Are you thinking about the future and feeling hopeful? How has the pandemic changed your view of life, and your dreams of the future life you hoped to achieve? Do you view the year 2020 as having caused a temporary setback, or resulting in something that will cause you to reset your entire life’s plan, because of the uncertainty which remains?

There is no question many people found themselves having to rethink how they planned their lives, and the idea of being successful during an international health crisis became more of a matter of survival. What was this year like for you? Could you still think of being successful in some manner? Did you have goals you sought to accomplish?

The topic of success is discussed quite frequently within the self-help industry and I do not want to claim to have any special secrets. However, what I want to share is a product of my work as an educator, and how I have helped students learn methods for becoming successful as they attempt to set and complete their goals. In essence, they are charting a pathway to success for some aspect of their life, and they are setting a course for a particular destination. It’s a matter of gaining self-awareness and self-confidence in yourself by establishing the right mindset, one which sets you up for success so that you are able to reach the destination you desire, whether it is completing a goal or a series of goals. No matter how simple or complex the goal, dream, or destination you have in mind for your life, you can achieve it, if you are mentally prepared for it.

What Does It Mean to Be Successful?

Whenever I discuss the subject of success with students, they often see it as a matter of being clearly defined: I have succeeded or I have failed. There is no in-between for most students, until we begin to analyze the concept of success. What I’ve found, through my own experience, is that success can be experienced in degrees, rather than absolutes. For example, I set a goal to finish a particular task by a certain date. When the date arrived, I only completed 90% of the task. I could state I failed; however, I could also state I was 90% successful.

It is all a matter of perspective and how we frame the words we use. If we use positive and re-affirming language, we become much more self-supportive, which sets us up for even greater success the next time we make an attempt at a task, project, or goal. This also helps to avoid the use of negative self-talk, should a goal or task not be fully met. Even if an attempt was made, and nothing more, that should still count as a success.

Do You Have a Sense of Self?

If you are going to chart a path for your life, or at least mentally prepare for one now, it may be helpful to first consider if you have developed a sense of self. What does this concept mean? It means you are self-aware of your strengths, along with the areas in which you need further development. What are your characteristics, those that cause you to shine, and those that can help you create the future you have in mind? Is there any aspect of yourself, whether it be your personality, traits, or characteristics, which can hold you back in some manner? If you are not used to thinking in this manner, it may be helpful to start a journal and record your thoughts about this subject for a week or two, and allow you to get to know yourself better.

You cannot develop an effective plan for your life if you really do not understand yourself and how to leverage your strengths. For example, when the pandemic occurred, I knew immediately I could navigate through this time period as I am compassionate and have an ability to demonstrate empathy towards others. My pathway to success involved being a student-centered educator, and rising to the challenge of helping learners as they navigated their way through a very challenging time. The area of development I had to manage was my own well-being. I had to make certain I maintained my well-being, to continue to offer my assistance and care to students. This is the purpose of you developing a sense of self, whether you write in a journal or take time to mentally reflect upon your strengths and developmental areas.

Charting a Pathway to Success in Life

You can find success in your life regardless of circumstances around you. The following strategies will help you chart your own pathway to success. These do not need to be implemented in any order, only considered and utilized as you read them. I use these strategies to check-in with myself on occasion, to help determine my ongoing progress.

Strategy: Taking Stock of Your Life

I’ve asked you to develop a sense of self and now, I’m asking you to dig a little deeper and take stock of your life. The purpose isn’t to take a trip down memory lane, rather it is meant to assess what successes you are most proud of, up to this point in your life. What have you accomplished that should be recognized and remembered? The reason I include this strategy is simple: We often remember the negative events and forget the positive ones. I’m certain as you begin to think about important goals you’ve met, including milestones and other achievements, you will have quite a list. This is important as it helps establish a positive frame of reference, and it reminds you that you are capable of finding success already in your life. Create a list and develop it in some form you can easily access.

Strategy: Determine a Direction for Your Life

If you are charting a pathway for your life, why not think about the direction of your life? What is it you have in mind for the future? You do not have to look that far into the future, but perhaps just consider two or three years ahead of you. What might that future look like for you? If you can give yourself some type of direction, then you can establish parameters for success, such as the establishment of checkpoints and goals. Remember, there is no right or wrong because you are the one in control of your life, and you get to decide what it is you want for your life. If you decide right now you want your life to remain the same, then that is acceptable as well. Whatever the decision is, establish direction.

Strategy: Develop a Supportive Belief System

What is a belief? A belief is a thought you tell yourself through repetition. If you are used to putting yourself down, and repeatedly use derogatory language about yourself, you are affirming a negative belief about yourself. In contrast, if you use supportive and caring words to describe yourself, whenever you think about your life and what you have accomplished, you are developing and nurturing a supportive belief system. The difference is quite important as it will determine how successful you are when you make an attempt to complete your tasks, goals, or projects. Beliefs will have a direct influence on almost every aspect of your life. That’s why I want for you to become consciously aware of them now, and to consider what you are thinking about yourself.

Strategy: Become Flexible, Confident, and Fearless

When you set a pathway for your life, you are now thinking about the future and what you hope it will become. Perhaps this involves you alone, or it may take into consideration your family as well. Whatever the case may be, thinking about the future now may cause a sense of uncomfortableness given the uncertainty of the pandemic. Yet your future has to do not with world events, but with your ability to set and achieve specific goals.

While there may be some aspects of your life that are tied to external elements, such as the economy or job market, for the most part your life is something you control. If you have determined there is a particular pathway you want to follow, and conditions will not allow you to complete everything you’ve planned, this is going to require you to be flexible and adapt your plans, rather than view it as a failure. Right now, you cannot predict what future conditions will be; however, you can create your plans.

In addition, when you have established a pathway for your life, which means you have looked ahead and thought about what you want for your life and set checkpoints or goals, you should now feel confident in taking this step. You have taken control of your life, rather than waiting several years and wishing you had done something earlier in life. No matter what plans you have made, at least you have thought about doing something, and now this sense of confidence will help you move forward and work towards reaching the goals established. If you can remain fearless, or refusing to give into self-doubts, worries, and natural fears along the way, you are very likely to find the success you seek.

Charting a Course for Your Destination

Your destination is the future you seek, whether it is a few months ahead that you have thought about, or a few years. Whatever the case may be, you always have control of your life, from a mindset perspective. You have an ability to plan the details of your life by establishing dreams, goals, checkpoints, and anything else that helps create a future pathway. Moving forward is a matter of being mentally prepared and remaining agile, ready to adapt when needed. You can and will be successful, as long as you never give into fears or doubts, and always acknowledge steps made towards your future along the way. Success is a fluid process and should never be measured in absolute terms. If you can remember that you will never give into feelings of failure again, and instead, you will take each progress point as a learning lesson. We are in the worst of times now, and yet, you can plan for the best of your life, simply through the power of your thoughts. There is power in hope, strength in words, courage in beliefs, and resilience to be found when you’ve established a positive and proactive mindset

Kenya is a land of enormous variety and stunning beauty, from the teeming savannah plains of the Masai Mara to the Great Rift Valley, from snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya to the warm azure beaches along its coast. Not to forget fresh water and salt lakes, extinct volcanoes and coral reefs. It is not east to imagine how beautiful Kenya is until you have experienced it.

As a vacation destination, Kenya has a rich diversity of natural wonders, wildlife, climate and habitats of its people with their rich culture. It is not possible to see and appreciate Kenya in a hurry, and the visitor may need to decide on a few specific areas of attraction at a time.

For the sake of comparison with other Safari Destinations, I have 5 points I think give Kenya some advantages. You might consider these points when trying to make a choice.

Cheaper International Flights

Kenya has been a regional commercial hub and safari destination for a much longer time compared to its neighbours. This meant, and still means that major airlines established routes from many parts of the world to Kenya. Major airlines like KLM, BA, Air France, Emirates Airlines, Qatar Airways operate regular flights into Kenya. Other regional Airlines like South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Egypt Air and Kenya Airways also offer flights into and out of Kenya.

This situation has in turn resulted in competition and efficiency for the various airlines. To the travelers this means affordable pricing for flight tickets. Thus, traveling to Kenya from North America, Europe, Asia, Americas and even Australia is still relatively cheaper when you compare with the other countries in East and Central Africa.

Great Wildlife Parks, Reserves and Sanctuaries

Even though there a genuine concern about the value of wildlife viewing in Kenya due to over-crowding and degradation of some of the major parks and reserves, Kenya still has a lot to offer. In fact, the concern about over-crowding is mostly related to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. This marvelous reserve actually suffers from its own fame and popularity and also from the lack of control and regulation from the authorities in charge.

That aside, Kenya still has other parks and reserves that will offer fulfilling game-viewing experience. Parks like the Meru National and Tsavo have lower visitors and boost unique attractions both in terms of natural landscapes and wild animals.

Better still, there are many private wildlife sanctuaries and ranches that are smaller and managed better, usually with the co-operation of the local communities living around. Such places, like the Laikipia Plateau (Kuki Gallmann of the “I dreamed of Africa” fame lives there), Taita Hills Saltlick Game Sanctuary and Olonana Sanctuary, are extremely scenic and with considerable animal population.

Authentic African Traditional Cultural Experience

Kenya enjoys diversity in terms of people and culture. This diversity is so visible in the different ways of life, the different ways the traditional houses are constructed, the manner of dress, the rich and elaborate cultural ceremonies, dances, cuisine etc.

Of the 42 different tribes, there are those that have stood out when it comes to retaining their traditional identity and life style. In this regard, the Maasai and Samburu would be the best known. But there are still more, even though less prominent tribes like the Njemps and El Molo that cherish the lifestyle as it was centuries ago. A visit to Kenya, will offer you the chance, if you wish to visit and interact with such people as they go about their daily chores.

High Quality Hospitality Service and Medical Facilities

Kenya enjoys superior hospitality and safari guiding services in comparison with its regional neighbours. Having had a head start in the development of tourism infrastructure, the destination has developed a relatively reliable workforce with skills to handle the demands of tourists from all over the world. World-famous hotel chains like Fairmont Hotel operate hotels in Kenya.

There are training institutions (Utalii College) and trade and industry institutions that regulate practice and service delivery too. Medical facilities in Kenya would not rival those in the first-world, but are the best when comparing with others in the sub-region – East and Central Africa.

Great Opportunity for Beach and Safari Experience

The combination of 25 National parks, 29 Game Reserves, the Private Sanctuaries and Ranches with the over 480 kilometers stretch of white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, Kenya is one of the few African vacation destinations where one can easily combine both a wildlife safari and an beach vacation. The distances between the various destinations are manageable and bearable both on travel by road or by way of internal flights. A vacation blending all the cultural, wildlife and beach is therefore easy to arrange.

It’s finally spring time again. When it comes to spring break destinations, Americans have always loved fun, sunny beach vacations. While beaches will always be popular, there are still a few other types of vacations that are appealing to spring break goers these days. Where are you planning to go? Are you trying to narrow down your list?

Here are a few ideas:

• Cancun – This really isn’t a surprise. Cancun is usually #1 on most lists. With its turquoise waters and pristine beaches, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this Mexican destination every year. Airfare is usually cheap and there is no shortage of resorts offering discount rates. Hotels, restaurants, and bars really cater to spring breakers and party-goers.

• Miami – Those without passports can still enjoy similar weather in South Beach. You can relax under the sun during the day and party at night when the skyline neon-lights come on. The city has always been known for its reputation as a “nightlife haven”. Not only are there tons of resorts and hotels along South Beach, there are also many apartment and condo rental options.

• Jamaica – You get a few popular spring break destinations in this Caribbean island: Montego Bay, Negril, Kingston, and Ocho Rios. Jamaica isn’t all sand and water, either – there are rainforests and mountains. Head to Negril if you want to do some diving or snorkeling. In Montego Bay, there are many infamous all-inclusive resorts and British-colonial architecture. Kingston, the capital city, is notorious for reggae and the Bob Marley Museum.

• Las Vegas – If you’re not looking for a beach vacation this year, then head to Vegas. Just go on a road trip to Sin City or take advantage of discount airfare. There are plenty of things to do on a budget. Vegas is much more than just a city filled with casinos. The live entertainment is second to none.

• New Orleans – Interested in spring break destinations that offer a cultural experience? Just go down South to NOLA. It’s not just popular during Mardi gras season, it’s popular for spring break as well. This is a city that prides itself on culture and tradition, and you can experience everything it has to offer, from Creole food to ghost tours.

• Park City – Not everyone associated “spring break” with “ski resorts”, but if there is one destination that offers spring break goers a good time, it’s Park City, Utah. It’s especially appealing to families who want to spend spring break together. It’s not all about skiing either; there are plenty of other fun activities as well.

Final Remarks

Go to any of these spring break destinations and you’re sure to have a good time!

Expedia discount codes don’t last forever, so grab one now while they’re still available this spring! You can often get good deals if you book early. Shop around and compare vacation packages at popular spring break destinations and apply the coupon when booking the trip!

Intellectual property is the field area of law that approaches the protection of the rights of the creators of original works. It includes everything, i.e. literature, music, inventions and trademarks. Generally speaking, the main purpose of intellectual property jurisdiction are to endorse the development of new technologies, inventions, arts and promote economic growth and innovation. That is to say, individual creators and inventors tend to have stronger incentives to elaborate their creative projects once they are aware that their work will be protected and they may have some financial benefits from it.

Cyprus established an innovative system that deals with the protection of IP rights in details. Precisely, it was set up an advanced system that guarantees that the outcomes of innovation and creativity are protected at a national, European and International levels. In addition to this, Cyprus is a signatory to international IP treaties and protocols such as WIPO, European Community Trademarks, The Patent Cooperation Treaty, Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial, Trademark Law Treaty a.o.

In Cyprus, the main mechanisms for intellectual rights protection are patents, trademarks and copyrights.

Patents protect a work from being created, traded or used by others for a particular period. In Cyprus, a national patent certificate is issued by the Department of Registrar of Companies and Official Receiver. On the other hand, a European Patent certificate is granted by the European Patent Office. International Patent certificates following the provisions of the Patent Cooperation Treaty are managed by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Trademarks protect the names and enable the identification of brands, products and companies. The logic of trademarks is to assist the consumers to distinguish the different competitors. Trademarks are established when a business begins using a unique mark to identify its company.

Trademarks protection is arranged in the following ways:

1. The provisions of Cap. 268 of the Cyprus Law offers protection at a national level.

2. The EU Regulation 207/2009 and the EU Regulation 6/2002 offer through Cyprus, uniform protection in the whole territory of the European Union.

3. Given that Cyprus is a signatory to the Paris Treaty on the Protection of Industrial Property, as managed by WIPO and a party to the Madrid Protocol, a global protection of trademarks is guaranteed.

Copyrights consider the protection of artistic works. Creators have exclusive rights to reproduce and exhibit their work in public as they wish. Nonetheless, it should be clarified that copyrights do not consider the protection of ideas but the way they are expressed. Copyrights enable creators to have financial benefits from their work. Furthermore, copyrights impede others from benefiting from creators’ work without their permission.

The Law N.59/79 on the Protection of Intellectual Property offers copyrights protection at a national level. In addition, Cyprus is a signatory to the Bern Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works that comprises an extensive range of rights, including software copyrights. The latter provides protection to all the Convention member states with no further action being required.

Cyprus “IP Box”:

In Cyprus, the “IP Box” scheme was introduced on the 1st of January 2012. Specifically, it is a package of incentives and tax exemptions concerning revenue derived from IP rights. Among the principle objectives are to endorse investments in research and development and innovative inventions that will be beneficial to the general public. The concept of “IP box” refers to reduced taxation on income or profits coming from license, disposal, or transfer of a patent.

The EU countries that apply similar IP taxations schemes are France, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Spain and the UK. “IP box” schemes could be divided into two categories. The first category, adopted by France, the Netherlands and the UK, refers to tax reductions on qualifying income. The second category, adopted by Belgium, Hungary, Luxembourg, Spain and Cyprus, considers an exemption of a particular percentage of revenue.

Cyprus offers considerable tax incentives such as:

1. Effective tax rate of 2.5% per year, which is the lowest percentages within the EU. Cyprus is more competitive than other countries. Precisely, in Luxembourg the effective tax rate is 5.7% and in the Netherlands 5%. As a result, businesses investing in IP assets in Cyprus can take an advantage of an effective tax rate of 2.5% from the exploitation of IP. At the same time, they benefit from EU and international IP treaties and protocols.
2. Competitive amortization provisions for five years. This provision refers to IP rights obtained or developed after the 1^st of January 2012.
3. Cyprus has a wide network of double tax treaties.
4. 80% of global royalty net income generated from IP owned by companies based in Cyprus is exempt from income tax.
5. 80% of the net profit generated from the disposal of IP owned by companies based in Cyprus is exempt from income tax.

A Cyprus International Trust obtaining dividends from a Cyprus IP owner will not be subjected to any kind of taxation in Cyprus. Moreover, the trust may accrue income that can be converted into capital at the end of the year without any tax consequences for the trust or its beneficiaries, given that none of the beneficiaries is a Cyprus tax resident.

An IP obtains the benefits mentioned above only if the taxpayer is the owner of the IP, officially register in Cyprus or abroad. Moreover, the IP should be applied in the generation of income.

The efficient IP tax regime and the corporate jurisdiction of Cyprus are two important factors that constitute Cyprus a highly attractive destination for the acquisition or development IP assets. As it was elaborated above, Cyprus IP box offers attractive incentives for establishing a business in IP in Cyprus.

Cancun is the ideal vacation destination for all ages. If your think a good time is laying in the warm sun, going to the spas, shopping for souvenirs, going to an ecological park or just chilling out, Cancun is the one for you. For the nightlife crowd, Cancun is known as having the hottest nightlife anywhere. Cancun restaurants serve Mexican and international cuisine and can satisfy the most discerning taste. The amazing white sand beaches, the easy shopping, and the water activities and of course, the warm Mexican and Yucatan culture, contribute to make it an ideal getaway. There is only one Cancun and there is no other place like it! Cancun is located slightly West of Cuba in the Yucatan peninsula with the Caribbean Sea and it is also less than 2 hours drive away from the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, a must see destination.

Water Sports

Cancun is located next to the 2nd largest coral reef in the world, providing the adventuresome traveler with the most incredible snorkeling and scuba diving experience anywhere. You can even swim with the dolphins (but a bit pricey)! Cancun is one of the best places in Mexico to go scuba diving. Aside from the excellent diving services, the reefs off the coast of Cancun and the relatively calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico turns Cancun into an excellent choice for a scuba diving or snorkeling vacation.

A Tourist Paradise

Cancun is without a doubt the most popular of all the Riviera Maya tourist destinations. Every year, 3 million tourists visit Cancun. Cancun is a beautiful coastal city, full of luxurious hotels, beautiful beaches, and incredible nightlife. Cancun is a place that mixes the feel of an unspoiled paradise with the comforts of modern living. It is truly a place to experience. Cancun has perfect, gorgeous, powdery white sand beaches, and crystal, clear, turquoise, warm water!

The City

The City of Cancun itself (which is not the hotel zone) is 30 years old, and resides outside the hotel zone. But you can take a quick bus to the city and back from your hotel at very little cost. Avoid some of the seedy parts of Cancun where there are gangs; if you stick to the ‘tourist’ places in the City of Cancun, you should be fine.

The Hotel Zone

Cancun Hotel Zone is located in a tiny sliver of land shaped like a boomerang divided in two parts with each part connected to the mainland via a small bridge. The narrow fourteen-mile island section (Cancun Island) is populated with modern beach front hotels facing Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women), the Caribbean to the front and the green Nichupte and Bojorquez lagoons to the back.

Spring Break

Cancun is also a vacation destination for the college Spring Break crowd, and has a huge Spring Festival. The festival is really fun – as good as New Orleans festival. Cancun is the largest international spring break destination and attracts more than 300,000 college students every year. Also, Spring Break has plenty of fun for all different kinds of people. While there are a great number of places to stay in Cancun, not all hotels cater to the rowdy spring break crowd. But then Spring break in Cancun is a perfect way to relax after a semester of hard studying and just the thing one needs before settling down for another semester of studying.

Johannesburg is often ignored as a tourist destination in South Africa, with Cape Town and the Kruger National Park traditionally being the destinations of choice for visitors to the country. Part of the reason for this seems to be the fact that Johannesburg has not marketed itself as a tourist destination strongly enough, despite having a number of worthwhile and historically significant places of interest.

Johannesburg has the largest population of any city in Africa, and has a colourful past as well as an exciting present.

Johannesburg was the location of the Old Fort Prison which housed many political prisoners during the apartheid era including Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Albert Luthuli and Robert Sobukwe. Today, visitors can go on tours of the Old Fort Prison, which has been preserved as a tourist attraction. The area where it is located is called Constitution Hill, and was named after the Constitutional Court which shares the property with the Old Fort Prison.

The Johannesburg Zoo is another worthwhile attraction for visitors. It is home to more than 2050 animals, and one of its unique offerings is its night safaris, which allow visitors to explore the zoo by moonlight and view the zoo’s numerous nocturnal animals.

Johannesburg also has a vibrant nightlife and a large amount of cultural and musical entertainment. The city plays host to a popular annual jazz festival, Jazz on the Lake, which takes place in early September and which features a number of well-known local and international jazz artists.

Another worthwhile activity for tourists is to visit Soweto, a vibrant metropolitan township on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Soweto played a significant part in South Africa’s history and has a number of historically significant sites.

On June 16, 1976, violent riots took place in Soweto when African school children took the struggle against apartheid into their own hands and protested against the government requiring them to learn in Afrikaans instead of in their home languages. Many children died during these riots, the most famous being 12-year-old Hector Peterson who was gunned down by the apartheid police. Today, the Hector Peterson Museum in Soweto is dedicated to the memory of Hector Peterson and the other children who died in the Soweto riots.

In addition to the Hector Peterson Museum, Soweto offers visitors the chance to visit Nelson Mandela’s old house and to eat traditional food and drink traditional beer at a number of restaurants run by locals. For the young and the young at heart, Soweto offers bungee jumping at the world’s only bungee jump between two cooling towers. Abseiling and rap-jumping are also on offer at the Soweto Towers.

Johannesburg has much to offer as a tourist destination, and should certainly be on the itinerary of any visitor to South Africa because of the varied, exciting and interesting attractions on offer.

You might put all of your savings into buying a new flat or a new vehicle that might not even be a life time asset, though a long term one. If the house or vehicle does not give you the expected returns or satisfaction, then you will be seen cribbing over it in the future. However, investing in a relationship that would stay forever, if you maintain it well with the correct amount of love and care, can always be a better deal. The materialistic aspects of our life should be given less importance in comparison to the priceless bonds we share with people. A grand wedding followed by a romantically planned honeymoon will be always remembered and cherished. Nevertheless, you have to keep certain things in mind that help you choose a perfect honeymoon destination.

There are many things that make a place a tourist spot that is worth paying a visit and exploring. Similarly, several characteristics make a place a perfect honeymoon destination that is serene as well as vibrant at the same time. Tranquil surroundings, where a couple can find solitude at, is the very first point that should be taken into consideration, while choosing a holiday spot to spend some quality time with your partner. Nothing can be more appropriate than the most needed privacy during your honeymoon. Getting a little specific, who would not like to holiday by the beach or stay at a waterfall facing villa on a hill station during their post wedding tour? This means that the destination can be a beach resort or a hill station with a chilly weather. If you two are one of that adrenaline seeking couples, then heading to a tourist spot, which offers you an opportunity to encounter the thrills can be the ultimate place for you.

What can be more amazing than spending your entire life with someone, who possesses similar likes and dislikes as you? In such a situation, make sure that the honeymoon destination has been selected with mutual consent. This is the most important factor that will make the place your ultimate love nest. The weather of the place also plays a significant role in adding to the romanticism. Many would prefer going for a honeymoon at a spot, where the gently falling soft snow greets them as soon as they reach the place. Some newlyweds might also like to holiday amidst the rain, which makes the destination more cozy and beautiful. Thus, the weather perspective might also matter the most in making the place selected for your honeymoon, special for you two.

One more important aspect that we have to consider while deciding over a honeymoon holiday destination is the options for accommodation. If the place has enough number of well maintained hotels as well as holiday resorts, then it is surely the perfect one. After all, all you need for your intimate honeymoon is a luxurious as well as comfortable place to stay, when you are trying to discover everything about your better half!

Yokohama, a city that sits in Tokyo Bay, is often overlooked when traveling in Japan. I admit, it is not that exciting and culturally rich as other travel destinations, but it still has unique attractions to offer. If you are in the Tokyo area looking for a day-trip and are sick of shrines and temples, Yokohama is for you.

Yokohama is the capital city of Kanagawa prefecture. It is slightly to the south of Tokyo and on the mainland of Honshu Island. It is a major commercial hub of the Greater Tokyo area. Initially starting out as a fishing village that opened Japan’s doors to foreign trade through its port, it developed into a prominent port city very rapidly, and also holds a large population of foreign nationals. Yokohoma’s climate is a humid subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and not too cold winters.

There are many places of interest in Yokohama that fascinates travelers. At 106 meters, Yokohama Marine Tower, is the tallest inland light house in the whole world. It is located in the Yamashita Park next to the water front in the celebrated port area of Kannai. Japan’s largest Chinatown is situated in this city as well, and is worth a visit. You will find the food tasting very different from the Chinatown in New York or any other place. If you liked the ramen noodles there, be sure to stop by the Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum to learn how this mouth-watering dish spread from Yokohama to the rest of Japan. Very near to Chinatown is the famous Yokohama Doll Museum and the Silk Center. The Kanagawa Museum of Modern Literature with its lovely rose garden is also within reach.

Yokohama’s harbor area houses the Cosmo Clock 21, which is not only a giant ferry wheel but the worlds biggest clock too. It also provides amazing photographs at night. If you’re awed by vast arenas or stadiums, the Yokohama Arena built for 17,000 people is in the vicinity, next to the Shikansen station. The International Stadium Yokohama and Nissan Stadium are some more. Finally, in the Naka Ward, there is a famous Japanese garden called “Sankeien” that was designed by a silk trader, Tomitaro Hara.

Destinations spas are those hotels and resorts which promote the sole purpose of helping people to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle. They promote

• a healthy, nutritious diet
• simultaneous fitness classes and programs for stress reduction
• massages and other therapeutic spa treatments
• sessions to ensure healthy lifestyles

Destinations spas are usually situated in rather remote areas and serve very few guests at a time. This helps maintain a calm, tranquil atmosphere that encourages relaxation and stress relief. They usually offer meals, activities, spa treatments and classes, as part of their overall package. Unlike resorts, all activities and meals at destination spas are complementary to the overall health and relaxation purpose of the spa. These spas stipulate a minimum duration of stay to ensure the customer properly benefits from their stay.

Depending on their focuses, spas can be of different prices and destinations. The Asian Subcontinent houses one of the most exotic collections of destination spas.

In no particular order, the ten of Asia’s top destinations spas are;

Chiva-Som

Location: Hua Hin, Thailand

One of the first spas of its kind in Asia, Chiva-Som merges western and eastern influences to create an opulent spa with superb hospitality, service and treatments.

Banyan Tree Bintan

Location: Thailand

Originally starting their ventures in Thailand, this resort group has branched out to form one of the largest chains of resorts and destination spas in the Asian continent.

Ananda in the Himalayas

Location: India

Situated at the foothills of the Himalayas, this spa features many well-known Indian health regimes such as Ayurveda, Vedanta and Yoga.

COMO Shambhala Estate

Location: Bali, Indonesia

This spa offers everything from lifestyle training to luxurious spa treatments, creating an opulent atmosphere for its guests.

Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi

Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Inspired by the aesthetic and historical traditions of Chiang Mai, this spa has accommodations facilities and restaurants housed in buildings reminiscent of the colonial mansions and the wooden rice barns of times past.

Grand Hyatt

Location: Hong Kong, China

Placed amongst the finest luxury hotels in the world and with a magnificent view of Hong Kong’s famous Victoria Harbour and the Wanchai district, Grand Hyatt hosts the excellent residential spa, Plateau Spa.

W Seoul – Walkerhill

Location: Seoul, Korea

Aside from its superb view of the river and mountain range, this spa offers many spa treatments as well as other down to earth entertainments.

Six Senses Destination Spa Phuket

Location: Phuket, Thailand

This all-inclusive spa, located on its own private island Naka Yai, offers visitors splendid views and beach luxuries alongside lavish spa treatments.

Pudong Shangri-La

Location: Shanghai, China

This award-winning spa offers excellent dining as well as excellent service and a great range of amenities that will ensure guests a wonderful visit.

Mandarin Oriental

This award-winning luxury hotel group is famous for its excellent service and hospitality. Located in prime destinations in over 25 countries, the group is dedicated to ensuring the best for their visitors.

Over the years people who engage themselves in home based business have looked for a formula or easy answer to what it takes to achieve success in home based business. As any good home based business leader, advisor will tell you, there is no easy way to attain success; however that doesn’t mean you should forget about the success and quit building home based business. Like most of life’s challenges, achieving success in home based business takes hard work and time but is definitely attainable.

Let me start by defining success as it means many different things to different people.

To start, success is not a magic or a lucky draw that allows you to be successful. It’s a planned event that is attained when all of your ducks are lined up, so to speak. Of course there is a work involve to it but it’s not just a lucky draw game.

Outlined below are steps to attain business success. This is by no means a complete list but shall enable you to embark on your journey to fulfill your dreams.

A Plan– As stated success is a planned event, you need to prepare your comprehensive business plan. This plan must incorporate all aspects of your life, your dreams and your vision for the future. It will start with your current position and create a road map of how to reach your destination in the most efficient way possible.

A Coach– Your plan has a far greater chance of succeeding if you have a trusted and qualified mentor or coach that will guide you along your path to home based business success. They will ensure you stick to the plan as you work towards your goals. A coach will also make adjustments to the plan over time as circumstances in your life. The coach’s ultimate mandate is to ensure your dreams are realized.

Support System– One of the most critical aspects is realized in home based business is your support system. Support system is the vehicle that will take you to your destination. More than your business model, it is the system with which you are attached. What I mean is that it’s more important that you choose the right type of vehicle for your trip and not so much the brand name of the vehicle. Part of the plan shall outline the use of system for you to reach specific goals.

Work – This key is the most important key, it is also the hardest. Building home based business requires hard work and discipline; it involves trusting your plan at all times (even when you are not growing). It is very easy to pull out of the home based business when your business is not growing or it is like a yoyo which is creating a doubt in your mind that you will not be successful. You have to stay focus, continue your work and follow your plan through thick and thin. The psychological side of building home based business is difficult to deal with for the best of us and this is another area that a great coach will prove priceless.

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. So even if you trip, stumble or have to take a break, its ok, just make sure you get up and… Keep on Stepping!”

If you’ve already heard about the hordes of Canadians traveling to Arizona, there is a good reason for this. While the weather in Canada is typically laden with snow and at subzero temperatures, in Arizona it’s normally full of sunshine. But could it be just the weather? There are plenty of other reasons. Arizona has become a buyer’s market not just to Canadians but even to buyers across the U.S. There are numerous buying opportunities with a wide range of options, including single family homes, town homes, and resort/golf course properties.

The Weak U.S. Dollar

The weak U.S. dollar has simply made it easier for Canadians to strike gold in Arizona real estate. For instance, there’s a lot of taxes on gas and liquor in Canada, thus, it’s always been more affordable in the U.S. And now with the strong Canadian dollar, the prospect is even greater in the real estate field. Either Canadians are flocking in during the winter, or decide to permanently live in Arizona. In fact, it appears that every third person in the Phoenix area is a Canadian.

At the height of things there has been a 17.5 percent increase in the Canadian currency against the U.S. dollar. It’s become a notable year for Canadians, however, if you haven’t booked or reserved yet, it would be worth doing so now. Some sites are even turning away tourists because they are full.

More Developments

The trade links between Canada and Arizona was initially typified by vegetable crops to the north, and timber to the south. However, the interlinking has turned out a lot deeper in the previous 2 decades. Arizona is gradually turning into a top state for optical and photonic research, aerospace, life sciences and development. Consequentially, this has produced many more businesses and academic travel between Arizona and eastern Canada. Today, there’s a huge link between Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa with Arizona that was never really there several years back.

Countless Options

Foreclosures and new developments have such appealing costs at the moment, it wouldn’t make sense to turn them down. Typically, a lot of resale properties are priced beyond market value. Arizona offers properties for various Canadian lifestyles, including town homes and condos for those escaping the winter, low-cost homes below $150,000 for families on a budget, gated communities, resort homes with golf courses just “in the backyard,” and even multimillion dollar palaces constructed on the mountainside, surrounded by natural desert landscape.

Canadians getting into Arizona Real Estate are not only benefiting from the wide range of attractive homes, but they are particularly impressed with the value they get. In fact properties that are priced at $250,000 in Arizona would currently be around $750,000 in Canada. That is a huge deal considering the kind of properties you get. For instance, Canadians in the area can enjoy playing golf in any of Phoenix’s hundreds of golf courses.

Travel Convenience

There are now a number of special programs for Canadian snowbirds searching for homes in areas of Arizona that are considered to be the best destinations for golfing and other leisure activities. The goal of such programs is to make the transition to U.S. home ownership a simpler and quicker one for interested Canadian buyers. Another reason why such programs now exist is to further secure economic ties between Arizona and Canada. There’s been remarkable support for successful amenity services that focus on vacation travelers. You can see their endeavors with the non-stop flights from Montreal to Phoenix very recently, and developments are continuing for the following years.

Such convenience in travel will be welcomed by those wanting to escape the chilly winters. This makes locations in Arizona such as Phoenix more appealing for those who plan to stay half of the year in Canada and the other half in the warmer parts of the U.S. Not only has that, one can enjoy the speed with which they receive from their home to their second home.

India is one of the fastest growing medical tourism destinations in the world. The high-skilled specialists in the country, combined with the lowest medical costs and world-class healthcare services are what make India a sought-after destination for healthcare serviceability

Patients who travel abroad for medical treatment do so for a variety of reasons. Patients from developing countries look for treatment in India not available in their own countries. Thus the medical tourism in India is seeing the arrival of patients from our neighbouring countries. Also, those who come from the western side of the world look for treatments that cost five to 10 times in their own country and rush to India to avoid the huge waiting period for many routine procedures.

The cost differential is huge: Open-heart surgery costs up to approx $70,000 in Britain and $150,000 in the US; in India’s best hospitals it could cost between $3,000 and $10,000. Knee surgery costs Rs. 3.5 lakh ($7,700) in India; in Britain it costs $16,950. Most of the hospitals and healthcare firms who promote medical tourism in India, provides a package deal or assistance that includes flights, hotels, treatment and, often, a post-operative vacation.

Patients planning to travel to India for medical treatment would also be interested about the quality of service and treatment the hospitals provide. JCI (Joint Commission International) and NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers) are two globally recognised healthcare quality standards and India has more than 30 JCI accredited hospitals and around 425 NABH accredited hospitals.

The government of India is also making many policies to promote Medical tourism. It has already relaxed some visa norms on India tourist visa that require a two-month gap between repeated visits for the citizens of Gulf countries which is a huge step to improve medical tourism in India. A visa-on-arrival proposal or E-visa for tourists from chosen nations which permits foreign nationals to visit India for 30 days medical reasons has also spiked up the market of medical tourism in India. Hospitals and healthcare firms also arrange Interpreters or translators for patients from abroad to make them feel comfortable & easy while communicating.

The most sought medical treatments in India by foreign patients are bone-marrow transplant, alternative medicine, knee transplant, cosmetic surgery, eye surgery, hip transplant, cardiac bypass, dental care, and. India is famous for heart surgery, hip resurfacing and other areas of advanced medicine.

In addition to modern medical treatments, India is also recognized globally for its alternative medical treatments like Ayurveda and Yoga and almost all Ayurveda hospitals in India are accredited to NABH.

So, in short, medical tourism in India is on its peak due to its compact medical treatment costs, the accessibility of most up-to-date medical technology and world-class excellence standards. Indian government is also contributing to the medical tourism by dealing with infrastructure problems that obstruct the country’s enlargement in the field of medical treatment India.

In the cities, we tend to travel half the route on our cars, and then take a bus, or board a train to cover the remaining distance. The problem here is getting a proper parking space for your vehicle, and also having to pay high parking fees in the city. Hence, it turns out to be expensive for you, because you pay for the fuel as well as the parking fee.

With that being the case, you could opt for a chauffeur driven car services to cover the 1st half of your route. These services are similar to the taxis, with the only difference being, you can arrange for yourself to be picked up, right from your home or wherever you are.

Benefits of choosing a chauffeur car service

Chauffeur car services have been getting popular these days. They offer quality services to keep their customers satisfied, and make them stay loyal for years to come. If you are new to a city or town, opting for chauffeur car services is the best choice.

Following are some of the benefits of using chauffeur car services.

• Options to choose: Service providers give you multiple options to choose the vehicle you want to travel in. You can choose as per your comfort and budget.
• Reduces stress: It makes your travel time stress-free using their luxurious and comfortable facilities.
• Reduces tensions: It reduces your worries of parking, traffic, being on time, etc.
• Cheaper price: You can hire an affordable rental company by doing proper research. It is a reliable way to reach your destination.
• Fast service: You can reach your destination facing huge traffic on the way, as drivers know all the shortcuts and routes that can be taken to avoid peak hours rush.
• Anywhere anytime: They provide you facilities 24 x 7 anywhere in the city. All you need to do is to make a call to book your cab.
• Multi-tasking: You can choose to opt for this service for a wedding or any other social or business event.

Tips for choosing a chauffeur car service

There are various bogus car service providers that can cheat you in many ways. That is why you should know how to choose a reliable service provider.

• Go online: You can get various chauffer car services online. Instead of running around here and there, you could refer to online directories to look for a reliable care rental services.
• Different rates: Before booking a car you need to find out about their charges and its details. There are different rates offered by various companies depending upon the value added services provided by them.
• Ask for Relevant papers/documents: You need to check the original car and driving documents before hiring a car.
• Choose what you want: You should choose your ride as per your requirement, it can be based on

1. Travelling distance
2. Time for which you are hiring
3. Day chosen
4. Luxury features that you want
5. Type of vehicle (sedan, SUV etc.)

So, why drive around on the busy roads and stress yourself mentally and physically. Hire a cab with chauffer and travel peacefully anywhere you want.

Just the mention of the Cayman Islands conjures up their importance as a banking center and all the negative connotations that go along with it. But the Cayman Islands is actually a spectacular place to visit. It’s especially great for those who love diving. Even if it’s just lounging on the beaches, it’s possible to make some lasting memories. Read on to find out if the Cayman Islands is a match for your next get away from reality!

If you are coming to dive, you can choose from the 240 dive sites that are available around Grand Cayman. I would recommend diving and seeing Stingray City. This means basically being surrounded by the large amounts of stingrays that flock to the area around this 12 foot dive. Always do your research and go with a reputable diving tour operator. This is something that a travel agent can help with, especially since many may already know some right off the bat. There may be some requirements that you may need to take care of before your arrival. Check this out to make sure there aren’t any surprises and you can still enjoy your diving excursions.

If you’d rather stay on the beach sunning yourself, there’s no better place than the Seven Mile Beach. This area can also be found on the Grand Cayman. Here, wade and swim in the clear water before choosing which bar or restaurant to rest at.

Cayman Brac is one of the three islands that make up this destination. Catch the views from the bluff or brac and take gorgeous pictures to share back home! Hike through the many trails found on this island and try to get a glimpse of the Brac Parrot, which is an endangered species.

If you’re looking for seclusion and total relaxation, Little Cayman is the island for you! The beaches here are certainly more private than the Seven Mile Beach. There’s even a much smaller deserted island named Owen Island. You have to row out to Owen Island but the time together would be worth it. Just note that this island is more for those couples looking for some romance and privacy than can be found on Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac.

Seclusion, the beauty of tropical islands, romance, and beaches. These are the words that you’ll associate the Cayman Islands with once you’ve visited. Whatever you come to find, you’ll find it and more!

Mallorca (also known as Majorca) is an island located on the coasts of Mediterranean sea. This is the largest island in the Balearic Islands, and is a part of Spain. Most of the tourists travel to Mallorca to enjoy the sunshine and beaches during the summer months. However, very few know that there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this heaven on earth during the spring, autumn and winter months. This place is less crowded during these seasons and the entire family can enjoy many outdoor activities during the off-season.

Let’s look at some of the activities which you can do during the winter months in Mallorca-

1) Serra de Tramuntana- This is a world heritage site declared by UNESCO in 2011. Hence if you are a nature lover, spend a few days exploring this mountain range on foot or by bike. There are extraordinary techniques used to develop agriculture in this area on its steep slopes and the uniqueness of these techniques which are developed over the centuries has earned this prestigious position for this site.

You may also choose to enjoy the snow falls during the winters on this mountain range.

2) Sóller by vintage train- Another interesting thing which can be done during the winters in Mallorca is taking a wooden train ride from Palma to the beautiful town of Sóller. This train ride through the Tramuntana Mountains is so picturesque, that you will not feel like going back to your city. The path is surrounded with orange orchards and lemon plantations. There are pine forests and olive groves too spread all across this line. After reaching Sóller, take a stroll in the local market and pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables. Enjoy the local cuisines and spend a lazy afternoon enjoying the Art Nouveau houses spread across the land.

3) Binissalem- If you are a wine connoisseur, then you should not miss the trip to this small village. Manto Negro and Callet varieties of grapes are used for fermenting the red wines and Moll for the white wines. There are quite a few famous wineries like Vins Nadal, Macià Batle, and Son Prim which you can visit in your leisure time. The largest among them is José L. Ferrer. Please call the facility before making a trip so that they can make arrangements for your group.

4) S’Albufera nature reserve- These wetlands are located near Port d’Alcúdia on the northeast coast. There are more than 200 bird species which can be witnessed in these 4,200 acres of land. This place is wonderful for birdwatching, cycling and walking. To safeguard the sanctity of the place, driving is prohibited in this area. So take your cycles, cameras, water bottles and food packets and go on an expedition to watch kestrels, purple herons and Eleonora’s falcons which are visible in different times of the year.

5) Lluc Sanctuary- Amidst the lush green mountains of Serra de Tramuntana, Lluc Sanctuary hosts the figure of the Madonna, La Moreneta. This place is considered to be the spiritual center of Mallorca. This figure was found there in the 13 century and now this figure is adorned with a jeweled crown. The natives respect this place as a pilgrimage and the foundation of a monastery was laid to give respect to the goddess. The choirboys sing every morning and evening to show respect to the goddess which is on display in the 17-century Basilica. Taking a walk in the botanical gardens too will be very refreshing and will fill your day with peace and serenity.

There are many other places of interest like Alfàbia Gardens or the national park in Cebrera. Many tourists feel that the end of November and the beginning of December is the perfect time to travel to Mallorca. You will not need to worry about tourist crowds, travel costs for hotels and airline tickets etc. Even when the temperature drops, it doesn’t get very chilly in these areas due to the sea coast. Nature in Mallorca is outstanding and the best part of your trip to Mallorca, be it in winter or summer is to rent a car and explore the stunning landscapes of the Balearics. Happy Holidays!

Fiji is one of the most notable honeymoon destinations in the recent years. It is not just one island, but a group of more than 300 islands, and one of the primary industries that supports the economy of Fiji is tourism. In addition to being a splendid destination for adventure sports such as scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, mountain biking and boating, Fiji is also renowned as a place for romantic vacation.

Many of the resorts offer all-inclusive packages, from affordable to private and luxury. Those resorts normally provide the service to hold the spectacular wedding ceremonies and most of them have facilities to accommodate honeymooners. Yasawa Island Resort & Spa, Namale Resort and Spa, Turtle Island, Likuliku Lagoon Resort are some of the famous resorts just to name a few.

Lovers of nature can enjoy bird watching in Fiji’s several national parks and wildlife preserves. Many colorful species of parrots can be observed, as well as varieties of hawk, falcon, a rare dove, and the flying fox fruit bat.

When the sunset, Fiji turn alive with the pulsating nightclubs, bars and pubs stretch from Civic Auditorium to Albert Park and Victoria parade.Lovers may also choose to have a quiet and romantic candlestick dinner at their own resorts. Whatever your choice is, all visitors should not miss the cultural dance and performance by the native called Fiji Night that organized by most of the resorts.

Although there is some political instability in Fiji, it doesn’t retain visitors to flock over to this beautiful island. As the main source of income of Fiji is tourism, the local people and government are trying their best to ensure tourists’ safety by avoiding violence act.

Winter wears many disguises in Europe. As the north shivers under snowy blanket, the Mediterranean enjoys warm sunbeams. While Europe is breathtaking throughout the year, the Christmas spirit spread throughout the destination makes it a fantastical place to visit.

Rovaniemi, Finland

The official residence of Santa Claus is a must-see destination during the Christmas month. The saint in the red suit lives in a grotto which is free to visit. You can even visit the Arktikum museum to take a look at the history of this place. Make sure you bundle up because the temperatures here are simply astonishing making it one of the best European destinations in winter.

The Christmas Markets Austria & Germany

No matter what part of the world you’re in, you would have heard of the Christmas markets. These popular and romantic markets, that make Germany one of the best European destinations in winter seem to pop out of the ground all over Germany and serve delicacies such as mulled wine, handmade crafts and other holiday treats. If you want to make the most of the holiday season and take part in historic festivities, the Christmas markets are the perfect places to visit.

Copenhagen, Denmark

For a true fairy tale vacation, where else would you go to if not to the home of Hans Christen Andersen. Also home to the immensely popular Little Mermaid, the city’s true beauty lies within the cozy little cafes and bars. Warm the insides of your heart with a warm mug of glogg as you visit the beautiful illuminated 19th Century Tivoli Amusement Park.

Abisko, Sweden

For those who love hard core winters, Sweden is the place to be. Being one of the best European destinations in winter, it is the northernmost area that can be reached by train. The stunning aurora borealis paints the canvas of the sky between the months of December and January as the sun doesn’t rise for several weeks. Husky mushing and cross country skiing are just some of the exciting winter activities that you can take part in at the destination.

Athens, Greece

No matter what time of year it is, a visit to Europe would be incomplete if you missed out on Greece. The historical destination is beautiful during the summer but the winter makes it a little more special as the crowds disappear and you can explore on your own. Not only do you get a unique experience, you also save money on tourist pricing, don have to bear the intense heat or deal with air pollution. Make sure you don’t let this secret out or winters will soon be the same as summer.

Venice, Italy

Carnevale is an experience of a lifetime and should not be missed on any account. This February event held in one of the best European destinations in winter is surreal, majestic and hauntingly beautiful. Costumed dances and elaborate masks give a glimpse into the colorful history of the place.

Berlin, Germany

As the Postdamer Platz is converted into a winter wonderland during the winter, the city hums with excitement. Also housing some of the Christmas markets that are characteristic of Europe, what really is great about visiting Berlin are the winter activities that you can be a part of. Visit the ice rink, ski down some of the biggest slopes or slide down them on rubber tires.

Getting confused in defining the destination for your long holiday? And do you want to make a very impressive holiday so that it will not be forgettable experiences you have along your live? The first thing, just think about the preparation for it! Prepare all the things which will be needed in supporting your holidays.

If you want to go to the mountain, beach, or lake, you should prepare all the equipments related to it. But if you want to get light holiday like visiting some cultural tourism, not many things you need. And if you have decided where you should go, decide which city or country you should visit.

I warrant you not to hurry first, save your money by deciding your holiday in the Indonesia Java International.

If you want to enjoy all the tourism objects in Java Islands, I may give you a little suggestion. If you want to start from the east side, you may land your plane in the Surabaya. You may pass trough the amazing Suramadu Bridge intentionally, and then get back. There are many charming tourism in East Java. You may go to the traditional markets and buy some souvenirs and special traditional foods in the East Java.

If you want to feel the beauty of the natural tourism, you may go to the Mount Bromo, and many other like beach, and the others challenging mountain to see. You may also go to the Safari Park to see the wealth of the fauna and flora in Indonesia.

Like everything else about your wedding, honeymoon destinations and length of time you spend will largely be determined by budget. You may have set the budget for the honeymoon at the same time as the wedding, or you may be budgeting it separately. Either way, there should be a budget and ultimately your decisions will be determined by it.

That said, who does get to choose the destination for the honeymoon?

In my opinion, this is a joint decision. It’s a special time for both of you; time to relax after the frenzy of the wedding, time to spend some time alone and do some couples bonding. The choice for where to go for a honeymoon and what to do while you’re there is one that should provide the maximum amount of relaxation and pleasure for both of you.

One of you may have less interest in the details than the other. If you’re okay with doing most or all of the honeymoon planning yourself, make sure your partner really means it when he or she says, “I don’t care, you decide” – then take their word on it and make the choice yourself. There’s no time like the present to start learning to accept that you each have your own interests.

And if you’re reading this and thinking you’re the one who would say, “I don’t care, you decide,” my advice is to try and take SOME interest in the process. The two of you will be making a lot of decisions together over the years, and most of them will be much more important than where to go and what to do on your honeymoon. Crawl before you walk; in other words, start working together on the little things. Trust me, it will make it much easier for you to work together when the really tough decisions have to be made.

Even if one of you has less interest in where you go and what you do, try to be mindful of the things you’ve found in common during your courtship and use that knowledge when it comes to your honeymoon. Will both of you be happy lounging about on white sand while watching a tropical sunset? Or is one of you likely to suffer second-degree burns the first day, then spend the rest of the trip bathing in aloe vera?

Do you even have to have a honeymoon?

No, not really. American customs have changed significantly over the last 20 years. The honeymoon was traditionally not just a continuation of the celebration of their marriage, but the last time they could predictably be alone together before starting a family. People are marrying later in life, starting their families later in the marriage, and most couples go into a marriage with two incomes. Like everything else involved in a wedding, it’s just a tradition, not a rule.

You may earn and save a lot of bucks but will you get the satisfaction you get while exploring the bountiful parts of the God’s creation by just sitting and earning? No! There exists tranquillity in traveling and reading all the chapters written by God. Traveling to Europe makes you aware of the history and culture of a fairytale castle.

Riga, the largest capital of Latvia, is perfect cobblestones and culture. What makes Riga the best travel destination in Europe? Riga Latvia sightseeing would be a perfectly justified answer to this question. There are plenty of things you can do in Riga while exploring the enticing history and culture hidden in the stones of the city.

Riga has many churches but the wonderful view of the old town from the top of the St. Peter’s Church must not be missed. Admiring the cobblestones of the city from the top and then visiting the holy church is serene.

Planning to go on a picnic with your family? Prepare for the picnic buy from the huge space of Riga central market where hundreds of traders trade day and night in fruits and fresh organic foods. Talking about the foods and drinks of Riga, the traditional drink of Riga i.e. the Black Balsam should not be missed. It is recommended to have a sip of this drink before you leave the city.

What about going on a free walking tour around the city? Such tours are organized at around 11 a.m. in the city and you get to know more about the history of the city with the help of guidebooks.

Visit the oldest museum in Riga, the Sun Museum which depicts how different countries see the sun. You can have some amazing astronomical learning from this museum.

If not visited the historical places of the city, you have missed the major travel experiences in Riga. Blackheads House is one of those places have a great historical significance of the city.

Freedom Monument is one of the most astonishing monuments in Riga. Having a copper lady statue on the top of the building makes it even lovelier.

Well, after exploring the art and history, one must miss the nightlife of Riga. Don’t miss the fun of loud partying at night with the friendly locals, bars, and hubs for parties. Riga is now becoming one of the trending spots for night parties and fun.

Well, now there is no doubt left why Riga is the best travel destinations in Europe. Take the benefit of service of Riga Latvia sightseeing tour and make the most of your travel. Travel to the most wonderful destinations in Riga and explore each bit of the exotic city. Take a much-needed break from work and set yourself free traveling the best destinations of Riga.

When I think of the key reasons people travel to South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal offers them all – so I thought it would be interesting to run through those reasons and show you how KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has the answer.

Scenery. South Africa’s stunning landscapes and gorgeous coastline is a major draw card, and it’s safe to say that KZN has some of the best scenery in the country. Top of the list would be the Drakensberg Mountains, towering and impenetrable (their Zulu name translates as “Barrier of Spears”). They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offer a variety of experiences to the visitor, from short hikes to overnight trails, and from wildlife to millennia-old San rock-art. From mountains that touch the sky, we move through to golden beaches that meet the ocean. Along the Elephant Coast are mile upon mile of deserted beach, fringed with luscious coastal forest and pitted with the nests of endangered turtles: an inspiring landscape if ever there was one.

Culture. With its eleven official languages and many, many different tribes and ethnic groups, South Africa loves to showcase its culture. In KZN, as the name suggests, this means the Zulu culture. A proud tribe, built on the military might that gave the British a bloody nose at Isandlwana (more of which later), the Zulus are making great efforts to preserve their traditional customs and practices, and a visit to a traditional homestead is one way to see this in action; it’s also very likely that at some point during your time in the province you’ll be treated to a display of the energetic, athletic and entrancing Zulu dancing.

History. The history of South Africa, from the advent of European settlers right through to the end of apartheid is tumultuous and holds a special fascination. KZN’s major slice of that history is the Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars. Names like Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift and Spionkop resonate through the intervening century, and are dramatically bought to life by absolutely superb battlefield guides. Immediacy is the key to these battlefield tours: you’re standing on the exact spot where this soldier and that Zulu warrior clashed: in many cases we know their names and their backgrounds, we know how they fought and how they died. It’s incredibly moving.

Cosmopolitan City Life. Cities like Cape Town are a huge draw for visitors to South Africa, and Durban is right in the front rank of South African cities. Recent redevelopment, thanks in part to the FIFA World Cup, has seen Durban transformed. Next to the harbour is the impressive uShaka Marine Park, start of a boulevard of several miles linking the fantastic beaches of the city (Durban’s Golden Mile) with the impressive Moses Mabhida Stadium. Visitors can fly into the gleaming new international airport and stay in a growing array of smart, boutique hotels, and eat in stylish restaurants. As a place to bookend your travels around the province, Durban is hard to beat.

Relaxation. South Africa is all about relaxing, chilling out and enjoying great weather, wonderful food and gorgeous local wines; fortunately KZN is well able to deliver on this front as well. Just outside Durban you’ll find the Midlands, a beautiful area of gently rolling countryside, dotted with perfect little country getaways. These hotels have made a real name for themselves offering beautiful accommodation and the most amazing food – wholesome, decedent meals paired with selections from extensive and impressive wine cellars. It’s an amazing way to unwind for a couple of days (though not too much longer if you’re keeping an eye on your waistline!).

Wildlife. I’ve left wildlife till last because for so many people it’s a major highlight of their trips to South Africa: saving the best for last! I’ve already mentioned the wildlife of the Drakensberg Mountains – you’ll find herds of enormous, mystical eland here as well as the Lammergeier (or Bearded) Vulture. But it’s big game safari that most people want to see, and KZN really delivers. It’s a province right at the forefront of eco-tourism and conservation. The vast Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Reserve in the heart of KZN can claim to be the place the rhino was saved from extinction, as all the initial rebreeding work for the white rhino took place here in the 50’s and 60’s. Nearby Phinda Private Game Reserve was one of the first game reserves to take farmland and return it to its indigenous condition, letting the natural vegetation grow back and reintroducing the wildlife that had been absent for decades; the result is a wonderful reserve with excellent opportunities for viewing big game.

So when you add it all together, you can see that KwaZulu-Natal really does have it all. A two week trip round the province will allow you to experience the very best it has to offer and is a microcosm of everything that’s best about South Africa.

As a kayaker, whether it’s a slow-paced adventure you want or slicing and curving your way through a white curtain of water, there are destinations to fulfill any kayaker’s wish list. When considering the top kayaking destinations, there are several factors that have to be looked at. These factors include closeness to nature, varied and abundant wildlife and adventure. Opportunities for all skills level play a role in considering the best destination. The above factors are not the only factors. We have just named a few.

Kayaking is an exciting sport and recreation activity for all ages. It provides great full-body work out. Moreover, every kayaker gets to enjoy the surrounding natural environment as close as possible. As much there are great and exciting places for kayaking in the world, there are destinations that every kayaker should never miss. Some of the top kayaking destinations are:

1. Glacier bay, Alaska:

Since John Muir visited Glacier Bay in 1879, the area has opened up countless fjords and bays for the sea kayaking and it has offered 16 tide water Glacier to explore. The area offers another bonus, that is, one has the best chances to witness the stages of plant succession left by retreating glaciers. The ‘bush’ in Alaska, as it is known locally, composes of tundra, marshlands and scores of active volcanoes along with the Aleutian islands, a 300-strong archipelago strung out like Christmas lights between America and Asia.

Alaska is a home to a mesmerizing diversity of wildlife. Terrestrial fauna include wolves, beavers and moose while the peninsula waters abound with sea lions, whales and sea colonies. Alaska is a massive place with an abundance of options for adventure lovers and the question is how to fit it all in so as to get the best out of all the options available in Alaska.

2. Kayaking in Baja, Mexico.

With about 2000 miles of wild, rugged coastline and only a short drive from the U.S, makes the Gulf of California a top kayaking destination in the world. It steers through coves, around boulders, into caves, to empty beaches or watch whales on the many kayaking routes offered here. There are about 100 islands in the California Gulf with about half of them protected as ultra bio diverse reserve sites and all of them surrounded by crystal blue seas. The weather in this area is temperate all year around and enjoys calmer seas thanks to the shielding by the peninsula itself.

As you tour Baja, you are sure to see marine animals that visit this secluded paradise while kayaking through easy going and clear waters and marveling at the enchanting backdrops of the islands. Aside from kayaking, the region is now seeing a return to its unique biodiversity which was once threatened due to overfishing. In Baja Mexico, there are large colonies of endemic to the region as well as staggering number of rare plant species that are about 3500 species in total, many of them found nowhere else on earth.

3. Kayaking in New Zealand.

New Zealand literally has everything to offer. Along with the giant national park, it has excellent spots for kayaking. The bay has remote coves, beaches, caves, and year around tropical weather so you can visit whenever you have time. New Zealand provides a wide variety of wildlife. Milford sound is the biggest attraction in New Zealand and it was formed over millions of years of glacial activities.

Milford sound offers unequally beauty the scale and majesty of which sets it aside from anywhere else on the planet. The mountains in this area are huge and lush with vegetation, waterfalls cascade hundreds of meters down vertical cliff faces and the seas coursing through the valleys which are very clear. When ascending up through lush beech rainforest and into alpine environment at the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, alpine lakes and deep bush clad valleys.

4. Dalmatian coast in Croatia

The Croatian coastline is filled with pine forest and limestone cliffs. It’s not necessarily the tropical paradise you find in the south pacific, but it’s a unique and appealing trip that you surely won’t forget. The large amount of islands off the Croatian coasts will give you plenty of choices for where to go.

5. Greek Islands.

For those of us who prefer real Kayaking, Greek islands provide thousands of excellent sea kayaking waters. In these islands where sea kayaking is civilized, it is possible to paddle from one island to another. There are loads of remote coves and site that you can kayak to.

One of the islands in the Cyclades in Greece is Milos. It has a mamma Mia-like setting of turquoise blue seas, matching the skies and pale golden sands. Milos’ main claim to fame is that it’s the place where the Venus de Milo statue was found in 1820, but man-made artifacts pale in comparison when you set eyes on the Milos’ natural beauty. Milos’ moon-like landscape, where rocky crops of burnt reds, earthy browns and stark whites get together, is a big scene-stealer in any ancient artifact. Since you will be sea kayaking Milos’ coastline, you will be able to go where most other boats can’t.

6. The West Coast of Scotland.

The west coast of Scotland is home to myriads of sea lochs, inlets and island dotted amongst an achingly beautiful highlands panorama and it is hard to think of a better way of exploring the area than in a sea kayak.

Scotland is blessed with all types of fantastic water to go kayaking on, but its coastline and the sea kayaking that it offers that is truly a jewel in its watery crown. Walking along the Scottish coastlines, you get to see thousands of miles of inlets, sea caves, coves and island to explore and the sea kayak is the perfect craft for the job.

Everywhere you go, you will encounter a plethora of wildlife, ancient culture and the Scottish people are famous for their hospitality. The west coast offers some fantastic sandy beaches, rugged reefs and wildlife in abundance. You get to enjoy the beauty of the area as seals swim curiously under your boat. It is simply a magical sea kayaking area.

Mutual trust is crucial for relationships to be successful. Be assured that you are in good hands when working with an a Destination Management Company (DMC) because these companies use only the highest quality practices as their standard and they demonstrate the ultimate level of commitment and knowledge to the destination management industry.

The DMC will conduct an initial needs evaluation in order to prepare a custom proposal to best match the client’s program budget and needs. This ensures that no time or money is wasted with irrelevant proposals. DMCs also work with Event Managers to ensure that any meeting, incentive, conference or event being planned is within the client’s budget. Because these they have years of experience in the travel industry, they have the ability to negotiate rates and terms where possible to maximise the client’s budget and experience.

From start to finish, the entire process of business/group travel is simplified when working with a Destination Manager. A full proposal that includes costs for consideration will be ready within forty-eight hours of contacting a DMC with an enquiry to their destination.

Using a such a company is more beneficial than going direct because of the strong buying power DMCs have gained through years, sometimes decades of experience. Also, because these companies are located locally, they have an abundant knowledge of their destination and can use this experience to help their clients.

The use of a quality Event Management Companies brings many benefits to clients, as well. Event Management know everything there is to know about hotels, convention centres, entertainment, and all the details in-between because they spend weeks studying these options before they present them to any client. The target audience, planning, and coordinating the logistics and any other technical aspects are identified long before the arrival date of the event because the Event Management Companies spend time examining the intricacies of the brand.

All this has become increasingly necessary because of the ever growing size of events in the business world today. It is not uncommon for Event Management Companies to put together events for groups consisting of a couple thousand people. As imagined, working out the details of flights, ground transportation, and hotel rooms becomes a nightmare when dealing with groups this large.

To add to the complications of group travel, dynamic pricing for hotels has been a business travel trend that has become increasingly recognizable by experts in the field. This is a similar pricing scheme to that of airlines where the cost fluctuates depending on the season and how busy they are. Groups will have to spend more time researching their destination and hotels in order to get a good price on rooms; hence another reason why using a Destination Management Company is beneficial. The employment of a Destination Management Company and Event Management Companies ensures that travellers will be advised of good dates and receive the best discounts on rooms.

Taiwan is an island nation that has made its mark in the technology industry and is one the main tourist destinations in Asia. Taiwan is one location that boasts of scenic mountains and lush green fields. Millions of tourists flock to Taiwan to enjoy cheap hospitality, idyllic locations and get a glimpse of their culture and history. So, what is it about Taiwan that draws big crowds who want to visit again and again?

Four characteristics of Taiwan

1. History

Taiwan boasts of a history spanning thousands of years. Related to mainland China, they share common ancestry with the Chinese. Colonial powers like the Dutch and the Portuguese controlled them for hundreds of years. This ensures a culmination of western and eastern cultures into one place. Their history is littered with innovation and exotic societal aspects. They have many well stocked national museums that have preserved artifacts dating back to centuries. Tourists get acquainted with the rich culture of Taiwan during visits to the museum.

2. People

For any tourist destination to hold its charm, the people should be friendly and courteous. Taiwanese people are naturally friendly and welcome tourists as one of their own. The major population of Taiwan is a mixture of Japanese people in the minority and the Chinese people in the majority. Apart from that, many immigrants from Indonesia, Philippines live harmoniously side by side with the Taiwanese people. Tourist feel one at home once they land in Taiwan.

3. Festivals

Taiwan is one of the places in the worlds that can boast about hundreds of festivals. Tourists throng Taiwan to get a chance to take part in celebrations. Prominent amongst them include Chinese New Year, Ching Ming Festival, the Dragon Boat festival, Mid-Autumn festival, etc. These festival help promote the spirit of cooperation and national unity in Taiwan. Many Taiwan travel tour packages give you an opportunity to enjoy the splendor of Taiwanese festivals.

4. Climate

Taiwan boasts of a temperate climate. It is neither too warm nor too cold in Taiwan. The tall mountains of Taiwan ensure a cool environment at the top. It is definitely an experience to visit Taiwan and enjoy its heavenly climate. You should head towards the Taiwanese beaches to take full advantage of beautiful seaside shores and clear skies. Taiwan holiday packages enable you to visit Taiwan and absorb the beautiful climate to the full extent.

The above four characteristics help Taiwan portray itself as a tourist Mecca aided by tour and travel packages to Taiwan.

Jamaica! The island of sun, fun and care-free living is only a hop, skip and a jump away from the American coastline, only about 90 miles south of Cuba. But once you’re there you are in a whole other world. Jamaica is a little over 4,200 square miles in size so there is a lot of activity that will make your vacation there worth the short trip. It was not easy to leave Jamaica in the early days not only because transportation was slow but because the law required that no one could leave the island without first publicly advertising his intentions three weeks in advance. This was mainly to protect creditors from people, including captains of ships, who refused to pay and then skipped the country, but that is all history now!

The Island of Jamaica is filled with a rich history of Spanish and British rule before it gained its own independence in 1962, making the island country extremely diverse in culture and customs. Jamaica is divided into 14 parishes, which are grouped into three historic counties; Cornwall, Middlesex and Surrey. “Out of Many, One People” is the Jamaican Motto that speaks for itself.

The outdoor life in Jamaica varies from ocean viewed towns to the Blue Mountains, which dominate the inland area. Tourist attractions include Dunn’s River Falls in St. Ann, YS Falls in St. Elizabeth, and the Blue Lagoon in Portland. Jamaica’s climate is tropical, and it supports a diverse ecosystem with an abundance of plants and animals, though the islands plant life has changed considerably over the centuries, due to the European settlers who originally cut down the great timber trees for building and ships’ supplies, and then cleared the plains, savannas, and mountain slopes for intense agricultural cultivation. But a large bit of the tropical forest still exists and can be accessed.

Vacations are meant to be fun and care-free, but planning your vacation ahead of time will help road block many problems that you may not normally have considered. While you are planning your next getaway vacation to Jamaica you need to consider the many things that you will need while you are there. Most people will remember their toothbrushes and socks but the things that you forget to plan for will certainly become the most important ones when you find yourself there without them. Whether you are planning a Caribbean cruise, a Jamaican vacation to Montego Bay, or just a weekend away; you should consider the expense of a few extras that can come in handy. Tours, restaurants, airport shuttle services, taxi fares, car rental, are the normal things that vacationers consider while planning their spending budget. International cellphone rentals that will help you stay connected while out of your own phones service area.

You would normally already have gathered information on such things as the places in Jamaica, Montego Bay weather, Jamaican facts, Jamaican airports, Tourism in Jamaica, Hotels and other accommodations on the Islands you will have most of your basics covered.

Most Americans eat, sleep, and live by their cell phones it would be very impractical for us to go through a vacation without having the connection that we have all grown to rely upon. But what happens when you arrive there and your home cell phone service forgot to pack its bag? Don’t be left feeling disconnected from the world outside of your vacation, and make sure that you plan well with an international cell phone rental.

The Galapagos Islands draw thousands of visitors every year, including scientists, students, naturalists, photographers and more. The Galapagos Islands’ status as a must-see, “bucket list” sort of destination also draws in retirees and off-the beaten path travelers. While the Islands are often overlooked by the “in-between” crowd of people in their 20’s and 30’s, the Galapagos Islands actually make for an outstanding honeymoon destination. Why pick Galapagos for your honeymoon? Here are five reasons:

The Galapagos Islands are Romantic

That’s the number one qualification after all, isn’t it? A honeymoon is a romantic vacation, and the Galapagos Islands fit the bill. Moonlit cruises? Check. Exotic location? Check. Excellent facilities and service? Check and check. The dramatic sunsets, fearless wildlife and memorable landscapes combine with first-rate services to create the perfect atmosphere for romance.

The Archipelago has something for everyone.

He wants hiking, she wants a beach. He wants water sports, she wants shopping. Galapagos is about not having to sacrifice or compromise. There are great beaches and hikes on the islands, as well as snorkeling and other water sports. The towns on the islands have a surprising amount of quality souvenirs from all over Ecuador and South America. You can even decide between land-based and cruise ship tours. Why fight over a destination when Galapagos has it all?

The “Enchanted Islands” are a destination for the young and vibrant.

The Islands are on many people’s “bucketlist” of places to visit. Many retirees go because they finally have the time and money to do so. Unfortunately, by the time they get there, many seniors find that some of the hikes and islands are too challenging for them and they miss out. The Galapagos Islands are best enjoyed by those who are old enough to appreciate them and still young enough to hop from one lava rock to the next, perfect for young newlyweds!

The Islands are more affordable than you think.

Many young couples are not yet established and may avoid seemingly pricey destinations like the Galapagos Islands. Although the costs are undeniable – airfare to and from Ecuador and then to the islands, plus park fees and the cost of cruises or lodging – they are relatively low right now. The worldwide economic downturn has had one positive effect: fewer people are visiting Galapagos and the tour companies and hotels are willing to make deals they would not have considered before.

Ecuador has much more to offer than just the Islands.

A honeymoon to the Galapagos Islands carries the side benefit of a trip to Ecuador. Why not spend a few days relaxing in the natural spas of Papallacta surrounded by the Andes, or taking a romantic carriage ride in Quito’s charming colonial center? For such a small nation, Ecuador is home to a wonderfully diverse ecosystem with everything from snow-capped volcanoes to sandy beaches.

Trips to these and other Ecuador destinations are very easy to combine with a trip to Galapagos. So start using our free trip planning serviceand book your honeymoon today!

One of a fascinating destination for sailing holidays worldwide is Europe that offers a lifetime experience to you. Filled with numerous captivating countries sporting sandy beaches, secluded coves, ancient ruins, historical towns, luxurious resorts and deep blue waters, You can find thousands of inexpensive sailing destinations here to spend your summer vacations at peace.

Although Europe incorporates numerous countries at your service with numerous islands spreading across different seas, the sailing experience of each sea is different from the other. To enjoy a thorough sailing experience of the country, you will surely require planning many trips to this country as one trip cannot cover every noteworthy destination. Here are the top five most popular destinations that you must not miss during your sailing holidays in Europe –

The Ionian Islands in Greece

The most favored island hopping destination in Europe is the Greek islands. They always hold the top most position in the bucket list of almost every traveler. If you are heading on sailing holidays in Greece, you must not miss out to visit the striking Ionian Islands. Starting from the picturesque scenario of Corfu to captivating Lefkada, you will surely get to explore the unmatched scenario of traditional tavernas, rugged mountains, beautiful beaches and vibrant fishing boats.

The Azores in Portugal

Incorporating a cluster of numerous tiny islands in the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores is a volcanic island that highlights its dramatic landscapes and lush green vegetation. Horta is a perfect point to begin your travel with a boat. Situated in remote locations, these islands are completely unspoiled.

The Dalmatian Coast in Croatia

Croatia is yet another appealing travel destination for sailing in Europe that can capture great moments for you. Compared to the new Riviera or new Greece, this amazing European country offers a traditional approach to life with stunningly beautiful beaches. With more than 1185 islands along the crystalline coast of Adriatic, Croatia is the best to explore with the help of a boat. Start your tour from the renowned historic sites and end up at remote islands.

The Baltic islands of Germany

Bound by Europe mainland, Scandinavian Peninsula and Danish islands, the inland brackish sea of Germany offers some incredibly unique locations for you to explore. Starting from the Stralsund to sweeping wild landscapes of Hiddensee Island, you can also include the deserted beaches of a white sand present on Rugen Island. Moreover, if your budget allows you to extend your trip, you can also include the beautiful Danish islands and Stockholm archipelago for the fun-filled experience.

The Sporades in Greece

Another captivating Greek island, the Sporades comprises eleven beautiful islands ranging from Volos to Skiathos. It creates good chances for you to explore unspoiled blue-green waters, rich vegetation and a traditional approach towards life.

There’s a lot that makes Hopkins Village special. Located on the beautiful Belizean coast, this charming fishing village is home to fascinating Garifuna culture, with stunning natural beauty, and adventures all around.

Although you’ll find every home comfort you need in Hopkins, this is a village that’s yet to be discovered by mass tourism. So make sure you visit soon to appreciate its uniquely authentic vibe.

Hopkins was recently named the friendliest village in Belize too, so you’ll be guaranteed a warm welcome!

Garifuna People In Hopkins Village

One of the standout aspects of Hopkins is its population, which is largely made up of Garifunas. These are descendants of Caribbean and West African people who were, depending on which source you believe, either shipwrecked or escaped from slavery.

Now mainly found in coastal Central American locations, as well as in the USA and Canada, it’s estimated there are around 500,000 Garifunas worldwide.

Unique Garifuna Culture

Hopkins Village is Belize’s number one cultural destination and it’s one of the best places to discover the Garifuna way of life.

Drumming is an extremely important part of Garifuna culture, helping to maintain links with the population’s African heritage. You will hear drumming everywhere you go in Hopkins, and it really is the heartbeat of the village.

Music, song, and dance are also prevalent in Garifuna culture, telling stories of the population’s heritage that visitors can understand without speaking the language.

You’ll find plenty of opportunities in Hopkins to enjoy and learn about culture, as well as discovering Garifuna food, which incorporates African influences into traditional Belizean dishes.

Hopkins Belize’s Caribbean Beaches

There are miles of beautiful Caribbean beaches in the Hopkins area, and they are considered among the best in Belize. It’s not called ‘the coast with the most’ for nothing!

The good news is that Belize’s beaches are all public, meaning you can find your perfect spot of fine, golden sand – perhaps under the shade of a palm – and enjoy a beach day for free. And, unlike busier Dangriga to the north and Placencia to the south, you may only have to share Hopkins beach with the local fishermen bringing in their day’s catch.

Marine and Jungle Adventures Near Hopkins

Close to Hopkins Village, you can discover a whole host of adventures that will impress wildlife lovers, adrenaline junkies, and dive fans alike.

A half-hour boat trip from Hopkins will take you out to the Mesoamerican barrier reef, which is the second-largest in the world and makes for an unforgettable diving or snorkeling trip.

You can also take a boat cruise on the nearby Monkey River, where you’ll likely spot howler monkeys, toucans, manatees, and maybe even crocodiles.

For adventure-seekers, there’s a wide range of options here. Ziplining is a popular activity, or you could try waterfall rappelling. To channel your inner explorer, there are ATV tours available that explore the region’s jungles.

All of this can be enjoyed in and around Hopkins Belize. So the question is, why wouldn’t you want to visit?

You have planned your dream wedding at an exotic wedding destination and are really excited about it. But you are stuck at one major decision regarding what to do about the photographer – do you fly a destination wedding photographer to your wedding destination or do you hire a local wedding photographer there. There are pros and cons associated with both. Let us take a look at them in detail.

Which is advantageous – hiring local photographers or taking you personal photographer?

If you are planning a wedding at a faraway exotic destination, in most cases you will be depending on your wedding planner present there or the resort management where you will be having your wedding for these things. It might not be possible for you to visit the place in advance or to visit it more than once to check out how things are working out there.

Your local wedding/event planner might recommend local wedding photographers for your wedding but they might not be the best. In most cases these recommendations are more based on personal relations than on the output of the work. Though it might prove a friendly decision for your pocket but it might not definitely be the best. Wedding photographs will remain with you forever, so my personal opinion is to try for the best.

Flying in a destination wedding photographer with you seems to me the best option. You can meet the person in advance personally and decide whether you like his style or not. A chance which you will never get when you hire local photographers based on your event planner’s recommendations. Fly in your wedding photographer at least one day ahead of your wedding and let him stay at least two days after the event, so he gets ample time to shoot pre and post wedding snaps.

Flying in a wedding photographer definitely involves a lot of extra costs. Along with the photographer’s fees you will have to pay them to and fro air fare, hotel accommodation etc. Many people in order to reduce these costs arrange a cheaper accommodation for the photographer at the wedding destination. I personally do not think that is a very good idea. If you are taking the photographer with you, make sure he enjoys his stay; his content will show through his pictures.

How to find local destination wedding photographers?

But if you are going to hire local wedding photographers at the destination, make sure to interview at least three local photographers. Talk with them on phone; ask about their style, their tastes, their choices, plans about your wedding. Ask them to send you their portfolio online and also ask for referrals. If you event planner is recommending someone check up with your hotel what they think about the photographer. Does some homework before you decide whom to hire. After all you will be reliving your wedding through these photographs all your life so you definitely need to be sure about your decision.

The top places for travel around the world used to be fairly standard. In fact, most people couldn’t afford to travel much, if at all. If traveling was possible, it was usually done in a car or by train or bus. Now that air travel is so much less expensive, several destinations that one may not even think of are becoming more and more popular for travelers and vacationers all over the world. The following countries are some of the top places for travel in the past year, and some might surprise you!

South Africa

The beauty of South Africa is it’s authenticity. Not only do you have several modern cities to tour and fine cuisine to taste, but you also have the beauty of the natural wildlife, including animals you won’t see any other place in the world. There is a tremendous warmth from the local people and the culture is fascinating.

Argentina

Travelers love Argentina for all sorts of reasons. The sub-tropical climate makes it a wonderful, beautiful place to get away, and the waterfalls are copious and breath taking. On the other hand, Argentina has beautiful snow packed mountains if you like to ski. Buenos Aires is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with amazing night life and a strong beating heart.

Philippines

Visiting the Philippines is a favorite experience by many due to the friendliness of the local people and the beauty of the ocean. The local people are known to invite tourists into their homes and voluntarily give information about the culture. The beach is a very popular destination for surfers and those who love water sports.

Czech Republic

Known for it’s stunning architecture and delicious foods, the Czech Republic is located in the heart of Europe. Several people visit the country by itself, but it’s a favorite for those who want to visit several other European destinations. The country has over 2000 Chateaus, more than any other country in the world per square kilometre!

Tahiti

This may sound like a more common favorite destination, but many say that Tahiti is the most beautiful country in the world. The colors, the beaches, the serenity give it top rating and it’s one of the top ‘wished for’ places to visit in a lifetime.

Zambia

If you’re visiting South Africa, you should definitely take the time to visit Zambia, a beautiful neighbor which is home to one of the seven wonders of the world, Victoria Falls. Filled with peaceful, friendly people, Zambia is a cultural experience many enjoy.

India

Vibrant and culturally overwhelming, India is one of the best places to go to experience fine culture, wonderful cuisine, and absolute beauty. The people of India are extremely friendly and inviting, and their architecture is amazing. Of course, one of the most amazing things to see is a beautiful live tiger in the wild. A proud, vivacious country, India is a traveler’s gem.

Indonesia

Indonesia is a popular place for tourist who visit New Zealand and Australia. It’s comprised of over 60,000 beautiful islands to surf, swim and relax.

Malta

Not many places are more beautiful than a country in the middle of the Mediterranean. With architecture older than the Egyptian pyramids, Malta is a beautiful destination which traveler’s never forget.

Croatia

People don’t think of Croatia as a tourist destination but it’s becoming more and more popular. A small country with huge diversity, Croatia is like Europe and the Mediterranean combined. Great food, great wine, great people- it’s truly a beautiful place to visit.

Although some of the travel destinations above might not seem like typical places to visit for a vacation, each of them are precious places that travelers from all over the world cherish and love. Each should be enjoyed and experienced by anyone who wants to see the world.

Come weekend time, and people start thinking of going to unknown destinations to renew themselves. They look for stag weekend unexplored places, where they can not only get some fun, but also learn something new. People take the advantage of corporate boat hire, as well as an activity trip at stag do Portsmouth.

When people plan for a stag weekend getaways, they have to think of many considerations like accommodation, language, health and transport. There are many good weekend destinations in U.K where people can get to explore themselves. They can plan on their own beforehand, or rest their worries on a travel service firm. It is very important to plan weekend destination in advance, so that children and life partner can also take a break from the routine and enjoy as well.

People choose from among the top weekend destinations, they have shortlisted. Here are some of top weekend destinations of 2013.

1. Bristol

Bristol is a stag weekend destination for those who like to have their short holiday completed in a fun and adventurous way. Bristol is famous for its nightlife and motor friendly roads. It is accessible by major transport networks, which makes it promising. Bristol activities can also include quad biking, the famous West Country games and its clubs. People can also take the advantage of playing in casinos while dining at the restaurants. Bristol though not that much popular for casinos as those in Texas, offers a good deal on casinos in terms of cost efficient and entertaining casino deals.

2. North Wales.

North Wales is a stag destination to be chosen by people who are interested in clubbing. There are lots of clubs with various amenities and entertainment at night time. North Wales is also famous for adventure sports activities like White water rafting, clay pigeon shooting, canoeing and surfing. Accommodation is also available easily without any issues. Wales has good number of beaches to sit with family and enjoy. Corporate boat hire can also considered by people who like to sail and see the sea wild life. Accommodation in North Wales, if booked in advance does not cost much compared to last minute booking and travel plans.

3. Newcastle.

Newcastle is famous for the famous MTV Show and is known as the Party capital. People who love night life during weekends and wish to spend their time losing themselves up should visit Newcastle for sure. This place is home to many bars and clubs along with activity sports like quad biking, swimming, football, hiking and more. The bars and clubs in Newcastle are known for many night life activities for party lovers, who like to hang on till early morning sunrays.

Portsmouth can also be considered by people, who want to explore some new activity and take advantage of stag do Portsmouth benefits. People experienced in sailing in yacht charters can also suggest corporate boat hire benefits to their friends for the weekend trips.

A lot of women travel solo or alone nowadays. One of the dilemmas that they may face is looking for the next destination to travel to. For those who love to travel, the process of looking for the next travel stop could be the one that takes the most time. It may take some time when deciding where to go to next, especially when it seems like the people have been to almost everywhere. There are actually a lot of destinations to go to, both local spots and international ones.

There are a few things to consider when looking for a place to go to when traveling. When women travel solo, you might find it important to look for a place that is women-friendly. You don’t need to, cause I know a lot of women that go anywhere, but they are the more experienced ones. You better not start there. There are places that may not be so open to women traveling by themselves so it would be best to do some background research at first. It pays to have detailed information about the different places that a women may want to go to so that the choices will be narrowed down. It may help to have a list of destinations that would the traveler would like to go to.

Other things that women travel solo should consider would be the budget. There are people who may only have a limited budget, so international destinations could be out of the question already. This would confine the traveler to local destinations (or nearer international places). There is no need to worry as there are bound to be great destinations in every country. Another thing to consider is the length of the stay. There are destinations that may be more conducive only for a couple of days while there are also destinations that require a traveler to stay for a longer period. Women travel solo should do their research work beforehand.

There are those who may want to browse through travel magazines or websites to check what places would strike their fancy. They usually have great suggestions for next destinations and they could even give the travelers an idea as to how much would the whole trip cost. This could then help the travelers to check their funds. They will be able to prepare for the trip when they know more or less how much will they be spending for the entire trip. It is better to be prepared and have a basis as to how much will be spent rather than go to a place and have no money at all.

There’s also the question what culture you would like to see? Read about it and see if it really interests you.

To summarize everything, when women travel alone, here are the things to consider: the budget, the destination, culture and the time. There are destinations that would be great to go to on certain times of the year, especially in time for festivals. It helps to do some research first because it would help a traveler to prepare and to check if the trip would be worth it. Choosing the next destination requires preparation so that everything will be smooth sailing. Itineraries could also be prepared so that everything is set and nothing is missed out.

Jamaica has always been a very popular destination for romantic travel including honeymoons and getaways for couples of all ages looking for a place to sight see and relax. In recent years, Jamaica has been growing in popularity with families and young people looking for a vacation spot that offers a little bit of everything for all to enjoy.

Few people planning their vacation realize Jamaica is one of the largest islands in the Caribbean. It stretches 145 miles from east to west with a range of mountains running almost entirely the length of the island and rising to over 7,400 ft. in the east, at their highest point.

But why has Jamaica remained such a popular destination and why does it continue to attract tourists in increasing numbers? Jamaica has morphed into a tourist-motivated destination, offering many excellent hotels, inns and guests houses. There are several airports, highways and ports from which travelers can gain full access to all of Jamaica’s points of interest. Jamaica offers several all-inclusive resorts, such as Sandals and Couples chains. The most popular destinations in Jamaica, where Sandals and Couples have resorts, are Port Antonio and Ocio Rios in the east and Montego Bay and Negril in the west. These resorts manage to capture the natural beauty and wonder of the island while at the same time being some of the most luxurious accommodations on the island.

The independent hotels are equally spectacular, from old colonial classics, modern hideaways and grand villas. The local residents with their vibrant culture add even more flavor to the already rich experience that is Jamaica. The more the vacationing sector develops, the more Jamaica is becoming an economy built on tourism. And that means that the Jamaican people want tourists to come and enjoy themselves. Jamaica is also the largest English-speaking country in the Caribbean.

American Express Travel [http://content.onlineagency.com/c/5/5200/862091_5200.htm] says the island’s laid-back pace of life adds to the feeling of relaxation, which is key for most vacationers. Jamaica is also designated as the most beautiful island in the Caribbean, offering eye candy for all those who visit. The island’s beaches full of secluded coves that many vacationers find very interesting to explore.

The vegetation is a mixture of luxuriant tropical forest and lush coffee plantations, offering visitors a chance to see the production of one of the most universally consumed beverages in the world. Jamaica is lush with every aspect of a tropical paradise, including the weather. Jamaica has over 300 days of sunshine throughout the year, even during the wet seasons. Daytime temperatures are fairly constant year-round and lower in mountain areas. Heat and humidity can be felt during all times of the year and the warmest months are from July to October, especially on the coast. The region is prone to hurricanes from July to October. Although a direct hit on Jamaica is rare, if you are unfortunate enough to be there when a hurricane passes within a few hundred miles, there can be a lot of rain.

Jamaica vacations are moderately priced. You can find price extremes in both directions when it comes to travel and accommodations, although most airfare will run pretty high. Prices are usually higher in tourist areas like Negril and Ocho Rios. Shops in “tourist traps” usually have higher prices than native shops and you’ll usually see the same items at both locations. There are accommodations and restaurants that are cheap, but you’ll get what you pay for. The luxury resorts are a very good value because the rates are reasonable for the high-end accommodations you receive.

With more than half of the area covered by jungles, Peru is the best place to visit for nature lovers. The Peruvian Amazon acts as the important attraction for tourists to select this place for their vacation. To visit the Peruvian Amazon, there are two main entries one in the Northern side called as Iquitos, while the other is located in the Southern side called as Puerto Maldonado. Nature lovers can get a soul-touching experience in this part of the world since it is blessed with lush forests, bright flowers and matured trees.

Once people reach Iquitos, they can get to the deep forests of the Amazon by traveling on cruise ships along the tributaries of the Amazon River. When bigger luxurious cruises are selected, people can explore the beauty of the rainforest, while enjoying the other facilities offered by companies organizing Peru Amazon Trips. There are also cruise ships meant for budget tourists. The route taken by different tour organizers differ; however, all of them include navigation through large lakes along the Amazon. If you are intending to enjoy the flora and fauna of the rainforests, day-trips along with an experienced guide would be ideal.

If you do not wish to stay in cruise ships just because cold weather will not be suitable for your health, you can select to stay in lodges located in Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. However, luxury cruises will be offering you with all sorts of facilities to protect yourself from extreme cold. When enjoying their Peru Amazon Trips, tourists are generally advised not to miss the opportunity coming in their way to visit the two most extraordinary national parks located near Puerto Maldonado. The parks are named as Tambopata National Reserve and Manu National Park and they are blessed with wildlife wonders. This region also enjoys the credit of having the largest number of species in the world.

When you land at Puerto Maldonado, you can take a boat ride for enjoying the beauty of the jungle. If you are interested in exploring deep forests, there are forests with different levels of depth that are located just at a distance of about two to five hours travel from Puerto Maldonado. Nature lovers say that many parts of the forests in Amazon are still unexplored and it is also believed that some unidentified species are also living in these forests. To make your trip more enjoyable and memorable, all you have to do is to find the best tour organizer.

Maldives is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s a small tropical country composed of hundreds of heart captivating islands which is 250 miles away from the Southwest India. It brags about the famous heart-shaped island providing luxury, romance and relaxation for couple guests.

June is the most popular month for wedding ceremonies, followed by August, September and October. If you are one of the June brides and grooms who are still unsure if Maldives is the right place for your honeymoon, here are more good reasons why it is a perfect premium honeymoon destination for couples who want to experience the magic of a secluded tropical island.

Best Resorts With Numerous Options

Maldives offers numerous hotel options for guests. Honeymooners are guaranteed to have a luxurious stay featuring all-water accommodation, plenty of rooms designed for couples and adults, best spa with medical assistance, access to lagoons, deluxe swimming pool choices, beautiful corals, villas, conserved marine life, underwater restaurants and many more.

Plenty Of Activities To Do

Your stay in this premium honeymoon destination will become more enjoyable as there are plenty of things to do. Honeymooners can explore and try various activities such as taking photos of stunning sceneries, scuba diving, surfing, snorkeling, swimming at the turquoise lagoon and pools, get a relaxing massage at the spa, go fishing day or night, join water sports and get a closer encounter with whales. There can be no better idea than visiting the place to explore its hidden beauty.

Island Hopping

Island hopping is the best way to discover the highlights of Maldives’s islands. Honeymooners can choose to travel from one island to the other to check out lavish resorts, beautiful beaches and many other features that the island has to offer. Couples can also try exploring the forests, get involved with various water-based activities or simply walk and enjoy the fine white sands.

Good Customer Service

Maldives does not only offer wonderful scenery and experience. Further, this premium honeymoon destination has friendly and service oriented staff ready to assist the guests with their needs.

Delicious Foods

In addition to the country’s best resorts, beaches and interesting activities, Maldives atolls also take pride its Maldivian cuisine featuring the Sri Lanka, Indian, Oriental and Arabic tastes mixed together to come up with a unique and delicious cuisine.

Crystal Clear Water

The country is a paradise of crystal clear water rich with amazing sea creatures and reefs. The water is perfect for snorkeling and diving from its 2 to 12 feet water depth. There are over 1,000 coral islands and 2000 species of fish waiting to be discovered.

For couples who want to relax and enjoy each other after the hectic wedding, Maldives is the perfect choice. With its first-class hotels, excellent service, delicious cuisines and crystal clear water, you definitely can’t go wrong here.

Altura is a purpose-built beach resort on the east coast of Portugal’s Algarve near to the Roman town of Tavira and the busy resort of Monte Gordo. The eastern side of the Algarve is less developed and unspoilt than the other parts, making it an ideal destination for families looking for a relaxing holiday in Portugal. The coastline of Altura falls within the 37 mile coastline of the Parque natural da Ria Formosa which is protected from over-development. This lagoon area is a haven for numerous species of birds that make it home, a place to shelter in the winter or as a migration stopover. Most of the accommodation in Altura, including hotels, villas, apartments and seafront properties, is within walking distance of the beautiful sandy beach.

The eastern coastline of the Algarve has some beautiful sandy beaches lapped by clear warm waters, with no less than five Blue Flag beaches between Tavira and Monte Gordo. Altura has a long, wide beach with clean sands, a beach bar and restaurant, various water sports on offer and ample parking facilities. The nearby Praia Verde and Manta Rota beaches stretch out for miles and are very popular for their beautiful clean sands and tranquillity.

Altura has some beautiful inland countryside which is great for the family to explore by foot, bicycle or car on their holiday packages to the resort. Make a trip to the countryside a day excursion and visit the traditional market town of Tavira with its Roman bridge, city walls, fine churches, elegant townhouses and mansions, excellent fish restaurants, fishing harbour and interesting indoor market. Tavira on either side of the River Gilao and is linked by two bridges. Take a trip to Faro with its cobbled streets and squares in the Old Town which are lined with restaurants and cafes and the 13th century Se Cathedral which offers great views over the town. Altura is ideally placed for the family to enjoy a daytrip to Seville as it is just an hour and a half drive from the Spanish border.

The resort is popular with golfing enthusiasts as it has some excellent golf courses all within a 15 minute drive. There are top quality courses, with pro shops, hire facilities and restaurants, designed by Sevy Ballesteros, Sir Henry Cotton, Jack Nicklaus and Rocky Roquemore all offer a variety of challenges. The courses offer some amazing views, with Castro Marim overlooking the River Guadiana and views across to Spain and Quinta da Ria set in a beautiful nature reserve.

The relaxed atmosphere in Altura means that evenings are spent enjoying a quiet meal at one of the resorts top quality restaurants or at the bars which provide some entertainment. However if you are looking for more lively evening entertainment on your late deals to Portugal you will need to take the 10 minute trip to Monte Gordo on the eastern coast of the Algarve. Monte Gordo offers more lively entertainment than Altura including a casino if you want to gamble the night away.

Altura enjoys a Mediterranean climate with gentle sea breezes that makes the temperature feel cooler than it is and helps to moderate the humidity. Temperatures average around 28C in the summer with 12 hours of sunshine a day. The sea here is the warmest in the Algarve reaching around 24C during the summer season.

Are you planning a destination wedding? Do you want to celebrate your big day with natural beauties? If yes, you are in the right place. In this article, we will cover some incredible locations. You can consider them to host your wedding day. You might need more precautions and better planning when the whole world is going through a pandemic. You can consider international travel insurance to get the best travel coverage for your big day. You can think of wedding travel insurance with covid cover to deal with an emergency. You would certainly like to feel safe while enjoying your big day with your close family members. Let’s cover the most popular wedding destinations. In the end, we will also discuss how to make your wedding safe during this ongoing pandemic.

Best Wedding Destinations

Maldives

You might have observed that celebrities are moving to the Maldives to spend their vacations and stay safe during the pandemic. The Maldives is worth considering when it comes to a destination wedding. You will appreciate Maldives beautiful natural setting. You can consider the Kagi Maldives Spa Island for your wedding. It has everything to create some lifetime memories.

Pre-wedding pampering, spa, and excellent accommodation make it a preferred choice for many. The Maldives is the right wedding destination for culture-vultures, adrenalin-junkies, and beach lovers. You can explore the ancient city and enjoy your biking. There is something for all types of travelers. Also, the climate is good year-round.

Cyprus

Another popular wedding destination is Cyprus. You will love the culture, city, and food. It can be great if you want to invite guests of all age groups. Everyone will have something to explore. If you are looking for the best wedding venue, you can think of Anassa. The five-star retreat can entertain all your guests. The accommodation is well appreciating and second to none. As it is made from natural materials, you will have a serene feeling. You will find many wedding venues in Cyprus. You can consider Anassa, Amara, or Four Seasons. You can choose the one that fits your budget.

Thailand

If you want to celebrate your wedding on sensational beaches, you can think of Thailand. It has everything to make your wedding memorable for all your guests. The foods are great and can satisfy all types of travelers. When it comes to wedding venues, you can consider Phuket. It has many luxurious and romantic hotels. With a flexible budget, you can choose Sri Panwa. It is appreciated for its wrap-around sea views, private pools, and stunning villas. You can also consider Trisara, Paresa, Amanpuri, and Keemala Hotel.

Italy

Many prefer Italy wedding. They love the spectacular wine and food. If food and wine are your priority, you can choose this destination for your wedding. In addition to the food and wine, you can explore spectacular scenery. For the venue, you can consider Villa Cimbrone, Villa Eva, and Hotel Palazzo Murat.

Greece

Greece is known for its marvelous sea views and unparalleled beauty. You will love the black-sanded beaches and white-washed houses. You can book Grace Hotel Santorini and EI Viento Windmill Villa. Le Ciel is worth considering as well.

How to Ensure the Peace of Mind

We plan a lot for our big day. We choose the best wedding destination and focus on food, entertainment, and many other things to create some sweet memories. Have you ever thought of international travel insurance? If not yet, you will have to plan now. You cannot ignore it when the world is going through a health crisis. Choose wedding travel insurance that covers covid. It is a must to feel safe and deal with an unpredictable situation. Here are two insurance plans for your help.

Wedding Travel Insurance

The insurance will cover your wedding attire, wedding photography, wedding band, and wedding gifts. On top of that, it will cover any accidental loss. Whenever you want, you can cancel the event.

These days many couples purchase international travel insurance that allows moving their plans in the pandemic world and can help them with more coverage benefits. It will cover medical conditions as well. It will also help to customize your travel insurance depending on your travel needs. There are different types of insurance policies to create a solution for different types of travelers. You can choose any of these insurance policies to cover your traveling and enjoy your big day without any worries.

The Orphan Mater’s Son by Adam Johnson takes an amazing look at North Korea, its people and its leaders. While in the opening Johnson states that all people and situations are fictional he also says that the story is based on many interviews and extensive research. So while I am in a bit of quandary about the true intent and meaning of this book, I can tell you that it is interesting, provocative, and well worth the time required to read it. It is long with much detail, there are many names to keep track of, but above all the book comes from many perspectives including that of the narrator who also takes on a variety of personas. The three of these combine to force the reader to read, ponder, step away, and then return with a fresh outlook and open mind.

Johnson masterfully weaves his tale so that even when I felt lost, I also felt “found” as I wound through the intricacies of the story. If even a few facts about life in North Korea are true, it must be extremely difficult (worded very gently) to live under such oppression. The characters are believable and even the tough ones draw out some traces of sympathy. Their understanding of the outside world clarifies, at least in part, why and how they exist within the confines of their country. We take so much for granted in our nation that it is hard to imagine the struggles others face.

There are many tremendous statements in the book but one that really hit my mind is, “Is a destination worth reaching if you can’t recall the journey?” These words match the life of almost every character in the book as each seeks survival and a sense of safety for him/herself and for his/her children. In a regime where existing is a treacherous trial, I wonder if there is even time or energy to consider the journey when the destination is cloudy, murky, and confusing and requires every ounce of strength and focus to keep it clear and seemingly within reach. And it is most likely not within the each of the vast majority of people.

I believe that many people live within this “just get to the end” mindset, ignoring the intriguing and exciting events of the day while they long for the weekend or for vacation or for a new job or for retirement. They are so intently engaged in the possibilities of the future and the dreams and hopes it might possess that they forget to enjoy the moment. In the case of the characters in the book, I think that the mirage-like destination is what provides drive and determination. Glancing side to side might draw up too many horrors and dangers so eyes faced forward might be the best plan of action. But in the world in which most of us live, the side trips and side glances are often the most glorious. The characters and events along the path to our destination offer us the thrills and chills of adventure. This juxtaposition of life surroundings and experiences between the book’s characters and the reader is just one more mind-probing idea the author generates.

The Orphan Master’s Son is an excellent read. I have learned much and my brain has tingled and I have excitedly research to know and understand more. I recommend it to readers who are curious and ready to delve into mysterious waters. It is not for just anyone, though. It is painful in many places and a start-to-finish reading would be excruciating. Stepping away from time to time to regroup allows the reader to plunge on.

The tourism industry of Greece has become one of the key elements of economic activity within the country. As a leading tourist destination of Europe, Greece attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. Its rich history and ancient culture becomes the major captivating feature for the tourists. Additionally, the beautiful islands, mind-blowing historical sites, lengthy coastline and sparkling beaches are also a backbone to the growth of tourism in Greece.

Greece tourism – a historical overview

Tracing its roots late in ancient times, tourism in Greece has undergone tremendous changes over the years. Prior to the rise of Roman dominance over Western Mediterranean, the Greeks of Magna Graeca exchanged their culture with the Roman Republic. However, with the annexation of Greece by Roman emperors, this cultural exchange gained momentum. The modern-day Greece tourism began to flourish between 1960 and 1970 when various construction projects on a large-scale were taking place.

What to do in Greece?

Apart from numerous historical sites, Greece also offers a vast array of activities to make your holidays full of adventures. Here are some of the most famous activities that you should not miss while holidaying in Greece –

• Bird watching in the wetlands: Macedonia, a wetland in Northern Greece is a prime territory for bird-watching. You can discover over 300 migratory and resident species of birds at the Lake Kerkini, situated on the river of Strymonas. The best time to observe species like spoonbills, pelicans, ducks, herons, storks, bitterns, grebes and eagles at Kerkini is between April and July.
• Sea Kayaking at Ithaca and Kefalonia: Having a coastline spread across 15,000 km, Greece houses a variety of water sports to make your holidays enjoyable. Sea Kayaking is one of them. While you are on a hoping tour at Ithaca and Kefalonia, you should not miss out to do sea kayaking in the cool ocean. While kayaking, you will witness breath-taking sceneries and impressive cliffs of limestone.
• Sailing at Aegina: Sailing in the deep waters of Greece is yet another thrilling experience for you. It brings you directly in contact with the sun, wind and sea. Although it is a challenging sport, you can expect good rewards when you learn how to sail. The Aegina Island offers ideal location to learn sailing. Moreover, you can also enjoy adventurous sports like snorkelling and swimming.
• Mountain adventures in Thessaly: Located below the rugged Mount Olympus, Thessaly region specialises in providing a fun-filled experience of adventure sports and outdoor activities to you. You can try out variety of sports such as mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, sea kayaking and canoeing in this region.
• Wind surfing at Paros: Paros is house to the New Golden beach that hosts the professional World Cup of Windsurfing Association. The exposition of stable meltemi winds all through the summers makes it an ideal place for surfing. However, if you are a learner, you can prefer a time when the wind is comparatively less strong.

Legend has it that the entrance to the Underworld lies in a remote corner of Greece. Well, I’ve been there and I can say it ain’t so.

Allegedly, Orpheus and Hercules entered a cave on the Peloponnese peninsula and descended into Hades.

However, my search brought me closer to a piece of Heaven rather than the gates of Hell. For an hour or so I trekked over a hillside of wild flowers and buzzing insects. All I discovered was a cove lapped by azure water and the mosaics of a Roman settlement.

I decided to leave Hell for another day. It was good enough just to be in the Mani, where ancient myth, wild feuds and daydreaming escapism all come together.

The Mani? Check the map of Greece. On the southern coast of the Peloponnese peninsula you will see three fingers of land jutting into the Mediterranean. The middle finger is this wild, rocky region of fortress houses, phantom villages and secluded inlets.

When you’ve done the most famous historic sites of the Peloponnese – Epidaurus, Mycenae, and the rest – it’s worth journeying south to experience another world sufficiently off the track to avoid succumbing to mass tourism.

One, delightful, way to reach the area is via Yithio, once the port for the Sparta city-state. Paris of Troy after abducting Helen allegedly spent his first night with her on an island in the bay.

Driving west, you find the lofty, fortified houses of Areopolis, one of the region’s bigger settlements. These tall stone towers, often with only slits for windows, are reminders that until a hundred or so years ago blood feuds were commonplace here.

Fierce confrontations between rival clans led to the construction of hundreds of these amazing structures, fitted with special platforms for hurling down boiling oil or water.

Only aristocrats were allowed to build towers. Whenever there was a serious conflict, they retreated inside. The women were allowed out to work the fields. At times an amnesty might be declared, so the women could bring in the harvest.

An army of 400 regular soldiers was needed to suppress the last big vendetta. The good news is that today boiling oil is out. And the towers are being converted into tourist accommodation.

Entrenched amid gorges and olive groves, the poverty-stricken Maniots long had a reputation for rebelliousness and piracy. Have no fear, however, for these days the locals are renowned for their hospitality.

Many visitors get no further than the spectacular Pyrghos Dhirou caves, located by the sea. Flat-bottomed boats take you over a subterranean lake past bizarre rock formations.

Only ghosts seems to inhabit many villages but Yerolimenas, bounded by a high cliff, has a harbour, a post office and accommodation. Sip an ouzo at one of the waterside cafes and think about lunch.

Dramatic mountain and seascapes open up as you head further south. Running along a ridge is one of the most spectacular of the fortress settlements, Vathia’s skyline of towers resemble a mini-Manhattan.

But tread the labyrinthine alleyways and all you will find is one café, and maybe a stray cat.

Located to the southeast of Tokyo, Kamakura is on the itinerary of almost all tourists. Once upon a time it was the political capital of the country. Later its glory as a capital was lost to another city, but it remains a favorite tourist destination.

Kamakura has numerous attractions which bring tourists to this small city in great numbers, usually as a day-trip from Tokyo. Located in an open, picturesque location, is the second tallest bronze Buddha statue in Japan. It is 13.35 meters high and is second to the one in Nara’s Todaiji temple. The temple for the goddess of mercy, Kannon, sits in Hasendera. The 9.18 meters tall goddess has eleven heads representing its various characteristics. Adjacent to the temple is the Amida-do Hall, which houses a three-meter tall golden Buddha. From there you can visit the observation deck that offers a splendid view of the city, and back at the base of the slope lies a lovely garden with a temple – Benten-do – dedicated to the goddess of feminine beauty and wealth.

Kamkura’s most prized shrine is the Tsurugaoka. It is dedicated to Hachiman, the Samurai god. The main hall has a museum which displays swords, masks and documents – true treasures of the shrine. Out of the five Zen temples of Kamakura, Engakuji temple is most famous. The temple grounds include Shariden, a well designed hall where rests a tooth of Buddha. Engakunji lights up colorfully during autumn.

The beaches of Kamakura come alive with people in the summer months, while millions of people gather in the historic city to witness the New Year celebrations. In the spring, it is a custom for the Japanese to visit the Zeniarai Benten shrine to wash money. It is believed that by doing so the money doubles – worth a shot.

Destination tips serve as a guide for a luxury vacation. Always remember the reason as to why you want to travel. Remember that travelling is always a good idea. It helps you see the world in a new and different perspective. You get a glimpse of their must try and to die for cuisines and the different tourist destinations.

Remember these travel destination tips when planning a trip.

Be open-minded. Try to learn about the place that you want to go to. With Internet access, it is very possible to get a grasp of what to expect from that place.

Be creative and consider underdogs: Try to pick locations that aren’t very familiar with tourists and be a little creative when visiting their tourist spots.

Be decisive: Don’t let peer pressure get to you. If your friends tell you that they’re going to visit the Eiffel tower and you’ve plan to visit the Maldives go for your first choice. Never regret so you don’t miss out on what you could experience in a certain place.

Ask yourself why: Remember to ask yourself the reason why you want to go there. Is it because you want to do some soul searching? Are you trying to reconnect with an old flame? Whatever maybe your purpose you always have to be definite because this will help you choose the perfect places to travel to.

Remember to remember: When travelling to a different place don’t forget to research about their culture and traditions. Furthermore, keep your valuables handy. Don’t let them out of your sight when travelling so better make sure that all of your must haves are in your travel pack.

Safe choices aren’t bad choices: If you want to travel but are having second thoughts about your safety and the location of your chosen place. Don’t worry and stop bugging yourself. If you feel like going to a different location is a perfect fit for you then try to choose the location where your heart is set in.

Go solo: You may wish to travel in groups but sometimes you must not be afraid to go alone. Going alone doesn’t mean you’re desperate or lonely. It will help you discover your abilities to be independent. You get to explore more places on your own without the hassle of worrying about your companions.

Don’t miss out on the backyard: Different places have different must try locations. They might offer pretty souvenirs or trinkets, their delicacies, and everything else in between. These little backyards will help you learn more about the place you are in.

Budget options: It doesn’t necessarily mean that when budget is tight you would not be able to enjoy different places and attractions. Try to choose the places where you spend less but enjoy a lot more. There are a lot of destinations right now that are not too expensive but have a wide array of travel and tour packages.

These travel destination tips are only guidelines for you to follow to have a stress free travel.

One of the biggest decisions newlyweds have to make is where to go on their honeymoon, and how much money to spend on it. You should be able to enjoy your search. Don’t let it stress you out. Sure, there are many destinations and tons of hotels and resorts to choose from, you can easily narrow down your search. Here are some guidelines for choosing honeymoon vacations.

• As with any vacation, you should always begin with the budget. Have an idea of how much money you can afford to spend on your trip. For how many days will the trip be? Set a total budget as well as a daily budget. In addition to suite accommodation and airfare, consider the price for food, drinks, and entertainment as well.

• Consider your destination. Exotic beach vacations are very popular these days, in places like the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Maldives, Fiji, etc. However, there are still plenty of romantic cities in Europe to consider. You don’t even have to leave the US. Maybe you can do the Vegas thing or head to Hawaii. What about a bungalow rental in Key West? Or an exciting week in NYC? Make a list of the places you and your fiancé want to go and compare prices.

• If you have trouble settling on a specific destination, at least come up with a theme. Is the exotic beach thing for you? Or an exciting city getaway? What about adventure? Romantic mountain honeymoons are always a good idea.

• Honeymoon vacations don’t always have to be in one spot. You could always go on a cruise. Azamara Club, Princess, Norwegian, and Celebrity cruises all offer great honeymoon packages. Today’s cruise ships have spas, butlers, luxury suites, and more. You can opt to stay on the ocean for most of the time or choose an itinerary with exciting port cities.

• The season and weather might be something to think about. You don’t want to end up feeling uncomfortable in a hot, humid environment, OR an icy cold environment. Even if you do plan on spending most of your time indoors, extreme weather could cause disruptions in your travel plans. It might not be the best idea to go on a Caribbean cruise during hurricane season, for instance.

• Finally, make a list of all of the amenities the two of you want. What can you do without? What do you absolutely must have? When comparing honeymoon vacations, look for ones that offer all of the amenities you need.

Final Words

Online websites are the go-to resource for honeymooners everywhere. It’s the leading travel site in the world, and it’s where you will undoubtedly find the best deals on honeymoon vacations. You can research all of the destinations you’re interested in and compare rates and amenities.

Worried about having to leave teenagers at the family hotel in Rome while you enjoy the rest of the sights? You don’t have to! The Italian capital has something for everyone- from the oldest member of the clan right down to the youngest.

While it may sometimes seem like a very “grown-up” destination, with the ancient buildings, even older artefacts, sombre museums and creaky cathedrals, Rome has plenty to surprise. There’s so much to enjoy, from the minute you step out the door of your family hotel in Rome. Here are a few of the things each member of the family can look forward to on a Roman holiday.

For the History Buff

History is the one thing you can be quite sure of getting from the moment you arrive in the Italian capital – practically every square foot is dripping with history. Of course, no history buff worth his or her title will want to miss seeing the Coliseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine. They are all close to each other and can give at least half a day’s immersion into the ancient past.

The Art Maven

Your history buff child won’t be the only one having fun, because the history goes hand in hand with art at many places – including St. Peter’s Basilica where the two collide. The Vatican museums nearby will also provide hours and hours of entertainment – although you’ll want to make arrangements in advance if you don’t want to spend hours waiting in line.

The streets themselves are also filled with art and history, particularly in the historical centres such as Piazza Navona. It is home to yet more superb Bernini sculptures, which sit on an ancient racetrack, as well as Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza di Spagna with the awesome Spanish Steps.

The Shopaholic

Those who find Bulgari more awe-inspiring than Bernini don’t need to fear boredom- it is the capital of Italy, after all! For the fashionista of the family, there’s no need to stay behind at the family hotel in Rome flipping through the fashion channels while the geeks ooh and ahh over ancient history. There’s plenty to gape at (and spend on) for the fashion forward very near the Spanish Steps, and the biggest names in Italian fashion, including Fendi, Valentino, Bulgari, Prada, Armani, Versace, Ferragamo, Cavalli, Gucci, and many others are just a stone’s throw away from the historic squares. Mark the Via Condotti, Via Borgognona, Via Frattina, Via Sistina, and Via Bocca de Leone on those map apps and get out and shop ’til you drop.

Food Glorious Food

Even if your family has the most diverse tastes in food, everyone is catered for in the Italian capital! Dine in any of the wonderful restaurants that serve home-style meals around your family hotel in Rome, or treat the entire family to a fine dining experience in one of the many upmarket establishments.

There are many gorgeous spots across the world that make for wonderful spa breaks, yet Palm Springs in California remains one of the most popular ones, especially for those living in the United States. Here are four great reasons why this hot spot might make for the perfect relaxing getaway for you too.

Firstly, one of the main reasons why this particular part of the country is popular with those looking to unwind on a spa break is that Palm Springs really does offer some of the best scenery and weather in the State of California. Its desert location features scorching temperatures, perfect for those who are looking to enjoy a little bit of sunshine on their break.

The area also offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life; as a popular resort town, much here is geared to those on spa vacations, making it a truly relaxed and relaxing place to be. Furthermore, with majestic mountains, glimmering pools, lofty palm trees and expansive green spaces, this particular location is truly like a beautiful desert oasis.

The second reason why you should consider booking spa packages in Palm Springs is that there is plenty of choice here for all budgets. Vacationing in this destination is popular with the rich and famous, but these are certainly not the only people who can afford to travel here.

There are full service resorts, midsize resorts and boutique hotels, not to mention condos and villas for rent for those who want a little more freedom during their break. This means that people can enjoy the spa experience in their hotel, or even hire luxury spa services on location at their vacation rental.

With such variety, it is sure that there is something to fit everyone’s budget. There are also many airlines – both domestic and international – offering inexpensive flights to this area, including from areas such as Seattle, San Francisco and Minneapolis. This helps make this sunny destination both easy to get to and affordable.

The third reason why it is worth booking spa packages in Palm Springs is that it is world-renowned for being an excellent destination for those looking for quality spa treatments. As mentioned above, one of the main attractions of this part of the country is the area’s resort nature, meaning that there is plenty here tailored to visitors.

Due to this, there are many different treatment packages available, ranging from full body massages and hot stone massages to speciality facials and beauty treatments. There are also numerous beauty and hair salons in the city, meaning that this is the perfect place to get a full makeover and reveal a new look.

Fourthly, a fantastic reason to visit this particular California location is that it has plenty to offer apart from its fantastic range of luxurious hotels and spa treatment options. Palm Springs has a fascinating history, and a number of its neighbourhoods have cultural and historical significance.

Although the city has rightfully earned its reputation as a luxury resort town there is plenty more to see and do here if visitors so wish. Some of the fascinating and exciting events that take place here each year include a Festival of Native Film and Culture, the Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival, the Palm Springs International Film Festival and the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade.

As you can see, there are many reasons why booking hotels and spa packages in Palm Springs could be a wonderful idea for you. Not only is the climate warm and the scenery stunning, but there is also a huge range of accommodation and luxury spa treatment options. Furthermore, the city itself boasts a range of cultural attractions, ensuring that you will never get bored.

Negril Vacation

Negril is one of the most popular destinations in the island of Jamaica. It is a destination filled with amazing romantic resorts, great excitement, fulfilling activities and lovely natural adventures. Visitors will love the different waterfalls, great beaches, wonderful water sports activities and excellent land sports activities as well. Also, the destination offers lovely Jamaican music both live and recorded at many resorts and hotels at the destination. The Jamaican foods on offer are always delightful to visitors. You will love the famous Jamaican jerk chicken or fish and the amazing curry goat soup which are always on offer. The destination offers lots of top resorts and hotels. Visitors looking for a family resort in Negril they can look at Club Hotel Riu Negril, Beaches Sandy Bay and Beaches Negril Resort and Spa. Vacationers looking for an all-inclusive Negril vacation offer they can look at Sandals Negril Beach Resort and Spa, Couple Negril and Couples Swept Away Negril. Two of the top Negril romantic or an adult only vacation resorts are Breezes Grand Resort and Spa and the Hedonism Two Negril.

Runaway Bay Vacation

Runaway Bay is another lovely Jamaican destination. It is a lovely tropical vacation spot. The destination has some of the top golf courses on the island. One of the lovely thing about Runaway Bay is closeness to some of the major attraction in Jamaica. These include the Green Grotto Cave, Dunn’s River Falls, Chukka Adventure Tours and Dolphins Cove. The various activities offered at the attractions are excellent activities for visitors who lovely to enjoy nature. Three of the well-known family resorts in Runaway Bay are Royal Decameron Club Caribbean, Gran Bahia Principe Jamaica and Frankly D. Resort and Spa. A lovely all-inclusive resort at the destination is Breezes Resort, Spa and Golf Club. Club Ambiance, N Resort and Breezes Resort, Spa and Golf Club are excellent adult only or romantic resort to visit in Runaway Bay.

Montego Bay Vacation

The Jamaica destination of Montego Bay is another famous Jamaican vacation destination. Montego is home of some of the top hotels and resorts on the island. It is a place that offers lovely beaches, wonderful water sports attractions, world-class golf courses and beautiful tropical attractions. Two of the top beaches in Montego Bay are Doctor’s Cavern Beach and Cornwall Beach. These beaches are ideal for water sporting activities. There is also the Rose Hall Great House in Montego which has a lot of historical significant to the history of the destination. Other notable attractions are the Rocklands Feeding Station, Rocklands which is home to may rare species of the birds including the Doctor Bird Jamaica national bird, and the Ipswich Caves. Some of the destination top family destinations are Riu Montego Bay, Iberostar Rose Hall Beach, Sunset Beach Resort, Spa and Waterpark, and the Ritz-Carlton Golf and Spa Resort Rose Hall. The Sandals Carlyle Inn, Secrets Wild Orchid and the Coyaba Beach Resort and Club are some of the top all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay. Other top adult only or romantic resorts are Sandals Montego Bay, Secrets St. James, and Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall.

Following the horrendous events on Boxing Day 2005 The Maldives has refused to let the vast power of the Tsunami beat it and has returned to its former glory. Despite 99% of the Maldives being covered by water and the islands themselves a mere 6 feet above sea level the Maldives remains a stunning destination that everyone should visit at least once in there lives.

The Maldives has been one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Indian Ocean for many years and understandably so. The introduction of cheap flights from a variety of UK airports and the abundance of good quality and affordable accommodation has opened up this collection of some 1000 coral island to those of us that want to see the world. Many of these island are accessible from Male by speed boat, as familiar in the Maldives as cars are in the western world. Journeys can vary from 20 minutes to 2 hours although for the longer durations and those of us who don’t possess sea legs its just as easy to take a sea plane to our chosen island. The draw of relaxing on beautiful safe beaches under year round warm sunshine and wading out in crystal clear blue sea to view shells of tropical fish has proved to much for many of us to resist.

Around 100 of these coral islands are for visitors with usually just one hotel on each island. Some have become quite sophisticated with mod cons such as air conditioning, swimming pools and luxury spa’s, a choice of restaurants and entertainment where as others have retained the typical “no news no shoes” flavour of the Maldives with thatched roofs, open air bathrooms, unheated water and few facilities. The ingenious introduction of building small bungalows on stilts out in the sea an yet attached by decking to the mainland has proved to be a winner and a far cry from my suburban home, stepping on to the sundeck of our private bungalow down 5 or 6 wooden steps into waist high warm water was something to behold.

Surrounded by crystal clear water it’s not surprising that these idyllic coral islands rank amongst the best diving destinations in the world. This is a destination to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and partake in some of the numerous activities at your leisure.

The rare beauty of the magnificent underwater world has made these islands one of the most enchanting diving destinations in the world. There are many dive sites catering for all levels of diver providing the opportunity to explore nature beneath the sea and if diving’s not for you there is some superb reef’s idea for snorkelling where visibility sometimes exceeds 50 meters. Swimming and snorkelling are at their best when the water is at it’s calmest usually in December through to April when the rainfall is at it lowest. The rainfall is at its highest during the south-west monsoon, normally May through to November. The temperature though remains around 30 degrees centigrade all year round.

Having just returned from a relaxing week lying in the sun and mixing with my fellow holiday maker I was staggered to realise just how many people thought they’d just go for a walk around the local town or would eat in a variety of local restaurants. This just isn’t that type of place, to enjoy this unspoilt natural environment as it is means there is no nipping off to the local off licence for a bottle of rum or saving your pennies and going to a local café for lunch. Due to necessity almost everything has to be imported to these tiny islands and many extras can be expensive but its possible to pre pay for most things in the UK and I assure you, a small price to pay to swim in the warm blue waters amongst tropical fish and to experience the unspoilt beauty that makes the Maldives a destination that everyone should visit.

When you are the kind of person that is in deep into the tattoo and piercing world, you don’t sweat being able to find a parlor that gets you some really satisfying body art. It’s kind of nice to have that kind of “in” when inspiration hits. For others, though, especially if it is their first foray into body art, knowing where to get a great tattoo or expert piercing can be incredibly difficult.

Now, there are probably some of you out there who might find the notion of having a hard time getting a tattoo or a piercing kind of silly. After all, there once was a time when you could get a pretty snazzy bit of ink at a carnival all while your kids ate cotton candy & played games. Times have changed, and with these changes comes new standards in health & safety.

There is also a much greater fascination and acceptance of body art than there used to be. Now, it’s not uncommon to see soccer moms sporting a little bit of ink or a cute little nose ring. You might even spot a little bit of ink just poking out of the rolled-up sleeve of your geography teacher. There was a time when body art was for the outliers of society, but that just isn’t the case. This, of course, creates a golden opportunity for artists looking to make some serious financial gains by providing a welcome service.

We go back, again, to the possible first-timer looking to get a tattoo or a piercing. If he or she is to find a reputable parlor or artist, where should they start?

Here are a few secrets to finding the best tattoo and piercing destination:

Check Online – As is the case for anything you are curious about these days, the first place you want to check for reputable parlors is online. Check parlor websites, online business reviews, and even check public health records to see how a place stacks up.

Ask People About Their Body Art – If you rock a “tat” or a piercing, nothing is cooler than when someone asks you where you got your sick ink from. Ask friends, family, and co-workers where they’d recommend you go.

Have A Design or Piercing In Mind – By knowing what you want ahead of time, you can determine whether a parlor/artist can deliver what you want. If you’re not happy with the process by which they go by, then they may not be the place to go.

Visit Parlors/Shops and Check Them Out – Just because you go in doesn’t mean you have to “buy” something. Check out the shop, look at any photos they have of past clients, ask questions, and get a feel for the place.

“Interview” Artists – If you have the chance, talk to some artists & see if you click with them. Find out about their background, the process of their work, and even the supplies they use. If an artist isn’t willing to “talk shop” with you, go someplace else.

Finding the best tattoo and piercing destination for your first, or hundredth, bit of body art shouldn’t be a stressful time. You should relish in the idea that you’re doing something that’s got a little edge, a lot of coolness, and definitely makes you unique.

Why is Destin a preferred vacation getaway?

Destin, a city named after Captain Leonard Destin who was a settler in the Northwest Florida and was a pioneer in the fishing industry, is today regarded as the luckiest fishing village of the world. Destin is a relaxation getaway located along the region most commonly referred to as the Emerald Coast. Known for its brimming sunshine, the white sands, plenty of stunning waters and the splendor of its sugar-white sandy and long beaches, Destin is the exciting vacation and excursion destination which is surely miles beyond the ordinary.

One of the perfect ways to capture Destin’s essence is by taking an excursion on a deep sea fishing expedition or charter boat tours where you would see fishing resorts that are world class. Destin is a city with premier vacation status, fantastic shopping, good and world class restaurants in abundance, and various other interesting attractions. Some of the great attracting sites in Destin include the Big Kahuna, Dolphin Cruises, Adventure Park, Water Park, art galleries, and the museums. The attracting events or festivals include Destin Fishing Rodeo and Destin Seafood Festival.

Why are condos in Destin better alternatives to hotel rooms?

Condos in Destin are as exceptional as the city itself with all the amenities, comforts and luxuries of home away from home, private pool, spacious rooms, full kitchen, several television sets and DVD players and many more. These Destin Condos vacation rentals provide you with vacation fun adventure in continuation of all the fabulous attractions the city of Destin provides. Here are some cogent reasons why condo rentals in Destin are better alternatives to hotel rooms.

Condos provide you excellent choices and save you money:

Condominiums in Destin offer you the benefits of choices that are excellent. Besides, you have the opportunity of saving money and yet enjoy an incredible vacation. A condo is cheaper than a hotel room of comparable features and sizes which is why it is a wise and frugal step for you if you are planning your vacation on a budget. You can accommodate more people and increase your savings, cook your own meals especially in the evenings, and spend the savings made from renting vacation condos in Destin elsewhere.

If you make off-peak seasons your target and book your condo rentals way in advance, you will enjoy more flexible prices than a hotel room and you may even be able to find condo owners and get more discounts through better negotiation. Condos offer you the real living space: If you are looking for ways to spruce up your vacation or your family getaway, this is possibly the right time to look away from the traditional hotel rooms and settle for one of the best and spacious vacation accommodation that rental condos in Destin offers. Condominiums have the advantage of offering you the real living space which you will find to be more than just a place to take your deserved rest at night but rather, condos in Destin provides you a place to enjoy your vacation as well as your time with your family.

Chengdu is a beautiful city in the country of China. It is the capital of Sichuan, a famous province in China. Chengdu is one of the most popular tourist attractions in China because of the city’s weather, lifestyle, and the environment. The city is considered to have a rich culture, and history is worth knowing. There are a large number of places to visit in the city of Chengdu. Tourists from all over the world visit these places everywhere to explore the beauty of the place and spend time with their family and friends.

Best time for Chengdu Travel:

Chengdu has pleasant weather, and any time in the entire year is ideal for a visit. The winters in this place are extremely cold and wet. The climate in summers also is extremely hot. Although this place can be visited anytime, Spring and Falk are the best seasons. Therefore, the months from March to June and September to November are perfect for visiting because of the pleasant seasons.

What is Loved by Chengdu Tourists?

As mentioned, Chengdu has various tourist attractions all across the city. Given below are the top 5 major tourist attractions of Chengdu, which should not be missed.

• Chengdu Panda Base:

As the name suggests, Chengdu Panda Base is the home of one of the rarest yet adorable species – The Pandas. Initially, this place had only six wild pandas who were brought in from the jungle. Today, there are more than 150 pandas who come under different endangered giant panda species. Today, Chengdu Panda Base is the largest Panda reserve in the world.

• Wuhou Temple:

Wuhou Temple, also known as Wuhou Shrine, is a beautiful pilgrimage center in the city. The temple was built in ancient times and had ancient Chinese architecture, which is intricate and beautiful to look at. This temple was built in memory of the Three Kingdoms. This temple also consists of a Tranquil Garden, which is full of greenery and sweet-smelling flowers.

• Xiling Snow Mountain:

This place is one of the most visited sites by tourists for fun, adventure, and thrill. Xiling Snow Mountain is a beautiful location with beautiful white snow and pleasant weather. This place is famous for skiing sports and is also known as the Ski Wonderland.

• Jinli Ancient Street

This place is an all in one entertainment pack and is the best place for food lovers. There are a variety of restaurants in this street loaded with the best snack items. The look and feel of this place are ancient with a modern touch. A variety of street performances are also hosted, which are enjoyed by visitors.

• Du Fu Thatched Cottage

This place is the best place to visit for poetry lovers. This was built in memory of Du Fu, a famous Chinese poet. All his writings and poems can be found in this place. This location also has a museum with ancient scriptures and a temple for pilgrimage.

Chengdu city has many other tourist attractions in addition to the places mentioned above. But, those places are a must-visit in Chengdu for making the best memories.

As summer approaches, I always ask myself how can I run two businesses and still get away. Travel research shows that we Americans are most likely to forfeit vacation days. The best solution I see is combining business with pleasure on every trip abroad.

Having signed up for a conference in Dubai, I was intrigued by the modern-day Mideast while wanting to know more about its ancient cultures. After some investigation, I found a flight to Dubai via Jordan with a few days stopover.

Leaving nothing to chance, I arranged an airport pick-up and booked a 5 star hotel well located in a chic part of Amman with multiple restaurant options nearby and within the hotel. Having studied Arabic, I was pleased to get to practice it even though the Egyptian courses I studied differed substantially from the Jordanian dialect.

As a crossroads, Jordan has a remarkable history from the ancient Nabataeans to Alexander the Great, the Romans, Byzantine and Arab cultures. Beyond its historical monuments, Jordan has a very vibrant present day culture. Shortly after my arrival, I saw this first hand as a local wedding party made its way through the hotel lobby to celebrate with dancing and music.

The following day I headed out on a day tour of the capital exploring Amman’s Roman ruins. I stood transfixed high over the city listening to the muezzin’s call to prayer. With only a brief stay, I made the most of the time taking a driver as local guide for about 12 hours each day. Fortunately, distances were fairly close with the next day’s exploration focused on the Roman ruins in Jerash. Its popular history starts at the time of Alexander the Great but fell to the Romans under Pompey in the first century AD. With the mild October climate, my guide and I then ate al fresco surrounded by vineyards. There was not a tour bus in sight!

The next day’s journey down to Byzantine Madaba ended at the renown Dead Sea. Famous for its spa treatments, I just had time to gaze at the sea before retracing my steps to Amman.

Saving the best to last meant a full day in the rose city of Petra built by the Nabataeans. Featured in Indiana Jones’s and other films and in a mystery novel by best-selling British writer Agatha Christie, it is a World Heritage Site that rivals the Pyramids. Beyond the large Treasury, there are a series of small buildings and conveniently located outdoor cafes and handicrafts for sale. Of course, the tourist route back to the entrance had to be on camel back providing great photo opps.

After an enchanting week, it was time to make my way to Dubai for a conference and brief sightseeing afterwards. Dubai is famous for the unexpected, like air conditioned bus stops, the Palm development and ultra-luxurious hotels. For me, as an “Intermittent Intermediate Skier”, I was fascinated by the indoor ski resort located in a local shopping mall. With limited expectations of a real workout, I knew this would make a great story and the perfect venue for a holiday card photo. After a feast of Southern Fried Chicken in the Mall of the Emirates Food Court, I covered my summer clothes with a colorful ski outfit and was up the escalator ski and poles in hand. After a few runs, it was off for hot chocolate at the adjacent St. Moritz Café and the perfect end to my Mideast odyssey.

As a woman traveling solo in the Mideast, I followed two practices I find work for me globally:

1. I arrange for an airport pick-up before leaving home. In certain countries, taxis may not be safe whether for men or women. Having navigated a low-grade civil war in sub-Sahara Africa, I learned to ask my hotel what they recommended, especially when traveling alone. In major capitals when arriving in day time, I often opt for public transportation, especially trains/subways or catching a cab.

2. I choose a 5 star hotel that has multiple restaurants options ideally both inside the hotel and nearby. Alternatively, when it was affordable as I found in Cairo, I took a driver who waited for me or in Lisbon caught a taxi round trip to try out top restaurants. In any new location, I always ask a lot of questions, especially to get local women’s opinions, before strolling alone after dark.

While in the Mideast, I did also have 2 additional rules of thumb:

1. Although I would be both sightseeing and attending a business conference in very hot desert weather, I wore long-sleeved shirts with slacks.

2. When I was the only woman alone in local restaurants, I always chose a seat/table right next to other pairs, groups of women, couples or families.

5 tips I have learned trying to combine business with pleasure:

1. To save on airfare, be sure to check out connecting flights allowing for extended layovers.

2. Where possible, take care of business first, especially if complex flights can cause lengthy delays.

3. Arrive over the weekend and make a trial run to locate your meetings’ fastest routes. Even with a GPS, it is easy to run into problems. In one city abroad, I found massive construction in the area surrounding my first meeting. Even walking, it was almost impossible to get through, and street addresses were obscured by the construction scaffolding. In another foreign city, I discovered when I arrived at an appointment that the outside door was locked, and I had trouble reaching anyone inside via my mobile phone.

4. Fly in or carry on a suit or an appropriate business look in case your luggage does not arrive on time.

5. Set multiple alarms on a travel clock, on your mobile phone and with the hotel operator. Even in top hotels, I have had a missed wake-up call or room service error before a flight for a quick day trip. (If you cannot function without coffee or breakfast, have a backup plan, as needed, if room service fails to appear.)

The key is to plan ahead where possible and have some time to survey your destination. Otherwise, a video conference in lieu of a face-to-face meeting may be a better value.

Does your CVB or tourism bureau use social media in its destination marketing plan? If not, what are you waiting for?

According to a recent study, 81 percent of all marketers surveyed said their social media efforts have generated exposure to their business, and 61 percent of marketers saw an increase in Web traffic. If your destination isn’t keeping up with trends in social media, your CVB or tourism bureau is losing money. Here are a few ways to market your travel agency using social media.

1. Search for groups and individuals’ interests on social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace to find out what people are saying about your destination.

2. Publish your blog articles on Digg, Delicious, Reddit and other social bookmarking sites to generate a wider viewing audience.

3. Constantly update your travel blog with new information, paying attention to Google Keywords to improve your search engine results rankings.

4. Extend friendships to tourists (former and future) to maintain relationships and keep them coming back.

5. Use photo sharing sites to link pictures taken by tourists to create a community among people who are interested in your destination.

6. Twitter travel deals and packages, as well as updates on area construction, new businesses, events and festivals.

7. Offer contests and promotions through social media outlets to help increase your followers.

8. Create customized URLs to Facebook and Twitter to provide another contact option for tourists. (e.g. facebook.com/yourcvbhere)

9. Create a network or online community among all businesses in your area to provide more information to your future tourists, as well as generate more traffic back to your profiles

10. Post videos on a YouTube account of different activities to participate in at your destination.

Having an active presence in many social media platforms will not only generate more exposure to your CVB or tourism bureau, but it will also redirect people back to your Web site.

It is always a good thing to travel to new places. If you have time, money and passion for travel and fun, you could go away every year to some of the world’s best tourist destinations. A great place you could explore any time soon is Morocco. Generally a Muslim nation, Morocco is extremely diverse in terms of landscape. Besides its coastlines, the country has dry, barren deserts, mountains and forested regions.

In addition, it has a very rich cultural heritage with European and Arabic influences. Morocco is occupied mainly Berbers and Arabs. The former are believed to be the descendants of Portuguese and Spaniards who escaped from the Reconquista of the Iberian Peninsula in 1400s. Being home to one of the most reputable and desirable long sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast, (Casablanca) Morocco is a great place to go with your family.

As you can already speculate, water sports and wind sports are common things to do for tourists. The most renowned of all sports is surfing. In case you will come to surf, just go straight to coastal towns with surfing spots. So you want to go to the Mediterranean shores, North Atlantic Coast or South Atlantic Coast. To see the famous Casablanca beach you will have to go to Rabat, the country’s capital, in the North Atlantic Coast. There is a lot of things to see and do here, particularly for couples who want to have the most memorable honeymoons.

In addition to this, ensure that you visit the Atlantic Coast of Tangier that offers the cleanest and coldest waters. It is best visited in the hot months of July and August. If you cannot travel in summer, your alternative destination is the Mediterranean shores of Tangier. If you love a coastal area that is bordered by mountains, then ensure that you tour Plage Quemada, Al Hoceima. It is in the middle of the Rif Mountains that are found along the north Mediterranean seashore.

Though always crowded and busy, Plage Quemada beach is totally clean, beautiful and scenic. There is also another beach called Asfiha, which is not recommended for swimmers or those who like beach walks because of its shallow water levels and sticky, dirty sand. So this place is probably ideal for sight-seeing, particularly visiting the Spanish Island.

Agadir beaches are on the Atlantic coast in southwest region of the country. It is ideal for lovers of water sports who can either go to private beach areas or long sandy ones meant for public. Tangier beach is obviously perfect for surfing and other water activities and you can receive some basic training if you are new to this. Surrounded by huge mountains, Tangier, is one the most attractive beaches along the Atlantic Ocean.

It is loved by tourists and local people alike, and its white-washed homes are special landmarks as well. As you wide up your trip in Morocco, remember to buy some souvenirs to take home to your friends and family. Good examples include tagines, handmade Berber carpets, Birad, Argan oil, spices and leather accessories among other things.

Be it a business or a leisure trip; one can fly in Endeavor Air to around 130 destinations across the world in a well-organized fashion leading to the ultimate travel satisfaction.

Fleet

One of the most significant American Regional airlines, Endeavor is the world’s largest operator of Bombardier CRJ-900 aircraft. Being a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, Endeavor Air operates as a Delta connection to over 154 regional jets on nearly 800 daily flights to more than 130 destinations in the United States, the Caribbean, and Canada. The air carrier boasts of the world’s largest fleet of 76-seat Bombardier CRJ-900 aircraft, besides the remarkable count of 69-seat CRJ-700 and 50-seat CRJ-200 regional jets. It covers all the time zones in North America, including destinations in Canada and the Bahamas along with its Codesharing partnership with, Olympic Air, Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Australia International, and WestJet.

Hubs

One of the prominent regional airlines in the US, Endeavor Air, is headquartered in Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, which serves as the corporate base for the airlines along with its other major hubs at New York’s LaGuardia Airport John F. Kennedy International Airport and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport.

In-flight Amenities

Endeavor flights provide world-class In-Flight Entertainment Systems which include dedicated Delta Air Lines featuring Audio-video on demand (AVOD) with a wide collection of movies to choose from, interesting games to engage and entertain travelers of all age groups, dedicated televisions loaded with Satellite live TV functionality in selected flights, in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity for those who wish to remain connected for the business or personal reasons. Passengers have the onboard purchase facility for the Non-Alcoholic Beverages and Snacks, and first class passengers can enjoy the complimentary Non-Alcoholic Beverages and Snacks. One more remarkable feature for Endeavor airlines is its approach towards supporting passengers with welcome service and emotional support animals on the domestic system and many international destinations without any cost in the cabin. Emotional support animals may accompany a passenger with a disability on a flight with prior permission and required official formality.

Web Check-in

Passengers have the facility to check-in directly to Endeavor Air flight from anywhere at their own convenience. Check-in process becomes faster and much smoother via web check-in, enabling the passenger to check in & print the boarding pass directly from their systems without waiting in the long queues in the airport. It also allows the passengers to check in their luggage in advance, selection of the desired seat, the selection of meal options and many more, before the actual departure of the flight.

With such a customer-centric approach, ensuring to offer the best possible service to its passengers, Endeavor airlines is surely one of the finest American flight service provider.

I must say first that any Mexico spots or travel destination you choose you won’t be disappointed; this is a game/test that will help you understand where to book your next Mexico travel, based on your favourite activities, the things you like to do on vacations and the way you are.

Are you keen of legends and mysteries, archaeological sites or adventurous seeker? Are you looking for secluded spots or quiet Mexico beaches where you can play with your kids? Are you a man looking for business travel or a luxury lover? … And about lovers… Seeking the most romantic spots in Mexico for your Honeymoon vacation?

For each question, select the option that best describes your personality and discover which part of Mexico reflect yourself…

To know what Mexico travel destination is suitable for you, considerate the number of the answer corresponding to your choice, write on a paper and read the related profile below.

(Example – if you choose more answers corresponding to the number “one”, you may read the profile number “one”)

Good Luck…

Who would you like to bring with you to a Mexico Vacation?

1. Friends
2. My partner
3. My Family
4. Colleagues, Business partner
5. Whoever wants to come
6. Alone

Which one among these activities you prefer?

1. Water sports
2. Horseback Riding on the Beach
3. Visit Theme Parks
4. Golf
5. Archaeological tours
6. Bird watching, Jungle exploration

Choose among these mental image, which one you prefer?

1. Practice Surfing, Parasailing, Kayaking, Water skiing, Diving, Snorkelling, or Fishing and get ready for the exciting Nightlife
2. Assist to romantic sunsets, dining on the beach with fresh lobster, great hotel suites with all the amenities…
3. Play with the kids on a quiet beach and bring them in a theme park
4. Lay down and relax all day on a deck chair by the pool or the Sea, sipping a colourful cocktail, and receive a wonderful massage on the beach
5. Refresh under a waterfall, after a long walk in the forest, admiring the nature
6. Move the branch of a tree and have ancient ruins in front of you, or visit museums, colonial cities and discover the history of Mexico

Which one, among the Spanish words below, does inspire you the most?

1. Fiestas
2. Me Amor
3. Olè
4. Gracias
5. Maravilloso
6. Chido

Choose among this characters

1. Pancho Villa
2. Zorro
3. Speedy Gonzalez
4. Zapata
5. Pakal
6. Stephens or Caterwood

Which among the following contrasts of colours you prefer?

1. Turquoise Blue – Yellow
2. Orange – Red
3. All colours
4. Black – White
5. Red – Green
6. Green – Blue china

Choose the transportation you like the most

1. Motorbike
2. Car
3. Bicycle
4. Airplane
5. Train
6. By walk

Profiles and Mexico Travel Destinations….

1. Energy Vacations – You are young (not necessarily of age), dynamic and athletics, with an unbelievable desire to enjoy minute after minute your Mexico Vacations! The Sea and the nightlife should be an important element for your holidays.
   The best Mexico spots for your vacation are:

   Cancun, Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, Acapulco, Los Cabos, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta

2. Romantic Spots – “An eternal dreamer, a lover of love..” If what you are looking for is a place where create unforgettable memories with your beloved, sipping tasteful cocktails while snuggling him/her, watching a wonderful sunset, or walking hand in hand on calm and pristine beaches … the most Romantic Mexico destinations any time of the year are:
   Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo, Huatulco, Puerto Escondido, Riviera Maya, Tulum, Costa Alegre, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos , Isla Mujeres, Hol Box (secluded)
3. Mexico Family Vacations – It is not always easy to choose the destination for your family travel. You may consider the needs of your children and pick a place which allows fun together in a safe and refreshing environment. … but don’t forget that this are also yours vacations! Much thought and preparation has gone into developing the Mexico attractions that will be of interest to family members of all ages , because is important to understand that amusing moments during your Mexico Family Vacation give the energy to continue to love and to conquer day after day the trust of your kids. We suggest to consider the following Mexico travel destination for you and your family:

   Riviera Maya, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Acapulco, Huatulco, Mexico City, Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel

4. Relaxing, Business and Luxury Travel – We live in a jet-fueled world where relaxation is a luxury! Life isn’t just about stress and job, sometimes must be enjoyed! Do you have an important conference and you are looking for the best environment and luxury hotels?! Does it tickle you the idea of some body treatments in a Spa on the beach?

   These are the best destinations that can offer you all of this:

   Playa del Carmen, Mexico City, Riviera Maya, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Monterrey, Costa Alegre, Los Cabos

5. Eco Adventures and Natural Vacations – In Mexico you can feel the love for nature and wildlife with its spectacular landscapes, fascinating mix of high mountains, unlimited beaches, vast rainforests, incredible variety of amazing animals of all kind of colours and shapes, volcanoes, cenotes, waterfalls, unique and rare species of plants, but mostly amazing tours for discover all of this… So, if you like the Mother Nature there is no better place! The ideal Mexico Spots for you are:

   Chiapas, Aguascalientes, Morelia Michoacan, Villahermosa, Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, Copper Canyon, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Cozumel, HolBox, Chihuahua

6. Historical Mexico Travel – Keen of culture, history and curious for other people way of life, and an artist inside… Staying with you it’s always a pleasure and that’s why we recommend you some historical Mexico spots. The history of Mexico speaks of a country full of civilizations and changes. The emotion given by marvelous archaeological sites ( indelible memory of pre-Columbian civilizations, wounded in the jungle), colonial cities, museums full of every kind of memories of past epochs, it’s something you can’t miss! I believe that everywhere you go in Mexico has interesting things to see.. Here, you will never feel alone …

   Book your Mexico vacation in : Merida Yucatan, Mexico City, Chiapas, Palenque, Riviera Maya, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, La Paz, Queretaro, Villahermosa, Taxco

Mexico is a country with a variety of landscapes, changing from snow-capped volcanoes and lush jungles to ancient Mayan ruins and golden beaches. Tourists can enjoy everything from swimming with dolphins to cultural events. With jungles in the south, deserts in the north, stretches of beach along the Pacific and Caribbean shorelines and magnificent mountainous regions in Central Mexico, history and traditions at every corner, it’s obvious why Mexico is one of the most versatile vacation destinations of the entire World!

Enjoy as much as you can during your Mexico Vacation.

Destination weddings are so much fun, and they are more popular than ever. There are some things about planning a wedding in an exotic land that might be different than planning a wedding near your home. To get the most out of your destination wedding, try these simple tips:

• Book a site that also will make a dream honeymoon spot for you and your spouse. Having your wedding and honeymoon all in one place is called a “weddingmoon”, and many resorts will offer special packages if you choose to do this.
• Arrive at your destination a few days before the ceremony. This will give you time to check up on the details of your wedding, as well as allowing time for any travel delays or late luggage. Having a few extra days will help keep the stress to a minimum, so that you are relaxed and ready for your big day.
• Send out save the date cards well in advance of a destination wedding (6 months or more). Since everyone will be traveling, it will allow them plenty of time to schedule the days off from work, book the flights, and make hotel arrangements. If you have relatives or friends who you would like to invite, but that you believe will not be able to make the trip, go ahead and invite them anyway. It is always nice to be asked, and who knows, they might surprise you by coming.
• Dress appropriately for your wedding destination. If your wedding will be held on the beach at sunset, this could mean a romantic and flowing gown with handcrafted bridal jewelry. A simple dress always looks better on the beach than a big formal one, and the handcrafted bridal jewelry will give your ensemble a beautiful, yet relaxed flavor.
• Let go of elements that are not suitable for the site that you have chosen. This might mean having a cake with fondant frosting, even though you had your heart set on buttercream (which is notorious for melting in hot weather). It could mean that you take the planner’s advice and schedule your ceremony for the late afternoon instead of sunset because the area gets too buggy at dusk. Whatever it may be, accept that some of your pre-conceived ideas may not be feasible. That is okay, though, because a special destination will have many other wonderful things about it.
• Buy travel and event insurance if you are planning a tropical wedding during hurricane season.
• Don’t let the ladies in the straw market convince you (or worse, your groom!) to braid your hair the day before your wedding. Remember that you have to live with those pictures forever. If you feel like getting swept away in the island spirit, get a few braids the day after the wedding. (And grooms, just say no on any day, please!)
• Serve seasonal and local food, as recommended by your venue’s wedding coordinator. Part of the fun of going on a trip is exploring their culture. Don’t get hung up on what you think every reception must have, whether it is steak or pigs-in-a-blanket. Be open to trying the local delicacies.
• Be prepared to let go of some of the control of the wedding planning. Any time that you are planning a wedding by long distance, it is necessary to trust someone at your site to handle many of the details for you. If you surrender to the process, you may actually find preparing for your wedding to be fairly relaxing. The good news is that most resorts will have on-site coordinators, so you will know that you are in good hands.

There is a great spirit of celebration present at most destination weddings. Not only is it a joyous occasion, but everyone is also on vacation. The most important thing to remember is to relax and have fun on your special day.

When I say that “We all love to win, but who loves to train?”, what do I mean? I mean happiness and enjoyment throughout the whole process is the destination, and sadness in any of it is never desired. Happiness does not mean total play or total work, it means enjoying the process as well as the result, that is it.

Being a staunch and strict objectivist philosopher with a psychological emphasis on full epistemological understanding of what life is, I can say and mean this: It is as simple as what I said above, but if you want to read more into it, here goes.

Reality is a rational step by step process, not something you cheat and take short cuts at which means that you enjoy the process as well as the result in every way that counts, and discard the unnecessary. Logically, I could end here, but I will explain myself more: The necessary is what gets results, the unnecessary is that which does not get good results. That simple, that succinct. Realistically, there should be gray areas in my thinking about this point, but there are not. This is where I get rid of all mysticism, I do what works and get rid of what does not systematically and efficiently when needed. For, like I said in the title, actively pursuing sadness until “rock bottom” or worse is always a vain pursuit.

Happiness is a result, and happiness during a process genuinely gets results. Have you ever heard of anyone being happy with inefficiency and not getting things done in their favor? Only in the extreme bureaucratic mentality have you heard of that “phenomena” or reality. Everyone, and everything naturally moves toward completion and betterment. To short hand the term, everybody loves a winner, nobody loves a loser. That is just realistic human nature. The only person who does not really want to succeed is one who is doing something genuinely wrong, and destructive. Indeed, destruction does not lead to happiness, especially initiated criminal destruction without any reason or reality to it except for the sake of destruction without reason or regard for reality. So, I will put it in a reality that cannot be argued really. Everyone wants a happy process as well as a great result, everything else can be discarded as unwanted. This is where happiness is the genuine and real destination and sadness is the vain pursuit. What is, is, sure. But what is good, must be achieved then preserved as a process and result.

Choosing vacation destinations, in general, can be quite the hassle. When you have to factor in specific vacation days, flight & hotel information, not to mention reservations of any kind at the vacation site, there is a reason why you hear the adage, “I need a vacation from my vacation.” Nowadays, there is one more particular element to factor in that perhaps is the most sensitive of topics — the blended family.

It can be traumatic enough for a family to deal with the dissolution of a marriage & an end to the family you’ve come to know, but it can be even tougher to become part of someone else’s family all because your parent met another parent who has kids of their own. Though the idea of the blended family is sitcom gold because of the general mismatches & hijinks, the notion of just becoming someone’s new nuclear family member is not a simple matter.

How, then, do you pick a place for everyone to go on vacation? There are a lot feelings to take into consideration. ‘Mom and Dad’ might want to do something fun, exciting, and even a little romantic, but that may not be great for the kids. What about vacation traditions from the previous family unit? Those may be some of the things kids will attach themselves to for a sense of normalcy. The new siblings may also find it hard to spend time with each other & may even have resentment toward one another.

It is for these reasons, and many others, that family counselors agree it is important for any vacation planning to readily involve the kids. See what each one wants out of the vacation. Any activities that seem cool? Is there a type of food they’d like to try? Give the kids some ownership of the trip, and let them know they matter. At the same time, though, it’s important to maintain a sense of accountability with this ownership. You want the kids to feel at ease with all of this change, but you don’t want them to run the show.

One final key item that is an absolute must is the need to establish new traditions. Everyone in your new blended family still remembers life as it was before. While it is still important to maintain a sense of stability through those old ways, it is important to make new memories & traditions with the new family. Once again, have the kids chime in a little about what they think would be a neat idea. Maybe something like “Silly Selfie Sunday Seafood” would be a great way to break the ice & realize that what’s new isn’t such a bad thing.

For the blended family, vacation destinations hold a sense of the unknown & perhaps the unwanted. With the right approach, though, your new family may find just the right way to open their hearts to new possibilities.

Living too far south for much snow and working too many hours to get away often, I am an “Intermittent Intermediate” with no hope of improving. The greatest challenge is finding a destination that is hard enough to be interesting but still easy enough to ski down when I am traveling solo. Since classifying a run’s level of difficulty varies from mountain to mountain, too often I find it doesn’t work for me. Especially surprising was the difference between skiing Lake Tahoe’s Heavenly Valley and Sun Valley or Big Sky. In the US Northwest where Intermediate slopes looked like the Matterhorn, I had to go to Plan B: counting bison at Yellowstone. After such near misses, I developed a personal checklist for finding the best destinations for Intermediate skiing:

1. Number and type of slopes designated as Intermediate
2. Snow quality and typical conditions
3. Apres-ski activity/restaurants and nearby lodging
4. Affordability/Attractive pricing
5. Convenient access to airports
6. Friendly environment
7. Interesting location/different but workable
8. Ski instruction availability/timing
9. Weather/temperature on the mountain
10. Proximity to a Plan B/alternative sightseeing

Preferring the road less traveled by, I sampled an active volcano, New Zealand’s Ruapehu/Whakapapa. Living North of the Equator, I was especially excited about skiing in our summer. In addition, with the North Island’s mild climate, I was able to go white water rafting one day and skiing this active volcano the next day. On later trips to other slopes, sporting a sweater with a Kiwi on skis was a great icebreaker.

On to Hafjel, Norway which had all the right advantages even traveling alone. The snow was fantastic although it was 50 degrees Fahrenheit at the base. Ski instruction was great and classes friendly. The price was right and a local bus ferried skiers throughout the day from Lillehammer. Better yet, sending postcards back home from that Olympic venue gave my skiing ability an undeserved boost I could dine out on for the rest of the year. If only my luggage had arrived when I did, it would have been perfect.

Still struggling at times to keep up with better skiers, I finally hit pay dirt. I found the perfect “10” skiing in Andorra. I was immediately excited about seeing a new country, albeit a rather small one, based in the Pyrenees. The mix of four languages, Spanish, Catalan, French and English, made it feel exotic but still easy to get by. Ski lessons were very helpful with a small group of well-matched Intermediates. It was a really friendly atmosphere with part of the class practising English and the others Spanish. After lunch, a Dutch classmate and I took the afternoon working to perfect our parallel turns.

Every day the sunshine was brilliant. Even at lower elevations, there was no ice. The local villages provided multiple après-ski and dinner options at a good price. Lastly, the access was easy flying in to Barcelona. The February weather in Northeast Spain was temperate not unlike California. That made it an ideal way to combine an active, outdoor trip with a cultural one viewing Gaudi’s stunning architecture.

If I can’t get a perfect “10”, I opt for finding a destination off the beaten track. Whatever the ski conditions, I can always relish the adventure and have the pictures to prove it.