How To Find Luxury Travel Deals

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When people talk about luxury travel, they're often talking about flying first class. Flying first class definitely has its perks; larger seats, better drinks and meals, more personal attention, etc. But these luxuries come with a price. The differences between a first class ticket and a coach ticket are significant and they limit many people from flying first class. However, there are a few ways to get deals on first class airfare. The top three ways are 1) searching online, 2) upgrading at the last minute, and 3) accumulating frequent flyer miles.

Find Luxury Travel Deals Online

The Internet should be the first place you turn to for all your travel needs, including deals on airfare and luxury travel. The web is filled with travel web sites that offer discounts on airfare to many top travel destinations. These sites often purchase tickets in bulk at a discounted price or utilize airfare search engine technology to search the web and databases for comparative rates and savings on travel tickets. The web allows you to bypass the traditional travel agent and search for cheap airfare on your own, ridding any "service charge" or "additional services" expenses that often accompany purchasing tickets through a travel agency. By searching the web for luxury travel deals, you'll be able to find amazing deals on first class airfare and finally fly the way you've always wanted to.

Find Last Minute Luxury Travel Deals at the Airport

Some airlines allow passengers to upgrade their ticket at the last minute. Often, these last minute upgrades are much cheaper than booking a first class ticket in the first place. That's because these last minute ticket upgrades aren't always available. It depends on the number of seats available in first class. On some flights, first class is completely booked, eliminating any last-minute first class ticket upgrades. However, on flights where first class is practically a ghost town, the airlines will be more willing to upgrade your ticket for a small fee just to make a few more bucks. So, if you've always wanted to fly first class and only have a coach ticket, ask when you check in if a first class upgrade is available. You might just find a very inexpensive first class upgrade and finally be able to experience luxury travel.

Accumulate Your Frequent Flyer Miles for Free Luxury Travel Deals

If you fly a lot for business or personal reasons, it's a good idea to sign up with an airline's frequent flyer program and start earning miles. A frequent flyer program is an airline's way of rewarding customer loyalty. Through such programs, flyers earn points (a.k.a. miles) each time they fly. Flyers can then cash in their points for different products or services, including free first class ticket upgrades. The more a person flies and the longer the flights are, the more points the flyer accrues. So, if you fly frequently and want to experience luxury travel, become a member of an airline's frequent flyer program and start earning points for a free first class upgrade.

Top Luxury Travel Destinations

Paris

Paris is a haven for love and romance, the disputed epicenter of cutting-edge fashion, a global culinary capital, the motherland of fine arts and let us not forget the self-given accolade of an elite culture. The streets of Paris, particularly on spring or summer evenings, are an enchanting mosaic of clanking wine glasses, aromatic espresso and impassioned chatter against a background of softly lit cobblestone. If you want to experience the luxury of traveling to Paris, find luxury travel deals to Paris and read more about travel to Paris at

Milan

There are few places in the world where shopping and eating could be considered religious experiences. Milan's boutique-lined streets offer some of the world's most exquisite and exclusive styles, dominating the cutting-edge of design. Travel to Milan to pamper yourself, but keep a keen eye for how you might redecorate your outdated (by Milan standards) living room. Brera is the most sophisticated and elite shopping area, centrally located and also home to the Pinacoteca de Brera, one of the most coveted museum collections in Europe. If you want to experience the luxury of traveling to Milan, find luxury travel deals to Milan and read more about travel to Milan at

Luxury travel is something everyone should experience at least once in their life. However due to the high cost of first class airfare, many people never get to experience it. If you want to fly first class and travel in style, use this guide to help you find deals on luxury travel, and experience exotic and luxurious destinations around the world.

cFares is the first choice thousands of knowledgeable travelers are using right now to save hundreds of dollars on low airfares. For more information on luxury travel deals, visit

Once upon a time...

Before the dawn of the information super highway, brick-and-mortar travel agencies were the key to booking travel arrangements and finding deals on airfare. These agencies helped travelers plan trips and book flights, hotel and car rental reservations, and other travel necessities. But as the Internet started to dominate all areas of commerce, travelers began to turn to online travel agencies instead of the brick-and-mortars. These "virtual" agencies offered all the travel planning options and discounts conventional travel agencies offered without requiring travelers to leave their home. No longer did travelers need to make appointments and meet face-to-face with a travel agent just to make travel arrangements. There was now a convenient online solution to booking travel arrangements and finding discounts on airfare.

Reality Check

Online travel agencies haven't completely decimated the conventional brick-and-mortar shops. Traditional travel agencies still do a great deal of business with travelers and are one viable solution to booking travel arrangements. However, as busy as our lives can be, online travel agencies do offer a quick and convenient solution to finding airline tickets without taking you away from home, or even work - and the brick-and-mortar shops realize this. Some conventional agencies are also hitting the web and establishing travel websites to cater to those individuals looking to quickly search for and book flights. So even though online travel agencies haven't completely decimated the conventional travel agency industry, they have established a viable and convenient alternative to booking vacations, business trips, and other travel plans.

Life Still Exists in the Brick-and-Mortars

Conventional travel agencies still command a large portion of the travel booking industry. Their face-to-face service is what keeps them in business and, depending on the needs of the traveler, a more realistic solution to booking travel arrangements. When you book your travel plans through a brick-and-mortar travel agency, you're working with real people and if you're a frequent traveler, it's nice to have a "favored agent" to turn to for travel information and advice. With an online travel agency, you're simply interacting with a virtual interface that allows you to search for and book your own travel plans without ever speaking with a live person. Many people prefer face-to-face interaction and would never even dream about using a travel website to book their travel plans. There is still something to be said about personal service and the conventional travel agencies are capitalizing on it by offering personalized services and conveniences to travelers.

So Where do We Go from Here?

As you can see, there are benefits and disadvantage to both conventional and online travel agencies. Each one offers its own experience and features that make it unique from the other and in favor with different people. When it comes to selecting the best option for you, you merely need to ask yourself "What am I looking for in a travel agency?" The best way to answer this question is to check out a few online travel agencies, compare them to some brick-and-mortars, and see which ones have the savings, products, and services you desire.

cFares is the first choice thousands of knowledgeable travelers are using right now to save hundreds of dollars on low airfares. For more info on online travel agencies and cheap airfare, visit

Romantic Honeymooning Resort Deals

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After dealing with all the demands of a wedding, you don't need more stress on your honeymoon. Romantic honeymooning resort deals save you money and take the stress out of the process.

Romantic Honeymooning Resort Deals

Planning the perfect honeymoon can be anything but relaxing. The stress of choosing a perfect location, time of year, and finding the best deal for your trip can all add up – making planning your honeymoon a chore instead of something to look forward to. One way to avoid the stress of planning a full honeymoon is to choose one of the many ready made deals that are available from travel websites and travel agents. Pre-set deals can definitely make this part of wedding planning easier and more enjoyable.

St. Lucia, named one of the top ten honeymoon destinations in the world, is one spot that has quite a few deals to choose from. St. Lucia is a smaller island nation that's located in the Caribbean, and has over its history, been a colony of Great Britain, and a member of the Federation of the West Indies. Currently (since 1979) St. Lucia has been an independent state within the Commonwealth of Nations – and the main spoken language here is English.

There are many different resorts that make perfect honeymoon spots on St. Lucia, and several of them offer honeymoon deals. One of these is the Ladera Resort, known as the most beautiful hideaway on St. Lucia. With extremely private rooms, overlooking the Les Pitons, this resort features a private plunge pool as well as gorgeous canopy beds in the rooms. Available at this resort is also a combination package, which allows you to stay for some of your honeymoon at the Sandals Regency Resort located in the northern part of the island, and then spend the balance of your honeymoon at the Ladera Resort.

The Body Holiday, an all-inclusive resort located on St. Lucia, is another choice for couples wanting a great romantic retreat. This spa resort with programs that are meant to rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit offers couples a different sort of island experience, but one that is still secluded and private. With 154 air conditioned rooms, the style of this resort may vary from others on St. Lucia, but the same breathtaking views and perfect beaches are available at this spot.

St. Lucia's many resorts offer some of the best of the Caribbean's romantic honeymoon options, and the lack of language barrier (for Americans) as well as the secluded feel of this small island makes St. Lucia the honeymoon destination you've been looking for.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Romantic Honeymooning Destinations

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Honeymooning is supposed to be all about romantic moments, but it can be difficult if there are thousands of other people there with you. Here are a couple romantic destinations that do not present this problem.

Romantic Honeymooning Destinations

There are tons of romantic honeymooning destinations scattered all over the world. Whether you prefer a snowy climate in the Alps, the exotic warmth of the Caribbean, the beauty of the South Pacific or the ancient wonders of Asia – there are destinations to suit any taste. Deciding on your idea of romance can help you to choose your perfect honeymoon spot, and here are a few ideas to get you thinking about what places you'd enjoy.

One of the best romantic destinations has to be Hawaii. This fiftieth of the United States is the perfect island destination with activities that are sure to entice any couple. Several of the Hawaiian Islands are nearly deserted (once you get past the crowded Honolulu area) – with secluded private beaches and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling with just the two of you. Delicious food abounds here, whether you find the excitement of a luau your perfect romantic spot or beach dining alone on the fabulous seafood of the area. Hotels and resorts are available in different price ranges, from the extremely expensive five star Halekulani resort on Oahu, to the less expensive (but still pricey) Kona Village Resort located on the Big Island (Hawaii).

The Halekulani resort's name means "house befitting heaven", and it's pretty easy to see why they chose that name. The rooms here all have fabulous views, from those showcasing the ocean to pretty sights of the garden area. As honeymooning destinations go, this resort is the top of the line. Complimentary fresh fruit and chocolates at check in are a deluxe touch, and the extravagant orchid pool is made up of more than a million glass tiles. Here, perfection is demanded and received by couples who want the very best.

The Kona Village Resort, on the Big Island, has been rated one of the 50 most romantic resorts in the world by Travel and Leisure magazine. The 125 thatched roof Polynesian huts offer couples the ultimate in privacy with no phones, TVs or radios in the rooms. Three meals a day are included at this secluded resort, and many different island activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing are available here.

If you are looking for the best of the romantic honeymooning destinations, Hawaii may very well be the answer. With the beauty and wonder of this island paradise, any couple would be happy to have their first trip here.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Fijian Honeymooning

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Fijian accommodations offer sun drenched beaches, friendly attitudes and crystal clear water. For a honeymoon, Fijian accommodations are simply one of the best options available for romance, seclusion and sun.

Fijian Honeymooning

Fiji is a group of islands that are officially known as the Republic of the Fiji Islands and it is located in the southern Pacific Ocean. Fiji is an archipelago that contains 322 islands and 522 islets, but only 106 of these are permanently occupied. The capital city of Fiji is Suva, and this city is located on the island of Viti Levu – one of the two most populous islands in Fiji. Vacationing in the islands of Fiji can be a romantic and very private experience, and the many Fijian honeymoon packages offer couples a great way to take their first trip as man and wife.

All Fijian honeymoon suites and rooms are perfect for couples who want to have an exotic and unique honeymoon vacation. One of the most luxurious and romantic destinations on Fiji is the Vatuele Island, a five star accommodation located on a Fijian island that is completely surrounded by a coral reef. Situated on three quarters of a mile of white sand beach, the Vatuele Island has a few strict policies for their guests. They include no telephones, TVs, cash transactions (charge to your room), newspapers or even shoes! This combination of relaxed atmosphere and no outside invasions make this resort a great place for lovers who want to shut out the world. Additionally, since there are only 18 bures (bungalows) located at the resort, there is a sense of personalized service and luxury that's not always found at other hotels. The many different types of cuisine, some served in a cave or on a lagoon, make this destination very appealing to those who want a full sensory experience.

Another great Fijian honeymoon package is located at the Lalati on Beqa Island. This destination, which is situated on ten acres of white sand beach in a rainforest setting, has only seven bures – which makes for a very private honeymoon spot. Activities at the Lalati include such water sports as scuba diving and canoeing, and a spa on the premises allows couples to have a relaxing massage or dip in an infinity pool.

Choosing Fiji for your romantic honeymoon is a great choice. This beautiful Pacific island nation offers atmosphere, climate and amenities that are perfect for couples who want to spend some time really getting to know each other, and be alone to just enjoy each other's company. Fijian honeymoon packages are so idealic, they are third most popular choice amongst all honeymoon destinations.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Wedding Or Honeymoon In Hawaii

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Hawaii is the perfect place for a wedding or a honeymoon. If you plan to have your wedding there, the experience will not soon be forgotten.

Hawaii has an entire battalion of wedding planners, or so it seems. This tropical paradise has long beckoned to honeymooners from around the globe. Wedding and Honeymoon packages, offering the ultimate in romance, are customized to meet the every whim of each honeymooning couple. Wedding coordinators plan the entire event from start to finish, providing an almost stress free experience for the happy couple.

In fact, Oahu is rumored to be the place where the spirit of love, the "aloha spirit," comes alive. What better place could there be for a honeymoon? Moreover, Oahu is home to the ever-popular Waikiki Beach. The views are spectacular, the food is extraordinary, and the weather is gorgeous.

Maui offers upscale resorts, as well as the world's only water elevator. Along with the serenity of the Hana Coast, Kaanapali Beach is a great place for fun in the sun. Oversized rooms, tropical cuisine, and five-star luxury complete the recipe for honeymoon magic.

Kaua'i, the oldest of the islands, offers luxurious foliage in the most tropical of settings. Poipu Beach is the place for fun in the sun, while Mt. Waialeale provides fantastic views.

Moloka'i, while offering the tallest sea cliffs in the world, also offers the largest white sand beach in Hawaii. The atmosphere on this island is laid back and the scenery is fabulous.

Lana'i, once famous for its pineapples, is now famous for its relaxing vacation opportunities. Here, honeymooners can golf, swim, or tour the island on a four-wheel adventure.

Hawaii, the "Big Island," provides exciting chances for the honeymooners to witness live volcano flow. Moreover, the waterfalls are spectacular, the people are delightful, and the resorts are out of this world.

For more information, please visit Hawaii National Park, Hawaiian Islands and Hawaii - Honolulu.

Getting married is one of the biggest moments in anyone's life. It's the harmonious union of two people in love. However, that love can quickly start to fizzle if the honeymoon is too costly and turns into a travel nightmare. Anytime you travel or attempt to book travel plans, there is the possibility of something going wrong. And when you're traveling for the first time as a married couple, you want your getaway to be as enjoyable and trouble-free as possible.

If you're getting married soon and want to book a romantic AND trouble-free honeymoon to an international destination without leaving you broke, you need to think ahead and establish your travel budget, choose your destination carefully, and find international travel deals.

Establish Your Honeymoon Travel Budget

One thing that many couples don't do before they start planning their honeymoon is establish what they can afford to spend on the trip. When dealing with international travel, travel expenses such as international airfare, car rentals, hotel rooms, and other items can add up very quickly. And since it's a honeymoon rather than a student travel trip, you don't want to end up staying in a hostel because you ran out of money. So, before you even select a destination, establish exactly how much you have to spend on all items involved in your honeymoon. This includes meals, travel expenses, souvenirs, and any other high-priced items. Remember, traveling internationally can be costly; so if you don't want to end up sleeping on a park bench on your honeymoon, establish your travel budget before you choose a destination.

Choose Your Honeymoon Destination Wisely

Once you have established your honeymoon travel budget, the next step is to choose your destination. When selecting a honeymoon destination, it's a good idea to first list what activities you'd like to do. Are you interested in scuba diving? Do you want to visit museums? If so, what types of museums? After you've created your list, compare it to your spouse's list; see what activities you both have in common, and create a final list.

After your list is finalized, decide when you're going to go. The time of year you travel will dictate what countries/cities you can visit to complete as many items on your list as possible. For example, if you want to layout on the beach every day during your honeymoon, but you're getting married in February, you want to find a honeymoon destination that is sunny and warm in February. The key to choosing the ideal honeymoon destination is selecting a location that satisfies your travel activities, offers the optimal climate to complete those activities, and is within your travel budget.

Find International Travel Deals

Most newly wed couples don't have a fortune to spend on their honeymoon. However, many couples still want to have a honeymoon that's exotic, international, and romantic. So the solution to having the most romantic, yet affordable honeymoon possible is to find international travel deals. The Internet is a great place to look for international travel deals and discounts on airfare. Discounted travel rates and cheap airfare deals can be found online on travel web sitesand through online travel consolidators, like cFares. These travel sites contract with the different airlines and use airfare search engine technology to get the best international travel deals on flights around the world. So if you're looking for a way to save a bundle on your honeymoon, search the Internet for international travel deals.

Top International Travel Deals and Destinations for Your Honeymoon

Discount Travel to Milan

There are few places in the world where shopping and eating could be considered religious experiences. Milan's boutique-lined streets offer some of the world's most exquisite and exclusive styles, dominating the cutting-edge of design. Travel to Milan to pamper yourself, but keep a keen eye for how you might redecorate your outdated (by Milan standards) living room. Brera is the most sophisticated and elite shopping area, centrally located and also home to the Pinacoteca de Brera, one of the most coveted museum collections in Europe.

Discount Travel to Brazil

Brazil is the largest and most dynamic South American country, bordering all but two of the continent's other nations. In Brazil, wild Amazon adventures can be coupled with stimulating city sights and leisurely beach escapades.

For more information visit cFares is the first choice thousands of knowledgeable travelers are using right now to save hundreds of dollars on low airfares. For international travel deals and carriers, visit

Add Some Honey And Stop Feeling Guilty

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According to Greek mythology, the ancient gods of Mount Olympus, like Zeus and Athena, used to eat nectar and ambrosia to maintain their healthy looks and perform their rather unusual human-like activities. Although scholars have not yet concluded on what exactly ambrosia was for ancient Greeks, nectar in botany is a sugar-rich liquid produced by the flowers of plants in order to attract pollinating insects, like honeybees, essential for honey production. Nectar is produced in glands called nectaries, which are located at the base of the perianth, so as to allow pollinators perform their role and accessing the flower's reproductive structures, the anthers and pistil, while collecting the nectar the flower produces.

The collected nectar is then transported by honeybees to combs where honey is produced. Honey is a sweet and viscous fluid, significantly sweeter than table sugar and has very attractive chemical properties for baking. With its distinct flavor, which leads some people to prefer it over sugar and other sweeteners, honey is a type of food that has great benefits for the human body and its consumption promotes contemporary nutritional habits and healthy dietary demands. Categorized both as a type of food and a natural medicine, honey has been used by a variety of civilizations for different reasons. Ancient Egyptians used it to preserve their dead (mummies), Roman's as an important cosmetic ingredient and it is mentioned even in the Christian Bible.

Many types of honey exist today and the recent technological developments have created the best possible conditions for honey production and have contributed to its different uses in medicine, food and cosmetic industries. But unfortunately, chemical substances used to increase the honey production and meet the greater demand existing today, have resulted in deteriorating its natural ingredients and even making it dangerous, in rare and extreme cases, for human consumption.

Contemporary consumers have the ability to protect their health by buying honey that is produced by professionals and thus minimize the risk of consuming a product that will not benefit the human body. But even when the honey purchased is produced in accordance to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Guidelines, it is extremely important for us to maintain the appropriate storage conditions and prolong its duration by promoting its safe use. Specifically, honey has to be stored in cool places and we have to avoid storing it close to electric appliances or near sunny windows that raise the temperature in the storage shelve or room. Any kind of utensil used to retrieve honey out of its container has to be totally clean and without any kind of moisture on it. Honey-lovers should follow these simple instructions in order to keep their purchased honey longer and their minds at rest regarding its safe use.

Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles on many topics including About Food, Nutrition Source, and Food and our Lives.

It is often necessary to replace the queen. The older a queen gets the less productive she is likely to be. It could be that she has been injured or is not as fertile as she used to be. It could be that her offspring have more than the usual inclination to sting.

Laying over her own weight in eggs every day, to grow and maintain the number of bees in the colony; the queen is quite obviously the most important bee in the hive. If there are any problems here then the whole colony is in danger. If the workers detect a problem in the hive such as the death of or injury to the queen they will begin to build a small number of queen cells.

Queen cells are brood cells larger than those that contain the worker bee larvae. The cell needs to be bigger because the queen is the biggest bee in the colony. The larvae in these cells are treated differently from the worker larvae and are fed differently also. This diet includes royal jelly and produces a large fertile bee unlike the worker bees. This means that the queen will be replaced by her daughter. If the old queen is still in the colony, her daughter will seek her out and they will fight to the death.

The queen produces a chemical that makes the bees work. If the queen is absent or unwell they do not work as hard and may not work at all. This again means that the colony suffers.

One of the best reasons to replace a queen is because her offspring have begun to sting more than might be expected. This can happen early on if it is a new queen and she just has aggressive offspring. There are different strains and species of honeybee with different temperaments. But, if a queen that is expected to produce had been producing less aggressive bees began to produce more aggressive bees it is time to replace her.

Beekeepers will often find it necessary to replace the queen themselves before the workers do. They do this to maintain the productivity of the hive. After all, if there are problems with the queen the level of work and or number workers may drop and the amount of honey produced would then also drop. The bees do not always see the problems with the queen in time and do not always view the queen in quite the same way as the beekeepers do. Therefore a beekeeper can not take the chance that the workers will take care of all the problems in the colony for him.

All this may seem obvious, but when you are starting out it often helps to have someone state the obvious for you. The experienced beekeeper may be inclined to take certain things for granted when helping the novice. Although I must admit that I have never met a beekeeper who took anything for granted when it came to his bees.

Gerry is webmaster at Beehaviour.Com, your source of beekeeping information.

It doesn't really need anything else added to it to bring romance to mind. Just the words "Caribbean Cruise" are enough to invoke romantic images in the minds of most couples. With all the usual trappings of cruise travel, plus the special magic provided by the colorful culture of the Caribbean islands, a Caribbean cruise is the ultimate romantic getaway and a perfect honeymoon choice.

There are many different companies offering Caribbean cruises so the first thing you need to do is collect information on what's available. When planning your vacation you will need to make two lists - one of which has the excursion itineraries of each available cruise, and the other lists the facilities provided on each cruise ship. Also check out the type of cabin you will be able to afford - you will be spending quite some time in this space so it needs to be the best your budget will cover. Investigate what the quoted fare includes and make a note of any surcharges, port taxes, excursion costs etc - these can add up and if you are going to make the most of your Caribbean cruise, you need to keep it within an affordable budget. Look into any special interest theme cruises that will be offered by the cruise company, these could include hobbies, music, age groups, couples only, etc. This cruise will be the trip of a lifetime for you and your partner, so make sure that you choose the trip that will give you both everything you are looking for - luxury, adventure, and of course, romance!

Depending on the itinerary that your chosen cruise offers, you and your partner will be able to enjoy such romantic experiences as exploring a rainforest or swimming under a waterfall in St. Lucia; walking on the beach in the Bermuda moonlight, or scuba diving in the beautiful clear waters of the Caribbean. A cruise is the perfect way to get a taste of each of the individual islands that make up the Caribbean - once you've had a quick visit to a number of different islands; you'll know which of them you'd love to return to for another visit - perhaps even a second honeymoon! For the ultimate in romance, how about getting married on one of the islands that you visit? On a Caribbean cruise, almost anything is possible!

Back on board your cruise ship, you can spend the hours traveling between ports and islands by relaxing in your cabin, or having a spa treatment at one of the ship's facilities. There are usually plenty of deck activities arranged for those who want to take advantage of them, but for those who prefer to spend quality time with their partner, there's always the sun deck where you can lie under a Caribbean sun on an adjacent lounger to your partner, making dreams for your future together.

Once the sun goes down on your daily Caribbean cruise adventure, and you've returned from your daily land excursion, you have the chance over dinner to share experiences with other cruisers sharing your Caribbean adventure. Haven eating your fill (and then some!), you and your partner need to choose how to spend the evening - will it be one of the on board cabaret shows, gambling in the casino, or dancing the night away in one of the discos?

Don't forget to take a walk around the deck before returning to your cabin for the night - the memory of the romance of a walk under a starry Caribbean sky, mingled with the soft sound of music coming from one of the dance floors and the smell of the ocean will stay with you long after your romantic Caribbean cruise is over.

Jolana Klobouk is a former travel agent who loves to travel and write about her experiences, be sure to visit Best Family Beach Vacations & Best Romantic Vacations for more great travel info

Honeymooning On A Budget

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Once you make the plunge on marriage, one of the first experiences you will have is shock at how expensive everything is. Honeymooning on a budget is a good way to limit the cost, but still have a great time.

Honeymooning On A Budget

Sometimes, the destination of a honeymoon isn't the only thing a couple has to consider. Whether you've just spent a lot of money on your lavish wedding ceremony, or you just don't have a lot of money to spend. Honeymooning on a budget can be necessary in order to avoid starting life together in the bankruptcy court. Inexpensive honeymoons do not have to be bad honeymoons. If you are careful about which destination you choose and what time of year you travel, you can have a great honeymoon for little money.

Most couples long for the romantic atmosphere and perfect climate of an island getaway or feel the pull of a historic city like Paris, France. Exchange rates for United States dollars are not that good at this time, especially against the Euro (the unit of money for most European nations) – so travel to Europe may not be the most economical way to have a honeymoon. The same goes for traveling to many Caribbean islands and nations. For many couples, finding cheap honeymoons may involve staying within the United States.

According the American Automobile Association (AAA), the cheapest five states to have your honeymoon in are as follows: Nebraska, North Dakota, Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Not the country's most scenic or hospitable states, but if you are looking for a place to go that's really inexpensive, those are the states to visit. Other options include driving instead of flying to a destination in the US (for example, taking a cross country trip in a car from New York to California), but this too can be less of a bargain than usual because of high gas prices.

Another way to book inexpensive honeymoons is to choose one of the many all-inclusive resorts (located in various Caribbean countries, Mexico and even the US). While not as cheap as a short driving trip to a nearby state, all-inclusive resorts do tend to save honeymooners money as everything is paid for before you get to your destination. That way, if prices of food, fuel or accommodations do go up, you are not affected, because you have already locked in your lower rate. You also won't be tempted to spend additional money on alcoholic beverages or fancy restaurants, because these items are already included in your bill.

Finding inexpensive honeymoons can help you to save money, which is important for many couples in these troubled financial times. Just be sure to choose a destination and time of year that you'll be happy with, even if it's not your first choice.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on resorts.

Wedding Lingerie: Nicety or Necessity?

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Marriage is one of the most sacred events two people can enter into. It is not something to be taken lightly. Now that the bride and groom are engaged, planning for the wedding can begin.

The wedding is the culmination of all of the planning and hard work by both sides of the family. The amazing amount of time, energy and money spent on wedding planning and preparation is truly phenomenal.

Most women have dreamed of the day they would be wed since they were little girls. This is the ultimate moment of their life in many instances and the fulfillment of their longest running dream.

Once the newlyweds have said their vows and the crowds have gone home, the next part of the wedding night has begun.

This is where another important part of the wedding planning process will come in to play. When the wedding dress falls away and her equally impressive but entirely more seductive wedding lingerie takes center stage.

While planning for the wedding, the bride and her bridesmaids should be sure to secure the ultimate wedding night accessory, the sexy wedding lingerie.

Bridal lingerie encompasses everything from the beautiful panties to the corset under the wedding dress to help the bride look slimmer, to the sexy lingerie to be worn during the most intimate moments of the honeymoon.

Regardless of what type of lingerie the bride chooses, nothing will make her feel more attractive and seductive than a fine set of bridal lingerie. Of course the personal choice of risqué lingerie or something more moderate is up to the bride. What is important is that when the wedding night finally arrives, she is well prepared.

Elegant Wedding Lingerie sets the mood for a romantic evening and a wonderful start to the new relationship.

Mike Harader is an expert author who writes on several topics including Sexy Lingerie Costumes, Leather Lingerie & Leather Clothing and Bridal Lingerie & Wedding Lingerie as well as other related and non-related topics.

Caribbean cruises are the most popular of all cruise destinations. And there are good reasons that they are the cruise destination of choice. Caribbean cruises offer you intriguing ports of call, beautiful white sandy beaches with azure blue water, all while enjoying the supreme service aboard your magnificent cruise ship. Caribbean cruises offer many activities for all age groups, so it makes a great family cruise vacation. And don't worry about cruise terms, we've included it here.

During family cruise vacations there are activities all day long and they're free. You have already paid for it in the price of Caribbean cruise. You get all your meals, your cabin, and entertainment included in the price of you family cruise vacation. This is one of the many reasons Caribbean cruises are such a great value.

The best aspect of Caribbean cruises is that once you board your ship you unpack once for the entire trip. No schlepping bags from airport to hotel over and over again. You will be in a new island almost every day with the travel between each port done at night, while you sleep. What could be easier?

Most of the top cruise lines offer Caribbean cruises. Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity, Holland America and Carnival all offer a great variety of Caribbean cruise vacations. There are very formal Caribbean cruises or the fun and casual party cruise. Caribbean cruises are good if you are looking for adventure, golf or scuba cruises. Or maybe you would like to go on a relaxing cruise to enjoy the sea on a sailing cruise. You could plan a Caribbean cruise as a second honeymoon, even the first honeymoon, or a family reunion, or a special anniversary. You don't even need an excuse to take a Caribbean cruise, do it just for fun. Or do it because there is five feet of snow and you need to see the sun and the sand.

Be sure to inquire about any discounted cruises for special groups, like teachers, police or fireman, or nurses. Many times a cruise line sees a certain cruise at a certain time of the year is filling up slowly so they offer special discounts to these groups. And if you belong to one of these groups band together, says as teachers from Pennsylvania and get additional discounts.

Now that you have decided to take a Caribbean cruise here is a glossary of terms used on Cruise ships. It's the cruise terms or cruise lingo.

* Aft is the rear or near the rear of the ship

* Amidships is the middle of the ship

* Bow is the very front of the ship

* Bridge is the navigational control center

* Colors are the national flag flown by the ship

* Deck Plan is an overhead diagram of the cabins and the public rooms

* Dock is where your ship will "park" when in port

* Forward faces the front of the boat

* Gangway allows you access on and off the ship

* Knot is a nautical mile

* Leeward means out of the wind

* Pitch is how much the ship will roll (not very much, if at all)

* PAX is cruise terms for passengers

* Book a cruise is to make a cruise reservation

* A Cruiser is you, the passenger

* Port is the left hand side of the ship while facing forward (bow). Easy to remember since port and left have four letters

* Stack (sometimes called smoke stack) is the ships "chimney"

* Starboard is the right side of the ship while facing forward (bow). .

* Stateroom or berth is your cabin

* Steward's are personnel on the ship for your cabin and dining room

* Stern is the very back of the ship

* Daily Activity Log lists the various activities on board

Now that you can know your Cruise terms, all you have to do is call your cruise travel agent and book one of the many Caribbean cruises that are offered. Book as a family cruise vacation, your honeymoon or anniversary or just because you want to experience Caribbean cruises.

Happy Cruising!

Closing your eyes, you reach down and spin the little booklet around on the table before you, taking care not to tear it; the paper won't take rough handling. Finally stopping, you straighten it out before you. Stretching out your right arm, and letting your wrist hang loose, you point downward with your index finger, curling your other fingers back out of the way. Finally, eyes still closed, your lower your stiffened arm till your finger touches the paper; and opening your eyes you look at the small chart of jumbled numbers to see what you've chosen.

===> History of the Tablets

The "Tablets of Fate" are an oracle first produced as chap-books in the late 17th century. Chap-books were among the first examples of printed works for the common people. Made up in large quantities and printed on the cheapest grade of rag paper, these little 4 x 6 inch pamphlets were the dime novels of their day. They were sold in shops and stalls in the city markets, and then bought and resold by peddlers to the villages and hamlets of Europe.

These peddlers would carry small cheap goods they could buy and resell from their packs as they traveled. In the vernacular of the day they were called chap-men, buyers and sellers of cheapened goods. Hence, the booklets they sold acquired the name chap-books.

The thing to remember is that the "Tablets of Fate" were among the first writings commonly available. Wither they are a true oracle, or just a parlor game, their history is as old as playing cards.

===> Methodology

The idea behind the oracle is simple. Each "Tablet" represents a different category of questions that will fall into a common group of answers. A tablet is created, consisting of 16 numbers jumbled in an odd arrangement in roughly equal areas of the page. They can be in a square (Tablet of Venus), a circle (Tablet of the Moon), or a diamond shape (Tablet of Jupiter) so long as the area that encloses each number is roughly equal on the page. Then a table of Responses is prepared covering a range of possible answers. The "Tablets of Fate" call for 32 responses, 16 numbers with both an upright and a reversed meaning.

You would seek your answer by placing the chart with the "Tablet" in front of you and turning it randomly to set it's direction, upright or reversed. Then you'd use your finger, a small stick, or a pencil held in your hand to randomly pick your answer.

===> Known Tablets of Fate

The following Tablets can be found in several sources under different names.

Tablet of the Sphinx == Usually consulted first to determine if the time is right to ask your question. If you receive a favorable answer in the Tablet of the Sphinx, you would go on to the next tablet.

Tablet of the Moon (Spell of the New Moon) == The Moon guards the Home; use it ask about issues concerning home, relatives, and friends.

Tablet of Mercury (The Magnetic Horseshoe) == Mercury is Lord of the Crossroads; use this tablet for issues concerning journeys and travels.

Tablet of Venus (Cupid's Scroll) == Venus is the goddess of Love, use it for issues of the heart.

Tablet of Mars (The Symbolic Swastika) == use this table when your question concerns Work, Business, or Money.

** (The Lucky Bell) == Used for issues concerning a Letter (or in modern terms an email)

Tablet of the Sun (Spell of the Rising Sun) == Used when the issue concerns Time.

** (The Seal of Solomon) == Issues concerning a Large Building (Temple, Office Building, Hospital, etc.) or someone connected to such a place.

Tablet of Jupiter (The Scales of Fate) == Used when your issues concern Justice, worries, doubts, or problems with the Law.

===> Modern Printings of the Oracle

The most complete version of the "Tablets of Fate" that I've found were printed in "The Complete Fortune Teller" by Diana Hawthorne (Blue Ribbon Books, Inc., New York, 1940), and in an English printing of the same book "Laurie's Complete Fortune Teller" by Diana Hawthorn (W and G Foyle, Ltd, London. 1946). A copy of the English edition was recently put up for sale on E-bay and still shows up in the search engines. These are obviously out of print at this time.

A more modern version can be found in (2) books: "Little Giant Encyclopedia of Lucky Numbers" by The Diagram Group (Sterling Publishing 2001), and "Little Giant Encyclopedia of Fortune Telling" by The Diagram Group (Sterling Publishing 1999). These are both still in print, and can be found in your local bookstore. Sadly, two of the "Tablets of Fate" were dropped from the recent Sterling Publishing printings.

You can also find a Web page calculator with all of the "Tablets" from the 1940 edition with a little bit of searching. I highly recommend the experience; it sure beats using a magic 8-ball.

Keith Abbott is the developer and owner of 'Numerology 4 You' where you can use his free Numerology Oracle, and have your questions answered by the 'Tablets of Fate'. Order your own Numerology Chart today at

Top Ten Honeymooning Spots

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

When you are ready to go honeymooning, there are an overwhelming number of destination choices. To help you choose, here are the top 10 spots newlyweds choose.

Top Ten Honeymooning Spots

Sometimes, choosing honeymooning destinations can be brutal. Many couples have different interests and ideas as to what constitutes a perfect vacation. It can be difficult to compromise if a couple enjoys vastly different climates or activities. One way to choose the best place is to take a look at where others traditionally go. That way, you can look at where many other couples have decided to take their first married trip, and see if one of these spots appeals to you.

According to surveyors at Modern Bride magazine, one place stands out above all others: Hawaii. Hawaii has long been a favorite of honeymooners, especially those couples coming from the United States, as there is much to see and do in this island paradise. No passport is required for those from the US (but one is required for many other island honeymoons), and the beautiful climate and native Polynesian culture, with traditions such as luaus and hula dancers, leis and fruity drinks served in coconuts makes this an island paradise worth visiting. While Hawaii is very popular, the resorts and accommodations are geared towards offering plenty of privacy and seclusion, perfect for newlyweds.

Destination number two is a bit more of a surprise. The second top spot is the country of Italy. Italy is not the exotic sunny island that many people picture for their trip, but it is definitely a romantic place. The canals of Venice, the historical sites of Rome and the romantic village charm of Florence make Italy a perfect honeymooning spot for many couples. Additionally, you can easily visit the rest of Europe. This can be a great idea for couples who want to do different things on their trip – such as seeing historical sites and shopping the great cities of the European continent.

The remaining honeymooning destination spots are as follows:

3. Tahiti

4. Anguilla

5. Fiji

6. St. Lucia

7. Mexico

8. St. Bart's

9. Jamaica

10. France

No matter what you are looking for in a destination, whether you prefer relaxation to adventure, or seclusion to the bustle of cities, there is a place for you. A good place to start is with the locations listed above.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - information on resorts.

Honeymooning in Bora Bora Paradise

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

Bora Bora represents the perfect island ideal many people dream of when they think of getaways. Bora Bora honeymooning options are reasonably priced and a great way to find romance.

Honeymooning in Bora Bora Paradise

Bora Bora - just the name conjures up pictures of exotic palm trees and beautiful beaches. The island of Bora Bora is located in French Polynesia. The name in the local Tahitian language means "First Born", referring to the Polynesian legend of how the island was created. This small island with a population of less than 3,000 has become a tourist paradise. Honeymooning in Bora Bora can be a great way to explore this area. It is just the sort of romantic island getaway that most couples long for.

The Bora islands are truly a newlyweds paradise. Frankly, it is what the place is known for given the perfect blue lagoons and romantic scenery. A circle of motus (small islands) covered with palm trees is a focal point of the beauty of Bora Bora. Seven luxury resorts have been built on these motus in the past few years, adding a rich touch to the island's varied accommodations. Generally, Bora Bora trips start with a flight into Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, located on the island of Tahiti. From this capital city, Air Tahiti offers several flights a day to the island of Bora Bora.

Once on Bora Bora, a great place to stay is the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, a luxury establishment located on Motu Toopau (a small island near the main island of Bora Bora). It is actually the only commercial property located on this motu. The many different types of bungalows that are featured at this resort include overwater bungalows where you can look down through glass floors to the water and fish below. There are also more traditional suites on land. Regardless of your choice, both come in the traditional thatched roof style of Polynesian resorts.

The "Magical Honeymooning Vacation" is an excellent deal, as it includes airfare from New York to Tahiti, interisland transport, one night's stay in Tahiti, five nights on Bora Bora, and even greeting and farewell leis! Champagne is also included upon arrival at your bungalow. This option is a steal, starting at less than $3,000 per person. Keep in mind that this covers airfare, so it is not as high as it seems at first. While at the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, you can enjoy many different types of water sports, canoe breakfasts where your breakfast is delivered to your overwater bungalow by canoe, and even a "motu picnic" - where you can be transported to a deserted motu for a picnic with just the two of you present.

Bora Bora is a perfect exotic destination for a little honeymooning. With sunny days, crystal clear water and private bungalows, you really cannot go wrong.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - information on resorts.

Getting Married On A Cruise

Posted by Wealth Group | 3:03 AM | 0 comments »

For those looking for a little something different in a wedding, getting married on a cruise often seems like a good idea. It is, but there are some things you need to know.

Getting Married On A Cruise

There is little doubt that getting married is simultaneously the greatest and most stressful event most couples will embark on. More and more these days, couples are looking for options that present less stress. One such option is wrapping all of the marriage festivities in one package. In this case, we are talking about tying the knot on a cruise.

One of the first things you'll have to decide is whether you want to get married on board the ship or at a port. Not all cruise lines offer weddings on board. In fact, most of them recommend that you get married at port in your home country.

Holland America cruise ships do allow you to get married on the ship. Most of the individual ships do have wedding chapels on board, but you must get married while the ship is docked at its port of origin. It is just one of those legal things. Celebrity cruises also offer many different wedding packages, but you may not get married at sea. Again, you must choose one of the designated ports of call for your wedding ceremony location.

The only cruise line that allows you to actually get married while on the ship at sea is the Princess cruise line. The captains aboard these ships are legally permitted to perform weddings under the legal authority of Bermuda, the port of origin for the cruise line. Any of the major cruise lines, however, would be happy to help you arrange a wedding that revolves around your cruise, and most of the cruise ship companies offer wedding planners at the various ports they land at.

The most popular option is just to get married on land and spend the rest of the time at sea. One way to be sure you'll be able to afford this sort of option is to set up a cruise registry. This is similar to a gift registry, except wedding guests put money into a special account just for your cruise, instead of buying gifts. This way, the cost of your trip can be greatly reduced – perfect for the couple that would rather have a trip than household appliances.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - honeymoon information.

Honeymooning in Argentina

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Want to head to Europe after your wedding, but cannot afford it? Honeymooning in Argentina may be the answer as the country has a definite European feel.

Honeymooning in Argentina

While the most popular honeymooning destinations in the world may be located in the Caribbean, there is an entire world out there waiting for you to explore it. There are many locations that are not on the typical map of honeymooning spots, but really should be. One of those places is South America. Specifically, honeymooning in Argentina can be a great choice for the couple looking for a different and special destination.

One of the first things to take note of if you decide on Argentina is the difference in seasons. In the Northern hemisphere, where Europe and the United States are located, winter is generally from December to March and summer is from June to September. This is totally different in the Southern hemisphere, where Argentina is located. In Argentina, winter (albeit mild compared to winter in the US) ranges from June to September and summer is from December to March. If you're planning a June wedding, Argentina might not be the right destination if you're looking to spend some time on the beach.

Argentineans speak Spanish and the capital of the country is Buenos Aires. This capital city is a perfect spot for honeymooning in Argentina. The older barrios (or neighborhoods) surrounding the city's center are the most popular areas for tourists. The many pedestrian malls and shopping areas are perfect for finding that special souvenir. Buenos Aires is the country's "port" city, with all major airlines and cruises entering Argentina here. The most romantic part of Buenos Aires is not what you might expect; it's the tango. The tango, the sensual dance that is a hallmark of Argentina, is both performed and taught regularly in Buenos Aires. Learning this dance can be a great accent the romance in your trip.

There are some great resorts that are perfect for your romantic retreat. One of the most romantic of these is the Alvear Palace Hotel, which bills itself as "The Buenos Aires Luxury Hotel". This resort is featured in many publications, such as Travel and Leisure, and Conde Nast Traveler, and over 80 percent of its 200 plus rooms and suites feature a jacuzzi. Egyptian linen and other luxurious touches in the rooms, as well as specialties such as the Alvear Tea (served every afternoon), make this a romantic destination.

Honeymooning in Argentina can be rewarding and completely different from the expected island retreat. You can still experience the beautiful ocean beaches and different culture of South America, but also have a trip that's unique.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - honeymoon information.

Where Did The Idea of Honeymoons Come From?

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

Going on a honeymoon is the first real opportunity to spend time alone as man and wife, but how did this tradition come to be?

Where Did The Idea of Honeymoons Come From?

As any couple knows, planning the honeymoon is just as important as planning the wedding day itself. Traditionally the first vacation that you will take as a married couple (and presumably when the couple will consummate the union), a honeymoon has become the period of time where a couple can rest and recharge after going through the stress and excitement of the wedding ceremony. But why do we take these trips? The idea of a honeymoon originates far back in time, and did not originate as the vacation trip we take now.

There are many variations on the story of where the honeymoon began. As the word goes, its first regular usage in English can only be dated back to the 16th century. Many stories of how honeymoons came to be report that the idea of a honeymoon started much earlier than that date, but it is hard to tell whether these are fact or fiction.

One idea that is repeated by most people is that the word "honeymoon" was used to describe an ancient Babylonian tradition where the father of the bride would give the groom all the mead (honey wine) he could drink for the first month (moon) of marriage. This was supposed to give the couple a boost to their fertility. While this idea is widely accepted as fact, since the word honeymoon was not used at this time (Babylon fell far before the 16th century), historians cannot be sure that this is where the custom and word honeymoon came from.

Another version comes from Norse beginnings. It is said to loosely be rooted in the word "hjunottsmanathr". This is not a happy tradition, rather it was said to be necessary as many brides of the time were abducted from other tribes and the groom was required to hide his bride until her family stopped looking for her. Thus, the honeymoon was more of a kidnapping than anything else. By the way, this process still happens in some countries!

A third idea is that in Northern European cultures, a "moon" was representative of the monthly cycle of the body – and honey was said to represent how sweet the first one of these months was for a married couple. The word was a caution, that future "moons" in the marriage may not be as sweet as the honeymoon.

No matter which you choose to believe, one thing is clear: the honeymoon is here to stay. In current times, honeymoons rarely last a full month, and most couples are well aware that not all of their marriage will be as thrilling and fun as their first vacation. That is fine with most couples. Their content to enjoy their honeymoon and married life as it comes.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - honeymoon information.

Top Ten Honeymooning Spots

Posted by Wealth Group | 3:03 AM | 0 comments »

When you are ready to go honeymooning, there are an overwhelming number of destination choices. To help you choose, here are the top 10 spots newlyweds choose.

Top Ten Honeymooning Spots

Sometimes, choosing honeymooning destinations can be brutal. Many couples have different interests and ideas as to what constitutes a perfect vacation. It can be difficult to compromise if a couple enjoys vastly different climates or activities. One way to choose the best place is to take a look at where others traditionally go. That way, you can look at where many other couples have decided to take their first married trip, and see if one of these spots appeals to you.

According to surveyors at Modern Bride magazine, one place stands out above all others: Hawaii. Hawaii has long been a favorite of honeymooners, especially those couples coming from the United States, as there is much to see and do in this island paradise. No passport is required for those from the US (but one is required for many other island honeymoons), and the beautiful climate and native Polynesian culture, with traditions such as luaus and hula dancers, leis and fruity drinks served in coconuts makes this an island paradise worth visiting. While Hawaii is very popular, the resorts and accommodations are geared towards offering plenty of privacy and seclusion, perfect for newlyweds.

Destination number two is a bit more of a surprise. The second top spot is the country of Italy. Italy is not the exotic sunny island that many people picture for their trip, but it is definitely a romantic place. The canals of Venice, the historical sites of Rome and the romantic village charm of Florence make Italy a perfect honeymooning spot for many couples. Additionally, you can easily visit the rest of Europe. This can be a great idea for couples who want to do different things on their trip – such as seeing historical sites and shopping the great cities of the European continent.

The remaining honeymooning destination spots are as follows:

3. Tahiti

4. Anguilla

5. Fiji

6. St. Lucia

7. Mexico

8. St. Bart's

9. Jamaica

10. France

No matter what you are looking for in a destination, whether you prefer relaxation to adventure, or seclusion to the bustle of cities, there is a place for you. A good place to start is with the locations listed above.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - honeymoon information.

Honeymooning in Bora Bora Paradise

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Bora Bora represents the perfect island ideal many people dream of when they think of getaways. Bora Bora honeymooning options are reasonably priced and a great way to find romance.

Honeymooning in Bora Bora Paradise

Bora Bora - just the name conjures up pictures of exotic palm trees and beautiful beaches. The island of Bora Bora is located in French Polynesia. The name in the local Tahitian language means "First Born", referring to the Polynesian legend of how the island was created. This small island with a population of less than 3,000 has become a tourist paradise. Honeymooning in Bora Bora can be a great way to explore this area. It is just the sort of romantic island getaway that most couples long for.

The Bora islands are truly a newlyweds paradise. Frankly, it is what the place is known for given the perfect blue lagoons and romantic scenery. A circle of motus (small islands) covered with palm trees is a focal point of the beauty of Bora Bora. Seven luxury resorts have been built on these motus in the past few years, adding a rich touch to the island's varied accommodations. Generally, Bora Bora trips start with a flight into Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, located on the island of Tahiti. From this capital city, Air Tahiti offers several flights a day to the island of Bora Bora.

Once on Bora Bora, a great place to stay is the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, a luxury establishment located on Motu Toopau (a small island near the main island of Bora Bora). It is actually the only commercial property located on this motu. The many different types of bungalows that are featured at this resort include overwater bungalows where you can look down through glass floors to the water and fish below. There are also more traditional suites on land. Regardless of your choice, both come in the traditional thatched roof style of Polynesian resorts.

The "Magical Honeymooning Vacation" is an excellent deal, as it includes airfare from New York to Tahiti, interisland transport, one night's stay in Tahiti, five nights on Bora Bora, and even greeting and farewell leis! Champagne is also included upon arrival at your bungalow. This option is a steal, starting at less than $3,000 per person. Keep in mind that this covers airfare, so it is not as high as it seems at first. While at the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, you can enjoy many different types of water sports, canoe breakfasts where your breakfast is delivered to your overwater bungalow by canoe, and even a "motu picnic" - where you can be transported to a deserted motu for a picnic with just the two of you present.

Bora Bora is a perfect exotic destination for a little honeymooning. With sunny days, crystal clear water and private bungalows, you really cannot go wrong.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - honeymoon information.

Getting Married On A Cruise

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

For those looking for a little something different in a wedding, getting married on a cruise often seems like a good idea. It is, but there are some things you need to know.

Getting Married On A Cruise

There is little doubt that getting married is simultaneously the greatest and most stressful event most couples will embark on. More and more these days, couples are looking for options that present less stress. One such option is wrapping all of the marriage festivities in one package. In this case, we are talking about tying the knot on a cruise.

One of the first things you'll have to decide is whether you want to get married on board the ship or at a port. Not all cruise lines offer weddings on board. In fact, most of them recommend that you get married at port in your home country.

Holland America cruise ships do allow you to get married on the ship. Most of the individual ships do have wedding chapels on board, but you must get married while the ship is docked at its port of origin. It is just one of those legal things. Celebrity cruises also offer many different wedding packages, but you may not get married at sea. Again, you must choose one of the designated ports of call for your wedding ceremony location.

The only cruise line that allows you to actually get married while on the ship at sea is the Princess cruise line. The captains aboard these ships are legally permitted to perform weddings under the legal authority of Bermuda, the port of origin for the cruise line. Any of the major cruise lines, however, would be happy to help you arrange a wedding that revolves around your cruise, and most of the cruise ship companies offer wedding planners at the various ports they land at.

The most popular option is just to get married on land and spend the rest of the time at sea. One way to be sure you'll be able to afford this sort of option is to set up a cruise registry. This is similar to a gift registry, except wedding guests put money into a special account just for your cruise, instead of buying gifts. This way, the cost of your trip can be greatly reduced – perfect for the couple that would rather have a trip than household appliances.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - honeymoon information.

Honeymooning in Argentina

Posted by Wealth Group | 3:03 AM | 0 comments »

Want to take head to Europe after your wedding, but cannot afford it? Honeymooning in Argentina may be the answer as the country has a definite European feel.

Honeymooning in Argentina

While the most popular honeymooning destinations in the world may be located in the Caribbean, there is an entire world out there waiting for you to explore it. There are many locations that are not on the typical map of honeymooning spots, but really should be. One of those places is South America. Specifically, honeymooning in Argentina can be a great choice for the couple looking for a different and special destination.

One of the first things to take note of if you decide on Argentina is the difference in seasons. In the Northern hemisphere, where Europe and the United States are located, winter is generally from December to March and summer is from June to September. This is totally different in the Southern hemisphere, where Argentina is located. In Argentina, winter (albeit mild compared to winter in the US) ranges from June to September and summer is from December to March. If you're planning a June wedding, Argentina might not be the right destination if you're looking to spend some time on the beach.

Argentineans speak Spanish and the capital of the country is Buenos Aires. This capital city is a perfect spot for honeymooning in Argentina. The older barrios (or neighborhoods) surrounding the city's center are the most popular areas for tourists. The many pedestrian malls and shopping areas are perfect for finding that special souvenir. Buenos Aires is the country's "port" city, with all major airlines and cruises entering Argentina here. The most romantic part of Buenos Aires is not what you might expect; it's the tango. The tango, the sensual dance that is a hallmark of Argentina, is both performed and taught regularly in Buenos Aires. Learning this dance can be a great accent the romance in your trip.

There are some great resorts that are perfect for your romantic retreat. One of the most romantic of these is the Alvear Palace Hotel, which bills itself as "The Buenos Aires Luxury Hotel". This resort is featured in many publications, such as Travel and Leisure, and Conde Nast Traveler, and over 80 percent of its 200 plus rooms and suites feature a jacuzzi. Egyptian linen and other luxurious touches in the rooms, as well as specialties such as the Alvear Tea (served every afternoon), make this a romantic destination.

Honeymooning in Argentina can be rewarding and completely different from the expected island retreat. You can still experience the beautiful ocean beaches and different culture of South America, but also have a trip that's unique.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - honeymoon information.

WHAT IS SO GREAT ABOUT BEES ANYWAY?

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Without bees, the human race is unlikely to have advanced as quickly as it has. In fact, even today our survival depends on the humble but industrious honey bee and the humble and industrious beekeeper.

An over-generalization? Perhaps, but let us look at the work of bees and honeybees in particular and see how this might be true. Understanding the relationship between bees and plants will help us to understand how they are so important to us.

Flowers are the reproductive organs of plants. All, or nearly all plants need to be fertilised, i.e. they must have pollen moved from the anther in the flower (usually of another plant) to their stigma in their own flower. It must of course be pollen from the same type of plant. Very few plants can self-fertilise.

All the crops that we know today, like fruit, and seed crops, need to be fertilised. Bees also pollinate clover and grass on which many other forms of food production depend. This can occur naturally in several ways but by far the most common and effective one is by the intervention of insects. And, by far the most active insect in this area is the Honey Bee.

If it were not for the honeybee, our agricultural endeavours today would not be anywhere near as productive as they are. If there was no insect to perform this function, honeybee or other, it is very likely that the evolution of plant life would have slowed to a crawl or might even have evolved in a different direction altogether.

Einstein is quoted as saying, "If the bee disappeared off the surface of the earth, man would only have four years of life left." Assuming that this statement is true, beekeepers have become our saviours. This is because the wild honeybees have been all but wiped out in recent years by varroa mites and a few other organisms that seem to have sprung up so suddenly that the bees have not had a chance to develop a defence against them. The most common being Foulbrood, Tracheal Mites, Chalkbrood, Nosema.

Beekeepers and breeders are developing new strains of bees that are resistant to these infections and in the interim are maintaining the colonies of "domestic" honeybees so that honeybee extinction and ours are unlikely just yet.

However, the greatest threat to the survival of the honeybee in the future is likely to be from insecticides. I do not propose to discuss this here it is a subject for a much larger forum than this. Suffice it to say that great care should be taken when using any chemicals.

The domestic colonies are transported to the orchards and fields of crops to fertilise them. The beekeeper benefits by improving his harvest of honey and the farmer gets his crops fertilised. The farmer comes out of this deal best so the beekeeper usually charges for the service. I think you will agree that it is only right that he should.

Now after all that do you not think that life would be a little bit different, were it not for the beekeepers.

Gerry is webmaster at: Beehaviour.Com

Contact: Gerry

Wedding Night Lingerie: Are You Prepared?

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What does getting married mean to you? How can anyone possibly describe all of the feelings and emotions that accompany the institution of marriage? There are not many things in life that can ever come close to this prestigious event. An event so tremendous, it will change your life forever.

Just think of all of the time and effort it takes to plan and prepare for this monumental occurrence! The thought of it alone can be overwhelming to say the least.

On that note, one thing you will not want to overlook during your wedding planning phase is your wedding night attire. Of course, I am referring to Wedding Lingerie.

Wedding lingerie is like the proverbial icing on the cake. It is a perfect way to set an elegant and romantic mood for you and your new husband. When the crowds have gone and it is just the two of you, you will want to look as sensual and attractive as possible to your new life mate.

Wedding lingerie is the perfect way to accomplish this. Being visual creatures, men are especially affected by seductive lingerie. The best bridal lingerie will show just enough of you to keep him guessing. It will flatter the most attractive parts of your body and give you an air of sexy self-confidence.

Shopping for wedding lingerie can be fun too! You can even do it from the comfort of your own home. If you are like many people, you will want to shop for your intimate lingerie privately and not be subjected to harsh lights in an uncomfortable environment. With online shopping, all you will need is a computer and an Internet connection.

Online shopping for wedding lingerie has become extremely popular and continues to grow each year. It is extremely convenient and there is never an embarrassing moment. Online lingerie stores are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They offer discreet packaging and a wide variety of delivery options.

Whatever type of lingerie you feel comfortable with, you are sure to find a wide selection of quality bridal lingerie in your size, shape and color at many of the online retailers today.

Remember, you are about to embark on a lifelong journey with your new partner. Be sure to plan accordingly as this will be a night to remember for the rest of your life. By planning ahead and securing your wedding lingerie now, you will have taken one more step in the direction of a successful wedding night.

Mike Harader is an expert author who writes on several topics including Sexy Lingerie, Leather Lingerie and Bridal Lingerie & Wedding Lingerie as well as other related and non-related topics.

Honeymooning in Connecticut

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Connecticut offers a unique laid back atmosphere with a rather stunning backdrop. Honeymooning in Connecticut offers you the chance to mix beauty with romance.

Honeymooning in Connecticut

Connecticut is one of the East Coast's most scenic and romantic locations. With a true New England feel, small towns with quaint atmospheres, as well as a great summer climate – Connecticut is a great place for honeymooning. The many different resorts and hotels here offer the ultimate in relaxation and charm.

If you are looking for the charm and small town feel of a bed and breakfast, the state has a lot to offer. One such bed and breakfast worth looking into is the Swan Cove Bed and Breakfast in New Haven, Connecticut. Located within a short walk from the Atlantic Ocean, this Queen Anne style house contains lodgings that are perfect for romance. Three guest rooms and one suite are all that are available here, meaning that you will receive the attention to detail and personal service that cannot be found in larger resorts. Amenities include a bountiful breakfast served in the adjoining "Barn", although breakfast in bed can also be arranged. A special honeymoon option includes candlelit breakfast in your room, a romantic dinner at the nearby Sage Grill, and even a bottle of champagne to celebrate the special event.

Another romantic option in the state is the Wallingford Victorian Bed and Breakfast, in Wallingford, Connecticut. This bed and breakfast inn offers honeymooners beautiful suites and deluxe rooms, all appointed with Victorian antiques. Amenities include a delicious breakfast daily, as well as modern conveniences such as a fax, free wi-fi, printer and more. Your stay will include rooms with oversized whirlpools, dinners at local restaurants, wine in your room and more. A small number of guest rooms as well as interesting small town activities make this bed and breakfast feel more like a home away from home with you as the valued guest.

Connecticut is a beautiful and romantic area of the country for honeymooning, and it's a perfect destination no matter what season. Whether you'd prefer the beauty of the autumn leaves or the warm summers on the beach, or even the snowy winter weather – there's a room waiting for you at one of the many quaint bed and breakfast establishments in Connecticut.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Honeymooning in Michigan

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To the surprise of many, Michigan is one of the top vacation spots in America. This also makes it a great place to do your honeymooning without breaking the bank.

Honeymooning in Michigan

The Midwest – America's Heartland. While it is not the first place that springs to mind when thinking of exotic honeymooning locales, the Midwest can still be a romantic and memorable destination. Whether you have gotten married in this area and don't want to travel far for your first trip, or just want to visit a different area than the rest of the newlyweds, honeymooning in Michigan can be a great alternative to pricier and more distant destinations.

One great resort for is the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa located in Traverse City, Michigan. This resort, originally opened in 1980 and bought by the Ottawa and Chippewa tribes in 2003, is a great spot for honeymooning or even for a wedding. The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is located on the shores of Lake Michigan in a spot against the East Grand Traverse Bay and includes 660 guest rooms with many of these rooms being suites. This resort offers guests 54 holes of championship golf, rivers stocked with trout for fishing and water sports on Lake Michigan in season. Also at the resort is a large shopping area, and a grand spa, perfect for relaxing and romance with your new spouse.

Another spot worth looking at is the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan. This hotel was first opened in 1887 with varied and famous people such as Mark Twain staying here throughout the resort's history. Of the 385 guest rooms, no two are decorated alike. For an odd bit of trivia, the front porch on the hotel is the worlds longest at 660 feet.

Mackinac Island itself is a place like no other – with people still using bicycles and horses as transportation, and an air of the romantic past surrounding the place. The four bedroom Masco Cottage, available on the Grand Hotel grounds, is the resort's most intimate and luxurious accommodation – with such amenities as a private chef. A full breakfast and five course dinner are included with your nightly rate in any room and the food here is gourmet. A perfect place to just sit back, relax and enjoy your new married life.

Honeymooning in Michigan makes for a great start to your newfound life – and the state is a perfect choice for the couple who wants a different vacation. The slow pace of Michigan resorts, combined with the friendly atmosphere and attention to detail, make this a destination to remember while avoiding draining your bank account.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Honeymooning in Goa

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Goa is perhaps the most famous area of India and certainly the most romantic. Honeymooning in Goa is something you will never forget, particularly since it is a fairly unique experience among newlyweds.

Honeymooning in Goa

Goa is the second smallest state in the country of India. Incorporated in 1987, this originally Portuguese territory was independent of India for 450 years before it was invaded by India in 1961. Known all over the world for its beautiful beaches and exotic architecture, Goa is a perfect spot to take a unique vacation. The romantic side of this state also means that honeymooning in Goa is a perfect trip for those couples who want a different destination from the ordinary choices.

It is thought that the name Goa means "a nation of sheepherders", although the exact meaning of the name brought by the Portuguese to this land is unknown. An extreme amount of different flora and fauna mean that Goa has been hailed as being as biodiverse as the Amazon or Congo. Although known for many traits, those who go honeymooning in Goa undoubtedly come here for the beaches and exotic atmosphere.

One resort that's perfect for your stay is the Cidade de Goa, located on Vainguinim Beach. This five star resort caters to honeymooners with packages that include beautiful deluxe rooms leading directly out to the beach and suites with a taste of India in their decorations. The restaurants here are also first rate with barbecue, Goan/Portuguese, Chinese, Latino and Indian foods all being featured at different dining rooms. Many different sports and fitness options are available to guests, and an Ayurvedic spa treats couples to the exotic relaxation techniques of India. The laid back atmosphere endemic to Goa, however, provides you with the opportunity to do whatever you want at whatever pace you desire.

Another great resort is the Nanu Resort located on Betalbatim Beach. This resort offers spacious rooms overlooking the Arabian Sea with 72 cottage style rooms for guests. Close to both the commercial hub of Goa and the major airport, this resort is a great spot to stay for those who would like to explore more of Goa than just their resort. An authentic Goan atmosphere also makes this resort good for guests who really want a feel for the area. Other amenities include an open air bar and book shop.

No matter which resort you choose to stay at, honeymooning in Goa can be an exciting and exotic experience. Perfect for the couple who wants an alternative to the Caribbean while still having a beach vacation, a trip to Goa will be sure to please even the most discriminating of travelers while still giving you a stay that is out of the ordinary.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Romantic Honeymoon Locations

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Getting married is a joyous event, but can be a slight bit stressful. Romantic honeymoon locations are just the ticket to leaving the stress behind and focusing on the romantic element of the marriage.

Romantic Honeymoon Locations

Your honeymoon is the destined to be the most romantic and memorable vacation you'll ever take. Whether you decide to go to an island paradise, a relaxing spa retreat, or a thrilling outdoor adventure, your honeymoon is definitely the trip you'll always remember. The only difficult part of planning this special vacation may be agreeing on which of the many romantic honeymoon location you will choose!

One of the most romantic honeymoon locations in the world has to be the Fiji islands. Fiji, an archipelago of islands located in the South Pacific, is composed of over 322 islands. 106 of these islands are inhabited, and the two largest islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain 87 percent of the population of Fiji. This island nation is very welcoming to tourists, and does all it can to make honeymoons special for the couples that choose to spend their time here.

One of the foremost romantic honeymoon spots on Fiji is Castaway Island resort, located on the mostly unpopulated island of Mamanuca. This four star resort offers couples the excitement of water activities such as scuba diving, combined with delicious food and gourmet experiences. With the al fresco dining here at Castaway Island considered some of the best in the world, you can experience the full range of Fijian cooking – fresh seafood, desserts and more. The activities here are also excellent – windsurfing, sailing and certified scuba diving classes all make for a great romantic stay.

Another of the romantic honeymoon resorts on Fiji is found in the Qamea Beach Club, located on the northern island of Qamea. This small resort (though still four star) offers just 11 bures (beach bungalows) but is big on experiences. The authentic accommodations and limit of just 24 guests (age 12 and older) means that your secluded honeymoon will not be spoiled by a crowd. There are also around 20 different dive locations in the area, perfect for romantic adventure. The spa offers a special Qamea massage that is perfect for relaxation and resting after the adventures of your day.

No matter what part of Fiji you choose to stay in, you'll be certain to find perfect romantic honeymoon experience. Here, the warm waters and exotic scenery will be sure to make you feel like you're in another world entirely, and the untouched and uncrowded areas will be perfect for you and your new spouse to spend some quality time together.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Honeymooning in the Caribbean

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When it comes to traditional beach honeymoons, the Caribbean simply cannot be beat. Honeymoon options for the Caribbean are plentiful and the competition makes for reasonable prices.

Honeymooning in the Caribbean

One of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world is the Caribbean. The tropical setting, combined with the exotic views, warm weather and oceanfront beaches makes the Caribbean a perfect romantic spot for your first trip as a married couple. The many honeymoon options Caribbean resorts offer can be great bargains for your vacation.

Some of the best honeymoon options the Caribbean has to offer are stays at the all inclusive resorts in the area. The Sandals resort chain has twelve locations all over the Caribbean with a style of resort to suit any couple's needs. Sandals resorts are found on Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua and the Bahamas, and these resorts are all linked together by their all inclusive service policies. These resorts really do include it all with one price – your room, dining and snacks, beverages (including alcoholic drinks), and entertainment are covered under one rate. Activities such as water sports, scuba diving, golfing, tennis and more are also included.

The only additional charges you'll be subject to are the airfare to and from the resort. Sandals resorts are exclusively for adults, so no one under 18 is allowed which makes the resort chain a great honeymoon destination. If you choose to stay at a Sandals resort for seven nights or more, you can even get a free wedding ceremony!

If you prefer a more exciting and adventurous honeymoon, why not try one of the honeymoon options available from the Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic? Here, you can spend your days kayaking, wind surfing, horseback riding and more – all along the private Minitas Beach. Skeet shooting, tennis and golf are also available for the truly active couple. Honeymoons here are not just for laying around and relaxing, you can get your exercise here too!

Planning a honeymoon in the Caribbean can be romantic and adventurous at the same time. Honeymoon resorts take the guesswork out of where to stay, what to do and where to eat – you can choose a resort that covers all of that for you. Or, you can put together your own package tailored to you specifically. Caribbean honeymoons are some of the most popular honeymoons in the world, and it's easy to see why. From snorkeling to sunbathing, this part of the world has it all, and at prices to suit any budget.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Honeymooning on the Florida Keys

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The Florida Keys and honeymoon are two subjects that just go together. Honeymooning on the Florida Keys is very popular choice for newlyweds.

Honeymooning on the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are an archipelago of small islands that are a favorite with tourists and vacationers. They are located at the southeastern tip of Florida about 15 miles from the city of Miami. The city of Key West is the largest and most heavily populated city in the Keys with more than 32 percent of the islands' population residing here. A trip to this area can be both relaxing and refreshing with the Keys being a great place to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere.

The Florida Keys are home to a colorful and unique group of people who enjoy tourists but don't let commercialism invade too much. The Keys are also home to many species of plants and animal species not found in the rest of the United States. The Key Lime, which is the most famous of these plants, is actually a native of Mexico brought to the Florida Keys from the Yucatan Peninsula. The many smaller islands in the Keys are perfect spots to see the interesting wildlife and underwater life. Many people visit these areas by boat for scuba diving and other activities.

If you are honeymooning on the Florida Keys, there are many different companies and resorts willing to help you out. One such resort is the Little Palm Island Resort and Spa. Located on its own private island of Little Torch Key, this resort offers honeymooners the ultimate in luxury and romance. Staying in one of the 30 thatched roof bungalows, complete with amenities and air conditioning, can be a blissful, secluded experience. The Romance Package, a five night stay including such extras as spa services, makes for a wonderful honeymoon.

If you want even more seclusion, Little Palm Island even offers a package entitled, Own the Island. You can actually rent out all of the rooms and bungalows, and have the entire resort to yourself if you wish! Talk about a blissful, romantic and private honeymoon!

The Florida Keys are a perfect romantic hotspot for your honeymoon or wedding. Booking a stay here is certain to be a memorable trip for any newlywed couple. Whether you want to stay on your own private island, or in the cities of Key West or Key Largo, you will be able to find the accommodations and style to suit your honeymoon needs.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

The 10 best hotels in the world

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For any connoisseur of luxury, the five star hotel is an essential component of their holiday. No matter where you go in the world, it is possible to stay in hotels that redefine opulence and create the ultimate environment to relax and be pampered. In this article, I will take a look at what are often described as the ultimate collection of hotels in the world by travellers.

As you will see, it is not necessarily the most expensive, or the most opulent hotel in a particular destination that is considered the best, it is more than this; the hotel must be a reason for travelling to a place as well!

10: Kanuhura, Maldives

If you've ever wanted to stay on your own desert island to get away from it all, the chances are that you've thought about visiting the Maldives. Made up of coral atolls spread out across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a unique country, and the Kanuhura, is a stunning hotel that offers visitors the chance to enjoy their own luxurious villa that stands on stilts in the ocean itself to create the illusion that you are on your own!

9: The Bellagio, Las Vegas, USA

The Bellagio is the jewel in the crown of Las Vegas as the USA's premier holiday destination. The rooms are fantastic, the spa is out of this world, and the casino is the place to be seen, but it is the catalogue of stars that perform in the hotel's vast auditoria that elevate the Bellagio above its rivals on the Las Vegas Strip.

8: Pitti Palace, Florence, Italy

There are few destinations in the world like Florence; this stunning city is the home of fine art, and the birthplace of the renaissance. The Pitti Palace is one of the most impressive hotels in Europe, and offers visitors the chance to enjoy the opulence of a renaissance palace that was once home to the Medici family, and boasts a number of masterpieces by artists such as Michelangelo on its walls!

7: Lion Sands Resort, Kruger National Park, South Africa

For anyone wanting to get close to nature at its most impressive, the Kruger National Park in South Africa is a great place to visit, and is home to all of the so-called big-five animals. Lion Sands is one of a number of private lodges in the park, and is undoubtedly the best. Visitors get to enjoy two safaris a day, and the resort is so exclusive that less than 20 people can stay there at any one time!

6: Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

While it might not be the most luxurious hotel in Hong Kong any more, the Mandarin Oriental is still the most stunning place to stay in the city. Offering incredible views of the famous harbour, along with great cuisine and stunning rooms, but it is the attention to detail and attentive personalised service offered by the staff that marks the Mandarin Oriental out as truly special.

5: Chiva Som, Hua Hin, Thailand

Chiva Som is probably the top spa destination in the world right now, a resort entirely dedicated to the concept of wellness. Upon arrival, all guests are assessed, and your menus, exercise programmes and beauty treatments are planned for the duration of your stay making for a truly exceptional experience.

4: Park Hyatt, Sydney, Australia

On the surface, the Park Hyatt, Sydney is nothing special. It is undeniably luxurious, offers high quality service, and boasts a number of exquisite restaurants, but so do any number of other hotels around the world. What marks out this particular 5-star above all others in the city is its location over looking the beautiful harbour, and offering the best views of the Opera House and iconic harbour bridge that you will ever see.

3: The Waldorf Astoria, New York, USA

The Waldorf Astoria is the grand old lady of New York Hospitality. The Waldorf Astoria is the flagship property of the exclusive Hilton Group. It may no longer be the largest, most luxurious, or most exclusive hotel in the city, but it remains the most famous, most enchanting, and down right best with its perfect mix of luxury service, and glamour

2: The Ritz, London, UK

The original 5 Star hotel, the Ritz is a byword for tradition and luxury in one of the most exciting cities in the world. It offers truly majestic levels of service and accommodation, and has a well-earned reputation as one of the finest places to eat out in the UK, with several world-class restaurants for guests to choose from.

1: Al Maha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The iconic Burj al Arab on Jumeirah Beach may be the last word in overblown opulence in Dubai, but the Al Maha desert resort is without a doubt the best hotel you can stay in. It offers levels of exclusivity that are unrivalled, exceptional accommodation, and above all, unmatched privacy and personalised service that will ensure that no matter how high your standards, this hotel will always exceed them.

Crispin DeWinter is a travel writer with more than 10 years experience reviewing hotels, and is the principal reviewer for Cheap Hotels at Hotel Seeker, a great online resource for anyone wanting to find a range of top quality and affordable hotels around the world, including all the ones featured in this article.

Honeymoon Bliss: Bahamas Holiday

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For all those of you who are on a lookout for that picture perfect backdrop to your honeymoon, Bahamas is just the right answer. Bask in the glory of sun or enjoy the beauty of the sun while walking on the soft white sands in Bahamas. The beauty of Bahamas is sure going to leave you enchanted.

While planning your wedding you should give equal importance to the planning of your honeymoon as well. If you don't, you might have to resort to the traditional holiday and spend more than your budget permits. After the stressful events of the wedding you are likely to feel exhausted, annoyed and tense. A honeymoon should be a relaxing holiday for the two of you when you can leave all the problems behind and focus on your new relationship.

Make sure that you have enough money to take care of your honeymoon, as the honeymoon is as important as the wedding itself. You can also think of other ways to secure your honeymoon in Bahamas by choosing to take a Bahamas holiday trip instead of the traditional gifts such as the household items. In keeping with the trends there are many websites that have come up with a provision of registering for a holiday instead of the usual gifts.

Once you make up your mind on going to the Bahamas for your honeymoon, you will find various destinations, resorts, hotels, and vacation options to choose from. You can explore these options on the World Wide Web or consult your local travel agent to find the best vacation for you and is within your budget. Planning your wedding and honeymoon together can reduce the pressures and stresses of wedding planning to a great extent.

It's a good idea to go in for an all inclusive resort for your Bahamian holiday that includes food and activity costs with the room fees. Most of these resorts are very reasonably priced and provide immense opportunities to enjoy all aspects of the fun and sun of the islands. They are ideal for newly married couples because they allow you the freedom from cost constraints.

Another popular way to enjoy the Bahamas on your honeymoon on a tight budget is to take a cruise. Many luxury cruise companies offer various destinations in the Bahamas and other islands in the Caribbean. Gone are the days when cruises were considered to be just for old people looking for sun! These days you see more young people on cruises, especially, honeymooners and vibrant couples that enjoy exciting nightlife and exquisite cuisine.

The Bahamas are also the favorite location for destination weddings. The breathtaking beauty of these destinations provides a romantic aura to the ceremony. If you plan a destination wedding you can include your loved ones in your holiday plans. And, if there are children, you have more reasons to think of the Bahamas as kids have great fun on the white sand in warm weather.

The wildlife exotica, the marvelous sand beaches, the warmth of the sun and ample activities to choose from - this is the stuff that a trip to Bahamas is made up of. The exotica that this place is home to are reason enough to make it your honeymoon destination.

Treena Soc runs a very interesting website at The Unique Bahamas, it's one of the webs most up to date Bahamas sites, their free newsletter is well worth signing up for too. For more quality articles on the Bahamas why not visit: Get your own completely unique content version of this article.

Bahamas Holiday - Bliss and Bohemia

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

Imagine spending your honeymoon sipping frosty drinks on a soft, luxurious, white sand beach. The crystal clear waters serve as your invitation to cap off an exciting wedding with a honeymoon in the Bahamas. A Bahamian holiday is an excellent way to spend the beginning of your new life together as a couple enjoying the fun, sun, and each other.

While planning your wedding you should give equal importance to the planning of your honeymoon as well. If you don't, you might have to resort to the traditional holiday and spend more than your budget permits. After the stressful events of the wedding you are likely to feel exhausted, annoyed and tense. A honeymoon should be a relaxing holiday for the two of you when you can leave all the problems behind and focus on your new relationship.

Make sure that you have enough money to take care of your honeymoon, as the honeymoon is as important as the wedding itself. You can also think of other ways to secure your honeymoon in Bahamas by choosing to take a Bahamas holiday trip instead of the traditional gifts such as the household items. In keeping with the trends there are many websites that have come up with a provision of registering for a holiday instead of the usual gifts.

You can choose from several destinations, resorts, hotels, and vacation options, which are available at Bahamas. Your honeymoon can be tailor-made according to your requirement. You can either choose an option on the Internet that takes account of your budget and expectations or you can even ask your travel agent to do so. Use the planning time for the honeymoon to its best by escaping from any of the perils and pressures regarding the wedding.

Many couples choose to take advantage of all inclusive resorts for their Bahamian holiday. These resorts are excellent ways to enjoy all aspects of the fun and sun of the islands while on a thrifty budget. All inclusive resorts include food and activity costs with the tradition room fees. Couples especially love these all inclusive resorts since they do not have to worry with keeping up the costs of food and sticking to their pre set budgets.

Another popular way to enjoy the Bahamas on your honeymoon on a tight budget is to take a cruise. Many luxury cruise companies offer various destinations in the Bahamas and other islands in the Caribbean. Gone are the days when cruises were considered to be just for old people looking for sun! These days you see more young people on cruises, especially, honeymooners and vibrant couples that enjoy exciting nightlife and exquisite cuisine.

If you and your spouse want a destination wedding, look no further than the Bahamas! The lovely destinations allow a perfect backdrop for heartfelt vows. A destination wedding is also an excellent way to include your loved ones in your holiday plans. Furthermore, many individuals with children choose the Bahamas as their destination of choice, as kids love the white sand and glorious sun.

Whatever your reasons, choose the Bahamas for your honeymoon destination. This beautiful island destination is perfect for starting your new life together. Whether you choose to lounge on the beach, explore the island's native creatures, or participate in any of the numerous activities, begin planning your Bahamian holiday today!

About the author: Treena Soc is the chief writer at The Unique Bahamas, it's one of the webs most up to date Bahamas sites, their free newsletter is well worth signing up for too. If you want to read more articles on the Bahamas go to: You can get a unique content version of this article for your website or ezine.

Bahamas Holiday - Bliss and Bohemia

Posted by Wealth Group | 3:03 AM | 0 comments »

For all those of you who are on a lookout for that picture perfect backdrop to your honeymoon, Bahamas is just the right answer. Bask in the glory of sun or enjoy the beauty of the sun while walking on the soft white sands in Bahamas. The beauty of Bahamas is sure going to leave you enchanted.

While planning your wedding you should give equal importance to the planning of your honeymoon as well. If you don't, you might have to resort to the traditional holiday and spend more than your budget permits. After the stressful events of the wedding you are likely to feel exhausted, annoyed and tense. A honeymoon should be a relaxing holiday for the two of you when you can leave all the problems behind and focus on your new relationship.

While planning your honeymoon, consider your budget to begin with. If you have already stretched your wedding budget, you will have to save separately to make your dream honeymoon possible. For that you can go to any one of the websites where you can register towards a trip instead of the usual household items. This way you will not only fulfill your goal but also ensure you receive gifts that you and your spouse will use and enjoy. If this doesn't work, you may want to ask for monetary gifts or airline mile donations to make your Bahamas honeymoon happen.

You can choose from several destinations, resorts, hotels, and vacation options, which are available at Bahamas. Your honeymoon can be tailor-made according to your requirement. You can either choose an option on the Internet that takes account of your budget and expectations or you can even ask your travel agent to do so. Use the planning time for the honeymoon to its best by escaping from any of the perils and pressures regarding the wedding.

The best way to get the maximum on a Bahamas holiday is to settle for an all-inclusive resort that helps your expenses stay within budget. The best aspect about this is that you can enjoy endlessly without having to worry about keeping a tab on the costs of food sticking to a pre-set budget. Well, being economical does not mean less fun and excitement as the stay at the resort is going to be filled with beauty, adventure and excitement.

A more traditional approach to the budget friendly honeymooning in the Bahamas is a cruise. There are a variety of luxury cruise companies that have a number of destinations in the Bahamas and other islands in the Caribbean. If you think cruises are just for retirees looking sun—think again! Cruises these days are filled with young, vibrant couples, stunning nightlife, and exquisite cuisine.

If you and your spouse want a destination wedding, look no further than the Bahamas! The lovely destinations allow a perfect backdrop for heartfelt vows. A destination wedding is also an excellent way to include your loved ones in your holiday plans. Furthermore, many individuals with children choose the Bahamas as their destination of choice, as kids love the white sand and glorious sun.

All in all, the Bahamas is a great choice for your honeymoon destination. It's the best way to start your new life together. This beautiful island will open out to you as you relax on the beach, or indulge in the numerous activities. However, make sure you plan your Bahamian holiday properly.

Treena Soc runs a very interesting website at The Unique Bahamas, there's a wealth of knowledge on the website, plus while you're there sign up for the free newsletter. For more quality articles on the Bahamas why not visit: Don't reprint this article. Instead, reprint a free unique content version of this same article.

Dream Honeymoon in the Bahamas

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Imagine spending your honeymoon sipping frosty drinks on a soft, luxurious, white sand beach. The crystal clear waters serve as your invitation to cap off an exciting wedding with a honeymoon in the Bahamas. A Bahamian holiday is an excellent way to spend the beginning of your new life together as a couple enjoying the fun, sun, and each other.

Many couples fail to properly plan their honeymoon or scratch the traditional holiday due to budgetary concerns. This is an unfortunate move, as the stressful events revolving around weddings often leave individuals tired, cross, and stressed out. A honeymoon provides a special, relaxing holiday for you and your new spouse where you can forget about any issues or problems and focus on your new relationship.

Your honeymoon is just as important as the wedding, so take special care to budget this trip into your other expenses. If your wedding budget is already stretched too far, you may need to save separately to fulfill your goal. There are a variety of websites that allow you to register towards a trip instead of tradition household items. This is an excellent way to fulfill your dream honeymoon and ensure you receive gifts that you and your spouse will use and enjoy. Furthermore, many individuals choose to ask for monetary gifts or airline mile donations in order to work towards achieving a goal of a Bahamas honeymoon.

Once you make up your mind on going to the Bahamas for your honeymoon, you will find various destinations, resorts, hotels, and vacation options to choose from. You can explore these options on the World Wide Web or consult your local travel agent to find the best vacation for you and is within your budget. Planning your wedding and honeymoon together can reduce the pressures and stresses of wedding planning to a great extent.

The best way to get the maximum on a Bahamas holiday is to settle for an all-inclusive resort that helps your expenses stay within budget. The best aspect about this is that you can enjoy endlessly without having to worry about keeping a tab on the costs of food sticking to a pre-set budget. Well, being economical does not mean less fun and excitement as the stay at the resort is going to be filled with beauty, adventure and excitement.

You can also enjoy your honeymoon on a cruise to Bahamas. And if you think that cruise is meant for the old and not so happening, you need to take a reality check as the cruise liners these days are bustling with vibrant and vivacious people. Not just this, but also the cruise liners boast of hip and happening night life, sumptuous cuisine and a gamut of entertainment options.

The Bahamas are also the favorite location for destination weddings. The breathtaking beauty of these destinations provides a romantic aura to the ceremony. If you plan a destination wedding you can include your loved ones in your holiday plans. And, if there are children, you have more reasons to think of the Bahamas as kids have great fun on the white sand in warm weather.

Whatever your reasons, choose the Bahamas for your honeymoon destination. This beautiful island destination is perfect for starting your new life together. Whether you choose to lounge on the beach, explore the island's native creatures, or participate in any of the numerous activities, begin planning your Bahamian holiday today!

Treena Soc is the chief writer for, and editor of The Unique Bahamas, visit there today for the latest Bahamas advice, and their free newsletter is well worth signing up for too. Read many more interesting articles on the Bahamas at: This and other unique content bahamas articles are available with free reprint rights.

Dream Honeymoon in the Bahamas

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For all those of you who are on a lookout for that picture perfect backdrop to your honeymoon, Bahamas is just the right answer. Bask in the glory of sun or enjoy the beauty of the sun while walking on the soft white sands in Bahamas. The beauty of Bahamas is sure going to leave you enchanted.

While planning your wedding you should give equal importance to the planning of your honeymoon as well. If you don't, you might have to resort to the traditional holiday and spend more than your budget permits. After the stressful events of the wedding you are likely to feel exhausted, annoyed and tense. A honeymoon should be a relaxing holiday for the two of you when you can leave all the problems behind and focus on your new relationship.

Make sure that you have enough money to take care of your honeymoon, as the honeymoon is as important as the wedding itself. You can also think of other ways to secure your honeymoon in Bahamas by choosing to take a Bahamas holiday trip instead of the traditional gifts such as the household items. In keeping with the trends there are many websites that have come up with a provision of registering for a holiday instead of the usual gifts.

You can choose from several destinations, resorts, hotels, and vacation options, which are available at Bahamas. Your honeymoon can be tailor-made according to your requirement. You can either choose an option on the Internet that takes account of your budget and expectations or you can even ask your travel agent to do so. Use the planning time for the honeymoon to its best by escaping from any of the perils and pressures regarding the wedding.

It's a good idea to go in for an all inclusive resort for your Bahamian holiday that includes food and activity costs with the room fees. Most of these resorts are very reasonably priced and provide immense opportunities to enjoy all aspects of the fun and sun of the islands. They are ideal for newly married couples because they allow you the freedom from cost constraints.

A more traditional approach to the budget friendly honeymooning in the Bahamas is a cruise. There are a variety of luxury cruise companies that have a number of destinations in the Bahamas and other islands in the Caribbean. If you think cruises are just for retirees looking sun—think again! Cruises these days are filled with young, vibrant couples, stunning nightlife, and exquisite cuisine.

Bahamas wins hands down as the locale for a destination wedding. There couldn't be a place more exotic than this for exchanging the heartfelt vows. This also gives you the perfect excuse to include your close ones in your holiday plans. Bahamas also scores with families having children, as the children love the sea and sand that Bahamas offers.

Whatever your reasons, choose the Bahamas for your honeymoon destination. This beautiful island destination is perfect for starting your new life together. Whether you choose to lounge on the beach, explore the island's native creatures, or participate in any of the numerous activities, begin planning your Bahamian holiday today!

Treena Soc runs a very interesting website at The Unique Bahamas, there's a wealth of knowledge on the website, plus their free newsletter is well worth signing up for too. If you want to read more articles on the Bahamas go to: Click here to get your own unique version of this article.

Bahamas Holiday - Bliss and Bohemia

Posted by Wealth Group | 3:03 AM | 0 comments »

For all those of you who are on a lookout for that picture perfect backdrop to your honeymoon, Bahamas is just the right answer. Bask in the glory of sun or enjoy the beauty of the sun while walking on the soft white sands in Bahamas. The beauty of Bahamas is sure going to leave you enchanted.

While planning your wedding you should give equal importance to the planning of your honeymoon as well. If you don't, you might have to resort to the traditional holiday and spend more than your budget permits. After the stressful events of the wedding you are likely to feel exhausted, annoyed and tense. A honeymoon should be a relaxing holiday for the two of you when you can leave all the problems behind and focus on your new relationship.

Make sure that you have enough money to take care of your honeymoon, as the honeymoon is as important as the wedding itself. You can also think of other ways to secure your honeymoon in Bahamas by choosing to take a Bahamas holiday trip instead of the traditional gifts such as the household items. In keeping with the trends there are many websites that have come up with a provision of registering for a holiday instead of the usual gifts.

Once you make up your mind on going to the Bahamas for your honeymoon, you will find various destinations, resorts, hotels, and vacation options to choose from. You can explore these options on the World Wide Web or consult your local travel agent to find the best vacation for you and is within your budget. Planning your wedding and honeymoon together can reduce the pressures and stresses of wedding planning to a great extent.

Many couples choose to take advantage of all inclusive resorts for their Bahamian holiday. These resorts are excellent ways to enjoy all aspects of the fun and sun of the islands while on a thrifty budget. All inclusive resorts include food and activity costs with the tradition room fees. Couples especially love these all inclusive resorts since they do not have to worry with keeping up the costs of food and sticking to their pre set budgets.

A more traditional approach to the budget friendly honeymooning in the Bahamas is a cruise. There are a variety of luxury cruise companies that have a number of destinations in the Bahamas and other islands in the Caribbean. If you think cruises are just for retirees looking sun—think again! Cruises these days are filled with young, vibrant couples, stunning nightlife, and exquisite cuisine.

If you and your spouse want a destination wedding, look no further than the Bahamas! The lovely destinations allow a perfect backdrop for heartfelt vows. A destination wedding is also an excellent way to include your loved ones in your holiday plans. Furthermore, many individuals with children choose the Bahamas as their destination of choice, as kids love the white sand and glorious sun.

All in all, the Bahamas is a great choice for your honeymoon destination. It's the best way to start your new life together. This beautiful island will open out to you as you relax on the beach, or indulge in the numerous activities. However, make sure you plan your Bahamian holiday properly.

Treena Soc is the chief writer for, and editor of The Unique Bahamas, it's one of the webs most up to date Bahamas sites, why not sign up for the free Bahamas newsletter. Read many more interesting articles on the Bahamas at: Don't reprint the same version as everyone else. Get your own unique content bahamas article here.

Dream Honeymoon in the Bahamas

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The most exhilarating way to start your married life is to go to the Bahamas for your honeymoon. You can taste bliss as you sip frosty drinks on a soft sand beach. After the hectic activity of an exciting wedding you will find a new meaning of relaxation on a Bahamian holiday. There's no better way to start the new phase of your life than enjoying the fun, sun, and each other.

Many couples fail to properly plan their honeymoon or scratch the traditional holiday due to budgetary concerns. This is an unfortunate move, as the stressful events revolving around weddings often leave individuals tired, cross, and stressed out. A honeymoon provides a special, relaxing holiday for you and your new spouse where you can forget about any issues or problems and focus on your new relationship.

Make sure that you have enough money to take care of your honeymoon, as the honeymoon is as important as the wedding itself. You can also think of other ways to secure your honeymoon in Bahamas by choosing to take a Bahamas holiday trip instead of the traditional gifts such as the household items. In keeping with the trends there are many websites that have come up with a provision of registering for a holiday instead of the usual gifts.

Once you make up your mind on going to the Bahamas for your honeymoon, you will find various destinations, resorts, hotels, and vacation options to choose from. You can explore these options on the World Wide Web or consult your local travel agent to find the best vacation for you and is within your budget. Planning your wedding and honeymoon together can reduce the pressures and stresses of wedding planning to a great extent.

Many couples choose to take advantage of all inclusive resorts for their Bahamian holiday. These resorts are excellent ways to enjoy all aspects of the fun and sun of the islands while on a thrifty budget. All inclusive resorts include food and activity costs with the tradition room fees. Couples especially love these all inclusive resorts since they do not have to worry with keeping up the costs of food and sticking to their pre set budgets.

You can also enjoy your honeymoon on a cruise to Bahamas. And if you think that cruise is meant for the old and not so happening, you need to take a reality check as the cruise liners these days are bustling with vibrant and vivacious people. Not just this, but also the cruise liners boast of hip and happening night life, sumptuous cuisine and a gamut of entertainment options.

The Bahamas are also the favorite location for destination weddings. The breathtaking beauty of these destinations provides a romantic aura to the ceremony. If you plan a destination wedding you can include your loved ones in your holiday plans. And, if there are children, you have more reasons to think of the Bahamas as kids have great fun on the white sand in warm weather.

The wildlife exotica, the marvelous sand beaches, the warmth of the sun and ample activities to choose from - this is the stuff that a trip to Bahamas is made up of. The exotica that this place is home to are reason enough to make it your honeymoon destination.

Treena Soc runs a very interesting website at The Unique Bahamas, visit there today for the latest Bahamas advice, and while you're there sign up for the free newsletter. If you want to read more articles on the Bahamas go to: This article is available as a unique content article with free reprint rights.

Island Honeymoons For Your Privacy

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After the joy [and stress] of a wedding, it is time to wind down with romance. Island honeymoons are the perfect choice for getting off on the right foot with married life.

Island Honeymoons For Your Privacy

When you envision your honeymoon, you might think of a beautiful beach, a perfect sunset – with just the two of you being alone, no interruptions. Unfortunately, many of the popular honeymoon destinations don't allow for this sort of intimacy because there are so many other couples looking to do the same thing. Big resort chains and popularity can make for a less than quiet honeymoon, but there is an alternative. Island honeymoons can be a perfect way to spend time together without having to worry about being interrupted or feeling like you are one of the herd.

One of the best areas in the world to find an island where you can be alone is the South Pacific. There are plenty of islands that cater to newlyweds, but do so on a much more personal basis. Privacy is the key to your honeymoon and nearly all of these honeymoon options cater to just that subject. You will not find yourself sharing walls with others or sitting on a deck with a couple hundred other…well, couples.

One such resort is the Yasawa Island Resort in Fiji. This resort, whose name Yasawa means "heaven" in Fijian, is a perfect place for your secluded honeymoon. There are 11 white sand beaches on the island of Yasawa and the resort only has 16 luxury bures (beach bungalows) on the property. That is practically one bungalow per beach! The Lomalagi Bure was specially designed for honeymooners with plenty of privacy, a secluded outdoor eating area and beach at your door front. You can enjoy such activities as scuba diving and other water sports, as well as having relaxing massages, all while not being afraid of running into crowds. Food here is typical Fiji – with many different light dishes and seafood being the typical dinner menu.

Another of the world's greatest island honeymoon spots is Guana Island in the Caribbean. Part of the British Virgin Islands, this small island contains accommodations for just 36 guests and has seven different beaches. If you really want seclusion, however, this island can be just what you're looking for because you can rent the entire island. Rates are steep, starting at $16,500 per day for the entire island, but it is surely one honeymoon you will never forget. For mere mortals, Guana Island still offers seclusion at a much lower price because of the small number of guests allowed at one time. Couples stay in their own private cottages. Accommodations include three meals a day, as well as massages and other amenities.

Island honeymoons are perfect for the couple who has a bit more money to spend and really wants to be alone. If you really want alone time and are willing to pay extra for it, spending time in one of these exotic island resorts can be just the honeymoon you are looking for.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Winter Honeymoon Ideas

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Given the heat of summer, more and more people are turning to winter weddings. This makes winter honeymoons a subject you need to give some consideration to when doing your planning.

Winter Honeymoon Ideas

When you picture your honeymoon, you might think of tropical islands and ocean breezes. How about just a beachside resort or some other warm weather retreat? While these are all good ideas, not everyone one gets married in the summer or is interested in lounging on the sand. So, what is a couple to do who is getting hitched in December and would rather have adventure than pure relaxation? Here are some ideas that are sure to please your more adventurous side.

One idea that is the ski resort honeymoon. Whether you love to ski or just want to learn how, these resorts can be a perfect mix of romance and outdoor activity. One such resort is the Mont Tremblant Ski Resort in Quebec, Canada. This resort was voted one of the best ski bargains in North America, but it definitely doesn't have a bargain feel. Mont Tremblant is a ski resort town with quaint shops and many restaurants lining the small streets of downtown. If you want to stay in the most romantic and luxurious spot in town, the Fairmont Tremblant is a five star hotel with a spa, fantastic cuisine and bars and entertainment for your nighttime pleasure.

Another ski resort that makes it into the list is the Heavenly Valley Ski Resort in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. This resort has gondolas that travel up 9,100 feet – a perfect height to spend some alone time with your new spouse. Also available at the resort are soaks in natural hot springs, skiing (of course!) and romantic sleigh rides. This resort offers such amenities as a picnic up at 9,000 feet and a hot air balloon ride that you will never forget as you look over the snow capped peaks. The gaming tables of Lake Tahoe are close at hand if you want to try your luck at gambling. If you really enjoy trying lady luck, most of the casinos have hotels offering honeymoon packages. If you prefer a more secluded honeymoon experience, there are plenty of condos and homes for rent on a short-term basis in the area.

Most newlyweds want their honeymoon to be a knockout. If you fall in this category, there is no better destination than Switzerland. Well, if you can afford it. Prices are expensive, but a week in Interlaken is the stuff of movies. Located between the lakes of Breinz and Thun, this is a small city that feels like a Swiss village. You can stay in private Swiss chalets, eat fondue and take romantic walks under the snow capped mountains that tower over the area.

If you are considering an off-season wedding, you need to give some thought about your honeymoon. Now you have.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Go Exotic – Honeymoons In Vietnam

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Vietnam is a term that carries a certain connotation in American culture given the Vietnam War. Given this fact, you might be surprised to learn many honeymoon there.

Go Exotic – Honeymoons In Vietnam

Vietnam is a country of beauty where mountains, green rice paddies and blue rivers make up a beautiful and exotic local. This Indochinese country is a perfect destination for travelers that want to have a different sort of honeymoon trip from the typical Caribbean island getaways or cruises.

Vietnam is the most populous of the Southeast Asian countries with over 85 million people calling this country home. In the mid 19th century, France colonized Vietnam adding a touch of their culture to the already rich heritage of this country. During World War II, Japanese forces invaded Vietnam and France lost its hold on the country. The Vietnam War during the 1970's brought strife to the country as well as other nations around the world. Unbeknown to most Americans, the United States has resumed positive relations with Vietnam as of 1994. For adventurous couples, this has made Vietnam a hot honeymoon destination.

An example of the various Vietnam honeymoon options starts in Vietnam's capital city of Hanoi. Here, tourists can see Ho Chi Minh's home and grave, as well as many pagodas, cultural sites and museums. Continuing on into the Tonkenese Alps, newlyweds get a glimpse of the area that was once a destination resort for French ambassadors and is now the home of some of Vietnam's ethnic minorities. Other highlights of a tour of Vietnam include stops at local markets, such as in Sa Pa, and the thousands of limestone islands located in Ha Long Bay. If you just want to lie around all day, this is the spot.

The highlight of your trip may be the time spent in Ho Chi Minh City, a large metropolis within the country. Here, you can take a look at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, the various cafés and shopping areas as well as some French colonial items, which include the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Old Saigon Post Office. You'll also see the Mekong Delta, which is Vietnam's largest rice producing area and delta region, where the famous Unicorn Island is located.

While on your trip to Vietnam, you will be sure to feel the romance and mystery of observing a different land and culture than you are used to. Tours of Vietnam are priced affordably at around $1500 per person for a 14 day tour with meals and stay included.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Honeymoons in Exotic Indochina

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Getting married should be the single most amazing event in your life. Following it up with a trip to Indochina can cap of the event with a honeymoon you will never, ever forget.

Honeymoons in Exotic Indochina

Indochina is a term used to describe a portion of Southeast Asia that includes Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. This area is a vacationer's paradise with its breathtaking beauty, interesting culture and luxurious resorts. Indochina honeymoons are a great way to see this unique part of the world. What better way to share your first vacation together than in an exotic and foreign locale?

Indochina is so named because of the influences brought to the area by China (as seen in Vietnam) and India (as seen in Laos and Cambodia). Most of the residents of this area are Buddhists in their religious practices, although each of the countries having their own language and culture. Indochina honeymoons are an excellent way to experience the similarities and unique aspects of each country.

Vietnam is a country of rice paddies and mountains with many temples and natural wonders to be seen. Vietnam offers sandy beaches and areas with a private deserted feel – perfect for couples who would like to be alone. Bamboo huts welcome visitors with the promise of a unique stay, and locals add a blend of charm and mystery to the area.

Cambodia offers its own unique culture with a capital city that is heavily influenced by the earlier colonial rule of the French. A city devastated during the reign of the Khmer Rouge, Phnom Penh has come back so quickly it is hard to imagine the city was actually deserted for three years. A few hours outside of the city by boat lays Siem Riep and the amazing Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is to Cambodia what the pyramids are to Egypt. Frankly, Angkor Wat is much more impressive if you can believe it. Farther to the south you will find the pristine beaches of Cambodia on the Gulf of Thailand. Sihanoukville is a sleepy little beach town where you can roast in the sun during the day and watch lightning storms over the gulf at night. Although the country is on the rebound, keep in mind there is a certain Wild, Wild West feel to Cambodia. For those looking for the exotic, this is the place.

Finally, no trips to Indochina would be complete without seeing Laos. This country is one of the Southeast Asian area's least developed countries, and also one of the most beautiful. Here, untouched lands allow people to explore the natural scenery and hike the unspoiled trails that grace the area. Laos is still a functional communist country, but the communism practiced is very relaxed. For excitement, you can take river boat cruises, which are akin to sitting in a canoe and going fifty miles an hour over the water. Laos is also the home to many Buddhist sanctuaries. If Buddhism is your thing, welcome to nirvana.

Indochina offers newlyweds the chance to start off life together with a trip they will never forget. Prices run in the $3,000 range depending upon the time and luxury you desire. Once in the area, local prices are incredibly cheap given a currency crises that occurred in 1998. You can literally shop till you drop for fine silk, art and practically anything.

Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

Located in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a hidden gem for those willing to try something new. One of the best ways to experience the culture is to attend one of the many Malaysian holiday celebrations.

Malaysian Holidays For Your Travel Itinerary

Malaysia is a beautiful country made up of 13 federated states located in Southeast Asia. Originally British colonies, Malaysia is now a multicultural and multilingual country with aspects of everyday life drawn from native Malay and British customs. The official language spoken here is Bahasa Malaysia, although Chinese residing in the country speak their own dialects of the Chinese language, and other languages are spoken sporadically as well.

The capital of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur, and the country's population, spread out among the various states, is about 25 million. Most of the country is Islamic with anyone claiming to be of Malay decent (about 65% of the country) being Muslim. Other religions are also tolerated with Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism and Christianity also found in Malaysia. Many of the most interesting celebrations in this country, however, are the Muslim holidays. Visiting the country during these periods can be a great experience.

One celebration in Malaysia that shouldn't be missed is the Moon Cake Festival. Ironically, it is a Chinese holiday made popular by the thousands of Chinese immigrants in residence here. This holiday, which takes place in August, September or October (there are no set dates for Muslim holidays, as they follow calculations from a lunar calendar) was started in the Mongolian dynasty of China. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth moon, and it is held to celebrate the end of the harvest season. The celebration is also associated with paper lanterns. The Moon Cake Festival is celebrated with mooncakes, which are round and about the size of your palm. Flavors range from black bean paste to lotus paste to yellow bean paste, and they are traditionally given to elders to foster better relations.

Another holiday in Malaysia worth experiencing is the Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which is a Muslim holiday where you can meet the King and Queen of Malaysia personally. The line for this privilege can stretch for miles outside the palace in Kuala Lumpur, but is worth the wait. After all, how many opportunities do you get to meet a king? During this holiday, Muslims practice an "open house" where anyone can drop by whether you know the hosts or not and share a feast. The Hari Raya Aidilfitri is one of the most festive of Muslim holidays, occurring after the fasting month of Ramadan.

Witnessing a country wide holiday in Malaysia is an experience not to be missed! Contrary to what you may see in the media, people are generally very friendly.

Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - makers of travel journals for preserving your experience on trips. Visit us to read more adventure travel articles.

So you are planning to throw a party for your Childs birthday, now you need to work out how you plan to entertain them.

From my own experience I have learnt that for most children between the ages of two and ten an inflatable bouncing house or moon jump is a fantastic party idea!

For those of you that don't know what they are or have never come across this concept I will explain. An inflatable bouncing house is a large inflatable structure generally with an area for bouncing on. In the UK they are called bouncy castles, they are so called because the first bouncing houses in the UK were actually shaped like castles with turrets and towers. Nowadays the shapes and designs are very varied, you can find bouncing houses with inflatable slides attached to them, or with other inflatable structures inside for climbing on.

The artwork themes of bouncing houses can really thrill a child who is fanatical about a television character, as you can find many units with specific themes.

The great thing about having a bouncing house at your party is that while you are busy preparing food and decorating your home, the rental company will come and erect the structure for you, so all you need to do is switch the electric plug on and you are ready to go.

No need to worry about party games as once the children get on the bouncer you will have a hard job getting them off!

At the end of the party the rental company will come back and take the structure away.

Rental rates for bouncing houses are not very expensive, but when you are selecting a rental company there are a couple of things to find out first.

Make sure that the units they use are clean and regularly maintained, and ask whether they have insurance. It is likely that you will be asked to sign a responsibility waiver, which basically states that you will be responsible for the safe use of the children using the bouncing house.

Moon jumps and bounce houses are not just for the enjoyment of children either, you can rent them for adult parties too. Now there's an idea!

Lucy Bartlett is a proud contributing author. Find more articles here. For more info visit Bouncing Houses or Moon Jumps

Beach Ready Beauty with Honey

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Whether you’ll be bronzing at the beach, pool-side or in the back yard, it’s time to make sure your skin is ready for ultimate summer exposure.

Before putting on those summer tanks and sandals, take a moment to slough away winter’s effect on your skin and rejuvenate with one of nature’s favorite beauty secrets - honey.

For centuries, pure honey has been used as part of a healthy skincare regimen. From Cleopatra to Jennifer Lopez, well-known beauties have used honey as part of their regular beauty treatments. Pure honey acts as a natural humectant, anti-irritant and exfoliator to give skin a sweet, youthful glow.

Christopher Watt, owner of Christopher Watt Esthetics in West Hollywood, Calif. and skin care expert to celebrity A-listers, including Halle Berry and Ricky Martin, uses pure honey in most of his skin and beauty treatments.

“I recommend using 100 percent pure honey as part of your regular beauty routine,” said Watt. “With summer rapidly approaching, now is a great time to experience honey’s natural moisturizing properties. Honey is an inexpensive way to get spa-like results.”

Watt teamed up with the National Honey Board to create easy honey-based skin treatments you can make at home. He recommends using honey at least twice a week to soften and exfoliate the skin.

Not only will honey keep your skin smooth, but it is also a great way to keep your lips healthy. Honey’s naturally occurring enzymes, vitamins and nutrients are absorbed by your lips leaving them kissable and soft.

From the Sweethearts’ Chocolate Honey Scrub to the Aloha Honey Hawaiian Delight facial, these homemade skin treatments will leave you wanting to shed those winter sweaters and show some skin!

RECIPES:

Sweethearts' Chocolate Honey Scrub, courtesy of Christopher Watt

Makes 2 treatments

Ingredients:

2 cups honey

1/2 cup grapeseed oil

6 tablespoons unsweetened chocolate, grated

2 cups kosher salt

Directions:

In rubber mixing bowl, combine honey and grapeseed oil. Stir in chocolate and salt mixing completely. Consistency should be grainy and thick. Apply scrub to skin and gently massage all over the body. Remove with warm damp towels or rinse in shower.

Beauty Benefits: Increases circulation and helps rid body of toxins. Honey provides a moisturizing effect as well as fights damaging free radicals.

Aloha Honey Hawaiian Delight, courtesy of Christopher Watt

Makes 2 treatments

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons green tea

1/2 ripe papaya

1/2 cup fresh pineapple, diced

2 tablespoons honey

Directions:

Steep green tea in boiling water. Set aside to cool. Peel papaya wedge and remove seeds. In blender or food processor, blend papaya and pineapple until pureed. Pour into glass bowl and combine honey and green tea. Mix well. Apply to face with fan brush or finger tips. Recline and rest for 10 – 15 minutes. Remove completely with tepid water and soft facial cloth. Store in covered container in refrigerator for up to one week.

Beauty Benefits: Exfoliates, hydrates and rejuvenates.

Honey-Kissed Lip Balm, courtesy of the National Honey Board

Makes 1-1/2 cups

Ingredients:

1 cup sweet almond oil (Found at natural food stores)

1/2 cup beeswax (Can be purchased at craft and beekeeping stores)

2 Tablespoons honey

Directions:

Place almond oil and beeswax in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute or until mixture melts. Whisk honey into beeswax mixture; stir well. Set aside to cool completely. When cool, pour into small containers with lids. Apply to lips as a moisturizer or on top of lipstick for extra shine. Makes about 1-1/2 cups.

Beauty Benefits: Moisturizes and exfoliates lips.

For additional beauty tips and recipes using pure honey, visit - ARA

When they get back from the honeymoon, most couples end up stashing their wedding mementoes away in boxes, but not Linda McAleer of Plainfield, Ill. “My wedding was such a wonderful experience, I want to relive it every day,” she says.

She and her husband, Rick, got married on a boat as it sailed down the Intracoastal Waterway off Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Memories of that magical day are forever captured in a shadowbox hanging near the McAleer’s front entryway. It features a picture of the couple on their wedding day, their invitation, napkins and matchbooks (which all had a nautical theme) and some of the shells they collected during their honeymoon.

“It’s a wonderful piece,” says McAleer. “Our framer did a great job capturing the fun we had that day.”

According to Sturdy Waterman, owner of the Page Waterman Gallery in Wellesley, Mass., more and more people are turning to custom shadowboxes as a way to preserve their memories. “When you put memorabilia in a shadowbox, it ensures you’ll get to enjoy it everyday. Not just when someone decides to pull a box out of the attic,” he says.

Among the most popular ways Waterman says shadowboxes are being used to preserve wedding memories:

* Display photographs from the wedding

* Preserve pressed flowers from bridal bouquets and garter belts

* Display memorabilia such as photographs, invitations, napkins, champagne glasses, etc.

“With shadowboxes, it’s important to remember you’re not only putting your memories on display, your preserving them for posterity,” says Waterman, “which is why once we complete a piece, we always recommend our clients pay a little extra to have them framed behind TruVue Conservation Glass.”

Conservation Glass offers UV protection – filtering out 98 percent of UV light rays. Waterman points out that if you also want anti-reflective properties and a reduction in glare, you can upgrade to Museum Quality Glass.

“I tell all of my customers they’ll enjoy the piece more if it’s framed behind quality Glass,” says Waterman. “The colors will be richer, and they’ll never have to worry about yellowing or fading.”

Knowing she’d be able to preserve her memories for an eternity is what sold McAleer on Museum Glass when she had her shadowbox made. “I’m so glad we did it,” she says. “The memorabilia inside looks as good as it did the day we got married.”

Tru Vue Conservation Series glass is available at custom framing shops across the country. To find the dealer nearest you, log on to

EDITOR’S NOTE: Tru Vue, Conservation Series and Museum Glass are registered trademarks of Tru Vue, Inc. McCook, Ill. - ARA

Cruise Ship Honeymoons

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

Each year, thousands of couples make the decision to get married. If you are planning on becoming one of those individuals, then it is likely that you and your new spouse will plan a honeymoon. When it comes to selecting a honeymoon destination, you have a number of options to choose from.

Honeymoons are often thought of as vacations. In a way, the only difference between a family vacation and a honeymoon is romance and the lack of children. Honeymoons are supposed to a fun, exciting, memorable, but private time. Instead of vacationing with the whole family, a honeymoon often only involves the bride and groom.

As previously mentioned, you have a number of different options when it comes to planning your honeymoon. Many newlyweds schedule their honeymoons at popular beaches, ski resorts, or other secluded areas. Did you know that you can also have a honeymoon aboard a cruise ship? Cruise ships are increasing in popularity, but still many individuals do not consider them as a vacation option.

One of the reasons why cruise ships are rarely thought about when selecting a vacation destination, let alone a honeymoon, is because of their cost. It is no secret that cruise ship tickets are expensive, but this cost should not prevent you from having the perfect honeymoon to go along with the wedding of your dreams. If you are concerned with the cost, you may want to try obtaining discount cruise ship tickets.

Most discount cruise ship tickets can easily be found online or with the assistance of a travel agent. Discount cruise ship tickets are nice, but they are often hard to come by. Discount cruise tickets are sought after by many newlyweds and other vacationers. If by chance you do come across discounted tickets, you are urged to purchase them while you still have the chance.

Even if you must pay full price for the cruise of your dreams, it is likely that you will still receive a good deal. Despite the large cost of tickets, it is important to examine the activities available onboard and the length of the cruise. The longer the cruise and the more services available, the more expensive tickets are likely to be. If you take the time to figure out all the services that are included and the cost of overnight accommodations, you may see that cruises aren't all that expensive after all.

Once you have made the decision to spend your honeymoon aboard a cruise ship, you will have to book reservations. As mentioned above, if you are looking to save money on your honeymoon, you are encouraged to search for discounted cruise ship tickets. If money is not an option, you may want to search for cruise ships that have romantic settings and romantic destinations.

When examining cruise ship destinations, you may want to take into consideration the possibility for romance at each destination. Since your honeymoon is supposed to be a romantic and relaxing time, you will want to select an environment that will keep those feelings alive. Cruise ship destinations are located all around the world. Popular destinations include Alaska, Hawaii, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Mexico. To find the perfect honeymoon cruise, you are encouraged to select a cruise that offers stops at destinations of your choice.

In addition to taking cruise ship destinations into consideration, you are also encouraged to examine the type of cruise that you wish to set sail on. Multiple cruise lines have ships that are targeted to specific groups of individuals. These cruises often include cruises for adventure lovers, the whole family, or couples. As a couple, you should be welcome on any cruise. If you are looking for a private, romantic, and intimate setting, you may want to avoided cruises that are targeted for family vacations.

Before booking your honeymoon trip on a particular cruise ship, you are urged to examine want you want and need out of your trip. Doing so will enable you to select the perfect cruise ship for you and your new spouse.

Burt Cotton

Honeymoon In Vegas (DVD) Review

Posted by Wealth Group | 3:03 AM | 0 comments »

One romantic comedy often overlooked by fans of cinema is Honeymoon In Vegas, a light-hearted, feel-good movie about two lovers overwhelmed by the temptations of Las Vegas. A relatively early film in the careers of both Nicholas Cage and Sarah Jessica Parker, Honeymoon In Vegas should have been early indicator to audiences everywhere that these two would become Hollywood mainstays. Along with celebrated industry veteran James Caan (who plays a surprisingly similar role on the present TV show Las Vegas), the three combine to create an interesting, if not extremely hilarious, storyline which adds a new twist to the traditional conflict of the love triangle.

Jack Singer (Nicholas Cage) is forever haunted by a deathbed promise he made to his mother, giving his word that he would never get married. But the promise threatens to end his relationship with long-time girlfriend and true love Betsy (Sarah Jessica Parker). So Jack proposes and the couple decides to race off to Las Vegas and get married. However, their trip to Vegas is soon interrupted when Jack is set up in a poker game by professional gambler Tommy Korman (James Caan).

With a single hand of poker, Jack loses $65,000 to Korman who promises to forgive the debt in exchange for a single weekend with his fiancée Betsy. Initially outraged at the setup, Jack sees the proposed solution as a way out of the debt, so he convinces Betsy to go along with the idea. But Jack soon becomes horribly jealous and changes his mind. When he goes to find Betsy, he's forced to fight against Korman and his minions who have arranged to keep Jack away permanently. Now, Jack must get to Betsy any way he can and tell her how much he loves her before Korman convinces her she's marrying the wrong man, and that the right man is no other than Korman himself.

One of James Caan's best performances, the character of Tommy Korman comes off as a somewhat likeable guy even though he plays the role of antagonist to our hero. The best characters are those that are multi-dimensional, and the director creates a great environment which allows the various cast members to act out the emotions of their characters. Put together, these diverse characters interact in exciting and interesting ways, making Honeymoon In Vegas a fun and enjoyable film.

Featuring several Hollywood icons, Honeymoon In Vegas is a character-driven romantic comedy capable of holding its own with any film in its genre. Although it never experienced the widespread commercial success of some of its contemporaries, the film nevertheless maintains a high level of entertainment value. If you haven't seen Honeymoon In Vegas, then I highly recommend it. It's worth the time. Due to its exotic settings and a well-written screenplay, Honeymoon In Vegas is a definite must-see movie.

Britt Gillette is author of a DVD review blog where you can find more reviews like this one of the Honeymoon In Vegas.

How To Choose An Air Cleaner

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Nowadays, it can be confusing to the average consumer on how to choose an air cleaner. With the myriad of new air cleaner technology and the wide variety of brands available, no wonder it can be a challenge to choose a good air cleaner. Here are some tips to assist you in picking an air cleaner

The CADR Level

CADR stands for clean air delivery rate. It is usually represented by numbers. Technically speaking, the higher the number, the better the air cleaner as it indicate the filtration rate is high. On any air cleaner, you should be able to see three numbers which indicate the volume of processed air for each of the three most common contaminants, namely, pollen, dust and smoke.

The MERV Rating

MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value. The MERV rating gives a rough indication of the efficiency of the air filter. It is represented in numbers and usually the higher the number, the better. The MERV rating is a common standard used by most air cleaner manufacturers, therefore you can use this rating to gauge the efficiency of an air cleaner. Generally speaking, you should aim for an air cleaner with a MERV rating of between 6 to 12. By the way, the MERV rating scale is from 1 to 16.

Original Equipment Air Filters

One of the consumable items you need to replace often is the air filter. Some manufacturers decided to produce cheap, generic air filters and other replacement parts for air cleaners. You need to decide if you want to replace your air filter with generic air filters or get one from the original manufacturer. Obviously, air filters from the original equipment manufacturer is more expensive but bear in mind it is of higher quality and also using generic air filter can affect the efficiency of your air cleaner in the long run.

For replacement parts, I would highly recommend getting them from the original manufacturer since they are of higher quality and usually has a guarantee after repair. Using generic replacement parts can damage your air cleaner in the long run.

If the cost is a big concern for you, then it might be better to go with a cheaper air cleaner. However, you would want to get the air filters and any replacement parts from the original manufacturer. Doing so will prolong the longevity of your air cleaner and save you more money in the long run.

Ricky Lim highly recommend using air cleaners. For more information on the best air purifiers, visit his site

The stars are both in Hollywood and the firmament. Both types of stars, from a distance, look exotic, beautiful and perfect. The idea of a film actor being a "star" is connected to the fact that they are someone so famous that their name and image instantly connects with and attracts the public. Like the stars that are celestial bodies, they light up the darkness—the film star does so in a darkened movie theatre, while the stars above are the constant lights in the eternally black night sky.

Everyday—on television, in print media, across the Internet—we see images of perfect Hollywood bodies. Halle Berry, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, and Denzel Washington are just a few of those people who have set the standard to which many of us believe we should aspire.

Of course, part of the business of being a film celebrity is creating the right look, style and image. Film is a visual medium and half of the battle for a star is looking like that perfect image that we all have of them. It's their bread and butter and when a movie star starts to age, put on weight or lose their hair, they no longer fit the mold that they've created and inhabited for years. Often, their livelihood is thought to be in doubt.

But for most of us, looking like a million bucks is not a primary concern. It usually won't affect our job status, and as our bodies change most of us don't have millions of fans that we're frightened of alienating. But many people dream of looking glamorous, beautiful, iridescent—as perfect as they can.

Here are five things that you can do to give yourself the star treatment without spending a celebrity's salary.

1) Cubic Zirconia Jewelry: Remember Marilyn Monroe (talk about a star!) when she sang Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes? Well, Cubic Zirconia is a girl's best-kept secret. Cubic Zirconia jewelry looks like an expensive, brilliant, faultless piece but carries a fraction of the cost. Tasteful and elegant, they'll give you that star look you long for, while never giving away your thrifty secret. These manufactured stones look precious in their beautiful settings. Wear them with confidence and grace.

2) Tasteful Clothing: Trendy garb can be fun to wear and, in a way, there's nothing wrong with it. But consider what most of the beautiful people wear. Sure, there's always a trendsetter, but most celebs wouldn't be caught dead in something that looks bad on them, no matter how popular the style may be. Also, you're bound to go broke keeping up with fads. Invest in clothing that, first, compliments your frame; don't go for the latest fashion if it doesn't make you look good or runs counter to who you really are. The cut, line and form should conform to your frame, making you look your best. You need to define the clothes you wear as much as they define you.

3) Pamper Yourself: Treat yourself to a new set of nails, cleansing facial and therapeutic massage. You can get the full treatment for under $200. Some places offer group rates, allowing you to save money, while you share the experience with a few of your best friends. You can even make it a full-day and night experience. Indulge yourself at the spa, do some shopping and go to dinner. Individually, you'll all look and feel fantastic, and together you can admire and praise one another.

4) Hey, knock it off! When you see those stars make their way down the red carpet wearing designer attire and accessories, you're thinking, "Hey, if I had their money, I'd look awesome too!" Take some time to shop around. You can find clothing and accessories that look identical to Hollywood fashions but for a small percentage of the cost of the designer originals. Knock-offs are inspired by the look, style and feel of master designers but are made from less expensive materials, show fewer details and are not as carefully crafted. You can even find beautiful recreations of the star's diamonds in Cubic Zirconia jewelry. To the naked eye, it's tough to discern the real thing from the fake. Simply, fake it!

5) Break a leg! When someone says, "break a leg," to an actor, they don't mean literally. It's a way to wish a performer good luck without saying the dread words "good luck." (It's bad luck to say "good luck" to an actor.) But the idea of "breaking your leg" as an actor relates to the performer being relaxed and confident. (The "broken leg" occurs when an actor bends his leg at the knee, making the break and revealing himself to be calm and self-assured.) The thought being that you can't act without being sure of yourself. One of the things that makes a Hollywood celebrity a star is the confidence they exude. They look good because they are poised and secure in everything they do. So break a leg in real life. Carry yourself with energy, focus and assurance. If you look good and radiate positive energy, you'll feel good and make others feel the same way.

The bottom line for those aspiring to celestial heights is that they want to make themselves feel special, like those elite on the big screen, in the magazines and on television. One thing to keep in mind—all of those "stars" have many private moments when they look nothing like that perfect image they portray to the public. The only place people always look perfect is in the movies.

Written by Lara Elise Barker sponsored by The Cubic Zirconia Store who provides "Luxury for Less" with Cubic Zirconia Jewelry: . Please link to this site when using this article.

A honeymoon is supposed to be the celebration of a couple's new life together, but Lynn and Steven Curran's honeymoon was more like an episode of "When Animals Attack."

The newlyweds from Chester, Md., had enough close encounters with wild critters to fill the storylines of several "nature run amok" movies. Because of their beast-plagued honeymoon, the couple recently won the grand prize in Thrifty Car Rental's 10th annual Honeymoon Disasters Contest.

Things started off mundanely enough for the Currans on their trip to Cancun, Mexico: They got the usual sunburns. That's when the couple decided that a moonlit swim in the ocean might be the perfect antidote for their lobster-red skin.

"No one was looking," said Lynn, "so off went the bathing suits." As the skinny-dippers frolicked in the water, it wasn't long before they realized they had company. Soon, the couple found themselves wrapped in the loving arms of a large jellyfish.

"We ran out of the water screaming," said Lynn, "which told everybody on the beach, 'Hey, look at the idiots running naked on the beach!'"

The day trip to the zoo was not much better. Swimming through a cavern, the newlyweds took a wrong turn and missed the "closed for repairs" sign. That's when they found themselves in a pool of algae, surrounded by

alligators.

"One swam right past me," said Lynn. "We had to climb up a 30-foot ladder to get out of the water, and we were covered in goo." That night, the couple ate dinner and went to bed without speaking to each other.

The next morning, when Steven woke up with a bad case of Montezuma's revenge, Lynn was forced to go snorkeling alone. A first-time snorkeler, she was entranced by the beauty of the underwater landscape. Then, from out of nowhere, she encountered a barracuda and the boat's drivers had to rescue her from her new swimming companion.

Lynn played it safe by swimming in the hotel pool the following day. When she snuck up on her husband to goose him on the backside, however, she soon realized that it wasn't Steven: It was another man wearing identical swimming trunks. The couple later decided to cancel a scuba trip when they found out Steven's "double" would be accompanying them.

"The only thing we did from that point on was sit around and eat," said Lynn. "I gained 10 pounds in one week and came home with a lot to talk about."

For surviving their postnuptial trauma and winning the grand prize in the Honeymoon Disasters Contest, the Currans will receive roundtrip airfare to a destination of their choice in the continental United States, three nights' hotel accommodations, a four-day car rental from Thrifty Car Rental and $500 in spending money.

To enter next year's contest online or to read about other

honeymoon disasters, visit or - NU

Couple's Honeymoon Goes Up in Flames

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Honeymoons are supposed to be a time of romance and moonlit walks, but not for Jeff and Rhonda West of Bessemer City, N.C.

Their honeymoon in Myrtle Beach, S.C., was downright criminal - stolen right out from under them, in fact - which is why they were recently awarded the grand prize in Thrifty Car Rental's "Honeymoon Disasters Contest."

Headed for the hotel in Jeff's mint-condition 1968 Camaro RS, they lost a hubcap. After chasing it down, they resumed their journey until they heard a loud "thud."

Jeff, still dressed in his tuxedo, got out of the car to survey a blown-out back tire when the car, along with his new wife, started rolling down the hill. He had forgotten to put the car in "park."

"I could hear my beautiful bride screaming at the top of her lungs," said Jeff. "Then I started chasing the car until it came to rest in a bunch of bushes. By now my wife is in tears, wondering what's going to happen next."

After changing the tire and double-checking the hubcap, the newlyweds were off again.

"We finally get to our hotel, only to find out that it had caught on fire the day before and was completely shut down," said Jeff. "This almost pushed my new wife completely over the edge - sitting in a parking lot at three o'clock in the morning on our wedding night without a place to bed down for the night."

So the couple started driving from hotel to hotel, trying to find one with rooms available.

"While we are stopped at this one little hotel/motel outside the city limits, my bride comes in with me," said Jeff. "When we find out they don't have any place to stay and head back out to our car - it's gone! Someone had just stolen our car."

Taking pity upon them, the hotel finally found room at the inn, and the newlyweds slept until 2 p.m. "Then we got up, got dressed and went back home," said Jeff.

Thrifty Car Rental is remedying the Wests' situation by awarding them a second honeymoon. They will receive roundtrip airfare to a destination of their choice in the continental U.S., hotel accommodations for three nights, a four-day car rental and $500 in spending money.

Where does the couple plan to go next?

"Rhonda would like to go to Vegas, if the trip is real," said Jeff jokingly, as his wife of 16 years still doesn't believe they have really won the contest. "Vegas would be the perfect place to renew our vows. So 'Viva Las Vegas' it will be!"

To read more Honeymoon Disasters Contest stories, visit - NU

Once I was surfing through the web and found a very interesting article about all popular superstitions that deal with hair. One of them especially sparked my interest. The author said that, despite of common belief, in no way possible can moon influence hair growth, because it simply cannot be, and that all this is granny's tales.

Well, of course, many of the scientists may lead you into long and dull calculations about how this influences that, and whether this influence is generally possible. But let's look closer at this concept.

When I was at the high school, my teacher of physics showed us simple formula how one physical body influences other physical body. Of course, she was speaking about the planets and really huge bodies. But I can give you three reasons why this law is true for all existing physical bodies, no matter how small, tiny, or minuscule they are.

Reason #1: Everything in the World Is Interconnected

General science speaks that every part of the Universe is guided by some laws of existence, and that world is divided into parts that we see and that we can't see. Moreover, every one of us knows that something small creates big.

In other words, all of us are made of particles that we can't see, and the big world is made of small things the same way.

Now let's think about this: if everything is guided by laws, and big world and small one are interconnected, then this leads to a conclusion that we are connected to the world, too and influenced by the general laws of its existence.

Reason one is proved.

Reason #2: Big Influences Small

Returning to my sweet teacher of physics, let's look closer at the laws of the mutual influence.

Who said that we are not influenced by the planet, OR planets? For example, there are weather sensitive people, whose state of health depends on sunny or rainy weather and atmospheric pressure. People are small and the planet is huge, planet influences people, big influences small.

So, why does something that is generally and physically possible seem so impossible to the self-oriented humans?

Let's assume reason two is proved, too.

Reason #3: Stars Are Not Simply Dots in the Sky

This reason is my final argument for those who know that world goes round, but are not likely to believe it.

There is an astronomy and astrology. Each of these sciences deals with stars. One predicts the future, second studies movements of the planets. First science isn't regarded by some of us as a science at all, second uses so many gadgets and technical devices, that almost all of us believe it. Of course, tabloid horoscopes do not add faith in the truthfulness of the predictions.

But do you know that ancient Arabs made long and complicated calculations that were written in separate huge books to get the right future forecast for the single person? These calculations usually took several weeks to finish; they required not only the exact date of your birth, but also exact day, hour, minute, even second of birth of your parents, some of the relatives, even strangers.

Moreover, they took into account positions of the planets, the Sun, the Moon, the Earth itself. And these positions were calculated in the same way as they are calculated now by modern scientists, who use fast computers and latest gadgets.

So, as you see, once astrology was rather exact, complicated and demanding science that was later abused and misled.

Now we read horoscopes just for fun, and don't know their true history and nature. To say more, astronomy takes its origin from the astrology, because first star charts and observations were brought from Arabian countries.

But I won't say that stars influence our future. What I really want to say is that stars influence our health and state of mood by the magnetic and physical interconnection with the Earth, which, in its turn, influences us directly.

So, even if you do not believe that stars influence you, they do influence every part of the world you live in, and these parts, in their turn, have a certain impact on you.

Reason three is proved.

When it comes to the growth or fading of the Moon and its influence on hair growth, the existence of such is explained by firm and solid law of nature.

The Moon and the Earth are bound by the mutual attraction. High and low tides of the Ocean exist because the Moon approaches and moves away from the Earth in a six-hour cycle. The growth-fading lunar cycle has eight stages, and this cycle influences the Earth in the same way as the six-hour cycle does.

Moreover, the Moon rotates around its axis, as well as around the Earth, along oval orbit, so there are points when the Moon is closer to the Earth and when the Moon is further from the Earth. It all moves us into complicated eight-staged ellipse lunar cycle.

Lunar cycle leads to the minor changes in the atmospheric pressure and the power of the Earth gravity. In its turn this affects animal and human health and behavior. For example, doctors report an increase in epileptic seizures and bleeding ulcers at the time of the full moon.

Gravity is one of the Earth's strongest forces, so you can't ignore the Moon.

If we now think more about certain similarities between natural world and human organism, we will see that plants and herbs grow better or worse according to the lunar cycle. Moreover, it is a common practice when coffee trader view chart of the winter full moon to plan their coffee sales. The connection between the full moon and plant growth is so well established that it affects investment patterns.

Hair growth is affected by the Moon in the same way, as anything else on the planet. When the gravity changes, state of your health changes, too. With the lower gravity, even if the change is so small that you don't feel it, your hair grows slower. It happens in the beginning of the moon cycle and in the middle, on the full moon.

During the new moon and the old moon, the gravity is bigger, and the hair grows faster. Thus, the perfect time for visiting your stylist is on the 3-11th days of the moon cycle, as well as on17-24th days. Your hair will grow faster during these days.

Even if you do not believe all of the said, you can't deny the influence of gravity on human organism. Thus, there really are certain connections and influences of the Moon on the hair growth.

There are only few reminding to those who expect miracles:

• Changes in Earth's gravity are very small, so you shouldn't expect fantastic results.

• If your stylist has a "heavy" hand and your hair doesn't grow back in two weeks after hair cut, you shouldn't expect a miraculous hair growth, too.

• If your hair is in unhealthy condition, it will use any opportunity to revive itself first, and only then it will grow longer.

• My last reminding is that if you used to have short haircut, and now you've decided to grow your hair long, it will take time, doesn't matter when you cut your hair, and who cuts it. Our hair grows only up to 5-7 mm per month, and this is a proven scientific fact.

So, whether or not you believe that the Moon and hair growth are connected, you would agree that as long as you live on the planet, you will feel, consciously or subconsciously, all changes and influences made by our planet and its counterparts.

Mary Anne Lionel is the hair care consultant of http://SeduHairS who helps people with hair problems to discover new ways of revealing their hair health. Visit Mary Anne's web log at

Getting married constitutes the end of your single life and beginning of a new personal adventure. To get things started right, you have a huge choice of destinations for romance.

Destinations for Romance on Your Honeymoon

If you've decided on the wedding date, location and even theme, you might be wondering what's next. Why, you've got to plan the honeymoon, of course! Choosing a place to spend your first days as man and wife can be just as important as planning the wedding and even more fun

Combine the words Hawaii and honeymoon, and you get romance in the language of love. Millions of people from the United States and other countries flock here each year for honeymoons. The islands of Hawaii - which include the Big Island (Hawaii), Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Oahu and Kauai – are the perfect location for your dream honeymoon. The smaller islands of Lanai and Kauai are especially so and less crowded than the more popular islands of Oahu and Maui.

One excellent choice for your Hawaiian honeymoon stay is the Hanalei Bay Resort, located in Princeville, Kauai. This resort offers suites and regular rooms, with either breathtaking ocean views or beautiful mountain vistas. Golf courses surround the resort, and nestled within the property are two waterfalls. You can even have your wedding here as well, if you'd like to have a destination wedding!

Another location that oozes romance is the Caribbean. This area of the world offers many different resorts and islands to choose from, but they're all infused with the exotic feel of the tropical climate, as well as the warmth and charm of an island getaway. One great place is the Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort in Nassau, Bahamas. This all-inclusive resort offers the best spa in the Caribbean according to Condé Nast Traveler magazine, and is known as the Caribbean's most elegant resort. A honeymoon here means you don't have to carry cash or pay extra for anything, and a wedding ceremony is even included in the price of your stay! (There is a seven night minimum stay for the free wedding.)

There are many honeymoon spots to choose from when it comes to romance, and it would be impossible to highlight them all. Just remember that when choosing a location, it's important that you find the place romantic and relaxing. Don't book your honeymoon somewhere on the advice of anyone else, be sure to select a resort that's right for the two of you - it's your trip.

Richard Rspad is with ResortSpaD - spa resorts.

Exotic Honeymoons Off The Beaten Path

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Mention a honeymoon location, and images of exotic islands and white beaches come to mind. This all true, but you want that something special and exotic to cap off your wedding.

Exotic Honeymoons Off The Beaten Path

Planning your honeymoon is a fun and exciting time. Choosing where to go, however, can be a bit tricky. There are so many wonderful and enjoyable places throughout the world that can be the site of your first vacation as a married couple - so how do you pick? If you're looking for a trip that's a bit out of the ordinary and different from where everyone else goes, why not choose something exotic?

The best place to find exotic honeymoons is in the region east of Australia and New Zealand, which includes the islands of Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, Cook Island and Hawaii. While many people choose Hawaii for their honeymoon, if you select one of these destinations, you'll be sure to have a jaw dropping experience you will never forget. Yep, you will be leaving the confines of the United States for a place a bit more exotic.

Fiji is a great place to start when looking into honeymoons in this region. There are many secluded islands here, where small private resorts offer getaways that cater to just a few couples at a time. Private beaches offer the ultimate in seclusion, and some of the beaches can even be closed off just for you! One such small resort is the Navutu Stars Resort, located on Yasawa Islands in Fiji. This adults-only resort is perfect for those who want a luxurious boutique-hotel feel, while being on an exotic, secluded island. With only nine bungalows (or bures) available for stays at this resort, you'll get personalized service and you won't have to deal with crowds. Seven of the bures are on the beach, only 20 meters from the water, and they offer king size beds along with island décor. These small hut-style bungalows are a perfect romantic retreat for newlyweds.

If you prefer a different slice of paradise in the region, look no further than the island of Tahiti. Here, you can choose to stay in a full-featured hotel or small bungalow, depending on your taste and budget. One resort that has both styles of accommodation to choose from is the Bora Bora Nui Resort, located in French Polynesia (the Tahitian Islands). This island paradise, set on a private island on the tip of a lagoon, offers beautiful water views, spa retreats and snorkeling with views of tropical fish. This is a personal favorite and highly recommended!

If you are looking for a different sort of island trip with the luxury you want on a vacation as well as the seclusion you need on a honeymoon, you can't go wrong with any of the areas mentioned above. Choosing one will be sure to create a memory that you'll never forget, and introduce you to a place you'll want to revisit. When you get down to it, isn't that exactly what you want from your honeymoon?

Richard Rspad is with ResortSpaD - spa resorts.

Honeymooning In the State of Maine

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

Getting married is truly one of the momentous moments in your life unless you are Liz Taylor! Honeymooning in Maine should be the icing on your momentous occasion.

Honeymooning In the State of Maine

Maine's slogan is "Vacationland", and once you have been there you'll see why. This beautiful New England state offers miles of picturesque shoreline, quaint fishing towns and gorgeous lighthouses. Beautiful in the summer when the beaches are warm and inviting, or in the fall when the trees change color, honeymooning in Maine can be a romantic and unique way to usher in your new life.

Choosing Maine for your honeymoon can be a great alternative to the usual tropical honeymoon spots. If you prefer hiking to sunbathing, and fresh air, clean water and lobster to tropical drinks, Maine is a great choice for your romantic trip. Bar Harbor, Maine, is one town that's known for its inviting atmosphere and great accommodations. Bar Harbor is an island, and it's located in "Downeast" Maine, surrounded by the breathtaking views of Acadia National Park. This township is 45 square miles large, giving you plenty of room to explore the beauty of Maine while not feeling overly crowded (the population of Bar Harbor is only 4500!). Easily reachable by car, Bar Harbor is isolated enough to feel like a relaxing spot, but close enough to cities such as Bangor (50 miles away) that flying into the area is easy.

One Bar Harbor destination that's perfect for honeymooning is Clefstone Manor. Built in 1884 and located on "Millionaire's Row", this mansion is one of only a few that survived a devastating fire that took place in 1947. The honeymoon packages here include amenities such as a welcome gift basket and complimentary bottle of champagne, with a three night minimum stay.

Another spot in Bar Harbor that's perfect for honeymooning is the Bass Cottage Inn. Built in 1885 during the Golden Age of Bar Harbor, this inn offers 10 guest suites complete with whirlpool tubs and fireplaces. The "Honeymoon Sweet" package offers fresh flowers, complimentary champagne, king size beds and even a muffin basket packed with delicious baked goods to enjoy before breakfast, with a three night stay minimum (prices vary according to season).

If you'd prefer something a little different for your first trip as man and wife, honeymooning in Maine is a great choice. Explore the beauty of New England's coastline, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, and hike the mountains of Acadia National Park – all while staying in a town known for its hospitality and charm.

Richard Rspad is with ResortSpaD - honeymoon information.

Ferry Corsten biography

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Ferry Corsten was born on 4th December 1973 in Rotterdam City in The Netherlands.

After initially releasing records for the dutch hardcore gabba scene, Ferry became interested in house and trance and began to release uplifting tracks under various monikers. One of his earliest releases was a housey track called "The Show" - a collaboration with Peter Nijborn under the name Discodroids. Hiding on the b-side of this release was a track called "Interspace", an uplifting trancer that gives an idea of the direction Ferry's work was heading in. In fact, "Interspace" was re-released as a single in it's own right the following year.

Ferry released another slow-burner in 1997 - "Galaxia" under the name Moonman. Big chords, big breakdowns and big synth sounds all helped to make this a popular track for mix CD's at the time and helped to make his name as a producer. This track was another that was later re-released with some larger mixes in 2000.

In 1999 Ferry has his most prolific year to date, releasing trance smash after trance smash under numerous differnt names. In fact, in that year it was difficult to find a trance ompilation that didn't have at least 3 or 4 of his productions on it!

Tracks of particular note included "Out Of The Blue" by System F, "The World" by Pulp Victim and "I'm In Love" by Starparty.

He also had several fruitful collaborations that year, including productions with Tiesto under the name Gouryella ("Gouryella"), and Vincent De Moor under the name Veracocha (the huge "Carte Blanche").

Even with all these fantastic productions of his own, Ferry's largest track in 1999 was actually a remix. William Oribit had produced a version of Barber's Adagio For Strings (which was used in the film Platoon) and his record label asked Ferry to produce a remix of it. Ferry did so with some aplomb, producing an emotional trance monster with melancholy strings and uplifting synths weaving in and out of each other as the track progresses.

With such a prolific year it was not surprising that Ferry was named "Producer of the Year" at the Ericsson Muzik Award in London.

Ferry changed his style slightly when he finally began to release tracks under his real name - "Punk" is an electro-breaks track, although still containing his tradmark buids and drops.

Ferry is still producing tracks to this day, along with releasing mix series "Trance Nation" for the Ministry of Sound label and running his own Tsunami imprint.

Aliases: Gouryella, Veracocha, Vimana, Starparty, System F, Moonman, Albion, Pulp Victim, Discodroids

Rich Stone is a long time music lover and DJ.

He also runs Second Hand Vinyl, a site dedicated to getting classic dance records to the DJ's that need them most.

Your Honeymoon In Kauai

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Hawaii represents pure beauty and one of the most popular wedding destinations. Finding a Kauai honeymoon destination is an exercise in picking your favorite slice of paradise.

Your Honeymoon In Kauai

A honeymoon in Hawaii. Can anything be more romantic? Whether you enjoy soaking up the sun while sitting on the beach or hiking up flower covered mountains, Hawaii has activities for all to enjoy. Kauai, one of Hawaii's less inhabited islands, offers honeymooners a special secluded feel and romantic vibe. Finding the right place to stay can make your honeymoon the most memorable trip you'll ever take.

Kauai is by no means the largest in the chain of islands that makes up Hawaii. At just 550 square feet, this island has the most deserted shoreline – 45 percent of its beaches are untouched. Snorkeling and private beach time is abundant here, and three of Hawaii's top golf courses are on Kauai. This island is also home to many different rare species of birds and plants, making it a wilderness lover's paradise, and the coral reefs beckon those who want to explore underwater.

For places to stay, you have the choice of many top resorts and hotels. One such resort is the Poipu Kai Resort, located between Poipu Beach and Shipwreck Beach. This property offers rentals ranging from economy cottages to full size house rentals for extended or nightly stays. This type of resort is perfect for the honeymooner – as you needn't come into contact with anyone you don't want to! Hole up in your cottage, stroll down beautiful Poipu Beach or enjoy the other amenities this resort has to offer. Poipu Kai Resort has been awarded four stars by major hotel ratings systems.

If you prefer the feel of a bed and breakfast, the Poipu Plantation Resort in Koloa can offer you a great honeymoon suite. Called the Alii Suite, this room offers a four poster bed, ocean view and two person whirlpool bath tub among other romantic touches. A fireplace, wet bar and private lanai will make you feel as if you are in Hawaii's version of heaven. Breakfast is served to you each morning in the common room. Styled after rooms from the Victorian Hawaiian period, this suite is perfect for romance.

Finding the perfect place to stay in Kauai will make all the difference in your Hawaiian stay. Vacation cottages make the perfect choice for those who would like some seclusion and privacy, while the quaint feel of a bed and breakfast can also enhance the feeling of romance. Enjoy your first vacation together as man and wife, and explore all that the exquisite island of Kauai has to offer.

Richard Rspad is with ResortSpaD - reviews and articles on spa resorts.

If you want to be able to cook sweets without the negative health effects of refined sugar, honey is an excellent option. Among other reasons, honey is metabolized more slowly by your body, meaning that you are less likely to get a sugar "high" after eating something made with honey.

Honey can be challenging to cook with, though, for several reasons. So many people don't cook with it because they don't know how. But once you know how to use honey in your favorite kitchen creations, it's not hard at all to use.

The first challenge that honey presents is that it burns more easily that normal sugar. This problem is usually eliminated by doing your cooking or baking at a slightly lower heat.

The main hurdle to cooking with honey is that it is a liquid. Replacing sugar with honey will ruin some recipes if you don't make an allowance for the extra liquid that the honey adds.

Most muffins, simple quick breads, yeast breads, etc you can make the substitution without any adjustment. Cakes, cookies and some other recipes you should decrease the amount of liquid in the recipe to account for the honey.

Honey is also very easy to use in pies. Since they are already somewhat liquid, you can replace the sugar with honey. If the pie filling seems too runny, just add a little extra thickener before you pour it in your pie shell.

The flavor of honey can sometimes be an issue, but not usually. If you are making a recipe that you don't want the flavor to be noticeable, there are several things you can try. First of all, get the mildest flavored honey you can. Usually that will be a very pale clover honey. (The paler the honey, the sweeter and milder the flavor, in general.)

If necessary, you can use part honey, and part some other sweetener, such as apple juice concentrate, agave nectar, stevia, or even sugar if you have to.

For more information on honey and the Health Benefits Of Honey, visit

Your Health And Air Cleaners

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There are many benefits to using air cleaners. Nowadays air cleaners are quite affordable and every home should have one particularly if you live in large cities where the pollution levels are quite bad.

If you or your family members are suffering from allergies, an air cleaner is a necessity in your home. The reason being an air cleaner can help to remove allergens in the air by filtering and recycling the air thereby reducing the possibility of allergy attacks.

If you are suffering from asthma or sinus problems, an air cleaner will really help you. An air cleaner will dramatically reduce the amount of dust and debris in the air. Other particles that irritate the lung are also removed thereby reducing the rate of asthma attacks. A doctor recommended this to me since he told me for asthmatic patients to reduce the chance of asthma attacks, I should get an air cleaner. Really, if you considered the small price you pay for an air cleaner versus your health, I think it is a worthwhile investment.

An air cleaner can also reduce the number of air-borne germs. It can used particularly useful for those with a weak immune system who are prone to illness and other diseases. For babies and young toddlers, it is equally useful since their immune system is not developed fully yet.

There are various types of air cleaners available on the market these days that do not cost a lot of money. Some air cleaners require you to replace the air filter periodically. The newer models of air cleaners use what's known as an ionic system. An ionic system does not need to replace the air filter but instead by regularly washing the air filter similar to your air-conditioner. In my opinion, an ionic air cleaner is a better choice since you can save a bit of money in buying replacement air filters.

Air cleaners are well worth your investment if you consider your health or your family health is more important than anything. An air cleaner can cut down the chances of a allergy attack or an asthma attack. If you are living in an urban city, chances are the air is a lot more polluted than you think. I got a shock when I saw how dirty the air filter was after a period of time. More than anything, I have cut down the number of times I visit the doctor for my asthma. So what are you waiting for? Go get yourself an air cleaner today.

Ricky Lim highly recommend using air cleaners. For more information on the best air purifiers, visit his site

Picking the Perfect Honeymoon Destination

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Now that you are about to be married, you are probably trying to figure out which of your many choices you should choose for a honeymoon trip. After all, you want everything to be perfect, so that you'll have a lifetime of marvelous memories.

Couples first must decide when to take their trip. For years it was tradition to leave right after the wedding. Couples are more practical today. Weddings are major events in many cases, so it's natural to expect a letdown once the excitement is over. Rather than going during the post- wedding blue period, more and more people opt for waiting a month or two. This gives them something to look forward to down the road a bit. Instead of leaving on their big adventure, they often go away for the week- end together right after the wedding. Think of it as a "mini-moon".

As you begin planning the honeymoon you first step is to determine how long you want your honeymoon to last. If you only have a short vacation, you may want to eliminate destinations such as Europe or Asia. Because of jetlag, many people need a couple days to become acclimated to the time change. If you lose a few days to jet-lag you may feel as if your trip is over before it's even begun. For short vacations of a week, the Caribbean is one of the most ideal vacation spots destinations. Many of the different islands offer fantastic package deals. These exclusive resorts offer a complete vacation package: food, drinks, entertainment, and a fabulous location, all for a very reasonable price. The Caribbean offers newlyweds a chance to bask in the warm sun and enjoy each other's company in a beautiful setting. The Caribbean is the ideal location winter honeymoons.

If your preferences run more towards skiing and snowboarding there are many great honeymoon destinations in North America. Consider some of the resort ski towns that offers a variety of outdoor activities. Banff, Alberta is just such a unique resort town in the middle of the Rockies. Banff is a offers visitors plenty to do - with skiing, snowboard and a town full of unique shops - it's a winter wonderland.

If you prefer not to travel far, find a cozy bed and breakfast near your home. Many offer spa packages, including massage and other pampering. A getaway such as this is a super way to relax and enjoy one another's company.

If you are lucky enough to have two or more weeks to go away on your honeymoon, there are so many fabulous destinations around the world the possibilities will seem endless. The South Pacific is a very popular area right now. They offer wonderful weather year-round and luxury resorts that will make you feel like royalty.

The many choices of honeymoon locations can make a person's head spin. It's important to decide what the priorities of you and your spouse-to-be are before arranging a honeymoon. Dreaming as you glance through travel brochures is almost as much fun as actually traveling to the destination! A careful selection will result in a lifetime of fond memories.

Holly Lawrence is the owner and operator of Full Honeymoon, the web's premier resource for information about Honeymoon. For more articles on Honeymoon visit: This and other unique honeymoon articles are availble from The Uber Article Directory - more than just a mere article repository.

Honeymooning

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There are so many choices available for the perfect honeymoon destination that it may to prospective newlyweds. You want this trip to be filled with happy, and loving memories that will last a lifetime. The wrong honeymoon destination could be a huge disappointment.

Couples first must decide when to take their trip. For years it was tradition to leave right after the wedding. Couples are more practical today. Weddings are major events in many cases, so it's natural to expect a letdown once the excitement is over. Rather than going during the post- wedding blue period, more and more people opt for waiting a month or two. This gives them something to look forward to down the road a bit. Instead of leaving on their big adventure, they often go away for the week- end together right after the wedding. Think of it as a "mini-moon".

As you begin planning the honeymoon you first step is to determine how long you want your honeymoon to last. If you only have a short vacation, you may want to eliminate destinations such as Europe or Asia. Because of jetlag, many people need a couple days to become acclimated to the time change. If you lose a few days to jet-lag you may feel as if your trip is over before it's even begun. For short vacations of a week, the Caribbean is one of the most ideal vacation spots destinations. Many of the different islands offer fantastic package deals. These exclusive resorts offer a complete vacation package: food, drinks, entertainment, and a fabulous location, all for a very reasonable price. The Caribbean offers newlyweds a chance to bask in the warm sun and enjoy each other's company in a beautiful setting. The Caribbean is the ideal location winter honeymoons.

If lying in the sun is not your idea of a good time, there are plenty of great honeymoon destinations in North America. Consider one of the many resort type towns that offer plenty of outdoor activities. Banff, Alberta is a unique resort town in the middle of the Rockies. If you ski or snowboard you and your sweetie will enjoy the fantastic hills in this area. Banff is a winter paradise, with plenty to do, and a town that is full of unique shops.

If you prefer not to travel far, find a cozy bed and breakfast near your home. Many offer spa packages, including massage and other pampering. A getaway such as this is a super way to relax and enjoy one another's company.

For those with an opportunity to enjoy two or more weeks away on a honeymoon, there is an almost endless choice of fabulous destinations around the world. The South Pacific is an increasingly popular honeymoon destination. With wonderful year-round weather, these luxury resorts treat you as if you were royalty.

With so many choices it is important to decide what is most important to you and your spouse-to-be before booking a honeymoon. Taking time to browse through travel brochures can be almost as much fun as actually travelling there! If you choose carefully you will be left with fond memories that will last you a lifetime.

Holly Lawrence is the owner and operator of Full Honeymoon, the #1 source on the internet for information about Honeymoon. For more articles on Honeymoon visit: Get your own completely unique content version of this article.

Securing moonlighting jobs as a computer consultant for small businesses is difficult because you're typically working when the small businesses are closed. You need the flexibility to carry out your moonlighting jobs during the evening and on weekends and many small businesses are not going to be comfortable with that arrangement. These business owners want to interact with their consultants on their time and prefer you to work around their schedule rather than vice versa.

A straightforward solution for securing small business moonlighting jobs as a computer consultant is to target businesses where there is a natural fit between your time frame and their schedule. Businesses that are open in the evenings like restaurants, health clubs and call centers are one source of moonlighting jobs. Others include businesses that run second or third shifts and even those that operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The problem with this method is that these clients are not necessarily ideal, full-time customers, unless, of course, you enjoy getting beeped at 2:00 in the morning. If this type of moonlighting job does not fit with the type of client you want to have fill up 90% of your client roster, then you need to work on your flexibility and make yourself available to small businesses on their terms.

Moonlighting Jobs and Job Flexibility

You want to build a solid base of 9-5 clients because once your moonlighting job phase is over, it is unlikely you will want to continue sacrificing your nights and weekends. This creates a bit of a Catch-22 as you are primarily available on evenings and weekends yet the clients you want to attract, want you to be available 9-5. This is where having job flexibility is absolutely critical.

You need to be able to use vacation days, personal days, and sick days to work with clients. Being able to take long lunches, go in late, and leave early are crucial to your ability to secure small business, 9-5 moonlighting jobs. You can accommodate a networking breakfast if you come in late to work and if you can get off work early then you can get started working with a client before the end of their business day and stay on into the early evening. To pull this off, your day-job has to have a significant amount of flexibility built in. If it doesn't, your ability to secure the type of moonlighting jobs you seek will be severely limited.

The Bottom Line on Moonlighting Jobs

Getting moonlighting jobs as a computer consultant for small businesses requires persistence and flexibility but the sacrifices you make now will pay-off later in terms of an excellent client base that you want to sustain as you transition to full-time computer consulting. This means a bit of a juggling act on your part but just until you are able to give yourself the 9-5 hours your clients are enjoying.

The topbar beehive is not a new concept. Historical reference to the top-bar hive date back to the 1600's. Most of today's top bar bee hives are derived from work in the 1960's. It was perfected for use in Kenya, Africa, and is often referred to as the Kenya Hive. Today it is also used in many other developing countries for it's simple design and cost effective management methods. In recent years it has also become more popular in the United States.

The traditional Langstroth beehive consists of several boxes (supers) and numerous other parts that are either difficult to build or expensive to buy. In addition to the beehive, the Langstroth hive requires many other pieces of equipment to harvest honey and manage your bees. Not so with the top bar hive as you can read below.

Simple and Maintenance-Free

The top bar hive has only a few components: the hive body (box), 20 to 30 top bars (frames), and a lid. That's all you will ever need. Compare that to your Langstroth hive. Bees build their own comb which eliminates the need for costly frames. The top bars are re-used after the harvest.

Non-Invasive Design

The top bar hive is healthier for bees. To check your bees, you will not have to take the whole thing apart. Hence, your bees will be less disturbed by your presence and checking of the comb.

Easy Harvest

To harvest your honey, you simply remove the bars with honeycomb. Unlike traditional methods, you won't have to take the hive apart and disturb the bees as much. Not only is the top bar hive less stressful to harvest for you, it also does not disturb the bees as much. In addition to honey, the top bar hive has more beeswax to harvest. You also do not need a honey extractor/centrifuge or uncapping knife which saves you thousands of dollars. Smoking is completely unnecessary and many top bar hive users do not wear protective clothing either. (For the beginner I do advise to use some kind of protection, gloves and veil as the minimum!) Once you remove the honey comb, the bees will go about their business as usual. Try that on a Langstroth hive.

Healthier Bees

The top bar hive is designed for the bees' optimal living conditions. This makes a colony much stronger and enables it to fight off pests and diseases on their own, much better than in a Langstroth hive. Besides healthier bees this will save you hundreds of dollars in medication as well as disappointment.

Why doesn't everyone use top bar hives?

The top bar hive is not designed for maximum honey production, although there have been reports otherwise. For the hobby beekeeper a few pounds less honey are well worth the ease of management. You will harvest more beeswax with a top bar hive though. Any hobbyist should have more of an interest in keeping healthy bees than in squeezing out a few more pounds of honey from a stressed, overworked colony. With just one top bar hive, you will still have more than enough honey for your whole family and friends.

More information about the top bar hive as well as pictures, construction plans, forum and sources to buy one can be found on PetiteP

Beekeeping For Pleasure

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Beekeeping for pleasure and profit is carried on by many thousands of people in all parts of the United States. As a rule, it is not the sole occupation. There are, however, many places where an experienced bee keeper can make a good living by devoting his entire time and attention to this line of work. It is usually unwise to undertake extensive beekeeping without considerable previous experience on a small scale, since there are so many minor details which go to make up success in the work. It is a good plan to begin on a small scale, make the bees pay for themselves and for all additional apparatus, as well as some profit, and gradually to increase as far as the local conditions or the desires of the individual permit.

Bee culture is the means of obtaining for human use a natural product which is abundant in almost all parts of the country, and which would be lost to us were it not for the honey bee. The annual production of honey and wax in the United States makes apiculture a profitable minor industry of the country. From its very nature it can never become one of the leading agricultural pursuits, but that there is abundant opportunity for its growth can not be doubted. Not only is the honey bee valuable as a producer, but it is also one of the most beneficial of insects in cross-pollinating the flowers of various economic plants.

Beekeeping is also extremely fascinating to the majority of people as a pastime, furnishing outdoor exercise as well as intimacy with an insect whose activity has been a subject of absorbing study from the earliest times. It has the advantage of being a recreation which pays its own way and often produces no mean profit.

It is a mistake, however, to paint only the bright side of the picture and leave it to the new bee keeper to discover that there is often another side. Where any financial profit is derived, beekeeping requires hard work and work at just the proper time, otherwise the surplus of honey may be diminished or lost. Few lines of work require more study to insure success. In years when the available nectar is limited, surplus honey is secured only by judicious manipulations, and it is only through considerable experience and often by expensive reverses that the bee keeper is able to manipulate properly to save his crop. Anyone can produce honey in seasons of plenty, but these do not come every year in most locations, and it takes a good bee keeper to make the most of poor years. When, even with the best of manipulations, the crop is a failure through lack of nectar, the bees must be fed to keep them from starvation.

The average annual honey yield per colony for the entire country, under good management, will probably be 25 to 30 pounds of comb honey or 40 to 50 pounds of extracted honey. The money return to be obtained from the crop depends entirely on the market and the method of selling the honey. If sold direct to the consumer, extracted honey brings from 10 to 20 cents per pound, and comb honey from 15 to 25 cents per section. If sold to dealers, the price varies from 6 to 10 cents for extracted honey and from 10 to 15 cents for comb honey. All of these estimates depend largely on the quality and neatness of the product. From the gross return must be deducted from 50 cents to $1 per colony for expenses other than labor, including foundation, sections, occasional new frames and hives, and other incidentals. This estimate of expense does not include the cost of new hives and other apparatus needed in providing for increase in the size of the apiary.

Above all it should be emphasized that the only way to make beekeeping a profitable business is to produce only a first-class article. We can not control what the bees bring to the hive to any great extent, but by proper manipulations we can get them to produce fancy comb honey, or if extracted honey is produced it can be carefully cared for and neatly packed to appeal to the fancy trade. Too many bee keepers, in fact, the majority, pay too little attention to making their goods attractive. They should recognize the fact that of two jars of honey, one in an ordinary fruit jar or tin can with a poorly printed label, and the other in a neat glass jar of artistic design with a pleasing, attractive label, the latter will bring double or more the extra cost of the better package. It is perhaps unfortunate, but nevertheless a fact, that honey sells largely on appearance, and a progressive bee keeper will appeal as strongly as possible to the eye of his customer.

For further informative articles about bees, beekeeping, and honey - please visit our website: The Health Benefits Of Honey

B&B Honeymoons - Top 10 Myths Put to Bed

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The number of couples choosing bed & breakfasts for their honeymoon is on the rise. Perhaps it's the high cost of gas and airline tickets forcing couples to consider celebrating their love closer to home or maybe it's simply that the word is out that B&Bs are travel's best kept secret. For those who never considered or who don't understand the intimate personalization of creating honeymoon memories at a bed & breakfast, BnBF a leading online puts to rest 10 common myths about honeymoon romance at B&Bs.

Myth #1: B&Bs Are Cheap And Second-Rate

Fact: While there are many values offered by bed and breakfasts that can make them an economical alternative to other accommodations, B&B guests find upscale amenities such as luxury linens, fresh flowers, fine china and gourmet candlelit breakfasts – amenities and special touches not found even at higher priced hotels.

Myth #2: Breakfast Is Family Style With Other Guests

Fact: Many bed and breakfasts have restaurant style seating so you and your sweetheart can have a romantic dining experience at a table of your own or breakfast in bed, usually without the expense of room service! At the Deerhill Inn (West Dover, VT), the Wine, Dine & Romance Package includes fresh flowers, champagne and chocolates waiting in your room upon your arrival, dinner for two and a full country breakfast served in bed the next morning.

Myth #3: Shared Bathrooms

Fact: A long believed myth about bed and breakfasts is that guests must share common bathrooms. It's time to uncover the truth! According to the Professional Association of Innkeepers International, 95% of inns include a private bath and many now offer private in-room Jacuzzis for two.

Myth #4: Bed And Breakfasts Are Only For Older Couples

Fact: In a recent poll, innkeepers reported the average age of honeymooners is between twenty and thirty. Inns across the country are welcoming honeymooners from recent high school graduates to great grandparents, so there is something for everyone!

Myth #5: Limited Privacy

Fact: Many bed and breakfasts maintain a quiet, romantic, mature atmosphere for their adult guests and often have policies prohibiting children. Innkeepers have also taken into account thin walls and squeaky staircases by soundproofing, remodeling and updating older homes.

Myth #6: Fattening, Unhealthy Breakfasts

Fact: Since breakfast is a highlight of most B&B stays, mention any special dietary preferences when booking an inn. Many inns are adjusting their portion sizes and now serve healthy dishes such as fruit, oatmeal, and low-fat or low-carb items. Enjoy the fact that you are eating a delicious breakfast that the chefs pride themselves in (innkeepers are usually happy to share their signature recipes with you to make at home).

Myth #7: B&Bs Are Just A Room – And Boring

Fact: On the contrary, many bed and breakfast inns provide activities for their guests, free of charge, or have deals with local vendors to offer guests discounted rates. Because of their size, bed and breakfasts are able to offer individualized activities and personal service. Depending on the time of year you plan to visit, there will be an array of things to do. Biking, skiing, golf, tennis and boating are just some activities that can be personally arranged by the inn.

Myth #8: Only Breakfast Is Served At A B&B

Fact: Don't let the name fool you! Even though they are called "bed and breakfasts" many inns offer lunch and dinner à la carte. For a romantic twist, ask the innkeeper to pack a picnic lunch for you to take on your day trip. The Inn at Thorn Hill (Jackson, NH) includes a picnic lunch with their Ultimate Relaxation Package (the package also includes spa treatments, breakfast in bed and more!)

Myth #9: Spa Services Are Not Available At Small Inns

Fact: Bed and breakfasts offer a multitude of additional services. For the ultimate honeymoon experience, inquire about spa services offered at many B&Bs. Some inns offer special pricing packages at local salons and others offer spa treatments onsite. The Barley Sheaf Farm Estate & Spa (Holicong, PA) offers a unique spa experience. The private in-suite treatment rooms offer guests the opportunity to experience the exceptional natural herbal spa treatments in the privacy of their own suite.

Myth #10: B&Bs Don't Offer Discount Pricing

Fact: Many bed and breakfasts offer special honeymoon packages. Celebrate your special occasion at the Brierley Hill Inn (Lexington, VA), where you can stay in one of their luxurious suites, each with whirlpool tub and fireplace. Their honeymoon package includes a chilled bottle of champagne (or sparkling cider), a delicious wine and cheese basket, as well as fresh flowers in your suite. Your breakfasts will be candle-lit, at anytime you choose with full silver service by the fireplace in the dining room.

From chocolate and roses to spa treatments, inns put together packages to entice every taste and personality. If it's gourmet food and wine, couples massage, and your own private suite in a stunning location that most appeals, there is a Bed and Breakfast inn that can fulfill your every desire. You and your sweetheart can decide together whether you want to get out for a horse drawn carriage or sleigh ride or just soak in a private in-room Jacuzzi tub then snuggle under the covers with milk and freshly baked cookies. You may want to frolic in the colorful leaves around in a historic Northeastern manor house in the fall, burrow in a cozy, secluded mountain inn in winter, go baroque in a frilly Victorian to celebrate spring, or venture to a beachside or waterfront inn for fun in the summer sun. Depending on your budget and time available, you may be delighted to discover a very special inn close to home offering you an affordable, but no less wonderful honeymoon escape.

B&Bs, often considered Travel's Best Kept Secret, can be found in directories such as BnBF Find your perfect honeymoon getaway using the BnBFinder Bed & Breakfast Advance Search, which features 26 search options. The personalized service you will receive when staying at a bed and breakfast is sure to make your honeymoon a memorable event that you will cherish forever.

And Bed and Breakfast Gift Certificates are the perfect gift to say "thank you" to parents for their help with the big day!

Allison DeCongelio is the Marketing Specialist for www.BnBF a bed & breakfast search directory that provides gift certificates and listings for thousands of B&Bs and Inns worldwide.

The Seychelles is a nation of islands in the Indian Ocean, about 1,000 miles east of the Kenya coast and northeast of the island of Madagascar.

This paradise consists of 115 islands, of which some 40 are granitic and remainder coralline. The major islands are Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue.

Here are our own picks for the best places to visit in the Seychelles Islands:

1. Morne Seychellois National Park (Mahe). Covering an area of 3,090 ha and boasting the highest peak in the Seychelles at 2,969 feet (905 m), Morne Seychellois, this national park offers good hiking and stunning scenery.

2. Beau Vallon Beach (Mahe). The most popular beach on Mahe about 3 miles northwest of Victoria. It is almost 2 miles long and has a white powdery sand and crystal clear turquoise water to swim in.

3. The Botanical Gardens (Mahe). This spectacular garden in a must for every nature lover. There are about 75 plant species native to the rain forest that are found nowhere else in the world, including the unique 'Coco de Mer' palms.

4. Anse Lazio beach (Praslin). One of the world's most exquisite beaches. It was voted "The best beach in the world" in 2004.

5. Vallee de Mai (Praslin). This nature park and UNESCO World Heritage Site has the vestiges of a natural palm forest preserved in almost its original state. It is most famous for its Coco de Mer palm tree.

6. Anse Source d'Argent beach (La Digue). With its fine white sands, exotic palms and majestic granite boulders this beach is one of the most photographed in the world.

7. Aldabra Atoll. Protected from human influence this is the largest atoll in the world and home to about 152,000 giant tortoises.

8. Bird Island. A privately owned island where millions of birds come to nest each year. The coral island is surrounded by beautiful pristine white beaches and offers good snorkelling possibilities.

9. Cousine Island. The island is a private nature reserve where thousands of seabirds nest throughout the year. Only 20 visitors are allowed on the island at one time.

10. Silhouette Island. Recommended for the nature loving hikers. Also a great place for swimming and snorkelling among the corral reef.

Obviously Seychelles has many more places that you shouldn't miss. There is always something interesting to see or do, no matter what the season! We are waiting for you there!

Visit Exotic Seychelles for more information and tips about this exotic destination. Be sure to stop by the site before visiting Seychelles.

The Best Bachelor Party Ideas

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

The tradition of the bachelor party may date as far back as the 1800s. The stereotype of a bachelor party is a last night of debauchery for the groom and his friends before the wedding but in more recent times soon to be grooms are looking to less traditional activities to mark their final days as bachelors. While there are still would be grooms, who opt to spend the last hours before their wedding partying with alcohol and female exotic dancers, many men are choosing a less traditional route such as camping trips, sporting events, daredevil activities and even co-ed bachelor parties that include the soon to be bride and her friends. These types of activities are much less likely to get the groom in trouble with his bride not to mention that they won't leave the groom feeling too sick to even remember his wedding day.

Camping is one alternative to the traditional bachelor party. You may choose to either rough it by backpacking to a location with only the gear on your back to help you survive the elements for a few days or you could choose to drive to a spa facility that offers well appointed cabins and five star gourmet meals. Whichever option you choose, you are bound to have a great deal of time relaxing and enjoying the company of the rest of the participants in your bachelor party. A camping trip offers the groom a quiet atmosphere to reflect with his friends on the journey he is about to take.

Sporting events are another great alternative to the usual bachelor party ideas. You may find that married life does not offer you as much free time to spend with your friends as you used to have so take this chance to enjoy a little bit of fun with your friends. Whether you choose to partake in a sport of your choice or purchase tickets to see your favorite professional athletes it is sure to be a great opportunity to bond with your male friends in the last few days before your wedding. It is wise to try choosing a sport that all of your guests will be able to participate in especially if you plan to include very young or very old guests. In this situation playing a game of football may not be the best idea but taking everyone to play a round of golf might be an activity that all of the guest can enjoy.

Still another activity that translates well into a bachelor party idea is getting a group of friends together to try an adrenaline pumping, activity geared for thrill seekers such as sky diving or white water rafting. The exhilaration gained from these activities coupled with the fear factor makes them a perfect activity for bonding with your friends. These daredevil activities will cause you and your friends to bond during the excitement leading up to the event as well as the thrill of accomplishing a new activity. While these types of activities are great for male bonding, it is important to remember that they are risky activities and there is the danger that you might be hurt during these activities. If this is your bachelor party idea of choice you might want to consider holding your bachelor party well in advance of your wedding to avoid last minute injuries that delay the wedding.

Co-ed bachelor parties that coincide with the bachelorette party are becoming increasingly popular as well. One common practice involving these adjunct parties is to have the bachelors and bachelorettes meet at separate restaurants for dinner and then join each other at a nightclub to cap off the night with some dancing and a few drinks. These types of parties can be a great deal of fun because they allow both the bride and the groom some time apart to spend time with their friends and then they reunite the couple at the end of the night in a chance for them to spend time with all of their friends without the pomp and circumstance that is likely to accompany their wedding reception.

The debauchery of stereotypical bachelor parties is not the only way to enjoy a fun-filled bachelor party that gives you the opportunity to bond with your friends. Camping trips, sporting activities, extreme adventures and even co-ed bachelor parties are redefining the traditional bachelor party. These bachelor party ideas not only serve to keep the groom out of trouble but also offer the opportunity to enjoy a new adventure.

Masni Rizal Mansor provide tips and review on casual wedding dresses and beach wedding invitation.

Your honeymoon vacation would be wonderful on a cruise. You can even get married on some of the cruise lines. On one cruise vacation we were on, there was a couple that got married on land at the point of embarkation and then had the reception on the ship. Another time, it was funny when we were on the Grand Princess in the Casino, and in walked a bride in full bridal regalia.

We took our honeymoon vacation on a cruise which was fabulous. Ask your travel agent about cruise ships that leave on a Sunday or Monday if your wedding is on a Saturday. By taking a Sunday cruise for your honeymoon vacation you have 24 hours to make it to your ship and you won't have added stress on your wedding day. There couldn't be a better way to have a honeymoon. You can even set up through your Travel Agent a bridal registry which will enable your wedding guests to pre-pay for spa packages or champagne. It's a perfect gift to give to newlyweds who are frazzled after planning their wedding.

Cruise Tip for the Bride: You may want to book the cruise in your maiden name. All travel documents must match your ID. You will not have had time to change your passport or drivers license to your new name and Security is very strict since September 11th. So keep it simple, book the cruise in the brides maiden name and it is one less thing you have to worry about your honeymoon vacation.

On Princess Cruise Lines the following ships, Caribbean, Coral, Diamond, Grand, Golden, Island, and Star Princess, can web cam your wedding ceremony to love ones at home.

Any special occasion qualifies for a cruise, birthdays, honeymoon vacations, anniversaries, or family reunions. On the newer ships that have wedding chapels there is a storage space for your wedding gown next to the main lounge. This is useful when you purchase a package to get married at one of the destinations like Bermuda or St. Thomas.

On one Cruise in Norway on Celebrity, we had spent the day touring and we were tired when we got back to the ship. We decided that we would stay in our Cabin and have room service. The dinner arrived on a rolling table with a white linen table cloth, china, silver and wine goblets and we ordered off the dinner menu from the main dining room. What a romantic night that was. I highly recommend that. We've also had our breakfast delivered to the room and set up on our private balcony. Wonderful!!

Christmas and New Year's are a great time to cruise although they are more expensive. The ships are beautifully decorated and the air is festive. You don't do any of the work. If you cruise at Thanksgiving, trust me here, there will be a lot of families and lots of kids. An inexpensive time to cruise is the week before Christmas or Thanksgiving; all cruise lines have deals at that time.

So pick your special occasion, be it a birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon vacation, whatever, call your travel agent and Set Sail!

Happy Cruising!

How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Dress

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Many brides begin dreaming about the perfect wedding dress long before they are even engaged. Choosing the perfect wedding dress is critical because it is the one day that all eyes will be on you. A dress that is beautiful without being too ostentatious and is also flattering to your figure will ensure that you are looking your best on your wedding day. With so many style, color and fabric options available, choosing the perfect wedding dress can be a difficult task but fortunately most brides simply know when they have found the perfect wedding dress. From the moment they put on the dress, their gut instinct tells them that this is the perfect wedding dress for them.

The most important piece of advice for shopping for the perfect wedding dress is to begin shopping for your dress at least six months before your wedding date. Finding the perfect dress can take quite a bit of time and once you find the dress, it may take up to four months for the dress to be ordered and shipped to the store. Then once the dress arrives in the store you may require several fittings to ensure that the dress fits you perfectly. You will want to take your time and enjoy shopping for your wedding dress so it is important to begin the process early so that you avoid feeling rushed and overwhelmed.

Another worthwhile piece of advice for finding the perfect wedding dress is to try on many different styles of dresses. Even though you may be convinced that you want a particular style you may find that the style that looks so appealing in magazines does not suit your body type. You may also find that a style that you would have never chosen can be flattering to your figure. For this reason it is important to try on a wide variety of styles before ruling out any particular style. The old saying, "you won't know unless you try it," holds true for wedding dresses. There have been countless brides who have found that their perfect wedding dress turned out to be significantly different from the one that they had pictured in their mind.

Although it may sound counterintuitive, the color of the wedding dress is an important consideration in choosing the perfect wedding dress. Many people think that the only acceptable color for a wedding dress is a pure white but if you are open to other options, you may find yourself in a wedding dress that is far more flattering to your skin tone than a pure white dress. Wedding dresses come in a multitude of colors including ivory, cream and even subtle beiges. If you are willing to consider these options it is important to try on dresses in these colors to see how they work with your complexion.

Choosing the perfect wedding dress sometimes requires reinforcements. Having a few trusted friends or family members come dress shopping with you can help you find the dress of your dreams. They can offer opinions on each dress that you try on and can also scour the countless racks of dresses available and choose dresses for you to try on. Many brides instantly know that they have chosen the perfect wedding dress the moment they put on the dress but having trusted friends and family members along can confirm this feeling. The moment you step out of the dressing room and reveal the dress you are wearing you may see instant confirmation that this is the perfect dress. The reactions of your assistants will indicate that you have found the perfect dress.

When you have found the perfect wedding dress, you will know it so now is also the time to buy the dress. Nothing is more important than your gut feeling and the reactions of your shopping partners so if you know you have the perfect dress in your hands, don't risk losing the dress by opting to think about it for a few days before you make your purchase. There is always the chance that the last available dress will be sold or that the company will discontinue the dress so do not allow yourself to miss out on buying the perfect wedding dress by not buying it the moment you realize it is the dress for you.

The wedding dress is a critical element in a wedding. It is what makes a bride truly stand out and it is important for the bride to ensure that she has chosen the perfect wedding dress. The minute a future bride steps into a wedding dress she will know instantly whether or not it is the perfect dress. It's important to trust this gut reaction and act accordingly in choosing the perfect wedding dress.

Masni Rizal Mansor provide tips and review on informal wedding dresses and unique wedding invitation.

How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Ring

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

The wedding ring is perhaps the single most important piece of jewelry that you will give to your spouse in your lifetime. It is important that you choose a timeless ring that will not become outdated or unstylish after a length of time. Men and women have different options available to them when choosing a wedding ring and it is not required that they choose matching rings. The couple traditionally picks out their rings together so there is no need for either the bride or groom to become unnecessarily stressed out about choosing the perfect wedding ring. Choosing the rings together takes a great deal of pressure off of the couple because they do not have to worry that their spouse may not like the ring that is expected to last for their entire lifetime.

The material of the ring is an important consideration for both men's and women's rings. The most common materials include gold, silver and platinum although the rings can be made of any material that the couple chooses. Gold is the most popular wedding ring material. Gold can be 14 karat gold, 18 karat gold and 24 karat gold. Of these three options 14 karat gold is the type that is most recommended for wedding rings. 14 karat gold is durable without sacrificing luster. 18 karat gold can also be used for wedding rings but because it is a softer metal it is more prone to scratches. 24 karat gold is even softer than 18 karat gold and many do not recommended creating rings out of 24 karat gold because it is so prone to scratches. Silver is another metal that can also be used in creating a wedding ring. Silver is a soft white metal that is very soft and therefore prone to scratching. Additionally it is also prone to tarnishing and discolorations but it is still a popular choice because of its relatively low cost. Platinum is a precious metal that is becoming increasingly popular as wedding ring material. Although platinum is considered too soft to be used in making rings, small amounts of ruthenium and iridium can be added to platinum to increase the hardness and result in a wedding ring that is extremely durable.

After choosing a metal for the wedding ring, it is time to consider the style of the ring. When it comes to style there are even more options available then there are for metals. Some of the basic wedding ring styles include flat bands, half-round bands and comfit bands. A flat band is one that is rectangular in cross section. These types of bands are also decorated with engravings. Half-round bands are the most traditional style available. These bands are flat on the underside or against the finger and have an arched structure on the top. Comfort-fit bands feature an oval cross section and they are heavier and more expensive than the other types of rings. If a bride intends to wear her wedding band with her engagement ring, she should consider choosing a wedding band style that matches her engagement ring so that neither one overpowers the other.

Once you have decided on a metal and style, it is time to choose whether or not to engrave your wedding ring. A good jeweler should be capable of engraving anything you want onto your ring including letters, numbers and symbols. Many couples choose to have their names or initial along with the wedding date engraved on the inside of the ring. This is not necessary though as the couple is not required to have the rings engraved. If the couple does opt for engraving though, they must realize that they can choose to engrave anything they wish on the rings. It could either be names and the wedding date or a phrase that has significant meaning to the couple.

The wedding ring is a very important piece of jewelry because it is meant to be worn for a lifetime. When choosing a wedding ring the material of the ring, the style of the ring and whether or not to include an engraved sentiment are just a few of the factors to consider. Shopping for a wedding ring can be a wonderful experience if the couple makes an effort to enjoy the experience instead of stressing about it.

Masni Rizal Mansor provide tips and review on discount wedding dresses and wedding shower invitation.

Home security is about protecting your family, and the most overlooked means of entry is sitting in your living room..your computer...this article discusses the Commission for the Online Protection of Children's recommended steps to keeping your children safe online..home security, system, alarm, camera

There are many steps we could take to protect our children from unsuitable materials we see in everyday life. We could hide the newspaper from them so that they won't see any articles or advertisements, throw away the television, trash the VCR, etc. Obviously, these are not the types of steps we want, nor should take. The Internet is a vast resource of good information for our children to use and to grow by. However, those sites and publishers of adult material know this also, and have a very powerful weapon at there disposal to use when the screws are tightened for them to clean up their act. That tool is the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.

The First Amendment, for those of you who have been out of 8th grade Civics class for a while, gives Americans the right of free speech. This amendment does not state that we have the right to free, and suitable, speech; the right to speech suitable to all Americans, the right of speech that does not include pornography. This is what the adult entertainment industry uses as their defense to all encroachments on their ability to market and sell their materials. Government has been effective in a couple areas of entertainment in at least providing consumers with information that content may not be suitable for children as in movie ratings and parental advisory stickers on music. However, this does not prevent young children from purchasing or viewing this type of material. It also does not provide recourse back to the seller for this material being available for use to children.

The COPC has reviewed how other industries handle this problem, and have incorporated these same processes into their recommendations. There is currently software available to consumers that may be installed on your computer to block specific content from the Internet. This software will also provide reports that show attempts made to access sites. Some software will also allow access to sites to the point where explicit material is accessed, kicking the user off the Internet when that area is reached. This process is effective to a point. That point is where it interferes with the ability for a young user to gain valuable and useful information on a topic the software may see as offensive, including research on breast cancer (breast is a "lockout" word), other forms of reproductive cancers, etc. This type of material we want our children to be able to access. The software does not make it easy to add/remove words such as this, so it becomes a complex issue. The recommendation has also been mad

©Walter Stone

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Planing For Your Perfect Wedding Day

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Everyone wants to have the perfect wedding but the perfect wedding never comes without one or two glitches along the way that need to be smoothed and ironed out. The important thing to remember is to stay calm, keep your cool, and stick with your plans. Ultimately it's the bride and groom's day and the choices that they've made should be honored above the choices of others.

It is important to chalk out your preferences, likes and dislikes before planning out the final details of your wedding. You would really have to be sure on what you want before you start making those final decisions that many times can't be reversed. Decide on these important 'must' have details with your fiance, talk about the budget with him/her and stick to the plans and decisions you take.

The first thing that you need to do is decide on the date of the wedding. If you're planning on being married in a church or other institution you'll need to make sure that there is an opening on that date, otherwise you'll have to pick an alternate date. It's a good idea to have more than one date for your wedding on your list so that you're not disappointed if the one date is already booked.

You'll need to plan your budget carefully. Use common sense when choosing some things for your wedding. Where possible think of ways where you can cut costs. For instance, if you want to hire a DJ to handle the music at your reception you might want to ask around to see if you know anyone who can do this for you at a low price.

Before making purchases for the wedding be ready with a list and the probable budget for each item in the list and while shopping stick to the list items and the budgeted costs. For different services/functions contact different vendors to be able to get best choice and price for that service.

Hiring a photographer is one of the biggest decisions in any wedding plan. Your wedding photos will capture your memories and be with you all of your lives. Visit several photographers and look at a number of sample photos. You may have some special pictures and you'll want to know before the wedding that this photographer can shoot them.

You need to decide how many people that you're going to invite to your wedding. Be realistic when you're counting heads. If your budget doesn't allow you to have a huge guest list you'll have to start making cutbacks and limiting those family members and friends that will be getting an invite.

After deciding on the head count you have to decide on the caterer that fits your budget. Do not decide on the caterer just on the basis of the cost factor, take also into account his reputation and services he is offering. Caterer cost also depends on the menu you want for the wedding party- so deciding on a good and reasonable menu is equally important.

With so many things to think about when it comes to planning your wedding it's easy to overlook something. Ask your bridesmaid or a member of your family to help you with the planning so that nothing is left out. Sometimes it helps to have an extra person to help you make some of the more confusing decisions, such as what type of music to play at the reception.

Even though it's a lot of work, be sure to have fun when you plan for your big day. After all it's one of the most special days you'll ever have.

Nicola Driscall is the chief writer for, and editor of For Weddings, visit there today for the latest Weddings advice, and why not sign up for the free Weddings newsletter. If you want to read more Weddings articles go to: You can get a unique content version of this article for your website or ezine.

Secrets Of Planning The Perfect Weddings

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

Everybody dreams of having a perfect wedding, but like all planned events even the wedding ceremonies generally have one or more glitches, which need to be smoothed. Ultimately one has to remember that the day is for and of the bride and groom and the planned choices that they've made should be honored above the choices of others. Most important thing is to remain calm and cool and stay with your plans.

Before planning your wedding it's important to know exactly what you want before you start making those final decisions that many times can't be reversed. Talk about what you want with your finance. You'll more than likely have a budget that you need to stick to so you'll have to decide what's important to you that you won't give up versus what you're willing to part with.

The first major decision to be taken is on the date of the wedding. If your plan is to get married in a church or any other institution then you have to be sure of the availability of the institution on that particular date, else you may have to go for an alternate date. Therefore it is important to have alternate dates so that you do not get overtly disappointed at non-availability of venue.

Next important planning is to be done on the budget. Plan the budget carefully and remain within your limits of finances and time. Where ever possible think of ways where you can cut costs. For example find out costs for different services with different vendors to be able to choose the best and most inexpensive alternative.

When you start buying the things that you need for your wedding use a list that includes all costs and items that you need and make sure that you stick to it. Contact merchants in your area that offer the services that you need and see if you can negotiate a better price. After all, it never hurts to try.

Hiring a photographer is one of the biggest decisions in any wedding plan. Your wedding photos will capture your memories and be with you all of your lives. Visit several photographers and look at a number of sample photos. You may have some special pictures and you'll want to know before the wedding that this photographer can shoot them.

You need to decide how many people that you're going to invite to your wedding. Be realistic when you're counting heads. If your budget doesn't allow you to have a huge guest list you'll have to start making cutbacks and limiting those family members and friends that will be getting an invite.

After you have your headcount, you'll need to find a caterer that you can afford and who will be able to prepare the foods that you plan to serve. Remember that there is more to choosing a caterer than cost alone.

So you have to decide on a number of things while planning for your wedding. And to be sure that you have taken care of all aspects get somebody - a friend or sister to help you with the planning. And it definitely pays to have some body help you decide on things like music for the reception, the decorations and the menu etc.

Even though it's a lot of work, be sure to have fun when you plan for your big day. After all it's one of the most special days you'll ever have.

Nicola Driscall is the chief writer for, and editor of For Weddings, there's a wealth of knowledge on the website, plus while you're there sign up for the free newsletter. Want to read more Weddings articles?, just go to: You can get a unique content version of this article for your website or ezine.

Steps to Keep Your Kids Safe - What Can and Can't Be Done

Home security is about protecting your family, and the most overlooked means of entry is sitting in your living room...your computer...this article discusses the Commission for the Online Protection of Children's recommended steps to keeping your children safe online... home security system, alarm, camera

There are many steps we could take to protect our children from unsuitable materials we see in everyday life. We could hide the newspaper from them so that they won't see any articles or advertisements, throw away the television, trash the VCR, etc. Obviously, these are not the types of steps we want, nor should take. The Internet is a vast resource of good information for our children to use and to grow by. However, those sites and publishers of adult material know this also, and have a very powerful weapon at there disposal to use when the screws are tightened for them to clean up their act. That tool is the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.

The First Amendment, for those of you who have been out of 8th grade Civics class for a while, gives Americans the right of free speech. This amendment does not state that we have the right to free, and suitable, speech; the right to speech suitable to all Americans, the right of speech that does not include pornography. This is what the adult entertainment industry uses as their defense to all encroachments on their ability to market and sell their materials. Government has been effective in a couple areas of entertainment in at least providing consumers with information that content may not be suitable for children as in movie ratings and parental advisory stickers on music. However, this does not prevent young children from purchasing or viewing this type of material. It also does not provide recourse back to the seller for this material being available for use to children.

The COPC has reviewed how other industries handle this problem, and have incorporated these same processes into their recommendations. There is currently software available to consumers that may be installed on your computer to block specific content from the Internet. This software will also provide reports that show attempts made to access sites. Some software will also allow access to sites to the point where explicit material is accessed, kicking the user off the Internet when that area is reached. This process is effective to a point. That point is where it interferes with the ability for a young user to gain valuable and useful information on a topic the software may see as offensive, including research on breast cancer (breast is a "lockout" word), other forms of reproductive cancers, etc. This type of material we want our children to be able to access. The software does not make it easy to add/remove words such as this, so it becomes a complex issue. The recommendation has also been made to add rating designations to websites. This presents basically the same issues experienced in the entertainment industry, with one exception. It is hard to verify that the person actually sitting at the computer is under 18 years of age. With the knowledge most of our children have today, it is not difficult to circumvent the system.

The COPC has also made recommendations to add domain names that reflect the content being marketed or distributed by the sites. This would include domains such as .XXX or .SEX for adult entertainment sites. Again, the First Amendment argument arises in that these domain names make it easier to filter out this material which they are free to distribute. It would also provide an unwanted designation on the site that would make it more recognizable as an adult entertainment site and drop the number of hits to the page. Recently this was rejected by the ICANN board in a 9 to 5 vote. The adult entertainment industry opposed it as "increased state control" &, oddly enough, anti-pornography advocates also opposed, believing it "legitimizes an illegitimate industry..."

In the last article in this series, I'll state what the commission's final recommendation is, as well as what other advocacy groups have to say on this issue.

©Walter Stone

Home Security Online

Security Systems, alarms, motion detectors.

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Jamaica Hotels and Retreats

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

Jamaica is a legendary island in the Caribbean with more beauty than you can image. Visiting Jamaica retreats is one extremely relaxing way to experience the island.

Jamaica Hotels and Retreats

Jamaica is an island destination known for its relaxing and romantic atmosphere. What better way to enhance your vacation here than to go to one of the great Jamaica retreats? The retreats on Jamaica are prepared to pamper you while taking full advantage of the great island, beach and ocean atmosphere.

One of the Jamaica retreats you'll be sure to enjoy is the High Hope Estate, located near Ocho Rios in Jamaica. This inn has only five guest rooms, assuring that your vacation and stay here will be intimate and romantic. The rooms themselves are furnished with beautiful English and Jamaican antiques. The clinic at High Hope Estate offers such varied services as massages and the pampering Milk and Honey Wrap, sure to relax and rejuvenate even the most tired traveler.

Another of the great resorts and Jamaica retreats is the Half Moon Rose Hall, in Montego Bay. This resort houses the Bodywork Spa, which has many different treatments and packages to indulge your senses. Their menu includes wraps, manicures, pedicures, facials, rejuvenation day packages and couples packages to create your own relaxation getaway. The Half Moon Rose Hall resort itself has many other amenities, such as an 18 hole golf course and shopping, even a children's center!

There are many more Jamaica retreats to discover, including those at all-inclusive resorts. The Couples Resort in Ocho Rios, for example, offers many different treatments to their guests. Some of these include aromatherapy massages, Swedish massages and body polishes. There are also salon services available at the retreat for both men and women, making it so you never have to leave the resort for all of your rejuvenation needs!

Another all-inclusive resort chain, Sandals, has seven different resorts located on the island of Jamaica. Most of them, such as the Sandals Negril Beach Resort, include rejuvenation clinics right on the resort property. The Red Lane Retreats, as the retreats at Sandals are known, offer such diverse treatments as the Salty Margarita Scrub and the Java Jive Scrub, along with massages and other usual treats.

Jamaica is a great place for a vacation, and it's made even better by a trip to one of the Jamaica retreats that are available in the area. You can relax on the beach and then relax with a massage or facial, all at one location. Best of all, the variety of retreats here means that everyone can find a spot in Jamaica to suit their tastes.

Richard Rspad is with ResortSpaD - reviews and articles on resorts. Visit us to read spa articles as well.

Top Wedding Trends for 2006

Posted by Wealth Group | 11:03 AM | 0 comments »

Along with the beautiful summer weather comes another wonderful wedding season. This is the time of year when literally thousands of weddings take place. While weddings have not changed much over the years, there are always some noticeable trends that come into play. Everyone wants to do something a little bit different, if only to add an element of individuality to their wedding ceremony. Some of this year's biggest trends have to do with the creative use of color in attire and in flowers.

While traditional white is not likely to be surpassed in popularity, there are some other interesting and tasteful color options that have really taken off. This year, the color purple is the color to beat. From lavender to eggplant, purple is one of those colors that are both timelessly rich and elegant. This year, it is being used in everything from bridesmaids' dresses to cocktail napkins. Lilac is a wonderful choice of color for a summertime wedding, no matter where you decide to use it.

While flowers come in a veritable rainbow of colors, more and more people are using dyed flower arrangements in their weddings. More often than not, this is done to accentuate the choices of color used in the clothing of those in the wedding party. Some of the most popular wedding flowers for 2006 include gardenias, lilies, orchids, and daisies. Another popular trend we have noted is the use of wild flowers that have a fresh-cut look.

As far as wedding cakes are concerned, we are starting to see a lot of people trying to tie their cake style into the theme of their wedding. For instance, a springtime wedding cake might be topped off with edible flower petals. We are also starting to see many couples straying away from the traditional bride-and-groom cake toppers, and opting instead for monogrammed letters or sugar sculptures. The average cake size continues to be in the four-to-five tier range.

Regarding the actual wedding ceremony, we have witnessed an increasing number of couples exchange vows while facing their guests. More and more, couples are also writing their own vows. We are seeing more children directly involved in the wedding, too. While every couple wants their special day to be unique and memorable, these are just some of the ways in which couples are personalizing their wedding ceremonies in 2006.

Samantha Taylor can hardly wait for her special day! When she is not obsessing over every little detail of her upcoming wedding, she writes for – an insightful online guide to weddings and wedding planning, with information about bridal showers, wedding invitations, honeymoons and more.

The Traditions Of A Western Wedding

Posted by Wealth Group | 3:03 AM | 0 comments »

For people of Eastern descent, the customs and traditions of a Western wedding may seem odd. In fact, it may appear that there are no distinct characteristics. In truth, part of the Western wedding customs includes freedom and independence to celebrate in whatever manner the bride and groom wish. However, there are a few standard customs that, although they may not be practiced at every wedding, are acknowledged as being traditional.

The traditional clothing worn by the bride is a white gown, usually floor length. The white symbolizes purity, but can be adorned with beading or sequence. This is a custom that is still very popular in Western weddings. However, many brides choose variations of the traditional style, such as short dresses or an off-white version. The groom and his party will most often wear black tuxedoes. Traditionally, these are worn with ties; however, many popular styles also have no collar with a button clasp at the neck.

Most often, the bride is walked down the aisle and "given away" by her father. This is a very old custom which is still practiced. However, as families mix and marriages sometimes happen later in life, some brides choose their sons, brothers, or step-fathers to walk them down the aisle.

Other customs of a Western wedding include the bride wearing a garter on one leg, which is removed and thrown to the guests at the end of the wedding. The bride will also throw her bouquet at the end of the wedding; the lucky girl to catch it is said to be the next married. It is also common for the wedding vehicle to be covered with shaving cream, balloons, or cans and messages to be written on the glass to show others they were just married. While the origins of these traditions are unclear, they are stringently adhered to by many in Western weddings.

There is also a rhyme which speaks of a Western wedding custom, "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue", which are all of the things the bride is supposed to wear to her wedding to guarantee good luck. They can be any items that fit in those categories, but all four must be worn at the time of the ceremony.

Traditionally, the bride's parents pay for the wedding. This is probably based on the dowry customs which are no longer practiced in the West. Much like the old customs, this is steadily fading in Western weddings also.

Julia Tanner is a professional writer. More articles can be found at: carribean weddings , saving a marriage , western wedding

Moonlight Hiking

Posted by Wealth Group | 7:03 PM | 0 comments »

I started moonlight hiking when I was a teenager prowling the streets and fields of Michigan. I later found that if I timed my backpacking trips to coincide with a full moon, I could hike every night. The two primary motivations for doing this are the adventure and mystery of night hiking, as well as the practical advantages that it has.

Moonlight Hiking - A Unique Experience

It's a great experience to hike away the hours of the night under a full moon. My first time doing this on a longer backpacking trip was on a five-day hike in the Sierra Nevadas. Every night I slept next to a lake, waking up when the cold bothered me. Then I easily hiked through the rest of the night by moonlight.

This meant getting up between two and four in the morning and hiking the rest of the night. I was moving during the coldest part of the night, so I was able to get away with a lighter sleeping bag on this trip. In fact, since there wasn't a cloud in the sky during those five days, I just slept in the open, without a tent or tarp every night. Most afternoons I took a leisurely nap in the sun to catch up on sleep.

Hiking at night meant no other people on the trail. Crowded trails were not actually a problem where I was, but I would like to go moonlight hiking to avoid the crowds the next time I am in Yosemite National Park, or in the Smoky Mountains. Sometimes it is nice to have the trails and whole mountain valleys to yourself.

You can hike a lot of miles at night, without any problems of over-heating. When the sky is clear and the moon is full, or within three days of its fullest, the moonlight is more than bright enough for hiking in fairly open terrain. In thicker woods you may need a flashlight for assistance.

If you do try this, plan your trip with the full moon coming right in the middle of the time span (if you can). This is how you get the maximum use of the moonlight before, during and after the full moon. Also note the time that the moon rises. About an hour after moonrise you'll have enough light to hike, unless it is overly cloudy (something else to check on).

When moonlight hiking on isolated beaches in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan I could clearly see animal tracks in the wet sand along the water's edge. They included fresh bear tracks. Though black bears in this area are not usually dangerous, it keeps your senses tuned in when you know there are eyes in the woods watching you and none of them are human.

The lakes reflect the moon, owls swoop by almost without sound, and animals move in the bushes as you pass. The many shadows hide things, but you walk on by them, leaving these little mysteries unsolved. The trees and rocks take on a different, starker appearance than during the day. Moonlight hiking is a beautiful and unique experience.

Steve Gillman is a long-time advocate of lightweight backpacking. His tips, photos, gear recommendations and a free book can be found at

By the end of this article, you should have gained enough new knowledge on this subject to be able to explain its main points to another person.

After the emotionally exhausting experience of an engagement, wedding, and reception, many newlyweds select a cruise as their honeymoon getaway. A sea sail is a finalize way to break the stresses of family and work, and a amazing way to blot the detail that you as a join are situation out on a new life together. familiar honeymoon cruise destinations comprise Hawai'i, the Bahamas and other islands in the Caribbean, all of which present gorgeous sultry ports of call and adequate of opportunities for exotic romance. However, sportier or more adventuresome couples may select to set their honeymoon cruise further off the beaten path, in locales as far-flung as Indonesia, Australia or South America.

The honeymoon marks the first time a newlywed join greets the world as a unit, and a honeymoon cruise offers the finalize environment in which both bride and spruce can relax and overlook wedding stresses, drink in some well-deserved leisure time, and contemplate their future life together. Increasingly, cruise outline have begun to incorporate spa services into their packages, so these days a honeymoon cruise can be as greatly a spa rest as an ocean voyage!

As mentioned above, sultry islands like Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Bart's and other Caribbean islands are popular and traditional honeymoon destinations. A cruise offers a finalize way to explore scattered islands without the hassle and inconvenience of island hopping via small plane. Most Caribbean cruises leave from Cape Canaveral, castle Lauderdale, Miami, and other Florida cities, and can array in duration from a week to as long as 75 days, if cruisers select a sail cutting through the Caribbean and sailing around the Americas! Princess Cruises and superstar Cruises are just a few of the many outline who present Caribbean packages.

As we take a closer look, keep in mind all of the useful and important information that we have learned so far.

The ports of Europe and North Africa are another popular honeymoon destination. One of the advantages of the Mediterranean is its cool accessibility, via Europe's many rivers, to the great cities of Western Europe. boon in Paris on Radisson Seven Seas' cruise and sail around Spain and Portugal, striking Lisbon, Bilbao, Bordeaux and Barcelona before success Monte Carlo in the central of the Cote d'Azur. superstar Cruises and Holland America outline are also notable purveyors of European cruises. Holland America offers a 26-day tour of European capitals that is a wonderful, relaxing introduction to Europe's chronicle and array of cultures.

If you're fanatical to elude cities, Greece's Aegean Islands, positive Corsica, Sardinia and Italy also make a wonderful, more rural cruise itinerary: taster Italian and Greek cultures and tour the cradles of two of the world's great empires in Rome and Athens. The Greek islands are known for their hospitality, gorgeous beaches and historic ruins, and present a finalize mix of mores and withstand for any traveler, honeymooner or not.

The complexities of the subject matter within this article strive to give you a better look at what this subject is all about.

Wirat Muenpan is The Webmaster Of Honeymoon Cruise Popular Honeymoon Destinations - Quickly and Easily!

Carribean Weddings – Elope To Paradise

Posted by Wealth Group | 3:03 AM | 0 comments »

Nowhere on Earth is as beautiful and breathtaking as the Carribean Islands. Without a doubt, it is a place you absolutely must see in your lifetime. So much so that if you have a wedding in your future, you should consider having a Carribean wedding and merging these two magnificent memories in to one. Carribean weddings are among the most exotic, memorable events anyone could hope for.

The sky is the limit with Carribean weddings. No matter what you want your special day to include, it is available on this island paradise. You can go with a traditional church wedding or a ceremony on the beach at sunset – whatever makes your heart skip a beat.

For a traditional ceremonial wedding, the best of both worlds is available. Imagine saying "I do" in a large cathedral church and being whisked away to your tropical getaway right next door! You can not beat that for convenience and excitement. You will also have the best photographs and videos to share your wedding memories for years to come.

On the other hand, you can really embrace the culture of the islands and have a more festive wedding in the white sands of the beach. If you are adventurous at heart, you could top the ceremony off with rock climbing or skydiving. It is all available with Carribean weddings. Of course, there is a lot to be said for lying on the beach with an umbrella in your drink!

The other great thing about Carribean weddings is that the islands are so close you can almost touch them! You will not be on a plane for half a lifetime - just a few short hours and you are there, basking in the sun! Not that anyone wants a short trip to the Carribeans, but if you have to return quickly, this is the best option you have to really enjoy yourself that allows for a short trip if necessary.

However, if you have time to spare, there is plenty left to fill your days on the islands. For a really spectacular time, consider planning your Carribean wedding around a cruise. You can visit the many islands of the Carribean while you enjoy the luxury and pampering of a full-service cruise. Even more, you can combine a trip to the Carribeans with a quick stop in Mexico. Shopping and site seeing in Mexico would only add to the charm and exuberance of the trip.

Julia Tanner is a professional writer. More articles can be found at: carribean weddings , saving a marriage , western wedding

The Seven Signs of Unsuitable Use or Contact From the Internet

Home security is about protecting your family, and the most overlooked means of entry is sitting in your living room…your computer. The Internet has become a vast and great resource for our children to learn things they would never have had the opportunity to learn otherwise. We all remember having to go to the library to research our next term paper using the World Book encyclopedia or the Periodicals catalog. The Internet Age has allowed our children to receive, almost instantaneously, information it would otherwise have taken days to receive. This "instantaneous" aspect of the Internet yields split second access to materials unsuitable for children to see or hear.

So with that said, here are seven warning signs that may show your child is using the Internet in unsuitable ways:

1 - Your child spends most of their home time on the Internet.

2 - Your child quickly turns off the monitor or shuts the computer down when you enter the computer room.

3 - You receive phone calls from strangers asking to speak to your child.

4 - You recognize outgoing phone calls, mostly long distance, from your residence to phone numbers you do not recognize.

5 - Your child begins receiving gifts from people and addresses that you do not recognize.

6 - Your child's personality begins to change, becoming more combative when asked to reduce his/her computer usuage.

7 - You pull up pornographic or other unsuitable materials from your computer's hard drive.

The major Internet access sites, including America Online, MSN, Earthlink, and others, have made it increasingly difficult for children to receive unsuitable material through their Internet connections. These services have also allowed the parent to restrict even more the online experience of their children. It is important that a parent reviews these increased security options and determine if they are applicable to the online situation.

However, most of these sites still allow access of minors to sites that are conducive to chatting and instant messages. It is these areas, as well as electronic mail, that provide the greatest risk to our children. Unlike the typical phone call, the Internet has no "face" or "voice" from which to somehow identify the person our child is communicating to. The person happily chatting with our child via the Weather Channel chat room about cumulonimbus clouds and the report the child is writing could just as easily be a 50 year old pedophile waiting for his chance to trap the child into divulging personal information about themselves and their location.

It is extremely important that we advocate to our school communities the hazards which exist for our children on the Internet. There are resources available to you that will expand on the signs of abuse and the steps to take in protecting your child from experiencing this unsuitable content on the Internet.

In the next addition, I'll detail steps the parent can take in monitoring and helping to ensure that their child is not being exploited on the Internet.

©Walter Stone

Home Security Online Security Systems, alarms, motion detectors.

Read more on protecting your home.

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Thailand is a land of enchanting and exotic tastes for foreign visitors as I was to learn when I experienced the Water Festival of Loi Kathong on the island of Ko Chang.

Ko Chang

In October 2003, the travel bug seriously bit me. The symptoms led me to sell my business, pack a small backpack with necessary items and roll into Los Angeles International Airport with a major credit card and an attitude. A few days later, I was in Thailand and headed for the island of Ko Chang, located close to the border with Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand.

Ko Chang is a heavily forested island with little towns full of beach huts. This is what I was exactly what I was after. Spending days lounging in the sun and contemplating my navel. Unfortunately, I soon experienced the local bacteria, which was not what I was after.

Since I had rented my beach hut for a week with payment in advance, the family running the place looked me upon favorably. They took pity on me and I was soon growing fat on Tom Yom Kung and other soups and curries. After four days, I had finally kicked the bug and felt halfway human. This was good news as it was the night of the full moon water festival.

I had heard of full moon festivals in Thailand. For hard partying tourists, this was apparently the night the big beach parties happened. In Ko Chang, it was a little different as the night was tailored to the actual Thais, not tourist.

The Loi Kathong Festival happens every full moon. Offerings are given to appease the water spirits. These offerings come in the form of banana leaf bowls with flowers, fruit, candles and incense. The candles and incense are lit and everyone heads down the beach and starts putting them in the water. It is one of the more amazing light shows you will ever see and beats Las Vegas hands down. Thousands, and I mean thousands, of little lights bobbing on the surface of the smooth ocean.

After the bowls comes one of the most visually amazing things I've ever seen. Everyone is familiar with the paper lanterns used in Asia. Typically, they come in the form of a rectangle form with a bamboo or light wire frame. Very popular with college students since they are cheap and look better than a bare light bulb.

For the festival, Thais would take these paper lanterns and close off the top. They would then affix a small this paper plate to the bottom with a candle on it. Light the candle, wait for the heat to do its work and they had an instant hot air balloon. Once the lanterns could float, you simply let go and off the slowly went over the ocean. It was a sight to see as there were thousands of them floating over the water.

As the festival wound down, the ocean had been transformed. The air was full of gracefully floating lanterns while the water itself was dotted with slowly bobbing points of light.

If you intend to travel to Thailand, make sure you schedule your trip around a full moon. It is a scene you'll never forget.

Rick Chapo is with NomadJ - makers of journals. Make sure to visit us to read our fly fishing section.

Professional Wedding Planning - Part 1

PROFESSIONAL WEDDING PLANNING - Part 1

by Bob Cohen

Professional Wedding Planning - If planning your wedding has you feeling overwhelmed and/or confused, The Whole Nine Yards Wedding Planners can help you for a Key West Destination Wedding.

The Whole Nine Yards primary mission is designed to make every part of planning your Key West wedding faster, easier, and most of all less stressful - all the way from planning your budget to leaving on your honeymoon.

With so many complicated details to manage, you need something that does more than just store information. You need someone to help you stay in control, so that your Key West wedding turns out the way you imagine it, within your budget, and without a lot of stress in the process.

With The Whole Nine Yards Wedding Planners, you will see just how easy your Key West wedding planning can be!

INVITATIONSGet the numbers you need beyond the question of how many people you are sending invitations to. What you really want to know is how many people are going to show up.You will want to know how many of Mahi-Mahi vs. Stuffed Chicken you are going to need to pay for.With our planning services, we give you the numbers you really want.

YOUR WEDDING CHECKLIST We give you a wedding check list that is specifically customized for you.We have the most thorough database of tasks available (over 700 tasks). But what good is a huge list of task on a wedding check list if they do not apply to your situation?

Instead of burying you in useless work, we will build a customized wedding check list for you, based on your religious preferences (if any) and the specific events you are planning.

We can even scale the wedding check list of tasks to fit your time frame, whether that is 12 months or 8 weeks.

WEDDING AND RECEPTION SEATING Seating that is not musical chairs - Our seating organizer shows you your tables - rectangular or round, with the right placement of chairs. It lets you place your guests in the chairs you would like them to have.

A good wedding planner can even generate your place cards and table cards for your seating, and creating text that is formally perfect.

WEDDING ETIQUETTE We have already done the homework on the etiquette rules for a wedding. When it comes to invitation envelopes, most people want to follow the rules of etiquette, but who can figure them out?

We can do this for you, whether you are inviting Judges and Ambassadors or just plain "Mr and Mrs." (Or the subtle variations of "Mrs." you might be surprised to find out about!

YOUR ELECTRONIC ADDRESS BOOK We can read your address book too if you have and address book (Eudora, Palm Desktop, Microsoft Outlook, or Outlook Express) or a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. We can read these directly into our software as long as you supply it on disk or via an E-mail attachment.Even if your address book uses abbreviations, we can put the formal version on your invitation envelopes ("One Hundred Main Street Southeast, Apartment Seventeen"). Formal perfection.

COMPARE APPLES TO ORANGES Helping you compare apples to oranges when you start to compare from all those wedding vendors, you will notice that they like to look different - so different in fact that is is very hard to compare their estimates.

We will help you organize the information so that you can compare vendors at a glance as we bring along our trusty laptop computer to enter all the information on vendor appointments and then let the "Computer Do The Talking".

YOUR WEDDING BUDGET Getting help to create a budget that helps you get what you want.A good budget system does more than track your spending; it helps you figure out how to spend your money to get what you want.

With our service, you can play, "what if" scenarios and see what combination of services gets you what you want, within the amount of money you have to spend within your budget.

YOUR OWN WEDDING WEBSITE The Whole Nine Yards is probably the only service in the Florida Keys that offer clients their own wedding web site.

The wedding web site includes, but is not limited to: Date of Engagement; Date, time and location of Bridal Shower; Date, time and location of Bachelor Party; Date, time and location of Wedding Rehearsal (if applicable); Date, time and location of Wedding and Reception; Updated Wedding Invitation List; Engagement photos of bride and groom; On-Line Bridal Gift Registry automatically updated; Name of Officiant/Minister/Notary/Priest/Rabbi for ceremony; Name of DJ/Musicians for both Wedding and Reception; Menu Selections; Information if a child care service is being provided on-site or at one of the accommodations; Name of the Florist doing the Floral arrangements; Name of Salon where Bride and her Bridesmaids will be getting their hair done; Name of Tuxedo/Formal Wear Rental store; Name of Wedding Photographer; Name of Wedding Videographer (if applicable); Name of Transportation Service.

YOUR WEDDING PLANNER'S RESPONSIBILITIES The Wedding Planner has many responsibilities to insure that your wedding goes off without a hitch.

Many people say that they will plan their own wedding, but do they realize just how much is involved in doing this as well as the amount of stress they will encounter in the process.

The responsibilities of a Wedding Planner relieve the stress off of the wedding party and make sure that the day of the wedding is the most memorable instead of the most stressful.

To give you an idea of what is responsibilities are placed on the Wedding Planner and Coordinator, these are just a short sampling of the responsibilities of a Professional Wedding Planner - Determine and help maintain the parameters of the overall wedding budget; Setting and attending appointments with vendors, such as Ceremony and Reception Site Selection, Caterer / Restaurants (If necessary), Bridal Salon dress selections, Florist, Decor or Production Company, Entertainment (Band or DJ), Musicians for ceremony, Professional Wedding Photographer, Professional Videographer, Cake Decorator / Pastry Chef, Officiant, Calligrapher and Limo / Transportation for the Wedding Day.

We need to review all contracts for completeness or omissions; Provide constant communication with all of the contracted vendors they select; Provide assistance with Invitations, Favors and Accessories if needed; provide assistance with Save-The-Date cards/letters (if used); Provide assistance with organizing the rehearsal dinner.

If the reception is going to be at a restaurant, it is suggested to use the same location to insure quality). Provide assistance with Accommodations for out of town guests; handle shipping and receiving when the bride and groom need to ship items for the wedding; orchestrate and direct their Rehearsal and Ceremony, working side by side with the vendors and officiant.

Not every part of our service is a virtuoso demonstration of our business competence (like we use for the envelope text and etiquette rules) or statistical analysis (like we use for projecting your attendance). After all, if you're writing thank-you notes, all you really need is a list of who gave you what, so we can check off which gifts you've sent "thank-you's" for ... and that's exactly what we give you. For every area of your wedding planning where we think that we can help you (not just give you busy work), we provide you with the service you need to get the job done, as quickly and simple as possible as Key West is such a unique place.

Bob Cohen - Marketing Director

The Whole Nine Yards Wedding Planning Service

Having been a Professional Wedding Photographer for 20 years as well as having worked in the Hospitality Industry in the Key West area has given Bob Cohen the edge over most planners in the area.

Wedding Planning is a vital part of any wedding and is something that should not be left to an amateur nor someone that has a stake in the wedding, especially in Key West.

http://www.keywestweddingplanners.com/html/bride_inquiries.html

Born and raised in New York City, and with a passion for photography, apprenticed with a master photographer in Manhattan during his junior and senior year in high school. In November of 1967, he joined the Navy to be a photographer and served with the Navy Combat Camera Group based out of San Diego for two years. He continued his military service and in 1983, while stationed in the Washington, DC area became Navy Photographer of the Year for his production of a multimedia show about the Navy Recruiting Command.

In 1984, he was discharged with a medical disability for his back and stayed in the DC area until 1987 when he and his wife (who was military) got transferred to NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium where they stayed for a little over 3 years. Robert worked as one of two Diplomatic Photographers for the U.S. Embassy in Brussels.

Returning to the states in 1990, he started his own photography business as well as working as a computer technician for the hospitality industry in Key West. Here is where he learned who in Key West owned what as well as who could he rely on for services.

In 2003, Robert started working as a concierge and the following year became the manager of the Key West Welcome Center. Because of all of the contacts Robert Cohen has made during his tenure at the Welcome Center, and because of all of the referrals he was giving away, he decided to open his own Wedding Planning Service.