A bird watching tour is a fantastic way of seeing unusual birds in their natural habitats all under the eye of a local guide. If you've never been on a bird watching or any other holiday tour then there are many great reasons to do so.

Travelling on your own can not only be lonely but it can also be unsafe in some parts of the world. By joining a specialist tour group you will meet like minded people and get the opportunity to visit places you may otherwise not have found by yourself.

An organised tour is also a good way of budgeting for your holiday. There is nothing worse than finding that you have run out of cash half way through a holiday but as you pay upfront for a tour and usually everything is included in the price such as park entrance fees you will not have that to worry about. A tour may also be cheaper than sorting out a holiday yourself as your operator can often get group discounts.

Your tour operator will also be able to help you sort out any difficulties you may encounter such as problems with accommodation, border checks or even unscrupulous taxi drivers. Your tour operator and guide will also have local knowledge and be able to advise you on the best places to eat and drink and visit if you want to spend any time away from the group. However, it is recommended that you spend as much time as possible with your party as the excursions that they lead you on will help make your holiday even more enjoyable.

Your local guide will have excellent knowledge of the local area and habitat of the indigenous birds and you it is likely that you will be taken to places where you will be able to spot rare species. Before you go buy a guide book and read up on the local flora and fauna. Make a checklist of the birds you would like to see and don't be afraid to ask your guide if he or she can help you find these birds. If you are travelling in a small group your operator may be able to customise your tour and will certainly try their best to accommodate your needs.

Take a good pair of binoculars, a digital camera and sketch pad. If you see a bird that you are unable to identify out in the field, make some notes and ask your fellow birders or your guide when you are back at the hotel.

Going on a bird watching tour is an extremely efficient way of seeing as many different species in a short a time as possible. You will be taken to locations at the best times of day to view different birds so you will not waste time waiting around or miss that all important rare sighting.

Choose a tour operator that is fully bonded and insured so if there are any problems you will be able to get home safely. However, do take out full adventure travel insurance and make sure you have any required jabs.

Bird watching tours operate in all four corners of the globe and with a bit of planning and research you could end up having the holiday of a lifetime. You can find a selection of bird watching tours at British Bird Lovers.

This article was written by the owner of British Bird Lovers.

The author is a keen gardener and amateur bird watcher.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Price

High fuel costs and economic stress are taking their toll on yet another industry. The travel industry. An industry with multiyear growth is beginning to level off at mid year. And may only have a slight chance of ending the year with an increase, thanks to leisure travel sales.

The continued rising gasoline prices have already forced some consumers to cancel their vacation plans, according to a key consumer survey. Although leisure travel is still expected to continue growing this year, even if families are forced to vacation closer to home.

Although the number of domestic trips taken this year and next are not expected to decline, it has been suggested that the spending patterns and consumer choices may change. Substituting domestic travel for international trips, trading down in hotel quality, foregoing in-trip shopping or entertainment spending, and shorter stays are all viable options that will be considered.

Leisure travel was predicted to grow by 0.8% in the second quarter of 2008, and then pick up more speed with a 1.1% increase in the third quarter. Leisure travel is predicted to greatly increase in the second half of the year as Americans spend part or all of their tax rebate on travel. Time will tell if this prediction comes true.

The travel industry growth is being hurt mainly by the decline in business travel due to corporate cost controls and increased reliance on technology-based alternatives. This is expected to carry on through into the year 2009, as well. Unless we see some sign of relief at the pump, then some of these changes may be more temporary in nature.

But on a high note for our economy, the International travel to the United States will continue to grow. Due to the fact that our foreign visitors will continue benefiting from exchange rates and other factors that have combined to create an increase of international visitation. This is following strong increases from last year as well. It has been forecasted for foreign visits to reach 62.1 million next year, which is even 4.8% higher than the current year stats.

Although some reports indicate leisure travel to weaken in 2009, if problems caused by the credit and housing crises continue to hurt the overall economy. The total number of trips could decline by 0.4%, to 1.996 million, and leisure travel would see its first decline since 2003.

As a person that loves to travel and enjoys time away from the daily routine, I believe I speak for all of us when I say that I hope the economy starts to turn around soon. I wouldn't want us to have to go home to our families and break the news that there will be no summer vacation next year.

Larry Buhrandt is a Certified Travel Agent with TraVerus Travel. He has a passion to travel and a desire to help others succeed in the travel industry.

VACATION FOR LE$$...ENJOY LIFE MORE...WHILE EARNING AN AMAZING INCOME!!

==>CLICK HERE TO START YOUR JOURNEY

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larry_Buhrandt

There are dozens of benefits of having a home based travel business. First this is a great idea because you are now in the industry which means you qualify for insider benefits. By just having a home based business in the travel industry you also get huge tax advantages.

You also get your own personalized website where your friends and family can book their travel as well and you earn up to 90% commission.

Also your travel business runs 24/7/365 days a year. Your home based travel business is running 24/7 and has the potential of making you money every second of the day, allowing dozens of people from all over the world to book from your travel site and you get the commission... It's as simple as that.

They also have very little start up capital- you can have a profitable travel business up and running with very little capital. And you also have unlimited customer base. You can even sell travel international.

One of the best parts is that you get to travel at wholesale prices just for having a business. And you will get paid every single time you travel, no matter it be a cruise, hotel, family vacation, and even travel for free. Travel companies offer travel trainings, and even allow you to get your CLIA card (Cruise Line International Association) which is great because with this card you can receive the highest commissions from cruises, hotel, flights etc.

Another great benefit of owning a home based business in the travel industry is that you get huge tax breaks, for example....Gas, clothing, rent, mortgage, food, cell phones, and many more are all things you can write off on your taxes just by owning a home based business in the travel industry. Your start up cost is also tax deductible as well so you can literally own your business for free.

You can work your own hours with your business, and you can work it at your own leisure. Most travel business are very easy to start and have programs known as the member trips program. This program is a program that allows you to take these trips at huge discounted prices. All inclusive cruise, vacation spots and more. Most people get involve just for this benefit alone. And you are also able to create residual income from home with the referral program. If you are going to start a home based business, by far the travel industry is by far the best kind just because you don't have to do any selling of products or services, and everybody loves to travel and save money, and even make money at the same time. Just find a company that has the best interest in your needs.

To view more information on this topic please go to http://specialtravelperks.com

Jeffrey Hunter - Certified Travel Specialist 240-645-9718

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffrey_Hunter

For my first trip to Shimla, I took Kalka Mail from Delhi to Kalka. After an overnight journey, I reached the sleepy little station of Kalka around 5.30 in the morning. From Kalka I had one of the most beautiful train journeys one can have. The journey, some 90-KM long, was done in a toy train. It was November 8, 2003, just a day before that railway line was about to complete its 100 years. I was travelling in the same train, which was supposed to make the historic journey next day, marking the hundred years of this wonderful gift of British India. You can blame them for a lot of bad things they did to India during their rule here but you have to give it the firangs (As British rulers were called then), they took the trains to the kind of places where Indians have not been able to even 60 years after getting independence. The toy train passes through some 103 tunnels, one of them, at Barog, is more than a kilometer long. That's not all. It uses more than 800 bridges to reach Shimla!

My train, Shivalik Deluxe Express, stopped at Barog - a beautiful little station. The stop was for 10 minute where most of the passengers got down while catering staff collected breakfast to be served on the train. It was a lovely experience; early morning sunshine made me feel in a different world.The train was full of honeymooners, as it was marriage season in India. Some of the couples seemed in a hurry to get lost in each other's arms. Since it was a toy train that has small coaches, people were seated pretty close to each other.

I arrived at the Shimla station around 10.30 am. Starting from 660 mts at Kalka, I was now about 2000 mts above sea level. Immediately I was surrounded by Kashmiri potters. I negotiated with one of them and he helped me climb out of the station where I was met by the cab drivers. After bargaining, one of them drove me to my hotel. After checking into the hotel, a Raj-era building, I took shower and had brunch. I checked with the hotel manager about the places I could see in the remaining day. He suggested I walk up to the Mall Road, that quintessential Raj left-over. Acting on his advice I decided to walk to the Mall. I was surprised to see so many tall deodar trees on both sides of the road before I reached the actual hustle and bustle of the Mall. It was same as the other Mall Roads. All kind of eateries asking you to 'come and try' the delicious fare. I went inside a restaurant, which served north Indian, south Indian, Chinese food and whatever you can think of. To be frank, it was awful. I ordered a pizza and that did not look like the pizzas one had seen or eaten before! After that misadventure with food I walked up to the Ridge. It has, for years, been used for all kinds of functions. During British rule, it was used to hold military parades. Sahebs and memsahebs used to enjoy the romantic evenings. There, you even have a place called Scandal Point, thus named because it is said that some officer's wife had run away with an Indian prince from that very point!

I walked back to my hotel as it became dark and cold. The mountain air was having its effect. Next day I visited Kufri, came back to The Mall Road, and did some roaming around.

On my last day in Shimla I went to see Viceregal Lodge from where British Viceroy ruled all over India for six months during summer. The Lodge now houses IIAS (Indian Institute of Advanced Studies). It was a magnificent building with a well-maintained and beautiful lawn in front of it. It was in this building that India's destiny was decided by the Britishers. The tables and chairs have been kept as it is and every half an hour a tour is conducted with a guide to give you a glimpse of the history.

The visit to Viceregal Lodge was worth it. I am now better informed about the goings on in the final hours before India got its independence.

Archna Gupta is a veteran in the marketing of Internet and writing of the articles on the range of subjects. For any information on currently working on Travel To India and India Tour Packages

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Archna_Gupta

There are numerous other treasures waiting to be discovered in the Eternal City, which most probably would not be found within the pages of a guidebook. So if time allows you to take a stroll off the beaten path, take some notes because it is there that you will find Rome's best kept secrets. Sites such as the church of Sant' Ignazio di Loyola, San Luigi dei Francesi and the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli are just a few of the many sites often left out of the guide books, yet definitely worth a visit.

Sant' Ignazio di Loyola is located amongst the shops on Via del Corso and has one of the most impressive "domes" in Rome, sure to make you look twice. Enter the church and you will find the dome, located at the front altar. If you take a few steps forward, you will notice that it is painted on a flat wooden surface making the dome an optical illusion. Many visit this church to witness for themselves as they find it quite amazing.

Also not to be missed in the city center is the Church of San Luigi di Francesi. This little jewel is located off of Piazza Navona. Designed by Giacomo della Porta and built by Domenico Fontana in the 1500's it is known as the official French church of Rome. Here you will find three of Caravaggio's world-renowned originals: "St. Matthew and the Angel", "The calling of St. Matthew" and The Martyrdom of St. Matthew".

Last but not least is Santa Maria degli Angeli. Michelangelo designed this church, planned its construction alongside the ruins which were originally there from the roman baths of Diocletian. The outer walls consist of the brick of the baths giving the exterior of the church its unique appearance. It is quite impressive to see how he actually incorporated these ruins into a church that is still used to this day. Getting to Santa Maria degli Angeli is simple, as the metro line A will take you directly to Piazza Repubblica where the church is located.

The best thing about visiting these sites is that they are free. However, keep in mind that proper dress code is required as they are places of worship. It is advised to turn off your mobile phones and keep your voice down before entering.

Article contributed by Danielle Russo of When In Rome Tours WhenInRomeTours.com, Experts in Vatican Tours and Rome sightseeing Private-Tours since 1999.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danielle_Russo

Thailand is an amazing place to live. The friendly people, delicious food and beautiful scenery are just a few reasons to live here. However, the culture is very different from what most westerners are familiar with. Below is a list to help you determine if some of the more curious Thai cultural oddities have rubbed off on you.

You see an elephant in the street and don't think "Oh wow! An elephant!" but instead complain about how it's slowing down traffic.

You wake up in the morning with a hankering for rice and noodles, not eggs and toast.

You think that riding your motorcycle the wrong way down one-way streets, running red lights and riding on the wrong side of the road are perfectly normal.

You think that Singha and Chang are actually pretty decent beers.

You see a family of four and their dog riding together on a single motorcycle and you only wonder what they ate for dinner.

You wear sweaters and sweatshirts despite the steaming hot weather.

You are deeply concerned when your favorite rice dish goes up in price by $0.15 to a staggering $0.60.

The language actually starts to make a little sense.

You have no problems eating raw pig organs mixed with pig blood and spices.

10 year olds riding motorcycles in the streets do not faze you.

You think Sangsom and Mekong are actually pretty decent whiskeys.

You haven't cooked a meal in months, besides what can be made with a hot water maker.

You find that some of the Thai music is actually pretty decent.

Shaking somebody's hand feels weird.

You can ride a motorcycle with 10 grocery bags, a bookshelf and a hot pizza box strapped to it.

You ask for every meal extra spicy.

You put spicy fish sauce on everything.

About The Author

Tom Bak is a professional software developer with over ten years of programming experience on diverse projects, including seven years of videogame experience with numerous published console game titles. He is currently working on a free word game and an online word puzzle.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Bak

I always quite fancied myself as a business woman but having had a long and fairly successful career in the media in London I never dreamt that moving to Spain and having a baby would lead to creating my own business!

We live in the age of technology and so it was only fitting that I met my business partner on the net! As anyone who has moved to Spain knows, it can be difficult to make new friends and meet others in the same situation. Lesley and I had both had babies here in Spain at around the same time and were both having a difficult time finding information and dealing with this huge change in our lives without the network we would have had around us back at home. We both discovered a website called mumsinspain.com and as we lived near each other we became friends via the site's forum. A while after we met we found that a lot of our conversations were taken up with moans and groans about baby products we wanted to buy but couldn't find here in Spain. After my parents had literally heaved a heavy playpen all the way from the UK we realised there was a definite gap in the market and on whim decided to fill it!

Looking back we were both taking a huge gamble starting a business with someone we barely knew. But right from the start it felt right for both of us and we both felt that our different professional backgrounds would compliment the business and we both believed in what we were doing, agreed on the way we wanted the business to work and trusted each other. And so far so good!!

Firstly we had to face the facts ... one, we knew little about retail and even less about starting a business in Spain! Two, starting a business with two small (often grumpy) toddlers in tow was not going to be easy! When we started in October 2007 our daughters were both around 10 months old. As they have got older it has become more difficult as our girls need more entertaining and we need more time to work.

One of the reasons we decided to start the business was that we both wanted and needed to work, but neither of us was keen to return to a 9-5 desk job where we would have to leave our babies and not be able to be with them if they needed us. We hoped that working from home would allow us the best of both worlds. Of course in reality it's not as idyllic as that at all!! Most days we have found working at home with babies to be a completely unpredictable experience, one day they'll happily play together for hours on end, needing hardly any attention and we can sit at the laptop and smile over at our wonderful daughters, the next they act as if they can't stand each other and cling to our ankles as if we were the meanest, least affectionate mums in the world.

At times like these it's almost impossible to work properly and we have come to realise that starting a business in Spain is all the harder because often there is less extended family around to support you or those that are here work full time. Both the girls start nursery this September and so things will be slightly easier, but at the moment it is a case of juggling the job of being a full time mum with that of being a company director!

However the trials of setting up a business with a baby on your lap are far outweighed by the thought of having to leave them completely and we have been lucky to have had the opportunity to base our work around our children.

So our first hurdle was working our way around the maze of legalities involved in setting up a business in Spain. Do we become an SL or do we work as autonomous? This seemed to be a question that no one had a finite answer too! After a few months we realised that we just wanted to find someone who could tell us what to do, but as helpful as the lawyers, gestures and general business experts were, every meeting simply seemed to just throw up more and more questions. Luckily our two husbands acted as translators, without them the process would have been even more confusing.

We have found that if you go and search for it, help is out there ... but it's not easy to find!!! By chance we stumbled across an office in our local town hall which specialised in helping new business set up. Through this office we have been able to set up our business, and by doing it ourselves with their help we avoided many of the costs of setting up a business with a gestor. It has however been a time consuming and complex process and is only recommended if you have access to a Spanish speaking family member! The lovely lady who took on our 'case' desperately searched for grants to help us, painstakingly typed up our business plans in Spanish, filled out forms for us and on one crazy Easter weekend stayed late just so we could finish and submit a form for a 'women in business' grant before the deadline. She also spent many hours explaining to us how an SL company would work. (All this with our babies creating havoc under the table, pulling apart the plants, taking all the cups out of the water machine and tying the string from the blinds in knots etc etc ... you get the idea! ) On her advice we took the paperwork ourselves to the various offices in Malaga such as the Hacienda and waited in line for our papers to be processed. The whole process took several months but when we finally signed our business escritura it was definitely worth all the running around!!

Having decided on an online shop, we secured the site domain name ( http://www.indybel.com ) and choose and registered our own name ( a story in itself as the names we chose kept coming back as 'taken' ... in Spain you must submit 3 names but you won't know for a while which name will be chosen, so you just have to keep your fingers crossed it's the one you want! ) Our next challenges included the logo design, website design and deciding what we could afford to sell as opposed to what we would really like to sell! This was now several months after we had began and with one expensive trip to London to visit a baby product trade show under our belts, we were feeling the pressure to get the business up and running. Lesley in particular needed everything to be finalised as she had just discovered she was expecting her second child and we needed to be up and running before she gave birth.

We began the 'second phase' of starting our business by 'interviewing' design companies. The look of both the logo and site was very important to us as we wanted both to look professional, sleek and most of all convey our message. Having chosen different companies to work on the logo and the site we excitedly gave both the go ahead to start work. We expected the logo design to take a few weeks but it ended up being nearer to a few months. We wanted the logo to have an 'organic' feel or theme whilst clearly also saying 'baby' and preferably 'pregnancy' too ... we went through a number of ideas with our long suffering graphic design company and after exploring teddy bears wearing towelling nappies, babies playing on our name, babies sitting in flowers and bumps and lumps all over the place, we eventually settled on a baby on a leaf in green and brown colours. It took a long time but we are really happy with our logo and have received some really nice compliments on it already which makes the whole process worthwhile.

Once we had our logo colours confirmed we could really get to work on the website design. We wanted a really clear and easy to negotiate shopping section as well as easy to understand pages on baby showers, gift deliveries etc. Choosing a company to work with was difficult and unfortunately we parted ways with our first design company shortly before the 'first' site was due to launch. We lost a lot of money but felt that we had been through a real 'learning curve' and that although this was a major setback and we had to cancel advertising and put the launch date back, in the long run we'd probably had a lucky escape. After a very stressful few weeks during which we both began to wonder if we'd ever actually launch our business and if we could even afford to pay for a new site, we found another company and our 'second' site was created on an extremely unrealistic timescale and with neither of us really sure how it would turn out. Luckily and to the credit of the second company we were delighted with the end product and the site was launched only a month later than first planned!

Choosing products has been really exciting. We started off with a wish list and changed our minds about a lot of products which were either too expensive and we felt wouldn't sell, or weren't quite what we were looking for. We wanted to offer the types of products that we have found we needed over the last 18 months but just couldn't find here in Spain as well as a good organic range. As our babies grow we find there are more things we need ourselves and so we are adding products with experience! We went to the Baby Show in London last year and found some brilliant new products and Lesley has managed to find the time and energy (while pregnant with number 2) to pop over to Thailand twice to source manufacturers, suppliers and products for our own brand items and packaging! One of the things we have had to learn to do is negotiate with suppliers and barter the price down ... Lesley was definitely better than me at this!! With the products in place we finalised courier companies, delivery prices, packaging options and translating the whole site into Spanish. We organised storage of the products here in Spain, chose a bank with the right business package and organised our monthly accounting with our gesture for when we launched. As with everything none of these things was simple, but we got there in the end!!!

The last few weeks before the launch were hectic. We had about a week to get all the products and all our information and photos onto the site before it went live. It was lucky that this period co-incided with the summer and we both had families out here. During those weeks we worked around the clock and long into the night once the girls were sleeping.

And so in August 2008, nearly a year after we first started, we finally launched our business!! In the time it's taken us to set up a business our daughters have gone from crawling to walking, from purees to three course meals, and from home to nursery! They've celebrated their first birthdays, started to talk and discovered they don't much like us working! Meanwhile Lesley's bump has grown and she is due to give birth any day now!!

As for the business, we finally launched and have received some lovely feedback and many positive comments. There is so much still to do and most of our days are spent juggling babies, emails, meetings and whenever possible grabbing just a few minutes here and there researching new products on the net. But the experience has been so fulfilling and so exciting that despite the sleepless nights, babies in meetings, working into the small hours once they are sleeping and ongoing fear it could all be a huge disaster and we might be bankrupt this time next year .... we wouldn't change a thing!!

For more information about our products please visit http://www.indybel.com

Samantha Sintes

http://www.indybel.com

British, International and Organic Products for Pregnancy and Baby in Spain

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Samantha_Sintes

Booking a last minute holiday can be very exciting. One minute you are sitting at work with nothing but your regular timetable of events to look forward to, and the next you've discovered a bargain last minute break and booked the time to jet off on holiday to somewhere warm and sunny.

It's guaranteed to put the shine on any day but once the initial excitement has worn off you've also got to think about the practicalities of the situation. Where are those suitcases? What do you need to take with you? Is everything that you'll need washed and ironed? And you know you put your passport in a safe place, but can you remember where?

It's easy to get into a panic when you know you've only got a day or two to make sure everything is ready to go, but the easiest way to get around this is to make a list of all the things you need to remember. That way you'll be able to cross them off as you go along, enabling you to concentrate on the things you still have to do.

The first step is to work out how many days you will be away for, as this will allow you to ensure you have the right amount of essential items with you, such as underwear and toiletries to last the whole trip. Of course you can also buy toiletries wherever you go, but you should make sure you at least take enough for the first couple of days.

Next, do some research if necessary to see what the weather will be like wherever you are going. Depending on the type of holiday you've booked, you could be packing for tropical temperatures or sub-zero temperatures, so make sure you go prepared!

Think about the type of holiday you are taking as well, as this will influence what you need to take. If you are going on a beach holiday you will want to take plenty of beachwear and perhaps some snorkelling gear as well, whereas a city break would no doubt need comfy shoes to walk around in as you're more likely to be doing a lot of sightseeing.

Don't forget arrangements you'll need to make at home as well, such as enlisting the help of a friend, relative or neighbour to look after your cat while you are away, or simply check on your house every now and again to make sure everything is okay and perhaps remove mail away from the door, if it is visible. We quite often get so caught up in what we need to organise for taking away with us that we forget essential tasks such as these.

Finally consider taking out travel insurance to cover you during your trip. This is essential if you want to have peace of mind during your last minute holiday that any potential holiday hazards are guarded against.

Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Singleton

Students, who wish to study in the United States, need to apply for U.S. student visa with the U.S Consulate or Embassy. You may fill up the application for your visa after receiving the I-20 form. The I-20 form is a confirmation of your acceptance as a student given by the university. The form confirms your admission too.

Three Types of U.S. Student Visas:

F-1 - This is the most common type of U.S. student visa. Students make use of this visa for academic studies in the United States. This type of visa is designed for students, who want to enroll for an educational program with a college or University in the United States. It is also used to study English language at an Institute or at a foreign language Institute to study English.

M-1- This type of visa is for people who enroll for vocational training or study or for non-academic activities at an American Institute.

J-1- This is also known as Exchange visitor visa and is useful in cultural and educational programs in the United States.

When to apply for a U.S. student visa?

You may apply for a U.S. student visa 90 days before the date of registration given on the I-20 form. If the date of registration has expired or if you are not able to arrive at the institution on the date of registration, obtain an extension form informing them the date of your arrival.

Students generally get their visa within few days or hours after they submit the application form. Sometimes, the procedure takes a long time depending on factors such as consulate and the time of the year. In denial of a specific visa, you have a right to ask to know the reason for denial from the U.S. consulate.

Fundamental Requirements:

1. It is important that the University accept your admission as a student. You need to submit the I-20 form, which is a confirmation by the institution. You need to sign the form and present it along with a visa application.

2. It is mandatory for you to know English language for undergoing a course in a particular institution in the United States. You need to provide proof of the knowledge of English language in the I-20 form. You may give the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) passing certificate as a proof.

3. The applicant has to provide a financial proof to determine that he/she has enough funds to meet the educational expenses. An applicant may show funds from his/her sponsor, who is taking care of the educational expenses.

If the financial support is obtained from a financial institution such as a scholarship, mention it on the I-20 form. If the finances are coming from the home country, applicants need to produce proofs such as bank statements. The U.S. Embassy gives maximum importance to proofs submitted in an affidavit, as they are legal and documents bound by law.

Final Step:

You need to submit proof to the consulate that your purpose of visit is solely for educational purpose. After the completion of all these above formalities, the consulate affixes visa stamp on your passport.

Tom Tessin is an author for FINDcollegecards.com that is geared toward students looking for a student credit card

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Tessin

Summer Holiday Periods

Busy holiday periods may be completely booked out months in advance for the most popular motorhomes & campervans. In Australia the summer months, Christmas and New Year period, Easter and school holiday times are the most popular periods for campervan or motorhome hire. To avoid disappointment, plan and book early.

Each year campervan and motorhome rental companies see the same scenario repeated over and over; travellers who have left it too late desperately trying to get a suitable vehicle.

While the total fleet size of all the rental companies that offer campervans or motorhomes in Australia is quite large, there is a huge number of people wanting to hire these vehicles. Combine a popular destination such as Tasmania with a peak season and all vehicles will be booked out; sometimes months in advance.

While the summer is the main peak season for camper hires there are also other periods that are also extremely busy; the holiday period around the Easter weekend in one obvious example. There are other, localised busy periods that affect the availability of motorhomes.

Motor Race Meetings

Each October there are 2 major race meetings that are extremely popular for motorhome hires. The famous Bathurst car races are on in early October and racegoers from all over flock to Sydney to collect their motorhome and head west to Bathurst. Large motorhomes are the most popular as this provides accommodation and transport for a group of friends attending the race meet.

Motorhomes are moved to Sydney in large numbers to cope with the demand which affects availability in other places like Brisbane or Melbourne. Unless those wishing to hire have booked well in advance there will nothing available during this time.

The same applies to the Phillip Island motorcycle races also held in October. Motorhomes from Melbourne will be very heavily booked.

4WD and Camper Hire During the Dry Season

It is not only the summer months that are busy. The cooler, drier months of June, July and August are the peak season for those wanting to visit the tropical areas of north Australia.

This is also the peak season for 4WD hires as many of the most popular tracks are only accessible at this drier time of year and are often completely closed during the Wet season. If you want to hire a 4WD camper in July then you had better book early or you will miss out.

Discounted Rates

Another reason for booking early is that you can often get a cheaper rate for your hire. Many campervans and motorhomes are offered at cheaper rates for forward bookings under what is known as a flex rate system.

A rental company may be quite happy to offer a cheaper discounted rate for forward bookings 6 month or more in advance. As availability lessens the rate will slowly increase accordingly until the point is reached where there is no longer a discounted rate. Those that get in early get the better rates.

Vehicle Choice

Those that book early will get their preferred choice of camper. Once availability decreases you may have to settle for a vehicle that is less than ideal for your circumstances. Then it becomes a matter of taking what you can get.

Want to know more about campervan hire in Australia? Check out http://www.autorentals.com.au for all things relating to camper hire in Australia.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shane_Spencer

Imagine a luxurious houseboat floating over tranquil water with splendid nature beauty. You are in the houseboat. You see palm coconut trees, rice fields, and villages and several people indulge in their daily life. Chirping birds flying over your houseboat cruise enchants you with their sweet songs. At night you feel all around serenity and peaces. And of course whisper of water waves removes your loneliness and enchants you as if it wanted to say something to you. If this is your idea of your holiday then breathtaking backwaters of Kerala is just for you. This is the hidden paradise in the Indian state of Kerala - also fondly known as the God's Own Country. Backwaters of Kerala are a large network of lagoons, lakes, channels, rivers, inlets, etc lying parallel to the Arabian Sea Coast - also known as the Malabar Coast.

Nature has blessed Kerala backwaters uniquely as if it had poured all its blessing here. Backwaters here are rich in flora and fauna. When you will be on your backwater tours in Kerala you will have wonderful opportunity to see the unique ecosystem here. You will have opportunity to see several unique species of aquatic life (crabs, mudskippers, frogs, etc), water birds (kingfishers, cormorants, darters, etc) and animals (tortoises, turtles, otters, etc) living in and alongside the backwaters. You will also have opportunity to see some of exotic fauna alongside the backwaters, such as; palm coconut trees, bushes and several leafy plants. Exotic fauna found alongside the backwaters provide green hue to the surrounding landscapes that is eye-catching.

People from all over the world embark on Kerala backwater tours and enjoy splendid beauty of nature by close. Backwaters here are really a great treat for nature lovers. Due to exceptional nature beauty, serene atmosphere, and amazing sightseeing options, backwaters here are also very popular among honeymoon couples. Honeymoon couples from all around the world visit Kerala to enjoy its backwater charm. Backwaters here provide serene and romantic ambiance for honeymoon couples. The ambiance here at backwater destinations of Kerala is perfect for honeymoon holidays. There are several backwater destinations in this beautiful Indian state of Kerala. Alleppey, Fort Kochi, Kumarakom, Kuttanad, Kollam, Kasargod, Kottayam, Vembanad Kayal, etc are some of popular backwater destinations of the state. Enjoying houseboat tours in kerala is really a great experience of lifetime.

Kerala backwaters can be explored in best manner by a houseboat cruise or rice boat trip. One cannot think backwaters here without enjoying houseboat cruise here. The houseboats here are very popular among tourists from all over the world as tourism product. Houseboats are the prominent attractions of backwater tours in Kerala. Houseboats are luxury packed and outfitted with modern amenities having air-conditioned bedrooms, modern kitchen, and dining space. A house boat cruise over serene and scenic backwaters takes you into the world of water, wonderment and splendid nature. It also takes to the periphery of wildlife and bird sanctuaries like Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

There are several backwater destinations like Alleppey and Kumarakom are dotted with several houseboat cruise operators. Kumarakom houseboat and Alleppey houseboat tours are very popular among honeymoon couples as well as tourists. There are approximately 1000 house boats operating in this beautiful state of Kerala. Several agencies and tour operators offer kerala houseboat packages. Well, get ready to enjoy never-ending charm of Kerala houseboat tours over the breathtaking backwaters.

Michael Braganza is an eminent analyst and writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. He has authored many books on tour guide for houseboat booking in Kerala and kerala backwater tours Now he is rendering his services to keralahouseboat.org/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Braganza

A time comes in the life, when everybody needs a break from his workaholic and extremely busy life and wants to spend some quality time with his loved ones. The best way is to visit some exotic destinations and famous tourist places of the world. When it comes to travel somewhere in a more comfortable as well as affordable way, the train travel seems to be the most appropriate and best idea.

The train travel is the most exciting and excellent way to visit any desired place as it fastest and the most readily available transport medium. One can explore various amazing places by travelling in these highly comfortable and convenient trains and can make their vacations memorable and rejuvenating. Even trains are the most common and best medium if you want to cover long distances in a comfortable way. The train travel system is extremely vast and is spread to almost every part of the world. What you need to do is, choose a desired destination where you want to visit with your family and book tickets, which are highly affordable, to feel an exotic travelling experience in your dream land.

The train travelling is the most common and convenient medium to visit various attractive tourist destination in the world, which are blessed with extremely majestic locations. If you are planning an amazing holiday in any such mesmerising location then train travel will surely guarantee you the relaxation and satisfaction of exploring that place with full safety and fun. The comprehensive train network of the world offers the tourist a highly smooth and easy access to various beautiful destinations. Now one can explore numerous alluring sights with his family through the excellent and highly convenient train travel.

The various amazing and royal attractions of the world like London, Paris, Switzerland and many more majestic places like Greenwich Park, The London Eye etc. are not far from your reach if you are travelling through train. The Train Travel system of the world is highly efficient and modernized, which offer excellent travel facilities to tourists all over the world. With more advancement in this field, the extremely fast underground trains become popular among people, which provide them seamless travelling facilities in a highly luxurious manner. Tourist from an all over the world can discover the amazing and unique attractions through these highly convenient and super fast train travels. Moreover, this fantastic train system assist tourist to reach their desire destination safely with a great ease.

The train tickets are highly affordable for the tourists and thus allow them to visit various charming locations in a cheap way. If you want to have an awesome experience of travelling in London and various parts of Europe then Eurail is the best medium for you, which provide rail passes at a very affordable cost to the people who comes for travelling in Europe.

The train travel also offer tourist a high standard and world class catering facilities during long journeys. The highly fast and wonderful train system provide a comfortable journey and let tourists to explore various beautiful locations in a more exciting and convenient way. Journeys through cheap rail tickets across world are quicker and are full of high degree of comfort level. Through these well managed and cheap railway system one can access too many places across the world with great ease.

Now plan various exciting holiday tours wit your family and loved ones, as train system is always available to give you and tour family a stress free holidays experience, where you can explore various popular and wonderful destinations that too in a highly affordable and convenient way.

Read more about cheap rail tickets and holiday packages

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harish_Pachori

Some trekking tour companies, particularly in Northern Thailand, have been known to make drugs available to trekkers. Travelers should not accept drugs of any kind, as the drugs may be altered or harmful, and the use or sale of narcotic drugs is illegal in Thailand. Additionally, alcoholic beverages, medications and drugs may be more potent or of a different composition than similar ones in the United States.

Penalties for the possession of, use of, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Thailand are severe. Foreigners are not excused from these checks, and anyone whose urine tests positive for drugs is arrested and charged. The possession of even small quantities of "soft drugs" for recreational purposes can result in lengthy jail sentences and deportation. Enforcement action against people involved in all aspect of illicit drugs has increased significantly. Canadians are reminded that Thai laws regarding illegal drugs are very strict and include the death penalty for serious offences. The possession of even small amounts of illegal drugs, including marijuana, can result in severe fines and/or prison sentences. Visitors should be aware that night-time police spot-checks to search for illegal drugs have become common in and around entertainment venues in Thailand.

Never become involved with drugs of any kind in Thailand. Amphetamines and Ecstasy are regarded as class A drugs and possession or trafficking of them carries the same penalties as, for example, heroin.

The long, mountainous border with Myanmar (Burma) brings refugees, illegal immigrants, and drugs into the country. Most people think about Thailand as having only drugs & girls. Enforcement action against people involved in all aspect of illicit drugs has increased significantly, becarefull not to ruin your holiday and your life.

Richard Heap is a property management guru in Samui working at http://samui-property-finder.com helping people find property in samui property

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Heap

Hotel pools are going off the deep end when it comes to luxury, novelty and entertainment.
Ever seen one lined with Swarovski crystals? Guests at the new Thompson Beverly Hills can check out the rooftop watering hole with the glittery baubles embedded in glass, emitting what Thompson Hotels chief Jason Pomeranc calls a "shimmery" effect. "It's one-of-a-kind … very Hollywood," he says.
The guests-and-friends-only pool at Thompson's new Donovan House boutique hotel in Washington, D.C., by contrast, is more subdued, but arty, too, with a design on the bottom. "I see pools as palettes," Pomeranc says.
Other hoteliers — especially those catering to the party crowd — are making waves with swimming holes:
•Just-opened The Joule, A Luxury Collection Hotel, in Dallas has an architectural jewel of a pool with one translucent end that juts out over the street, 10 stories up. It and its lounge open to the public from 5 until midnight Thursday through Sunday. Unlike many upscale pools that allow visitors, there's no entry fee or velvet rope.FIND MORE STORIES IN: Washington Internet Florida Dallas San Diego Hollywood Puerto Rico Broadway DVDs TVs iPods Xbox South Beach MGM Grand Rio Lincoln Center Swarovski Bjorn Hanson Borgata Water Club Sapphire Peninsula Beverly Hills Thompson Hotels Ivy Hotel Gansevoort Hotel Group Jason Pomeranc Wet Republic
•The new Gansevoort South in Florida's South Beach boasts what's billed as the USA's longest rooftop pool (110 feet). Lined by palm trees, it's designed with underwater lights and music and a window where bar patrons can watch swimmers' underwater moves.
It's "an economic drain" because of the cost to build, run and staff it, Gansevoort Hotel Group president Mike Achenbaum says. "But it's a marketing tool … an opportunity to generate a buzz about the hotel."
That tactic worked for the first Gansevoort in the trendy Meatpacking District of Manhattan, where models and actresses cavort. The hotel built "a tremendous following of people who rent rooms just so they can sit by the pool," Achenbaum says.
•The renovated El San Juan Hotel & Casino in Puerto Rico has turned its oceanfront pool into an ultra lounge, with white-curtained sunbeds, deejay, massage pavilion and luxe furnished tiki-hut-style cabanas that include flat-screen TVs and minibars that rent for $500 and up a day this time of year. When not spinning, the deejay will customize hotel guests' iPods with personal poolside faves.
•Las Vegas hotels are going bananas for cabanas with electronic bells and whistles. You'll find them at most upscale casino resorts. Recent additions include the new Wet Republic adults-only party pool at the MGM Grand, where revelers watch DVDs, play Xbox games and order from their cabana's bikini-clad hostess. The Rio's new tops-optional splash-atorium is affiliated with the Sapphire strip club.
•The new guests-only Pooldeck at the renovated Empire Hotel across from Lincoln Center in Manhattan has cabanas with ceiling fans, telephone, flat-screen TV, wireless Internet and daybeds. Plus there are bird's-eye views of bustling Broadway below.
Atlantic City — not known for over-the-top luxury — is getting into the swim with five pools at brand-new The Water Club. An adults-only swimming area at the 800-room non-gaming sister hotel to the Borgata has 400 jets that keep the 80-degree water bubbling. There's a sandy beach area and cabanas, of course, plus a kids' pool and a "Sunroom" with water cascading along a curved stone wall into a pool. At night, it becomes a bar and lounge.
Across the country, boutique hotels in perpetually sunny locales such as San Diego host riotous pool parties open to anyone who can get past the velvet rope. The Ivy Hotel's pool and bar is hot there. In Beverly Hills, the newly renovated pool area at The Peninsula Beverly Hills — created as an urban oasis by designer Cheryl Rowley — caters to a quieter crowd. There, a celeb might be getting a manicure next to you in a cabana (non-guests can rent them for $250 if any are available).
Less than 10% of hotel guests actually go into the pool, veteran hotel analyst Bjorn Hanson says. But "many make their (hotel) decision" based on whether it has one. "There's competition for higher-end travelers," he says. "And if they can have a 'wow' experience (poolside)," it's a competitive edge.
In some cases, pools have become the "modern version of singles bars," he says. "There's a 'beautiful people' association. Instead of going to the bar, you go out to the pool."

Pre-tax income for the United States hotel industry in 2007 increased 5.3 percent to a record $28 billion, according to the recently released 2008 Hotel Operating Statistics (HOST) Study issued by Smith Travel Research (STR).
The industry posted an all-time best $139.4 billion in revenue in 2007—which is over $6 billion more than it generated in 2006 ($133.4 billion)—and for the second consecutive year, gross operating profit as a percentage of revenue came in at 41.3.
- 2007 was another excellent year for the U.S. hotel industry with record revenues and record profits,” said Mark Lomanno, STR’s president.
- However, as the American economy slows, we are expecting a tougher operating climate for U.S. hotels in 2008.”
The HOST Study is the most extensive and definitive database on U.S. hotel industry revenues and expenses. The 2008 version is derived from the operating statements of more than 5,200 hotels.
The HOST Study contains information on hotel revenues and expenses, and presents information by department including rooms, food & beverage, marketing, utility costs, property and maintenance, administrative and general costs, as well as selected fixed charges.
Year-over-year Gross Operating Profit (GOP) during 2007 increased for full-service hotels in the United States and decreased for limited-service hotels in the United States, according to the study.
Collected data indicates that GOP (before Management Fees and Franchise Royalty Fees) for full-service hotels increased 3.8 percent to 35.7 percent of total revenue in 2007 from 34.4 percent in 2006. Meanwhile, GOP for limited-service hotels in 2007 decreased to 52.0 percent of total revenue from 55.4 percent in 2006.
Other highlights of the 2008 HOST Study include:
• Full-service hotels used 3.5 percent (down from 3.6 percent in 2006) of total sales for franchise fees (royalty), while limited-service hotels paid 5.0 percent (up from 4.7 percent in 2006).
• Full-service hotels paid 3.7 percent (level with 2006) of total sales for management fees, while limited-service hotels used 4.2 percent (up from 3.9 percent in 2006).
• Limited-service chain-affiliated hotels reported a higher ratio to sales for Income Before Fixed Charges (47.3 percent) than Independent hotels (40.6 percent). But Independents posted a higher amount per occupied room night, with $72.37 compared to Chain-Affiliated hotels at $44.79.
• After franchise fees, management fees, taxes, insurance, and capital replacement, full-service hotels recorded an Amount Available for Debt Service & Other Fixed Charges of $17,003 per available room in 2007, up from $15,307 in 2006. This equates to 25.3% of total revenue.

DUBLIN, Ireland, Jul 18, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Research and Markets ( http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/5652a1/snapshots_spain_ho) has announced the addition of the "Snapshots Spain Hotels 2008" report to their offering.Snapdatas Snapshots Spain Hotels 2008 provides 2007 year-end market size data, with 2008 estimates, 5 years of historical data and five-year forecasts. The Snapshots report gives an instant overview of the Spanish hotel market and covers 1 star hostels, 2 and 3 star hostels, 1 star hotels, 2 star hotels, 3 star hotels, 4 star hotels and 5 star hotels. Market volume is based on the number of hotels in activity. The data is supplied in both graphical and tabular format for ease of interpretation and analysis. The Snapshots Spain Hotels 2008 forms part of Snapdatas Catering & Hotels industry coverage.Executive SummaryThe Executive Summary within a Snapshots report outlines the main findings of the report (market size, market shares and market forecasts)Market sizeMarket size is the measure of the total value or volume of a particular product sold in a particular length of time. In our case it is the total amount of the market covered by a title in the last whole year, for example, in UK Beer 2005, all the beer consumed in the UK in 2004. The aim of the report is to tell how much of the product was consumed in the country discussed by value and by volume.Market SegmentationMarket Segmentation is a segmentation of the market by key product categories, ideally by value and volume. For example: the yoghurt market can be segmented into: drinking yoghurt, flavoured yoghurt and natural yoghurt.Market ShareMarket Share is the share of each competitor in the market place and can be expressed in value or volume terms.Market Share by Volume - each competitor's share of the total Market VolumeMarket Share by Value - each competitor's share of the total Market ValueDistributionThis measure of the market relates to the different distribution channels to market for each product. The distribution can include the following channels:Consumer Goods example:- Supermarket- Hypermarket- Discount Store- Corner shop- Internet- EtcSocio-Economic dataThe key socio-economic indicators in each report will be:Size of populationGDP - Gross Domestic ProductInflation rateExchange rateForecastsAll market forecasts are based on statistical forecasting techniques based on historic performance (linear extrapolation of the market size, based on the five-year historical growth). These statistical tools are supplemented with qualitative parameters such as: industry expectation/opinion. Socio-economic drivers, new product development, technological advances, expected levels of market saturation etc.Key Topics Covered:- Snapshots Executive Summary- Category Definitions- Market Size (Number of Hotels) by Volume (2003-2007)- Market Segmentation (Number of Hotels) by Volume- Market Size (Number of Rooms) by Volume (2003-2007)- Market Segmentation (Number of Rooms) by Volume- Market Shares (Number of Hotels) by Volume- Market Shares (Number of Rooms) by Volume- Company Websites (Main Players)- Market Forecast by Volume (2008-2012)- Socio-Economic Data for Spain- Snapshots Sources for Further ResearchFor more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/5652a1/snapshots_spain_hoSOURCE: Research and Markets Ltd.

Unionized members of four more Montreal area hotels have given their leaders a strike mandate. Employees of the Maritime Hotel, voted 90 per cent in favour of a 72-hour strike on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the unionized workers at the Hilton Laval, Ruby Foo's and the Nouvel Hotel voted 96 per cent, 93 per cent and 72 per cent respectively in favour of giving their union leaders permission to declare a strike. These 72-hour strikes can occur in a block of three days or piecemeal. Eight other hotels in the greater Montreal area have already voted on or taken some strike action,, including the Delta Centre-Ville and the Regency Hyatt. Unionized employees at 41 hotels are currently negotiating for new contracts. Hours of work, a better retirement package, a better balance of work and family time and the elimination of management using personnel agencies to hire outside the union are the key points in the employees demands.

There are many reasons why you should come check this out!

a) The Panama Canal: When you jump on a Panama Canal tour you will experience a real deal on technology. Just that fact that the Panama Canal Locks are operated with just gravity is something you must see. Upon arrival you will see the big merchant ships, carriers and even cruises with thousands of people waving at you. It takes about 20 minutes for each lock to fill up with water and approximately $250,000 in cash in order to go through them. Unfortunately for many, that fee is to high and will need to go all the way down to south America. The Panama Canal tour explains that the Panama Canal Authority only takes cash and not check or credit cards.

b) The Embera Indians: Jumping on such a cultural tour is like jumping back in time. Bear in mind that Panama has 7 ethnic groups of which one of the most important are the Emberas. In order to get there you will need to navigate the Chagres river and get to their area. Upon arrival the whole community will receive you with songs, dances and music. Emberas tend to be very friendly and will offer tattoos and food. Did you know that Zarco the chief of the Emberas educated the three men that went to the moon? There are pictures that will be shown of Zarco at the white house with Neil Armstrong shaking hands...

c) Old Panama City and Old Quarters; History is always important to know. If you don't know where things come from, then you don't know about your self. A historical tour in Panama City is always good to experience because it teaches you more about the Spanish migration to the Americas. Panama was the first region where someone ever saw the Pacific Ocean. On this tour you will be able to see structures from 1400's and 1800's. Did you know that Panama had the tallest building in Latin America back in 1400's? Yes, now days you will get a view of the old 1400's buildings and the new developments that the Real Estate boom has brought and right by it!

d) The Panama Offshore World; Did you ever feel unsafe about keeping your money in a bank? Felt like you could be in risk because your ex-wife is trying to take your assets? Well, Panama is the best place for asset protection of the world! Our experts can lead you on to over 80 private banking institutions in order to create the famous Panamanian Entities (Corporations and Foundations). In order to cover your self we assist you on creating an asset protection structure that is conformed of a Panamanian Bank account, Corporation and Foundation. They will all keep your anonymity in a safe way! and guess what? They will even give you your own credit card or debit card that can be used anywhere in the world!

e) Panama Surf Travel; Rights, Lefts, barrels, long shoulders...you know what I am talking about right? If not, let me explain. Panama has the shape of an S which is the first letter for swell. Since we have this shape we are able to get every direction of swell that moves this way at any day of the year. Surf breaks in Panama include warm water point breaks, sand bars; shore breaks, reef breaks and sizes can variate in between 2 to 20 ft year round. If you have the balls bring your jet ski and tow board and we will take you to places you never dreamed about! If you just want to relax then bring your long board and we will place you right across a 4ft pealing barrel. If you want to do some aerials, then we take you to places with a bit of onshore pealing waves and if you don't own a board then we will get you one. Panama Surf Travel

f) Panama Fishing; There are more game fish records broken in Panama than any where in the world! Panama has some of the best fishing in the world at close proximity. Once you jump on a fishing charter in Panama City you will have opportunities to catch enormous tuna, sailfish, grouper, mahi mahi, sierra and many others! Did you know that there is something called the Panama Current? If not, then its just a little bit of 30 knots offshore winds hitting the Pacific Ocean is so strong that will take the warm water out to Ecuador and creates a vertical current from the bottom of the sea filling up the empty space. This current also mixes all the rich plankton particles around and calls nature meaning giant monster fish will visit these areas. To learn more on this area log into Panama Fishing Tours and Yachts

g) Shore Excursions for Cruises; Panama City and Colon City are both new to being home ports for cruise lines such as Carnival Cruises and others. The facility offers enough for us to be able to pick you up on our buses and take you on a day tour to the shopping centers (Free Trade Zone) so you don't pay taxes! Besides from that every other Panama Tour mentioned here is also a possibility on a shore excursion. People usually get picked up at 8 am and dropped of a 4 pm with flexibility to travel around Panama. To learn more about this topic and services log into Panama Shore Excursions

h) Real Estate Tours; The Panama Real Estate market is just amazing! You might expect to need a loan in order to get a beach front property or home in your country. The honest truth is that Panama still offers inexpensive properties for sale. When you thought you needed $500,000 to get an ocean view something comes out and this is the Panama Real Estate market. You can still find condos and land for sale at affordable prices. Real Estate tours are offered to all people including retirees, ex pats, golfers, investors and any other person interested on reallocation.

i) Caribbean Tours in Panama; Since the Republic of Panama has two oceans we capable offer you the Caribbean Island Tours. Colon is the name of the area; Isla Grande and Mamei are the names of these Islands. Close your eyes after reading the following words, golden sand, crystal clear water, palm trees, breeze, sound of waves, a wooden motorized boat and no one around! Get closer to Paradise!

j) Private Panama Canal Transits; Most tour operators in Panama will offer you a Panama Canal Transit. However, they only know about one or two massive boats that will take you on this trip. Why paying to go with 300 people and low quality food? We can actually arrange a private yacht transit to the Panama Canal.

The Emerald City, as Seattle is affectionately known, has plenty to see and do, whether you are a fan of panoramic views, history, the arts, or flight.

Built in the early 1960s for the 1962 World's Fair, the Seattle Space Needle (400 Broad St) is an icon that towers 600 feet over the city. It includes an observation deck at 520 feet and a revolving restaurant, the second in the world when it was built. It only takes 43 seconds for an elevator to whisk you to the observation deck, but on a busy day you'll spend much longer waiting in line (insider tip: send one member of your party to buy tickets while you stand in line for the elevators). The view from the observation deck on a clear day is spectacular, with a 360-degree panorama of the city, the beautiful Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges.

The Space Needle is located in the Seattle Center (305 Harrison St), the site of the 1962 World's Fair and a 74-acre area encompassing a number of performing arts venues, including the Seattle Repertory Theatre (155 Mercer St), the Center House Theater (305 Harrison St), and McCaw Hall (321 Mercer St), home of the Seattle Opera and Pacific Northwest Ballet, and the Key Arena (305 Harrison St), home of the Seattle Supersonics. The Center is home to the Pacific Science Center (200 Second Ave North) with the Boeing and Eames IMAX Theaters and the Seattle Laser Dome, as well as The Children's Museum (305 Harrison St), and a number of souvenir shops and eateries. The Experience Music Project (325 5th Ave N), celebrates the history of music in Seattle, and the Science Fiction Museum (325 Fifth Avenue North), is dedicated to science fiction film and television props and memorabilia, as well as rare science fiction books and film posters. The Seattle Center also has the Monorail station, a fun and scenic way to get to the downtown area of Seattle.

Pioneer Square (Jackson St and First Ave) is the site of the city's original settlement, and includes over 20 city blocks of red-brick buildings and Victorian-Romanesque architecture, more than 30 fine art galleries, over 200 unique and independently-owned shops, as well as a variety of popular nightclubs, sports bars and restaurants. It also features Smith Tower (506 Second Ave), which was the tallest building in the world outside of Manhattan when it opened in 1914; Klondike Gold Rush National Park (319 Second Ave South), which tells the story of Seattle's role in the Gold Rush and even features gold panning demonstrations; and the Triangle Building (551 First Ave South), which was the smallest hotel on the west coast when it was built in 1909 with just eight rooms. Pioneer Square is also the site of the Underground Tour (608 First Ave), a humorous, historic tour that takes you beneath the sidewalks to the site of the original city. After the Great Fire of 1889, the city was rebuilt 10-30 feet above the original city (to solve the problem of sewage runoff from the hills above), and the Underground Tour gives you the opportunity to see the original structures, as well as hear great stories about the city's colorful early residents.

Another of the famous sights is the Pike Place Market (First Street and Pike Place), the public market in Seattle since 1917. The Pike Place Market is the site of the famous fish-flying Pike Place Fish Market, and the home of the very first Starbuck's. There are also lots of shops with seafood, produce, crafts, sweets, and specialty foods plus restaurants and eateries. You can spend hours eating your way through the market, watching the fish-flying show, taking the guided tour, or just browsing in the shops. Insider tip: get there early to avoid the crowds (or just enjoy the people-watching).

The Seattle Aquarium (1483 Alaskan Way - Pier 59) offers visitors a tour of Pacific Ocean, Puget Sound and inland sea life. It includes a Giant Pacific Octopus, a Pacific Coral Reef exhibit, a tank of the strangest of underwater creatures, a tidepool of Washington's outer coast and Seattle's inland sea life, and the perennial favorite, the Marine Mammals exhibit with sea otters, harbor seals and fur seals, which includes an underwater viewing area.

The Seattle Art Museum (100 University St) features a diverse collection of objects from across cultures, exploring the connections between past and present. The Olympic Sculpture Park (2901 Western Ave) offers a stunning array of sculpture on nine acres of free and open space alongside Elliott Bay, with a view of the Olympic Mountains. The Seattle Asian Art Museum (1400 East Prospect Street), in a jewel-like historic building in Volunteer Park, is a lively international hub for Asian art and cultural activities.

Just outside Seattle (about 30 minutes north in Everett) is the popular Boeing Tour. Visitors get to see airplanes in different stages of manufacture and flight testing. The Museum of Flight in Seattle proper (9404 E Marginal Way South) features a collection of air and spacecraft, as well as other flight-related artifacts. Highlights include a retired Concorde, an Air Force F-5 supersonic fighter, the original Air Force One presidential airplane, the official archives of the original Flying Tigers/American Volunteer Group and the American Fighter Aces, a SR-71 Blackbird and F/A-18 Hornet.