Travel to Cape Cod, New England

By Eugene Beal

Cape cod is one of the best places to travel in New England. If you enjoy the beach, Cape Cod is definitely the place for you. There are a lot of things to do in this beautiful, exciting and yet relaxing place. It is no surprise that Cape Cod is the former home of the 35th president of the United States.

With almost 600 miles of coastline, you can imagine that all water activities are very popular on Cape Cod. Whether you enjoy boating and fishing or just want to relax on the beach, there is in abundance of opportunity here. Cape Cod Bay is well known in Massachusetts and throughout the world as one of the planet's best places for whale watching. There are many chartered boats services for whale watching and also deep sea fishing.

In Provincetown, which is at the very end of Cape Cod, you will find Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum. This is one of the best opportunities to view the Cape. This 250 foot granite tower was built in memory of the Pilgrims landing in the year 1620. The panoramic view from atop this town is like nothing else will find on the cape, and the view is spectacular.

John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is a dedication to the 35th president of the United States and his political campaign. Here you can expect to see the life of not just a president, but a man, a husband, a son and a father who loved and called Hyannis home. You will see no truer account than what you will find here. There are many personal items photographs and much more to see. You definitely do not want to miss this.

Cape Cod has some fantastic entertainment and shopping. You also not have trouble finding a place to stay over night, or for as long as you like. Just keep in mind that during the busy season they fill up quickly, you might want to make a reservation.

Logan Airport is less than a 3 Hour drive from Cape Cod, so once your plane lands, it won't be very long before you have reached the Cape. If you choose to drive yourself, just remember, traffic can become very congested during busy season if you have the opportunity, travel when most people are sleeping.

If you'll be in the New England area, you will definitely want to visit Cape Cod. You will not want to miss out on this opportunity to get a close up look at American history, while having a fantastic time.

About the Author:

Get in your camper and go, but before you do, check out the top places to travel.

Group Halloween Costumes - Ideas For All Ages

By Matthew Hanson

Group Halloween costumes can be a great way to dress up for Halloween if you are going to a party with friends or taking a group of children out for trick or treating. If you are having difficulties coming up with an idea you can first decide upon a theme or pick a particular event or time period to chose costumes from.

If you have a daughter and she is going tick or treating with a group of her girlfriends then the Disney princesses are always a hit and you can find these costumes in any costume store. If you are short on ideas then first decide on a time period that you want to dress up from and then look for period appropriate costumes.

It is possible to make your Halloween costume from materials you have around the house. It is not necessary to spend large quantities of money on a costume you may only wear once. You can check out garage sales, your local thrift store and arts and craft stores for supplies. Have fun and be create and you will come up with a unique costume. Some of the best Halloween costumes are the ones that use a piece of cardboard and markers.

Many group costumes can be inspired form your favorite movie or television show. You and your group of friends can be characters from Batman, the Brady Bunch family if you have enough people, warriors from the movie 300, Charlie's Angels, characters from the Wizard of Oz, Spiderman characters, famous villains, Wyatt Earp, his brothers and Doc Holiday, characters from the Lord of the Rings movies, the Ghostbusters with their ghosts, Mickey mouse and company, the crew of the star ship enterprise, characters from Shrek, snow white and the seven dwarves, teenage mutant ninja turtles and many more characters from entertainment.

Cartoon characters are always popular, specifically for little kids and some great group costume ideas include Scooby doo and his gang, the Simpson's, teletubbies, your favorite superhero, the jetsons and the south Park kids as a few suggestions. From movies you and your friends can be from the Indiana Jones movies, Pirates of the Caribbean, the Nightmare Before Christmas and Sex and the City. Just pick your favorite movie and you have a group costume idea.

If you have five people you can go as a royal straight where everyone is a different card from a royal straight. You can all go as a single can in a six-pack of soda or beer. Bring along the "freak' show and have everyone dress up as a carnival act. If you love artwork then each of you can dress up as your favorite piece of art. For those adults you can all dress up in sexy occupation costumes such as a flight attendant, nurses, soldiers and French maids.

There a re specific group costumes that are tailored for kids and include characters from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate factory, the Wiggles, Peter Pan and the Lost Boys, the Rugrats, the Wizard of Oz, the Incredibles, the Power Rangers, characters from Harry Potter and the cast of High School Musical. Little kids may want to be their favorite dinosaur, a fairy, superhero or insect or animal. If you are an adult taking little children around then you can be a zookeeper with all the children as wild animals.

When dressing up as a group from a specific time period you can go as people from the sixties with tie-dyed clothing and long wigs. Dress up as the Romans or Greek or go as Egyptians. You can choose to go as famous Hollywood actors such as Marilyn Monroe, Elvis and James dean. Medieval and renaissance costumes are also popular when going out in a group.

About the Author:

Matthew Peterson owns PremiumHalloweenCostumes.com where you can find many group Halloween Costumes. Look Through them many different Halloween costumes, including infant Halloween costumes, mens Halloween costumes, unique Halloween costumes, baby Halloween costumes, even pet Halloween costumes!

Food Festival 2

By Ian Kleine

Early on, we had the fruits of summer, peach and strawberries; but this time, let's have a look at a festival for one of the western old-time favorites: buffalo wings! In Buffalo, New York, the festival is nothing but pure consumption of these hot, spicy chicken treats.

By which according to last year's statistics, almost 27 tons of chicken wings and sauce was consumed in the festival alone. Hoping that the town would break the record this year, they are inviting you, tourists, to join in the festivities. There's an admission fee of five dollars per each adult though (what? You'd think it was free?)

And speaking of hot and spicy, get this, a festival for chile! No, not con carne, but chile itself. Welcome to the Hatch Chile Festival which is held every September 5-6 (or at least a weekend, as far as I know). This tiny town of Hatch in New Mexico is practically a miner's town for the rest of the season, but when the festival times, it reaches up to more than two to three thousand who attends.

The hot desert surrounding the area complements the cuisine, as you are expected to eat a lot of these spicy winger-dingers. If spicy isn't your kind of thing, the scenery could make it up for you. You have a lot of places to visit while your friends dig in the festival.

Well, if seafood is your main squeeze, then have a go at Rockland Maine for their annual Maine Lobster Festival, held during July 29th to August 2nd. It is a lobster-lover's heaven when its festival time, which an estimated twenty thousand pounds of lobster shelled out and eaten during these five days of shellfish, lemon butter, the sea breeze and the good people of Maine. The venue is cool (beside the water), and is one New England summer festival you shouldn't miss. Eight dollars per adult for admission.

About the Author:

Why not have a hand in crafting? Why not make it worth the trip? My Fairs and Festivals. Visit My Fairs and Festivals, and see how you can do with crafts and festivals. It is an opportunity you shouldnt miss!

Saturday Morning in Monteverde

By Danierl Q. Floyd

It's early Saturday morning in Santa Elena. The local farmers market is in full force. I'd normally be there early in order to get first pick of the organic veggies. The local kids race about all through the marketplace. This morning I'm just kicking back at the house drinking coffee and making this journal entry. A bit later I'm planning on taking a yoga class and then probably going to play Ultimate Frisbee down at the school.

If your are ever in Monteverde on a Saturday morning, you should stop by the Friends School to play with us. If its raining, though, youre out of luck. Its a great way to meet the community here. Kids and adults from all over the mountain come together and get to run around and play. Its the only real exercise I get all week. Yoga doesnt really count.

Some friends from California are visiting today. They get in on the afternoon bus so theyll miss the game, but I have something even more exciting in store for them when they arrive. After leaving their bags at my place, up by the cheese factory, I am going to take them deep forest. I know some pretty good trails around here, trails that only the locals use to get from farm to farm, that cut through bits of dense jungle, with tremendous views of the Monteverde reserve.

Then, I am taking them on a zipline tour. I used to be a freelance guide for a couple of the local zipline companies, and I can think of no better way to show my friends the cloud forest. Seeing the forest from above, and having the freedom to soar over and through the canopy, was an experience that changed my life forever.. and is what has led me to live here.

To me there is something so primitive about being up so high in the trees. An instinctual fear arises at this height. These ancient trees are huge. The cloud forest is at 5000 feet.. From here the clouds race by and give you fleeting views of the pacific and of the lowland farms along the coast.

Then, you connect to another cable with your pulley and harness, and zip across to another tree platform, and youre standing in a Swiss Family Robinson/Tarzan setting, moss covered branches all around, the sound of a small creek running below, and small birds darting in and out of view From miles away you can hear the daunting call of the howler monkey.

At another platform you can see that each branch up here has a plethora of life surging on its surface. Small orchids, practically microscopic, cover large swaths of branches, and hanging moss provide a moist substrate for an array of multicolored bromeliads, each one a natural pitcher to capture the moisture in the air. Some of these provide shelter and protection for growing tadpoles.

The cloud forest is a magic place. Darkness and Light merge into a something similar to an underwater seascape. Its as if you are floating across an ocean of jungle at incredible speed, stopping at each platform to explore the endless lifescape of each parcel of jungle.. Each branch is brimming with life. Army ants, Stingless wasps, vicious toucans raid nests of blue warblers. The cloud forest offers much to be discovered.

About the Author:

Daniel Q. Floyd is an expat action enthusiast getting to know Canopy Tours , both on the coast and in the mountains. At present he is in the cloud forest, hiking, farming fungii, relaxing, and hanging around on his favorite Zip Line.

Craft Show at the Oregon Convention

By Rick Amorey

This is what the collection of craft shows at the Oregon convention is: Different groups, including some guilds, assemble crafts of all shapes and sizes. Here you'll see pottery of all sorts, handcrafted jewelry, woven fabrics, glass-blown art, woodworks, and a whole slew of other things that are eluding me for the moment.

We weren't alone in thinking that being a vendor here may be less than productive. Lots of people thought so as well; but everywhere you looked, transactions seemed to be going on. The craftspeople I happened to talk to all said that they expected this year's showcase to be way down because of the economic recession. But on that fateful Saturday, they were doing business that was equal to last year. Needless to say, they were pretty happy.

I am not exactly an avid shopper, so wandering around the booths under normal circumstances should not be attractive at all to me. That's why it's interesting to note that I've been a regular of this event for about a decade now. Why? It seems that it has something to do with the growing appreciation for the crafts themselves; something about the chain of the basic material to the talented hands that shape them appeals to me.

Various rooms of beautiful crafts both simple and complex engage the eye. I find myself tending towards certain items - bowls, glass platters, a pair of earrings for Mother's Day - all of them weigh in my mind. The balance of the material with the creativity of the craftsperson astounds me. And of course, I wonder how such items will be useful at home as well.

I like the prices of the products, too; yet another reason why I like attending these events. A lot of them are cheaper than what you're likely to find in established shops. I've said before that I'm not a fan of shopping, so I will probably not be the best judge for these things. But, even so, I like spending my money this way.

About the Author:

You will never run out of opportunities to earn when you know the schedule of Craft Shows located close to your area. Check out Craft Fairs regularly, and do well in your business like Rick Amorey!

A Highland Whisky Tour.

By Rachel Wilson

The Highlands of Scotland are home to some of the worlds most famous single malt whiskys. A visit to some of the distilleries makes for a dream holiday for the real whisky buff. The distilleries are set in some of the most spectacular and beautiful scenery in Scotland making a trip combining sightseeing with a whisky tour into an ideal holiday break.

The Dalwhinnie Distillery is the highest in Scotland. Set at an altitude of 1,073 feet, amongst some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Scotland, the lovely white walled distillery is a must. Not far from Aviemore and situated at the head of Loch Erich Dalwhinnie was once an important village where the drovers would meet up before driving their cattle to the markets of Crieff and Falkirk. On a single day in August 1723 over 1200 head of cattle passed through Dalwhinnie, in eight different droves. Dalwhinnie means "The Meeting Place" in Gaelic.

Dalwhinnie whisky owes much of its distinctive flavour to the ice cold, snow melt water of the Allt an t'Sliuc which is used in the production of the whisky. The result of this very soft water scented by the heather moorland is a wonderfully full bodied, smooth and warming malt whisky.

Not far from Dalwhinnie is the picturesque costal town of Tain, home to the Glenmorangie distillery. Made famous by the television adverts "The Glen of Tranquillity" is the most popular single malt whisky sold in Scotland itself. The distillery is in the hands of the legendary Sixteen Men of Tain. During your tour you will see these skilled Mashmen and Stillmen at work.

The centre point of the tour is the gleaming coppery stills themselves. The tallest in Scotland they stand at 16 feet 10 inches 95.14m) high. This means that only the purest, most delicate vapours are condensed into the spirit. In contrast to the very soft water used by most of the other distilleries Glenmorangie uses hard water from the Tarlogie spring. It takes almost 100 years for the water to filter up through the limestone rock to the surface and is said to be responsible for the unique taste of Glenmorangie.

Take the coast road south from Tain for a few miles and you will come to the Dalmore Distillery. Dalmore has been distilling fine, single malt whisky for many years but has not had the recognition it deserves despite being considered an exceptional whisky by the experts. Thankfully it has been gaining popularity in recent years. The distillery is located in some of the most beautiful countryside in Scotland, looking out over the Cromarty Firth towards the Black Isle.

Dalmore's still room is most unusual and forms the centrepiece of the distillery tour. The stills are unique in having cooling jackets around their necks to help conduct the spirit within. One of these jackets is probably the oldest part of any working distillery in Scotland dating back to 1874. In complete contrast the high tech still room control console looks like something from the control room at NASA!

Take the road south to Inverness and you will find the Glen Ord Distillery. This distillery is one of Scotland's oldest having been founded 1838. The distillery has won many international awards including the gold medal for the world's best single malt whisky 1994-95. The distillery puts this award winning flavour, described as a flavoursome roundness, down to a combination of the soil, the sea, the barley and its soft water. The Northern Highlands have many other distilleries that welcome the public including Blair Atholl, Ben Nevis, Clynelish, Eradour, Glendronach, Tomatin and Glen Garioch.

About the Author:

Rachel Wilson is a travel writer with a penchant for Dalmore whisky. She has written a great deal about a whole range of scotch whisky varieties and distilleries.

The Advantages Of Energy Saving Lights

By Pedro Strovalinski

Reducing the cost of energy is an issue that spans across the globe and is putting pressure on the people in power to, ultimately, stop the production of old-style light bulbs.

Although Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) have been available for many years now, interest in them has only recently begun to significantly rise.

The negative impact on the environment that's a result of the old, conventional light bulb's use is more or less the sole reason for this.

Millions of pounds have been invested by the leading lamp manufacturers into improving the performance and quality of their Energy Efficient Lamps.

The new ranges of CFL's have longer lifespans, do no flicker and work just as well through a large variety of room temperatures.

These energy efficient light bulbs of course work more effectively in every aspect of a light bulb, and are easier on the environment as well.

This type of lamp is now able to be used in nearly any domestic or commercial lighting setting. Alongside all the savings to be made on energy and maintenance, it's clear to see that energy saving lamps are the future of lighting.

About the Author:

For a full range of light bulb visit netlamps.co.uk for all your light bulb needs.

Air Flights - How To Cope With Fear Of Flying When On Holidays

By Dorothy Yamich

The fear of flying is called Aviophobia. There are millions of vacationers and business people who travel on commercial air flights as well as potential flyers worldwide that suffer from it, to a greater or lesser extent. Even though air travel is about thirty times safer than traveling by car, you very rarely hear about people that have a fear of driving. Maybe the television, radio, internet and print media contributes to this fear when they graphically cover commercial airline crashes and the subsequent large number of air travelers that are injured or perish.

Fear of flying can be started by a number of concerns such as the fear of take off and landing, the fear of crashing, the fear of heights, the fear of falling, the fear of flying over water, the fear of flying at night, the feeling of losing control causing panic attacks, stormy weather, air turbulence, hijackers or terrorists, motion sickness, claustrophobia such as the fear of being sealed in the confined space of an airplane cabin or by being packed into the small confines of the aircraft with your fellow passengers, as well as other phobias.

Some of the other symptoms of the fear of flying can be mild nervousness to extreme anxiety and panic attacks, a shortness of breath and tightness in your chest, chest pains, clammy hands, headaches, as well as nausea and vomiting.

If you think that your fear of flying is very severe, you can enroll in an intensive treatment program, However, if youre sure your fear of flying is not severe, there are some things you can do that may help to remedy this problem.

Firstly, sit in a seat that is over the airplane wings, preferably not a window seat, so you cant look down at the ground. When you sit over the wings you will also experience a smoother flight.

If you can do it, you should leave your seat belt on as much as possible. If air turbulence suddenly occurs, you will not get jarred or bounced about as much.

Eat light and try to avoid eating or drinking any food or beverage that contains caffeine, sugar, or alcohol.

It will really help a lot if you try to stay positive and always think only positive thoughts.

It may help to occupy your mind by listening to soft, soothing music on your I-Pod.

Sometimes it may help to wear eye shades and sleep if you can.

You may feel a little less stressed if you can catch flights that take off at off-peak times as there are usually fewer airline passengers to contend with.

If you are contemplating taking prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs to calm yourself down on your flight, always consult first with your family doctor or pharmacist. Keep in mind that if you are already taking prescriptions for pre-existing conditions, any new medication may interact adversely with them. Even over-the-counter drugs can be dangerous.

I have a true story that may help you with the fear of flying. A number of years ago a good friend of mine had a severe problem dealing with the fear of flying. His main fear was that he was terrified of dying in a plane crash. A funny thing is that he had absolutely no problem driving all over the country, or taking a Greyhound bus or train when he traveled on his holidays.

Fortunately he started employment selling ads for a local community newspaper near a busy international airport. As he drove around to sell advertising to the stores in the area, he constantly observed large commercial aircraft take off and land every couple minutes. He heard the deafening roar of airline engines day in and day out. Eventually he started losing his fear of flying.

He finally made a big decision to go on a vacation in Hawaii, which he had always dreamed of doing. The only problem was that he had no choice but to fly. Before he left he took out flight insurance just in case the plane crashed. He wanted to be sure he would leave something for his mom and dad if he didnt come back.

Before boarding aircraft he took one sleeping pill and hoped it would keep him calm. He intentionally booked a window seat so he was able to see where he was going and what the earth and ocean looked like from the air.

When the flight attendant asked the passengers to fasten their seat belts, he cinched his seat belt up so tight he said he thought it would break. Through the long flight to Hawaii he only removed his seat belt to go to the washroom. During the flight the only thing that really bothered him was that both his ears got plugged up and hurt a lot due to the changes in the cabin air pressure on takeoff and landing. A friendly fellow passenger suggested that he chew some gum and that seemed to solve the problem.

When he landed in Hawaii he was very proud of himself! After all those wasted years being hung up on that terrible phobia he finally broke free. All it took was working near an international airport and watching the constant flow of airliners takeoff and land to reprogram his mind.

If you happen to have a fear of flying you must try and rid yourself of this debilitating, irrational fear. I know that your life will be changed forever when you break free and allow yourself to soar with the eagles and fly anywhere in this big, wide, wonderful world that you want to.

Visit FlyingWithoutFear.com if you would like more information on how vacationers as well as business travelers can lessen their fear of flying. This helpful company offers a free online self-help course that we highly recommend you take. Its conducted by a currently flying airline captain.

About the Author:

To quickly locate and book cheap flights and luxury cruises at really great discounts, whenever you want to enjoy a romantic vacation, visit Travel Tips Guide for more info.

Take The Family On A Cruise For The Holidays

By Toni Isanetti

Take the Family on a Cruise for the Holidays

Cruises are becoming more popular each year. Whereas at one time the majority of cruise goers were elderly folks, now the clientele sailing across the world consists of all age groups. Often young people would hear about a friend having a lovely time on a cruise and dream of doing the same thing. For a long time, they felt they had to be old to go on a cruise. While it's true that many retired couples enjoy their annual cruise, many young couples are choosing to take the whole family on a cruise for the holidays.

With the economy booming more than ever, young adults as well as families are finding it easier to put aside some money each pay period for their family vacation. The prices of cruises are also much more reasonable than in the past, making them affordable to most individuals. Many cruises come in package prices offering airfare as part of the cruise package as well as lodging for when you are not on the actual cruise.

Many cruise companies or travel agencies offer cruise packages that are all inclusive, meaning everything is included in the package-food, drinks, lodging, airfare, etc. This is definitely another reason why more people of all ages are choosing to spend their holiday on a ship.

The itinerary on cruises is something else that has changed in recent years. One major complaint of cruise goers was the limited activities while aboard. Lack of spontaneity or rigid schedule was other complaints. This is no longer the case on most of the available cruises whether in Alaska or Tuscany or anywhere in between. The meals are still set schedules during the day, but the addition of snack bars, all day buffets and restaurants makes it possible to eat at your leisure.

Everyone has different interests as far as entertainment and, your choices are unlimited on the ship. The musicals and theatre performances are at a specific time each day; however, there is more than enough other entertainment for the rest of the day. Many of our kids today are computer nerds to hate leaving their computers behind. Rest assured, there are computers on the ship as well as many computer games, card games, deck tennis to name just a few.

Whether you're interested in physical activities like exercise groups or dancing, you will find more choices in one cruise than you could imagine. If you have questions, just ask your travel agent at the time of your booking. They can assure you of what you will be offered as far as entertainment. For the individual that wants to just relax, there are plenty of opportunities to do this as well. All this fun and just think of all he exciting cities you can see while cruising.

About the Author:

Toni Isanetti is publishing principally for http://www.tuscany-italy-guide.com , a web page covering information on finding a villa in tuscany . You can learn about his comments on luxury villa in tuscany and finding a villa in tuscany on his site.

#1 Adult Halloween Costume for 2009: Adult Pirate Costumes

By Alexander Malcolves, Ph. D.

Home Made Pirate Costumes are Economical

On the process of choosing what to dress up like for this coming Halloween, you may have finally decided to do something that you think is quite special in a way that you are the one who is going to make it. You may be thinking that, by making a funny home made Pirate costume, you would be able to bring a little bit of laughter to the Halloween party, and at the same time, save yourself a bit of cash. You may also look at the idea of home made from the perspective of a utilitarian and consider the act itself as geared toward the greater good . . . or maybe not!

Home Made Pirate Costumes are Personal

What's so great about an Adult Pirate Costume at home is that it becomes more personal than anything bought at the mall. Having to create your own personal work of art shows you understand where true value comes from. So, for someone who values the aesthetic as much (or more) as the sentimental value of things, you'll be able to appreciate a home-made Pirate costume more than those which were machine-made. Having a Pirate costume personally crafted also becomes an expression of your love for the creation of the item itself. With an added concept of being laced with fun, a funny home made Pirate costume becomes an extension of your unique sense of humor.

Home Made Pirate Costumes are One of a Kind

For example, if you want to put together a child Pirate costume, using the slogan "Yo Ho Ho and a Bottle of Rum!" to be worn by your kid over the course of the event, it would definitely catch a few laughs from the other ghosts and goblins, maybe even by your kid?! By doing so, not only have you let on to your sense of creativity and good nature to everyone else other than the recipient of your gift, you also have made it known among them that you have intelligence and a sense of humor!

Home Made Pirate Costumes are Perfect For Halloween!

One distinguishing idea in creating your own adult Pirate costumes is that theyre lighthearted in their own value, since they wish to bring out a smile with the adult and whoever gets to see them. Also, bear in mind that whatever you are going to create, it has to adhere to the notion that there wouldnt be any issues, especially sensitive ones which will be violated because of an incorrectly placed sword or hook. A home made Pirate costume is safe to create with the idea that it would be for Halloween use only.

Adult Pirate Costumes are Timeless!

The thing about Wench Pirate costumes, in particular, is that they're easily put together. Like any creation, any Wench Pirate costume that has been hand crafted and given to a wench is similar to giving a parting gift to the other person. The idea of giving a part of one's self to another through self-expression makes this not just ANY Pirate costume, but a priceless gift!

One thing to keep in mind when giving away a home-made Pirate costume: Trick or Treat!

About the Author:

Alexander Malcolves, Ph. D., has been a Hollywood costume createer for the past two decades and has recently promoted an online website for accessorizing Halloween Pirate Costumes. Want some really great ideas to create your own adult pirate costume? Just click on Pirate Halloween Costume.

Recycled Jewelry at the American Craft Show

By Rick Amorey

You will be delighted to know, if you are living in the Atlanta, GA area, about the American Craft Show that is a yearly event that happens around March. It is held usually at the Cobb Galleria Centre, and it's here you'll be able to find all sorts of artworks that will delight you and your friends. You might even be able to pick up very nice pieces of jewelry for your wife here.

I try to go these events whenever I am able to, and I am an advocate of such craft shows. You will see a lot of crafts that make use of recycled materials this year. Although I am more inclined to prefer traditional crafts, these items are still more or less worth a look.

Let's take the example of jewelry that I made earlier. To me, jewelry is only wearable when made from some sort of "jewelry" caliber material. I don't plan on giving my wife some materials made from twigs and discarded building materials. It may work on sculptures, perhaps; but to me, there's a difference between art and street wear.

I will note that there is one exception to my metal and gemstone rule, however. I have found very fine trinkets from Alexandra Bitner's, and she has made very fantastic and wearable pieces of jewelry. Bitner manages to make jewelry out of material many would consider to be worthless pieces of trash. And she does do it quite well, in fact.

If the concept of recycled jewelry appeals to you, or you simply want to do your part for the environment, then go to the American Craft Show held every year. And it's not just jewelry, to be fair; other works of art are made from such materials. It's not my thing, but to each his own. And if you've missed the American Craft Show, don't worry; there are other craft shows out there that you could attend year round.

About the Author:

You will never run out of opportunities to earn when you know the schedule of Craft Shows near you. Check out Craft Fairs regularly, and have a successful small business using your own talents!

How To Find The Cheapest Flights

By Clara Harrison

The most important factor when looking for the cheapest flights is to be flexible. The more flexibility you have the greater chance that you can find the most inexpensive flight for your trip. Many times individuals have difficulties being flexible because they are locked into a specific vacation time.

This can be difficult depending on your work. Instead of getting locked into a rigid vacation schedule you can ask your boss if you can be flexible with your vacation time. You will need to bring this up far in advance to when you are interested in taking vacation.

Much of this flexibility will depend on the days that you can travel as off days such as Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday will have lower ticket prices then travelling on a Sunday or Friday. When searching for flights you should look over a range of days.

Your time of departure will also affect the price of your ticket. The least expensive airfare will always be for red eye flights while leaving first thing in the morning or in the early evening will have some of the most expensive airfare. If you can be flexible about when you leave you can find some great deals on airfare.

Where you fly from can also be a factor in ticket prices. Leaving from a major airport hub, generally large cities will often have a cheaper airfare then leaving from a regional airport and then flying to the airport hub.

There are a few spots where flying from regional airports is less expensive then flying to large cities and airport hubs. You should shop around to find the best ticket price from any airport in your area.

Also taking advantage of off season fares and travel can greatly decrease your airfare cost. During off season the demand for travel to that specific destination is less so airports will have difficulty filling the plane. This leads to a decrease in airfare prices.

If you can wait for the spring or autumn then you will be able to find airfare for as much as half the price of the peak tickets. If you are a frequent traveller then you should take advantage of frequent flyer clubs, as you may eventually be able to receive a free ticket.

About the Author:

Flights.com has access to the cheapest flights out there, what are you waiting for? Book today.

The Seven Great Wonders

By Gary Ardnt

All around the world you will find historic and famous monuments. The monuments can be the creation and last remains of ancient civilizations. These sites teach us a lot about our past and the history of civilization. They need to be studied, visited, and preserved. While there are many great places in the world to see, these sires are the best and most famous.

The Taj Mahal of India is a gigantic mausoleum built under the command of Emperor Shah Jahan, which is a Muslim Moghul emperor, to honor the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It was built out of white marble and surrounded by gardens. This structure is the pride of India's Muslim art.

The Christ Redeemer statue is located in Rio Brazil. This huge statue was meant to show the hospitality and welcomness of the Brazilian people. That is why the statue of Jesus is standing with his arms wide open. This work has become symbolic of Brazil and is also one of the seven wonders of the world.

The Great Wall of China is one of the biggest structures that are visible even to an astronaut in outer space. It was built by the early people of China as a protection against the marauding Mongols. The wall took years to build and cost the lives of many, many people. It's so big you can see it from space! Up until today, most part of the wall is still intact and serves a tourist attraction. The wall is very popular with people and is easily visited from Beijing.

The Machu Picchu in Peru is a city built in the 15th century on the orders of Incan Emperor Pachactec. It was built on the mountain called Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is one of the most recognizable marks of the Inca Empire and is commonly referred to as The Lost City of the Incas. You can get up there by taking a four day hike up the very popular Inca Trail which offers beautiful views of the surroundings.

For those interested in history and culture, traveling to these places offering a rewarding experience. All of the sites here are beautiful and breath taking. These wonders of the world show that people can do anything they set their mind too, even if they lack a lot of the tools to do it. When visiting these sites, just make sure to leave only footprints so future generations of people can see them too.

About the Author:

Gary Ardnt has been traveling the world for over two years. He has visited over 40 countries and has been published in many magazines. One of his goals is to see all of the wonders of the world and loves the many wonders of japan.

Oil Painters of America: An Annual Show in Santa Fe

By Mara Hernandez-Capili

Painting makes me relax and the activity takes away all of the stress that I experience during the day. I already am well-versed through using watercolors and acrylic mediums. I would like to try out Oil painting next. As a kid I vividly remember my fondness for drawing and making artworks. This fondness I carried through during my high school years when I joined our school's Painting curriculum.

Oil painting is very different from painting with watercolors. Water color is done by mixing the cake palette with water in order for the color to flow into the brush. It is also hard to create an opaque color scheme with watercolor. It is water based and oftentimes thin and transparent. You have very little control of your colors in case of transparency since watercolor is generally quick to dry out.

Oil based acrylics tend to flow freely but can leave nasty smudges and stains on the artist's clothes. Acrylic is harder when dry and more opaque compared with watercolor. It does not flow freely compared to watercolor. Acrylics can either be water based or oil based. It is often used in large compositions since it much easier for the artist to mix and match colors using acrylics.

Working with oil paints are relatively easier for some artists who want to produce a quality painting in a short period of time. Almost all of the artists nowadays use oil paints in their compositions, a proof of its rising popularity. Oil painting is generally more preferred by artists since it is more workable and produces a more vivid and striking color palette.

Come to the Oil Painters of America in Santa Fe, New Mexico and marvel at the talents of the local artists of New Mexico.

About the Author:

Mara Hernandez-Capili is a writer and a researcher on events in Travel and Leisure. Visiting events such as craft fairs will open one's spirit on the beauty of the world beyond home's borders. If youre staying in the US, the author suggests checking out craft shows for entertainments to make your stay memorable.

Find The Best Summer Camp

By Lonnie Lorenz

If you went to overnight camp as a child you can always tell a favorite story you can still remember in exact detail, down to the smell of that pine forest. Memories of summer camp are lifelong reminders of lessons with a lifetime?s worth of value with friends you haven't forgotten. Learn how to select a Summer Camp Find a Summer Camp

Children's camp can provide a child with opportunities for never ending daily fun the way few other places can. Pure, nonstop fun would be reason enough for anyone to want to be at a sleep away camp, but resident camp offers even more to a child's unfolding life, and the best camps offer a wealth of benefits. Summer Camp

Children's camps are healthy places to be. Physical exercise is a natural part of a healthy child's life, and camp is a natural provider of constant, safe exercise. The overnight camper's intellect and imagination get plenty of exercise too.

Summer camp offers a wonderful chance for kids to learn the skills of social interaction in a more creative and independent way than school settings allow. Guided by capable adult friends and role models called counselors, campers get an independent chance to apply what they have been taught at home in a larger world. If a summer camp is a coed camp, there is even more opportunity for kids to learn how to relate with members of the other gender as friends and equals.Summer Camp

Speaking of value, given our current economy sleep away camp is easily the most affordable summer care choice available. Camp is so much more than childcare. It's a place and time for kids to gain independence, enhance their skills, make new friends and above all have fun.

Campers discover their own capacities and grow into them, setting newer and higher standards for their own behavior themselves. The camp context encourages perseverance, listening skills, teamwork, recognizing similarities and appreciating differences. A pattern of self discovery that that is uniquely nurtured and developed at camp becomes a lifelong habit.

Camp provides opportunity to rediscover a growing life. At overnight camp kids come to a new place and try new things and make new friends. Everyone starts as an equal with a chance to just be oneself around others. Summer camp is so much more than the most affordable childcare choice parents can make?

Swift Nature Camp is one of the few camps nationwide that offers a beginning camp experience only for the first time camper. Learn More at Youth Summer Camp

To learn all about picking the right summer camp visit Best Summer Camps

About the Author:

About the authors: Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz are the directors of Swift Nature Camp, is an Overnight Camp with a a non-competitive, traditional focus . Boys and Girls Ages 6-15 enjoy nature, animals & science along with traditional camping activities. Swift specializes in Adventure Camp programs for the Teenage Camper as well as a First time Camper Program.

Scholarship Grants at the ARTimation Juried Show

By Rick Amorey

Come October 29, the Illinois Institute of Art-Shaumburg will once again host the Annual ARTimation Festival. A relatively young tradition that dates back to 1999, the event presents an opportunity for students and alumni to show off the fruits of their labor on the big screen. From its humbled beginnings, the show has evolved into a juried digital arts festival.

Watch the best young talents from the field of animation compete for a chance to be included by the jury. Today, the show is expected to draw in over 3000 people from all over the country. It will showcase the work of currently enrolled students as well as recent graduates from our Bachelor of Fine Art degrees. Of course, this is all about those who majored in Media Arts and Animation, Game art and Design, Web Design and Interactive Media Design, Digital Filmmaking and Video Production, as well as Visual Effects and Motion Graphics.

The judges in the jury are from some of the most prestigious companies. Some of the names are phuzz entertainment, AREA 51, Digital Domain, Walt Disney Feature Animation, Cartoon Network, and Cryptic Studios. There are sponsors around and are commonly found in the ranks of various software and hardware designers.

Prizes vary for each category, but be sure to check out the scholarship grants that some divisions hold. Anyone can benefit greatly from a scholarship, and vying for one can be an inspiration all on its own. There will also be giveaways of the Adobe Creative Suite, which will enhance your animating experience.

Start preparing your portfolio for your submission to the ARTimation and be ready for the 29th of October! It's never too early; the best ideas may come when you least expect them, but it takes dedication and patience to animate it. You never know, you may even win one of the scholarship prizes.

About the Author:

As a craftsperson, you should always be aware of the schedule of Craft Shows located close to your area. Check out Craft Fairs as often as you can, and do well in your business like Rick Amorey!

Why so Many People are Booking a Very Last Minute Holiday to Croatia

By Robert M Freeman

Croatia is a country in the Balkans having a prosperous record. Its gorgeous landscapes and construction is making it a well-liked holiday alternative this year. In the last few years, the management has done loads to heighten tourism including cheaper flight and promotional accommodation rates as well as scattering a lot of writing about all the country.

The Croats came to the Balkans in the seventh century. In the year 1102, the Croats penetrated into unification with the Hungarian monarchy moreover in 1526 became a component of the Habsburg kingdom after a war. The lands of Croatia became a part of the Austro-Hungarian territory till the ending of World War I. At that point, the Croats, Serbs and Slovenes formed Yugoslavia in 1918, which was at that point a kingdom but be case a communist state in 1929 below Marshal Tito.

In 1991, the Croats fought four years of horrific battle in opposition to the Serbs to eradicate them from Croatian lands. Under the UN's command, the last Serb-held commune was handed over in 1998. On the other hand, upon visiting the country, you can see few bits and pieces of the war.

Croatia is a great place to visit having manifold architecture. Make sure you visit both the coastal and continental parts of the country to get the full effect. Dubrovnik has a coastal architecture and is definitely worth a visit.

You should also visit Zagreb, having a population of one million and remarkable architecture. In the east, you have to visit Slavonija (which is a region) as well as its capital Osijek and the war torn Vukovar. Throughout the countryside you will find vine yards making the tours more enjoyable.

You can simply lease a boat to witness the coastal islands along with Archipelagos. Several of the charters will abscond from Split or nearby. You will require paying fifty percent of the quantity for booking the boat with four weeks prior to your charter date.

Whilst you are renting a boat, confirm you obtain all the groceries you possibly will call for since you by no means know when the climate could be like and you could get fixed with no food on the boat. You can also order groceries from a yacht delivery service which offers no extra charges for delivery.

There are scores of escapade trips possible in Croatia. You can get cycling tours from Dubrovnik to Mljet and Hvar finishing in Split. You can furthermore do kayaking, hiking or plunging in the loads of lukewarm rivers and lakes or Level Mountain.

Finally, there are also nudist resorts, known as naturist resorts. This was the first country to start this kind of business. There are over twenty of these resorts in the country, and many nude beaches as well. Make sure you check the beaches you go to before you arrive there with children.

About the Author:

For various good deals and cheap holidays try Sunmaster

Picnic Backpack Selection Tips - For Everyone On The Go

By Patricia C Thomas

A picnic backpack can completely make or break an outdoor adventure. Whether you are taking the kids for a day of fun at the state park or want to surprise the love of your life with a romantic hike and picnic in the mountains, the experience will be more relaxing and stress free if you select the right backpack.

Depending on who will be doing most of the hauling and the amount of stuff that you want to carry on your trips, you will need to select the appropriate size of pack.

The idea of a backpack gives the illusion of something compact, but be aware that they can get quite large and bulky. Generally, they are sold in terms of the number of people going on the outing. A 2 person pack is going to obviously be more compact than a 4 person pack.

If you are purchasing this item for a child, then consider purchasing one that was made just for children. They will be lighter weight and have features designed just for younger users. If you will be going on a lot of family outings then you may want to purchase a pack for each of your children so they can each carry their own belongings and lighten the load on you.

You also have to consider the arrangement of compartments in each pack. There are different types of slots, such as open spaces to put larger food items, drink holders, and slots for silverware. Make sure that the style and arrangement of these compartments will fit with what you are likely to be packing.

There are some packs that are quite compact while still allowing you to carry along a lot of stuff. This a matter of design so make sure to look around and select one that will remain compact enough to be carried comfortably while still offering enough room to haul the amount of stuff you need to take along.

Your chances of having an enjoyable outing today and many more in the future are increased if you look at functionality more than price. You want something that is durable and that will hold up with consistent use. If you select the right size and style chances are you will enjoy your time on the go much more.

About the Author:

You can find even more advice about outdoor equipment including the best picnic basket backpack available and daypacks at the Outdoor Equipment Guide.

Cupcake Soaps Selling Like Actual Cupcakes at the Craft Show

By Rick Amorey

My friend's moment, who was increasingly excited as the event came, finally came at the latest craft show. She eagerly put her best foot forward; that enthusiasm made her amazing cupcake soaps a complete hit! Even with the weather erratic in Southern California, there wasn't a drop of rain in sight when the morning came. The sun was peeking through the overcast clouds to offer the hope of a sunny California day ahead.

Around the area were a few other talented craftspeople; as they were old hands at this, they offered to help my friend set up her display and it took them around thirty minutes. The people themselves started to come around nine in the morning, and I stood by watching my friend greet every visitor to her booth with a friendly smile. The event coordinator came by in a bit with her younger brother, and she got samples of the wares my friend had on display. She had nothing but praise for them.

The cupcakes sold like hot cakes, and there was a good crowd size early on in the morning. Later on, the weather decided to be fickle and became uncooperative, but a number of customers were able to buy whilst we were packing in the items and products we had.

The event itself was cancelled by the coordinators at around noon on account of the rain; besides, most of the participants have packed up anyway; no point in moving forward when the rain clearly showed no signs of stopping. It was a good thing, too, as the rain only got stronger towards the afternoon.

But even though it poured like mad, my friend was hardly discouraged. In fact, she had a pretty good first time; we're sure to find more of her cupcake soaps in the future. If you're looking to attend craft shows in your area, you may even get to meet and greet her yourself!

About the Author:

As a craftsperson, you should always be aware of the schedule of Craft Shows near you. Check out Craft Fairs regularly, and have a successful small business using your own talents!

The History And Psychology Behind Toys

By Malcolm Hatstand

Toys, as everyone knows, are associated with children playing, however it is fairly common for adults, as well as some animals to play with toys. Many items are produced to be used as toys, but however, goods or services produced for other reasons are also sometimes used as toys.

A young child might "fly" a normal everyday item around pretending it's an aeroplane, or you may well see a dog or cat playing with a pine cone or something, batting it around and throwing it up in the air. Some toys however that have been made as toys, are not made to be played with, but designed to be collectors items.

The origin of the toy dates back to before any kind of records began; dolls depicting babies, animals or fighting men, as well as models of tools used by adults are often recovered at archaeological sites. Where the word "toy" came from, we do not know, but it is believed that it was first introduced to the language in the 14th century.

Toys, and general play, are very important in terms of growing up and learning more about the world. Children use toys and play to discover their identity, to aid their body's development, explore relationships, and practise the adult skills all of us come to need.

It is known for adults to use toys and play to exercise their mind and body, to form new social relationships and strengthen existing ones, to remember things from childhood, to develop further practical skills and to decorates their homes. Toys, although they seem to be for simple light entertainment, in actual fact they have a big influence on the turnout of our lives

Child Development: Toys, like playing in itself, have multiple purposes in humans and animals. They allow us to learn whilst being entertained. Toys stimulate the mind to think and they help in the acquisition of mental and physical skills we need later in life.

A set of wooden blocks is possibly the simplest toy in the world, but it is one of the most effective toys for the development of young minds. It has been discovered that they help with science and maths skills, as well as hand-eye co-ordination. Other toys allow children to learn a similar range of skills such as marbles and balls.

One way in which toys can influence the development of children's minds involves clay-modelling toys like play-dough and their home-made alternatives. Professionals have demonstrated how such toys have a positive effect on the physical, mental, emotional and social development of young children.

About the Author:

You can easily buy toy boxes or Football Toy Boxes for your children from one of the Internet's many great online toy shops.

The Fundamentals of Cutting Backpack Weight

By Greg Rouse

You've put together plans for an incredible adventure. You've picked a remote destination and put together an elite group of adventurers (or maybe just some people you like to hangout with). You've planned a menu for eating better than you do at home.

The only problem is you have to carry everything on your back; first aid gear, food and cooking utensils, clothing, tents, etc... Not only do you have to carry it, but how are you going to fit it all into your backpack?

The recommended weight for a beginner's backpack is 25% of their bodyweight and for some people that's even pushing it. So how can we lighten your load?

Let's look at the 6 fundamentals to cutting pack weight:

Fundamental #1 - Look at the biggest and heaviest things first. Replacing a 5 pound pack with a 1 pound pack saves you 4 pounds! Replacing a 7 pound tent with a 1 pound tarp saves you 6 pounds! By picking just two of the heaviest items of gear you've already shaved over 10 pounds and we've only just begun.

Fundamental #2 - Multi-use Items. The practice of using one piece of equipment for more than one purpose will allow you to leave gear behind. Your imagination is the only limit, you can use your stuff sack for a pillow, your T-shirt for a toothbrush, and duct tape makes a great bandage. Really there's just about no limit to how many ways you can use duct tape (but that's a whole other article).

Fundamental #3 - Smaller and lighter. Manufacturers are making new gear in smaller packages everday. They still have all the same features, just in a smaller and lighter size. Little saving do add up.

Fundamental #4 - Get rid of that big backpack. With a big backpack you have a tendancy to fill it, but with a smaller backpack, you just don't have the room. Hence, you'll usually be a little more picky about what you bring.

Fundamental #5 - Just don't bring it. If you don't pack it you cut the weight for that item by 100%.

Fundamental #6 - Asses gear. Keep lists every time you pack and asses what you used and didn't use at the end of every trip. Obviously, if you didn't use the first aid kit, you'll still need to bring it, but other items might not be needed. In time, you will see patterns and ways to cut weight, just be patient.

I remember this one guy who would pack extra of everyhting. It got to the point where I quit bringing half my stuff, because I knew I could borrow it from him.

He always had an extra spoon, etc It almost got to the point where I thought of just putting a pillow in my pack and then borrowing the rest of his stuff, but by then he had caught on and decide to start going lightweight (all good things must come to an end).

Hopefully these tips can help take the burden off your back.

About the Author:

With modern technology here's a website that decided to use the Internet to photo-document all kinds of trails from camping spots, hiking trails and backpacking trails to mountain climbing routes and whitewater rivers. You really need to look over this website to see all the trails they have listed.

Download Your Movies Right At Home Now!

By Ramon Peters

Do you recollect the days when the only way to see the newest movies was to go to the theater or the drive-in movie? These days there are some young people who have never even seen a drive-in movie theater let alone watched a movie at one. Parking your car to watch a movie was fun back in those older days but these days there are much better options.

Drive-in movies were fun because of the friendship and the concession stand. The movie quality was generally very poor, with the sound full of static and the flies buzzing around the screen.

Today we have it really good. We can download full-length, high-quality movies for next to free on the Internet. There are sites that allow you to do it for completely free but the best sites do charge a small fee. It is frequently less than or comparable to a mail-in subscription or a neighborhood store but the movies are always in stock and you can get it immediately downloaded directly to your computer 24/7.

The movie will be on your computer so you can watch it directly from there. However it is understandable if you would rather not to do that. Games may be fun at your computer but a movie is the kind of thing where you more often than not like to relax, get some popcorn and your favorite beverage and kickback in your favorite chair while you watch. This should not be a fear however, because most of the honest sites offer CD/DVD burner software along with the downloaded movie so you can just burn the DVD and watch it on your TV.

You can find sites that offer downloads completely for free, however, you should be concerned of the fact that while you are downloading your movie from these sites you are also most likely downloading malware and adware not to mention possible viruses. If that happens it will end up costing much more than a trivial membership fee so it is sensible to find the reputable sites that charge a small fee and that way you know that you can find them if you need to later for any reason.

You can usually get very inexpensive rates for monthly and annual subscriptions. You could also pay per download if you would prefer. When you are looking at packages to buy make sure that they have the CD/DVD burner software option with the package. Be knowledgeable that they must also reassign the digital management rights to you so you can lawfully copy the movie onto your personal disc for playback.

Software, music and games are usually also offered on the best movie sites. These additional items should be included in the original membership charge.

The wave of the future is downloading movies rather than buying or renting them. The future is now so you can take advantage of this great opportunity to find the best movies now.

About the Author:

If you would love to find out more about getting free movie downloads, check out my blog Top 3 Movie Downloads Sites where I have reviewed the top movie download free sites the internet has to offer.

Cotswold Cottage Holidays Are Perfect For All Ages!

By Anna Phillips

For many the Cotswolds epitomise their vision of quintessential England. The glorious hotchpotch of honey coloured stone buildings, ancient rooftops and wonky gables all provide a wonderful backdrop for the many pretty cottages, charming pubs, traditional tearooms and unique art dealers that can be found in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Popular with both the English and foreign travellers alike the Cotswolds are famous for their gentle rolling hills and historic towns and delightful villages. Many come to the Cotswolds envisaging country walks, cycling along the highways and byways, exploring the wonderfully unique boutiques each charming town and village have to offer and relaxing with a fabulous cream tea or sitting in front of an open fire at the end of the day.

Although the immaculate gardens, quaint shops and charming pubs might give the impression of a laid-back lifestyle, don't under-estimate what's on offer in the Cotswolds. No matter what age, gender or interests, the Cotswolds will undoubtably have plenty to interest you!

The Cotswolds is a great holiday destination for families. Maybe take in a play at the world-renowned Shakespeare Theatre at Stratford-Upon-Avon or visit the Rare Breed Farm Park. Or, for the sporty-types, the Cotswold Water Park is a must-visit - offering everything from wind-surfing to wake-boarding... all surrounded by a beautiful nature reserve.

Although there are many holiday destinations with a range of activities available, most concentrate on introducing people to the variety of activities and so their offerings are usually basic or entry-level in nature. The Cotswolds, though, is perfect for all ages, abilities and interests.

Whilst in the Cotswolds, there are always people nearby to help you investigate a new hobby... or simply hand over the reigns to the more experienced. Whether you're looking for a quiet ride through the beautiful Cotswold countryside on horseback, or after a fast gallop on your own hack, you'll never be far away from somewhere that can arrange it for you!

The Cotswolds are a great holiday destination all year round. During the Spring you can catch the lambing season at the Cotswold Farm Park and the beautiful snowdrops at the Painswick Rococo Gardens. The Summer is the perfect time to visit the country walks and gardens. Westonbirt Arboretum is perfect during the Autumn when the leaves are beginning to fall, and the various Christmas markets make the Winter a great time to visit too!

There are a large number of events for which the Cotswolds are known (often worldwide) too, so make sure you check online to see what events are happening before you visit. The Royal Air Tattoo is held at Fairford in July and attracts aircraft and crowds from all over the world. The Cheltenham Gold Cup is held at Cheltenham Racecourse in March and there's even the famous Cheese Rolling at Coopers Hill on Spring Bank Holiday!

What is more, if you are looking for a place for a family get together or meeting up with old friends the Cotswolds is centrally located and can be reached in less than 2 hours from London. Often finding the time to meet up with old friends in today's hectic world is trouble enough, without spending half of your holiday travelling.

Not only is the Cotswolds a great location with great activities - it's also excellent value for money! Particularly if there's a large group of you... why not book a large Cotswold cottage and go away together?

Covering over 790 square miles, you will never be short of anything to do in the Cotswolds. There is adventure for everyone, the trick is to fit it all in!

About the Author:

Anna Phillips is a representative of Jigsaw Holidays, who specialise in supplying Cotswold Cottages and similar properties for the ideal Cotswold break.

Compare And Book Cheap Package Holidays Abroad To Save Money

By Sam

The following article presents the very latest information on cheap holidays. If you have a particular interest in cheap holidays, then this informative article is required reading.

Travelling during holiday celebrations is always a wonderful experience. You might want to go back to Germany, or maybe you will try a Christmas celebration Japanese style. Travellers no longer need to visit travel agencies and major airlines for available cheap offers. All they have to do is sit in front of the computer and browse for cheap holiday offers. Travel agencies can run the gamut from full service to self service. Especially with online travel agencies, information may simply be provided to aid in your travel decisions while leaving much of the leg work to you.

Cheap holidays in Benidorm set it off as one of the party capital's of not only Spain but Europe as well. Benidorm has an unrivalled nightlife and a daytime carnival-like beach culture that keeps holiday makers coming year after year. Cheap holidays to destinations that you may be unfamiliar with may be suggested by reading our Travel Guides. The guides may give you the chance to be inspired by some of the spectacular and incredible destinations that you can visit at great value prices when you take advantage of our powerful search engine to generate a cheap holiday comparison. Cheap holidays in Majorca are very well-known because of the gorgeous beaches which make people around the world come back for more.

Travelling to Turkey gives you so much opportunity to witness history as it unfolds right before your eyes. I just logged on to Cheap Holidays and I found it amazing how I am able to get cheap holidays bargain when I decided to visit Turkey. Travellers book last minute travel packages and they accept this deals. There is a perception that facilities and amenities under last minute travel deals are of low quality and standards. Travelling is mostly costly, but it can be cheaper by choosing economical modes of transport, however, budget-friendly transport is not available to get to all the destinations. Some destinations can only be reached by air or by sea, which does not make budget-friendly travelling modes.

If you base what you do on inaccurate information, you might be unpleasantly surprised by the consequences. Make sure you get the whole cheap holidays story from informed sources.

Travelling can really be fun that is if you have the money to spend for it. If budget is not an issue for you, then you can just pick out a place and just pack your bags and go for the next flight. Travelling during the off season means that you will be able to find cheap deals and enjoy a great trip as well. On flights as well as hotels, you will be able to get great discounts thus make a superb holiday within your resources and without breaking the bank. Travel means such are never is miscount option is miscounts at time to he familiar within your budget? If so, there are tight on the off season, the best cheap holiday.

Cheap holidays will also provide holiday bookings for you to have a hassle free holiday. If you want to free yourselves from the stress of your work, then a Holiday in Mallorca might be perfect for you. Cheap holidays are popular with a lot of people and they will remain popular for a long time to come. Travelling the world is great fun and you should have a great time. Cheap holidays to Frankfurt will be enjoyed seeing all the attractions the area has to offer. The historical house is filled with some personal belongings that belong to the famous writer von Goethe.

Cheap holidays to Mallorca are enjoyable and exciting, you just have to plan your days to include a little of everything. Once you have seen and done everything you wanted to do, enjoy a relaxing day on the beaches in the hot white sands that look out over the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and feel the warn sea breeze. Cheap holidays to Menorca are exciting enough, but when you plan the entire vacation around the water and beaches, you will have a great memory to take home with you. Snorkeling and diving are the first things on the list. Cheap Holidays Discount Travel is an online entity that offers affordable holiday travel plans. Its website offers cheap flights, cheap hotels as well as discount holidays packages around the world.

As your knowledge about cheap holidays continues to grow, you will begin to see how cheap holidays fits into the overall scheme of things. Knowing how something relates to the rest of the world is important too.

About the Author:

About the author: HolidaysIT.com helps you compare and book cheap holidays abroad and cheap package holidays to save you money. You have full permission to reprint this article provided the links are kept unchanged. Visit the Uber Article Directory to get a totally unique version of this article for reprint.

What is a True Night Binocular?

By Carlo Bland

Binoculars have become very popular in recent years. They have moved beyond military, police and surveillance use and become a common piece of equipment for recreational purposes. Beyond bird watching, they are increasingly being bought for use in hunting, fishing, boating, camping, hiking, in fact they can add to the pleasure of most outdoor pursuits.

These activities take place not just in the daytime but around the clock. Many people are looking for night vision binoculars now, but they are not all the same. They come in a wide range of prices for different uses and it's important to choose the right ones.

There is a difference between binoculars that make best use of low light conditions and a true night binocular. For use at dusk or dawn, low light binoculars could be suitable. Let's look at the concept of Exit Pupil.

This is the diameter of the beam of light as it leaves the eyepieces. If you hold the binoculars at arms length, you can see these small circles of light in each eyepiece. To find the actual size of the exit pupil, you divide the diameter of the lenses by the magnification. e.g. The binoculars are 12x50. 50mm divided by 12 is just over 4mm. A bigger exit pupil will do better in low light, but there are other considerations.

For true nighttime performance, you need an infrared light source to be able to see when there is no natural light. The effective range of these varies, so buy what you need. For hunting, a range of 10 yards is useless.

Different optical devices have different uses. A monocular, sometimes known as a spotting scope, does just that. Do a quick sweep of the terrain or the sea. Spot movements in the trees.

A bi-ocular feels more natural with two eyepieces, but still only has a single front lens. It is a compromise. A true night vision binocular, with two front lenses, allows the adjustment of each eye to the night vision viewfinder. This is more comfortable for long periods of use.

So, before setting out to purchase night vision binoculars, consider in what light conditions you will be using them and whether you will be using them for sustained periods. A true night vision binocular can set you back several hundred dollars and may be a waste of your money if they are more than you really need.

About the Author:

Lower prices have helped to increase the popularity of binoculars for recreation, but they can still be a costly item, particularly a night vision binocular. Before you think about buying, get advice on what will suit your needs. Don't pay more than you need to for your binoculars.

There is Danger Involved in the Mild Drift

By Will Kerfoot

There are a number of dive sites that can only be accessed with the excitement of a drift dive. These dives need to be planned out and everyone involved needs to know the plan and stick to it otherwise there could well be lives at risk. Unfortunately many of the divers and dive operators that participate in mild drift dives feel that this type of dive should not be taken as serious as it actually is and in a number of cases they relax the planning stage that really should be a requirement. Newspaper headlines regarding missing divers are in a number of occasions the result of a lack of planning. Most of these are because the diver had drifted from the spot they were expected to surface and did not have the appropriate scuba equipment to signal the boat.

A mild drift dive usually consists, as its name would suggest, of divers drifting with a mild underwater current. They require little effort on the divers part and can easily lull participants into a false sense of security. In many cases it is surface wind that creates the mild current underwater but on the surface the current can be much faster flowing. Without appropriate emergency signaling devices such a folding dive flags divers can find themselves drifting away from boats and other divers at an alarming rate.

Some of the nicest dives I have done in the Red Sea were mild drifts and on more than one occasion I have been caught in fast flowing surface currents. It was adequate surface cover and my use of a dive flag that ensured that each time my customers and myself were quickly located and picked up. Even if it is not a life or death situation a few extra minutes drifting away from a small RIB can be disconcerting for even the most experienced diver.

Changing weather conditions and the lack of care and attention that some boat operators is often the issue. Making sure that you are covered by having the appropriate scuba equipment in the likes of a signaling device like a dive flag which is visible in deteriorating conditions and easy to carry and operate. There are few on the market that are easy to use and lightweight so even a tired diver can use it to get attention quickly.

Many more experienced divers have made their own versions of a dive flag but it has always been the fact that they only last a certain length of time and they become a rather cumbersome addition to the divers kit. They were not always the easiest of devices to expand quickly either. There are now devices available on the market that fill this void and are extremely lightweight and highly visible in all conditions.

About the Author:

The Dive Flag is a new lightweight and easy to use device for divers to signal to the boat. Will Kerfoot is a qualified PADI diver with over 20 years diving experience.

Making Homemade Carp Baits Using Cheap Sausage Meat!

By Tim Richardson

These days looking for cheap but well proven alternative big fish protein baits is very important and homemade sausage meat baits and ground baits are brilliant baits for so many reasons. Luncheon meats and Pepperoni are popular and effective but extremely expensive as fishing baits. So let's now see how to make your own big fish sausage meat baits and save yourself a fortune!

The first ideal part about sausage meat is how cheap and easily available it is. It comes in various forms and grades and as usual it is best to get the freshest product possible. This kind of meat is just not fashionable today which means right now is a perfect time to be exploiting it!

Sausage meat is very simple and easy to use and you can either mince it up or use the minced product. The nutritional value of pork sausage meat is very stimulatory to both carp and catfish and has a fair proportion of those important fish stimulators; amino acids and oils. Pork sausage meat is often made with bread crumbs and it is very simple to make a bait by simply mixing it with eggs and very cheap wheat flour for example, although other more nutritional binding flours and meals are very numerous, to help bind bait into a dough.

To make these economical protein based baits is fast and very easy!

Use a large pan or bowl to make a bait mix using a test batch of about half a pound of meat plus about 2or 3 hen's eggs and enough wheat flour added to bind into dough. This is practical bait to use immediately, or you can store it in plastic bags and store in the freezer or fridge for future sessions. Although these meat baits (like any bait ingredients) may vary in nutritional profiles and fish effects and catch results, they are normally instant type baits and reliable fish catchers straight from the first cast.

Putting regular batches of baits in swims is a very good advantage to get fish to really respond to your new bait. (You do not have to do this using sausage meat as it is mostly instant acting; but why miss a good trick!?) If you put out golf ball size baits a few times into swims before using it, then fish will eat this safe bait and it will definitely improve your results come the time of using when you do fish with it!

When you pre-bait fish will obviously get a smell and taste of it without getting hooked so be more confident when you do try it on the hook, so do it! You can use sausage meat baits as part of your ground baiting or with other meat baits like chopped spam, meatballs, luncheon meats if you want the extra expense; sausage meat and cheap rolled oats is fine! Scald or boil or steam your baits if needed where smaller fish prove a bother, but add some paste to your bait on your rig or on the hook to boost more soluble attraction...

You might make your boilies from small half inch odd shaped pieces and these odd baits will have a competitive edge over all those expensive uniformly shaped machine-rolled baits! Just get a half pan of water boiling and add a handful of baits at a time usually for about 2 minutes on average before removing them. Use handy towels or papers (or special drying trays from Gardener tackle) to dry your baits and remember to keep your water boiling at all times.

Boil your baits for anything from a minute to 5 minutes; the longer boiling makes them harder, but this loses more attraction in the process. To help attraction there are so many choices to add to your bait, or just to keep results coming. For instance you could add sea salt at about a teaspoon per 2 eggs worth of bait mixed, or add curry powder at a heaped teaspoonful per egg used in the mix or more depending on the form of curry powder used.

You might just add a teaspoon of black pepper powder per egg used. Other examples of well proven kitchen favourites are yeast extract products like Marmite or Vegemite; add at a heaped tablespoon per egg, or even Parmesan or blue cheese powder which is ideal in sausage meat baits. You can simply add some Minamino or proprietary fishing liquid amino acids supplement like Nutramino to boost feeding stimulation and nutritional profile of your bait; or add fish meal, keratin, or poultry meal, or ground bird foods and lecithins for more digestible baits in winter, for example...

The fact is that there are thousands of additives, liquids, flavours and some very refined and advanced bait ingredients and extracts you could use. Many ingredients are often used to most exploit the food detection systems of fish which have internal and external specialised cells which enable fish to instinctively home in on your bait. You might use a proprietary flavour like Secret Agent, Megaspice, Mulberry Florentine or Maple steep liquor, vodka, spice oleoresins, or add MSG to enhance taste, or simply add salted liquidised liver or liver pate, (just a desert spoonful per egg of 2 these will keep big results coming your way!)

If you use proven fish feeding triggers and proven fish attractors with a nutritional or other physiological beneficial effect then they will pay their worth for sure. Even supermarket oil based citrus flavours can be very effective not least due to being unique and containing beneficial bioflavonoids, acids etc, but you can make your own homemade flavoured oils, flavours and nutritional glugs, dips etc for very little expense anyway. Homemade sausage meat baits do compete even with the latest enzyme-active commercial baits and catch big carp and catfish at a fraction of the cost of very many popular baits. Being different is one of the top edges in fishing even simply using the bait ideas here to adapt add an unusual bait paste moulded round your readymade bait is going to get you thinking about more productive possibilities in the future; and the more you know the more valuable cheaper edges you have!

By Tim Richardson.

About the Author:

For more information to make big carp baits see: "BIG CARP BAIT SECRETS" And: "BIG CARP AND CATFISH BAIT SECRETS" And "FLAVORS And FEEDING TRIGGERS SECRETS" Visit: carp bait NOW! Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

The Lego Art Show

By Mara Hernandez-Capili

Do you still recall how playing with your most favorite toys as a child feels? As a child, I was fond of playing with my Barbie dolls and Dress up Games dolls. It was truly a bizarre feeling to be able to go back and reminisce the days that passed, when we were still kids and masters of our own worlds.

If you are like me who absolutely loves and adores the nostalgic and awesome feeling that accompanies me when I reminisce the bygone days, then maybe you'll have a grand time visiting the Lego Art Show in Fargo, North Dakota. The Lego Art Show is an event that features all of the bestseller and most famous Lego toys ever produced. I remember playing with Lego as a kid; it brought me immense fun and happiness. My brother who is a Lego fanatic used to collect Lego toys and build a huge empire or castleland right at our living room.

Lego enthusiasts and aficionados gather at the Lego Art Show to experience the "Lego magic" that was not removed from all of us. Here we can see Lego train sets, a Lego village and even the most celebrated Lego Bible Chapters by a very talented artist. Check the Internet, and you'll see his works spread all over as he reenacts famous chapters in the Bible using Lego toys.

Lego is a truly remarkable. Now that I'm a proud mother of a beautiful baby girl, I'm considering buying her educational and mind building toyslike Lego.

I believe Lego helps the child on her brain development. I want her to be smart, practical and improve her thinking skills where I know Lego will be a big contribution. Come with me to the Lego Art Show!

About the Author:

Mara Hernandez-Capili is a writer and a researcher on events in Travel and Leisure. Visiting events such as craft fairs will open one's spirit on the beauty of the world beyond home's borders. If youre staying in the US, the author suggests checking out craft shows for entertainments to make your stay memorable.

The Trunk Bike Rack That's Perfect For your Car

By Gary Lindsey

There are many bike rack companies that make trunk bike rack systems for multiple SUVs. Among these bike rack system companies are Allen, Hollywood Racks, Yakima, Thule, Saris and a few others.

All the various trunk bike rack work almost the same way. Most of them strap onto the trunk of a auto and secure your bike to your auto for care-free transport. That's all there is to it.

Allen, Thule, Hollywood Racks and a few others have trunk mount bike rack systems that will hold more than one bike and can mount three bikes. This freedom is useful when bicycling as a group and ride sharing.

Some models that I would recommend are the Saris Bones, Hollywood Racks Baja Rack, Allen AL102A and several others. All these trunk-mounted bike rack options are just a starting point.

The Allen AL102A trunk mount bike rack weighs 9.5 pounds, fits on most sedans. The single configuration design makes it easy during set up and installation. The 12" long carry arms easily carries up to two bikes. You'll have it up and running within seconds.

Another well-liked trunk mount bike rack is the Saris Bones bicycle rack. The Saris Bones features injection-molded arms and legs. These parts are the most durable in the industry and produced with 100% recyclable, non-rusting material. Ratcheting anti-sway straps secure and stabilize bikes. The signature Arc-based design accommodates most spoilers and separates bikes on different levels. Plastic parts on Saris racks are injected during the manufacturing process with a UV stabilizer. Therefore, colors will not fade or crack; also fading and cracking are covered under the manufacturer's warranty program. Lastly, they come in a few different colors: blue, red, yellow, and black.

The Yakima King Joe trunk mount bike rack is best. This bike rack for your car comes with a Quick Trigger Hub System which makes for a simple installation process. The trunk mount bicycle rack can work with the broadest range of vehicles of any Yakima strap style rack. Narrow arm design is compatible with a most of bikes. Premium Tri-Padded feet and padded metal buckles protect your cars paint job. The Integrated StableCradles secure bikes in place. The folding arms on the Yakima King Joe make storage easy.

The Baja Rack by Hollywood comes with patented Micro-Adjust hubs which guarantees easy installation. More that 5 straps solidly attach the Baja to the backend of your sedan. Bike separators with anti-sway blocks ensures the bicycles firmly attached to the trunk bike rack. A last point, the rack folds flat for easy storage in a trunk or garage.

About the Author:

Gary has written more information and suggestions on trunk mount bike rack brands to mount on your car and other bicycle roof rack types, at www.rackwebs.com.

5 Of The Best Sights In Singapore

By Chin Hock

Trying to find Singapore on the world map can sometimes be an impossible task. The South East Asian city state is shown as a little dot along the equator, but her achievement have been anything but small. Not only is Singapore a modern city state with accomplishments in many arenas, she also offers a bustling economy with a capable government.

Some have wondered what can be experienced in Singapore since it is no more than a small island. For one, the country possesses a strong history with four main cultures. Through modernization, she has also taken in what the new world has to offer and successfully integrated it, with sprawling skylines and local and foreign fare.

Any visitor to Singapore has to visit five attractions, the first of which is the Night Safari. It is the first ever park in the world that provides close access to wild creatures of the night from all over the world. The Night Safari has consistently been voted one of the world's best attractions and not just in Singapore.

The Singapore Bird Park is another natural attraction that has its own place in global history. Known for having the largest man-made waterfall in the world, the Singapore Bird Park is an aviary sanctuary for thousands of bird species. One will be captivated by the lush greenery and twinkling bird calls that fill the park.

There are urban sights in Singapore too. The ever present Chinatown is a bustling activity hub that provides a perfect blend of the old and new in the country. Tourists will also enjoy the economical but splendid food that line its streets as well as the many shops that offer unique Asian items.

The Esplanade has been championed as the mecca of fine art, culture and shopping by the locals in Singapore. For anyone wishing to pamper themselves with great food and artistic indulgence, this is the place to be. It might be taxing on the wallet, but the promise of an exhilarating experience can be hard to resist.

The Istana might not be open daily, but if one happens to be in the area, it is a definite must-visit. Security is often tight at the home of important politicians, but the draw of the Istana is in its beautiful gardens. Take a breather in the serene surroundings right in the middle of busy Orchard Road.

Despite her small size, one will find it difficult to be at a loss of what to do in Singapore. Many have praised her clean and fresh environment, while offering some of Asia's shining lights. This can be proven by the endless stream of visitors to the country annually.

About the Author:

Chin Hock is a proud citizen of Singapore and has first hand knowledge of the island state. Find out the places to visit in Singapore and what else you can expect from it on his site.