The Inflatable Boats Beginning

By Wyatt Crouch

The earliest attempt of Inflatable Boats were observed by ancient carved images of animal skins filled with air being used as one-man floats to cross rivers. These were before the days of air compressors so they were inflated by mouth. Often these images were mistaken for early scuba gear, but in fact they were the first generation of Inflatable Boats.

Back in the year 1839 the Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington tested the first inflatable pontoons while he was Leader of the House of Lords. Shortly thereafter in 1900 to 1910 the advances of rubber manufacturing made it possible to attempt rubber Inflatable Boats. These crude creations were only usable as inflatable rafts using paddles. There were inherent manufacturer defects as they tended to split at the seams and folds due to less than optimal manufacturing processing of the rubber.

With the 1912 loss of the RMS Titanic and then the World War I losses of war ships to torpedoes launched by submarines, inflatable boats for use as life rafts was obvious. The most prominent cause of the loss of life on the Titanic was the lack of lifeboats. There was such a shortage of life rafts that no more than 50% of the passengers could have been saved if each one had been used to its capacity.

The SOLAS Convention in its successive forms is generally regarded as the most important of all international treaties concerning the safety of merchant ships. The first version was adopted in 1914, the second in 1929, the third in 1948, and the fourth in 1960. The most prominent focus was to ensure that ships had sufficient lifeboats so that every person aboard the ship had access to a place on a lifeboat. [http://www.imo.org/Conventions/contents.asp?topic_id=257&doc_id=647#1]

This was not a difficult feat with cargo ships because their crews were small and the ships had sufficient of deck space. Passenger ships on the other hand had a difficult task as in order to accommodate this requirement they had to stack lifeboats one on top of the other in order satisfy the requirement for the large amount of passengers and crew. In addition, warships had a hard time with this as their crews were also large crews and deck space was not abundant.

Goodyear had discovered a way to better manufacture the Inflatable Boats in between the two World Wars but unfortunately, the conservative though of the time held back its production. The inflatable boats that get produced were life rafts of square-shaped inflated rubber cylinders with a rigid floor. These inflatable rafts were stacked vertically aboard warships on deck.

In 1937 the design of the Inflatable Boat took a major turn. Pierre Debroutelle was the first person to develop the current U-design of the Inflatable tube. The French Navy adopted the design and gave it certification under their provisions. Then in 1943 with the inclusion of the wooden transom was patented. If you compare the Inflatable Boat of that time with today's modern Inflatable Boat.

As with many things, World War II changed the need for and thereby the industry on Inflatable Boats. Submarine attacks in the Battlefield of the Atlantic created escalated numbers of casualties among merchant ships as well as the many warships.

It was at this point that the US warships really started to use rubber life rafts. With the further advances in the rubber processing and manufacturing process over the last 35 years, the Inflatable Boat was accepted and here to stay, and now it was shaped like a boat.

Today's modern Inflatable Boat is no longer just a Life Saving device, it has now crossed over to the recreational side of things due to its low cost of entry and it varied use. If you are looking for a boat on a budget, you definitely need to check out an Inflatable Boat!

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Your Guide To Spain : Madrid's Parque del Buen Retiro

By Gordon Banks

Touted as one of the foremost attractions of Madrid is Retiro Park (in Spanish it is Parque del Buen Retiro). When you aren't strolling through the winding walkways dotted with beautiful sculptures, or relaxing in the quiet beauty of the lake, there are many exciting festivals and events to experience.

Prior to 1868 it was a solely a royal palace that housed many culturally significant and historical buildings. Unfortunately, some buildings were destroyed, or left largely in ruins by the Napoleonic wars, but the ones remaining are certainly worth visiting.

Popular sites within the park include the Palacio de Cristal, a glass structure originally used to house exotic plants, and the Palacio de Velzquez, a former industrial exhibition house now mainly used to display art. Other famous structures include a glorious military museum by the name of the Ejercito, and another one by the name of Casn, now home to various 19 and 20th century arts.

The centerpiece is a large lake, the Estanque del Retiro, found near the north entrance. Not surprisingly summer is one of the more popular times for the park when entire families can be found taking in the beautiful surroundings along the perimeter of the lake. For those wishing for a little activity, you can rent a boat from one of the local vendors there and row around it.

The Rosaleda rose garden is another of the park's beautiful features, one frequently enjoyed by tourists and natives alike, and nearby are the equally delightful Cecilia Rodriguez gardens and the outstanding restaurants on Serrano Street.

There are many outdoor cafes in and around the park for you to sample a range of Spanish cuisine. As you stroll alongside the many locals who frequent the park, you are likely to run into a great number of entertainers not limited to jugglers, dancers, and fortune tellers that are happy to showcase their talents for anyone who stops to watch.

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The Best Forms of Transportation in South Africa

By Annette Hendley

There are a number of ways to get around in South Africa of which hiring a car would give you the most freedom to travel where and when you want.

Taking a long distance train is still a very reasonable and comfortable way to travel as well as being quite safe. However, the second and third class carriages are usually pretty packed and offer uncomfortable accommodations. With inner-city travel, it is highly recommended that tourists avoid the inner-city trains as they have become a playground for thieves and vagrants.

A few privately run trains like the Outenikwa Choo-tjoe and the Magalies Express are completely safe and a great experience. They only run in certain areas and not too regularly. They are more focused on day trip outings than on transport from one area to another.

Bus services in South Africa are mostly reliable and safe. Inter City bus and Greyhound service most major towns. It is important to stick with the well known services even if they are more expensive. Many fly by night companies have tried to offer cheap bus trips with un-roadworthy buses which resulted in horrific accidents throughout the country. The Baz bus is aimed at tourists and has stops at many hotels across the country. Tourists normally report good experiences with this service.

When looking to travel short in town distances, Johannesburg and Cape Town have an excellent bus line that travels to most major areas. However, it is important to note that these buses tend to be very crowded early in the morning and in the late afternoon as they are packed with workers returning home.

Metered taxis are readily available and mostly safe but very expensive.

A less expensive mode of transportation would be a mini-bus or van. However, these tend to be very overcrowded and have drivers who are fearless. So, don't take this ride if you are among the faint at heart.

Using a private transfer line is another option for travel in South Africa. While this mode of transportation is a little expensive, they will pick you up at the airport and take you to your hotel, or pick you up and take you safely home after enjoying a fun night out on the town.

A rental is another fabulous option for traveling in South Africa. There are many rental agencies at hotels, airports and across the country. However, it is important to again remind you that sticking with reputable companies is the best way to go. Agencies such as Hertz, Avis and Budget are all readily available and offer customers the satisfaction of knowing if any problems arise while they are on the road, they wall immediately rectify the situation with a car exchange. All of these agencies have

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Outer Banks Is Waiting For Your Visit

By Deb Schwabe

North Carolina is home to beautiful scenery, some of it the most incredible in the United States and the Outer Banks is the best example of this. This is a two hundred mile range of barrier islands that stands between the open sea and the coast of North Carolina.

The chain of islands could make one feel as if time has somehow forgotten them as there is an historical charm about them. When you visit the islands there is little doubt that you might feel as if you have been taken back in time to a period where life was far more restful. The islands are a good idea for a visit if you need to take life slow and just take some time off to recuperate.

The Outer Banks offer a great destination for any holiday makers, whether you are looking to take the family on vacation or get away with a special someone. The islands offer a host of choices when it comes to deciding what to do with your time.

One of the best known features of the islands is their light houses. There are five to visit and some tourist operators specialize in these type of tours specifically. This a great historical visit and each of the light houses has an interesting story attached to not only their establishment but also their operators. The fact that they are still in use today, despite all the technology one is able to use is of especial interest.

For those who are interested in more of an active holiday, there are loads of things to choose from. One can enjoy angling, for which these islands are very well known. It is also possible to charter a boat and take an angling trip throughout the chain of islands. Water sports such as jet skiing, surfing and others are also available.

There is also a great degree of variety for land based activities and for those with an arts streak, these islands offer some lovely diversions. There are regular summer concerts which feature symphony orchestras and great bands. Those that enjoy viewing and collecting are will be impressed by the sheer number of art galleries available to them. The variety in terms of the art itself is also fantastic. Some people view cooking as a form of art as well and they will not be disappointed to hear of the fact that there are also cookery classes on offer.

Visitors will be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding on what to do with one's holidays. The above mentioned are only but a few of those available. The Outer Banks will provide the ideal destination for a summer holiday and the fact that one is relatively close to home means that the expense will be a lot less as well.

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Jeffrey's Bay History

By Andrew Keet

There are quite a few theories as to exactly how Jeffrey's Bay got its name. The predominate one is that there was a trading ship captain, Captain Jeffrey's, that sailed the east coast of Africa in the 1800s and when his crew came down with scurvy he landed his vessel at what is now the main beach of Jeffrey's Bay. Captain Jeffrey's later returned with his family and bought erven 1, 2, 9 and 10 for 79, here he built his home on the corner of Woltemade and Jeffrey's Streets. In 1928 the then, prominent Reilly family, moved to Jeffreys Bay and reportedly used the original timber from Captain Jeffrey's ship to build their home.

Of course there were other families in the Eastern Cape of South Africa called Jeffrey's at the time one been a prominent trader in the area in the 1850s and the other a whale hunter from St Helena, who used Jeffery's Bay as a harbour and trading post.

The Reillys bought the land that Country Feeling now occupies and built the old Wimpy Bar during the 1960s. This building was demolished in 1964, and the Reilly's constructed a double-story building, which they used as a tea garden, with residential flats and a gift shop sharing the same property.

In the 1850s the best know hotel in Jeffrey's Bay history was constructed, first called the Jeffrey's Bay Hotel and in 1937 renamed The Savoy, it was demolition in 1968 along with a part of Jeffrey's Bay history.

Sometime in the 1950s, the legendary John Whitmore, also know as the father of South African surfing, was travelling the Garden Route on a business trip and stumbled on what is regarded as one of the best surfing waves in the world, the rest is history. Every year thousands of surfers from around the world make the trip to Jeffrey's Bay to pit themselves against the best right point break on plant earth as well as hosting the international Billabong Pro competition which is the half way point to determine the next world surfing champion.

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Australian Secrets - The Hidden Places They Don't Want You To Find

By Jennifer Schellington

Planning to visit Australia? Looking for Australia travel tips on where to go and what to do?

You've no doubt got a few places in mind like Ayers Rock, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef. To make your holiday extra memorable, you should incorporate some hidden gems that only the locals know about. Quite rightly, they want to keep these places all to themselves, but I'm breaking the code and offering you some beautiful places that you can add to your trip.

The Beaches around Sydney

Most people think of Bondi Beach when you mention Sydney Beaches. So go ahead and tick it off your list. If you want to get a bit more out of Bondi, head up Hall Street.(Ravesis is on the corner.) The main strip behind the beach is called Campbell Parade and is slightly over priced and despite its recent face lift, can still be a bit grungy. Get off the main street and up the side streets and you'll find some lovely cafes selling exceptionally good coffee and food.

Head for the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk - you won't be disappointed. The walk hugs the coast line and cliff edges so you get to see beautiful coastal views for the entire walk. There's a few hills and steps so its best not to attempt this walk when it's really hot. Stop off at the local's favourite beach, Bronte This beach is generally full of locals and has a great green area behind the beach where you can play ball games or enjoy the free BBQ facilities. You must go for brunch or a coffee at the strip of cafes. Swell is the more sophisticated but expensive cafe. Bogey Hole and Jennie's offer more affordable options.

If you fancy getting out of the city then you really should visit Sydney's Northern Beaches. There is a bus that does the route all the way to Palm Beach and the journey will take you about an hour and a half. Best bet however is to hire a car. That way you can stop off along the way. I'd recommend Dee Why for its beach and cafes, Avalon for its boutique shops, a stop off at the Newport Arms - a classic Australian pub overlooking Pittwater River.

My favourite beaches up there are Whale Beach and Palm Beach. There is a restaurant at Whale beach called Jonah's. It's expensive and is strictly for a special occasion, but the view is stunning. Palm Beach is where "Home and Away" is filmed and has very orange sand. There's Barren Joey Lighthouse that you can climb and I recommend having lunch at Barren Joey's Guesthouse. The interior is delightful and the there are glimpses of Pittwater opposite.

Tasmania's Bay of Fires

Tasmania itself is a hidden gem as most tourists fail to make it here. That's a big mistake as this state offers dramatic scenery. Some would say its the best scenery in Australia. The key tourist sites are Cradle Mountain and Wine Glass Bay. Head north though and visit the Bay of Fires. A protected area, the sand here is so white, it's blinding and the waters are bright blue.

To really appreciate this area, consider doing the 4 day Bay of Fires Walk. You get to see amazing scenery and stay in some wonderful accommodation. The most famous of which is the Bay of Fires Lodge. If you don't want to do the walk, you can still stay in the lodge providing that it's outside the walking season. Dates the lodge is available is between 9th May and 15th September.

That's just two hidden gems. There are lots more! If you want to know more then visit realaustraliatravel.com

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European Luxury Cruise: Canary Islands Cruise

By Roger Hunt

If you are looking a a year round destination spot, then taking a cruise to the Canary Islands might just be the trip for you.

The Canary Islands are situation in the Atlantic Ocean, right off the coast of western Africa and are lauded for their sun drenched beaches and beautiful temperatures.

The Canary Islands offer plenty of adventure, even for those folks who are just looking to work on their tan! Islands such as Gran Canaria, Tenerife and Fuerteventura have much to offer holidaymakers wanting to sample the region's history and food, as well as its breathtaking natural beauty, which includes sights such as volcanoes and caves.

You will find the capital of the Canary Islands, Las Palmas, situated on the island of Gran Caneria. The island is the perfect stop for those on a Canaries cruise as it offers a little bit of everything - great shopping, lively nightlife, historical sights, sports, festivals, leisure parks and - last but certainly not least - those famous beaches.

Elsewhere, a Canaries Islands cruise will likely make a stop at Santa Cruz on Tenerife, which is perfect for those looking to make the most of the region's clubs, sporting facilities and health and beauty centres.

Other popular Canaries destinations include Fuerteventura - which is generally seen to be the ideal stop for those wanting a more low-key onshore excursion - and Lanzarote, which tends to attract young travellers looking for the best clubs and bars in the region.

Of course, on a Canaries cruise you are likely to take in most of the main stops around the islands, meaning that you will be able to experience the best of the Canary Islands' sights and sounds in the space of a few days or weeks.

Depending on who you choose to give your money, there will be different packages which also include stops in other countries that are like the Canary Islands; these include Spain and maybe even Morocco.

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Australian Cities - Which One To Visit?

By Jennifer Schellington

Planning a trip to Australia? Wondering what to do when you get here? Your trip should include at least one of the Australian cities. Sydney and Melbourne feature high on most visitor's lists but are they the best cities for you?

At first glance, you'd be forgiven for thinking that all Australian cities are the same - the same skyscrapers and the same grid system. But, really they are incredibly different.

Most tourists want to visit Sydney - and why not with that incredible harbour. It has it all - the Bridge, Opera House and the Rocks which is stooped in history. For the best view of the harbour, get on the Manly Ferry and look back. Perhaps you'd like to chill on its many beaches or shop til you drop in the boutiques of Paddington. Whatever you decide, it's hard not to fall in love with Sydney.

Melbourne might not have the Sydney Harbour but it does have other charms. Exploring the lanes between the large buildings, are like Aladdin's Caves. They are totally different and intriguing. It's much more bohemian and European here in Melbourne with a real cafe culture. Some argue the food is better than Sydney. It's debatable but for sure, it's cheaper.

If you are into wine, then put Adelaide at the top of your Australian Cities list. Here you can access 3 great wine regions very easily. They are all within an hour or so of the centre of Adelaide. If you like your red wine to be BIG, then the Barossa Valley is the place for you. Best bit of advice I can give you, is don't stay in the centre of Adelaide, stay in the seaside town of Glenelg instead which is just outside the city.

The Western Coast of Australia is less visited than the East. I think it's the extra flying time that puts people off. If you want stunning scenery away from the tourists than head west to Perth. It is much quieter than the other Australian Cities but has lots to offer. Once the office workers go home, the centre can get very quiet so stay in Fremantle for more vibrancy. There's also some spectacular beaches to explore, my favourite being Cottesloe.

Fancy a bit of Aboriginal Culture? Then head north to Darwin where you will find it in abundance. Visit in the dry season, between May and October, to get the most out of this area. Outside of these months it can be way too hot and very rainy. The best places to head to are Kakadu National Park and the Tiwi Islands, both a drive from Darwin.

If you want to do a road trip as part of your Australian holiday then head East and travel from Sydney to Noosa and go via Brisbane. Here it's just a short trip to the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast but the city itself has some special sites that every traveler will enjoy.

Whichever of the Australian Cities you choose, you won't be disappointed.

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Strawberry Festival at Sturtevant, Wisconsin

By Mara Hernandez-Capili

"Strawberry Fields Forever"- just as the famous lyrics of the great band "the Beatles". The fruit itself will be forever being a favorite tasty treat for everyone. This Fruit comes from the family Rosaceae, did you know that scientist don't consider this as a fruit but a false fruit.

This simply indicates that the fruit actually is not from the plants ovaries but the part that houses the ovaries. It first originated in the European continent and for some accident or let's says blessed twist of fate spread across the upper part of the United States of America.

We also have wines from this, they ferment the fruit and it comes out as a very nice alcoholic drink. Strawberry is enjoyed in many ways. It is usually eaten as it is just washed it chill and ready to serve. Some like it as a milk shake the blend it and put some milk and ice and then viola instant treat. You can avail it at stores around you and know what I mean. It is very nutritious it contains vitamin b, vitamin c and even calcium. Truly a treat that is also healthy.

But guess what you won't know the difference, if there is any. This is available in fairly cold climates and it has a season but for off season they cultivate it or grow it in green houses. Consumers cannot stop looking for it so scientist devised a way to grow it out of its normal season.

So come bring your family and enjoy a wonderful mouth satisfying time. This august of 2009 a strawberry Festival will be held. A lot of strawberry producers will be out to showcase their products based from strawberry. It will be surely a feast for all of your senses. Eating strawberries is a lot of fun!

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Questions And Answers With A Travel Expert

By Chris Linch

Question 1:

I have been wanting to take a family retreat, but I am on a strict budget, what do you suggest we do to get away, but save funds?

Answer 1:

Well there are a variety of things you can do. Try booking a hotel that has a kitchen in the room so that you can cook there, save money on eating out. You can also go to less classy destinations. Try a theme park like Six Flags or Branson Missouris Silver Dollar City as opposed to the more costly Disney World. Travel by car, if doable. Honest, best answer, rough it and go camping. Take a camping road trip, you can stay in many cities for the price of a tent and a plot fee.

Question 2:

I have been thinking about booking a flight for my trip, but the prices keep on reducing when is the best time to book?

Answer 2:

Normally the greatest time to book flights is by Memorial Day, but the good news in 2009 is that you can in reality still save a lot of cash if you book before the end of July. It appears that on or about August 1, we are going to start seeing increases in airfare as customer confidence rises as a result raising fuel prices. Simple answer the sooner the better, prices have bottomed.

Question 3:

There are so many travel sites out there saying they have the best deal, but they all seem alike, who is the best to book with?

Answer 3:

The one that offers the low price pledge. Thats right, it doesnt matter, you can book with any of them if they offer low price promise. Then if you do find a lower rate you can ask them to match it. A word of warning though, watch the fine print. Some only offer this for the first 24 hours. The best I have seen, and the one we offer at our site, will match the rate up until the cancellation deadline. These are the best sites to book with because you can rest assured you will get the lowest rate.

Question 4:

I booked a non refundable reservation, but my plans have changed, how do I cancel it?

Answer 4:

I hate to be the carrier of bad news, but most properties are very stern on these when it comes to hotels, and airlines have no exceptions. If you are talking about a hotel the best you are going to be able to do is possibly reschedule. Some hotels will let you move the dates, very few will reimburse. As for airlines, you are going to be out their change fee, but you get a credit for the amount of the flight minus the change fee for upcoming travel. If you want my advice, change your plans back.

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Naples, Florida - The Best Sand-Box On The Gulf Of Mexico

By Deb Schwabe

Vacationers love beach vacations and in south-west Florida you will find Naples, a gorgeous beach. This city is regarded as the jewel in the crown of the Florida coastline. For all year round fun in the sun, golfing, first class shopping, fine dining and adventure, Naples cannot be beaten by the best of playgrounds.

Good weather all year round helps, and with this city it's situated on the Gulf of Mexico which helps with great weather. This sand-box is one of the best in the US. It is comprised of calm, warm waters, adventure, fun, excitement and every other ingredient which makes for a fun in the sun vacation. It is very close to the Florida Everglades, and true adventure.

The Everglades are wild, exciting and can add some much needed adventure to your beach holiday. While it is great to relax, eat well and play in the beach if you are on a sea-shore holiday, if there something special and extra on offer, this should also be taken advantage of. And take advantage of it you can with a visit to this unique area. You may see the panther, bison, alligator and many different species of bird.

There are over 10,000 uninhabited islands in the Everglades which is a tropical paradise composed of varied ecosystems. Exploring these by kayak and canoe means floating through tunnels of mangrove and over prairies composed of saw-grass. If you are a lucky adventurer you might just meet up with a local school of friendly dolphins or manatees, and perhaps even come eye-to eye with the much maligned and sinister alligator. This kind of adventure will make for some unforgettable memories.

The Naples Zoo in the Caribbean Gardens is for those of you who like their animal life a little more under control. Although you can still float through island s full of cavorting monkeys and enjoy the thrill of the panther glade, tiger forest and African oasis. This zoological facility is accredited nationally, and is two worlds in one, both a zoological and botanical garden.

Naples has a host of water-spots available, not least of which is the fishing. If you are an enthusiastic angler, you are able to come into contact with both inland and off-shore fishing, and there are a wide variety game fish to catch.

One of the most special experiences you could possibly have in Naples is paying a visit to the gentle manatee. Make sure you find yourself a guide who knows where to find these sweet aquatic mammals and most guides don't expect you to pay for your trip if you don't see one.

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Mediterranean Cruises Are More Affordable Than Ever

By Faith Knight

If you want to give your family the dream holiday that they've always deserved, your chance is now. Mediterranean cruises are the perfect idea for your holiday, no matter how many people are in your party. Cruise rates are incredibly low these days, affording families the chance to get away on an all inclusive holiday that they'll hold dear for an eternity.

When you opt to take a Mediterranean cruise, you'll be on the perfect vacation. You won't have to worry about meals, shows or extra costs of any kind. Unlike staying in a hotel at a destination, your cruise ship provides you with all of your meals, beverages and everything else that you require to make your holiday special. You pay one flat fee and you're set for the duration of the trip.

Every little detail is attended to on a cruise ship holiday. You won't be trapped into paying any unexpected extra costs. Once you've booked and paid for your cruise, all you need to bring is you to the holiday. Your cruise line will see to the rest. Of course, you'll be visiting numerous incredible once in a lifetime destinations, so you may want to bring some spending money. Aside from that, all expenses are taken care of.

You'll get all meals and beverages provided, whatever you want, whenever you want them. Don't think you'll go hungry, either. There is an overabundance of food service on cruise ships. Your Mediterranean cruise will give you the opportunity to disembark and enjoy local foods as well.

Everyone deserves a chance to get away and refresh. Take advantage of new low prices for all inclusive cruises to your most longed for destinations. Leave your cares behind as you set sail on the pristine seas with your friends and loved ones on a Mediterranean cruise. Soak up the sun while laying on the beach in a tropical paradise.

You can walk in the steps of the ancients when you visit Venice, Rome and other cities of historical value. Expect the unexpected when you tour these villages on foot or by guided tour. With exciting destinations ports in the countries of Italy, Turkey, Greece, Croatia and more, you'll come back from your cruise refreshed and better educated on the world outside your own confines.

Give your family some much needed face time. Give them a family holiday they'll never forget. Many families opt to make Mediterranean cruises an annual affair after their first voyage. Find out what you've been missing and become one of the millions of families who enjoy a life at sea each holiday. With today's low rates, there is no better time to embark on your very own Mediterranean adventure now.

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The Bihar State of India

By Ranju O. Bhusan

Bihar is a state in the northern side of India. The state of Bihar is situated in the Southern side of Nepal. On the west lies another Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and in the east there is West Bengal. Bihar is considered as the Hindi heartland of India. Here the Buddha delivered his very first speeches and achieved nirvana.

The capital city of Bihar is city of Patna. Patna is situated at the meeting point of 3 important rivers of which one is the might river Ganges.

They were to constitue fire, political agitation and flood. Indeed in recent times, the province of Bihar and also the city of Patna has been under ceaseless terror from fire, flooding from the 3 major rivers and it's a governmental hotbed.

The province of Bihar was titled as Magadha in its old times. Its very first crucial emperor was called by the name of Ashoka the Great. The spread of Buddhism in the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Far East is attributable to this distinguished emperor.

It is said that he sent his numerous sons to various parts of the world as missionaries. The empire of Ashoka spread from the east of India to Persia. It is said that he fell short of invading Persia simply because the rulers had him married to the king of Persia.

Anyone interested in ancient history and the Buddhist religion, a trip to Bihar should be worthwhile. The old city of Bodh Gaya of Bihar has the most important grounds of the Buddhist religion.

Various factions of Buddhism and various Buddhist states of the world have set of temples at Bodh Gaya. The township of Bodh Gaya can be arrived at by getting to Patna and then taking the road or nightlong train. The pilgrim's journey to the holy sites of Bodh Gaya is definitely a revalation.

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Tour Europe On Fabulous Norwegian Cruises

By Nathan Carroll

If you want an amazing option for exploring Europe then you may want to consider taking Norwegian cruises.

If you are trying to decide which cruise to choose then you may want to put the choice of Norwegian cruises on the top of your list.

Norwegian cruises offers you the chance of a lifetime by allowing you to customize your own cruising experience. You will be able to cruise the beautiful waters of the European coast while taking in the amazing sights that this country has to offer. You won't regret taking a Norwegian cruise.

What they offer

This cruise line has so many things to offer their guests. No matter what you want to do, you will find it onboard.

Suites: The rooms aboard this ship are like nothing you will experience anywhere else. They offer full sized suites that can accommodate the largest of families. Each suite has a family sitting area with television, private bedrooms with full sized beds, and even a large luxury bathroom.

Places to eat: Most ships have a large dining area where everyone is packed in at tables with people who they have never met. With Norwegian you will have choices. You can choose where you eat with a selection of several different onboard restaurants. You can eat with your family and when you want to.

Things to do: There is no shortage of things to do aboard this ship. They offer full sized bowling alleys and a ten meter high rock wall that you can take the challenge of scaling. You can relax by the pool where the staff will serve you a cool drink, or schedule a massage in the full spa. There are plenty of shops if you want to go shopping, and you can go ashore on one of many tours that the boat offers. The choices are truly up to you. At night you can go dancing in one of the many clubs the ship has to offer or maybe take a nice walk out on deck where you can look at the amazing European shore line.

The most important thing is that Norwegian cruise lines offer you the freedom to choose everything that you do, and that is something you won't find with any other cruise.

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Hotels Near Walt Disney World: Saving Money by Not Staying With Disney

By Nancy Bobby

Planning a trip to Disney World? Hooray for you! Now that you have started researching this family vacation, you are probably also realizing that a Disney vacation can be a budget buster. But it does not have to be. There are a number of ways to save money on a Walt Disney World vacation, and one of the best is to forgo staying on Disney property. Look into one of the many lovely hotels near Walt Disney World and you may be very impressed by what you find!

There are many advantages to staying off site. You will probably get larger/better accommodations for the same price, and may very likely save money as well. This can be very important for larger families, where a standard size hotel room is not big enough. It will generally be easier to find rooms in a lower price range, especially if traveling at the last minute, or during the busy summer and school vacation seasons.

And if you are planning to visit other non-Disney attractions on your trip, you are likely to find this option to be cost-saving as well. Many off-site hotels offer a number of discounts to restaurants and attractions, and it will certainly be easier to have access to less expensive options for restaurants and shopping.

When staying off-site, you may find that theme park transportation is included, as well as free breakfast. Many properties have pool areas that are the envy of anything on Disney property, as well as offering suites with mini-kitchens, fitness and recreation opportunities and a host of family/children's activities.

There is no doubt that you will not have a 24/7 Disney experience if you stay off-site...but you may be one who finds that to be advantageous. There are many who find they just need a break from all that pixie dust...and staying off Disney property can provide that much needed dose of reality every day.

Now if you would like a compromise of sorts, then consider one of the "non-Disney" hotels that are located on Disney property. Several are in the Downtown Disney area, and there are also the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin , near Epcot and Hollywood Studios. These properties, although not owned by Disney, provide a number of Disney World benefits, but without the corresponding price tag. It's a nice way to get the "best of both worlds".

Are there any disadvantages to staying off Disney property? The greatest potential problem could be transportation, and this is one are that you should investigate carefully if you are planning on using your hotel's available shuttle service. For example, some hotels share shuttles, or charge for their use. This can become challenging if you want to take afternoon breaks from the parks. You can rent a car, but you should know that there will be a parking fee, and if visiting on peak holidays, the parking lots may be closed to non-Disney guests. Nevertheless, if you do your research, you will find a number of excellent options where transportation will not be an issue.

If you are in the midst of trying to plan an affordable Disney vacation, be sure to consider one of the many hotels near Walt Disney World for your accommodations. You will find lovely properties with many amenities and at a cost you will love!

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Cape Cod, Massachusetts for Unspoiled Beaches And History

By Deb Schwabe

Some of the favorite US vacation destinations are situated on the shoreline. In fact anywhere in the world, the beach has a special pull for most people. However cape Cod is one of the absolute favorite vacation destinations in the US for both local and international visitors.

Whether you are taking a vacation, week-end or mid-week break, this destination has something for everyone on offer. The area played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the US and this is land-marked by the many historic sites vacationers are able to visit. The countryside is filled with wooded walking and bicycle paths (bikes are available as rentals). Quaint shops, unspoiled beaches, theatre, art, music festivals and other events, offers the visitor plenty to see and do.

Some of New England's best golf courses are situated in the area, it offers fine dining experiences and lodging to suit every possible budget. This is definitely the area to visit to rekindle your childhood beach memories of sandcastles, sand dunes, seashells and of course, saltwater taffy. You will also find the freshest seafood, and Cape Cod is famed for their fried clams.

Forbes Traveler recommends Cape Cod as on of the best 25 sea-shore destinations in the US. It is easy to access from anywhere in the world and the two closest airports are Logan International in Boston which is just 75 miles from the cape, and TF Green in Providence. The island has two bridges spanning the canal, but for an arrival with a difference you should try one of the many daily ferries which travel to and from the cape.

There is 559. 6 miles of immaculate sea-shore surrounding Cape Cod and it is a popular place to visit for whale spotters. The Hyannis Whale Watchers Cruise is a must-do activity for any visitor to the area. This trip makes use of high speed boats which depart from the picturesque Barnstable Harbor from May through October.

These high speed cruisers take people from the beautiful Barnstable Harbor out to sea to spot whales. This adventure serves the purpose of educating people about the conservation of the wonderful world of whales, it is an unforgettable trip.

There is plenty of accommodation of all types available from camp grounds and home rentals, to spas, hotels B&B's, inns and motels of all budgets. But make sure you book before you leave and have confirmed your booking. Accommodation in the area fills up fast in-season at this popular destination.

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Greece : Shopping And Money

By Jason Simon

In this installment of our guide to holidays in Greece we look at what you can expect there in terms of shopping...

While Greece isn't known as a great shopping destination, it does offer some fine and unique local products. The country produces good handicrafts, pottery, jewelry, metalwork, knitwear, lace, rugs and leather goods. In addition, its local wines and spirits make distinctive purchases.

Large international style shopping malls can be found in nearly all of its cities, and you'll recognize many of the retailers and brands stocked within them. Prices are similar to elsewhere in Europe for such goods though so don't expect to find any real bargains unless shopping during the sales.

Bargaining is only tolerated in tourist souvenir shops and, sometimes, in family-owned arts and crafts stores. In all other instances, it's ineffective and offensive. If bargaining is expected, you can expect to get at least 10-20% off of the price, with being able to speak a little Greek likely getting you the lowest possible price.

Most items incur Value Added Tax (VAT) and this is generally but not always included in price tags. However, some shops do provide tax-free shopping for non-European Union residents. Under this system, people who do not live in the EU can seek a VAT refund when departing the EU. To do this, ask for a VAT voucher when buying an item and show a customs officer all such vouchers and the related items upon leaving the EU.

The official currency is the Euro, and other currencies will not be accepted, but you can easily exchange money in the larger cities and in any tourist destination. Banks usually offer the most favorable exchange rates and automated currency exchange machines tend to offer the worst rates; specialist shops are somewhere in between. When changing money, try to get mostly smaller notes - nothing over a 50 - as many businesses are averse to accepting larger denominations.

ATM machines are widespread. Most shops, hotels, and travel agencies accept Mastercard, Visa and Eurocard, but some local souvenir shops and restaurants won't accept these cards.

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Have A Ball Of Time In Amsterdam City Breaks

By Mason Boyle

In a busy work and family life, taking breaks is not a luxury. In fact it's necessary to keep up your energy levels and motivation. Be it a night or a few days, Amsterdam City Breaks can refresh you in more than one way. With so much on offer and great deals, why would you settle for something less.

Amsterdam has been heaven for honeymooners, be it first time or golden jubilee anniversary. Even people living in Amsterdam cannot get enough of it and often seen among tourists. Nobody likes to say no to a wild night out. Amsterdam has cosmopolitan city life along with excitement of Las Vegas.

Tourists often hate leaving this place and always come back for more next time. It is a happening place which you must visit at least once in your lifetime. The city is always bustling with activities and visitors all round the year. Do not be surprised to know that people of all ages seem to enjoy it.

As the city itself is a popular city of the world and Europe, it makes the whole experience more pleasurable. It has a unique nightlife and a cool summer look. Of course it is famous for its liberal sex laws, craziness and relaxed drug attitude. You could shop around, indulge in the funky cafes or just stroll around.

Like any other holiday, you can find restaurants, museums and natural beauty. Amsterdam has a great combination of man-made fun and natural elegance, which blend in together to make a great holiday. Even the government seems to go easy here and that tops it all. You will have plenty of crazy and cherished moments to go home with.

It certainly is the most hospitable and multicultural city of Netherlands. There are great flight and hotel deals which can get you right in the middle of the action. The narrow streets and romantic scenery continue to attract millions of visitors every year. Amsterdam City Breaks are the way to make the most of your time and enjoy life.

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Save Money With Cheap Hotels In New York

By Chris Linch

This really is a complicated article to create. The reason is you can stay countless places in New York City. To say here are the cheapest hotels in New York City actually doesn't mean much. It really depends on where you would like to stay. You might want to stay by Central Park. You might also want to stay in the Financial District, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, etc. New York City is huge, and the comical thing is there really is no such thing as a "New York City."

What you ask? That is right, while all of us travel agents offer rates to New York City, attempt to find it on a Map. There is no New York City it is in fact a bunch of small cities lumped as one called New York City.

At any rate to get back on track and give you what you want reading this piece of writing, these are the cheap hotels in New York City. These could be all over the city, in part one of this article I am only giving you the cheap hotels in the city. The other parts I will break it out depending on where you would like to stay. Keep an eye out for those versions soon.

West Side Inn Hotel and Hostel starts at only $23

Economy Lodge Newark is as low as $60

Days Inn Newark can be booked for as little as $67

Ramada East Orange rates are as low as $70

Days Inn starts at about $70

I always recommend that you book your travel as far in advance as you can. Most sites will let you amend your reservation if required. If you know that you are going for sure then you can easily book a non refundable rate and save some additional money.

Be very cautious in New York about saving money. Some hotels have common bathrooms which means more than 1 room or even an entire floor shares a bathroom. A large number of hotels in New York are dormitory style, especially hostels. New York is not a good place to go if you are on such a budget that you need cheap hotels. This is the number one cause of customer discontent on hotel and travel agent websites. So be forewarned, if you don't ask and just tell them to book you a cheap room, you are going to get a cheap room.

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Crappie Fishing: An Alternative To Trophy Fishing

By Ferdinand Emy

It is vital to remember that crappie fishing is a blend between patience and a careful touch on your line.

For those who relish fishing but do not want the challenge of difficult trophy fish, crappie fishing may be for you. Like other species of fish, there is tackle best suited for crappie fishing. Ultra light rods are often suggested to see the play of a crappie bite, as these fish have soft bites. Due to their small size, it is suggested that you use either two pound or four pound test. If you are fishing in a region with bass or pike, it is suggested that you go with 4 pound test to allow you to catch the other fish that may be in the area.

While you still need a fishing license, many areas that support crappie have no limits on the number you can catch. If limits are in place, the numbers that you can bring in are quite high, and many people do not get close to reaching the number of crappie that can be caught. Crappie are small fish with a similar flavor to perch, but tend to be slightly sweeter. Crappie fishing is very common due to how common the fish are.

As pike and walleye may hunt in areas populated with crappie, this can open up other options for you. When crappie fishing, you will typically be targeting the bottom of the area you are fishing. If you are fishing in an area with pike or walleye, you may consider adding extra tackle to your kit to allow you to catch all of the types of fish active in the area. This allow you stock up your fridge and freezer on the fish without as much worries on regulations for the fish.

With fish ranging in the six inch to ten inch range, they provide a decent amount of fight for their size, an important aspect of finding edible sports fish. In many places, the crappie populations have been tagged as too high, with few rules and regulations on the number of crappie that you can take home. Bobbers may be used to keep the lure in the kill zone, which is usually a little above the bottom of the water. Keeping your lure in motion will often help detect a crappie bite and let you land these fish. When you are setting up your line, you will need to adjust your bobbers according to where you are casting, as you will be less effective at fishing for crappie if you keep your line touching the bottom.

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Retirement in Nicaragua Is More Realistic Than You Might Think

By Jane A Moore

Baby boomers are starting to look at Central American real estate and in particular Nicaragua Real Estate as a desirable place to retire. And why not? Nicaragua, once riddled with civil unrest, has transformed into a beautiful, tranquil and affordable place to relax and enjoy life. There is quite literally something for everyone in beautiful Nicaragua

It's no secret that Nicaragua is one of the most reasonably priced places to live in the western hemisphere. Food prices for basic vegetables and fruits are one quarter to one fifth the cost of those same items offered in North American cities. The cost of dairy and meat is less than half. Delicious fresh fish costs a fraction of the price. Recently issued figures suggest the cost of living in Nicaragua is 70% less than the cost of living in North American cities.

Breathtaking Nicaragua really does have something to offer everyone. The charming fishing villages that dot the majestic Pacific Coast are lovely places to explore. The pace of life simply slows down in these places. You can spend the afternoon lying in a hammock with a good book while watching the fishing boats bob in the bay. There are also some exciting colonial towns to explore.

Planning for the weather becomes much less of an issue when you live in Central America. The weather is warm all year round, and there are just two distinct seasons - the warm dry season, and the warm wet season. The other notable weather pattern are the almost year round offshore winds, which help to keep the heat in the dryer hotter coastal towns at bay. If you prefer a more temperate climate, you may want to consider the central and northern mountains, where the cooler wetter climate at altitude creates the perfect environment for world class coffee farms.

Until recently, Nicaragua real estate has been a well kept secret amongst savvy investors and adventure travelers. Always more affordable than its southern neighbor, Costa Rica, Nicaragua provides excellent investment value. It is possible to get a cliff side villa with a pool and staff quarter for $300,000.00US. This same villa would be triple or quadruple this price in Costa Rica.

You owe it to yourself to consider Nicaragua as a viable retirement destination. The land of lakes and volcanoes is sure to capture your heart. You will be able to enjoy a retirement lifestyle that exceeds dreams for less money than you would think. Do some research into Nicaragua real estate and see for yourself.

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Summer Holiday Locations

By Eric Carlokes

There are many beautiful places where you can spend a fantastic summer holiday. The summer is all about the beach and there are many places to see spectacular beaches, golden sunsets, green palm trees, and superb sunshine are among the most beguiling features of a tropical island. If you are unsure where to go, consult the following list of magnificent islands that are worth visiting over your lifetime.

Grenada is known for the spiced air scent that dominates the island because of the ginger, cloves, and cinnamon plants dominating the area. This causes a more laidback feel that is mostly sought by those who want to relax on their vacation. The Caribbean is filled with great places to go visit and Grenada is one of the most untouched places in the Caribbean.

Known for the blending of Emerald green shore and the wide turquoise ocean with white coral beaches, Mauritius becomes a perfect destination for those searching fun and beauty at the same time. The beaches are surrounded by a barrier reef where vacationers love snorkeling and exploring sea creatures to their hearts full content. Dolphins also frequent the reef while the hearty mountain ranges explain the presence of bird species, wild boar, deer, and monkeys on the island.

The Maldives are a great escape for people. These tropical islands in the Indian ocean are great for those who want to go somewhere really exotic. This island chain features hundreds of small coral islands. It is here where you can get bungalows that float out in the ocean so you can start each morning with a nice dip in the water. The weather here is always sunny and always clear, making it ideal year round.

A great options for those who want the postcard perfect image of the South Pacific but cant afford to travel that far, a good alternative is Hawaii. Hawaii is a US territory in the pacific ocean just a few hours off the coast. It consists of several main islands. You can have great surfing at North Beach and explore Oahu and enjoy the show at Volcano national park. Hawaii is an amazing location and there are many great deals there right now making now an even better time to go.

There are many places all around the world where you can escape for the summer in luxury. The summer is beach time and no better place to be on the beach is on a great tropical island. On these islands youll find beautiful white sand beaches, clear blue water, and be able to lounge and be pampered in great resorts. Its the summer and you deserve nothing less.

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Budget Hotels In Naples

By Allison Butler

Naples is situated in the hub of two volcanic areas. It exerts a pull on many tourists to its place. It is famous for its culture, traditions and customs. Its sparkle is enough to extract large number of people's attention towards itself because of its enormous account and rich knack. Most of the people are attracted to this place because of its far-fetched history which is cloaked over the years.

Naples lacks in budget hotels as hotels with less money offering good accommodation is a singular box here but still with it existing hotels still it is no less in warmness in welcoming tourists to its splendid area. To have fine amenities and accommodation all you need is to pay extra riches. Some of the options with better accommodations not out of the range of pockets are listed below.

1. Soggiorno Paradiso Numerous services are offered to its guest such as 24 hour television, air conditioning, telephonic connections and fine bedrooms with separate bathrooms. Transport facility easily available near the hotel so as to make sure the guests have no problem. Hotel staff present at the service of their guests all the time making certain that their guests are comfortable.

2. Gymnasium Hotel Starred with many features which is capable of attracting people towards it and they are internet connectivity, cable connection of colored television, small room bar refrigerators, air conditioners and transport facilities. At reasonably priced you can get a great comfort of various facilities flourishing in the hotels.

3. MH Design Hotel This hotel designed to offer their guest best of facilities of air conditioner, internet connectivity, iron board for ironing, well equipped rooms with separate bathrooms. Without burning a hole in the pockets of the guests this hotel is one of the inexpensive options available to the tourists. Not much faraway are the visiting destinations of the tourists.

4. Hotel Duomo Impressive hotel comprise of facilities that are provided to their visitors are television, internet connectivity, coffeemaker, telephone connection and alarm clock all this at well furnished rooms. Most important of everything is that it's close with the most frequent visited destinations of Naples. Friendlier staff presents to provide their guest a great soothe so that they enjoy their stay at their hotel.

This majestic place holds rich culture and art into it; it's a place where every tourist loves to explore. Beautiful sights attract huge number of people towards itself, it is splendid place.

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Property and Life in Costa Rica

By Randy Berg

Most of the Americans intend to invest their money in Costa Rica, as Property and life in Costa Rica is becoming very interesting for various reasons. Generally, they consider Property and life in Costa Rica, specialized for holiday homes, retirement homes and as real estate investment.

The mode of investment in Cost Rica, by Americans, are retirement villas, investment mode and holiday homes. They want to have an alternative home and price here are affordable and hence this is a very good investment option. The growth of prospects is very high and people can really earn good returns if the investment is done in the right way and the right place.

Property and life in Costa Rica is valued, since one needs to pay $2,000 for every month to live in Costa Rica. The retirement homes appear to be owing to cheap medical expenses at Costa Rica. There are many options that people have to consider and after that go in for buying good property that is important as people will lose their money in case things are not done properly and in a right way and will lose their earnings.

Property and life in Costa Rica requires and avails one to spend just $2,000 each month, which seems to be impossible in the USA. Moreover, the demand for the retirement homes probably has increased. People understand the popularity of this place and are investing good amount of money here and the returns are much better when you compare them with other places.

Further, there are so many tax advantages in the property, which allure the migrants to choose Costa Rica. As there is need the investments of migrants, the buying of Property and life in Costa Rica, is easy. The title insurance of a property is easy to obtain. This is a very important thing and people do really like this.

As investments of the migrants, buying of Property and life at Costa Rica, is simple. Title insurance of property is simple to get and this is very important thing as well as people do like this. All naturals from blowing volcanoes to beaches, beautiful hills, rainforest, and wonderful countryside are plentiful in Costa Rica. This is lovely area and people will have very good time while visiting this place as well as will see their investment rising over period of time.

It is the place where one can be peaceful and relaxed, as well as one can make huge investments and gain a big profit in it. Property and life in Costa Rica is believed to be a slice in paradise at affordable cost. This is the upcoming area and people will make the right kind of choice by investing here.

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Cheap Hotels In Zurich

By Allison Butler

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland. This city is sometimes called cultural capital of Switzerland. This city has been named the wealthiest city in Europe. We all are conscious of the information that Zurich is one of the best travel vacation destinations in the world. If you are looking to plan your holiday abroad, then Zurich is one of the best options for you.

There are so many number of budget hotels in Zurich to match up your needs. Some of the best budget hotels in Zurich, Switzerland are:

1. Hotel X-TRA Zurich It is an outstanding budget hotel that comes with the best nightlife in Zurich. The hotel is located in the city center and is intended mainly to lure the young generation. They offer graceful single, double, triplet and four bedrooms specially designed to give you a complete homely experience. They also offer cable TV, mini bar and private shower. Free internet access and luggage storage are some of the other services.

2. Hotel Du Theatre Zurich Situated in the heart of Zurich at the entrance of the old town this hotel is a great place to visit at any time during the year. It is just a few minutes away from the railway station and the shopping area. All the rooms and suites are fully prepared with TV, modem connection, radio, hairdryer and a mini bar. Smoking and non-smoking floors are also there for the expediency of the guests.

3. NH Airport Hotel Zurich The hotel is ideally located nearby some of the most attractive places of Zurich. It also acts as a link for some of the best transportation hubs of Zurich. The world trade center of Zurich and fair grounds are just a few minutes away. The international airport too is just a few minutes of drive away. It offers 150 guestrooms and three special meeting rooms to its guests.

4. Hotel Atlantis Guesthouse Zurich It is a three star hotel with its own unique charm. It is located in quiet and sultry environs. It features 62 clean rooms furnished with all the basic supplies required. Some of the best features of the hotel are free internet connection, color television and a mini bar. You can even rent a play station or a video-on-demand especially for your kids.

These are some of the best budget hotels in Zurich, Switzerland. Don't fail to remember these luxurious yet cheap hotels for your lodging in Zurich. Have great fun!

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Australian National Parks At Their Best - Which Ones To Visit

By Jennifer Schellington

Gondwana is the ancient name of the huge land mass made up of Africa, Australia, India, Antarctica and South America. Over 100 million years ago the mass broke up to form the individual countries. Australia is one of these countries and is one of the driest continents in the world

Today there are 516 National Parks in Australia covering 3% of the land. That might not sound very much but given the size of Australia, it equates to 25 million hectares!

Most of the parks are serviced by the local state government e.g. parks that are in NSW are looked after by the NSW government. There are some parks however that are seen to be very special and these are run by the Federal Government.

No visit to Australia is complete without a trip to at least one National Park. Most of its famous natural attractions are in one of the parks anyway, so by default, you'll end up visiting.

Which ones are the best National Parks to visit? It's certainly not feasible to visit or tell you about all 516. I will however tell you which are my favourites.

Firstly a little more background on the National Parks. They can be very large and have often acquired National Park status due to its ancient rock art (Uluru Kata Tjuta - Ayers Rock), special plants or trees, or wildlife. Generally the average visitor only gets to visit a small pocket of the park given its size but there are others that are more manageable given they are smaller.

Entrance to the parks is not usually free. You will be required to pay an entrance fee of around $10. They may charge this per person or per vehicle. For popular tourist haunts e.g. Ayers Rock, you can expect to pay more.

Australian National Parks and Camping

If you like the open air and don't mind roughing it a bit, then camping in one of Australia's National Parks can be a fabulous experience - the scenery is usually stunning. Rules in the campsites around campfires are very strict given the risk of bush fires. Facilities tend to be pretty basic though but you might find the odd one with a hot shower.

Don't expect that you can just turn up and camp. The places for camping are limited especially in the peak of summer and you will need a permit. You need to book well in advance. The government websites have search facilities allowing you to find out which park has camping facilities but remember you will need to search by state. If you are planning to go over Christmas then make sure you book well in advance (months.) The most popular sites, e.g. Freycinet National Park in Tasmania, actually run a ballot system with the lucky names being pulled out of a hat.

So which are the best National Parks to visit? To be honest, it is a very subjective view and it depends what you are looking for. Whichever you pick, they all have stunning scenery. I've only got room here for 3 but but there are lots more recommendations at the website below

Best for Beaches and Coastal Views

Lord Howe Island has won international acclaim and is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It's not hard to see why with its enchanting walks, forests, mountains, beaches and marine life. The best walks are the Valley of the Shadows and Mount Gower. The first takes you through high forests of Kentia Palms and Banyan trees. The second is a well known day walk to the top of Mount Gower and its known to be one of the best walks in Australia.

Best for Spiritual Rock Formations

Uluru Kata Tjuta is probably the most visited National Park in Australia given its the home of Ayers Rock. This is a world Heritage listed site for its culture and natural values. It is the heart of the red centre and a very spiritual place indeed. Clearly its about visiting the rock, either at sunset or sunrise (when the rock is at its very best due to the light that is cast upon it.) There are special viewing platforms where you can park up and enjoy the views. Get there early though as the best positions go quickly. The sunrise and sunset dinners are also worth going to but not both. Just pick one. The park itself is split into two " Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta, where the Olgas are. I personal thought the Olgas were more impressive than the rock so a visit to both is highly recommended. There is a great Cultural Centre that you should visit first. This will inform you of all the walks and when the guided ones are available. Theres often some Aboriginals here too selling locally made products. The most popular walk is the Base walk which takes in the entire base of the rock which is about 9km in total. It says to leave approx 4 hours but you can do it much more quickly than that and still have time to take photographs. Some get to the rock and insist on climbing it. First, if its a hot day, they close the climb. More importantly, you just shouldnt make the climb given its totally against the local aboriginals culture and beliefs. Its also extremely steep and apart from a small iron rope to hold onto, there is nothing. Its very dangerous.

One of Victoria's most popular and largest parks is The Grampians National Park. 260km from Melbourne along the Glenelg or Western Highway, the journey will take you about 3.5 hours. The Grampians themselves are sandstone ridges with steep slopes. This park has stunning walks, rock formations and wildlife. It also has some great examples of Aboriginal rock art (Billimina and Wab Manja) The best view of the park is from Mount Abrubt and the best falls are Mackenzie Falls. If you are a serious walker then why not try one of the two day hikes. To get off the tourist trail, try Wartook Valley (Mount Zero and Mount Stapylton) or if you want a real challenge then Mount Difficult is as you would expect, difficult! Or why not try the Stony Creek Track to the Bundaleer. This route passes Stony Peak. Or the Wall of China offers great views to Tower Hill and Victoria Valley

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Boat Lounge Seats For Luxury Watercraft

By Frank Gehry

Boat lounge seats are a necessary element to every boat's living area. To spend a pleasant day on the water, it's important that this kind of seating is comfortable and well cared for. These seats are usually padded and built for rest and relaxation, as well as for overnight sleeping. Comfortable foam cores and stylish looks make these lounge seats beautiful as well as pleasant to sit on. These boat seats play an essential role on any day on the water.

The features of these resting seats are discussed as follows. To lay-down in a position and to take rest, lay-down seats are used. Cushion seats are also present in all the seats for traveling in a luxurious manner. In other seashore countries these seats are created with pleasure by maximum people and they are very common in those places.

Boat lounge seats can be classified into different types as follows. Lay down boat seats, jump seats, scissor boat seats, fold down boat seats and back to back lounge seats. We can swim over the water using back to back lounge seats for a better relaxation.

We can spend this great summer through boats by traveling through to enjoy the wonderful summer. Summer time boating experience is more luxurious for making travel in these boats.

For quality, style, comfort and function these lounge seats are used in boats. There are many varieties of seats available in design and shapes for these boat lounge seats. Such as a jump seat. Lay down seat is also called as sleeper seat as it is built with modern design which looks beautiful.

Boat lounge seats are of different types and they can be classified as follows. Deluxe lounge boat, small craft lounge boat, premium and standard lounge boat. Deluxe boat seats have a great-looking design with attractive colors.

Even when there is fading on other side, high density foam provides outstanding comfort. There is also guarantee given to each of the lounge seats available.

Guarantee is given to customers. Guarantee is given to customers for purchase of those lounge seats. They will purchase them through internet connection. Door delivery of goods are also available through speed parcel service. All we have discussed above are some features of boat lounge seats.

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Sydney Bridge Climb

By Jennifer Schellington

If you are planning a trip to Sydney Australia then you really should consider doing the Harbour bridgeclimb.

The iconic Sydney harbour has world wide acclaim - the water, the Opera House and of course the Bridge itself. But nothing compares to seeing the harbour from up high, at the top of the Harbour Bridge. The view from up there is stunning.

It's not just about the harbour though, you get to see all of Sydney - its suburbs, waters and on a clear day, you can even see the Blue Mountains.

A symbol of Sydney and even Australia, the Harbour bridge is an institution. In my opinion, it's a masterpiece. You only have to see the New Year's Eve fireworks from the bridge to know why.

The bridge links the city of Sydney or Central Business District (CBD) to the northern suburbs. It is actually the worlds largest (but not longest) steel-arch Bridge and it was opened in 1932.

The climb itself needs a certain level of fitness and you need to be OK with heights! So the bridgeclimb is not for everyone. You need to be able to walk without a stick and its not the type of thing to do if you are pregnant. That said, children from 10 years old can take part in the climb so its not that bad. The total distance is less than 2km and the whole experience from safety demonstrations to finishing the climb takes about 3.5 hours

Most of the walk is on fairly wide walkways so is really easy. The first bit is the hardest bit where you have to climb up steep ladders. There are now two climbs on offer. The first is the original bridge climb which takes you right to the top where you can admire the amazing views

For those of you who want to get to know the bridge a little more, I would recommend the newer climb. This takes you on a behind the scenes tour of the workings of the bridge. You do still get to see the views too.

Safety is critical on the bridge climb and every precaution is taken to ensure your safety. There is a harness to link you to the fellow members of your group so you won't fall off. You get an ear piece so you can hear the instructions and commentary from your guide. There is also a breath test before you leave to make sure no-one is over the limit. Only other thing you should know is that you can't take your camera or anything else up there with you (you get to wear a special suit.) This is a bit of a blow given the views from up there are so stunning. Still, you could do some serious damage if something fell from that height.

There is an official website www.bridgeclimb.com and this is where you can book. You should book in advance and choose what time of day you would like to do the climb. The most popular times are dawn (only run once a month on the first Saturday of the month) followed by twilight. It's a good one as you get to see the city in the day and night. You really need to book months in advance to get these slots. You should expect to pay more for these slots too.

The other two times are during the day and then at night. The day time slot can be very hot if you intend to be here in the peak of summer " this is the one that is usually left. The night one is good too as you get to see the city lights but its perhaps not quite as impressive as the other times.

If you arent that bothered about what time you go, Id suggest booking when you get here (provided you can give about one weeks notice) That way you can have a look at the weather forecast and pick the best day. The days when theres not a cloud in the sky are just amazing.

The bridge climb isn't that cheap I'm afraid but it is worth it. The cost is around $250 and for that you'll get a group photograph taken right at the top.

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The Many Wonderful Sites of Australia

By Gary Ardnt

Australia is a great place to visit because of its natural beauty. There are many great things to see and do in the country such as visiting the great barrier reef, seeing Uluru, laying on beaches, and enjoying wonderful tropical jungles. Australia is a great country for those who like adventure activities.

Australia, in the tranquil waters of the South Pacific is the hub of Oceania, and features some of the world's most beautiful and picturesque beaches. For those who enjoy waters sports, particularly surfing, you will find Australia a proverbial paradise of earth. However, there is more to this island nation than surfing and sandy beaches and many of the most interesting spectacles on Australia lie inward.

Uluru (Ayers Rock) is probably the best known natural icon in Australia, and no list of could be complete without it. The iron content in the rock makes its colors change through the course of a day from bright to dark red. Sacred to the local aboriginal people, it is also of great cultural significance as well as natural significance. Often overlooked, nearby Kata Tjuta is actually higher than Uluru, but has been eroded into several pieces.

One of the most overlooked places in all of Australia is Tasmania. Here you'll find unspoiled wilderness and beaches. During the winter, it can get quite cold but the summer time is great for hiking and swimming. Since most people skip this place, you'll find you won't have to via for any of the good views or beaches from other tourists. No trip to Australia would be complete without it.

The Great Barrier Reef is so big, the scope of it can really only be appreciated from the air. By far the largest coral reef system in the world, the Great Barrier Reef extends almost the entire length of the coast of Queensland. It is one of the top wonders of the natural world and has many of the greatest dive spots and sea creatures in the world. If you love the ocean, you need to visit.

Australia has a wide variety of things to do that make it a wonderful place to go visit. This is a land filled with natural wonders that will make any nature lover awestruck. If you love adventure and activity, this country is the place for you. There is something for everyone here.

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