Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Dominica, West Indies is located in the Caribbean.Dominica is one of the few places in the world where the coral is in beautiful, perfect condition.Dominica is a beautiful island with a high mountain range, underwater hot springs, waterfalls, tropica

The Commonwealth of Dominica is often mistaken for the Dominican Republic. Dominica is pronounced Domineeca.The language of this island is English although Creole is also widely spoken.The Dominica West Indies is located in the eastern chain of Windward Isles.In 1978 Dominica gained its independence from the United Kingdom.

Interesting Island Tourist facts:

Dominica is only 29 miles long and 16 miles wide. The time in Dominica is one hour ahead of US Eastern time. The currency is the East Caribbean Dollar Vehicles drive on the left Tropical Escape:

This island is a tropical escape. Plan an escape to this island and get the experience of a lifetime. This small island offers mountain peaks as high as 4,000 feet with rain forests where 175 birds, iguanas, tree lizards, extraordinary butterflies and wildlife live. Tree ferns, and plant life, flowers and vegetation cover the ground creating a colorful carpet.

Waterfalls form and cascade as 365 rivers and streams intertwine and travel across the island. Ravines and gorges offer spectacular sites. The waterfalls on Dominica West Indies Island are a sight that will never be forgotten.

Scuba Diving:

Dominica is one of the top three scuba diving sites in the Caribbean and it is one of the top five in the world. Enjoy scuba diving sites that include the exploration of under water wrecks and sudden under water drop offs. Hot springs release constant streams of bubbles. This is locally known as champagne. Hot springs are enjoyed by all who visit the island but the experience is enhanced by scuba diving. Snorkeling is also a way to explore the rich and beautiful waters off of the island.

Things to Enjoy:

Dominica offers whale and dolphin watching year round. You can hike through Dominica's forested mountain highlands. Hike to the Titou George, Panorama Viewpoint and the Valley of Desolation. Hike to the world's second largest Boiling Lake. Hikers must be accompanied by a certified hike guide. Many of the Islands most beautiful water falls and sites are hidden deep in the lush forests. Hiking is necessary to see these incredible natural sites. Visit the Champagne and Forest Hot Springs. Enjoy local foods such as green bananas, paw paw, red snapper, tuna and so much more.

Dominica, West Indies is a spectacular escape from the rush and hurry of the modern world. Hide away and escape in this enchanted tropical island. Enjoy the natural beauty of Dominica, West Indies.

Augustine "Gus" Logie is a former right-handed, middle-order batsman for the West Indies. A diminutive player and exceptional outfielder, Logie played for the West Indies from 1983 to 1991-when they were a champion team. When the team fielded, Logie

Born at Sobo, Trinidad in 1960, Logie developed into a stylish batsman with a fair technique. He began his First-class career with Trinidad and Tobago in the 1977/1978 season. Logie's off-break bowling was occasional in every respect. He was rarely called upon to bowl in First-class cricket and took only five wickets between 1977 and 1993; 3 in First class matches and 2 in one-day matches. His fielding certainly compensated for his lack of all-round ability.

Gus Logie made his ODI debut in the Benson and Hedges World Series Cup of 1981. Amazingly, he played four matches in that series but did not get to bat at all. His first chance to bat in an ODI came in his fifth match against India on his home ground- Queen's Park Oval. Logie scored an unbeaten six runs in that match. He was lucky that he got a chance to bat even then; such was the dominance of the West Indies' batting order.

Logie made his Test debut against India at Kingston in 1983. He actually got a chance to bat - twice! However, he was run out in the first innings for 13 and scored just 10 in the second innings. Logie's Test career was characterised by some important innings, although he was often inconsistent. He scored 16 Test half-centuries, but only 2 centuries. Twice, he was dismissed in the 90s. From 78 Test innings, Logie accumulated 2,470 runs at a good average of 35.79.

Logie's ODI career was characterised by inconsistency also, but this was more acceptable in the short version, when quick runs are often needed. From 158 ODIs, he scored 2,809 runs at an average of 28.95. His batting strike rate was a creditable 73.90. Logie cracked a lone ODI century and 14 half-centuries. He last played for the West Indies in an ODI in 1993-the year when he retired from playing all forms of competitive cricket.

Logie's involvement in cricket did not stop at his retirement as a player, however. He earned his coaching license and took the reins of the West Indies for a couple years until the end of 2004. The highlight of that stint was winning the 2004 ICC Champion's Trophy. He left soon after that and became involved as a coach in Bermuda's cricket programme.

Monday, April 9, 2012

There are a couple important things to consider when you're packing for your Caribbean cruise. I remember when I went on a Caribbean cruise and discovered halfway out the sea that I had forgot some important things. That sucks. If you forget some of

Let's start with the most important thing of all; your passport. Without a passport you won't get anywhere. Passports are necessary to visit most of the ports in the Caribbean and you probably won't even get on board the ship without one. So if you want to have an unforgettable and fun trip out in the Caribbean make sure that you have your passport ready. Also, check if there are any visa requirements for the destinations that you plan to visit. The travel agency can help you with this so don't be afraid to ask them.

Most people like lists when they pack so we have prepared a list for you. You can follow this when you're packing your stuff and check off everything that you have put in your suitcase.

Passport, your visa, the tickets and your cash plus credit cards. This is crucial so don't forget it. Make sure that you have the local currency for shore excursions and such. Bring some thin cotton clothes with you as you can expect some really hot weather. You can also pack some more formal clothing in case you were going to a classy restaurant where you need to tidy up a bit. Bring some nice shoes for walking so you don't get sore feet while exploring the different ports of call. Also, remember to buy good travel guide with all the local sights to visit while in port.

This should get you started when it comes to packing stuff for your trip. There are also some rules you should follow regarding the size restrictions of the stuff you carry with you on board. Make sure that you check with the travel agency how much you can take with you so that you don't over pack and have to leave some of the stuff in the terminal. Needless to say you can't bring any illegal items with you so don't even try.

This article should get you started with the basics that you need to know when packing for your dream Caribbean cruise. We have discussed the most important thing to remember and also the gave you the list of the most important things to bring with you. Remember to follow the rules and you will have no problems with the customs. Have fun!

The life and the economy of many Caribbean countries depend to a great extent on tourism and fishing. The sea is a main source of food and a vital part of their culture and economy. Without clean, safe waters, Caribbean life is greatly compromised. T

The most recent threat to Caribbean life is the catastrophic oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico back in April of 2010. There was an estimated 20,000 to 40,000 barrels of oil gushing out of the ruptured British Petroleum Gulf well, which was 3 times more than what was estimated initially by the government. An oil spill of this size was something impossible according to British Petroleum. Their own words from 2009 called "an accident leading to a giant crude oil spill and serious damage to beaches, fish and mammals" "... unlikely, or virtually impossible." The lesson oil companies and the rest of us continue to learn the hard way is that no off-shore wells can be considered 100% safe and secure.

To British Petroleum, it was a loss of profits and, to some extent, their reputation. But for the Caribbean islands it continues to be a critical situation. It was reported that the oil slick at one point was the size equivalent to the area of the state of West Virginia and was fast approaching southern USA coast and spreading along Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama & Florida. The Mississippi river was covered over a mile with the oil slick and this was just the start.

The Shell oil spill in Barbados and the Exxon Valdez spill in Alaska have shown that life along the coasts which took the brunt of the oil spill suffered for decades as the sea life in these coasts was totally destroyed. A similar catastrophe hovers around the Caribbean today. President Obama's administration declared a national emergency and deployed the military to get into action to do whatever was possible to help the situation. There was nothing more anyone could do. For quite some time to come, the Caribbean islands are sure to feel the repercussions of this disastrous spill.

There will no doubt be both direct and indirect impact of the spill felt by the Caribbean nations as well as the Gulf coast states for quite some time to come. Among the direct impacts of the crude oil that have been observed and documented so far is to the birds in the area. The effects of the crude on their plumage, at the very least, causes a severe reduction in their body insulation. This makes them vulnerable to temperature changes and makes them less buoyant. It also affects the bird's flight abilities and makes them easy food for predators.

The water plants and the inner flora and fauna have been affected badly due to the oil slick because of the screening effect which reduces Sun light and thus photosynthesis ability. The other sea life that depends on these submerged flora and fauna die because of the non-availability of food or the health hazards caused due to the intake of the pollutants.

The devastated coasts, beaches and sea life have a drastically negative effect on the lives of the people of Caribbean. The human error is beyond human repair for the foreseeable future. For the inhabitants of the Caribbean nations, they can only hope that the effects of the spill do not bring about the total destruction of fisheries and tourism along the thousands of miles of their coastlines.

Sunday, April 8, 2012

An exotic location provides motivation not found in numerous other reward based programs. Incentives are not a new concept; however, the options offered to organizations have greatly expanded. Top travel destinations such as Bora Bora, Africa, or Ita

rganization attempts this large task on their own.

Incentive Travel Programs: Top Locations for Rewarding Successful Individuals

Incentive travel programs from a professional provider supply an immense variety of destination options that meet budget and organizational objectives. Alberta, Canada delivers astonishing water, tree, and mountainous views where an individual can get lost in the beauty. Located in the western portion of the country, this province borders only one state in the US. Scenery includes lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, prairie areas, and the infamous badlands located in the southern portion of the province. Dairy, grain, oil, ranching, and irrigated agriculture may be found throughout this region of Canada. While maybe not the most exotic of incentive travel program locations, this option provides immense beauty to those who love nature. Hiking, swimming, fishing, water sports, and exploration are bountiful in this particular location. Multiple provinces provide the perfect mix of scenery as well as fun for any individual seeking something different.

Tuscany offers its own beautiful scenery as well as a vast array of experiences. Many dream of visiting Italy, seeing the culture, and the gorgeous landscapes offered by this area. This location gave birth to the Italian Renaissance thus making it a unique historically rich destination. Famous people have resided in the area throughout history including Dante, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Galileo Galilei. Tuscany is home to numerous museums where visitors can see pieces from various famous artists. The location also provides an extraordinary culinary experience along with some of the best wines in the world. It is a good choice for those who love the arts, fine wine, great dining experiences, and who want to see astonishing scenery. Bora Bora makes for an amazing ocean centered vacation with cottages located directly on the water. It is an island surrounded by a lagoon located off the main island of Tahiti. Clear blue water, tropical fish, and long extending beaches make this the tropical dream vacati on. Ireland, France, Fiji, and Greece are additional exotic incentive travel destinations where individuals can truly experience the trip of a lifetime. All are stunningly exotic areas that can motivate any individual or team to succeed.

Friday, April 6, 2012

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines have the specialty of catering to all kinds of people belonging to every age group. They have a fleet of 21 ships going to over 170 destinations worldwide. It would be impossible to be on board a Royal Caribbean cruise sh

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines are always trying to plan new ways to keep their customers happy, and this makes them the leaders of the cruise industry. They have subdivided their fleet into five sets of classes to choose from, so everyone would get exactly what they have in mind.

The Freedom class consists of Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Independence of the Seas. Freedom of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship of the world and has special features like the Flow-rider and the H2O zone specially added for kids. It also has a one of its kind 400-foot mall called the Royal Promenade. Guests would love this mall with the amazing shops and arenas. It also has pubs, bars and a caf named Caf Promenade.

The Voyager class has 4 ships including the third biggest cruise ship of all times. These ships feature all kinds of activities including mini-golf courses, skating rings, basketball courts and more than one pool. Of course, the night life is kept alive with the gleaming restaurants and bars.

The Radiance class is specially designed with a more environmental-friendly gas powered engines. They come with grand public rooms and have the beautiful glass exterior viewing elevators. The dining rooms are constructed with glass and have a great view. You also get to play on the self-leveling billiard tables.

The Vision class consists of 6 ships that have been joined into 3 pairs of sister ships. These ships are famous for their extensive glass construction. Enchantment of the Seas was renovated in 2004, and a new section was built that now holds suspension bridges and a beautiful pool. This area also includes specialty restaurants that offer food from all around the world.

The Sovereign class is more known to be the pioneers of mega ships that set the standards the cruise industry follows today. This class includes the Monarch of the Seas and Majesty of the Seas. These ships were the first ones to ever have an open atrium area. These ships are grand with big pools, bars with specious lounges, and theatres with large seating capacity.

Having to choose from so many different classes is just to give the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines an idea of what you are looking for. The real experience would begin after you have boarded one of the ships and it shall be mind blowing in all the right aspects.

When West Indies wicketkeeper Jeff Dujon retired, the selectors tried to find an immediate replacement. One of the candidates for the post was Junior Murray. To state that the former Windward Islands wicketkeeper did not fit the bill perfectly is an

Born on January 20th, 1968, Murray became the first player from the tiny island of Grenada to represent the West Indies at the highest level. He had this honour when he made his Test debut in Sydney during the 1992/93 tour of Australia. Unfortunately, in the 33 Tests and 55 ODIs that Murray played since that tour, he failed to earn enough distinctions in front or behind the stumps.

West Indies cricket fans often found that Murray was clumsy behind the stumps. His awkwardness often led to him dropping simple catches in the field. There was not a pair of wicketkeeper's gloves that could conceal Murray's shortcomings at the best of times. Yet, he still managed to take 99 catches and effect three stumpings in his Test career.

If Murray's wicket-keeping fell short of Dujon's standards, his batting was way behind as well. A Test batting average of 22.39 and an ODI average of 22.60 is hardly anything to boast about. Murray managed to score a solitary Test century- his only century at international level. He made that unbeaten 101 batting in 7th position against New Zealand at Wellington in 1995.

Murray normally batted at 7th position for the majority of his Test career. For the Windward Islands, he batted in a higher position- usually between positions 4 and 6 in the batting order. He was a more reliable batsman at First Class level, never playing for teams other than Grenada, Windward Islands and the West Indies.

After a productive regional season in 2002, Murray was a surprise selection for the India's tour of the West Indies. He displaced the redoubtable Ridley Jacobs, who was suffering from a temporary loss of form at the time. Unsurprisingly, Murray failed spectacularly against better bowling and was not particularly impressive behind the stumps. He was never selected to the Caribbean team again, having satisfied selectors that his performances at regional level were very flattering.

Junior Murray extended his playing career with the Windward Islands to 2007, until he was 39 years old- a sign of the paucity of cricket talent in the Windward Islands in that period. His First class career ended with him failing with the bat- a fitting end to an unfulfilled cricket career.

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Planning a vacation when you're a family with young children can be stressful and difficult, starting with the destination. If you have older kids in addition to wee ones, it gets even more complicated. You might think it's impossible to choose a vac

Try these travel destinations for families for more fun than frustration:

Smuggler's Notch - Jeffersonville, Vermont: From teen programs to babysitting services and children's lessons, this ski resort has all the bases covered. Voted the #1 family resort by Ski Resort Magazine.

Deer Valley Resorts - Park City, Utah: Another great location for a winter vacation on the other side of the country and #1 resort, Deer Valley Resorts also accommodates families with children from a wide range of ages.

Assateague Island National Seashore - Chincoteague, Virginia: The family will totally enjoy the wild horses and miles of beach on this fabulous vacation on the shore of the Atlantic.

Sanibel Island - Sanibel Island, Florida: Not only does this vacation destination offer lovely white beaches, it is also a nature preserve with a plethora of wildlife so exciting for children to explore, including dolphins and bird-watching.

Tyler Place Family Resort - Highgate Springs, Vermont: An all-inclusive family resort, the entire family will find activities suitable for every age group.

Inn at East Hill Farm - Troy, New Hampshire: There are so many year-round fun activities here, you may have to plan more than one visit.

Rocking Horse Ranch - Highland, New York: Bungee jumping, horse adventures and a fabulous water park are just some of the activities at this family vacation destination designed for all ages.

Bluffdale Vacation Farm - Eldred, Illinois: In the heart of the Midwest, this dude ranch was voted by Parent's Magazine as one of the top ten family resorts in North America.

Great Wolf Lodge - Several locations: No matter what time of year, you and the family can enjoy one of the best indoor waterparks in the world. Twelve different locations from which to choose.

Bar Lazy J Ranch - Parshall, Colorado: Catering to families, this is a perfect family destination for those who love the outdoors.

Children's Museum of Indianapolis- With tons of cool dinosaurs, a planetarium and a mission to create extraordinary learning experiences across the arts, sciences, and humanities, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a must on family vacations where you'll be passing through Indianapolis.

It may seem impossible to plan a family vacation that accommodates all age ranges, but it's much easier than you think. These vacation spots are focused on providing a safe, convenient and fun time for families, and by thinking outside the box, you can have a great family vacation without any of the frustration or stress.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Famous for its opulent temples, pristine beaches and rich cultures, Southeast Asia has long been one of the most popular travel destinations for the adventurous backpacker. From the bustling modern cities of Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to the

Well-trodden paths ply between the most prominent cities and cultural sites of Southeast Asia's big tourism hitters of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Vietnam. But venture just beyond the headliners and you will encounter a Southeast Asia that is in many ways still waiting to be discovered. Emerging destinations in the more popular countries along with the less traversed Philippines, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar offer travelers a fascinating glimpse of the region with the added bonus of much smaller crowds. With less Western visitors in these areas travelers will encounter a Southeast Asia that is worlds away from Khao San Road; an experience within which you can more easily connect to the endearing and friendly locals who make any journey to Southeast Asia so unforgettable.

5 Emerging Destinations in Southeast Asia

Without further ado here is a list of five of the most popular emerging destinations in Southeast Asia in no particular order. These places are by no means completely off-the-beaten path or off-the-radar but rather are becoming increasingly admired among the backpacker and independent travel crowd. Naturally, this does not claim to be an exhaustive list. Southeast Asia as a tourism destination is continually evolving and with more investment into tourist infrastructure pouring in this list could conceivably be re-titled five years from now minus the word "emerging". Before making the decision to travel to any of these destinations, however, it is prudent to seek out up-to-date travel advice including required vaccinations, visa requirements and travel advisories.

Bagan, Myanmar

The temples of Siem Reap in Cambodia may have prestige and grandeur but perhaps no destination in Southeast Asia can compete with the sheer volume of spiritual dwellings in Bagan, Myanmar. With over 2,000 remaining temples gracing the area, Bagan continues to be one of the least known yet unmissable destinations in the region. Hidden southwest of the more recognizable Mandalay and considering the long journey from the former capital and largest city, Yangon, Bagan sees significantly fewer visitors than other temple complexes in Thailand or Cambodia, giving travelers an opportunity to revel in its beauty with relative calm. For one of the truly great experiences in Southeast Asia, perch yourself atop one of the ubiquitous empty temple-top terraces just before dusk to gaze upon the sunset reflecting brilliantly off of the temples' golden spires.

Traveling to Bagan (and Myanmar), however, is definitely not for the faint-hearted or time-pressed traveler, which may explain why it has not yet caught up with its potential. To enter the country visas are required for and must usually be applied for in advance. Distances between cities are also quite large with road conditions that often leave something to be desired. Traveling to/from Bagan is no exception with daily long-distance buses plying the roads to/from Mandalay (8 hours) and Yangon (14-15 hours) while trains trudge the same routes albeit significantly slower. Air travel is an option but keep in mind that safety standards in Myanmar may not be as robust as in Western countries.

Luang Prabang, Laos

Between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers lies the crown jewel of Laos, the majestic town of Luang Prabang. Few cities are as timeless as the UNESCO World Heritage site Luang Prabang with its reminiscent French colonial architecture, grandiose Buddhist temples and traditional Laotian wooden houses jammed neatly into its endearing old quarter. In the shadow of Phu Si and its hillside temples, buzzing markets, ornate spiritual sites and restaurants serving up local and international specials capture the attention of all those passing through. Possessing an elusive charm, Luang Prabang has quickly become a favorite destination for independent travelers on the Southeast Asia circuit and continues to move up the travel ranks as it lures back old friends and deftly seduces new ones.

Road improvements have made bus travel in Laos significantly more comfortable and getting to Luang Prabang considerably easier. Buses to/from the capital Vientiane (9 to 11 hours) and adrenaline-fueled Vang Vieng (7 hours) leave regularly while boats can be chartered for the amazing trip to Nong Khiaw (7 hours) along the Nam Ou.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Home to a burgeoning backpacker culture of sorts, Yogyakarta, Java's geographic and cultural center, is rapidly evolving into one of the most popular travel destinations in Indonesia. Strategically located on the main line between Jakarta and Bali, Jogja, its moniker to locals and admiring travelers alike, has become an almost mandatory stopover for those trekking across Java. And with good reason. Jogja itself has a wealth of attractions including art galleries and museums showcasing Javanese culture and the famous kraton, a grandiloquent walled palace at the heart of the city, once home to the sultans. The traveler's enclave centered around Jalan Sosrowijayan is a surprisingly lively introduction to Indonesian, particularly Javanese, culture and hospitality, where it is not unusual to see hip, friendly locals mingling seamlessly with tourists in the area's streets, bars and restaurants.

Yogyakarta's biggest tourist drawcard, however, is the iconic Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple, situated just 42km away. Constructed somewhere around 800 AD, the temples intricate panels and stupas are best seen under the gentle radiance of a sunrise when large tour groups have yet to arrive.

Transport to/from Jogja is fairly simple since the city is well connected to the rest of Java by buses, minibuses and trains. The journey to/from Jakarta is most comfortable and shortest by train (8 hours) while the long-haul to Denpasar in Bali (15 to 16 hours) via Mt. Bromo (9 to 10 hours) is most directly accomplished by bus/minibus.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Possessing a distinctive character that is all its own, the charming riverside town of Hoi An captivates visitors with its enticing blend of graceful architecture and a bucolic pace. At the heart of Hoi An sits the enduring Old Town, a veritable open-museum distinguished enough to be designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Partially because of this status, Hoi An is remarkably well-preserved and in walking the narrow alleyways it is not difficult to see why so many travelers are becoming increasingly enchanted by the town and its entrancing atmosphere.

Located on the main coastal highway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city, although quite far from each, Hoi An has reliable bus connections to many cities in Vietnam. Buses to/from Hue (4 to 5 hours), Danang (about 1 hour) and Nha Trang (9 to 10 hours) are available. If you are short on time but still want to visit Hoi An, flying to/from Danang to HCMC or Hanoi is a possible option.

Pai, Thailand

Throw the spirit of Haight-Ashbury circa 1967 into a misty valley in the foothills of northern Thailand and something resembling Pai may just materialize. An increasingly popular backpacker hotspot, laid-back and uber-cool Pai is one of Thailand's fastest growing tourist destinations. Unlike the other places on this list, Pai has seemingly little in the way of sights; but what Pai lacks in landmarks it more than makes up for in atmosphere and location. Once a mere stopover for those heading north of Chiang Mai, travelers now venture to Pai for its fantastic trekking, rafting, elephant riding and spa relaxation options.

Located in northern Thailand, Pai is accessible by bus from Chiang Mai (4 hours), the second most popular international gateway to the country, and Mae Hong Son (4 hours), a major hill-tribe trekking center.

Other Emerging Destinations

With so much to discover in Southeast Asia, choosing only five emerging destinations can hardly do justice to such a diverse and exceedingly engrossing region. Here are some other destinations to keep on radar that deserve an honorable mention:

Kalaw (Myanmar) Palawan (Philippines) Kinabalu National Park (Malaysia) Ko Tao (Thailand) Battambang (Cambodia)

Monday, April 2, 2012

You may want to go to various places for vacations. The choice of the destination is mainly determined by your special area of interest, be it partying, diving or snorkeling, nature, or wedding.

Scenic setting

The Caribbean islands are a perfect setting to celebrate weddings and honeymoons. It will be a lifetime experience to say "I Do" amidst the lush green groves, brilliant beaches, and bright waters.

You can opt for a tropical wedding and feel relaxed because the whole event will be managed by experts that will leave no stone unturned to make this once-in-a-lifetime event memorable!

Romantic Getaway

Once the wedding is over, the next task is to find a suitable place for a honeymoon. The Caribbean islands are blessed with many features perfectly suited for a romantic getaway. You cannot resist the quiet, sandy beaches, endless seas, and enjoyable tropical nights.

Attractive Packages

To add more spice to your romantic Caribbean vacations, the all-inclusive resorts offer facilities which complement your trip. You can choose a resort that offers glamorous accommodation, rich gourmet food, thrilling nightlife, and water activities. You can also opt for special honeymoon packages containing extra nights and upgrades to oceanfront rooms.

To attract more visitors, some all-inclusive resorts offer additional services at an extra cost--beauty treatments, photography, personal assistants, special decoration using red roses, pick up and drop facilities from and to the airport, etc. Whatever the rating of the resort, the most common gift presented to the couple is a sparkling bottle of champagne.

The wedding package offered by the all-inclusive resorts is referred to as "WeddingMoon" package, as it also covers the honeymoon. There are spacious and furnished villa-style suites with a kitchenette, patio, ocean view studio, fresh flowers, personal waiters, and breakfast in bed the morning after the wedding.

You can enjoy a perfect romantic vacation in the Caribbean islands. There are blue waters, candlelight dining, and warm and breezy evenings in private vacation islands. The Sandals Resort, Super Clubs and Beaches Resorts are some of the popular all-inclusive resorts that offer fabulous romantic Caribbean vacation packages.

Travel is the movement of the people all over the world between relatively distant geographical locations for any duration, with or without the means of transport. It also includes the short stays between the successive journeys. There are many place

The various places which the visitors can visit are the birthplace of democracy in Athens, the graceful canals of Venice, the renaissance buildings, the forum of Rome, the art of Florence, the Napoleonic grandeur of Paris and the Moorish palaces in turkey that were the remains of the Seven Wonders Of The World. This is one of the continents that take pride in its extraordinary heritage; it leads the world in fashion, art, music and its designs. Europe is a beautiful place to visit and there are no of locations of historical interests and as well as scenic beauty and the top traveled destinations in Europe are:

1. London: It is a historical place. The tourist will find the large no attractions and will be in bewilderment. The visitors to London are fascinated by the medieval architecture shown in the Buckingham Palace.

2. Rome: The capital of Italy remains unmatched when it comes to the sheer aesthetic domination of its antique structures and its impressive history. The Colosseum in Italy, one of the Seven Wonders of the World is seen in great amount. It attracts large number of visitors.

3. Berlin: It is serving as a capital of Germany. Some of the main boroughs to consider visiting include the greenery in the southwest Berlin, the historic centre of Mitte, and lovely Prenzlauer Berg located in the northeast.

4. Vienna: It is often referred as one of the most beautiful of all the capitals in Europe. Art, economics and even politics here are quite rich in traditions.

5. Amsterdam: it is famous for its delicious food all over the world. This city is rich in its cultural activities and is full of flourishing businesses and artists.

6. Barcelona: This city offers a collection of fantastic samples in Spanish art, fashion, lodging, as good as dining. Barcelona is the good place to devise the vacation.

7. Florence: Decorated with tiny opulence accommodations, smart eateries, overkill of charm, this city also provides an considerable arrangement of hospitality.

8. Venice: It is the loveliest places in the world. It is a city that is found in the northern part of Italy, home of pasta and pasta. Considered as one of the most beautiful places and cities in the world. Venice is also known by different names such as city of water and city of bridges.

9. Paris: France can end up being the best option. The Eiffel tower is one of the wonderful monuments to see in Paris.

10. Stockholm: It is a pride of Sweden. Being its capital city, it is also the top destination of the tourists all around the world. It has a very lovely climate i.e. humid and extreme. It is a diverse city in terms of ethnicity and industry.

These all are the top travel destinations in Europe. Many other places are being visited here but the most important is London, Paris and Rome. Europe is a great option for your vacation and planning holidays.

Saturday, March 31, 2012

The champion West Indies teams of the late 70s to early 90s

Makhaya Ntini bowls at the WACA Ground, Perth ...Image via Wikipedia
Born in Bridgetown, Barbados on April 18th, 1958, Malcolm Marshall took only 20 years to make his First-class debut in the 1977/1978 season. His Test debut came in the following season- owing to defections of the leading West Indies players to Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket. Marshall had a slow start in Test cricket- a surprising fact when one considers his statistics.
The chance to cement a place in the West Indies side came again in 1980. From there, Marshall never looked back. He announced his arrival as a world-beater against England- the team that feared him the most. Marshall played 81 Test matches and amassed 376 wickets, which was then a record for the most wickets by a West Indian bowler. His Test bowling average of 20.94 is the kind of figure that one may never see in modern cricket.
Marshall was the only West Indian paceman of his era to take over 300 wickets. He had the most wickets, best strike rate and lowest bowling average of them all. However, one interesting fact is that he had the highest batting average of them all as well. From 107 innings, Marshall accumulated 1,810 runs at an average of 18.85. He scored 10 Test fifties and seven First-class centuries. He was the closest player that the West Indies had to a genuine all-rounder since Garry Sobers and before Dwayne Bravo.
Malcolm Marshall played a lot of First class cricket for Hampshire of England and Natal of South Africa. In all, he played 408 First class matches and scalped an astounding 1,651 wickets at an average of 19.10. South African fast bowler Makhaya Ntini credits Marshall for helping him to develop into an excellent fast bowler.
When he stopped playing, Marshall took on coaching jobs- starting in South Africa. He coached the West Indies senior team before his death at age 41 from cancer. Though he was a devastating bowler in his day, Marshall was a charming fellow. It was no surprise that his death, in 1999, was mourned across the cricket world.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Mervyn Dillon West Indies

West Indies cricket crestImage via WikipediaDillon was discarded by West Indies selectors at the age of 31; the victim of unreasonably high expectations. Dillon's statistics reveal that he was a good stock bowler who can be expected to deliver wickets. However, he also served up many juicy full-tosses, half-volleys and harmless bouncers to grateful batsmen.
Geoff Boycott remarked that Dillon bowled great wicket-taking deliveries, but served up too many "four balls' that made him expensive.
In his career, Dillon took 131 wickets in 38 Test matches with an average of 33.57. His ODI returns were 130 wickets from 108 matches with an economy rate of 4.61. While "Big Merv" was no rabbit with the bat, his batting was at times comical and over-ambitious. He even appeared as if he would threaten Courtney Walsh's record for highest number of "ducks" in a Test match.
Although his returns from international cricket made him an above-average cricketer, Dillon's efforts were often overlooked because he was not the strike bowler that the W.I. selectors felt that he should be. He was the strike bowler for Trinidad and performed very well in this capacity. At Test level, however, Mervyn Dillon was a stock bowler who could take wickets. Expectations of him were perhaps too high.
A comparison to one of the current crop of bowlers shows that the parlous state of West Indies cricket is due to fundamental problems and is not merely an issue of finding better bowlers than Dillon. Daren Powell- considered a strike bowler in the 2008 team- took a grand total of 73 wickets after 30 Test matches at a poor average of 47.28 (up to December 12, 2008). This would have been acceptable if Daren Powell was not a "rabbit" with the bat. Powell needed 82 balls on average to get a wicket in a Test match compared to 66.4 for Dillon.
The high-arm action of Mervyn Dillon was truly a beauty to behold. In his prime, Dillon was able to deliver genuinely quick deliveries with speeds of up to 140 km/hr. His consistency in ball placement often left a lot to be desired. However, Mervyn Dillon's West Indies career was cut short prematurely by those who felt that younger, quicker bowlers should be given a chance. The fact that these younger, quicker bowlers pale in comparison to Mervyn Dillon is an emphatic indictment of West Indies cricket.
An international comeback for Mervyn Dillon is highly unlikely at the age of 35 (in 2009). He has not retired from First-class cricket, but has stepped aside to allow younger fast bowlers to emerge from Trinidad and Tobago. Even in the twilight of his career, "Big Merv" still has many overs left in him.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Friday, March 30, 2012

vacationing in the Caribbean

English: Jerk chicken, rice, honey biscuit pla...Image via WikipediaThe Caribbean cuisine is a wide mix of plenty of different cultures. There is a blend of Africa, Chinese, French, British, Spanish, Indian and more cuisines all coming together in one region. Seafood is obviously one of the common and most abundant food offered in the Caribbean. Since the entire region is composed of nothing but islands, this is to be expected. Although each island may have its own special type of dish they prepare, most islands offer the same seafood fare. During your all inclusive Caribbean vacations is the time for you to eat foods that will probably fall outside your comfort zone. One of the popular foods to eat in the Caribbean is conch. Most of us have most likely never sampled this type of shellfish before. If you have yet to try this delicious dish, now is the time! Other islands may even offer sharks on their menu. The islands also offer plenty of seafood plates that you are used to seeing on the menu at home, just in case you can't step outside the box.
If you have been to any type of restaurant that offers Caribbean cuisine, you are already familiar with the regions very own jerk seasoning. This seasoning is usually found in meat dishes, but mostly used with chicken. The spicy flavor is unlike any combination of seasonings found anywhere else on the globe. If you like foods a little on the spicy side, jerk seasoning is just for you. It will be sure to make your taste buds dance! Other spices that are abundant in the area are ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Another type of food that is served as a side to most main courses is rice. Different islands put their own spin on this simple, but delicious side. During your all inclusive Caribbean vacation, be sure to sample the rice that is served with sauces and beans. It is unlike any rice that you have sampled here in the States. We all plan on doing different things on our vacations, but there is one thing that we all do: eat!
Enhanced by Zemanta

Thursday, March 29, 2012

The daily grind of work and other obligations

Deutsch: Paris: Eiffelturm und MarsfeldImage via Wikipedia
Tahiti. This is the biggest in a collection of over one hundred islands, and it is truly an oasis for lovers. Located in the heart of the South Pacific, this tropical paradise boasts authentic huts with all the benefits of five-star hotels. The allure of the jungle is the perfect backdrop for island love, and a walk on any of the beaches in Tahiti is nothing short of spectacular.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Gatlinburg is a seasonal favorite of couples in the Deep South. It is where many go to renew their wedding vows, take that second honeymoon, or simply get away on a laid-back weekend for two. The Great Smokey Mountains intensifies the log cabin appeal of Gatlinburg, and the view of the mist around their majestic peaks is sure to set the mood. Walks on the Riverwalk and dinners at a wide variety of unique country restaurants and inns is just icing on the cake.
Paris, France. There is no need for explaining why Paris makes the cut. In fact, it is safe to say that Paris is featured in most "Top Romantic Travel Destinations" compilations. Paris is often dubbed as the capital city of romance, with sights such as the Eiffel Tower, amazing architecture, and world-famous museums. Sip your cappuccino in a sidewalk caf with your partner and lazily watch the people as they bustle by, and thank heavens you decided to vacation in the city built for lovers.
Aspen, Colorado. Aspen is a known haven for skiers, but it is also a prime location for your romantic getaway for two. The cozy ski lodges and hot nightlife make this a perfect spot for couples. Resorts that boast all-inclusive romance packages complete with all the amenities and the backdrop of freshly fallen snow is enough to get any couple in the mood.
Malta. Malta, a small island right at the heart of the Mediterranean, offers many romantic getaway locations. Gozo, which is Malta's sister island is dubbed as the "island where time stood still". Here you will find small, traditional Gozitan villages, surrounded by unspoilt countryside views and landscapes. Gozo is also home to beautiful, secluded beaches and fantastic diving sites.
A trip to any old place can make a decent romantic getaway for a couple. However, if you and your partner choose a location from the best romantic travel destinations, then that decent vacation will become nothing short of extravagant, and you will both bring home memories that will last for years to come.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Blue Mountain Peak

Resorts on the edgeResorts on the edge (Photo credit: whoswho)
Many people are not aware of this fact, but there are well over a thousand islands who are part of the Caribbean. They are located in different territories such as the Barbados Islands the Bahamas Islands, the British Virgin Islands, the Anguilla islands, and many more.
Each of these Islands from the smallest to the largest are home to a paradise like landscape which offers idealistic vacations and lovers get-aways for people all over the world. If you have never been to at least one of those magnificent Caribbean islands you should make it your goal to plan a trip there in the future.
Because most of those islands live on tourism which brings them most of their income, they have the most incredible all inclusive Caribbean resorts for you to enjoy an unbelievable stay that will take care of your every need.
The island of Jamaica is the third largest of the Caribbean islands and was formed by sea volcanoes millions of years ago. Jamaica has gorgeous mountainous regions going up to over 7, 000 feet which is the highest point of Blue Mountain Peak. The climate of Jamaica is what you would expect from a tropical spot, hot and humid where the sun can still burn your skin behind clouds.
If you are looking to spend some dream vacations in Jamaica you are probably looking for the best vacation resort. An all inclusive Caribbean resort is what you need. Montego Bay is a great place for unforgettable Jamaican vacation where you can find terrific resorts, some of which are family owned.
You will find out-of-this-world accommodations that are modern and sparkling neat. You will also enjoy the warm and friendly staff willing to accommodate your every need at all times. Throughout the island you will find excellent gourmet cuisine that is legendary on the Island of Jamaica.
You will also find some secluded beautiful beaches and hotels if you want to enjoy more quite while it's still a short hop from the airport and other commodities.
All inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and particularly in Jamaica, one of the most beautiful spot of the Caribbean islands, will offer you dream vacations that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Caribbean Islands of West Indies

Florida Ephemera PostcardsFlorida Ephemera Postcards (Photo credit: UF Digital Collections)Cruising is one of the most popular and pleasurable activity among the people of Europe and especially of Caribbean Islands. People enjoy the dazzling beauty of the beaches while traveling on a cruise. You can stay on the cruise ship for maximum 14 days at affordable rates. Millions of passengers travel on cruise ships and it has become the most important and famous part of the tourism industry.
Enjoying an extensive network of Islands on a cruise ship filled with mind blowing and peaceful beauty of golden beaches and resorts gives a man the best way to relax and unwind himself. To enjoy the stunning beauty of the high Volcanoes, snowfall on the peeks and worth watching views of the sea and its shore, a Caribbean cruise takes four major routes.
The most popular cruise route among all the routes is the Eastern Caribbean cruise route. This route starts from Florida, which is a popular city of United States of America, and sails through the Key West (Tropical Islands of Bahamas), Turks, Caicos and Virgin Islands. Finally, it reaches to Puerto Rico. This route passes through the most beautiful Islands of the world. Puerto Rico is a complete package of breathtaking beauty and opportunities to pamper you. Your journey would be incomplete if you miss to visit the world's famous and beautiful Condado beach on its Island.
Second route is the Western Caribbean cruise route, which starts from the seaports of the Texas, Louisiana and Florida. The cruise ship passes through a famous country Mexico, Island of Cozumel, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and then to the beautiful coasts of Central America Honduras and Belize.
Southern Caribbean cruise route is the third route, which begins from the main port of Puerto Rico and then passing through the Lesser Antilles and Netherlands Antilles ends at the west of Aruba Island.
Exotic or long duration Caribbean cruise route is the fourth route. In this specific route, you can take any of the above-mentioned directions. It is a mixture of all the routes. You can even start your journey from where the route ended. People prefer taking this route because of the vast options of traveling.
You can select a route, which suites you and your finances. For spending the perfect holidays and enjoying the lush green beautiful sights and beaches, clean natural environment and friendly people journey on the Caribbean cruise. This will definitely fulfill your desires. Mostly routes of cruise ships return the passengers to its originating port, but some routes are longer and take several months to return on the same port. So, if you don't want to miss the charms and gems of Caribbean Islands, take an unforgettable trip on a Caribbean cruise.
Enhanced by Zemanta

Sunday, March 25, 2012

Love adventure holidays?

shunas & Johns wedding07042009 874shunas & Johns wedding07042009 874 (Photo credit: nikoretro)
Family Adventure Travel
It sure is hard to please every member of the family when it comes to going on a vacation, and when it's an adventure travel destination, then you're probably indulging in some serious wishful thinking if you believe that you can satisfy every member of your family!
One such exciting adventure vacation, which you can't go wrong with, is exploring a forest. If you belong to a family with an adventurous streak, then, more often than not, you will find that everyone loves the idea of going on a forest trip. But do be careful about choosing the right forest.
You need to take into account not only the exotic species of flora and fauna in the forest, but also the danger factor. Always choose forests which are less dangerous. Remember, Safety first! Try the New Forest, in southern England and be reminded of Robin Hood while you're at it! You can try a variety of other places like ski slopes, beaches, deserts, mountains and even unknown, secluded adventure spots. Nothing like exploring a new place with the family!
Luxury Adventure Travel
This form of adventure holiday is for those of you who love all the luxuries of life, along with a healthy dose of adventure. Take the Desert Safari in Dubai for example. This experience combines both adventure and luxury perfectly. Try the evening desert safari which starts in the afternoon and takes you along the desert sands in order to quench your thirst for adventure. This is one of those luxury adventure travel destinations which you just cannot avoid.
Take pictures of the breath taking sunset or decorate yourselves with pretty henna art, sample some of the best cuisine in the world and enjoy unlimited soft drinks and mineral water or even access to the bar. Let's not forget belly dancing, one of the best known and most exotic dance forms in the world.
While you're selecting your destination for adventure travel, do make sure you choose wisely because there isn't any point courting danger. We all want to get back from our adventure vacations in one piece! Choosing a travel agent who will not only give you the best offers but will also guide you in making a safe choice is of utmost importance. Try http://Adventure-Travel-Destinations.com, like I did. I was deeply satisfied with their adventure specials and I'm guessing you will be too!
Enhanced by Zemanta

Asia is one of the most popular destinations in the world

Hong Kong SevensHong Kong Sevens (Photo credit: mrlins)
As guests are journeying to their specific ports, they will find a wealth of activities on board. These cater to every age group, and member of the family. It doesn't matter what your interests are you will find cruise activities to enjoy. Each day can be filled with swimming, dancing, and dining.
Royal Caribbean cruises even offer wonderful shows and live music. This line has long been associated with fine cuisine. It employs some of the greatest chefs from around the world. Guests will be able to choose the types of restaurants they want to dine in. They will also have a choice as it relates to kinds of food.
In between ports, you will find that your ship experience is second to none. One of the most popular ports of calls in Asia, is Hong Kong. Hong Kong, China is a tourist magnet. It receives at least 13 million tourists each year. Once you sample the sights and sounds of this city, you will understand why. Hong Kong is famous for its shopping opportunities. In fact, the experience is said to be world class. There are popular clothing chains here, as well as, traditional stores and shops. Whatever you're looking for, can be found in Hong Kong. Many vacationers spend days exploring the opportunities.
This city is also known for its delectable dishes. There are many highly rated restaurants throughout Hong Kong. It can be fun tasting many different offerings. One of the most fascinating things tourists witness is the diversity of this place. There are many wealthy people, as well as, the very poor. You may see a luxury hotel that is in close proximity to bamboo huts.
Hong Kong is a Royal Caribbean cruises spectacular city. Fortunately for travelers, it is not the only one in this cruise line's arsenal. Nha Trang, Vietnam is definitely a memorable stop. It is commonly referred to as Vietnam's Ocean City. Nha Trang is the capital of Khanh Hoa Province.
It offers visitors a luscious beach setting. The stunning white sandy beach is absolutely vast, as it stretches along the coastline. This crescent shaped beach has some of the most gorgeous waters in the world. They are crystal clear and perfectly inviting. This resort town in Vietnam has first class restaurants and cafs. The nightlife here is said to be quite enjoyable. Nha Trang presents another diverse port of call. It offers a special jewel tucked away in the splendid continent of Asia.
Each stop, of Royal Caribbean cruises to Asia, allows visitors to find authentic souvenirs. From the quaint shops to the larger shopping locations, you will find the perfect gifts and souvenirs. One of the joys of traveling here, are the wonderful pictures you can take. You will be able to capture the architecture, and the gracious people who reside here.
Enhanced by Zemanta