201 Street

The well known Nigerian founder of the anti-corruption agency, the ANLC-Association Nigerienne de Lutte contre la Corruption, was arrested over the weekend as he traveled across the capital city of Nigeria.  Maman Abou created the agency, known in English as the Niger Fight Against Corruption Association,  was captured in the city of Niamey.  Upon leaving the house of another member of his agency he was arrested by the Republican he was taken into custody by the Nigerian Republican Guard as he was switching taxi cabs.

Since Saturday, August 22, Maman has not been allowed to contact his lawyer, and he is being held without an explanation as to the charges that are alleged against him.  He is a leading proponent in the idea of transparency in government affairs, which calls for ethical government practices and accountability of those politicians in regards to the their actions.  He had recently attained the position of the Secretary General of a network of organizations that intend to preserve and protect Democracy,  this during times when politically speaking, the country of Niger is in turmoil.

He wrote a letter to the president of the country, Mamadou Tandja last month, calling upon the president to respect the laws that are intended to safeguard the citizens of his country, to guarantee that due process of law and justice will reign, and that the institutions of democracy would further support the accountability and transparency policies.  These policies have been enacted in many democratic countries, including the United States, as a way of ensuring honest and open and ethical practices among politicians specifically, but are put to use quite often in the business and financial sectors as well.  Many protesters were arrested in Niger over the weekend, they were protesting the changes Tandja was putting forth to the country’s Constitution, however Maman had not been part of the protest.

The anti-corruption movement, or fight, has been gaining momentum recently, due to the focus of international organizations such as the United Nations and the Organization for the Economic Cooperation and Development.  Conventions are held regularly to discuss the principles of the ways in which corruption is fought.  Private businesses joined in the fight a few years ago, and there are a number of reasons why it is so important for the involvement of all private companies throughout the world.  The first reason is quite simple, corruption is inherently and ethically wrong.  It is one the worst forms of the mis-use of position and power, and impacts those most who are among the disadvantaged and poorer populations in a community.  The reputation of an entire region can be damaged by a case of corruption, leaving all those left to deal with the consequences in a difficult financial state.  It is just the right way for businesses to operate and the only response when corruption is discovered must be legal penalization.

This also affects business, in that each and every company must concern themselves with the risks involved should they chose to participation in the criminal activities involved with corruption.  Whether a company is involved in bribery, fraud or money laundering, the legal risks and ramifications are great.  It is not only illegal in the United States to practice corrupt transactions within the country, it is also illegal for companies, located in the United States, to practice corrupt ventures in all countries.  This was first indoctrinated in 1977 by the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.   It is more and more becoming a policy that is held in other countries as well.  For agencies to enforce the anti-corruption policies and legislation in the was difficult, due to the non-participation of some of the countries, however the regulations, the laws and the enforcement has been changing.  The mean and the opportunities which allowed those criminal activities to take are diminishing, and it is becoming more difficult for companies to even figure out how to get around the laws and the systems.

It was strange when I arrived to my room at a Five Star Hotel India and was bombarded with placards on the bed, on the dresser-drawers, on the bathroom counter and posted on the door was way with which I could go green while enjoying my stay in India. Apparently, The Maharashtra government and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board along with the Department of Environment have all gotten together and have made it a huge project to make all tourist aware of how to help India in her attempts to reduce the impact and amount of harm all of us tourist can cause.

I appreciated that the hotel provided me with a traditional wind-up alarm clock rather than using an electronic one. The placard said I would be saving almost 48 grams of carbon dioxide each day. Another placard by the lamps said that they have switched from using 60 watt light bulbs and replaced them with a more energy-saving fluorescent bulb. This will produce four times less greenhouse gas emissions.

When I was eating in my hotel room, the hotel also offered me a free newspaper. On the front page reported that the budget for the ‘afforestation’s programme’ which was announced yesterday by The Maharashtra government will bring down the sales tax on composting machines used for making compost from organic solid waste. The Indian government is appealing to its people to unite to combat climate change. Asking everyone to pitch in to do their part in reducing carbon emissions. So, it seems that even the tourist industry is doing it’s part to help. I’m kind of glad, in a way, that they are. I feel somehow better for travelling to an already stressed out country and not adding to the stress and doing my part in helping with such simple ideas as reusing my shower towels and not getting new clean sheets put on my bed everyday. Simple really.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Working at a Mom and Pop’s plumbing company was the best job I ever had. Even the hiring process was great; I was interviewed by my future manager for about a half-an-hour, and he offered my the job. No 2 to 3 more interviews with upper management or with the Human Resource department. He just simply trusted his judgement and hired me. About a month later, my new manager called a meeting with everyone in my department and his opening statement was telling us that his job is to make sure that when we wake up in the morning we want to come to work and get the job done. Wow, I’ve never had any boss any company ever care about what I felt waking up in the morning. Even when I thought I had a perfect job with New York Business Hotels, nothing compared to that moment in that meeting. He even teared up when he said explained what his purpose was and then proceed to tell us what a great job we were doing.

I fell in love with working for a Mom-and-Pops. My manager kept his promise and I did enjoy going to work every day. But only after working there for about half-a-year, the Mom-and-Pops plumbing business sold out to a big conglomerate corporation, a nation wide plumbing company. This was a sad day. The corporation kept the name of the Mom-and-Pops so as to not lose a dedicated customer base, but the corporation wasn’t dedicated to us the loyal employee. After about 3 months, I noticed it was hard to wake up and look forward to going to work. Eventually, after working for the conglomerate for 3 more deary years, I decided to start my own business which now pays for a few of my bills, but not enough to make a living at it yet. So, once again, I’m in search of that once found perfect job and focusing on the Mom-and-Pops of my community.

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.

I do have a distinctive perspective of life one my family doesn’t understand. I have purposely chosen a bohemian lifestyle, My mother made a comment to me that I am a reversal of how one should live one’s life. I asked her to clarify that statement. She told me that most people work and getting jobs or careers that will further them along in life. Jobs or Careers that will allow them to obtain better things like a house, car and other necessities of life. Most people work at getting promoted and earning more money. To always get better and better things. To have enough money to travel, to retire, to help their children go to college so that they to can continue the pursuit of betterment. But, you, she said, have done the complete opposite. You, at the height of your career, dropped out. ‘You’, she said, ‘lost your beautiful home is the suburbs. You sold your SUV and got an old beat up small truck and now live in a trailer-park just outside the city.’ She took both my hands into hers and squeezed them tightly. ‘You need to get your job back at the Valencia Hotels, dear’, she pleaded. ‘Working here and there isn’t the way to go about making it in this world.’ Then she added, ‘And, I won’t be there to help you out. Don’t even except me to help you out when you are broke, cause I won’t.’ I reached to cup her face in my hands and thanked her for her concerns and told her that I love her no matter what. She through up her hands and asked in total frustration, ‘What happened to you?’ I just laughed at her and gave her a big hug. She just looked me in the eyes, shaking her head and told me she worries about my future.

I of course, do not.  My mother was right, I did ‘drop out’ of what my mother considers the way to live life. But her definition of life and my definition of life are quite opposite. I am now happy and my material needs are minimal. Because of this my life is less stressful and now more playful. My health has improved. I no longer suffer with my weekly migraines. And yes, I do live in a trailer park and have my own little garden in the back to help supplement my food requirements. I do have stead work at a local grocery store bagging and another job at my local produce co-op to help cover my few bills.  I’m a living Hallmark to my life.

A first-rate city of international reach, Dubai provides top-shelf hospitality to visitors from everywhere.  And when it comes to business hotels, Dubai holds nothing back.  With comprehensive accommodations that are exquisite to the finest detail, your stay in this city will be unparalleled in comfort.  There is no doubt that the city offers so much for everyone, and for the business traveler, there are opportunities to make endless contacts.  For networking, there are many circles of influence that can be explored, and one of the most rapidly growing circles here is the international arts community.

There are art galleries all over Dubai, offering many different kinds of Arab and world art, and each gallery draws a peculiar clientele.  One way to get to know Dubai’s art world is through ArtBus Dubai.  Begun in 2007 as part of the Gulf Art Fair (now Art Dubai), ArtBus Dubai helps promote the local arts scene with tours of the local galleries here.  Art patrons buy a ticket for the bus, lunch is served but is extra, and they are taken on a tour of Dubai’s thriving arts scene.  There are guides who will introduce you to some of the more interesting points about the local galleries, and also offer other interesting facts about the city, while you are taken to arts galleries to see the latest cutting-edge exhibitions.  ArtBus is for tourists, art aficionados, teachers and students (there is a fifty-percent discount for students on a budget).  it is a wonderful way to get acquainted with the city, and there is a wealth of information here for those who are well-traveled in  Dubai.

As the Art Dubai event is growing and becoming much more visible in the international art world, the Bus is a crucial part of connecting all the corners of Dubai’s art scene.  The visitors will be given a well-informed overview of the city and the art scene, as well as a guided tour of the local galleries.  The tours are usually designed to connect with current exhibitions, to highlight not only the contemporary art in the city, but also to promote connections with world art forms on display here.  The tours will see works by Arab and Western artists, Indian and Pakistan art, and classical and cutting-edge forms, all in the heart of Dubai city.

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.

Enthralled with her new HP laptop she purchased off the Internet and delivered today, Elizabeth, not wanting to open it at home immediately rushed to her local coffeehouse, a coffeehouse that offered free wireless and didn’t require you to make a minimum purchase, A coffeehouse where fellow non-published writers went to discuss the latest books they were reading or to use and abuse the free wireless to do research for either the novel they were writing or to stay on top of their emails.

Before today, Elizabeth didn’t own a laptop computer, but she was a writer and thought by hanging out at her local coffeehouse with only a notepad and pencil and converse with her writers would inspire her to one day finish her collection of poetic short stories. But, observing, as all good writers do, that she was the only one without a laptop made her feel inadequate, made her feel poor, which she was, dirt poor. Not having a laptop made her feel left behind in this world of electronic materialism. A far cry from where she grew up.  Elizabeth’s homeland is Africa, an by the time she was 15 she was already living on the streets there, surviving on the tips she earned every day doing slam poetry anywhere she could; next to bus stops, in front of Top Cape Town Hotels , at storefronts, anywhere that wouldn’t kick her out right away. It was her love for the written word that got her to the States. Over a year ago, a professor of English was travelling through the Southern Tip of Africa and was so impressed with her vast vocabulary and her poetic style that he sponsored her application for a student visa. He didn’t offer her much more than that really. So, she’s pretty much been on her own here in the States, working here at this very coffeehouse as a barista.
She still earns tips doing her slam poety on open mic nite, enough to purchase a used laptop; one that she has just openend and turned on and began her new journey into the world where she now sees herself as one of the moderns. Penniless, but satisfied.

The cuisine of Spain was influenced by the Celtic, Moorish and Orthodox Jewish traditions. Spain proclaims that cooking would be extremely hard to do without beans, tomatoes, potatoes and peppers. 44 percent of the worlds olives are produce in Spain in which makes baking, frying and seasoning with olive oil as well as garlic and onions a staple in all meals. Bread is also considered a main staple to serve with all meals along with a light dessert made with some form of dairy and fruit.

Western Spain is known for its artisan cheeses, such as Torta Del Casar, made with sheep’s milk. Northern Spain is known for an excellent dry red claret wine and of course, Valencia is famous for Paella a rice dish that can include meat, vegetables and seafood served alongside the main meal. Also, northern Spain has a traditional dish of light vegetable soups including peppers and potatoes. Southern Valencia can also boasts about their rich and varied salads served with wine from Jumilla.

Spain’s national dishes comes from Madrid, Cocido Madrileno stew. A mixture of a variety of meats, vegetables and rice stewed all day long and ready to be serve at dinner. Madrid is also known for it’s juicy melons and strawberries. Seville, situated in one of the largest communities in Spain, features Sherry wines and seafood, such as octopus and a dried salted cod prepared to perfection and served with a soup made with beans cooked with ham and chorizo.

One has to mention the most symbolic feature of Spain’s cuisine, the tapas. Tapa means ‘lid’ in Spanish. Referring to the tiny plates they are served on. Tapa is an appetizer found in coffee shops, bars and in the restaurants of The Top Barcelona Hotels and served warm or cold. They come with a mixture of seafoods, chillies, eggs, vegetables and cheeses. Tapas are definitely one of Spain’s single contribution to global culinary diversity. Bon Appetite.

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.

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.

Formentera is the smallest of the Balearic Islands and it is the southernmost of the Illes Pitiuses group, which includes Ibiza. The tiny island is approximately 19 kilometers long. In the past it has only accessible by ship from Ibiza and is located about 3 nautical miles from its neighbor. The major villages of the island are Sant Ferran de ses Roques, La Savina, El Pilar de la Mola, and Sant Francesc Xavier. Tourists staying in one of the hotels Formentera in these villages, will certainly appreciate the spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea, and the quite calm of the island.

In recent years, regular lines from the Spanish mainland have enhanced the amount of tourism the island receives. It is still quieter than its club hoping neighbor, but is becoming more and more attractive to tourists each year. Formentera has some of the most pristine and clear beaches to be found anywhere, which makes it perfect for the numerous water sports that are available on the island. Some of the more popular sports include scuba diving, swimming snorkeling and boating. Another popular activity is sunbathing on one of the island’s beaches, some of which permit it to occur in the nude.

Just to the north of Formentera is the tiny island of Espalmador. It is separated from Formentera by a shallow sandbar. During low tide it is possible to wade across the sandbar and reach the other island. This is a popular spot for yachts to stop as they travel back and forth from Ibiza. It is also possible to take a day’s ferry trip to Ibiza, which is a much more popular island, and is internationally famous for its nightlife scene. The many clubs on Ibiza offer patrons live bands, djs, pool parties and more. The only thing a tourist will want to keep in mind is that they shouldn’t try to swim back to Formentera if they miss the last ferry out for the da

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.

New York is home to many of the United States’ major theatre companies and is the essence of the country’s theatrical heritage. Every year the best of American theatre is honored by the Tony Awards. The Antoinette Perry Awards for Excellence in Theatre, as they are formally known, are presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing at an annual ceremony in New York City. Tourists often choose the Tony Award weekend to visit the city and stay in a hotel Central Park. People will wait outside overnight for a chance to line up and watch the major Broadway stars, directors, designers and producers walk in to the award ceremony.

The Tony Awards are considered to be the highest theatre recognition in America. They are the stage’s equivalent to the film industry’s Academy Awards. The British equivalent to the Tony Awards is the Oliver Awards. These are formally known as the Sir Laurence Olivier Awards, named in honor of the great English actor. The Tony Awards take place in June of every year and for the last few years have been held in Radio City Music Hall. This year they will be take place during a 3 hour televised special on June 7th.

The Awards are determined by a panel of 700 judges from diverse areas of the entertainment industry and also the press. The Awards began in 1947 and were founded by the American Theatre Wing to honor excellence in the country’s theatre industry. They not only include nominations from New York, but also regional theatre. The name for the award honors Antoinette Perry, who was an actress, producer and director and co-founded the American Theatre Wing. She died shortly before the awards began. The first Tony award ceremony was held at the Waldorf Astoria hotel on April 16, 1947.

The Prithvi Theatre is a non-profit company that relies on the patronage of individuals and corporate sponsors. It is able to thrive in large part due to its standard of excellence and also due to the enormous support of the community. The performance arts are integral to the lifestyle of India’s residents and public supported organizations are demonstrative of this. India’s theatre is not only essential the communities it represents, but is also a major attraction for tourists who stay in hotels India Mumbai.

The Prithvi Theatre was established through a trust that was set up in 1975 in the memory of Prithviraj Kapoor. It is a subsidiary of the Shri Prithviraj Kapoor Memorial Trust and Research Foundation. Since its beginnings as a fledgling organization, the theatre has expanded thanks to its many supports and the trust foundation. The original intention of the theatre was to promote Hindi theatre, with a high standard of technical aspects. They also sought to support and endorse the development of new artists and technicians.

Today the Prithvi intends to be a catalyst for the development of new theatre and support of traditional styles of drama and performance. They have an extremely welcoming and embracing attitude that is reflected in the building itself. There is no main gait to the facility, which entices people as they walk along the path. Another important aspect of the company is its recognition of the theatre as a sacred space. They insist on proper etiquette and do not tolerate cell phones, late comers or inappropriate behaviors. Among their many theatrical productions, the company also offers workshops for actors of all ages and has occasional film screenings. Some of the workshops include Bodyspeak, which is intended for youth between the ages of 12 and 16, Bodyplay, which is for children who are 6 to 9 years of age, and many more. This demonstrates the theatre’s commitment to proper training of the young and emphasizing theatre appreciation and knowledge.

Athol Fugard is one of the most prominent playwrights to come from South Africa. He was born in June, 1932 and his work is honored throughout the world. He is a playwright, director, actor and novelist who writes most of his work in English. Most of his works are politically motivated and are opposed to the apartheid system of South Africa. His is most known for his play Master Harold and the Boys and the Academy Award winning film Tsotsi, which is based on one of his novels. Tourists staying in one of the Johannesburg boutique hotels should have ample opportunity to see his influence in the local productions.

Fugard has received many honors and awards throughout his career, including the prestigious Tony Award for Best Play. This was won for his play titled Sizwe Banzi is Dead/ The Island. He has also won an Obie Award, two New York Drama Critic’s Circle Awards, Drama Desk Awards and two Lucille Lortel Awards, among others. He is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and is also an adjunct professor of acting, playwrighting and directing at the University of California, San Diego. He and his wife, Shelia Fugard, live in San Diego and also have a residence in South Africa.

In the early 1960s they returned to Port Elizabeth and developed a community of theatre practitioners called The Circle Players. The name of the group is taken from one of Bertolt Brecht’s plays, the Caucasian Chalk Circle. Fugard has been heavily influenced by Brecht, who was also a political playwright. In 1961 Fugard starred as one of the brothers in a Johannesburg production of his play The Blood Knot. Also in the 1960s, Fugard formed the Serpent Players. Their plays use minimalist props and sets that are improvised from whatever materials they can get a hold of.

With a total length of 34 kilometers, he Zuari River is the longest river in Goa. It originates in the Western Ghats at Hermad-Barshem. In the interior region it is referred to as the Aghanashani. Its cerulean waters flow Southwest through the talukas of Tiswadi, Ponda Sanguem, Quepem, Mormugoa, and Salcete. There are many beautiful riverside areas for tourists staying in Goa hotels to have a picnic and enjoy their afternoon. The also have the option of booking a river cruise.

The Mandovi Rivers along with the Zuari form the backbone of Goa’s agricultural industry. With the construction of the CumbarjuemCanal, which links the two rivers, they have the capacity to enable ships to reach the iron ore mine interiors. The waters of both of the rivers flush out into the Arabian Sea at Cabo Aguado. Vasco da Gama is the port city that lies on the mouth of Zuari River.

The Arabian Sea is a beautiful body of water that forms a specific region of the Indian Ocean. India lies on its East side, Pakistan and Iran are on its North side and it is bounded on the West by the Arabian Peninsula. It has a maximum width of 2,400 kilometers and a maximum depth of 4,652 meters. The Indus River of Pakistan is the largest river to feed into the Arabian Sea. It has two important branches, which are the Gulf of Arden in the Southwest and the Gulf of Oman in the Northwest. The Gulf of Arden connects to the Red Sea through the straight of Bab-el-Mandeb. The Gulf of Oman connects to the Persian Gulf. There are other smaller gulfs including the Gulf of Cambay and the Gulf of Kutch, which lie on the Indian Coast. The Sea has constituted major trade routes throughout history, and has connected various cultures. Sailors have used the seasonal monsoon wind to carry them across its waters.

There are many galleries to visit in Barcelona, Spain.  Hotel accommodations are numerous and the influence of the artistic history of the city can been seen in these hotels, as well as the cafes, and the restaurants throughout the city.  Evidence is such due to the fact that many of the famous Spanish painters lived and worked in Barcelona, if not all of their lives, for at least part of them.  Painters such as Miro and Picasso have been so influential in the world of art, that there are museums and galleries throughout Barcelona dedicated to just their works individually.

Of course there is the famous Museum Picasso which is the most visited and popular art museum of Barcelona, each year attracting more than one million art lovers.  This museum contains one of the most extensive collections of the artists work to date.  The paintings are arrange ingeniously by the curators, in the chronological order in which Picasso had worked on and completed them.  This is fascinating and is an interesting insight into the way in which Picasso’s art developed and how his thinking changed during his career.  It is a walk through his own history and brings one to understand the designs that he has become so famous for today.

Another great gallery is located not far from the Prado and that is the one dedicated to the work of Joan Miro, the Fundacio Joan Miro. Miro produced a variety of work using many different mediums such as tapestry weaving, sculpture, painting and drawing.  This gallery houses work of Miro’s that dates back to 1914, and is an interesting look at the varied methods used to create these masterpieces.  Both of these art houses are very well respected and admired, as well as the artists they represent and celebrate, and for anyone traveling through this city of magnificent art, these are to stops that must not be overlooked.

Spain is known for their beaches, their art, their cuisine and their fiestas.  In every village, festivals are occurring throughout the year, such as the Pamplona Bull Runs,  the Fireworks festival in Valencia, and the incredible festival of Seville, the the Feria de Abril.  Throughout Spain traditional forms of art and sport have elevated the participants to celebrity status and provide locals and visitors with incredible experiences.  Two such forms that occur daily, and that are celebrated with festivals, are the Flamenco Dance and Music, and the Bullfighters.

The traditional song and dance throughout the country of Spain is the Flamenco.  This is an emotional art form often touching on subjects such as nature and love, the songs are known for their tonal tragedy, their intensity and by the emotional depth of the musicians.  The core of this art is the song, sounding at various moments a bit lighter sometimes as in the bulerias, and more serious as with the soleares.  As with the dancing, this is often an improvised art, with the structure of traditional chords and rhythms providing the backbone for the improvisation.  The female dancers are recognized for their graceful and emotive hands and the incredible way they hold the positioning of their bodies.  The men are known for their ability to perform the tap dance like rhythms of the intricate steps of the Zapateado.  The music has hints of Asian influences, and the dance is similar to the dances of traditional India.

The information on where to catch these shows can be found in any of the five star hotels.  Spain is also the country of the Bull-fight and matadors, where the fiestas are the most traditional and represent the culture, the art and history of the entire country.  Regardless of the pressure put on the country by animal rights groups, the King of Spain refuses to ban the sport, which in Spain is considered an art.  The bull-fights are celebratory and ritualistic expressions, often connected with days of feasts honoring the Spanish conquest of the Moors.  Today, the bull fighting is a major business and many of the top bull-fighters are regarded with the reverence of the country’s rock stars and soccer players.  On visiting Spain either the Flamenco shows or the Bull-fights provide the traveler with the unique insight to this culturally and historically rich country.