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Natural Cure For Anxiety - Hobbies and Leisure Time

Your resume and CV would have one sub-point reserved for 'Hobbies'. Have you wondered why? Hobbies would often tell the employer what type of a person you are - happy, creative, intense, extrovert, introvert and so on; it would also indicate whether you allow creativity a free hand - a thing that is extremely important in personal and professional growth no matter what field you choose for yourself.

The founder of modern psychiatry, Sigmund Freud had pointed that mental disorders are more often than not the result of unrealized and un-integrated (with life) creativity. People who are normally forced into "successful" and demanding professions often choose to give up their hobbies or leisure time in order to further their career. The demands on their time being such, they rather take rest than indulge in their hobbies whenever a window of free time emerges. When there is no more time for fun, in walks anxiety uninvited and unwanted; and that is always bad news.

Leading psychiatrists are of the opinion that hobbies and leisure time occupations such as watching TV, gossiping with neighbors, walking in a park, learning a new language and so on, actually help your mind and body to de-stress. The process is simple - when you do something you love, your mind would shut off the problems that worry you and revel in the pleasure generated by the activity you enjoy. When your mind is off problems, your body relaxes and your mind is able to think with more clarity. This means you short-circuit an impending anxiety attack and are very likely to find a solution to your problems. Isn't that called a win-win situation?

Some people know what gives them pleasure to do - and cultivate this activity as a hobby or leisure time occupation. What about people who are undecided about what they would really like to do? If you are surprised at this, don't. There are many people out there who have never thought about it hard enough to identify what they would like to do for pleasure. Well, finding out is easy. Ask yourself this question, 'If I had all the money in the world and did not have to work for a living, what work would give me the most pleasure?' Do not look for one answer - because there would be many swimming in your mind and if you are looking for one answer you would be disappointed enough to stop searching.

Make a list of all the possibilities that pop up in your mind. Stop when you reach at reach at 20. Keep the list where you can see it every day. Give yourself a month to identify what you love to do. In the meantime, take out the list everyday and add or delete suggestions from it, aiming to narrow it down to 10 favorite activities - if you can reduce to less it would be even better. Once you have a list of 10 items prioritize these in order of your preference, the best one first. Now, the list would be do-able. Establish a time at least once a week where you would take up one or more of the activities on your list. Keep doing this until you identify what gives you the most pleasure among them all. Please keep in mind that you could choose more than one hobby.

Here are some examples of creative and fun-filled hobbies:
1. Photography
2. Creative writing - poems, snippets, how-to books, short stories, chicken-soup stuff, memoirs
3. Painting/ learning to paint
4. Drawing cartoons/ animation/ sketching
5. Model building - ships, airplanes, cars, buildings, and the like
6. Traveling to see the world
7. Traveling to learn about different customs and people
8. Historical traveling
9. Traveling to discover the taste of the world - for food lovers
10. Cooking/ baking
11. Stitching/ embroidering/ tailoring
12. Swimming/ skiing/ ice-skating/ any outdoor sport you love
13. Indoor sports - chess, carom, bowling, table tennis, billiards
14. Chatting on the Net
15. Surfing the Net
16. Singing/ playing an instrument/ learning to sing or play an instrument
17. Woodworking/ carpentry
18. Mechanic work/ working on cars, motorcycles
19. Horse riding
20. Training animals

These are only a handful of things you could do. The list is endless. You need to allow yourself enough time to identify the one or two activities that give you the most pleasure. Once you found it out, pour in all efforts to make it a full-time hobby. Ensure that every weekend you have a couple of hours reserved for your 'battery re-charging time' when you indulge in your pleasure.

You will find that as you channel your creativity into the chosen hobby(ies) you would feel more relaxed, tolerant of your mistakes and those of others, slower to anger and worry, and more productive. This is because when you are happy, your brain actually works more effectively. As you cannot cry and laugh at the same time, so you would not be able to feel anxious and relaxed at the same time. As your hobby would take root and you discover yourself through it, you would find that your anxiety or panic attacks become lesser and lesser both in intensity and number.

Luxury Bed and Breakfast - When Price Is No Object

There is pampered, and then there is pampered, and when it comes to luxury bed and breakfast accommodations where price is no object the pampering can take on a whole new dimension most people can only dream of.

Each of these unique properties is a travel destination in and of itself. Take for example Little Palm Island located in the lower Florida Keys. A 5 acre island skirted with white sandy beaches featuring 30 suites, this exclusive enclave has been highlighted in Fodors, Frommers and Travel and Leisure magazine. But, don't expect to be fed for the $690-$1,490 per day rate. For that you'll need to pony up an additional $135 for the Full Meal Plan (breakfast, three-course lunch and four-course dinner) and $115 for the Modified Meal Plan (four-course dinner plus a choice of breakfast or three-course lunch), not including tax and service fees. However, considering that meals are served in the private Oceanside dining room and have been applauded by Mobil, Zagat and Golden Spoon, this may be a bargain after all.

If you can afford the price of admission, you may find yourself situated in one of 28 thatched roof Oceanside bungalows outfitted with a sitting room, private patio with garden, indoor/outdoor showers, whirlpool bath and king size canopy bed. If that is simply too pedestrian for your tastes, consider booking one of two Island Grand Suites which feature British Colonial furnishings, a bathroom for him and one for her and of course, the obligatory outdoor hot tub.

For a completely different experience in escaping the mundane, consider The Point Resort, situated on a 10-acre peninsula along Upper Saranac Lake about 150 miles from Albany. This is truly old world rustic ambiance at its finest. Built in the 1930's for William Avery Rockefeller, the nephew of John D. Rockefeller, the resort features 11 guest rooms located in four buildings on the property. The resort has received outstanding reviews from Hideaway Report, Forbes, USA Today and Conde Nast Traveler and has a Mobil Five-Star rating. Guests pay per night from $1,350 for the Iroquois room in the Main Lodge to $2,600 for the Boathouse. For complete privacy you can rent the entire property for $20,150 (yes - PER NIGHT).

However, for this kind of money you will undoubtedly find some features you don't have back home, unless your bedroom back home is furnished in original Adirondack antiques, has a lake view, stone fireplace and one of a kind hand -crafted bed. You'll also likely find fully stocked bookshelves, a lake-view private deck or patio, dressing room with walk-in closet, breakfast/sitting room and perhaps a waterfall or oversized shower and double soaking tub in the en-suite bathroom.

If you get tired of all of that private luxury, venture into the public areas where you'll find the Great Hall dining room and Pub. Although you may think this is a laid back rustic mountain retreat, be sure to bring along a jacket and tie as it is the custom at this Inn to be so attired for evening meals.

For a completely different take on a luxury bed and breakfast retreat, you might want to check out Triple Creek Ranch in Darby, Montana. Sure you can play cowboy on a real life cattle drive but at the end of the day, a tired cowpoke can rough it in one of 19 log cabins surrounded by incredible wildlife, wilderness and mountain scenes. You can put up the heels of your boots and enjoy the rustic atmosphere of your wood-burning fireplace, telephone with data port, wet bar and refrigerator or chill out on your private deck (some with private hot tub).

Located in the middle of the Bitterroot National Forest a couple hundred miles west of Helena, Montana, the rates for this cowboy adventure run from $650 for a one-bedroom Cedar Cabin to $2,495 for the two-story, 3,600-square-feet, and three-bedroom Ponderosa cabin.

If you tire of the seclusion of your luxury cabin you can make your way to the fitness center, putting green, outdoor hot tub and pool or tennis court. Boredom won't be a problem if you stay busy with one of the many activities available including fishing, hiking, horseback riding, fly casting lessons, Hummer tours and in the winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. After all of that you might do what any modern pampered cowboy would do and opt for an in-room massage.

There are many ways to spend your leisure time and your money. But for a totally unique once in a lifetime experience consider a luxury bed and breakfast get away.

Notable Hotels For Business and Leisure in 2010

With a new year comes new opportunities to visit destinations you left off your travel itinerary in 2009. Whether you look to start the year in the heart of Times Square after witnessing the world-famous New Year's Eve Ball Drop, amid the glitz and glamour of the vibrant metropolis that is Las Vegas, or enveloped in the sights and sounds of San Francisco - from the scenic Golden Gate Bridge to ever bustling Chinatown - the possibilities are endless. Of course, you'll also want to book a hotel that fits your preferences, be it one that offers accommodations for under $100/night, free shuttle service to nearby theme parks, a complimentary Continental breakfast to start your morning off right, or a fully-equipped conference room from which you can host a business meeting.

We've culled the properties below for their strategic location, business and leisure facilities, and fine hospitality. If time and budget permit, add visiting these fine hotels to your New Year's resolution list.

1. Nu Hotel: This boutique hotel in Brooklyn, New York opened as recently as 2008, yet word has spread quickly of the hotel's fresh design and penchant for excellent service. The hotel sits at the center of the BoCoCa district, which encompasses three Brooklyn neighborhoods: Boerum Hill, whose streets are lined with French bistros and stylish brownstones; Cobble Hill, which showcases a unique mix of old world shops and gardens; and Carroll Gardens, an old-fashioned Italian neighborhood featuring posh restaurants and antique shops. Only eight miles away from Times Square, the hotel provides easy access to spots frequented by business and leisure travelers alike, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Wall Street, Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and Williamsburg Savings Bank Tower. Rooms boast plush mattresses with Egyptian cotton linens and 32-inch flat screen televisions. The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center and offers complimentary Continental breakfast at the onsite Nu Bar, as well as free WiFi Internet access all throughout and complimentary copies of The New York Times to help business travelers keep up with the news.

2. Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers: Steeped in history and charm, this landmark hotel - a member of Historic Hotels of America - is located in the heart of historic Back Bay and has drawn a host of U.S. presidents and celebrities since opening in 1927. The hotel is located only 200 yards from the nation's first public parks, Public Garden and Boston Common. It was also the first hotel to include many of the standard conveniences we find in hotel rooms today, such as guestroom radios. The hotel is convenient to Newbury Street shopping, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and Boston's theater and financial districts. In addition, the hotel boasts nine on-site restaurants and lounges, a business center and fitness center (both open 24 hours a day), and airport shuttle service that runs daily.

3. Hotel Diva: The avant-garde Hotel Diva, set in the heart of Union Square in San Francisco, merges modern elegance with high style. It is only a short stroll from Chinatown, the American Conservatory Theatre, Curran Theatre, Moscone Convention Center, Financial District, and countless shops from Neiman Marcus to Saks Fifth Avenue. Travelers can enjoy complimentary use of a meeting room designed by renowned Architect T. Olle Lundberg, fitness room and internet lounges. They can then dine at Colibri Restaurant, famous for its Mexican tapas, or grab a cup of coffee at Starbucks, located just off the lobby.

4. Tropicana Las Vegas: Nestled in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip is Tropicana Las Vegas, which offers guests a plethora of activities and amenities. It features the 850-seat Tiffany Theater, fine restaurants, a 61,000 square foot casino, hair salon and barber shop, and three high-energy lounges. The hotel's newly designed swimming pool is slated to open in April 2010. Business travelers can stay on task inside the business center, which offers computer rentals, photocopying and other services. But who says you can't mix business with pleasure? The Tropicana is the only major Las Vegas casino resort to offer poolside Wi-Fi access, as guests can bring their laptops and stay connected while unwinding on the pool deck or in a private cabana. Voted "Best Las Vegas Wedding Chapel" eight years in a row, it's no wonder so many couples say "I do" at this legendary Strip hotel. Registered guests must be at least 21 years of age.

5. Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center: Located just one mile from Walt Disney World and 20 minutes from Orlando International airport, this stunning property couples the charm of an old-world Florida mansion with the modern conveniences of a luxury resort. It boasts four-and-a-half acres of lush indoor gardens and a 20,000-square-foot Spa and fitness center, not to mention a wealth of restaurants, shops and lounges. Kids will enjoy Clearwater Cove - a water-activities playground that has a 120,000-gallon zero-entry family pool as well as several play areas around the pool deck. Travelers with business on the agenda can take advantage of 400,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including the 178,500-square-foot Florida Exhibition Hall.

Bali Was Named The World's Best Island And Destination Of 2007

The Travel and Leisure Magazine, published by American Express Publishing Corporation with a circulation of one million, has voted Bali as the best Island of 2007. Bali has been awarded the same title for 6 times in a row.

Following is a list of 10 of the awards which were presented at a ceremony in New York on July 23 2007:

• Best city - Florence
• Best hotel - Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, India
• Best island - Bali, Indonesia
• Best large-ship cruise line - Crystal Cruises
• Best small-ship cruise line - SeaDream Yacht Club
• Best tour operator/safari outfitter - Micato Safaris
• Best domestic airline - Midwest Airlines
• Best international airline - Singapore Airlines

Another significant title Bali received comes from is SmartTravelAsia.com It chose Bali as the Best Holiday Destination of 2007, holding this title from 2006. In their review SmartTravelAsia.com said: "Bali held top spot - and by a wide margin - demonstrating that integrity and authenticity can attract visitor votes, and dollars. This is a reassuring message in an age of instantly bottled and serially manufactured destinations where neon and crocodile shows push everything else off the stage."

Other tourism related establishments in Bali have been ranked in the top region of the list. Holding its 2006 rank, the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay ranked as the second best Asian Resort. Four Seasons offers elegant villas, some of them with private pools, spa treatments and panoramic views. The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay is also voted as the fourth best Spa Hotel.

The third position is the atmospheric yet understated and faithfully traditional Amandari, Bali. Towering above Ubud's Ayung River gorge, the resort's private villa compounds wander down manicured green acres past a cliff-edge emerald pool towards the sacred waters of the river below. It is a serene hideaway that has been emulated the world over. Amandari was ranked first in 2006.

The fourth rank is hold by The Legian Bali in the Seminyak area. This hotel-style getaway has been popular with honeymooners and romantics. The Legian was ranked 11th in 2006 and is one of the fastest upward movers in our poll.

All these luxuries, which are ranked in the top lists of the world, mean that Bali is really the destination of choice for all of us who want to experience something different and want to be pampered during our vacation. But Bali also has a range of simple and cheap, yet good accommodations; if you want more luxury, it's just around the corner!

Top Destinations For Fitness Travel

There are many reasons why people choose to travel. They may want to explore new cultures, take in the sights and sounds of the travel destination, taste new exotic food, and try new activities. However, there are more specific reasons why people choose to travel. For instance, many people travel to locate new and interesting places to practice their love of exercise. Fortunately, there many great places where a fitness lover can engage in healthy exercise, whether it hiking, rock climbing, yoga, or beach fun.

Yoga

India: India is birthplace of the ancient art of yoga. Every year, yoga lovers from all over the world travel to India to practice and study yoga. There are many beautiful hotels and resorts in India. As well, travelers will have chance to embrace the beautiful Indian culture and customs.

The Salt Spring Centre of Yoga: Located on one of the most gorgeous islands off the coast of British Columbia, Salt Spring Island, The Salt Spring Centre of Yoga is a very popular yoga vacation destination. While at the centre, take the time to enjoy the beautiful organic gardens and lush forest located on 70 acres of meadows.

Shining Bay Yoga Retreat: Located in Nova Scotia near Peggy's Cove, the emphasis is on Kripalu yoga. You can visit the Shining Bay Yoga Retreat from June to September. They offer different retreats including a retreat for girls between the age of 9 and 16.

Rock Climbing

Bolivia: As the Southern Hemisphere's highest nation, there are more than 1,000 summits that ascend over 5000 meters. There are even 6 summits that are over 6, 000 meters. The rugged terrain and beautiful views makes Bolivia one of the most popular rock climbing destinations.

Hiking

The Peace River/Alaska Highway: Located between the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and the Alberta Plain, you can enjoy hiking and seeing such a beautiful assortment of wildlife such as moose, bald eagles, deer, black and grizzly bears, and caribou.

Gros Morne National Park: Located in Newfoundland, Gros Morne National Park consists of more than 100km of beautiful hiking trails. The Gros Morne National park is UNESCO-listed and consists of a wide range of hikes, from 30-minute hikes to 3 day hikes. There are beautiful views of the Gros Morne Mountain, Bonne Bay, and Tablelands. As well, families will love the 5km Lookout Trail

Tai Chi

Costa Rica: Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese practice, requires serenity and peace to engage the flowing movements and shifting of balance. For travelers who love the beautiful practice of Tai Chi, Costa Rica is a popular choice. You can practice Tai Chi surrounded by gorgeous and tranquil waterfalls and beautiful rain forests.

Surfing

Gold Coast, Australia: The Gold Coast in Australia is a popular place to surf. There is more than 43 miles of gorgeous white sand with waves that are famous for great surfing. Surfers from all over the world come to Gold Coast, Australia to surf.

Taking a fitness vacation is a great way to tone the body, mind, and soul as well as checking out new sights and attractions. The next time you are considering a travel excursion, consider a fun and relaxing fitness vacation.

Mini-Vacations Not "Nay-cations" - Seven Money-saving Travel Tips

Just read an article telling the reader that 2009 will be the year of "nay-cations". He listed nine reasons why Americans will say NO to travel, among them: the economy, the hassle, and the added costs/fees/surcharges. I'd like to disagree.

Of course, we feel like most of you. Air travel is a complete hassle, from security and baggage fees, lousy or no food, to delayed or cancelled flights. Given a choice (anything less than coast-to-coast!), we drive. BUT ...

Giving up vacations is like giving up chocolate. No matter how tough life gets, we still need to reward ourselves with things to look forward to ... things to enjoy. According to experts, travel is important for a healthy lifestyle. Travel renews and refreshes you - spirit, mind, and body.

We still plan to vacation. They'll be shorter, but perhaps more often. Mini-vacations - anything from a day's outing to a multi-day get-away means a break from our daily routine. These shorter trips give us something to look forward to, and we plan them with enthusiasm. We suggest you do the same.

There are still plenty of bargains out there. Here are some quick tips:

1. Travel off or shoulder season. Prices are much more reasonable and the crowds are smaller.

2. Find lesser-known destinations. Instead of the beach, head inland. Avoid the bigger resort areas. Staying a few miles away often includes similar amenities without the price tag.

3. Ask for package plans. Often, hotels can include attraction tickets, some meals, and other amenities with a three- or four-night stay. Some even offer free nights or discounted rooms. Travel sites discount air/hotel packages when booked at the same time.

4. Be flexible. Check your travel dates with your transportation carrier and hotel. Flights are generally less expensive mid-week. Hotels offer better rates when they have multiple empty rooms.
5. Take advantage of discounts. If you're a member of AAA or other organization, flaunt it. Use those hotel reward plans ... and your credit card points to save money.

6. Look for last-minute travel deals. Hotels, cruises and resorts offer deep discounts when faced with empty rooms. The same goes for tour operators and all-inclusives.

7. Do something different. Stay at a Bed&Breakfast, spend a day or more at a dude ranch, go camping, rent a cottage on a lake. There are plenty of bargains out there, so explore your options!

One benefit of travel is anticipation. Don't deny yourself. Take the opportunity to step away from the pressures of everyday life. Plan shorter trips ... more often! Mini-vacations are the new vacation style. They're sure to be more popular in 2009 than "nay-cations".

The New Costa Rica Hotspots for Travel and Investment Properties

With the Caribbean Sea to its east and the Pacific Ocean to its west, the Central American country of Costa Rica is situated in a prime location. Tourists love its miles of coastline, environmentalists adore it because it is the greenest country in the world, and investors are drawn to its government tax exemptions. This country seems to have something for everyone, but where are the best areas to visit or invest?

People planning to visit Costa Rica for leisure travel can select from several hot spots. The Pacific coast is the perfect destination for anglers because billfish, sailfish, and blue marlin can all be found there. Four-wheelers and surfers should consider Guanacaste province, which features excellent beaches and reef breaks. Windsurfers should stay near Lake Arenal because the northern end features amazing scenery and a steady gale-force wind perfect to push kite boarders along at record speeds.

Travelers who need to de-stress should stay in the northwestern region of the country. The beaches at Santa Rosa National Park are beautiful and secluded. A hike or four-wheel-drive ride is required to reach the beach from the ranger station but it is worth the trip. Beaches are usually almost empty, offering a traveler the chance to unwind in silence.

From an investment perspective, the southern zone was recently included in the International Living Magazine top five regions positioned for development. It stretches from Dominical and San Isidro in the north to San Vito and Punta Burica in the south. This area is sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Talamanca Mountain Range and includes a national reserve and four national parks. Biodiversity abounds, with highlands, forests, swamps, and mangroves.

Cost, ease of buying, and income potential were used to develop the International Living list. The areas on the list are considered the most aesthetically and financially attractive investment opportunities. The southern zone of Costa Rica has long been called one of the most beautiful areas in the world. It is home to one of the last unspoiled Central American rainforests and an abundant amount of aquatic life.

These are the current hot spots in Costa Rica for either tourism or investment, so explore them today. Things change quickly in this developing nation so there are bound to be new top destinations next year. Foreigners will develop their own list of favorite destinations, whether they are visiting or plan to become full or part-time residents.

9 Travel and Tourism Trends to Look Out For

1. Lightweight planes

Earlier this month, Boeing's new 787 Dreamliner stopped down in Toronto, the first of eight cities on its North American itinerary. Because the plane is made with lightweight materials, it consumes a fifth less fuel than a conventional plan of the same size.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: Lightweight composite materials improve fuel efficiency.

2. Retro uniforms on airline staff at media events

When the 787 Dreamliner stopped in Toronto, Air Canada staff donned vintage period uniforms, reminiscent of those worn by Christina Ricci on the historical TV show, Pan Am.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: Reminding passengers of the romance of air travel.

3. The return of the old-fashioned travel agent

As doubts arise about the trustworthiness of customer reviews on travel sites, customers are returning to that old standard, the travel agent.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: Too much technology makes the human touch suddenly that more desirable.

4. Airport security express line for low-risk travelers

Some US airports are introducing streamlined security for low-risk frequent flyers.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: After more than a decade of increased airport security, the industry is ready to explore solutions that incorporate convenience.

5. Travel to Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (the BRICS)

These emerging economies are attracting more tourists than ever. To prepare for it, China is expected to build more than a thousand new hotels in the next couple of years, according to travel commentator Travel+Leisure.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: International touristic destinations are changing.

6. Greater use of travel insurance

According to a recent study of the British tourism industry, the use of travel insurance for international trips increased significantly last year.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: Insurance products are increasing their market share of the industry.

7. Search for authenticity

According to the same British study, today's tourists want to eat the "real" food, meet the "real" people, get the "real" feel of the places that they visit.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: No more soaking in the sun on resort-guest-only beaches.

8. Hotel renos

The Beverly Hills Hotel is just one of the many iconic hotels slated for major renovations in 2012.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: The old configurations no longer meet the needs of today's travellers.

9. Concern for value over price

This according to the aforementioned tourism British study, which finds that 71% of travellers think that value is more important than simply getting the lowest price for a holiday.

This travel & tourism trend in a nutshell: In today's fragile economy, tourism management teams will have to work harder to establish that they are providing consumers with good value.

The Best Deals of Travel and Leisure Magazine

Constant travelers who want to score the best deals in every continent that they step into should never do without a copy of travel and leisure magazine. This magazine which is well known as travel + leisure magazine provides the A lists of the best hotels, restaurants, wellness clubs, cruise ships, events and festivals, resorts and beaches, food and drinks, and other significant facts that are essential to the well-being of one's travel itinerary. The travel and leisure magazine is a top rated, professional travel companion that would make sure you do not lose your way in every travel decision that you make.

The travel and leisure magazine used to be a compiled journal of travel photographs which placed emphasis on leisure travel and often features contributions from novelists, poets, travel columnists, artists, and avid travelers who are eager to share their acquired wisdom and serve as a helpful guide especially for those who are still neophyte in the realm of travel. The magazine publishes in a monthly basis and has several international editions such as China, Mexico, Russia, Turkey, and South East Asia though most of them were already defunct.

The magazine is famous for their World's Best Awards which is announced every August and has been practiced since 1995. This is an award body created on a basis of an annual survey from magazine readers who gave out their quantitative rating of world's best travel destination and accommodation. For the 2010's survey of the World's Best Awards, the travel and leisure magazine offers a chance to those who will take the survey of winning a $10,000 dream trip. This award has various categories namely hotels, islands, cities, airlines and cruises, wellness and spas and business hotels. These categories are featured on all continents that the travel and leisure magazine encompass such as US and Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East, Europe, Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific. Last 2009, the Bushman's Kloof atop the Cedarberg Mountains in Western Cape, South Africa emerged as the record holder of the number one spot in the survey with an overall score of 98.67.

Aside from the World's Best Awards, the travel and leisure magazine also has what they call T+L 500 Best Hotels and America's Favorite Cities where subscribers and magazine readers rank cities in the U.S. based on several categories. The categories are very informative because it covers almost all the things that one needs to know in famous cities such as their culture, hotels, nightlife, shopping malls, food and dining places, and airports.

The travel and leisure magazine also provides educational articles that are full of ideas not just about traveling but also informative discussions such as books and movies, charity programs, sports and fitness, gadgets, arts and culture, and basic photography lessons.

For those who are interested in subscribing to the travel and leisure magazine, the publication is giving out two risk-free issues of the magazine.

Travel and Leisure Hotels to Fit Your Budget

When it is time to plan a vacation or a weekend trip, you may need to find travel and leisure hotels that will work with your budget. You also want to find choices that offer the amenities you need and the location you want.

The Internet is a good place to locate travel and leisure hotels. Many travel sites offer an excellent starting point, although few have enough information available to make your final decision. However, you can find the names of the travel and leisure hotels that meet your minimum requirements and then visit their home pages individually.

Start by answering why you need to find travel and leisure hotels and for whom. Are you traveling for business or taking a romantic vacation? Who will be in the party? Will it be adults only, or will children be included? If children are going, what are their ages? Will you need child care services? Do you plan to rent a car or walk to local attractions? Once you have defined why you are looking for travel and leisure hotels and who will comprise the party, you can start looking for travel and leisure hotels that will fit those needs.

As you find hotels that might suit your requirements, map out their locations in relation to other attractions you want to visit. Travel and leisure hotels with a slightly higher daily rate may not be the best option if everything else is on the opposite side of a large city, since taxi fares will quickly exceed any savings.

Investigate all amenities offered by all the different hotels. If you work out daily, you might want to find one with a free gym for guests. Perhaps you want a hotel with an indoor pool for taking the children for a swim. You might want to limit your potential travel and leisure hotels to those with 24 hour room service, particularly if you are planning a second honeymoon or romantic weekend. Or if you are traveling on business, you might need on-site cleaning and laundry service.

Certain individuals with health needs may need travel and leisure hotels with specific amenities. For example, those who need to keep insulin refrigerated would probably prefer a room with a mini-fridge. Those with breathing problems might prefer a room on a lower floor just in case there is a power failure or other emergency requiring the use of stairs.

Perhaps you want to narrow your search for hotels to only those with onsite restaurants. This can save time and make it easier when traveling with a large party, since people can eat when they want and there is no need to try to coordinate a meal time for a group.

Once you have a list of hotels that seem like suitable candidates, you can check further on things like cancellation policies, check-in and check-out times and procedures, and parking availability. You may also want to know if there is a club, spa, or convenience store onsite.

With just a little research, you will no doubt find many travel and leisure hotels that interest you. By finding the one with the most qualities you desire, you will make sure that you and everyone traveling with you will have the best trip possible.

Cutting International Roaming Costs - For Business and Leisure Travelers

Mobile Phones are extremely convenient. This is undeniable. You can use them in your own country, and take them overseas when you travel. The only problem is that international roaming can sometimes be prohibitively expensive, often unexpectedly so. Despite this, there are ways you can reduce your costs whilst traveling. You can:

1. Buy a Prepaid SIM in the country you are visiting- With a prepaid SIM from the country you are traveling to, you do not have to worry about International Roaming costs, or paying to receive calls. The only downside of a country specific SIM card is that your number changes on each and every country that you visit.
2. Buy an International Phone Card- These cards give you EXTREMELY cheap rates from landlines for you to call home and are a great way to keep in touch with friends and family. The only problem with them is that it doesn't make it easy for people to contact you as you may not always be in the same hotel room with the same contact landline.
3. Use email- Email is great if you are near an internet café, or if there is internet access in your hotel- in some cases you can keep in contact with people for free. The only downside of email is it is not instantaneous contact. You will not get any messages for you until you check your inbox.
4. Get yourself an International SIM card- This is probably your best option for cheap and convenient telecommunications services whilst you are traveling. The right card means you won't pay incoming roaming costs in many of the countries you are traveling to. Overall, you are also looking at savings of between 60-90%. There is no downside to one of these (unless you aren't in the mood to be contacted) as people will always be able to reach you and you will always be able to reach them.

There are many ways you can reduce your telecommunications costs whilst traveling but, as we have seen, an International SIM Card is your best option.

Travel and the Economy

In spite of the global melt down and the economic crisis facing many an industry, there is one industry that is still thriving. The travel industry. Recession or no recession, people have to travel and they do. Not only domestically but also internationally. Not only for personal purposes but also for business and for tourism also. We can almost say that the stress of the economic depression is making people travel and relax!

There is a saying that goes: "One man's meat is another man's poison". And, on the same analogy, one individual's idea of relaxation might be a villa in the South of France overlooking the beach and the sea, surrounded by "Abigails and Andrews" whereas that of another may be a tent in a remote spot on the same beach.

Just like in housing, where houses are being foreclosed and going for a song and it is a "buyers market", the travel business is also on cloud nine and the offers for a memorable vacation in some of the exotic places on the planet surround the potential traveler. Travel agents the world over are trying their best to get people to travel. It is now time to take advantage of these offers and have a rollicking holiday in a new place.

But do you choose a place and do your budget or do you do your budget and choose a destination. The second is the wiser course as the first may turn out to be unaffordable. But there are such o lot of offers that you can even choose a place and then do your budget. Just see to it that it does not get you in the red, financially.

Once you have made up your mind to go somewhere for a vacation, immediately a number of questions popup. Is your passport current? What are the places that you are going to visit at your destination? What kind of accommodation are you going to live in? An independent house, a condo or a hotel room? What about transportation? You have to choose a location that is fairly easily accessible from the place of your stay. Try finding a resort that has its own transportation to the local attractions.

These are only some of the factors that you have to consider before setting out on your dream vacation. But whatever maybe, this is the ideal time for you to take that ideal vacation and make use the travel deals on offer.

Thinking About a Travel and Leisure Magazine Subscription?

For the discriminating consumer, nothing gives them a better option for all travel and leisure related information than a magazine travel and leisure magazine subscription. With a travel and leisure magazine subscription you can always be constantly aware of all the exciting places to travel and relax worldwide. You will also be given opportunities to save on all travel related costs. A travel and leisure magazine subscription will also save you a significant amount on the costs of your favorite travel and leisure magazines. Plus, you'll have the added convenience of having your favorite travel and leisure magazines delivered right to your front door.

Travel magazines make an excellent gift choice for all those hard to buy people with cultivated tastes. It is a gift idea than will keep on giving every time that person opens their mailbox and finds the informative and entertaining travel and leisure magazine they've been waiting to read. So let someone you care about know how you feel about them by ordering a travel and leisure magazine subscription for them and you might as well order yourself one, because you do not want to be left out of all the information, discounts, reviews and travel tips available in a travel and magazine.

A leisure and travel magazine subscription will be a valuable resource if you are planning a business trip or vacation excursion anywhere in the world. It will have informative articles, features and reviews about the travel and leisure industry. But better still, is will have money saving tips and discounts on a variety of travel related products. Anything from discounts on transportation, whether by airplane, train, cruise ship or car, you'll save money by having a travel and leisure magazine subscription. You will read fascinating articles about hot travel spots in every corner of the globe. You will read from travel industry professionals about a variety of subjects that could be used to ensure that your business trip or next vacation is safe and fun.

With a leisure and travel magazine subscription, you will know the world's best travel, will be aware of the best restaurants, hotels, resorts, and cruises. You will be aware of some of the best food and best shopping from Paris to Singapore. Readers with travel and leisure magazine subscriptions will be informed about hot vacation travel deals and get insider tips for traveling that will save them money and allow them to get the best out of their trip.

A lot of people love to travel, but not many know how to travel smartly. Or they may not be aware of the superb deals that can be had simply by knowing about it, Being informed about travel deals on hotels, airfare and sight-seeing tours can vastly increase the success of any business trip or pleasure vacation. With all the great deals you will discover by having a travel magazine subscription, you will be able to travel a lot more frequently and at a fraction of the costs you used to spend on traveling.

Travel and Leisure - Is it Another World Wonder?

Travel and leisure in the Caribbean is one place that many people have never heard about and if they happen to have heard about them, they have never had the chance to visit. There are very calm Caribbean beaches with plenty of paradise sands and beautiful vacation hotspots. The pleasure starts right from the secluded and quiet lagoons to the boldface names. If you discover the best travel and leisure spot in the Caribbean, then you are assured of the best beach getaway.

There are a variety of different Caribbean islands that you can choose from. This will depend on the amount of money that you have, the place you want to go, whether in your country or abroad, and off course very other many reasons. Some very common examples are as follows below.

The Cabarete beach

This Caribbean beach is found in the Dominican Republic. There are abundant water sports that make this back beach hideaway a wonder of the world. If you happen to be a windsurf fanatic or rather, you love kite surfing, then this is the place to be. Cabarete has proved to be an experience of a lifetime that is worth giving a second try.

The Palm Beach in Aruba

Once you place your foot in this amazing Caribbean, the first thing you will notice is the sliver of white Alabaster sand which is sprinkled with plenty of Palapa huts and palm trees. It is located in Aruba specifically in the heart of the great luxury hotels and resorts. At Palm Beach, you are assured of great fun and that is the reason most people flock this place. It is actually one of the best places to go out for swimming, basking, and sailing and off course relaxing all day long.

The great Jamaican Treasure Beach

Jamaica is popular for its ever busy and flocked Seven Mile Beach, but there is another hidden treasure that not many people know about. The Treasure Beach is relatively smaller and quiet. It is quite an authentic beach getaway and more so, it is located on the buttery shores of Jamaica. It is found on the Southwestern part of Jamaica's coast. It is characterized by a collection of beaches, cloves and wonderful swimming spots. The uniqueness of this beach is that it draws visitors and locals together, thanks to the community-based tourism initiative.

The Grand Anse, Grenada

This is the leader when it comes to travel and leisure hotspots in the Caribbean. Found in Grenada, Carracou, the unspoiled Grand Anse is considered a site which is a must-see. It is a gorgeous place which is clean, safe and free from huge crowds. Other sites that offer great travel and leisure ideas in the Caribbean are; The Pink Sands Beach in Bahamas, Cayo Espanto in Belize, Beachfront Estates on the Grace Bay. Others are Turks and Caicos which is a perfect place for honeymoon.

Ireland Travel and Leisure

Everything is packed! The luggage is in the car. Everyone is waiting for you to turn on the alarm and lock the front door. But you just want to do one final check to make sure that everything is switched off, all plugs are unplugged, all taps/faucets are fully turned off. Maybe it would be better to turn off the water at the mains. You know what damage a leaking pipe or radiator can do, especially upstairs. All those things that run through people's heads are understandable.

Now it's time for you, yes you! I'm talking to you, to close the door and say out loud, "That's it, I'm off on a holiday that I've been waiting the whole year for!! I'm going to make this the best holiday I've ever had! I deserve it. I'm going to chill out in Ireland for a week or two or more." That's the way to go! I'm proud of you! You see, there would be no point in coming to the Emerald Isle if you didn't think like that. It would be a complete waste of time, effort and money. If you haven't been to Ireland before, let me give you an idea as to what to expect...

You will visit some of the most spectacular scenic places in the world. The southwest coast of Ireland is packed with places of interest. It's mountains, lakes, valleys and dells, are breathtaking. The hundreds of miles of sandy blue-flag beaches, some of them you will find void of another living person, are spectacular, ideal for volleyball, tennis even, land-sailing, sailing, surfing, and paragliding. Hill-walking and mountain climbing are very popular here. Make sure to take every safety precaution and that you follow the rules and regulations.

Golf is one of the many reasons people holiday in Cork and Kerry. Our parkland and links courses are second to none. Some of the legends of the game have commented on them. Tom Watson said that "We (meaning the Americans) have never played links golf until we played in Ireland". The great 'Tiger' stated that he always practised on links courses in Ireland before playing the British Open. Courses like Ballybunion, Waterville, The Old Head of Kinsale and Fota Island are mouth-watering for every golfer.

Fishing is another tourist attraction to our shores. Our rivers, such as the Shannon, Blackwater, Feale, Laune, Bandon and Lee are all great salmon and trout rivers, along with other types of fish. The Lakes of Killarney, the Caragh Lake, Waterville, Inniscarra and Ballyhass are all well-stocked lakes.

Travel and Tourism Online - Learning From a Distance

A lot goes into traveling outside the actual trip. The plan to get to a destination is only a small detail when compared to the overall experience of a vacation or business trip. Online colleges offer training in travel and tourism for the individual who wants to think and do all the necessary things that go into planning a trip. Prospective students can earn a degree online and be working with clients to help them get the most of their money when traveling.

There are a variety of benefits from attending school online.

• Learning from a distance allows individuals to choose their study pace and take classes inside the comfort of their own home.
• Online schooling in travel and tourism permits students to study on days that are set by them not the college or program.
• Students have the ability to complete all the phases of education without the hassle of commuting to a campus everyday.
• This is a high advantage for disabled individuals who are unable to commute to a campus and attend classes.

More colleges and universities are adding online degree programs in travel and tourism, which is enabling students to gain a better education with higher degree choices than a certificate program or associate's degree.

Prospective students have numerous choices when it comes to education programs. Students have the option to gain an education from accredited online colleges and universities starting at an associate's degree in travel and tourism to a master in business administration for hospitality and tourism management. The opportunities for students to gain an online education in this field is widening and programs are preparing students in numerous ways. Through coursework students will learn about:

• sales techniques
• travel destinations
• bookkeeping
• reservation systems

An online degree in this area could provide the best career preparation and have graduates working in many different aspects of travel and tourism.

Travel agents have more responsibility to their clients than just booking travel and securing them a discount. The job description for a travel agent encompasses the entire trip whether it's for leisure or business. A travel agent will arrange:

• transportation
• hotel
• food options
• tours
• entertainment

Whatever a client is looking for in regards to their trip a travel agent will spend time getting the best discounts, looking up travel packages, and exploring what activities the destination has to offer their client. Along with the above responsibilities an agent will be the number one source on things like the weather, local customs for international travel, site attractions, money exchange rates, and more.

A new trend is developing for individuals who gain a travel and tourism degree through an online school. More students are becoming specialists in a particular area. Meaning they are choosing to become highly knowledgeable in one area like a culture, destination, or interest. This type of travel and tourism agent is particularly useful for clients who are traveling internationally. Becoming a specialist will require the student to learn the customs and in some cases the languages of a chosen location. With increasing demands on travel agents from their clients, gaining a degree in the field is becoming extremely important.

Use your passion for travel and exotic destinations to start your career training online. Accredited schools provide the best quality education. There are numerous agencies like the Distance Education and Training Council (www.detc.org) that provide full accreditation to educational programs. Students can research accredited colleges that offer a degree distinction that fits their goals and begin working towards their personalized career in the hospitality industry.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERIC OUTLINE and may or may not depict precise methods, courses and/or focuses related to ANY ONE specific school(s) that may or may not be advertised at PETAP.org.

Copyright 2010 - All rights reserved by PETAP.org.

Senior Vacations - 5 Ways to Travel the World

One of the greatest things about becoming a senior is the travel opportunities that become available. For most people, the majority of their lives up until this point have been spent raising children, paying for college, working full-time or a combination of all of these. All those years you spent taking care of others are over. Now, it's time to focus on you.

Senior travel is becoming more and more popular every year. With free time and a little money in the bank, there's no better way to enjoy the prime of your life than on a luxury vacation?

Below you will find a list of 5 popular ways for seniors to travel the world in style:

1. Cruises. Cruises are a great way to see the world and meet new people without the hassle of having to move your luggage from location to location. Simply set your clothes in your room and the ship will drop you off at a number of interesting places where you can spend the day touring, meeting back up with the ship at the end of the day. If you haven't been on a cruise yet, we highly suggest giving it a try.

2. Golf Vacations. Golf vacations are the perfect way to relax and stay healthy all at once. The fresh air and exercise will do a world of wonders for your emotional well-being and you'll get to see some of the world's best courses. If you're an avid golfer, you may want to seek out golf vacation tours offered near you.

3. Spa Vacations. Those of you who aren't interested in golf vacations may find spa vacations more relaxing. Spa vacations are a great way to unwind, de-stress and forget about everything else that's happening in your life. Not only will it help your emotional well-being but it will enhance your appearance as well. Manicures and pedicures will work wonders on your hands and feet while those lovely facials will make your face look fresh, young and vibrant. Who doesn't want that?

4. Home Exchanges. Home exchanges are becoming more and more popular every year. For those of you who haven't heard of this type of vacation, we urge you to watch the movie "The Holiday." Basically, two people (or couples) switch homes for a predetermined period of time. You pack your suitcases but you use everything they have in their home, drive their vehicles etc. The great thing is there's nothing to worry about and everything you need is at your fingertips. Plus, the cost of staying on home exchange is minimal - you don't pay anything, you just switch homes and pay for the activities, site-seeing etc. you want to do.

5. Bus Tours. If you're looking for a great way to experience traveling at its best, we highly suggest taking a bus tour. If you have a large group of people already, you can organize a bus tour to make sure you and your friends all get on the same trip. Bus tours offer scenic views and an intimate setting you can't always find with other types of vacations.

Branson Group Travel Guide

Branson is known as the Live Entertainment Capital of the World and boasts 49 live performance theaters performing 120 shows a day. With a reputation built on love of God and Country, this all-American town of just over 6,000 dazzles tourists each year with its brand of music, humor and "down home" appeal.

Visitors typically spend 3-4 days in town, sometimes seeing as many as eight shows during their trip. Since there is no airport in town, many elect to drive in and get around on the motorcoach. Having that isolation has done nothing to hurt the success of the city, though. In fact, many choose to include day trips to Springfield and other nearby destinations in their trip, which helps the surrounding communities' economies as well.

During the Civil War, the area surrounding Branson was considered a no-man's-land. Lacking law and any men to enforce it, women and families were terrorized and attacked by bushwhackers, men who would rape the women and then pillage the house for food, supplies and valuables. In 1865, what is generally considered to be the very first street shootout occurred in nearby Springfield, when Wild Bill Hickock killed a man named David Tutt in a quarrel over a watch.

Being 35 miles from the nearest airport, Branson is best traveled by car or motorcoach. No need to rent an extra one, though, as you'll more than likely already have it.Branson did just get a new bus system in the city, with three routes, one each for shows, attractions and shopping. This development has made it easier for group members who want to want to spend some alone time to check out something not featured on the tour.

Open to the public since 1986, Stone Hill Winery is the oldest and most awarded winery in Missouri. A guided tour for groups is given to explain the step-by-step winemaking process. Groups can finish off the day by tasting the award winning wines and juices. The winery, in true Branson-fashion, is all about entertainment, providing customers the most educational and fun tour of any winery found in Missouri.

Ultra Compact Digital Camera - Perfect For Travel and Vacation Tours

Most camera gadgets these days are designed to perfectly fit our busy lifestyles. Compared to old model cameras, an ultra compact camera is quite very light and handy. It only weighs at less than 5 and half ounces but cannot be discounted in its quality and its high resolution picture output. It is perfect for leisure travel, outdoor picnics, and vacation tours. It is very thin that you would not mind carrying it around to capture that precious moments wherever you are.

Here are some selections of ultra compact digital camera from different brands that has an amazing wide angled view for landscape pictures and architectural shots. First on the top of the line is the Canon Powershot SD980 IS digital camera. What sets this gadget apart from others is its 24-120mm equivalent lens and its IS - Canon's anti-shake feature that will allow low shutter speeds.

If you are looking for a very handy ultra compact camera units that gets good marks for focus tracking of moving object, the Nikon Coolpix S640 digital camera is the one for you. Olympus FE-5020 digital camera is the most inexpensive compact travel camera that has the same lens range and the anti-shake technology as the Cannon Powershot. This camera would be the best buy for budget-tight travelers who want to make the most out of their vacation and outdoor experience by keeping memories by owning an ultra small camera with quality resolutions.

If you are looking for a classy ultra compact digital camera, Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX1 digital compact camera is the one for you. With its stylish touch-screen features, it is lightweight and very tiny that can surely satisfy your sophisticated taste. It has 10.2 mega pixels that are perfectly adequate for outdoor photo shoots. Although the range of its lens falls a little short compare to its other competitors.

These are just among the wide array of handy digital camcorders and cameras that are manufactured by well-known and highly trusted brands. There are still cheaper choices and different digital devices that come with different and unique features.

Indeed, the growth of digital industries and the fast-paced information technology has paved the way to the quick evolution of different devices and gadgets all over the world. And digital cameras are just part of the evolution to the unending search of a more sophisticated lifestyle.

Korea Hotels Offer Top Class Accommodation to Satisfy Both Business and Leisure Tourists

Korea, lying between Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea, is bordered by Japan and China. Under the influence of China, Korean culture resembles much to them but still it has some fundamental differences that have maintained its own distinct identity. According to the belief of the Koreans, their cuisines, script and language set them apart from other Asian cultures. Tourists turning up from different countries will observe their extreme modernity, tempered by artistic and architectural joyfulness. Korea hotels have provided different type of accommodation to cater to the needs of tourists as per their taste and budget.

Hotels in Korea offer top class accommodation to satisfy both business and leisure tourists. They provide well decorated rooms with all modern facilities and amenities in addition to several sorts of recreational facilities such as swimming pool, spa, beauty treatments and health care centers. Hotels Korea by no way, are lagging behind in fulfilling the needs of business travelers. They have special arrangements of well equipped conference and meeting rooms for fulfilling to their needs. The special audio and video, projector and other necessary arrangements have been made in many of the five star hotels in Korea to meet the needs of business travelers.

The following upcoming events in Korea are responsible for increase in the demand of Korea hotels:-

o Autosport International- it is the world's biggest motorsport show and shall be taking place in Jan, 2009 in Birmingham, Korea.

o World Future Energy Summit- it is the other events to be occurred in the month of January, 2009. Expected to be attended by more than 15,000 attendees, it is the largest meeting of influential figures within the renewable energy industry.

o World Economic Forum- to be held in January, 2009. it is the series of large scale events beginning with the Annual meeting from 28 January to 1 February.

o GSMA Mobile World Congress- to be held in February, 2009, in Korea, it is the elite event to be held in global mobile communications market.

Not only these upcoming events, but there are many tourists attractions and cities that are worth visiting. Large number of places of interest has attracted visitors from different corners of the world. Temples, forts and monuments have all collectively presented a distinct view. It offers many memorable moments to tourists to carry them back to their native place to share them with their friends, relatives and colleagues. Overall, Korea put forth an unforgettable trip to its tourists.

Cheap Family Travel Ideas

Everybody has a different opinion of the perfect family vacation, what feels good for one family member, does not necessarily feel good for another, a lot can depend on how many family members there are, and how old they all are, what their hobbies are and what they like or dislike.

As long as you can relax and have some fun, whilst having plenty to occupy yourselves, you should be okay; this is where the United States comes in! There are plenty of great resorts in the United States to suit everybody's taste.

As we all know, no matter what the vacation comprises of, one thing is for sure, it has to be affordable, so here are a few great tips towards a great vacation:

Many people love to go out camping, so why not arrange a camping survival holiday? It seems to be a natural choice, plenty of fresh air and wide open spaces.

National Parks are a great place to start, most of the National Parks have cheap campsites where you can attempt to catch your own fish for something to eat, or collect food from the wild such as berries or other edible plants.

You could even turn the vacation into a Nature study, try studying edible plants and attempt to locate them around your campsite; you could also try to make your own place to sleep from the natural products around you, instead of opting for traditional tents.

Learn about the early pioneers of America, and try to survive as they had to in the wild, you could have fun and learn at the same time.

Another idea would be days out at historical places, you could make up your own tours instead of the organized ones, if you take a packed lunch, then you could have a picnic at one of America's great historical landmarks.

The Benefits of Travel Clubs

Timeshares might have good plans, but are you aware of all their benefits or limitations?

The first thing you need is to see if the membership is affordable to you. Some clubs have a great variety of locations, resorts and packages, but is their cost within your price range? Does it charge you for maintenance and other fees? Timeshare payments (minus fees) can go up as high as $10,000, while some clubs offer discounts as low as 80% in savings. Also, unlike Timeshare, some clubs do not charge you for maintenance fees, and have a lower upfront payment.

The second thing you need to be aware of is limitations. While timeshare has many limitations, such as number of weeks available, travel dates, etc., many clubs and memberships have no such limitations. Some clubs even offer extra bonuses such as guest weeks that you can give away to relatives or close friends, at no extra cost.

One last thing to be aware of is the reliability of timeshares. Many timeshare sellers will promise guaranteed lowest price travel along with large savings and rebates on travel arrangements if you purchase a membership. Membership in the club is said to also include access to vacation condos at a reduced rate and special packaged trips and/or cruises. In reality, they fail to: make requested travel arrangements; obtain the lowest price; honor their cancellation policy; deliver on promises that you would save thousands of dollars in airfare and other travel expenses; or disclose that flights will be canceled unless 50% of each charter flight is booked in advance. Timeshares can also be time consuming, promising to take only about 60 minutes of your time, when in reality they can exceed to up to 3 hours. Another disadvantage is the fact that if you do not use your timeshare, you will have to pay the high maintenance fees that come with it. Make your own research to find the pros and cons of timeshare more fully.

On the other hand, travel club memberships can offer you flexibility (the ability to travel whenever you want, without restrictions), unlimited destinations (you can choose over 5000 destinations worldwide), user friendly options ( with the latest technology available to avoid fraud), the best savings in car rental, airfare and hotels, great deals in cruises, special deals where you can save even more, hot weeks available all year long, and many more benefits.

Such travel global resorts clubs can be found now in network marketing. They prides themselves on a commitment to superior service, quality, and integrity, the cornerstones on which they have built their success. Even 21 year Industry Leaders have new affiliate marketing divisions which recently opened. Your exclusive membership gives you access to premier accommodations globally, year round! Their leadership and staff are among the most experienced in the travel industry. With membership you and your loved ones will have the benefit of accessing this unparalleled depth of travel industry knowledge and expertise.

I hope this article helps you make the right choice at the time of choosing between a timeshare and a travel club. Thank you for your time and have a safe trip.

Travel and Leisure Magazines to Inspire the Adventurer in You

Browse through the magazine racks of any bookstore and you'll find the number of travel and leisure magazines offered endless. Whether you're looking for inspiration for your next trip, wanting some top tips to plan a vacation or simply a new activity to keep you busy during time off at home, travel and leisure magazines are the perfect place to start your search. Here's a round up of some of the best available:

Time Out Magazine
Fast becoming the leading authority on the world's best cities, from LA to Buenos Aires, Cape Town to Copenhagen, Time Out now has 18 travel and 23 city magazines offering up to date information on the best places to stay, eat and be entertained in the world's most fabulous cities. Even if you live in one of its featured cities, you can bet Time Out will come up with a new location or activity you never knew existed in your local area. Prepare to be amazed!

Outside
A travel and leisure magazine which has been keeping adventurers informed since 1977, Outside is for men and women who lead active lifestyles all year round. With glossy and colorful photography, prepare to be inspired to take to the outdoors and try something new, from rock-climbing to snowboarding, sailing to mountaineering.

National Geographic Adventure
The latest magazine in the National Geographic collection, this one is aimed at active men and women who seek new and exciting ways to explore and experience the globe. The photographs will inspire you to travel to destinations you would never have thought of visiting, alongside an excellent mix of features and articles, covering adventure stories, travel destinations, sports and outdoor activities.

Trailer Life
The writers of this travel and lifestyle magazine guarantee to provide you with information to "follow the road to adventure." Aimed at owners of RVs, campers and motor homes who spend a few weeks a year or their whole life on the road, this glossy magazine is packed with information on national parks, camp sites, product tests, cooking tips and vehicle maintenance. Definitely one for RV owners who love life on the open road and are ingrained with a spirit of adventure.

Spa
For those of us who get our stress relief from relaxation rather than adrenaline packed adventures, Spa Magazine offers the secrets to the latest advances in beauty, healthy living and relaxation as well as a peek behind the doors of the most luxury and private retreats and information on the world's best spas. If you're planning a spa vacation, this is the place to find top tips on the most relaxing locations to unwind, detox and recharge your batteries without having to break the bank in the process!

Finding The Best Vacation Packages And Holidays

Many people like to plan for their vacations early on. Some individuals like to plan them the year before they go. Other individuals prefer to grab last minute deals. There are all kinds of vacation packages and holidays available.

There are plenty of choices to choose from, such as voyage a rabais, all inclusive holidays, and cheap ones as well. It is worth considering your budget first, and then just what you want to get out of it next, in order to see if the two can work together. Then you can decide where to look first: Newspapers and magazines, your local travel agent or the internet are usual choices.

If you are looking for a bargain, then there are plenty available these days. There are some companies available that search purely for special deals or last minute cheap deals. It may well be something to consider looking at if you want more from your money.

If you do not mind departing the same day or the day after you book your holiday, there are some fantastic holidays available on very short notice. The reason these holidays are much less expensive than the normal cost is because some hotels or resorts have most of the places filled for a certain booking period. However, they would rather have them all filled if possible when it gets very close to the time.

Many individuals manage to get their holidays this way every year. And depending on the length of the holiday, and how much they have to spend, it can sometimes be possible to have several holidays a year at a low cost this way. However, it is best to not be overly choosy on just one destination when searching for such great deals.

If you like to plan your holidays well in advance to get what you want, including advanced booking discounts, then this is also a popular choice. Shopping around for just what you want can be fun and finding the ideal escape can be a rejuvenating experience in itself. Of course hidden costs, airport tax and high prices can be extras that may need to be considered before you start to pack your bags.

It is also good to consider other things as well, such as your camera. One that has a self-timer is a great idea. It can capture your whole family together enjoying themselves, instead of always having someone missing from the photographs. Alternatively, if you are going alone, then it is even more important to choose the right self-timing camera so that you actually have photographs showing you on holiday, rather than a lot of photographs that resemble postcards, simply because anyone could have taken them, due to your absence in them all.

Sometimes, a waitress or waiter may be a safe person to ask to take a photograph of you or you and your family or friends, in a dining establishment, or resort. However, it is always wise to be careful with your belongings when you are in new places. Vacation packages are usually fun and very rewarding experiences, but only you can choose the ideal one for you.

Enfield CT: Connecticut's Best Cities For Your Home And Family

Located on the scenic Connecticut River on the northeastern edge of Hartford County beside the Massachusetts border is the city of Enfield. Originally home to the Native American Pocomtuc tribe who had two villages here, Scitico and Nameroke, Enfield's first Europeans settlers were John and Robert Pease who arrived in 1679 from Salem, Massachusetts. The two brothers spent the first winter camping in a shelter dug into the side of a hill before sending for their families.

Although first considered part of Massachusetts when Enfield was incorporated in 1683, in 1749 it was determined that a surveyor had mistakenly marked the State's boundaries and Enfield seceded and joined Connecticut.

Undoubtedly the single most historic event that took place in Enfield's early days was what is widely regarded as the most famous sermon ever delivered by Jonathan Edwards "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry Lord" in 1741. A revival movement had begun in Massachusetts in the 1730's called the Great Awakening that had spread to the Connecticut River Valley where Edwards was an American Puritan theologian and delivered the quintessential fire and brimestone sermon.

"The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked. His wrath towards you burns like fire; he looks upon you as worthy of nothing else but to be cast into the fire. He is of purer eyes than to bear you in his sight; you are ten thousand times as abominable in his eyes as the most hateful, venomous serpent is in ours"

Throughout the sermon Edwards was repeatedly interrupted by people moaning, shaking and crying out "What shall I do to be saved?" However, his preaching style so focused on fear and hatred of damnation - together with the lamentations, trembling and convulsions of his audience were criticized by many conservative Puritans who said Edwards was leading his congregation into fanaticism.

Several people became so profoundly shaken and depressed convinced of their own damnation by the Great Awakening revivals that they committed suicide - including Edwards' own uncle Joseph Hawley who was a member of his congregation. Edwards wrote that "Multitudes" had been so compelled - presumably by Satan - to kill themselves.

He became embroiled in controversy regarding the "bodily effects" of the holy spirit's presence in his congregation's swooning and fainting, and the resulting "Suicide Craze" effectively killed the first wave of the Great Awakening revival in Connecticut.

For years Edwards continued to preach his message to the Mohicans. Jonathan Edwards died at 52 as a result of a smallpox inoculation he had specifically requested to serve as an example to the Indians he ministered to to follow.

He is buried beside his Son-in-law, Aaron Burr Vice President of the United States. On a side note, Burr is probably best known as the person who killed Alexander Hamilton in a duel after Hamilton intentionally discharged his pistol into the air to settle their dispute honorably, after which Burr took aim and killed him. Today, Hamilton appears on American ten dollar bills - and most people remember Burr as the person who killed him because he was rigid and couldn't back down in their dispute.

Many of Enfield's historic homes dating back to this era can be found in the 1106-1492 blocks of Enfield Street and King Street which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Modern Enfield was formed by the union of Enfield, Thompsonville, and Hazardville, named after Colonel Hazard who manufactured gunpowder in the Powder Hollow section of town. The factories were built so that if one section of the mills exploded it would not set off a chain reaction and the walls could be set back up almost intact. Men who worked keeping the powder wet when it was being milled sat on one-legged stools so that they would fall over if they fell asleep rather than allowing an explosion.

Hazard was the biggest single manufacturer of gunpowder during the time of his products biggest boom - the Civil War. However, Hazard's gunpowder factories blew up repeatedly over the years, killing over sixty workers - including one of his sons. The ruins of these buildings and the dams that powered the mills are open to the public. Powder Hollow Park in Enfield Hazardville neighborhood district has baseball fields and hiking trails.

Today, Enfield's range of housing includes single-family homes, apartments and condominiums set in historic neighborhoods like Hazardville, North Thompsonville, Shaker Pines that was the location of an early Shaker community, and Southwood Acres.

Thompsonville in the center of Enfield has more of an urban environment with old Victorians and boat launches on the Connecticut River. Headquartered in Enfield is LEGO, the plastic building toy manufacturer and is also the town's leading employer. There are numerous shopping centers, including Enfield Square Mall off Interstate 91 and Stateline Plaza.

North Thompsonville is primarily a residential section of Enfield with several parks and schools. The Presidential Section consists of streets that are all named after former presidents of the United States. Scitico named after the former Native American village is located in the eastern end of town is a suburb with scenic winding roads, a park, and quite cul-de-sacs.

Enfield is located in the region commonly referred to as the "New England Knowledge Corridor" due to the 27 colleges and universities. Enfield is centrally located on the major north south, Connecticut River Valley transportation corridor and the east west New York to Boston overland routes. Bradley International Airport is approximately ten miles south of Enfield and is a primary transportation hub.

The combination of friendly neighborhoods and close proximity to major metropolitan areas makes Enfield one of Connecticut's best cities for your home and family.

The 10 Important Tips on Cruise Ship Travel Etiquette

The most luxurious gift that you can give to you and loved ones is a cruise. It will be the most relaxing and still thrilling experience of your life. Cruising to countries where you will be able to disembark to shop in boutiques and dine in restaurants in foreign cities will create memories that will last for the rest of your life.

For those who will be cruising for the first time, it is important to research all aspects of cruising from motion sickness to cruise etiquette.

Believe it or not, there is etiquette for cruise ships. It is simple guidelines that need to be followed in order to maintain a certain level of order among the thousands of other passengers on the ship.

* Be pleasant! You and your fellow passengers are on a cruise to relax and have fun. Nobody wants to hear complaints or be around a crabby person. People will respond better to someone with a good attitude.

* Manners should be used all the time, however, when you are on a cruise with thousands of other people, using manners will maintain a degree of order and you will not be considered to be rude.

* If you bring your children on a cruise with you, it is important to maintain a certain amount of control. It is natural for them to be excited, however when they are over stimulated, bring them to your cabin to calm them down.

* Dressing inappropriately can offend many people at the same time. Dress appropriately for the function that you are attending.

* When you participate in activities that the cruise ship offers, it is important that you know what time the activity starts and be there on time. You will avoid asking questions that may have already been answered.

* If you decide to see one of the many performances that cruise ships have to offer, it is only good manners not to talk or even walk out before the show is over.

* When you disembark for a day of shopping at one of the ports of call, it is crucial that you know what time to be back. When you are late, you will risk causing a panic or being left behind.

* Be considerate of those around you. If you are a smoker, ask to be seated in the smoking section or go outside to smoke. With the rising concerns of second hand smoke you will avoid being labeled as inconsiderate.

* Listening to music can be relaxing and even soothing. However, not everyone will appreciate your choice in music. Keep the volume down, or even better, wear earphones when you are by the pool or on deck.

* It is an honor to be invited to dine at the captain's table. The whole process is elaborately done with invitations complete with an RSVP. It is important that you respond immediately with your decision.

Cruises were meant for people to relax and have fun, and to meet new people. By following these guidelines, your cruising experience will sure to create memories and possibly friendships that will last a lifetime.

Family Holidays and Leisure Planning Made Simple

The important advantage of selecting to stay in a villa is space. Because children have sufficient room to play, and it even contains swimming pool and garden. The entire family can spend their nice time in villa. Here each person in the family can find their own way of relaxing and comfortable space.

Here people will not have to fight with one another for the remote control, murmuring in the balcony when the power is out, no gossiping on each other. Elder people also can enjoy the facilities of the villa. Parents will be having fun activities every evening in villa. Finally people won't find any kind of irritation from the services of villa.

Kitchen facilities are also available in villa in order to give the families absolute control over the food and the meal times. Food is a major problem that all the families face when they travel with small children. The kitchens in villa are equipped and if people demand they will provide chefs also. They will allow parents to prepare food to their children; here servants are also available to help the family members. Each villa will be examined and repaired daily. People can spend their time as in one's own home.

Almost all holiday villas offer high quality chairs and cots as standard; this will be like a hotel of good standards. Villa managers will arrange for a family tour or an outing with full range to the families who stay in the villa, people can also make use of this and spend their time in beautiful destinations.

Villa provides all the facilities that people require to spend their holidays. Here convenient stores like market are also present in order to make sure that emergency necessities are provided. Finally villa staff will take care of everything to all the visitors who comes to spend their holidays.

Traveling the World to Shop: The Destinations

Shopping is more than just a hobby. It is a way of indulging on a foreign culture, while sufficing the typical desire to just spend money for nice things to bring home. Whether people come to places on cheap tours or first-class flights, shopping is certainly a common denominator for travelers.
Around the world, there are many shopping paradises. But among the endless choices are ten cities topping the list. They are as follows:

1. Madrid

First and foremost, one cannot expect to experience some total budget shopping in Madrid. However, it is known as one of the most affordable places among the most luxurious shopping venues on Earth. There are several malls around the city, but streets and alleys are usually the destination for its charming shophouses selling souvenirs, textiles, fashion items, and more.

2. Dubai
The city of extremes at the United Arab Emirates is surely a good place for a total shopping spree. Dubai has the world's largest mall - complete with specialty stores, designer outlets, dancing water fountains, Olympic-sized ice skating rink, theme parks, aquarium, and more.

3. Vienna
If you are looking for the 'cheapest shopping venue' based on the European ratings. Basically, luxury items are sold here for cheaper prices compared to other cities in the continent; but it is really the tempting delicacies which are must-buys here. It is especially beautiful to do your shopping in Vienna during Christmas as streets glimmer with Christmas lights on trees and buildings.

4. Buenos Aires
Leather lovers will find exquisite pleasure at the malls of Buenos Aires. Lots of leather shops are established around the city, making it easy for everyone to find nice items. Tailoring is also done in the area. But the better thing is haggling is permitted.

5. Hong Kong
The exciting atmosphere of Hong Kong is very conducive to an ultimate shopping spree. People are generally attracted not just to the various items sold on each boutique; but also to the impressive surroundings of Hong Kong's shopping streets, which are usually dominated by neon lights.

6. Paris
When we talk about shopping, Paris is definitely the first thing to come to mind. Home to flagship stores of different luxury brands, people will definitely find it truly amazing to shop until they drop while getting astonished with the beautiful surroundings of the city. Of course, the Eiffel Tower is the main attraction.

7. Seoul
The vibrant ambiance in the shopping streets of Seoul sure attracts many. Specialty stores and malls stand side by side, providing people with various options on where they can shop. But if you want to shop while experiencing real Seoul, go to Myeongdong and Dongdaemun. For more upscale shopping, head off to Apgujeongdong or Chungdamdong in Gangnam.

8. Tokyo
Home to the most unique fashion, Tokyo is often visited by shoppers who wish to keep up with the trend. Shops are everywhere, particularly in the Shibuya, Shinjuku and Ginza areas. If you wish to shop for gadgets and anime stuffs, you can visit Akihabara. A typical Tokyo tour package would include stops to shopping venues.

9. New York
There is no better place to shop in the United States of America than the Big Apple, New York. Particularly concentrated in Manhattan are lots of designer stores where great signature items are sold.

10. Manila
Manila is much more than a crowded capital city of the Philippines especially when it comes to shopping. Two of the largest malls in Asia are in the city. Both gives home to local and international specialty stores. If going for budget shopping, it is advisable to visit Tutuban or Divisoria for really cheap items.

Shopping is a spice that makes every trip infinitely exciting.

Holiday & Travel Guide For Athens, Greece

Sightseeing
The incredible city of Athens, home to the ancient Gods and what a city to explore. The history and myths of this land are truly amazing, but be warned, the heat can sour to well into the 30's during the hottest months of June to August so make sure you carry plenty of water and cover yourself from the scorching heat whilst touring the magnificent ancient ruins of Athens.

Let's start with the Acropolis site, as this is what most tourists visit Athens for. These magnificent buildings are said to date back to the 4th century BC. The Parthenon building was originally constructed as a Temple, it has since then been a church and then a mosque. This building is easy recognised by anyone around the world, its vast size is jaw dropping and no amount of pictures that you have seen will prepare you for the true enormity of this site. Also, there are the ruins of a great theatre, that had once been used in the Roman times for gladiator fighting, nowadays the theatre is still used but for the more gentile performances of Ballet and other concerts. After you have spent most of the day exploring the wonders of this ancient site and listening to the myths that surround it from the guides, you will probably need a good rest before you prepare yourself for more wonders, along with the many museums full of ancient relics. Children as well as adults will love the Children's Museum and for those that love music, there is also a Music Museum, then a Greek Folk museum. Actually, there are quite a few museums and all of them are worth of a visit along with the art galleries. You can't miss the day tour to Delphi, to marvel at the ancient sanctuary of Apollo or the magnificent monuments and bronzes in the museum. For those who want another cultural trip, visit Cape Sounion where the 5th century temple of Poseidon stands, then the famous theatre of Epidaurus in Argolis. There is so much to see you may be better off hiring a car so you can do the tours at your own leisure and cut down excursion costs.

Shopping and eating
You will have a great time shopping in Athens modern town, with a multitude of shops to choose from, but the best place to visit has to be the old town "La Plaka" with its narrow pedestrian streets and quaint shops. You can spend hours searching for your ideal gift or souvenir in any one of the shops, as they are crammed full of delightful items, like jewellery, paintings and copies of ancient relics and buildings. There is something for everyone; you won't leave the old town without purchasing something. If your feet are tired then there are plenty of cafes for you rest up in and have a well earned drink, and more than enough restaurants in the old town that serve a variety of meals from moussaka and stuffed tomatoes to filled baguettes, snacks and delicious pastries. For those looking for more international foods then the modern city centre would be the place to find it, as well as most of the glitzy nightlife of the city.

Happy Holidays

Travel and the Economy in 2008

In 2007, the real estate market shifted to favor homebuyers. Gas prices went up and the value of the U.S. dollar fell, but the number of American travelers planning a vacation in 2008 has stayed strong.

According to an article: Travel Trends: What's Hot in 2008 by Beth Harpaz in the December 17, 2007 issue of USA Today "the Conference Board's most recent consumer survey found 45.8 percent of Americans intend to take a vacation within six months."

Authorities throughout the travel industry seem to believe travelers in 2008 want to be practical, yet still enjoy amenities that make vacationing simpler and more relaxing.

"In 2008, experts say, Americans may take shorter trips or choose destinations closer to home where their dollar goes further," Harpaz continued.

Family Comes First: Family Travel on the Rise

In our fast-paced American culture, two income households, sixty-hour work weeks, fast food and cell phones have become the norm - all to make life more convenient. However, the modern conveniences of our daily lives now seem to require a lot of attention and personal energy. In response to the stress modern life has developed over the last century, Americans are now returning to their roots. The importance of time with family and a healthy quality of life is moving up on the priority list.

Luxury travel industry expert Karen Weiner Escalera and her Florida-based travel marketing firm, KWE Group, firmly believe that family travel is on the rise for 2008. In one of Escalera's most recent articles on the Travel Industry Wire, Top Ten Luxury Travel and Lifestyle Trends for 2008, the number two trend is "Relationships with family and friends take center stage." According to Escalera, "Accelerating since 9/11 and fueled by a backlash against a contemporary world dominated by 24/7-work schedules and dehumanizing technology, family travel is growing at a faster rate than all other sectors of leisure travel."

A recent survey of American Express travel agents also revealed a significant rise in luxury travel among families - 82 percent wanted high-end hotels with kids' programs and 56 percent were traveling with nannies.

"Parents, grandparents and friends are looking to travel as a way to reunite, and to celebrate life's landmark events. Business trips with the whole family will become as common as tag-along spouses, while high-end business hotels and resorts will roll out the red carpets for families with special suites and villas," Escalera added.

Concierge Condo Rentals and Timeshares versus Second Home Purchases

The modern traveler believes that there is no reason why the comforts of home cannot be available while on vacation. Vacation planning is greatly enhanced when you consider concierge condo rentals or timeshare options. Many families especially appreciate the opportunity to save time and money when cooking in a private kitchen or receiving tourist information and discounts from a personal travel concierge. These kinds of amenities allow travelers to spend more time relaxing and less time organizing, mapping and making decisions about travel plans. A timeshare can offer the benefits of owning a second home for vacations, without the headaches of year-round maintenance and cost.

Recently, Howard C. Nusbaum, President of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) recounted his experience at the Travel Industry Association (TIA) Marketing Outlook Forum, an annual conference of travel and tourism professionals that highlights future industry trends. He describes how Peter Yesawich, Ph.D., CEO of Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell, explained during the forum that the most recent Travel Monitor study completed by his company detailed large numbers of travelers interested in condominiums instead of traditional hotels.

The Travel monitor study also showed an increasing number of travelers interested in vacation ownership products such as private residence clubs and timeshares. The impressive data from his (Yesawich) survey furthered the buzz that timeshares were no longer a niche product, but rather a staple of today's diverse travel industry.

In 2008, vacation ownership specialty products will provide stiff competition for second home sellers as traveling individuals, groups, and families opt for practical comfort and luxury while on vacation.

Travel And Leisure In This World And The Next!

Travel obligates a plan for destination. One journey, studiously considered by theist and atheist alike is the journey of life. This relatively short journey is worthy of some thought as to the method of transport and result of effort. The trip need not be constrained by tradition but freely and joyfully pursued. Life can and should be undemanding and without invented hazards.

Whether we like it or not, we travel ever onward to an uncertain reality; but in the karma of progress, we can enjoy great rewards, even while reaping much pain and delusion along the way. Pleasure and pain are but points of reference, each magnifying the alternative. On the other hand, delusion is the product of acquiescence to false impressions. This author offers relief from a particular delusion so common in the human psyche and root of life's greatest worry.

Depending on geographic circumstance, we are born to and prejudiced toward a particular metaphysical influence; most strident and demanding are the Judaic, Christian, or Islamic persuasion. Alternately, one can declare atheism as his conscience-clearing mien; however, it is not declaration but substantiation able to soothe the human psyche.

Most people make extensive plans for physical travel, leisure, and destination; but plans for immortal travel are left more to chance and circumstance than intellectual wit. In this regard, we offer a scholarly means to weigh existing evidence.

Both theism and atheism form their debate from a very flawed position, basing their belief more on speculation and desire than reason. Debate bounces back and forth without advantage, for they neglect the mediating link hidden in Bible symbols and numbers, the only source for a sensible determination. Both belief and unbelief, in ignorance of the hidden agenda, are but expressions of opinion and emotion. Only in a correct evaluation of Bible symbology can proper interpretation resolve the atheist/theist dispute. The truth will shock all who dare to investigate the bottom line in eschatology and Parousia time frame!

One example of biblical mystery, among many, is the Ezekiel creature's habitual walk to and fro in the earth, contemporaneous with the beasts traveling this same road in Daniel's Four Beast parallel. Over past millennia, these beasts were assigned various identities, the most consistent being Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Greek, and Roman. Would it surprise those evaluating this metaphysical road to discover the infamous beasts have been falsely named over these many years, completely subverting Bible intent? Would it surprise readers to discover all Four Beasts to be the very same, at differing stages of evolvement? This discovery allows us to delve into even greater mysticisms.

Uzbekistan - The Hot New Travel Destination! 10 Things to Know Before Going to Fun Filled Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is the high point of the ancient Silk Route. For decades it used to be part of the former USSR. It is a fascinating, affordable part of the world. A few words of advice before you go:

1. Make photocopies of your passport and visa. Allah forbid that you lose any important documents while traveling. Photocopy all your travel documents, and keep them in a location separate from the originals. These copies will save you time and headaches at your Embassy.

2. Learn a few phrases of Russian and Uzbek. Uzbeks will love you if you learn a few phrases of Uzbek, such as 'A-salaam aleikum' (hello), or 'Yak shamisez?' (how's it going?). Old Uzbek women have been known to cry with joy when hearing a white person try to speak their language - seriously. Russian, which is spoken in the big cities, will also come in helpful. Find a phrasebook and learn a few words.

3. If you are invited home for dinner by a trusted acquaintance, take him/her up on the offer. Many Uzbeks have rarely met foreigners, especially Americans. If a trustworthy acquaintance invites you home for dinner, take them up on the offer. You will sit on the floor and be served rice pilaf, and be peppered with questions, while being treated like royalty.

4. Stay away from meat products. Nu-uh, don't go there. If so, partake only in the cleanest appearing restaurants in the big cities. Otherwise you'll be making Jackson Pollock proud in the outhouse.

5. If stopped by the police, be polite, but watch your belongings closely. This isn't Kansas anymore. Show the police respect. If stopped, shake hands, and be courteous. If they want to take your passport or visa for a closer inspection, insist that you accompany them. Usually police are only curious about tourists, but always keep your eye on all your bags if they want to inspect anything.

6. Find a trusty taxi driver, and hire him for your whole stay. There's a special place in hell for most Uzbek taxi drivers. Ask at your hotel for a trusted driver. If a driver quotes a price, bargain hard with him down to 30% of the quote. When you find a trustworthy driver, communicate that you want to keep him for the length of your duration in your city. A tourist will always be overcharged by a driver, but the damage is minimal, only by a few dollars.

7. Carry a bottle of drinking water with you. The summer temperature in Uzbekistan can soar to 120 degrees. Always keep a bottle of water with you. Avoid the tap water.

8. Carry a roll of toilet paper with you. You never know when nature will call. And when it does...

9. Overcome your fear of pit toilets. If you dread squatting over a hole in the floor, Central Asia is not your kind of travel destination.

10. Be ready to enjoy the fascinating cities along the ancient Silk Route. Samarkand is a must. If time allows, travel further east to Bukhara. And even further east is Khiva. Wander amongst the mosques and alleyways, and pretend as if you stepped into a tale from the 1001 Nights.