Latest Happenings Around the World

Going on an Adventure Vacation with Teens

2010-01-04T07:23:00.001-09:00

For parents who have teeners, it is best to plan an adventure vacation for them instead of treating them in kiddie places or giving them material things that they don’t really need.

Planning an adventure vacation for teens can be worthwhile family activity because it ensures bonding time with the growing kids. If you are thinking of an adventure vacation for this age group, keep in mind what they will enjoy the most. Teeners nowadays are more into thrilling activities to keep them away from being bored. So, make sure that you include activities that will keep the physically active such extreme sports and others.

Some of the activities that can be included in the adventure vacation may include outdoors activities such as mountain climbing, trekking, and biking. If your kids love the waters, bring them to a destination that has beaches where they can do so many water-related activities such as diving, wakeboarding, snorkeling and others. You might also want them to try more daring activities such kite boarding and kayaking.

For those teens that are into the educational yet fun side, opt for activities that include exploration such as visiting ancient ruins and even finding a dinosaur fossil. You can also treat them to an ultimate nature trip by bringing then to places with huge forests, rich fauna, and interesting wildlife.

Tips for parents

Aside from giving the teens a break from their studies or whatever that they are busy with, an adventure vacation is sure to make the bond of the family members tighter and stronger. This is because the family member will have the chance to spend as much time with each other during the trip.

But, before finally deciding to bring teens to a specific vacation destination, make sure that you consider the tips below.

1. Get their opinion. Unlike kids, teens are harder to convince in so many things. This is because they feel that they are old enough to take care and decide for themselves. To avoid conflicts and causes of arguments, make sure that you ask the teeners first about your plan. If you do this, they can suggest places where they want to go. Take note of the places or destinations that they have mentioned and conduct as simple research. List down the top three possible options and let them decide on it.

2. Never force them to go to a place that they don’t like. Parents should realize that teeners are starting to crave for independence. If they continue to command their kids and force them to do the things that they don’t really like, chances are, the trip would not be successful at all because nobody from them will cooperate.

3. Always be prepared. Wherever you go for an adventure vacation, make sure that you are well prepared. Some of the things that you should plan ahead is the time and length of your stay in a specific place, how to get there, the available accommodation and places where you can stay, the availability of basic travel necessities, the food available in case the teeners don’t like the local food, the activities that you can do, the places that you should not miss to visit, and of course, your budget.

Once you have taken consideration to all of those things that are mentioned, you can now start making your itinerary and include the purpose of your travel. You can even start packing for your adventure vacation once these things are settled.

Off on an Adventure Vacation in Australia

2010-01-04T06:51:00.001-09:00

The Kangaroo Island in Australia is one of the most preferred adventure vacation sites in the country. This is because the place offers wonderful scenery of nature and offers a peek into indigenous wildlife in the area. The place has also become popular for providing access to a close encounter with the flora and fauna unique to Australia.

Aside from amazing Australian fauna, the Kangaroo Island also offers a rare opportunity to walk through immense colonies of fairy penguins and sea lions, kangaroos that are visible in the hills and fields. If you are lucky enough, you can even see koalas munching eucalyptus leaves that you can only see in wildlife channels. People who love seeing animals on the wild such as wallabies, possums, bandicoots, bats, frogs, native birds, and goannas will also enjoy the exhilarating trip.

Ultimate nature trip

The Kangaroo Island is located at the southern coast of South Australia. Although hidden in the rugged coast, the island can be easily accessed for something that is isolated. Considered as an eco-tourism destination, not all people get a chance to discover the place because the government prefers that it remains a semi-tourist destination site. This is to keep the place clean and friendlier to animals that thrive there.

Although it is not as commercialized as other adventure vacation destinations out there, people who are up for the excitement of encountering wildlife will surely like the place. People who are into magnificent landscapes, amazing caves filled with limestone, and great rock formations will surely insist on coming back to the place in the future.

For those who are planning to go on an adventure vacation to Kangaroo Island, here are some of the things that they should consider before finalizing their trip.

1. Number of people who will go on the trip. This is very important to ensure that everything will be provided for individual needs of the people going there. Knowing how many will go on the trip will somehow give you an idea what to prepare and what to do upon getting there. The number of people who will go on the trip will also help you plan your budget and the entire trip as well.

2. The length of stay. This is very important because the length of your stay will give you an idea how many items to bring during your trip. It will also determine the budget that you have to prepare and fix your schedule while you are on your adventure vacation trip.

3. The activities that can be done. There are countless of activities that can be done in Kangaroo Island. Most of which are inclined to discovering and rediscovering the nature. If you will go there, conduct a simple research of the things that can be done and choose from them. Choose those activities that are inclined with your interests and of the people included in the group.

4. Means of getting there. This is very important because you can plan your budget up ahead. The available means of getting to Kangaroo Island is via ferry that can last from 45 minutes to an hour from Cape Jervis located at the tip of Australian mainland in the south, approximately 70 miles from Adelaide and via air travel which usually takes from 20 to 30 minutes from Adelaide.

5. The available options for staying during the adventure vacation. Since it is an isolated island, there are few options to stay at the Kangaroo Island. In fact, there are only two decent places to stay including the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat found at the Flinders Chase National Park and the Southern Ocean Lodge found in Hanson Bay.

The prices of the accommodations range from moderately expensive to very expensive.

Packing Tips for an Adventure Vacation

2010-01-02T23:53:00.001-09:00

An adventure vacation is one sure way of freeing your self from the stress brought by modern living. However, for most people, vacations are not as totally hassle-free because they have to go through one thing: packing.

Many people are having hard time packing for a vacation because they spend so much time thinking what are the things to bring only to find out that these exact items would not be used during the trip at all! So, to lessen the stress that is brought upon by the thought of leaving impending work and schedule for a vacation, here are some useful packing tips for you. To make packing for an adventure vacation a hassle free task, gather all the things that plan to bring and segregate them from “what to bring” side and “what not to bring” side. By doing this, you can have your elimination process easier and more efficient.

WHAT TO PACK

- Pieces of clothing. This is considered as the most crucial part of packing that is why many people are having hard time in it. When packing clothes for an adventure vacation, always bear in mind that you need to bring only those that you can use. To do this, finalize the type of adventure vacation that you are going to.

Consider the destination and the climate of the place in order to determine what are the clothes that you need during you stay. If you are going to a place that includes visit to beaches and other nature trips, bring clothes that are light and made of cotton because the weather can be hot and humid. If you are going to a vacation destination that has a cold weather, make sure that you bring jacket or other pieces of clothing that can protect your body.

In choosing what clothes to bring, always come up with one specific color theme so you won’t have to bring lots of items just to match your clothes. Also, choose clothes that have fabrics that don’t easily get crumpled or wrinkled. (TIP: For vacation destinations, it is best to use thermal underwear so you can save space instead of bringing heavy jackets and coats. For places that have tropical climate, opt for clothes that can be layered and can serve double purpose such as a sarong.)

When it comes to footwear, it is advisable to bring just two pairs—one pair of closed shoes and a pair of flip flops. If you are going to a vacation cruise, always bring pieces of clothing for formal and casual occasion.

- An alarm. This is very important especially if you are heading for a destination that have time difference. It is also best to bring a travel alarm so you won’t have to miss out on something just because you run late. (TIP: Bring a gadget that can double as an alarm clock such as cellular phones, PSPs, and other handheld devices.)

- Medication. Medication, especially if prescribed, should be given proper attention. If you are using prescription medicines, make sure that you bring enough amounts to ensure your well being during the trip. If you are travelling abroad, copy of the prescription is required to ensure that you are not bringing in illegal drugs. If you are not taking any prescription medicines, always bring a first aid kit.

- Toiletries. Shampoos, lotions, liquid soaps, and other toiletries are usually available at the hotel but if you prefer your own brand, make sure that you place them in small bottles and keep them into a minimum. (TIP: Always put toiletries in zip locks so they won’t affect other items in case they leak due to air pressure.)

- Cash and credit cards. If you prefer to bring cash, keep them to a minimum to avoid hassle in safety. During an adventure vacation, it is always best to bring international credit cards for your paying needs.

(TIP: Bring two just in case the ATM eats one, gets broken or lost.)

Personal Equipment For Adventure Sailing Vacation in A Cold Climate

2010-01-02T23:27:00.002-09:00

Adventure sailing vacation does not only happen when the seas are calm and the weather is warm. This can also happen when the weather is cold which is why everyone is required to bring some personal equipment to maximize the trip and make sure everyone is safe.

The things you will need for your sailing adventure are a pair of sailing gloves, wet weather jacket, pants, boots, personal strobe light, safety harness, middle layer pants, middle layer jacket, thermal underwear, thermal gloves, neck tube, beanie, sun hat, ski goggles, sunglasses, sleeping bag, waterproof touch and batteries, towel and a crew bag.

Since there will be some port calls, you better have you with some street clothes so you can do some sightseeing and shopping. It will also be a good idea to bring a camera so you can take pictures since you will never see such places back home.

Don’t forget to bring some personal stuff like deodorant, cream, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, batteries, charger and anything else you need for the entire trip which includes any medication that you have to take as prescribed by your doctor. This should be sealed in a water tight container and this information must be shared with the skipper.

For those who have done this before and want to enhance their skills, they can bring a long a compass, chart, binoculars and GPS. This will help them navigate in the water so they can probably do this on their own when they think they are ready.

With all these personal equipment, you shouldn’t have any problems. Now here are some things you don’t need to bring.

Your cellular phone will be of no use out in the ocean so you shouldn’t even bother bringing it. In the event of an emergency, there is a satellite phone on board as well as a radio so the skipper can put out a distress call.

There are also flares and other signaling devices so rescue can easily spot the ship if it is in trouble. For minor things like cuts and bruises, a first aid kit is already available so you don’t need to have this as part of your gear.

The personal equipment you will be carrying should be placed in a collapsible bag so that this can be stowed when everything you have brought is taken out and placed in a locker or bunk. This will also allow other people to do the same given that the space onboard such ships are very limited.

What you get in return for signing up for this sailing adventure is a room, sheets, pillows, bath towels, fresh meals that is prepared by the crew and maybe even a free T-shirt. This is probably the best souvenir will you ever have aside from the pictures you will be taking and showing to those back home.

The personal equipment for adventure sailing vacation in a cold climate is not that different from sailing in warmer waters except for the fact that you will need warmer clothing. You can get a copy of what you need to bring from the skipper or the charter company before the trip so you are sure that you have all the essentials since you will be away for quite awhile.

Preparing for an Adventure Vacation in Slovenia

2010-01-02T22:36:00.000-09:00

If you are up to an adventure vacation that is truly memorable, try going to Piran in Slovenia. The charming town can be reached for only two hours if you are coming from Venice. Compared to other places nearby, Piran is considered as one of the most interesting because it hasn’t been changed by modernization a lot. Although there are existent commercial establishments, the beauty of the town has more or less remained the same since medieval times.

Before finalizing your adventure vacation in Piran in Slovenia, there are so many things that you need to prepare.

Getting to Piran is one of the major considerations for your trip. In order to be prepared in going there, you must know what are the available means of transportation that you can use. There are basically three modes of traveling off to Piran. One is getting there by land using a train from Koper. Another is through ferry travel from Venice or from other coastal cities located at the northern Adriatic. You can also travel via air through a charter flight from the regional airport at the Portoroz or a flight from Trieste to Rome from New York and Chicago.

Staying in Piran is also one of the things that you need to consider because this will entail your safety as well as of your belongings. The most popular places to stay include the Hotel Tartini located at the main square or at the Max Hotel inside an early 18th-century building.

You also need to prepare your timetable including the date you wish to go there and the length of your stay. One week is ideal to visit all the places in Piran as well as its neighboring places. It is advisable to go there during the summer months of June to August because of the warm Mediterranean climate. (TIP: Try traveling in late spring or early fall to have cheaper prices and accommodations.)

Discovering a great medieval city

One great thing in Piran is that you can see and enjoy the sights and activities that can be found in its nearby cities like Dubrovnik or in some other places in Italy or Croatia, only that you don’t have to spend so much money. This is because Piran offers one of the lowest costs to tourists in terms of places to stay, food, amenities, basic items, and other necessities.

Piran can be considered as one of the most relaxing places for an adventure vacation because it stimulates adrenaline rush just by looking and walking through wonderful places that remind of the medieval times. Aside from the great architecture that can be seen surrounding the place, one of the things that is really exciting about this place is that it will give you an opportunity to peek into other neighboring islands and towns.

As early as the 7th century, people from all over were amazed by the charm of this place. And since it has been under the Venice rule for 500 years, many parts of the city reflect strong influences of colonialism.

What makes this city an ideal adventure vacation spot is its being a ‘walking city.’ People can just walk around the place for sightseeing, discovering street food, and observing the lifestyle of the locals. Encircled by narrow cobblestone streets, you can always find an activity to enjoy or a place to discover.

Having locals that are naturally friendly and accommodating, you would not find yourself bored for even just one minute. Walking through the city can open you up to many possibilities like discovering a nice local restaurant, a lovely coffee shop or can even give you a glimpse of the local culture as shown in the activities held at the town square.

If you are up for a more thrilling adventure vacation, you can visit the Venetian-style campanile sitting atop a hill that allow you have magnificent views of Croatia and Italy or drive around and discover the beauty of the Trieste, Pula and Opatija or the Triglav National Park.

If you still have free time, visit Venice by catching a quick ferry or roam around and visit several vineyards and wineries nearby.

The Ultimate Adventure Vacation in France

2010-01-02T20:52:00.000-09:00

Many people who go on a vacation in France go straight to Paris without realizing that there equally interesting places in the country. One of which is called 'Rodez' a perfect adventure vacation destination. The place is a charming, medieval town that can be found in the Midi-Pyrénées' Aveyron region, southwestern of France.

Rodez is considered as a regional capital but not attracting so many tourists because there is fewer boosts in commercialization. However, for those who are into adventure and exploration a place that is rich in culture and history, Rodez is an ideal place because it will satisfy the need for a venue that is quite but relaxing.

One of the things that are unique to Rodez is the monuments made of stone that surround the countryside. It is also equally furnished with very rich architecture that includes churches, abbeys, menhirs, fortresses, dolmen tombs, and medieval castles brought about by the settling of the Romans as early as the 1st century BC, and the presence of the Knights Templar at the early Middle Ages.

What is truly charming about the place is that it is originally located above a river. The presence of red sandstone Cathedrale Notre Dame which is one of the first Gothic buildings in Southern France and also considered as a French architectural icon also makes the place very interesting for history lovers.

For those who have an eye for photography and architecture, visiting the two main town squares—the Place de la Cite and the Place du Bourg is a must. The construction of the two make them very interesting because they are linked using a network of medieval streets that are lined up with buildings made of stone, historic alleyways and Gothic wall art and other masterpieces made from 10 to the 14th century.

To make the adventure vacation complete in Rodez, don’t forget to visit the 17th century Episcopal Palace, the Romanesque church of St. Amans, the Renaissance hotel, and the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre as well as the Roman aqueduct.

Things to consider

To ensure that you will enjoy the ultimate adventure vacation trip, you must know very well what are the things that you should pay attention to. Here are some of the things that you should very well keep in mind before going on an adventure vacation in Rodez, France:

1. Time you are planning to go. This is very important because it will entail the other details of your trip. If you want to know which month is the safest to go, conduct a simple research about the place first. It is up to you to choose which part of the year is convenient for your schedule as well of the others who will go on the trip.

Although any time within the year has its own activities to offer, some who already went there prefer fall and spring because these provides the most beautiful scenery of the place.

2. People who will you go with. This is also significant because they will play a huge role in your entire trip. If you are planning to go an adventure vacation in Rodez, make sure that you invite those whom you can share the same interests and inclination.

Rodez is not a matter of acquired taste; it is a must that people who will go there are into history and enjoying serene medieval places to enjoy the vacation.

Ultimate Asian Adventure Vacation

2010-01-02T20:17:00.000-09:00

Asia is the world's largest continent and probably one of the most misunderstood. Since the beginning of civilization Asia has been regarded as the place of mysticism, diverse culture economy and invention. A lot of modern inventions and progress spawned out of this continent and at the same time some of the oldest traditions and practices can be traced here.

Aside from that you can find some of the top adventure vacation destination in Asia. Places that would mystify you and your family and take you on a time traveling adventure back to the time where emperors reign and dynasties ruled the land. Nomads roamed and monks hold sway of the ancient teachings.

For some people the mere mention of Asia denotes kung fu, martial arts, fighting monks and a variety of stereotypes thanks to Hong Kong made action films. But more than flying daggers and mystic dragons that give eternal life, there is more to Asia than meets the eye. Asia is one of the most massive continents in this tiny little planet. Perhaps the biggest land mass in a single concentration, because of this it allows itself to be home to numerous species of flora and fauna.

This massive concentration of natural beauty is enough to capture the interest of top travel and nature related businesses to consider Asia as a big contender for the world tourism economy. In fact, according to a study in the year 2019, there would have 13,000,000 travelers who would’ve made their way from their home countries to Asia both for business and for leisure.

Though relic hunting, temple visitation and cultural showcases are some of the things that countries in Asia offers right now, there are more than the usual available to the growing market of tourist looking for an exotic but familiar sight to see away from home.

One of the most popular sports in the scene right now is wakeboarding. In some countries in Asia you could go wakeboarding with having to look for a boat. Yes that’s right, no boats needed. In some of the resort hotels and destinations in Asia waterparks dedicated to wakeboarding have come up with an interesting way of making waves without the use of a boat.
They call it the motorized pulley system. A motor runs at top speed while a series of pulleys located all throughout the man-made lake pulls on the rope of the wakeboarder. Pretty neat huh?

Another new trend in Asia is the equivalent of western theme parks, when I say equivalent that means creating a theme park that answers to the popularity of them parks in the USA like Disneyland, universal studios and Disneyworld. Some of these theme parks are found in Japan called Sanrio world, one in Korea called Lotte World and one in the Philippines called Enchanted Kingdom.

Check out the places on the internet, they different information that they can give you about the price range and others.

So for people looking out the best things to do in the mystifying region of Asia go check out the different attractions that would best suffice your need to have an exciting adventure vacation, it will surely show you what's it like to cross the heritage of the ancestors and the modern convenience of life. Be sure to capture that one special moment when the best of both worlds combine.

What is Inclusive in Adventure Sailing Vacation

2010-01-02T19:46:00.000-09:00

Before there was air travel, people went from one place to the other by ship. Such voyages took days or even weeks. But these days, adventure sailing vacation is gaining popularity and if you are thinking of booking one, you should know what is inclusive in most packages.

The price tag of adventure sailing depends on the destination and how long you will be at sea. You might be shocked at first glance how much it will cost but if you think about it, you save money in the long run because one thing that is already included here is the food you will be eating.

Another thing that is included will be the cabin. It is not that big compared to the kind you often stay in at a hotel but it will do. You get clean linen sheets, a bed and a pillow which is all that you need to sleep peacefully until you wake up the following morning.

One thing you have to keep in mind is that although food is free, the drinks are not included. This means that you have to pay for whatever you order. You can avoid this though by bringing in some drinks like bottled water, soda or a bottle of wine.

The ship you will be chartering will already have a skipper and crew. Sometimes, if you are lucky which really depends on the mood of the crew, they can teach you a thing or two about adventure sailing so you can help them out or get you hooked into this as a hobby.

Depending on the size of the boat being chartered, you may have to pay for security deposit or insurance that will be retuned when the voyage is over.

Since the ship is not going anywhere just by using its sails, part of what you pay for is the fuel. This will keep the ship moving when there is no wind around otherwise, you will be dead in the water.

Unlike large cruise ships, one thing that is not inclusive here are airport transfers and airfare. With that, you will have to make the arrangements yourself especially if you are coming from out of town.

One thing that chartering companies cannot control is the weather so if it is bad, then your planned sailing adventure will have to moved to another date.

So you know what is inclusive in a sailing vacation package, it is best to look at one of their brochures or see what is posted in their website. If you don’t have time to do this, get in touch with your travel agent so he or she will fill you in on the details so you can decide whether or not you want to make a reservation.

Once you know that is inclusive in the adventure sailing vacation, it will be easy for you to decide which one you want to try. The only thing you have to do now is pack your bags and then head down over to the docks so you the voyage can get under way.

If this is your first time and you enjoyed it very much, you can plan another one in the future as these chartering companies sail to different destinations within the year.

What To Bring For Adventure Sailing Vacation

2010-01-02T18:57:00.000-09:00

When you book an adventure sailing vacation package, you don’t have to worry about food when this is usually part of the package. This means you only have to bring your own personal stuff with you on board so for those who have never done this before, here is what you should bring for adventure sailing.

Given that you will be at sea quite awhile, you should pack a lot of casual gear which simply means lightweight clothing with long sleeves so you avoid getting sunburn during the day. It will also be a good idea to have a wide brimmed hat and a pair of sunglasses to protect your face.

If you want to lounge around on deck, you better have a beach towel with you as well as sun block. Since the weather could get cold at night, you should also have a light jacket.

Charters usually make port stops before heading home so don’t forget to bring along a light pair of shoes or sandals so you can do so some sightseeing in the island. It will be good to have some insect repellant with you so don’t get bitten by mosquitoes and other insects.

If you are under medication, don’t forget to bring it with you. Given that you will be a way for some time, make sure you have your toiletries so you can shave and brush your teeth.

The most important thing to bring with you when you go adventure sailing is a camera. This will allow you to take pictures so you can share this with family and friends when you get home.

For those who want to go swimming, don’t forget your bathing suit so you can jump in anytime into the water especially when you just want to cool off. If there is some space in your bag, perhaps you can also pack in some snorkeling gear as some will rent this to you for a fee.

All of this should be placed in a 10 kilogram bag which is preferably collapsible because of the limited storage space on board most ships. This will also allow other passengers to stow their gear.

You don’t have to bring your cellular phone with you because in the event that something should happen on board, they have a satellite phone and a radio so rescue can be called in. You also don’t need to bring a first aid kit since this is also available on the ship.

If you are bored relaxing on board the chartered ship, you can volunteer and help the crew with sailing like hauling the main sail in the morning, trimming the sails or steering a course during the day. With that, you won’t feel guilty having done nothing when you decided to go on a vacation.

Another way to help out is to catch some fish which the crew can serve as lunch or dinner even if the ship has already been stocked with food for the entire trip. You can bring your own rod or check if they have some on board that you can borrow.

Now that you know what to bring for adventure sailing vacation, the only thing you have to do now is book the trip. You can do this through your travel agent or online.

Maldives – A Popular Tropical Holiday Destination Getaway

2010-01-02T18:19:00.000-09:00

If you are looking for a scenic place to vacation, Maldives is an ideal pick. If you love the sun and beaches, plus an abundance of sea life and corals, you will definitely love this island. It is a place where travelers keep coming back due to its marvelous tourist destination with a promise of breathtaking and refreshing experience for any vacationer. Whether you are looking for a great electrifying water experience or longing to soak in the sun and sea water, you will never go wrong if you go for a Maldives holiday. If you are after the popular destinations in Maldives, you will never run out of agenda especially if you go to the following popular spots.

Beaches and Water Activities

Of course, when Maldives is mentioned, you instantly think about beaches. In fact, no Maldives holiday is complete if you don't go to the beaches. After all, it is the pristine beaches why this vacation place went to top of most travelers' list. But it is not only the breathtaking beauty of the beaches that people love. Water activities, such as snorkeling and scuba diving, make Maldives a perfect destination. You can also do your windsurfing, parasailing, and even fishing, either hand-reel or deep sea. If you are not a water sports enthusiast but love the sun and water nevertheless, go to this place and enjoy all the picture-perfect spots and the feeling of serenity.

Male, the Capital City

The Capital City is a tourist attraction in Maldives, being situated just near the airport. This is where you will find local handicraft shops and marvelous nation museum where you will find a great collection of various artifacts. This is also where the government seats, so making it the hub of trades, commerce, business, and other industries.

Art Gallery

If you love arts, you will probably never miss visiting Esjehi, the art gallery found just on eastern part of Sultan Park in Male. Aside from being a place where traditional and modern artworks are found, Esjehi is also seated in one of the grandest, oldest buildings of Male. It is relatively a small gallery; however, a visit here is worth it because of the decent assortment of arts. Plus, it holds workshops for the Maldives artists to convene. A trip to Esjehi is like knowing the people of Maldives because a great collection of the arts is done by local artists.

Mosque

The Grand Friday is the popular and biggest mosque in Maldives. It went to top major tourist spots in Maldives because of architectural design, which was constructed by Ibrahim Iskandhar in 1656. Whether you are a very religious person or not, you should never miss the pride of Maldives. It has a 5000-seat capacity, with unique and magnificent coral engravings as well as the famous tombs of the national heroes.

Fish Market
This is the wet market crowded mostly by tourists and travelers. It is located on the accessible north area of the capital city's waterfront. You will find a variety of local fresh fruits, tuna, fresh and dried fish, and vegetables. It is not only for having great varieties of fresh foods why the fish market is famous but how unique and clean it is, which the tourism government ensures for all the people to take enjoy.

Get Back To Nature In Mexico: Explore Sian Ka'an Biosphere

2010-01-02T17:25:00.000-09:00

There are 27 United Nations World Heritage sites in Mexico and only three of them made the list primarily for their natural significance, as opposed to historical. The most beautiful and diverse is Sian Ka'an Biosphere, a 1.3 million acre ecological park filled with lagoons, forests, marine habitats, and wetlands. It is the largest marine protected area in Mexico and offers one of the few natural treasures of the Yucatan peninsula that is accessible to tourists.

Added to the UNESCO list in 1987, Sian Ka'an translates as "Origin of the Sky". It provides a habitat for a diverse population of flora and fauna, as well as over 300 species of birds. There is a small ecotourism and education center there that serves as a model for sustainable development in sensitive tropical ecosystems. The center is funded by the various tours, fishing, accommodation on-site, and various other activities offered there. Some of the ecologically responsible techniques the center uses are rainwater collection, using wind and solar power, and employing systems for wetland waste management. It also provides educational outreach and biological research opportunities.

Accommodations at Sian Ka'an consist of tents that are raised off the ground to allow ecological and hydrological processes to continue. They have gorgeous views from private patios, as well as plenty of shade and cooling breezes. Bathrooms are shared, but they are always clean and also have stunning views over the water. The dining areas and kitchens are designed to maximize comfort while minimizing impact on the surrounding environment. The menu for the restaurant is wide and varied, but the best choice would be the fresh seafood dishes that are offered.

Activities in the park include fishing excursions, kayaking, or taking one of several tours that will highlight the canals and the Mayan ruins, abundant flora and fauna, and the history of the reserve. There is also a sunset tour that centers on bird watching where you will float along in an open-air boat through beautiful lagoons while viewing birds, plants, and diverse ecosystems. The tour then culminates in watching the sunset over the mangrove forest and lagoon.

The kayaking tours are designed to give visitors a more intimate access to the natural splendor of the park. Single or double kayaks are available and expert guides, who speak both English and Spanish, can accompany you through the reserve to bird watch and explore the wetlands. Free basic training is provided if you have never kayaked before. If you would like to explore alone, the guides can give you directions and information on where to go to use ancient trading routes through the park used by the Mayans. This is an excellent option for experienced kayakers, but an additional fee can give someone basic training to undertake this more advanced tour.

Sian Ka'an is a beautiful ecosystem to visit and learn about history, ecology, and sustainable technology that will open your mind to possibilities you may never have otherwise known about. At the very least it will give you an appreciation of conservation and natural beauty that should stay with you forever.

Travel Recommendations for Northern India in Winter

2010-01-02T16:12:00.000-09:00

The geographical position and unusual topography of India is responsible for the country's diverse climate. If you have plans of visiting northern India, you can expect the climate to be hotter during the summer and cooler in winter. Before going there, you have to consider these travel recommendations for northern India in winter.

The northern plains of India during the winter season which happens to be from October to March brings very cold temperatures. In fact, temperature in the Thar Desert can reach freezing point. The central city of the north is New Delhi and the temperature there is from 8 degrees to 21 degrees Celsius.

You can find a rich history of culture in north India. Aside from New Delhi, you can also visit other destinations like Uttranchal, Uttar Pradesh, Jamma, HImachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Kashmir. There are many activities that you can do in north India like river rafting, camel safari, mountain biking, skiing, and trekking. You can also find exquisite architecture, incredible wildlife, sand dunes, and historical charm in this Indian region.

If you plan to tour Delhi, you can explore the city's religious face. There are many temples that you can visit like Akshardham, Birla, Bangla Sahib, and ISKCON temples. Aside from the temples, there are also forts in Delhi like Qutub Minar, Jantar Mantar, and Red Fort.

Taj Mahal is found in north India, specifically in Uttar Pradesh. If you have plans of traveling to Uttaranchal, don’t do this during the winter season as it is very cold. You can do it between April and June or from September to November.

Individuals who love mall shopping can go to Shimla. You can find malls offering great sights there. The Golden Temple can be found in Punjab. Other places that you should visit are Srinagar, Jammu, Dal Lake, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Solan, Dalhousie, Dharamsala, Kullu, Manali, Kangra, and Chamba. You can have the best holiday experience in north India.

As mentioned earlier, winter in north India is quite cold. If you go there during winter, you have to bring the appropriate clothes. If you don’t have them, you can start purchasing winter clothes. This way, you can avoid stressing out your body and ending up sick. Make sure that you take your vitamins and some medications with you, just in case you catch fever, cough or colds. The medicines sold in India are not the same as those sold in your home country. So better be prepared especially if you're traveling there during the winter. You can enjoy the sights and tourist spots in north India if you have a healthy body.

Still, if you can't withstand the cold, you should go to North India during the summer season. The temperature during that time is not as cold as the winter season.

Now that you know the places that you can visit in north India, you can contact a travel agency and book your travel in advance. The winter season in India is also the peak season for the influx of tourists and so it would be best to plan ahead of time, otherwise, you will not get the best services because the accommodations are limited. Planning can really take so much of your time but with the help of a travel agency, your troubles are lessened. If you take into consideration these travel recommendations for northern India in winter, you will have the greatest time of your life despite the cold climate.

Orlando Vacation Villas To Step Up The Luxury On Your Vacation

2010-01-02T15:47:00.000-09:00

Booking hotel or resort rooms for your vacation is so passé. If you wanted to go to Disney, then had to endure hundreds, if not thousands of other guests staying at the same hotel or resort as you and your family, the idea of a vacation wouldn’t be so relaxing anymore. If you think that, then renting an Orlando Vacation Villa might not be such a bad idea when time comes to decide where you’ll be staying while you’re in Orlando.

What villas have to offer to tourists

The best part about renting your own villa to stay in during your stay is that you can enjoy total privacy from other guests while not giving up anything in terms of luxury accommodations. The best of both worlds indeed, especially if you want to have a good night’s rest after spending all day touring the sights and sounds of Orlando.

If you’ve already been to Disney during the day, then you probably wouldn’t want a ruckus to keep you up during the night while you rest for the day ahead, wouldn’t you? Probably not. That’s the great thing about the privacy part of the deal. You can stop worrying about disturbing others, or others disturbing you during your vacation.

As well as having total privacy, another good part about renting your own villa is that when you’re traveling as a small party, then you’ll appreciate having multiple bedrooms in one residence, so everybody can stay comfortable in their own beds. You’ll also just have to rent one single villa, instead of the possibility of the people in your party staying at different hotels and taking the trouble to meet up for your outings.

Another part of your vacation giving you peace of mind. And you won’t have to worry about the summer heat as well because these villas are designed to be cool and provide good air circulation while keeping out 90% of the heat with their thick roof tiles. And if you still want to cool down further, air conditioning is present as well.

Resort-like amenities

Not only are the bedrooms inside the villa residence like luxury hotels, you won’t have to lack what luxury resorts have to offer in terms of what you have in your rented villa. There are pools that come as standard in rented villas, and there may even be some packages that offer a mini-golf course for you if you want to practice your swing and aim even while on vacation. Nobody ever wanted to get the raw end of the deal, and you won’t have to either. And again, combined with the total privacy offered by these resorts, you can do what you want and not have to worry about sharing your pool or villa grounds with anybody else.

Villa locations

You’ll have a wide range of villas to choose from. There are villas located near Disney or Universal Studios or wherever it is you want to visit, which is probably the primary reason that you’ll go to Orlando anyway. You can select from realtors in the Orlando area on their properties for rent to check availability.

It is also wise to book early, so that you won’t experience disappointment when you rent an Orlando vacation villa for your summer getaway.

Rhodes Greece Vacation And Travel

2010-01-02T14:51:00.001-09:00

Rhodes is one of the many islands that you can go to on your Greece vacation. Rhodes is one of the largest and most fertile of the Greek islands. It is also one of the most visited islands in Greece. Rhodes is not only known for its tourist resorts and splendid beaches but also for the various archaeological sites and medieval towns found in the island.

The island of Rhodes is composed of various places of interest. It is a major tourist attraction in itself mainly because of its sunny beaches. Although most of the beaches in the island are covered by gravel instead of sand, tourists still flock to the island because of the 300 and more days of sun that it enjoys.

The initial destination on the island is the city of Rhodes which is the biggest city on the island and the seat of the local government. Another area worth visiting would be Lindos, a picturesque village which is also a site of an ancient acropolis. Next to this village lies Haraki which is a small village that was once a fishing haven. The nearest tourist resort to Lindos is Pefkos, a small tourist town that was once just a cluster of farms and private residences that eventually grew over time.

For more action, tourists may want to head out to Faliraki. This is where tourists usually go to party and have fun and some exciting action while on the island. Afandou is one of the bigger villages on the island where the golf course of Rhodes is situated. For a more rustic experience, tourists can head out to traditional villages such as Theologos where Greek culture and tradition is still given importance.

Greek is the main language in the island of Rhodes. But due to the influx of tourists and foreign visitors, most of the inhabitants have learned to speak better English than in most parts of Greece as well as a bit of German. Communication with the locals is relatively easier especially in areas with the highest concentration of tourists.

Getting to the island of Rhodes is possible from the air or by sea. If by plane, the island can be reached by way of the Diagoras International Airport located on the west coast and 14 kilometers from the town of Rhodes. Regular flights are available from Athens, Thessaloniki and Crete. There are also chartered airlines that connect Rhodes from the other major cities in Europe. There are also ferries that travel regularly via Bodrum, Symi and Tilos. There are also cruise ships that dock at the Commercial Port located east of Old Town in the city of Rhodes.

The main means of getting around Rhodes on a Greece vacation is by bus. The island has a public bus network that operates throughout the island. The bus fare is relatively cheap and with stops that do not usually follow a time table. It is sometime okay to signal a bus driver by the road side if you wish to board or get off.

There are also taxis going around Rhodes that can take tourists to the various parts of the island.

Safety Should Be Your Main Concern When Camping in France

2010-01-01T04:58:00.000-09:00

Safety should be your main concern when camping in France or any other country. This is because the dangers that lurk which could turn the vacation into a nightmare.

Wherever you set up camp or hike, there is a chance that you will encounter some wild animals. It could be a deer or a wild boar and although they may look harmless from a distance, they can attack if they are territorial and protective.

So keep your distance and stay as quite as possible when you are near them. You should not try to feed them and keep your food stored properly so they don’t attack your camp.

Wild animals are not only the problems when you are out camping because small ones could be just as dangerous as well. If you don’t watch where you are going, you could be bitten by a critter or a snake so be mindful where you step.

During certain times of the year, you can’t help but encounter insects like ants, bees, flies and mosquitoes. Since you could have an allergic reaction, it is best to bring a first aid kit which will be useful if you also get bitten.

You should protect your skin and your eyes when you go camping. To do that, it pays to bring along a pair of sunglasses and apply sunscreen lotion. That way, you protect your eyes from the sun’s glare and avoid getting a sunburn.

If you want to do some exploring on your own, never go alone and always do this with a companion. Bring some gear like water, snacks, matches, flashlight, a map, compass and GPS unit that will come in handy if you get lost.

For families that are traveling with children, always keep them in your sight. Given them a whistle that should only be used only during an emergency.

Since you will probably be cooking some of the food for your camping trip, be careful if you are using a small stove. As you know, this is powered by a gas canister and this could explode under extreme heat. To avoid that, keep this in an upright position and in a ventilated area. Check for leaks before you buy it and turn it off when not in use.

If the gas canister is exhausted and it has to be replaced with another one, make sure removing and installing is done far away from flames and other ignition sources.

Although we have no control over the weather, we can push through with the camping trip only under fair weather conditions. To do that, check the forecast for the time that you will be out there and listen to the radio in case there are any changes.

Most campers bring a lot of food for the duration of their stay. To prevent this from spoiling, be sure to keep these cool at all times by buying blocks of ice and putting these together with your food inside the cooler.

When you start the fire to cook your food, be sure there is always someone around to guard it because if left unattended, you could start a forest fire.

Camping in France can be fun if you are able to bring the proper gear and practice safety at all times. Wherever you decide to do it, check with the authorities the rules and guidelines.

How to Look for a Family Sailing Vacation Package

2009-12-31T20:25:00.000-09:00

Going on a vacation as a family may be fun but the costs can be depressing. Just imagining paying for 6 plane tickets and then meals for six for the duration of the vacation is enough to send anyone in the loony bin. With the rising costs of commodities, only the crazy or the super rich can afford a family vacation, let alone a family sailing vacation. After all, taking a cruise is much more expensive than flying in.

But to people who are resourceful and wise, finding the perfect family sailing vacation package that is affordable is a piece of cake. If you know where to look and how to look, that vacation in the Bahamas and in the Caribbean will not just be a dream away. Here are some tips that will help you in your bargain hunting.

1. Go online

The internet is a great resource for bargains. One of those being sold over the internet are travel packages. Look into airline websites and cruise ship websites and see what their latest offerings are. Here you will find great bargains, all inclusive packages that sometimes do not cost as much.

Another place to try is the ebay auction houses where you can find great bargains. It may not be common but sometimes there are people who have planned their vacations but suddenly cannot make it. The tickets and accommodations may not be as many as you want but the discount that you will get can save you a lot of money.

2. Go in groups

Take advantage of the fact that you are part of a group. People who buy in bulk will of course be offered cheaper prices than those buying one or two tickets. Some cruise ships even offer buy 5 free 1 tickets or boarding. There are also a lot of packages that are already made for groups. This is to encourage people to sign up with the cruise ship or with the airlines. After all, it is easier to fill up the ship and the airline with groups of people rather than with one or two tickets sold.

3. Book early

If you can plan your family sailing vacation early, do so. This is because it is cheaper if you buy your tickets and accommodations early. You will not only get discounts but may even get great packages especially when you sign up on an off peak season. Even if you reserved your vacation on a peak season, if you did it really early, you will get great discounts for it.

4. Do it off peak

Prices are more expensive during peak season because the demand for tickets and accommodations are also high. This is the time when people often take holidays and vacations like during Christmas, New Year, Summer, Spring and during Easter.

If you take a family vacation during off peak season, you can save as much as 50 percent, not only on the tickets and hotel costs but also on the meals and even the souvenir items. And because there is not much people around, you can enjoy your vacation more. Just think about it, having the hotel pool or the cruise ship all to your family.

A family sailing vacation is not expensive… if you know how to find one.

Orient Express: A Name That Lives On Through The Years

2009-12-31T19:21:00.000-09:00

Orient Express is a name that has lived since the 1920s and so, and continues to linger and live on. Having made its mark on the train history of the entire world, the Orient Express has truly embarked on the right moves; thus paving its way to a lifetime achievement of being a very well-known train travel service company world wide.

Orient Express a Name Constantly Linked to Luxury

Orient Express is also the name that has been constantly linked to luxurious and most exclusive trains so comfortable ad enjoyable to ride in. Starting from the renowned Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in the early beginnings of the Orient Express, as well as its other sister trains in the United Kingdom, the Orient Express' portfolio now becomes to include even the special going away or departures transversely all throughout the world from the high Andes in Peru to the very heart of South East Asia.

Orient Express a Compact of Memories, Excitement and Enjoyments

And whether it is already the time for a very meaningful and memorable journey, or a much shorter trip perhaps for just within the day or maybe dinner to have a good time and celebrate something special, traveling onboard the Orient Express is comprehensively memorable, enjoyable, and therefore becomes very highly suggested.

Orient Express' Very First Expedition

And looking back since its first ever expedition or what you might prefer to call voyage, journey, trip or tour, or whatever you may want calling it, it still boils down to one singular thing and that is, Orient Express is the best among all train travel service providers. It does not need many words to explain or highlight the prestige that the Orient Express has achieved for itself through the years.

Orient Express, a Name Invoking Mystery and Romance

Again, Orient Express, it is such a name that invokes anticipations of mystery and romance very much similar to the elegance of traveling concepts during the 1930's.

nOthers might also consider the name Orient Express with the famous writer Agatha Christie. The popular crime-writer Agatha Christie who was so enthralled by the sagacity of adventure made up on a railway trip. To Agatha Christie, the trains, was an unusual world. In the same manner that the landscapes and country side sceneries, the panoramic views are just brought together by accident and never intentionally or deliberately.

At present, passengers and travelers do not need any more to take a trip to Venice or perhaps Istanbul in Turkey just to experience the beautiful lavishness and romance of a voyage on the Orient Express. There abound voyage schedules and destinations which are not far for some people. A traditional 1930's British Pullman carriage, the Northern Belle carriage, another sister carriage to the Venice Simplon-Orient Express British Pullman, was started on in May of year 2000.

This deluxe train presents meals while on journeys, day tours, Saturday breaks, majestic tours and special events with departures from many Northern United Kingdom cities, which also include Manchester, Edinburgh, Liverpool, York and Glasgow.

What You Really Need to Know About Skydiving

2009-12-31T18:39:00.000-09:00

Skydiving came from the recesses of necessity, as people need an escape route when an aircraft suddenly becomes unfit or unsafe to continue flying, or when it cannot land safely. It was conceptualized from a stunt done during 1797 when a crazy Frenchman by the name of Andre Jacques Farnerin jumped out of a hot-air-balloon and landed unscathed.

Obviously, this brought in a multitude of new possibilities into the table. Emergency safety in aircrafts has been improved and the US military even used it as a strategy that helped them win World War 2, especially in the European theater. With necessity established and good to go, people turned their attention to leisure.

Initial Public Outcry

Of course, it comes as no surprise that people would be moaning about the dangers of jumping out of an airplane that is thousands of feet above sea level. While doing so with the plane threatening to crash onto the earth like an impromptu meteorite, they all got squeamish with doing so out of a perfectly good one. Surely, they never saw the potential that skydiving could bring onto the table.

Soon enough, it was proven that it was safe beyond any shadow of a doubt. Statistics show that only one in every one hundred thousand jumps go wrong and such circumstances are evidently rare. In comparison to other activities, skydiving is surprisingly safer.

Financial Misconceptions

Most people would think that skydiving is a luxury that is only accessible to the wealthy. While this is not entirely a fallacy due to the cost of equipment used for skydiving, not everyone who skydives is rich. There are charity organizations set up to let people skydive without expense at all. Also, sponsors can be called upon to fund an event where you can skydive for charity as well. As expenses may be grand, skydiving doesn't have to be aristocratic at all. It is definitely available for those with both the desire and the heart to do it.

Health Concerns

There are also health concerns regarding skydiving for each individual. Surely, there is no way that a sick person can skydive, right? Well, that may be true, but for only conditions that would definitely be affected from such an adrenaline-pumping activity. An epileptic, for example, would not be fit for a jump at all. On the other hand, an asthmatic can partake as long as he/she can keep it under control with medication. If you are one of those with medical conditions and you want to skydive, obtain an authentic medical certificate from your physician before participating in such an activity.

World Achievements

There are a lot of trivia when it comes to skydiving, and some of them are quite amazing indeed. For example, there was an event held in Thailand back in 2006 where 400 people from 312 countries jumped from 23,000 feet in a flower-like formation for around a minute and a half. There's also one of the oldest world records in skydiving, which is the longest skydiving jump in history.

Joseph Kittinger's extraordinary jump lasted for over four minutes from a height of 102,800 feet, which is quite unbelievable. The record, as of this writing, still stands and is one of the most amazing feats in skydiving history.

Adventure Sailing is More Fun When You Own The Yacht

2009-12-31T15:19:00.000-09:00

You can charter adventure sailing vacation to almost any destination in the world. The only problem is that it will cost you a lump sum paying for the crew, the meals and the fuel for the trip. You can probably save money on a sailing vacation when you own the yacht but only if you know how to navigate and control it.

The advantage of owning a boat is that you can go on a sailing vacation at anytime. You don’t have to call your travel agent or make any reservation online since the boat is just sitting at the dock waiting for you to come aboard. The only thing you have to do is buy food and fuel which should be enough to get you back to port.

The boat also brings financial benefits because when you are not using it, this can be rented out to those who want to go on their own sailing vacation as long as they are able to pay your rate. This of course means additional revenue for you so the ship stays in good shape.

This makes it also ideal for those who want to conduct business on board because this is a tax deductible once you register your boat as a place of business. To see how this works, get in touch with your tax advisor

Another financial benefit of owning your own yacht is the fact that this is considered to be a second home. This is as long as the boat has at least one berth, a permanent galley and a head which is the requirement of the IRS.

If you can’t buy your own yacht, there is something called fractional boat ownership which means for a certain period during the year, you can do whatever you want with the boat. This will allow you to use it to go on a trip with your family.

The best thing about this is that a group of you share the cost of owning the yacht which already includes its maintenance, insurance, moorage, equipment, fuel and repairs.

This can only happen of course after you have completed a boating safety class and a safety orientation. This will not be a problem for you if you are already certified to sail a boat and know how to use all the equipment like charts, compass and GPS on board.

The other option is to join a boat club. Unlike part time sharing, you don’t get to own a boat. But as a member, you are entitled to up to 4 advanced reservations at any given time and access to powerboats or to sailboats that are up to 30 feet in length. The club for its part will shoulder all the other expenses such as maintenance, cleaning, storage and insurance.

There are many of then around so you won’t have a hard time choosing one. Some cater to one market while others cater to all. They also offer boating classes for those who want to do this for fun or commit themselves in the sport.

Adventure sailing vacation is truly better when you own the yacht as the only thing you have to do is drive on over to the docks, stow your gear on board and then sail off into the sunset.

Helpful Tips on Getting Most of Your England Vacation

2009-12-31T14:37:00.000-09:00

England is a small country but its size can be deceiving. You might try to pack your day with many activities, spending your entire day hopping from one place to another. Take note that England roads are narrow and winding so travel time is much slower than you would have expected. Trying to do too much for too little time can be stressful and can definitely ruin your vacation. Limit your destination to a manageable level. Leave something for the next day.

No hotel for the first few hours

Upon arriving in London early morning (if you booked an overnight flight from the United States), you can stay at the airport for the first few hours, wash up and probably change clothes. Hotels charge the full amount regardless of the check-in time, heading towards your hotel from the airport can be very expensive (rooms are often unavailable until 3 in the afternoon). If you are renting a car, you can store your luggage in your car and head directly to your destination. If you are staying in the city, you can make arrangements to store your bags at the hotel until your room is ready. On the first day, keep your activities light. This is the best time to take the double-decker bus tour. Do not take a nap when the room is ready. What you should do is wash up, eat an early dinner, go to be early, and get ready for the second day.

Take the double-decker bus tours

This is the best way to go around the city of London. You can choose between the Big Bus Company and the Original Tour. Their buses are designed for sightseeing and touring the city.

Combine bed and travel

This goes to those who plan to visit other European countries aside from England. Sleeping while in transit is the best way to save travel time as well as money. However, this doesn't mean catching a few hours of sleep while on board a train or a plane. You can take inter-city trains that offer sleeping cabins for overnight trips. Make sure to take any available options when traveling long distances.

Do not spend your entire time in London

A week stay in London is long enough to visit most of its attractions, theaters, and museums, but it is a big mistake if you don't go outside the city. Not only you will miss lots of sights, you will also be limited to one part of the country. And since the best side of England is seen in the countryside and villages make sure that a good amount of time of your vacation is allocated in exploring the country.

What you will miss if you stay in London for your entire vacation: Roman Bath, Stonehenge, Salisbury, Lake District, York, Windsor Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon, and a lot more.

Rent a car

There is no better way to roam around England than by traveling at your own pace, eating whenever you like, stopping anytime to take snapshots of the countryside and staying where you please as long as you like. These things can only be done by renting a car.

Car rental is best if done with two or more people. And it is often the least expensive option especially if the expenses in gas, paying tolls, insurance and parking fees are shared.

Best Destinations for Cheap Romantic Vacation Getaway

2009-12-31T13:47:00.000-09:00

Who says money can’t buy happiness? You are obviously right but maybe it fits if you add, ‘but it can take you to the best places where to find it’. You see the best destinations and spots for a romantic vacation getaway always have to be paid. The most are far away so you still need to spend a lot of money for the fare and some other miscellaneous stuff.

But then, it doesn’t have to be expensive to say that you will be very happy with the travel or getaway. There are also some cheap romantic vacation getaway that you can really enjoy time with your family and friends at. Some of these places are as follows:

- South Padre Island, TX – During spring break, South Padre Island is at its peak days. During these times, it will cost you a lot but not if you order an affordable holiday right after or any month that is not in the peak months. The Gulf Coast resort will be the best choice for you during these days.

- Amelia Island, FL – If you are looking for a nice and quiet plus cheap romantic vacation getaway, Amelia Island is just the right pick for you. At best, you can avail of their weekend deal that already includes not only a four-poster romantic bed but scooter rental too. For just as small as $159, the Florida House Inn weekend deal will make your getaway perfect. If you add another $89, you will enjoy champagne in a romantic dinner as well as a sentimental carriage ride.

- Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. For 60F and more under the sun, Myrtle Beach is the right place to have your cheap romantic vacation getaway. For as low as $75 a night, you can find the best beach

- California. Anytime of the year, you can easily find a good place to spend your getaway in California. Some of the best hotels to check out are Santa Clara’s Hotel Biltmore. Get a package of a deluxe suite from this quality place for only $149 a night. This will already include a welcome basket of champagne, a dinner, and a breakfast plus a movie in the room.

- Auberge Lac-à-l’Eau-Claire in Quebec, Canada. If you want something more exotic and adventurous, the deep forest package in Quebec, Canada is a great choice. For only $289, you can enjoy a package good for 2 nights with buffet breakfasts and dinners. You also get to enjoy a dogsled ride and as much outdoor activities as you want.

- Romantic Cabins, homes, cottages, and log cabins rental in Tennessee's Smokey Mountains, Shenandoah VA and other scenic spots. You can also opt to enjoy quality time in quiet surroundings of any place you want to be at when you rent a cabin or cottage for two from vacation home rentals. This cheap romantic vacation getaway has no minimum stay required so you can enjoy to the fullest.

- Caribbean and Mexico cruise. $199 can take you and your loved one on a 3, 4, up to 5 nights Caribbean and Mexico cruises. If you want, you can find online bidding cruise agencies to get a lesser quote.

From these many choices, you can surely find the best destination for your planned cheap romantic vacation getaway!

High Sierra: A Place To Visit During A California Vacation

2009-12-31T13:34:00.000-09:00

A California vacation entails many things for a tourist, a lover of nature and a lover of the glamour and the prestige of the entertainment industry. There are many tourist spots in the country that converging them in only one article is not possible. To write about all the tourist spots would require a thousand articles.

This particular article will talk about the beauty of the High Sierra in California. The High Sierra is home to many attractions in sports, art galleries and historic spots. This paradise also boasts of bodies of water, mountains, parks and waterfalls. The activities that are best enjoyed in this attraction are golf, camping, hiking, summer camps, trail rides, hunting, fishing, ballooning, kayaking and canoeing, rafting, bicycle tours, Go-Kart racing and culinary tours.

High sierra caters to different people with the abovementioned list of places and activities. For art enthusiasts, High Sierra offers the Neighborhood Center of The Arts. This gallery serves as a venue for adults with developmental activities through art and community integration. Artists in this gallery are people who are aged 25 to 61. These people study and do works in ceramics, painting, weaving, and wood work and computer arts. This gallery is not only an attraction to tourists but serves the people of California.

High sierra also offers sights and activities with regards to the bodies of water. These bodies of water include the Kern River and the Ventura River. Kern River flows through San Joaquin and Sierra Nevada. Its main attractions are the canyons and rapids which are essential in whitewater rafting. The Yosemite and Bridal veil falls can also be seen in this area. These falls can be best viewed during spring as they provide a magnificent view with the pristine waters and surroundings. Activities with regards to bodies of water in the High Sierra include kayaking, fishing and canoeing. The kayaking trips include a tour in Mono Lake and Crowley Lake.

For those people who want to explore the area without going to the water, there are available bike rentals and trips can be made around High Sierra. Being on a bicycle provides tourists with the perfect feel of nature, fresh air, giant trees and even seeing some unique animals. Bike tours in this area give a breathtaking tour of land, national parks and even include the Sierra Mountains, Lake Tahoe and Pacific Coast.

There are also different recreation activities in the area. One of these activities is the Aikido'Ka. This is a martial art of peace. The first value in this art is self-respect and it aims to instill peace and respect in every individual. It is a good bonding activity for families who are on a vacation and wants to strengthen their family ties. A student of this art learns to solve all disputes without attacking your opponent.

A High Sierra California vacation provides tourists with the beauty of the mountain, rivers and waterfalls. High Sierra offers diverse activities for tourists that are involved in physical activities. It is also a refuge from the busy streets of the city. It temporarily provides a different lifestyle for them. High Sierra is only one spot on the list of places in the California vacation list. There are still other places to explore and many things to do. So, better start exploring now.

Maui Golf Vacation Packages

2009-12-31T11:58:00.000-09:00

Golf is a very popular sport. This is why there are golf courses all over the world so if you want to play in a warmer climate, why not inquire about a Maui Golf Vacation Package?

The island of Maui is just one of five other islands that make up Hawaii. There are over 80 golf courses spread out in this area and 20 of them are in Maui. Some of these are world class golf courses like the one in Kapalua that happens to be the home of the Mercedes Championship.

Along its coast, you will discover that there are 10 other courses that have been awarded and rated a 3.5 star or even higher. You don’t have to be a pro to be here since this is also open for casual golfers.

If you happen to stay at the Maui Prince Hotel, you will find that there are two championship golf courses that are available to the guests. The Makena North Course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. that has a great view of Haleakala and the Pacific Ocean. The Southern course on the other hand has a breathtaking view of the mountains.

When you avail of the Maui Golf Vacation Package, what is included here is the round trip airfare, fresh flower lei greeting upon arrival, and transfers from and to the airport. The package allows two people to play so play with your spouse or bring a friend so you can share the complimentary golf cart.

While you are out in the green, the rest of your family can sign up for a guided tour or go snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing and a host of other activities.

Another is the Wailea Golf Club that happens to be one of the most famous and expensive in the island. Those who have played there have said that the course is very challenging. The challenges each player will face are the different grasses, the unusual natural hazards and the winds that come from the ocean but this should not discourage you from taking the time to look at the ocean that can be seen from every section of the fairway.

If you want to play elsewhere, reserving in most golf courses in Maui is easy since this can be done a few days in advance. Take note that in West Maui, courses are usually windy. Those located in South Maui and some in the West, have greens that break toward the ocean even if they do break uphill. As for golfing attire, it is acceptable to wear shorts here but some prohibit players from wearing denim.

With perfect weather all year round between 75 to 85 degrees, you can hit the green anytime in one of the 20 golf courses that have been built on the island. In fact this demand has marked an increase in the development of other luxury resorts that cater to professionals and amateurs who are really into this sport.

There are many travel agencies these days that offer Maui Golf Vacation Packages. You just have to decide where you want to play depending on the kind of backdrop or environment that you want to play in. For instance, players who want something different can play near the active Kilauea volcanic crater.

A Fantastic Skiing Vacation without Breaking the Bank

2009-12-31T11:29:00.000-09:00

If you are on a tight budget but you planned and promised your family that you are going to take them on a skiing vacation, you can't really help it but reconsider your plans as you simply don’t have the money for it. Going on a ski trip can definitely be expensive but there are several ways on how you can still go on a fantastic weekend ski holiday with your family without spending too much money. So, here are some of the tips that you have to consider in order for you to save money and keep the cost down during your ski trip.

First of all, you need to consider the fact that skiing is very popular for families. It is an activity that they can all do together and a lot of families visit the slopes every year in order to spend a skiing holiday. So, ski resorts often targets families for their promos. Ski resorts offering discounts for families are not that hard to find. All you need to do is go online and visit some of the websites of ski resorts available. You will see that there are quite a lot of ski resorts that will offer great family packages at an affordable cost. Some can even offer free accommodation and ski passes for children under the age of 10 or 12 or at least at a reduced cost.

Some ski resorts even offers family day passes for the ski lift. With this, you will be able to access the ski lifts for free.

During your vacation, you have to remember that you and your family also need to eat. However, you have to keep in mind that food and beverages can be quite expensive on ski resorts. There are actually quite a lot of ways on how you can save money on food and beverages. Instead of eating in a restaurant, you can try buying groceries for the weekend where the locals do. If you are staying in a ski lodge, you will see that they will have the basic kitchen facilities that you can use to cook in and prepare food. This will save you more money that eating out.

You should also try bringing entertainment for your kids along. Spending quarters and dollars to keep your kids entertained when they are not skiing is one of the most unexpected budget breakers whenever you go on a skiing holiday. So, instead of letting your kids spend money on games and entertainment try bringing your kids' favorite electronic games, such as their PSP.

If you can, choose smaller lodges instead of large ones that are well-known. By going for the less-advertised lodges nearby, you will be able to cut down a lot on your expenses. In fact, well-known lodges can cost twice as much as the less-advertised ones.

Another way to save money when you go on a ski trip is by booking last minute deals. You have to remember that ski resorts don’t want to have any vacant slots in their bookings. They want to be fully booked. So, if you are lucky enough, you will be able to find ski resorts that offer huge discounts on their accommodation or packages in order to keep their resort fully booked.

Venice Away From The Crowd

2009-12-31T11:28:00.001-09:00

Venice is one of the top 3 most-wanted tourist destinations in the world. As such, Venice is also one of the most “tourist-infested” places. Almost all of its most popular sites have very long queues of people. Where could one find a good place in Venice away from the crowd?

The answer is simple. Go to places in the opposite direction where the crowds are going.
Walk around a couple of corners away from the Rialto-Accademia-San Marco triangle. From there, take any direction and you will find peace and quiet.

Another good alternative would be to visit the city during off-season, when the tourists are not as many, the streets not so crowded, where you enjoy your coffee in some small shop overlooking the famous canals, watching the world glide by.

Roads less traveled

Many tourists always take well-worn destinations. They would stick to Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Basilica and sometimes venture out to Murano to watch glass-blowers at work.

How about going north east to a church named San Francesco della Vigna in Castello? It has the best collection of fine sculptures by Pietro Lombardo and several paintings of Paolo Veronese, Bellini and many other masters.

Like Cannaregio, Castello is home to many Venetians. It has good restaurants, bakeries, shops and many other places of interest.

It also has La Pieta (Santa Maria della Visitazione) where the famous composer Vivaldi was choir master in an earlier building; San Giorgio dei Greci, a Greek Orthodox church; and in the far East of the sestiere, the church of San Pietro in Castello.

Castello is also home to the Pavilion of the Venice Biennale exhibition (Biennale D'Arte Contemporanea & Architettura), located in the Giardini di Castello.

In Cannaregio, the places to go are not limited to the Jewish Ghetto and Museo Ebraico. This was the home district of Titian, Marco Polo and Tintoretto. The church of Madonna dell-Orto has several of Tintoretto’s paintings.

The sestieres of San Polo and Santa Croce is where you can smell fish in the morning from the Rialto market. Get your fill in Chinese restaurants as well as in many excellent osterias and trattorias with traditional Italian fares.

They have their share of galleries and churches, too: Galleria Internazionale d'Arte Modern, Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, with the famous Madonna by Bellini and another by Titian, and the unforgettable "Sistine Chapel of Tintoretto" in the Scuola Grande di San Rocco. Tintoretto spent the remainder of his life painting the ceiling of this church.

Mestre is the last place a tourist would like to go in Venice. This is where most Venetians live and it is in the mainland. However, it has a lovely district around Piazza Ferretto lined with shops, bars, and restaurants which are alive all day and night.

This is where hotels abound with much lower prices than in the lagoon, with parking lots if you arrive by car.

Lido is the place to go if you enjoy the beaches, the sun and 5-star hotels along with gold courses.

In Burano, looking at the colorful painted houses set in a tranquil fisherman’s village is worth the hour-long trip by waterbus.

Finally, one last secret in getting away from the crowd in Venice is to get up early in the morning and walk through the streets or duck into a café and get your hot latte. At this time, everything looks truly magical. That’s what you came for, right?

Indian Vacation Travel Tips

2009-12-31T11:09:00.001-09:00

An overseas vacation is a great experience, you would have a chance to have a cultural immersion and at the same time a chance to experience the wonderful sights. But an overseas vacation is not always a perfect one, let’s take an example of an Indian vacation.

India is melting pot of different sights, activities and could be shocking for a first-time visitor. It would surely leave an impression on every tourist. It would be a question to make your vacation in India one of the wonderful experiences. There are some things that a tourist going to India should be conscious of.

Before Departure

Regardless of any country you will be going to, you have to know about the climate of that country. For example, if you vacation would be in South India then climates are hotter and ideal if you would like to have a summer escapade. However, if you prefer going to the north then be prepared for a cooler climate. Make sure that you would be adopting the clothes you will be bringing to the climate you will be experiencing. Do a little research.

Another thing that you should prepare for is regarding your health. Although, India does not have any immunization requirements from those who come from North America or any other country, it would be better to be prepared. India is prone to disease like malaria, cholera, gastroenteritis and dengue. It would also be for the best if you have polio, typhoid and tetanus vaccinations.

Be sure to include insect repellent like a mosquito cream or lotion. There are modern hospitals in India, so there would be nothing to worry about hospitalization. But you do not want to spend your vacation confined in a hospital, right?

Regarding passport and visa information, the passport should remain valid at least for the next six months after arrival in India. For those who are part of a multiple entry tour, then multiple entry visa is recommended. When packing, also pack light. You do not have to bring everything since most things are already available in India.

Landing on India

Once you are in India, you will surely be bombarded with different things to see and different people. Do not get surprised if everybody seems to be looking at you, there is no taboo about openly looking at a person. You could dry dressing conservatively or with local outfit, this would lessen the attention, just a bit, you are getting. Locals tend to be talkative and friendly, they would try to engage you in a conversation. Answer politely, but they would respect your privacy and would not ask personal questions.

Homosexuality and associated acts are not well illegal in India, so do avoid these. Aside from this, avoid public display of affection. There are foreigners who have a hard time with local officials because of a peck or kiss done in public. But it is common for men or women to hold hands with the same sex.

If you want to enter a temple or a church, make sure that they allow people of not the same religion to go inside. Aside from that, be sure to take of your shoes or footwear when entering a temple or religious building.

Safety and Security

There are recent bombings and terrorists in India that made some people wary about going to India for a vacation. But actually, you just have to maintain some common sense to keep you safe from these kinds of acts. If you are a woman , avoid walking the streets late at night alone. There are some cases of foreign rape and abduction, so make sure that you have a companion if you would have to leave.

Never accept things from a stranger, even if they sound they meant well. You will never know if the drink or candy is drugged. For example, there are cases that tourists would report being robbed of their belongings after they felt dizzy or disoriented after accepting food or beverage from a stranger.

There are many instances of pickpockets so make sure you keep your things safe. Avoid visiting areas that have high political tension, pay attention to local news. Aside from that avoid places that are totally dangerous, like Jammu and Kashmir which have long history of discord with Palestine.

Going Home

When you are ready to wrap up you Indian vacation, there are some last minute reminders. If you would like to buy souvenirs, then bargaining is the key. Do not accept gifts from people who are asking you to bring something for them, it might cause you trouble. Also, it is best to avoid items that would came from or made of animals like elephant tusks. If you would be taking home an item which is more than 100 years old, it is already an antique and you would need to get a permit for that.

Dream Greece Vacations and Weddings

2009-12-31T10:31:00.000-09:00

Greece is known for being a romantic destination. The Greek islands is the ideal travel destination for a romantic Greece vacation, celebration, honeymoon, anniversary or weddings. From the awe-inspiring sunsets of Santorini to the peaceful opportunity to escape to a world where feelings blossom with ease.

A lot of couples have decided to tie the know in Greece. May people are choosing Greece as a wedding destination because it offers some of the most magical and mystical views, with incredible festivals seemingly every month of the year and some of the world’s most breathtaking sunsets while being reasonably priced.

But to get married in Greece there are some legalities that should be taken care of. Couples are required to present birth certificates that have translated into Greek and that carry an apostille stamp.

Apostille stamp is the seal placed on documents that are used abroad. Letters of No Impediment, also sealed with an apostille stamp stating that both are free to legally marry. This would serve as the marriage license.

After finishing of the formalities and the technical aspects of the wedding, then the planning for the wedding and the actual ceremony starts. To make guided and well-informed decisions, then it would be better to hire a wedding consultant in Greece. Getting a local consultant, will help you decide on the locations and other aspects of the wedding.

Wedding consultants in Greece are pretty much affordable. There are many affordable services that handle all of the paperwork and offer packages for Civil Ceremonies, Catholic Ceremonies, Gay Ceremonies as well as Greek Orthodox.

Locations are certainly breathtaking, since there are great places with extraordinary ocean views and amazing sunset. For those who are adventurous, then there are weddings that ca be performed in Mount Olympus and the isle

Perhaps, a bit more adventurous locale will best suit your passions and Mount Olympus an the isle of Cyprus could just be the prefect selection. Cyprus is the third largest isle in the Mediterranean and each year more and more couples are exchanging vows stop the isle's highest peak, Mount Olympus. It is also the location of the of the annual festival to Aphrodite in the fall and one of the best times to mix festivals and merriment with your special day.

Another of the many Greek isle, Santorini is among the most popular venues for weddings. It is easy to comprehend why. What could be more mystical than exchanging vows in the shadow of a volcano overlooking the clear blue sea?

Other technical aspects or requirements of weddings are the following:

• Bride and groom’s passports and a photo copy of each passport. No apostille necessary and no translation necessary.

• Marriage License/Registration of Marriage from your City Hall.

• Documents to be authenticated with the apostile: the apostille must be issued by the state/country where your document was issued.

Other important things to remember:

• European & US citizens must obtain a Marriage License.

• US citizens must ensure the Marriage License states the name of the person who they wish to marry.

• Couples who will remain in Santorini for less than 24 hours in total must obtain a Marriage License and not a Single Status Letter.

• If Divorce is in the event, then there should be a photocopy of it, no translation is needed.

Everybody dreams to have a unique and one of a kind wedding, then try it next time. Try your romantic, celebration of marriage and joys and exhaustion of a Greece vacation and wedding.

Cultural Heritage at Its Natural Best: Revealing Kauai State Parks

2009-12-31T09:18:00.000-09:00

Kauai is home to a variety of unique plant and animal species and its natural beauties have been preserved for thousands of years making it a special wonder in the Pacific. The island is one of the major islands in Hawaii but Kauai State Parks have maintained its original natural form with 97% of the entire land left untouched by human hands. Find out things and attractions to expect in these great locations.

The Main Highlights

Na Pali Coast State Park measures about 6,175 acres and is considered by many as the most beautiful in the island. The location features majestic sea cliffs and valleys that can be viewed from the coastal Kalalau Trail, by boat or air via helicopter. Kalalau Valley, Nualolo Kai and Milolii can only be accessed via commercial or private boats and helicopters. You can enjoy a variety of activities in the park such as hiking, camping, backpacking and bird viewing.

Backpackers and hikers can go through the Kalalau Trail that spans 1 to 2 miles depending on the route with great landscapes, waterfalls and stream valleys. You can camp at Milolii and enjoy the captivating sunset view. It requires a certain level of primitive outdoor experience to camp along the coast and ocean currents can be harsh depending on the tide and season.

Polihale State Park is located at the end of a 5-mile dirt road from Mana Village just off Kaumualii Highway. The park extends over 137 acres where you can enjoy activities like tent or trailer camping, shore fishing, swimming in the summer, picnicking and taking pictures of the colorful sunset and high sea cliffs of Na Pali Coast. There is also Queen’s Pond located just north along the beach by a hollow in the coral.

Waimea Canyon State Park spans over 1,866 acres and boasts the Grand Canyon of the Pacific or Waimea Canyon which is more colorful than the one located in Arizona. The park is found about 11 miles north of Kekaha on Highway 550 adjacent to Kokee State Park.

Here you can enjoy goat hunting seasonally, hiking, picture taking and hiking. Kokee State Park which is over 4,000 acres features 45 hiking trails with some leading into the canyon. Stopover points along trails in the canyon are available complete with restroom facilities. Lookout walks are handicapped accessible and Waimea Canyon is open every day of the year with no admission charge.

Many Parks to Pick

Another must-see Kauai state park is the National Tropical Botanical Garden featuring over 5,000 plant and flower species. Two gardens form the park namely Allerton and Lawai Garden. The Allerton Garden was created in the 1870s spanning over 100 acres. The Lawai Garden spans 186 acres and serves as a research facility for the various cultivation methods and uses of plants in the National Tropical Botanical Garden.

Wailua River State Park is situated on Highway 580. The Lydgate State Park is a great family place where visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming, sand strolling and beach games. There is a coconut grove that used to shelter ancient islanders and the Wailua River at the north end.

Smith’s Tropical Paradise is located along the river upstream. You can take a riverboat tour up the Wailua River to see the Fern Grotto and other Kauai state park highlights.

Coldest Town on Earth - Oymyakon

2008-12-22T10:05:00.000-09:00

Temperatures could hit -70 C in northeast Siberia!!

YAKUTSK, December 22 (RIA Novosti) - Temperatures in the northeast Siberian republic of Yakutia could plummet to minus 68 degrees Celsius (-90.4 Fahrenheit) this week, the local meteorological service said on Monday.

"In the next few days we expect a cold spell in the towns of Verkhoyansk and Oymyakon, with weather likely to drop to minus 64-68 degrees Celsius (minus 83.2-90.4 Fahrenheit)," a spokesman said.

In the town of Oymyakon, dubbed the North Pole of cold, or the place where the lowest-ever temperature in the Northern hemisphere has been recorded, temperatures fell to -60 degrees Celsius (-76 Fahrenheit) overnight.

In the town of Verkhoyansk, located some 600 km (372 miles) from Oymyakon and also noted for its exceptionally cold winters, the temperatures hit -55 degrees Celsius (-67 Fahrenheit) on Sunday night.

More freezing weather, as well as fog and blizzards are expected in Yakutia this week, the spokesman said adding that the extremely cold weather was due to an influx of a cold polar air mass.

Information courtesy of RNA Novosti.

iBreath: iPhone Breathalyzer

2008-12-22T09:24:00.000-09:00

The iBreath is an attachment for the iPhone that measures blood alcohol level. For only $79 you can buy this accessory that plugs into the iPhone. The iBreath features a retractable blow wand, and within two seconds, it displays the results on an LED screen. A reading of 0.08 or above sets off an alarm because the blood-alcohol level is above the legal limit.

“We are absolutely not advocating drinking and driving, but we know that people just don't observe that,” said don Bassler, chief executive and founder of David Steele Enterprises Inc. in Newport Beach, an online retailer and creator of the iBreath. “We don’t want people to think that this makes it all OK, but it’s a safety device that we hope people will use, and it may save lives.”

This is actually a really awesome device. I know too many people who have said they were okay to drive and then get a DUI. This may have made them think differently. Or, if you’re like me you can go the cheap route and make sure you have a DD at all times. Don’t drink and drive under any circumstances, especially during the holidays! The people at iBreath agree:

“I’m afraid it not only causes young people to use it as a training tool but also gives them a false sense of security. ‘I’m good to go,’ ” Dean-Mooney said. “Your blood-alcohol content goes up for 30 minutes after you stop drinking. There’s no need to risk hurting yourself or other innocent people when you can simply plan ahead.”

Information courtesy of RightCelebrity.com.

Oil company Flying J files for bankruptcy

2008-12-22T09:02:00.000-09:00

NEW YORK, Dec 22 (Reuters) - Flying J, a privately held oil producer, refiner and pipeline operator, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Monday, citing weak oil prices and turmoil in the credit markets.

The company listed estimated liabilities between $100 million to $500 million and assets of more than $1 billion, according to documents filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the District of Delaware.

"With this sudden and unanticipated inability to meet our liquidity needs, we regret that we had no other choice than a Chapter 11 filing to enable us to stabilize our financial base," J. Phillip Adams, its president and chief executive, said in a statement.

Flying J had 2007 sales of more than $16 billion from its interests in about 200 oil and gas wells in the Rocky Mountain region, a 70,000-barrels-per-day refinery in Bakersfield, California, a 35,000-barrels-per-day Utah refinery, 250 retail outlets and a 700-mile refined products pipeline owned by its Longhorn Pipeline Holdings unit.

The company does not expect any layoffs as part of the bankruptcy filing. West Coast refined products traders say the company's bankruptcy is not likely to affect products supply there.
Oil and gas prices have collapsed from their highs in July, with crude oil shedding more than 70 percent of its value.

Refining margins in the Rocky Mountains and on the West Coast are typically among the highest in the nation due to a lack of regional refining and pipeline capacity. Over the past four weeks, refiners in the Rockies saw average gross margins of $8.46 per barrel, while West Coast refiners pulled in $13.26 per barrel, according to a research note from Credit Suisse. That compares to $2.72 per barrel in the refinery and pipeline-heavy Gulf Coast, according to the note.

Among the company's top creditors were Zions Bancorp (ZION.O), with $85.8 million in outstanding bank loans; ConocoPhillips (COP.N), with $69.4 million in trade debt; and Barry Petroleum, with $26.1 million in trade debt.

Reported by Matt Daily, additional reporting by Richard Valdmanis and Erwin Seba, and edited by Jeffrey Benkoe of Reuters.

Sen. Jones to discuss sex offender laws on Fox Sports

2008-12-21T10:54:00.000-09:00

ATLANTA — Sen. Emanuel Jones, D-Decatur, was interviewed by Fox Sports this week regarding his leadership in changing Georgia sex offender laws so they are appropriately applied to the crimes committed. The cases of Marcus Dixon and Genarlow Wilson, both charged with sexual offenses after having teenage consensual sex, demonstrated the need for sentencing reform. Dixon now plays for the Dallas Cowboys. Jones’ interview will air this Sunday, Dec. 21, at noon on the Fox Sports network.

“The Marcus Dixon case was the catalyst for changing state law to make the distinction between adults who commit heinous crimes and teenagers who engage in consensual behavior,” said Jones. “I fought to ensure that the change was made retroactive so those who had been unfairly sentenced were given an opportunity to reclaim their lives.”

Fox Sports reporter Pam Oliver interviewed Jones at the state Capitol for a segment on native Georgian Dixon, who at 18 was charged with aggravated child molestation in 2003 after engaging in consensual sex with a 15-year-old girl. Dixon was originally sentenced to 10 years in prison, but after serving 15 months, the state Supreme Court overturned his sentence. After a successful college career, Dixon is beginning his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys practice team.

In 2006, the mandatory 10-year minimum prison sentence was eradicated for teenagers convicted of a sexual offense after engaging in consensual sexual activity, making the charge a misdemeanor. However, that change did not apply to those convicted before 2006, as in Wilson’s case, an oversight that Jones sought to correct. Wilson’s sentence was overturned upon a Georgia State Supreme Court ruling as a result of legislation authored by Jones.

“Both Genarlow and Marcus fought for their freedom, and I was determined to see that their courage was justified,” Jones said. “I am pleased Fox Sports chose to highlight this issue, which I believe shows Georgia to be a state where justice is sensibly applied.”

Submitted by the Senate Press Office at The Daily Citizen