Keep Cool This Summer in Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina is known for its sizzling hot summers. Residents and visitors are often looking for ways to beat the heat. Visiting a nearby water park, taking the kids to one of the area's splash pads, or tubing down the Saluda River are fun ways to keep cool. These options are all inexpensive and family friendly.

The Palmetto Falls Water Park is located at 3381 Marion Avenue on the Fort Jackson Army Base, outside Columbia. The water park is primarily for use by military families, but is open to the public Tuesday-Friday, except for season pass holders. The water park is open only to military families on Saturday and Sunday. Palmetto Falls has a 10,000 square foot family pool, a 600 square foot splashdown pool, a kiddie pool, and a Lazy River. The park has three regular water slides and smaller slides for the little kids. The young ones will love the water jet splash area. A snack bar onsite sells refreshments. Civilians should enter Fort Jackson at the Forest Park Drive Gate. Drivers must produce a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance to enter the gate. Palmetto Falls Water Park is open from 11am-7pm. Non-military admission is $9.50 per person, with children age 2 and under admitted free.

Saluda Splash is an interactive water playground located at Saluda Shoals Park. Saluda Splash has misting circles, spray jets, and water cannons shaped like dragons. Large overhead buckets dump water on the splash park. When the kids need a break, they can go to the adjacent playground with its kid size climbing wall. Saluda Shoals Park also has picnic areas, walking and bike trails, and canoe and kayak rentals. Fishing is popular in the Saluda River. There are more than enough activities to provide an entire day of fun. Saluda Shoals Park is located at 5605 Bush Road. The park is open from 7am-8:30pm during the summer months. Saluda Splash is open from 9am-8pm from May-Labor Day. Admission to the park is $4 per car for residents and $5 per car for non-residents. Saluda Splash requires a separate admission of $3 per person.

The City of Columbia operates the Drew Splash Pad at Drew Park. The Splash Pad is designed for children age 14 and under, and admission is free. The splash pad operates Monday-Saturday from noon-8pm. The Drew Wellness Center at the park has an indoor swimming pool that is open year round. The park is located at 2100 Oak Street.

A tubing trip down the Saluda River is a great way to cool off. The water temperature is quite cold, as the water is pulled from the bottom of Lake Murray and released from the dam. Palmetto Outdoors, a Columbia outfitter, rents tubes and provides shuttle transportation. Tubers should park their vehicles near the amphitheater at the West Columbia Riverwalk. Pay for the tube at the outfitter's booth, and then take their shuttle bus to the launch site near Riverbanks Zoo. Tubers will drift down the river for two miles, through some mild Class I and Class II rapids. The take out point is just past the Gervais Street Bridge at the amphitheater landing. A standard tube rents for $15. Deluxe tubes with mesh bottoms are $20. Personal flotation devices are included. Hours are Sunday-Friday from noon-7pm and Saturday from 10am-7pm. Shuttles run hourly on the weekends.

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Is Traveling in Mexico Safe? Yes!

Is Mexico Safe?

The short answer is: YES. Pound for pound, Mexico is probably as safe as your own neighborhood. But, just like your own city, some areas are safer than others. Wherever you travel in the world, common sense is your guide to going to the right places. For example, there are some neighborhoods in your city you probably will never go to, or won't go to at night. There is a reason for that. The same applies in Mexico. I have walked around downtown Manzanillo by myself at 1 a.m. without fear or concern. However, I avoid the roads of Michoacan at night.

Is getting drunk and calling attention to yourself by doing crazy things a good idea in Mexico? No, of course not. Like anywhere else in the world, you make yourself a target, which is unsafe. But the same applies if you did that at home. Normal, cautious behavior is the key.

If you use the same common sense that you use at home when you are traveling in Mexico, you will be fine. But here's a word of advice: if you think you will travel in fear, stay home. The experience won't be positive and you will miss so much of the culture and camaraderie that Mexico has to offer.

Now go! Enjoy! World class waves, great food, and friendly people await!

A few tips on driving in Mainland Mexico:

Rule number 1: Don't drive at night. Rule number 2: See Rule number 1. Even at dawn, driving can be sketchy. As in Baja, the coastal roads are narrow, but there is one distinct difference: the foliage. Baja is a desert, so there aren't many trees or shrubs right at the road. The mainland is rich and lush. In the rural areas of coastal Michoacan, the bushes grow right up to the side of the road. It looks and feels tight compared to American roads and takes some getting use to.

That being said, on my last trip, the flight to Manzanillo was delayed for three hours, so we arrived after dark. We wanted to get to Tecoman, about 1 ½ hours away, to get an early start on surfing Boca de Pascuales. There is a good autopista (toll highway or "calle cuota") between the two and I was told that it would be fine. The first leg of the trip on Highway 200 is on the free road, but it was so well traveled at this time of the evening, that it was easy to see. Once on the toll road, it was empty, but well-lighted all the way to the Tecoman exit. Tecoman is big enough now (80,000 + inhabitants) that everything was well-lighted to the town square where we stayed.

Play it safe, drive slowly, and know where you are going and you'll see that Mexico can be a safe place to drive!

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Birdwatching in Cuba Is Truly Beyond Compare

For birders, the opportunity to see tropical species in their natural habitat, and more familiar birds in their wintering grounds, can be a once in a life-time experience. To add to their life lists, passionate birders travel to exotic locations around the world in the hopes of catching a glimpse of species that very few people have the chance to lay eyes on.

With recent reductions in the travel sanctions between the United States and Cuba, many birdwatchers currently have an opportunity that they have only been able to dream about for the last 50 years. Birdwatching in Cuba is an experience unlike any other, offering the chance to see 21 endemic species, 19 near-endemics (found only in a small number of Caribbean islands) and other tropical species in an area of the world that very few living Americans have ever seen in person.

What Birdwatchers Can Expect

If you are an avid naturalist you will have a once-in-a-lifetime experience while birding in Cuba. An expert Cuban guide will take you off the beaten path to see "life list" species like the threatened Bee Hummingbird, the vulnerable Fernandina's Flicker, and listen for the endangered Cuban Solitaire. You'll have an opportunity to see Cuban Parrots, Great Lizard Cuckoos, Cuban Pygmy Owls, and the country's national bird the Cuban Trogon, along with over 200 other species!

Of course, when you go birdwatching in Cuba, where you go can be as exciting as what you see while you are there. A comprehensive tour include visits to several UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, including Sierra del Rosario and it's fascinating Las Terrazas eco-community, and the Zapata Swamp. You'll also visit memorable sites like Soroa's Orchid Garden and Soroa Waterfall, La Guira National Park, and board Russian army jeeps to travel into the Las Escambray Mountains near Trinidad.

There are so many natural parks, nature reserves, and other locations in Cuba that lend themselves perfectly to birdwatching, and when you consider that the island has migrated hundreds of miles over the past 100 million years, it becomes easy to understand just how many unique species can be found on its soil.

A Truly Rare Opportunity

There are many reasons why the opportunity to go birdwatching in Cuba is so rare. Not only has travel from the US to Cuba been extremely limited in the past half century, but many current tours still do not travel far beyond Havana or the island's tourist resorts. In fact, there are many destinations in Cuba that are only available to sustainable tourism companies, which strive to help preserve the landscape as well as the habitats of the island wildlife. Cuba is incredibly biodiverse, and as the Greater Antilles island that has been the least spoiled by man, it certainly has the most to offer!

Where to Turn

If you are looking to go birdwatching in Cuba, choosing the right tour is important. You will certainly want to find a sustainable tour that can take you beyond Havana City and into reserves and environments in Trinidad, Las Terrazas, and Peninsula de Zapata as well. Taking the time to find a tour that is navigated by a well educated guide and that has received praise from others who have taken it will certainly prove to be worthwhile.

With the right tour and guide, you will have the opportunity to see birds and spectacular landscapes that have rarely been glimpsed by non-Cubans. Cuba is truly a nature lover's paradise, and if you qualify for professional travel, a birdwatching tour on the island is an experience you will not soon forget.

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Great Places to Visit on Italian Walking Holidays

The varied landscape of Italy makes for excellent walking holidays. Whether you are open to the challenge of hill climbing or want to have a gentle jaunt along the flat, there's a part of this stunning European country to suit you. You should schedule visits to the magnificent attractions outlined in this article as part of your hiking itinerary.

Lake Garda

If you're planning to spend your walking holidays in the northern part of Italy then a visit to this huge lake is a must. You'll be taken aback by the scale of the Gruppo Del Baldo mountains, which overlook the glistening waters. You might also be surprised by the abundance of wildlife to be seen in this picturesque area. There's a range of bird species including the Italian Sparrow and Great Weed Warbler that are definitely worth watching.

Ustica

The route around this small island is well trodden by European tourists on walking holidays. Some are so fascinated by the surroundings that they opt to stay a few days in local rented accommodation. You are encouraged to join the crowds on a tour along the cliffs and through the marine reserve, which was established way back in 1986.

Old Catania

It is easy to imagine the scenes that may have played out in Sicilian Italy as you walk through this fascinating old town. If you have a few hours to spare then it's worth visiting the Fountain of 10 Rivers and Cathedral, which is adorned with Corinthian columns, marble fascades and stone balustrades. The local guides will be happy to show you around and retell stories that have been passed down through the Catanian generations. And when you've learned enough for one day it may be tempting to stop off at one of the charming local cafés.

Valley Of The Temples

It would be a shame not to take a stroll through this historic valley as part of your walking holidays in Italy. The ancient Greek ruins along this path are equally as great an attraction as those to be seen on the Greek islands themselves. If you hike through this area during the spring then you'll be struck by the sweet smell of wildflowers. You might even be lucky enough to spot baby animals frolicking in their favoured environment.

Forest Of Giants

If you venture into this forest during Italian walking holidays then you can be sure of a great surprise. For here you may see gloriously coloured eagles and trees bigger than you might have imagined possible. Whatever time of year you choose to explore local routes, such as the Sentiero Cupone, you can be sure of having a delightful experience. Although you might return with slightly aching legs, the feeling of satisfaction will be immense.

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A Look At The Native Birds And Plants Of New Zealand

Without question, the thing that draws the most tourists to New Zealand for a holiday is its unique and varied natural environment: while there are cosmopolitan cities, world class art galleries and endless opportunities for adrenaline based tourist activities, the true draw card is that it is like no other place on earth.

New Zealand has one of the highest levels of endemism in the world: that is many of the plants and birds found in New Zealand are not found anywhere else, due to its long period of geographical isolation and subsequent unique evolutionary path. The absence of predators meant that flightless birds abounded. The arrival of people, and their mammalian companions decimated many of the native species.

However, as early as 1887 a National Park was formed in New Zealand with some 13 following, in the 1890's the Government established mustelid free sanctuaries for the protection of bird species and so a long tradition of conservation was established which continues to this day.

In particular, New Zealand has a greater diversity of seabirds on its shores and islands than any other country in the world. There are some 86 species of seabird that breed in New Zealand and a further 9 who breed elsewhere but visit New Zealand in their migratory cycle. Good places to see seabirds include the Otago Peninsula and Kaikoura, where you can see Albatross, Shearwater, Petrels, Prions and Shags. Many of those staying in holiday park accommodation in Kaikoura are there specifically to see bird life and of course, whale watching.

Another worthy mention is New Zealand's national bird, the Kiwi. This flightless bird generally lives in native forests, but because it is a nocturnal creature, only very few people have spotted it outside its natural habitat in the wild. The Kiwi grows to about the size of a chicken and has a long pointed bill to feed on grubs and other insects.

The flora of New Zealand is also an attraction in its own right. 80% of the trees, ferns and flowering plants in New Zealand are endemic. Some 15% of New Zealand is covered in native plants, from towering kauri forests to spinifex covered sand dunes. In fact the silver fern (cyathea dealbata) is often used as a symbol for New Zealand, notably on the jerseys of its sporting teams. The koru symbol is derived from the young fern frond, and is found on the national carrier Air New Zealand and is a motif in indigenous Maori art and ta moko (tattoos). These unique ecosystems are an integral part of what makes New Zealand such a unique and special destination for holiday makers.

Acadia National Park

Maine's Acadia National Park is more than 35,000 acres of pristine land located close to Bar Harbor. It has the distinction of being the first National Park East of the Mississippi. Acadia celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016.

Acadia is home to Cadillac Mountain, which is the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast at 1,530 feet and one of the first points in the United States to see the sunrise. Other attractions in Acadia include the nation's only fjord, and other well-known spots including Thunder Hole, Sand Beach and Otter Cliffs.

This area was originally inhabited by the Wabanaki indians, an Algonquian-speaking nation. The Wabanaki people trace their Maine roots back more than ten thousand years. During their history, Mount Desert Island was well known for plentiful hunting and fishing.

With more than 47,000 acres (73 square miles) of pristine land, Acadia National Park offers some of the best of Maine's attractions. Some of these attractions include the rocky coastline, gently rolling mountains, thriving forests, ponds, marshlands, and fields. Acacia National Park includes areas on Mount Desert Island, Isle au Haut and the Schoodic Peninsula.

Acadia is host to a diversity of wildlife, hosting everything from mollusks and mammals to raptors and reptiles. If you are watchful, you can count on crossing paths with a variety of wildlife intheir natural habitats.

Some 40 different species of wildlife can be found here, including both red and gray squirrels, chipmunks, white-tailed deer, moose, beaver, porcupine, muskrat, fox, coyote, bobcat, and even black bear. Beaver had been trapped to extinction on the island, then, in 1920, George B. Door released two pairs at the brook between Bubble Pond and Eagle Lake. These beavers have repopulated the area.

In the fall of 1947, wildfires consumed more than 10,000 acres of the park and cleared the eastern half of the island of its coniferous trees. The fires burned for days before being brought under control. Despite the short-term devastation, these fires actually enhanced the Park long-term. The regrowth was mostly allowed to occur naturally and this allowed the growth of deciduous trees such as aspen, birch, alder, and maple which helped to support the repopulation of beavers in the area.

In 1915, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. commissioned more than 50 miles of trails through the area. These trails were originally intended as a diversion for guests and dignitaries to provide carriage and horseback access to the island's remote beauty. With his visitors in mind, he spared no expense. These trails include 17 arched granite bridges and two gate lodges that were constructed to achieve his vision.

After waiting through nearly 20 years of construction to realize his dream for these trails, in 1930, he commissioned Beatrix Farrand for the planting and landscape plans for the carriage paths. Their remarkable foresight is still evident today. The beautiful, well-maintained trails and details such as the hand-cut granite coping stones, which were designed to protect travelers from steep roadside embankments, still stand. These trails provide visitors with options for an easy, peaceful exploration of the area by foot, bicycle and horseback.

Nearby towns of Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor and Northeast Harbor each offer a touch life in Main. Here you will find everything from fine restaurants, to shopping boutiques and lodging.

For those looking to camp, there is no backcountry camping in Acadia, although primitive camping is available at Duck Harbor Campground, on Isle au Haut. Firewood should not be brought into the area as it may contain non-native insects that could pose a serious threat to the park's resources. Firewood is available at local campgrounds.

Wine Trail of Malaga

Malaga is known throughout the world for its stunning beaches, sunny days and birthplace of Picasso. It is also known for bull fighting. Also, Malaga is synonymous with Flamenco dances. However, it is often one of the most underrated wine growing regions in Spain. Rich wines to complement your meal found in Malaga are among some of the best wines that the world can offer.

So this time around when you visit Malaga, be sure to follow a rich wine trail in Malaga. Malaga has been producing wine for centuries. Wines were produced by both, the Moors and the Phoenicians. Though liquor is forbidden in Arabic culture, they produced some of the best wines in Malaga and even enjoyed the fruit of their labour. In fact along with the fascinating Moorish architecture, wine is a legacy left by the Moors.

Generally wines found in Malaga are made from Muscat grape. However, there are some wines made from Pedro Ximenez grapes. These wines have a rich taste with an earthy flavour. Not limiting yourself to the wines found in hotels in Malaga, or bar for that matter, you can visit wineries in Malaga. You might be truly rewarded if you take a trip to Antigua Casa de Guardia, one of the best wineries in Malaga. It is an award-winning winery, surrounded by fig trees and is located high up in the mountains. The winery was founded in 1840 and had the patronage of Isabel II, the Queen of Spain. The Moscatel Isabel II wine was named after her, in honour of her visit to the winery. The Antigua Casa de Guardia is one of the oldest Bodega in Malaga and the wine here is stored in oak casks. There are also some other fine wine tasting locations in Sierra Nevada, if you thirst for more wine.

If you seek more knowledge about the production and wine culture in Malaga then head to Mijas Wine Museum. It is located in San Sebastián. There are many courses offering an introduction to wines in Malaga. Wine tasting sessions are held regularly.

There is also a Malaga Wine Museum in Ojen, which is close to Marbella, a small fishing village. Roughly more that 20,000 tourists visit the museum every year. Even in the surrounding areas you will find some of the best wines in tapas and hotels to be had in Malaga. So wish you luck on your wine trail in Malaga.

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Travel and Holiday: My Idea Is To Wonder About

Do you know I suffer from Hodomania? Google defines it as 'an abnormal love of travel.' But, if you ask me I would like to believe that our desire for a thing or a place is as normal as our desire for a person.

Why I holiday: Exploring others, self and around is unlimited fun. I fancy it. It is all very much a part of me. There is never a dull moment in my life. I am always on the go. And, why not when the world has a lot to offer. My undying love of a holiday is where the night is just forty winks and there is morning again. I shorten it because my bid is always to stretch the day.

A holiday to me is: To forget to address all issues back home, to leave behind all those duties and padlock them miles behind. It is also to bring routine wheels to a complete halt. It is about enveloping me in the pre-monsoon showers in my own country, and to look upwards to receive snow spits at the Jungfrau in the Bernese Alps.

It is also about being unknown enough to make me nervous in the Far East countries, friendly enough to feel wanted even by strangers in the city of Florence in Italy, and adventurous enough while riding in an ornamental Venetian Gondola in Venice, Italy.

The long and short of it is, that I like to go on a sabbatical. This completely unwinds me. Whether naive, innocent or at times with a hint of trepidation I love packing my bags to the unknown and unexplored locations. My idea of a holiday is to just wander about, traveling far and wide and sharing closer moments with family.

I see a different world at different destinations. When on a holiday I feel like a queen on a throne and forget all humdrum of a daily grind. There are more smiles to give, more happiness to contain and shower, and more experiences to gain and share.

Travel is a part of our holiday experience. In my view these two terms are therefore, interchangeable with a subtle difference, of course. Sometimes half of the fun is the journey itself, while the other half is when we actually reach the destination.

Social graces: Giving a nice smile and appreciating the persons who helped us with travel desk and front desk services, and thanking the customer relations officer ensure a good rapport and sunny environment. I like to incorporate these social graces in my holiday kitty. It keeps me happy.

We do not visit the same place repeatedly. It is hardly ever that we met the same staff, but good relations that we built always created a lasting impression. We holiday to seek happiness. I like to believe we feel happier if all around us are happy, too. And, if simple virtues of kindness, courtesies can bring that, we should go for them.

Every time I visit a place, I lose myself to discover a new me. Nothing is more captivating than self discovery. Sometimes one wonders: Is the world really too small, as bumping into a long-lost friend is not uncommon.

Joy quotient: A holiday is replete with elements of romanticism, a life time partnership. Dancing the night away with spouse and strangers on the beach, playing some wacky games with strangers, and indulging in rib tickling laughter and much more that comes tagged with these, are all one receives in heaps, when one heads out.

Will anyone call it a holiday if it had not brought fun? Would it be called a holiday if it did not detoxify? If it did not de-stress? Then why hold back. Go for fun. Near or far, it does not really matter. It is the experience which is rewarding. One develops more love for a holiday when one returned rejuvenated and the lungs were filled and body fuelled, with renewed energy and freshness.

My love for travel has been of such a magnitude that even if I anticipated I would get to feel the reality of dirt, sweat, and crowd in a city and ubiquitous suicide points and sad stories that a guide narrated us, I shed it off all too soon to being overcome by a sense of joy.

What foxes me: Why some people stick to their schedules even during holiday time. Thankfully, my family and I enjoy each moment to the fullest. We follow no schedules or routine. Even when the sky was grey, even when the temperature was eleven degrees lower than predicted, even when it rained, snowed, breezed, or hushed, the thought of wandering about drives us crazy. Call me nuts. Call me a buckeye. I am happy.

It does not dim my delight: I do not get bogged down by minor travel travails because my idea was to perk me up. If I faced it, I cared to pack it and kept aside in the foil of fun. There may be a few challenges that one might encounter. These could be in the form like, destination turned out not as good as expected, food was not to our liking, journey was cumbersome, and flights delayed us. It could be anything but a holiday should be relished as a deviation from a routine life.

Travel and holiday is a minuscule slice from a whole called life. This makes us more educated, more aware as we followed our itinerary.

Final analysis: From browsing destinations, requesting reservations to packing bags and returning with host of post travel errands coupled with heaps of wash loads. From emptying suitcases, putting things back to their original places followed by a couple of rounds to the stores, to stuffing the refrigerator in order that once again I gear back to routine have a tremendous fun quotient. I recite these activities effortlessly like what A is to B and B is to C, because the mammoth memory coffer enclosed in my system was worth retrieving. This fills my day.

I hope my idea of travel and holiday would get you pack your bags, soon.

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The Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, Canada

On a recommendation from a friend a couple of years ago, I visited The Bay of Fundy. He told me that you could actually leave your footprints on the ocean floor. Intrigued with the thought, I packed my car and drove to New Brunswick from Connecticut in about twelve hours. Well I have to tell you, it is one of the Marine wonders of the world. The Bay of Fundy actually experiences the world's highest tides. They rise and fall an amazing forty eight feet (that's over twelve meters in many places). What I found to be even more amazing was that it happens twice a day, every day. I was told that these tides come about by something known as the funnel effect. During the retreat of the ice age, the Bay of Fundy formed as a massive natural funnel. Like a funnel, the bay is very wide at the mouth and narrows as it moves up inland. This causes the gravitational pull of the moon to truly exaggerate the normal tidal effect as the water gains more momentum rushing into the narrow end of the funnel.

As this continues to happen every day, the natural landscape of the area is constantly changing. The reversing of the flow of rivers sends tidal bores (these are waves that travel up a river or narrow inlet that go against the direction of the current) for miles inland. Think about a building over four stories in height being totally submerged in water, and in a matter of hours, the water is gone. Now remember that this phenomenon happens twice a day!

There is a scenic road that parallels the bay from St. Stephen to Aulac New Brunswick that takes about four hours to traverse. While you are there you must take a tour of what is known as Hopewell Rocks. What you will find here are massive formations that are called "flowerpot rocks". Then in a matter of just around six hours the "pots' become islands being explored by people in kayaks. There are many extensive trails that wind all throughout Fundy National Park. I found a place called St.Martins where there are amazing vistas. You can take some great photos there.

I was quite surprised to find so many things to do there beyond exploring the tidal phenomenon. Quaint little towns and an actual jet boat ride that charges the reversing falls. Not for the faint of heart. Also the tides attract a lot of different sea life, and I was able to do some of the best whale watching I've ever seen.

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Spending A Relaxing Holiday In Seattle

The beautiful city of Seattle is nestled between Lake Washington and Puget Sound. It is often called the Emerald City because of its lush greenery and landscape. It is a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty, tourist attractions and a vibrant nightlife. There are several flights to Seattle from all over the United States, which will enable you to reach the city.

Some of the best museums in the U.S. are located in this city. There are special museums to enjoy Chinese and Japanese art. The museums that are extremely popular in the city include Burke Museum, the city's Art Museum and the Asian Art Museum.

Perhaps, the most striking aspect of the city is its greenery. Taking one of the many cheap flights to Seattle will allow you see lush green grass and colorful flowers amidst a concrete jungle, giving the city a unique charm and appearance. Many of the city's parks are used by residents for jogging and walking. Some of the best parks in the city are Golden Gardens Park, Green Lake and Discovery Park.

The city also has many fairs and festivals. The Sea Fair is usually held in the month of July or August. Here you can see hydroplane races, parade, rides and food stalls. Another fair that the city hosts is the Fremont Fair, which is worth visiting.

Children will enjoy the Fish Aquarium in the city, where they can see an array of aquatic life. They can even go underwater in a glass dome to catch a glimpse of the sharks and other marine life, swimming blissfully in the crystal clear water. You can also take a fishing expedition or go on a relaxing cruise.

No visit to the city is complete without checking out the Pike Place Market. This is a 100-year old market with fish stalls, fruits stalls, antique shops, and memento and souvenir shops. You will definitely find many things to buy and take home.

Those who can get cheap tickets to Seattle should grab them without delay, as it will allow them to visit the famous Space Needle. This is an architectural wonder which will ascend you 520 feet to the observation deck in a super fast lift in 41 seconds. There is also a revolving restaurant at the top. You can get a 360 degree view of the entire city from this restaurant. Close to this attraction is the Seattle Center, which is a fairground where you can buy art, discounted goods, enjoy a fountain display and allow your kids to enjoy some rides. This is also where you can see the Experience Music Project by Paul Allen.

Kids will love the Woodland Park Zoo. Kids can go on a duck ride, enjoy a thrilling ride on amphibious Second World War vehicles or take an underground tour to find out how the early settlers of the city lived here.

You can easily get cheap airfares on low cost airlines. if you book your ticket early enough on US Airways or British Airways, you can get discounted fares. It is best to compare different airline prices before doing your booking. This way you will get the best fares to spend a memorable holiday in this lush green city.

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A Mission Trip Changes You

You go on a mission trip with the proposed purpose of making a difference in someone else's life. You come back with the profound knowledge that it's your life that has been changed. My recent mission trip to Kenya proved this to me - again. In 1999, I went with a group to Honduras and that trip resulted just the same. Yes, we did some good, (building homes in Honduras and helping a church to grow in Kenya). But it is the personal changes that a mission trip creates that validates us going.

As I preparing for this trip, I honestly had mixed feelings. The total cost for 14 of us going on this trip was pretty high between airfare, lodging, vehicle rentals, food, and the donations to the church and orphanage while there. I was calculating this cost and thinking - could not that money be spent here in Hawkinsville? Was this a glorified vacation with a "mission" theme so that we could all rationalize the expense in our own minds? I was leaving behind a fellow that I had just met that had not eaten in two days - would not helping him be better than me taking this trip?

But by then, the plans were made, the money was paid, and the tickets were bought. So I went. And I can conclusively say - I am glad I did! I believe the change, the focus, in me has been permanently altered. A mission trip forces you to get out of your day to day life with your day to day perceptions. We see the same thing everyday. We talk the same politics everyday. We see the same needs everyday, and we become oblivious to them all.

Let me tell you of the trip:

Tea Village

We arrived in Kenya, got settled in, and then immediately went to Pastor Shaddrack's Tea Village Church. This particular Tea Village is owned by one of the tea company plantations. They provide housing (a block house with no running water) to the family for helping to harvest tea. There were several hundred houses in this village. This church is a new church and we were going to help "disciple" the 30-40 members so that the church could grow deeper in it's knowledge of Christian ideals. Personally, I was assigned to teach a two hour lesson on Prayer.

We also planned on teaching many Bible lessons to the children of the community. The children are the key to getting the adults to show up. On the first day, dozens of children arrived and probably 6 or 7 adults. We taught Bible stories to the children. We played with the children. And we taught our discipleship lessons to the older youth and adults that showed up. Then in the afternoon, we went to help with an orphanage that serviced 54 children. Most all of these children were orphaned due to the Aids epidemic that is in the land. BesAnn, a young 24 year old woman, cares daily for these children providing 3 meals and Bible lessons. She is a remarkable lady. Her only help is from a lady who helps cook and also some help from Pastor Shaddrack and his wife.

Both the tea village and the orphanage screamed poverty. The children had next to nothing. Some had shoes, others did not. Some had decent clothes, others had ragged garments. For the most part, they seemed happy (especially with all of us strange white people there, they kept wanting to see under our shirt sleeves to see if we were really this color everywhere!). We saw poverty, we saw situations that are unthinkable - yet they exist. It changes you. It makes you thankful, grateful, and humble at your life experience compared to theirs. It shows you what the courage, faith, and willingness of one 24 year old can do - it can change lives. Am I changing lives? Am I making a difference? A Mission trip FORCES you to ask yourself these questions.

We even witnessed a miracle We had bought 10 bags of 20 snicker's bars each. (that's 200 snickers bars for you mathematically challenged). We gave out 161 at the tea village. A diabetic team member ate one. That left, to our counting, 38 snickers bars that should be in our bag. There were 54 children at the orphanage + two children visiting from the nearby village. We knew we had nowhere near 56 snickers bars. But someone suggested that we count. So we poured them all out on the floor of the van. And, you guessed it. There were not 55 candy bars. There were not 57 candy bars. There were exactly 56 candy bars. You could not help but think about Jesus and the feeding of the 5,000. All I can say is that God provided and taught us that HE is sufficient and provides for His children!

Snickers

By the third day of visiting the church and the orphanage, interest in the community had grown. The children were showing off their Burger King crowns (we talked of sexual purity and explained that they were all princes and princesses of THE KING). We told other Bible stories. The children would go home and tell the others in their household. More children came daily. The adult participation grew. On day three, the day I was supposed to teach on Prayer, about 40-50 adults had arrived. The pastor was excited, but said, "for the most part, these are not people of my church, they are un-churched, please do a lesson on salvation instead of prayer!". I almost panicked. I had not prepared a lesson on salvation, I had prepared a lesson on Prayer. I was also thinking, "There are 3 full time preachers on this trip - Let them do it!". But deep down, I knew. I knew that THIS was why I came. I knew that GOD was in control and my job was to obey! (I did grab one preacher to go with me though). So, I began sharing in a small 16 x 20 room, about Christ. About how he changed my life. About how he loves me. About how he loves each one in that room. I shared about God sending his Son to take the penalty for my choice of disobedience. Of God sending His Son so that I could have fellowship with a Just and Holy God. I shared the story of Salvation! In this church, they don't "walk the saw dust trail" as revivals of years gone by. But many, many did raise their hand to indicate they understood and that they desired and asked Jesus to be Lord of their life. It was an awesome moment in my life that I will never forget.

By the time I finished (probably 20 minutes), another 40 or 50 had arrived. There were over 90 people in that small room. I asked the preacher that came with me, Robert Doughtery, (preacher at Antioch Baptist) to give his version of the salvation story. He did and assuredly more came to know Christ. Well, I thought it was over and I was through - but God had other plans. The pastor then asked us to "Tell them how to grow in Christ... ". So Robert and I each gave a 20 minute lesson on growing in Christ. Then the pastor said, "Question and Answer Time". And all of this was through an interpretor - what an experience!

The interesting thing was that the questions that they ask are the same questions that we ask. "Do you HAVE to go to church?" "How does one KNOW they are saved?" "Is it a sin to get mad at my favorite football team?" "What about all the different denominations and different religions?". We answered these and more the best that we could. Probably not 100% correct, but I believe that God honored the effort. Hopefully lives were changed, I know mine was. We TALK of missions. We send MONEY to missions. But it is so life changing to be an actual PART of missions.

At the Nairobi airport, as we prepared to come home, I met a young lady 22 years old. (the same age as my daughter). She was going home to Colorado after spending 4 months in Africa - all by herself. I talked with her for an hour and a half. She was a changed person. Her trip was not a christian mission trip, she was volunteering to teach English. But the trip had changed her as well. I asked her if she knew my Jesus, and she did. So while I did not get to share Christ with her, it was an accomplishment for me that I tried!

I tell you all this not to boast in any way. If any good was done on that trip, it was all God's doing. Hopefully, I did not get in the way too much. But I tell you this story to encourage you. GO on a mission trip when you get the opportunity. Our own Paul Williams in this community has lead many mission trips through the Methodist Church. Dennis Phillips of the Pulaski-Bleckley Baptist Association leads yearly trips. Speak to your pastor, there ARE opportunities.

You go thinking you might change the world. But it's YOUR world that gets changed. It's your perspectives that are altered. It's your attitude that is modified. It is your pre-conceived notions that get shattered. People around the world all want the same things; to be loved; to be accepted; to survive and even thrive. People attempt to fill those wants with everything imaginable, yet, only God can truly fulfill.

Hopefully all 14 of us will never be the same. Possibly it took traveling half way around the world, attempting to change their lives, that will result in us being willing to change lives back home. When asked, GO. If not asked, then ask your Pastor, and then GO.

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
Acts 1:7-9

Binoculars for the Backyard Birder

Many people become interested in birding simply by becoming aware of the birds that frequent their own back yards. Somewhere in our collective memories is a picture of the idyllic. Placing a feeder outside a back window seems right, and when birds find its fare then the fun begins and the idyllic becomes reality. So too arises the need to learn more about these creatures of feathers and song.

This sentiment was brought once again to my attention this past weekend as a group of our local Audubon manned a booth at our community expo. Several people asked for advice on procuring binoculars they or a family member could use to simply see the birds in their yards better and, perhaps, identify them.

My first bit of advice is to walk away from the cheap and small objective lens models. You are enjoying the birds coming to your yard. You want to add to the enjoyment. You are not looking to become frustrated. You must consider any binocular as an important tool whose purpose is to add to your enjoyment and experience. Examine your budget and commit to investing enough to ensure this goal.

Now to the numbers... There are two numbers that you will encounter such as 8x30. The first refers to magnification and the second to the size of the objective lens. Most birders use binoculars with a 7 or 8 power of magnification. Objective lens size of at least 30 mm seems well suited for most of us. In general, an 8x32 or 8x42 binocular will serve you well. It may well be to your advantage to consider the larger of these objective lenses owing to the greater light gathering ability of the larger lens.

Two other important considerations need mentioning. One is whether you wear eyeglasses or not. Be sure to inquire whether the binocular you've chosen can be used with or without glasses. Second, beginners, especially, need a large field of view (FOV). This will assist you in finding the bird. Try to find a binocular with at least 350 feet FOV.

Here are some recommended models that fit the above criteria. First, the 8x32 Vortex Crossfire and its cousin, the 8x42 Vortex Crossfire, are roof prism models. Then there is the 8.5x32 Vortex Raptor which is a porro prism model. All are very good but not too pricey. The raptor is even a very good choice for youth or adults with smaller faces.

Find what is best for you and go see if that is really a Ladder-backed Woodpecker on your oak and not a Red-bellied. Happy birding.

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Enjoy Water Activities in Jamaica

Jamaica is blessed with a spectacular coastline - with 150 miles (240km) of beaches and many navigable rivers, the island is more than just a beach destination in the Caribbean. There are a range of water activities in Jamaica you can enjoy from swimming with the sharks to river tubing and everything else in between.

If you are traveling with kids, the best place for enjoying water sports in Jamaica will definitely be the Dolphins Cove. This popular marine park is located in Ocho Rios, one of the most popular tourist resorts on the island and also home to Jamaica's signature attraction - Dunns River Falls. In fact, you can combine the Dolphin Cove tour with a visit to the waterfalls also. While the waterfall is scintillating enough, the main attraction is the fact that you can actually climb up to the top of the falls. The water here cascades over a series of rocks which form a natural staircase to the top. The rocks are slippery but not dangerous. Visit the falls, and you will see visitors holding hands, forming a human chain and balancing their way to the top.

You can then head to the nearby Dolphin Cove where the entrance tickets includes a host of activities including captaining your own glass-bottomed boat and kayaking to exploring the spectacular shoreline, snorkelling and interacting with stingrays, exploring jungle trails and watching a shark show. However the main highlight in the Dolphin Cove is the swim with a pair of dolphins. An instructor will give you some basic tips after which you can dive right into the water for half-an-hour of fun and frolic with these lovable mammals. If all the activity leaves you a bit tired you can relax on the sandy beach amidst beautiful tropical surroundings, enjoy a picnic and savour the world-famous Blue Mountain Jamaican coffee.

Another interesting tour is what is called the 'hold and feed the sharks' tour. The name itself is a give away to what to expect and so this is definitely for those with strong nerves. In the company of trained instructors, you can hold and feed these dangerous yet fascinating animals. And if you have it in you, you can actually swim with them. And if this is not exactly your cup of tea, you can watch the activities from ashore.

River tubing is another fascinating way to discover the real Jamaica in all its tropical glory. You can opt for a river tubing adventure on the Great River. This is a guided tour where an instructor will first provide you with the basic safety tips after which you will ride down the river. En route, the guide will point out the interesting sights and you may also be able to glimpse some rare flora and fauna.

Jamaica is fast emerging as one of the world's leading surfing destinations. Every year it hosts the international Makka Pro surfing contest, considered to be the biggest such contest in the contest in the English speaking Caribbean. The activity attracts the best talent from across the globe.

Aside from the above, there are other water activities in Jamaica both for the novice and the professionals. You can opt for sailing, parasailing, river rafting, and scuba diving, amongst others.

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Weekend Getaways Around Chennai: 3 Great Choices

The capital city of state of Tamil Nadu, Chennai is one of the major hubs of cultural, educational and commercial enterprises. The industrially-thriving city, Chennai is base of major computer, technology, automobile, healthcare and hardware manufacturing industries. The busy tech-savvy populace of Chennai seldom gets opportunity to vacation and thus every weekend brings a reason to celebrate and rejuvenate. Choices for weekend getaways around Chennai are many which serve as the right thing to do after a tiring week at work. The town provides an ideal break from regular activities of city life and helps evade monotony.

Some such interesting destinations worth being added to your weekend getaway packages around Chennai are:

Pondicherry: The splendid beaches of Pondicherry are where people visit to breathe fresh air and relish evening walks and morning strolls. With several relics of French colonial rule, the town is a perfect reminiscent of Indo-French connection. Its pleasant climate, natural beauty, picturesque beaches are not the only attractions; rather Pondicherry is also enriched with intriguing architecture and cultural treasures. Some must-visit places in the region are Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville, Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Bharthidasan Memorial Museum and Bharti. However, travelers mostly pick Pondicherry for weekend getaways around Chennai to revel on the neat and cleam beaches of the town and to admire awe-inspiring architecture of French colonizers age.

Bangalore: It is the city of glitz and glam, but it is best known as the Silicon Valley of India for being hub of information technology in the country. Other sobriquets entitled to the city are 'Pub City', 'City of Youth' and the 'Garden City'. It is a melting pot of diverse cultures and hub of IT industry of the nation and thus homes a number of public sector undertakings, heavy industries, aerospace, telecommunications, software companies, defense organizations and more. It is merely 5 hours drive away from Chennai and thus makes an excellent weekend destination for people of Chennai. The attractions worth visiting are the splendid gardens, cinemas, boulevards, markets and historical monuments. Some of the must- visit places in the town are Lal Bagh, Bangalore Palace, Vidhan Soudha, Cubbon Park, Tipu Sultan's Palace, Bangalore Palace and more.

Kanchipuram: If one wants to focus only on shopping for traditional Indian saris then a visit to Kanchipuram stands as the best possible option nearby Chennai. It is also popularly known as 'City of 1000 Temples' out of which several are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Its exquisite silk saris are renowned world-over providing more than one reason to travelers to visit Kanchipuram.

The purpose is to escape city life for a short-span of time to revitalize body, mind and soul and the above mentioned destinations beautifully fit into these criteria. Easily accessible these destinations are great choices for weekend getaways around Chennai and are thus opted by hundreds of travelers each year.

Summer In Rural Andalucia

The rise in popularity of rural tourism comes as no surprise to those of us lucky enough to live in unspoilt inland Andalucia. The mountains, rocky gorges and peaceful lakes guarantee year round stunning scenery and a host of things to do for activity and nature lovers. Despite this increase in popularity, it is easy to find private cottages and villas tucked away in complete privacy, where you can spend your holidays or a lifetime enjoying the amazing scenery, sunshine and sunsets. Tranquil campsites in pine forests by the lakes are an excellent option to get away from it all and spend a few days swimming in clear turquoise waters away from the crowds.

I live in a small piece of paradise called El Chorro, which is around an hours drive inland from Malaga. By the beginning of June, barbeque season has kicked in and friends with pools are suddenly finding themselves very popular. There is nothing better than floating in an outdoor pool, high on a mountainside with views going on for miles - the feeling of absolute tranquility is hard to find anywhere else. The nearest neighbours are often far away on another mountaintop, so privacy is guaranteed and there is no-one around for you to disturb. The hot day time temperatures fall to comfortable warmth in the evening; food, drink and company can be enjoyed late into the night and a midnight swim is practically a must.

The beginning of summer is always my favourite when I drive around near home or towards Malaga; jacaranda trees are glorious with their vibrant purple on full display, and near streams and waterways, the bright pink oleander bushes stand out brightly against the drying hillsides. The lakes warm up to perfect bathing temperatures by June and have plenty of shade, and coves for sunbathing and swimming. Even in high season, they never seem too busy or crowded; the 3 huge lakes which join together are easily big enough to cope with visitors.

Anyone looking for a permanent or holiday home in rural Andalucia can pretty much stick a pin on the map and find a beautiful spot. During summer, cooling off in water is a must, the ideal combination is somewhere with a pool, within an easy drive of one of the many lakes. In total, Andalucia has over 300 natural lakes and 11 reservoirs. Near Malaga, Lake Vinuela and the Ardales reservoirs are ideal. Seville has the Hueznar river, with beach and waterfalls, and the Serrano lakes. Huelva, Cadiz and Jaen also have lakes popular for swimming.

To reach these inland areas, car rental is recommended, as local transport is irregular and does not reach all areas. Cheap car hire in Spain can be booked in advance from any Spanish airport.

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Enjoy a Scuba Holiday As a Volunteer in the Maldives

If you are among many of the Britons looking for an exotic summary holiday this year you might consider the area around the Indian Ocean. Working as a volunteer in the Maldives allows you to swim with the fishes and examine the coral reeves in all their glory.

Your tasks as a volunteer will include measuring under water corals and vegetation. Taking pictures of the fish and its habitat is also important. The information gathered can be used to ensure informed management, education and conservation decisions can be made by governments. It also allows the local population to learn about the wildlife they live next to and ensure they take every precaution to keep it save from extinction. Alongside the expedition's biologists, local people might be the best source of knowledge about how life in the ocean has changed over the years and what they are doing that affects it.

Whale shark conservation is also one of the main aims of many volunteer holidays in the Maldives. This data gathering is more opportunistic than planned as they cannot be tracked in the same way land animals can. Whale sharks are extremely large animals and can be recognised by the many yellow dots covering their surface. A fully grown whale shark is 1.5 meters wide and its mouth runs across most of this length. Inside its mouth you will find more than 4,000 teeth, however they are fairly harmless and only measures 0,3 cm high. The whale shark is often seen as a protector of other fish as not many hunting fish will dare to come close to it. The most important thing for an expedition coming close to a whale shark is to try to get pictures of its gill area. This has the same qualities as a human fingerprint.

Many expeditions have a boat as the base and most of the time you are there will be spent on the boat. This allows you to focus on the work and be as close to the water as possible. It also allows you close proximity to the species you are studying and easy transport between study sites. There is often a chef on board the expedition vessels that cooks all meals and allows you to taste the flavours of the local food. IF you are lucky they might teach you a thing or two.

If you have your scuba diving licence you should definitely consider spending your holiday working as a volunteer conserving the magnificent ocean life around the exotic Maldives islands.

Weekend Getaways Around Delhi: Exploring the Un-Explored

Summers are at its peak in Delhi and with schools and colleges shutting down for summer holidays Delhiites are all geared up to make their way to a greener and more tranquil region of Earth. Summers bring sultry weather conditions, power-cuts, fatigue and more. On the positive side it also brings a reason to head for vacationing, to bond with family or friends, explore a new vista and revel in solitude. The work-savvy populace may not get much, but they still manage to pick weekend's time to enjoy a quick break; there are a wide number of weekend getaways around Delhi too. These destinations are simply a short drive away and can be covered within short span of time; therefore these are popular choices for weekend getaway packages for Delhi.

Now, you may have already explored Jaipur whilst attending a cousin's wedding or Agra during a school trip, but there is still lot more to be discovered on weekend getaways around Delhi. Some such unexplored regions worth visiting around Delhi are:

Kasol: At the onset Kasol appears as any other hill station in Himachal Pradesh; however under this obvious tranquil picture lays elements of a hippie civilization. A short drive from Delhi will take you to the hidden world of Kasol which has stayed untouched by infuriating travel tout business. Thus raw and mysterious Kasol has recently transformed into a major hub of backpackers. Its low populace, salubrious climate round the year, untouched natural splendor attracts youth from world over. The place is known for its un-common phenomenon of being a trekking destination as well as a great place for Trance Parties, shopping for western outfits and food and more.

* The distance from Delhi can be covered via an overnight Volvo which drops you at Bhunter bus stop from where you can hire a private cab or pool in a Mahindra jeep or even a local bus to reach Kasol in 45 minutes- 1 hour.

Khajjiar: To put-off your work worries and revel in blissful natural bounty you should plan a trip to Khajjiar. The quaint scenery at the town is beauteous reminiscent of Switzerland's iconic beauty; thus known as Mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is a sylvan glade known for its diverse ecosystems which includes pasturelands, gorgeous lake and forests. The soulful ambiance of Khajjiar appears particularly inviting to those who wish to do nothing on a vacation than to simply gaze at nature's riches and revel in the surrounding beauty of cedar forests, snow-clad mountains and herds of sheep and horses.

*The shortest route to reach Khajjiar is from Pathankot via Dalhousie. This 80 km stretch is easily covered in approximately three hours via taxi or local buses. Those who wish to convert their weekend getaways around Delhi into an adventurous tour one must head for an easy trekking tour from Dalhousie to Khajjiar. The trek weaves through pine thicket along upper Bakrot Road and also covers Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary on the way.

The above mentioned are just a few choices for weekend getaways around Delhi; however there are a whole lot of interesting destinations around the national capital. All one needs is an explorer's patience and zeal to discover and one can produce a memory of a lifetime.

This news article is brought to you by AROMATHERAPY - where latest news are our top priority.

Pool Umbrellas - A Necessity

Having a pool in your backyard is the best way to escape the scorching summers. But when you aren't in the waters you would prefer lounging about around it. Having a pool umbrella helps you live your dream of staying in the shade while near the water. Indeed, today you hardly find any water front without an umbrella placed near it. With the changing times and the change in needs of the customers, the manufacturers of pool umbrellas have invented new and more efficient designs in this item.

People use these umbrellas in their personal properties or at their professional establishments. When it comes to choosing the right type of umbrella for your patio, deck or poolside, you must first decide on how to utilise the space and what look you intend to give to this area. Not only do they help the people enjoy themselves away from the harsh sunlight in the open, but it also adds to the overall appearance and ambience of the place. Be it the patio, pool side area or a resort, there are a wide variety of pool umbrellas available in the market suiting each need. Today one can also order them over the internet.

When you search the net, you would be surprised to see the amazing range and choice available. Depending on your requirements, various websites cater to creating customised umbrellas too. You would find basically five types of umbrellas - the "market", "beach", "lifeguard", "patio" and the "commercial" models. Under each category you can choose from a whole range of colours, shapes and sizes.

You can also create customised products where there is a logo of your establishment printed on these umbrellas. The pricing would obviously vary with the varying needs of the customer. But the end product would definitely be worth every penny spent because having a unique product enhances its credibility to your establishment or institution. Having logos printed is also a great way to advertise and promote your cause or business.

Another criterion that can determine the efficiency of your umbrella is the material used. Scouting around a bit would help in determining the type of material required. The climate of the place would also be a major reason to pick a particular type of umbrella over any other.

For example in places that are windy or prone to high winds periodically the material preferred would be fibre glass or stainless steel. Aluminium is a popular choice due to it being light weight and easily versatile. Also, these frames are very durable and demand less maintenance.

Today you would also find pool umbrellas constructed from ultra violet resistant material that protects you from the harmful effects of absorbing these radiations from sunlight. But the best thing is that even if you are not aware of these technicalities, it does not really matter. Because, the companies today provide assistance and help choose the right product after considering all possible aspects and taking into account your lifestyle.

This news article is brought to you by GOING GREEN NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.

Book Cheap Tickets to Manila Today

Manila, the capital city of Philippines is the ideal location to plan a rejuvenating vacation. But the question is how to make the holiday an affordable one without losing the quintessence of the trip. Booking cheap flight tickets to Manila is the perfect way to make your outing a memorable and economical experience.

Cheap tickets to Manila are offered by many travel agencies these days both online and offline. You can get the best possible airline deals to Manila, which makes you and your pocket blissful. The vibrant city of Manila has many things to offer to its visitors, which will keep them occupied the entire day. Here are some of the best things one can do on their vacation to Manila:

Sightseeing

The capital city of Philippines is sanctified with many popular historical sites. If you want to know the mysterious history of the city, take a tour to Intramuros, meaning 'within the walls' because of which it was nicknamed as the "Walled City". This place has a famous fort constructed in late 1500's by the Spaniards when they ruled the country of Philippines. The fort was destroyed during the catastrophic Japanese- American war in 1945. This fort after renovation has been converted into a grand museum.

Luneta Park is another important historical spot liked by visitors from across the globe. Luneta Park is the memorial built in the memory of the Philippine national idol, Dr. Jose Rizal. The park is visited by the locals during the holidays especially on Sundays to spend some refreshing time with their families.

Relaxing

There are countless places in Manila where one can expect utmost tranquility. You can sooth your nerves by indulging in some relaxing activities like body massage, scalp and shoulder massage, face and foot massage and meditation. The Spa Wellness, The Ritz Spa Malate, and Relaksasi are some of the places where you can relax and enjoy your leisure time. Spa at Club Oasis at Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila is a place where serenity and fun merges together to make your entire vacation a delightful experience. Book flights to Manila and flee from the hectic work schedule to take relaxing massage and therapies, to sooth your mind and body.

Shopping

Women always find pleasure in strolling around the streets and shopping their favorite items. Manila is the paradise for core shoppers. For great shopping experience, you can visit the following places:

Baclaran: It is the most popular place in Metro Manila, due to its glittering flea markets. Since early 1980's, Baclaran has been considered as the famous shopping destination among people seeking for cheap buying options. While strolling by the sidewalks you will find many shops selling unique items at very economical rates. There are several high-rise malls in Baclaran, but for true shopping experience and best deals, buy from the street shops.

Eastwood City: This is the extraordinary place to shop during your vacation, because of its timings. This place is open till midnight where you can try multiple activities such as dining, fun-activities, while shopping for your favorite items. This unique place is divided into 3 major attractions - Eastwood City Walk, Fashion mall and Eastwood Cyber.

With several cheap flights to Manila available, get the best offer by taking advantage of early booking. To explore these attractions of the city, look for cheap flight tickets to Manila.

Belizes' "Blood Tree:" The Logwood

The Logwood Tree is tall, though it does not exceed 40 feet in height, is native to and can be found in southern Mexico and southward, throughout much of Central America.

The dark, deep and rich maroon red sap of the Logwood literally oozes in great abundance from the tree if the tree is ever wounded. Thus the reason the Logwoods have been given the English nickname 'Blood Trees.' This oozing of its' blood-colored sap will heal a tree wound just as blood does for a human being. In turn, the nick name, Blood Tree explains the Logwoods' scientific name 'Haematoxylum' which is a Greek word meaning 'Blood Wood.'

The Logwood is one of the two trees that are recognized as having helped build Belize's colonial economic backbone. The dark deep rich maroon dye from the Logwood was highly sought after in Europe as a dye for the textile industry in Europe. This Logwood dye demand made Belize an important colony to the British.

The dye from the Logwood is not only used in the textile industry today but it can also be used in other things such as a natural hair dying ingredient.

The Logwood is even thought to have medicinal properties as well. Tea made from the Logwood Tree contains triple anti-oxidants and is currently being tested in the United States as a possible cure for certain types of cancer.

The dye-rich resinous wood of the Logwood also makes it a great hardwood for building. Logwood has proven to resist almost all, if not all, types of microbial rot as well as attacks upon it by insects and even chewing rodents.

However, the Logwood is not just known for its' crucial and historical role it played in the development of the now modern-day country of Belize; it has unique and interesting characteristic as well. One characteristic of the Logwood is that it is actually a flowering tree. Logwoods will produce some very stunningly beautiful flowers.

Flowers from the Logwood are abundant and sweet. Bees will, in large part, pollinate the flowers closest to their hives thus the bees that happen to live around a Logwood Tree are known to produce an outstandingly delicious honey.

The leaves of a Logwood are also interesting and unique. A Logwood leaf looks almost like a delicate piece of lace, each growing in the shape of a little heart. Every two rows of a Logwood leaf has a pointy end that is attached to a flexible middle rib. It is an awesome experience to be standing on the ground, under a Logwood Tree and look up into the entire Logwood Tree canopy and all one can see above are massive little delicate heart-shaped flowers.

If you ever visit Belize be sure and seek out a Logwood Tree, stand under it and look up. Be sure and have your camera handy and be prepared to capture a memory of a lifetime.

Hickatee: The Critically Endangered Turtle

Dermatemys mawii, the Hickatee, a Central American River turtle is such an aquatic turtle that it spends its entire life in or on the water, even sleeping and yet they stay afloat. This fairly large turtle species attains a maximum of 25 inches in carapace length and can weigh up to 44 pounds, 50 pounds if including the weight of the carapace or the turtle shell. Males can be differentiated from females by yellow markings on either side of their head. They also have a longer and thicker tail.

The female is somewhat smaller, with a shorter tail and a gray head unadorned by the golden emblem and matching spotty insignia of the male. The carapace, brown or olive drab, is only slightly curved; the ventral shell is cream-colored.

The female Hickatee only leaves water when it has to eggs to lay, where, as many as sixteen eggs are deposited beneath the camouflage of rotting vegetation. This 'mother' never looks back, never checks on the eggs she has just laid. The eggs she has just laid incubates themselves.

The Belize coastal lowlands are the normal home environment of the Hickatee along with the waterways of southern Mexico and northern Guatemala. Deep and clear water is better, and Belize's many lagoons are considered by the Hickatee to be prime residential areas.

When newly hatched a Hickatee will begin life as meat-eaters, however, as they become adults they switch to a vegetarian diet. Ancient Mayans prized turtle meat for food as well as for religious ceremonies. Turtle meat is still a highly prized delicatessen today. Eggs of Sea Turtles are harvested in Belize for food.

The Hickatee is a herbivore and its meat is eagerly sought after by carnivorous man. The Hickatee Turtle meat is a traditional Easter meal in Belize which has helped to put this turtle on the critically endangered list. Further, the Hickatee is an easy catch as they lazily drift on the water's surface unaware they are going to be knocked unconscious by a well-aimed oar or simply picked up from a river bed in the dry season.

Despite their endangered status the Hickatee only has very limited protection in Belize with a one month closed season along with no trading of Hickatee meat, a maximum of 3 are allowed to be caught per person and only five per vehicle.

The Hickatee Turtle is one of the world's most heavily exploited turtles, having been intensely harvested, primarily for its meat, but also for its eggs, carapace and even hatchlings are sold has food. This turtle has been nearly eliminated from much of its former range in southern Mexico.

The Versatile Calabash Tree

The Calabash Trees that are found in Belize are small tropical evergreens that can attain a height of over 22 feet. However, the Calabash Tree is referred to as a "tree" in its' local name only, not scientifically, for they are technically shrubs.

The scientific name for the Calabash Tree is Crescentia Cujete. The Calabash belongs to the family of Bignoniaceae and is known to grow in abundance in Belize. However, also found in Belize is a cousin to the Calabash Tree, scientifically called Crescentia Alata, that is locally known as the Mexican Calabash.

The Calabash Trees' exact origin is not known, however today, the Calabash has been introduced throughout the tropics and can be found growing in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and the northern parts of South America. The Calabash has become native to much of Southern Mexico and Central America and has also been naturalized in India.

The Calabash Tree has characteristics that are uniquely its own that features a broad but irregular crown made up of long, spreading and arching branches which are capable of providing dappled shade on sunny days. Calabash leaves are simple and elliptical in shape, clustered at the nodes. As a result of this unique growth habit, this tree often becomes a surrogate for orchid-growers to perch their plants on its branches. Crescentia cujete is grown in lawns, parks and are often used for hedges.

The Calabash produce nocturnal flowers that are a greenish-yellow color marked with purple veins on the trunk or main branches. Every evening around 6 p.m. these nocturnal blooms open and will emit a fairly strong odor that is attractive to the nocturnal mammal, the Fruit Bat. Fruit Bats help to pollinate the Calabash Trees' flowers which, by noon time the next day, will be closed and all withered away, ready start their nocturnal blooming cycle the following evening.

Wood from this tree has a wide range of uses which include manufacture of cattle yoke, tool handles, wooden wheels, ribs in boat building and thin strips are used to make baskets and hampers

The Calabash Trees' fruit has been cultivated for thousands of years. The pulp of the Calabash fruit has been known and used for medicinal purposes for hundreds maybe even thousands of years. The medicinal properties of the Calabash fruit have been used to treat headaches, burns, certain respiratory issues, stomach aches, coughs, colds, laxatives and also has been used to help reduce high rates of blood pressure.

Beside the use of the Calabash fruit for medicinal purposes other parts of the tree are also used medicinally. A concoction of the bark of the Calabash Tree is used to clean wounds and the pounded leaves are applied as a poultice for headache while finely crushed leaves are applied on wounds to stop bleeding and promote healing.

The oval gourd-like fruit of the Calabash Tree has a hard and woody rind, similar to a gourd. The Calabash fruit can grow up to 25 cm in diameter, not too much unlike the Calabash Vine of the Middle and Far East. Each fruit takes up to seven months to ripen. Ripened Calabash fruits are brown in color and the seeds inside are surrounded by a light-colored pulp.

The shells of the dried Calabash fruits are used to make a wide range of household utensils or creatively filled with sand to make musical instruments. The larger fruits are used as bowls or made into helmets that are worn by bird hunters.

Past civilizations have used the dried and hardened green shells of the Calabash fruit to make bowls and eating utensils, such as spoons, for about as long as that same fruit has been cultivated as a viable source of food.

One can find gift shops in Belize displaying and selling a wide variety of artifacts made from the calabash fruit. Products made from the Calabash Tree make great souvenirs and usually are not very expensive.

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Creative Tourism Experiences in Thailand

Enrich your life through experiential activities, arts, and crafts. Make your vacation a life-enriching experience.

There is a part of you that you have yet to discover.

Most of the time, you travel to discover new places. What if you could discover another side of you during your journey? Through creative tourism experiences, visitors to Thailand can expect life-enriching lessons that reveal undiscovered parts of themselves. From craft making to Thai boxing, agriculture, like rice farming, to traditional massage and preparing our renowned cuisine, local experts are eager to share their knowledge.

Learning opportunities in Thailand abound, in a wide range of school settings, be that a kitchen, boxing ring or mat on a floor.

Thai cuisine is world renowned. Thai massage is appreciated around the globe, and Thailand's national sport, Muay Thai, leaves spectators in awe and practitioners more confident. All are available for study, and you can increase your immersion in Thailand through a homestay that lets you gain a new appreciation for Thai culture.

THAI COOKING

Thai cooking is within the grasp of anyone with chefs welcoming visitors into their kitchens to learn the secrets that make Thai cuisine so delicious and healthy. As you well know, it tops the lists of the world's favorite foods, and visitors can learn how to prepare an array of dishes and take this skill home.

There are courses for all tastes, from one-day classes to weeklong courses. Most have only a handful of students, and with each receiving personal instruction from the chefs, you'll appreciate you're new and practical skills as will your family and friends.

THAI MASSAGE

Thai massage is another valued skill family and friends will appreciate. Learn about energy meridians and techniques to open up sen lines, the invisible energy channels that flow through the body. Studying Thai massage is a holistic journey that undeniably leads to greater wellness and longevity. After receiving a Thai massage, people have increased energy as well as decreased stress and muscle tension. And the person giving the massage also gains from the experience, including the pride that can only be felt by a healer. Those feelings of compassion and giving kindness are invaluable.

MUAY THAI

Another study possibility is Muay Thai, often called Thai Boxing or Kick Boxing by foreigners. It is Thailand's national sport and very prestigious. Dating back centuries, today, an increasing number of people have learned to appreciate it for staying in shape and building self-confidence.

Fast paced and exciting bouts are fought in stadiums throughout the country. Fighters strike their opponent with their hands, feet, knees and elbows at lightening speed.

It's a demanding sport that takes a lot of training, both mental and physical, to reach fighting condition. But the benefits of that training start right away and more and more men and women, Thai and foreign alike, are starting to study Muay Thai for the conditioning.

RICE FARMING

Thailand feeds the world as the top rice exporting country, and you can learn what it takes to harvest the crop as well as gain a deep appreciation for tilling the soil and caring for the land that sustains us.

As the country' staple food, rice is at the heart of Thai culture. Farmers have passed on their rice growing skills for generations, since they first began planting rice more than 5,500 years ago. Thai life revolves around the rice seasons. Planting in May through July when the rains start signaling the end of the dry season, the rice is ready for harvest in October or November.

The Land of Smiles offers numerous places to learn about rice farming and even work with farmers. Such a learning experience can bring knowledge along with fun when you are on holiday in Thailand.

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