Archive for August, 2007
Something in the Water (or Why Rhode Island Rules)
Elea Almazora asked:
It’s quite simple really, my reason for wanting to move to (or at the very least, visit) the ocean state. It’s all because of “There’s Something About Mary”, and then “Family Guy”. Yes, I am not ashamed to admit it: I want to move to Rhode Island because some of the funniest and smartest people that are influencing popular culture today have connections with that state. It may sound shallow, but hear me out, please.
I believe with all my heart that there is something in the water that pretty much makes Rhode Island the “ocean state” a breeding ground for funny and creative people. There is no way that the Farrelly Brothers AND Seth MacFarlane could be the way they are without the influence of their environment. So obviously, Rhode Island culture and geography would have much to answer for in terms of the contributions to popular culture that both the Farrellies and MacFarlane ensured the world would love and enjoy. Something, I must insist, made them as quirky, irreverent, and intelligent as they are, and I have a feeling that Rhode Island had something to do with it.
This is why I want to move to Rhode Island. Because I want a piece of that SOMETHING that made them special. Granted, it may not be Rhode Island itself that inspires creative genius, but allow me to list down the number of people from Rhode Island who are known for being creative and intelligent: horror writer H.P. Lovecraft, comedian Harry Anderson, America’s Funniest Home Videos creator Vin di Bona, actress Debra Messing and actor James Woods. Who can argue with this type of thing? And while I’m very well aware that for the creativity to take full hold on you, you have to stay an extended period of time there (like perhaps most of your childhood and formative years), I’m still pretty sure that even a short vacation may give me the same sense of quirky creativity that these Rhode Island locals seem to exhibit. Also, I want my kids to be that kind of creative, so it’s all for the future of entertainment anyway.
Of course, beyond the shallowness of my intentions, I also happen to know that Rhode Island is a very beautiful place that is dedicated to preserving nature. And I am also not ashamed to admit that I’m a bit of a sucker for places like this. While not being really a full-out nature nut who would chain herself to a tree so that it would not be cut down by “those oppressive capitalist pigs” as some of my activist acquaintances may call it, I also think the preservation of the best things about nature is very important. For example, I remember hearing about the State of Rhode Island being a wonderful place for birds of all shapes and sizes, and even though I’m not much of an authority on avians, I also know that I would love to see one or two of the great local birds of Rhode Island flying above.
I also happen to know that living in a place that is not far away from the water can be good for a person’s soul. There is just something about living close to the water that is calming, that makes people more relaxed and laid back. This would possibly mean less stress and less likelihood of being unhealthy (work with me here!), or at the very least, the opportunity to be able to unwind by driving up to the nearest shoreline and staring out into the waters. I honestly believe that we are in need of those moments.
And this is why I think Rhode Island rules: because it inspires creativity, because it has a great deal of respect for nature, and because when it all comes down to it, isn’t it just a downright lovely place?
It’s quite simple really, my reason for wanting to move to (or at the very least, visit) the ocean state. It’s all because of “There’s Something About Mary”, and then “Family Guy”. Yes, I am not ashamed to admit it: I want to move to Rhode Island because some of the funniest and smartest people that are influencing popular culture today have connections with that state. It may sound shallow, but hear me out, please.
I believe with all my heart that there is something in the water that pretty much makes Rhode Island the “ocean state” a breeding ground for funny and creative people. There is no way that the Farrelly Brothers AND Seth MacFarlane could be the way they are without the influence of their environment. So obviously, Rhode Island culture and geography would have much to answer for in terms of the contributions to popular culture that both the Farrellies and MacFarlane ensured the world would love and enjoy. Something, I must insist, made them as quirky, irreverent, and intelligent as they are, and I have a feeling that Rhode Island had something to do with it.
This is why I want to move to Rhode Island. Because I want a piece of that SOMETHING that made them special. Granted, it may not be Rhode Island itself that inspires creative genius, but allow me to list down the number of people from Rhode Island who are known for being creative and intelligent: horror writer H.P. Lovecraft, comedian Harry Anderson, America’s Funniest Home Videos creator Vin di Bona, actress Debra Messing and actor James Woods. Who can argue with this type of thing? And while I’m very well aware that for the creativity to take full hold on you, you have to stay an extended period of time there (like perhaps most of your childhood and formative years), I’m still pretty sure that even a short vacation may give me the same sense of quirky creativity that these Rhode Island locals seem to exhibit. Also, I want my kids to be that kind of creative, so it’s all for the future of entertainment anyway.
Of course, beyond the shallowness of my intentions, I also happen to know that Rhode Island is a very beautiful place that is dedicated to preserving nature. And I am also not ashamed to admit that I’m a bit of a sucker for places like this. While not being really a full-out nature nut who would chain herself to a tree so that it would not be cut down by “those oppressive capitalist pigs” as some of my activist acquaintances may call it, I also think the preservation of the best things about nature is very important. For example, I remember hearing about the State of Rhode Island being a wonderful place for birds of all shapes and sizes, and even though I’m not much of an authority on avians, I also know that I would love to see one or two of the great local birds of Rhode Island flying above.
I also happen to know that living in a place that is not far away from the water can be good for a person’s soul. There is just something about living close to the water that is calming, that makes people more relaxed and laid back. This would possibly mean less stress and less likelihood of being unhealthy (work with me here!), or at the very least, the opportunity to be able to unwind by driving up to the nearest shoreline and staring out into the waters. I honestly believe that we are in need of those moments.
And this is why I think Rhode Island rules: because it inspires creativity, because it has a great deal of respect for nature, and because when it all comes down to it, isn’t it just a downright lovely place?
Why You Should Make Canada Your Next Vacation Destination!
Jay Evans asked:
Canada vacations can provide some of the most enjoyable breaks from work. Especially if you’re in a warm country, the colder climate can make a nice change for once; you might not want to live there, but as a vacation destination Canada can really deliver. The way the world is with so many countries at war, the socially indifferent and politically free Canadians can be a very welcoming community. And Canada has so much to offer, what with all its history, places to visit, cultural activities and sport activities such as White water rafting. Then there’s its spectacular countryside offering all kinds of activities for all.
So where could you visit during your vacation in Canada?
There are so many great places in Canada to visit, that you’d have to make a number of trips just to see the most interesting parts. Canada is the second biggest country in the entire world after all, from Alberta to Quebec to Ontario to British Columbia, there is plenty to see. Then add to that Manitoba, Vancouver Island, and Newfoundland (not actually a part of Canada, but very close by). Probable the first places on your list to visit should be the best known internationally tourist attractions; the incredible Niagara Falls, the equally grand Jasper National Park and the spectacular Banff National Park.
Ok, so what activities will you be able to participate in while in Canada?
Obviously hiking in such a grand environment would be spectacular, but if you’re one of those people who need a little more action you definitely won’t be disappointed. Some of the best locations for white water rafting can be found here and then there are other water sports such as kayaking and boating to consider. One of the best places to participate in these activities would be the longest river in Canada, the Mackenzie, which begins in the Northwest Territories and eventually ends at the Hudson Bay.
If water sport isn’t for you, you could always visit some of the wilder regions where fishing and hunting activities bring in an abundance of pro and non pro sportsmen. And you could also go and see a hockey game at one of the most well known Canadian hockey Stadiums. Then there’s the French Canadian cuisine, you just have to try some of the specialties like the gallettes, the maple syrup and galumpkies.
If all this doesn’t interest you, why not consider actually getting away from all the tourist attractions and sporting activities and take a closer look at the Canadian culture. Meet the people, participate in their cultural activities, take a look into their history (interestingly free from international trouble). This is something few tourist actually do, but it is the only way to really get to know a country and its culture.
Whether it’s just the pure beauty of the Canadian wilderness that interests you or it’s the pure adrenalin you seek from speeding down a river in a raft or the challenge of climbing Canada’s highest mountain situated in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson, in British Columbia, Canada has something to offer all of us. The only question is will you let the opportunity pass you by?
Canada vacations can provide some of the most enjoyable breaks from work. Especially if you’re in a warm country, the colder climate can make a nice change for once; you might not want to live there, but as a vacation destination Canada can really deliver. The way the world is with so many countries at war, the socially indifferent and politically free Canadians can be a very welcoming community. And Canada has so much to offer, what with all its history, places to visit, cultural activities and sport activities such as White water rafting. Then there’s its spectacular countryside offering all kinds of activities for all.
So where could you visit during your vacation in Canada?
There are so many great places in Canada to visit, that you’d have to make a number of trips just to see the most interesting parts. Canada is the second biggest country in the entire world after all, from Alberta to Quebec to Ontario to British Columbia, there is plenty to see. Then add to that Manitoba, Vancouver Island, and Newfoundland (not actually a part of Canada, but very close by). Probable the first places on your list to visit should be the best known internationally tourist attractions; the incredible Niagara Falls, the equally grand Jasper National Park and the spectacular Banff National Park.
Ok, so what activities will you be able to participate in while in Canada?
Obviously hiking in such a grand environment would be spectacular, but if you’re one of those people who need a little more action you definitely won’t be disappointed. Some of the best locations for white water rafting can be found here and then there are other water sports such as kayaking and boating to consider. One of the best places to participate in these activities would be the longest river in Canada, the Mackenzie, which begins in the Northwest Territories and eventually ends at the Hudson Bay.
If water sport isn’t for you, you could always visit some of the wilder regions where fishing and hunting activities bring in an abundance of pro and non pro sportsmen. And you could also go and see a hockey game at one of the most well known Canadian hockey Stadiums. Then there’s the French Canadian cuisine, you just have to try some of the specialties like the gallettes, the maple syrup and galumpkies.
If all this doesn’t interest you, why not consider actually getting away from all the tourist attractions and sporting activities and take a closer look at the Canadian culture. Meet the people, participate in their cultural activities, take a look into their history (interestingly free from international trouble). This is something few tourist actually do, but it is the only way to really get to know a country and its culture.
Whether it’s just the pure beauty of the Canadian wilderness that interests you or it’s the pure adrenalin you seek from speeding down a river in a raft or the challenge of climbing Canada’s highest mountain situated in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson, in British Columbia, Canada has something to offer all of us. The only question is will you let the opportunity pass you by?
Airport Taxis Have "carbon on Their Hands"
Ann Brown asked:
A new website http://www.fairfare.co.uk aims to help travellers and taxi operators to reduce their carbon footprint by allowing taxi operators to advertise these otherwise empty journeys on their website often at bargain prices.
The site http://www.FairFare.co.uk gives guidance to passengers on taxi pricing but allows its customers to set the price. For the taxi driver about to depart empty to pick-up a passenger from the airport some revenue is better to no revenue, so FairFare encourages its taxi operators to sell these empty legs for low prices starting from just 1.00 GBP.
Travellers taking taxis to the airport rarely think about the implications for their carbon footprint. Few realise that less than 20% of these airport taxis carry a passenger in both directions. This means that the taxi airport transfers are blighted with waste and needless damage to the environment.
Travellers are aware that their airport taxi can cost as much as their flight but few are aware that their 100 mile airport run results in a 200 mile round trip typically consuming 5-6 gallons of fuel. This is comparable to the amount of fuel used per passenger on a 90 minute European flight on a modern Boeing 737 aircraft.
The public would be appalled at the prospect of aircrafts flying around empty or even at 50% capacity, but we appear to tolerate 80% of our airport taxis are either driving to or from our airport without a passenger and even bestow them with privileges such as dedicated traffic lanes.
One the co-founders of FairFare said, “Getting passengers into these otherwise empty taxis is one of the best ways for passengers to improve their carbon footprint. In addition, the carbon offset is obvious and immediate and not amortised over 10 years by a developing tree.”
Everybody is a winner the Taxi driver, the Passenger and the Environment.
Find out more about FairFare on http://www.fairfare.co.uk
Local Newspapers – Still as Relevant as Ever?
Scott Stadler asked:
They’re saying that the newspaper is a thing of the past, but is that really just a bunch of hype or not?
Well one thing is for sure – new media is forcing traditional newspapers to adapt and stay up to date with the times. And many local newspapers especially are doing just that. Change might be inevitable, but to say that local newspapers will be irrelevant any time soon is just not true. Let’s look at the reality of the situation…
Are Blogs the Answer?
It’s been suggested that the world of online blogging is taking over the clout once held by the newspaper industry exclusively. Of course, blogs have brought more to the table and made news more real time and reader-centric. Blogging has been glorified as citizen journalism at its finest.
But here’s the thing… As great as blogs are (and they have made a difference), the vast majority of them don’t exactly comply with the depth, quality, and variety of information that real journalism excels at providing via newspapers. The newspaper is still viewed as perhaps the most authoritative and accurate source for news, as opposed to the blogosphere’s reputation for being opinionated and maybe even a bit crude.
Newspapers Support Communities.
Local newspapers really shine when it comes to serving as a trustworthy community resource. This means readers can rest assured that each time they pick up a newspaper, the latest issues that matter the most and the breaking news are practically guaranteed to be covered. In other words, the local paper is a sure thing.
Additionally, local newspapers tend to take it a step further than news alone by promoting community events. In fact, often times local newspapers almost even serve as a sort of clearinghouse for local communication. It is hard for any other medium other than a local newspaper to make inroads when it comes to serving and supporting a community like this.
The Format is Preferred.
Gimmicks and technologies come and go. Right now, a popular thing to do is to read the latest news in real time right from a smartphone or some other kind of handheld gizmo. Sure, this is convenient, but will it last as a trend?
Newspapers are really a perfected format after all. Granted, they’re not in real time, but they are very portable, they’re easy on the eyes, they don’t have batteries that need to be charged or replaced, they don’t depend on signal strength, and the list just goes on and on.
In Conclusion…
New forms of media will come and go practically as fast as time itself passes, but newspapers have been around a long time and will continue to remain as relevant as ever for years and years to come.
They’re saying that the newspaper is a thing of the past, but is that really just a bunch of hype or not?
Well one thing is for sure – new media is forcing traditional newspapers to adapt and stay up to date with the times. And many local newspapers especially are doing just that. Change might be inevitable, but to say that local newspapers will be irrelevant any time soon is just not true. Let’s look at the reality of the situation…
Are Blogs the Answer?
It’s been suggested that the world of online blogging is taking over the clout once held by the newspaper industry exclusively. Of course, blogs have brought more to the table and made news more real time and reader-centric. Blogging has been glorified as citizen journalism at its finest.
But here’s the thing… As great as blogs are (and they have made a difference), the vast majority of them don’t exactly comply with the depth, quality, and variety of information that real journalism excels at providing via newspapers. The newspaper is still viewed as perhaps the most authoritative and accurate source for news, as opposed to the blogosphere’s reputation for being opinionated and maybe even a bit crude.
Newspapers Support Communities.
Local newspapers really shine when it comes to serving as a trustworthy community resource. This means readers can rest assured that each time they pick up a newspaper, the latest issues that matter the most and the breaking news are practically guaranteed to be covered. In other words, the local paper is a sure thing.
Additionally, local newspapers tend to take it a step further than news alone by promoting community events. In fact, often times local newspapers almost even serve as a sort of clearinghouse for local communication. It is hard for any other medium other than a local newspaper to make inroads when it comes to serving and supporting a community like this.
The Format is Preferred.
Gimmicks and technologies come and go. Right now, a popular thing to do is to read the latest news in real time right from a smartphone or some other kind of handheld gizmo. Sure, this is convenient, but will it last as a trend?
Newspapers are really a perfected format after all. Granted, they’re not in real time, but they are very portable, they’re easy on the eyes, they don’t have batteries that need to be charged or replaced, they don’t depend on signal strength, and the list just goes on and on.
In Conclusion…
New forms of media will come and go practically as fast as time itself passes, but newspapers have been around a long time and will continue to remain as relevant as ever for years and years to come.
Golf breaks in Scotland and hotel Prestwick:
John asked:
The sport of golf is well encouraged in Scotland. This is because, where the rest of the world sees the sport of golf as a sport of the elites, in Scotland almost all sections of the society participate in the sport. There are many reasons why this is encouraged to such levels. The town of Prestwick particularly has a large significance towards golf. This town was the first to host the open golf championships and has also been the host to many major golfing events ever since. The hotel Prestwick has been a home to many golfers from all over the world. This is perhaps the reason why it also forms an ideal golfing break for many from all over the world. A golfing break is just like a holiday but you take up to playing golf in these holidays. You don’t have to be a professional golf player or even at the amateur level to take a golf break. The hotels Prestwick receive many guests all round the year who have come to Scotland for a golfing break. These guests would have no previous knowledge of the game and some of them would not be even interested in the game and would have just taken the break on a whim or a suggestion. However, after playing a round of golf around the courses of Prestwick, most of them develop interest in the game and some of them even take up the sport professionally. The sport of golf remains to be a hobby among many who visit Prestwick and train in golf. The weather, the climate and the gentle breeze blowing along with the lush green golf courts all seem to welcome the golfers and the sport of golf. There are many facilities available for the golfers and people on golfing breaks who come to Prestwick.
The hotels Prestwick makes many accommodations for the guests coming down for a golfing break. There are many facilities available at the hotel Prestwick like a trainer or a caddy for your golfing assistance. Also the hotel will help you to book a golfing course and will also provide you with other assistance such as transportation etc that will make your golfing break better. There are many services that are related to golf also available at the hotel Prestwick. You can bring your own golfing equipment. In case you do not posses any golfing equipment, you will be provided with them at the hotel. All this should be informed to the hotel when you book a room at the hotels Prestwick. There are many ways to go about doing this. You can book the rooms online on the internet a few months in advance of your break. This is much recommended as in the last minute it is almost impossible to find a room for you at the hotel Prestwick. Also you should contact the hotel for any special assistance that you might require and the hotel will meet to your request with professional efficiency.
The sport of golf is well encouraged in Scotland. This is because, where the rest of the world sees the sport of golf as a sport of the elites, in Scotland almost all sections of the society participate in the sport. There are many reasons why this is encouraged to such levels. The town of Prestwick particularly has a large significance towards golf. This town was the first to host the open golf championships and has also been the host to many major golfing events ever since. The hotel Prestwick has been a home to many golfers from all over the world. This is perhaps the reason why it also forms an ideal golfing break for many from all over the world. A golfing break is just like a holiday but you take up to playing golf in these holidays. You don’t have to be a professional golf player or even at the amateur level to take a golf break. The hotels Prestwick receive many guests all round the year who have come to Scotland for a golfing break. These guests would have no previous knowledge of the game and some of them would not be even interested in the game and would have just taken the break on a whim or a suggestion. However, after playing a round of golf around the courses of Prestwick, most of them develop interest in the game and some of them even take up the sport professionally. The sport of golf remains to be a hobby among many who visit Prestwick and train in golf. The weather, the climate and the gentle breeze blowing along with the lush green golf courts all seem to welcome the golfers and the sport of golf. There are many facilities available for the golfers and people on golfing breaks who come to Prestwick.
The hotels Prestwick makes many accommodations for the guests coming down for a golfing break. There are many facilities available at the hotel Prestwick like a trainer or a caddy for your golfing assistance. Also the hotel will help you to book a golfing course and will also provide you with other assistance such as transportation etc that will make your golfing break better. There are many services that are related to golf also available at the hotel Prestwick. You can bring your own golfing equipment. In case you do not posses any golfing equipment, you will be provided with them at the hotel. All this should be informed to the hotel when you book a room at the hotels Prestwick. There are many ways to go about doing this. You can book the rooms online on the internet a few months in advance of your break. This is much recommended as in the last minute it is almost impossible to find a room for you at the hotel Prestwick. Also you should contact the hotel for any special assistance that you might require and the hotel will meet to your request with professional efficiency.
Rajasthan India Travels
raj choudhary asked:
Rajasthan, India’s most popular desert state has lots of enchanting and stunning towns and cities like: Jodhpur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Pushkar, clinging around its holy lake, The Ghaggar river along with the serene lakes make the surroundings of Rajasthan more beautiful. A land of exciting colors, fair and festivals, rich culture and craft, wonderful forts and palaces, painted havelis, wildlife parks and sanctuaries – which is famous as tiger reserves & home for migrated birds, colorful bazaars and friendly people, Rajasthan lures millions of tourists to the state from across the world.
A camel safari near the inhabited desert trading centre of Jaisalmer gives a hint of the area’s beautiful desolation. After enjoying the monumental beauty visitors do have ample opportunity to enjoy the scenic natural beauty of Mount Abu. It is also recognized as the oasis of Golden State which provides truly scenic beauty that is alluring and tempting to the eyes of the tourists.
The arts, crafts, fairs and festivals and fold music and dance depicts the rich culture of Rajasthan. The music is of uncomplicated innocence and songs depict day-to-day relationships and chores more often focal around bring of water. The dance, music and art forms have been watchfully cultivated and patronized by the erstwhile courts. An equally rich and varied folk culture from villages is both fascinating & mesmerizing.
Another reason to visit Rajasthan is its perfectly preserved, rich craft and Culture. Rajasthan’s cultural tapestry takes in simple folk to highly cultivated classical music and dance in its own distinct style. The state is a treasure-trove of the best in Indian handicrafts that attracts tourists from all over the world. You can shop for fabulous fabrics in lovely prints, precious and semi precious stones.
Almost every evening is spectacular sight with local dancers swaying to the folk tunes against the back drop of the desert shimmering in the moonlight.
http://www.visittnt.com
http://www.visittnt.com/rajasthan-travel/index.html
http://rajasthantourism.visittnt.com
Rajasthan, India’s most popular desert state has lots of enchanting and stunning towns and cities like: Jodhpur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Pushkar, clinging around its holy lake, The Ghaggar river along with the serene lakes make the surroundings of Rajasthan more beautiful. A land of exciting colors, fair and festivals, rich culture and craft, wonderful forts and palaces, painted havelis, wildlife parks and sanctuaries – which is famous as tiger reserves & home for migrated birds, colorful bazaars and friendly people, Rajasthan lures millions of tourists to the state from across the world.
A camel safari near the inhabited desert trading centre of Jaisalmer gives a hint of the area’s beautiful desolation. After enjoying the monumental beauty visitors do have ample opportunity to enjoy the scenic natural beauty of Mount Abu. It is also recognized as the oasis of Golden State which provides truly scenic beauty that is alluring and tempting to the eyes of the tourists.
The arts, crafts, fairs and festivals and fold music and dance depicts the rich culture of Rajasthan. The music is of uncomplicated innocence and songs depict day-to-day relationships and chores more often focal around bring of water. The dance, music and art forms have been watchfully cultivated and patronized by the erstwhile courts. An equally rich and varied folk culture from villages is both fascinating & mesmerizing.
Another reason to visit Rajasthan is its perfectly preserved, rich craft and Culture. Rajasthan’s cultural tapestry takes in simple folk to highly cultivated classical music and dance in its own distinct style. The state is a treasure-trove of the best in Indian handicrafts that attracts tourists from all over the world. You can shop for fabulous fabrics in lovely prints, precious and semi precious stones.
Almost every evening is spectacular sight with local dancers swaying to the folk tunes against the back drop of the desert shimmering in the moonlight.
http://www.visittnt.com
http://www.visittnt.com/rajasthan-travel/index.html
http://rajasthantourism.visittnt.com