Tents and Their Uses

Tents and Their Uses
By Phil Edwards

Outdoor weddings and garden parties are so beautiful, and the sky is the limit for decorating and themes- and the only concern is the inability to accurately predict the weather. Consider this; standing outside with your groom or bride, next to a babbling brook, with your friends and family seated in rows behind you. Youve got a gorgeous decorated arbor for the minister to stand under, and the timing is perfect, as the setting sun is casting a bright, orange hue across the water and creating a feeling of warmth to all of your guests. But what is that overhead? Thats right, its a big, dark gray storm cloud, and its moving in threatening to ruin your outdoor wedding!

The weather is never completely predictable, and having an outdoor event means you are taking a chance on the weather. Unless, of course- you plan ahead and arrange for tents, gazebos or marquees to be set up- which is your best bet for an enjoyable outdoor event, regardless of the weather! Rain and wind are no match for the gorgeous tents you can set up to protect yourself and your guests from the elements and unpredictability of the weather. You can find suitable tents for any occasion, for the fanciest of weddings, you can rent or purchase all white canvas tents, with beautiful arched windows in each of the canvas walls, and high peaked ceilings, which you can use for decorating with twinkling lights, flowers, or other items of your choosing. Marquees and frame tents of this caliber are also used for outdoor corporate events and picnics often.

Youve seen the tents used for weddings, garden parties and also by vendors at street markets and fairs. Vendors often used them to designate their space, for their outdoor store, and give their customers a place to come in out of the hot sun, wind, or rainy weather- hoping to encourage their guests to stay and shop some more! It also protects the items that theyre selling from adverse weather conditions, as well.

Tents really do have a variety of uses. At first thought, the word tent probably brings to mind the smaller sized tents that are mainly used for camping. Typically, they can be set up by just one or two people, and are just large enough for a few people to get into and sleep fairly comfortably. There are, however, tents for camping that are much larger- designed for groups and large families to use for extended vacations. Some camping tents are actually part of a trailer, so they are set up to allow for easy traveling, you just hook your trailer to your vehicle and take off!

Youll find a variety of uses for tents, as well as tents that are available in very small sizes and shapes all the way to sizes that are best compared to houses! In fact, many of the larger tents resemble homes, in that they have separate rooms and doorways, and storage areas designated. Tents really extend the amount of living space you have at home, since they allow you to enjoy the great outdoors even when the weather isnt conducive to spending time outside.

For more information please visit www.uk-tents.co.uk

Phil Edwards is a writer and publisher living in london. His work can be seen at http://www.uk-tents.co.uk andhttp://www.househobby.com

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Romania...Just Waiting To Be Discovered

Romania...Just Waiting To Be Discovered
By Adrienne Boxhall

For the more adventurous, those looking to find a natural, unspoilt country, you would do well to consider Romania.At present, life outside of the big cities remains much as it always done. The pace is slow, the people just go about their daily lives as their forefathers did. Its a very common site to see, horse drawn carts, carrying all sorts of basic essentials or even taking the family out for the day!

The rural infrastructure and road systems does, to be honest, need quite a bit of attention, but its getting there. New motorways are being built on a huge scale, and within a year or two it will be possible to travel from the Hungarian border to the Black Sea, on the same motorway link.However, using the motorways will only lessen your chances of seeing the real Romania, and the majestic beauty that the Carpathean and Faragas mountain ranges have to offer. The scenery is truly stunning.

An ideal tour would be from Bucharest through Ploiesti, and to Sinaia(**,) a most beautiful and ancient town set at 1055 metres. The town offers visitors plenty of choices, including a ski resort/cable car and some of the best preserved ancient monasteries and holy places to be found in Romania. It caters for all age groups and physical abilities.

Onwards from there, take a drive over the mountains towards Bran, and visit the famous castle, once the historic home of Count Vlad Tepes (in the 16th century), the inspiration to Bram Stokers legend of Dracula.

Although there are signs of commercialisation creeping in, its still pretty much just a rural town. surrounded by beautiful scenery.

For a truly spectacular journey: take the Transfagarasan Pass(***), with its winding roads, reaching to a height of 2,040 metres, at the top there is Lake Balea (***),.where you will find both modern and traditional guest houses. Along the route, view huge waterfalls, mountain streams and vast pine forests. From there follow the mountain road to Lake Vidaru, an immense natural phenomena, which supplies water and hydro electric power to much of the region.On the way back, call at Curtea de Arges(*), visit the unique Abbey and enjoy local food at most reasonable prices from a plentiful selection of bistros, cafs and restaurants.Prices can of course vary, but usually well below what you will expect to pay in Western Europe (the exception to this is Brasov,,and Bucharest where prices equal the West)so dont go therefind the real rural Romania.!!!!

For example a cup of coffee in our home town of CampulungMuscel (****), still only costs 20 pence and 2 people can have a good meal for less than 5! Guest house and pensiunes are in abundance, from the basic and simple up to 5 star quality.The Mayor and local parliament in Campulung have huge development plans for tourism, including a ski and Winter/Summer sports centre, a complete makeover of many historic buildings along with massive redevelopment of the road and transport systems. The same applies for many of the rural areas in Arges County.

Romania will rapidly become an extremely popular and developed for tourismcome and see it now, along with its unspoilt natural beauty and charm. Have a look at http://www.visionsofromania.com There really isnt enough space to describe all that is on offer in Romania, it is unique, it is a special place, that is quickly developing. It will change within a few years, especially once it enters the EU. Our advice is to come soon, see it as it really is.There are plenty of flights direct from Heathrow, BA are now offering 2 flights each day, Tarom the state airline have daily flights.

There are strong rumours that the discount/budget airlines are coming here next year from springtime.With lots of interesting places to stay , Romania is well worth a visit.

Written for http://www.weaccommodate.co.uk a worldwide accommodation directory and home swaps service.Offering travellers information,booking services and direct access to holiday rentals.Owned by Adrienne Boxhall also owner of http://www.trailwalkingholidays.co.uk based on the borders of England and Wales.

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Medical Information for Foreign Travelers

Medical Information for Foreign Travelers
By Herb Williams

If an American citizen becomes seriously ill or injured abroad, a U. S. consular officer can assist in locating appropriate medical services and informing family or friends. If necessary, a consular officer can also assist in the transfer of funds from the United States. However, payment of hospital and other expenses is the responsibility of the traveler.

Before going abroad, learn what medical services your health insurance will cover overseas. If your health insurance policy provides coverage outside the United States, REMEMBER to carry both your insurance policy identity card as proof of such insurance and a claim form. Although many health insurance companies will pay customary and reasonable hospital costs abroad, very few will pay for your medical evacuation back to the United States. Medical evacuation can easily cost $10,000 and up, depending on your location and medical condition.

THE SOCIAL SECURITY MEDICARE PROGRAM DOES NOT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR HOSPITAL OR MEDICAL COSTS OUTSIDE THE U.S.A.

Senior citizens may wish to contact the American Association of Retired Persons for information about foreign medical care coverage with Medicare supplement plans.

To facilitate identification in case of an accident, complete the information page on the inside of your passport providing the name, address and telephone number of someone to be contacted in an emergency.

A traveler going abroad with any preexisting medical problems should carry a letter from the attending physician, describing the medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic name of prescribed drugs. Any medications being carried overseas should be left in their original containers and be clearly labeled. Travelers should check with the foreign embassy of the country they are visiting to make sure any required medications are not considered to be illegal narcotics.

A listing of addresses and telephone numbers of U.S. embassies and consulates abroad is contained in Key Officers of Foreign Service Posts . This publication may be obtained through the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. Also available from the Government Printing Office is Health Information for International Travel by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This contains a global rundown of disease and immunization advice and other health guidance, including risks in particular countries. The CDC maintains the international travelers hotline at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747), an automated faxback service at 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299) and a home page on the Internet at http://www.cdc.gov .

For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organizations (WHO) web site at http://www.who.int/en. The WHO also provides travel health information at http://www.who.int/ith.

For detailed information on physicians abroad, the authoritative reference is The Official ABMS Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists published for the American Board of Medical Specialists and its certifying member boards. This publication should be available in your local library. U.S. embassies and consulates abroad maintain lists of hospitals and physicians. Major credit card companies also can provide the names of local doctors and hospitals abroad.

Herb Williams has been in the Financial Services Profession for the last 38 years.He and his wife Marsha run a full financial services Allstate Agency in Chicago.http://www.auto-home-insure.com/go.php?travel&ezinemed

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What is the Significance of Mount Kailash?

What is the Significance of Mount Kailash?
By Paul Cris

Mount Kailash is regarded as one of the most sacred places in the world. Mount Kailsh is situated in Tibet. It is situated 22,000 ft above sea level. In Hindu mythology, Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva.

It is one of the least visited holy places. There are many monasteries and places of great importance on the route to Mt Kailash. There are many stone carvings and other attractions for pilgrims. Most of the visitors take a dip in the Mansarovar lake. The Mansarovar lake is 18 miles from the Mount Kailash. Taking a dip or soaking the head in the holy water provides spiritual benefits and only the brave could take a dip in the icy water.

Devotees walk many miles, to reach the Mount Kailash. It takes 1-3 days to walk and some people do full body prostrations, which could take up to 1 month. Hindus walk the mountain clockwise which is called is Parikrama, which takes up to three days. Some people think that the walk around Mount Kailash should be completed within a day. Not many people can do this until they are fully fit. Due to altitude sickness and uneven terrain and harsh weather it is difficult to walk within a day.

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You are welcome to republish the above article only if you add our hyperlinked URL.

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The Island of Beautiful Waters

The Island of Beautiful Waters
By Linda Thompkins

Guadeloupe, known as the island of beautiful waters, has the most unique shape of any island in the Caribbean chain. The butterfly shape evolved from the geographical movement of two separate islands, which pushed them together, with only a narrow river dividing them. Instead of one island, they could be considered as two since there are quite different.

Located in the French West Indies, Guadeloupe has three sets of offshore islands, which offers visitors an opportunity to island hop. Aside from the opportunity to visit several islands for the price on one, Guadeloupe offers first class beach resorts, some of the Caribbean's best outdoor markets, French and Creole cuisine, rain forests, volcanos, numerous waterfalls, a variety of beaches, and a variety of exotic flowers and plants.

That's more than enough for one vacation, but more the adventurous can easily continue their travel by catamaran or ferry to the neighboring islands of French Martinique, Dominica and St. Lucia.

The culture of the island is definitely French, however most locals speak Creole and French. Overall the culture of France, Africa, West Indian and Hindu makes a fascinating mix.

The people of Guadeloupe believe strongly in their form of culture, and many would like to be independent from France. However, financial support from France provides the island with a high standard of living, so the push for independence remains more talk than action.

Basse Terre is the larger of the two, with a rugged coastline, mountainous terrain and an active volcano. The west coast rich highlands offer a panoramic view of lush rainforests, banana plantations, and a waterfall at every turn. As you enter the rainforest, your visual senses are overwhelmed by the fusion of colors, the shapes of orchids, flowering trees with baskets of exotic flowers, and the ever present dwarf palms. Odd clanking sounds ring out through the forest, and I was surprised to find the strange noise was being made by the huge Hercules beetles. I never saw them, nor did I have any desire to after hearing their metal like sound.

After leaving the rainforest I traveled to La Soufriere, an active volcano which hovers 4,800 feet, and has steam constantly spurting from its top. As I looked at my map, it appeared that the Transcoastal Highway was the best route to the volcano, however one of the locals directed me on a southern route.

As I drove around endless fields of banana, coffee and cocoa plantations, I wished I had paid the local for his advice. The guide books state that the views of the volcano are often clouded, but on this day the sky was crystal clear. Its times like this that I wished I had brought along a traveling companion to take the wheel, so I could fully take in the beauty of La Soufriere. Upon arrival I was not prepared for the rumble from this huge volcano, or the taste of sulphur in the air, or the heat from the ground. I was so uncomfortable I could not stay longer, and hurriedly took my photographs of this magnificent landmark, and then headed out for my favorite spot, the beach.

After arriving at the beach, I was not pleased with the course brown sand on this side of the island - I prefer my beach sand to be soft, and white or pink in color. After meeting several visitors on the beach, I was told that my preferred beach sand was farther east. Before leaving I took the opportunity to take a dip in the blue Caribbean water to get the sulphur smell off my body, and have some of the best Creole stuffed crabs I've ever had in my life at a small beach bar. Now, I was fully ready for my trek east.

Grande Terre, the smaller of the two island masses is on the eastern coast and considered the low lands. I was delighted to see beautiful white sand beaches, along with clear water, and pristine coral reefs. This side of the island is an oasis for tropical birds such as pelicans, egrets, doves and sandpipers. While the western coast is home to lush rainforests, the eastern coast has countless rows of sugar cane fields and mangroves.

As I drive towards Pointe-a-Pitre, the metropolitan area, I was a little taken back by the lack of Caribbean charm of the city. Aside from the French architecture, this area is more like suburban America with high rises, shopping centers and freeways.

I'd heard about the open air markets in travel literature, so I had to make a visit. Oh, such a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits to rival the best of American produce. The women vendors have brightly colored head wraps, they love to wrangle over prices, and they give the liveliest descriptions you've ever heard about their wares.

One hour later, I left loaded down with fresh French bread, butter and lots of vegetables and fruits. Whenever I get back to Guadeloupe, I will definitely visit the market, but overall the city is too commercial, very noisy and the traffic reminded me too much of the U.S., so after loading up the car, I headed out in search of the perfect white sand beach.

Heading east from Pointe-a-Pitre, there are 20 miles of the most exquisite beaches any soft, white sand beach lover could hope to find. The farther you drive from the capital city, the beaches become less crowded.

I finally settled on the small town of Gosier which has the perfect soft, white sand beaches, lots of little bars, shops and cafes, bread and breakfast inns, along with big hotels.

Gosier is on the coast, and the rises into the hills where you can view the out islands of Marie-Galante and Les Saintes. While the thought occurred to visit these islands, I instinctively knew that my short time on Guadeloupe would be spent right there in Gosier on the beach. After three wonderful days, I headed back to the beautiful island of St Lucia, where my island hopping trip had started.

Too many islands, too little time.

Linda Thompkins is a Caribbean Travel Consultant, and owner of Travel 2 the Caribbean online agency. The agencies motto is Know Before You Go

Visit Travel 2 the Caribbean's site at:http://www.travel2thecaribbean.com

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Racecourses UK Let Your Imagination RIDE!

Racecourses UK Let Your Imagination RIDE!
By Mandy Chagger

I bring you thirteen of Europe's premier racecourses to offer space for conference & meetings. From South Downs to Cumbria Hills, allowing to be inspired by 3,000 acres of land, enjoying the glorious views.

1)Aintree Racecourse Home of John Smith Grand Stand National, Aintree offers a variety of suites within its three grandstands, providing you the versatility to host a wide range of events, It has expansive exhibition space, exclusive conferences suites with panoramic views of the racecourse, over 30 glass fronted syndicate areas with natural daylight. Aintree is located on the A59, just 1 mile from the M57 and M58.

2)Carlisle Racecourse the border of the city of Carlisle has a history of horse racing spanning five centuries, so naturally Carlisle Racecourse is at the heart of civic pride. The legendary Red Rum romped home first here in every year that he won the Grand National. The Grandstand is the ideal venue for meetings, seminars, and exhibitions product. Having 10 function rooms available over three floors including an exhibition hall, seven syndicate rooms, only 2 miles from the centre of Carlisle, is accessed from Junction 42 of the M6.

3)Cheltenham Racecourse The Regency town of Cheltenham is set in the stunning beauty of the Cotswold with the racecourse at its heart. Hosts a quarter a quarter of a million visitors. The rooms can accommodate anything from an intimate meeting in the Grandstand to a conference for up to 2250 people, Centrally located in the heart of England within a few miles of junction 9-11a of the M5 and easily accessed from the A40.

4)Epsom Downs Racecourse Has hosted The Derby, Europe's most famous flat race, since 1780. Epsom Downs also hosts over 450 other events each year running from conferences to launches. Situated in the heart of Epsom Downs, the venue is easy access from London only half an hour from Gatwick,

5)Haydock Park Racecourse Housed within 127 acres of beautiful parkland, Haydock Park Racecourse enjoys the best of both worlds a lush green setting and a central Northwest location halfway between Liverpool and Manchester , offers 6 large rooms with capacity for upto 500 guests One mile from junction 23 of the M6 or A580.

6)Huntingdon Racecourse Voted Best Small Racecourse in the South Midlands and East Anglia by the Racegoers Club, The Racecourse is an intimate racing venue. The course is less than 5 minutes from the pretty market, the conference accommodation in the Goodliff Stand includes six syndicate rooms, each with private balcony. Racecourse is centrally located just half a mile from the A1 (M) link road on the A14.

7)Kempton Park Racecourse Recently transformed into Europe's premier floodlit racecourse, offers 50 racing fixtures, which can be enjoyed after an off-site meeting or client conference. Its famous Boxing Day racing has featured champions like Arkle, Best Mate and desert Orchid. Only 35 minutes from London the six conference suites can cater for theatre or boardroom, Kempton Park is on the A308, one mile from junction 1 of the M3.

8)Market Rasen Racecourse is a bastion of summer jump racing and known for its informal, relaxed atmosphere, there is a range of flexible event accommodation over two floors, with larger rooms and bars, Market Rasen is 12 miles North East of Lincoln, at junction of the A46 and the A631.

9)Newmarket Racecourse Newmarket Racecourse at the heart of the most famous centre of thoroughbred horse-breeding and horseracing in the world. The conference centre at the Natwest Rowley Mile Course features 685m of marble floored exhibition area with a nine screen video wall and four large plasma screens. Just 12 miles from Cambridge and 60 miles from London.

10)Nottingham Racecourse Is just two miles from the lively and historic city of Nottingham, yet surrounded by the 280 acres of flower and lawns of Colwick Park. All suites are have ample natural daylight and view over the course. The Racecourse is on the A612, easily accessible from the M1, A1 or A46.

11)Sandown Park Racecourse is a big, bright versatile and inviting for organisers and visitors alike, The venue features over 500m of exhibition space and six distinctive suites in the Grandstand. Sandown Park is signposted from A3 and a few miles from junction 10 of the M25.

12)Warwick Racecourse- The historic market town of Warwick provides the backdrop for Warwick Racecourse. The castle with its magnificent turrets and towers is only a mile to the east of the course. The original Grandstand event rooms dating back 1808. Warwick Racecourse is just off the A429, two miles from junction 15 of the M40.

13)Wincanton Racecourse In the heart of glorious Somerset countryside, Wincanton Racecourse is thought to have played host to one of Britain's earliest steepchase races. It offers conference space to accommodate 120 and 12 smaller breakout rooms. Wincanton Racecourse is on the B3081 just off the A303 between London and the Southwest.

Free Venue Finding Service UK & Worldwide+ 44 (0)8700 490000 FREE call back serviceFree Hotel Accommodation Booking Service UK & Worldwide

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Introducing Africa

Introducing Africa
By Alex Nderitu

I was surprised, and more than a little amused, as I listened to a BBC Radio programme on Africa earlier this year. A field reporter on assignment in mammoth China wanted to know how deep the locals knowledge of the African continent went. The results: It barely scratched the surface. Intermixed with laughter were suggestions that the worlds second-largest continent is composed of lions, elephants and bush. There were mentions of Mandela, South Africa and the film Out of Africa. No, they didnt think there were any towns to speak of. Yes, there were plenty of wild animals. But most shocking of all was the suggestion that Africa is a single country. Even an interviewee who had actually been to Africa guessed that there were at most 14 different countries in all.

Africa is not, nor has it ever been, one vast country. It is a mosaic of 53 autonomous countries, most of them designated by European colonialists during the historical Scramble for Africa. All attempts to marry up all the countries to create a United States of Africa have so far failed. In fact, some individual countries are having the devil of a time staying in one piece as it is: Eritrea was once a province of Ethiopia, Somaliland was once a part of the larger, war-prone, republic of Somalia. Zanzibar wants to cut the umbilical cord from mainland Tanzania.

In terms of acreage, the Sudan is the largest country. From above tiny Uganda in the equatorial regions, the (nearly) 1-million-square-mile Sudan spreads to the North where it rubs shoulders with Libya and the ancient land of Egypt. In terms of population, Nigeria is Africas giant. Over 100 million people call this oil-rich West African country home and there are so many Nigerians in the US, Europe and Asia that when most non-Africans think of Africans, theyre actually thinking of Nigerians. In terms of development, the sprawling republic of South Africa takes the cake. Located in, well, the south of Africa, the mineral-rich home of Castle Lager, De Beers, Cry the Beloved Country, Mandela, Charlize Theron , The Springboks rugby team and the Zulu tribe needs no introduction.

You cant analyse African social life without bringing in the aspect of tribe. Even in the 21st century, tribal relations are the ties that bind. Most marriages take place between people of the same tribe and, for the most part, voters vote along tribal lines. Conflicts also commonly arise from tribal animosity. The infamous 1994 Rwandan genocide between the Hutus and the Tutsis was the ultimate extension of tribal passion and arguably the darkest chapter in the Africas history. You can often tell an Africans tribe from his indigenous name. My surname, Nderitu (pronounced Day-ri-to) is a dead giveaway that I come from the Kikuyu tribe of central Kenya. At first sight, all Africans may look the same but in reality most tribes have distinct features that set them apart height, skin tone, build, dialects, hair, teeth and even talents. Most have their own language and some languages, like Swahili, are understood by different languages. All together, there are over 2,000 different languages.

A common misconception is that all Africans are Negroid (Black). All Negroes may come from Africa but not all Africans are Negroes. The northern rim of the continent (Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco) is predominated by Semites (the Arab-Jew persuasion). Think Muammar Gaddafi or Bhoutros-Bhoutros Ghali. Coming down, we find the Negroes who mostly live in what is known as sub-Saharan Africa. In Eritrea and Ethiopia, we again encounter the ubiquitous Semites. Moving towards the southern end of the continent, we find the Capoid race with lighter complexions and hooded eyes (Nelson Mandela and musician Usher Raymond have Capoid features, UN boss Kofi Annan is pure Negroid.) Also in evidence all across the land is a sizeable population of Caucasians and other non-Black people. Not to be confused with tourists and other visitors, these descendants of ancient European settlers, missionaries and Asian traders are as African as the Marula tree. Some are even more African than the original Africans. South Africa has the biggest jambalaya of races Blacks, Whites (including Boers), Browns, Yellows and, for all we know, green people from Mars (that's why it's sometimes referred to as he Rainbow Nation). Despite the spectrum of skin colour, it is safe to say that most of Mother Africas children are Black like me.

Eastern Africa is widely believed to be the cradle of human life. Were told that, eons ago, early humans embarked on an epic journey northwards (called the Great Trek). From Tanzania and Kenya, they walked slowly up to Ethiopia, traversed the Sudan, gained Egypt and crossed over to the contested area now covered Jordan, Israel, Iraq, Lebanon and Syria. From there, routes diverged with some pioneers venturing further into Asia, others legging it to Eastern Europe and some (probably due to confusion) returning to North Africa. Facts are sketchy but whichever way you slice it, the earliest human remains were found in East Africa (some as old as 4.2 million years). But this history poses some hard-hitting questions. If Africans were the original owners of the land, then how come they had to wait for the missionaries before they could advance academically and otherwise? Where were the Oprahs, the Michael Jacksons, the Bill Cosbys, the Michael Jordans, the Condolezzas, the Mohammed Alis, the Naomi Campbells, Ben Carsons? Why did the African giant have to be awoken? And why, oh why, is the second-largest continent still the poorest? The question of non-development, of Africans seeming lethargy, is easily answered by Prof. Ali Mazruis famous documentary, The Africans, in which he narrates: If necessity is the mother of invention, then bounty must be the mother of inertia. In a land where you spit out a seed and return to find a fruit tree sprouting, the early Africans were under no pressure to advance technologically. Africa supports, by a mile, the widest VARIETY of plant and animal life a tribute to her fertility.

Modern clothes were another superfluous commodity to early Africans, especially in the tropics (as the missionaries soon found out). The blazing African sun has played havoc with many a foreigner and even though the locals never suffer from sunburn (whatever that is) the temperatures sometimes soar to uncomfortable heights even for Africans. On the question of poverty, I have no ready answer because the continent itself is imbued with wealth. Most of the diamonds you see gleaming in jewellery boutiques around the world come from Africa. And much of the gold. And the coffee and tea and cut flowers and the cocoa many other raw materials, hence the scramble for Africa which led to jealously-guarded colonization. Ghana was formerly known as the 'Gold Coast', has the world's largest gold and diamond deposits. In fact, most of the conflicts and political turmoil that you see in the press are all about controlling mineral and other wealth Sierra Leone (diamonds), the DRC (assorted minerals), Nigeria (oil), Somalia (Heaven knows!).

At any rate, a good many Africans are well off, but the gap between the rich and the poor is the biggest without going as far as the sub-continent of India. While the super-rich command customized cars and even private planes, others are so poor they die from curable diseases like Malaria and their children walk several kilometres to school every day on bare feet. Also on the subject of poverty, we must not lose sight of the fact that the majority of Africans still live in the rural areas (the country if youre American, the sticks if youre British.)In Kenya, for example, more than half the population lives in abject poverty (on less than a dollar a day). You may have heard 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Winner Wangari Maathai saying that she was so poor growing up that she and her friends used to play with frog eggs! (Wangari, do you have to tell them EVERYTHING? I want to be able to show my face in public when I tour Europe to promote my books!)

But what does it MEAN to be African? If a Negro was born and lives in the US, can he still claim to be an African? What if a Caucasian (I give you best-selling author Wilbur Smith as an example) is born, lives in, and loves Africa? Does that make him a certifiable African? Heres my circuitous and open-ended answer (and my conclusion to this x-ray of the land of my ancestors):

A long, long, time ago (way before the first man loved the first woman and a child was born) all the continents were stuck together. Various disturbances on the earths crust coupled with the spinning of the earth (which makes it bulge out at the sides) caused cracks and, ultimately, separation. You may take it that all continents and islands are jigsaw pieces and all humankind is one large, chequered, family. As I said earlier, the first people lived in the tectonic fragment now known as Africa. Speaking on KTN TV recently, an American tourist ventured that all people should make a Mecca-like pilgrimage to Kenya at least once in their lives because it is our mutual home (See the Leakey familys work on human origins). This is the reason the lack of interest in Africa expressed in the BBC Radio programme amused me so much. Chinese, American, French, German, Russian, British or whatever our nationality, we may all be Africans in diaspora!

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More Than Just a Waterway Lake Ontario Offers Boaters A Spectacular Choice of Summertime Events

More Than Just a Waterway, Lake Ontario Offers Boaters A Spectacular Choice of Summertime Events
By Darren Hore

Lake Ontario, the smallest of the Great Lakes is the 14th largest lake in the world. It connects the Great Lakes with the 1000 Islands and the St. Lawrence River and is joined to Lake Erie by the Niagara River and Welland Canal.

Providing some of the finest cruising destinations throughout southern Ontario and upstate New York it truly is a boaters paradise. Having its shores scattered with several marinas, many of which offer transient docking facilities, Lake Ontario is a destination with a wide array of things to do and see.

For the experienced sailor seeking an interesting location to settle into after spending the day on the lake, the Niagara Region may have exactly what youre looking for? In late spring, the Niagara New Vintage Festival showcases more than 30 wineries and welcomes visitors to Ontarios fine wine country. Taking place from June 10th 18th 2006, the region will celebrate the rebirth of the vineyards by presenting the first taste of Ontarios newest wines.

If youre not a boater but still wish to hit the water, your opportunity is awaiting you in the Port of Rochester. Starting on Memorial Day weekend and running through until September, catamaran sailing adventures will depart daily. Offering a safe, comfortable and enjoyable way to experience the Great Lakes, these excursions allow you to soak up the sun and relax on the open water.

An overnight stay in Toronto, more particularly Ontario Place, may be something the sailing and boating family can take pleasure in. This family friendly amusement and water park houses its own marina and is located steps from your boat, as is the Molson Amphitheater. Here you can take in a live musical performance from a wide variety of musical talent. Featured artists appearing in 2006 include; The Dave Matthews Band, George Straight, Mark Knopfler and Emmylou Harris, Great Big Sea, Ashlee Simpson, Counting Crows and Goo Goo Dolls, Blue Rodeo and many more.

Also taking place in Toronto, for the second consecutive year, will be the Wakestock Action Sports and Music Festival. This world-class wakeboarding contest will take place August 10th 13th on Centre Island (Toronto Islands). As a part of the WWA World Series of Wakeboarding, this event is sure to be a must see spectacle for water-sport enthusiasts.

For those who ideally want to avoid the big crowds and simply take in the pleasure of having the lake as their only companion, many smaller communities present picturesque marinas to dock your boat and just as many hidden destinations are still waiting to be discovered. Lake Ontario boasts hundreds of miles of shoreline beautified with sandy beaches and fishing holes challenging you to lure in salmon, walleye, large and small mouth bass and more.

If you need further assistance in locating a nearby marina or planning a Lake Ontario sailing adventure, GreatLakesDestinations.com offers a detailed guide to marinas on the Great Lakes.

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The Laphroaig and Lagavulin Water Dispute on the Isle of Islay

The Laphroaig and Lagavulin Water Dispute on the Isle of Islay
By Ron Steenvoorden

The name Laphroaig is Gaelic and means The beautiful hollow by the broad bay. Laphroaig is one of the oldest distilleries on Islay and this story shows that, despite whisky distilling is often romanticized, it was also a dangerous occupation.

After the Rebellion of 1745, which was actually a civil war, the clearances started and in that period three Johnston Brothers came to Islay. Their purpose was farming and they occupied different parts of Islay. Two of their sons, Donald and Alexander, started their own farms at Laphroaig around 1810 and started distilling soon afterwards. When Alexander died in 1836 Donald became the sole owner of Laphroaig. At that time the Campbells, who owned Donalds land, leased a plot to James and Andrew Gairdner who built a rival distillery next to Laphroaig. They installed two experienced Clackmann distillers, James and Andrew Stein, to take charge. Donald Johnston, owner of Laphroaig at the time, was deeply disturbed finding out that the new, Ardenistiel distillery, proposed to use the same watersource. Water that made a vital contribution to Laphroaig's unique character. Specially when Donald was about to expand his business leaving him with a too small water supply.

Donald appealed to the judiciary the probems he had with the sharing of the water supply and the fact that the expansion of his business wasnt possible without a proper watersupply

The dispute lasted almost 6 years and ended abruptly when Andrew Stein fell ill with fever and died soon afterwards. His brother James, who couldnt cope distilling alone, stopped and moved to Port Ellen. In June the following year Donald himself died in a tragic accident at the Laphroaig distillery. It was a hard life in those times....

The Ardenistiel Distillery was also known as Kildalton (1849-52) and Islay (1852). This distillery was taken over by Laphroaig in 1853.

Laphroaig became a successful whisky distillery and the neighbouring Lagavulin distillery built identical stills to try and get the same taste as Laphroaig. The Lagavulin distillery however got its water from the other side of the hill which was the reason for the different character of Lagavulin whisky and not succeeding to copy Laphroaig. It is also said that the location of the maturation houses from Laphroaig, being so close to the sea, make a difference in the taste.

I am a regular visitor of Scotland and the Isle of Islay in particular. Islay has a rich and interesing history and I publish information about Scotland and Islay on my three websites:
http://www.scotlandview.co.uk
http://www.islayinfo.com
http://blog.islayinfo.com

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Experience Spring Break 2007 Jamaican Style!

Experience Spring Break 2007 Jamaican Style!
By Felicia Hardy

With exotic beaches, energetic bars and nightclubs and reggae music dancing in the air Jamaica is ready for Spring Break 2007. Jamaica is one of the most desirable spring break destinations in the Caribbean offering the unique activities, restaurants and nightlife of both Negril and Montego Bay. Visitors come from near and far to soak up the sun on what have been recognized as some of the worlds finest beaches, cliff dive into the warm sparkling Caribbean, sample some of the areas spicy cuisine and experience the even spicier nightlife.

On the western corner of Jamaica is Negril which for the longest time had been Jamaicas best kept secret. Boasting seven miles of unspoiled beaches and naturally beautiful cliffs Negril is a tropical paradise overflowing with Jamaicas vibrant culture, exciting activities and festive nightlife. As the sun sets Negrils beaches and cliffs come alive with the upbeat sounds of reggae music, theme parties and impressive bonfires. Negril is home to a number of all-inclusive resorts which provide convenience and value by offering one flat rate for accommodations, daily activities, nightly entertainment, fine dining options, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and even taxes and gratuities. All-inclusive resorts let visitors relax and enjoy their spring break without worrying about where theyre going to eat, what theyre going to do and how much its all going to cost. The Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa and the Sunset Beach Resort and Spa are two of Jamaicas beautiful all inclusive resorts. Surrounding you with non-stop spring break action as well as unlimited food and drinks, activities and entertainment throughout the day and into the night and much more these two all inclusive resorts offer intense fun and great value to its guests.

East of Negril is Montego Bay, or Mo Bay, as the locals call it. Montego Bay is well known as Jamaicas Spring Break capital and is home to the Hip Strip, which is an area full of elegant shopping, wild nightlife, beautiful accommodations and miles of pristine beaches. One of the most popular places on Mo Bays Hip Strip is Margaritaville. Offering a lively atmosphere, delicious food and exciting entertainment, Margaritaville is the place to see and be seen in Montego Bay. During the day guests can enjoy all the latest sporting events on big screen televisions and listen to the laid back sounds of the island. At night, Margaritaville kicks it up a notch with fun and exciting theme parties, contests and some of the islands greatest DJs spinning the soundtrack to your unforgettable Spring Break in Jamaica.

The official drinking age in Jamaica is 18 years old so to ensure a safe and memorable spring break be sure to drink responsibly. Stay hydrated under the warm Jamaican sun by enjoying some ice cold non-alcoholic beverages in between alcoholic ones. A great way to guarantee your tropical nights are full of fun and excitement is to eat a hearty meal before going out drinking. Jamaica is filled with delicious dining options that offer a variety of culinary styles. Dine on traditional Jamaican cuisine which includes distinctive spices and flavors or enjoy familiar international dishes. The Pork Pit is a favorite Montego Bay restaurant that serves huge portions of Jamaican specialties including the famous Jamaican jerk pork and jerk chicken. The Pork Pit is a friendly and relaxed restaurant with reasonably priced meals that will leave some extra cash in your pocket to check out some of Jamaicas great shopping areas to find the perfect souvenir from your 2007 Jamaica Spring Break.

Jamaica is known for its tropical beauty, reggae music and flavorful cuisine which all come together to create one of the most popular spring break destinations in the world. Offering two amazing spring break options, Jamaica lets you choose between the relaxing and casual atmosphere of Negril or the faster paced Montego Bay. Both locations offer amazing beaches, restaurants and night clubs letting you choose how you want to spend your spring break in Jamaica.

Book Your Jamaica Spring Break Online or Call (888) 782-9722 Toll Free!

Felicia Hardy is a Spring Break expert and the Content Associate for BookIt.com - the Internet Travel Company Offering Discounted Spring Break Hotels and Vacations with No Booking Fees, Ever! Visit BookIt.com Travel Guides for Additional Spring Break Travel information including Articles, Reviews and Helpful Travel Tips.

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You Have To Love The Location Say These Owners Of Orlando Florida Villas

You Have To Love The Location, Say These Owners Of Orlando Florida Villas
By David Leonhardt

It has been said that in real estate there are three things that count the most: location, location and location. I recently discovered how powerful this concept can be.

Not long ago, I wrote an article about owning a vacation rental and what to consider before making the plunge ( http://www.seo-writer.net/clients/villa-ownership.html ). Like every decision, there are pros and cons, and it also depends on an individual's temperament, comfort with risk and many other factors.

I asked a few dozen villa owners who were listed at an Orlando Florida villas rental listing site at http://www.lastminutevillas.net why they had chosen villa ownership and what cautions or advice they would offer somebody considering a Florida vacation rental.

What struck me, however, was how most of the vacation rental owners I interviewed offered more comments on why they chose Florida as a location, than why they chose to be a villa owner.

In other words, the location more than the occupation inspired villa ownership, and that location is Orlando, Florida. Considering the battering Florida had recently taken by one hurricane after another, this struck me as kind of odd. So I picked up the phone and called Stewart Granville, owner of the listing site.

It's late Fall and I'm sitting out here in my shorts. Do I need another reason? he asked. How are you doing up there?

Uh...let me just go get a sweater, was all I could respond.

To give you some idea of how important it for a vacation rental property owner to fall in love with the location, here are just two samples of what some villa owners told me:

When we are driving back to the airport in Florida we never want to leave, says Michelle Prince, owner of Secret Key Villa in Kissimmee, Florida ( http://www.lastminutevillas.net/villa/166/ ), adding It was something we have always wanted to do since taking a Christmas break in Florida every year.

I believe that to feel that you wish to buy property in Florida you must think further than 'Profit', says Dave Gordon, owner of Lindisfarne Villa in Orlando ( http://www.lastminutevillas.net/villa/89/ ). I sincerely believe that most foreign villa owners have the 'feel good' factor themselves and buy because they want to return time and againif they make a profitwhat the heck!

Of course, no business venture should be run on the off-chance of making a profit, but every business venture should be a labour of love, and few require as much love as the tender nurturing of vacation rental homes.

About The Author

David Leonhardt is a freelance writer

http://www.seo-writer.net/freelance/writer.html

Info@thehappyguy.com

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