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When it comes to world-class service and excellent amenities, our 5-star Lanzarote hotels are a cut above the rest.  There is a splendid sense of old-world charm mixed with the best that contemporary hotel accommodations can offer.  The design is truly exquisite, and the atmosphere is one that will make the weariest travel feel rejuvenated and ready to explore the luscious island life.  Lanzarote is a gem in the Canary Islands, a kind of paradise on earth.  It has a natural warmth that comes from island lifestyles, and the locals and travelers alike share the sense that the place is something else.

Lanzarote has an excellent reputation as an island that is extremely hospitable and friendly.  The beaches are gorgeous, and some of them are famous for attracting an enthusiastic naturalist clientele.  But there is much more to the place than luxury on the sea.  It has a fascinating history of navigators and even pirates, and this history is one that the whole family can explore.  The famous explorer, Sir Francis Drake, was a beloved seaman to the English, and enjoyed the support of the crown, but his reputation in Spain is something else altogether.

His nickname here was El Draque, a play on his name to give it another meaning, the Dragon.  In Spain, he was nothing less than a pirate.  Having once been trapped in the Mexican port, San Juan de Ulua, he survived, but took it upon himself to spend the rest of his life taking vengeance on the Spanish.  He regularly traveled between this country and the Americas, and his reputation in the Canaries was particularly nasty.  Here, Sir Francis Drake had many failed missions to overtake some of the islands, but his desire for vengeance lived on.  Before his last voyage, where he was heading for Puerto Rico to take over that island, he insisted on stopping in the Canaries, where he and his crew tried to annex one of the islands.  This was unsuccessful, as was his attempts to take Puerto Rico.  He died at sea, and was buried there in a lead coffin.

Riding a camel is really similar to a horse except you’re a lot higher and man do they smell. Sleeping on the sand dunes under the night canopy of stars was truly an amazing experience. Life in the desert seems really hard after a not too eventful monsoon season. Water was really scarce as we passed through some villages on our camels. There were several dry wells.

After we said good by to our camels, we headed to Udaipur (the white city). It’s surrounded by a dried up lake and picturesque palaces. I heard that Octopussy was filmed here. We stayed the night in a much needed Udaipur Palace Hotel were we took hot showers and had our clothes cleaned from all the sand, dust and camel smell. We left for Rjasthan for Mumbai, but breaking up our journey at Ahmedabad. A busy, wet and muddy Muslim city. So much for staying clean. At night Ahmedabad felt like sin city. But, it’s food, which it’s renown for, certainly lived up to it reputation. We were in Indian cuisine heaven.

We finally arrived at Mumbai, a city of extremes. We noticed that the rich can spend more on one drink at an exclusive bar than a poor person earns in a week. It was a humbling experience. Going from our hotel to the extensive slums which provide shelter to 1/3 of  Mumbai’s population. We’ve been exposed to worse poverty in some of the tourist areas where the really poor sleep on the streets. But, overall, Mumbai is so unlike the rest of India. It’s pretty clean in comparison and seems organized and less obligated by religion constraints. We actually were surprised just how much we enjoyed our time there. Mumbai is huge though, so I sure we barely scratch the surface of this ancient city.

I came to Mumbai to witness the return of the vultures. I’ve heard about their reappearance through a friend of mine who lives not to far from Kolkata. She’s been one of the few Parsi activists pursuing a different way other than leaving the dead on the ‘Tower of Silence’ because it’s been sited that a number of the vultures have dwindled in an alarming rate around Mumbai and around Kolkata.

I met her in the lobby of one of the 5 Star Mumbai Hotels, and we went off to observe the skies of Kolkata. She told me that it was definitely good news for the Parsi community and that a man who was the first to photographer of piles of half-eaten, rotting bodies from the Tower and who live in Mumbai, vigourously campaigned for ending this ageless ritual practice of leaving corpses to be fed by vultures. It has been proven that it hasn’t worked. The vultures have disappeared and died with the indiscriminate cutting down of tall palm trees and particularly around the Tower itself. The disappearance was notice back in 2005 and the disappearance has been attributed to the overuse and widespread use of Diclofenac, which is a medicine to treat cattle with which these birds feed on.

Recently, around two dozen of the vultures have been sighted near the Race Course and the nests were spotted on a few tall trees near the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. Suggesting that the birds are once again breeding. Forest officials and bird-lovers have described the development as wonderful news. The forest department has begun to launch a vulture breeding program at the Buxa Tiger Reserve in the Northern part of Bengal. As we arrived to Kolkata, I look out the windshield of the car and saw several vultures circling and riding the thermals high up in the sky and my friend and I smile.

For 5-star hotels, Valencia is a veritable feast.  The city is the third largest in Spain, and its location on the Mediterranean coast makes it absolutely heavenly.  A place that gets repeat visits from tourists who are looking for paradise on earth, Valencia offers the best of many worlds.  For urban excitements, natural splendor, and the warm atmosphere of a beach, where the temperature is perfection, Valencia really has it all.  The hotels here are a reflection of the place, with a splendid combination of warmth and hospitality, and all the amenities of contemporary living.

The city is a constant buzz of activity, and there are plenty of things for tourists here to find and enjoy.  Restaurants that have some of the finest cooking in the world, nightlife that is dazzling and extremely lively, and a very rich cultural scene are always evident here.  Culturally, it has a long and fascinating history, but there are few cultural icons more beloved here than Nino Bravo.  Born Luis Manuel Ferri Llopis, this Spanish singer lived a mere 28 years, but caused a sensation that will be felt for many generations to come, and some predict, long into antiquity.

His glory years started in 1969, when the singer, who was a very shy child, sang in front of an audience for the first time.  He was never convinced he had a voice anyone would consider listening to, but this event certainly changed his perceptions of himself.  By all accounts, anyone who has heard him live can testify to the power of his voice, and his recordings are stunning additions to any musical collection.  He would go on to enter singing contests in the following years, and developed a very large fan base in Latin America along with his native Spain.  His popularity was soaring at the moment of his untimely death.  He had a child, and another daughter on the way, when he lost his life in an automobile accident.  Many writers speak about the absurd death of Nino Bravo, and he is widely remembered throughout Spain and Latin America.  But there is no place where he is more beloved than his native Valencia.

The Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao, is one filled with contemporary and modern art.  Bilbao is in the Basque country of Spain, and sits along the Nervion River.  The Nervion cuts through the center of town and runs through to the Atlantic Ocean.  This museum, located very close to the luxury hotels Bilbao is famous for hosting traveling exhibits as well as housing an extensive permanent collection of Spanish, as well as many international, artists.

The building itself is a work of art, designed by the American/Canadian architect Frank Gehry.  His design is filled with what appears to be random curves, as he states the curves are not random, they are intended to catch the natural light in an incredible way.  The style of the building is de-constructivism, although Gehry doesn’t claim to be an architect of any particular movement.  Many have hailed the building as being one of the most innovative and beautiful structures in the world and of the time.

Gehry is well known for his method, and his style, that encapsulates the organic nature of the world.  He designed the building to be like a ship, as the village of Bilbao is a port hub and fishing town in Spain.  Various elements of steel are included in the structure, resembling the scales of a fish.  This building is a product of the technology and the imagination necessary to utilize that technology that was available during the time of its construction.  Gehry utilized computer programs when creating the blue-prints, which made the ideas much more clear, more plausible in the follow through.

He also took into consideration the two different facades, the side that faces the street is un-assuming and blends in with the architecture of the other buildings.  However the side that faces the river is an explosive work of art.  Efforts had been put forth to revitalize this area of the Basque region, and once the museum opened, it became at once, not only the favorite of the locals, but a major tourist attraction as well.  Many give credit to this building alone as being the one attraction that put Bilbao on the the map, so to speak.  Gehry’s museum has inspired the works of other architects and other buildings around the world, most notable is the Cerritos Millennium Library in California.  Gehry also has the reputation of one that completes his projects on budget and on time.  He credits this ability to being extremely organized and fully realized in his vision.  This is one Spanish vision that will delight anyone traveling to Bilbao for the first time, or for second and third time.

This past week, the people in New York celebrated Gay Pride along with other major cities that celebrate during the last week of June such as Houston, San Francisco, Chicago and Seattle.  Many celebrations took place in each of the five boroughs as well.  This year the celebrations were particularly fantastic as this was the fortieth anniversary of Stonewall.  This year five major events took place, along with the smaller events happening throughout the city.  Many traveled to celebrated the anniversary in the city wherein the riots occurred and the 5 star New York hotels were entirely booked.  The opening rally was on June 20, 2009, then following throughout the week was PRIDEfest, the parade, the Dance on the Pier, and finally the Rapture on the River.  Each of these events took place in the Village, close to Chelsea.

Bryant Park hosted the opening Rally, which ran from 2 to 6.  Many local celebrities spoke at the rally, including one of the New York Senators, Tom Duane.  Local poets and actors performed and spoke to the many who were in attendance.  Two dances were held, one on Saturday at Pier 54, and the final dance of the week long celebration was on Sunday, also at the Pier 54.  This particular dance came about during a time when gay friends were not able to dance with each other, or show affection without fear of being harmed or injured.  This is in a way, a protest of dance and music has become tradition, and celebrates how far society has come.  This is the gathering place once the march is over, where those in attendance dance throughout the night to live music and fireworks displays.  The PRIDEfest did not take place in 2007, as there was a dispute over issues related to parking, but this year many street entertainers, vendors, artists and organizations had their booths set up on Hudson Street and many attended the gathering that ran from 11 in the morning until 7 o’clock Sunday night.

Juhu Beach in India is a site that draws many to her shores and provides such accomodations as the India five star hotels.   A bit of a play on words, as many come to this beach in order to capture, or attempt to capture, the beauty of the colors, on the static frame of canvas.  Many artists come to India to paint, which given the array of color and beauty it is no wonder.  The tubes of paint necessary for one setting up their easel on Juhu beach must include and assortment of blues, as the waves which hit the beach night and day are brilliant turquoise, with strokes of green and purple.

This particular section of the Indian coastline will wash away the tensions and worries of a world that is becoming so modern that parents communicate with their children more via text messages than actual conversation.  Juhu is in close proximity to other local beaches as well, equally serene and colorful, such as Santa Cruz, Andheri, and Vile Parle.  The sunsets here, pull out the canvas and the paints once again, for to capture a sunset off of the Juhu shore is a bit like capturing a small part of heaven to bring home.  The horizon line seems to go on endlessly, and the warmth of the oranges and reds is simply out of this world.  From, literally, out..of..this..world, ethereal.  The sun falling into the Arabian Sea will be a vision of India that will grace, and haunt, ones memory for the rest of their lives.

Once the sun sets, the air shifts a bit, as the serenity gives way to celebration.  Ferry rides are available, similar to those at Chowpatty Beach.  Also similar are the food stalls and the local chefs, and grandmothers, cooking on the beach the most delightful tidbits.  Many of which will lead foreigners to search out the best Indian restaurants of their home towns once they return from vacation, for once one experiences the taste, one will have a taste for India for the rest of their lives.  On the week end, the atmosphere is even more festive as the vendors and the acrobats take to the streets, and cricket games are taken up on the sand.  This is such a hot spot in the country that, as in the U.S. film industry Malibu Beach has frequently appeared in the movies of Hollywood, Bollywood film makers film Juhu regularly, such as in the Danny Boyle film, “Slumdog Millionaire”.

When one visits the country and stays in a heritage hotel, India ones visit will become even more incredible, become an experience one will never forget.  There are many famous museums, and heritage sites located throughout the entire country.  And at some point, one may wish to escape the crowds and the bustle of the towns and the cities and head to the beach, where the tranquility and the serenity will clear the head and the heart of many over-stimulated tourists.  The beaches of India are beautiful expanses that over look lush green landscapes and clear blue waters.  It is no wonder that many painters and artists travel through the country with just a back pack, some paints, canvas and a few brushes.

Chowpatty is one beach that many know of and insist that when visiting their country, this beach must be part of every tour.  During the day one may swim or sunbath, but what this beach has become famous for is the food.  All ages travel here, just outside of Mumbai, for when the sun sets and evening beginnings, people fill the sand in search of delectables found at the kiosks.  There are ferry boat rides and people selling balloons, quite a festive atmosphere every day of the week.

This is also the location which hosts many varied festivals throughout the year.  The Hindu festivals bring people together, such as the Festival for Ganesha Chaturthi, and the annual Festival of Coconuts.  India is encapsulated in the idea of strata, but for these festivals those from every status attend, be it the artists or the businessmen.  Many rest up during the day, under the trees on the sand, for each night the carnival happens, complete with palm readers, ponies and carnival rides.  There are shooting galleries and street side massage tables, monkeys and snakes, similar to the Southern California beach, Venice.  Food stalls are set up along the board walk, and the general population hangs out here en mass.  There are surrounding beaches that offer a bit more peace and quiet, but at least once, one must experience the sunset at Chowpatty.

Stress is a problem that increases everyday in the United States.  The affects are felt by people of every ethnic background, those of each sex and every age, and stress will attack regardless of ones religious background.  While the human body is equipped to deal with stress on a moderate level, when stress builds up or becomes excessive the body just can not do it on its own.  Medical doctors, researcher and scientists continue to amazed and dumb-founded as to just what stress can do to the body.  Those in the work place, sitting in traffic, or those raising children, all people feel this at some point, on every level.  Stress that goes un-managed can cause serious health problems, in the United States alone, three out of ten deaths are attributed to the effects of stress, as stress is one of the leading causes of heart disease.  Un-managed stress is becoming a disease that is crippling otherwise healthy people.  Just thinking about stress alone, causes stress.

While this may sound overwhelming, there are so many steps individuals can take to care for themselves.  Many of those stressed out in the population today are finding solace and relief in those practices that at one time may have been passed off as ‘new age’ or esoteric.  Aromatherapy is one such practice.  It is nothing new, the idea of scent.  Scent is one of the most powerful senses when it comes to memory and feelings and mood.  One such measure that many are taking in reducing their own stress levels and taking their care and their lives into their own hands, is to install hot tubs, many models of spas can be found at choosehottubsdirect.com.  Installing a hot tub in ones back yard that is surrounded by gardens of roses and lavender, both flowers known for their calming properties, will serve two purposes.  The hot soak in a hot tub relaxes the muscles, and the scent of the garden relaxes one’s mind.  In this day and age, people are finding the joy, the harmony, and the simple effects of just what taking a little time out from the hectic world will do for their daily life.

You will love your new grill island and already have a thousand ideas for the splendid times that are ahead of you.  It already adds another room (at least) to your beautiful home, and it’s perfectly natural (and even recommended!) to show it off to your friends.  What’s the point of having something to share if you don’t share it?  These are built for fun.

Everyone loves to eat, and everyone loves movies.  The two seem to go hand-in-hand, and people do these all year round.  In the summer though, when the grilling season starts to hit its zenith in the popular imagination, everything outdoors suddenly starts to take off.  The childhood memories spark the imagination of adults, and kids start to run on their own jet fuel. The smell of cut grass, when mixed with the smell of grills starting up, means that the season is really here.  Long lazy days that end with a lovely meal cooked in your own outdoor cooking is about as good as it gets.  But to push it one more level higher, it might be worth considering adding some outdoor cinema to the experience.

There are multiple options to consider here, and all of them are guaranteed to make you popular in the neighborhood.  Some of our grill islands have built-in television to keep the cook happy.  Gather your friends around and watch your favorite shows.  For large-screen televisions, when the whether gets wet, there are many types of year-round weather television enclosures .  There are also possibilities for adding different kinds of outdoor lighting, and of course, options for stylish sound design.  Adding a screen with a projection system, of course, takes it to a whole new level, and with your grill making the neighborhood hungry, there’s no limit to the fun.  Outdoor cinema has fantastic possibilities, and even dreaming about your perfect combinations of menus and Summer film selections is time well spent, with succulent rewards.

Gardening in Phoenix, Arizona can be challenging.  As with any desert climate, the sun is harsh and the temperature is high.  This means that plants and flowers need extra care throughout the summer months.  One way to ensure that one will take the time, is to create a garden paradise, an oasis in the desert that provides a background retreat, from the day to day busy work week, and the stresses of everyday life. Circular gardens in one’s back yard created with elements of design, are perfect especially when surrounding hot tubs.  For what is better than relaxing in a hot tub, after a busy day, with the smell of roses and jasmine in the air.  If one so desires an herb and vegetable garden, lavender and basil are very fragrant as well.  Circular gardens, when the pathways and borders are built using the same materials as the house, create unity and visual harmony.  The garden becomes part of the home, not an area separated from the home.

If the backyard is not large enough for a complete circle of plants and design around the hot tub, the plans can be altered.  So perhaps, a semi-circle set in the corner of the yard will be a better fit.  Principles of texture and color work together with the plants chosen to fill the pots and segments.   The various beds may be raised to create different levels allowing more bed space for the garden, using the brick or other materials such as flagstone or wood, the materials of the main house.  Balance is also created by planting multiples of the same plant or flowers or trees.  This also serves to balance the area when the lines are different due to space limitations.  Ground cover between the sections can be gravel or river rock, which saves on water usage, as this is also a concern in the desert.  Watering small sections of garden, or plants in pots throughout the yard, will provide the green and the flowers and the vegetables without the expense and waste of an entire yard of grass.  And relaxing in the hot tub after weeding and pruning your back yard oasis, is the perfect end to the day.

It’s been some time since I’ve written anything about barbecuing. But, I had a great time on my built in grill over the summer holidays, I thought I’d share some of my built in grills tricks. Over the years of grilling, I’ve learned a few things that made everything I grilled turn out perfect everytime. I’ve listed a few that will make you look like a grilling professional.

First, learn how to light the grill.  If you have a gas grill check all the connections to make sure everything is operating properly. If it’s a wood burning or charcoal grill, buy the smallest bag of match light charcoals or tinder, then but the regular bag of charcoal or wood and lighter fluid. Before anyone shows up, lay some match light charcoals or tinder down in your grill. Then as the invited guest arrive, make a show of putting in the charcoals or wood and the lighter fluid. Let it soak up for several minutes then light it up. The match lights or tinder at the bottom should not only hold the fire really well, but help the regular charcoals and wood stay lit.

Now, to truly look like a grilling professional cook ribs with meat that falls off the bone. You can cheat by preparing ahead of time by either buying a 40 ounce can of your favorite beer, toss it into a big stock pot along with two bottles of water, enough that the ribs are barely covered. Add salt, pepper, garlic and onion. Boil the water first before adding in the ribs. Simmer for about an hour. Toss it in the fridge. When it’s time, toss the ribs on the grill and coat them with your homemade barbecue sauce. The ribs do not need to be grilled for long, just enough to heat them up really, get a smokey flavor and the BBQ sauce is a little bit browned.

For burgers, learn how to flip them only once. Flipping the burgers only once saves time and they don’t dry out. A good sign when it’s time to flip is when the blood rises to the top of the burger. Now for chicken, one really needs to be careful in the preparation. I find boiling the chicken first helps make sure that once you place either the whole chicken or chicken parts on the grill, that it will be thoroughly cooked. Peeling the skin aways also helps in this area.

With these tips you are now well on the way for  creating a great barbecue party and being the best griller your friends have ever witnessed.

When travelers come to Delhi, India, hotels are the center, the new home, however temporary, to base the journey from.  We think that the hotel, then, should be a splendid offering that is the best of all worlds.  With a luxurious combination of new world design and style, with old world graciousness and comfort, there is something to please every guest.  The hotel can be the hideaway from the rest of the world, or it can be the place where one rejuvenates before going out to have adventures.  Delhi certainly has its share of possibilities for adventure.  There are fantastic sights, eats, and diversions to make for an immensely memorable stay.

Delhi is one of the longest continually-inhabited cities on the planet, and it has attracted creative people as well as technology and science experts, drawn by the promise of living at one of the world’s centers.  There is also a very lively film culture now, too.  One sign of the health of the industry here, certainly, is the Delhi Film Archive.  This organization, dedicated to the dissemination of documentary and short films, is Delhi’s chapter of the Films For Freedom, a coalition of groups that formed in 2003 in response to trends toward censorship in India’s public spaces.  Their other goals are toward developing a screening culture for diverse films in the region, as well as raising awareness of the extent of censorship, and offering ways to work against trends toward silence.

This organization is responsible for organizing a host of fascinating film events, and their involvement usually signifies a savvy presence on a project.  Members of the Delhi Film Archive are constantly putting together public screenings of films linked together through content and theme, and generally improving the artistic life here. Speaking clearly and articulately is, for them, the best chance that the human spirit has for working against forms of oppression and repression.  Art is deeply connected with human rights, and the list of filmmakers involved in the Delhi Film Archive demonstrates a promising roster of young artists whose career trajectories will be fascinating to watch.

For travelers who make their way to Delhi, hotels hold many surprises and treasures in store.  There is a remarkable combination of old-world charm with new-world amenities, insuring that guests will find themselves enchanted and also super-connected to the world at large.  Delhi is a city of wonderful contradictions, where the present and the past mix with the future in often remarkably unexpected ways.  The hotels capture this sense, to make for a luxurious experience in the heart of a very lively city.

There are thousands of things to do here.  Sight-seeing is at a premium, with temples and festivals and fairs, and both cultural and historical attractions that will be fun for the whole family.  People watching here is a stunning sport, with endless possibilities for long and pleasant mornings spent observing human nature playing out its drama in the streets.  Then there is the food.  The sumptuous feasts here are fantastic, drawing on centuries of cooking traditions, where recipes have been perfected over time and passed down along the generations.  There are also some amazing chefs here, who are playing with the tradition of Indian food in exciting ways.  Chef Suvir Saran, now one of New York’s finest culinary experts, was born and bred in Delhi, and he’s using the knowledge from here to make his mark on the world.

It’s a very impressive mark, too.  Still quite young, Suvir Saran has written two very influential books, Indian Home Cooking, and American Masala.  These books are just the visible cream of the work that Saran has been doing, advancing the way the world at large views Indian cooking.  For reasons that are baffling, it’s been difficult for Indian cuisine to find its way to the top tier in world cooking traditions.  However, with Saran’s efforts, and other Indian chefs, the ceiling is starting to give way to sense.  Suvir Saran is one of the co-executive chefs at Dévi, one of New York’s finest restaurants, and is changing the way New Yorkers think about food.  Saran has also done multiple television appearances, has taught widely in many prestigious cooking schools, and has of course written many articles for culinary magazines.  His approach is to take the best of the tradition, and experiment using contemporary techniques, to make for a blend of styles that suits contemporary tastes.  The result is a divine gift.

There is something completely unique about Delhi, best hotels being the ones that live long in the memory, and the entire place will stay with you long after you leave.  The city is a flood of human energy, constantly in  motion.  The hotels are designed to give you the rest and rejuvenation you deserve, so you can spend more time participating in the lively arts of existing in the city here.  There is a little bit of everything in Delhi, a city that is truly in touch with history and the future.  The luxury of the hotels here, however, will put you firmly and happily in the middle of the present.  Stylish and cutting edge in design, there is the best of old and new worlds here, combined to make you feel right at home.

The city is a wonderful haven for artists and writers, and has attracted all walks of life, from all over the world, during its long history of human habitation.  In music, there are masters from all types of classical music, from traditional Indian, to traditional European.  There are contemporary musicians who are mastering the latest sounds of youth culture in local and world music.  But for punk rock, one should look at Messiah.  After having been together for eight years, they released their first album in 2005, the Antidote.  It is a heady mix of punk rock philosophy and rapid and uncontrolled rhythms, to make for a musical experience that is very exciting.

Their first gig was at an all-girls’ college in New Delhi, an auspicious beginning for any band of three young men with nothing but music and dreams.  They distinguished themselves very early on by being able to play their own compositions, and their intelligence and articulateness are quite contagious.  Although the album is only seven songs long, it seems complete, as a kind of anthem to the here-and-now of contemporary Delhi.  It is simultaneously an annunciation and a formal complaint, and is a perfect introduction to the contradictions of punk rock for the dispossessed teens living in this part of the globe.  Unfortunately for this part of the globe, however, Messiah has not been seen playing for awhile, and have only had brief sightings on trains, which adds to the mystique, and makes their fan base wondering when there will be more to come.  A perfect punk rock existential riff on waiting plays here, waiting for their entrance again.

Put your worries in our hands, and we’ll make car hire in South Africa an easy process.  Our aim is to get you on the road so you can have adventures right away.  You’ll love South Africa, it’s got something for everyone. The birthplace of humanity, everything is here, and sometimes all at the same time.

Make sure to give yourself plenty of opportunities to improvise in your travels here.  There are probably a thousand good suggestions for things to see and do, but some of the best memories are made when you decide to follow your nose.  But to start, there are some wonderful things here.  Nature is displayed here in wildness and splendor, and there are plenty of good tours to join to get a taste of the jungle.  There are also some fantastic cultural fairs, festivals, and parades, that will give some fascinating windows on South Africa’s present and past.  The historical interest here cannot be overstated, since it has seen some of the most incredible revolutions in recent times.  Nightclubs are lively and fascinating, and the restaurants have some of the most amazing world cuisines on the planet.  And if you’re looking for tattoo culture, that’s here, too!

2009 saw Cape Town’s first ever international ink festival, Southern Ink Xposure.  This tattoo convention sees itself as the counterpart to the Northern Ink Xposure convention in Toronto.  It was held over two days, and tattooed people from all over South Africa, and the world, showed up, to see the latest and the greatest in tattoo art.  Tattoo parlors sent their best artists to demonstrate and to learn, and there was even a full line-up of local music, with aKING, the Shy Guevaras, Taxi Violence, and the Mochines.  They also included charity events and panel discussions, and the intention is to make the Southern Ink Xposure a regular fixture on the international tattoo circuit. Held at the Cape Town Convention Center, this event will not be forgotten.

In Cape Town, South Africa, hotels are famous for offering a beautiful combination of style, charm, and up-to-the-minute amenities.  With all the technology at your fingertips to keep you well-connected to the world at large, and gloriously sumptuous details to keep you wanting to hide away here, your time will be memorable.  There is so much to see in town, too.  One of the oldest and longest-occupied places on earth, Cape Town has seen it all, the spectrum of history having lived out a thousand dramas on its soil.

There are many historical places that are definitely worth looking at: apartheid museums, Robben Island, and local landmarks are constant reminders of what happened here.  There are also thousands of works of art that speak to the land, its history, and its people.  Theatre has always held a special place in the history of South Africa, being a place where subaltern voices could find audiences, and important issues could find a means of public conversation.  Here, public conversation is one of the pieces of the puzzle that allows one to participate in the human story, because it depends on relationship.  There is a word in Bantu philosophy, Ubuntu, which means that my humanity is inextricably tied to yours.  Archbishop and Nobel Laureate Desmond Tutu speaks about Ubuntu as a necessary element toward becoming whole.

Ubuntu is also the name of a collaboration between Toronto’s Tarragon Theatre and Halifax’s Neptune Theatre.  Called by the longer name, Ubuntu, The Cape Town Project, this Canadian production was developed in conjunction with South African actors, and is an attempt to make a collaboratively created work of theatre that tells the story of a family living under apartheid.  Using a lot of the most contemporary theatrical techniques for creating company work, Ubuntu is an original work of theatre that is both moving and provocative.  It tells one more story, one more piece of the puzzle, in an attempt to make audiences think, and respond, and to reflect on how things are never what they seem.

Steve Barbarich is an inventor, entrepreneur and philanthropist who took it to be his responsibility to solve a problem he saw in the retail market for portable spa Jacuzzis.

As with buying anything online, consumers have to be weary of when they put in their credit card information. With the way identity theft is these days, consumers can never be too careful.  Whether you are buying a pair of shoes or looking into buying a hot tub, like Steve, you need to verify the retailer that you are buying from.

So Barbarich decided that he would do something about his predicament. Instead of waiting around for someone to open a business for this service, he decided he would do it on his own.  He founded choosedirecthottubs.com after doing his best to find a hot tub from a retailer that was already on the market.

In his previous endeavor he found customer service to be lax and a problem he wanted to solve.  So he made sure that his new business put a priority on achieving excellent customer service. And really that is what keeps people coming back for more when it comes to buying off an online retailer. When you have a problem with an item, say a bra you bought on the Victoria’s Secret website they are quick to make you happy and turn around the product that you really want. So you are more likely to buy from that company again, or recommend it to your friends.

Barbarich believes that customer service should not be what goes out the window when it comes to the business of e-commerce. Just because you are not dealing with customers face to face, does not mean that they do not deserve an amazing customer service experience.

Barbarich will continue to offer his luxury products with top notch customer service.

Two grandmothers accused of selling heroin from their homes near Stroudsburg, PA were in court Wednesday morning reported WNEP Newschannel 16. Elizabeth Grube, 70, and Elaine Volkert, 65, gave up their right to a preliminary hearing in Stroud Townshp. Both defense and prosecuting attorneys said they want to cooperate with authorities.

The sisters are charged with selling tens of thousands of dollars of heroin out of their homes near Stroudsburg. Attorneys said this latest move is part of a plea deal. “We’re trying to work up the chain of distribution. Her cooperation, particularly Elaine’s, is going to be fruitful,” explained Assistant District Attorney Michael Mancuso.

The prosecutor said the sisters continue to cooperate. They will plead guilty to possession of heroin with intent to distribute once the case goes to trial in Monroe County court. Grube’s lawyer said the women are hoping for a sentence of probation, rather than jail time.

Risk of heroin use:

* For intravenous users of heroin (and any other substance), the use of non-sterile needles and syringes and other related equipment leads to several serious risks:
o the risk of contracting blood-borne pathogens such as HIV and hepatitis
o the risk of contracting bacterial or fungal endocarditis and possibly venous sclerosis
o abscesses
* Poisoning from contaminants added to “cut” or dilute heroin
* Chronic constipation
* Addiction and increasing tolerance
* Physical dependence can result from prolonged use of all opioids, resulting in withdrawal symptoms on cessation of use
* Decreased kidney function (although it is not currently known if this is due to adulterants or infectious diseases)

Please contact a drug rehab or drug treatment centers for more information regarding the dangers of heroin use. Drug rehab programs are important for this or any kind of addiction.

Waiting for Godot is a play written by Samuel Beckett and is currently in a revised production in New York at the Roundabout Theatre Company. It stars Bill Irwin, John Goodman, Nathan Lane and John Glover was nominated in this year’s Tony Awards for Best Revival of a Play. It was directed by Tony Award winner Anthony Page. The Tony Awards are commonly considered to be the highest American Honor any performance, designer, director or writer can win. They were held at the Radio City Music Hall and many people enjoyed a fine dinner at the best restaurants New York City before and sometimes after they were held.

The play focuses on two main characters Vladimir and Estragon as they linger in a desolate area waiting for the arrival of an unknown character named Godot. This is the only setting that is presented in the two-act script, and the characters are constantly in a state of suspended ambivalence about whether to remain or go. They are soon joined by Pozzo and Lucky who complicate matters and increase intention. The play as many vaudeville elements and is indebted to carnivalesque music hall traditions.

There are many philosophical questions posed by the play and even more philosophical theories written about it. One of these involves who the never seen character of Godot is supposed to represent. God is a common association to Godot, but is many times considered to be a too easy answer. Another theory suggests that Pozzo is actually Godot, though Beckett himself denies this. Other theories discuss the intention of this basically plot-less play. There is a political theory that suggests the play is an allegory for the Cold War. Existentialists see it as posing the question of the nature and purpose of human existence. There are also psychological interpretations of the play. Jungian theory associates the characters with the four aspects of the soul, the ego, shadow, animus or anima.

Many traveling long journeys, with lay-overs or missed flights, know that when it comes to the airports of most cities around the world, they are the buildings one wants to get in and get out of as quickly as possible.  Faded tile floors and walls that were last painted in the 1950’s, not spectacular and to be honest a little drab.  Just the atmosphere to remind one that there is really somewhere else they would rather be, and it may be a while until they actually get there.  Not true for the Changi Airport in Singapore.  As is true for many of the structures in the country, any business office, bank or Singapore restaurant, the designers of the architecture, the painters and the interior decorators, such is true for the airport.  Care was taken by the designs to ensure the comfort and in the consideration of the needs of those passengers traveling through, departing or arriving.

One aspect is that many are aware that when people get stressed out, people find solace in nature.  Through taking a hike in the mountains, to running through the park, to working in a backyard garden.  Many people traveling feel stress, be it lack of sleep, fear of flying, or lost luggage.  One will find nature in the Terminal 3 of the Changi Airport.  The garden on the third floor is one of six garden’s that are located throughout the airport.  Not is this just a garden, by any means, as it is filled with some of the calmest creatures in the kingdom of wildlife, butterflies.  Many cities have butterfly gardens as sections of the local botanical garden, but not many airports have them in Terminal Three.  An aspect of the garden which will soften even the most roughest edges of travel stress and anxiety, is that the forty seven various species that make this garden there home, none of them are fearful of humans.  Between connecting flights, passengers may see butterflies feeding from the many flowers in the garden, or may be lucky enough to see a new butterfly emerge from a cocoon.  Or maybe, just sit for a moment, with a butterfly on the end of their finger, before getting back on a crowded flight.

Also found in Terminal Three is the Fish pond, filled with Koi, for which many throughout the Far East have a tremendous affinity.  Water and the marine life that it supports has long been known to remove the affects of daily stress.  Many people throughout the world have fish tanks in their homes, for no matter how small a tank, something about watching the fish is peaceful and relaxing.  In the pond at Changi , the brightly colored species of Carp swim through the running water, often jumping or ‘playing’–if fish play, much to the delight of passengers, and add much to the relief of their anxiety or poor spirits.  Throughout the airport there are flower gardens as well, and if one has a long lay over, the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is close enough to spend some time, waiting for the next flight.

The Baltic Center for Contemporary Arts, located in Newcastle, UK is offering many exhibitions throughout the summer that are free to the public. The museum is open every day, except Tuesday, from 10am through 6pm. Two of the exhibits that opened in April 2009 and will run through the end of the summer are the shows, “A Duck for Mr. Darwin”, and “Tilting Planet”. There are five shows running during the summer months, and while all are appropriate for children, these two may provide the most entertainment and fun for those families traveling out of the Newcastle hotel accommodations and searching for a day of adventure and activity that will keep the attention of young tourists in the group.

“A Duck for Darwin” is a collaborative show, wherein several contemporary and modern artists address the issues of the struggle for survival and evolutionary thought. Take creative impetus and inspiration from Darwin’s book “The Theory of Natural Selection”. This show in Newcastle coincides with many exhibits and celebrations throughout the world this summer, “Darwin 200“,  commemorating the 200 year anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth. The focus of the artworks is the honoring of the endurance of his thoughts, his ideas, and his scientific research. The show addresses each of the artists’ own personal journeys and struggles for survival, as well as incorporated and researching the work Darwin accomplished during his years spent on the Galapagos Islands. Many of the pieces are based in theme, on the comparison and relationship between the animal kingdom and the human species. The installations are presented by artists from the United States, the UK, and from Ireland.  This is a dedication to the legacy of the scientist, as presented through drawings, paintings, film, photography and sculpture. It is a mix of fiction and fact, of observation of the natural world as well as experimentation. This is just one of the beautiful shows up at the Baltic Center this summer. This show will run through September, 2009.

Another of the shows running through the summer, August, 2009, is an installation solo exhibit of the work of American artist, Sarah Sze.  Sze has exhibited throughout the UK for many years, and this is her largest exhibit to date. The show is titled “Tilted Planet”. It is a series of sculptural works that are connected throughout with items that are commonly thrown in the trash, such as string, wire, matchsticks, water bottles. Sze attempts to alter the public perception of these items, to open people up to new ways of thinking, about the environment, about the planet. This is an incredibly visual exhibit, colorful and interesting and perfect for young minds, as well as those not so young. Some of the pieces are towering, yet delicate, while others are tactile and grounded, and all are connected with this vine running throughout, creating a far reaching landscape that touches the imaginative minds of all those who see the work. Both shows are incredible options while traveling through Newcastle this summer.

The Singapore Zoo is a fabulous institution that houses numerous species of animals and is structured for educational and preservation purposes. It is a model of the open zoo format, and is part of the major attractions the city has to offer. Tourists are attracted to this vibrant city and stay in the best hotels in Singapore . They enjoy the luxury accommodations provided by these hotels and appreciate the information and access resources they offer. The Zoo is one of many to priorities on any tourist’s agenda, and is also well respected and frequently visited by much of the local population.

There are many aspects to the zoo that includes spacious living spaces for the animals and the utmost of care facilities. They are housed in as naturally landscaped areas as is possible, and most of them are separated from visitors by water moats. In the case of large and possibly dangerous animals, they are typically enclosed by glass-fronted zones. The zoo does not include the traditional zoo cages and the animals are oriented to their natural lifestyle as opposed to strong captivity. This benefits the animals and also incorporates a more educational aspect for the visitors who are allowed to experience these animals as close to their natural state as possible. There is a great feeling of openness and wonder to this great zoo habitat.

In addition to individual explorations of the zoo, it offers many thematic guided tours to its guests. One of these includes the Fragile Forest Behind the Scenes tour. It is an hour and a half tour that explores the breeding aspects of some of the butterflies and spineless creatures inhabited by the zoo. There is a Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia Feeding tour that allows participants to get close to the hamadryas baboons and even to feed them. It is partly enjoyment, and partly educational as the guests are emerged in the history and culture of these amazing primates. The Reptile Garden Behind the Scenes tour invites participants to explore this sometimes slippery and slimy world. It reveals the truth about these species and also discusses various historic myths surrounding them.

The Botanical and Historical Garden of the Conception in Malaga is an absolutely gorgeous garden. The garden is located in the Spanish province of Malaga and was created in 1855 by the Marquises of the House of Loring. The garden was expanded by the Echevarria-Echevarrieta family. The ‘Jardin Botanico Historico la Concepcion’ , as the locals call it, has a breathtaking collection of tropical and sub-tropical flowers which are arranged in an open-air garden. The varieties of flowers come from Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. Centrally located near the Hotel Malaga Spain the garden is truly a site to see.

In 1943, the Malaga garden was officially declared an historical site and in 1990 the garden became the property of the City of Malaga which in turn opened up its doors to the public. There is a romantic history following the garden, Don Jorge Loring Oyarzabal and Dona Amalia Livermore began construction on the vast garden in 1855. The concept for the garden was based on replicating the sights and sounds from an expedition the pair had taken across Europe. Chamousst , a noted French gardener, brought the La Concepcion garden to life.

The La Concepcion Garden is a garden of Eden . Lush greenery impacts the senses with a power so strong and riveting. The vegetation grows wildy, but the garden manages to retain a look of organization. Sunbeams find their way through the majestic forest bringing in a sense of magic and wonder. One gets the feeling of discovering their own secret garden. Palm trees, Chinese orange blossoms, banana trees and an overwhelming amount of exotic species cultivating a realm of beauty begs one to explore. Walking along the well-worn paths of the garden appreciating, from time to time as you pause, the water pools, Romanesque statues and a stunning Palace,you will become pleasantly invigorated and happily relaxed.

After pulling out of the Aegon Championships due to knee injury world number one, Rafael Nadal is looking to make his mark on Wimbledon this year.

The Aegon Championships is the traditional warm-up tennis tournament for Wimbledon.  Nadal is withdrawing himself to allow for his knee to rest. He wasn’t to return to Wimbledon in tip top shape so he can defend his title.

Nadal’s knee surgery last season did not hold him back from being the Wimbledon champion. Nadal beat Roger Federer at last year’s Wimbledon in a very nail biting match. Nadal’s knee problems may be keeping him from the season he was hoping to have.

He was knocked out of the French Open after the fourth round by Robin Soderling of Sweden.  Soderling was previously ranked number 23 in the world before defeating world number one Rafael Nadal. The lost to Soderling was Nadal’s first ever loss on the clay courts of the Roland Garros. Up until this season he was seen as a master of clay and a clay court specialist, he would have been going for his fourth consecutive title.

Hopefully Nadal’s knee injury will not get any worse or he won’t aggravate it more. Some sports fans may be asking themselves if it is a good idea for him to play in Wimbledon at all. Perhaps it is his sense of pride that will keep him in the running. But, it would be a shame if he goes out too prematurely if his knee is not properly healed and ready to go. It would put him at risk of putting his entire career into jeopardy.

So now Nadal will move onto Wimbledon 2009 to get his season back on track. The tournament will be held on the grass from June 22nd to July 5th.  Here’s hoping Nadal will be in the running, and healthy.

Malaga is the second largest city in Spain, following Madrid.  This city sits in the Alicante region just of the Costa del Sol. The harbor and the port is lovely and the city is known for their wine, their raisins…which brings up port of another sort, and the variety of accommodations throughout the Malaga, Spain hotel and resort industry.  When one visits, the Cathedral of Malaga is a must see destination.  This is one of the most prominent and historical buildings located within the city.  Construction began in 1528, with the lead architects of the time being Diego Siloe and Pedro Lopez.  Throughout the two hundred years of construction on the limestone building, the project was halted many times, due to lack of financial resources.  To this day, one of the towers on the south side is still incomplete.  It has been named, “la Manquita”, which translates to… “the Missing”.  The cathedral sports the different styles of the centuries, due to the fact that so many different architects have given their hands in the eventual completion of the structure.  It does however remain withing the four most important cathedrals of Spain, along with the cathedrals of Jaen, Granada and Seville.

To the west of the cathedral lies the district which is most appealing to tourists.  Small streets and alleyways lead to the area of the open-air markets. which offer the wares of some of the best work the artisans of Spain have to offer.  The markets include flowers, seafood, and vegetables along with the restaurants and bars that make perfect settings for a day spent wandering through the city in the summer sun.  Pablo Picasso is one of Malaga’s native sons.  One may stroll past the house in which he was born, the address is Plaza de la Merced 15, or one may wish to take a look at this master’s works at Palacio de Buenavista, one of the many famous museums throughout the world that house his works.  Dotting the city are many parks and gardens, which allow those traveling, or those locals taking breaks, a moment to catch their breath and recharge before entering back into the hustle and bustle of the city life.  When touring Spain, Malaga is a must-find-time destination, and well worth the finding of that time.

The New York theatre scene is one of the most vibrant, thriving, and well respected in the world. It hosts numerous Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway productions each year. It also has the distinction of being home to the world’s longest running musical, The Fantasticks. Although the show has now closed, it holds the record with a total of 17,162 performances that spanned 42 years. Many tourists visit the city for the specific reason of catching one of the latest hit Broadway plays. It is the premiere theatre town in the United States and people flock to its stages and stay in one of the 4 star hotels New York during their visit. Most of the luxury accommodations of these hotels also offer ticket assistance and information on the many production options.

The Fantasticks was written by Harvey Schmidt, who composed the music, and Tom Jones, who wrote the lyrics. The story is loosely based on the play The Romancers by Edmond Rostand. The central plot follows two fathers who build a wall between their houses in order to assure their children will fall in love and marry. The reasoning for this is reverse psychology. They forbid their children to interact and realize that by doing this the children will certainly disobey them and do exactly the opposite of what they are told. The plan succeeds, though after the offspring learn of their fathers’ ambitions, they separate and leave home to follow their own ambitions. Ultimately, they return to their roots, and resume the love they developed.

Many Shakespearean influences are evident in The Fantasticks, particularly the love story between Pyramus and Thisbe found in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and also elements of Romeo and Juliet. The show’s hit song Try To Remember is a crowd favorite and is well known outside of the show. Although it closed in January of 2002, the show has been performed thousands of times outside of New York. It has played in everyone of the 50 United States and is perfect for regional theatres. This is because it has a small cast, a two-person orchestra and a very minimal set, which greatly reduces production costs.

Not as expensive as you might think, a Hawaii vacation can be the perfect selection when planning your next trip.  Getting away from home is an ideal way to temporarily throw all cares to the wind as you sail around the sumptuous islands on waters that glisten and invite.  If you go on a cruise, you will stop at each island to explore the trails, wander through the towns, and experience some of the best water adventures imaginable.  Whether it is snorkeling, scuba diving, or snorkeling, spending the day on the beach is one of the best ways to say goodbye to any residual stress.

There are many Hawaii vacation packages to choose from.  If you decide not to take a cruise, you can select one of the many wonderful hotels or  bed and breakfasts to stay in, or you can rent a condo or villa.  Traveling with the family is easy as booking agents can help you select from a wide range of activities that will keep everyone happy.  Activities like sailing, taking a helicopter ride, going on a fishing trip, or even horseback riding through the verdant trails are a great way to make your vacation as perfect as can be.  Go with a friend or a loved one and have the time of your life exploring off road pathways, hidden bays, and all the Hawaii nightlife you could ever imagine!

Visit the Next Day Blinds Columbia Maryland showroom to really experience the difference in each style of shutter or shade you’re after. Next Day Blinds staff can show you how each type of window covering works, and help you find the right treatment for your windows. Your showroom experience gives you an opportunity to:

* See the complete range of shades, shutters, and window treatments up-close on full-size displays
* Take home hand samples and swatches to color-match products to your décor
* Watch a live installation of blinds on an actual size display
* Get all of your questions answered about measuring, installation, and a complete range of products and services

The Columbia, Maryland staff has over 16 years of combined sales experience with Blinds, ensuring you have an absolutely satisfying experience in their showroom. This is what other people in Columbia said about their service:

They promise a helpful and rewarding shopping experience for all of their customers. They have easy to navigate show rooms and with their bevy of options you will definitely find what you want.

Another good idea is to visit their website to pre-shop. It is always a good idea to have some sort of an idea of what you want when you step into a show room. This way you will not be overwhelmed.

Shop Next Day Blinds online  and discover a unique line of blinds, shades, cornices and more, along with top-notch customer service, all only a few clicks away!

In Dubai, UAE, luxury hotels are designed to be all things to all people, and the guests here will know the taste of first-class luxury in a first-class setting.  Dubai city, with its stunning natural surroundings and fascinating urban energy, is growing into a city that has a special place in the heart of locals, and also among the growing community of international residents, and celebrities who spend part of their year here.  There is a wealth of culinary delights, glorious shopping malls, and cultural events to keep the whole family fascinated and entertained.  The local scene is attractive to all ages, providing interest to young and old alike.

Dubai Media City is a hub for media-related businesses in the region, and is connected to one of the most pre-eminent event locations, the Dubai Media City Amphitheater.  There are all sorts of fantastic events, concerts and other cultural performances, which are family-oriented and accessible.  In 2004, there was a Media Bazaar which by all accounts was a stunning event, and just one example of the types of event travelers can attend.  The Media Bazaar was organized with the intention of giving media companies an opportunity to showcase their products and services, through displays and exhibitions, and was also a place where such companies could interact with each other, to combine their energies to establish a focused presence in the region.

There were also large supplies of media for sale, from first and second hand cds and videos, arts and crafts, cameras, and just about anything the media-hungry shopper could care to look for.  There were also shows for the family, to keep them entertained and dazzled by spectacle, fun, and comedy.  A big attraction for many of the participants was one Mark the Truck Puller.  Better known to his family as Mark Crooke, this strongman from South Africa was on hand to attempt to break his record by pulling 16 trucks 30 meters.  The event was a big success, although Mark Crooke could not quite beat his previous record.  Onlookers watched his every move, but whether it was due to the way the truck cables were connected, the uneven ground, or just an off-day, it did not make its way into World Record history, and he vowed he would return to beat his record one day.  Such things as legends are made on.