Archive for the 'Travel And Leisure' Category

Going To Mexico, Latin American Or Spain? Need To learn Spanish?

January 17th, 2010 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

My story: I had a challenge. I needed to move to Mexico for my health and retire, and I spoke English, a few words of French from high school, about 12 words of Spanish which could wind me up in fight or jail, yeah – mostly cuss words.

I was in trouble and when I arrived I needed help. Luckily I met Reuben Varela, a well known Restaurant owner from Lake Chapala, and Gerardo Tolentino, an English teacher from San Juan Cosala.

Reuben pushed me to find ways of studying and practicing Spanish, and Gerardo help me create the Gringo Guide. I was the gringo — and I definitely had to have a guide to get me through the experience of living here in Mexico.

We talked to them and asked them what they needed, and we listened to what they asked of the waiters, restaurant owners, etc. Later, then Gerardo accompanied me to doctors and we went to travel through Mexico.

We talked to Americans and Canadians in Mexico and asked them what they needed, and we listened to what they asked of the waiters, restaurant owners, etc. Later, then Gerardo accompanied me to doctors and we went to travel through Mexico.

By the time we were finished, so was the book and that I had part of it recorded so that pronunciation would be no problem for anyone to learn. The book was finished and put up on our educational site at …. speedread.org.

Now, everyone I know who visits Mexico, Spanish or anywhere else in Latin America – can speak like a expat that lives in Mexico. It’s that easy.

The electronic pdf will fit on pocket devices to help you communicate on the spot with electronic support.

So, when someone says: Que quieres tomar? You’ll immediately know the answer — una marguarita, por favor. Or, una coca, limonada, cerveza, or whatever you want!Fulfill all your needs to communicate in Spanish for Spain, Mexico or Latin America?

The book comes with a full guide, by sections to learn, use, and get answers to all your questions. It’s guaranteed to make your vacation — fantastic.

Vacationing in Mexico, South America, Spain, learn the Spanish you need to enjoy your trip like you were born there. Gringo Guide for Speaking SpanishPocket on digital guide with mp3 to learn sounds.

Cheap Flight Tickets And How To Get Them

November 30th, 2009 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

Generally most people at some time buy a flight ticket. You could be travelling for business, for a family event such as a funeral or for a holiday you have always desired. There are usually as many options as there are grounds to travel and as such you will need to be careful so that you do not pay any more than you have to.

The world wide web has made it easier than ever before to find cheap flight tickets around the world. Lots of internet sites offer search facilities that locate more than one airline at a time. You can then view all the options by the cheapest flight or most direct.

If you are travelling a long distance you can always add extra stops onto your trip. This is a very common option especially for people travelling from the UK to Australia. Many travellers and tourists take stops in destinations such as Singapore and Hong Kong. This can usually be done on both directions.

Try and be open when you choose your travel dates and times of travel as it can save you money to fly during the week as against a flight at the weekend. When thinking about some of the cheaper alternatives make sure you take into account any extras they may add on to the price of the flight such as in-flight food or extra luggage costs.

Reserving a flight well beforehand usually is the best option especially on a scheduled journey as these tickets tend to go up in price nearer the departure date. By reserving a ticket early you will get the best choice of flight options to choose from at the best terms. You will likely find that the person seated next to you on the plane has probably paid more than you for their flight especially if they booked nearer the departure date.

Another benefit of booking your flight in advance is that you have peace of mind that your flights are booked and you have some time to locate some acceptable hotels or accommodation for your vacation or journey.

Finding cheaper flights from Aberdeen or any other airport is easier than you think. Find out with David Watts from Hotel Breaks

The Beautiful Silver Rings Miao Women Wear In Their Moon Dance Festival

November 14th, 2009 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

The Miao minority group living in southwest China are known for their colorful ethnic costumes and big, unique silver rings. During big holidays like the Moon Dance Festival, Miao women will wear rich attire to proudly show their beauty and elegance. The Moon Dance Festival is also a good time for young single people to seek for their life partners. Men play their special Lusheng musical instrument, with women singing and dancing around with the silver rings and other silver jewelry. The festival is held three times a year, respectively in lunar January, June, and August. Here is a story about the origin of this festival.

A long, long time ago, there were two brothers who resided on the mountain. To make a living, the elder brother went to chop wood everyday, and the younger brother went fishing. Then they sold their products in the market. Their life was simple but joyful.

Enjoying music very much, the elder brother always liked to find some bulrush and bamboo when he chopped wood in the forest. He then made them into a pipe. While he blew it, the pipe produced beautiful sound. Day after day, the elder brother collected lots of pipes. One day, he selected some of these pipes, and blew them one by one. Each pipe made different and unique sound. The elder said to himself, ” What music it would produce, if I play all these pipes together.”

One day when he chopped a kiri plant, he found the inside of the kiri was hollow. He drilled some holes in one side of this kiri wood, and put the pipes into the holes. He then blew into the kiri. Immediately the kiri made several different sounds concurrently. After studying this carefully, he eventually made a nice musical instrument which could make beautiful melodies with various tones. This instrument was later called Lusheng. The beautiful music of Lusheng attracted many people, young and old, men and women. Even the birds and animals in the mountain enjoyed this sweet and touching music.

A female tiger resided in a cave close by. She was intoxicated by the music, and hoped to own the elder brother. So she could enjoy the music anytime when she wanted. One day, the tiger changed into a lady with a few rings on her fingers, and walked into the brothers’ home stealthily. She ate some dried fish in the kitchen.

When the two brothers arrived home and saw the tiger, they were really not happy, ” How are you here and eat all our fish?” The tiger laughed, ” Your fish was yummy! And now you go with me. I want you to be my husband!” The tiger caught the elder brother, and ran away. The younger brother tried to fight to get his brother back, but eventually he was defeated. The elder brother was taken away. When they left, the younger brother saw there was a tail under the lady’s skirt. So he understood that the lady was actually a ferocious tiger.

The younger brother immediately called the villagers together. They took arrows and bows to look for the elder brother in the mountains. One month passed, and they still couldn’t find the brother. Until one day in lunar January, they walked up to the top of the mountain, and heard a bird singing, ” In the cave, in the cave!” They walked ahead, and finally found a cave behind a large patch of grass. The elder brother was captured in the cave, and beside him was the tiger. The younger brother and villagers shot the tiger to death, and rescued the elder brother.

The elder brother was so happy that he played excitedly his Lusheng music. People sang and danced around him to celebrate their victory.

Since then, Lusheng became one of the most important musical instruments in the Miao areas. In lunar January, June, and August, an exciting festival is held, when men play Lusheng music, and women dance to the music with glistening silver rings on their fingers. Sometimes the festival is held in a night when the moon shines brightly in the sky. So it got a name ” the Moon Dance Festival”. The festival also has another name ” Looking for Brother Festival”. The women’s silver rings are particularly beautiful in the moonlight.

Writer C. Liu writes about silver jewelry from Asia, especially silver rings. In particular, Miao silver rings are popular almost everywhere. To let her know what you think, check out the silver rings here.

Find A Guadalajara Vacation Rental

October 18th, 2009 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

If you are visiting and searching for some great Guadalajara vacation rentals there are quite a few to choose from.

Guadalajara is a fun city and there are many things to do like: shopping for Mexican folk art, eating delicious tortas ahogadas (specialty of Guadalajara), enjoying the downtown district and visiting the top tourist spots.

If you are looking for a comfortable rental then consider your own personal tastes. The rental experience can be lots of fun and provide a new experience.

If you stay in a rental, you will have a chance to really experience day to day life in Mexico. You can buy your own produce at the neighborhood market and get to know the area.

Before you rent out just any accommodation, find out what is important to you; such as:

Do you need wireless connections?

Do you need it to have all furnishings, couch, bed, dishes, etc.

Does it need to be close to a specific location?

Do you need the kitchen fully stocked? (Fridge, micro, stove, dishes, etc)

Do you want it to be a luxury home?

Many Guadalajara vacation rental owners try their best to make sure you are comfortable and will want to come back! It is important to realize, however, that you might also pay extra for comfort and these “little perks,” such as wireless access.

If you are trying to be thrifty, you can also find some comfortable and modest single room rentals. Do not forget that with this option you will probably be sharing the rental with other people or a family.

There are actually some very fair deals and bare minimum rental homes but just remember that if it is fairly inexpensive it might mean you will lack certain perks such as a washer/dryer, it might not be centrally located, may not have a water cooler ( remember that it is not advised to drink tap water in Mexico).

Many of the Guadalajara vacation rentals may also lack air conditioning but on the upside, the a/c issue is not such a big problem due to the very pleasant temperatures in Guadalajara. Many residents find they do not even need it.

If you do not think you can live without a/c on your vacation then just adjust your search to find a rental that has it!

You should also be sure to have a phone number to contact the landlord of your rental. It is best for those just in case emergencies.

When in doubt, ask! If you are fully prepared and know what to expect in your rental you will have a much smoother and happier vacation.

Available for rent! Comfortable Guadalajara apartments and budget or luxurious Guadalajara hotels for your next journey !

Water Island – It Does Not Get Any Better Than This

October 15th, 2009 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

Swaying Palm trees. Moon lit nights. Deserted sandy beaches. Life is good on Water Island.

It might be the smallest U.S. Virgin Island at only 491 acres but you cannot beat Water Island for a “Robinson Crusoe” feeling. It is the smallest main island of the U.S. Virgin Islands and sits off the coast of St. Thomas. Inhabited by about 100 full time residents you do not have to worry about rush hour traffic. Or any crowds for that matter.

Because the roads are very often only 10 or 12 wide and in disrepair, the most common mode of transportation is a golf cart. A traffic jam here is defined as when two or three cars pass each other. No joke.

Many visitors to Water Island say that the main attraction, Honeymoon Beach, is the best beach they have visited in the Caribbean. No wave action, great for snorkeling and crystal clear waters. The beach is lined with a row of Palm trees that complete the tropical setting. It is common to have the beach all to yourself. It is very rare when there are more than a handful of people on the beach.

Some of the homeowners rent their homes out when they are off island to accommodate visitors. The visitors sometimes call it “The Great Escape”. The beautiful flowers and wildlife, friendly Iguanas, and colorful Bananaquit birds, give you that true “I’m in Paradise” feeling. It is common for first time visitors to return year after year.

Living here is not for everyone. The only commercial establishments on Water Island are a lunch wagon that serves lunch at Honeymoon Beach every day and dinner on Saturday nights, a small beach bar with tropical concoctions and a small restaurant that is open occasionally, no one seems to mind. All supplies must be brought over from nearby St. Thomas.

You can get to the island by either private boat or the regularly scheduled small ferry. If you have to bring a vehicle to the island or building supplies there is a barge service available.

Real estate does come on the market occasionally but does not last very long as there are only about 100 houses and the demand to own a home on Water Island is at a premium. There has been a small amount of new construction over the past 5 years.

The island remains largely uncommercialized and is maintained by members of the Water Island Civic Association (WICA) and residents along with intermittent assistance from the Virgin Islands’ government.

Water Island was used by the U.S. Government in the 1940s when they partially constructed an underground fort, Fort Segarra, as part of the U.S. defenses during WWII. The site sits abandoned today but many visitors climb the steps of the lookout post to enjoy the panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean.

Control of Water Island was transferred from the federal government to the territorial government on December 12, 1996, making Water Island the “Last Virgin”. In the late 1990’s the Department of the Interior began transferring Water Island land to the long-time residential leaseholders.

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The Museum Of Modern Art: A Must See New York Attraction

September 5th, 2009 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

New York has always been known for the high rise buildings and the upscale and fast life. The flashy city has a lot of sights to offer any traveller. From historic landmarks, best clubs and pubs, great shopping options, plush hotels, and educational places for visits; name it and the big apple has it. The attractions in New York are a lot to cover within a day. In fact, a weekend would not even suffice for a taste of the real NYC way of living.

Usual scenes would be long traffic jams, high rise apartments/housing. Being one of the cities with the most vehicles and foot traffic, the ever popular double-decker bus tours are a must-try. The top attractions in New York that these in-demand bus tours cover include the world famous Empire State Building Observatory, American Museum of Natural History & Rose Center, Guggenheim Museum, The Museum of Modern Art (popularly called as MoMa), the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and The Cloisters. Other side trips also include a visit to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

With people going in and out, guide booklets and brochures are widely available for the convenience of the tourists. These publications have attraction information, transportation directions, and best times to visit, a map, and other insider tips for the best way to enjoy the big apple.

Among the numerous museums that make the list of the attractions in New York, one that stands out is the Museum of Modern Art or MoMA. The museum’s great and distinctive galleries include Claude Monet’s Reflections of Clouds on the Water-Lily Pond and Pablo Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.

The MoMa houses an active schedule of exhibitions. Located in midtown Manhattan, it is steps from the Broadway theater district and many shopping and dining options. Additional facilities of the venue also include bookstores and elegant restaurants and cafes.

Gate prices are pegged regularly at $20 per person. With this general admission, MoMA audio tours are for free. These audio tours feature commentaries by curators, artists, and critics. During Fridays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., MoMA is free to the public.

You may plan your trip to the MoMA that opens Wednesday through Mondays 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Fridays until 8 p.m. The museum however isn’t open 365 days a year. It is closed on Tuesdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

You may go to the MoMA via subway, bus, or taxi. But to avoid the rush of using public transportation, it is recommended that you signup with a tour operator so you may be able to tour through the attractions in New York conveniently. Advance tickets are also available for tourists who would want to escape form the hassle of long lines for each attraction.

Among the top attractions in New York is the Museum of Modern Art, also known as the MoMA. It is unmatched as far as attractions go. Pay it a visitnext time your in NYC.

Haltwhistle Country Cottage In UK

August 27th, 2009 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

UK is an extremely beautiful place and so are the towns and cities that are located in it. Haltwhistle is beautiful town located in Northumberland in England. This small town is very attractive and it is rich in natural beauty and splendor. Due to this charm and grandeur many honeymooners and married couples come here to enjoy the serene environment, breathtaking sceneries and lush green lands.

Almost all the cottages are very romantic and you will definitely enjoy out here with your wife. The calm and serene environment is what you can expect from Haltwhistle. I am listing below a list of cottages out here which really the best in the region.

In this article I would mainly tell you about some very good country cottages located in Haltwhistle.

1. Hawthorn This is one of the finest cottages for you to enjoy with your family. If you will look from outside then this hotel might look an old one but from inside it is quite contemporary. In fact it has been refurnished not long back. The centralized air conditioner is pretty effective and it offers a great degree of comfort. However the climate is so good that you will find it great even without the air conditioner. However you should know that it is a self catering cottage and you will have to cook on your own. But on individual order you can always get a cook who can cook for you or you can bring one cook with you who can cook it for you.

2. Common House farm The cost of staying in the Common House farm cottage is 370 pounds per week. It comprises of one bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and bathrooms. The living room is also provided and there is also a garden in the campus. The solitude is simply loved by some of the people and you will enjoy complete loneliness out here in this cottage. The short break facility is also provided and you can book the cottage for two or three days as well.

3. Acorn This is yet again another cottage which I am adding to the list. This is also a self catering cottage and this means that you will have to cook on your own. This will certainly not be a problem if you have a wife with you.

If you really want to enjoy the most memorable vacations of your life you must stay in one of the cottages that are mentioned above. I am sure they will provide you very good facilities that the right rates.

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Honeymooning in Costa Rica

August 15th, 2009 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

For many years now Costa Rica as a luxury beach vacation spot has been on the rise. Well, now it’s making the top of the list for honeymoon destinations. With amazing beaches on both coasts, in addition to the mountainous cloud forests, Costa Rica is becoming a honeymooner’s paradise.

Costa Rica is flanked by beaches on both the Pacific side and the Caribbean side. Honeymooners love to come for the amazing beachfront properties with incredible activities available. Many honeymooners just come to sit by the pool, relax in the hot springs of Tabacon, or to just lie on the beach and soak up the rays.

Traveling around this small country is an experience in itself. Research is strongly suggested if you plan on going it alone. There are several internet sights available to assist you in putting together your honeymoon package, don’t hesitate to contact them.

There are many adventuresome activities here in Costa Rica. If you are looking to kayak or raft down many of the incredible rivers, or try your hand at zip lining over the treetops of the rainforest, you can bet that this honeymoon vacation will be packed with adventure. But if it is peace and quiet on a beautiful beach with lush surroundings that’s your goal, your choices are plentiful.

Places such as Arenal Observatory Lodge, Playa Conchal and Monteverde are great if you are looking for peace and quiet. While they are secluded to some degree, there are activities available should you choose to participate. Many honeymooners will learn during their time in Costa Rica that they have not allowed themselves enough time to do all the activities available.

Costa Rica has many luxury hotels to suit your needs. If it is spa treatments you are looking for, private meals served in amazing bungalows, then you will find it in places like Corcovado, Tango Mar and many other locations. Romance and luxury awaits you at the Marriott or the Fours Seasons so be sure to put these location on your places to inquire.

We recommend that you enlist the help of a travel consultant when booking your dream honeymoon vacation. There are an endless number of activities, locations, and secret hideaways to explore in Costa Rica and you truly want to have the experience of a lifetime. These experts are a wealth of knowledge and eager to assist you in planning the honeymoon you have been dreaming about.

Transportation in Costa Rica can be complicated at times when traveling throughout this small country. While private transportation is available, it’s expensive. Shuttle companies are plentiful but only have morning and afternoon schedules, so keep this in mind when planning your honeymoon vacation.

Costa Rica is a very special place and will be a vacation you will remember for a lifetime. Use all the resources available to you to plan the most spectacular honeymoon imaginable. There are many sights to see and people to meet along the way so take your time, enjoy and remember, Costa is where you lives as a married couple will start, so do it right.

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New York Budget Apartment Hotels

August 13th, 2009 -- Posted in Travel And Leisure | No Comments »

If you are planning a vacation trip with your family and friends then New York is a very popular city that you must consider. Every year thousands of people come here from all around the globe just to experience its dazzling night life, fine dining restaurants, cool shopping centers and major tourist attractions.

Even if you are a budget traveler in this city you do not have to worry because this place offers some of best budget hotels which would surely provide you all the facilities to make your stay comfortable and pleasant.

1. 14-West side Studio Rooms These studio apartments are situated in the Upper Westside and offer exceptional lodging facilities and weekly rentals to visitors at an affordable rate. The apartments are very large and have double beds which are cozy and clean. Here you have 24 hours reception, laundry service, ice and vending machine, cable connection and internet facility.

2. Radio City Apartments Radio City Apartment hotel is a large and comfortable discount hotel situated in midtown Manhattan and is very near to the Times Square and the Rockefeller Center. The apartments in this hotel are ideal for business travelers who want over night lodgings, and for families with small children. The apartments give you a homely feeling because they all are simply decorated and have an attached kitchenette.

3. Chelsea Lodge This hotel has been recently renovated and is located in the historic Chelsea district in the New York City. The place is positioned in peaceful, secure and private surroundings providing 22 well maintained, clean and spacious studio apartments to the guests. All the rooms are furnished in the European style and feature showers, new king size beds and televisions. Near by to this place you can find many clubs, fine dining restaurants, tourists’ locations and galleries.

These are some very good cheap apartment hotels located in New York. I am sure that here you would enjoy a pleasant and very comfortable stay.

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