Royal Caribbean Cruise

Royal Caribbean's Monarch of the Seas (Photo credit: theo0023)If you decide on taking the Royal Caribbean Cruise you must have a look at its website. There are many things that you may not be aware of while you narrow in for this as an option. The website is extremely informative and may help you make some wide decisions while on it.
The royal Caribbean cruise may be quite expensive for some; however you can consider renting smaller cabins to save on money. Smaller cabins are obviously cheaper than the large ones with panoramic views of the sea. You do not have to be in your cabin all day. It is just a place to retire to at the end of the day. Most of the fun takes place on the deck. You can book online and advance to save the trouble during the rush hours and day! If you are looking for a calm and peaceful experience chose the off seasons which may have fewer people around and will be less noisy and busy. You can look for the best deals on line. The cruise occasionally offers package deals which may be able to make you more comfortable! You need not have a long stay on board. A day and a night will be able to give you the entire experience without you having to burn a hole in your pocket.

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The ICC World Cup 2011.

Shahid Afridi (Photo credit: R@VITH)This is not about Shahid Afridi the bowler but about the batsman who began his ODI batting career with a century, against Sri Lanka, in the KCA Centenary Tournament, at Nairobi, Kenya, in 1996. It was, in fact, his second match; Afridi did not get to bat in the first game against Kenya.
Coming to the crease at the fall of the first wicket on 60/1, Afridi joined Saeed Anwar, and together the pair put on 126 runs. Batting in the company of an aggressive batsman like Saeed Anwar, Afridi scored 102 out of 126. His innings lasted just 40 balls, and he got to his century in 38 balls, a world record in his very first ODI that has stood unbeaten ever since.
On the occasion, Pakistan piled up 371, with Saeed Anwar hitting 115, and went on to win the game by a dominant 82 run margin. Afridi went on to take 1/43 with his fastish leg breaks and earned a well deserved Man of the Match award.
Thereafter, barring a brief spell in 1997, when he showed some level of consistency, his batting career progressed in spurts, with plenty of single-digit failures. He had to wait until September 1998 for his next ton, which he got against India at Toronto. Partnering Anwar at the top of the order, Afridi made 109 off 94 balls and though he did not take any wickets, had a hand in two run outs. Pakistan won the match and Afridi the MOM award.
Another four years elapsed before Afridi's 3rd ODI hundred, and this time New Zealand were at the receiving end of Afridi's bat. Chasing 213 to win, at Sharjah, Pakistan achieved the target with over 18 overs to spare, on the back of Afridi's 108 off 92 balls. The innings was studded with 8 sixes.
Three more years elapsed before Afridi's next ton, and it came at Kanpur against India. Chasing 250 to win, Afridi put his team on track with a 46-ball 102 including 9 sixes, the second-fastest ODI hundred. The fifth and sixth tons came in the space of three games, in 2010, against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh at Dambulla, Sri Lanka. An innings of 109 off 72 balls including 7 sixes came in a losing cause against Sri Lanka. Two matches later, Bangladesh felt the brunt when Afridi got 124 off just 60 balls to set up a Pakistan victory. He got to his hundred in 51 balls, the sixth fastest ODI ton.
His booming sixes have earned Afridi the nickname of Boom Boom, and that unfortunately has proved to be his undoing. The batsman feels that he has to boom boom on every ball, and more often than not gets out recklessly, as he proved in the league match against Australia. His run of scores at the World Cup makes sad reading: 7, 16, 20, 17, 3 and 2.
Despite his legendary profligacy, Afridi has an average of nearly 24, in 318 ODIs, in which he has scored in excess of 6,600 runs and taken more than 300 wickets. But against West Indies his batting average falls to 18.33, with a highest of 67. If the Pakistan skipper can equal that highest score in the quarter-final against West Indies, he would surely propel his team to a winning position coming in, as he does, late in the batting order.

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Caribbean cruise getaway?

Choose the right cruise ship
So many cruise lines travel around the Caribbean but if you want to have the best experience, of course, you would only want to go with the best. On top of the list would be the Crystal Cruises, whose Crystal Symphony and Serenity cruise ships travel around the islands of Caribbean. Another award-winning cruise line to consider would be the Cunard Cruise Lines. Its flagship Queen Mary 2 was nominated for the Reader's Choice Award for Best Caribbean Cruise. Apart from these two, you may also consider Oceania Cruise Lines, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. Make sure that when you pick a cruise ship, you consider factors like shore excursions, amenities and activities onboard, size of cruise ship, duration of the cruise, cost of the trip, and reputation of the cruise line.
Plan shore excursions
Speaking of shore excursions, you should also plan for the destinations that you wish to visit when you step down the ports of call. Shore excursions are a major part of the cruise vacation. Even if you deem that the cruise ship has everything you need and want, it would still be an extraordinary experience if you see for yourself the natural grandeur of the Caribbean islands. Some of the top destinations you should consider for your shore excursion include Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Barts, and U.S. Virgin Islands.
Prepare the travel documents
When going on a cruise, you would also need to prepare the right travel documents to ensure that you don't encounter any problem during your vacation. For one, you should have a passport that is at least six months from being expired. You should also have the proper visas for the country that you wish to enter. Apart from that, you would also need to have the cruise vacation itinerary and receipt along with itineraries for air travel and hotel accommodations. Moreover, be sure to get a travel insurance to ensure that you are financially protected during your trip. Since there are many types of travel insurance such as flight insurance, visitors health insurance, trip cancellation insurance, insurance for senior citizens, family insurance, insurance for people with medical conditions, and short or long term travel insurance, it is imperative that you study your options so you can make an informed choice.
Make the most of the onboard amenities
When you're still onboard, make the most out of the amenities and activities available. Sure, you would want to spend some time in the bedroom to rest but don't spend the entire day secluded in your room as you will miss lots of wonderful amenities and fun activities. Go to the fitness center to exercise, get a massage in the spa facility, dance in the ballroom, and meet and mingle with people. There is just so much to do.

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Halal friendly travel

Image via WikipediaMalaysia: This multicultural country encompasses all aspects required of an Asian holiday - from skyscrapers and bustling cities to beaches and lush fields, national parks and mountains to endless eating and friendly locals. Muslims will be very comfortable here as Islam is the largest practiced religion - mosques are plentiful and Halal food is a norm in most regions.
Turkey: Situated in between Europe and Asia, Turkey is best known for its rich history which dates back centuries. There are several sights and sounds for travellers to enjoy within easy reach of Istanbul such as the Blue Mosque, Haigha Sophia and the Topkapi Palace. Turkey offers a stunning coastline from Antlaya to Dalaman, which offers halal friendly beach resorts.
Morocco: This African nation is the most westerly country of the Arab world and is well known for its food, culture, shopping and friendly people. Marrakesh is a must visit for all tourists, as well as the ancient capital of Fes, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The latter is home to the world's oldest universities - University of Al-Karaouineand a few hours' drive in Casablanca you'll find one of the most beautiful mosques in the world -Hassan II mosque.
Oman: The Sultanate of Oman is a hidden gem in the Middle East, with 1700km of beautiful beaches, authentic Arabic culture, and some of the most dramatic landscapes in the region. The beautiful Sultan Qaboos mosque is a must see, before heading inland to experience the striking lagoons, dramatic canyons and silent deserts. Within Muscat one can find halal friendly hotels such as the City Seasons which serve no alcohol within its premises.
India: If you are looking to experience some of the world's greatest culture and traditions, then India should be on your list. From Rajasthan to Kerala, there is something to keep everyone entertained and enthralled in India. The Golden Triangle is particularly popular encompassing the Taj Mahal, with its Islamic architecture and Jaipur's pink city walls.

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West Indies cricket

Image via WikipediaBorn in St. Michael, Barbados on September 12th, 1937, Wes Hall initially began playing cricket as a wicketkeeper-batsman. Cricinfo's Martin Williamson recounted that Hall converted to a bowler when the regular new ball bowler for his club side failed to show up. His returns were immediately impressive and he became one of the eminent fast bowlers for the West Indies in the 60s - after making his Test debut against India in Mumbai on November 28th, 1958. Hall went on to play 48 Test matches between 1958 and 1969, ending his international career against New Zealand in Auckland.
Hall garnered a spectacular return of 192 Test wickets at an average of 26.38 from his 48 matches - a return of exactly four wickets per Test. His tall, lean frame resulted in a fast arm action that hurled deliveries at over 90 miles per hour at batsmen- deliveries that were evidently well directed. One of Hall's 192 Test wickets came during the last over of the first-ever tied Test match (against Australia at Brisbane). His last over is one of cricket's enduring stories.
With the bat, Hall was somewhat productive at Test level, underscoring his batting potential. He scored two Test half-centuries and even scored a First class century. His batting average at Test level was a respectable 15.73- not bad for a lower order batsman. Wes Hall played 170 First class matches for teams like Barbados, Queensland and West Indies. An interesting footnote is that, in his later years, Hall played for Trinidad and Tobago on the West Indies domestic circuit. That was interesting because he is a born-and-raised Barbadian.
Hall was president of the WICB for a short period that commenced in 2001. He was also a minister of government and religion - going by the title of "Reverend Wes Hall." His affable nature and effusive use of language belies his past as a tall, lean and feared fast bowler of the 60s. A sportsman, politician and religious leader - Wes Hall will remain a true legend of cricket- not just in the West Indies.

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traveling is like a hobby

Image via Wikipedia
My Top-most Travel Destinations
All throughout high school, I literally hadn't been anywhere outside India. It could seem like an unlucky thing, but there are so many beautiful places to visit right here in India. And those who have had the opportunity to visit this magnificent country, they are definitely agreeing with me. So it's obvious that I am going to start the travel destinations with my homeland, India.
India Majority of people are only aware of the hot spots like Goa and Mumbai. But India is more than just party locations. The country is rich in culture, historical monuments, beaches, ethnic cuisine, etc. Of course, there are tons of things to do in Goa, but I'd just like to point out that that's not all. There are a number of summer and winter vacation destinations in India that you can choose from. So if you ever sketch a grand India travel plan, then here are some 'must see' places you cannot afford to miss out. Rajasthan, India Darjeeling, India Ladakh, India Kerala, India Golden Triangle Tour, India United States of America Now you may be thinking, how come I made such a huge leap from India to U.S.? Well, the reason for that would be my change of hometown. After graduating from school, my family and I moved to Anaheim, California and let me tell, to me, it is the best place to be. I know many of you will disagree with me and say that New York, Miami, or some other state in the U.S. can come first. But to me, California was the place to live. But, if you look at the country as whole, it definitely gives you a larger choice. There are so many states to pick from on your U.S. travel, don't you agree? You've got New York City, Chicago, Miami, Arizona, Washington, and so much more.
Guatemala Guatemala is famous because of its rich history of the Mayan culture. And while visiting this gorgeous, downright breathtaking country, I can safely say that I was mesmerized most of the time. The mountains are magnificent, the people are polite and friendly, and the food, delicious. Even now that I am talking about it, I can't help but go back to those wonderful memories I had while in Guatemala. Plus, another once-on-a-lifetime-opportunity incident happened with me while I was there, I saw an active volcano river just 10 feet away from me. That experience is unforgettable. So if you feel like entering Guatemala as one of your all time favorite holiday destinations, then you have to visit: Panajachel La Antigua Quetzaltenango Mount Pacaya Semuc Champey Tikal Cobn Huehuetenango Mexico Next on my favorite destinations, Mexico. What can I say, I'm in love with the Latin and Spanish countries. They have a certain charm and warmth that I just can't get enough of. Many people believe that Mexico vacations is only for the spring break hungry students. But it definitely has so much more to offer to its travelers. With warm, beautiful beaches to archaeological sites, Mexico is filled with 'things to do' for everyone. Don't believe me? Visit these places and you'll know for yourself.
Europe Last, but certainly not the least. In fact, Europe is one of the most talked about and 'must go' destinations for people around the world. Now I know that Europe is not a country, but a continent, it still has to be mentioned here, right? However, planning a European vacation could be a confusing and frustrating time. The country literally has so much to see. And with hundreds of amazing places to choose from, it has to be done right. Whether you choose Paris, Rome, Greece, Vienna, or Barcelona, Europe is going to be mentioned whenever anyone wishes to take a grand vacation.
More Travel Destinations
The reason I am not elaborating on the following vacation spots is because it would be too obvious. Let's just look at the list and then you'll understand what I'm trying to say. Paris, France Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. Bangkok, Thailand Barcelona, Spain Melbourne, Australia Even though the list can go on and on, I guess I have to stop somewhere. Well, these were my all time favorite travel destinations around the world. And I got my fingers crossed, hoping to add many more to the list.

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Turquoise waters, golden sands and luxury resorts combine into an irresistible siren call for visitors to the north-west Caribbean island of St. Martin. Well-known as a destination for the rich and famous, the tiny atoll in the West Indies is uniquel

Family fun

Condos and hotels with kitchens are best for families with children. There are many hotels in St. Martin that offer rooms that come with a kitchenette where parents can whip up home-cooked meals for their kids. There are also numerous grocery shops on St. Martin to stock up on ingredients. Options for hotels that are family friendly and come with their own kitchen include La Vista, Sunterra Resorts Royal Palm Beach or the Cliffs condos at Cupecoy Beach.

Best beach experience

Many resorts in St. Martin offer access to pristine beaches and many hotels are located right on the water's edge. For the best access in a five-star setting, few hotels in St. Martin can beat the Westin at Dawn Beach, which has all the amenities you can expect from a luxury mega-chain. On the Dutch side, Mary's Boon Beach Resort is a small, intimate hotel which has been twice voted one of the top ten hotels in the West Indies by Conde Nast Travel magazine.

Spoilt for choice

Nothing captures a sense of indulgence more than a combination of the beach and the spa. Spoil yourself at a resort in that offers guests world class spa facilities, such as Divi Little Bay Beach Resort or Maho Beach Resort. Both these hotels have their own in-house spas. Guests at Holland House Beach Hotel, located in St. Martin can even enjoy a massage on the beach while the sun sets. However, the most famous spa of all is L'Aqualigne Health and Beauty Clinic, which is attached to the Pelican Resort and offers holistic spa treatments and luxurious skin pampering programs.

Loll in the lap of luxury

When the rich and famous come to the island, they congregate at La Samanna, one of the most expensive hotels on the island. The hotel is beautiful, private, romantic and very intimate, set near the white sands of Baie Longue Beach. Another option for those looking for a little luxury is Alamanda, a relatively new hotel in St. Martin, located near Orient Beach. Both hotels feature lavishly appointed rooms and the option of private suites or villas set in lush tropical grounds.

Choosing a resort or hotel in St. Martin largely depends on your own personal preferences. There are many different accommodation types available, for every kind of budget. Low season on the island is in September, when rates may be lowered, however it is prudent to book ahead of time for the best prices. No matter which hotel you choose, St. Martin promises gorgeous beaches, waving palm trees and fun in the sun.