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Summer entertaining 101

We are in the midst of summer and there is nothing better than planning a summer event. And you can even do it on a budget. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a ton of summer fun. Just get a group of friends together and pool your resources so that everyone can have an amazing time.

First off, you need to find someone who has a pool or access to a pool. There is nothing that says summer party like having a place to chill poolside. And of course what is better than booze and bikini time! Oh wait nothing. It would be perfect if that pool area had one of those drop in grills. That way you can get your grill on poolside and it would go off without a hitch. It would also be sweet if the area comes equipped with some outdoor sinks, so it’s easy to clean up!

The best way for a bunch of friends to have the most fun on a budget is to have your cook out potluck style. You just have to set a budget; it’s just like secret Santa gifts. And that way everyone can eat, drink and be merry without breaking the bank, or worrying about payday.

To make your party special you should think about making a signature cocktail. Go on the internet and find a recipe for a daiquiri. Nothing is more summer-y than a fruity alcoholic beverage. Yeah, you know I’m right.

At the end of the day, it’s really just about being able to spend some time with your friends. Because even though you maybe can’t afford that cruise you were all planning on taking, does not mean you can’t enjoy the company of each other. Party on people, party on!

Tags: daiquiri, drop in grills, outdoor sinks, Summer entertaining 101

Tallest in Dubai

I was visiting with a friend in Dubai and he informed me about just how high Dubai plans to go. Apparently, the new race in the UAE is building the highest towers. I thought that the Burj was the end of the Arabian vision, but I was mistaken. While I was staying at one of the Luxury Hotels Dubai UAE offers thousands of tourists each day, there was a convention being held for architects from around the world. The convention, as if there aren’t enough strange conventions here already, was about who will build the next highest tower.

A few years ago, Dubai had a project that would spend a few billion to build the highest tower in the world. Some 800 meters high. Dubai wanted any visitor and local to be able to see this landmark from anywhere in and around Dubai. But, Kuwait has thrown their two-cents into the race and are planing to beat Dubai by building its own highest tower. Kuwait as projected their tower to be approximately 1000 meters high. So, Dubai not wanting to be out-done has challenged their own plans to beat Kuwait’s tower, they plan to throw in a few more billion.

New proposals are in the pipe-line and one of them is to for even another highest tower in Dubai. I’ve heard rumors that this one will be over 1050 meters! Bahrain tossed in their hat and has proposed to build something in the 1022 meters high range. So, the race is on. The Saudi’s and their multi-billionaire Prince, I’ve heard, is going to play and build his own version of the highest building, but that his will be really impressive, he plans to go as high as 1600 meters! Yes, impressively crazy! What a crazy silly world the UAE and it’s surrounding countries have become.

Tags: Burj, dubai, Kuwait, luxury hotels, UAE

Your small business and charity work

Could your small business use a little pick me up? No not a monetary pick me up, more like morale pick me up for your employees? With the economy not doing so well, it could be difficult to mobilize your employees to work hard and do well. This is especially true if you have experienced any lay offs in your company or business recently. Now, there really is not much you can do to turn around how a person feels, but if you can make them forget about their worries for awhile and do something positive together.

Think about taking your team of employees to go and volunteer for an organization. Another option is to think of how you could give back to your community. For example, do like choosehottubsdirect.com did and donate a part of your profit to a charity. Their CEO decided to give back by donating to a relief fund that was set up after Hurricane Ike made landfall a few years ago.

You don’t have to donate a portion of your profits to help out your local community. Contact your local Humane Society if you find that you and your employees enjoy helping animals. Another great team building event that could build morale is doing a team walk. Try doing a walk to combat cancer like the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

Another thing you could consider is that you could gather up things that you and your employees no longer need and have a garage sale. You could then donate the proceeds from your sale to your favorite local charity.

No matter what you decide to do, it’s just important to try and give back to your community. And it’s a great team building activity. In times like these, the more you do for others, the better you can do in this world, the better you will feel.

Tags: charity work, choosehottubsdirect.com, small business

No Itinerary for Cape Town

When I arrived in Cape Town, the first this I did was to call Cape Town Car Rentals to hire a car so I could travel freely to anywhere I wanted to go. I has an itinerary, but I also felt the need to leave it behind and just drive, maybe even get lost. I had a whole month to explore South Africa, but maybe I’d keep my itinerary in my pocket just in case.

My first stop outside of Cape Town was Somerset West then on to Sir Lowry’s Pass. I stopped the car and had a spectacular view of the Boland, along with Cape Town and Table Mountain barely visible in the horizon. I continued on through the scenic orchards from Grabouw to Villiersdorp. I spent the night there and had dinner and a most wonderful freshly baked fruit pie for dessert. The next morning I headed to Worcester, the gateway leading to the Breede River Valley. Apparently, it’s the largest fruit and wine producing area in the Western Cape. I stopped by briefly to visit a winery and tasted some very dry red wines, a semi-sweet white wine and sparkling dry wine. I also enjoyed a delightful lunch at the restaurant at the winery.

I decided at this point to not follow my itinerary and wing it, as it were. I found a nice scenic route in Robertson Valley, another wine area, then I travelled about 12 kilometers and ran into Viljoensdrif, located on the banks of the Breede River. Viljoensdrif is also know for it’s wine-making process. Going off my itinerary, I still managed to find excellent wineries. But, I did have enough wine for one day, so instead of visiting the winery I took a nice relaxing cruise on the Uncle Ben riverboat. I was pleased to see and hear an abundance of bird life, beautiful fauna and watch a few fishermen catch Bass. What was even the best part of the riverboat cruise is I could make my own picnic basket from the deli offshore and bring it on the boat. I even shared my picnic basket with several of the other tourist and had a delightful time. Hmmm, I think not following my itinerary was a good choice.

Tags: Boland, Cape Town, car rentals, No Itinerary, Robertson Valley, Viljoensdrif

Ibiza Cuisine

Ibiza is a vibrant island located in the Mediterranean Sea off the Coast of Spain. It is part of a group of Balearic islands that compose the four major ones. While it is not the largest or the most populated of the Balearic Islands, it is definitively not short on charm, character and attractions. There are many popular and beautiful beaches that attract residents and tourists alike. There are also activity specific elements on particular beaches, and some are more recognized for surfing, snorkeling and water sports, while others are extremely popular for clubs, beach parties and volleyball. Of course other beaches are known for their beautiful views, luxury resorts and romantic sunsets. Then, of course there are those quiet sunbathing areas, were reflection, meditation and suntans prevail.

One of the features of Ibiza that pleases all interests and tastes is its restaurant scene. There are many restaurants and cuisine from around the world can be found there. The food establishments range from a small beach café to a fine dining experience in one of the most prestigious resort restaurants. Some of the restaurants are also bars and this creates a great dynamic for diners who wish to transition strait to partying after they eat. Sometimes one of the Ibiza opening parties will be hosted at its many restaurants, which turns the whole meal into an exciting experience. Some of the traditional food on the island includes the Ibicencan fayre with dishes consisting of lamb, rabbit, fish and chicken. Tapas, appetizers, are extremely popular with most foods. Standard Mediterranean food is also a common find on this island. Mediterranean cuisine is popular as much for its great taste as it is for its healthy lifestyle aspects. While not all of it is great for you, of course, much of the food is vegetarian and heart healthy. And some of the contemporary flavors of modern Basque food are popular with locals as well as tourists.

Tags: Basque food, Cuisine, Ibiza, Mediterranean food, opening parties

Ibiza Third Largest of The Balearic Islands

There are four prominent Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Spain. Of these, Majorca is the largest and most heavily populated. It also receives the greatest amount of tourists, with an almost unsurpassable number. It is well known for its cultural aspects and the old town area of Palma, its capital city. Minorca is the second largest of these islands, and takes its name from its larger and greater known neighbor. As with all the island, Minorca has fabulous beaches and many historical landmarks that attract visitors. Formentera is the smallest of these four islands, though it is not short on beauty or outside interest. It has some of the most beautiful beaches, full of clean sand and clear waters. Wind surfing is a probably the most popular water sport associated with this island.

Finally, there is Ibiza, Formentera’s closet neighbor. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, though it is probably the most notoriously well known. This is largely due to its thriving club scene, which any island anywhere would be hard pressed to measure up to. Clubs, lounges, pubs and bars are almost everywhere on this island. They’re on the beaches, in the mainland, and of course in all of the cities, in particular the major ones. Even the smallest Ibiza town hotel is likely to have a private lounge for its guests to enjoy happy hour or a nightcap. The two most prominent cities on Ibiza are Ibiza Town and San Antonio. They are also the home to most of the clubs, and many of them are famous in their own right. However, there is also much more on this island than its nightclubs. There are great museums, ancient ruins and plenty of beautiful scenery. There are even golf courses, which are surrounded by majestic greenery and shrubs.

Tags: Balearic Islands, Ibiza, Palma, town hotels

Dubai’s Irish Village

Dubai UAE is a thriving metropolis and its citizens are representative from societies and cultures from around the world. This is one of the features that the legal structure and social service oriented institutions supports. Various monuments and activity centers testify to this and celebrate the diverse nature of Dubai and its citizens as well as the many tourists that visit the region every year. The four star Dubai hotels also reflect the progressive and diverse nature of the city and population.

Irish pubs are not the first thing one thinks of one imagining pictures and the various elements of Dubai. However, the Irish population and as well as various venues reflect the population and its popularity in the region. The Irish Village in the Aviation Club is one of the more prominent Irish institutions in the city and offers everything from festivals, events, Irish food and of course drink from this little green country. The pub is a wooden building that reflects the comfort and quiet associated with some of the small Irish villages. It is certainly the best way to experience Ireland while visiting Dubai. It is sponsored by the Irish Society of Dubai, which also promotes the culture and various programs associated with Irish society.

The Irish Village also celebrates traditions from other parts of the world. Its annual hop fest is one of the ways it does this. The 2009 celebration is marks the fifth year in a row that this event has taken place. It takes place in August of every year, and this year it is August 13, 14, and 15. It is an incredible taste adventure and features over 120 beers from around the world. Of course the traditional Guinness Stout will remain one of the most popular offerings at the festival, though many people come to try new and exotic beers that they don’t normally have access to. There will also be live entertainment offered in the outdoor, air-conditioned marquee.

Tags: dubai, four star hotels, genius, Irish food, Irish Village

The Port of Melbourne, Australia

Port Melbourne is a mix of new and old. This is one of the suburbs of the city that sits along the bay, with many cottages, re-habbed buildings and new residential and commercial architecture. All year long this is a favorite shore line for cyclists, runners and walkers. Along the streets there are many restaurants, bars and coffee shops. The houses in the area are well designed and the streets are lines with flowers and palm trees, and this is one of the best locations to find the finest five star hotels in Melbourne. The port has been in operation beginning in the early 1800′s, and is still a vital shipping port as well as the location to catch some of the cruises to the island of Tasmania, as well as the departure and arrival point for the international cruises during the summer months of November through March. The Ferry station is also located at the port as well. Along the pier there are many famous restaurants including Campari, Waterfront, and Three Station Pier.

Bay Street, just near the port, is a popular spot for finding a variety of pubs and restaurants, some traditional, some quite eclectic. There are historic hotels and buildings located on Bay Street. Many find the shopping in this area fantastic as their are many designer stores with a range from contemporary and modern fashions, to vintage clothing boutiques. There are markets, day spas and bakeries. As well as many desert shops and patisseries. A favorite spot among the locals is the Readings Bookstore. This is a shop known for a wide range of books as well as a great kid’s section. Located within the bookstore is a coffee shop and a small, charming restaurant. Located just a few doors away is the used book store, Stray Dog, for those who love to pass the day, flipping through the discounts and perhaps finding some treasured first editions. This is a location that is fun to visit, and the shuttle buses from the center of Melbourne run to the port all day, making this a very accessible stop on a tour throughout the city.

Tags: architecture, Australia, famous restaurants, five star hotels, Melbourne

Success for Children in Boarding Schools in Northumberland

There are four distinct areas of a child’s life that are enhanced by music education. Public schools and boarding schools in Northumberland are seeing the value in this, how it affects one not only while they are in school, but will have effects for the rest of one’s life. Reality is that many schools lack the funding to provide these classes, as well as other classes, and instead of being a wonderful reality, they are sometimes just an unattainable wish. But not all administrators will allow that to happen, because the benefits, many based on scientific and sociological research. The four categories researchers have outlined concerning the benefits are the ‘successes’, success in school, society, developing intelligence, and in life in general are reasons for these programs to be protected.

When children succeed in school, they are more likely to go on to succeed in society. The study of music, as well as art and dance, instills discipline, provides skills on the cognitive level as well as increases study habits in other subjects, basically enhances the entire curriculum of study. Studies have also shown that those involved in such programs tend to work more effectively with others, finding solutions to challenges that don’t result to inappropriate or violent behavior.

In societies around the world, music plays an integral role. Music is present in many ceremonial, social and religious celebrations. Music can be extremely important to the economy of a society and well as shaping character and the abilities of individuals. And for students that will move forward towards higher education, many colleges and universities look to the applications and notice whether a student has had education in the arts, stating that when one has it shows an interest in the world in which we live in. Musical instruction has been shown to increase intelligence in that so many other areas of study are involved in playing an instrument and musical composition. And in life, as in school, music teaches discipline and the promotion of working with others, with cooperation and respect. Music and the arts, are an integral part of the education of the youth of today, and one should do all they can to see that these programs remain in the school systems in Northumberland, and the schools throughout the world.

Tags: Boarding Schools, Music, Northumberland, success

Diving Lessons in Dubai

Due to its proximity to the Arabian Sea, water sports and marine activities are common and popular in Dubai. Scuba diving is one of the most popular of these and there are many programs that offer training and experience for novices and people who want to give it a try. When people are on vacation, they are often interested in experiencing new things, and trying various adventures they would not due in their normal lives. Scuba diving is one of those activities they like to explore while staying in one of the five star hotels Dubai.

Al Boom Diving is recognized as the leading diving school in the UAE. It offers a variety of services including diving tours and lessons for all skill levels. There is childcare available and the training is provided by instructors who are certified in Emergency First Response. There are deep sea diving instructions as well as the more frequent more shallow depth lessons for beginners and people with vary little experience. Shallower depths are also popular with experienced divers who simply wish to explore the costal areas with their diverse marine life and beautiful coral reefs.

There is a gear shop at the school that sales the top quality brand names in various gear needs. They offer gear from Aqualung (http://www.aqualung.com/), Amphibious Outfitters, Sea and Sea and more. The main shop is in town, across from the Iranian Embassy. They have a great selection of items such as snorkels, weights, fins, masks, wetsuits and various other necessary items, as well as some that are just for the fun of it. One of the more exciting dive tours offered by the school is the shark dive at the Dubai Aquarium (http://www.thedubaiaquarium.com/). It is not for the light if heart, though it definitely provides and exciting dive. The dive time is twenty to thirty minutes and all gear is provided in the cost of the dive.

Tags: Diving Lessons, dubai, five star hotel

Kerala Natural and Cultural Significance

In the southwestern part of India lies the State of Kerala and to the west is the Arabian Sea. The state capital is the ancient and exhilarating city of Thiruvanthapuram. Due to the influx of people from the various parts of India and neighboring countries over the centuries, the cultures, traditions, beliefs, various religions and languages have evolved to what it is today. Malayalam has become the primary language spoken here and Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity have become the principle religions. Atheists and agnostics have seen a slight increase in their beliefs.

Kerala is very well known for the various forms of performing arts. Especially popular is the 2000 year old Sanskrit theatre tradition, Koodiyattom. Another popular art is Koothu, which is similar to stand up comedy. Music is an ancient art form with religious, folk and tribal dances, percussion instruments, singing and the unusual rhythmic hand clapping. Elephants play a huge role in the day to day lives of Kerala residents. The Indian Elephant is the state animal and is held in high esteem. They have the love and respect of the residents and receive the best of care.

Kerala resorts are numerous and offer the utmost in comfort to its guests. Tourists will be delighted with the special attention they receive from the staff as they enjoy their plush rooms. These resorts are in close proximity to the many tourist attractions throughout Kerala, whether it’s a trip to one of the many beaches to enjoy the clear blue water and the clean sandy shores, or maybe the destination is a wildlife preserve or national park. Without a doubt, Kerala is one of the major tourists sites in the world. From quiet meditation to rocking nightlife, ancient architecture to modern contemporary structures, religious temples to informative museums, Kerala holds the key to your traveling dreams.

Tags: Chrisianity, Cultural Significance, Elephants, Kerala, Natural, resort

Northern Melbourne Diversity

The Victorian Era Architecture is evident in Northern Melbourne, Australian. From the shops on Errol Street to the cafes and the Melbourne 5 star hotels. The buildings are historical in nature with porches and verandas, and the location of the old town hall, complete with the old clock tower as well as the Blackwood Street Meat Market have become thriving theater and performing arts venues. This, as many of the districts of the Melbourne neighborhoods, has its own unique and distinct character and personality, based in the arts and alive in the culture. There are many galleries exhibiting touring shows, and each street located within the district has something different to offer. Each spring the Fling Festival occurs, which in Australia is just around the corner in October, wherein all the communities, including those in West Melbourne, come together. The restaurants, the cafes, and the pubs become venues for comedy and theatrical shows. Food and wine is celebrated as well as the books, the jewelry, the local fashion designers and the musicians and artists.

The Queen Victoria Market is located just by, and offers shops for the locals and interest for the tourists. This is a historical landmark as well as being a modern example of the cosmopolitan and modern world of Melbourne today. Shoppers can wander through more than six hundred different shops, looking for everything from hi-trend fashion, to fruits, cheese, vegetables and fresh flowers. And should one be in the area, and also be a music fan, the Sea Catholic Church houses the first pipe organ in Australia, to have received classification from the National Trust. This, as in many of the districts located throughout the city is a blend of the traditional and the modern, of the conservative and the liberal, of cultures. And the diversity and acceptance of that diversity is one of the characteristics of this Australian city that makes it a pleasure to visit, and to be a part of, even if just for a short time while on holiday.

Tags: Diversity, five star hotels, Fling festival, Northern Melbourne, Victorian Era Architecture

Barcelona, Morning and Night

One of the best times to visit Barcelona is just around the corner. When the temperatures in the city heat, the prices decrease. The city is filled with many beautiful options to choose from as far as the five star Barcelona hotels, the various museums and plazas, and the plethora of seafood restaurants and charming bars and cafes. The people of the city have a spirit and and exuberance towards the joy of living. When the sun sets, the tourists will find many of the outdoor cafes a buzz with activity, with street performers and vendors lining the street. Many people in the city begin their evenings later than many travelers are accustomed to back at home. Dinner is served beginning at nine o’clock and often times right up until Midnight. Now bear in mind that the way people eat in Spain is different from say those in the United States. A typical late night dinner in Spain consists of smaller portions of healthy food, olives and tomatoes and such, bread and wine. Many soups and seafood dishes are on the menus as well as salads and rice.

Once dinner is over, the locals will then head to the bars and cafes. There are literally hundreds to choose from in the city, ranging from quiet and romantic to the discos and clubs with DJs pumping music until the wee hours of the morning. Many of the bars serve tapas throughout the night, small plates of ‘tastes’ of food to nibble on. Of the many locations around the city, a few of the hot spots are the Barri Gotic and Mercat del Born. Both of these areas are well known for their selection of taverns. And once the fun is over for the evening, many pastry shops and located throughout these same areas offering espressos and cappuccinos, as well as an array of delicious morning sweets. The markets open up, with fresh fruit and vegetables available at the hawker stands. In the markets on can also find fresh flowers, cheeses and art galleries. Barcelona is one of the best spots in the world for those who enjoy walking and becoming totally immersed in the culture and the people.

Tags: Barcelona, five star hotels, Markets, Morning, Night, seafood

Art of Sydney, Australia

When one visits Australia, to peruse the various galleries and museums, one notable spot that must not be missed is the Art Gallery of Southern Australia. Any of those working in the variety of accommodation Sydney, Australia offers will be very helpful in providing information and directions to any of the artist hot spots. The Art Gallery was constructed in 1881 and sits in one the buildings in Adelaide that is of historical significance. What was once a small collection has expanded to the point of additions and necessary re-construction over the years. This collection housed within these walls, is one of the most extensive collections on the continent of Australia, with works from artists of North America, Asia, Europe and of course, Australia. There is fine art housed at the Gallery, as well as textiles, drawings, prints, jewelry, and furniture. The collection spans history from the times of the initial settlement to modern times, from the Renaissance to the Cubist period. The variety of work is as extensive as the sheer number of works.

There is a wonderful permanent collection, as well as numerous traveling exhibitions that occur throughout the year. There are educational classes and programs for children as well as adults, many special events and an incredible restaurant. One such traveling collection of works, was installed at the end of June and will run throughout September 6, 2009. This is titled Making Nature, and takes a look at the wide range of works produced by the European Landscape artists. The collection is separated into three different segments based on the ideology of the different painters, from the realistic painters, to the romantics, to those that produced works in the idealized fashion. There are many water colors and works in oil as well as prints, sculpture and photographs. Those who have already attending speak of the emotional power the artists were able to transmit onto their canvases and into their stone, as well as illustrated the poetry and the serenity of nature.

Tags: accommodation, Art, Australia, Sydney

Business and Pleasure on the Island of Singapore

When one finishes with their business transactions at any private bank of Singapore, there are many options for fun and exploration on this incredible island. Seafood?…it is a seafood lovers haven. Many restaurants offer up five star cuisine, and the hawker stands are definitely worth a visit, as the dishes here are served up heartily and with many years of tradition and family recipes behind them. There is everything from the unique to the traditional, from the modern to all that that is steeped in the history of the various cultures that have made Singapore their home. And it has been personal experience, that those involved in business, are also the same types of humans that enjoy a day, or a night on the golf course. There are two golf clubs that offer night time playing, one being the Orchid Country Club and the other, the Jurong Country Club. Both establishments offer services and a wide variety of amenities for those wishing to tee-off in the middle of the night.

And after a night on the course, the best way to relax is through a massage at one of the many spas, located either in-house, or in one of the many garden settings. The gardens surrounding these outdoor spas are careful thought out and designed according to the most traditional techniques of aromatherapy, affecting all the senses at one time. City tours are offered regularly as well, cruising around the harbour is relaxing as drinks and aperitifs are the norm, and the boats offer many dinner cruises as well as happy hour cruises. And as one cruises through the historic district of Singapore, one may want to step of the ship, in order to have their ailments attended to at the Imperial Herbal Restaurant, where a night out is not just fine dining, but a diagnosis and a cure within the course of some appetizers and a meal. This has been long touted, a restaurant that will revitalize and set the energies in the body back on course. With a tasty way of doing so.

Tags: Business, Island of Singapore, Pleasure, private bank of Singapore

The Markets and Bazaars of Jaipur, India

Jaipur is one of India’s most colorful cities, just walking through the markets and bazaars is treat for the eyes. The colors and the textures along the markets streets, have been a favorite spot for inspiration for international painters and photographers for decades. Some come here just for that inspiration, while others travel to the region, find one of the best Jaipur hotels to set up camp, and then hit the streets ready to shop. For many, this is one of the most important segments of their itinerary, and it is no wonder, for as well as the many options of some of the finest handcrafts and artistry in the world, this is one of the places where the culture and the heritage is the most vibrant, the market stalls and the food vendors, the locals and the tourists all combine to make this one of the most vibrant aspects of any vacation to this country.

The bazaars are filled with everything from antiques, carpets and rugs, gems and jewelery crafts, and the finest of leather and metal work in the world. While there are market throughout the city, some of the main ones include, Bapu Bazaar, Nehru Bazaar, Kishanpol Bazaar and the Mahiharon Ka Rasta. There are really no words to describe the abundance and the variety of items up for sale throughout these markets. The best way to understand, is to just visit in person, and wonder through the incredible energy and activity that takes place on a day to day basis in this area. No trip is complete in Jaipur without spending some in this hustle and bustle.

The carpet and fabrics found in these shops are of the finest quality in India, and are hand-crafted with the traditional techniques of the ancestors of the artists creating those same items today. The colors are out of the world, and many throughout the other cities of the country come to Jaipur for their own rugs and floor coverings or for the fabrics in which to make their own clothing. The leather crafted items and the handicrafts are also highly sought after for their aesthetic beauty and their artistic precision and quality. This is the capital of crafts in India, of which is often patronized by the Jaipur’s Royal Family. These artists and artisans are top notch and any art lover must stop in the markets of Jaipur, on each and every trip to the country.

Tags: Bazaars, india, Jaipur, Markets