Building An Authoritative Travel Blog

Authoritative blogs seem all the rage at the moment but what exactly is an " Authoritative Travel Blog ?" Well my understanding of the matter is it is a blog that is not only very informative to the readers but that the information comes from authoritative type people in connection with what they are writing about.

Hopefully my articles below will give an insight on travel and travel related experiences from all over the world from many authoritative writers as they have been there and done that.

Articles will be and are published often and this means current travel experiences and up to date places to visit. If you have also visited these places or wish to comment then please do so remembering this blog is intended to family orientated visitors so please be respectful.

I have seen many fears raised through my article site and feel that any traveller today that, for one reason or another, decides against travel insurance then they are possibly being a little short sighted. We do not want our boats to sink but are happy to carry life rafts. travel insurance is a similar idea. We do not wish to ever claim on it but if things go wrong as they sometimes do it is a benifit to have the insurance.

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Crafty Moms are Making Toys!

By Mara Hernandez-Capili

Practical moms will always device a lot of ways to save money on household requirements. There are a lot of do it yourself household remedies which types spreads from cleaning agents, soaps, shampoos, body washes, baby diapers, baby toys, etc. Allowing yourself to be practical will allow you to save a lot of money from household items. A practical mother would then turn to creative ideas on how to be practical yet have fun.

Homemade toys are slowly becoming the trend for mom at home to save or cut on the budget. Homemade toys such as play dough are very easy and very economical to do, and to add to that it is also play-safe for babies. Making homemade play dough is quite easy to prepare as the materials can be avail at the comfort on a kitchen. The ingredients are as follows: 1 cu of table salt, 1.5 cups of flour, 4 table spoons olive oil, 4 teaspoons cream of tartar, food coloring and flavor oil (vanilla, peppermint, almond, etc) for scent.

Mix all the ingredients together to form a huge paste like "dough". Grab a handful, indent a side with your finger and add food color after which start molding it in your palm to show the achieved color. Add more drops of food color until you were able to reach your desired color. Do this with the rest while putting a new color so you could have play dough of different shades.

The home made play dough can be kept in a air tight container that can last you for months. You need not to worry if your child was accidentally able to eat some since the materials are obviously safe for them. Homemade play dough's characteristics is to dry out, if this happens just simple ad drops of water to regain moisture.

You may want to be a little creative and earn from it through selling! Try printing cute labels for your play dough jars. Remember to put your business name and contact numbers into the labels so people may instantly contact you for their orders. Homemade toys are definitely a craze and many would be interested to try one of those!

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Visiting Oahu Hawaii Oahu Places To Visit Places To Visit in Oahu The Oahu Atractions Places To Visit in Oahu Hawaii Have Fun With Oahu Sightseeing

By Matt

If you decide to vacation in Honolulu you will be joined by millions of others from Japan and America that do each year, flying into the International Airport. Immediately after landing, visitors hop in to buses or taxis sent by the hotel and zoom past downtown Honolulu to reach their pre-reserved accommodation at a Waikiki hotel. This is a exciting area and it has an immediate effect on everyone that goes there as it is full of life. Venturing out in Waikiki can be quite exciting - Waikiki can be so exciting that many visitors never escape its imaginary borders. About 6 million visitors never get to see the sights, which the locals find unforgettable all lying with in 2 square miles of Waikiki.

If you are a visitor who would like to get a taste of Oahu through the eyes of a resident, this article may be of special interest to you.

Magic Island Beach Park - Located West of Waikiki this can be found not to far from the popular Ala Moana Shopping Mall. The park includes two beaches, a three mile jogging path, tennis courts, and more. A leisurely stroll around the park would bring you closer to the essence of Hawaiian culture " where a large family with all the members spends a lively day together amidst delicious food and lots of sun. The beaches are relatively less crowded, so if you want to spend a memorable day, get hold of some barbecue and land at the beaches of Magic Island.

The Contemporary Museum - This beautiful museum is not very large by museum standards and is situated high up on a ridge that offers spectacular vistas - it can be found on Makiki Heights drive. The exquisite exhibits in this somewhat small museum keep changing in the 5 galleries and when you have finished viewing these, you could go outdoors for a walk in to the sculpture gardens. 5 acres, includes sculptures as well as places for meditation, and can offer an unforgettable view of Honolulu.

Leong's Cafe - A lu'au is a must-do on any trip here and along with the fantastic entertainment they can also offer great native Hawaiian food. But if you are true connoisseur of authentic Hawaiian food, then the place you ought to visit is Leong's Cafe located at 2343 North King Street. Here they have been serving the Hawaiian population for in excess of five decades with traditional dishes enjoyed by many.

Champion Malasadas - there is a local treat that originated in portugal called Malasadas which has become so popular that they even renamed Fat Tuesday to Malasadas day. The location details, where this venerated and most popular bakery is Champion Malasadas, 1926 South Beretania Street. Anyone that enjoys donuts will like these (even though they do not have a hole) and they come with a variety of fillings or if you prefer, you can eat them without any type of filling.

Honolulu Chinatown " Walk through the lanes of Chinatown and you start thinking where am I, and what era am I in? Irrespective of what you are looking for, Chinatown can offer dim sum, fresh produce, handmade leis or the ultra modern lounges. Unusual and interesting produce and products can be purchased here, most of which you would be hard pushed to find in a normal American grocery. While many visitors take guided tours, it is just as easy (if not more so) to wander through the streets, taking in the atmosphere and stopping whenever you feel the need.

If you are interested in seeing Oahu through a locals eyes, be sure to spend some time outside of Waikiki. Stop by some or all of the spots listed above and see some of what truly makes Hawaii special.

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The Kentucky Glass Art

By Mercie Hallow

Art glass is a decorative piece of art that is made through the art of blowing into it. It can be achieved through the use of a long glass blower with a molten and pliable glass attached at the end of it. The glass blower then blows directly through the instrument until air reaches the molten glass forming a huge bubble. Glass blowers are certified and skilled glass crafters who are well known for producing fine pieces of art through glass. A glass working station is quite hot because of the temperature in the furnace that is used to melt glass.

The Glassworks Gallery in Louisville, Kentucky is open to aficionados, enthusiasts and glass collectors. They are open to share their wonderful art glass works. The gallery holds hands-on classes for people to experience for themselves the wonder of making glass through glass blowing technique. Glass blowing technique has been around for sometime and was considered as the universal way of achieving glass art.

Colored art glass is also achieved through the use of glass blowing technique. As of the moment, there are no known hazards or incidents the technique cause even to those who are using it for many years already. It is imperative to follow proper procedures to ensure safety of the glass blower. To ensure proper and safe workstation, a glass blower especially a beginner at that is encouraged to wear and observe proper uniform and protective gears.

The work station in glass works is hot and humid owing to the furnace that is used to melt glass. The Glassworks activity in Kentucky also features art glass making for beginners where they are presented with small colored chips of glass that they can play with.

If youre visiting in Kentucky, dont forget to visit Glassworks and be amazed at the creative ways one can do with a piece of glass!

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Monday, March 30, 2009

Use European River Travel Fro A New Look At The Continent

By Samson Mandez

Most people visualize lush tropical forests and sandy beached as the perfect complement to cruises, but have you ever thought about leaving the ocean-going liners behind and opting for more individual, varied and refined experiences among some of the world's greatest cities, with lots of nature to boot? European river travel is just that.

Regardless of whether you are new to cruising on ships or if it is an activity you have indulged in often, one advantage of European river travel is that it's an activity that you can enjoy in every season, unlike tropical cruises.

Plus, with European river travel you will be able to visit many magnificent but little known places and sights, mostly inaccessible even to a standard Atlantic or Mediterranean cruise, while avoiding automotive traffic, airports, and big tourist crowds.

While many trips involving around European river travel center on the visit of urban areas, there are valid alternatives if you prefer to visit more laidback areas, or even unspoiled nature in natural parks and sparsely settled areas. You can even combine urban and rural sights.

An Internet search will guide you to some first-rate reductions on European river cruises, especially if you are able to wait until the last moment before reserving your trip.

One of the most fantastic European river travel that you can take goes all the way from Amsterdam, in Holland, to the Black Sea, in Romania. On such a trip, you will travel on three of the continent's mayor waterways, the Rhine, the Main and the Danube, as well as on connecting canals.

This kind of European river travel will allow you to explore the charming lowlands of the Netherlands, the forested areas between Germany and France, with the incredible backdrop of the Rhine in this area, and then to cruise through Bavaria and Austria, Hungary, and finally to the well-preserved Danube delta in Romania.

One great extra bonus of long European river travel is that as the vessels are smaller then the cruise ships that go out to sea, you will receive a much more personalized and attentive service from the on-board personnel, and you will also get to know your fellow travelers more.

You may be so overcome by the slower, more graceful experience of European river travel, in fact, that you permanently trade in all your tropical apparel for something a bit warmer!

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Rod Holder - A Helpmate For Leisurely Fishing

By John Whitebait

A fishing rod holder is a useful tool that allows anglers to use both hands when attaching the lure and removing their catch from the hook. When you use a fishing rod holder, you don't have to worry about letting go of the pole and, just maybe, losing the fish youve worked so hard to catch.

The early designs of rod holders were composed of two parts: pole-binding and straps. The pole-binding device used a strap to fix the fishing pole to the railing. The strap, usually using velcro, was attached to the angler's waist, wrist or ankle. But these early designs were awkward and usually interfered with fishing rather than helping as they were supposed to do. Newer designs have four parts: two pole clips and two straps. They allow for more stability and make it easier to see when the fish take the bait.

Other fishing rod holders provide the angler with a handy remedy for sea sickness by applying a constant pressure to critical acupressure points on the body. When worn during the fishing trip on a boat, this extra feature is an excellent way to ensure that the fishing trip is enjoyable - for eberyone on board!

Fishing rod holders are at their best when used for fly-fishing. When fishing along rocky rivers and streams, it is nigh on impossible to use one hand to fish. If you can clip the rod to your lower leg, it frees both hands for attaching the lure and taking the fish from the hook. Upper pole clips provide free rotation and movement, making flexible rods easier to handle and fishing that much more enjoyable.

Regardless of whether you are fishing from a dock, a boat, or on land, the fishing rod holder is an excellent tool for any fishing trip. It gives extra support, gives you extra sensitivity to bites and allows you to release the rod without losing it.

Many anglers have created their own rod holders. All you need is a strong support and some straps. It is even possible to use a bungee cord if you are really creative. This is an inexpensive way to boost your fishing results.

For anglers who are not that creative, many fishing stores sell a variety of good fishing rod holders specifically designed for different fishing experiences, usually at reasonable prices.

You can have a fantastic time fishing without a fishing rod holder. But you can make it an even better, more successful fishing trip with this handy tool.

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The Basic of Best Mp3 Players

By Anne Ahira

What constitutes the best in mp3 players? The short answer is it depends on what you are looking for in a portable mp3 player. Do you need room for lots of music, photos, or videos? Is the player for a young child, teenager, or someone more technologically advanced? All these questions will play a part in which you feel are the Best Mp3 Players.

Anyway, there is equally the expert opinions on which are the best mp3 players on the shopping centre. Below are the six best mp3 players in the opinion of electronics specialist like CNET, PC Magazine, and Consumer Reports.

The Best Mp3 Players on the Market

1. Apple IPod Nano starts things off as a favorite among many professionals. The Nano has been rated among the best mp3 players for several reasons. Customers agree that it is easy to use, has excellent sound quality, and is not too bad on the pocketbook. PC magazine gave it their editor's choice award saying that it made the competition look like "clunkers". The IPod Nano receives the distinction of best mp3 players overall.

2. SanDisk Sansa Fuze is a more low-budget version than the IPod. For the payment, a lot of are astonished at the perfect sound classification, while all concur the visual display unit is not nearly not quite as the Nano, it is still a great all around mp3 player. This one is ranked best mp3 players players as claimed by payment.

3. Creative Zen is promoted as the cheaper choice to the IPod Nano. Not recommended for MAC users but all others will consider that the visual display unit simply hits that of the Nano for half the value and includes an FM tuner. Best mp3 players to challenge with Nano.

4. Apple IPod Classic is one of the best mp3 players according to memory space. With a 120 GB, hard drive on board this small prettiness will take a whopping 30,000 songs or 150 hours of video! That is a lot of storage size for a small portable mp3 player! The only downside of this is it has an central hard drive, which could suffer from jogging or exercises, so it is not a good option for the dynamic character.

5. Microsoft's explain to the IPod classic is the Zune, facility from the ITunes store and the wireless capacity make this top on any record of the best mp3 players.

6. SanDisk Sansa clip is one of the best mp3 players at a cheap price. This small player comes in at $35 and has adequate storage. There are no photo or video capabilities but for the money you get a player with great sound and the small screen makes it easy to flip through tracks. One of the best mp3 players with a small price tag.

As you can see, listing the best mp3 players is a relative activity. What you need and the price you can spend will govern which mp3 player is truly the best one.

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Sunday, March 29, 2009

Financial Freedom Overview

By Mercie Hallow

Everyone is dreaming to be financially free someday. We all want to not be too dependent on our works in order to live. It is where one is making money work for himself. Financial freedom is having your money work for you, not you working for the money. Financial freedom is where you can increase your money without doing anything.

Some people say that thinking too much about money is a bad thing because money is the root of all evil. I say the opposite. Be obsessed with money. Eat money, think money and live money. In this way, you will learn to love the concept of money and learn more about the subject. In this way, he/ she will have a full understanding on the subject and in the end look for ways to earn his money column. One should need to be financial literate if he seeks to be financially free someday.

Financial freedom is achieved when your expenses are lower than your income or your income is greater than your expenses. It teaches us to invest our excess money rather than save in banks. In this way, our money will grow through wise investing as oppose to it just being left there in the bank. If one seeks to be financially free, he/she should study more about money and how it works and increase his financial literacy.

Financial literacy also teaches us to invest firs our money rather than pay our bills. I know that it is important to pay our bills but this practice can lead us a disciplined life in terms of investing and saving. It also teaches us to give tithes or 10% of our monthly income to church organizations. This is in line with the principle of Give and you shall receive.

Don't be afraid to learn more about financial freedom. Check out your local listings about seminars on the topic.

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Miami Limo Services offer unprecedented Choices for All Occasions

By Andre Welkinson

Limousine, once a dream car for ordinary people, is a standard part of Miami nightlife and available in unprecedented varieties. A large number of car rental companies are offering an assortment of Limousines at very competitive rates due to the higher demand for limo services that have given rise to a large number of limo services in Miami. Your choice of type of Limousine to hire depends on type of occasion you are hiring the limousine for. There are several reasons to choose a particular type of limousine for rent. Everybody has his own needs and taste that determine his or her choice. Limousines come in different styles and models, so when shopping for a limo in Miami, you have more choices now than ever before. You can select vehicles such as Cadillac or Lincoln sedans, Ford Excursion, Hummer, BMW, Mercedes Benz, or limos. In fact, in picking, it actually depends upon the event and how many people who will ride with you in the limo. Typically, sedans can have room for 3 to 4, SUVs can have room for 7, and standard stretch limos can have room for 6 to 10. So, choose one that can go with your needs. If you need a vehicle that can have room for about 20 people, you can go with a limo bus. Here are a few guidelines that will be helpful for you to review prior to booking a limo in Miami:

1. You should know the seating requirements. While the standard Lincoln Stretch limo seats 8, Hummer limos in Miami contain the latest style as well as seating capacity for up to 18 passengers.

2. Read online reviews about the limousine operator or check the Better Business Bureau to make sure the limo operator you are contacting has a solid reputation. After confirming that the limo company has a good track record, its not necessary to shop more than two or three rental companies. Normally most of limousine rental companies have similar pricing structure. Just look for quality of service the company is offering and more importantly, the fleet of limos.

3. Hire from a company that offers the largest number of options so you can be sure to acquire the best limo choice for your occasion. Most of the established operators display their fleet of limos online and offer a number of stretch, SUV, and Limo Bus options.

4. Remember that it's important that you tip the driver. Normally limo drivers depend on tips to a degree and tipping should be built in to your budget.

Established Miami limousine companies can be found online where quotes can be acquired in real time as well as reservations. Whether you are booking your Miami limo service for a wedding, prom night, or a night on the town, Miami limo operators can help you choose the right limousine for your occasion.

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The Exhibit of Moby Dick

By Mara Hernandez-Capili

Moby Dick is an All-American Classic Tale. It was written in 1851 by an American novelist named Herman Melville. It is the story of the battle between a ship owned by Captain Ahab and a ferocious white sperm male named Moby Dick. Moby Dick is a story that was regarded the high value of being discussed in American schools as part of their curriculum. The story has an interesting history because it wasnt accepted by many the moment it was released. It wasnt until 1930 when the book was republished with illustrations that it finally gained popularity.

American artist Frank Stella made a number of art works depicting concepts of the Moby Dick from 1985 to 1997. He made one artwork per chapter of the great novel. The varying artworks altogether is a total of 266 pieces of sculptures, metal relief, murals and prints. Stella's likeness and love for the said novel indeed bordered down to an obsession of having to create a number of collection. Most of his works are now revered to be one of America's priceless treasures.

An exhibition of the Moby Dick works by Frank Stella will happen at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Michigan. It will not feature all of the Moby Dick artworks but some 30 pieces including his acclaimed masterpiece The Fountain. The exhibit will be opened to the public and everyone is encouraged to see it on January 23 up to May 3, 2009. The event is a great time for families to enjoy and for parents to bond with their kids.

Moby Dick is certainly a piece of literature that was able to make its mark in American history. One interesting fact about the novel is its inclusion of a character named Starbuck which was well, the main inspiration of the famous coffee chain. Starbuck is the young mate of Captain Ahabs ship who is the sole person who contradicts Ahabs plan to fight and kill the whale. His character was of a gentle and possibly coward nature who longs to go back home to his young wife and son.

Catch the exhibit and be inspired of a talent of a great American artist.

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Saturday, March 28, 2009

Travel Infos - International Air Travel Rules

By Daniel Marer

Are you planning on attending a business meeting or taking a vacation out of the country? If so, you will need to book a seat on an international flight. Have you ever been on an international flight before? If not, there are a number of factors that you should first consider, such as the international air travel rules. In fact, it is not only recommended that you do, it is required that you do. Not knowing all of the international air travel rules could land you in a boatload of trouble.

While there are in-flight travel rules that you must abide by, there are also other rules. These other rules are ones that apply in all airports, including international airports. Since you will arrive at the airport first, before actually boarding your airplane, it is advised that you first familiarize yourself with these common air travel rules.

As previously mentioned, there are a number of airfield rules that exist in all airports, regardless of whether those airports are international airports or domestic airports. These rules commonly include a list of prohibited items, the screening of all baggage, the removal of your shoes, and the screening of passengers. In addition to these airfield travel rules, which can be found in almost all airports in the United States, there are some air travel rules that only apply to international airports.

Since airline officials and airport security cannot guarantee that you are who you claim to be, you will need to show proof of identification. Depending on where you are traveling to, this identification may need to be more than a simple government issued identification card or driver?s license. In fact, you may also need to supply your birth certificate, a passport, a visa, or a certificate of citizenship. For additional information on which proofs of identification are required, you are advised to contact the international airport or airline that you will be using.

Once you have made it though all of the international airport security checkpoints, you should be able to begin boarding your plane. When boarding your airplane, you are advised to do it in a calm, but timely matter. As soon as your airplane is in the air, you need to follow all instructions given by the pilot or flight attendants. This includes staying in your seat until it is safe to get up. In the event that you refuse to cooperate with the airline staff, you may be putting yourself and other passengers in danger.

While it is important to understand all international air travel rules, there are many travelers who are unsure why those rules are so important. They are important not only for your safety and well being, but for the safety and well being of others. Although it may seem ridiculous at the time, but if you refuse to stay in your seat or you are caught arguing with airport security, you will find that you are automatically labeled a terror suspect. This is largely due in part to the fear of another terrorist attack. Once this happens it is often difficult or impossible to go back to normal.

In the event that you violate international airport security rules, intentionally or not, it is likely that you will be pulled aside. Depending of the rule that you violated, you may only receive a warning, but you could also receive much more. Should you be labeled as a suspicious traveler, you may be detained by airport security or local authorities for an undetermined amount of time. The same can be said for international air travel rule violations in the air. Once your airplane is able to land, often at the nearest available airport, you will be held for questioning.

What will happen after questioning will all depend on your actions and the preferences of local authorities or airport security. Since you can never guarantee the outcome of your actions, it is important that you stay on your best behavior when at an international airport or aboard an international flight.

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Basic International Travel Tips

By Jane Farasi

There is some basic important international travel tips that always come in handy whether you are going on business or vacation or just visiting.

Have an itinerary.

Start with the expected date of departure and the expected arrival dates at your destination. Note where you may cross time zones and how this will affect you.

Inform those that are to meet you of your travel plan. Be familiar with your flight connections, regulations on baggage, switch of terminals and transit arrangements as appropriate.

If a US citizen, register your travel plans with the State Department for emergency purposes.

One of the important international travel tips is that you be conversant with the laws, visa and other travel requirements of any foreign country that you will find yourself in, and especially your destination as these apply to you.

Travel documents and travelers checks

Ensure the validity of your passport and visa in time before your departure date. Do not let your trip be delayed because travel documents are not ready on time.

Ensure also that any other documents that you require are valid and pack them. This might include eg. your driver's license, marriage certificate, etc.

Travellers cheques are still the safest and most convenient way to carry your money. Change it.

Health tips

Your destination may require that you have certain vaccinations. Get these on time and get the necessary vaccination certificates.

Also if you are on medication, get from your doctor enough supplies to carry with you. Take an extra pair of glasses if you wear them, just in case

These are all important international travel tips that will help you ensure that you don't get to where you are going and are refused entry for one reason or another.

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Rib Fest in North Dakota

By Mercie Hallow

Weekends are time to have fun and bond with family members after a long week of confinement in some office desk or in school. People are itching to go out and enjoy the two free days left for them before they return to their normal lives of working or studying. A great weekend is one that enables us to spend it with the entire family or with our loved ones. Weekends are indeed something to look forward to every time.

The North Dakota Rib Fest in Fargo is an event that will surely make a familys weekend memorable and fun. Succulent and mouth watering grilled rib barbecue are sure to make anyones day. There are also other treats at the festival for the kids to enjoy such as corn dogs, hotdogs, ice cream, onion rings, sweet potato fries, etc. The Rib Fest has a special fun zone for kids like the giant inflatable, arts and crafts hands-on lessons and carnival games. The whole family will definitely enjoy this event.

A rib competition is held at the festival wherein judges will choose the best grilled rib and rib sauce of the year. Just imagine a whole day of deliciously smelling barbecue at this festival! Your senses will surely work overtime as you smell the delectable aroma of barbecue and hear the meat sizzle from the grill. Kids and adults will surely line up for more! Barbecues are sold with special homemade sauces that will equally satisfy a hungry taste bud.

The winning entry will receive cash price and a trophy. There will also be live bands and dance performances to further enrich the experience. There will also be a car show and a motorcycle show as well as a job fair. Applicants are encouraged to bring along their resumes and other credentials to submit to the organizers of the job fair.

Make this weekend memorable and bring your whole family to the Rib Fest and much more at Fargo grounds in North Dakota. Check your local listing for map to the area.

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Friday, March 27, 2009

Bigger than Life at Texas Fairs

By Rick Amorey

Americans prefer their stuff huge and extra large, from the size of their burgers and fries to big cars and houses. We also have the largest egos, as some countries like to say, and I believe there is some truth to this statement. And why shouldn't we be proud? We like big things, and we get big things.

When one talks about big things, one will always get a visual image of Texas and Texans, where "bigger" is a way of life. This state has one of the largest areas of land in the United States, and they're also bigwigs in livestock production. But Texas isn't just any old stretch of farmland, either. There is also a very large growth of economy here and we're proud of the technological advancements we have made.

This large state is a cultural giant as well. While we are traditionally known as a blend Southwestern and Southern culture, we have been a melting pot of various cultures over the years. This is no doubt because of our economic growth; many people want to live here in Texas. More importantly, however, this mix of cultures has given rise to some of the most varied craft fairs.

As with fairs, Texans like to make things grand and off the top. Not content with having a lot of small fairs for different cultures, Texan happenings are a collection of big shows and craft booths that can satisfy anyone's craving for culture. Whether you're hunting for Native American, Mexican or Asian crafts, you'll definitely find what you want and even some other items of interest. Search online and visit these fairs.

Or, you may want to contribute a bit to these grand events yourself. It's easy; just register to rent a booth and space for yourself, and show off your cultural lineage through your arts and crafts. If you have talent and would like to share it, then you've come to the right place! Search for schedules and venues now and be part of the Texas Fairs and Festival experience!

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How to Obtain a UK Visitor's Visa for Thais.

By Owen Jones

Applying for a UK visitor's visa for a Thai friend to go to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland can be very stressful. I am also certain that it is more difficult for people from some countries than for others and Thailand falls into this latter category. This is because the staff are concerned about the applicant's ability to support him/herself when they originate from a Third World country. This is UK government policy and you must not hold it against the British embassy staff - they are only carrying out orders! It is worth your while remembering this when you speak to the embassy staff about a UK visitor's visa.

Please remember that if you are successful in obtaining a UK visitor's visa in Bangkok, it is valid for multiple entries into the UK over a period of six months. However, the embassy is loathe to give a UK visitor's visa to a Thai the first time round as they know that not many Thais could afford to stay there that long without working. So you will be asked to state when you will arrive and when you will leave. You have to sign this note and it will be stapled into your passport. You must aide by this self-inflicted limitation, although your visa is sill nominally good for six months.

The UK visitor's visa for a Thai strictly bars access to public funds of any and every kind. No social security, no health benefits and no working. It does not grant you the right to work. It is strictly enforced as it is in Thailand and any contravention will mean enforced repatriation to Thailand with your own ticket! If you mean to visit a lover, say so, but know that you will have to prove it. To be on the safe side, do not pply for knowing your friend for at least six months.

I will concentrate on providing evidence of a continuing relationship. Most applicants from Thailand will need a sponsor. This is usually an employer or a lover. Obviously, immigration stamps in a passport can prove how long it is possible that a couple could have known each other, but you will need more evidence than that. A letter from a friend, employer or relative stating when you met can help. However, you should keep all correspondence, telephone bills, bank statements (recordings of ATM transactions), restaurant receipts, theatre tickets, train and bus tickets, even menus and photos. In fact, anything that can help establish that you are having the relationship that you claim you are having and that you have had it for at least six months.

Then you can proceed by obtaining the 'Visa Application Form (VAF) from the British embassy in Wireless Road, Bangkok or from its website. The website is very helpful for advising what you should include with your visa application form, but it will often include the 'evidence' mentioned above, the passport, the fee, photos, and sponsor's letter etc. In fact anything that helps you prove your case even a little bit.

So the sponsor is very important here. It is really up to your sponsor whether you get your first UK visitor's visa at the first attempt. He has to guarantee that he will take care of you and provide you with somewhere to stay and the embassy staff will have to be convinced that he is up the job.

Therefore, the sponsor has to show a letter from his company proving that he has a steady income or a bank passbook or statements proving sufficient funds to be able to cover his guarantee of taking care of your welfare while in Britain. But not only that, if you have said that you will stay in his house, you must provide a letter from the mortgage provider, the council or something similar proving ownership or lease. Proof of marriage or divorce does not appear relevant although the applicant may be asked. Sometimes seemingly strange reasons are cited for a refusal for a UK visitor's visa:

"the applicant for a UK visitor's visa has not been outside Thailand before " a piece of cake, eh? Just fly down to Malaysia for a short vacation to break in her new passport.

"the Thai person applying for this UK visitor's visa does not have strong socio-economic ties to her country of origin" They don't believe that you have enough to return to Thailand for. A letter from your boss, doctor, solicitor or village elder, your house book; proof of children or living parents and proof of property are all very useful.

Take your time over the application - if you get it wrong, it'll cost you at least six weeks before you can reapply. Consider why you really want to go to Britain. They will ask you and you don't want it to come as a surprise. The answer may seem obvious to you now, but in the embassy you may not feel comfortable giving it. Above all, behave like a lawyer and provide irrefutable evidence for everything you say.

Make sure you know the answers to questions about your sponsor: about his family, town and work. You will be alone in the embassy, but don't let that make you nervous. Some questions will be in English, but if you get stuck it's not a problem, just speak Thai.

Tip: ask for a longer stay than you need because the visa runs from the day it's granted and you will have to book flights. You could be delayed coming back too. If you have to cancel you UK visitor's visa, don't arrive back on a Friday unless you want a few nights in Bangkok.

No 1 Tip: don't tell lies to the embassy staff, they have heard it all before. If you're unsure of something, just say so.

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Sailing South

By Capt. Douglas Malat

Every year, I head down south for the winter in my sailboat. It's nice to go down to the Florida Keys, if you can find the time. The Chesapeake area is a great place to spend the winter. Unlike the northeast area, the waters don't freeze up in December, making it ideal for sailing. There are so many coves to explore that you can visit a new one on each journey. Conveniently located nearby is the Norfolk International Airport. North Carolina is another nice area to explore as its waters stay quite warm in the winter thanks to the gulfstream. Dowry Creek in Belhaven to Oriental and Beaufort (Bow-Fort) where they found Black Beards' ship by the inlet are great marinas. The slip rates vary from $7 - $8 per foot per month. So for a 40' boat you're talking around $280.00 a month/6 months $1680.00 and sail her back up north in the spring. Very reasonable! The internet makes it easy to discover the numerous slips available there.

If you travel from Montauk to the Chesapeake, the trip takes approximately 54 hours (2-2 1/2 days). If you stop at Cape May Harbor first, you can anchor near the coast guard station. It's a thirty hour trip. From there, you can either go offshore to the Chesapeake, another 24 hours, or travel up the Delaware Bay to the C & D canal, an 8-10 hour trip with tides helping. You can spend the night at a marina on the C & D and then travel into the northern Chesapeake the next day. A longer journey would be heading south to Norfolk, VA. I prefer to do as much of my journey offshore as possible so I can avoid all the obstructions you find inland, i.e, tide changes, buoys, etc. In October, the winds assist you in your journey as they come off the land. They make the seas flatter and give you lots of speed. With a rumbline to the Chesapeake, that would be a beam reach all the way down. Even with that Cape May stop over, the next day would have the wind aft of the beam.

Little Creek is a great protected harbor, just a few miles in to the south when entering the mouth of the Chesapeake. There are numerous Marinas, such as "Little Creek Marina", "Cobbs", & "Cutty Sarks" with slips at great daily, weekly, or monthly rates. Haul out for your bottom paint job at great pricesor you can do it yourself. The Airport is minutes away. Norfolk is not that far north, where the ICW starts. Everyone is so nice & helpful.well, it's Southern hospitality! Tidewater Marina in Norfolk has all the amenities.dock up or anchor just outside the marina, there's plenty of room! It is a hard decision to make when you think of exploring the Chesapeake or exploring the ICW on the way to N. Carolinaboth have wonderful little towns and coves. You will make boating buddies in these areas as the parade of boats from the North head South during this time. They have business like cards with their boats' Name, E-mail address & Phone numbers, so staying in touch with new found friends is easy.

Depending on the weather, my trip south usually begins in October. The hurricane season is not over yet, so watching the Eastern Caribbean for new formations is prudent. It can take a few days to a few weeks for the hurricanes to arrive in area, so if one is coming, there's time to duck in a harbor. Check out websites that provide a global look at the weather by satellite and wind and wave forecasts. It's wise to have several sources of information to help you plan your trip. Also listen to your VHF radio to hear about formations or disturbances in the Atlantic and the Caribbean.

You can easily visit the Chesapeake area during a long weekend or extend your visit and your journey further south in North Carolina over the winter. If you sail the Neuse River, the widest in the USA, by Oriental, N. Carolina, take the ICW right into Beaufort. There are so many picturesque stops along the way and historical towns to visit. It's all so beautiful, you may not want to go home for the summer.

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Thursday, March 26, 2009

Portable CD Mp3 Player : The Ultimate Convenience!

By Anne Ahira

When it comes to mp3 players, the amountof memory is rising by leaps and bounds. only a few short years ago, digital music player's storage was calculated in mega bytes; in a little while though capacity of storage would grow to computer like numbers.

30-gigabyte digital mp3 players are a prime example of this growth. With 30gb Mp3 Players, you can save thousands of songs, tens of thousands of photos and 120 hours of video! One downfall of course is price, the top of the line Creative Zen 30Gb mp3 players come with a hefty tad of over $500 on Amazon. Thankfully, there is more than one brand and you can conceivably get quality 30Gb mp3 players for less money.

Below we could examine features and consumer ranks on the most widely held 30 GB mp3 players presently on the market

Creative Zen 30 GB Mp3 Players

30 GB hard disk Two and a half inch high definition LCD screen Video Formats- AVI, DVX-4, MPEG-1-2 & SP, motion JPEG FM radio Recorder 5.7 ounce weight

Total price before tax is- $594.99

Customers rave about the picture and sound quality. Most agree that Creative Zen 30Gb mp3 players have outdone iPod in this category. Also, ranked high was the ability to use many music file formats without conversion, customizable, and compatibility with several music services. Overall most like these 30Gb mp3 players better than the Apple alternative.

Toshiba 30Gb Mp3 Players

If $600 is a few more than we would like to spend on 30 GB mp3 players later Toshiba has an option for you. Toshiba MES30VW 30 GB mp3 players consider in at just under $400.

Features include:

30 GB hard disk Handy media center for video, pictures, and music Supports WMA lossless, WMA, Mp3, WMV, Divx and JPEG Video out Jacks to full size screens 20 hour battery life Compatible with a lot of melody plus video services; Napster, Rhapsody, Wal-Mart music downloads Video could be downloaded from Tivo to go, Starz Vongo, MTV/ Microsoft Urge and many others

Customers agree on one thing these 30Gb mp3 players are extremely easy to use. One couple commented that if at 50 years old a technology challenged couple can figure out how to use it anyone could.

Battery life appears to be a cause of divergence for these 30 GB mp3 players. The manufacturer informs 20 hours of use between charges, but clients come across the concrete playtime to be much shorter. One estimate was four hours of playtime.

Conclusion

IPod is not the only player on the block making quality 30 GB mp3 players. More than a few companies have jumped into the mix and the results are promising. Fantastic clear video and melody from these two 30 GB mp3 players are moving them ahead of the IPod very fast.

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Exclusive Cruise Ship Activities for Seniors

By Lucille Green

If you happen to be a senior citizen then you are most likely aware that there are a number of activities that await you and one of them is travel. Every year a large number of senior citizens go on vacations which may include guided tours, journeying with friends, or vacationing alone. However, if you are looking for extra excitement, you should really take under consideration vacationing aboard a cruise ship.

One of a great many activities for seniors, found on most cruise ships, includes dining in food establishments that are usually elegant in design, interior decoration, and meals. Many of the fine dining restaurants include a dress code that could involve elegant evening wear though jeans and t-shirts usually aren't permitted. If you like to dine with a bit of class you will probably like these elegant establishments found on most cruise ships.

Though gambling and drinking are often seen as activities that are enjoyed by the younger generation they are also popular senior activities. Most cruise ships are luckily able to see the huge difference of partying and socializing which is the reason a large number of have multiple bars and restaurants, you might see the occasional cocktail party. Such parties let you socialize with the other guests as well as the staff.

When it comes to those who like to gamble they will like the onboard casinos which are usually equipped with several roulette tables blackjack tables, poker, and coin machines. Also, along with traditional casino gambling, a lot of ships are establishing services for bingo lovers where bingo halls and many halls like them are increasing in popularity.

Dancing is another cruise ship activity that can offer you and many other senior citizens some enjoyment and almost all now come standard with some sort of dance hall as a matter of fact many ships have more than one area that can be for the purpose of dancing. There's a chance you can get lessons from an experienced dancer or even spend your evening dancing with friends. On longer cruises, you may find that the crew sets aside a certain type of dance, for nighttime.

Dropping by the spa could put the finishing touches on to your vacation as most liners come equipped with spas that are a lot like to the day spas that can be found near your home. At an onboard spa, you can get a haircut, purchase a new hairstyle for an exquisite function, or even get massaged but spa visits are not just for seniors because the experience will be enjoyable by individuals of all ages.

Activities aboard cruise ships, as well as services, and facilities are critical, but so are the destinations you will be visiting. According to the length of the trip many vessels will stop at numerous ports on the way meaning that you get a chance to visit, even if not for very long somewhere different. So this means you can take a bit of time away from the ship walking the beach or visiting with local residents and for most people vacations like this are considered a few of the safest places you can choose to spend your vacation. Whether you go by yourself or with someone you know, you are certain to have a fun and memorable time aboard the ship you chose.

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Travel - Louisville International Airport

By Daniel Marer

Are you looking for a low-cost way to fly out of the country? If so, do you live in or around the Louisville, Kentucky area? If so, there is a good chance that you will be flying out of the Louisville International Airport. The Louisville International Airport is known as being one of the area?s best airports, not only when it comes to offering service, but when it comes to offering low-cost travel options. For that reason, if you haven?t already picked an airport to fly out of, you will want to examine the Louisville International Airport and everything that it has to offer.

Although it is a legitimate concern, you do not have to be worried. You will find that the Louisville International Airport is serviced by a large number of well known airlines. Those airlines include American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, Midwest Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Express, and US Airways. Essentially, this means that wherever you are headed, you should be able to find the flight that you are looking for, whether that flight be non-stop or not.

When it comes to flying in or out of the Louisville International Airport, the airfield security follows all rules implemented by the Department of Transportation (DOT), as well as the Transpiration Security Administration (TSA). This means that on all domestic and international flights, sharp objects and liquids are illegal from your carryon luggage. However, most items, with the exception of flammable or explosive items, are permitted in your checked baggage. Since problems may arise, it is advised that you arrive at the airport, at least, one or one and half hours in advance. If you are scheduled to fly internationally, it is advised that you arrive even earlier, just in case.

As with all other international airports, the Louisville International Airport requires that you have the proper forms of identification. These items are needed before you are allowed to board your flight. It is important to know that these documents tend to vary from those required for domestic flights. Depending on which airline you are traveling with and where you are headed, you may also need to supply your passport, your visa, your birth certificate, or a certificate of citizenship. You are advised to check with your airline to determine which documents are required.

When it comes to parking at the Louisville International Airport, you will find that you have a number of options. If you will be leaving for an international destination, but you need to leave your vehicle behind, you can do so at the numerous long-term parking lots. In addition to long-term parking lots, there are also short-term lots available. If you are being dropped off at the airfield by someone who plans on helping you get inside, they can use the short-term parking lots for a reasonable fee. When it comes to paying for parking, the Louisville International Airport accepts, cash, most credit cards, and checks.

The above mentioned information should have been enough to supply with you what you need to know, but if you are looking for more information, you can do so online. You are encouraged to examine the Louisville International Airport?s online website.

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Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Vegas Shows Reviews & Guide

By Deniss Durrell

When hanging around in Las Vegas, it looks like nearly all of the experience is focused in gambling in the casinos. But, one of the greatest points to do in Las Vegas is to take in Vegas Shows. The shows in Las Vegas are some of the greatest in the world, and there is a huge selection for you to choose from.

Perhaps the most traditional type of Vegas show is the traditional type that features lots of showgirls dancing in elaborate costumes. These types of shows have been around for decades, and are highly regarded because of their intricate showgirl style and choreography. Some of the more famous are Bally's Jubilee and the Follies Berger.

But, Vegas shows are changing . There are more than just the conventional shows that amused the visitors of decades ago. Instead, now Las Vegas is growing to be the second Broadway in the United States. With performances as The Phantom of the Opera and Mama Mia! showing in Las Vegas and pulling in people there has been a turn toward building Vegas-sized versions of traditional musical theatre.

Another great type of Vegas shows is a comedy show. There are a lot of great comedians in Las Vegas, and they put on a great night of entertainment. If you are looking to laugh a lot then you might want to check out one of the great Vegas headliners.

Maybe the most well known form of Vegas shows are the Cirque de Soleil shows. There are many different forms accessible on the strip for you to pick from. People come from all around the world to enjoy this terrific mix of circus and performance art. Going to see a Cirque show, you are really to experience something that you have never felt before, and it is well worth the cost of ticket!

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A Man of Success: Abe Lincoln

By Mercie Hallow

Abe Lincoln or Abraham Lincoln is perhaps the most inspiring and well-loved of all the American Presidents. His life was a story so colorful- full of success, failures ands lessons. In fact the mere failures that he experienced are what made him so loved by his countrymen. Failures did not break him, but instead made him to be a man worthy to be the President of the United States of America.

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the united stated. He served his country from 1861-1865. He was recognized to be one of America's most famous presidents as he made a lot of milestones that left a mark in America's hearts and minds. He was the one responsible to lead the United States of America through the great crisis of American Civil was and managed to put an end to slavery. He was also known to the first American to be assassinated.

The life story of Abraham Lincoln was so inspiring that it was proven to be the most adapted life story of an American President. There are numerous plays and movies dedicated entirely to him. The Lincoln Fest 2009 is a Festival organized by The Champaign County Historical Museum in commemoration of the 200th birthday of the American President. It is held at Virginia Theatre in Champaign, Illinois as a 3-day event.

The three day event will feature films showing the life story of the American president from his early years in Illinois up to his rise in Presidency. There are also discussions among the filmmakers during movie play intervals. The movie will feature the inspiring and heartwarming tale of this poor boy who grew up to be one of the most celebrated presidents of America- just because he refused to give up.

Indeed his life story has been an inspiration for most of us who encountered difficulties. His failures included: losing and failing in several jobs, being kicked out from his own home at a young age, having his engaged sweetheart die, and lost a number of times in the elections. His failures did not force home to quit. Had he allowed himself to quit, America would have been a different country.

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Fremont, Nebraska: A Polka Party

By Mercie Hallow

Dancing has always been my ultimate passion. I was exposed to the art of dancing as a kid and took part of competitions and performances while growing up. Dancing has been a part of my growing up years. I was able to perform several types of dances including native folk to ballroom to modern. My friends and I knew each other and bonded because we are all dancers, and we all love dancing.

Joe Spellerberg is a dance icon in Fremont, Nebraska. He was very popular in the area and the most sought after artist in performances and parties. He hosts a show at KHUB in Fremont titled The Polka Show. He was a man on top of his game. One fateful night led him to change his name to Moostash Joe. This name further rose him to popularity and had been a household name in Fremont ever since.

On that night Joe was in his car about to go to one of his commitments. He was held off by an officer named Mayhew because of over speeding. Mayhew, upon seeing Joes mustache declared that his band needed another name and change it to The Moostash Joe Polka Show. Joe picked up the new name and thus Moostash Joe is born.

Moostash Joe isnt just a Polka group show now as Joe and his family set up a business called Moostash Joe Tours. The Moostash Joe Tours is a tours company that was founded more than 40 years ago and is currently being run by Joe and his family as staffs and employees. The Moostash Joe Tours offers tour packages on International basis and within the United States too. The tours company of Joe leaves satisfied customers always.

Moostash Joe is definitely not only about Polka but they invite you all dance lovers out there to celebrate with them as the Moostash Joe Polka Party happens on March 28 at the City Auditorium in Fremont, Nebraska.

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Tuesday, March 24, 2009

A Beer-y Special Day in Arizona

By Mercie Hallow

Beer is always associated as a mans drink. It is sometimes considered as the drink of a real macho. Beer is the third most popular drink next from water and tea. Beer commercials often feature a guy with a beautiful lady companion and a nice car as if giving the message that beer is the drink of a real man. Beers have light to hard tangy flavor and are great to match with pizza or nuts. Beer is produced all over the world which basic ingredient is water.

Beers are manufactured in a plant called brewery. The earliest brewery is dated back to the 16th century. The process of making beer or brewing is to combine the two basic ingredients which are water and malt. The two ingredients are mixed together in a special process to convert the starch to sugar. The liquid is then transformed to an alcoholic drink through fermentation with yeast.

Beer festivals are much awaited events by fun loving people. Beer festivals often showcase beer tasting portions, beer bazaars, live bands, fun and exciting games. There are certain rules that need to be followed in attending these events though. Adults over the age of 21 are only allowed to enter which is always backed up by an ID. Pets and firearms are banned from the festival.

Participants who are proven to be intoxicated upon arrival are not allowed to enter the site premises. The Great Arizona Beer festival proceeds will go to the benefit of the Arizona Sun Sounds, a radio channel that helps visually impaired citizens to keep up with the happenings in the State as they cant read the papers.

The Great Arizona Beer festival also has a special place for drivers who do not drink just so they could drive home safely. They are being regarded in the festival as conscientious individuals. To make the drivers stay at the festival fun and worthy, the special place allotted for them has its own music, kiosks and fun events too. This is so that these drivers can enjoy their stay too.

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Flying in Idaho!

By Mercie Hallow

Most young boys dream of being a pilot someday. Perhaps its because of the adventure that accompanies the flying of an aircraft, the surreal feeling of being airborne or the prestige that comes along with the title. Being a pilot entails a huge responsibility as the lives and safety of his passengers lies in his hands. Pilots are generally trained well in special flying schools that prepare them to be competent and skillfully equipped in flying. A pilots mission is to deliver his passengers to their destinations safe and secured.

The Idaho Aviation Association is an organization that focuses in building the morale of its esteemed members, protect the decisions that can directly influence the general aviation in Idaho and help increase awareness of their services. They are composed of competent well trained members who are equally at par and skillful in flying the aircrafts of Idaho. They are in collaboration with the Idaho Transportation department of Aeronautics in coming up with the annual Idaho Aviation Festival.

The Idaho Aviation Festival sparks the curiosity of local adults and children in discovering and learning about their services to the state of Idaho. Idaho has a number of huge airstrips and airports. The Festival aims to educate people from all ages in understanding the general aviation in Idaho; the festival gathers a lot of pilots, aircraft owners, aircraft traders, vendors and enthusiasts under one roof. Seminars, trainings and workshops are included on the festivals two day event. Trade shows and items are showcased and are on sale in the festival.

The Festival provides hands-on workshops for kids in association and partnership with the Discovery Center of Idaho. A career orientation seminar for high school students is also part of this much awaited event. Kids are encouraged and expected to learn about the profession in aviation that will further help them in deciding for their future.

Come visit the Idaho Festival in Boise this March and experience the world on aviation right before your eyes!

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New Mexico Architecture as Backdrop to Craft Fairs

By Mercie Hallow

Fairs and Festivals are fun gatherings where family members can enjoy each other's presence and bond with each other. It is an event for shopping and bargaining for intricate and unique finds and also a time for savoring mouth watering treats from food concessionaires. Festivals are also the perfect place to showcase a persons crafting talent and at the same time earn money by selling it to eager hand made buyers. Festivals are also venues to display great performances by the locals talented artists, to further enrich the experience.

Festivals heighten a locations surroundings and make people see the beauty and history of the place in a different level. It could be done so by placing the fair in front or beside an interesting building or edifice that accents the event as a backdrop. That is the reason why some flea markets are situated near or in front of an interesting edifice, to further enrich the whole experience.

The fairs and festivals in New Mexico is one classic example. New Mexico is a state brimming with rich history and timeless, preserved Architecture to go with it. Many buildings in this state are well preserved by the locals that display a rich Spanish style heritage. This is quite understandable because almost 40% of New Mexico population consists of people with Hispanic origins.

The Architecture in New Mexico is as interesting as its history. The ancient people in New Mexico used to build their houses underground. They do so by digging about a foot to 6 feet deep from the earth and after placing the right amount of foundations to secure the space; they place a roof/entrance in line with the ground. They call this dwelling Anasazi . Over the years they learned to build houses from the ground made of natural earth materials such as stone or clay while keeping the Anasazis for its new function as a worship or entertaining chamber.

I invite you to spend the time to see the fairs in New Mexico and delight with the rich Architecture the state possess.

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Monday, March 23, 2009

California Gems and Diamonds

By Mercie Hallow

Diamonds are girls best friend. The timeless song from Marilyn Monroe has a hint of truth in it. Diamonds are indeed precious stones that can make any woman melt. If youre a husband looking for a perfect gift to please your wife, give her a diamond fine jewelry and you can certainly make her day! Its not that ladies are materialistic but lets just say that a piece of diamond is worth like a much coveted Ferrari car to a man. Get the picture?

The Gem faire festival held in Del Mar California is an annual event that features exhibitors and importers from all over the world to sell their precious items. Diamonds and fine jewelry are not the only items that can be seen at the Festival but also rare stones, gemstones, crystals, minerals and precious beads as well. The Festival is an event that makes it possible for sellers and their targeted markets to meet from under one roof. The Festival is a much awaited event for gem and fine jewelry enthusiasts.

The gemstones are being showcased in transparent glass cases and laid out for everyone to see and wonder on the beauty and luster of these precious pieces. It can be sold at a low to outstanding price depending on the rarity and how precious a certain object is. Wholesale buyers are given extra credit and attention for there is always an advanced viewing exclusively for them on specific days. Wholesale buyers are encouraged to participate as they are offered special wholesale discount and prices.

The exhibitors are given special attention as the event organizers provide them with maximum security during the event. Tight security is awarded to booth participants during mobilization, event per se, demobilization and night security to ensure that their goods are in a safe place. This will encourage more exhibitors to sign up for the event.

The gem Faire festival is clearly an event that gathers suppliers to their targeted markets. The Festival is one place to meet and greet your favorite suppliers and see whats new to the world of fine jewelry. Gem fair festival is an event and an opportunity not to miss!

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Kansas Ghosts

By Mercie Hallow

Ghosts are spirits of the dead which continue to haunt us still because of unfinished businesses. Ghosts are really scary; I mean who isnt scared of one? The mere idea of a ghost even if its a family member lurking beneath the walls of our house really gives me goose bumps all over. I just hoped I wouldnt see one. My husband says Im a chicken and I shouldnt be afraid of ghosts in our house since they are just spirits of dead relatives. Oh, whatever.

Ghosts are very typical in houses, schools, hospitals and public building where once upon a time the place was busy with all activities. I dont for one, watch any ghost film for I will have a tough time sleeping after. Ghost tours are also off limits to me, unless I'm traveling with a group of people with my husband at my side. There is an interesting ghost tour in Kansas City that receives acclaims and positive (and also frightening) response coming from their client. This is the Ghost Tours of Kansas.

Kansas City is known to have many buildings and places to have ghost as inhabitants and has a very rich history to share. The tour goes into haunted cemeteries, high schools, museums, and other public places and offices here prominent ghost activities are present. The tour guides are backed up by PEDRO or Paranormal Encounter Documentation and Research Organization which has a team of experts looking for ghosts. Scary!

There was once a story wherein a group of women visited a haunted cemetery. One member felt a thug on her back and upon seeing no one, claimed that it must have been a ghost who hit her. The tour guide/ PEDRO member told her that it was indeed the ghost of a boy who happens to stroll among the place and was taken by her red hat.

The places the tour visits are really places where ghosts reside. Door knobs wobbling and pictures taken by the tourists with hazy shadows and ghostly silhouettes in it are evidences that spirits still thrive in these places.

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5 Most Popular Last Minute Travel Destinations

By Brad Alexander

Florida - This state is perfect to visit all-year round. With theme parks galore in Orlando alone, there?s sure to be a place or two able to welcome last-minute travelers like you. While in Florida, you can also head off to Miami and enjoy its beaches and exciting nightlife. For more adventure, you can book a day trip to Key West and enjoy its exotic locale. In Key West, make sure you set aside a portion of your day for fishing and shopping.

New England Coast Fall is the best time to find a last-minute destination deal to visit the New England Coast. The autumn colors are just stunning and you will keep your eyes peeled when you take a walk in the spectacular surroundings. You will see similar marvels if traveling to Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, or any other destination on the New England coast.

Paris The romance capital of Europe is Paris and that goes all year round. Its a pretty crowded city but there is also so much to see and appreciate from the history of this important historical city. In Paris, there are plenty of famous attractions to see and activities to do for the whole family. Take a trip up the Eiffel Tower, and you will see the whole city from a different perspective, although you might get a bit dizzy. but you'll the Versailles Palace and other famous buildings. Within Paris you will also find Disney Land, so that would be an awesome day out for the kids and you may have to accompany them on some of the really fast and scary rides. But the thing to remember is that you are in a very romantic city and you will be able to feel the mood while having a coffee in one of the typical street cafes or while dining in one of many typically Parisian restaurants.

New York New York, New York. I just love that Frank Sinatra song that really makes you feel as you already know New York, the city that never sleeps. Last minute travelers should consider this vacation destination at least once as you just never get bored in the Big Apple. Wonderful skyscrapers surround you as you take in the experience of a lifetime and don't forget to have a meal in one of the restaurants high in the clouds and get some the most awesome views you will ever see. New york has also become a very safe city to travel to, so you can relax and get to know some of the New Yorkers, who are really loving people.

Nevada - Like NYC, Nevada or Las Vegas in particular is a city that comes especially alive at night. If you think gambling is the only thing to do in Vegas, think again. You can drop by at Caesar?s Palace, for instance, at certain times in the evening and you?ll be treated by a special presentation?for free.

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Sunday, March 22, 2009

Family Togetherness at Utah Fairs

By Rick Amorey

The most basic and important unit in a community is the family unit. For this reason, it is important to keep the family together by engaging in activities that all or most of the family members will enjoy. When this activity is neglected, the likelihood of breaking apart increases. You, as a parent, should be responsible in keeping your family occupied with an activity that everyone enjoys doing.

There are a lot of fun pursuits that your family may be interested in. It may be as simple as buying a small pet that your kids can take care of. But, if you opt for this, you should make sure your kids are responsible enough for a pet, as you may end up doing all the work yourself. Let them take charge of the small animal, and it's a good idea to take outdoor trips with it so you can spend some bonding time.

Another alternative that I have explored with my own kids is the practice of crafts making together. There are many crafts to choose from: I noticed that my son was interested in miniatures, so I encouraged him to take it up. I bought books about the craft, and we started doing them together. And I have to tell you; it's a lot of fun.

A big challenge that faced my family is the actual creation of the small figures. We began by going around and picking up small ready-made kits from craft stores and assembling them at home. Then my kids would then paint them. Soon, we progressed to making miniature customized figures ourselves out of wood or clay, but quickly realized that clay is preferred material.

Today, my sons are experts with regards to painting the miniatures. If you look closely, you can see the minute detail in the paint shadings! And not to brag, but I have become quite adept at sculpting and baking them. We are now confident enough to show off our works in one of Utah's craft shows.

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Louisiana All Town Garage Sale!

By Mercie Hallow

Do you desire to earn extra income without working? Ever thought about how to get rid of those unwanted things in your closet? Do you desire an organized domain dont have inkling as to what things go into the dump and what stays? Then now is the time to organize your things, keep those things for keeps and open a garage sale in front of your own place.

Garage sales are done when too much unused stuffs in your home are taking up too much space. In this way, youre neighbor will benefit if she see something she wants and thus being able to get it at a fairly lower price. Stuffs sold at garage sales are usually second hand items in good to excellent working condition. Now dont be pressured in selling your favorite stuffs on garage sales as you can label them as for keeps. You have the option as to what you can sell and what you want to keep.

Garage Sales are one of the quickest and easiest ways to earn money and organize your home. There are actually items that we bought in the past without really thinking about its necessity so it is usually just stocked up in our homes. These items can move on and found new owners in garage sales. Sellers is on an advantage too as she can enjoy a cleaner and clutter free house.

Money earned in garage sale is usually used to buy a much coveted piece of furniture that could go well into a more spacious house. Furniture pieces are also being sold in garage sales as well as baby cribs, baby furniture, old toys, etc. which would not be used anymore. Garage sales are also a time to get to know your neighbors well and keep up with whats happening to the people around you.

The All Town Garage Sale is going to be at Abita Springs, Louisiana this year. Head off at the garage sale and see useful pre-owned (or pre-loved) items on sale at fair prices. Who knows, you just might get what youre looking for!

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Fish Finder - Selecting the Right One For Your Needs

By Phillip Flounder

With the advent of technology, fishing has become much easier. Just consider how difficult it must have been in the past when all that was available to use was the trial and error method to locate fish and determine depth.

Fish finders are really useful devices that use sonar to locate the fish under the water and as a result they increase the fisherman's chances of catching fish. There are a variety of different types of fish finders on the market today, so regardless of the type of fish you are wanting to catch, a fish finder can be a great help.

Fish finders have two basic types of screens. The first type of screen is called the Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) and the second is called a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). CRTs are not as popular since the invention of the LCD screens. This is because LCD screens are more capable of displaying high resolutions. If you find a screen labeled as a TFT screen, it is simply another version of the LCD screens.

For the recreational fisherman the CRT screen is the wisest option. It's less expensive than an LCD unit, provides very good clarity and is easy to read in direct sunlight.

Another thing you need to consider when searching for a fish finder is your budget; you do not want to get your heart set on something that is out of your price range. The best way to approach this is to search for those finders that are within your possible price range and ignore the rest.

When you are working out your budget, remember that a colored screen will cost more than a non-colored screen. It is usually the case that a more regular fisherman will be willing to spend more on a fish finder than the occasional fisherman.

Another technical consideration of the fish finder is the frequency it uses. Kilohertz (kHz) is the measurement used with frequency and is used in the water to locate the exact position of the fish and where the best place to cast a line will be.

The screen on the finder is not able to identify the species of fish available, just where groups of fish are located, so it is important to know the depth. The best kHz is between 80 and 125 kHz, because the higher the frequency, the narrower the signal range cone is and the greater the detail available to you.

One more important factor to consider is the inclusion of a global positioning system. GPS fish finders are fantastic to use when you are off on a weekend trip and you don't know the area very well. They allow you to record any position in the system, which means you will be able to find it again any time you want, without any issues.

Whether you select a regular fish finder or one with GPS, it will prove to be a fantastic addition to your other fishing equipment. Just imagine how many more fish you will be able to catch with a great fish finder and how easily you can get back to that ideal spot if you have to leave for any reason.

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Saturday, March 21, 2009

The Attributes of the Garmin Handheld GPS 60 receiver.

By Mizell Mortigue

[1:7:T] If you are like many people, you love to travel. If you travel, at some point in time you will get lost in unfamiliar territory. People often get robbed or even killed because they lost their way and ended up in areas that were unsafe. If you buy a gps receiver you can eliminate losing your way. The Garmin Handheld GPS 60 receiver is an excellent choice for many reasons.

If you venture overseas you would benefit from carrying a Garmin Handheld GPS receiver with you. It is relatively inexpensive and contains many features for your adventures. The Garmin Handheld GPS 60 is at home on the road or on overseas adventures. It is modestly priced and very accurate.

The Garmin Handheld GPS is at home on the road, on the trail or on the water. It is waterproof and can handle those rough and tough adventures and still give accurate readings.

Large display with LED backlight: Whether its sun light or moonlight, your Garmin Handheld GPS 60 is adept at showing you the way home with its large four level greyscale display and bright LED back light display. So whether its dark or light, you will never face a problem in finding your way to your destination!

Using the Garmin Handheld GPS 60 receiver you are able at anytime to pinpoint your exact location within 3 meters. This is accomplished by the technology used by the GPS 60 called WAAS. WAAS does not cost anything using your GPS 60. WAAS is a synonym for Wide Area Augmentation System.

Longer battery life: The Garmin Handheld GPS 60 has a long battery life of up to 28 hours at a stretch. Hence, its battery can last for 28 hours so you dont have to worry about it often.

Using a serial cable or a USB cable allows you to download mapping data and destinations from your computer to your Garmin Handheld GPS 60 receiver. The Garmin website also allows anyone to download info and maps to their GPS 60.

A 1 mb memory, games, weather data and moon phase data are all preloaded in your Garmin Handheld GPS 60 receiver. It also comes with a worldwide database of cities and streets. It is a companion that will make your forays more enjoyable.

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Flea Markets: An Overview

By Mercie Hallow

Flea markets are markets where one can find bargain goods at cheap prices. Flea market vendors are usually seen to occupy from a small space such as a table to as large as market stalls. Flea markets usually have concessionaires and sometimes live music or entertainment in order to enrich and heighten the experience. The term got its name from the French word Marche aux puces where the first flea market has reportedly appeared. It was in alleyways of Paris that the idea was brought to life and was adapted by many countries.

Some people commented that the origin of the name must have been so because the people there as active as fleas or that the goods are somehow infested by these insects. Some goods that flea markets sell are reportedly counterfeited designer items and pirated movies on DVDs and VCDs. The silk Street in China is an example of a market that sells fake designer labels from watches, shoes, bags, clothes, etc. Some flea markets in the Philippines had actually been raided by police officials because of the pirated movies that vendors sell.

Flea markets are still very popular nowadays because of its bargain proces and unique finds. Some sellers sell their own second hand items in a plan to gain extra cash and get rid of some stuffs in their home that they no longer use. Buyers usually go here in search for an item she believes is of important use.

Going to a flea market is a fun activity for the whole family. Whether it is mom looking for a new piece of sofa covers or sister looking for that sassy and chic cheap wallpaper to redecorate her room, everything can be found in flea markets. The whole family can have items for themselves without spending for more.

I really cant wait for the next schedule of the IRS Flea Market at New Hampshire. Ive been dying to acquire some unique curios for my living room coffee table.

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Amazing honeymoons and luxury holidays

By Gen Maurice Further

Honeymoons are special time between a man and a woman. It is a time to embark on an adventure that will kick off a lifetime of journeys and memories. Enduring the ups and downs of marital bliss is par for the course but the honeymoon is what starts it all off on the right foot. There are a number of romantic places to enjoy a honeymoon depending of course on what the bride and groom love to do. Whether they are athletically charged, water enthusiasts, hikers, boaters, explorers or just a couple seeking lavish affections in a comfortable and serene atmosphere, there are destinations of perfection waiting to be discovered.

More than 80 islands make up the Maldives. This array of island getaways allow honeymooners to take their pick as far as the delight they wish to explore and embrace. The turquoise waters surround the islands adding to the unique colors melting into the endless scenery. For the most lavish and stunning accommodations, the bride and groom will find an exotic honeymoon sanctuary at Huvafen Fushi Maldives. Enjoy the fine dining, spa treatments and over all five star service that this quality retreat has to offer.

Mauritius is another honeymooner's dream come true. The vibrant colors and unlimited horizons provide a luxury to the guests like no other. The botanical gardens are refreshing while the picturesque vista of The Black River Gorges is bound to leave you breathless and consumed with a renewed lust for life. There are no shortages here of things to do for the newly wed bride and groom.

Zanzibar is a delightful island filled with intriguing places and mysterious charms. The House of Wonders is one of the most sought after tourist's spots. The intricate setting that was beautifully crafted so many years ago beckons people from afar to take a peek inside. Visiting Stone Town is another remarkable location filled with history as the remnants of centuries past flood the air around you. A Zanzibar honeymoon is a great place to choose because of its warm climate all year round. It is a part of Africa, which as we all know, has the best climate that is perfect for exotic honeymoons any time of the year.

Thailand is an exotic honeymoon destination filled with excitement and intriguing elements. For a cultural experience rich in mysterious yet alluring beauty this honeymoon hot spot is a naturally entrancing site. There are superb resorts resting upon white sand beaches and breath taking views. This is the very definition of a romantic honeymoon. For a memorable and idealistic holiday stay at the Khao Lak resort. The pure area of this haven has been untainted and well preserved in its most natural form. The overwhelming magnificence of this place makes an already precious honeymoon more valuable than words can describe.

Kuala Lumpur is a Malaysia destination filled with diversity and delights. It is a land of well blended ethnic qualities and style. A couple on their honeymoon can find a great many things to enjoy on this luxury trip of a lifetime. With so many activities, night life, entertainment and shopping there is never a dull moment. Jungle trekking, river cruises, discovering some of the best and most exclusive beaches as well as relaxing in the natural hot ponds are only a few of the activities honeymooners can enjoy.

Honeymoons in the Caribbean have long been enjoyed as one of the most romantic destinations. The tropical splendor can only increase the feelings of raw passion that the two love birds have for each other. The Almond Beach Resort St Lucia is an all inclusive facility ready to pamper both the bride and groom with every whim and desire. Enjoy the spectacular weather and brilliant beaches in this tropical oasis.

Rafting, swimming, diving, tropical majesty and romance are all waiting in Bali. Whatever your pleasure, its right here! Long walks on a moonlit beach can inspire the heart and fill the mind with visions of paradise. Listen to the waves and sea breeze as they lull you to sleep after a long day of adventure. The tropics are probably the most desirable honeymoon location and Bali is another jewel in the tropical crown!

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