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Dubai is rich in culture and the arts, and most of its residents have a passion for sports, particularly football and cricket. It has 5 main football clubs, Al Wasi, Al-Shabab, Al-Ahli, Al Nasar and Hatta to represent it. Football is not only the number one sports passion shared by residents, but outsiders also flock in for this popular sport. However, a Western tourist staying in a 5 star Dubai hotel should keep in mind that football in Dubai might feel a little more like soccer. It is the literal “foot” ball that they play, not the hand held passing football most Americans are used to. Football in Dubai is not only supported by the fans, government initiatives have helped to incorporate it into all skill levels and life circumstances. This means that football tournaments exist at schools and colleges, as well as at the regional and national level. It’s very common to see a game spontaneously begin in local parks and community gatherings.

Cricket is easily the second most popular sport in Dubai, though sports enthusiasm doesn’t end there. Golf and tennis are other popular sports. In 2005 the International Cricket Council moved its headquarters from London to Dubai. This was a major move and demonstrated the citizen’s extreme interest in it. It also put Dubai in the international cricket spotlight. This move was determined by a vote of 11-1 in support of it. The city has hosted multiple India-Pakistan matches and smaller leagues are constantly developing. For fans of golf and tennis, Dubai hosts the annual Dubai Tennis Championships and the Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament. Both of these events attract stars and professionals from around the world. For a city so rich in culture, history, landscapes, architectural and the arts, a major sporting event can be a great alternative option for the busy tourist. It’s also a wonderful way for locals to be part of a community and stay healthy.

Summers in New York City can be brutal. The noise, the heat, the smells can all get to you. For a small amount of money you can catch the Long Island Rail Road to the eastern tip of Long Island. Split into the North or South Forks, there are many possible destinations to choose from. If you‘re single and want to find a summer share, Southhampton or Westhampton on the south fork are great places to look. If you are fortunate enough to have the means, and just want to get away for the weekend, you can find the top New York hotels in the town of East Hampton, which is also on the south fork. A charming town with a bit more than a main street is a delight. In fact it’s as if the clock has been turned back to a simpler more civilized manner of living. There are quaint neighborhoods with small cottages for the townies and huge summer mansions in the dunes of the beach. The Main Street and side streets are populated by gourmet food stores, a hardware store and florists. There are also a few churches and an historic windmill dotting the landscape. You can walk most anywhere and the beach is a short distance from the center of town. Because there’s only one highway leading to the east end of the island, traffic is often bumper to bumper especially on weekends. Bicycles are easily accessible and often the best mode of transportation. On the edge of town you’ll find the train station.

A former potato growing region, East Hampton has particularly fertile soil. By the end of August there are farm stands that sell an abundance of fruits and vegetables. Driving a few miles west of East Hampton you’ll wind up in Sagaponic. Turn left at the light and just past The Loaves and Fishes, there is a farm stand with the most amazing assortment of eggplant, heirloom tomatoes and all kinds of squash. There are herbs, peaches and if you get there at the right time, the sweetest corn. Its easy to walk away with much more food than you can personally consume. If you’re fortunate enough to be a houseguest in the area, any or all of these items make a wonderful gift to the hostess.

Artscape is one of the premier performing arts organizations in Cape Town, South Africa. It is located among many of the other South African landmarks and is one of the country’s first multi-purpose facilities. It was first opened in May of 1971 with the name Nico Malan Theatre Centre. It is owned by the provincial administration and was renamed Artscape in 2001. The beauty of the building and the many cultural and entertainment offerings it presents make this a major attraction for tourists and a favorite of the locals as well. Five star Cape Town hotels will have plenty of information on the productions and be able to direct guests to its doors.

The various venues of the facility offer a diverse assortment of events and performances. The Theatre auditorium is a grand proscenium stage and is fully equipped to accommodate the spectacular productions it houses. The Arena is a smaller, more intimate raked stage venue that can seat up to 140 people. The Opera House has a main stage, a rear stage and two side stages. The pit can accommodate 75 to 80 musicians. The Artscape foyers are available for private parties and corporate events. The Piazza at the front of the theatre often hosts film screenings and outdoor festivals.

This Fall Artscape hosts its third annual National Youth Music Competition. The competition has grown tremendously in its few years of existence and has been recognized as one of the three big music competitions in South Africa. Pianists and orchestral instrument musicians are welcome to participate in the 4 level program. The first round features 30 musicians performing, 12 of who will move on to the third round. Finally, a maximum of 6 finalists will have the honor of playing with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. The competition is intended to assist young orchestral musicians in their skills and techniques and help them to face the competitive nature of the professional industry.

The Dubai Jazz Festival has helped to put it on the international music scene. Performers from around the world visit Dubai to take part in this major event. Chillout Productions, one of the major event management companies in the Gulf, was founded in 2002 and developed launched this festival in 2005. It quickly gained positive attention and has grown to become one of the most iconic public functions in Dubai. Major jazz musicians are featured each year and tourists have begun to flock to the event. This contributes not only to Dubai’s cultural recognition but to the economy as well, drawing in over 100,000 fans. Luxury accommodations at the five star Dubai hotels fill to capacity this time every year.

The 2008 festival was extended to 10 days and catered to a wide variety of music enthusiasts. The free concerts make the event accessible to everyone and the 14 international bands that were featured in the fist seven days attracted many diverse interests. These performances took place in two new venues, the Dusk Terrace, Radisson Hotel DMC, and the Marina Square, Dubai Festival City. They were filled to capacity with passionate music lovers. The last three days of the festival took place at the Dubai Media City Outdoor Amphitheatre and was highlighted by a performance from Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, among other major start performers.

A Jamming Session was a new event and was offered after the concerts. Each night after the scheduled performances, the musicians all gathered together and played spontaneous improvised music. This created a great community feel to the event and allowed the musicians to play with new artists and experiment with styles and themes. These jams took place at the Icon Bar at Radisson Hotel DMC. It was an exciting “hodpodge” of talent and the crowd never knew who might show up on any particular evening.

The time for summer travel has begun in the Mediterranean. And while the businesses on all of the islands have been struggling in this economy, the Mallorca hotels do have customers, and people are spending money on the island. Travel agents and booking agents confirm that there are a number of reservations booked throughout the summer months and they also confirm a feeling of optimism. And although this may not be a great year for the island, as it has in past tourist seasons, there are still people traveling and going on summer holiday. Some hotels are noticing that the number of bookings are actually up, however the length of stay is down just a bit. One reason sited is that perhaps Europeans are still traveling, but for shorter distances and for shorter amounts of time. In the past perhaps they would have taken trips to further off destinations like California or Florida, but they are finding that they can still experience the travel and the relaxation without spending so much money by staying closer to home.

The concern remains however for the smaller, independent businesses, the local restaurants and markets and bars may be affected by the resorts that offer all inclusive vacations. This would mean that with travelers watching their budgets, they are more likely to take advantage of the ‘free’ breakfasts offered at the resort, rather than to venture out for a bit of local flavor. One travel agent noted that bookings for rentals with kitchens are up more than twenty percent, and while this may be good for local markets, this is not good for the restaurants and cafes. And one problem for Mallorca specifically is that it has long been known, as a bit expensive. The local businesses can not afford to offer the deals and reductions that larger resorts and big hotels can afford to offer. One popular misconception on the island by the local businesses is that the British tourists have money to spare. It’s a bit like being and American in Mexico. For those Americans without a lot of money, Mexico is close and the beach hotels are relatively inexpensive, but once an American is there it is assumed that they have money to spare, which is always the case. The same is true for British in Mallorca. But people are still traveling, and it is a good sign perhaps, of things to come.

Singapore has a great deal to offer in terms of entertainment and cultural experiences. Among them are performances by the acclaimed Singapore Symphony Orchestra. The company performs weekly along the Esplanade. It is a full time orchestra with 96 members and presents over 50 concerts a year. Choo Hoey is the Conductor Emeritus, and was the symphony’s Music Director from 1979 to 1996. He is highly respected and given the credit for developing most of the company’s progressive and diverse programming. Situated in the beautiful bay Esplanade, the symphony is nestled in among many shopping and dining opportunities including the boutique hotels in Singapore.

The symphony is pro-active in its orientation to music and the community. It has a Community Outreach Program that takes the music and education to children. This enriching experience teaches young audiences the benefits and joy of music education and playing an instrument. Not all children will grow up to become musicians though the education is mind and life enriching. The Outreach programmed is designed to encourage a lifetime of classical music appreciation. The symphony’s outreach perspective extends beyond the childrens program and the company has toured in many countries, including the United States, Russia, Italy, Turkey, Spain, the United Kingdom and many more.

The symphony is progressive in other ways as well. While it supports local artists, often featuring Singapore musicians and composers, it also aims to bridge cultural gaps. Their focus is on developing a strong area culture scene while uniting musical styles of the East and West. This was articulated in a grand collaboration project. In 1986 they worked with the Houston Ballet, and in 1992 they joined efforts with the London City Ballet. They also support and work with local companies. One of their best-known collaborations was in 1994. In that year they worked together with The Singapore Lyric Opera on an enormously successful production of Madam Butterfly. The symphony is a popular cultural experience in Singapore and true to its intention, many Western countries as well.

Thailand’s capital city of Bangkok, defines entirely what it means to be a capital city. Of course, as capital cities of countries around the world, such as Washington, D.C. in the United States, this is the seat of administration and of the government of the whole nation. The Royal family of Thailand lives in Bangkok. And the center of the major businesses, such as commercial, banking, industrial companies,and hotels in Bangkok, Thailand. More than a tenth of the population resides in Bangkok. Having the largest port in the country makes this city the main gateway for trade as well as tourism. The weight of success lies directly with the economic growth and success of this one location.

Bangkok is a city with different sides to her personality. For first time visitors it can be confusing and seemingly chaotic. The downtown center is filled with grand sky-scrapers, luxury resorts and hotels, market places, restaurants and busy streets alive with activity, much as it is in the middle of Times Square. However, the other side to this beautiful region is in the temples and the true nature of the people and their beliefs and monuments that honor those beliefs. Peace in the middle of chaos. The proper and original name of this city is Krung Thep, and means literally ‘city of angels’. This is, for most Thai citizens, not only the metropolis center of the country, but the heart and soul of it as well.

Bangkok was founded on the traditions of the ancients while at the same time being completely modern. This is one place that still continues to blend, as with the success of blending chaos and peacefulness, the new and the old. While holding on the the important traditions, the city and her people are continually seeking to progress in today’s modern world. The city is defined by those ideas and characteristics that seem opposing at first, but that serve to only increase the exotic and timelessness of this incredible city in Thailand.

The state of Goa in India, a Portuguese colony until 1962, is famous for its Indo-Portuguese culture and architecture. However, it is the spectacular beaches for which it is world renowned. The beaches on the west coast of India attract travelers from all over the world and are the most important tourist feature in the country Some of the more well know beaches are Anjuna(N), Vagator (N), Baga, Dona Paula (N) and Bambolim (N). Each in its own unique way will offer refreshment to the traveler.

The beaches in Goa can be divided into two areas; north & south. The north has been the more popular destination mainly because of the abundance of activity. They are a bit more populated and are alive with parties and carnivals. In addition, the beaches in Goa are ideal destinations for adventure enthusiasts. There are many options for a wide range of water sports, including swimming, scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing and jet skiing.

To the south, tourists one will find a quieter, more tranquil atmosphere which provides solitude to those seeking relaxation. The beaches in the south offer seclusion and stunning natural beauty. About the only thing to do is swim and sunbathe in total privacy. The farther south you travel, the less commercialized the beaches are.

Five star hotels Goa can be found on either north or south beaches. These hotels and resorts provide all the amenities you need. For example, air conditioning, hot & cold water, cable tv and 24 hr room service are available. Many are equipped with spa facilities, fitness centers and hair salons. In addition, there are a variety of restaurants to be found, each with its own regional specialization.

Budget accomodations are numerous. It is quite possible to spend an enjoyable holiday on a beach with only the most basic facilities. Huts, tents and very simple rooms are available at economical rates. For an even greater adventure consider an accommodation in a tree house or a beach shack.

Leading industry experts have said that significant investments made in Dubai’s tourism industry during the last ten years will help it to recover from the current economic downturn faster than in other areas of the globe. The goal this year is to focus on survival; for growth in budget and five star hotels dubai in particular, this means providing value for money. A stark ultimatum was given to the region’s hospitality industry, stating if it was to weather the current storm, it needed to remain committed to providing quality value and services. Hotels must resist the pressure to slash rates and provide a lesser-quality service.

Gulf countries have indicated that they are willing to invest in long-term, sustainable tourism developments which appeal to a global audience. The hotel industry is viewed as the decisive leader in the development of the business and tourism sectors.

Some in the hospitality industry are dropping prices and increasing promotional offers in an effort to keep the economy moving. In Dubai, many of the best-known restaurants have introduced special deals. Promotional prices have been set in an effort to attract more customers, since credit crunched diners are opting for home-cooked meals over restaurant fare.

Hotels are offering discounted business lunches at many of their restaurants. Many have lost their jobs and people are cautiously watching their money. Rather than increasing prices to compensate for the downturn in business, restauranteurs plan to offer more value for money and cater to a wider clientele. For many it’s a game of survival at the moment, and survival means lowering prices and serving the best quality possible. Restaurant owners want to offer good deals at a price that entices the customer. The hotel’s promotional offers have proved to be a “win-win situation. In the current climate, a smart deal pays off.

The trio named, Fly, will perform for the next couple of days at Jazz Standard, a club in downtown Manhattan. The trio is comprised of Mark Turner on sax, Jeff Ballard on drums, and Larry Grenadier on the bass guitar. As is the case with many jazz trios, the members of Fly are currently involved in other projects as well and consequently have not performed with each other very often in the last few years. Many are exciting to see these three play live, as when they do they show the promise and the talent necessary for bands to truly succeed in the music industry. Both Ballard and Grenadier work consistently , playing out around town in the bars and lounges of five star hotels within New York, with another trio with Brad Mehldau. This leaves them little time for Fly. However, Fly has recently made a new record. The title of the album is ‘Sky and Country’. They will being this weekend to support the release of the record.

Trios with Saxophones have been uncommon. Some think that they just sound a bit strange, while other wonder what they may be able to really accomplish. Sonny Rollins brought the saxophone trio into the limelight about fifty years ago, but not many musicians can keep with the tradition. The Columbus Jazz Orchestra playing in Phoenix, Arizona is one of the few in the country that continually play and have not abandoned the form, even though Rollins did years ago. Some call sax trios heroes while others call them musical martyrs. And although the sax is the only melody on stage, which is what eventually wears out other bands, Fly remains cool despite there are no other chords for the sax to mix with and play off of. The success of this trio, is due greatly for the sophistication in which Turner plays. Turner recently lost two fingers in an accident, however those who attended the show last night, did not even notice. The three play off of each other, improving well as each is in tune with the others sensibilities. They will finish up the weekend of performances on Easter Sunday, 2009.

In Bath, a southwestern county of Somerset, England a Roman site sits preserved. The site, which consists partly of archaeological remains of the the sacred Roman Temple of the goddess Sulis, is also home to natural hot springs. In some areas of Britain, polytheism is a religion practiced by many. The goddess Sulis was, and is worshiped and celebrated in the city of Bath. She is believed to be of a nurturing personality, the giver of life. Of the many archaeological finds that are now on exhibit in the Museum at the site of the hot springs, there are stone tablets with inscriptions-messages to Sulis, and various other votives and pieces suggesting that she was a well loved deity throughout history. Her blessings would stave off curses and she was considered the Mother goddess. The Romans living in Bath worshiped Sulis as well, although her name for this group was known as Minerva. For the Roman/British, she was also the sacred goddess of the Springs but was also considered the goddess of wisdom, one that would help in decision making. There are inscriptions under bas reliefs of Minerva, that bear the name of Senua as well, and some experts believe that this is just yet, another name for the same deity. While other experts suggest that the different names do actually refer to different deities, ones that may have a few traits in common, but are in fact separate and different.

The sacred spring located on the site of the temple remains the fundamental component. The temperature of the water is consistently 460 degrees Celsius and for thousands of years the water has risen each day by more that 225,000 gallons, providing the evidence for that that worship Sulis, divine intervention. The Celts built the first temple and shrine in Bath. After the Roman Invasion, the name of the shrine became Aguae Sulis, which translates to Suli’s waters. The temples and the bath houses were constantly being constructed after the invasion by Rome, with more extravagant buildings and more elaborate sites of worship. These bath houses are still widely visited today, with spas and resorts and Bath hotels surrounding the Temple. The newest of the buildings underwent reconstruction during the 18th century and have remained a main attraction in the city of Bath, many tourists hoping for the healing results the waters have thereputation of providing.

It’s not often you have the opportunity to change your life. Many people are stuck in the rat race and simply go through the grind because they have no other alternatives. Liberty League International provides an opportunity to finally get out of the rat race and start taking control of your own life. Achieving financial freedom allows you to become self sufficient and do many of the things people only dream about. Yacht trips, vacations to exotic locations, and European excursions are all within reason by utilizing Liberty League International.

Being financially free allows you time and resources to pursue your dreams. No more meetings unless you schedule them and they are important to you. No more fighting traffic in the morning to get to work on time, only to be yelled at by your boss for being a few minutes late. With Liberty League International, you set the schedule and you call the shots.

Keep in mind that with any business, whether you’re working for someone or running your own, it requires lots of hard work. You will not be able to achieve financial freedom by sitting at home and not working. In order to succeed you will have to put in time and effort, but the rewards are more than worth it. You’re income and opportunities are only capped by your effort and creativity. The more time you put in the more profit you will extract.

It is important to research online to find the lowest price when purchasing wheel and tire packages. You’ll be surprised at how many different suppliers are offering the same wheels and tires at different price points. Often the largest discrepancies will occur due to shipping costs. Because tires are bulky and weigh a lot, finding a supplier close to where they will be delivered will often yield the largest savings.

When shopping for tires, you may be tempted to look for the cheapest tires you can find, but keep in mind that price sometimes reflects quality. Cheap tires are not always the best tires. Sometimes it pays to pay a little extra if you feel they will last longer or provide better performance. Whenever you’re looking to purchase tires you should do reviews online to see if the tires you are looking to purchase have good reviews by others who have purchased them in the past. If you find a tire you want to purchase it makes sense to go the extra mile and research what others have said to make sure it will be a sound investment. Nobody wants to spend over $1,000 only to find out after the fact that they are not quality. By doing research up front, you can avoid the buyer’s remorse that can creep in after any large purchase and also avoid any headaches that many come in the future due to buying faulty tires.