to the south of the St Martin's church, past South Africa House, still to the east, is the Strand, towards the present location of Charing Cross and the Charing Cross station. To the south is Whitehall, towards the direction of the Palace of Westminster. To the southwest is the Admiralty Arch with The Mall passing through it towards Buckingham Palace. Finally, to the west is Cockspur Street in the direction towards the Haymarket.

There are several statues at Trafalgar Square, the most prominent of which is Nelson's Column. It commemorates the death of Admiral Horatio Nelson in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The entire monument is 50 metres (169 ft 5 in) from the bottom first step to the tip of Nelson's hat, according to laser survey done during restoration in 2006. It includes the 5.5m (18 ft) statue of Nelson facing in the direction of the Palace of Westminster and along Pall Mall. Nelson stands on top of a Corinthian column based on one from the Temple of Mars Ultor in Rome. At the top of the column are bronze acanthus leaves cast from British cannons. Below the column is a square pedestal, and on each face is a bronze panel cast from captured French guns. Each panel depicts one of Nelson's four great victories.

Nelson's Column was made in 1838. It was designed by William Railton. The sandstone statue of Nelson was sculptured by E.H. Baily. The four bronze panels were done by sculptors Musgrave Watson, John Ternouth, William F Woodington and John Edward Carew. The whole monument costs 47,500 pounds, equivalent to 3.5 million pounds in 2004 terms. Four lions, by Sir Edwin Landseer, were added in 1867.

Nelson’s Column is surrounded by four huge bronze lions cast from cannons of the French fleet. At the four corners of the square are plinths. Three of these have statues on them: King George IV on the northeast plinth, cast in the 1840s; Henry Havelock on the southeast plinth, cast in 1861; Sir Charles James Napier on the southwest plinth, cast in 1855. The fourth plinth remains without a permanent statue on it. Initially it was intended for a statue of King William IV, but there was insufficient funds to complete it. As of now, the plinth continues to be used for temporary works of art.

On the lawn in front of the National Gallery are two more statues: King James II to the west of the entrance portico, and George Washington to the east. The Washington statue was a gift from the state of Virginia in US. It stands on soil brought over from the United States, in honour of Washington's declaration that he would never again set foot on British soil.

To the south of Nelson’s statue is the roundabout where the original Eleanor Cross stood. There’s a statue of Charles I there. It is the only English king to ever be beheaded.

To the southwest of the round about is Admiralty Arch. It is an office building facing Trafalgar Square. It incorporates an archway for road and pedestrian access between The Mall and Trafalgar Square. The Admiralty Arch was built in 1912, and adjoins the Old Admiralty Building. The Admiralty Arch was commissioned by King Edward VII, in memory of his mother, Queen Victoria, though he died before it was completed.

These are just some of the sights around Trafalgar Square. There is indeed a lot to see at every corner, and for that reason, it is still one of the main attractions in Lon

I Love Touring Italy - The Basilicata Region

2007-12-29T02:29:00.000-08:00

If you are contemplating touring Europe, you should consider the Basilicata region of southern Italy. Basilicata forms the instep of the Italian boot and has two small seacoasts, one on the Ionian Sea in the east and one on the Tyrrhenian Sea in the west. Depending on your interests, Basilicata may be an ideal vacation spot. You can get classic Italian food, and wash it down with fine local wine. Basilicata is among the few regions of Italy as yet undiscovered by tourists. There's a tradeoff; you won't have to fight the crowds to see what you want to see. On the other hand, you'll have a hard time finding fancy hotels. And its roads are not always the best, hardly surprising when you consider the region's mountainous terrain.

Basilicata's population is only slightly above six hundred thousand. While quite mountainous this is the only region of Italy in which farm workers outnumber industrial workers. Until the 1970s Basilicata steadily lost population to other Italian regions and to emigration abroad. But all is not lost. Its east coast has become an important agricultural area. And the mountainous interior with poor soil and lots of sun; what could be better for producing fine wine? Let's not forget that many consider Basilicata's native Aglianico (also found in Campania) to be Italy's third best red grape, after Nebbiolo and Sangiovese. Many feel that there could be a major breakthrough in Basilicata's wine industry.

We'll start our tour of this region in the northeast at Matera. Then we head south and east to Potenza. From there we proceed southeast to Aliano and then south and east to Terranova di Pollino and the Parco Nazionale. For some seaside you could continue to the little town of Maratea on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea. When driving in this part of the world, you'll need a good map and good reflexes; the roads here don't always go directly from Point A to Point B and rarely go in a straight line.

Matera, population sixty thousand, lies just south of the Apulia border. This area has been settled since Palaeolithic times, in other words for at least twelve thousand years. The Romans claimed to have founded the city in the Third Century B. C. Like so many other parts of Italy it was occupied by an almost never-ending stream of invaders. One of the proudest moments in Matera's history was in September 1943 when it rose against the German invaders, the first Italian city to do so. We'll start with the usual sights and finish with something truly unique.

Matera's Duomo (Cathedral) dates from the Thirteenth Century and was built in the Apulian-Romanesque style (Apulia is the region north of Basilicata, its architecture reflects Greek, Arab, and Norman influences.) There are frescoes and sculptures to admire. Check to see if the Thirteenth Century Romanesque Church of San Giovanni Battista has been reopened for tourists. If so, stop by. But these sights pale in comparison to Matera's unique old town in which the streets are often rooftops and the houses, churches, and chic restaurants are caves, hewn out of solid rock.

The Sassi di Matera (Stones of Matera) are caves that have been occupied continuously by human beings for an estimated nine thousand years. At twenty years per generation, (remember they didn't wait to finish law school before starting a family in those days) this works out to an incredible 450 generations possibly living in the same neighborhood. The area has been named a World Heritage Site and numerous bars and restaurants now take advantage of this unique location. What a turnaround from the days when Matera because of the Sassi was called ''la vergogna nazionale,'' Italy's shame.

Potenza with a population slightly under 70 thousand is the capital of Basilicata. Here in a famous battle Carthage definitively lost to Rome. The city has endured many invasions and earthquakes, the latest in 1980. During the Second World War the Allies heavily bombarded Potenza. Monuments to see include the Twelfth Century St. Gerard Cathedral, and the Eleventh Century Church of San Francesco which includes a Renaissance painting entitled Madonna del Terremoto (Our Lady of the Earthquake). The Romanesque Church St. Michael the Archangel was also built in the Twelfth Century as was the Church of St. Mary of the Sepulcher. You should also see the Castle's Tower built prior to the year 1000 and the ruins of a Norman fort, probably built on Roman and Byzantine foundations. All in all there's a lot of old stuff to see for a small provincial capital that was almost destroyed by earthquakes.

With less than twelve hundred inhabitants you might be tempted to skip the village of Aliano. Don't, it's living proof of the phrase - good things come in small packages. The scenery is spectacular; cliffs and rivers, and gullies, and local growing things include olive, peach, and citrus trees. This lovely scenery may be typical of the region. However, unlike any neighboring village Aliano is famous thanks to an involuntary visitor who stopped by more than seventy years ago. Between May, 1935 and October, 1936 Aliano was the home in exile of the well-known author Carlo Levi. Levi, a painter educated as a doctor, was a founder of an Italian anti-Mussolini movement. This explains his unintentional extended Aliano visit. After his release from exile Levi spent two years in France but returned to Italy and was imprisoned once again. After the war he wrote a book, Christ Stopped at Eboli, describing his Aliano experiences. This book exposed the problem of poverty in Southern Italy to the relatively prosperous North. Levi served nine years in the Italian Senate where he continued his fight against poverty. He is buried in the village. The house where he lived is still standing; it is now the Museo Storico Carlo Levi (Carlo Levi Historical Museum).

Terranova di Pollino is a southern Basilicata mountain village quite near the border with Calabria. It lies at the entrance to the Parco Nazionale del Pollino (Pollino National Park) the largest in Italy at just under 750 square miles (more than 1900 square kilometers.) Let's quote their website "With its 192,565 hectares, Pollino National Park, the largest protected area in Italy between Calabria and Basilicata, has a wealth of landscapes to offer: great areas of wilderness where the cuirassed pine -the true emblem of the park- clings to the rocky slopes as the wind shapes its twisted trunk; not far away, rolling hills and valleys, lush slopes with flowering plants in springtime, and then endless upland plains where the sheep still graze like in ancient times."

But that's not all. The park is home to a wide variety of endangered species. Many fossils have been found including a very well preserved skeleton of a giant elephant that lived between 400,000 and 700,000 years ago. Other fossils date from the time when dinosaurs ruled the earth. You'll have no trouble finding historic churches in the neighboring villages. Many of these villages are home to ethnic Albanians who managed to maintain their language and culture for over five hundred years. Look for their festivals during the spring and summer months.

What about food? Basilicata is very traditional when it comes to cooking. As expected in an economically deprived area meat consumption is limited. The major meat is pork and the locals know how to extract the maximum from their porkers. Hot peppers are popular and can be quite hot. Basilicata bread is consumed in many parts of Italy. Locals make a special pasta from wheat and lard. The Pollino mountains are known for wild mushrooms and for game.

Let's suggest a sample menu, one of many. Start with Zuppa di Pesce alla Santavenere (Ionian Fish and Seafood Soup). Then try Spezzatino di Agnello (Lamb stewed in an earthenware pot). For dessert indulge yourself with Frittelle alla Lucana (Doughnuts). Be sure to increase your dining pleasure by including local wines with your meal.

We'll conclude with a quick look at Basilicata wine. Basilicata ranks 17th among the 20 Italian regions for the acreage devoted to wine grapes and for total annual wine production. About 73% of the wine produced is red or rosé, leaving 27% white. The region produces two DOC wines, Aglianico del Vulture and Terre dell Alta Val d'Agri. DOC is short for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin, presumably a high-quality wine. Only 2.4% of Bascilicata wine carries the DOC designation.

If you like powerful wines, try the Aglianico del Vulture from a local grape that grows on the extinct Mount Vulture volcano or its surrounding hills. This wine may be cellared for up to twenty years. The sparkling version may be either dry or sweet. The red Terre dell Alta Val d'Agri is made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and possibly some local red grapes. The rose version may include some local white grapes as well.

I Love Touring Italy - The Isle of Capri

2007-12-28T02:27:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a European tourist destination, consider the Isle of Capri in the Bay of Naples. This tourist attraction popular with jet setters and many others lies in the Campania region of southwestern Italy on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Frankly, Capri is the opposite of undiscovered; it ranks with Rome, Florence, and Venice at the top of Italian tourist destinations. In fact, it is probably one of the most visited little islands in the world. Make sure to see our other articles on Campania destinations in this series; they cover Campania's capital city Naples, the historic ruins east of Naples, the area west of Naples, and finally Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.

The British singer and vaudevillian Gracie Fields was the first (1934) to popularize the song The Isle of Capri whose initial stanza we quote: "'Twas on the Isle of Capri that he found her; Beneath the shade of an old walnut tree; Oh, I can still see the flowers blooming 'round her; Where they met on the Isle of Capri." Many others recorded this song including Frank Sinatra in 1957.

The island is quite small, only 4.2 miles (about 2.6 kilometers) long and 1.7 miles (1.1 kilometers) wide at its widest point. In general tourist cars are not permitted. If you are not in the mood for walking in this hilly terrain, there are usually plenty of taxicabs and buses. We'll start our tour at Marina Grande on the north shore of the island, about one third of the way in from its easternmost point. We'll head westward not far from the northern coast. Then we go south and back east until we get to the coast and head mostly north. Our final destination is Villa Jovis in Capri's northeast corner. There are too many destinations to list. Depending on your time and your interests, and on your pocketbook as well, you may not visit them all. Once you have decided what you want to see, get a good map and plan out your specific itinerary.

Take a walk on the Scala Fenicia (Phoenician Stairway), steps cut out of rock, from Marina Grande to the Rock of Capodimonte at the city gate of the medieval city of Anacapri described below. The view is really great, but you will have quite a climb. On your way you pass the Byzantine Castello Barbarossa (Barbarossa Castle) named for the Saracen pirate who devastated the island. The Villa San Michele and its spectacular grounds mark Anacapri's ancient entrance. During the summer Friday night is evening concert night. Swedish cultural workers and researchers are really in luck, they can stay at the guesthouse.

Do you want to remain in Capri forever? Walk to the nearby Sphinx Parapet overlooking the Bay of Naples. According to a local legend, if you touch the sphinx's hindquarters with your left hand while making a wish it will be granted.

Anacapri, population about six thousand, is the second largest town on the island. This town is definitely less expensive than Capri Town, to be described later. From the main square, Piazza Vittoria, take a chairlift to the top of Monte Solaro, the island's highest point at slightly less than 2,000 feet (650 meters). This mountainette is living proof that you need not ascend very high in the air to obtain absolutely spectacular views. By the way, Monte Solara features over 850 species of plants. Casa Rossa is an unusual looking old red mansion that houses a permanent art exhibition called "The painted island," illustrating daily Capri life in the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries. Anacapri boasts historic churches including the Thirteenth Century Church of St Maria of Constantinople, the Fifteenth Century Church of Santa Maria a Cetrella, the Sixteenth Century Church of Sant'Antonio (known as the sailor's church), the Sixteenth Century Church of Santa Sofia, and the Church of St Michele Arcangelo, built in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries.

The Villa di Damecuta is one of the three standing villas built by the Roman Emperor Tiberius. It's only a short ride from Anacapri. If the weather's good and you're feeling a bit ambitious you can walk it in about 30-40 minutes. Be sure to visit the tower and the two rooms that reputedly were Tiberius's summer hideaway. This villa may have been hit by cinders when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. destroying the nearby cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The Villa di Damecuta actually served as a fort when the English and French were fighting for ownership of Capri.

The world famous Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) on the northern coast of Capri lies a mere two miles (three kilometers) from Anacapri. Some feel that this tourist attraction put Capri on the map, so to speak. To get inside the Grotto you have to lie down inside a tiny boat that navigates its narrow passageway. On windy days the Grotto is closed to traffic because of the waves. The lovely blue color of the water inside the grotto must be seen to be believed. As an added bonus objects in the water take on a silver color. Be prepared for a long wait outside the grotto before spending your allotted few minutes inside. The best view is between 11 AM and 1 PM.

With a population exceeding seven thousand Capri Town is the island's largest municipality. From the port you can get there by rail, bus, or taxi. If you are ambitious you can climb your way up. The town center is officially called Piazza Umberto I, but most people say the Piazzetta home to the Museo Caprense Ignazio Cerio (Ignazio Cerio Centre of Capri) named for a doctor, archeologist, and naturalist. Its two thousand exhibits include specimens from Capri and all over the globe.

Our next stop is the beautiful Giardini di Ausgusto (Augustus's Gardens) that didn't belong to the Roman Emperor Augustus but to Friedrich Alfred Krupp, son of the founder of a German industrial empire. Krupp resided in Capri towards the end of the Nineteenth Century and built a villa upon Roman ruins. Later he donated the gardens to the Town of Capri. A nearby road called Via Krupp is a rock-hewn staircase. Unfortunately it is closed to the public.

Our final stopping place is Villa Jovis, the largest of the twelve villas built by Emperor Tiberius to honor twelve Roman gods. The view is what one might expect from a built-for-the-ruler-of-the-world kind of villa. There's a cliff and you might guess its use given that there were no checks and balances in those days.

What about food? One can imagine that precious little food is now raised on this upscale island. At the same time fancy restaurants abound. You can probably get just about anything you want cooked to order. And much of the food is produced close by.

Let's suggest a sample menu, one of many. Start with Insalata Caprese (Mozzarella, Tomato, Basil, and Olive Oil). Then try Ravioli alla Caprese (Parmesan and Ricotta Egg Ravioli). For dessert indulge yourself with Torta Caprese (Chocolate and Almond Cake). Be sure to increase your dining pleasure by including local wines with your meal.

We conclude with a quick look at Campania wine. Campania ranks number 9 among the 20 Italian regions when it comes to acreage devoted to wine grapes and to the total annual wine production. The region produces about 64% red and and close to 36% white wine, as there is little rose. Campania produces 17 DOC wines. DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin, presumably a high-quality wine. The G in DOCG stands for Garantita, but there is in fact no guarantee that such wines are truly superior. Only 2.8% of Campania wine carries the DOC or DOCG designation. There are three DOCG wines: the red Taurasi, the white Greco di Tufo, and the white Fiano di Avellino. I have tasted the Fiano and found it to be top of the line.

Capri was well known for its wines even before becoming the headquarters of the Roman Empire. As an expression of continuity some Capri's vineyards are situated among the ruins of Tiberius's villas. Capri actually produces its own wine, imaginatively named Capri DOC. Capri DOC wine is mostly white but may be red. Both wines are made from some specified Italian grape varieties with a given percentage of local grape. Because the local real estate is quite pricey, unscrupulous growers may try to overload the vineyards effectively diluting the wine. Be careful that when you pay for Capri wine you aren't buying wine from the neighboring island of Ischia.

Washington D.C. and Vicinity – a Revolutionary War Tour

2007-12-27T02:24:00.000-08:00

Many student travel groups I have toured with are visiting the East Coast for the first time. I like to offer these types of groups a view of Early American life that spans many of the Eastern states, with a focus on the Revolutionary War period.

In order to understand the Revolutionary War within the larger scheme of things, I advise teachers coordinating student tour groups to visit Yorktown and Mount Vernon in Virginia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C. Boston, Massachusettes is also on the list of destinations for the Revolutionary War Tour, but in the interest of keeping the trip brief and manageable, Boston is usually excluded. History and government teachers may want to offer an overview of Boston and the role it played during the Revolutionary War period prior to the student travel trip.

For student tour groups taking the tour from the West Coast or the Midwest, flying into Norfolk, Virginia, and flying out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania makes a great deal of sense for the Revolutionary War tour because it saves time. Students coming from closer locations may want to consider alternate flying routes to save time and cover the most distance possible. The educational travel professionals at my company schedule the student tour with everyone’s comfort and convenience in mind.

Yorktown Virginia – A Must See on the Student Travel Tour

Yorktown Battlefields are a primary destination for the Revolutionary War tour of the East. In 1781, General Lord Charles Cornwallis surrendered with 8,300 troops, ending the American Revolution in Yorktown. Yet the story leading up to this surrender, and the battles fought before it took place are engaging and numerous. Student travel groups will want to take the 7-mile or 9 mile driving tours of Yorktown Battlefields to have a fuller understanding of the scope of this final battle and Cornwallis’ surrender.

Yorktown Battlefield Museum

The Yorktown Battlefield Museum details it as the place where Virginia’s colonial government was established in 1691. Because of its strategic location on the York River, one of the main tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay, Yorktown was a highly contested Naval post during the Revolutionary War, and so was the appropriate place for the final battle to be fought. Student tour groups will learn a great deal about the culmination of the Revolutionary War at Yorktown and therefore, should not miss this destination.

Teachers may visit http://www.nps.gov/york/forteachers/yorktowneducationalprograms.htm and with enough advance notice, may book special interepretive programs that are in sync with curriculum objectives.

Historic Revolutionary War Sites Near Washington D.C.

Not far from Washington D.C. is one of the most famous estates on American soil. Mount Vernon was George Washington’s Home, and was a working farm as well as an estate home in the Early American style. Both are well preserved. Living history programs including an actress who plays the part of Martha Washington, Our First Lady, and demonstrations of Early American farming techniques are some of the highlights of the Mount Vernon tour. Students can visit the Eighteenth Century house, farm, and gristmill for an authentic glimpse into what it must have been like to live during Washington’s time.

Philadelphia: Important Sites for a Student Tour of Revolutionary War

Since the creation and signing of the Declaration of Independence from British Colonial rule occurred in Philadelphia, many would consider it the birthplace of democracy. Thus, Philadelphia is on the Itinerary for the Revolutionary War Tour. There are many prominent sites to enjoy in Philadelphia.

Independence Hall: Visit the place where the signers of the Declaration of Independence sat and had discourse on this historic document before penning their names in old fashioned ink. Independence Hall is a well preserved and maintained site and is well worth the visit.

Liberty Bell: Though it is broken and not in use the Liberty Bell is on display for all to see now at a special location between 5th and 6th on Market Street in Philadelphia. The Liberty Bell Center has exhibits and a movie to explain the significance of the Liberty Bell in American History.

Betsy Ross House: Nestled in Old City Philadelphia, not far from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall is Betsy Ross’s historic home. Betsy Ross made the first American flag and is one of the earliest women patriots. Student tour groups will enjoy a short tour of her home and the story of how she made the first American flag.

Christ Church: Located near 2nd Street and above Market, Historic Christ Church dates to 1695 and is an appropriate place to visit for the revolutionary War Tour. Christ Church was one of the first parishes of the Church of England in the new world. The Christ Church Burial Ground includes the tombs of some famous early Americans including Ben Franklin who was interred there. This historic, early American landmark is a site that student groups will not want to miss.

Washington Crossing Park

George Washington led 2,500 troops across the Delaware River on Christmas Day in 1776 from Buck’s County Pennsylvania to Trenton to attack an army of 1,500 and won. This victory came at a low point in the Revolutionary War. Students will want to visit the Pennsylvania side of Washington Crossing to see the museum, and should time permit, cross to the New Jersey side to see the landing area and the road used by the continental army to march to Trenton and attack. The trip to Washington Crossing is a short one hour journey from Philadelphia and well worth it for its historical significance during the Revolutionary period.

There are other historic sites that date back to revolutionary times and are significant. For this tour, I have concentrated on the major high points of the war and the major historic sites. Student travel groups wishing to book a tour with a Revolutionary War theme can email: info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or visit http://www.educationaltravelconsultants.com for more information.

Keighley, West Yorkshire – Where I Live

2007-12-27T02:22:00.000-08:00

An article describing my hometown Keighley with details about living and working in the town and tourism.

‘The dark satanic mill town of Keighley’ I have never forgotten that headline from a national newspaper in the late 60s. The article was about the Keighley rugby league team who are now called Keighley Cougars.

Back then wherever you looked on the horizon you could see mill chimneys towering over the rest of the town. The mill chimneys were gradually demolished and now as Keighley sits in a valley you can see fields and trees in the distance from almost any viewpoint.

Keighley in the West Riding of Yorkshire was a huge manufacturer of textiles, but now the mill buildings that have not burnt down or been vandalised have been converted into smaller units offering a wide variety of businesses or homes.

The population was over 51,000 at the 2001 census and apparently is the third largest civil parish in England. Approximately 18% of the population are of ethnic minorities, adding a multi cultural aspect to the town and some fine Indian, Italian and Chinese restaurants. Keighley is pronounced ‘Keeth lee’ but to the inhabitants annoyance many people outside Keighley insist on calling the town Keeley.

Transport

Travelling to and around Keighley is not difficult. We have a train station and an award winning new closed in bus station in the town centre with regular transport in and around the area and easy access to many cities. Bradford is just 10 miles away and Leeds 20 miles away and of course the Leeds/Bradford airport is easily accessible.

There are lots of reliable taxi firms in Keighley and I have found that with using a combination of different transport facilities and on foot I really do not need my own transport because everything is within easy reach. It also works out cheaper than having my own petrol guzzling transport.

Shopping

We have a modern shopping centre and several industrial estates offering just about everything that you might want to buy. If I want to buy some new clothes that are a little bit different I make a day out of it and take a 20 minute train journey to Leeds and either shop in the city centre or visit the White Rose Centre.

Keighley has a permanent closed in market and quite regularly we have visiting continental markets offering a wider range of goods.

Leisure

We have several parks in the area with lots of green space for children to run about on and safe fenced off playgrounds, bowling greens etc. We have a leisure centre in Victoria Park where you will find a modern swimming pool with slide and a fitness centre. Victoria Park hosts our yearly gala during the summer and occasional visiting circuses and fairs. Within the park you will find Victoria Hall where functions and gigs are often held.

There is a museum at Cliff Hall in the grounds of Cliff Castle where exhibitions are often held. For families there is a fenced off playground and a café. Picnic tables are provided for those like my grandchildren who prefer to picnic in between running around. There was a small zoo with guinea pigs and a few different birds the last time I went in the summer. Years ago there were monkeys, but now all of the monkeys in the area seem to reside at a house next door to my mother. Over 50 would you believe!

In Lund park you will find 2 playgrounds, one for older children and a fenced off area for the younger ones. There is a bowling green and a putting green and a bicycle track with gradients which my 4 year old grandson loves to skateboard on.

Nights Out

There has always been a lot of pubs in the area, maybe because we have an award winning brewery in the town. If you want to eat out there are many restaurants offering different cultural meals. Nightclubs are a bit thin on the ground with just 2 catering for different age ranges and they aren’t that good. However there are plenty of good clubs within travelling distance in Bradford, Leeds and even further afield at Wakefield.

Tourism

Keighley is part of Bronte Country, only a couple of miles from Haworth where the famous Bronte literature family lived. Apart from traditional means, you can travel to Oxenhope via Haworth on the Keighley and Worth Valley Line from the Keighley station on a steam train in the summer. It is a heritage line and has been used for several film locations that include the Railway Children, Yanks and the film of Pink Floyds ‘The Wall’ musical.

At the first stop 300 yards from where I live in Ingrow there is a Museum of Rail Travel. It is also the starting place for Thomas the Tank Engine days out.

I took my grandchildren last summer and they could clamber on board Thomas and pull the whistle. There was a show performed several times during the day for the children and several stalls. After the show we were able to travel on steam trains all day for one low cost fee. At each stop there were more shows and stalls making it a very good day out. Towards Christmas there is a Santa Special steam train day.

Haworth attracts a lot of American and Japanese tourists who want to steep themselves in the history of the Brontes. There is a Bronte museum up a steep cobbled street, the Bronte Waterfall and of course the moors where the fictional Cathy and Heathcliffe roamed. There are lots of antique shops and tea rooms and some good hotels.

Skipton, ‘The Gateway To The Dales’ is 10 miles away. A good starting point for hiking holidays for those who want to enjoy the beautiful countryside. Skipton also has one of the most complete medieval castles in the country and is over 900 years old. Historical re-enactment events, archery and jousting are often hosted at Skipton Castle.

10 miles in the other direction is the city of Bradford where you will find the National Media Museum, which is the most visited museum outside London. Bradford hosts several festivals, including the Bradford Festival in June and the Bradford Mela which is the largest festival of its type outside Asia. There are 4 theatres in Bradford and for those who enjoy plays it isn’t difficult to get to Harrogate and their playhouse.

Living In Keighley

Although Keighley has often been knocked in the press and by some inhabitants I do not think that it is a bad place to live. I feel safe in my home and walking around the streets and I have easy access to everything that I want. Housing is inexpensive compared to many other places in the UK. You can still get a 2 bedroom terrace for less than £100,000 or any other type of dwelling at comparatively low prices.

I have never found it difficult to get employment in or around Keighley and the employment opportunities are diverse. The inhabitants are friendly and very much down to earth. We speak with a Yorkshire accent that is not as broad as some of the surrounding rural areas, I certainly do not say ‘ee bah gum’ on a regular basis!

The area in and around Keighley offers much more than I have mentioned but hopefully this article gives you a good idea of my hometown.

Paris, A City of Love

2007-12-26T02:41:00.000-08:00

The first time I visited Paris, I had just turned 18. I remember vigorously walking the streets and feeling a connection with the city and its inhabitants that I could not explain. Every part of old Paris held something very dear, and every brasserie that looked like it had been there forever somehow seemed very familiar.

Frenchmen sitting in cafes and drinking their espressos had an air of peacefulness and assertiveness around them. No one appeared to be in a rush. As I sat among the madams and messieurs, enjoying each bite of my baguette while observing the crowd that slowly moved in front of me, I couldn’t help but ask myself: what was so special about Paris?

Was it the culture, so readily apparent in every square, every narrow street and every corner? Was it the architecture, which I grew up with and could so easily relate to? Or was it that life in Europe was so different from life in the U.S.?

As I searched for the answers within me, I sat for hours pondering the direction of my life. I recall wishing that I could get my hands on a crystal ball and peer into what my life would be like in 10 or 20 years. As with every teenage girl, I wanted to know who would I be when I grow up? Who would I marry? What was in the stars for my family and me? Would I be happy with the life that awaited me?

Fast-forward 25 years and the pace in Paris seems a bit faster. The fashion is a bit more audacious, and people are a lot friendlier than I remember from more than two decades ago. Aside from that, not much has changed. Tourists still line up to get into the Eiffel Tower. Frenchmen still sit in the brasseries, enjoying their croissants and smoking their cigarettes. People still come from all over the world to see the Mona Lisa. Only now instead of marveling at her smile, they debate whether it is a self-portrait of Leonardo DaVinci.

At two in the morning, the nightlife is still in full swing. Frenchmen continue to take pleasure dining late into the night, while they sit for hours observing and enjoying the ambience that is so prevalent in every Parisian establishment. Yet, there is an undercurrent of rumbling and discontent in this fair city.

Though not many will discuss the change that’s about to take place, everyone agrees that it will definitely rock their world. The French government has ruled that, starting next summer, restaurants must be entirely smoke-free. Of course, Parisians are distraught and dismayed. How will they now enjoy their espresso without puffing on their precious cigarettes? And what will they do with their hands while sitting and watching the world go by?

In time, Parisians will eventually embrace the painful fact that smoking is a bad habit and should not be imposed on others sitting next to them. There’s always the opera, theaters, symphonies, museums, shopping and much more to occupy their free time. And I’m sure they will find another hobby to occupy their manicured hands while sipping their espresso. Who knows? Perhaps they’ll take on writing a daily journal to capture their new smoke-free life?

As for me, this visit to Paris has special meaning because my husband brought me here to celebrate our anniversary. After so many years together, he is very much aware that Paris still occupies a special place in my heart. And what better way to celebrate our continuing love for each other than a romantic getaway to the City of Love?

These days, I don’t need a crystal ball to know who I am and where I’m going. I’m happy with my life, one that I worked very hard to design. I no longer stress about not being able to fit into the dress size that most French women deem necessary. Nor do I fret about my future.

As I sit at the brasserie, surrounded by my fellow Parisians, sipping my espresso and looking into the eyes of the man I adore, I feel empowered knowing that the best is yet to come.

All the best,

Yana

Travel Deals to India

2007-12-25T02:38:00.000-08:00

So you want to visit India? Well, good choice: you'll need to access cheap flight India opportunities. Wild tigers, Buddhist Monasteries, the Lotus Temple and the Taj Mahal ' India is a country rich in beauty, culture, color, and sound. The problem, of course, is getting there ' and finding travel tips to India can be done with just a little thought and preparation.

As always when looking for cheap flight India offers, there are a few things to keep in mind. The biggest key to getting discounted airfare is flexibility: off-season, weekday, or after-hours flights will always be cheaper than a Friday afternoon 4:00 flight to Paris. Enter multiple dates when searching for tickets; Monday and Wednesday may be the same to you, but have a hundred-dollar difference to the airline carrier. Flying right around holidays can be difficult, but flying on a holiday ' such as Thanksgiving ' can be a major steal, since the day itself is a slow one for airlines. Being flexible with your route ' for example, stopovers in Bangkok or Taipei ' may also save you money; instead of looking at it as an extra long flight, see it as an opportunity to experience even more places!

Another tactic for saving money and finding a cheap flight India offer is flying in to a major city in India even if it's not where you're ultimately trying to go. Big airports in Bengal or Calcutta will cost a lot less than a private charter plane to Mynokaleesh, and public transport ' such as train, taxi, or jeep ' is relatively cheap. With this method, of course, you have the added benefit of seeing even more of the country ' something no smart traveler would say no to.

India is a fascinating and vibrant country, with a huge span of culture and diversity. Start in the south, perhaps in Calcutta, and make sure you take a guided tour into the heart of the lush jungles. One of the last places where wild tigers, wolves, and elephants still exist, these vine-entangled forests set the scene for Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book, an author well worth reading if you are going to his beloved country.

From the south you will want to work up ' and the north is as different from the south as the east is from the west, so much different. Where on one end you find tropical flowers and exotic spices, on the other you are immersed in towering mountains, Himalayan peaks and steaming cups of fresh-picked Darjeeling Tea. The tea, of course, is a facet in itself of Indian culture; everywhere you go vendors selling hot pots of creamy chai will meet you.

India is chosen as a destination by thousands every year, coming for reasons as varied and complex as the country itself. Student backpackers flock to the country for the rich, delicious and inexpensive food, as well as cheap lodging and amazing sights. Older tourists may come for the history, beauty, and architecture, admiring the stunning expanse of the Taj Mahal and Indian Palaces, while others may come for spiritual reasons, giving honour to the ancient traditions of Buddhism and Hinduism that have made India a Mecca for many spiritual seekers. Hikers and Bikers also come, eager to tackle those royal peaks, scaling the Himalayas and looking across to neighbouring Mount Everest.

India is a country of sharp and striking colours; destitute poverty alongside riches and wealth, dirt and grime against silk and beauty, delicious spices mingling their scents with the smell of elephant manure. Not for the weak stomach, India will explode on your palate, your vision, your ears, and your soul. As always when traveling, there are a few things to be careful of: always keep copies of your passport and important documents somewhere other than your wallet, and keep money or valuables strapped close to your body, not on a loose-strung purse or hanging from a backpack. With a few precautions, however, India is both a warm and friendly place, and one of the safest places on the continent to visit.

The food is an experience in itself ' thick breaded naan, spicy mushroom masala, lentil dal, and rich potato somalas will leave you with cravings you may never get rid of. India is unique in its cuisine, specialising of course in heavily spiced dishes fairly exploding with flavor. The exotic quality of the food mingles well with the sights and sounds ' a scitar player sings loudly as he walks down the street, the monkeys screech from the temple, pots and pans jangle noisily on the back of a water buffalo. No matter what your reasons for coming, your experience in India is bound to be more than you expected. Finding a cheap flight to India is more than a quick trip ' it is a discount ticket to a once in a lifetime adventure.

Asheville, NC: The Perfect Winter Sports Destination

2007-12-24T02:19:00.000-08:00

The weather outside may be frightful, but the winter sports scene in Western North Carolina is delightful! Asheville is located a short, 30-minute drive from some of the best winter sports venues in the southeast. This makes Asheville the perfect southern city to enjoy a winter mountain getaway while enjoying all the charm that the city has to offer.

Winter Sports: Planning a North Carolina Mountain Getaway

Asheville is perfectly located and easily accessible for those last-minute vacationers who reside in major southern cities such as Raleigh/Durham, Atlanta and Charlotte. Individuals who crave winter activities will have access to some of the highest mountain resorts in the Asheville region.

Asheville offers winter sports such as tubing, snowboarding, skiing, and ice skating. Whether it’s a romantic ski weekend for two or a family vacation, this area has something for everyone.

While the outlaying areas get as much snow as some of the famous New England winter-sports destinations, the city of Asheville does not get as much snow which makes travel to and from these points of interest simple and safe.

The area boasts seven ski resorts and several tubing areas. Accommodations range from the simple to luxury hotel-condo rentals that offer full concierge services for those who want to be pampered in style.

Whether you are a beginner or an advanced winter sportsman, there are sport venues to satisfy all needs. And, just as these choices abound, post-winter adventure time in the Asheville area is also varied.

Take Advantage of Concierge Services

With so many things to do in the winter months of Western North Carolina, many visitors are taking advantage of the latest trend in service -- concierge services. Concierge services help people to find the best restaurants and most-current events. During winter, they can help you to enjoy your après ski time; place your vacation time in the hands of the experts.

Concierge services are offered at several of Asheville’s latest luxury hotels, including the Residences at Biltmore where James Gibson, Managing Director, explains that, “With one simple call, all your vacation needs and plans are met. Upon our guests’ arrival, all they have left to do is to enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy their North Carolina mountain getaway. We’ll take care of the rest.”

Après Ski: Vacation Travel Planner

After visiting one of the many winter sports areas, it’s nice to have the creature comforts to soothe the body. Spas, fireplaces and cozy corners exist all over the Asheville area. This makes Asheville the perfect luxury accommodation destination; it provides more options than staying slope side.

Being able to have a true winter mountain getaway within the confines of this cosmopolitan, southern city gives you a multitude of vacation travel planning options. This city has it all within minutes of many luxury hotels and condo rentals.

Asheville is also quickly becoming well known for its world-class culinary offerings and is also a music lover’s dream. With venues such as the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium and the nationally-recognized Orange Peel, it’s easy to catch a great show after a day of winter activities.

Ice skating indoors is as easy as taking a brisk walk over to the Asheville Civic Center. Gliding around the rink is only $5 per person. Call to check for dates and times at: (828) 259-5736, or ask concierge services to set it up for you.

With all that Asheville has to offer, it makes it the number one choice in the southeast for winter sports enthusiasts and also makes the perfect winter mountain getaway.

Journey To "Where The Sky Is Born" - The Yucatan's Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

2007-12-23T02:14:00.000-08:00

As the largest protected area in the Mayan Riviera and esteemed UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sian Ka’an has been the region’s premier nature and outdoor recreation destination since it opened 20 years ago. With nearly one-third of Mexico’s Caribbean coast dominated by the park, there is also no shortage of nature to explore. Located just south of Cancun near the ancient city of Tulum, Sian Ka’an offers some of the best daytrip opportunities for tourists staying in Cancun.

As the park’s name is taken from a Mayan phrase meaning “where the sky is born,” it is no surprise that Sian Ka’an is also home to numerous historical sites. Human remains and artifacts found within the largely unexcavated Mayan sites in Sian Ka’an have been traced back over 2,300 years. In addition to the 23 distinctive archeological sites in the park, it is believed that the northern section of Sian Ka’an contains a once-vibrant Mayan trade route. When you visit the park, you will be able to see ancient Mayan temples resting undisturbed amongst the beauty of the natural environment. In fact, several tour operators visit these sites as part of active kayaking and hiking tours, allowing visitors to experience the best of both worlds.

Despite such fascinating history, the true value of Sian Ka’an rests in the fact that the park is one of the most biologically diverse preserves on earth. In fact, within the boundaries of the park, researchers have found 103 unique mammal species and 336 different species of birds. Unlike anywhere else in the world, Sian Ka’an allows visitors to experience several types of natural habitats in a single day. While touring the park, these are just a few of the unique natural habitats that tourists can explore:

• Coral Reef – Along the Caribbean coastline, Sian Ka’an protects over 60 miles of the world’s second largest barrier reef system. Besides offering unparalleled diving and sightseeing opportunities, the park’s coral reef protects a number of endangered aquatic species.

• Beaches – Four species of endangered sea turtles use the Caribbean beaches of Sian Ka’an as a nesting ground during the summer months. These unspoiled stretches of sand also grant visitors a great opportunity to see many nesting sea birds in their natural habitat.

• Wetlands – The greatest ecological diversity in the park is found in the wetlands. As the classification of wetlands includes such diverse environments as grassy savannas, nutrient-rich swamps and four distinct species of mangrove, these areas are of particular interest to tourists and researchers alike.

• Tropical Forests – The majority of the park’s mammal populations are found in the tropical forests. Found inland from the Caribbean coast and the wetlands areas in the western portion of Sian Ka’an, the tropical forests provide many of the favorite sites for visiting nature lovers.

• Lagoons – Supplied by the immense underground waterways beneath the Yucatan peninsula, the numerous lagoons found in Sian Ka’an are home to many unique species. Near the coastline, ocean water mixes with fresh water to support crocodiles and wading birds. Further inland, the fresh water lagoons connect to the underground rivers through cenotes. These large sinkholes found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula have long been popular destinations with divers and water sport enthusiasts.

• Hummocks – The most unique of Sian Ka’an’s environments, these forests are found only in Florida’s Everglades, parts of Cuba and the Yucatan Peninsula. Known locally as petenes, this particular type of hummock habitat is defined by isolated forests surrounded by swamps or other wetlands. Much like true forests, these tropical hummocks support an incredible diversity of plant and animal life – including exotic birds and mammals.

Many local tour companies and ecological organizations lead groups through the park’s diverse habitats each day. One such group is the Centro Ecologico Sian Ka’an (CESiaK), an organization created to educate both locals and visitors about all aspects of the park’s environment. In addition to the opportunity to learn about the environment, visitors can participate in tours that feature a number of outdoor sports. From snorkeling and swimming in the park’s rivers and cenotes to hiking and bird watching in the tropical forests, Sian Ka’an provides the perfect daytrip for the adventurous tourist.

If you want to experience the natural beauty and incredible history of the Yucatan Peninsula while in Cancun, you won’t find a better destination than Sian Ka’an. Make the journey to “where the sky is born” and immerse yourself in one of the most vibrant natural environments in the world.

Journey To "Where The Sky Is Born" - The Yucatan's Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

2007-12-22T02:12:00.000-08:00

Puerto Vallarta: Go Back In Time With The Huichol

2007-12-21T02:10:00.000-08:00

Deep in the rainforest of the Sierra Madre Mountains, one of the world’s last remaining indigenous cultures continues to practice their unique customs. For centuries, the Huichol Indians have resided in isolation, resisting the influences of the modern world. As home to many famous Huichol artists and just a short flight from the ancient villages, Puerto Vallarta has long been the best destination to experience Huichol culture. Each year, adventurous tourists visit the Huichol not only in the streets of Puerto Vallarta, but in their mountain villages for a chance to observe a truly distinctive civilization.

Calling themselves "Wixáritari" (“the people”) in their native language, the Huichol claim to have migrated west to the Sierra Madre Mountains from the area known as San Luis Potosi. As a result, many of the Huichol living in these mountains make a yearly pilgrimage to San Luis Potosi to celebrate their ancestors. Some evidence also suggests that the Huichol may be direct descendents of the great Aztec culture. Today, approximately 7,000 Huichol continue to reside in their mountainous villages, while another 13,000 have relocated throughout Mexico. When visiting the Huichol civilization on a tour from Puerto Vallarta, there are three settlements that tourists will have a chance to experience: San Sebastián Teponohuastlan (Wautüa), Santa María Cuexcomatitlán (Tuapuri) and San Andrés Cohamiata (Tatei Kié).

Besides the Huichol’s ability to retain their native culture, the civilization is also known for its unique artwork. For centuries, the Huichol created images known as nieli'ka for use in everyday ritual. Placed prominently in homes and any place of spiritual significance, these icons were created by coating a small tablet with beeswax and pine resin and pressing yarn through the surface. Using only products developed from nature, the resulting pieces of artwork are known for their vibrant colors, spiritualistic imagery and sharp depictions of local wildlife.

In the past few decades, Huichol artisans living throughout Mexico have put a modern touch on the traditional nieli’ka. After some of these native people came to reside in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City and other populous locations, Huichol artwork quickly gained exposure and popularity among art lovers and collectors.

Eventually, a handful of Huichol artists began creating larger yarn paintings incorporating the same traditional motifs. First displayed in Guadalajara in 1962, these large yarn paintings have since found collectors and been exhibited worldwide. Recently, Huichol artists have also begun creating pieces by pressing wooden and metal beads onto wooden forms, creating complex images similar to the now-famous yarn paintings.

When collectors and art lovers seek out Huichol artwork, the first place they visit is Puerto Vallarta. As you walk the streets of Puerto Vallarta, you can find plenty of Huichol artisans selling their work directly to the public. The Huichol won’t be hard to spot either; nearly all of these artists will be dressed in traditional white garments embroidered with the colorful designs found in their artwork. Huichol artwork also features prominently in the art galleries of Puerto Vallarta. When in search of beaded work or yarn paintings, one of the best places to start is the Huichol Collection gallery located on the Malecon – the city’s famed boardwalk. Regardless of where you shop for Huichol artwork, you will always be able to find pieces for any budget.

If you want to get even closer to the Huichol civilization, there are now several tours that visit the people’s mountainous homeland. Out of respect for the Huichol, only small tour groups – typically 8-15 people – visit their villages. Most tours depart from private air hangers near the Puerto Vallarta Airport, making the short flight over the Sierra Madre Mountains and the rainforest. These affordably priced tours depart early in the morning during the tourism season (generally early December until April) and spend several hours amongst the Huichol and their pristine environment.

Nowhere else in the world can you experience the culturally unique and artistically enlightening pleasures of the Huichol’s indigenous society. When in Puerto Vallarta, spend some time with the Huichol and discover a world that has existed only in your wildest imagination.

Grand Canyon Rafting--The Greatest Vacation in the World

2007-12-21T02:08:00.000-08:00

As the snow continues to fall in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming my mind drifts toward the upcoming summer in the Colorado Plateau of Utah and Arizona. Not because I am chilled by the weather outside, but instead I am thrilled about the thought of water in the mighty Colorado River and in its largest tributary the Green River. I have traveled to Costa Rica and ridden the zip lines through the rainforest, I have seen the incredible animals of the Galapagos Islands, and walked on the glaciers of Alaska; but no place on Earth has captured my mind, body, and soul as the Grand Canyon has. There is no vacation on earth better than a Grand Canyon Rafting Trip.

A Grand Canyon Rafting trip is great for families, groups, or individuals. People are allowed to escape from the ordinary on a multi-day rafting trip. Their worries change from cell phones and business to adapting to the natural world. Trips to the movies are traded for hikes to waterfalls. Crowded swimming pools in the city are traded for natural quiet swimming holes. The bedroom ceiling is traded for the dark star filled night sky. A sense of the natural world is put back into those who have been on a rafting trip.

I feel sorry for those who never see the Grand Canyon, or only peer into its depths from the popular South Rim. As a river guide for Colorado River and Trail Expeditions (http://www.crateinc.com) for the past 13 years I have seen many people's lives change on the Colorado River. It is truly amazing how many people tell me that their trip through Grand Canyon is the greatest thing they have ever done. Many of them are very worldly travelers having been to places I have only seen in magazines, or read about in books. I think that a rafting trip fills people with a sense of accomplishment. After all you usually sleep outside, deal with changing weather, surive rapids, and get sand blasting facials. A huge amount of people come back year after year with Colorado River & Trail Expeditions. Take Wilma for example who had never been camping until she came on a rafting trip alone at age 58. Since that time she has been back twelve times. She always says "Why would I do anything else when I like this so much?". I think the canyon makes you selfish. I always feel offended when it comes up #2 or #3 in a magazine's greatest vacation list or 100 things to do before you die.

The Grand Canyon can only be seen from the bottom to really get the praise it deserves. Pictures don't give the Grand Canyon the justice it deserves. The bottom of the Grand Canyon is unbelievable if you have not seen it. There are waterfalls, steams, pinnacles, rapids, buttes, caves, caverns, animals, grottos, rapids, wildflowers, vertical walls, metamorphic rocks, sedimentry rocks, igneous rocks, trees, and open space.

If you are thinking about doing a rafting trip next summer here are some suggestions. Take enough time to see the Grand Canyon. If you want to do a Grand Canyon Trip do the whole 280 miles, don't do a partial trip. If the eight days are too long then try a shorter trip on the Colorado River in Canyonlands National Park. Colorado River and Trail Expeditions offers motor, row, and paddle rafting trips in both locations. Grand Canyon trips usually originate and end in Las Vegas. Plan on a day of rest and spa treatments after your trip, it will give you some time to start thinking about your next river adventure.

Day Tripping To St. Kitts' Little Sister Island - Nevis

2007-12-20T02:06:00.000-08:00

Resting only a few miles apart in calm Caribbean waters, St. Kitts and Nevis have always shared an intimate relationship. Today, that relationship finds St. Kitts as one of the Caribbean’s premier travel destinations, while the smaller island of Nevis offers plenty of great activities for day tripping tourists. Though St. Kitts remains a superior resort destination with more tourist opportunities, the islands have much in common. For starters, both islands feature dormant volcanoes at their center, each surrounded by lush rainforests with miles of hiking trails. Furthermore, as St. Kitts and Nevis represent former colonial outposts with economies once dominated by successful sugar plantations, both islands possess an incredible array of historic architecture. Lastly, as most visitors to the Caribbean take great interest in the beaches and the recreation opportunities provided by the Caribbean Sea, tourists will find plenty of warm, clear water and powdery sand wherever they travel.

Rising over 3,200 feet above the Caribbean Sea, Nevis Peak dominates the landscape of St. Kitts’ sister island. Similar to Mt. Liamuiga at the center of St. Kitts, Nevis Peak is surrounded by lush trail-filled rainforests and diverse plant and animal life. As a result, hiking and biking in the shadow of Nevis’ dormant volcano are two of the most popular activities for day-tripping tourists. With tours available for every age and skill level, visitors can spend a few hours experiencing the unspoiled beauty of Nevis and learning about her vibrant Caribbean ecosystem.

Scuba divers and snorkelers will also want to spend an afternoon on Nevis, enjoying pristine coral reefs and ship wrecks. As only 2 miles of Caribbean waters separate St. Kitts and Nevis, many of the best diving tours visit the most popular sites surrounding both islands. Many of the other water sports popular on St. Kitts can also be found on Nevis. A number of tour operators cater to deep sea fishermen and wind surfing enthusiasts, with many offering lessons for those new to the adventurous pursuits. After spending some time in the water, many day-trippers spend their afternoons relaxing on Pinneys Beach – one of the Caribbean’s most beloved stretches of sand.

If you would rather spend your day on land experiencing Caribbean history, there are plenty of sites worth visiting on Nevis. Much like the historic city of Basseterre on St. Kitts, much of the activity on Nevis revolves around the island’s colonial capital – Charlestown. Walking the streets of this quiet city, you will see charming remnants of the island’s history around every corner – from Anglican churches and the Caribbean’s first hotel to elegant plantation homes and the childhood residence of an American founding father, Alexander Hamilton. Elsewhere on the island, you can spot the remains of the once-bustling sugar industry in the form of 18th century plantations, windmills and mansions.

As St. Kitts sister island is close enough to be visible from the beach, a short ferry ride is all that is required to access the small island of Nevis. For many visitors, the 45-minute ferry ride itself is a memorable activity, as the trip provides exceptional views of both islands and the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. Furthermore, as the ferries operate daily from the early morning until the evening hours, it is easy to spend the afternoon on Nevis and return to St. Kitts for the superior dining and nightlife.

Additionally, many tour companies operate on both islands, making it possible to find activities on Nevis through your resort on St. Kitts.

When in St. Kitts, try to make the short voyage across the Caribbean to Nevis. Though St. Kitts may feature superior resorts and recreation opportunities, it is hard to deny the charm of St. Kitts’ little sister.

Travel Writers Need Compelling Reasons To Travel

2007-12-18T02:04:00.000-08:00

Just think of the greatest adventurers who ever lived and the greatest journeys ever undertaken: the Jews, Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus and Charles Darwin come to mind. All of them had compelling reasons for setting off on dangerous journeys into the unknown. What they found (in their cases the Promised Land, China, America and evolution respectively) soldered them into history and made them famous, but also opened the world to travel as never before.

Travel writing ever since has echoed the odysseys of these great people. Writers still feel it incumbent on them to have some higher purpose to their journeys beyond mere self-indulgence or curiosity. On the rare occasions when travel writers break this rule they tend to fall ill or become irredeemably cranky when they sit down to put their experiences on paper.

The range of reasons travel writers dream up to focus their journeys range from the absurd to the sublime. Take that outstanding wordsmith Bill Bryson. This man literally thought up journeys he could take, to create fodder for his witty irony and superb humorous descriptions. A walk along the Appalachian Trail with an old school friend (do you remember Katz?) became much more than 'A Walk in the Woods' as it was entitled. It was a humorous ramble through the American nature tourist culture and a lambasting of the authorities responsible for the national parks of the United States. It did not matter that Bryson completed only a tiny part of the trail. This incredibly long hike (Bryson spends a few pages embarrassing all the authorities who cannot agree on its exact length) served one purpose and one purpose only; it gave Bryson something to write about.

Similarly Bryson's book about rural America entitled 'The Lost Continent' has a very thin basis to it: Bryson vaguely travels the roads his parents followed, when they took their children on madcap long haul treks across the United States to see the sights (and sites of famous battles and historical occurrences) and generally scrounged their way along on a shoestring budget, to the mystification of the Bryson children. Again Bryson gets his teeth into a subject without much justification. Not that he needs it, you understand.

Bryson made a career of taking whole continents and wrapping them around his tongue, as in 'Down Under', his dry yet informative take on Australia. He went there because he had always wanted to see it and, as the subtext suggests, he was looking for an alternative place to live. He and his family had already done England and New England. As it happened, the Bryson family returned from New Hampshire to Britain, giving down under the thumbs down. Just too many snakes per square kilometer I suppose.

Now we come to the sublime reasons for travel. There are tales of pilgrimage, such as Shirley MacLaine's account of her walk the length of the Santiago de Compostela Camino in northern Spain, the ancient 500 mile pilgrimage route initiated by St James de Compostela ending at Santiago. 'Camino: a journey of the spirit' never reaches any conclusions and elicits no discernible greatness of spirit in the writer, but it surely gave Ms MacLaine fodder for a bestselling book in the bland genre of Californian spiritualism.

Ineffably more substantial is the marvelous book by William Dalrymple 'From the Holy Mountain' in which this handsome young Scot journeys to the places visited by John Moschos some 1500 hundred years before. His beautiful journey through the dying remnants of Byzantium in our own age (he traveled in 1997) is an unforgettable book by a marvelously intelligent Catholic probing the embers of Eastern Orthodox religion.

Between the absurd and the sublime reasons for travel lie many others. In 'African Rainbow' Lorenzo and Mirella Ricciardi traveled along the waterways in Africa, evidently searching for the ultimate noble savage in the European mold. They never found him or her but their book was published. It ends up being an uneasy journey of a couple to a continent they didn't understand.

In 'The Great Railway Bazaar' Paul Theroux travels on the Orient Express, the Khyber Pass Local, the Golden Arrow, the Mandalay Express, an odyssey on great trains from London through Europe and Asia, across Siberia. And his eye misses nothing as he describes this travel mode of a bygone age and these out-of-the-way places, but I always feel that Theroux travels and writes under duress rather than from compulsion, rather like Shiva Naipaul in 'North of South'.

Naipaul visited the insalubrious African countries: Zambia, Tanzania and Kenya, where Asians have been personae non grata in the past, and in some places still are, to find out what makes Africa tick. Of course no one does know what makes Africa tick, not even Naipaul.

Never mind that these men seem to have been uncomfortable about their journeys. Both are renowned travel writers, not least due to their dogged purposefulness. The point, it seems, is to have some intention when moving across the landscape. A traveler without intention is merely a wanderer.

Venue Booking Service

2007-12-17T02:03:00.000-08:00

When booking a venue for a corporate event, there are a few important things which must be considered. The first thing which needs to be accounted for is the size capacity of the venue. Other things like accommodation booking, equipment, transportation accessibility and cost also need to be sorted out. Finding the actual venue for a corporate seminar, meeting, conference or training programme can be an arduous task without professional assistance and guidance. The fact is that the whole process of booking a venue can be a time-consuming and complicated one. Furthermore, most corporate events usually have tight time schedules which must be met. As such, venue booking always requires careful planning and organization.

Due to limited time and other resources some companies and events organizers may not be able to focus wholly on the entire process of venue booking. This means that such companies or event organizers may not be able to obtain the most suitable venue. There is no doubt that the right venue cannot only compliment any corporate event, but can also contribute to making the event a success. This is because the right venue portrays the company and its delegates in a good light.

With the aid of a specialist venue booking service, the whole process of finding a suitable venue can be stream lined and expedited. This is because a venue booking service can remove the administrative bottlenecks and unforeseen costs that are involved with finding a venue. Some venue booking services will charge you a fee for the service they provide. This means that companies will have to make two separate expenditures. In other words, they would need to pay the venue finding service and will also have to pay for the use of the venue itself. Using such venue finding services may not be the most cost-effective way of booking a venue. Hence, a company looking for a corporate venue should search for a venue booking service which offers their services for free. Such venue booking services are funded or sponsored by the venues themselves. This allows them to provide their services on a free basis. The venue sponsors which fund free venue booking services could either be hotels or other conference venues.

The advantages which a company could enjoy from a venue booking service cannot be too stressed upon. This is because such services are able to provide a fully customized service that meets the exact requirements and specifications of their clients. The most reputable venue booking services are also able to provide their clients with other peripheral services such as information management and budget support. At this junction it should be mentioned that it is always advisable for companies and event organizers to patronize the services of a venue booking service, which has a good reputation and track record. This will increase their chances of obtaining a high quality service, and this will in turn ensure that a suitable venue is found on time. Searching for customer testimonials on their website is useful way of obtaining an idea about the track record of a particular venue booking service.

A competent venue booking service will have a team of experienced professionals who have many years of experience in terms of finding corporate venues. Their staff will be able to provide clients with effective guidance and support. They will also have strong negotiation skills, which will be necessary for getting clients the best venue at the most competitive rates. One of the good things about using a free venue booking service is the fact since you will only be paying for the use of the venue it self, you can have the added peace of mind that there will be no hidden charges. This is why an increasing number of companies and event organizers are choosing free venue booking services for their venue finding needs.

Since some venues do not have in-house accommodation facilities, some free venue booking services are also able to secure accommodation discounts in nearby hotels for those clients who require this. They are able to do this because they build and maintain close affiliations and communication links with many good local hotels. Though locating an ideal corporate venue may not be a straight forward task, finding a free venue booking service is not at all difficult. This is because many free venue booking services can be found online. You can also contact them via their websites. The most reliable venue booking services will normally be able to respond to your online or email inquiries within hours of making it. There is no doubt that with the aid of the right venue booking service, you can find whatever type of venue you are looking for whether a contemporary, unusual or traditional venue. Even if you are looking to book a venue outside the UK, a reputable venue booking service will be able to provide effective assistance.

Work Or Study In Australia – A Meatier Option

2007-12-16T02:02:00.000-08:00

Australia has fast overtaken other countries as the destination of choice for students from Commonwealth Countries like South Africa and Canada who want to work and/or study overseas. Ten years ago, it had become the norm for young adults to leave the country for the UK as soon as they had completed their final year at senior high school. There, they would pluck chickens, tend bar or peel potatoes while experiencing life in the UK and Europe.

Living and working in the UK was, and still is, an expensive venture and it is the cost of living, as well as many other areas, where Australia wins the pros versus cons debate each and every time.

The good news for world travelers or students wanting to study in Australia is that there are positions available in many different fields to help fund their stay - including the meat industry. Though this may not be the most attractive option, the meat industry is an excellent way to fund your travels or start a new life in Australia. At present numerous 457 Visa vacancies exist for experienced meat processing employees - across most functional areas in the meat processing industry.

The Australian meat industry is a thriving one, the pay is good and it offers many young visitors the opportunity to financially support their studies and/or lifestyles during their stay in the country.

Australia has exported meat for more than a century and today production is tailored to the packing needs of customers in more than 120 countries worldwide (source: Meat & Livestock Australia). The Australian meat packing industry is the state of the art in beef and lamb dressing and fabrication. Australian packing facilities employ the latest technology to ensure efficient production without loss of quality. The way in which red meat is packed is crucial to the overall quality and shelf life of the product, which ultimately leads to customer satisfaction.

Though the student level job opportunities bear similarities in all countries, Australia offers many other attractions to international visitors.

For one thing, the country has garnered a well-deserved reputation for playing host to many of the world’s best educational institutions and thousands of international students choose to study there each year.

Another appealing factor to living in Australia is the environment. With a brilliant range of climates and locations to choose from, Australia has much to offer. From the Outback and the Great Barrier Reef to snow covered mountains and lush rain forests, visitors will have no trouble finding a location that suits them. And, to top it off, the country has still managed to build a broad, diverse array of business focused areas offering many work opportunities to one and all.

Most notably, Australia offers a high standard of living at a competitive price when compared to other first world destinations; so it’s not surprising that many people, bitten by the travel bug, make it their destination of choice.

Copyright reserved by Mike Stowe, Oz-LifeStyle.com, 2007. The author provides permission for this article to be republished under condition that no alterations are allowed. Should you wish to make any alterations please contact the author in advance to clear said alterations.

How To Find Cheap Holidays To Spain

2007-12-14T02:00:00.000-08:00

Are you thinking of visiting Spain but are put off by what you’ve heard from your friends about the expense of a holiday there? It’s true that often people think of a holiday to a Mediterranean country such as Spain as a very expensive and difficult trip to plan. This is simply not true. There is a good selection of cheap holidays to Spain that include airfare, hotels and even car rentals or tours once you arrive.

Looking for one of the many cheap holidays to Spain is simple if you have access to a computer and the internet. Many of the online booking companies offer discount packages if you travel slightly off season, which may mean planning your vacation either just in front or just behind the peak tourist season.

In Spain the peak vacation times are the summer months of June to September, but the warm weather often extends well past September and even in April and May. In fact, you may find that a holiday outside the peak periods is in fact much more enjoyable – and bearable. After all, it’s no fun at all walking around cities like Seville, Cordoba or Granada in the boiling heat of a July or August midday.

Planning your vacation just off the main tourist times will usually give you cheaper flights, cheaper hotels and a lot less people around. Another option is to take last minute flights that have not sold, often these flights are a fraction of the price but do require a lot of flexibility.

Staying in hostels is a great way to have cheap holidays to Spain but many hostels have requirements on age and time that you can stay. Sticking to independent hotels rather than the larger chain hotels can also provide slightly decreased costs, plus it allows you to really experience the culture of the area. Another option is to stay in one place that has a good low daily rate and simply travel using rental cars, buses or even the train on day trips to see the surrounding areas.

One of the best ways to decrease the costs of a trip to Spain is to stay just slightly off the beaten path. Many of the smaller towns around the larger cities have wonderful accommodations at a fraction of the price. Meals, food and drink are often much more reasonable in smaller areas than in the big cities.

A rail pass is a relatively inexpensive way to get around the country and saves the traveler from having to navigate the roads and deal with a rental car. Rail or train travel is popular and inexpensive throughout Europe and the rail passes can be used outside of Spain, making them a good cost saving idea for cheap holidays in Spain.

As you can see, there are many ways you can look into to reduce the price of your holidays in Spain. The main thing is to actually get there and soak in the sun, the joie de vivre of the people, the delicious food – or whatever else attracts you!

Ewan Mcgregor – Want To Come On An Overland Adventure?

2007-12-13T01:58:00.000-08:00

A strange article title, but an even stranger story. I work for a company called Dragoman Overland – we deal in overland adventure travel, which for the uninitiated is going around the world in a big truck taking in the culture. This is the kind of trip that people quit work to take, and they can last anywhere from 2 weeks to months to years.

So, while traveling across Africa, we run into Ewan McGregor, A-List Hollywood actor and star of Star Wars Episodes 1-3, Moulin Rouge, Trainspotting and Shallow Grave. He’s traveling across Africa on motorbike with his film crew, and comes aboard to chat with our passengers and crew. At this point I should state that he seemed no less down to earth than any of our other travelers, and was more than happy to regale tales of his adventures to our passengers – like a normal everyday guy. Adventure travel really is a different world – it’s a million miles away from ‘normal life’ and celebrity status means nothing out there. It was nice to see him unwind, free of the pressures of the media and the paparazzi.

Anyway, one of our starstruck passengers recorded some of the dialog – it’s not everyday you meet a celebrity and it’s just another part of the wonder of overland travel, the complete sense of the unexpected. Said customer then uploaded the video to YouTube to share with his friends. We linked to the video on our website – what better way of illustrating the strange goings on of an overland adventure than with this sensational video footage? In fact, the video’s still up at the time of writing, so go see it for yourselves: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=RxgGUNY3fhI

All was quiet for all of a few hours, but then we got a call from Ewan’s production company insisting that we take the link down. I can only assume that they thought we were trying to imply some sort of celebrity endorsement, when really we were just trying to show that anything can happen on a Dragoman holiday. The obvious contrast between Ewan McGregor, so happy, chatting freely with contemporaries in Africa that day, and his production company stuck in their suits in their office was enormous. No one cares about copyright protection when you’re living an adventurous life abroad, and it must be depressing for Ewan to return to this corporate world after leaving it behind for so long.

So, we’d like to offer Ewan the chance to join us – it’s a formal invite. Put aside your film schedule and ride with Dragoman Overland. This kind of experience is well worth the price and we guarantee you’ll enjoy yourself, away from the pressures and ludicrously officious nature of production companies and Hollywood management.

Ewan, come back and join us on a Dragoman Adventure! I know you had a good time on our trucks and hanging out with us. I saw it in your eyes – you can’t deny you enjoyed it.

Use This Strategy To Get Cheap Holidays

2007-12-11T01:56:00.000-08:00

We all know someone like my friend Carol. She has done fairly well for herself and holds down a reasonable job. She works as a primary school teacher here in the U.K. but quite frankly her salary is nothing to write home about. Yet, (and this is the amazing thing), Carol always seems to be able to take the most remarkable holidays outside of term time. Amongst our group of friends she is known as the “supremo of cheap last minute foreign holidays” as she always seems to be away on some Caribbean cruise or safari in Africa. One of her cheap vacations last year wasn’t quite so glamorous - she visited Argentina and stayed in some metal shack type accommodation, but when you are literally booking holidays at the last second you have to be prepared to take the rough with the smooth sometimes.

All in all, I know that Carol has had some great experiences and doesn’t regret any of the holidays she has taken. She is the most travelled person I know, which can only enrich the lives of the children she teaches. A couple of months I invited Carol over to my house for dinner with an ulterior motive in mind. I had been curious about her ability to find the low-cost holidays for some time and finally my inquisitiveness had got the better of me. The moment I had served dinner I decided to ask her outright how she managed to afford so many wonderful exotic holidays each year. She stared back at me for a moment, with a somewhat perplexed look on her faced as if I was trying to pry into her soul for some dark secret she was keeping, then she merely gave the answer that I had been expecting all along. She told me she used websites like lastminute.com to source the best holiday at the best price. However there was more to it that this – to Carol what had started as a bit of fun had now become a regular pastime. Carol admitted that she spent a lot of her free time searching out the best deals.

Part of the reason for me asking the question of Carol was that I had a holiday planned and needed to find a cheap vacation myself. When I asked for her best tips she really surprised me. From what little she had told me so far that her methods I assumed Carol found all of her low cost holidays by searching the Internet. But this was not the case. It transpired that Carol had many contacts in the travel industry itself, and could receive a call from personal call from any one of them at any time with an offer of holiday a discounted price. Because they had known Carol for a long time, they were familiar with her requirements exactly, they were well aware of her personal situation in terms of here availability i.e. when she did not work and the fact that she would be willing to travel at a moments notice Because of Carol’s availability and willingness to travel, this made her a very good contact to have for the travel agents and this was reciprocated by the agents in that Carol’s was able to get some of the very best deals available.

Conclusion

If you are looking for cheap last minute foreign holidays and cheap vacations, keep a close eye on site like last minute.com. That said, it is equally important to develop a close relationship with you local travel agent, making then aware of you exact requirements in terms of location and price and contact them often.

Moving From The UK To Australia

2007-12-10T01:54:00.000-08:00

Have you decided to make the decision and leave the UK for a better life in Australia? So many young couples and families are packing up there lives here in the UK and heading over to Australia for better weather, more money and better living conditions for all the family. You may be worried about moving all your furniture and belongings to Australia, you may think it will be less hassle just leaving it here in the UK and buying new furniture in Australia, but why should you.

An experienced Removal Company who have a good reputation and have the experience in shipping furniture and belongings to Australia from the UK will not only offer the help of shipping your possessions to Australia but will give you peace of mind.

They should offer you the following if you require them:

• Full liability cover – from the start to the finish of the move your goods and personal belongings are covered.

• Collection, Packaging, Preparation and Detailed Inventory – you can have your belongings prepared, packed safely and collected in Over’s packaging to save you the hassle.

• Packaging, Preparation, Unpacking and Delivery – working from your detailed inventory the team will unpack your belongings at your chosen property, set them up and remove any debris.

• Freight Handling

• Crating service – this is for high risk and or fragile items.

Whatever you’re transporting and shipping a good removal company will be able to help you make in smooth and hassle free.

Transporting your belongings to Australia by sea and air can be used not only for families and couples moving to Australia but also for businesses and commercial use.

Many of the removal companies will be able to help you fill out the paperwork required for your shipment and also help make the shipment run smoothly, via contacting the shipping lines making sure there are no problems etc.

Usually shipments from the UK to Australia run on a daily basis and can take over a week from leaving the UK to reach Australia. If there is a reason why you need your shipment even quicker there are other options available that removal companies offer which of course will cost more.

If you’re moving to Australia and want some of your belongings stored in the UK and some shipped to your new property in Australia, ask your removal company if they offer both services. If they do you can usually save a bit of money so why not inquire, you may save yourself some money too.

One point to look for when choosing your removal company for your move from the UK to Australia is the British Standards ISO. This means that the service and products they offer are registered on their Quality Management System. It just gives you peace of mind that the company has thought about implementing the system and are trying to give their customers a better service.

So whatever your move to Australia involves, contact a reputable, experienced and trustworthy Removal Company so they can help take the stress away from your move from the UK to Australia.

A Kenya Safari Holiday Based In Chyulu Hills National Park

2007-12-09T01:53:00.000-08:00

Before booking a Kenya Safari Holiday, perhaps even a honeymoon in Kenya, you need to do your homework.

It is possible you might never have heard of Campi Ya Kanzi which is in the Chyulu Hills National Park, but this would be the perfect place for a luxury African safari.

Campi Ya Kanzi means ‘Camp of The Hidden Treasure’, but effectively for you the hidden treasure is the sheer quality of this luxury tented safari camp in Southern Kenya, which is almost in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro which is only 35 miles away, and it lies within a 400 square mile private ranch.

There are outstanding features concerning Campi Ya Kanzi making it an outstanding base for a luxury African safari and some of them are as follows.

The maximum number of guests is limited to fourteen in six thatched roof tented cottages, and the two suites called Hemingway and Simba. Each tented cottage is made of stones fabric and wood.

The tented cottages all have different views and are extremely private, just one reason that Campi Ya Kanzi is a must visit on a honeymoon in Kenya.

The suites all feature a king size bed, a dressing room, and the bathrooms have double wash hand basins.

The cottages have either twin or king size beds, and have like the suites a full size bath, shower, bidet, flush toilet and hot and cold running water. Electricity is supplied by a solar system to every cottage.

Elegance is added to by the fact that the plumbing fixtures are brass, and fresh flowers are replaced every day.

Each cottage as Camp Ya Kanzi has a wide veranda with superb views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Tsavo Hills.

Each guesthouse has a designated Maasai attendant, and at night the camp is patrolled by guards so you can feel safe and totally secure at Campi Ya Kanzi.

The meals are all served at Tembo House which is the clubhouse at the epicentre of the camp. Like the cottages it is made of local materials and thatch. It is open to the outside and the views of Kilimanjaro from the terrace are to put it mildly spectacular. It also has a large lounge for relaxing reading and having a quiet drink.

Tembo House is more like being a guest in a friend’s home than an hotel. Even dining is at a large wooden family dining table, set with fine china, silverware and crystal to further this impression, and food which has an Italian theme, and is of course home cooked by specially trained chefs is superb, but stands alongside local and international dishes, plus vegetables from the vegetable garden, local fresh milk and eggs from the chickens.

Campi Ya Kanzi has two goals, the first of which is to help the Maasai preserve their wildlife heritage. The second is to give you the most memorable vacation of your life.

Your safari day will start with coffee or tea brought to your cottage by your Maasai attendant, and then after enjoying the view from the verandah you will have a morning game drive, or if you would prefer a walk. Breakfast follows with fresh local fruit, then possibly an escorted safari on foot. Campi Ya Kanzi is famous and rightly so for its foot safaris. The Maasai game trackers will go out first, then you will follow in your own vehicle, getting close enough to whatever game you have indicated you want to see. It is then on foot, with your armed professional guide and the trackers. In this way you will get close and personal, whilst remaining safe at all times.

All of this is as far as you can get from the mass vehicle pursuit of animals in the Masai Mara, and indeed you will never want it any other way in the future.

All of the activity in the bush is what you want and not part of a rigid program. You will almost certainly see all of the big five, but on foot, and what could be more exciting than that.

If you want to take a luxury African safari, or have your honeymoon in Kenya, then Campi Ya Kanzi could be the perfect solution plus the fact every dollar you spend helps the Maasai preserve their wildlife heritage.

A Family Vacation Getaway In One Of The Best Luxury Hotels In Krabi Thailand

2007-12-09T01:52:00.000-08:00

So far as luxury hotels go anywhere in the Far East, the Rayavadee in Krabi Thailand is as good if not better than most other luxury hotels.

It is a great beach vacation hotel, with 77 rooms, perfect for a family vacation getaway, and equally fantastic for a honeymoon vacation special deal.

The Rayavadee has to be seen to be believed and everything from the staff to the accommodation, to the grounds, the beaches, and the food are close to being perfect. Krabi is possibly one of the most beautiful places on earth so it is just the perfect position for the Rayavadee.

You have to get to Rayavadee by boat, and the first thing that will strike you is the boat. White leather upholstery and the crew all in matching sailors uniforms. Initial impressions are lasting ones, and this certainly makes you feel you are going to a luxury resort. Moving from the speedboat to reception, the impression continues with details all being taken whilst sitting down with hot towels and drinks, which beats standing around a crowded reception area any time.

The accommodation is top class, and if you are on a family vacation getaway there is the family villa with two bedrooms, one on the ground floor, the extra bedroom being the only difference from the De Luxe Pavilion

A two storey villa, and it is so well equipped with all mod cons. It is the small touches like the bathroom own brand products, the bottles of water everywhere, tea, coffee, and biscuits replaced every day. More food and drinks in a huge sideboard, and chocolates left every night by the bed.

A huge bath which holds two, is a feature of the bathroom, and a huge bed are all part of the ambiance.

A great luxury resort has great food, and on a family vacation getaway with hungry kids to feed, this is a very important consideration. If the reader is considering the Rayavadee for a Beach honeymoon vacation special then food is probably high on your agenda.

You will find the restaurants at the Rayavadee are all of the very best, with impeccable service in each of the four different restaurants. It is fair to say that food is not cheap but the views are just out of this world, and you may find it sensible to go down the beach and eat instead, where you will pay perhaps $15 instead of $100, and get genuine Thai food. It’s perfectly safe and worth the effort.

If you want to be active, then there is lots to do from kayaking through the sea caves hiking, swimming, snorkelling, tennis.

The service from the staff could not be more helpful, you will be treated like royalty.in every way. The only downside is the service by the pool which seems to be on the slow side of slow, but always extremely polite.

They are exceptional apart from that small point in every way, and are a big part of the success of the Rayavedee.

Words cannot do justice to the incredibly beautiful beaches, especially the Phranang and Railey beaches which have powder white sand and views of islands in the distance with little caves to explore. Beware however of the monkeys, who although friendly are everywhere!!

All in all there is no doubt that the Rayavadee in Krabi is one of the best luxury hotels in the Far East. It is an ideal spot place for a family vacation getaway on some of the best beaches anywhere. It would also be a good choice for a honeymoon vacation special, so look out for some great honeymoon vacation deals.

A Kenya Safari Holiday At A Private Game Lodge Next To The Lewa Conservancy

2007-12-07T01:50:00.000-08:00

A Kenya Safari Holiday, part of which is spent at a Private Game Lodge called Borana adjacent to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy may not at first seem to be what you are looking for, because Borana is probably a name you are unfamiliar with.

You are going to spend a lot of money taking any African safari Trip, especially one at the luxury end of the scale, so it is very well worth your while doing a lot of research before committing your hard earned cash to a safari picked because you liked a picture in a brochure. The best Private Game Lodges are very often not in the popular holiday brochures

Choosing a Kenya Safari as part of your Holiday in Kenya can be difficult, and then on top of that there can be a bewildering choice of accommodation from Camps to Lodges. More often than not you will take a package and these decisions will be taken out of your hands, and this can be a great pity.

There are Game Lodges, and private Game Lodges, safari camps and luxury camps, and there are very popular and sometimes overcrowded game parks, and on the other hand places that are less well known, which will have all the game you could want to view with no other vehicles in sight at this time.

There are game lodges where you will pile into a mini bus for a game drive, and others where you have your own 4x4 with your own knowledgeable guide who will go where you want to go.

With this in mind, study Borana Lodge at the foot of Mount Kenya roughly 6500 feet above sea level, and only sixteen miles from the equator.

Your temporary Kenya Safari Holiday Home at Borana Private Game Lodge has six cottages, so it is small, a good thing as far as it meaning personal attention. There are two cottages with large double beds, and four with Queen sized beds. They are all situated well for privacy, and views from their verandahs, and each has an open fireplace, and ensuite bathrooms.

At Borana there is a selection of available activities which includes Game drives accompanied by rangers and trackers who know all there is to know and more about everything that moves and even stuff that stands still, like trees, flowers, and bushes.

You can take game walks with an experienced guide.

There will be night Game Drives and you will be staggered at the activities of those nocturnal creatures you encounter.

You can explore the 35000 acre ranch on horseback.

Eat farm fresh cooked bush meals wherever and whenever your fancy takes you.

On returning to Borana Lodge you can relax and unwind in the swimming pool which has lovely views over the valley below.

In addition you can choose trips to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy specifically to see the black and white rhino who are protected here.

You can take professionally guided walking safaris.

Above all else remember that whilst you are on a Kenya Safari Holiday, living in some luxury at Borana private game lodge, that Borana is not just a game sanctuary it is also a working ranch, so take the time to be shown round and try to understand the challenges facing those who live and work in what are pretty hostile conditions, where dangerous game such as lions and elephants cause damage and death on an everyday basis.

Borana Private Game Lodge is a very different way to spend part of your Kenya Safari Holiday, but its situation next to the Lewa Conservancy gives you the opportunity of a lifetime to see and do things out of the ordinary.

Growth Of Whale Watching Tourism

2007-12-07T01:48:00.000-08:00

Maybe it’s because its murky depths are one of the few places we haven’t yet taken over, but the ocean and all creatures that live beneath the waves have long been a fascination of mankind. We depend on the ocean for nourishment that supports live on land. It can hold life or death, and just like the rest of the planet, as it becomes a commercial playground, even its residents become our entertainment. Perhaps whales are interesting because of their mammoth size, or it maybe its because of our shared need for oxygen. Whatever the connection is, whale watching tours have become big business all over the world.

People have probably been watching whales for all of time, hoping to catch rare, brief glimpses of the massive creatures while out casting their nets, but whale watching as an organized activity dates back to the early 1950s. The first groups observed the creatures from the land. The Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego was designated as the very first official place for the public to watch whales. A few years later, the premier water-based tour was established, charging $1 per customer.

Over the past five decades, the pastime of whale watching has grown to enjoy increasing popularity on East Coast of the United States as well. There are large groups of Humpback Whales near some of the larger cities near the Atlantic, a breed famous for its playful, grand guests. Its diving and tail slapping are sure to draw a happy crowd. Their close proximity to clusters of people makes them a convenient spectacle. The trend has continued to expand and, according to a 1998 study, is now operating to some extent in more than 80 countries all over the world.

There are many different breed of whales throughout the world’s waters, and at least as many ways to observe them. You can stay on dry land, appreciate and aerial view from a small plane or helicopter, or even take a cruise. You can kill an hour, an entire day, or a couple of weeks. It can cost up to thousands of dollars per person, or as little as it takes to buy a movie ticket.

If a whale watching excursion is part of your vacation itinerary, it might be a good idea not to schedule very strictly on the day of your tour. The ocean is not the same as going to the zoo. You will be dealing with real, untamed animals that are not going to conform to a time slot. It is very much a “hurry up and wait” kind of activity, and as such, may not be appropriate for smaller children.

Like many of our natural resources, some kinds of whales have been hunted to near extinction. Most animal rights and environmental groups support whale watching activities because they draw attention to the problem without being very invasive to the animals. A little good press can go along way to making people realize what a precious resource nature is. Having the opportunity to witness the majesty of whales in their natural habitat is the best way to impress upon people what is at stake if we take no steps to protect the animals and their homes.

Snow, Sleet, and Freezing Rain: They’re All the Same, Right?!

2007-12-04T01:46:00.000-08:00

We have all heard the terms freezing rain, sleet, and snow when tuning into our local weather person on the television before, but do you really know the difference between these elements? Some of you may ask: Why do I need to know the difference? Well, the difference between freezing rain, sleet, or snow event could be the difference between knowing you have a chance to make it to work in the morning or whether you should really prepare to work from home. A brief snow may have moderate impacts on your travel, but a brief freezing rain event could wreak havoc on everyone’s travel plans.

Snow occurs when a snowflake falls from the upper levels of the atmosphere and does not encounter any layers enough above freezing throughout its journey to the earth that would melt the snowflake. There are many classifications of snow and most travels are well aware of the impacts from high accumulations of snow. The difficulty comes in differentiating between other types of freezing precipitation.

Sleet occurs when a snowflake falls from a cloud then enters into a warm layer and melts. The now melted snowflake then continues to fall then it enters into a cold layer near the surface of the earth and freezes again. When the frozen droplet impacts the earth, it is usually in the form of ice and does not freeze upon impact. High accumulations of sleet may cause problems for the road travelers, but is typically not as devastating as a freezing rain event.

Freezing rain occurs when a droplet starts as snow as it falls through the atmosphere. Then, this snowflake melts as it falls through layers of the atmosphere. The now melted snowflake encounters a below freezing layer of air near the surface of the earth which quickly supercools the droplet. With the droplet now supercooled, it will then freeze upon impact of the earth’s surface or any other surface along its way. Freezing rain is one of the culprits that brings down power lines in the winter, puts highways at a standstill, and turns any location into a crystal city.

At times you may hear your local weather person use the term “mix”. The forecaster is usually referring to an area that could see any combination of rain, freezing rain, sleet, and/or snow. These areas typically are some of the most dangerous areas to travel due to the possibility of freezing rain and sleet. Defining the exact lines of freezing rain, sleet, snow, or rain can be very difficult for forecasters.

Whether you will encounter snow, sleet, or freezing rain, you are bound to have some delays in your travel. Hopefully this will help you to better understand the differences and what to expect when you wake up in the morning to head to your destination. Keep a close eye on the weather along your route when the next storm system is pushing through.

Eating Fresh, Healthy And Light In Nice

2007-12-04T01:45:00.000-08:00

Pay attention! During your stay in Nice, you’ll have to make serious efforts in order to manage eating as probably accustomed – unhealthy food and delicious artificial drinks. Well, Nice will assault you from all sides with fresh, light products, both healthy and pure. You will have to get used to that, too bad for your “modern” eating habits…

Nice is a small, pretty city that looks well after its visitors, serving them fresh salty breezes the Mediterranean way, French pebbled beaches, festivals with a carnival touch, and really interesting museums – such a corner of paradise should indeed offer special dishes.

Where light and fresh dishes are equally delicious

Therefore, don’t expect large chunks of beef or pork to drop on your plates. The food you will be served in Nice is good for both your health and for your taste buds, and the meat to be found on top might be either mutton, poultry or some small game. It’s the historical and geographical circumstances that have influenced the Nicoise cuisine, like the short intervals of heavy rain not suited for managing pasturelands or large vegetable gardens. As a consequence, the dishes that people around here are used to eat are more or less frugal and as they have done so for such a long time, their cuisine eventually developed a remarkable range of delicious nuances and tastes, always prepared in the same light, easy way. Well, it’s unlikely that you think of all that while enjoying a sandwich filled with a Provençal type of mixture, containing for example, fresh basil, goat cheese, olive oil (used by the Nicois for centuries instead of butter) and mesclun (a local salad mix); or, a Swiss chard tart, or a socca (made of chick-pea flour, water, olive oil and onions). Now that you have some recipes to consider, you should also know that, also due to the geo-culinary considerations mentioned above, the menus equally offer seafood and Italian pasta (the Italian cuisine is quite related to that of Nice).

Where wine is rosé and beer is fruity

Local drinks are the food equivalent in terms of their fine, light nature. Unlike most Nicoise dishes and the many wines you have sipped, the best wines in town are rose. If you are not used to them, you might get a funny feeling at first, but soon you’ll see that they make a wonderful match with the blue Mediterranean sky and with your Nicoise salad. Here’s a little advice: in restaurants, it’s not practical, as far as your budget is concerned, to order an entire bottle at your table – it’s better to order only a glass of wine or a half-pitcher (50 cl). However, if you really want a bottle of wine all for yourself, go to a small wine store and patiently discuss with the trader the merits of each make (note that you’d better not contradict him, nor doubt the superiority of French products). In case you’re not entirely committed to wine, you may always refresh with the help of a “bière pression Monaco”, a rather special beer with grenadine (the contrast of these two tastes is surprisingly delicious).

Dinner just like mother used to make

If you wish to find some good restaurants, it’s enough to go for a little walk on the streets of Old Nice. Of course, you could check out other parts of the city as well, but this corner has become over the years a classic host for the traditional Nicoise cuisine. Don’t worry about your budget having to suffer, even if we’re talking about restaurants in the famous Nice on the Riviera. Quite the opposite. For example, you may try “Chez Palmyre” on Straight Street (la Rue Droite). This may not be a luxury restaurant typically elegant or even a bit snobbish, but the local dishes served here are delicious and according to the traditional cuisine. The somewhat short menu doesn’t seem to offer much choice, but it changes from one day to another. Here is an example of a complete meal: vegetable soup with croutons, Nicoise salad, fish… now that you have an idea about it, you can see how simple and yet so delicious it all is. Servicing is nice and welcoming, and if the fine weather allows it, you may dine in the open (the restaurant’s interior is ok, but not quite dazzling) where the charming atmosphere of this old district will help with your digestion. “Chez Teresa”, in Cours Saleya (Flower Market), is yet another restaurant famous for its excellent traditional dishes, especially for its socca (served to you right from the oven).

Well, it does seem that Nice not only offers relaxation for your overworked body and for your lowered mood; Nice also offers your stomach a well-deserved holiday, away from fat-filled diets, junk food and other food dangers to which you expose yourself all year long. One thing’s for sure, at least your stomach will wish to come back to Nice as soon as possible.

Accessible Appalachia - Exploring Virginia's Crooked Road

2007-12-02T01:43:00.000-08:00

Located in Southwest Virginia, the Crooked Road is more than just a driving route. This 200-mile heritage music trail winds through Appalachia and connects music venues and heritage sites that highlight the traditional music of the region; the gospel, bluegrass and mountain music that's been passed down for generations by local families. Along the way you'll find stage shows, outdoor concerts, festivals, Appalachian crafts, galleries and some great scenery; however it's the locals who bring the Crooked Road to life. Be it the banjo maker in Galax or the quilter in Floyd, they all have a story to tell. And part of the whole Crooked Road experience is simply taking the time to listen.

Technically the Crooked Road isn't just one road, but a route composed of many state routes and local roads. The best starting point is the eastern terminus, Rocky Point; which is located 25 miles south of Roanoke. Just take VA 40 west towards Ferrum and follow the Crooked Road signs. Not only is this the easiest access point, but Ferrum makes a great first stop; as the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum offers a good overview on the regional heritage.

Located on the campus of Ferrum College, the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum features indoor gallery space plus an outdoor heritage farm museum. The gallery space hosts exhibitions which highlight the people and heritage of the region. There is level access to the museum, barrier-free access throughout the galleries and plenty of accessible parking outside.

Across the street, take some time to look through the Farm Museum which has gravel and dirt pathways, ramps up to the barns and a few steps up into the farmhouse. The pathways are doable for most people in dry weather and even though you can't access every display, you can still get a good feel for what Virginia farm life was like back in 1800.

Traveling west on the Crooked Road, you'll cross the Blue Ridge Parkway and enter Floyd County. Here's where a little diversion is in order. Although it's not on the official route, I highly recommend at least a short drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, as it's very scenic. Either way, a stop is Floyd is a must; and if you are looking for overnight accommodations, look no further than the Oak Haven Lodge.

Opened in 2003, this 10-room rustic lodge features ramp access to the front porch and office, with accessible parking available in a gravel parking area next to the office. Room 1 is located downstairs and has wide doorways, two double beds, good pathway access and a 5-foot turnaround in the bathroom. Access features in the bathroom include a low-step shower, a roll-under sink, grab bars in the shower and around the toilet and a portable shower chair. A commode chair is also available upon request. All this for a very affordable $65 per night.

Continuing west, you'll pass through Galax and Abingdon before coming to Bristol. Here you'll find the Birthplace of Country Music Alliance Museum, which features exhibits on the roots of country music and the musicians that helped shape the genre. Access is excellent throughout the museum, with a level entrance and barrier-free access to all the exhibits. Best of all, admission is free.

There's plenty of live music to be had in Bristol too, with weekly concerts at the Birthplace of Country Music Mural on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights and a Thursday morning jam session at the Star Barbershop on State Street. All of these musical events are free and open to the public. And as far as access goes, there is good wheelchair-access to the seating area at the mural and level access to the Star Barbershop.

Finally, no matter what you do on your Crooked Road adventure, save time for a visit to the Carter Family Fold for a Saturday night concert. Granted some advance planning is required to plan a Saturday night stay near the Hiltons, but fortunately it's only about 20 minutes from Bristol.

Located on the AP and Sara Carter homestead, the Carter Family Fold is actually a large theater; and in keeping with tradition, only acoustic instruments are allowed and no alcohol is served. That said, each week there's a different headliner, so no two shows are exactly alike. The energy however, is ever present.

Accessible parking is located near the theater with level access to the entrance. Accessible seating (with companion seating) is available up font and it's the only reserved seating in the house. Indeed the front seats are the ones with an up-close look at all the action, because once the music starts, the area in front of the stage turns into a massive dance floor. But again, that's all part of the show. All in all it's great place to mix with the locals and an excellent opportunity to enjoy a real slice of Crooked Road culture.

Who Influenced Sir Arthur Conan Doyle?

2007-11-30T01:41:00.000-08:00

The factors that influence a writer or author to create such perfectly detailed work are often questioned. Whether it is a situation that they were somehow involved in or presented or another author's work which they read and felt the need to make their own, there are always questions with writers about the influences of their work. The most common influences are that of another writer. Not many writers can say that something that they have read previously did not in any way affect them because that is of course simply unbelievable.

The author is an interesting person. Why he or she writes about what they do is really of no significance to the reader until the end of the book. This is when the reader starts to wonder what influence created such a well written piece of literature. This article will state several, but not all influences or possible influences to make the reader aware of the circumstances involved in a majority of writing.

There could be war going on in the author's country. When there is war, there is writing. It is an escape from reality and a hope for something more brilliant than the battle itself. It is a need to alleviate the pain and suffering and an undying feeling of release. Writers can emulate what is going on in their minds and relate it to what is going on in their fictional world. The tale does not have to be about a battle between countries to accomplish this; just a battle between characters or within a character.

There may be a bad relationship. Relationships make up a large amount of writers' stories. Therefore, the relationships that they have in the real world have often tended to relate to those that their characters have in the fictional world. Of course, for some writers, these relationships are that of which the writer would like to have or have had in the real world. It could be that of a love interest or that of a very intriguing friendship or enemy; something to spice the life that they truly lead.

There can also be more critical reasons for why an author chooses such work to write about. Death is a large part of writing also. It influences the writer in ways that nothing else can. It serves as a leading and fantastic influence over many an author.

Finally, the works of other author's are important. The influence that one writer has over another is great. It is one of the most invading and underlying reasons that a writer has, but may not realize that they have because they are too callous to. Doyle relates to Melville, for example. This is not to say that the Great Sherlock Holmes was created due in part to Melville, but to say that he was an image of chance that was created because of the influence Melville's writings had upon Doyle. This great character is one that still exists in the heart of many a fan similar to that of Melville's characters that have lived on in his great works.

Of course it is now impossible to know what, or who, influenced Conan Doyle for sure, but one thing is certain. All his millions of fans, both past and present, are most grateful that something did!

Unsecured Holiday Loans – Unwind Your Self With Easier Funds

2007-11-30T01:39:00.000-08:00

Surely, you need a well deserved break from that office routine. But if you are thinking of going to a distant exotic place on a holiday tour, then, it requires lots of expenditures and there may be a strain on your resources. However, you have one often considered option and that is to take out unsecured holiday loan. These loans are specifically made for enabling in meeting all holiday expenses like buying air tickets, paying for hotel expenses and shopping.

Under the loan, you can borrow smaller amounts, ranging up to £25000. But the loan will depend on lots of factors. First of all your income must be sufficient to repay the loan installments in time. The lender will determine an amount on the basis of your income and repayment ability taking your monthly savings into account. Secondly, your credit history also plays a crucial role in the loan approval. Good credit history people will get the loan with ease at relaxed terms-conditions.

Note that unsecured holiday loans provide funds without taking any of your property as collateral. This means tenants and homeowners both are eligible for the loan. But, since there are high risks for the lenders, they offer the loan at higher interest rates. In turn, this implies that each month you would be making high interest payments. So, borrow the money as per your financial position.

These are short term loans. You will be approved the loan for 5 to 10 years, depending on the loan amount and your circumstances.

Usually, bad credit history people, with multiple faults in their names, such as late payments, CCJs, arrears, payment defaults, find it hard to borrow money. However, there are many lenders whom you can contact for holiday loans, if you are able to convince them about safe return of the loan.

For a better deal, first apply for the rate quotes of the lenders to compare them. Know that online lenders offer unsecured holiday loans at competitive rate of interest and they charge less additional fees, which makes the loan availing less costly.

Unsecured Holiday Loans: Confirm Your Trip

2007-11-29T01:37:00.000-08:00

Holiday is a way to rejuvenate the mind and soul. For this reason you might have planned to spend some holidays in exotic destinations. But the insufficient funds are creating blockade between you and your demands. In the market, you might easily get some amount for this purpose but that against a slightly higher rate of interest and the demand of collateral. Unsecured holiday loans provide all the lucidness that a person wants in a loan. The funds of this loan can be derived regardless of credit score and without the use of collateral.

This scheme supports by proposing the applicants an amount that ranges from £1,000 to £ 25,000 with reimbursement period of 1-10 years. Applicants can be of any profile, such as salaried person, business professional self-employed, retired persons, and house-wife as such. This financial benediction is bestowed by different banks and loan lending sources. With the coming of various loans lending institutions the competitive atmosphere has developed. For this reason the interest rates fluctuates. Usually, the rates of interest are slightly higher as it is an unsecured form. To derive reasonable rate figures compare the different loan quotes minutely.

This loan propels and bears the entire expense related to holiday trip. For example: booking of journey tickets, accommodation, food, shopping, and safari as related can be easily be supervise by considering the loan. Bad credit also gets the opportunity to shed the worries and spend some quality time with the aid of this loan.

If you have already made your holiday plans and want the funds within short time, then use the e-application method. This application format is free from faxing and documentation process. Furthermore, applicants can access or grab the applied amount by sitting at home or office. Thus, unsecured holiday loans have made ways easier to enjoy holidays.

Suggested tour routes for Oaxaca, Mexico

2007-11-29T01:35:00.000-08:00

NOTE: The following are only suggested routes, and are subject to revision, additions and deletions depending on the specific interests of the client. They have been designed to maximize the diversity of your cultural experience while economizing your time, with virtually no repeated traversing of highways to get to another site. Certainly route changes can be made, but often this entails some backtracking. Tours are private in nature, meaning that you, your partner, family members and / or own small group decide which sites to visit and for how long. Under no circumstances will you be paired with other tourists. Transportation is by car, truck or large van depending on the number in the group and the route selected.

ROUTE ONE:

*black pottery village of San Bartolo Coyotepec, with demonstration of the technique and its history by (usually) Don Valente Nieto, son of the late Doña Rosa who developed the method subsequently followed by other villagers; then, for those interested in unique hand-crafted jewelry pieces, for 30 years town resident Armando Lozano has been making one-of-a-kind brass pieces using attractive acid-induced accent shades in green and aquamarine…his workshop is close to Doña Rosa’s, and therefore well worth a brief stop;

*San Martín Tilcajete, the village known for its wooden hand-carved and brilliantly painted animals often generically referred to as alebrijes; visits to a number of workshops illustrating differences in qualities and subject matter; for those interested in collector-quality pieces, arrangements can be made to visit the workshop of arguably the best in the state, Jacobo and María Ängeles, for a most fascinating demonstration of the utility of natural pigments for paints, the different uses of the male and female copal tree including trunk, bark and sap, the importance of Zapotec designs for symbolism, etc; if traveling with children, arrangements can be made to visit another workshop where they can select their favorite animal and paint a carving of it for a nominal fee…just provide details in advance (and yes, we have a car seat for the infants and toddlers);

*cotton textile pueblito of Santo Tomás Jalieza, where women weave table runners, placements, purses and much more using a back strap loom, and are quite adept at their clothing embroidering skills as well; there’s also a factory which supplies high end hotels and restaurants throughout the country with tablecloths, bedspreads, draperies, etc, where you can place special orders…your choice of color and pattern, 100% cotton or a 90/10 blend for greater ease of washing, size, and so on…or choose from a broad range of product on hand; you’ll have a fascinating demonstration of the steps in the production process;

*the homes and workshops of the Aguilar sisters whose mother first began making brightly painted clay figures at age 11, in the 1940s…now a fourth generation is continuing the tradition; with the passage of time the diversity of figurines and imagery has expanded to include representations of Day of the Dead, Catholic religious themes, whimsical figures with strong sexual images, and townspeople at market and in traditional regional dress…fired in the most “primitive” of clay brick hearths;

*the combined home and gallery of the late Maestro of contemporary Oaxacan art, Rodolfo Morales, and his large fresco mural in the central square (zócalo) of the town of Ocotlán…there’s also a museum which includes original art from the Conquest period and by the Maestro;

*the knifemaking workshop of Ángel Aguilar, second of three generations of craftsmen in the family; only recycled metals are used to produce the knives and other weapons, cutlery, and more; his oven is made of stone and clay; fascinating demonstration of the techniques and materials used in making both blades and handles, even for those with little or no interest in the subject matter; watch Ängel engrave a piece with a surname, rhyme or limerick;

*on Fridays, the marketplace of Ocotlán where locals from the hinterland come to buy virtually all of their worldly needs…also a handicraft market;

OPTIONAL (while none of the foregoing is etched in stone, other sites can be visited as well subject to time and particular interests such as):

**16th Century church and monastery complex at Cuilapam noted for its expansiveness, and the fact that construction ceased with escalation of a dispute between The Church and the Cortés family; apart from some restoration in the 1950s, there has been no important modification since the 1580s;

**cochineal ranch, museum and research station where you’ll learn the history and importance of this tiny bug which attaches itself to its host, the nopal cactus, and when harvested and dried produces the strongest and most brilliant natural red dye known to mankind…used today in dying rugs from the region and in a diversity of products such as yoghurt, Campbell soup, campari, as well as makeup and lipsticks (also a video explaining the historical importance of this Oaxacan industry from Conquest times through the mid 19th century, for North America, Europe and the Far East)

ROUTE TWO:

*Santa María del Tule, home to the famous 2,000 year old Tule or ahuehuete tree, the largest tree in the world…beautifully kept grounds, with a lovely church alongside the tree; “hire” a local child to take you on a tour around the tree, using a mirror to point out images in the trunk and branches;

*the 16th century Dominican church at Tlacochuhuaya noted for its original fresco painting on the ceiling and walls by Zapotec artists, the three surrounding courtyard chapels, its exterior carved figures including the sculpture of Saint Jerome, and the 17th century German organ on the second floor; a sundial still stands outside the church;

*the rug village of Teotitlan del Valle – visit one or more of the multitude of rug workshops where you can select any of a vast number of sizes, designs and colors (if you are so inclined) and see how the rugs are produced from the carding of wool of different colors, followed by its spinning, then the use of purely natural dyes of plant, fruit and vegetable sources as well as the cochineal, and finally the hand weaving on traditional large looms; learn how to detect rugs which are made using synthetic dyes for coloration;

*if you’ve every been on a California or Niagara wine tour, or traveled to Scotland to sample the finest of single malt whiskies, you’ll be struck by the contrast in production techniques used in making Oaxaca’s state drink, mezcal; this lesser known cousin to tequila is made with a much purer and ancient technique using only the agave plant without any fermenting agents whatsoever, a deep in-ground pit for baking over firewood, crushing by a multi-ton stone pulled by horse, pine fermentation barrels and brick oven with a copper serpentine still…all natural and aged in oak barrels up to 8 years, with or without gusano worm, or as a sweet liqueur mixed with local exotic fruits; tastings of all varieties (full day tours high up into the mountains to see and sample from a selection of the smallest mom and pop production facilities are also available, with lunch at a quaint roadside eatery);

*On Sundays, the marketplace at Tlacolula, the largest of the regional markets apart from the Abastos market in the city of Oaxaca;

*the ruin at Mitla known for the Spanish destruction of pre-conquest edifices and the conquerors’ use of the stone in the construction of the church, the existing original painted codices on parts of what remains, the intricate stone designs forming the walls of the ruin buildings with no mortar used in construction, and the tombs; also a large open handicraft marketplace known for diversity of product and great prices;

OPTIONAL (as explained regarding ROUTE ONE):

**Hierve el Agua, the natural bubbling springs, with two large poolings of water on the precipice of a cliff with spectacular vistas, suitable for swimming; hike to the large “waterfall” of petrified mineral deposits;

**the ruins at Lambityeco, Dainzú and / or Yagul; Yagul is noted for four things: the largest ballcourt in the region and second largest in Mesoamerica, its tombs, the labyrinth structure, and the fortress high up the mountain from which one cannot help but be impressed by the gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and valley;

NOTE: From the perspective of trying to impart a broad range of knowledge in terms of Oaxacan society past and present, and the diversity of craft and other cultural traditions, while at the same time providing an opportunity for making purchases, the foregoing are the two most important routes. However, there is much more, as is exemplified by the following additional routes:

ROUTE THREE:

Reference was made above to the availability of a full day’s activity touring the tiny mountain villages where the quaintest and most simple of mezcal “factories” exist. Learn to discern the taste nuances as we sample from a few facilities. Stop for comida along a secondary highway at a combined “fabrica de mezcal” and roadside eatery. This experience can (and certainly ought to be) combined with a trip to Hierve el Agua and perhaps a couple of the other sites of your choice along ROUTE TWO, making for probably the most real Oaxacan experiences of your entire trip.

ROUTE FOUR:

*beginning with a trip up the mountain just outside of Oaxaca proper to Monte Albán, we connect you with a government authorized English speaking Oaxacan guide who specializes in only Monte Albán; the total cost of the guide is deducted from your total price for the day… that’s only fair; the tour of the ruin usually takes a couple of hours; there’s also a small museum and gift shop in the main welcome center; before noon you would be ready to carry on with me for the balance of the day’s touring, after having regained your energy by relaxing and having a drink in the open air cafeteria at the site;

*the green glazed pottery village of Atzompa is a fairly short drive from Monte Albán; the marketplace has an incredible diversity of kitchen items and utensils, sculptures, flower pots, hanging ornaments and lamps, complete sets of dishes, etc.; a lot of the work is in fact not the green glazed, but rather pottery in attractive pastel colors and terra cotta; you can also visit some of the actual workshops, have a demonstration, etc; for those interested in “high end” collector pieces, somewhat different from the work of most of the local craftspeople in the village, a visit to the workshop of reknowned artist Angélica Vásquez Cruz is a must. Angélica is featured in most of the books about the country’s popular folk art. Her home and workshop is at the end of an ascending rocky road which during the rainy season is often best negotiated on foot, but either way, the challenging climb is worth the effort. She’s an extraordinary raconteur who will vividly relate her complex and moving history to those interested, and proudly explain her intricate highest of quality ceramic pieces heavily influenced by indigenous legends and Mexican history. She regularly wins national folk art competitions and is honored by being asked to give workshops in the US.

*the ruin of San José el Mogote is one of the least touristed ruins in the region, and has a serene feel to it; there’s a wonderful small museum alongside the ruin housed in a 16th century hacienda…the key to the museum must be tracked down from the townsperson then in charge of the museum; actual artifacts are sometimes available from one family which lives at the base of the ruin, on the “QT,” though not at all endorsed by me because of the prohibition attached to their sale and removal from the country…but they do exist;

*on Wednesdays the Etla marketplace is held, smaller than those enumerated in the previous routes, but nevertheless interesting, quaint and at the same time bustling; there is also a traditional chocolate factory where you can have your own chocolate made on the spot from the raw ingredients, usually cacao, sugar, cinnamon and sometimes almonds…tasting Oaxacan chocolate is a must, whether here or in one of the downtown facilities…if you prefer less sugar, more cinnamon, etc, the option is yours;

*for those interested in sculpture, about 10 minutes up the road from the town of Etla is the village of Magdalena Etla known for its cantera stone quarries and the sculptors who work with the stone in pink, yellow and green hues; Maestro Adolfo Cruz will show you his facility used in making both stone and bronze pieces, and in fact he’s the only one in the state, he boasts, with a foundry; His daughter Nely, following in her father’s footsteps, teaches at the College of Fine Arts at the Benito Juarez University, and is a respected multi-media artist in her own right. She usually has delicate pendants and earrings available for sale made out of the same cantera stone;

OPTION 1: instead of visiting the foregoing after Monte Albán we can head in a different direction to visit:

**the carved wooden animal village at Arrazola (similar to San Martín Tilcajete described in ROUTE ONE);

**the church and monastery complex at Cuilapam as described in ROUTE ONE;

**on Thursdays the marketplace at Zaachila, where there is also a ruin close to the middle of town, with a tomb; the government employee at the ruin will show you photos of treasures which were removed from the tomb and taken to Mexico City where all but one piece remains locked up in storage…because of the conflict between the archaeologists and the townspeople about what to do with the tomb’s contents, excavation stopped and was never completed.

OPTION 2: instead of visiting Monte Albán as part of a full day organized tour, arrive there on your own by bus or taxi, and spend the rest of the day back in Oaxaca; you can then spend an entire day on this route and add the following, perhaps for those with particular fine arts and/or architectural interests:

**the combined Oaxaca Paper Factory and Center for the Arts housed in a restored 19th century textile mill makes for a fascinating stop out in the country at the end of a tiny mountaintop town, San Agustín Etla; regarding the former, founded in 1998 by Finnish paper makers and Oaxacan artists, it was conceived as an integrated space to produce hand-made paper with natural fibers from the region, and promote cultural activities in the community; it also involves a reforestation program and nursery; the former is a magnificent multi-level stone building incorporating natural waterfalls and poolings of water both outside and in the interior of the structure; there is a gallery with installations changing periodically, printmaking workshop and residences for visiting professors.

**artistic hand blown glass has been a tradition in Mexico for generations; a visit to Vidrio Artesanal Xa-quixe, located only a couple of minutes from the workshop of sculptor Adolfo Cruz, truly turns this route, with Option 2, into a day in the country exploring fine art; The glass workshop produces fine decorative pieces, lamps, bottles and more, using 80% recycled glass. Tour the facility and brouse the offerings.

IF TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN:

While each child and his particular interests, attention span and level of patience is different, as a rule we have been extremely successful in designing and recommending routes which address the needs youngsters while at the same time ensuring that parents are able to maximize their cultural experiences. Aside from arranging special sessions in the carved animal village to which reference is made above, we have made arrangements with other village craftspeople along a couple of the routes which include enabling children to work with and paint clay figures, touch and learn about raw wool and how it’s transformed into rugs and other products, in addition to swim in an environment that’s breathtaking for parents, and even play on a swing set at an open air restaurant so as to enable mom and dad to have a relaxing meal.

NOTE: For those clients who will be visiting at least one of the ruins with us and who are not staying with us and therefore do not have the benefit of reviewing the literature about the ruins which we make available to our house guests, we provide a complimentary copy of what we consider to be the best book on the archaeological sites in the region, OAXACA…THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL RECORD, by reknowned archaeologist Marcus Winter. This is but one aspect of the value added service we attempt to provide to all of our clients.

Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido and other Pacific coastal destinations: The Drive

2007-11-27T01:33:00.000-08:00

Travelers to the state of Oaxaca frequently inquire about the drive from the City of Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido and other coastal destinations, expressing concerns about the length of the trip, quality of the highways, and the overall advisability of driving versus flying or bussing. This essay speaks to the doubts tourists might have regarding the journey using their own or a rental vehicle.

We’ve driven the three main routes on a number of occasions over the past several years, at different times of the year. I’ve written elsewhere about highway 190 to Huatulco. That road, the easiest to navigate, takes you at least a couple of hours out of your way, south, and is therefore not the most advisable unless of course you plan to visit Salina Cruz or Huatulco anyway. By contrast, highway 175 through Pochutla, and then north on highway 200 to Oaxaca, takes about 6 hours (I tend to drive fast, and stop about 3 times during a trip) and is the most interesting and a relatively easy drive. Highway 131 is the most direct and quickest route, albeit with its downsides.

I will provide details of the 175 route driving to Puerto, and 131 by way of return route, in terms of what to expect regarding landscapes, towns and villages, and highway characteristics. A schedule of times and distances between particular towns appears as an appendix, providing a quick-and-easy summary of road conditions for each segment of the journey. However, for this trip we stopped more than usual along 131, so keep in mind that without any lengthy stops it should take about an hour less.

PREMIMINARY ADVICE

Sixteen years of traveling these routes have been incident free, attributable in part to following four simple rules:

1) Drive only during daytime. While the roads are paved and generally good, and in fact many of the bridges are freshly painted white, lighting is an issue. More importantly, there’s much more of a risk when driving at night of encountering inebriated drivers and pedestrians, and animals.

2) Start out with a full tank of gas. While there are gas stations en route, and signs advertising mechanics and gasoline along the roadways, by not having to make a stop to fill up, you have an opportunity to make other stops along the way, more productive than stopping to simply top up. The trip to the coast takes well less than a tank of gas.

3) While stating the obvious, make sure you’ve had the mechanical fitness, and oil and water levels of the car checked before leaving. Brakes, tires and steering are the most important for negotiating the portions of highway with mountain switchbacks.

4) Regardless of time of year, take a jacket, sweater or sweatshirt since you’ll be climbing to about 9,000 feet on route 175. If you tend to be susceptible to motion sickness, take along anti-nausea medication.

ROUTE 175

Oaxaca to Ocotlan: Takes about 40 minutes, initially with urban sprawl out of the city, and then gently rolling hills with a few strong curves, vegetation predominantly agave and corn under cultivation. Passes by the villages producing black pottery (San Bartolo Coyotepec), alebrijes (San Martin Tilcajete), and cotton textiles (Santo Tomas Jalieza). In Ocotlan, noted for its Friday market, you’ll find clay painted figures of the Aguilar sisters, the workshop of knife maker Angel Aguilar, and tributes to artist Rodolfo Morales…his home and foundation, mural at the municipal offices, and museum featuring his and earlier works.

Ocotlan to Ejutla: Takes about 25 minutes, with long easy straight-aways and occasional curves and gentle hills. Once again agave and some corn, with a number of outcrops of carriso (river reed used for making ceilings, roofs and fences). Known for its Thursday market, with sale of animal skins. You can easily avoid going into Ejutla by taking the well-marked bypass.

Ejutla to Mihuatlan: Takes about 35 minutes, with more pronounced curves and hills, and easy-to-navigate peaks and valleys through similar vegetation and some mixed brush. Good idea to take your Dramamine or Gravol about 15 minutes into this portion of the trip. While there is no specific bypass, it’s not necessary to enter the main downtown section of town. Just keep going straight and the highway takes you out of the city.

Mihuatlan to San Jose del Pacífico: Takes about 50 minutes. Leaving Mihuatlan you’ll see the impressive mountain range in front of you, which you quickly begin to climb. You’ll note the temperature change quite readily, as you witness the dramatic change in vegetation. In addition to deciduous trees including scrub oak, you’ll see an abundance of conifers, mainly pine. The agave changes from espadín under cultivation, to very different and impressive wild varieties along the side of the road, growing from rock outcrops, some reaching an immense size, with stock (chiote) shooting up from its core dwarfing many of the surrounding trees. This segment of the trip, and the next with descent to Pochutla, are characterized predominantly by significant mountain switchbacks. You’ll see roadside eateries, booths with alebrijes for sale, and small cottage-industry lumber and firewood producers. San Jose del Pacífico is noted for the sale of locally harvested hallucinogenic mushrooms, in particular during the rainy season, and therefore you’ll come across roadside workshops selling hand-made wooden mushrooms as well as other hand-crafted products. You can rent a cabin if you wish to break up the trip and spend the night. Clean accommodations, with private bath, start at about 300 pesos. There’s well-marked signage alongside the highway. Some are more modern and advertise satellite TV and other facilities. There are a few restaurants, grocery stores, bakery, etc. It’s a relaxing way to spend a few hours, perhaps hiking up the dirt roads where most residents tend to live.

San Jose del Pacífico to Pochutla: You’ll continue to climb for about another 10 minutes until you reach El Manzanal, then begin the descent. This portion of the trip takes about two hours and 25 minutes. The ride down is initially quite gradual, and then more pronounced once you reach San Miguel Suchixtepec, a picturesque village with large impressive church, and homes strung out along a few hilly mountain roads. You’ll begin to detect another significant temperature change, depending on the facing of the portion of mountain you are descending relative to the sun. At different portions of the stretch you’ll pass by a couple of waterfalls and three or four smaller rivulets spilling across the highway, goats and donkeys, home construction of wood, pine cones on the roadway, brilliant orange flowered bromeliads, wild orchids, large expanses of boston-like ferns, and perhaps one or two patches of fog. For several kilometers you’ll encounter a sweet smell similar to that of maple syrup. Because of the steep descent, you may even detect the smell of burning rubber, but don’t worry, it’s likely a truck up ahead having brake problems. At about four hours into the trip you’ll begin to hear tropical insect and bird sounds and calls, and see bananas and sugar cane under cultivation and for sale, with coffee and honey also offered at roadside stands. On the approach to Pochutla the roadway will then gradually straighten out, with curves much easier to navigate. Tropical grasses predominate the roadside landscapes. An indication that you’re getting closer with be blown sand encroaching part of the roadway, and finally a sign stating “Iguana Hunting Prohibited.” A short while later you’ll see the sign pointing to the right for the Puerto Escondido bypass.

Pochutla to Puerto Escondido: Takes about an hour. Highway 175 ends at a “Y”, so veer to the right and you’re on highway 200, following along the Pacific. However, you won’t be able to see the ocean for about 40 minutes. You’ll pass by the exit to Puerto Ángel, Mazunte and Zipolite. The entire final leg of the trip is basically straight and flat. For the last half hour or so you’ll see mango, papaya and coconut under cultivation.

ROUTE 131

Aside from the fact that this route should be quicker than 175, and is about 50 km shorter, there are other differences to note, in addition to similarities:

1) While 175 is predominantly a single ascent, and then descent, 131 consists of several hills and valleys which must be negotiated, on a couple of occasions arriving in a town at the bottom of a valley, and then again beginning to climb. This may contribute to the roller-coaster effect on your stomach.

2) The road quality is inferior on 131, in particular for about an hour in the approach to San Gabriel Mixtepec and thereafter, with potholes, poor attempts to repave, etc. However, until around the end of 2006 it was far worse. Now there are long stretches of fresh, new tar, and improvements continue.

3) Immediately upon leaving Puerto you begin an ascent, so there is no gradual departure from the tropical climate.

4) Much of the vegetation found on 175 is the same along 131, although it is less defined, in part because you do not climb to same altitude as on 175, and there are really no significant micro-climates which manifest in extremes of vegetation and particular commercial enterprise. Waterfalls are abundant, and landscapes are impressive, perhaps less so than on the other highway. There is much more livestock along the sides of the roadway than on route 175, predominantly donkeys and mules, so be a bit more vigilant.

Puerto Escondido to San Gabriel Mixtepec: Takes about an hour, with switchbacks and the climb commencing almost immediately. Take your meds as you leave the coast. As suggested earlier, there are peaks and valleys along this portion of the route. The patchwork of road repairs becomes apparent rather readily. Roadside coconut stands predominate initially. You’ll then begin to welcome the maple essence, in fact off and on for three or four hours as your journey continues. The village is quaint, with grocery stores, a major pharmacy and several restaurants.

San Gabriel Mixtepec to Cerro del Vidrio: This portion of the trip, just over an hour, is a net incline, not without several ascents and descents of mountain passes. At km 55 you’ll pass the exit to a well-known coffee plantation, Finca Las Nieves. Just before arriving at Cerro del Vidrio you’ll start a gradual descent, arriving in the town after about 10 minutes. This is where traffic turns off to go to Juquila (about a 45 minute detour), famous for the appearance of the Virgin of Juquila. Cerro del Vidrio developed much more rapidly once Oaxacans began making pilgrimages to Juquila. In fact along the entire 131 route you’ll see vehicles with gladioli tacked onto the front on either side of the license plate, along with a framed image of the virgin. Right at the turn-off you’ll encounter several vendors of fruit and memelitas filled with beans.

Cerro del Vidrio to San Pedro Juchatengo: Takes about 40 minutes, and terminates at the bottom of the largest valley you’ll encounter. Switchbacks. Upon arrival you’ll begin to see corn under cultivation, as well as some agave. The town boasts swimming in El Rio de Las Flores, as well as an ecological preserve.

San Pedro Juchatengo to Sola de Vega: You’ll continue negotiating strong switchbacks, initially following along the banks of the river, then deviating, and finally climbing until the pinnacle, “El Mirador,” where a small restaurant, rest stop and mezcal outlet are situate. You will have already begun to notice three different types of agave under cultivation, for mezcal production. You’ll then descend to Sola de Vega, arriving after about an hour and twenty minutes, now encountering some corn, and even banana trees. Sola de Vega is noted for its mezcal, and historically for its occupation by the French during colonial times.

Sola de Vega to Oaxaca: This final leg of the trip takes just under two hours, initially marked by climbing, albeit much easier to navigate, and then again peaks and valleys, much softer than during the first couple of hours of the return route. At km 181 you’ll see the cutoff to San Sebastián de Las Grutas, 13 km off to the left, where there are a series of caves you can hike. By km 190 the road will have straightened out, and for the balance of the trip, another 60 kilometers, there will be rolling straight-aways, the agave fields diminishing in number as corn becomes the predominate crop, with outcrops of carriso, some cactus under cultivation, and roadside stands selling sugar cane. By now the temperature will have risen and stabilized at typical Oaxaca valley climate. Your approach to the city will be marked by the same urban sprawl as when you left.

CONCLUSION

I highly recommend driving these routes. Consider taking an extra day so you can stop at some of the sites and villages, perhaps at a couple of mezcal operations, or just to get out of the car and take a stroll. Spending one overnight will help you to get a feel for rural Oaxaca, and add immeasurably to the totality of your vacation. San Jose del Pacífico gets my vote since it’s seemingly a bit more geared to ecotourism than the other towns and villages en route, although there are other quaint, interesting stopovers, where tourists don’t normally stop for the night, which might lead to even a more interesting sojourn. .

APPENDIX

ROUTE 175

Oaxaca to Octotlán, 40 min and 33 km; Ocotlán to Ejutla, 25 min and 25 km;

Ejutla to Mihuatlán, 38 min and 40 km; Mihuatlán to San Jose del Pacífico, 50 min and 36 km; San Jose del Pacífico to Pochutla, 145 min and 100 km; Pochutla to Puerto Escondido, 55 min and 69 km.

ROUTE 131

Puerto Escondido to San Gabriel Mixtepec, 60 min and 42 km; San Gabriel Mixtepec to Cerro del Vidrio, 70 min and 38 km; Cerro del Vidrio to San Pedro Juchatengo, 40 min and 24 km; San Pedro Juchatengo to Sola de Vega, 80 min and 50 km; Sola de Vega to Oaxaca, 120 min and 93 km.

Going On Vacations With A Personal Loan?

2007-11-27T01:31:00.000-08:00

The possibility to use a loan for going on vacations raises many questions. Which loan should I apply for? What terms or conditions are more convenient? Are vacations worthy enough as a loan purpose? Where do I find a lender?

Are Vacations Worthy Of A Loan?

One may think that taking a loan for going on vacations is an unnecessary expense. However, the truth is that a time off is essential not only for your body but for your mind too. This is a scientific fact of which not only workers but also, managers and the government are convinced. The ILO (International Labor Organization) is clear about the subject: Vacations are a Right.

Given that vacations are a right and a need, what you have to analyze is whether you are resorting to a loan due to a temporary or long term lack of cash. If you just could not save enough money but your income will let you repay the loan without sacrifices, then there is no question about it, a Personal loan can be the solution for paying for vacations.

However, if your income is not going to let you repay the loan without making sacrifices what you need to analyze is weather the other expenses you will have to cut in order to repay the loan are more essential than a well deserved annual break or not. Vacations are a necessity but there are other needs of a more essential nature. As long as you do not cut on these ones, the use of a loan for paying for vacations is justified.

Which Loan And On What Terms?

Since going on vacations is a personal purpose, any loan oriented to satisfy personal purposes is good for this aim. The options are varied: You can request a personal unsecured loan, a personal secured loan (which can be secured by many different assets including vehicles) or a home equity loan (secured on the equity on your home).

The three types will accomplish the purpose of financing your vacations. However, only the last one will provide the cheapest source of finance. Nevertheless, Which loan type best suits your needs depends on the amount of money you need, the interest rate you are willing to pay, whether you are willing to risk repossession or not and whether you actually own a property or vehicle to use as collateral.

Unsecured Loans have higher interest rates but no risk of repossession. They are the best choice for small amounts of money and the only option for those who do not own their car and home. If you already have some money and you just need some extra cash to complete the costs’ amount, an unsecured loan is the smartest choice. Secured Loans on the other side come with the risk of repossession but charge less interest and have more flexible repayment programs.

Where Do I Find The Lender?

The answer to this question is simple: Online. By searching the net you will find that there are lots of lenders offering personal loans and many of them have offers specially tailored for those who plan to use the money for going on vacations.

The usual advice is to shop around for lenders, requesting loan quotes, bargaining with them and selecting your lender after comparing what all of them have to offer. Take special attention to APR, Fees and Costs as some lenders will offer lower APR loans but the loan fees and costs might turn the loan more expensive than one with a higher APR.

Summary Of The 2001 Fishing Guiding Season

2007-11-26T01:29:00.000-08:00

MARCH 15: The season opener, March 15, on the Kalum River went very well for our two guests Clay Kangerga (repeat guest) and Gary Jordan (rookie) hooking a total of 14 Steelhead between them and landing seven. They had a very good day and said they were pleased. The river conditions were excellent and the weather was fair all week. On March 16 they hooked 10 Steelhead. March 17 they hooked 14. March 18, their last day fishing together, they hooked 10. Gary stayed and fished an extra day. These numbers tell us there was a good number of fish in the river.

Note: The Kalum River is “Classified Waters” year round and we are licensed to guide from March 15 through October 15 only. All licensed Angling Guides are limited to these dates.

MARCH 18: The fishing started off very good for our guest Gary Jordan landing seven Steelhead. One was a very BIG fish! (See photo of the week) He apparently landed an even bigger fish later that day but couldn’t get a photo. The weather had turned cold by Wednesday March 21 when two dedicated fly fishermen arrived. The unusual cold temperatures continued through Thursday and Friday making fly fishing near impossible as the guides on their fishing rods froze up after only three or four casts. Even with these tough conditions they persevered and did manage to land Steelhead. One of these fellows was, repeat guest, Robert Tomes and he landed a BIG Steelhead . (See photo of the week) You may remember Robert from last spring, first week in April, when he may have landed a new fly caught world record Steelhead. See last spring April 9, 2000 report for the details.

MARCH 25-APRIL 1: Our guiding efforts focused on the Kalum River, upper drift. It started off slow for our guest Bill Kaiser due to the bad weather but on his last day he got it going and he landed 8 Steelhead. Our other guest, David Pratt, was off to a roaring start, first day he landed 8 Steelhead, second day he landed 9 (including a 20-pounder). See photo’s of the week. The spin fisherman will be challenged by a fly fisherman next week.

APRIL 8: Fishing was excellent all week! Our guiding efforts were focused on the upper Kalum River drift. Now we are starting to guide on the Kitimat River and main-stem Skeena River. All three rivers are low and clear. In my last report I mentioned a single fly fisherman taking on a couple of spin fishermen…well…he held his own. In four days of fishing fly fisherman Elmer Miller hooked a total of 17 Steelhead and landed 7. The purple “Zonker” was the top fly. Three of the fish were larger than average size and one even topped the 20-pound mark (see photo of the week). We are certain lots of fresh Steelhead are coming into the main-stem Skeena River now. These fish are bright, chrome silver.

APRIL 22: Fishing this week, due to the rising water, was a challenge for our two fly fishing guests from Sweden but they were up to it. With assistance from their experienced AAG Randy Marshall and dedication to their sport, they did manage to hook a total of six Steelhead and land three. They also hooked, landed and lost numerous Dolly Varden Char along with a fish we affectionately call S.I.T (Steelhead In Training) which are actually Steelhead Smolts. These young Steelhead spend 2 to 3 years in freshwater before they head out to the saltwater.

APRIL 29: I must start this weeks report with a couple of corrections to last weeks fishing report. First off, I used the wrong formula to estimate the weight of my BIG Steelhead. The correct estimated weight would be 19.15-pounds not 22.18-pounds. Darn…sure looked well over 20-pounds to me! Also, our two guests from Sweden hooked a total of nine Steelhead and landed four, not three.

MAY 6: I am getting reports that good numbers of Chinook Salmon are being caught throughout the full length of the Kalum River. As a conservation measure these BIG fish are catch and release only. Fishing for Steelhead on this river is still very good and if one is lucky expect to hook both Chinook and Steelhead on the same day. The water on the Kalum River has been rising steadily (this is normal for this time of year) and has remained in good shape.

MAY 13: Good numbers of Chinook Salmon are being caught throughout the full length of the Kalum River. As a conservation measure these BIG fish are catch and release only. The water on the Kalum River has been rising steadily (this is normal for this time of year) and has remained in good shape. Chinook fishing on the Skeena River is really starting to pick up. Normally, this time of year, the water is too dirty to fish for them but this week the water is still clean enough to fish…and the bite is on!!

Our group of 8 guests from Alberta managed to land 15 Steelhead and 13 Chinook in their four days (May 9-13) of guided fishing and lost about as many. All fish were released except for the three Chinook they landed on the Skeena River. They plan to enjoy a family barbeque when they get home and have booked another trip to come back in July 2002.

MAY 20: Very good numbers of Chinook Salmon are being caught throughout the full length of the Kalum River now. This looks like a very good year! As a conservation measure BIG Chinook over 65cm are catch and release only until July 1. You may retain the smaller Jack’s (under 65 cm) but…the small fish are few and far between. Our lodge record 83-pounder was landed on May 24, 1983. Fishing for Steelhead on this river is still very good and if one is lucky expect to hook both Chinook and Steelhead on the same day. The water on the Kalum River has been slowly rising (this is normal for this time of year) but has remained in good shape.

Chinook fishing on the Skeena River is really starting to pick up. Normally, this time of year, the water is too dirty to fish for them but this week the water is still clean enough to fish…and the bite is on!!

Our four guests (2 from England and 2 from USA) so far have managed to land 64 Steelhead and 25 Chinook in five days of guided fishing on the Kalum, Skeena and Kitimat Rivers. All fish were released except for the one Chinook that was landed on the Skeena River. This is the BEST FISHING we have seen in years!! After this group leaves we will not be targeting spring Steelhead anymore, we will leave them alone to set up for spawning. The next time we target Steelhead will be on the Skeena River for “summer-runs” starting around mid August.

This is the best Steelhead and Chinook spring time fishing we have seen in years! The Kalum River is full of fish from top to bottom…but as a continued conservation measure, fishing for Chinook Salmon above the lower canyon has closed as of May 24. One may target them below the lower canyon (approx. 5 miles) and even then the BIG fish over 65cm are “catch and release” only until after July 1.

MAY 27: Please avoid targeting Steelhead directly, most now will be in the spawning mode and should be left alone. The next time we target Steelhead will be on the main stem Skeena River for “summer-runs” starting around early to mid August.

JUNE 3 – 30: We focus our guiding now on the (lower section) Kalum, Kitimat and mainstem Skeena Rivers. When the water was in shape on the Kitimat River fishing for Chinook, Chum and Pink was great! We have a large group coming in the first week of July so the guides (Randy, Greg and I) did a test fish on the Kitimat River June 25 and hooked a total of six Chinook and landed three in a short day. See…photo of the week.

JULY 1: Looks like a good run of Chinook are in the river now. The mainstem Skeena river is still dirty. We really look forward to the Skeena River cleaning up so we can start fishing there, not only for Chinook but also Sockeye which should start coming in anytime. A run of 2.6 million Sockeye is predicted for this year.

FOC (Fisheries & Oceans Canada) predict a good run of Chinook again, plus this year one may angle for and retain Sockeye and Pinks on the mainstem Skeena River. The daily limit will probably be two fish per person, double that for your possession.

We focus our guiding now on the (lower section) Kalum, Kitimat and mainstem Skeena Rivers. If the mainstem Skeena River is dirty we fish the clean seams that flow in from tributary waters. We can always find a place to fish.

JULY 15: Fishing has been EXCELLENT on the mainstem Skeena River, lots of BIG Chinook being landed along with Sockeye. Fishing for Chinook is starting to pick up on the lower Kalum River. All waters are in excellent condition. It is early but we anticipate hooking our first summer-run Steelhead anytime and maybe our first Coho.

Our three guests from Switzerland, one of which is a repeat, had an excellent four days of guided fishing on the mainstem Skeena. They hooked a total of 38 Chinook and managed to land 12. They fished one day for Sockeye and managed to land a few. (See photo of week)

JULY 22: Chinook fishing (for the BIG ones) was very good on the lower Kalum River for our group of three repeat guests from Alberta. AAG Randy Marshall managed to get them into 29 BIG Chinook and land 15 in three days of fishing. Fishing for Sockeye on the mainstem Skeena started out good at the beginning of the week but slowed down by weeks end, due to the warm weather and rising water.

Kitimat has been very good for Chum (for those who have the technique down either fly or spin) and now the Pinks are starting to show in decent numbers. Chinook fishing is still available but slowing down.

One of our guests took the day off Salmon fishing on the rivers and went fly fishing for trout in one of our local lakes. He had a good day landing six nice Rainbows.

JULY 29: Fishing for BIG Chinook, small Chinook, Sockeye, Pinks is very good on the mainstem Skeena River. As a bonus we are landing and releasing numerous summer-run Steelhead. It is wonderful to see this fish again. The annual cycle has started over! We are guiding a group of eight and they said they are having a wonderful time landing numerous (and I mean numerous) Salmon on the mainstem Skeena and Chum on the Kitimat River using both spin and fly fishing methods.

Italo Labignan and camera people (Jim & Tony)of Canadian Sportfishing are here again to shoot more fishing videos. I will let you know how we make out in next weeks report.

AUGUST 5: We shot four fishing shows this week with Italo Labignan of Canadian Sportfishing as follows:

Show 1: Mixed bag of fish (Salmon and Steelhead) landed on the mainstem Skeena with a large group of eight guests. Each guest was on camera with Italo with a fish landed! Some of this footage was absolutely amazing the “shock” on the guests faces will tell it all!

Show 2: Fly fishing for Chum on the Kitimat River was very successful with over seven Chum landed for the camera.

Show 3: Fly fishing for Sockeye on the mainstem Skeena went very well with numerous Sockeye landed for the camera.

Show 4: Fishing for BIG Chinook on the mainstem Skeena River went extremely well by landing seven Chinook for the show. We also landed several Steelhead and two very fresh early run Coho Salmon.

I will let everyone know when these shows air on TSN in Canada as soon as I know. They will air on OLN in the USA after that. To date, we have shot eleven fishing shows covering our complete season from spring Steelhead, summer Chinook and other Salmon through fall Steelhead and Coho.

AUGUST 12: FANTASTIC FISHING NOW FOR A VARIETY OF SALMON AND STEELHEAD!

The Skeena River now claims ownership of the “catch & release” world record for Chinook Salmon. Ingrid Oeder was the lucky angler and her angling guides were AG Wolfgang Volker (owner of Kermodei Bear Lodge) and AAG John Wright. The monster fish with a length of 53.5 inches and a girth of 38.5 using a formula (endorsed by FOC) of Length x Girth squared divided by 800 would weigh 99.125-pounds…clearly the largest Chinook (Kings as the Americans refer to them) ever landed. Along with witnesses a video was taken and a photograph made from the video.

Note: read the “WHOLE” story in the August 19 report.

Fishing for BIG Chinook, small Chinook, Sockeye, Pinks and Steelhead is very, very good on the mainstem Skeena River using both fly and spin fishing methods. A few Coho Salmon were also landed. It is nice to see these fish again. One is reminded that one cannot target Coho until after September 1.

FISHERIES NOTICE: As of August 7 angling for Chinook is closed (usual annual closure) from the mouth of the Lakelse River to 1.5 KM above the mouth of the Kalum River. This conservation measure protects these BIG fish and lets them spawn in peace!. We no longer target them, we are now fishing for summer-run Steelhead.

FISHERIES NOTICE: Limit for Sockeye Salmon on the mainstem Skeena River from the mouth upstream to the confluence with the Kispiox River has been increased to 4 fish per day from 2 fish per day.

AUGUST 26 Fishing for BIG Chinook is over on the Skeena River and Sockeye fishing is slowing down. Steelhead and Pink Salmon is very good on the mainstem Skeena River using both fly and spin fishing methods. Coho are also starting to show in good numbers and anglers are reminded not to target them until after September 1. We have had high water on the Kitimat River that should move Coho up river.

The Terrace & District Angling Guides Association “catch & release” Chinook trophy (contest ended August 6) was won this year by Komaham Lodge with a fish that weighed 80-pounds.

Code of Conduct : Fisheries and Oceans Canada recently released what could become the 10 commandments of ethical fishing. The list is located in August 26 report.

SEPTEMBER 9 We had more than our fair share of rain on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and it took some of our rivers out of our guiding program…but…by weeks end everything came back into shape and fishing for Steelhead and Coho is EXCELLENT again! Sockeye and Pinks are still available on the mainstem Skeena River.

September 16 We were shocked and saddened by the tragic events in the United States on Tuesday, September 11, 2001. As chairman of the Terrace & District Angling Guides Association I would like to extend our deepest sympathies from all of our members.

Due to the disruption in airline travel those guests who were booked this week and next have been rescheduled to fish another time.

The weather and water conditions are excellent to fish for both Steelhead and Coho. Sockeye and Pinks are still available on the mainstem Skeena River but slowing down considerably.

SEPTEMBER 23 Fishing for both Steelhead and Coho was good until the heavy rain started yesterday. It blew out the mainstem Skeena, Kitimat and both upper and lower Kalum. At the moment we are looking for clean water to fish and are having some success. By Sunday (today) noon the heavy rain had stopped and we hope conditions will come back quickly to most if not all the rivers. Lots of Pinks still around, Sockeye fishing is just about over.

SEPTEMBER 30 Despite the heavy rain and poor water conditions on a few of our main rivers Coho fishing has remained excellent (see guest comments). Most of the rain has stayed in the mountains as snow. Fishing for Steelhead is tough…but not impossible. Zymoetz (Copper) River when clean has been fishing very well for Steelhead. Mainstem Skeena is back in shape today. Check out the “new” hot link http://www.northwestfishingguides.com/reports for water heights on the Skeena River.

“Noel & Gail: Thanks for a great time, short but sweet first time here, first day fishing, first Coho on a fly, what a beautiful place, what a beautiful fish. Randy was a superb guide and we found a hole that everybody else was looking for! I tied a fly I will call “clouser mutant” (sp ?) second cast produced a great big attack from a Coho. The fly is not conducive to an elegant cast, but next time it will make jigs and spoons look singularly unproductive.” Graeme Thom, originally from South Africa via USA – Sept. 26/2001

“We arrived this place when all rivers were “out of shape”. But very professional guiding helped us, to catch so many fish. Many thanks for this to Noel and Greg. And the hardest rains of British Columbia can’t make you cry, when you stay before in Gail’s kitchen. Thank you for all – we will be back for 3rd time.” Hans & Ulrich from Germany – Sept. 22, 2001

OCTOBER 7 We had good weather until today. Fishing is great for both Steelhead and Coho. All waters are in good shape

OCTOBER 14 Fishing is GREAT for Coho and below average for Steelhead. Good on the Copper but slow on the Kalum and mainstem Skeena. Possibly more Steelhead could have been landed if one only targeted Steelhead but with all the Coho around it is hard to leave them alone. All water is in good shape. I will select Coho photos of the week until October 31st when fishing for Coho closes. After that, for about six months, expect lots of Steelhead photos.

Our season is winding down…our last guests leave our lodge on October 15. We are already looking forward to next season. We'll be guiding for Steelhead on the Kalum River starting March 15, 2002. We still have some dates open so if you are planning a trip please let me know your preferred dates ASAP.

Ending the season with a comment from Capt. Rick Mager seems appropriate: “I fish for a living. I know what makes a great trip. Everything about this lodge and the fishing, was just great. The food, the guides, and the fishing…is the very best anyone could hope for. We will be back. Thanks for everything, this place is too beautiful for words.” Capt. Rick Mager, Key West FL USA – October 14, 2001

Even though our regular seven month guiding season (March 15 thru October 15) is over, we plan on guiding the Zymoetz (Copper River) for “wild” Steelhead from November 1 through December 31 (two months). We call this period EXTREME STEELHEADING. This is still a good time to angle for Steelhead even though the weather will be colder. See you all next year !!

Living Aboard An RV: Are You Ready For It?

2007-11-23T01:27:00.000-08:00

One of life's many paradoxes is our constant desire to gain maximum control over our 'operating environment', despite the knowledge that so many aspects of daily life remain beyond our influence. Result being, we spend considerable time, money and effort attempting to get everything just right before taking 'the plunge'.

In the military, as I recall, this was referred to as the 'Ready - Aim - Fire' principle, whereas many human endeavors are, in fact, better suited to the more appropriate method of 'Ready - Fire - Aim'! And it seems to me that preparing for a fulltime life on the road is a fine example of this latter approach. After all, there are so many unique skills and practical techniques involved, it's reasonable to expect that much of what we need to know cannot be learned sitting at home. As they say, one learns to ride a bike by riding a bike.

Accordingly, while there is a raft of personal preparations to get squared away, there is much about serious 'bumming around' that simply evolves as each day rolls by. By way of illustration, out there on the road you'll find that few if any long-term, committed nomads have identical travelling outfits, nor do each follow precisely the same routines as when they first set out on the road. (One question I love to ask the old hands is: 'If you were starting out again, is there anything you’d do differently?')

So, if you dream of taking up the wandering life, though you may be unsure as to what you need or how you might travel, I suspect the Buddha would simply say: 'Follow your heart. Our time in this life is limited.'

Nevertheless, it still behoves all good RV nomads – and intending nomads – to place considerable emphasis on getting their outfit right, and then equipping themselves for a long and trouble-free life on wheels. (Nothing much wrong with hedging your bets by building up an abundance of good karma!)

Of greater importance than travel hardware, though, is your nomadic 'software': YOU, ie, your personal mix of attitude, personal preparations, and strategies for living on the road rather than simply travelling on the road. Because most often, it's the mental / psychological pressures rather than equipment failures that result in wannabe nomads scurrying back to suburbia.

In short, although you do need to look carefully at equipment and hardware, right up front during your preparation and planning phase you and your team must get absolutely clear on what lies ahead. To put it bluntly, you are heading toward a substantial culture shock!

That's right: shock. After all, if you've spent the past thirty or fifty years wallowing in the comforts and relative boredom of modern western society, taking a giant step 'backward' into a lifestyle positioned somewhere between 'upper third world' and 'new-age fringe-dweller', you have a mixed bag of challenges ahead. Heading onto the road fulltime, with some dewy-eyed notion that you're embarking on a romantic adventure, is asking for trouble. Not necessarily trouble of the 'money can fix it' variety (though there are sure to be a few of those), more of a 'what the hell are we doing here' personal confrontation.

The first attribute, then, which serious nomads should add to their psychological toolbox is mental tenacity, sufficient to accept, meet and live with all the interpersonal / societal negatives that we drifters bump up against along the way. Get ready, for example, to have humanity's contempt directed toward you. Not every day, perhaps, but from time to time you will sense it, subtle though it may be. If not fully committed to the lifestyle, if you don't feel the Zen – some 'higher purpose' in the whole thing – those jibes may slowly erode and ultimately destroy your self-esteem. Next stop: Suburbia.

The best defence against pressures of this sort is to find some deeper reason for becoming a fulltime RV traveller. Perhaps a hobby, a 'calling', some sort of mobile money-earner, or even a personal Holy Grail – anything that provides you with the 'justification' for such a 'bohemian lifestyle', while at the same time adding purpose and depth to your days and your travels.

Examples might include fossicking, fruit picking, writing, wineries, historic sites, bird watching, visiting bush pubs, searching for inner truth, or here in Oz, that good old standby, 'seeing Australia'.

Having said that, however, there are countless fellow nomads out there who are happy – even proud – to thumb their noses at designer bias and opinion, and just 'do it'. You have to decide for yourself which approach fits best, so that any necessary lifestyle preparations, by way of training and equipment, are included as you ramp up to 'Departure Day'.

Of course, identifying and building a 'purpose' is only one small part of your learning curve. To move from a fully supported, fixed, urban existence, to a high level of mobile independence, requires a certain amount of training, learning and research. Fortunately, independence is a skill and as such it can be learned. Moreover, this wandering nomad thing has been going on since mankind first walked upright, so you'll find an endless variety of sources from which to learn.

You could, for instance, study pioneering lifestyles and how the early settlers tackled their daily challenges; or perhaps delve into the nitty-gritty of the 'survivalist' and 'homesteading' movements. Other fertile fields of gypsy techniques can be found amongst the lives of explorers, and Earth's 'real' nomads, such as the Australian Aborigines, American Indians, hoboes and swaggies. Within their lives and their stories you'll find many similarities – and many of the answers to the day-to-day trials of self-reliance.

Another early stage of your nomadic apprenticeship ought to be setting out on the road for increasing periods of time to field test a few ideas for yourself. Certainly, short holidays will seem nothing more than 'junk food' to the true nomad, but to become independent and resourceful to any useful degree you do need to get out and practice the skills and techniques involved. It's an endless process of reading, thinking, trial and error, and practice – all of which develop both experience and confidence.

During this process you will also be 'easing' yourself into the life of a nomad. You might start by hiring a caravan or motorhome to 'try it on for size'. Meanwhile, your first taste of overnight independence might be in a national park or state forest. And essential skills like camping, bush cooking, first aid, map reading, vehicle maintenance, and 12-volt power should start to play an ever-expanding role. Because the truth is, no matter which way you dress it up, moving from a house to a 'box on wheels' is likely to involve a significant step down from your current living standards so it's sure to be stressful. Baby steps are the best way to go.

Mind you, any knowledge, skill or piece of kit that eventually enables you to replace or supplement all those amenities and utilities enjoyed at home (or those of a tourist park) serve to increase independence. It pays, therefore, to start by asking yourself how you might satisfy – or better, reduce – your lifelong reliance on daily necessities such as power, lighting, water, refrigeration, toilet, shower, etc.

By the way, at the risk of jumping about here I should point out that, among all the skills that should or could be learned, those that offer potential to become sources of income on the road are doubly valuable. If you become adept at, say, mechanical repairs, baking bread, article writing, cutting hair, sewing, or basic carpentry, you can, potentially, use these skills to top-up finances along the way. In other words, concentrate your time and effort on skills that either make or save money.

At this point, you may be forming the impression that being a nomad requires a certain level of mental toughness. Well, you're darned right it does! But it's more an attitudinal toughness than physical. And it will come over you quietly, as a by-product of all this learning.

Another example of attitudinal toughness lies in the comparative level of 'roughing it' that each of us is prepared to accept. If decisions regarding comfort and convenience aren't discussed and mutually agreed with partner or group, troubled waters lie ahead! Get together with your team members and talk about the standard of lifestyle that suits your goals, your commitment, and your budget. Once settled, subsequent preparations – in terms of skills development and finances – can be directed along this chosen path. Keep in mind, however, we all tend to choose our own personal (and slightly different) path, so remain true to your own aspirations, values and needs (not to mention your limitations!), rather than being swayed by friends or experienced nomads.

On that point regarding other team members: Sure, there may be only one other, but whatever the number, they each have a different view of what 'nomadism' entails, secretly influenced by their own levels of 'mental toughness'. Ignore them at your peril! There is always room for compromise.

Not only do travel companions harbour various (possibly unspoken) fears and uncertainty about minor annoyances such as dust, heat, flies, remote and lonely campsites, creepy-crawlies, and bush toilets, each also has his or her own 'dependencies' and comfort zones to dismantle, such as friends, relatives, television, social activities, family memorabilia, and an array of home luxuries. All the cards must be turned face-up on the table before detailed preparations and financial commitment get too far advanced.

Besides, no matter what the quality or degree of your preparation and planning, difficulties WILL occur; problems come along regardless of where we are or how we live. Even so, chances are better than good that – accidents aside – most 'road' problems are easier to fix than those of suburbia – depending, of course, on all of the above.

Yes, the Zen here is mental toughness: Being prepared to take measured risk, then being ready to cope with and rectify problems as they arise. Trust your judgment and abilities, particularly your natural ability to learn, to gain experience and to get better, day-by-day, in all that you do.

Interestingly enough, none of this stuff is age-dependant. Nor is it dollar-dependent. Provided we stick to reality and practicality, while steering clear of fantasy and dreaming, any of us can learn to become a 'smart' nomad within the parameters of our limitations, plans and goals.

On the other hand, there are a number of hidden traps that you won't find mentioned in the 'positive' press about RV lifestyles. For example, if you (or any member of your party) has a strong craving for any of our modern-day ills – like alcohol, drugs, sex, television soapies, Internet, telephones, gambling, etc. – now's the time to start the 'weaning off' process. Otherwise your nomadic life may be voluntarily but prematurely cut short. Here again, gradual change is best, so allow plenty of time.

There is no doubt, a change as significant as fulltime bumming around requires loads of focused preparation. Indeed, across a planning horizon of less than two years I would think it unlikely that you could resolve, or even consider, all that you should. On the other hand, this long period of preparation and planning is part of the fun: the anticipation leading to excitement, the trips that lead to skill and confidence, and the experience levels that lead to safety. Allow sufficient quality time to enjoy and absorb this evolutionary process.

Remember: over-planning is far better than no planning, but be sure to incorporate sufficient flexibility to accommodate the new ideas, diversions, and changes that inevitably arise.

Experiences from ‘The Flow’ (7) - Living Well? Farangs and Finance: The Myth

2007-11-21T01:25:00.000-08:00

“To us Farangs (Thai: foreigners), living in Thailand can be financially challenging. But according to most of the locals, ALL FARANGS MUST BE RICH!”

“Prosperity: The eternal flow of all that’s good in life…”

By Carl “J.C.” Pantejo, Copyright January 2008

(Author “My Friend Yu – The Prosperity Mentor,” Copyright August 2007. Pantejo - Y.N. Vurce Publishing.)

*Below is the seventh episode in a series of real life events experienced by the author. The only deviations from the truth may be the names of people and places. These stories are also incorporated in “My Friend Yu – the Prosperity Mentor: Book II,” Pantejo - Y.N. Vurce Publishing. Release Date: 2008.

- The Myth of Farang Finances -

There is an unwritten rule about the cost of anything in Thailand: There is a Thai price and a Farang price. Since Thai people believe that “all Farangs are rich,” the Farang price of everything is much higher (sometimes triple!).

Of course, this is a myth.

But why do Thai people believe all Farangs are rich (including the “poor” Farang English teachers)? Many reasons. But all of them can be placed into three broad areas: Tourism, Currency, and Standard of Living.

- The Tourist Syndrome -

Like most of Asia, Thailand attracts tourists from around the world.

Prospective vacationers plan and save all year for their holidays in the tropics. The warm, sunny weather; lush, green landscapes; exotic cultures, and beautiful, friendly people are but a few of the many reasons why millions of tourists flock to Thailand.

While on vacation, most of the tourists, out of ignorance OR intention, willingly spend what the local Thai people consider “small fortunes.”

Wallets and pocketbooks are opened more freely when on holiday.

Consequently, especially in the big, major cities and tourist hotspots of Thailand, most Thai people believe that Farangs are rich because all they see are free-spending tourists.

What the Thai people don’t realize is that the majority of the “rich” Farangs work like dogs all year ‘round in order to spend a lot of money during their short visits in their country; having a great time playing out their individual, celebrity fantasies.

- “A Farang in Thai’s Clothing” (The Double-Edged Sword) -

Tourists and ex-pats alike enjoy the overshadowing strength of their home currency against the Thai baht. For example, one USD = 33-35 Thai Baht. This situation makes things seem ridiculously cheap.

Food, accommodations, and all vices known to man are easily obtained for obscenely low prices. And, of course, the longer a Farang stays in Thailand, the more he/she learns how to buy things that are closer to the local Thai price.

Case in point: I’ve been in Thailand for about two years now. I take advantage of my Asian appearance as much as possible by keeping my mouth shut and letting my Thai friends do all the haggling.

All vendors assume that I am a local Thai (until I begin speaking). I don’t say a word until the transactions are complete. This “mum’s the word,” habit of silence normally saves me between 30-50% at all the local markets, restaurants, pubs, hotels, tourists attractions etc.

It’s frustrating to my non-Asian, Farang friends (especially the ones who have been in Thailand longer than me AND speak fluent Thai) whenever we’re out together. Everyone, from the hotel receptionist to the taxi driver, speaks to me in Thai and assumes that I will translate what they say for them.

And of course, prices for me are automatically lower.

When we’re out bar hopping or singing karaoke, the women we meet see me as a rare catch, indeed; a “double bonus” – not only am I a “rich” Farang, my Thai appearance is easily presentable to friends and family; something supremely important in Thailand.

Don’t get me wrong.

Yes, there are many advantages to being a Farang AND looking Thai; but there are disadvantages too. It’s a double-edged sword cutting both ways. For example, I’m an English teacher. English teachers in Thailand are supposed to look like Farangs (i.e., white skin, tall, brown or blond hair, light colored eyes, etc.).

Many times during my stay in Thailand I’ve been turned down for a job because I “look too Thai.”

Once I applied for a teaching position at an International School where a lot of my Farang friends worked. They had bachelor degrees. I have a master’s degree and was enthusiastically welcomed by the Hiring Director.

But then a co-owner of the school saw me and instantly told the Hiring Director to offer me a position WITH HALF THE NORMAL FARANG SALARY! In other words, even though I had more education, qualifications, and experience than my co-Farang friends, the co-owner thought I “looked too Thai” to garner the normal Farang pay.

I don’t blame the co-owner. You see, the parents of English students pay a premium for English classes and want “Real Farangs” teaching the class!

If the parents don’t like any teacher, only one of two things can happen: 1) The teacher is excused (which is the norm) or 2) The parent takes the student elsewhere for English classes taught by “Real Farang” teachers (which doesn’t happen often).

- Culture Shock and Living Comfortably: Farang Style -

Let’s face it, visiting a place for a vacation versus living in that place are two very different things.

In spite of having an Asian heritage and passing for a local in any Asian country, I (like all ex-pats) still suffered a severe culture shock when I decided to live in Asia.

Anyone who has ever lived in Asia can empathize.

Things are rarely on time. Asians, with a seemingly perverse delight, are notorious for keeping Farangs waiting; or worse, not showing up at all. No advance notice of cancellation. No remorse if you should happen to bump into them afterwards.

There is a saying amongst us Farangs in Thailand, “If you and an Asian agree in the morning to meet at 4:00 PM, the next question should be: What week?”

And what Westerners consider as “basic and normal” is considered “luxurious” by most Asians.

Clean, continuous water is not a guarantee. I’ve lived in many places in Asia where the water spouts go dry for hours everyday. The smart thing to do is to keep a large trash bin full of water at all times in the bathroom. That way, even if the running water runs out, one can flush the toilet (a Western, seated-style toilet or an Asian, squatting style porcelain “foot bowl”) and at least take a bath.

Uninterrupted, non-spiking electricity is rare. “Brown Outs” happen frequently. Every household is equipped with candles and flashlights for such occasions.

The locals just take it in stride and entertain themselves with the old art of conversation; or, if one is lucky, the even older (and more fun) art of sex. But most Farangs are “forced” to “relax” and go with the flow – even if hours of computer work have just vaporized into ether!

When brownouts occur, people scramble to turn all appliances off (in preparation for the power surges that occur when the power is finally restored). Televisions, computers, and stereos routinely become irreparably damaged from such surges.

These “little annoyances” tend to accumulate.

Finding real napkins vice toilet paper at restaurants becomes a treat. Some semblance of sanitary conditions in restaurants and other public places (meaning: food minus the flies or the smell of sewage - “Ahhh…the mist of piss and the aroma of dog excrement”) makes one feel like a VIP!

Good roads, roads that don’t threaten to fling you off your motorcycle with every pothole, makes the “driving war” a little more tolerable.

Honest (or at least semi-honest) businessmen and policemen would also be nice now and then – and the list goes on and on…

All the above reasons steer most Farangs towards obtaining a standard of living they consider “normal” by Western standards; but is nonetheless, a standard that appears quite lavish to the local Thai people.

Naturally gravitating to living areas that more closely match their usual standard of living; Farangs look for cleanliness, convenience, and comfort. This translates into apartments, condominiums, and townhouses that can cost triple the normal Thai person’s monthly salary.

Luckily, since qualified Farangs are in short supply, Farang salaries in Thailand tend to be just enough to support a somewhat “tolerable” standard of living for a Farang; a living standard that seems totally extravagant by Thai standards.

Not accustomed to (or unwilling to acclimate to) the heat, Farangs seek out places that have air-conditioning. Most locals cannot (or will not) “waste” their money on expensive aircon units and their accompanying high electricity bills; perfectly satisfied with one or two electric fans.

Farangs routinely enjoy eating at restaurants, especially restaurants that are clean and offer a variety of Thai and foreign cuisines. Local Thai’s either cook at home or eat at one of the many street food stands; thinking that eating at a restaurant is another extravagance reserved only for special occasions.

As soon as a Farang can afford it, he/she buys a car (or at least a motorcycle); whereas the bulk of Thai people use cheap, public transportation (bus, train, subway, or motorbike taxis). Traveling by taxi is considered expensive and used mostly by Farangs and richer Thai’s.

All of this (free-spending tourists, currency power, and luxurious living) reinforces the Thai myth that ALL FARANGS MUST BE RICH!

…Continued in “Experiences from ‘The Flow’ (7) - Living Well? Farangs and Finance: The Reality, Stupidity, and Hard Knocks.”

“Until next time, find ‘The Flow’ and jump in!”

Your Friend in this Intrepid Journey called Life,

Carl “J.C.” Pantejo

relationships, fidelity, infidelity, finances, white skin, ex-pats, Falang, Asian, inconveniences, wasteful.

Note: If you want to read more about overcoming heartbreak, unconditional love, exorcising past personal demons, and the Illusive Secret of Happiness, please read the following articles:

“Experiences from ‘The Flow’: From Heartbreak to Happiness”

“Experiences from ‘The Flow’ (2): Coincidence or Synchronicity: FROM RELAPSE TO MIRACLES...”

“Experiences from ‘The Flow’ (3): LOST AND FOUND - Kindred Spirits and Mistakes made in Haste.”

“Experiences from ‘The Flow’ (4): LOST AND FOUND – Meant to Be?”

“Experiences from ‘The Flow’ (5): “The Stray”

“Experiences from ‘The Flow’ (6): “New Beginnings, Old Endings”

“How Dare She! Out of Desperation I Learned How to Forgive”

“Remember Who You Are!”

“Need to Heal Your Broken Heart? Read on. Overcome Heartbreak and Learn the Illusive Secret of Happiness.”

The Great London Restaurant Review

2007-11-18T01:23:00.000-08:00

The list includes some very modest eateries where you will not spend a fortune but will still eat well.

There are now so many restaurants in London, that this is just a cross section of those available but everybody should find something that will appeal to their tastebuds and pockets.

Michelin Star Restaurants

Le Gavroche

43 Upper Brook Street, W1K 7QR (020 7408 0881)

Albert and Michael Roux set the benchmark for Haute Cuisine for London restaurants many years ago and son Michael Roux Jnr is now doing the same. Elegant dining such as this does not come cheap, a minimum price of £60 each, but with 2 Michelin stars over the door you just know it is money well pent.

Gordon Ramsay On Royal Hospital Road

68 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 4HP (020 7352 4441)

Lunch Menu £40 7 Course Dinner Menu £110

With a 2 month waiting list you will have to plan ahead if you want to eat here and with three Michelin stars, you just know the food will be out of this world. Any serious foodie would kill his own Mother to get a seat here to sample the French and Mediterranean dishes. It is a credit to Gordon Ramsay that despite being listed in the top five restaurants in the world, the house wine is only £15 although the extensive wine list contains some fine wines at a lot more than that.

Petrus

The Berkeley, Wilton Place, Knightbridge, London, SW1X 7RL (020 7235 1200)

Chef, Marcus Wareing has earned his two Michelin stars by serving up some of the finest French cuisine available and that includes in France. The restaurant, situated in the Berkley Hotel a known haunt of the Queen, is named after one of the finest red wines in the world. You can enjoy a bottle with your meal but with prices starting at over £300 and ending in a wallet busting £12,300, you may wish to try the house red at around £15 per bottle, although this may be an insult to the magnificent food.

Locanda Locatelli

8 Seymour Street, London, W1H 7HT, (020 7935 9088)

Although I have not eaten there yet, I must admit this is my favourite celebrity chef. He always comes across a passionate believer in the quality of his ingredients and the joy of cooking them. I am sure his two Michelin stars are an understatement. If Italian food is your passion this is the temple where you can worship it in.

The amazing thing is that you can dine here for about £30 each and you will find many good wines at under £20 per bottle.

Nobu

Metropolitan Hotel, 19 Old Park Lane, London, W1 Y4LB (020 7447 4747)

This 2 Michelin star restaurant was the haunt of both pop and movie stars where the tempura is sublime. Japanese cuisine is always expensive so the £60 per person will not phases the Japanese affictionados.

Other Great Restaurants

Texture

34 Portman Square, W1H 7BY (020 7224 0028)

The nearest tube is Marble Arch but if you can afford to eat here you will not be travelling by public transport. Dinner for two with wine and service costs around £150. Has a Champagne bar that is worth a visit.

This restaurant is the brainchild of Agnar Sverisson, the Icelandic former head chef at Le Manoir aux Quatre Saisons, (Raymond Blanc's flagship restaurant) and Xavier Rousset who was the Head sommelier there. One can only wonder at the day they both decided to leave!

The decor could be described as Icelandic cool, the cuisine in the nouvelle style and the ingredients are the best. A great introduction is the started menu which will give you a pointer to your next visit. Don't leave it too long as a Michelin star or two cannot be far away and you know what that can do to the prices and the waiting list.

Daphne's

112 Draycott Avenue, SW3 3AE (020 7589 4257)

Price £48.00

Another Italian restaurant that has been favoured by stars, particularly for the lunch time crowd and why not, the food is excellent and the service attentive without being over-bearing. At least it was when I ate there a couple of years ago. It has a novel open space that makes summer dining a real pleasure. Even though they take great pride in sourcing as much of their produce from caring British producers, their risottos and pasta dishes are second to none and are complimented by a fine selection of Italian wines.

Cantina del Ponte

36C Shad Thames, Butler's Wharf, SE1 2YE

Price £25

This is the cheaper version of Sir Terrance Conrans restaurant La Ponte de la Tour, right on the river, overlooking Tower Bridge with spectacular views of the river Thames which make it an excellent summer dining establishment. The menu is traditional Italian fare cooked to perfection. I had a pizza which, having come from their wood fired oven was just sublime and the Tiramisu to follow did not disappoint. The food is well complimented by an extensive wine list.

Bibendum

Michelin House, 81 Fulham Road, SW3 6RD (020 7581 5817)

If seafood is your passion, this is the place for you. Opened by Sir Terrance Conran twenty years ago in the old Michelin Tyre Depot, you will think you are in Paris as you feast on superb fish dishes amid the splendour of the art deco features like the huge stained glass windows. Before you ask, there are also some fine meat dishes that are also cooked to perfection.

Lindsay House

21 Romilly Street, W1D 5AF (020 7439 0450)

If you wish to dine like a Georgian English gentleman with an British menu then you will do no better than Lindsay House where Richard Corrigan, a rising TV star, serves a wonderful menu sourced from the best providers. Pigs trotters or smoked eel salad served in a genteel 18th century drawing room may have you thinking that you will be able to get a sedan chair home. The 21st century will hit you at the end when the espresso is served at nearly £5 per cup which would make even the aristocracy reach for their smelling salts. That said, for those who can afford it, it will remain a unique experience.

Rules

35 Maiden Lane, WC2E 7LB (020 7836 5314)

Price £49.00

Rules has been serving traditional British food for over 200 years and the decor reflects this. To some it is elegant dining, to others it is a bit like an Olde England theme park either way it is a great way to sample some of the finest British cuisine and that includes those glorious English puddings. The only problem is you will need to have the wherewithal of at least a minor member of the aristocracy to pay for the meal.

If you go to the Tate Modern to feed your artistic soul, you will have the choice of two fine restaurants.

Tate Modern Restaurant: Level 7

7th Floor, Tate Modern, Sumner St, SE1 9TG (020 7401 5014 )

Whilst in the Tate Modern, you should take the lift to the 7th floor where, if you can get a window table, you will get some stunning views of the river to accompany your stunning food which luckily is not named after any types of art. The cuisine is modern European and sourced from both Britain and the continent. Views and foods this good do not come cheap so if you are on a modest budget, you might like to try the cafe on the 2nd floor where children are very well catered for.

If you are not too tired then try:-

Northbank

One Paul’s Walk, EC4V 2EH (020 7329 9299)

Just a quick stroll across the bridge and you will find this cathedral to the finest provender the South-west of England can supply, cooked to perfection. It doesn't come cheap but after such a meal you will be more than happy to pay. Summer visitors will enjoy the outdoors tables and if you get there sooner you will still be able to marvel at the 'Glass Gherkin' building. Don't forget to take a closer look at the wall paper, it is a modern toile that reflects the City of London surroundings.

Red Fort

77 Dean Street, W1D 3SH (020 7437 2115)

The authentic cuisine of North India has made the Red Fort a focal point for the Indian food afficionados. It is the exquisite cuisine and stylish surroundings that have attracted the good and the great. A definite must for any visitor but beware, you will never quite enjoy your own local take away again.

Myung Ga

1 Kingly Street, W1B 5PA (020 7734 8220)

This Korean restaurant is a haven for basic Korean food as the number of Koreans, Chinese and Japanese eating there will demonstrate. This bustling restaurant would be a great place for the novice to be introduced to the tastes of Korea.

Wahaca

66 Chandos Place, London, WC2N 4HG

Average Price: £50

This is a real Mexican restaurant that specialises in street food with ingredients that are ethical and traceable. Authentic is the keyword so be prepared to be surprised if you are used to the usual old tex-mex that has been touted around for years. The sample menu is a good place to start, just be careful of the freshly prepared hot sauces.

Dining On A Budget

Stockpot

18 Old Compton Street, Soho, W1D 4TN

273 Kings Road, London, SW3 5EN

38 Panton Street, London, SW1Y 4EA

Opened in 1958 this small chain of inexpensive restaurants are still providing the capital with nourishing food at affordable prices. The menu is simple British and continental with generous portions. For those on a limited budget this cannot be topped. I have eaten at all these locations and can attest to the quality as does the number of people who you will find eating there.

Yo! Sushi

MyHotel, 11-13 Bayley Street, Bedford Square, WC1B 3HD also at Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges and many other places.

A fun way to eat sushi that will not break the bank. As you sit, the different sushi goes around on a conveyor belt so you can help yourself from the cooked and raw dishes. A nice, if expensive twist is the water pump at each table.

Rootmaster

Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, E1 6QL

If you are looking around the City of London and want something different then this is the place for you, especially if you are a vegetarian and if you are not, then this would be a great introduction to the cuisine. The bonus is that you get to eat on one of what used to be, London landmarks, a big red Routemaster Bus, hence the name pun. Fantastic noodles and falafel made in the shape of burgers make this a truly unique eating experience.

Sticky Fingers' Cafe

1a Phillimore Gardens, Kensington, W8 7EG

When Bill Wyman wasn't Rolling with the Stones he started this restaurant which serves burgers, ribs and tex-mex. The food must be good as it still going strong after many years. Situated in a side street off the High Street Kensington makes it a perfect mid shopping break.

Hard Rock Cafe

150 Old Park La, W1K 1QR, (020 76290382)

The daddy of them all, they set the standard for burgers in London long before any of the chains opened up London. I would tell you when I first went there but I am afraid I might show my age. They have gone global but the ethics are still the same, good food in great surroundings and reasonable prices and you can get the t-shirt.

Pizza Express

Although the Pizza Express is a chain, you will not be disappointed by the quality of the pizzas unless you only like yours made in the deep pan style because they only make the traditional thin crust style. They do have a selection of other dishes available as well. Some of the restaurants have live jazz so you can make an evening of it.

You are now ready to venture out and sample the culinary delights of London, whether it is a fine British menu or something from further afield and you won't necessarily need a bank balance the size of Fort Knox to enjoy them.

The top restaurants, especially those with Michelin stars, may need to be pre-booked so it may be advisable to check before you travel, it would be so disappointing to miss them.

20 Tips For Planning A Successful African Safari Vacation

2007-11-12T01:21:00.000-08:00

When planning a Safari, the starting point is to think about the time of year you wish to travel; the anticipated duration of your trip; the type of accommodation you prefer; your budget and any special interests you wish to pursue. The more we know about your aspirations for the trip the easier the planning.

Before even contemplating the different safari areas and the camps/lodges within them, it is helpful to consider the broader context within which the safari areas exist. The first question to ask your self is whether you want the high end exclusive safari destination or a low cost destination. This immediately helps to focus on specific countries, for instance if you are looking for the high end market you may start focusing on Botswana or Namibia, if you are looking for bargain safaris, you may want to focus on South Africa, Zambia or Zimbabwe. By comparing the relative strengths between countries, your choice is further narrowed. The final step is to compare the safari areas within specific countries to decide which is/are most likely to provide the safari experience that you are looking for.

In this article I will highlight the most important factors that you need to take into consideration or think about when planning a safari. I intend to write some sequels focusing in detail on the safari options in different southern African countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

1. Do some research

Start by reading articles or books about African safaris and the ‘big five’ Visit tour operator and travel agency websites to compare information. Make sure as part of your research you get a safari video to have a preview of what to expect. Safari videos are available at http://www.savannasafaris.com/ and other safari operator websites. Through your research you will decide if you will go for a packaged tour or a self drive or a combination of both.

2. Cost of a Safari

Various factors play a role in one's choice of safari destination and, for most people, cost is one of the many criteria that influence this important decision. The explanation for cost differences between safari destinations, and between camps/lodges within the same areas, is multi-faceted and complicated. The safari market in southern Africa is highly competitive and driven by supply and demand; for instance, right now, Zimbabwe safaris are at a bargain because of the low demand resulting from the political and economic crisis in the country and the uncertainty as to whether or not the general elections coming in March 2008 will be peaceful. It is important to note that in most cases the cost of a safari excludes international flights to/from Africa; visas; passports; vaccination costs; excess baggage charges; optional excursions; spending money; tips; local and airport taxes.

3. Game Concentration

For most people, an African safari is not complete when they do not see the big five – elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and leopard. These animals are concentrated at different places. Please be aware that your trip might bring you into close contact with these wild animals, which can be a threat to your safety and your health. Many of the safari camps are unfenced and particular care must be taken. It is essential that you always follow the advice of your guides, do not walk out on your own and do not touch any plants, animals or insects. You should understand the risks involved and take responsibility for your own safety. Please note that most safari lodges will require you to sign a personal indemnity form and you must be prepared to sign these.

4. Camp/lodge experience.

The level of style and luxury in accommodation, the quality of food and service, facilities and amenities are all important factors to consider when planning a safari. The more expensive properties invariably excel in these elements of the overall experience.

5. Wilderness and exclusivity.

As a rule, the larger and more private the concession /reserve, the higher the premium. Botswana (where private concessions are typically 100,000 acres or larger) is the most prominent example of this model of 'low volume / high value' eco-tourism. Zambia is an 'emerging' safari destination heading towards this model.

6. Remoteness.

The further from civilization a camp/lodge, the more expensive it is to supply and operate, and the higher the access costs for guests. Zambia's three major National Parks are very different and fairly far removed from each other. This makes a Zambian safari a very diverse experience, but travel costs are a little higher than in Botswana for example. Namibia, home to some of southern Africa's most remote camps, is perhaps the most pronounced example of this type of safari.

7. Convenience.

Camps/lodges with private airstrips that are close to camp offer increased convenience due to shorter transfer times between the airstrip and camp. This means less time in transit and more time on safari or relaxing. Such airstrips, in addition to being expensive to build and maintain, are desirable to guests and attract a premium.

8. Political situation.

The biggest factor influencing the discounted rates in Zimbabwe is the negative perception surrounding the government of Robert Mugabe. Without doubt this regime has had a very negative impact on the lives of local Zimbabweans but, as a safari destination for foreign visitors, it is still a good deal destination.

9. Passports & visas.

A full passport is essential and must be valid for at least six months after your return. Generally, visas are not required in South Africa and Botswana for United States and United Kingdom passport holders. Visas are required for Zimbabwe and Zambia. For detailed information about visas you can go to http://www.savannasafaris.com/

10. Insurance.

It is a condition of booking for most safari tours that all passengers have insurance cover. Your insurance should be fully comprehensive and include 24-hour emergency medical cover and repatriation along with general cover for travel cancellation and theft of valuables and personal items.

11. Health.

You should consult your doctor at least six weeks prior to travel. If guests have any medication requirements an adequate supply should be brought from home, as it might not be available locally. Anti-malaria medication is essential. It is recommended that visitors bring plenty of insect repellent and sun cream.

12. Safety & security.

In general, people in Africa have an enviable reputation for being friendly and welcoming. Along with most countries around the world, mugging can be a problem in certain towns and it is advisable that you do not walk at night unless you know the area well. If you are driving yourself it is sensible to arrive at your destination before dark as a myriad of animals enjoy lying on the roads at night. It is always sensible when traveling to take precautions against theft. By far the best precaution is to avoid taking valuables with you on holiday. If you do carry valuables ensure you are discreet. Do not leave any valuables or luggage unattended in a vehicle, unless in a locked trunk.

13. Clothing.

The dress code at all of the camps and lodges is casual and there is no requirement to dress for dinner. We recommend that you wear neutral colors with a good pair of lightweight walking boots for game walks. Evenings are generally spent around a campfire, so a lightweight jumper is advisable. Early morning and night game drives can get very cold, particularly in June/July, so it is recommended that you bring a warm jacket and woolly hat. During the heat of the day a shady hat is essential. A long sleeved shirt and long trousers offer a degree of protection from mosquitoes.

14. Fitness levels.

There is generally no fitness requirement for safaris. On walking safaris the walks are slow and gentle, although the ground is often uneven. Game drives can be bumpy at times and might be uncomfortable for people with back problems.

15. Luggage limits.

A luggage limit applies for light aircraft transfers between camps. Soft bags are recommended for these flights. You will normally be advised of the requirements (if any) at the time of booking.

16. Travel in Africa.

Part of what makes Africa so special is that it is very different from Europe and the USA. Please accept that things do not always happen the way you would normally expect and you must be prepared to adapt your arrangements as necessary. Whilst tour operators make every effort to ensure that your trip goes smoothly it is recommended that you be patient and understanding, accepting a degree of uncertainty and enjoying Africa as it is.

17. Climate.

Although local weather conditions vary, the main weather patterns are the same throughout Southern Africa. Evenings and early mornings can get quite chilly, particularly between May and August. October can be extremely hot and humid (although this is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around the remaining water). The rainy season is normally between November and March.

18. Currency.

The local currencies in the major safari destination countries are the Zambian Kwacha, the Botswana Pula, South African Rand, Namibian Dollar, Mozambican Metical and the Zimbabwean Dollar. Tourists are expected to use US Dollars in camps, lodges and hotels. For local shopping for souvenirs and sundries you will need local currency. Banks will generally exchange US Dollars, English Pounds, Euros and US Dollars are required for visas purchased at the border posts (take the correct amount as any change will be given in local currency). In most of these countries, especially Zimbabwe, there are black market currency dealers. Changing currency in the black market is illegal, and you can be robbed of your money and valuables. Always ask your hotel staff about exchanging currency.

19. Time.

Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa are all 2 hours ahead of GMT.

20. Memories

Get a journal book, camera or camcorder to document your experiences.

Happy safari planning and enjoy the unspoiled African wild!

Angling in Paradise (May 2nd of the Kalum River)

2007-11-03T01:19:00.000-07:00

My guests are ready and eager to go. The day before they had a count of four to three each. We make one stop at a convenience store to pick up last minute items and a quick coffee to go. We drive up the Kalum Lake road for five miles, stop at our shop and pick up the 19-foot drift boat then drive the nine miles to the launch site. Everyone’s in great spirits, laughing and joking all the way and only serious topic is sportfishing. What a great way to make a living.

I back the boat to the edge of the river and within 10 minutes we’re drifting. The drift is five miles long. Lines are made ready. Today we’re pulling plugs or using jet planers to pull spin & glow and eggs. The plug we’re using is a #20 hot-shot. Any color is fine as long as they shine and look new. Hook size is a #3 Gamakatsu. I use a size “0” jet planer. Spin & Glow #4 combined with #4 Gamakatsu hook. A little bigger hook is used with spin & glow so that an egg bag can be added, if desired. All hooks are tied with the “egg loop” knot and a four or five foot leader is tied between the jet planer and spin & glow. Reels are usually filled to capacity with quality 20-pound test line.

To keep track of our daily catches when pulling plugs I have devised the following system: If we had an eight to six day, it would mean that we hooked a total of 14 fish and landed six. The number eight on the left is the fish we hooked but lost and the number six on the right is the fish that we landed.

Time 9:20 AM. Three bank fishermen were plunked-out at the put-in, so we floated down to an area we call the pensioners hole, a distance of 100 yards and started fishing there. I told them to let out 60-feet of line. All three rods had hot-shots on. Lines went out quickly and I started to work the hole. As I started my swing to the right - POW - the rod on the left doubled over and we were into our first fish after only 10 minutes. The two other rods were pulled in, clearing the way for Les to play the fish.

Within seconds we all realized we had a powerful Chinook hooked. I slipped the boat down-stream and hit the beach approximately 200 yards from where the fish was first hooked. Les jumped out of the boat onto the shore and continued to fight the fish. Cameras were clicking and videos rolling.

The fish seemed to stop fighting but there was still a lot of pressure on the line as if it has sat on the bottom and decided not to move. This is a common Chinook trait. After 10 minutes we realized it was tangled with some line that had previously been broken off. The only thing we could do was get back in the boat, row out and hope we could get the mess off. Les pulled on the line to its breaking point and to our amazement and delight the other line broke and Les still had the fish. Back to shore we go, Les continued to play this fish and within another 10 minutes he had landed a 30-pound doe Chinook, bright silver, fresh from the ocean 114 miles away. So now our count was zero to one.

We celebrated as I pushed the drift-boat back into the stream and drifted to the next hole. This is a slow moving pool with a rocky tail-out. We started letting the plugs out high in the pool as not to spook the holding fish.

When all three lines are out 100 feet and in the center of the pool, I pull on the oars and they dive under. I start to sweep the pool. After four or five passes we are almost ready to give up and float onto the next pool when rod one doubles over. Instantly the line goes slack. When Les reels in the slack line a powerful Chinook rips off 50-yards of line and goes streaking through the tail-out. In a scramble, the other two lines are cleared out of the way. This fish, landed at the top of the next pool, weighed approximately 35-pounds and since Les already had taken his Chinook for the day, this fish was released, but not before pictures and videos were taken. Time 10:30 AM. The count is now zero to two and off we go.

Since this fish was landed at the top of this pool I decided to fish the lower end. Lines are stripped out on the fast side, and when all were out, I slipped down 50 feet to position the plugs just above the large rocky tail-out and started sweeping to the left. The plugs only fish effectively for one or two minutes because the back-eddy catches them and moves them upstream. After one sweep and no hits, I decide to try one more time. Lines are brought in and let out again. I make the sweep again. The plugs are coming into the slot when line one doubles over with a fish. Seconds later rod three does the same. At first we think its the same fish but we soon realize we have a double-header. We landed two very nice Steelhead weighing about 12 to 14-pounds each. Both were released. What a great day, we had not been fishing for more than two hours and we landed two chinook and two steelhead. The count is zero to four. Time is 11 AM.

We float down a mile passing over a long stretch of low, fast water and around a corner to the kiss hole. While approaching it we can see Chinook rolling on the right side. The kiss hole is a large deep run so I instruct my guests to snap on the jet planers and hook on egg bags. Eggs work well on spawning salmon. We let out 100 feet of line at the top of the run. I start working oars, moving the drift boat to the right, making sure the bait is presented where we’ve seen the rolling fish. It didn’t take long, two sweeps and a very large Chinook took the bait. Rod two was into his first fish. I stayed high in the pool, right side, moved very close to shore and dropped anchor in two feet of water. My guests played the fish from the boat while I went to shore to get some good camera angles. After 30 minutes of pumping Dave finally lands a 50-pound doe.

Score zero to five. Time 12:10 PM. It’s lunch time and I offer my guests the choice of a nice shore lunch complete with camp fire, which takes time, or we all can make a sandwich on board and keep fishing. It was unanimous - keep fishing!

I float down to the next run and keep the planers on because this is a long run too. I started at the very top and worked down. Twenty minutes had passed since I started fishing this run. When were almost ready to reel in, rod two buckles over and we’re into another fish. The fish goes streaking through the tail-out and managed to wrap itself around a rock and broke off. Score one to five. Time 12:45 PM.

We float down through the shoot and slowly I row a long calm stretch. The sun is shining, the fishing so far has been excellent and everyone is in good spirits. As we approach the tail-out we notice Chinook rolling on the left side in a deep slot just above the tail-out. I know from experience that the Steelhead hold on the right side on a gravel bar we call the reds. Planers are taken off in favor of #20 Special Edition (SE) hot-shots. One hundred feet of line is reeled out for all three rods and I start sweeping between rolling chinook and spawning steelhead. Rod three jumps and immediately goes slack. We realize the fish had spit the hook. The hot-shot of rod three starts to shake again. I row the drift-boat to the left and before I get to the middle of the pool rod three rips over, just like the fish had been following it, and almost breaks the rod in half as line goes screaming out. We’re sure that this fish is hooked well but our luck is running out - within seconds the line goes slack, another fish lost and we’re not even sure if it was a chinook or steelhead. Score three to five.

By now we must have spooked the fish so we decide to move on. Everyone is feeling down a bit from losing the last three fish, but we all agreed with the old say, “that’s fishing.”

As we float out of the run I navigate the drift-boat through a shallow rocky section into the next pool called the Jones’s hole. As we float around the corner we observe two bald eagles that I see almost every drift. Hot-shots are left on. We spend another 30 minutes sweeping back and forth fishing but couldn’t raise a bite. Off we go through more shallow water, bumping rocks, trying to avoid getting hung-up.

The next pool is called the double-header and is the half-way point on the drift. The pool got its name from the fact that on one drift we had hooked and landed two chinook at the same time.

The plugs are unsnapped and replaced by the jet planer. This is a short, deep pool whose water circles to the left. Lines have to be kept short to 50 feet and the jet planer is set for the deepest dive. We usually see Chinook rolling here, but didn’t observe any today. After 20 minutes of no hits, we decide to move on in favor of a run that has better conditions for plugging. We kept the jet planers on and adjusted them for shallow dive for the next run. Hooks are checked and sharpened. Fresh egg bags are put on. All this extra attention and good fishing habits didn’t do us any good because we didn’t get a bit after 20 minutes. I float down to the next run and lines are set out again. Ten minutes pass when rod three buckles over just as I was pulling hard on the right oar. Rod three nearly touches the bow of the boat. Panic is on again! After a 30 minute battle a bright silver 65-pound doe chinook is landed on the left shore. The party is on, especially after John released this big fish. Score now is three to six. Time 2:30 PM.

We float a half mile down a stretch of shallow, fast water to a big pool and holding area called the horseshoe. We see chinook rolling everywhere. All tackle is checked and 100 feet of line is fed out. After 10 minutes rod three rips over. John in ecstatic! This is his second fish in 20 minutes. After a short fight he lands a nice 15-pound doe steelhead that also was released. Count three to seven. We normally would spend more time at the horseshoe but since we’ve spent so much time landing fish we had to keep moving.

The next run is usually a very good run and sure enough we had two good rips, one on rod one and the other on rod three - John almost jumped out of his skin! Both fish were lost after a few seconds. Score five to seven. Time 3:30 PM. We’re on the move again to a run called lower rock alley. Once again, we had a good rip on rod three but the fish got off. Count six to seven. We float into a good pool we call the loser hole for the time we lost six chinook in this hole before landing the seventh.

Planers are removed in favor of hot-shots. After three sweeps rod one gets a good hit and the line goes slack. Les winds the reel like crazy but the fish has gotten off. Count seven to seven. Time 4:45 PM.

We make two more sweeps before we pull out of this hole. No more hits. We’re plugging the last hole called last chance. Everyone agreed they didn’t care if they had anymore hits because already the day was fabulous. They no sooner said this when rod two doubles over and the line goes screaming out. Another large chinook is on the hook. I beach the drift-boat and chase the fish. Dave ends up landed it at the drift-boat take-out. A few young kids were there watching the show and were amazed when Dave finally beached this 50-pound doe chinook - and released it. Count five to eight. Time 5:30 PM. My guests all laughed when I said, “Are we all done at five to eight?”

My guests gave me a hearty, “yes, we’re done for today - but there’s still tomorrow.”

We had a pretty good day. We hooked 13 fish and landed three steelhead and five chinook.