World Of Tourism

I read this a couple of days ago, stating that the Government was likely to propose partial privatisation of the country's 42 major airports and that Murcia-San Javier, very dependent on low-cost carriers from the UK and restricted in its operations because it must share the facility with military aircraft which fly from there, may be one of the most quickly affected by the need to adopt a new

Idaho has been listed as one of the most affordable travel destinations. Triple A Idaho's 2008 edition of Annual Vacation Costs survey, Idaho is the 16th least expensive states to visit. Triple A Idaho's Dave Carlson calls Idaho a "cheap date", with travelers factoring in record gas prices and oustanding outdoor recreational opportunities and scenic attributs. Idaho is a "decent" travel destination right in our backyard. The survey says two adults can expect to pay just under 200 dollars a day for lodging and meals in Idaho.

source:http://www.670kboi.com/Article.asp?id=762237&spid=18042

Shangri-La of legend, novel and classic film is a real place, the Kathmandu Valley in the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal. This tiny country next to Tibet is home to Mount Everest and much more. From arts and handicrafts tours to trekking and mountaineering, the Himalayan kingdom has something for every traveler.

All Nepal adventures start with the flight into Tribhuvan airport in Kathmandu. Spectacular mountain views give way to green, terraced hillsides and small villages of thatched homes as the plane makes it's rapid descent. Immigration and customs clearance are easy for tourists; visas are issued automatically on arrival for $30.

Expeditions and tours start from Kathmandu, so you'll need a base and a chance to recover from the long flight. The Yak and Yeti hotel, next to the Royal Palace, is close to shopping and the old city. If the Yak and Yeti's $200 rates leave you wooly-headed, there are many options, from $2 per night guest houses to comfortable hotels for less than $100. Even if you don't stay at the Yak and Yeti, stop for an exotic drink in their lovely garden or a roll of the dice at the Casino Royale. The Raj lives on too at high tea every afternoon in the lobby.

Walk into the old city of Kathmandu along a street that was the ancient trade route from India to Tibet. The city grew up around traders' stalls lining that route, and the market is still in full swing. Fruit, flowers, spices, medicines, metal wares, silk and pashmina, incense, jewelry and more - the 2,000 year old bazaar churns with activity.

The bazaar opens into a complex of palace buildings, enormous temples, and interconnected open plazas. The old Palace Square rivals the best Venice can offer for elegance of design, baroque complexity, and majesty. But here the materials are simple brick and plaster, with elaborately carved wood. Every exposed wooden surface is carved with animals both mythical and real, flowers, religious symbols and gods and goddesses.

The house of the Kumari, Nepal's virgin goddess, faces the palace. A small girl is chosen by elaborate rituals, and Nepalis believe the king's personal goddess enters into the girl. From then until she reaches puberty she is treated as a deity. Each fall she confers on the king the right to rule for another year. In 1955 the then-Kumari dozed off during the ceremony, then blessed the crown prince by mistake when she awoke. Later that year the king died and the crown prince ascended to the throne.

North of the Palace Square, 15 minutes walk or a one-dollar rickshaw ride away, is Thamel, the trekkers and tourist neighborhood. Thamel resembles Harvard Square or The Haight, but on a dizzyingly vast scale. There are literally thousands of small shops selling handicrafts, clothing, expedition gear, music and much more. Mixed among the shops are hundreds of restaurants catering to every taste from Korean to Kosher, and scores of budget hotels and guesthouses. Darbar Marg, two blocks west is Kathmandu's High Street, a neighborhood of expensive, classy shops and hotels, including the Yak and Yeti.

In medieval times there were three great cities in the Kathmandu Valley. One of them, Bhaktapur, was mercifully spared from being "developed". It is a few miles from Kathmandu, but centuries away. Bhaktapur moves to the same rhythm it has for a thousand years. The craftsmen and farmers you will meet are doing as their families have for dozens of generations. In Bhaktapur the festivals and traditions are so old that people say the gods created them.

Pashupatinath temple complex is the holy-of-holies to Nepal's Hindus, and the destination for many Indian pilgrims. The dead are cremated here, and their ashes are cast into the holy river. Here too pilgrims cleanse their sins by bathing in the same river. The central shrine, off-limits to those who are not Hindu, has a spectacular temple with a giant golden bull kneeling in worship. The riverbanks and surrounding hills are littered with sculptures rivaling any museum's Asian art gallery.

Most visitors head out of Kathmandu for other adventures. Jungle safaris from two to four days feature elephant-back expeditions to watch wildlife, and jungle walks with naturalists. Accommodations are rustic but pleasant, with attached baths, all meals and a well-stocked bar. Older children are welcome for all activities, and one lodge has a separate facility for families with younger children, with a pool, ponies, and special activities.

Nepal is the most vertical country in the world, and the whitewater rafting is superb. There are one and two day trips and longer expeditions. Rafting companies provide all equipment and training, and professional guides. You can combine a short rafting trip with mountain biking, a bungy jump, or the new sport of canyonning, a combination of rock climbing and tubing through river gorges and pools.

Today even an armchair lover of the mountains can see them up close. Every morning the Mountain Flight takes people up for an hour of Mount Everest and the entire central Himalaya from 17,000 feet. For many it is the highlight of their trip.

Trekkers visit Nepal's countryside, a timeless world where the rhythms of life and of walking bring peace. There are dozens of routes, and programs to fit anything from a couple of days to several weeks. Trekking agencies will arrange your trek in advance; most offer group programs, but the better outfitters can make individual arrangements, even for one or two people. Trekking costs vary from $40 per day to more than $100 per day.

For those brave few who climb mountains, the Himalayas are the ultimate. But even beginners can climb a "small" 20,000 foot peak here. The great mountains are a different matter. Even though purists now scoff at the "tourist trail" to the top of Everest, it is still difficult, dangerous and all too often deadly. But with eight of the ten highest mountains in Nepal - and hundreds of peaks taller than the Rockies - there is no shortage of alternatives.

Visitors to Nepal should make arrangements in advance with a good agency, either international or Nepali, and stay informed. The US Government Department of State has information sheets for all countries, and many Nepali newspapers are available on the internet.

Kathmandu's temperature is mild, 35-60 degrees in Winter, 60-85 degrees during the long Summer. Short-term visitors need to pack only the essentials and clothing appropriate to the season. Trekkers will need warmer clothing; it is always cold at high altitudes. All clothing and supplies are available in Kathmandu.

Nepal's culture, history and the world's greatest mountains are amazing and one of the best tourism values on the planet. And Nepal's warm, hospitable people truly make it Shangri-La, the timeless land of tranquility, wisdom, and peace.

source:http://newsblaze.com/story/20080623222855chil.nb/topstory.html

The Dreamland Bali Villas is located on the hilltop of Uluwatu within 25 minutes drive from the international Ngurah Rai airport in Bali. The villas are elegantly on the cliff top overlooking the spectacular view of the Indian Ocean. Jimbaran Beach, Nusa Dua Bali Beach and Golf Club is about 15 minutes drive from The Dreamland Bali Villas.The Dreamland Villas have been designed in the traditional

Ngurah Rai Airport first built at 1931 within the grassfield near the graveyard at Tuban Village. In 1941-1947 some renovation made to this Airport, the area was enlarge until 45 x 1600M, and rename it as Tuban Airport, because this airport located in Tuban. The building and some other flight facility first built at 1949. The international flight service began to operate at 1959, and get the

Experience this amazing, natural phenomenon which us caused by the rising of a full moon reflecting off the exposed mudflats in Roebuck Bay, Broome, at extremely low tide thus creating a beautiful optical illusion of a golden "staircase to the moon".

This occurs in Broome during the months of March to October each year. Best Of The Kimberley has created a 5 day/4 night package for March, April, May & October 2008 to coincide with the 'staircase' dates, including accommodation at The Mangrove Resort Hotel, which is one of the best vantage points in Broome to view this event.

Call our freecall number 1800 450 850 or visit Best of the Kimberley for more details.

Rhodes is the only short haul destination in the top ten of the 2008 Traveller’s Choice Destinations Awards, winning the accolade for highlights ranging from the largest inhabited Medieval town in Europe, located in the island’s capital, to more rural attractions such as the Valley of the Butterflies. One of the tourist hotspots is Lindos, a beautiful town with a beach overlooked by an ancient castle.

The type of property available on the island is hugely varied, ranging from modern apartments in more touristy areas to traditional villas in the smaller villages and towns. Property in Lindos is among the more expensive on Rhodes, but rental returns are also likely to be higher here than in other areas.

However, when compared to other European countries, prices still seem low. According to the Buy Association a small newly-built apartment in the area can be found for under £70,000, while a two-bedroom detached villa on a small development of 20 houses will cost around £150,000 off-plan.

Meanwhile, a one-bedroom apartment on the island rents out for an average of £256 per week, making Rhodes the perfect place to buy a holiday home to let.
source:http://www.homesworldwide.co.uk/europe/greece/news/articles/rhodes_voted_top_destination_in_europe?news_id=0070234

I shall be away for a few days, in and around Glasgow - visiting gardens, museums and art galleries - call it 'domestic tourism'; I'm looking forward to it. I'll be back late on Friday so may get a chance to write here again during the coming weekend.

Bali Matahari Hotel Kuta located just a few meters from Kuta beach, and it's near the shopping center in Kuta. Especially in Legian street, it's located near the Hard Rock Cafe. It's about 20 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport. This hotels style combined modern and Balinese traditional style of building combined with it's tropical garden make this hotel keep cool and nice to stay.There are some type

When it comes to Rajasthan Train Tours, Palace on Wheels features the very best that India offers. Embark on a journey back in time, of peacefulness, tranquility, adventure, culture, cuisine... an unforgettable sojourn, all made possible for you on this superb luxury train.

Since its beginning in 1982, the guests of the Palace on Wheels have received service above the ordinary with an experience which was unashamedly romantic and adventurous. To this day the travelers expect nothing less. This is a journey which should only be embarked upon with the highest of expectations. The train provides an opportunity to explore the centuries, to appreciate the history and culture of Rajasthan without missing the features and details of the passing landscapes and enjoying all the on board comfort and state-of-the-art facilities one could ask for.

Rajasthan is one of the most vibrant and historically and culturally rich states of India. The history of Rajasthan is all bravery and chivalry of the Rajputs. Their tales of gallantry and valor are part and parcel of the Rajasthan culture. Their passion for buildings and architecture is manifest in the myriad of magnificent palaces, forts, havelis and temples that speak volumes about history and heritage of the state.

The Palace on Wheels is an effortless way to experience Rajasthan at its best. The spectacle of Rajasthan's great wilderness will take your breath away. This Rajasthan Train Tour is truly worthy of kings, not surprising the experience is labeled as the Palace on Wheels. In a series of trips, the train links some of Rajasthan's greatest destinations including Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambore, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Bharatpur and Agra, before culminating the journey to New Delhi. The itinerary covers the very best attractions of North India from Jaisalmer at the tip of Rajasthan to the pink city Jaipur, from scenic splendors as diverse as the bird sanctuary of Bharatpur to the sleepy villages of Jodhpur, from the desert landscapes of Chittorgarh to sparkling lakes of Udaipur and the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra. During your cruise you will experience the fascinating history and spectacular scenery, exotic wildlife, the beautiful heritage havelis, palaces and forts, desert villages and rippling sand dunes.

The train combines the luxury of five star hotel with the charm of train travel. The Maharaja and Maharani dining cars receive only accolades for their connoisseur selection of Rajasthan cuisines. The food served during the sojourn puts sheer good taste on a plate while gracious hospitality puts you on a pedestal. With 14 coaches named after former Rajput princely states, with spacious cabins, the passengers on board the Palace of Wheels have plenty of space, time and encouragement to do as they please. One can enjoy the company of others, recline idly with a favorite book or simply watch through the window which unfolds new vistas of passing beauty.
Source:http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/65262

The Ramayana Resort & Spa has changed its face ... what a pleasant surprise! Even this resource is at the heart of Kuta guests feel like being in a haven of tranquility amid a tropical garden blooming among them a small water garden. You can choose from 6 different categories and all types of rooms to meet the various demands and preferences of our valued customers.Most so far is our newest Club

Through an interesting article at ThinkSpain, comes a link to an online archive of more than 3,000 photographs 'comprising the so-called 'Rojo File' which documents life in Madrid during the Spanish Civil War', and which has just been made available by the Ministry of Culture here.As is indicated in the ThinkSpain article, the 'Rojo File' was used both for anti-Fascist propaganda purposes and

Bangladesh, land of enchanting beauty, is endowed with almost all the natural potentials to attract tourists. All her six seasons vibrate with fairs, festivals, mirth and merriment. All riverine beauty, colourful tribal life and simple village life of the friendly millions are main motivational factors for the potential visitors.

Though one of the world's small countries, Bangladesh boasts of certain world class attractions and assets. Bangladesh offer ample opportunity to tourists for rowing, angling, jungle trekking, sun and sea-bathing and above all to be in and amidst the pristine nature. Bangladesh is heir to rich cultural legacy.

In 2000 or more years of its chequered history, many illustrious dynasties of kings and Sultans have ruled and disappeared and left their mark in the shape of magnificent cities, monuments, the desolate ruins which are still visible in places throughout the country. The archaelogolical treasures of Mahasthangarh, Pahapur Buddhist Vihara, a world heritage site and Salbana Vihara at Mainamati and sixty-domed grand mosque at Bagerhat, also a world heritage site, World War-ÐÐ cemetery at Comilla, Kantaji's temple of Dinajpur, the Hindu temples of Chandranath at Sitakund, Adinath at Mahashkhali, Sonargaon and Dhakeshwari in Dhaka bear testimony to its devotional past.

Most outstanding places in Bangladesh also include Cox's Bazar Beach, Dhaka, Kaptai, Chandanpura mosque, Kuakata, Rangamati Lake, tribal life, Sylhet Tea Garden and wildlife of Sundarbans. Other places of tourist attractions are Shilaidaha Kuthibari(Kushtia, a memory place of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore), Sagordari in Jessore, Mujibnagar memorial, Gandhi Asram, Jamuna Bridge, Trishal and Sri Chaitanya Temple.

Above all, simple and friendly people of Bangladesh along with its tribes isolated from modern society by their own distinct culture and way of life make Bangladesh a distinguished and unique attraction for tourists. Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC), national tourism organization of the country, has renovated the existing tourist facilities and created new facilities at important tourist spots.
More...
Sorce:http://nation.ittefaq.com/issues/2008/06/16/news0529.htm

Kuta Paradiso Hotel reviewKuta Paradiso was Located in heart of downtown Kuta, Southhern peninsula Bay Peninsula, Kuta Paradiso was a luxurious five-star hotel, set in lush of tropical garden and near from the famous Kuta Beach. A combination of luxury and 243 superior rooms and suites are arranged in two wings in front of a large lobby and provides a comfortable, tasteful overlooking the ocean

The following is based on a story in TRAVEL IMPACT NEWSWIRE - Edition 48, Friday, June 13, 2008 - by Imtiaz Muqbil, Executive Editor, in Bangkok. Unfortunately, this newsletter is only available by email and it is not possible to view it on a website. The title of this particular story was: India Says Travel Advisories Should Go.However, the story was really excerpts from a speech given by the

A further 14 people have been arrested in Spain on charges of corruption of minors and of child pornography, one of whom is a resident of Murcia. The arrests are part of 'Operation Diana'. Investigations continue into 20 additional suspects.Whilst the operation is being managed by the Civil Guard in Córdoba, the investigation currently involves 21 provincial Civil Guard forces with more

Buleleng Sub Province

Almost of the North Bali area is stated as the part of Buleleng government. Within this statement Buleleng becomes most wide area among the Bali sub region. Lengthwise boundary of mountain in the east-west as long as mid of Bali is including into region of Buleleng. Hence, Buleleng is complete part of region which has mountain, continent, and sea in the north of Bali islands. Even though Buleleng have wide region in Bali, some regions of Buleleng is dry area especially in mountain area of east or west Buleleng.
Natural condition which owned by Buleleng make this area cannot rely on wet land agriculture. But this situation exactly bring Buleleng as plantation area which produce fruits like orange, clove, and coffee in mountain area, while as long as seaboard is producer of tobacco and grape.
Looks like with south Bali areas, Buleleng also have a role in past time when the expedition period of Javanese hero ‘Palapa Wira Gajah Mada’ huddle up Bali. Ancient village like Sembiran, Julah, and other village around proves that north Bali region do not miss to influence the journey of ‘Bali history’. The power of Ki Gusti Panji Sakti can reach east Java territorial. Various temples alongside of north Bali, start from Payogan Prapat Agung Temples, Pulaki Temple, Ponjok Batu Temple, until Candi Gora Temple indicate that north Bali is important shares of journey from dharma in the past. Moment of Dutch colonization, Buleleng regional is even viewed as strategic point by Dutch to start to movements master Bali. Regional eight empires in Bali, including Buleleng, which have tied in agreement of Paswara Asta State isn't it by Dutch exactly from strength of north Bali in Buleleng area. In the year of 1846 Buleleng dropped in venomous encounter that known as War of Buleleng. Dutch presure continues catch up War of Jagaraga in the year 1849 ascertaining Buleleng was fully mastered Dutch.
The Journey of Bali from time to time till third millenium era have brought also induce to region of Buleleng to partake to act in the world of tourism. Seaboard as long as north Bali, especially area of Lovina and Kalibukbuk, is dwelling area potency of wisata had by Buleleng. As a whole, various artistic heritage of culture Buleleng have rather differing from individuality of artistic coloured with South Bali area culture.

Banyuwedang Hot Spring

Banyuwedang hit spring stem from hot wellspring emerging along the beach. This hot spring located under water when high water began. This place stated as the biggest hot water source, peacemaker concrete building made in the form of functioning circle as dam, so when the water high began the hot water not mixed with sea-water. This hot water containing much of brimstone with the average of temperature reached 40 degree of celcius.
Because the water containing of high brimstone, this hot water trusted able to heal disease and it well known until to Java islands because of the amazing hot water can heal some diseases especially skin disease. It was not surprised if many incoming people to this place want to get chance to recover the disease. The coast where located on this hot water source grows by mangrove crop preventing coastal abrasion. It can be told that Bayuwedang is free from abrasion.
The existence of bay and some white sands around it add tourism asset around Banyuwedang. Banyuwedang hot water is located in Pejarakan village district of Gerokgak 60 km from Singaraja town, in the side of West Bali National Park. In the south of roadway which direct to Banyuwedang, hot water become the part of National Park area, while in the northside of it, is the area of Batu Ampar which consist of chalky land. Batu Ampar area by the local goverment of Buleleng have been planned as new tourism object, considering it having the big of fascination potency, among others, is the existence of Sea Garden around Menjangan island. Road Street that used go to Banyuwedang hot water with majors roadway of Singaraja-Gilimanuk have been hardened, that way also have been woke up by parking facilities. In hot water source which embanked to be to be woke up by adding a building with a few bathrooms closed. In Banyuwedang hot water area there are also some facilities of toilet woke up by West Bali National Park, and some places for shelter.

The council of the municipality of Mazarrón has introduced new beach regulations which will prohibit walking animals (i.e. dogs), setting bonfires, lighting barbecues on beaches or fishing from beaches, with fines ranging from €750- to €3,000- for infractions. The aim is to improve the experiences of bathers and holiday-makers.There are a number of other classes of activity that are similarly

There is two large ground in Denpasar, which is Renon and Puputan Badung. The name of Renon or Badung taken from where the field was located, but usually at the morning or evening Renon have more visitor from people who want to excercise and also just want to relaxing. Jogging Track in Renon was built for people who want to excercise either in the morning or evening.Renon usually crowded of

Located only 1.5km from Kununurra's town centre, The Kimberley Grande's rooms reflect the character of an Australian outback homestead whilst boasting contemporary style and comfort.

Featuring cool polished floors, graced by cattle hides, artwork by prominent indigenous and regional artists, an abundance of natural light and wide verandahs, the mix of colours and textures in all rooms creates a calm and restful atmosphere. The hotel features an Irish Bar and Bistro, Sports Bar and A La Carte restaurant.

Facilities also include a swimming pool, guest laundry, complimentary parking and luggage storage. Complimentary airport transfers.

Contact Best of the Kimberley for rates and bookings.

Very big city dweller dreams of going somewhere to forget about traffic jams, hordes of people and buildings of concrete and glass. Top 6 list of most serene places on Earth where people can find peace and calmness.

Top 6 places of paradise on Earth

1. Island Tristan da Cunha
The world’s remotest island, Tristan da Cunha, is situated in the South Atlantic Ocean, 2,800 kilometers west of the Republic of South Africa. Here you can really stay alone – the only inhabited island is home to 300 people, and there are 400 tourists annually at most. There are no regular flights to this lost world. One can get there only by fishing boats from the Republic of South Africa. Here you will find an unusual volcanic terrain, hospitable islanders and no criminality at all.

2. Cotswolds, England
The Cotswolds hills in the county of Gloucestershire are pastoral villages with shell houses, romantic manors mantled with roses and honeysuckle, old churches and pubs. Even Englishmen call it “the most English England.” Supermodel Kate Moss likes to stay at the luxury Cotswolds House Hotel in Chipping Campden.

3. Kauai, Hawaii
It is the least-developed and the most beautiful island of Hawaii, one of the most humid places on Earth with exuberant green vegetation. The island is enframed with 43 white-sand beaches with palm-trees. The now extinct volcano, Waialeale, rises to a height of 1,600 meters in the centre of the island. Kauai attracts tourists, surfers and hippies from across the globe. The island cuts through the famed one-kilometer-deep Waimea Canyon for 23 kilometers. The Nepali Coastline is very spectacular with its cliffs going vertically into the sea.


4. Algonquin Park, Canada
It is the National Park in Southern Ontario, just a three-hour drive from Toronto. There are only several log-cabins and camping-grounds. The rest of the territory (200x200 kilometers) is a wild forest with age-old pines, lakes gleaming with plentiful trout, rash rivers and picturesque volcanoes. One can go for a walk, fishing and canoeing.

5. Thornybush Game Reserve, South Africa
The Thornybush private reserve adjourns to Kruger National Park and takes 11.5 thousand hectares of the plain covered with thick bushes. In the lap of wild nature there are luxury tents with viewing decks where the old-world colonial atmosphere is recreated. The viewing decks offer a wonderful view of safari where you can see elephants, lions or leopards.

6. Isla Vieques, Puerto Rico
After the U.S. Navy left the Caribbean island Vieques, just six miles off the coast of Puerto Rico, the island restored its serenity. There are still thick forests and kilometers-long white-sand beaches.

Source:http://newsfromrussia.com/business/finance/105315-1/

The world teaches you certain lessons pretty quickly when travelling solo. Some of these come easily, especially through talking with experienced travellers - whose knowledge can be a valuable (although not always reliable) resource.

But other times you find things out the hard way. Experiences like desperately chasing after your bag as it's driven off on a random rickshaw, spending hours queuing for train tickets, or holding your head in your hands when you realise that you've been screwed over teach you the basics very quickly.

To help you avoid the worst panic-attacks travelbite.co.uk blogger Nick Claxton brings you some top tips for stress-free solo travels:

You will stand out, no matter what

There may be thousands of ex-pats in Singapore but I'm still conscious that most locals can tell I'm a tourist. In Nepal and India, there is no question of slipping by unnoticed.

It's important to accept that you'll attract stares or be approached by enquiring strangers.

Sometimes it can feel claustrophobic - and I imagine it's twenty times worse for women - but getting angry or annoyed will not make it any better.

Make as big a scene as possible if you feel threatened but try and shrug these things off until that line has been crossed.

bag may be a burden, but make it a light one

Your rucksack is impossible to miss, and sometimes you're incredibly aware of this fact. But instead of thinking that it makes you a target, its best to view it as an annoyance.

Too much fuss over your bag is only likely to attract attention to it. Pack nothing that you would sorely miss and then treat your rucksack with something approaching distain.

I've found this makes other people view it in the same way – this means I can stop worrying about it being nabbed and enjoy myself a lot more.

Pack light, but bring one luxury item

It may be bulky, impractical and responsible for the bruise developing on the top of my head after repeatedly falling from overhead compartments, but my guitar is one of the best things I'm carrying with me.

Try to keep everything else to the minimum but if possible bring something that's a luxury.

It might make no sense to bring along your prized chess set, a clarinet, or even your laptop, but they can be great ways to meet people - and give you something to do whenever boredom inevitably hits on those long train rides.

your instincts

I've left my guitar in the hands of toilet attendants, been driven off to hostels in places I'd never heard of, and taken a guided city tour from a guy I soon realised was a drug dealer - all without running into any trouble.

Maybe I've just been lucky, but I put it down to trusting my instincts. I've turned away from similar situations just as readily when some red warning light flashed on in my head.

Don't feel sheepish about saying no; it can save you a lot of hassle. At the same time be open to saying yes to anything - as long as it feels right.

You'll be lonely sometimes, but it'll pass

Loneliness is the biggest, and most obvious, drawback of travelling solo. Unless you're incredibly outgoing or quickly run into someone travelling the same trip, you're unlikely to completely avoid this - especially if you are moving on regularly.

There will always be times when you're stuck by yourself, or stuck in a crowd with no-one else who understands you - which is a much worse feeling.

The best advice I can offer is to keep an upbeat, welcoming attitude and you'll soon bump into someone new to hang out with, at least until the next station.

is the hardest word

Finally, one of the hardest things I've found when travelling is deciding when to move on to the next destination.

Stay too long in one place and you can stagnate, but when you're enjoying yourself there's always the nagging feeling that you'll be missing out by leaving.

So far I've successfully followed a simple rule to solve this dilemma: If you're having fun, stay.

But when you know the next track on the hostel playlist, its time to leave - that night if possible!

source:http://www.travelbite.co.uk/feature/travel-advice/travel-tips/top-tips-solo-travellers-$1226225.htm

A change is as good as a rest' and over the coming months hundreds of thousands will take to the roads, to the skies and even to the rail tracks in pursuit of their change.

While very few people go on holiday anticipating that they won't enjoy it, there are things that make it more or less enjoyable.

Surprisingly, even the tourism industry now scientifically studies the aspects of holidays that make them enjoyable.

However, I could only identify one study that measured the impact on psychological well-being. The study, published in the Journal Of Travel Medicine in 2005, was conducted by Austrian researchers and identified characteristics that predicted the psychological health outcomes of the annual holiday.

One hundred and ninety one, mainly white-collar workers, were administered a questionnaire one week after completion of their annual vacation, evaluating five broad areas, including: physical characteristics of the holiday (eg, duration, distance travelled to reach destination, time zone, temperature, etc), structuring of the day (eg, number of meals provided, planning of the day, etc), health and social activity (eg, amount of sleep, physical activity, making new acquaintances, etc), stress during the vacation (eg, rows, health problems, etc) and, finally, the physical and mental strain of work and basic characteristics, such as age.

Subjects were asked to rate their subjective feelings of recuperation and exhaustion in comparison to before the holiday. Some of the results were unexpected and counter-intuitive. A proportion of the outcome (27pc) could be predicted by measuring the variables.

The higher the mental strain of work, the greater the feeling of recuperation. In addition, a warm temperature at vacation site, the amount of time vacationers had for themselves and for their needs, engaging in physical activity, good quality of sleep and making new acquaintances all had a positive effect.

Interpersonal conflict was negatively associated with recuperation, but only to a very small extent (two per cent), while health problems during the vacation, number of hours slept and number of meals provided had no impact.

Turning to the predictors of improvement in levels of exhaustion, only 15pc of the variance could be explained. Time-zone differences, temperature and health problems during the holiday predicted improvement but, surprisingly, the duration of the holiday and the travel time to the destination did not impact on this.

The finding that the duration of the holiday did not effect exhaustion levels might seem surprising, since it is assumed that the longer the vacation, the greater the time to sleep and unwind.

However, other leisure research has shown that the greatest improvement occurs in the first three days of holiday and peaks by seven.

On the other hand, the extent to which leisure time predicts recuperation is proof of our intuition that freedom from obligations is central to a holidays restorative value.

Surprisingly, self-determination of daily activities or some scheduling of daily activities was not related to recuperation as other studies found, but the mood-enhancing effects of physical activity and also of social interaction were clearly demonstrated in this study.
source:http://www.independent.ie/health/tips-to-ensure-a-happy-healthy-summer-holiday-1402382.html

Believe it or not, Kerala has around 20,000 Hindu temples and shrines and in almost all the villages there is at least one place of worship for Christians and Muslims.

These major and minor places of worship had contributed significantly to the development and continued maintenance of the rich cultural heritage of the state through the vibrant annual festivals.

Although some of the major festivals are known at the national and international levels, many of them are not known beyond the boundaries of the state.

The organisers of these celebrations are not publicity-conscious. As a result, the efforts to keep track of these festivals have become very difficult.

Obviously, neither the State Tourism Department nor any individual have tried to systematically bring out the detailed information on these cultural festivals till recently.

Kerala Festival Message 2008’, a directory of festivals in Kerala, edited by C A Menon, is a major work which provides detailed and systematic information about the festivals in Kerala.

The directory was first published in 2004 figuring out the details of around 1000 festivals across the state.

The latest and updated version lists out over 2500 festivals in the state in the year 2008, with eye-catching pictures to provide a glimpse of the richness of these festivals to its reader.

The latest volume also covers all the festivals beginning from January 2009 as well as major festivals next year.

The compilation is a valuable addition to the material that helps both domestic and foreign tourists to acquaint themselves with the festivals and rituals in Kerala.

Aimed at facilitating travel agents, tour operators and tourists, especially foreign tourists, to plan their programmes well in advance and to synchronise them with the festivals of their choice, the author is at present engaged in bringing out a directory of festivals in the state in the next five years shortly.

source:http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IER20080527001853&Page=R&Title=Kerala&Topic=0

Internet users may have noticed that since last Saturday a wide variety of websites and facilities have been unavailable, the result of a fire at 'The Planet' data server centre in Houston, Texas.So far as this blog is concerned this affected 'StatCounter', as its name suggests a service I use to track visitors to this site; 'StatCounter' seems now (since Monday or Tuesday) to be back to normal.

1 ONLY DEPARTURE - 19 JULY 2008. 14 Day Broome to Broome small group (max 6), guided camping tour (max. 6 passengers). 4 seats only available.

This very personal guided tour traverses the rugged Gibb River Road in the comfort of a luxury 4WD vehicle. Accompanied by your experienced and friendly guide, explore the wonders and beauty of Windjana Gorge, Tunnel Creek, Bell Gorge, Charnley River Station, Mornington Wilderness Park, Mt Elizabeth Station, Manning, Adcock & Galvans Gorges, El Questro Station, Kununurra, Bungle Bungles and Geikie Gorge cruise. End your tour with sunset drinks on Cable Beach.

Includes:Bx12, Lx13, Dx12 (incl 3 cafe evening meals), M/A teas, camping gear, entry fees, Geikie Gorge cruise. BYO beer and wine. Exclusive, reduced price of $4000 per person. (Normally $5250 per person). If you want to get away from it all contact Best Of The Kimberley on 1800 450 850 for details....be quick, these seats won't last long.

Contact Best Of The Kimberleyfor details.

No matter how many distasteful things one comes across, there are always - human nature being what it is - new things that come to light which make one wonder what makes some people tick. The latest I have come across (admittedly nothing like so horrendous as the recent revelation from Austria about a man keeping his daughter in a cellar for decades and fathering 7 children by her) gets a mention

For some years, Best Of The Kimberley has produced a range of information fliers including "Things to do in and around Broome", "Tours and Accommodation in Kununurra" and "Things to do in Broome in the summer" which have proven very useful to our clients when planning their holidays.

We have quite a range of fliers and we would be happy to send these to you. Just contact us at Best of the Kimberley

The New York Times has an article (registration may be required) today on water shortages which focusses in on the situation in Murcia, Spain. In summary the current situation is very difficult and the prognosis is for this to become a great deal worse.I wrote a couple of months ago about the shortages in one area of Spain, Catalonia, and political inter-party rivalries that seem to influence the

Bali Art Centre

Bali art centre was located on downtown of Denpasar precisely in Nusa Indah road. The art centre has named as Taman Werdhi Budaya which has huge location and used celebrate Bali Cultural Festival in every year. Designed by famous Balinese architect, Mr. Ida Bagus Tugur, this place designed based on temples and Bali imperial palace architecture. In the point this art centre separated by river which come from east to the west and divided in into four parts, such as:

1. Holy place Taman Beji Temples, Bale Selonding, Bale Pepaosan.

2. Widya Kusuma library

3. Exhibition building Mahudara, Kriya building, Idol studio, art building (wisma seni), and Wantilan.

4. Open podium Ardha Candra and Close podium Ksirarnawa.

Kuta Beach

One of the location objects that very interesting to visit is Kuta beach. May be it’s not to strange to hear the name of ‘Kuta’ Beach, very famous, exotic, beautiful waves, grates of the white sand’s and beautiful place to visit. Almost all of foreign tourism who has visited Bali does not want to lose their moment to visit this place. With all of the reason many people come to the Kuta beach. Kuta beach provide several tourism object beside the main object is the beach. This place becomes famous tourism object, since 1930’ many western tourist visiting Kuta not just to see the beautiful sunset, but they comes to see another attractive activities, likes sun bathing, swimming, surfing, and enjoy the beautiful panorama. In deed, with developed the facilities since 1970’ make this place has complete facilities. Around Kuta beach there also facilities like hotels, café, bar, pub, shopping center, traditional shop around the road, Bungy jumping, water boom and another entertain to enjoy when visiting there.

Denpasar town is the youngest town in Bali province. This town is opened on 27 February 1992. The statement of Denpasar becoming a town has pas several process which the status increasing step by step until becoming administrative town and continuous with the sub capital town. Looking from the history, this town is belongs to Badung sub province which has several important role for the Bali journey. The war of ‘Puputan Badung’ in September, 20, 1906 that entangling several sides, shown the obstinacy of Balinese peoples in maintain the honors. Denpasar town has wide area at about 12.780 ha which in the first become the states of emperor town changes to be tourism town. This place has heritage of culture from Badung sub province and becoming the tourism object. Near Denpasar town there are lot of tourism object.

Beautiful Sunset In Kuta Beach

The most famous tourism location that recently visit by the foreign or local tourist is Kuta beach, from the name it was not too strange by the tourist who ever been came to Bali. With the beautiful waves and sunset Kuta beach able to attract the visitor to come and enjoy the beautiful nature. Several tourism used the waves to play surf because of the good waves and good situation for playing surfing. In this place too, there several contest of surfing that usually held during summer time. Even it's only local contest or world class surfing contest it was very interesting to look. For the tourist who like surfing the writer suggest to visit Kuta beach, it's feel not complete if visiting Bali without coming to Kuta beach. Near this location there also several facilities like Hotels, Cafe, Souvernir Shop, and other facilities which available on Legian road side. It was not to far reach from downtown Denpasar.

Tooth Cutting Ceremonial

Tooth Cutting Ceremonial is mandatory ceremonial that should be done by Hindus people in Bali. This ceremonial is often called with Raja Sewala ceremonial by local peoples with purpose to eliminating ‘Sad Ripu’ or six enemies on human beings which covering: Kama (lust/desire), Loba (Gluttonous), Krodha (Angry), Mada (Drunken), Moha (Muzziness), Matsarya (Covet). This ceremonial has purpose to eroding Sad Ripu which on human beings. Sad Ripu symbolized with 6 (six) teeth that covering 4 (four) incisor teeth and fang teeth. This ceremonial held when the boy or girl entering teenager or growing adult, but this ceremonial should be conduct before the boy or girl married. In the special condition it can be done after married. Tooth cutting ceremonial held in house or often called as ‘Merajan’. The executor of tooth cutting ceremonial is led by priest, called by local peoples as ‘Pedande’ and helping by ‘Sangging’ (as the executor too).

The cutting teeth process is only a symbol, in the application the teeth smoothed down by tight-fist, and the teeth that only smoothed down is only six parts which drawn Sadripu (Balinese words) those teeth are four incisors and two fangs. The time which process held is only ten until fifteen minutes. The ceremonial led by ‘Sangging’ which is Hindus priest that have highest position among the priest in Hindus hierarchy.

A devoting which used in the ceremonial process is called as ‘Sorohan’ that have function to devote to the God. The next devoting are ‘Pabhyakalan Prasyatia, ‘Panglkatan’, and the device that used to cut the teeth likes: mirror, tooth sharpener, cloth for ‘rurub’ and also a jewel and ring, and bed which have been decorated.

Before the process began, the ‘Sangging’ (Hindus priest) said the superstitious formula first. On this matter the ring which used in the process is ruby ring that believed have big power to protecting the applicator from the evil. The used of the ruby is after the teeth tight-fisted then the ruby touched to the teeth as the protection symbol. Saliva which is out from the applicator mouth will be accommodated in the ivory coconut and hold by the applicators mother or blood brother. Ceremonial will be continued with praying in the family temples requesting to the God to bliss their life and return to born as human beings that clean from sin.