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August 5th, 2009 | Posted by meenny

A Coast to Coast Experience from Salt Lake City to Long Beach to New York City
Writen by Robert Curtis

Journal of Events, as I best remember it.

We went to the SLC airport in time to check in and wait to see if we would be able to get in on the flight to New York City. We were flying stand by on Jet Blue. (Editors note: Do not fly stand by - it is very unpredictable.) We did not make it, but were told that we could probably make the early morning flight to Long Beach, California, and there transfer to another flight to New York City. There was not really enough time to go home, so we stayed the few hours in the airport.

We flew from SLC to Long Beach to New York City without any real problem.

We picked up a Ford Van at the Avis car rental company, and drove to Carolyn and Cades. A side note: I had always perceived that driving in New York would be a scary experience. Not so.

We left the next morning, Myself, Ronwen (Mom), and Hillary with Carolyn, Cade, and Matthew, traveling from Middletown, Connecticut to Philadelphia, PA. Because the traffic was so terrible, we were too late to be able to do anything in Philadelphia that day. Note: The drivers in New York City are horrible and rude and discourteous.

We did stop and see Valley Forge along the way to Philadelphia. I learned that it was a gathering place for the troops of the Continental Army, and a training ground for those soldiers.

We saw many deer along the drive as we went through Valley Forge.

We also saw and crossed a covered bridge along the road as we went. Mom was excited about that!

We stayed at the Hiatt Regency Hotel in Washington D.C. They had an awesome consierge who was very helpful.

We ate one night at the Trattoria Sorrento italian restaurant, 4930 Cordell Avenue, Bethseda, Maryland 20814. Awesome italian cuisine!! We also ate ate the Original Pancake House, near the hotel. Fantastic breakfast!

We visited the following places as we toured the Washington D.C. area:

Washington LDS Temple. We saw it in the day light and after dark. We saw bats flying around it in the darkness.

White House. It was smaller than I had pictured it. The tour was short and not really worth the time, other than to say that we had been there.

Air and Space Museum (Smithsonian). Interesting place, but not as exciting as I had always thought it would be. Jets, planes, and space craft were on display. I thought the most interesting item was the Wright Brothers aircraft.

National Archives. We went to see the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. I rode a wheel chair. I was surprised to see how faded both documents had become. They were virtually unreadable.

We passed in front of the Capitol building. Impressive! We took a number of pictures of it. Note: Hillary was the chief photographer of this trip, and she did very well in expressing her talent and skill with the camera.

Library of Congress. This was the most ornately decorated non-religious building I have ever seen! It was absolutely awesome on the inside. Arches, marble, statuary, and colorful paintings and murals decorated the entire interior of this building.

Subway/Metro. It was surprisingly clean and efficient for a public transportation mode.

Mount Vernon. We arrived there early in the morning, just before they were officially open. We waited, walking casually over the grounds. We walked out onto the east lawn, the typical spot where the familiar picture is taken of the main house. Looking out over the panoramic view of the beautiful Potomac River, I could see why Washington loved his home so much. We took the specially arranged tour of the grounds, viewing the slave quarters, the gardens, the greenhouse, the bowling green (east lawn), the west lawn with the awesome view of the Potomac, the Necessary (outhouse), and Washingtons Tomb. The guide asked for volunteers to carry a wreath into Washingtons tomb to honor him. I quickly rose my hand. Cade volunteered, too. It was a special experience to walk into his tomb and place the wreath, and to brush my fingers across the limestone sarcophagus and feel his presence, there. Hillary volunteered to read Washingtons Prayer for the Nation aloud for the tour group. I think she was touched by the experience.

Gettysburg. I have always been aware of this field of battle during the Civil War. It has been a place of passing interest. I had originally considered skipping it in favor of other things. I am profoundly glad I did not miss it. We drove to the site and parked the car near the Visitors Center. We wandered at length through the center, seeing the faces and reading the stories of those who were there. Then we stepped out the front door and ascended Cemetery Hill, the site where Lincoln had delivered the Gettysburg Address. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. But in a larger sense, we can not dedicate - we can not consecrate - we can not hallow - this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract. It is for us, the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us - that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion - that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain - that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom - and that the government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. (Abraham Lincoln, Nov. 19, 1863) I stood there, on the very spot where Lincoln delivered this address. I felt my body washed over by a sense of that address, the sense of the struggles that were endured there. A sense of the battle that was engaged, there, and I cried openly as I was engulfed in this spirit. I had not expected this. As we drove around the route that detailed the events of this battle, I felt their presence. I watched as the battle began, the South lined up on the north side and the North lined up on the south side of the valley. I imagined the single gunshot from the Southerners, signaling the opening of hostilities, and I saw the firing of the 166 Southern cannons and the responding 180+ cannons of the North. I felt the rush of soldiers, from both sides, as they met to defend their opinions. It struck me like a bolt of thunder that this was not a war of Good and Evil, but rather a war of opinions, there being Good on both sides. It is an experience that I shall never forget. I stood in a small grove of trees, the target objective of the attacking forces of the South, and wondered at the three day loss of life of 5,000 men.

Antietam. The battle just before Gettysburg. It has been considered, historically, to be a battle that ended as a draw, neither side really the victor. But it was the worst battle in american history. 4,000 men died in one single day. We drove by what has been named Blood Alley, a site only maybe ten yards wide and perhaps 30 yards long, where the worst of the fighting occured.

Harpers Ferry. This was the site of John Browns death. It is a beautiful, quiet area on the last stretch of the Shennendoah River where it empties into the Susquehannah River. We barely got there at dusk.

Earth Science Museum (Smithsonian). I was impressed by the volume of ancient fossils that were available and on display at this museum. We also got to see the Hope Diamond.

American History Museum (Smithsonian). There was a lot to see there, but most of it was put into storage for the current renovation of the building. We saw Old Glory as it was being re-preserved. But aside from that, it was really the only thing of personal interest in the building.

We walked past the Washington Monument, the tall stone Obelisk on the Mall as we made our way to the Lincoln Memorial. A note on the Mall, itself: We were all disappointed at how unkempt the Mall was. It was not a long field of well groomed grass, but an extremely large eyesore of weeds and bare patches of dirt. We were embarrassed to have such a national landmark being shown to public view in such a dilapidated condition.

Lincoln Monument. We broke down and took a taxi for the last few blocks to this monument. As we walked up to it, I noticed how there were scores of people that were just hanging out on the steps of the monument. But I soon found out why. As we walked inside, between the pillars, to the huge statue of the seated Abraham Lincoln, I was struck with a profound sense of peace. People were coming to see his face, and were reluctant to leave his essence of presence. I didnt want to leave that spirit, either. We got some awesome pictures here, too.

The Viet Nam memorial was a long, tapered wall of black marble, with names engraved in no apparent particular order. I wanted to be impressed, but honestly, I was not.

We proceeded to return to the Philadelphia area, where we saw the following:

Independence Square. We first saw the Supreme Court building as we waited for the formal tour. We then toured the Independence Hall, seeing the room where the debates took place as they formed the Declaration of Independence, and stood in the signing room where all the delegates signed the document.

The Mint. We visited the Philadelphia Mint, where many coins are struck for daily use as money. It was an interesting one-time opportunity.

We saw the Liberty Bell. It was much smaller than I had previously imagined, yet still fascinating as I realized the impact it has had and now has as a symbol of freedom around the world.

We visited the Independence Visitors Center, and viewed a movie on the importance of the cause of freedom that was won. As we roamed the Visitors Center store, I realized that they were playing the movie, National Treasure on t.v. monitors throughout the store. Interesting, eh?!

As we proceeded back to Connecticut, we stopped in Wilmington, Delaware, to see a unique water tower (for my benefit) that was made of stone, and had been designed to double as a visitors tower to see the surrounding countryside, as well.

Back in Connecticut, we spent two days doing different things. One day we spent some time catching up on our laundry, going to WalMart (a great place to shop and find things) and some time at the apartment complexs swimming pool! We also visited the Gillette Castle and a local waterfall. The other day we spent at the New Haven Beach, saw two lighthouses there, and then went a bit farther east up the coast and saw two more lighthouses.

We then went to Boston, where we first visited the LDS Temple site.

We then parked the car near the harbor, and went in to see the U.S.S. Constitution, or Old Ironsides. It was awesome to see and actually go aboard her. She is being touted as the only continuously winning team in Boston! She never lost a battle.

We then boarded the trolley bus and took the motor tour around Boston to see all the sights. Our tour guide was awesome, teaching us, as well as the historical significance of the site we saw, but teaching the proper pronunciation of the words, like we would not be able to paak (park) our caa (car) at the Haavad (Harvard) yaad (yard, or parking area). And she even had small signs that spelled them as they were pronounced! She was an awesome guide! Among the typical sites like the Boston Common, Bunker Hill, and the Old North Church, she pointed out the hotel where John F. Kennedy proposed to Jackie, the apartment where they lived, and the voting polls areas where they cast their vote when he became president. We also saw the Catholic church where Rose Kennedy (JFKs mom) was christened. We visited the home of Paul Revere and went inside the Old North Church. We passed the area of the harbor where the Boston Tea Party took place.

Next, we headed to Salem, Massachusetts. We saw the old City Hall, the old Salem Cemetery and noted the honorary markers remembering those who were put to death as witches. We saw Nathan Hales wifes home. Last, we drove up to Gallows Hill, but discovered there was no marker to indicate that this was where the witches were hanged.

On our last Sunday, we took a drive up to Sharon, Vermont, to visit the birthplace of Joseph Smith, the first Mormon prophet. It was a beautiful drive, and we enjoyed the views of the countryside. Along the way, we passed the Basketball Hall of Fame.

Last, but not least, we visited New York City, just before we flew home. We only had a day, so we had to make it a real whirlwind trip through the town! So fasten your seatbelts, and listen up: We took the double decker bus tour (which I highly recommend!) and wound our way all about the town. I noted the iron fire escapes, a signature of this town. We ascended the Empire State Building, taking pictures of the surrounding city. My wife nearly had a coronary as I would lean up against the stonework to take the pictures, 86 stories up! We used the subway, which we could swear was just one floor level above the entrance to Hell. The place was so dirty and HOT!! We saw the United Nations, but passed by it too late to take our paid tour. We saw the Chrysler Building, with its ornate top. We went into Maceys, descended the wooden escalator to the food court to have our delicious supper from one of the most awesome cooks I have ever been served from. We walked a bit in Central Park, a most beautiful and peaceful place to stroll casually in the summertime. We saw Time Square. We briefly visited the site of the LDS New York Temple, located at Columbus and 65th streets, just a block west of Central Park. We saw the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. We passed China Town. We drove beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. We passed the Trinity Church, the same one in the movie, National Treasure. We went by the New York Stock Exchange on Wall Street. We saw Radio City Music Hall. We walked past the Rockefeller Center, which was smaller than I had imagined it to be. We drove through the Bronx and Queens. I did miss seeing the studio of Sean Hannity; I wish I knew where to find it. Maybe next time, Sean!!

We flew out of New York from JFK International, headed to Long Beach, California. We ended up spending the night in Long Beach, due to a misunderstanding with the booking agent that arranged our flight home, but that was O.K. I was able to get some photos of some palm trees to add to our trip portfolio!

All in all, it was an awesome trip. And although I was significantly tired when I arrived home, I would pack my bags and turn around and do it again in a heartbeat!! I am glad I went, and I will always remember the knowledge I gained, the site I saw, and the depth of the feelings I felt, for the rest of my life. I look forward to our next adventure!!

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August 4th, 2009 | Posted by meenny

A Clothing Optional Vacation - Give a Unique Father’s Day Gift
Writen by Tom Mulhall

Sound far fetched? Not really. Nude recreation is the fast growing segment of the travel industry. It is a booming travel niche with over $400 million in annual revenues according to USA Today newspaper. In a recent Roper poll, 25% of Americans have gone skinny dipping in mixed company. You may have too when you were younger. Recapture that feeling of fun and freedom from your youth by vacationing at a clothing optional resort.

Traditionally, Americans had to go to Europe or the Caribbean to find upscale topless or nude resorts. Most American places were old style rustic campgrounds like the “nudist colony” you saw in the old Pink Panther movie. However, in the last decade, the U.S. has passed the best that Europe and the Caribbean has to offer. No longer to you have to travel overseas to be pampered at a clothing optional resort as some of the best are right here in the USA.

Most American nudist resorts are still the typical weekend getaway located at rustic campgrounds and cater to families and all their kids. However, upscale resorts have blossomed in Palm Springs, CA and Florida in the last decade. Of these upscale resorts, most still cater to families and their kids. However, one very popular place is unique and caters just to couples on vacation. So leave the kids with the grandparents or babysitter. This place is located in Palm Springs, CA and it is always rated by as one of the top clothing optional resorts in the world, the best in the west, and the most mainstream nudist resort in America. Palm Springs is a beautiful city. http://palmsprings.com With its average 340 days of sunshine per year, it is the sunniest city in America. It has championship golf courses, casinos, shopping, theater, and the best nudist resort in America. What else could anyone ask for on a vacation?

Who goes nude sunbathing? Everyone! Even one of our founding father’s Ben Franklin was a big advocate of nude sunbathing. Resort goers average from their 20’s to 70’s in age. They are teachers, nurses, doctors, lawyers, movie stars, entrepreneurs, police, and firefighters. About the only thing Democrats and Republicans agree on at nude resorts is they both enjoy nude sunbathing. The reason repeat guests love nudist resorts so much is they were tired of the same old boring chain hotel vacations. They wanted something different, fun, and safe. Nude recreation is perfect. It is very romantic. It is a great way for couples to reconnect away for all the pressures and stresses of the work a day world.

So this Father’s Day, or any day for that matter, if you are looking for a new, fun vacation experience and a great present for Dad, contact a clothing optional resort. You will be glad that you did.

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August 3rd, 2009 | Posted by meenny

A Closer Look At The Surprising Origin Of Cigars
Writen by Gregg Hall

You might think that the world’s first cigars were rolled in Spain, or that the philosophic French were the very first to wax existential over cigarette smoke, but before there were any cigars or cigarettes in the old world, tobacco had to be brought in from the new one. Tobacco is a plant that was originally found only in North and South America, where native Americans have cultivated it for hundreds, if not thousands, of years.

The Indigenous Mayans of the Mexican Yucatan peninsula grew tobacco plants, and there is evidence showing that they smoked it in ways similar to the way we do today. From its origins in Mexico, tobacco use spread from tribe to tribe, to the north and to the south. Historians now believe that the first tobacco use in what is now the United States occurred along the banks of the Mississippi river. And it wasn’t until Christopher Columbus famously ran into Central America while looking for India that Europe and Asia became acquainted with tobacco and its uses.

When he arrived in the Caribbean, Columbus was apparently not a very big fan of the flavor of tobacco, and was not keen on the way the people he encountered used it to smoke. His sailors, though, thought the stuff was amazing and started to smoke it themselves. When they returned to Spain, they brought tobacco back with them and shared it with people back home. It spread through the county like wildfire. And it wasn’t long before the French too were lighting up. Incidentally, it is from the name of the French ambassador to Spain, Jean Nicot, that the scientific name for tobacco Nicotiana tabacum and the word nicotine comes. The word tobacco itself has a disputed origin, though the majority of people now believe that it is simply a corruption of the name of a Caribbean island, Tobago. Some others contend that it originates from Tabasco, a region of Mexico.

The first tobacco to be commercially cultivated in the United States was planted in the state of Virginia in 1612. Very soon thereafter plantations popped up in Maryland and elsewhere. At this point, people smoked their tobacco mostly in pipes. It wasn’t until the late 18th century that cigars began to be smoked in the United States. The person who is said to have brought cigar smoking to the US is Israel Putnam. Putnam served in the Revolutionary War as a general, but afterwards, and more importantly for posterity, he traveled to Cuba and smoked the cigars that were made there. On returning to the US he brought back a box of those cigars with him. Almost overnight cigars were smoked everywhere and soon cigar factories popped up, significantly in the area around Putnam’s hometown of Hartford, Connecticut.

Cigars weren’t very popular in Europe until the Peninsula War that occurred in the beginning of the 19th century. The soldiers of Britain and France who fought in Spain during the war brought back tobacco and pipes with them to their homelands, and soon, again, tobacco use in those countries was prevalent. But it was among the fashionable upper classes that cigar smoking took hold. Even today, smoking cigars is something that is associated with the luxury and discernment afforded to those with discerning tastes and the means to satisfy them.

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August 2nd, 2009 | Posted by meenny

A City of Architectural and Artic Excellence
Writen by Vivek Kuriyal

The Norwegian capital Oslo is a historical town located at the head of Oslo fjord. Forest ridges surround this city. Oslo gives many reasons for attracting a good crowd of visitors. Encompassing several wilderness areas, an array of restaurants and many historically important sites, this city boasts of offering unmatched entertainment to the visitors. It is just that right blend of old and pristine resources tourists generally look for.

Winter is the most suitable time to be in Oslo and the citys skating rink is one of the most favorite places out here. This small town treasures numerous parks, museums and some magnificent castles which describe its glorious history and contemporary achievements. One of the leading shipping cities in the world, Oslo offers abundance of things to see and do. Besides elegant shopping experience, a graceful walk in the parks, an inquisitive tour to the museums and a sumptuous dinner at restaurants, Oslo features a very long ski run and eight alpine slopes to facilitate an adventurous skiing experience.

The capital of Norway possesses more than 40 museums and several art galleries. Some of the world famous attractions include the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Viking Ship museum, Holmenkollen and Munch Museum. The Vigeland Park is a great piece of rare art where sculptures created by the famous artist Gustav Vigeland gracefully stand for the citizens as well as the travelers. Amongst 212 sculptures, The Little Hot Head and The Monolith are most renowned. Many other artistic excellence rules the streets of Oslo, Norway–the Munch Museum is one of them.

You will not be able to stop yourself from admiring the several old ships at the Viking Ship Museum. All these ships belonged to the great warriors of Norway who were known as Vikings. Architectural Excellence includes Akershus Castle and Fortress that has been there for last 700 years. It is a landmark in the city. However, only a few days of leave will be less for covering all the amazing destinations in Osloit has a lot to offer to you. So have a good margin of time saved for touring Oslo.

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August 1st, 2009 | Posted by meenny

A City in the Palm of Your Hand
Writen by Nicholas Jurkowski

Palm City is a quiet town near I-95 that is mainly comprised of private and gated communities. In spite of its size, Palm City has a unique feel and atmosphere all its own. Everything is very relaxing and laid back, but there are plenty of summer-related activities. This makes Palm City the ideal place to rent a summer home, and there are styles of homes to fit every taste and budget, from waterfront villas and fancy apartments to more Spartan town homes, cabins, and lean-to-style-huts.

The nature of Palm City makes a lengthy stay more fruitful than a short stay. For one thing, it is in a perfect centralized location to be within striking distance of Orlando (and therefore, of course, Disney World, Universal Studios, and even the dreaded Epcot Center), as well as Palm Beach, and all its fancy restaurants and traditional South Florida attractions. Convenient location isnt all that makes Palm City worthwhile it is also a hotbed for traditional summer activities. Golf is very popular in this area (and elsewhere, Im told), with 36 holes of championship-caliber golf to be played. Tennis is likewise represented, and there are a number of beautiful parks brimming with potential recreational activities. Leighton Park, for example, is ideal not only for hiking, horseback riding, and disposing of unwanted medical waste, but also for picnics with the family, and access to the St. Lucie River. From these waterways, you can partake in Palm Citys legendary fishing. From either dockside or boat, you can catch snook, sea trout, mackerel, and grouper, amongst others.

Palm City is the ideal spot for a summer stay and what could match better with summer vacation than limos? Imagine relaxing all day in your villa in Palm City perhaps taking in a round of golf and then picnicking at Leighton Park, then catching a limo to nearby Stuart for a world-class dinner. A limousine from Millenium will provide you with comfort, luxury, and relaxation, as well as freedom from navigating unfamiliar territory during an excursion. Keep Palm City in mind as your vacation destination, and Millenium Limo as the company that will get you there.

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July 31st, 2009 | Posted by meenny

A Chilean Adventure on Horseback
Writen by Cathy Cooper

Chile is a long thin country sandwiched between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean. On the plane from Santiago to Punta Arenas I looked out of the window for most of the journey marvelling at the landscape below. I instantly recognised the peaks of the Torres, which I would soon be seeing at closer quarters.

Punta Arenas is the southern most town in Chile and like Ushuaia, its counterpart in Argentina, it is the main departure point for ships cruising to the Antarctic Peninsula. I met Alex, the Equitour Worldwide Riding Holidays agent in Chile and the rest of the small group of riders, in a comfortable guesthouse on Bernardo OHiggins Avenue.

Early the next morning I went for a walk along the edge of the shore and could almost feel the chill in the air from the frozen continent. But I wasnt going cruising. Two hundred miles north in the wilds of Patagonia; a horse was waiting for me.

After breakfast we put all our bags in the waiting minibus and began our journey north across the desolate pampas of Southern Chile. We stopped in Puerto Natales, a pioneer town set on the edge of a lake. There was a charming quality about the single storey houses constructed out of wood and brightly painted corrugated iron. There were a few tourist shops and outdoor activity centres. We had our lunch in an Internet caf, which was our last chance to make contact with the outside world for once in the Park; mobile phones are out of range.

We met our trip leader, a young American girl called Magan, and our cook, Jorge and continued our journey north for another two hours. The landscape got hillier and the road got bumpier until we arrived at our next destination and start of our adventure, a beautiful estancia called Mirador del Paine. Estancias are working ranches and the Mirador was set between hills and a lake with views of the mountains in the distance. There were outbuildings dotted around and a very comfortable accommodation block where we would spend one night. There were horses everywhere grazing around the buildings unrestricted by fences or barriers. That evening I had a superb meal of salmon steak and salad and my first taste of the local and very potent aperitif Pisco Sour.

The next morning I dressed for riding and packed my saddlebags with the bare essentials including full waterproofs and a lunch box. Even though it was summer in Chile, weather in the mountains is very unpredictable so we had to be prepared for anything and everything. I met the local horseman or baquianos. Victor and Mirko, who would be the guides on the trip. We were taken to the horses and I was asked what sort of horse would I like. A quiet kind one I said nervously, and I was given Loreto, a 15.3.bay mare. Soon I had my foot in the strange leather cup that is a Chilean stirrup and was up in the saddle ready for action. I rode along the track, which rose gently into the hills and then through trees when suddenly the horse in front of me disappeared. Before I could even think about it, Loreto took me down into a steep gully, briefly stopped for a drink in the stream at the bottom and climbed niftily up the other side. This was my first experience of riding in this sort of terrain but by lunchtime I had gone down into so many gullies that I was quite used to it.

We stopped for lunch high up on a hill above Laguna del Toro. It was a beautiful spot with mountains in the distance and a deep blue lake down below.

We continued by descending on a very steep track and then traversing across a scree slope on a very narrow path. There was a very long drop on one side and places where the path had slipped away but by now I realised that Loreto and the other horses were so surefooted and safe that I neednt worry. Loreto only walked when she was negotiating boulders. Her normal pace was a little jogging trot, which I learnt to sit to quite comfortably. When we arrived at the bottom of the mountain, Magan shouted fancy going a bit faster? and we had the longest and most exhilarating gallop I have every experienced across the endless pampas. That night we stayed for the first of two nights in wooden cabins near a river and a friendly little cat came into my room and seemed very happy to sleep on my bed.

Over the next couple of days, we explored the area in a big circular route, climbing mountains on boulder-strewn paths, crossing rivers and enjoying lots of long gallops.

Early morning on the next stage of our journey, we left the horses in a corral near the National Park Information Centre and we went on a boat trip to the famous Glacier Gray and drank Pisco Sours near the wall of blue ice.

We returned to the corral and from here, we started on an eight-hour trek across the mountains to our next resting place. The sight of the Torres covered in snow, towering over clear blue lakes, was breathtaking. The ride took us through ancient beech forests filled with white margarita daisies, condors flew overhead and herds of guanaco scattered across the hills as we approached. Each vista was epic and the sight of the suns rays breaking through the clouds took on almost biblical proportions. The journey took longer than it should because we kept stopping to take photographs.

It was almost dark when we reached Laguna Azul Campsite and the hot meal waiting for us in the Quincho or communal kitchen, was very welcome. I sat by the open fire and drank mate, the local herbal beverage, with the Mirko and Victor, before retiring to my tent.

The next day we set off with all the packhorses fully loaded and accompanied by extra Baquianos, for this time we were camping in the wild.

Baquianos are the local horse guides and are unique to the National Park. They wear very interesting costume consisting of baggy trousers tucked into high leather boots, a long sleeve shirt, woollen jumper and beret. Around their waist they wear a wide leather belt tooled and decorated with old Chilean coins. These belts are highly prized as the men make them during the long winter months when the park is inaccessible. The also make all the tack for the horses in the same style.

The journey to Lake Cimono was the highlight of the whole trip for me. We encountered every sort of terrain and every kind of weather. At one point I was wearing full waterproofs as Loreto and I battled through the wind and the rain. We stopped for lunch near the ruins of an old house that had been destroyed by a storm years ago. There were still the remains of its extensive fruit garden and we ate handfuls of ripe gooseberries. The packhorses joined us and then went ahead to make camp. We rode through the very beautiful and remote Dickson Valley until we reached the black shores of Lake Cimono.

We pitched our tents in a very high wind and while Jorge was preparing dinner, we drank Pisco Sours on the beach and watched the sun set behind the mountains. The mess tent was very cramped with all of us sitting around the table but we had great fun after dinner practising drinking wine from the leather flasks that the baquianos use. Needless to say I managed to get more red wine down my sweater than in my mouth.

The next day we had a short trip to a Refugio on an island. We left the horses tethered under the trees and then had to shout for the boatmen to bring the boat across. This was not easy as the sound of the wind and the sound of the gushing river drowned out our cries. We waved our scarves in the air and screamed as loud as we could until the men heard us. A Refugio is a hostel where you can stay the night and due to its remoteness, most people staying there were hikers. I also noticed that there were lots of very handsome Chilean guides.

On our way back to the camp, Victor was stopped by a couple of mountain park rangers whose horses needed shoeing. I watched as Victor pared the hoof down with his hunting knife and a stick of wood and then apply the shoes with a pair of pliers and hammer. He did it all so quickly and deftly.

We left our campsite the following morning and rode back to Lake Azul where a minibus was waiting to transport us to our next stopover. The men would take our horses along with the packhorses and herd them up into the mountains to an Estancia. Three of us decided we wanted to ride with the men and in an instant we were off galloping through trees, across rivers and up steep mountain sides. It was the most thrilling ride I had ever experienced.

We stayed at the Estancia La Tercera for two nights. It was on a high plateau with very clear views of the Torres in the distance. The horses were let loose and roamed the plains. The accommodation was very comfortable with soft beds and a little cat that slept with me mine both nights. This was becoming a common occurrence. It was here that we met Boris, a very handsome cowboy, who spoke no English but it didnt really matter. We just smiled a lot. He had a very gentle way with horses and was an excellent rider. I think that Magan liked him a lot.

When we left La Tercera it was very sad, as we knew there was only one long day of riding and then it would all be over. The route took us onto the main road into the National Park. We stopped to look back at the Torres one more time and then continued down the dusty road back into civilisation.

I have very special memories of this trip but a wonderful thing happened after it.

Magan and Boris got together and now live in the USA and have a baby daughter.

If you want to book this holiday call the Louise on 0800 043 7942 or email on louise@equitour.co.uk and the web address is http://www.equitour.co.uk

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July 30th, 2009 | Posted by meenny

Accommodation Travel Tips
Writen by Stan Trof

BEFORE YOU GO
Do a hotel research on the net looking not only for the cheapest rates but also considering the amenities and services provided, location, possible references from other people. Travel guidebooks can also be very helpful for choosing the hotel that suits you best. Be as much flexible with your trip schedule as possible. For example, business class hotels often have lower weekend rates.

As soon as you reserved the room(s) online, document all information about the hotel(s). The easiest way is to print out the whole page off your computer screen so you will have a clear statement that you can use as evidence in case of misplacing or incorrectly entering your information by a hotel clerk. Take a copy with you, make another one for your relatives so they will know when and where you are going to stay so they can contact you in emergency cases.

WHEN CHECKING-IN
Learn the proper check-in and check-out times. Confirm the amenities and services the hotel provides. Ask for directions, a local map. Get a card with the hotel’s name, address and phone number so you can show it to a taxi driver or a passer-by in the street if you get lost.

Some hotels may provide extra services that you may not know about unless you ask for it:
- laundry service,
- hair dryers,
- voltage converters/ adaptors,
- newspaper service,
- complementary meals,
- access to fax machine, copier, printer, computer, Internet connection,
- cable TV, rental movies, video games,
- portable beds, baby cribs,
- complementary shuttle service to airport,
- rental safe for your money, jewellery, documents,
- telephone access charges,
- fees for using mini-bar,
- guided tours, excursions.

AT THE HOTEL
Safety should be a priority for everybody and you have to take some precautions. We devoted a whole separate page to travel safety including hotel safety measures so we will skip this part here. When you go out for the day, leave your key at the reception desk. Confirm closing time. Some hotels do lock up at night and you’re expected to keep the key if you stay out late.

BEFORE LEAVING YOUR HOTEL
Check out your room for left-behind items. If you need extra time for staying over the regular check-out time (usually it ranges from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m), make a request in advance or the hotel may charge you an additional night.

Review the hotel bill making sure that all charges are accurate.

We wish you a successful and safe trip!

You can find this article and many others on our informative web site: www.travelmake.com.

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July 29th, 2009 | Posted by meenny

Accommodations In Prague
Writen by Kent Pinkerton

UNESCO has listed the city of Prague as a world heritage site. Prague, also known as the land of a hundred spires, is the capital of the Czech republic. When people opt to visit Prague, it is advisable to make enquiries regarding this historical Czech city well in advance. There are a number of dedicated websites, travel magazines and subscriptions that provide all details regarding travel specials and deals, attractions, landmarks, activities and accommodation choices. These initial inquiries provide an outline, basic information and result in acquiring details on travel or providers.

It is advisable for travelers to understand tourism patterns and accommodation options in Prague. Most hoteliers and tourism officers make available descriptive brochures, regarding the lodging options they stand by. These are considered to be useful, as they outline city intersections, markets and street maps, to and from the accommodation in Prague. This helps tourists to find their lodging locations at ease, without getting lost in a new city.

When considering accommodations in Prague, it is advisable for foreign tourists to enquire about the accepted currency in a particular lodging. Tourists should make enquiries regarding the language spoken by the hotel staff. This is often an important requirement in a foreign city. This makes it possible for an enjoyable stay at any resort or hotel. It is feasible to locate lodging that arranges for transportation services.

It is advisable to enquire about the tariffs, taxes, correspondence options and payment plans. Certain government-aided documentaries discuss the accommodation options in Prague and provide visuals to promote and advertise tourism. These informative sources discuss a range of accommodation options including hotels, inns, cottages and clubs. Other accommodation options in Prague are apartments, resorts, timeshare accommodations and family vacation homes. Student hostels, villas and star rated accommodation options are also very popular.

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July 27th, 2009 | Posted by meenny

Accommodation Queensland: The Luxury Holiday Of A Lifetime
Writen by Eran Malloch

The state of Queensland (QLD) - located on the eastern corner of the continent - is Australia’s fastest growing state.

Queensland is home to 3.6 million people - about 22% of the total Australian population - and takes a whopping 25% of the continent’s area. The capital city of QLD is Brisbane.

The temperature in most of the region is temperate, with the average temperature in summers being 20 C (70 F) and 12 C (52 F) during winters.

Everything about the place is huge, including fun. One can enjoy eco-tourism, relax on pristine beaches, trek, hike, snorkel, scuba dive, or take off on long drives, offering everyone something unique and more. Almost any place in Queensland is easily accessible, thanks to an excellent network of roadways, railways, airways, and even waterways.

You can explore the historic places around Brisbane - try visiting the art galleries or museums, or just take a stroll through South Bank. Regardless of which option you choose, you will end up having an unforgettable experience. Visit the Coral Coast and Country, the access point to the world famous Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling is a great way to find out more about these spectacles of nature.

If you want to have more fun, try going to Capricorn, stay in a farm and find out more about Australian rural life. Get to know more about the aboriginal culture. Or, you can head towards the Fraser Coast to view majestic whales and the world’s largest sand island. The sight of huge sand dunes is really breathtaking, to say the least.

Another highlight in Queensland is the Gold Coast, the stretch of almost endless beaches, thronged by visitors. With a thriving night life, the Gold Coast is always buzzing with activity. Avid golf buffs can tee off on the championship golf course here.

Alternatively, you might prefer to take a cruise and explore some of the tranquil and beautiful islands off the coast of QLD. The Whitsundays - 74 islands floating in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef - are a popular destination. Alternatively, you might like to see the unique tropical rainforest on Fraser Island - the only place in the world where rainforest grows on sand!

With its wide variety of culture and tourist attractions, Queensland remains a must-visit destination for visitors from any part of the globe.

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July 27th, 2009 | Posted by meenny

Accommodation in New Zealand
Writen by Glenn Bongartz

New Zealand’s accommodation is as varied as its beautiful scenery. In New Zealand you can camp for free in your tent or campervan or stay in the finest luxury lodges where Hollywood stars pay large amounts of money for world-class accommodation, isolation and Lord of the Rings scenery. In general all levels of accommodation are of a high quality on a world standard eg; If you were to stay at a campground all the campgrounds will have kitchens and good shower and toilet facilities. Most will have outdoor barbeques and also facilities to keep the children occupied.

New Zealand is becoming more and more popular as a tourist destination during the northern hemisphere winter so the summers in New Zealand are becoming more populated.

Booking is encouraged during the peak summer season 1st December until the end of February. November and March are also very busy with these months in the shoulder seasons. Prices are not as high during these two months.

If you really want to stay anywhere, when ever you want you will find 1st May until the end of September quiet, with great deals for accommodation, vehicles, and activities. The middle of this period is New Zealand’s winter with the ski areas around New Zealand open for business.

Winter can be cold in the south but no colder than the UK or somewhere like San Francisco, if you holiday at the top of the North Island you will have warmer weather with temperatures around the same as a winter in Sydney.

Whenever you travel to New Zealand you will find accommodation that your holiday deserves.

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