Keeping Your Home Secure While Away

- Make sure your home looks like someone is living in it. Don\'t
close your curtains - in daytime, this shows the house is empty.
Think about getting automatic time switches to turn your lights
on in the evening.

- Fit mortise locks or bolts to all outside doors, and locks to
all downstairs or easily accessible windows.

- Cancel any milk or newspaper deliveries.

- Cut the lawn before you go and trim back any plants that
burglars could hide behind.

- Get a friend or neighbor to look after your home. They can
collect your mail; mow your lawn and so on. This gives the
impression that someone is living in your home. If you leave
keys with a neighbor, don\'t label them with your address.

- Don\'t leave valuables, like your TV, hi-fi or video
equipment, where people can see them through windows.

- Mark any valuable items with your postcode and house number
using an \'invisible\' pen that you can get from most hardware
stores. If your property is stolen, this will help the police to
provide them with better evidence to convict the people
responsible.

- Make sure that you have up-to-date contents insurance.

- Do not put your home address on your luggage when you are
traveling to your holiday destination.

- Lock the garage and shed with proper security locks, after
putting all of your tools safely away so they cannot be used to
break into your house. If you have to leave a ladder out, put it
on its side and lock it to a secure fixture with a \'close
shackle\' padlock or heavy-duty chain.

- Finally, lock all outside doors and windows. If you have a
burglar alarm, make sure it is set and that you have told the
police who has the key.

- And just before you set off, it\'s worth spending a couple of
minutes checking that you\'ve done all you had to do and taken
everything that you need with you.

Help from your neighbors

- It\'s also a good idea to get help from your neighbors. Ask
them to keep an eye on your home while you\'re away.

- You could also ask them to collect mail left in the mailbox,
sweep up leaves, and even mow the lawn and generally make the
place look lived in.

- You can repay the favor by doing the same for them. Warn the
neighbor who has your key not to put your surname, address, or
even your house number on your keys in case they fall into the
wrong hands.

- Is there a Neighborhood Watch program where you live? Your
local police will tell you if there is a program in your area or
help you set up one of your own. It could help you keep your
home secure while you\'re away, and has many other crime
prevention and community benefits.

Stay safe! Visit http://www.UrbanSafetySupplies.com and
http://www.HiTechHiddenCameras.com for all of your self defense
and security item needs.

Happy Chic at Parker Meridian Palm Springs Resorts

Happy Chic at Parker Meridian Palm Springs Resorts

Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com

To read this entire feature FREE with photos cut and paste this link:
http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/hotels/calif/psprings/parker/parker.html

Le Parker Meridien in Palm Springs, a refreshing California desert oasis and spa is a surprise for the eyes.

Hospitality executive Adam Glick, president of the Jack Parker Corporation was responsible not only for the 2003 purchase of a 13-acre resort in Palm Springs, California but also for bringing together the two disparate unique talents of Jonathan Adler, an art visionary who single handedly turned earthy-crunchy pottery into groovy ceramics and David Mann, principle architect for MR Architecture & Dcor in New York City. The combination is so dynamic that you must book a visit ASAP so you can personally experience the over-the- top creativity of Adler which vividly brings alive Mann's architectural design for clean-lines and airy spaces.

The entrance is strikingly simple with a curved driveway that made it appear as if I was pulling up to a private home. The first thing I saw was a high latticework wall of white concrete. Behind this brise soleil, the bright orange entry doors popped into my focus. What I found beyond these doors of this $25 million remodel was not only surprising but somewhat surreal and sublime.

As I stepped into the wide open lobby I knew why Adler earned the design reputation for being happy chic. Adler thinks these two words might seem diametrically opposed, but he believes they can and should be fused. As I viewed the arranged vignettes in the 4,400 square foot lobby I saw the veracity of his belief. Adler combed sources world-wide and amassed a collection of furnishings with the single common denominator to blend happy expressions with chic designs. These design surprises for the eyes set against Mann's backdrop of slump-block walls and granary-oak ceiling sectors made me realize that look'n for fun and feel'n groovy can be a way of life.

The first mise-en-scene that drew me in was filled with mantiques that mesmerized me. There was a suit of armor, a comfortable vintage Palm Springs velvet-covered sectional that looked exotic because the pillows were made from Moroccan bridal shawls. Placed on the white-lacquered hexagonal cocktail table were Adler's own handmade bowl and vases, giving the setting a high gloss glamour. When I looked up at the ceiling a loopy glass Vistosi chandelier from the 1960s hung overhead. It was all playfully chic and reminiscent of bygone times when Elvis and Ann-Margaret partied together.

Party and fun are the operative words for this place. The rest of the lobby was exuberant with a ich hippie mix with two Edwardian-style sofas draped in embroidered suzanis from Uzbekistan, and a latte-colored rug that had an exaggerated Moroccan pattern. The terrazzo-topped table looked like a souvenir from a souk. Gio Ponti's walnut chairs and a geometric brass chandelier also from the '60s mixed and matched with the panache of the incomparable Italian elegance. There was a fully stocked lobby jeweled mini bar with Lucite bar stools and an inviting bartender that couldn't wait to show off his magnificent array of martini blends. A free standing fire pit anchored the back party lounge that was complete with a round seating area. The room was sexy and shaped with gorgeous curves in all the right places. Latin-moderne string draperies and lacquered floor lamps were big, bold and beautiful. Swinging in one of the wicker chairs that hung from the ceiling made me look like a blast from the past.

The dcor at the Parker engaged my mind and sensibilities to see my surroundings with new eyes.

To read this entire feature FREE with photos cut and paste this link:
http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/hotels/calif/psprings/parker/parker.html

Janice Wilson, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent. Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com

About the Author

Janice Wilson, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent. Join the Travel Writers Network in the logo at www.jetsettersmagazine.com

Cabin Pressure Which One For Your Cruise?

For three, five, seven or however many days, the ship's cabin will be your second home. Depending on your plans for rest and relaxation, you might want to give some thought to your choice of cabins. If you plan to be on the go, go, go and partake of all the ship has to offer, then pay for the cheapest cabin rate. After all, you will only be in your cabin to sleep and change your clothes. However, if you need to be alone and plan to huddle in your cabin at times, reconsider your options.



All cruise cabins are created for comfort with a sensible design where you can move with ease. Nonetheless, all cruise cabins are not the same. Your normal, average cruise ship cabin is going to be smaller that what you would find at some landlocked hotel. To compensate for the size, cruise lines spoil the passengers with mints on their pillows, shampoos, bath gel, fluffy robes and other amenities.



The cruise ship cabins were designed to make the best of the least amount of space possible. Sure some cabins have more room than others, but in any case, not a square inch is wasted. The cruise literature depicts a roomy cabin but that is just trick photography. The furnishings are utilitarian, but attractive. There is often a queen or king sized bed that could be broken down into twin beds if you were traveling with a companion other than a spouse or significant other. A closet or wardrobe is also in the cabin with a desk, bathroom, shower and chair. Depending on the size of your cabin, you might even have a little nook with a small couch and table.



Inside cabins tend to be the most economical. If you do not mind not having any windows or portholes to see outside, then this might be the choice for you. Inside cabins are usually about the same size as the outside cabins. It does tend to be darker when you have an inside cabin, so keep that in mind.



Outside cruise ship cabins have a window or a few portholes, which allow the sunshine to come into your cabin. If you are susceptible to claustrophobia and the thought of an inside cabin with no window gives you the shakes, book an outside cabin.



If enjoying the ocean views in the privacy of your own cabin is a must, consider booking an outside cabin with a balcony or terrace. This option is pricier, but it gives you a private view of the ocean with your own little deck.



If you have the expendable cash and want the ooh-la-la factor, consider the cruise ship suite option. Just picture the usual amenities along with some excess square footage. You definitely have room to maneuver! You'll have extras like a mini-refrigerator and a private veranda.



The only thing about booking a cabin is that you cannot pick what part of the ship you want. You pay the going rate for the kind of cabin you want and hope for the best when it comes to its location like being near elevators or the bow are of the ship. If you are worried about seasickness, request a cabin on the lower decks. You may not be able to be accommodated, but it never hurts to ask. Just remember to keep in mind why you are on the cruise in the first place. Choose the best type of cabin for your needs and enjoy your cruising experience.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Kirsten Hawkins is a cruise and travel expert specializing in discount cruises and travel. Visit www.luxury-cruise-deals.com/ for more information on how to cruise the world for little or no money.

Six Offbeat Things to Do in Denver this Summer

Visit the 16th Century. Drive 45 minutes south of Denver and drop in to the Colorado Renaissance Festivel. This eight-week extraganza features court jesters and jousters, a King and his Queen, fun acts,turkey legs, a petting zoo and even full suits of armor for sale. June 10 - July 30.

Take the train to Glenwood Springs. You can jump on Amtrak\'s California Zephyr for a ride to Glenwood Springs through our spectacular mountains and valleys and beautiful Glenwood Canyon. The Cal Zephyr runs east and west on alternate days so you can take the train to Glenwood, spend the day soaking in the Glenwood Springs mineral pool and then catch the train back to Denver the next day. Amtrak - www.amtrak.com or call1-800-872-7245.

Zip down a river This past winter\'s snowpack in the mountains was one of the deepest ever. This means whitewater rafting will be flat outstanding this year. The closest rafting to Denver (June - July) is Clear Creek. Clear Creek is located in an old mining valley in the Colorado Rockies. Iit\'s a steep, technical river with sections appropriate for all ages. Its proximity to Denver and Summit County make this thrilling section of whitewater easily accessible. Clear Creek Rafting, 800-353-9901.

Saddle up. One of the best ways to visit our mountains is to visit our back country via a guided horseback ride.. We have a number of \dude ranches\ and stables where you can ride for half a day or a full day (if your fanny can take it) or even do a evening ride with a steak fry or bar-b-que incuded. Nearby Allenspark has horseback riding at the Allenspark Lodge (303-747-2552. A bit further away is the Aspen Lodge in colorful Estes Park (303-332-6867).

Walk on the wild side. If you\'re up for it, one of Colorado\'s top attractions is a simple (and free) as taking a hike. One of the easiest trails (and closest to Denver) is the South Platte River Trail. It\'s located in Pike National Forest and is only four miles round-trip - making it about a two-hour hike, including a break for lunch.

Two-wheel it on the High Line Canal. One of Denver\'s real treasures is our High Line Canal. It\'s a neat slice of nature right in the heart of our metro area. The Canal wends throughout Denver and our suburbs for a total of 66 miles and is accessible from literally dozens of places. So a great way to spend a day is to rent a bike and cruise the Canal. You\'ll see bikers, walkers, joggers, horseback riders, wildlife, flowers, and big, stately old trees.

Just remember. Denver is unique in that it offers the best of two worlds -- the fun things to do and see that you find only in a big, sophisticated city, plus the breathtaking scenery, unforgettable vistas and amazing wildlife you find in our nearby Rocky Mountains. To learn more about a great Denver vacation, just go to Just go to http://www.best-denver-vacation.com

Douglas Hanna has lived in the Denver area for nearly 35 years and is an expert on both Denver and Colorado. He is also the author of more than 120 articles on Denver, family finances, and Internet marketing.

Carnival Cruise Expert Guide

A carnival cruise is one of the best-loved types ofcruise in the world. It offers a heady mix of onboardentertainment, pampering and relaxation, all withinthe plush surroundings of a cruise ship as it sailsfrom port to port. The cruise ship caters for everytaste, making carnival cruises equally suitable forthose who want to laze endlessly by the pool, topeople who are looking for a full-on party atmosphere.

Sports activities are widely available on a carnivalcruise. Volleyball, basketball, table tennis and evengolf can be played on board the cruise ship. You willalways have access to a well-equipped gymnasium too,along with personal trainers to help maximize yourfitness routine while on the cruise ship. Additionally,there is a plethora of watersports on offer, includingjet-skiing and opportunities to learn how to scubadive.

Carnival cruise cuisine is delightful. All cruise shipspride themselves on offering a dining experience thatis second to none. There is often a huge variety ofrestaurants, bistros, cafes and bars on board,providing everything from burger and fries meals tocordon bleu cooking. Meals are generally available 24/7,although some restaurants cater only for meals at settimes.

The nightlife on a carnival cruise is all about havingfun. Casinos, discos, bars and theaters can all befound on a carnival cruise ship, as well as specialistentertainment acts including the likes of comedians,dancers, magicians and theatrical stage performers.You can even learn how to dance ballroom if you wantto!

Naturally, there are many opportunities to sign up forday/night excursions at the various ports of call on acarnival cruise. On a Mediterranean carnival cruise forinstance, you could take in an Italian soccer game orvisit the opera. On a Caribbean carnival cruise youcould spend some time island-hopping or discoveringunderwater shipwrecks.

Whatever you decide to do on your carnival cruise,you\'re sure guaranteed to have the time of your life -and with so much fun on offer don\'t be surprised if youbecome addicted to carnival cruising...

Looking for Cruise information ?
Go to http://www.azcruises.com to find out all you need to know about taking your dream Carnival Cruise vacation.

Carneros Wineries And Wines

Although Carneros Wineries are located in both southern Napa and
Sonoma Counties, the region has always had its own unique
identity. Being a huge Pinot Noir fan, I really enjoy exploring
new, interesting wines from this region.

Carneros is an example of an AVA that has a more uniform terroir
than most. Whereas the borders of some AVAs have been extended
beyond their natural climactic boundaries because of politics
and influence, Carneros resisted this all too common tendency.

History

During the Spanish era of California, the region was a natural
place for settlement in the North Bay due to its proximity to
San Francisco, and accessibility by water routes. When General
Vallejo secularized the Spanish Missions in 1834, he divided the
region amongst several of his cronies. The area was initially
developed to produce subsistence crops and livestock.

The first vineyards were planted in the 1830s, and Carneros
Wineries flourished for many decades until phylloxera devastated
the region\'s grapes along with most vineyards throughout
California.

Prohibition appeared to be the last nail in the coffin for
Carneros Wineries. After this unfortunate law\'s repeal, Andre
Tchelistcheff and Louis M. Martini took an interest in the
region\'s unique climate. Investment in Carneros Wineries was
slow until the 1970s when it began to surge with the rest of the
Napa Valley.

Terroir

Regular fog derived from the San Pablo Bay and Napa River has a
cooling effect on the region. Wind is a constant factor, and it
blows relatively unobstructed throughout most of the AVA.

Additionally, rainfall is relatively scarce, causing most
Carneros Wineries and growers to irrigate their crops. The lack
of abundant fresh water as well as the encroachment of sea water
into some parts of the ground inhibit rampant vineyard expansion.

As one moves north from the San Pablo Bay, rolling hills begin
to replace the extremely flat terrain in the south. There are a
few hills that rise to 1000 feet, but they do little to shield
the wind and fog. Because of Carneros\' consistant climate,
certain varietals grow in a very methodical manner.

A multitude of fossilized sea life exists in the soil, and is
reminiscent of when the San Pablo Bay covered much of the
region. The soil has relatively low fertility, giving grape
vines only enough nourishment to focus on scarce, concentrated
fruit. The soils of Carneros are generally made of relatively
compact clay and are quite shallow.

Varietals, Wines, and Wineries

Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are quite compatible with the terroir
of Carneros, and the AVA produces some great examples of these
two varietals. About 80% of the grapes produced here are either
Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. Carneros Wineries also produce some
excellent sparkling wines. Some parts of the region have also
had a degree of success producing Merlot and Syrah in the
northern, slightly warmer parts of the AVA.

Weekend City Breaks In London The Carlton Tower Hotel 5* (Knightsbridge)

Boasting 220 sumptuous en suite bedrooms, many of which overlook the exquisite gardens of Cadogan Place, the Carlton Tower hotel effortlessly embodies panache and flair. Served by two excellent restaurants and accompanying bar, the Carlton Tower is the ideal base from which to explore London past and present. The hotel offers an accomplished Health Club, adorned with excellent facilities including a fully equipped gym and swimming pool.



Situated at the hub of Knightsbridge, the Carlton Tower is at the doorstep of many of the world's most elite stores including Harrods and Harvey Nichols. The most highly concentrated area of fashionable boutiques can be found on Sloane Street, a shopper's paradise. Beware though, credit cards have been known to receive some terrible abuse in these areas!



Bed and full breakfast (based on two people sharing) can be yours for 105 (per person per night) during spring, rising to 145 throughout summer and winter. For those travelling alone, the single person supplement is a similar amount on top. A mid-week (Monday to Thursday) supplement is applicable at 15 (per person per night) in spring, dropping to just 4 for the duration of summer and winter.



London Marriott Grosvenor Square Hotel 5* (Grosvenor Square)



Featuring 236 luxurious en suite bedrooms, furnished with marble bathrooms and the latest wireless internet technology, the London Marriott Grosvenor Square hotel pampers your every need, providing unadulterated relaxation and a full recharge of the most run down batteries. The celebrated Cobalt restaurant offers a taste of the Mediterranean, as well as the more British traditional afternoon tea.



Positioned at the central point of London's chic Mayfair, the shopping havens of Oxford, Regent and Bond Street are all within effortless proximity.



Bed and breakfast (based on two people sharing) is 99 (per person per night) during spring, increasing to 115 throughout summer and winter. The single person supplement is a similar amount again. If you are travelling mid-week (Monday to Thursday) an extra 55 is valid in spring, rising to 63 for the course of summer and winter. An executive room upgrade is available upon request for an additional 59 per room per night.



Please note all prices are correct at time of press (December 2005). For reservations call Superbreak on 0870 701 2200. Lines are open 8am - 11pm 7 days a week (excluding Christmas Day).

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Steven Cronin owns the Sargas Travel online magazine featuring travel reviews, news, inspiration, advice and special offers. For further reading please visit www.sargas.co.uk

Hotel Safety Tips You Should Have in Mind on a Holiday

If you travel a lot or even if you travel only during vacation
time, you should always pay attention to your valuable assets
inside the hotel and outside it. Getting something stolen like
your purse, your wallet or your expensive watch will surely ruin
your vacation. Burglars aren\'t your only worry; dangerous
strangers should be avoided too. Hotels may give you an
impression of safety, but they have so many different guests
that the hotel\'s staff can\'t keep an eye on everyone. Therefore,
you are the only one who is best taking care of yourself. Here
are some safety tips to avoid getting unpleasant memories during
your travels.

The thing you should do all the time is to keep your room\'s door
locked. Lock it even if you are inside the room and also put the
security chain. Make sure you have locked the door whenever you
are leaving the room. You can do this by trying the door to see
if it is perfectly closed and locked. It may look a bit
paranoid, but the lock might be broken and your room would be
vulnerable to any nosy intruder who would try the door knob.

If there is someone knocking on the door, look through the view
port first to check on that person. If you don\'t know that
person, don\'t open the door. Don\'t trust people claiming they
are part of the hotel staff if you don\'t expect any visits from
the hotel\'s personnel. Check with the reception to make sure
that person is an employee of the hotel. If you still don\'t
trust that person, you could keep the security chain on while
carrying on the conversation.

The windows are also important. Make sure they are closed and
locked whenever you leave the room.

Always use the hotel\'s main entrance no matter if it\'s day or
night. It is safer to use facilities that are crowded with
guests and hotel\'s staff. Stay away from dark, remote hallways
or rooms.

Jewellery represents the item that is most stolen from hotel
rooms. Put all your valuables into the safe which most hotel
rooms are equipped with. If your room doesn\'t have a safe, you
can use the hotel\'s safe or locked storage facilities. And don\'t
live your valuable things scattered around your room in anyone\'s
sight.

All these tips may sound a bit paranoid, but keep in mind that
being vigilant will save you from a lot of trouble. So whenever
you are travelling, always pay attention to these tips and your
vacation will not be ruined from an unfortunate burglary
incident.

Barcelona Day Adventures

As any European can brag about, Barcelona in Spain is no exception with its endless history, much of it still remaining, but much more of it has been added on in the 20th century. In many peoples opinion, you fully appreciate what Catalunya ( four regions including Barcelona ) is all about if you concentrate on the newly added culture. Barcelona has been a busy city and with all the new activities that it is willing to take on, tourism has become a big part of its daily life. So, for a full-scale visit to squeeze every drop of pleasure out of it, be well prepared with your map which has a details on hotels, entertainment, and the best celebrations and latest exhibitions.

Pick one\'s way in Barcelona

The place to set out from to find your first glimpse of Modernism would be to go straight to Guell Park. This natural space should really have been called Antonio Gaudi Park because it is entirely filled with this architectures spellbinding works. He has converted benches, balconies, walls and entire buildings into paintings. Once you have filled your camera with these delights, recharge it again for Gaudis highlight; the Sagrada Familia Church. Even though at first sight the Sagrada Familia has an antiquated look, it was started in 1883 and has been growing all during this century, getting special modern touch-ups and new addition.

In 1892 the Barcelona Zoo was founded. A private collection was donated to the city and as the centre of the city was in the port area called La Ciutat Vella ( beautiful city), the zoo is found in the Ciutadella Park. This fascinating place, houses more than 7,500 different types of animals. The tiny hippo pygmy or odd looking anteater is a big attraction for the wee folks and adults alike. The Barcelona Zoo takes much pride of its primates collection which at one time included and albino one. Dark grey coloured shell tortoises, pelicans and American buffalos and even a red kangaroo can be photographed up close without having to travel to distant lands. The weather in Cataluyna and especially in Barcelona is not extreme, so a casual visit to see your animal friends can be done all year round. If your travel happens to take you to this city in the warmer months, Aquarama Barcelona, the aquatic park within the zoo will add to your zoo visit. Everyone is awed by the bottlenose dolphins seen at the daily shows together with other marvellous aquatic animals. The Barcelona Zoo excellent research programme is worldly known for breeding in captivity and for preserving species in danger.

Las Ramblas promenade is the heart of the Ciutat Vella and of Barcelona

Everyone who visits this city has recognized it as one of the most lively and colourful street shows, It is a living street garden with its decorative floral patterns with one of the best food markets in the city nearby called the Boqueria . With the Olympic games in 1992, the old run-down port area was surprisingly made into the Coastal Park where the Olympic village was stationed. At the Arts Hotel, Mapfre Towers and Nova Icaria Square you can find the twin towers which easily marked the whole area where this magnificent event was held and can still be visited. Once again in 2004, this Oylmpic stadium and its Cobi mascot saw the Olympic torch before it was sent on to the 2004 host, Greece. Also in 2004, Barcelona once again out did itself, by setting up the Barcelona Forum, welcoming traveller from all over the world.

You may be thinking that all this tourism needs a lot of special attention, especially in making travel to and from this great city a breeze. Well, they have achieved this and much more. The Barcelona Airport called The Prat is found on the outskirts but has many good public and private transport to get into the hub of the city.

Special buses for tourism leaving from the Catalunya Square included about 40 stops, one to see the Nou camp Football Stadium, home of the Barca Team. Visits to any of the monuments or attractions is a leisure event this way because you need not worry about the paying every time or having to pay attention to timetables. Many times the price of the ticket includes special discounts to get into these places, at some of the local shops and parkings. And if you are thinking about heading about 40 kilometres south to maybe the town of Sitges, a nice beach area on the costa, then there are local trains too. You have many buses right outside the terminals, the underground, taxis and many hotels offer comfortable mini-buses directly to your accomodations and to the open doors of Barcelona.

R. Carlton contributed a lot of articles to http://www.barcelona-information.com an online source of information.

New Year's Eve 2005 in Montreal VIP Special Tour Packages

Montreal is quickly becoming one of the best places to ring in the New Year with partygoers due to its excellent nightlife reputation. This popularity has placed a premium on New Years with inflated hotel rates and increasing exclusivity to the best parties in town.



While the inflated crowds and prices could make Montreal in December as appealing as its weather, it does not have to be if you are a VIP. Montreal VIP is now offering its 5th annual New Year's Eve VIP packages.



Montreal VIP keeps its prices low while making sure every one of our guests is treated as a VIP, regardless of the time of year. A feat hard to do on December 31st. Guests are given access to the parties without having to wait in any of the lines, making it a success with visitors and locals. Allowing them to offer competitive packages with exclusive access so one can better experience New years in Montreal.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

For additional information on New Year's Eve in Montreal or information about Montreal VIP and their NYE packages visit their website: www.montrealvip.com . New Year's Eve packages start at $150 and are custom tailored to guest's specifications, and include VIP access to the nightlife every night. Availability is limited.

About Montreal VIP: Started in 2000, Montreal VIP is in the business of providing the complete VIP experience. They specialize in bachelor parties and nightlife events. Guests are given VIP access to Montreal's top nightlife including night clubs, strip clubs, bars, restaurants, casino, and more. All VIP packages are custom tailored and can include accommodation and all necessities.
www.montrealvip.com

COLUMBUS OFFERS VISITORS UNFORGETTABLE CULINARY EXPERIENCES

Ohio's capital city is fast becoming one of the nation's most
notable culinary towns, with Columbus introducing travelers to a
wide variety of one-of-a-kind gastronomic experiences and
getaways. From fresh corn and wild mushroom risotto crafted by
one of the nation's top chefs to artisan ice cream and killer
barbecue, the Columbus dining scene is as varied as it is
memorable. Whether the visitor is a gourmet aficionado or a fan
of the greasy spoon, a number of Columbus food stories truly
standout, including:

ICE CREAM WARS: Columbus boasts a number of boutique ice cream
artisans. Jeni Britton of Jeni's Fresh Ice Cream creates
incredibly true flavors, combining unlikely ingredients such as
wild blueberry and lavender, cocoa with curry or cayenne and
even Roquefort ice cream to serve with a warm pear tart.

At Denise's Homemade Ice Cream owners Denise and Stan Zafran
have won many awards, including best in the US from MS
CitySearch, for flavors like Coffee Oreo, Chai Tea, Tiramisu and
Guinness Stout. Yes, Guinness. As in, the beer. Cincinnati
transplant, Graeter's Ice Cream offers factory tours, a
playground and rich French pot consistency with giant shards of
top-shelf chocolate whipped into fresh flavors such as coconut,
mint and raspberry.

BBQ BONANZA: You may not think of Ohio when you think of Q, but
the buckeye state is big on BBQ. A few local favorites include
Hoggy's, City Barbecue and Pig Iron. All are distinctively
different and fantastically flavorful. Unique side dishes are
also worth writing about, from the deeply southern greens of
City Barbecue, the sour-creamy mac & cheese at Hoggy's or the
fried pickles and onion rings found at Pig Iron.

THE BIG WINNER: Chef Hartmut Handke, Proprietor of one of
Columbus's finest restaurants, Handke's Cuisine, is also one of
America's most accomplished chefs, holding more culinary gold
medals than any other US chef. He's also the only American ever
to win the Gold Medal at Bocuse d'Or. His ever-changing menu
focuses on locally produced meats, vegetables and herbs,
featuring what's fresh and in season. A significant story in his
own right, Handke is a favorite with foodies and writers alike.

WORKS OF ART FROM THE OVEN: In 1991, Stan and Gigi Wielezynski
moved to Columbus from France to bring the city authentic French
breads baked in wood-fired ovens of their bakery restaurant, La
Chatelaine. Today their breads are baked fresh daily according
to traditions of the old masters and are among the best in the
Midwest; so light and delicate they should be eaten the day
they're baked. Napoleons, macaroons and tarts are unforgettable.
Yet another incredible bakery, Mozart's Caf, was the dream of
Anand and Doris Saha's, who bring world-class old-world-style
pastries, croissants and tortes to the city, crafted by
European-trained chefs. Mozart's beautiful marzipan peach wins
awards and acclaim for being as lovely as it is delicious.

WHAT A CONCEPT: Columbus has a long history of being fertile
ground for restaurant start-ups and new concepts, including
being the home of thriving chains like Wendy's, Max & Erma's,
Donato's and White Castle. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants has
become one of the city's great dining success stories. Launched
in 1993 with one location by restaurant wunderkind Cameron
Mitchell, Mitchell's company now has 27 restaurants in seven
states and sales that exceed $100 million. Cameron Mitchell
Restaurants has grown to feature nine very different concepts,
including Mitchell's Fish Market, Mitchell's
Steakhouse/Cameron's Steakhouse, Cameron's American Bistro,
Columbus Brewing Company, Cap City Diner, Martini Italian
Bistro, The Ocean Club, M and Molly Woo's Asian Bistro.

Columbus is a city unlike any other. Vibrant and alive, Ohio's
Capital city is known for its unique style: an uncommon blend of
neighborhoods, events, attractions and accommodations. Free
visitors guides, maps, on-line booking and complete information
about visiting Columbus are available from Experience Columbus,
formerly known as the Greater Columbus Convention & Visitors
Bureau, by calling 1-866-EXP-COLS or visiting
www.ExperienceColumbus.com., or www.MyOhioTravel.com

Pigeon Forge Hotels

Hotels are a large component of Pigeon Forge lodging. As with
any major tourist destination, there is a wide array of hotels
to choose from. There are local independent hotels as well as
well known national chains. The prices for a night range from
under a hundred dollars to several hundred. Budget conscious
travelers will be able to meet their needs with more a
economical Pigeon Forge lodging and visitors with more money to
spend can stay in a lavish hotel like the new Belle Island
Village, which features attractions like Debbie Reynolds\'
Hollywood Motion Picture Museum.

Several major hotel chains have accommodations in Pigeon Forge.
These lodgings provide all of the comforts and amenities that
travelers would expect from successful hotel franchises along
with the down home charm of Pigeon Forge. Most Pigeon Forge
lodging is conveniently located around town, so all travelers
will have quick, hassle-free access to all of the attractions
that the town has to offer, like the Great Smoky Mountains
National Park, the numerous outlet malls, the unique
restaurants, and the Dollywood theme park.

Some travelers will want to stay in a locally owned Pigeon Forge
lodging like the River Gate Inn. These independent
establishments often offer a more unique experience than a
standard national chain. Visitors should be aware that money
spent at locally owned establishments stays in the local
economy, while money spent at lodgings owned by corporations may
not stay in Pigeon Forge, but may be used in other parts of the
country.

Hotels in Pigeon Forge provide many of the comforts of home
within walking distance of major tourist attractions. With the
literally hundreds of hotels available, all visitors will find
the accommodations they are looking for.

Artists culture of art Baguio City Philippines

To Baguio City Artists,

Art will remain the most astonishing activity of mankind born
out of struggle between wisdom and madness, between dream and
reality in our mind.\ Magdelena Abakanowicz. It is not
surprising that Baguio City has produced a fine crop of Artists,
whom through their trail and error, have persisted in finding
beauty, expressing pain, compassion and insight into filipino
culture. Baguio has an underlying essence of Art and Cultural
traditions that has gone on through the years of our existence.
Sitting there staring at one particular painting, this is what I
saw: Little children huddled up in the dark, mouths open,
screaming; their hands covering their ears with an absolutely
terrified look in their eyes. It was almost as if the painting
itself was screeching and screaming. I have never in my entire
life seen art with such desire and emotion flooding off the
canvas. Clean strokes and simple features of the children are a
subtle emphasis of human characteristics. This painting held a
realism, but had an unimaginable quality of the expressed fear.
This is but one of the many paintings done by talented Filipino
Artists. In a culture that by the outside world is considered so
poor, we as a cultural are rich in our artists; as they are
bringing back awareness into our communities. They continuously
raise social, political and cultural issues that demand
attention. And for this I thank you. Thank you for allowing the
world to again appreciate the happiness despite the poverty. To
appreciate again the hardworking woman and the caring father. To
appreciate the nonsensical off-key voice of the local karaoke
bar singer. To find appreciation in all aspects of our culture
and to finally lift this veil of poverty we hold over our heads.
You see it in the display, the strokes, the thickness, in the
colors, in the expression, spaces, shapes, and tones. Art is not
a piece of literature that you read with your eyes, but it sets
a tone, an emotional expression that relates to some part of
you. It speaks louder than words read off a page. And it says:
Listen. Listen to what the Philippines is saying. This is what
the people are saying. And as I listen I have great expectations
and predictions for this unveiling. Baguio city is full of
voices speaking through their art. These aspiring artists can
submit their work to rballungay@webcoastdesign.com A multitude
of artwork can also be found specifically in the village, but
it\'s very easy to find paintings in local coffee shops, and
cafes throughout the entire city. You can learn more about the
community of Baguio City at www.baguiodirectory.com To all the
Baguio Artists, keep the art flowing and Thank You! Live for art
and in Art Every great work of art has two faces, one toward its
own time and one toward the future, toward eternity. Daniel
Barenboim Lynn Kalashian

A Buyers Guide to Motor Scooters

Motor scooters have come a long way over the past 80 years. They
have evolved into a popular and cheap form of travel all over
the world. Would a motor scooter fit your needs?

Motor scooters are vehicles with small wheels and a low-powered
gasoline engine geared to the rear wheel. The first patents for
foot powered scooters date back to 1921. Up to that time there
were no motors attached to the scooter. They were propelled by
foot power.

The old-fashioned foot-powered push scooter was updated to a
Razor motor scooter under the direction of Gino Tsai, whose
father was a mechanical engineer for the J. D. Corporation in
Shanghai, Taiwan. His motor scooter took about 5 years to design.

Gino Tsai claims that the reason he invented the Razor motor
scooter was due to the fact that his father had to walk for
miles every day around the huge bicycle factory that he worked
for because of his short legs. To solve this problem he updated
the old-fashioned push scooter into what we now know as the
modern Razor motor scooter.

When Gino finished the development of his motor scooter he began
to market it to the public. It quickly became a huge success
with customers waiting as long as six months for their orders.

Why was the Razor motor scooter so popular? The Razor scooter
was made from lightweight airplane grade aluminum which can
support over 1000 pounds without bending. It is foldable, which
means it can be stored in very small places. It has small
polyurethane wheels and a low-powered engine. Braking is
activated by stepping down on the rear fender.

Today there are many different brands and models of motor
scooters. We have electric scooters and gas powered motor
scooters. They are very versatile and functional, serving many
different purposes. They are patterned after motorcycles, but
have smaller wheels, lower-powered engines and can be stepped
through, unlike the motorcycle.

The most commonly seen style of scooter is the folding, or
foldable, scooter. These are two-wheeled models that are
typically used for traveling short distances around the
neighborhood. Braking occurs when the back fender is stepped on,
putting pressure on the back wheel and stopping its movement.
This type of motor scooter is made for kids or adults and can
also be used to perform tricks on. It is very compact in size
and can be folded for storage in small places.

A unique feature of freestyle folding motor scooters is the
kicktail, a portion of the foot deck that extends over the
back wheel. This is what provides the leverage for performing
tricks. Motor scooters with kicktails are called freestyle
scooters and usually have hand brakes due to the fact that the
back fender allows for the performance of tricks instead of
braking.

Electric scooters are generally bigger and heavier. Because of
the extra weight they consume more power and can only go shorter
distances when compared with the folding scooters. After about
10 or 15 miles it may be necessary to recharge the battery.

These electric, or battery-powered, motor scooters are often
used to travel short distances around the neighborhood or
perhaps on a school campus or other confined environment. They
are particularly popular among the elderly, handicapped and
disabled. Instead of being confined at home these elderly or
handicapped people can now have some of their former
independence returned to them. Motor scooters of this type are
usually called mobility scooters.

Gas powered motor
scooters are usually more powerful and can attain higher
speeds than the folding scooters or electric scooters. They can
also travel longer distances when a larger fuel tank is
included. Gas scooters may not be permitted in some areas so it
is wise to check out the laws and regulations in your area
before purchasing a motor scooter.