Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Gangotri- One of the Dham

The position of initiation of shri Bhagirathi is positioned at a distance of 28 kms. The place of worship of Bhagirathi is located at Gangotri. In this place of worship figures of Shri Ganga ji, Yamuna ji, Lakshmi ji, Saraswati ji, Parwati ji and Annapurna ji are seen. All items of Pooja are prepared up by Gold only. An impenetrable jungle of deodar is also to be found here. The shrine of Ganga is sited on the right bank of the Bhagirathi (Ganga) and its voyage can be observed in a variety of moods profound and quiet in the lower plains, but at Gangotri, Bhagirathi it is splashing, hurling, frothing and lively in an overjoyed air. Bhagirthi is pretty diverse from Alaknanda, Saraswati and Yamuna, so the stream of Gangotri is taken to Rameshwaram in south India and presented to Lord Shiva. There are in addition a few Ashrams and Dharamshalas on the left bank of Bhagirathi.

Gaumukh
Gaumukh is the known resource of Ganga. The Gangotri Glacier which is approximately 6 to 8 KM in breadth and just about 24 K.M in distance end to end is positioned at an altitude of 4255 m beyond sea level and placed in the mind of the Gangotri Peaks. The most excellent time to holiday in Gaumukh is from June to Septmber every year. Earlier than June and subsequent to October the bristle pathway can be full of danger.

Devotees take one dip very soon in the freezing water of Gaumhukh and the Hindus with parochial outlook suppose that even a lone dip in the Gaumukuhi water is enough to clean away all the sins and accomplish the intention of one's life. Just 3 kms from Gaumukh, amid the two Glaciers, Meru and Gangotri, there extends a huge plain Known as "Tapovanam". It is an enormously stunning spot that enthralls the mind by its usual charisma. Nandanvan is opposite Tapovan.


Yamunotri
The shrine of Yamuna ji is the chief place of worship. In the vicinity of this temple there are a small number of hot water springs where the water comes out of the mountains hollow space and is scorching hot. Surya-Kund is the main kund. A dash of rice or potatoes, put with a loose knot in a cloth, are put in it and following a few minutes when taken out they are wholly cooked. These are taken home and used as prasad. In the close proximity to the Surya Kund there is a shila called Divya-Shila which is respected before puja is offered to Yamunaji.

Close by is the Jamuna Bai Kund constructed about 75 years ago and is used for a sacred bath. The water is pleasingly warm and comforting.

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Relax in Paradise: Fort Lauderdale Inns

Although some go to Fort Lauderdale for business, one of the main reasons that people go to the Florida Keys is for a bit of sun and relaxation and to have a vacation from their crazy lives back home. Whether you choose to stay in one of the many affordable Fort Lauderdale Inns, or else spend a little extra to stay in one among the wonderful Florida Keys hotels, resorts, or various lodging options, you will definitely find that relaxation and solace that you are searching for. If you are looking for just an inexpensive getaway to clear your head and get you the sunshine and silence that you have been craving or if you are looking for the luxury of a high class resort where you can be pampered and waited upon like you really deserve, there is a place for you in Fort Lauderdale where you will find everything that you are looking for. Fort Lauderdale presents a wide variety of lodging to meet the needs of everybody who may want to arrive and see their excellent town. From pretty hotels which peak out amongst the wide variety of restaurants, cafes, theatres, nightclubs and shops to the huge five star resorts that are more or less like tiny towns all on their own. Those who have limited budget, can easily afford these inns for accommodation which are easy to find so that you can stay in an area where you feel most comfortable and relaxed. Whether you want to be in front of the white sand beaches or faraway from all the hustle and bustle of the tourist crowd, there is a Fort Lauderdale inn out there for you, providing all which you may want throughout your lodging. From the several accomodations, beach resorts are just ideal if you are planning to spend your day lavishly and luxuriously. As regards the whole nightlife, shopping and cuisine pick one of these Florida Keys hotels. You wont be bothered about your work as you are away from the hectic schedule of your life. Majority of them provide all from directing tours of the town, to treatments in spa to create the fantastic peaceful trip and also pools and hot tubs in case swimming in the ocean is not your choice. You can inquire about different packages that they might have so that your vacation can be as hassle free and relaxing as possible. If you book in one of these wonderful sites, you definitely will have warm memories to take back home and make your pals jealous. You must know all the details about the package offered by the travel companies as you shouldn't be surprised with anything unusual while on holidays. You have to assure that your vacation goes exactly as intended and ensure that you are at peace by the time you get back home to normal life. So no matter how you plan your vacation or where you stay, whether it is in one of the wonderful little Fort Lauderdale inns where you can be close to everything that you might want to see for an affordable price or in one of the Florida Keys hotels, resorts, or inns where you can be pampered like royalty and are given bragging rights for when you go back home, your stay in Fort Lauderdale will be a good one. You'll bring back warm memories of your holiday to the sunny white beaches and it will be one of those places which you will constantly be struggling to come back even if it's merely for a few days each time. Florida will surely compel you to plan your next trip back here again.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Big City Sounds With A Caribbean Twist At The Aruba Music Festival

As an island known for its vibrant tropical energy and diverse entertainment options, Aruba is one of the best destinations in the Caribbean to experience live music. The capital city of Oranjestad is known as a hotbed of Caribbean jazz and latin music, as numerous clubs and concert halls host live bands throughout the year. Even outside the main tourist areas of Oranjestad, live music can be heard in restaurants and on the beaches. The island is also home to major music festivals, the Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival - an annual event held each May that showcases internationally-renowned soul and R&B artists - and the Aruba Music Festival - a two-day festival that welcomes top-selling classic rock groups, up-and-coming superstars and lesser-known regional artists. While events like the Aruba Music Festival are staged throughout the world, few festivals can boast the event's unique combination of big-city entertainment and inviting Caribbean atmosphere.

Though only in its 8th official season, the Aruba Music Festival has already lured an incredible array of top-selling performers. Prior to becoming the Aruba Music Festival, the event was known as the Aruba Jazz and Latin Festival. Developed in the 1980s to showcase the Caribbean region's rich musical tradition, the Aruba Jazz and Latin Festival was expanded and renamed in 2002. Though the Aruba Music Festival was created as a way to present top international touring acts, the festival has remained true to its roots and continues to offer performances by jazz and latin artists from throughout the Caribbean region.

While the lineup for this year's festival has not yet been announced, the event is sure to feature famous classic rock acts, as well as many local, regional and up-and-coming international performers. In recent years, headlining acts at the Aruba Music Festival have included well-known classic rock bands such as Chicago, The Doobie Brothers, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Queen and Crosby Stills and Nash. The festival has also lured several internationally-recognized singer-songwriters such as Lionel Richie, Jackson Browne and contemporary favorite, John Mayer. Before the headliners take the stage each day at the Aruba Music Festival, the side stage heats up with a diverse array of musical styles, most provided by groups specialized in dance-friendly Caribbean genres.

The Aruba Music Festival takes place each year at the state-of-the-art Aruba Entertainment Center. The spacious outdoor venue allows concert-goers to enjoy the cool evening weather in a scenic setting located only five minutes drive from downtown Oranjestad and fifteen minutes drive from the island's Hotel Zone. The Aruba Entertainment Center offers superior acoustics and the open, but intimate design ensures that all concert-goers have excellent views of the main stage. The venue features large general admission and open grass areas that allow concert-goers to stretch out on blankets and enjoy a relaxing, picnic-like experience, while those that prefer reserved seats will find excellent views near the stage. Behind the seating areas, a number of concession stands serve up food and drinks, including local brews and snacks.

As the Aruba Music Festival is staged just before the beginning of the peak tourism season, budget-conscious travelers visiting the island prior to the winter holidays are granted an excellent opportunity to experience the island's vibrant music scene. Tourists visiting Aruba during the fall season will also be assured of excellent weather, as the island falls outside the storm belt that affects many Caribbean islands.

The Aruba Music Festival will take place this year on the weekend of October 9-10. After this year's schedule of headlining acts is developed, updates about the festival can be found on Aruba's official tourism website (http://www.aruba.com). As the schedule will appear prominently in local travel publications, travelers can also contact their resort for more details about the festival.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Day-Tripping To Isla Holbox

Though there are numerous day-trip opportunities available to tourists staying in Cancun, locals and experienced travelers return to a charming destination known as Isla Holbox time and time again. Located 40 miles northwest of Cancun, Isla Holbox is known for its exotic scenery and unique local culture. Much like the remarkable beachfront Hotel Zone in Cancun, Isla Holbox rests just off the Mexican mainland along a picturesque section of the Caribbean coast. As a result, the 7.5-mile-long island is known primarily as a beach destination where day-trippers can stretch out on quiet stretches of sand or play in the warm Caribbean water. While enjoying the views, visitors to the Isla Holbox can also indulge in local delicacies and revel in the island's inviting atmosphere.

Like many destinations in the Cancun area, Isla Holbox possesses both Mayan roots and a modern history dominated by generations of fishermen. In Mayan, Holbox means "black hole," a reference to the dark, seemingly bottomless lagoon located on the southern tip of the island. Just as the ancient Mayan civilization relied on the vibrant, fish-filled waters surrounding Isla Holbox, the island's current population of just over 1,000 residents are known as expert fishermen that regularly offer their freshest catches to restaurants and resorts throughout the Mexican Riviera.

While much of the seafood caught offshore from Isla Holbox finds its way to Cancun, there are several remarkable cafes and food counters on the island that feature fresh, local fish and unique regional recipes. Both in the main village and near the beach, visitors will find affordable snacks such as ceviche, empanadas and fresh tropical fruit on sale throughout the day. Coconut cocktails - available mixed with rum or as non-alcoholic treats - are the island's favored drinks, as numerous plantations provide locals with endless supply of the tropical fruit. Amongst the small cafes and food counters in the main village, visitors will also find a number of souvenir shops that sell everything from handmade arts and crafts to locally-produced hammocks.

While there are plenty of ways to enjoy an afternoon in the main village, the scenic beach remains the most popular attraction. The white sand beach of Isla Holbox boasts excellent views of the Caribbean Sea and opportunities to swim amongst dolphins and the world's largest fish, the whale shark. The beach of Isla Holbox is home to a wide array of hammocks and shade umbrellas for year-round relaxation, while coconut trees and other native plants add an off-the-grid, tropical atmosphere. On the inland side of the island, visitors can witness flocks of flamingoes, pelicans and other tropical birds amongst a vibrant lagoon ecosystem. Recognizing the environmental diversity present on the island and in the surrounding waters, Mexico created the Yum Balam protected area in 1994 to preserve the island's natural treasures for generations to come.

Those that want to explore the lagoon and some of the island's other natural destinations will find an interesting method of transportation available to tourists. While there are a small number of automobiles on the island, the primary method of transportation for locals and visitors alike is the golf cart. As there are no golf courses on the island, these tiny vehicles were adopted by locals for their ability to maneuver the village's white sand streets, while the modest top speeds have always seemed like a perfect match for Isla Holbox's laid-back lifestyle. Visitors hoping to enjoy the island at an even more leisurely pace will find plenty of bicycles for rent, while small motorbikes are available for those in search of a bit more adventure.

Isla Holbox can be reached from Cancun by ferry or airplane. Families that rent automobiles in Cancun can drive to the village of Chiquila and board the ferry to Isla Holbox with their vehicles, while bus and shuttle services can also transport visitors from Cancun's Hotel Zone to the ferry dock. Those hoping to enjoy a speedy trip to Isla Holbox can book a seat on one of Aerosaab's Cessna flights from Cancun to the new airstrip on the island. The five-seater aircrafts that fly to Isla Holbox each day also provide excellent views of the Caribbean Sea and lush rainforest areas north of Cancun.

As few destinations near Cancun truly provide the sensation of taking a trip back to a simpler time, Isla Holbox stands as one of the region's most fascinating day-trip opportunities. Resting only 40 miles from Cancun's Hotel Zone, Isla Holbox is also a convenient tropical hideaway for families hoping to experience a different side of the Yucatan region.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Music Of The Holiday Season In Aruba

As Aruba boasts a rich culture with strong Latin American, Caribbean and European influences, the island is home a wide array of unique traditions and events that can't be found anywhere else. While exciting elements of Aruba's culture are on display throughout the year, the holiday season features several events that highlight the island's melting pot culture and diverse musical history. From the beginning of November until after the New Year's holiday, bands and performers can be found at locations across the island, including many popular tourist destinations and even the resorts. Best of all, wherever visitors encounter Aruba's holiday performers, they will be welcomed by locals to join in the island's celebration of the holiday season.

Prior to the Christmas holiday, Arubans celebrate St. Nicolas Day, a festive day that shows off the island's Dutch heritage. A few weeks prior to St. Nicolas Day, Sinterklaas - the traditional Dutch version of the modern Santa Claus - arrives on boat at Paardenbaai Harbor where he is greeted by excited crowds, festive brass bands and other performers. The brass bands then lead Sinterklaas and his helpers in a parade through the streets of Oranjestad where visitors of all ages will have a chance to join locals in celebration, enjoy live music and catch a coveted first glance of Sinterklaas. Leading up to St. Nicolas Day, Sinterklaas can be spotted across Aruba, handing out treats to children and spreading holiday cheer to locals and visitors alike. On the December 5th holiday, local children leave their shoes out at night, alongside treats for Sinterklaas and his white horse, in hopes of receiving presents and sweets. As many local resorts also participate in this tradition, visiting children can also receive small gifts and treats from Sinterklaas.

One of the most interesting holiday musical traditions is known as Gaita, a unique genre of Venezuelan folk music born in the 1960s that Arubans have since combined with popular Latin American and Caribbean dance rhythms. Most of Aruba's Gaita groups begin practicing for holiday performances during the summer months, while the most talented ensembles often make professional recordings in September and October. Usually composed of 18 to 20 musicians, the Gaita groups incorporate instruments such as acoustic guitars, bass guitars and plenty of percussion instruments with origins ranging from Latin America, Africa and the other parts of the Caribbean. Many Gaita groups also utilize rarely-heard traditional instruments such as the cuarta - a small, four-stringed guitar known in Venezuela as a cuatro - the raspa - a gourd instrument with grooves that is played with a scraping motion - and the wiri - a metallic, often homemade, scraping instrument. As most Gaita groups begin playing throughout the island in early November, the unmistakable sound of Gaita music signals the beginning of the holiday season for locals. Until Christmas Day, Gaita groups can be seen and heard in venues as diverse as resorts, restaurants, night clubs, concert halls and throughout the streets of Oranjestad.

The holiday season also brings the Christmas Day tradition known as Aguinaldo. Known in Venezuela as Noche Buena, Aguinaldo is similar to the caroling traditions found through Europe and the United States. Groups of performers visit the homes of locals, as well as resorts and popular tourist destinations across the island, to share songs and the story of Christmas. Aguinaldo performers are known for their friendliness towards the island's visitors, as tourists are welcomed to join in a sense of community and mutual celebration for the holiday. Families staying in Aruba on the Christmas holiday will certainly spot and have a chance to interact with plenty of Aguinaldo performers, both at the resorts and throughout Oranjestad.

On New Year's Day, the caroling continues as small bands - typically five or six performers - roam the island spreading good cheer and blessings for the year to come. Known as Dande, this spirited musical tradition includes an upbeat combination of guitars, accordions and percussion instruments. Each Dande group features a singer that performs their own version of a traditional New Year's song, adding stories, fortunes and blessings for the audience. Tourists will also hear the other musicians sing the phrase "ai nobe" - "new year" in Papiamento - after each of the leader's improvised lines. While New Year's Day brings out the greatest number of Dande groups, many of the bands continue performing across the island throughout the first week of the year. Prior to the New Year's Day holiday, the island also hosts a festival to anoint a Dande King and Queen. The celebration, which features plenty of live music, takes place each year on the Saturday before New Year's Day.

With so many unique cultural events on the schedule each year, the holiday season is a great time to visit Aruba. As the excitement is known to spread across the island, visitors won't have to look far to find some of Aruba's most interesting holiday traditions.

Monday, November 30, 2009

Why Rent A Car When Travelling?

Traveling? What is better way to explore the place that you will be visiting than to rent a car? Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure reason, renting a car is always a good decision.

A lot of people have discovered the benefits of renting a car for trips. More and more people are renting car for their trip considering how easy it is now to do so. With the many online car rental services, you don’t even have to make a phone call anymore. With just a few mouse clicks, you can rent a car.

If you are visiting Galway, Ireland, for instance, your itinerary will be filled of places to visit. You will need all the time that you have to fully enjoy what Galway has to offer.

The following will give you all the reasons why renting a car is such a good option for traveler:

•Renting a car is the best way to get around a particular place. You will have full control of your travel. You can make your own schedule knowing that you have a transportation to use wherever you want to go.
•You can save money when you rent a car. There are some places that you will have to travel twice to be able to get there. With a rental car, you don’t have to pay twice.
•You can save time. You don’t have to wait for your turn in a long queue for a public transportation ticket. If you are taking the train, you will have to wait for the train to come before you can leave. If you are in a hurry or if you have a limited time to consume, you are definitely not maximizing it.
•The best way to maximize your trip is to rent a car. You can visit all the places that you want to visit when you want it.
•If you are travelling for business purpose, renting a car will ensure that you will not be late in your appointments. If you have an appointment at 7am for instance and the train schedule isn’t really fitting, you might be late in your appointment. It is either you are too early or too late.
•Most rental cars are equipped with Global Position Service (GPS) to help you when you drive in a different country or location. You can request a GPS from the car rental company in case it isn’t part of the rental fee.
So why do people rent a car during their trip? Guess you got more answers than you expected.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Thailand Hotels- Visit Phuket for Things to Do While Staying in Luxury Thailand Hotels

Thailand hotels have a little bit of everything for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a specific vacation destination or a particular activity, because there is plenty out there to choose from. If you travel to the Phuket area, you will want to check out the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, which has drawn crowds for more than 15 years to the area. Legends like Mark Allen, Craig Alexander, Michele Jones, and Greg Welch have all participated in this great event, as well as many other pros that are involved in the Olympics, Ironman contests, Duathlons, and other events. The triathlon, due to its large list of legendary racers, has rightly dubbed itself the ‘Race of Legends’ and takes place once each year.



This event generates a lot of media attention and public interest, so you will want to book your Thailand hotels well in advance if you plan on visiting during this spectacular event. There are so many different activities and events that you can enjoy while you’re on vacation in this area, but the triathlon is definitely one that’s worth checking out. You should always make sure that you take the time to find the events that interest you most and that you find enjoyable. With so many different things to consider, you shouldn’t have any trouble keeping busy in Phuket and Thailand when you are on vacation. Just remember to check the schedules for the triathlon and make sure that you book a room well in advance if you’re going to be in town for this grand event.



The Laguna Phuket Triathlon is one of the most popular races in this part of the world. People come from around the world to see the best of the best compete in this tropical paradise to see who will be crowned the winner. So many well-known racers and competitors come to this event for a variety of reasons, and duke it out to the finish. For action, entertainment, and a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery in Phuket, a trip to the annual triathlon is a great choice. Keep in mind that while this event is a big deal, it will only take up part of your trip. Laguna Phuket boasts itself as one of Asia’s finest luxury destinations, and it offers something different for everyone, so you will surely find other means of entertainment.



Luxury Thailand hotels are the hot thing right now, and there are many different ones that you can choose from. If you take the time to figure out exactly what is available using the internet before you leave, you can have a much more fun and exciting vacation because everything will be planned in advance. There are some situations where planning ahead doesn’t exactly suit people’s traveling styles, but you can be sure that if you plan your vacation well, you will be able to see and do the most things outside of your Thailand hotels. This is becoming a popular destination vacation spot for many people, and events and activities abound.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Choose Isle of Man Holidays For Your Vacation

The Isle of Man is an independent island nation that is located in the Irish Sea flanked by islands of Great Britain and Ireland. The state is headed by the celebrated Queen Elizabeth the second and she has been endowed with the title of Lord of Mann. Although the area is small, you will be able to travel anywhere you wish with a car hire Isle of Man. You can go from coast to coast in any direction to get the full effect of the island life. You will not regret an Isle of Man car hire on your next holiday.

The temperate weather, blue horizon and vast stretches of cascading water add timeless beauty to the city. The city is known for a host of reasons. One of them is the explicit outdoor activities which includes motorbike racing, riding and other games. It actively participates in the Commonwealth games. The superb and racy motorcycle racing event is associated with this city. It had started in 1907 and continues till date. It involves participation from several continents and this boosts the influx of tourists. The Manx Grand Prix is a notable event and adds zest and zeal to the city.

The island is characterized by its national sport Cammag. One of the most celebrated landmarks of the city is the Peel castle. The exceptional architectural beauty and magnificence of the structure is successful in attracting most of the tourists that visit the exotic locale. This exquisite fortification was built in the eleventh century by the Vikings. The ramparts of the cathedral are situated within the structure of Peel castle.

One of the splendid structures is the Fairy Bridge. This place has a famous superstition that if you approach the bridge for the first time and do not cross it, you will have bad luck. It is a clean and a well-constructed road and you can also cross on foot. One of the best and most comfortable ways of getting acquainted to the country is by car hire Isle of Man. The compact yet beautiful island is known for its exotic locales which should be explored by car hire Isle of Man. You should avoid depending only the glossy bus tours that will give you a demanding schedule. With transportation freedom, you can travel to all the corners of the city in a relaxing manner and your travel partners with be comfortable in the car hire Isle of Man.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Is It Wise To Give Up A Career To Work On A Cruise Ship?

Many people want to work on cruise ships, but they are worried to give up their current jobs in order to go after their dreams. People often face hostility from family and work mates about ditching their jobs to go off and work on a cruise ship, but the truth is that many people do it all the time, and most of them are grateful that they did.

You may well have a period when you first start the job where you're asking yourself what you have done. Work on cruise ships is tough, and you may get homesick. This can make you more negative, so that you start thinking it is all a big mistake and you've thrown away a great career for something you don't really want.

But by the time you have worked on a cruise ship for a few months, all of these feelings will most likely have disappeared. There won't be time to be worried about home because most of your time will be spent working and enjoying yourself! You will be traveling the world, meeting new people, and having adventures — who doesn't want that?

By the time you've got to this stage, you won't even want to think about going back to your old job. What's more, there's a good chance you'll be telling your family and friends at home to follow in your foot steps and leave their dull jobs!

There may well come a time when you want to settle down a bit more and leave behind the adventurous life of working on a cruise ship, but if you're young and at the right time in your life to experience it, then there's plenty of time to return back home in the future. And you certainly won't have any regrets about leaving your job to go to sea. You will almost certainly have the time of your life, and you'll be glad that you did it.

Of course, each person is in a different situation. But if you think that you would like to find work on cruise ships and have a great few years, then don't let doubts get in your way. There will be plenty of time in the future to carry on with your career back home, so just go for it!

But it always depends on you. What you should do is think about it carefully before making any firm decisions. It can sometimes be a spur-of-the-moment thing to pack in your job and get a job aboard a cruise ship, so think carefully about it for a few months before handing in your resignation.

One thing that will affect your decision in terms of looking for work on cruise ships is your age. If you're still young then you know that if it doesn't work out you can always go back to another 'normal' job. And the worst thing about growing old is having regrets. If you think that you will regret it if you don't find work on cruise ships then the decision should be easy for you.

If you are still unsure about ditching your job, you may want to find out about the possibility of a career break. This is easier to do in some jobs than in others, but it could be a perfect way to test the water and see if this is something that you really want to do with your life.

But one of the most important things to remember about work on cruise ships is that this CAN be your career. There is no reason why it should just be for a few years, and you could find yourself in a completely new career with lots of prospects by taking the plunge.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Think Small With Your Next Vacation By Shawn Everett

Shawn Everett

If you're looking to get away from the rat race there is nowhere better than a small town. Small towns offer a slower pace, friendly people and a chance to just kick back and relax.


There are small towns all over North America. You don't need to look very far. Within a couple of hours of your home you can probably find a small town. This means no expensive or long and tiring trips. Hop in the car and drive to the nearest small town. Chances are you've been there before. Now you can stop and really explore.


Small towns offer a wide range of accommodations. This includes bed and breakfasts, hotels, and campgrounds. There's something for everyone. No matter your tastes you can find that perfect place to stay. A bed and breakfast is probably your best choice. Staying at a bed and breakfast gives you a chance to visit your hosts and to learn more about the area and the attractions it has to offer.


Once you settle in the next step is to find something to do. Everyone likes to do something different. If it's getting out and exploring or simply kicking back and reading a good book the choice is yours. If you take a little care in selecting your small town you will have endless hours of fun.


One of the most interesting small towns is Wells BC. It is close to Barkerville, and the Bowron Lakes. When you get tired of swimming and hiking go explore the history of an old gold rush town! If you're driving to Alaska it's on the way and spending a day or two there will be well worth it.


Small towns are easier on the pocket book. You don't need to spend a fortune to have a good time. Take in a movie, play or musical event. If you time things right there may even be a free event in a local park. All you have to do is show up! Spend a couple of hours relaxing on the grass listening to some great local music. Better yet, bring a picnic lunch and make a day of it. You'll be glad you did.


Small towns offer an affordable vacation without traveling hours or spending huge amounts of money. Often over looked, small towns are an an idea vacation spot full of fun, new experiences and adventure.


Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=12514&ca=Travel

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Visiting Kennedy Space Center, Florida By Ian Walsh

Ian Walsh

The Kennedy Space Center is located near Cape Canaveral in Florida and is a great place to visit on your vacation because it is so close to other Florida attractions like Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World and other fun attractions. Not to mention the Space Center is located close to Orlando on what is called the Space Coast so not only will you be able to visit many attractions, you will also be able to relax and soak up the sun at the beach. The Kennedy Space Center is not only a fun and exciting place to visit for youngsters and adults, but is also incredibly educational and sheds light on the darkness and unknown of space.


When you visit the Kennedy Space Center you will expose yourself to the amazing world of space and the only Space Shuttle launch site in the entire world. This in itself is worth checking out, but the Kennedy Space Center has so much more to offer as well. All International Space Station hardware is prepared at the Space Center before being launched into space forever. One of the most amazing offerings provided by the Kennedy Space Center are the shuttle and rocket launches. These are truly amazing events and launch missions can be attended by visitors. So, it is important to check out the Kennedy Space Center’s website before planning your vacation to see if there are any upcoming missions you and your family can attend. Or, if it is a day time launch simply avoid crowds and driving and head out to the beach where you can enjoy a nice picnic, the beach, and have a great view of the launch.


Also, the Kennedy Space Center also boasts the nearby US Astronaut Hall of Fame. Here individuals may take tours and learn all about famous astronauts, what influenced them to choose such a line of work, and the different missions they participated in. The Hall of Fame also has moon capsules, simulators and exciting hands on activities for both children and adults to enjoy. The Hall of Fame is separate from the Space Center and costs $13.95 for adults and $9.95 for children.


The Kennedy Space Center also has a visitor’s center that is certainly worthwhile if you are interested in learning more about space. At the center you will view actual space center mechanisms, launch pads, other space paraphernalia as well as IMAX films and general museum like items that outline the history of space travel and the many accomplishments and “leaps” made by mankind. If you head to the Space Center around lunchtime you will also be able to enjoy a meal with an astronaut. This program is known as Dine with an Astronaut and costs $29.95 for adults and $19.95 for kids. Entrance into the Kennedy Space Center’s visitor area costs $26 for adults and $16 for kids. While this might not be considered economical by many it is a once in a lifetime experience that is really educational, enjoyable and worth the money. Millions of visitors have visited in the 30 years of existence and the majority are glad they did.


Once you have taken in all the Kennedy Space Center has to offer you can visit the Merritt Island National Refuge which is close by and offers hundreds of acres of beach, marshes, and nature to explore. You can access the Canaveral Seashore from the Refuge which is a great place to relax and take in the amazement of a scheduled launch.


There are of course many other activities close by the Kennedy Space Center including a zoo, The Warbird Air Museum, and Jungle Adventures just to name a few. If you are interested in a truly educational vacation make sure you head to Space Beach and enjoy all the area attractions as well as others such as Disney World and Universal Studios just a few miles down the road. Or, if you only have a weekend simply focus on the Kennedy Space Center and a couple days of learning all you can about space and the technology used to explore the dark unknown.


Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=11684&ca=Travel

Monday, October 19, 2009

A Palm Springs Vacation Guarantees A Playful And Fun Time By Fred Hendrickson

Fred Hendrickson

Palm Springs, California is located just about 110 miles east of Los Angeles and is one of the most popular desert resort towns in the United States. The population is just about perfect with under 50,000 residents and along with eight neighboring cities including Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio and Coachella makes up the Palm Springs area. The name ‘Palm Springs’ comes from the region’s original inhabitants, the Cahuilla Indians. They named the area “la palma de la mano de Dios”, which translates to “the palm of God’s hand.”


Palm Springs is mainly famous for its Golf Courses. From mainly flat to flat and rolling courses, there is a course for every golfer in Palm Springs. For those who prefer to spend their vacation time in other ways, Palm Springs offers a diverse assortment of attractions and activities. Visitors can enjoy shopping, hiking, museums, gaming, architecture, simply soaking in the sun and much more! The natural beauty of the Palm Springs area is enough to keep many people returning time and again.


Palm Springs was known during the 1950’s and the 1960’s as a resort town strictly for the rich and famous like Frank Sinatra. In fact, Tinseltown’s most famous stars bought homes in Palm Springs during this time period and the area became known around the world as the place where the stars vacationed.


Fortunately, today Palm Springs is a resort town for everyone who wants to get away to one of the most delightful climates in the country. Vacation packages can be found for both people who are on a budget and those who can afford to enjoy luxurious resorts. Palm Springs has an average of 354 days of sun per year and very little rainfall. The winter season in Palm Springs has daytime temperatures that reach into the 70’s and nighttime temperatures in the 40’s. Sheltered by the Santa Rosa Mountains and the San Jacinto Mountains, Palm Springs seems to truly have been place by ‘the hand of God’ into one of the most ideal locations in the country.


Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=12379&ca=Travel