201 Street

On most days, the idea is to keep your ship afloat, but on December 30th of 2009, right before the end of the decade, the ship known as the Sea Taxi was towed to a spot off Key Biscayne and sunk, simultaneously changing its name to the Ophelia Brian.  It became the biggest ship ever deliberately sunk to become an artificial reef in Miami-Dade County for the sport of scuba diving.  This ship was originally constructed in 1965, forty-five years ago, by J.J. Sietas in Hamburg, Germany.  The 210 foot vessel was christened Hoheburg, and has had a number of name changes over the years — the Marianne C., the Wilma, the Black Sea, the Ocean Breeze 1 — but ended its life above water as the Sea Taxi.  Today, the Ophelia will serve as an artificial reef, which will provide another place for recreational diving, for eco tourism, even for fishing to the locals at home in Miami and the travelers in that city’s hotels.   Previously, two other ships were sunk as artificial reefs — the Herbert Horn Type 458, sunk in 1984, and the Marie Horn Type 451, sunk in 1976.  Below the surface of the water, their names changed, too, to Ultra Freeze and Deep Freeze.

These deliberately created wrecks will last for decades, and furnish a home for corals and marine fish, in addition to the opportunities made possible for fishing and diving.  South Beach Dive and Surf is one of a number of sea diving companies that enable you to visit and explore these artificial reefs.  You’ll find the PADI Five Star facility in the center of the fashionable South Beach area and within an easy walk to restaurants and hotels and other popular tourist sites.  Established in 1995, they boast an experienced staff that will help you make your dives, according to your own level of experience.  If you’re into diving, or know someone who is, this is an excellent way to explore a side of Miami most people don’t get to see, the world of Miami underwater!

Twenty years ago already, I was living in a cowtown, and against my better judgement I let my friend have access to my key to the university’s black box theater.  I’d been living in Phoenix before that, and saw a rise in alternative art, and was fueled by it.  In this unnamed cowtown, there wasn’t a lot going on with alternative anything, except for music, so I was hungry to see interesting people doing interesting things.  My friend had a group of collaborators who liked to get together in cowtowns and spend weekends creating large events with unusual art, and of course unusual people.

This was a lot like a happening, except a version 20 years later, and there wasn’t much formal training.  Not that they needed it, because the aesthetic was supposed to be rough and chaotic, and it certainly was.  Some people read new work out loud, there were couples performing in front of video screens with live music, and people dancing while tearing pieces of plastic off the walls.  It was pretty great.  I was getting ready to read a poem, and one of the L.A. artists told me that poetry was dead.  At the time, it seemed like an ironic quotation of something we already knew, because we were all participating in something that had been done already, only not in this particular combination.  So, when there are events in Phoenix that are worth looking into, and sound as inviting as a luxury hotel, Phoenix is the place to be.

Who knows why, but the alternative art scene here never died, and neither did poetry, although you might have to dig for it.  The 2010 Annual Poe Show is one such event, where some of the most essential experimental artists in Phoenix and Tempe will be coming together again for an evening of dada poetry in performance, as a birthday party for Edgar Allen Poe.  Some of the town’s most iconic artists, including Robert X. Planet (still edgy), Trish Jus Trish, Jeff Falk, and the Klute, will be there to demonstrate that poetry, performance, and Poe might all indeed be dead, but that’s not stopping any of us.

I realized, luckily, at a young age that purchasing Concert Tickets at $100 a pop and then spending the whole concert standing in the spewing line in the bathroom was really to crazy. I would spend even more money on wine or beer, a really fleeting purchase if one really contemplates it long enough, when I could’ve bought a concert T-shirt. Something that I’d wear for years and it would bring back fond memories of the concert, but then again, that would be a stupid purchase too.

Spending the $100, I realized, as I got older, was so I could get pushed on, pawed, crushed and mushed, all the while my good shoes would be wading through spilled beers, sodas and who knows what else. All I can say, is thank god I managed to make it to the middle-age and no longer need to go to live concerts. What is really funny though is when I drop-off my two sons at a concert, I see so many ‘not-so-young any more,’ people at those concerts. I guess they just don’t want to admit that they’ve gotten older and that they refuse to let the new generation have their moment in the sun.

I do have to admit though, I am going to the Bonnaroo, but that is open for all ages. It will be fun to see the different mix of people and to, probably for the last time, experience the concert subculture which this music festival will bring out from the woodwork. I know I’ll be somewhat envious when I see the younger crowd run through sprinklers and dance as if they have not a care in the world. But, hell if I’m going to miss seeing Springsteen! And that’s when I’ll shine and the little teenyboppers will be a little envious of me when I scream ‘Yay! Tune! Da Boss!’

My colleagues and I were having a discussion about the space race, or the lack of it when we were standing in line to get Event Tickets for the next Nasa Shuttle launch. It seemed to us that Europe has not pulled its weight when it comes to sending people into space like the Russians, the Chinese and of course the United States.  But, to be fair to Europe, it’s been almost 50 years since Russia’s Yuri Gagarin made the first orbit around earth. Still, we thought, at least Russia has that to boast about, what’s Europe got?

Europe needs to enter the playing field. We figured that they have to eventually get into the race; we figured they surely can’t stay completely out of the manned flights forever, can they? Europe does have the Europe Space Agency, ESA. It even has a module on the International Space Station, plus sent out astronauts into space as passengers on other spacecrafts, no their own. Budget isn’t the issue either for Europeans to launch their own manned spaceflight mission. It’s a matter of willingness politically.

There are companies in Europe which make space launchers that will carry items such as satellites into space and could possibly make a lunar lander if they choose to do so, but apparently, right now, it seems more viable to focus on sending paying tourists into space which will be outside the government funded space programs. My friends and I though believe Europe needs to be cautious when it comes to space tourism projects due to the financial crisis the whole world is experiencing right now and wait a while for more investments to flow in, but all the same, Europe really needs to get with it and send rocket men into space.

When looking for the perfect luxury hotel, Chennai, India would be a great place to begin.  Southern India is an excellent place to spend a vacation, with a beautiful location on the Bay of Bengal, and a large and lively urban population.  It hosts a wonderful music festival, and has an extremely vibrant theatre scene.  It is also the home of Kollywood, India’s Tamil film capital, where big budget blockbusters as well as smaller features, are made.  There is also a thriving industrial base, and its rich and complicated history make it a wonderful place to spend time.  The hotels are splendidly designed, with an eye toward international style, and guests can expect to experience a rejuvenation of the body and mind.

The Chennai Music Festival is, of course, one of the most exciting events the city offers.  Recently the government has teamed with the state tourism department and the music sabhas to attract more international guests.  It certainly is one of the most amazing festivals in performing arts in the world, where the city hosts many music and dance artists who perform for the month of December.  Performances are held in traditional music and dance venues, as well as sacred spaces, and also in makeshift performance venues.  It began in 1927 to honor the anniversary of the Madras Musical Academy, and has been held every December since then.  The entire city takes part, and art is in the air.

The festival is, by most standards for performance extravaganzas, very old.  But its roots go much further back than 1927.  Carnatic music, that is, the traditional music of South India, has always been played at this time in South India as a form of spiritual devotion.  The festival, as it exists today, is a much broader entity, and includes many different dance, music, and dramatic forms.  There are also different levels of experience among the performers, which make it very eclectic, and provides an excellent learning experience for the younger artists.  Today it attracts a wide variety of performers, such as Sriram Krishnan, who plays in the traditional Carnatic style.  This extremely important festival is an amazing opportunity to see the variety of old and new performance work, and to take part in an art event that envelopes an entire city.

There are 5-star hotels, and then there are 5-star hotels.  Chennai can convince you, more than any other city perhaps, what it means to meet the world-class standards of luxury and excellence.  Featuring exquisite design that merges the local color with international flair, and service that emphasizes a commitment to the tradition of hospitality, guests here are in for a rejuvenation of body and spirit.  Chennai is a fascinating city, with a lively urban center, and many natural and historic sights that are simply gorgeous and stunning.  There is a long tradition of arts here, with some of the greatest music festivals in the world, playing both classical European and classical Indian.

Chennai is also one of the world’s film hubs, being home to Kollywood.  It gets its name from being in the Kodambakkam district in Chennai, and is thus a merging of its first two letters and Hollywood.  Kollywood has a long and fascinating history, with silent movies in the early part of the 20th century, Tamil film companies opening in Madras in the 30s and 40s, and its steady position as a film producer for Southern India.  This makes Chennai an excellent place for star-gazing, and tourists here might catch a glimpse of upcoming actress Vijayalakshmi.

She’s one of many faces to contribute her acting talents to the very successful Chennai 600028.  The numbers in the title refer to the pin code of the place where the film is set, and the subject matter here is cricket.  The film is the story of two young cricket teams, the Sharks and the Rockers, as they spar off in the field and also in their daily lives.  Of course there is a love story, and several in fact.  It has some of the steamiest scenes on the Kollywood screen, and this certainly widens its appeal.  Chennai 600028 includes a lot of street slang, as spoken by the youth of Chennai, and this also gives it a certain raw energy, and demonstrates language in a state of flux.

This weekend was tremendously fun and extremely busy. On Friday night, we went out to celebrate our belated 4 year anniversary. We had a delightful dinner at an Indian-Latin fusion restaurant, then we went to see a movie ‘Little Miss Sunshine’. I so thoroughly enjoyed the movie, but I probably would have enjoyed it more had it not been for the jerk sitting behind us. He talked through the whole film. You’d think that an indie film would attract a more sophisticated crowd.

On Saturday, we visited some friends staying at a Luxury Manhattan Hotel and we took them to the New York Botanical Gardens to see the Orchid Show. Totally awesome. Our friends were completely impressed. My boyfriend planned the whole day, he’s really good at planning. We took the subway to get there and then we took a bus to get back. We were really inept at the just exactly how buses work, so we missed our stop and had to back track a good mile to our home, our friends were not impressed with that, but luckily the rest of our visit went well. There’s so much to do in Manhattan that we decided next time when friends are in town that we will stick to our neighborhood and skip the travelling.

On Sunday, we headed off to Brooklyn in search of an apartment. We’ve decided that we’ll get more for own money in Brooklyn and it seems like a good place to raise a family.  I really can’t figure out though, if I prefer Manhattan over Brooklyn. But if we can manage to find a decent place that’s close to the water so that I can at least see Manhattan’s skyline and a place close to the subway system, then I think I’ll be happy in Brooklyn.  Wish us luck!

Visitors to the Big Apple always have a secret smile on their faces when they’re holding New York Broadway tickets, a pass to one of the most exciting adventures the city can offer.  Broadway has become shorthand for excellence in theatre in the U.S., and all over the world.  It is the section in midtown where 6th avenue becomes simply Broadway, and the entire district is where the legends of the stage make their marks in the world’s memory banks.  For over a century it has been a tradition that has seen some of the greatest actors give their greatest performances, home to some of the world’s leading playwrights, and also introduced new forms to wide audiences.  One of the unique gifts from U.S. culture to the world at large, the musical, has its roots, evolutions, and revolutions here.

Brian Friel, whose career has spanned over five decades, has had a remarkable presence on Broadway.  One of the rarest voices in theatre in recent history, his themes of alienation, loss, and cultural difference have caught the attention of audiences and critics alike.  Born in 1929 in Northern Ireland, and now living in the Republic of Ireland, it might come as no surprise that one of this Irish playwright’s main subjects is, in fact, Ireland.  Having tried and nearly giving up on playwriting for many years, working primarily in Belfast, he found some success in 1964 with Phiadelphia, Here I Come! which paved the way for a long career since then.  His plays are often experiments in style and form, and his earlier work has even been called avant-garde.

These early experiments certainly contained some formal elements that would inform his later work, which on the surface seems based in psychological realism.  Beneath the surface, however, they are much more complex.  One of his most successful plays globally is Translations, which explores the Troubles in Ireland using language as a metaphor.  His most well-known play, however, is Dancing at Lughnasa, which explores the shift from pagan to dogmatically religious culture in Ireland.  Focusing on one particular Summer, he creates a brilliant metaphor for change and loss.  Lughnasa opened in Dublin’s Abbey Theatre before coming to Broadway, and in 1992, it won three Tony Awards.

The humpback whales migrate along the coasts of Australia every winter.  During this time there are many locations along the beaches that are equipped with hydrophones, which allow whale-watchers the opportunities to listen in on the mysterious communications between whales, and viewing decks which offer the best possible views of these creatures as they make their way.  Along the Western coast of Australia, some of the best spots to catch these creatures, that at one time were close to extinction, are the Bay at Geographe, Albany and Dunsborough.  In Albany there is an educational site as well, that offers lectures, seminars and guided tours out onto the ocean making it possible for tourists to not only enjoy the landscapes during this season, but allows them the opportunity to partake in one of the most significant aspects of the journey, which is the mating season.

And during the more temperate months of April and May they are seen regularly off the coast of Southern Australia.  All in all, there are six months out of the year that the coast of the continent is surrounding by the whales in the Atlantic Ocean.  Many travelers spend many months during this season, traveling via land along with the humpbacks.  South Australia is a wonderful location to catch the breeding and birthing.  And many cruises are set up to coincide with the various aspects of the life cycle.  From the coasts of Ceduna, one can watch the whales as they do the slow motion acrobatics so famous in many of the photographs.  This is a perfect opportunity for those would be photos, as in Ceduna there are viewing platforms situated such that the whales come so close one can literally almost reach out and touch them.  Boats also head out each day from the whale sanctuary, Head of Bight.

Further along in the season one can watch the births of the calves from Victoria and from Sydney.  In both locations, the whales are present in the waters for many weeks at a time as the newly born calves nurse and gain strength to continue on with the rest of the heard.  During this time, the adolescents and the older males stay further out to sea, and the resorts of Victoria and the luxury hotels Sydney operates often schedule cruises in order to give those a chance to take amazing looks as the last months of the feeding time are carried out in these locations.  One is able to catch incredible glimpses from the land, such as The Gap, which is located in the southern portion of Sydney.  This is a wonderful experience for those choosing to travel to Australia in the winter months.

The city of Jaipur is located within the Indian state of Rajasthan.  There are many monuments and attractions that draw tourists to this region.  The festivals and fairs held during the year bring many travelers for the extreme pleasure of the luxury hotels Rajasthan has built and operated for many years.  The colors, magnificent and bright, of India are hi-lighted and in hi-top form during the festival seasons.  This is a tough place to live, to make a living, and these celebratory occasions illustrate not only the life of the entire country, but the sheer will and determination, the spirit and the love of life that all those living in Jaipur seem to possess.  No rain, nor heat wave will deter the people from the celebration and the appreciation of all that life has to offer.

Romance and faith are the central cause for the fairs, and the subtle ways in which Indians participate in the traditions and the culture of the country and of the the state.  Tourists have taken note, and over the years, many travel to this region simply to join in the fun.  Some of the fairs are arranged for trading, such as the art and artisan festivals, while others are significantly religious in nature.  No matter the differences the one aspect that all the festivals have in common is the dance and the music.

One fair most notable in Jaipur, is the Banganga Festival.  This happens anywhere close to a stream, usually in the district of Bairath, just a few miles from the center of the town.  This is a festival based on legend and myth, of a soldier who when facing death by dehydration, was shot with an arrow, which then created a river.  This satiated the soldier’s thirst and is now an event celebrated hundreds of years later.  This is the site of holy ground, and all those in attendance bath in the water and then worship into the night.  This has been a pilgrimage site for many years throughout history, and is one that has become linked to the time of trade and commerce.  Now days there are carnival rides, with Ferris wheels and carousels, and many stands set up by the local artists selling their wares.  This is a fun, and sacred time to visit the city of Jaipur, and one time that one will never forget.

Long before the Singapore of today, before the best Singapore hotels and resorts and restaurants, there were immigrants setting up on the shores of the Singapore River.  This small area of the city was soon transformed from a tiny fishing town, to an international seaport, to a destination for modern travelers.  There are various times in the river’s history, from the Pre-Colonial days, to Colonial and past.  Tales of legends lay heavy on these shores, and modern travelers will hear of them should they spend just a bit of times, walking along the water and checking in with the local pubs and cafes, where the elders tell their stories.

Stamford Raffles founded Singapore during a time when many of the business men, the merchants and the fishermen had yet to become what they are today, the forefathers of a great nation.  Lifestyle was meagre at that time, but built the legs of hard-work that the prosperity of the country stands upon today.  The MerLion stands testament, at the river’s mouth, of the hard work and the dedication of the early inhabitants and immigrants of Singapore.  Bridges now criss-cross the river, fro the simple as in the Ord Bridge to the elegant in design such as the Anderson Bridge.  Anderson is located in the historic district as well as is the Cavenagh Bridge.  This one was built in 1869 and leads up to the Empress Palace.  This is the location now of the Victoria Concert Hall, named in honor for Queen Victoria and is the home of the Singapore Symphony.

Many mosques sit along the banks of the River, two of which are visited regularly by tourists are the Omar Kampong and the Tan Si Chong.  Also close to the mosques are other historical points of interest such as the House of Parliament and the three Quays, the Boat, the Clarke and the Robertson.  These memorials and historical landmarks also draw many visitors each year, and there are many seminars and lectures given at the museums along the river, describing and defining each of the locations particular part in the history of the country.  Many choose to take in the sites by walking along the bands, while others take advantage of the boat tours that take place all day long up and down the river.

The Royal National Park of Sydney is easily accessible by public transportation.  There are currently four train stations that will take one to the destination, well as ferry boat services and large car park lots.  The Park is also located to any of the best Sydney hotel one chooses to stay in during their trip, making the transport to the Park a non-issue, there is no excuse for one to miss out on this incredible venue of Australia.  For those wishing more outdoor-sy accommodations, the Parks welcomes caravans, campers and back packers and is also home to a hostel for youth near Garie Beach. This Park, is the second National Park established, in the history of the world, coming in second after the Yellowstone National Park in the western United States.  Open every day, saving those when the danger of fire is extreme, the park offers a wide variety of landscapes, hiking trails and walking paths, and the varying ecosystems of the rich and lush rain forests to the wind blown mesas.  When planning a stay in the Park is is best to plan for all kinds of conditions.

While staying in the Park, one of the most fabulous ways to experience nature, is by taking one of the many horse-back tours throughout the site.  The rides are short, about one hour in duration, and will allow travelers to relax atop a trusty steed, and make their wary across the clear creeks, and enjoy the wildlife of the rain-forest.  Another ride, a bit longer clocking in at just about two hours is the Waterfall Ride.  This is an exciting tour for nature lovers and photographers, giving one the opportunities to shoot such formations as the overhangs of sandstone and outcrops of rocks and boulders, along the bushland and the pristine waterways.  Natural fauna and flora abound, as well as the thick, lush forest of the indigenous trees and wildlife.  This is a relatively small park in Australia, but has so much to offer that anyone traveling to Sydney should make the effort, the easy effort, to at least spend one day hiking the mountains and taking in the sunshine.

Ibiza is a beautiful Balearic Island off the coast of Spain. It is well known for its beautiful beaches and also its infamous club scene. It is an extremely popular tourist destination from people all over the world, as well as for those from the nearby islands. Majorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and also the most heavily populated. In addition, it receives the greatest number of tourists every year. The tourists as well as residents, travel to Ibiza to enjoy its diverse and well-known party club scene. The clubs themselves play host not only to djs who spin top dance music, live musicians who play original as well as cover songs, they also sponsor and participate in local festivals and various parties. The Ibiza opening parties scene is as infamous as its clubs and tourists as well as locals attend them in the hundreds.

The clubs themselves are becoming well known for their themes and events. Many of them feature a particular dj on specific nights and they have their own followings. It is not uncommon to see a completely different type of crowd at the same bar on two consecutive evenings. Some of them offer specific themes, such as pool parties. Most of them consider an evening’s theme, dj or other performer as part of a party. Some of the major club parties are Mondays with Cocoon in Amnesia. We Love Space is also popular in the club Space. Space promotes itself as being the best club in the world, and many will support the argument that Ibiza itself has the world’s best clubs.

Es Paradis is the second oldest club on the island, with Pacha being the oldest. It opened in 1975 when owner Pepe Aguirre established it in San Antonio. Es Paradis and Pacha are partially responsible for ushering in the age of clubs to this previous quiet community of fishers. Since the mid to late 70s, clubs and bars have sky rocketed in numbers on the island, and with them so did the number of tourists. El Divino is a club that has an interesting history. When it opened in 1992 it allowed only a select group of patrons. It was only later that opened its doors to the general public.

Madrid is one of the most internationally well-known and celebrated cities in Spain. It has an incredible arts and entertainment scene and is rich in cultural heritage. There are many museums and national monuments dedicated to remembering and honoring its history and cultural significance. The luxury hotels Madrid Spain are frequently booked to capacity with tourists eager to explore the various dynamic aspects of this beautiful city.

One of the things tourists are attracted to and residents regularly make use of is its fabulous golf courses. There are many throughout the area, and most are filled with luscious green landscapes. The Olivar de la Hinojasa Golf Course is ideal for medium skilled players. It is conveniently located in the city and structured for all levels of play. It is a par 72 course and that means that most players can play on it, and even advanced or greatly skilled golfers can enjoy a morning or afternoon on this player friendly course. The Real Sociedad Golf Course is another great course located approximately 20 kilometers north of the center of the city. Reservations are required on this 36 hole complex. The landscape is beautiful and was designed by Robert Von Hagge, who is world renown. He also designed the Costa Brava and Emporda Golf Course.

The La Herreria Golf Course is a spectacularly beautiful course with plenty of trees and beautiful panoramic views. When pacing by the Palace to enter the course, you know you are somewhere special. It is a private members course, so it is definitely not recommended that you try and play there if you’re not a member of a guest. Also, it is one of the furthest courses from the city, though the countryside scenery and seclusion of this beautiful course make it well worth the drive. Most, if not all, of the golf courses in and near Madrid often the standard amenities. Great restaurants, pro shops, showers, changing rooms and lounges are often necessary to round out a great day of golf.

Ibiza is the most known for its tremendous clubbing scene. While this is certainly an essential cultural aspect on the island, it is not the only reasons tourists flock to it every year. There are numerous great beaches, with beautiful sands and waters that offer plenty of options for a variety of water sports. There are also historical landmarks, great dining options, museums and entertainment genres to explore. Meanwhile, clubbing in Ibiza remains one of the most popular nightly activities.

The nightclub scene is diverse, and renown throughout the Balearic Islands. Residents from nearby islands such as Majorca and Formentera often island hop to club hop on this infamous beach. Some of the clubs are dance oriented, some have pools and water themes and others are live music venues. Whatever an individual has an interest in, it can be found in one of Ibiza’s clubs. San Antonio and Ibiza Town are the primary urban centers and also the most popular with tourists. Pacha is a popular club in Ibiza Town. It also has an interesting history. Originally, it was removed from much of the activity center and many people believed the club would never last. However, it has thrived, partially due to continued development of the area and largely because it is a great club. It has become known for its hippie scene and music.

Eden is Ibiza’s most recently established super club. It is located on the San Antonio waterfront, which greatly contributes to its appeal. It was originally a place called Star Club and thrived throughout the nineteen nineties. It was then a venue called Kaos, before it made its most recent and successful transition into Eden. It is known for its great djs and dance music. Sunday night is its most prestigious evening when it hosts Radio One Jock. Once established, Eden formed a friendly though serious completion with the clubs from the West End, which traditionally drew the most guests.

Travelers who are experienced in moving around the world understand how important it is to fine excellent 5-star hotels.  Macau is an excellent destination to find places with fine accommodations, because it is such an interesting place.  Our hotels offer something that truly compliments this luxurious climate, with its luscious sub-tropical temperatures that moisturize the driest of skin.  There is a real sense here of living in an otherworldly heaven, with its gorgeous natural settings and rich urban landscape.  It is one of the most densely populated places on earth, and life here is meant to be lived socially.  There are plenty of amenities here to keep one refreshed and rejuvenated, but there are also wonderful things to see and do in town, where there is always a bustle of human activity.

Night life is excellent here, with some of the best casinos in the world, and a long tradition of catering to the desires of tourists and travelers.  There are also wonderful sights and attractions to see during the day, that offer splendid entertainment for the whole family.  If the timing is right, you might be here in time to see the Hungry Ghost Festival.  Held in the seventh month, and popular all over China, in Macau it is particularly fascinating because of the size of the population, and the weather.  The thickness in the air, and the thickness of human presences here, make for a particularly haunting time.

The tradition of the Hungry Ghost Festival is to honor the spirits of the discontented souls, the ones who died without a proper burial, or without a lineage to remember them, or who died by mysterious means.  It is a particularly spooky time, and there is plenty of excitement, with burning joss sticks and paper money, large celebrations for the dead, and traditional meals cooked all over to appease the restless spirits.  It’s an excellent time to get in touch with the cultural traditions of Macau, and really connect with the place, and its own haunted stories.

I specifically came to Singapore to shop. Singapore’s a shopper dream come true, a nirvana. There are a tremendous amount of bargains if you know where to look and I know where to look. After I unpacked my suitcase, which is mostly empty so as to fit in all of my purchases, I head on out of the Five Star Singapore hotel that I’m staying at and go shopping. Shopping at Singapore is elevating and satisfying. It should be tauted as the best shopping experience in the entire world. Singapore even has guided tours on where to shop and where to get the best bargains.

My first stop is among the little alleyways of Little India. This is where the best bargains are. It’s a kind of eccentric funky area where I found some funky clothes at Far East Plaza, and some not too expensive brand name items at Paragon. I saw that in between those shops, I found some goodies from vintage bead bracelets and some very reasonably priced electronic goods. I was only interested in clothes really, but I’m pretty sure I’ll end up with a lot more than clothes. I honestly don’t know how one can even say that shopping in Singapore sucks. I found the opposite to be true, shopping is what makes Singapore the place to visit.

My next area to shop was on Orchard Road. I first stopped into Ngee Ann City. This is a high-end store with coffee, shoes, clothes, jewellery and I had a fabulous lunch in its restaurant. I recommend hiring a taxi because parking is at an all high premium. I fell in love with Tangs, it has an atmosphere of cozy, homey and relaxation. I nice change from the intensity of the other stores. They also have clothes and some major cosmetics brands, which I found excellent and purchased.  Then my last stop of the day was at Wheelock Place to get a Brazilian wax; I was heading to the beach tomorrow, so I thought it be a good idea. After that I was exhausted. I really only shopped the tip of the iceberg, there was so much more. But, I did enough damage for one day. There’s always tomorrow after is sun at the beach.

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.

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.

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.

On one of the episodes of ‘Seinfeld‘  I heard Jerry say something about how his Night time Jerry makes decision that his Morning Jerry regrets or doesn’t appreciate. At the time I thought that that statement was pretty funny. But now, and much later on, that I think about it, that statement is very accurate and true. I have found myself committing to do something later on in the week and when that day arrives, the ‘now’ me really wishes I didn’t. Usually, it’s because of the time that has past in between. In that time, in between, a lot can happen.

Let me give you an example: say a friend calls you up early on in the week and says let do something this weekend in the city and make some Manhattan Accommodation to meet up at and spend the night. At the time the now me thinks this is great and books a room for the coming weekend of fun. So, Monday and Tuesday go by and the ‘now’ me is still excited about the plans for the weekend and spending time with someone I like, someone fun and engaging. Then Wednesday comes around and the ‘now’ me is behind on a project for work and I just met a cute guy at the corner grocery store and gave him my phone number. Thursday comes, and I didn’t get much sleep, staying up most of the night to finish the project to present at work today and the ‘now’ me is cranky and stressed. The looming Friday get-away plans seems like an agitation in the back of my mind and adding to that agitation, I didn’t get a phone call or text from that cute guy I met the other night.

Friday comes an the ‘now’ me really rather stay home and rest from a grueling week at work and would like to be available just in case that cute guy calls and wants to take me out. The ‘now’ me really regrets having to honor the commitment made earlier in the week. So, now when someone ask if I want to do something later on, I will say my ‘now’ me says yes, but that the ‘later’ me might change it’s mind. Yes, my friends do give my a quizzical look. As well they should.

Romantic vampires, Chris thought, are a weird phenomena. A phenomena her girlfriends spend all their time talking or reading about and always are telling  her to get with it and be as enthused as they are. She told her girlfriends that she just doesn’t get the fascination with something made up; a marketing ploy to get the almighty teen dollar. They just laughed at her and told her to get an imagination and to lightened up; it’s just for fun and nothing more.

But, Chris knew differently, she knew these girls to have obsessive tendencies. Destructive tendencies. One day, when Chris was leaving work and on her way to meet a blind date at one of the Top New York City Hotels, she saw Beth going into a tattoo shop. Having sometime before her date, Chris thought she’d go in and say hi to one of her more favorite girlfriends. Chris entered the Tattoo Parlor, unnoticed by Beth who was busy talking to one of the artist about the tattoo she was just about to get. A tattoo on her neck in the shape of Vampire teeth marks. Chris left the tattoo parlor without talking with Beth. Ironically, that night, her blind date took her to see the latest romantic Vampire movie. Needless to say, Chris didn’t go out with him again.

She understands having a fantasy life, but what she doesn’t understand is the need for it. For her, if one opens up to it, life, all of what life encompasses offers a real sense of fulfillment. A sense of fulfillment that requires no additional tweaks, no alcohol, no drugs or the distractions of television. This is how Chris lives and this is what her friends don’t understand or comprehend. But, Chris, being a patient one, will wait for that friend that boyfriend to join her in living in the reality of what life has to offer.

A long night can turn into an early morning while enjoying the bargains of a Night Market. Thailand has various Night Markets around Phuket. The best way to find them all in whatever city you are in, is to hire a tuk tuk or a taxi driver who can show you around. Most are located next to Thailand Luxury Hotels so even walking to a Night Market is even feasible. The weekend Night Market has stretched into the week nights. Thai’s have found operating during the hours of the night because it’s cool and the produce doesn’t wilt of become rotten in the heat of the day. It’s always great to stroll around the fresh market in the cool evening air.

The Night Market offers not only produce, but handcrafted items such as clothing, ceramics, leather goods and wood carvings. The entertainment is music performed by the locals bands or the local singer/songwriter. The vendors are friendly when trying not to sleep while selling out of there booth, or out of the back of their trucks. Night Markets are a destination for most clubbers when the clubs close and head to town to eat at one of the many food stalls located strategically that one must pass by all the produce stalls and the crafters stalls. The food vendors put up rickety metal tables with plastic chairs to accommodate all the hungry customers.

Night Markets are known for their low prices, freshly cooked foods, snacks and deserts. Cash is the key and haggling is the name of the game. The vendors will offer a starting price which you must counter. The bargaining can get hairy but eventually you’ll agree on a price and both parties will feel they made a great bargain. A Night Market is a great place to sample the local cuisine while taking in the local culture and nightlife.

There are a few different reasons tourists spend time visiting the Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town, South Africa.  There is history in this building, there are art galleries, dolphin pools, and even a few ghosts. And it is located conveniently in an area close to one’s favorite restaurant or boutique hotel.  Cape Town has the distinct honor containing within the city, the oldest building in the entire country of South Africa.  Construction began in 1666 and continued through 1679.  One of the ghost one may see here is that of Governor Noodt.   He was at the time a very harsh man, cruel to the soldiers.  Four soldiers convicted of trying to leave the army were at the time sentenced first to a beating, and then to exile, however the Governor changed their sentence.  Execution.  On the day of the execution, the Governor did not attend, and the fourth and final soldier to be hanged, put a curse on the Governor just before his death.  When the messenger was sent to his office to deliver the news that the soldiers had been executed, he found the Governor sitting at his desk, not alive…but sitting with a look of terror.  Apparently Governor Noodt still roams the halls at night.

The dolphin pools are not a modern aspect of the Castle, but were discovered during the restoration process.  Along with the pools, an ancient bakery was excavated.  The building is now the headquarters for the South African Army and is the center for the ceremonial events that take place concerning the Army and the Regiments of the Cape.  Upon entering one will see a large bell.  This bell was cast in bronze by an artist from Amsterdam, Claude Fremy, in 1697.  The bell hangs in the tower, from the wood support beams that it was hung originally.  There are two museums on the property as well.  The military museum that illustrates the history of the Castle, the Regiments, and the Cape.  And the William Fehr Museum,  which is a collection of artwork by various artist displaying the life of the cultural aspects of the Cape.  This museum does exhibit contemporary works from time to time.  This is a very interesting location for anyone visiting Cape Town, a bit of history, a bit of art, and a bit of the supernatural.

Dubai has recently opened its Planetarium at the Children’s City Science Center. It was delivered and designed by the UK based Global Immersion. This fabulous new aspect of the Science Center has a 44 foot theatre that seats 102 for educational and imagination expansion. It is equipped with a full Global Immersion solution and management is included. There is also a new storage facility. The planetarium will have such an impact on the offerings of the science center and will definitely attract more youth to explore careers in science and astronomy. Dubai residents are not the only ones that can experience the wonders of the great outer space. Tourists who are staying in hotels Dubai UAE are also welcome to explore the mysteries of the universe.

The Children’s City Science Center was first opened in 2002 under the patronage of the husband of Princess Haya, H. H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It was the first educational city in the UAE that was strictly devoted to children. It allows them the freedom to learn while playing and exploring. The universe has so many different aspects that are so intriguing to young people, the center really allows them to explore their potential as well as the solar system and beyond.

The Planetarium houses a six channel Fidelity Brighto system. It was used to introduce the full dome productions from the United States based company Spitz, Dark Star Adventure and Oasis in Space. In addition to the planetarium, the center has multiple exhibits that focus on various aspects of science. Some of the exhibits include anatomy and the human body, nature, the applied sciences as well as international culture. There is also a children-under-five corner that is strictly play oriented, yet contributes to the imagination and creative growth of these young children.

Spamalot is a musical comedy by Eric Idle, who wrote the book and lyrics, and John Du Prez, who wrote the music. The musical is a parody based on the Monty Python movie The Holy Grail. Eric Idle was one of the founding members of the English comedy team. It opened on Broadway in 2005 and won three Tony Awards that year including the award for Best Musical. Tourists who are staying in one of the four star New York hotels have the opportunity to see this and some of the other Broadway greats while they’re in town. The theatre scene also happens to be the reason why many tourists visit New York.

The musical includes the infamous characters from the film including King Arthur, Sir Lancelot, Sir Robin and Sir Dennis Galahad, among many more. King Arthur: King of the Britons is not very bright, and has trouble putting two and two together. Sir Lancelot the Homicidally Brave, is just as his name implies, almost psychotic. Sir Robin, the Not Quite So Brave as Sir Lancelot, is just the opposite. He is quite cowardly, though he is well versed in musical theatre. Sir Galahad is quite dapper, dashingly handsome and charming and was formerly a political activist peasant.

Mike Nichols directed the Broadway premiere, which opened in March of 2005 at the Shubert Theatre. Tim Curry was in the original cast and played King Arthur. David Hyde Pierce was also in the original cast and he played Sir Robin. Hank Azaria played Sir Lancelot as well as other characters, including the taunting Night of Ni. Before the New York opening, Spamalot previewed in Chicago at the Bank of America Theatre. The production began a North American tour in 2006. Also in 2006, it had a premiere in London, at the West End’s Palace Theatre.