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Illinois Gebhard Woods State Park Northeast Region 401 Ottawa Street P.O. Box 272 Morris, IL 60450 815.942.0796 E-mail Birds Interpretive Program Directions History Gebhard Woods State Park was originally purchased from Mrs. William Gebhard by the Grundy County Rod & Gun Club in 1934 for of $1,500. A game fish rearing pool was developed on the property by the Rod and Gun club, who in turn donated the property to the state to be developed and maintained as Gebhard Woods State Park. Members of the Brandon-Morris Civilian Conservation Corps were employed by the Department of the Interior to clear and landscape this newly formed state park. The CCC developed two additional spawning pools for game fish, interior trails, a large shelter of handhewn beams with flagstone flooring, two small log shelters complete with fireplaces, a sheltered resting bench and a large stone fireplace. Today, hikers, campers, picnickers and canoeists frequent this 30-acre site, making it one of the state's most popular state parks. Located in Morris, this picturesque park is bordered on the south by the Illinois & Michigan Canal and to the north by Nettle Creek, which gently flows along the perimeter and through the park adding to its natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. Stately old trees including walnut, oak, ash, maple, sycamore, hawthorn and cottonwood provide ample shade throughout the park. In the spring, trillium, bluebell, white trout lily, violets, wild ginger, phlox, toothwort and spring beauties are just a sample of the wildflowers that can be enjoyed by park visitors. Songbirds, mallards, wood ducks, green herons and great blue herons can be observed as they feed or nest in the park and along the canal banks. Beaver, muskrat, mink, raccoon and an occasional deer also call Gebhard Woods their home. The restored Nettle Creek stone aqueduct was originally built to carry the canal over Nettle Creek and not not only adds to the parks beauty but to the rich history of the area. A short hike to the aqueduct and with a smidgen of imagination, one can almost envision a team of mules pulling a canal barge full of goods across this historic structure. The information center is located near the entrance of the park and is staffed year round. Information on Gebhard Woods, the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail, various Illinois state parks, camping permits and state hunting and fishing licenses may be obtained at the center. A full-time Interpreter provides educational opportunities to park guests and scheduled groups. Guided hikes and park programs are scheduled throughout the year. For specific details contact the information center at (815) 942-0796. Gebhard Woods provides rustic beauty with five shady picnic areas. These areas are complete with picnic tables and grills. A large shelter with electrical service, water fountain and restrooms nicely located near the playground area is available for reservations to host that special outdoor occasion. A slightly smaller shelter near the front of the park, complete with electricity and nearby drinking fountain and restroom, is available on a first-come first-serve basis. If time allows, join in a baseball game on the diamond while the smaller children enjoy the playground area. Horseshoe pits also areavailable near the large shelter. Only primitive tent camping is available and gear must be walked (1/3 mile) to campsite. No vehicular access. Fire rings, picnic tables and grills are located in the camping area. A drinking fountain and pit toilets are located within a short distance. A camping permit must be obtained from the information center, which is open 10am - 4pm daily. Three fishing ponds are available in the park. Bring your fishing gear and try your skill at catching bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish and bullhead. These small ponds provide a great place for the entire family to enjoy a relaxing day casting away the hours. Fishing also is available in the Illinois & Michigan Canal and Nettle Creek. Trail Access Gebhard Woods is a footbridge away from the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail. This 61 mile trail on the old canal towpath is easy walking and gives access to unparalleled scenic and historic sights. Bicyclists also can take advantage of the groomed towpath to enjoy the natural and manmade wonders. The trail is marked and has various wayside exhibits that describe canal era features encountered along the way. Due to the trail's composition, horseback riding isn't allowed. After a minimum of 4 inches of snowfall, snowmobilers may travel the 61 miles of marked trail available along the canal. Registration is required, so call ahead to the park office for snowfall and registration information. Cross country skiing also is permitted on the trail. Canoeists can travel 15 miles of the canal in open water between Channahon State Park and Gebhard Woods. Paddlers can spend the day enjoying the natural beauty and abundant wildlife as they float between these two parks. The Aux Sable access area, located between Channahon State Park and Gebhard Woods, is home to an original locktender's house, Aux Sable aqueduct and canal Lock #8, a perfect place to land the canoe and have a picnic lunch. Small fishing boats with electric motors are allowed in the vanal. Gas powered motors are prohibited due to the canal's shallow depth and fragile embankments. From Rte. #47 in Morris, turn west on Jefferson St (Jefferson will turn into Freemont St. a few blocks down). Continue on Freemont St. to Ottawa St, turn left on Ottawa St. and the Park is located approximately a block and a half down on the left hand side. While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts. For more information on tourism in Illinois, call the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs' Bureau of Tourism at 1-800-2Connect.

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Print Email Font ResizeDisney to disabled guests: No more cutting in lineBy Anthony Palazzo, Bloomberg NewsPosted: 09/24/2013 07:31:25 PM MDTGuests wait in long lines at the Dumbo ride at the Magic Kingdom theme park at Walt Disney World May 17, 2007. (John Raoux/AP)LOS ANGELES — Walt Disney Co. will stop letting disabled people go to the front of the line at its U.S. parks, in part because some people were abusing the program. Under the new plan, guests with disabilities will receive appointments based on current waiting times for rides, according to the company. "We are changing our process to create a more consistent experience for all our guests while providing accommodations for guests with disabilities," Kathleen Prihoda, a spokeswoman for Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla., said in a statement. "We engaged disability groups, such as Autism Speaks, to develop this new process, which is in line with the rest of our industry." The changes at Disney, the world's largest theme-park operator, were partly motivated by abuse of the system, according to Prihoda. The "Guest Assistance Card" program that sent disabled guests to the front of attractions at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., and Walt Disney World will be replaced on Oct. 9. The change was reported earlier by the Orange County Register in Southern California. The New York Post reported in May that some wealthy parents from Manhattan were hiring disabled people to pose as family members to get to the front of the line. Disney, based in Burbank, Calif., fell 0.4 percent to $64.75 at the close in New York. The shares have advanced 30 percent this year.AdvertisementPrint Email Font ResizeReturn to Top

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THAI Promotions Royal Orchid Holidays Booking and Destination THAI Services In-flight & On-ground Royal Orchid Plus Member PIN / Password Keeping a Journal When Traveling Keeping a Journal When TravelingPrepared by Harold Stephens Travel Correspondent for Thai Airways International What are the rewards of travelling? Obviously, it's memories. Memories bring back to mind those strange and distant places we have visited, the people we have met and the experiences we have had. Without memories travelling would be pointless. To help keep those memories alive, we take photographs, or perhaps videos. More often we bring back souvenirs and small reminders. Or, as some travellers do, we take notes. We can keep a diary or a journal of our travels. It's quite impossible to remember everything that takes place on a long vacation, especially after the passing of time, but the written words are there forever. And like wine, the older a journal becomes, the more valuable it seems to be. English philosopher, Francis Bacon, noted in his essay "Of Travel," written over 400 years ago, that during sea voyages when there is nothing to be seen but sky and sea, travellers keep diaries, but on land journeys, where there is so much to be observed, they hardly even keep notes. (Bacon also noted "Travel, in the younger sort, is part of education; in the elder, a part of experience.) Those who have taken long sea voyages will agree with Bacon. Aboard ship we have the leisure time to reflect upon our past and we get a chance to look at ourselves introspectively. But from the travel point of view, such diaries are of little value, with one exception being Robert Louis Stevenson's "In the South Seas." Many of our famous writers, both past and present, kept notes when they travelled. John Steinbeck (“Tobacco Road” and “Grapes of Wrath”) made a trip around America with his dog Charlie in a campervan and wrote a delightful travel book about his experience, which he called "Travels with Charlie." It made the best-seller list. James Michener went to Spain and wandered around the country for several months gathering background information and jotting down notes for a book he intended to write about Mexico. The notes proved to be so interesting he wrote a book called "Iberia" instead of one on Mexico. I often wonder how many books come out of notes that travellers keep. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if Homer hadn't kept a journal back in 450 B.C. when he wandered around the Mediterranean. It was from his travels that came two lengthy poems called "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey," both Greek classics and travel books. It happened much the same way with Mark Twain, the famous American humourist and author of "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." While travelling on a liner from San Francisco to Honolulu, Twain kept a travel log which his family had published in their local newspaper. Readers liked what they read. Twain continued his journey around the world, and kept up his log, and from it came another American classic—“Following the Equator.” Twain became just as famous for his travel writing as he did for his fiction and humour. A raft of travellers has turned their travel adventures into profit by writing about them. One of the early European travellers in Asia, who wrote about her experiences, was an English lady, Isabella Bird. In 1879, she travelled by steamer from Hong Kong to Saigon, down to Singapore and then up the Malacca Strait to Penang. Her travels appeared under the title "The Golden Chersonese, Travels in Malaya in 1879." "The Golden Chersonese" is today a valuable documentary on life in Singapore and Malaysia a hundred years ago. The book, as Miss Bird admits, is the result of detailed notes she took along the way. Paul Theroux is another author who did not set out to make his mark as an author of travel books but circumstance has made him so. His latest book "To the End of Earth, selected travels of Paul Theroux," has recently been published and is already a success. It's a collection of travel vignettes. In the early 1970s, frustrated by the lack of response and remuneration generated by his novels, Theroux decided to take a train journey through Asia, which he chronicled. His editor got hold of the notes and published them in book form, and called it "The Great Railway Bazaar." Overnight the book catapulted Theroux to fame and continues to sell 20 years later. Although his novels that followed have fared well, he is best known as a travel writer ever since. Theroux maintains that "the journey not the arrival matters" and that "travel is a creative act—not simply loafing and inviting your soul, but feeding the imagination, accounting for each fresh wonder, memorising and moving on." For Theroux, memorising is writing it down as it is happening, as an artist takes his easel on to a busy thoroughfare and paints a street scene. Unlike travelling with expensive cameras and videos, keeping a journal requires no more than pen and paper. Or if you want to be more sophisticated, you can use a laptop computer that's the size of a briefcase. But nothing can beat a soft-cover notebook that you can bend or fold and stick into your pocket. It's so much easier sitting in a coffee shop in Penang with a notebook than with a laptop. A laptop is certain to get attention. No one seems to bother when you keep hand-written notes. Keeping a travel journal has some marked advantages. You take a long journey but after a few years names and even places elude you. But the written word, kept in a journal will always be there One of our best accounts of life in the South Pacific during the latter part of the last century comes from a 300-page book called "In the South Seas" that I mentioned. It was written by Robert Louis Stevenson, author of "Treasure Island." Stevenson had chartered a sailing schooner and spent several months cruising the South Pacific, looking for a place where he could live in peace and quiet and write. Stevenson sailed from Hawaii to the remote Marquesas Islands and then on across the Pacific to Tahiti, Samoa and the Gilbert Islands. He finally settled in Apia, Western Samoa where he lived out his life and is buried. During the entire voyage Stevenson kept a journal, jotting down descriptions of the islands, conversations with the natives and other bits of information such as local legends and superstitions. After his death, his journal was found and published by his widow. It's a masterpiece of travel writing, yet Stevenson never intended to write a travel book. Even he didn't recognise the value of the notes he had kept. The great British novelist and storyteller, Somerset Maugham, gathered all his notes together after more than half a century of writing and published them in a book called "A Writer's Notebook." The book gives us an excellent insight on the author and his habits, including bits of information that were to later form the plots for his many novels. The book begins with random notes that he put down on paper when he was eighteen, years before he turned to writing as a profession. Prime Minister Winston Churchill of Great Britain began taking notes when he first entered politics. After his retirement he was able to compile the history of "The Second World War" in six volumes. He certainly could not have achieved the feat had he not kept his own journal throughout the war. Take notes when you travel. Who knows, a day may come when your notes become literature. Q. Dear Mr. Stephens. My husband and I are planning a vacation in Thailand with our two sons, age eight and ten. Both are interested in riding elephants. In fact, that’s all they talk about. Where would you suggest would be the best place? Stephanie Alexander, San Francisco A. Dear Stephanie, Just about anyplace in Thailand you can find elephant rides. There are short rides for an hour or longer treks into the hills that may take a full day or longer. The elephants are even back on the streets in Bangkok. —HS Harold Stephens E-mail: ROH Weekly Travel, hstephens_1 @yahoo,con Note: The article is the personal view of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the view of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited. E-mail: ROH Weekly Travel (hstephens_1@yahoo.com) Note: The article is the personal view of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the view of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited.Author’s schooner at the mouth of the riverMen of the riverMany caves are deep and unexploredBoats everywhere in ThailandSome caves are open Not to miss are the Royal Barges

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Bishops Lydeard Bishops Lydeard Postcode for Sat Nav: TA4 3RU Bishops Lydeard Station is the southern terminus of the West Somerset Railway. It is four miles from the County town of Taunton and the M5 Motorway (Junction 25). Please be aware that there is a maximum height barrier so access to the car park is for vehicles under 2.1 metres. Bishops Lydeard Station has a booking office and sells the full range of West Somerset Railway tickets. Please see the Fares Pages to find out more about fares from this station. The station has toilets, with facilities for disabled passengers and baby changing rooms. There is a large free car park and coach parking is available. The Gauge Museum on Platform 1 has many items of local rail interest and shows how the railway affected the people who worked on and used the line. The Museum also contains a working model railway open normally at weekends and Galas. Platform 1 is also home to the Taunton Model Railway Group whose layout, Bath Green Park, is intricately detailed and can be viewed when it is open on Gala days. On Platform 2 you will find the station shop and the Whistle-Stop Cafe, adjacent to the Signalbox, selling a comprehensive range of model railway equipment old and new, books and other souvenirs. The Whistle-Stop Cafe sells hot and cold snack items as well as a soft drinks and sweets. The village of Bishops Lydeard is situated at the foot of the Quantock Hills and is about five minutes walking from the station. The old village is a mixture of red sandstone and brick buildings which are all very charming to look at. Further up the road into the village is Mill Lane which, if followed, takes you to the village watermill which has been spendidly restored. Bishops Lydeard Mill welcomes visitors on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays from 30th May to 30th September (plus Bank Holiday Mondays) and Saturdays in August between 11.30am - 4pm. The mill is home to a working water wheel, the wheelwright�s shop and the blacksmith�s shop. Once back on the main road further into the village is the Bird in the Hand Pub offering food and drink, garden and a children�s play area. Alongside the pub is a small craft shop. The Village Church is the very impressive St. Mary the Virgin and the earliest part dates from the 14th Century. There are some beautiful wood carvings in the church and the village charter from 1291 can be viewed. As you make your way from the station towards the village you will find the Lethbridge Arms, an old established inn, which offers food and drink including real ales in a number of rooms. The large wall in the car park is of historical interest as having been built for the playing of Fives, a Somerset game which was once very popular but which has now died out. A Fives Wall in West Somerset is unusual as the most popular area for the game was the south of the county. Near the church is a fascinating relic of the tram system in Taunton, a post that supported the electric wires, now in use as a lamp standard. The trams were closed in the 1920�s and no one is really sure how it got there. Other local attractions include Cedar Falls Health Farm and the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. History of Bishops Lydeard Station The station, opened with the original Taunton to Watchet Line in 1862 and originally had only the main building, Goods shed and the Station Masters House (opposite the Shop on Platform 2 - it is now let out as a holiday home) until the Great Western Railway added the other platform and Signalbox in 1906. The station is home to the West Somerset Railway Association, the supporting charitable body of the Railway. Please visit the West Somerset Railway Association Web Site for further information.

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Welcome to Cafe du Soleil Our cuisine draws influence from Provence in southern France, and from Italy, to create a modern Mediterranean cuisine. The menu changes with the seasons, and much of our food is cooked in our wood burning oven, fed with locally sourced wood from managed forest. Cafe du Soleil is situated beside the river Stour in Canterbury occupying a former 18th century wool store. The restaurant is accessed by its own bridge over the river. The building was restored with a grant from English Heritage and it now showcases the extensive use of reclaimed building material from the 14C city wall. How we make the perfect pizza © Copyright 2015 by Cafe du Soleil. All rights reserved. ByDesign

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+90 444 4 336 Dedeman Ana Sayfa Dedeman Otelleri Dedeman Bostancı Park Dedeman Denizli Dedeman Erbil Dedeman Gaziantep Park Dedeman Gaziantep Park Dedeman Levent Dedeman İstanbul Dedeman Kapadokya Dedeman Konya Dedeman Oskemen Tavros Dedeman Palandöken Dedeman Palandöken Ski Lodge Dedeman Rize Park Dedeman Izmailovo Moskova Dedeman Şanlıurfa Dedeman Zonguldak Hotel Hotel + Flight Email Address Reservation Number TÜRKİYE Dedeman Bostancı Hotel & Convention Center Park Dedeman Bostancı (soon) Dedeman Gaziantep Hotel &Convention Center Dedeman Konya Hotel & Convention Center Dedeman Cappadocia ULUSLARARASI Park Dedeman İzmailovo Moscow Kazakhstan From Where Rooms / People 1 Room / 2 Adults / 0 Children Room 1 delete Adults Confirm Child Policy > Cancellation > Special Code IATA ID Group / Block Code Confirm Login Child 1 The Dedeman Ankara’s location on Akay Caddesi, one of the city’s major boulevards, places our guests at the center of the capital's political, commercial, academic and cultural life. The Ankara airport is just 31 kilometers (19 miles) away from the hotel, while the city's bus terminal is only 8 kilometers (5 miles) away. In addition to being a transportation, political and commercial hub, Ankara is a city rich in history and all major cultural and historic sites are only a few minutes' cab ride from the hotel. Ankara’s rich history dates back to the Bronze Age, when the first Hatti settlements were established here. In its more than 3,000-year history, Ankara, also known for a time as Angora, has been home to some of the world’s most important civilizations, including the Hittites, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans. Interestingly, it was also a Celtic capital, home to one of the Galatian Celt’s most important tribes. Today’s modern-day Turkish capital is the product of the matchless vision of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, whose monumental tomb, the Anitkabir, is one of Ankara’s chief landmarks. His city is now the bustling capital of one of the world’s most exciting emerging markets, and the Dedeman Ankara's prime location makes it the perfect place not only to explore the city but also to do business and build ties in this rapidly growing economy. When it comes to entertainment, the Dedeman Ankara is itself a destination for locals who enjoy good food and music, while the hotel's immediate area is full of exciting dining and entertainment options. Simply put, whether you want to host a meeting, organize an international conference, do business at an international corporate headquarter or government ministry, or visit Roman baths and Ataturk's Mausoleum, there is no better place to stay than the Dedeman Ankara. Anitkabir (Ataturk’s Mausoleum) Anitkabir is the mausoleum of the founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. An international competition was held by the Turkish government for the design. From among 48 entries from multiple countries, architects Professor Emin Onat and Assistant Professor Ahmet Orhan Arda’s proposal for a truly monumental structure was selected. The Anitkabir Ataturk Museum opened on June 2,1960, with Ataturk's personal effects, his wardrobe, and some of the gifts presented to him by heads of state on display. Ankara Citadel & Copper Bazaar The foundations of this citadel were likely laid by the Galatians, a Celtic tribe who ruled Ankara for several centuries during the pre-Classical era. Set on a prominent lava outcrop, the structure that exists today was built by the Romans. The citadel is the oldest structure in Ankara and contains many fine examples of antique architecture. Comprised of two sections, the outer castle has twenty towers and surrounds old Ankara. The inner castle boasts one interior and one exterior gate, and the height of the impressive interior walls varies from between 14 and 16 mt (45-52 feet). Museum of Anatolian Civilizations Located on the south side of the citadel is the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which exhibits gold, silver, glass, marble, and bronze works that date back as far as the second half of the first millennium B.C.E. Its collection, particularly of Hittite and Assyrian artefacts, ranks among the finest in the world. Old Parliament Building The building where the First Assembly of the Parliament of the newly independent Turkish Republic was held, is today the location for the Grand National Assembly Museum. Featuring the original furnishings from the 1920s, as well as documents and photographs concerning the First Assembly, the museum was opened to the public at a ceremony held on April 23, 1961. Roman Baths Dating back to the third century C.E., Ankara’s Roman Baths have been well preserved and rank among the city’s most important archaeological sites. The heating system for the baths, as well as the dressing room (apoditerium), the hot room (caldarium), the warm room (tepidarium), and the cold room (frigidarium) are clearly visible. Beneath the baths are 7th century B.C.E. Phrygian remains. Temple of Augustus and Rome The temple, also known as the Monumentum Ancyranum, was first built between 25 B.C.E.– 20 B.C.E. by the Galatians. After the death of Augustus in 14 C.E., a copy of the text of Res Gestae Divi Augusti (The Deeds of the Divine Augustus) was inscribed on the interior of the pronaos in Latin, while a Greek translation is also presented on an exterior wall of the cellar. The temple, on the ancient Acropolis of Ancyra, one of the many ancient names of Ankara, was enlarged by the Romans in the 2nd and 5th centuries, it was later converted into a church by the Byzantines. Kocatepe Mosque One of the largest mosques in the world, the Kocatepe Mosque can accommodate up to 24,000 worshippers. Completed in 1987, this modern mosque is considered to be at the forefront of modern Islamic architecture, seamlessly combining traditional and contemporary design. Dedeman Hotels & Resorts Nearby <!-Weather in Istanbul, Turkey on your site - HTML code - weatherforecastmap.com --> <!-end of code--> Follow Us About Dedeman Loyal Club Partners Contact Us Securite site seal © 2014 Dedeman Hotels gricreative

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Trail-building time arrives for Red Rock volunteers More than a mile of new trail - connecting three canyons - is the goal for the Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) project at the city's new Red Rock Canyon Open Space this weekend (Aug. 28-29). About 165 pre-registered volunteers, plus 30 or more lead and support staff, are expected for the work, according to Team Leader/VOC Projects Director Heath Mackay. More than half the volunteers are from the Colorado Springs area, he said. Crew leaders will meet with VOC coordinators Friday night, Aug. 27, to learn their work expectations. Workers will start arriving around 8 a.m. Saturday, after which they'll get assigned to crews and work until about 4. They will be given lunch and dinner, and the evening will feature live music in the open area near the old Bock family complex. The hours will be the same on Sunday, with volunteers getting lunch again. The work plans are in keeping with the city trail master plan for the rugged, 788.1-acre property between the Westside's Midland and Manitou Springs Crystal Hills neighborhoods. The work will focus on the lower, northern parts of the property's three main north-south canyons. �The access is currently up and down the canyons, but there are no defined, sustainable pathways between them, so people can't do loops and cross over and see some of the best views,� Mackay said. �There are going to be in a sense two work areas,� he explained. �The one from Red Rock Canyon [also the name of a canyon on the east side of the property] and Greenlee Canyon is going to be really interesting, connecting through the existing quarry, which is a landmark. From Greenlee, we're going to follow a smaller drainage and connect over to Sand Canyon.� The VOC is coordinating with City Parks on the project. Since its inception in the mid-1980s, the private, statewide trail- building agency has worked numerous times with City Parks and other local groups. The weekend trail-building is part of a city plan to prepare Red Rock Canyon to open to the public in at least a minimal fashion sometime this fall.

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Washford Washford Postcode for Sat Nav: TA23 0PP The station is now home to the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust who have set up a museum and workshop on the site of the old Goods shed and yard demolished by British Railways in the 1960s. The museum contains some wonderful artifacts of the S&DJR and is well worth a visit. The Museum The Somerset and Dorset Railway Trusts museum at Washford contains relics from the former Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway which ran from Bath to Bournemouth with branchlines to Highbridge, Burnham on Sea, Wells and Bridgwater. All finally closing in 1966. Please note that the museum is not open every day. Please click here for opening dates. A Railway Remembered Explore the mass of exhibits, ponder on the old station names and soak up the evocative atmosphere. Relics to be seen are station nameboards, lamps, tools, signalling equipment, tickets, photographs, handbills, rolling stock and steam locomotives. Step back in time as you operate the levers in the reconstructed Midford Signal Box Museum Admission Prices Adults £2.00 Child £1.00 Family £5.00 Members Free Washford Station has toilet facilities and is accessible to disabled passengers but does not have a disabled toilet. Tickets are not sold at this station and passengers are asked to purchase their tickets on the trains from the Guard or ticket inspector. Cleeve Abbey Special Offer to WSR Ticket Holders: A few minutes walk from the station brings you to Cleeve Abbey, a beautiful Cisterian Abbey, in the care of English Heritage and open from 29 March - 3 Nov, daily. Cleeve Abbey offers a 20% reduction on admission charges to those visitors who can show a same day dated WSR ticket on entry. [The offer is available between 29 March - 3 Nov, 7 days a week. Closing times may vary - visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/cleeve for details. The Abbey offers families a great chance to explore the history of the monks who lived at the Abbey with a fun story pack as well as providing visitors with the opportunity to wander around the grounds and Abbey buildings which remain at this peaceful site. Although the main abbey church is no more, the remaining outbuildings give a fascinating insight into monastic life. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing and encourages visitors to linger. Further on from the abbey is Torre cider farm where you can learn how Somerset cider is made and even sample some of the produce. There are also several pubs including the Washford Inn at the end of the Station ramp and The White Horse, near the abbey, which serve food. History of Washford Station Washford Station is the first station on the �extension� from Watchet to Minehead and is different in style from the buildings of the earlier line. The station opened in 1874 and unlike some of the other stations on the line is in the village it serves. The Station is painted in Southern Region colours setting it apart from the other stations, painted in the colours of the Great Western Railway and its successor the Western Region of British Railways. The small wooden building next to the main building is the original signalbox which contains a set of levers. Although the �Midford� exhibit has been designed to represent an ex-S&DJR location, the lever-frame is in fact a part of one from the former signal-box at Woolston (near Southampton). Find out more about the Somerset and Dorset Trust Find out more about English Heritage's Cleeve Abbey.

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Home » Magazine » 1993 » Volume 44, Issue 2 This Is The Place Retracing the Pioneer Trail in Mormon Utah Michael S. Durham April 1993 | Volume 44, Issue 2 PrintEmailSeen from the cemetery, Bluff, which borders the San Juan River, looks like an oasis; its tall black locust trees provide a touch of green in a landscape of eroded sandstone cliffs and gullies. Its few businesses, mostly catering to tourists, are strung out along the highway. For years this was Utah’s frontier, the last part of the state to be settled, where Indian troubles lasted until the early 1920s. A few days before I arrived, Navajos from the reservation across the river had called in a medicine man to exorcise the evil spirits that they believed had infested the town Laundromat when lightning struck a nearby tree.The Mormons came here in 1880 to befriend the Indians and establish a buffer between Mormon Utah and the outside world. To get there before winter set in, they decided against taking more roundabout routes to the north and south and went straight, into uncharted territory, across the desert. It was a mistake, but it produced a true saga of the West, a “labor beside which the toil of the emigrant trains that crossed the entire continent to California and Oregon was child’s play,” wrote Huffman Birney in Zealots of Zion . The 230 colonists had trouble enough reaching the Colorado River, but, once there, they found the way blocked by the high cliffs of Glen Canyon. With winter approaching, it was too late to turn back, so they improvised, first blasting a notch in the cliffs with dynamite and then building a road out over the cliffside. (After cutting a narrow track wide enough for one wagon wheel, they drilled holes five feet below and parallel to this shelf, then drove two-foot oak stakes into the holes, and finally built up a roadway over the stakes with poles, brush, and gravel. The wagons then descended with their inside wheels on solid rock, their outside wheels moving precariously over this man-made ledge.) “Give those Mormons credit,” wrote Wallace Stegner in Mormon Country . “When they couldn’t blast a road out of the cliff, they tacked one on as a carpenter might nail a staging under the eaves of a high house.” The settlers were headed for Montezuma, twenty miles to the east, but when they reached Bluff, they were too worn out to go farther. Today about half the thirty stone houses that they built still stand. The Barton cabin, Bluff’s oldest building, is all that remains of several cabins grouped together in a crude fort for protection against the Indians. Foushee lives in a house built by Jens Nielsen, a Danish Mormon elder and a leader of the Hole-in-the-Rock party.For a while Bluff was the seat of the sparsely populated San Juan County, but construction on a courthouse was halted in the 189Os when the county seat was moved north to Monticello. Bluff’s bad luck has left posterity the gift of a charming old town in an exceptionally scenic corner of the state. Now tourism and development, Foushee believes, threaten to destroy what draws people here. He recalls how the Mormon Church tore down a handsome Relief Society building for a church parking lot—in a town where parking is hardly a problem.The frontier spirit—that’s part of the trouble, Foushee said, pointing out where someone wants to put a trailer on the side of cemetery hill, spoiling not only the view but the graveyard’s splendid isolation. “We’re all too self-sufficient to have zoning,” he said. “That’s the downside of the frontier spirit.”The road itself from Bluff to St. George across the bottom of Utah must be one of the most beautiful in the country, as it passes by mesas, cliffs, and canyons, winds through forests of ponderosa pine, and soars over mountaintops with sweeping panoramas. Short detours bring you into old Mormon towns with intriguing names like Loa and Panguitch. Near Escalante, the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail, now a four-wheel-drive track, leads off the highway.St. George, in the extreme southwestern corner of the state, is the capital of the temperate region known as Utah’s Dixie. In 1861 Brigham Young sent 309 families here to “cheerfully contribute their efforts to supply the Territory with cotton, sugar, grapes, tobacco, figs, almonds, olive oil, and such other useful articles as the Lord has given us.” With the Civil War at hand, Young particularly wanted a source of cotton, and the recently restored two-and-a-half-story cotton factory next door in Washington, Utah, attests to the temporary success of the Mormon cotton-growing enterprise. (It failed when Southern cotton came back on the market after the war.)St. George has preserved much of its past. The town hadn’t been settled long when Brigham Young discovered that the climate relieved his rheumatism, and in 1869 he built a winter home and installed a wife as hostess. The St. George Temple, with a white stucco exterior that gleams in the desert sun, was the first completed in Utah. Brigham Young had it built when he realized he would not live to see the Salt Lake Temple finished. The St. George Tabernacle was also built on Brigham Young’s orders—“to be not only useful, but an ornament to your city and a credit to your energy and enterprise.”« first Gilgal Garden

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Back to homepage. A land of contrast If it weren't for the American flags painted on the side of all the trains it would be easy to forget you were not in a third world country when riding the New York subway. Walk down the (normally) two flights of stairs (escalators are a rarity) and you'll find a grimy underground station, often lit by bare light bulbs dangling from the ceiling. It's immensely hot and humid in the summer and if you thought there might be a screen telling you when the next train is due you'd be sorely disappointed; you simply have to stand and wait. And indeed hope you're on the right platform since the signage probably only makes sense to the person who wrote it. Even getting on the right train is no guarantee you’ll reach your intended destination; on one occasion the train I was on suddenly turned into an express train one stop before my station, causing it to sail past the next 5 stops, after which half the carriage got out and grumpily moved to the other platform to catch another train back again. Contrast this then with the Bay Area Rapid Transport system, or BART as it is known, some two and a half thousand miles away on the opposite side of the States. The San Francisco area transport is modern and comfortable. Displays on the platforms keep you informed of when the next train is about to arrive and when you get to the city centre, you can switch onto a tram without leaving the station to take you to any of the outer-lying districts. I was staying in San Francisco with a college friend, and we took the tram out to Ocean Beach on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. The weather downtown had been gloriously sunny, with a blue sky smiling down on a warm summer's day. Two miles away on the coast however, a dense mist reduced visibility to only a couple of hundred metres and the temperature dropped about 5 to 10 degrees. The water was freezing and I didn't venture out for a swim, but it was interesting that so close to the bustling centre it was strangely calm and almost deserted. The weather in Texas on the other hand seemed permanently stuck on ‘slightly too warm’, veering towards the plain ‘hot’. This isn't a problem however, since the only time a lot of Texans leave their air-conditioned car is to enter an air-conditioned building. The outer road system of San Antonio makes the Spaghetti Junction look like a small country crossroads and in a land of drive-thru ATMs, drive-thru Starbucks, indeed drive-thru everything, it probably shouldn't have surprised me that at one point to get from our motel to the restaurant on the other side of the road we actually had to get in our car and drive as there was no safe way to cross. But Texas itself is a land of contrast and only 90 miles north west of this urban jungle of never-ending industrial eyesores is the Lost Maples State Park. Walking through the forest we paused for five minutes during the ascent to a hill top, sat down and simply listened. Silence, of a sort that cannot be found even in padded city rooms, descended upon us, tranquil and calm. The ‘Stout Irish Rock’, as the group calling themselves The Blaggards proudly claimed their genre to be, was probably the opposite of this, blaring out from a street-side bar in the Texas capital at one in the morning. Austin is known for its live music scene and so we felt we should wander the famous 6th street, although the variety in genres was disappointingly small. A slightly more unusual but increasingly popular attraction in Austin is the site of one and a half million bats setting off into the sunset in search of a nibble on the local insect population. They all nest under Congress Bridge and as the sun falls a black cloud of Mexican Free-tail bats streams out from under the bridge, over the trees on the far bank and into the night. Since it shares the heat of the rest of Texas, Austinites (if that is the word) have as much need to cool off, but unlike the rest of Texas they have a very pleasant alternative to stale air-conditioned air. Zilker Park, just a stone's throw away from the city centre, is home to the natural Barton Springs, from whence water emerges year round at a very pleasant 21 degrees centigrade. Hollowing out some of the rock, cementing in the cracks and damming up the end has formed an absolutely enormous swimming pool, probably 200 metres long and about 25 metres wide. Admittedly at the very far end it is a mere 6 inches deep, but for the most part it has a depth of at least 2 metres and is glorious to swim in; since the water is fresh and constantly renewed there is no need for it to be chlorinated. Despite being immensely popular, the place is large enough not to feel overcrowded and many people come to just sit on the grass banks at the pool side; the naturally cool water seems to bring the temperature of the surrounding area down, making it very cool and pleasant. The Yankees of course have Central Park, which is a wonderful oasis in the middle of the city centre, but outside of it there is very little greenery in Manhattan; in fact all I spotted was a rather strange little copse of trees growing on the side of a skyscraper, which obviously poses a question: can tree root break through re-enforced glass?! Philadelphia on the other hand is much greener, with tree-lined streets and a few wide almost Parisian-like boulevards making it the most pleasant city I came across in the States. It is also of course the birth place of the USA, where the declaration of independence was hammered out and announced on the 4th July, 1776. How ironic then that this most American of cities feels the most European. But then, America is indeed a land of contradictions and contrast. ￭ © Copyright Neil Jenkins 2005–2014

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News & Facts (Selected)General DescriptionHistoryAirport FeaturesStatisticsNewsPhoto GalleryAirport ToursEconomic ImpactMapsDirection from Van NuysDirections from the NorthMap Directions from the SouthInside the AirportDirectory SearchInformationLAX FlyAwayFlight Tracks NewsletterCommunity CalendarEducational ProgramsKid PageAirport InfoAirports & FacilitiesAirport EngineeringCitizen’s Advisory CouncilCommercial DevelopmentCommunity RelationsNoise ManagementTenants 411Tenant ProjectsRules & RegsVan Nuys MOPProjectsMaster PlanMaster Plan TimelineCEQA/NEPAExecutive DirectivesBids Opportunities Home > VNY Van Nuys Airport Citizens Advisory Council Biographies Elliot Sanders, CAC Chair (appointed to the CAC in February 2010, representing Councilmember Mitch Englander) Elliot has been President of Planned Approach Benefits, Inc. since 1997, and has been providing financial services and comprehensive Employee Health Insurance Planning Services for over 35 years. He is married with two daughters and has been a resident of Northridge for over 25 years. He is a licensed private pilot flying out of Van Nuys Airport, Van Nuys, California, and obtained the LUTCF designation as a facilitator to the Insurance Industry during the 1980’s. Planned Approach Benefits Inc., and its strategic partners, provides employers in aviation and general industry with complete insurance and financial services and has been licensed to provide Life and Disability products since 1974, with a specialty in health benefits for the small group employer. Planned Approach Benefits, Inc. partners with the largest national wholesalers of quality health plans, Warner Pacific Insurance Services and Word & Brown. Elliot Sanders is active in VNY local politics as the Past President of the VNY Prop Association and First Vice President of the Tenant Association (VNAA). Elliot also sits on the Board of Advisors for the AOPA ASN program and is a Director at large for the Fourth District in California of the California Pilots Association. Don Schultz, CAC Vice Chair (appointed to the CAC in September 1985, representing Councilmember Felipe Fuentes) Don Schultz serves as Vice Chair of the Van Nuys Airport Citizens Advisory Council. Schultz has been a community activist in the San Fernando Valley for over 25 years. He is also an executive board member of the Mid-Valley Community Police Council, board member of Valley Vote and a member of the San Fernando Valley Coalition on Gangs. Some of Schultz’ past positions include: President of the Van Nuys Homeowners Association, Co-Chair of the San Fernando Valley Alcohol Policy Coalition, member of the Van Nuys Community Police Advisory Board and member of the Board of Directors of the Mid-Valley YMCA in Van Nuys. David A. Bernardoni (appointed to the CAC in December 2010, representing Councilmember Nury Martinez) David Bernardoni is an attorney with the law firm Kulik, Gottesman, Mouton & Siegel LLP, located in Sherman Oaks. is a past President of the Lake Balboa Neighborhood Council (2008-2010) and presently serves as its First Vice President. In 2000, Bernardoni earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from San Diego State University. In 2003, he graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law, where he served as a Lead Articles Editor for the San Diego Law Review. Prior to attending law school, Bernardoni was a training manager for Sprint PCS, where he trained over 1,000 employees in conjunction with the launch of the Sprint PCS network in cities throughout the county. David Bernardoni is a resident of Lake Balboa, where is lives with his wife and two children. Kathy Delle Donne (Appointed to the CAC in May 2014, representing Councilmember Bob Blumenfield) Kathy Delle Donne lives in Tarzana and has been actively involved with community work for over 20 years. She heads the Tarzana Improvement Association and is a member of the Plan Review Board for the Ventura-Cahuenga Boulevard Corridor Specific Plan. In 2013, she was appointed to the re:code LA Zoning Advisory Committee. This is a five year project under the direction of the LA Planning Department to revise the outdated LA City Zoning Code. She is a past President of the Tarzana Neighborhood Council and had been instrumental in the Council’s formation. In addition to her volunteer activities, Kathy owned and operated a property management business. She and her husband currently maintain their aircraft at a charter leasing company located at Van Nuys Airport. Cindy Goodfellow (appointed to the CAC in November 2011, representing the Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners) Cindy Goodfellow is an Administrative Manager for The Aerolease Group which constructed and manages various aviation related properties at both the Van Nuys and Long Beach Airports. Goodfellow has over 31 years of experience in commercial office, warehouse and aviation property management, marketing, administration and executive suites management. Goodfellow began her career as the Leasing Manager for Attorneys Office Management, Inc., from 1972 – 1985, which specializes in leasing office space. Since joining the Aerolease Group in 1989, she has overseen the leasing of executive suites and airport properties for the various companies in her role as Administrative Manager. Her personal community activities have included various board and committee positions with the Mid-Valley Chamber of Commerce, serving on the Boards of the Work Training Programs for the developmentally disabled, 23rd Street Station for Domestic Violence, a past Board Member of the Van Nuys Airport Association and currently serves as the Vice President of the Eddie Nash Foundation, which is known for its work with foster children. Cindy Goodfellow is a mother of two and a resident of Huntington Beach, California. Vahid Khorsand (Appointed to the CAC in May 2014, representing Councilmember Bob Blumenfield) Vahid is an analyst with BWS Financial, Inc., an independent equities research and trading services firm based out of Woodland Hills that focuses on providing clients with research on companies with potential for growth and deeply discounted by the investing community. Vahid graduated from California State University Long Beach and earned his Master’s in Business Administration from Pepperdine University. Vahid is active in the San Fernando Valley and volunteers on several boards. He is a board member and past-president of the Encino Chamber of Commerce, board member and past-president of the San Fernando Valley Jaycees, secretary of the LAPD Valley Traffic Advisory Council, on the board of directors of ONEgeneration, West Valley PALS/Jeopardy, and the Woodland Hills-Warner Center Neighborhood Council. In 2013, Vahid was named by Councilmember Bob Blumenfield as a delegate to the Valley Regional Volunteer Neighborhood Oversight Committee, who advise the Proposition K: L.A. for Kids Steering Committee on when Proposition K projects will be done. In 2012, Vahid was recognized by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal and Santa Clarita Signal as a 40 under 40, and had previously been awarded both California Jaycee of the Year and San Fernando Valley Jaycee of the Year for organizing free health screenings for over 200 individuals. Since 2009, Vahid has organized an annual food drive in the spring. Vahid has been married to his very supportive wife, Vanessa, since April of 2014. Harold Lee (appointed to the CAC in February 2001, representing Councilmember Mitch Englander) Harold is president of Air Sources, Inc., a small propeller leasehold on VNY. Prior to that, Air Sources, Inc. had a 20 acre leasehold on the northwest side of the VNY under the name of Million Air Van Nuys and was in operation from 1979 to 2007. He still retains an FBO leasehold at Burbank under the name of Million Air Burbank and has an FBO located in Oxnard California under the name of Golden West Jet Center. Now retired, Lee was also a practicing California attorney and CPA (licenses in California, Texas, and Hawaii) specializing in corporate and tax matters between 1975 and 1993. Harold is also a currently licensed California Real Estate Broker. He holds a current FAA Airline Transport pilot’s license with a Citation Jet rating and was a member of the LAWA and FAA Part 150 study, Harold Lee has five children, four grandchildren, and resides in Granada Hills, California. Ron Merkin (appointed to the CAC in November 2007, representing Councilmember Tom Labonge) Ron Merkin is self-employed as a marketing and event consultant to the shopping center and retail industries. He was elected to the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council and became Vice Chair during his tenure. Ron Merkin is a charter member of the Sherman Oaks Sunset Rotary Club and has been a resident of Sherman Oaks for 19 years. Roger Oeland (appointed to the CAC in July 2010, representing the Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners) Roger Oeland was raised in Sherman Oaks, CA, and attended Van Nuys High School. In August of 1967, Oeland accepted a research and development technician job with the Ted Smith Aircraft Company of Northridge, which eventually became Ted Smith and Associates in 1971. In late 1976, he and several of the former employees started Aero Specialties in old Mr. R.P.M., Incorporated hangar facilities on Van Nuys Airport. Since then, Aero Specialties has been heavily involved in the aircraft maintenance and modification business. Oeland is committed to keeping a logical balance between businesses and homeowners in the Valley. He is also a member of the Van Nuys Propeller Aircraft Association and the Friends of Van Nuys Airport. Roger Oeland currently lives in Sherman Oaks, California. Roger Ortiz (appointed to the CAC in February 2011, representing Councilmember Felipe Fuentes) Roger Ortiz is a product of California’s Higher Education system. He completed an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Los Angeles Valley College, a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), and a Masters in Public Administration from San Diego State University (SDSU). He works as a Regional Compliance Auditor for Los Angeles County Probation Department in a unit responsible for overseeing Department of Justice mandate compliance within the three East Region Probation Camps. Last year, Ortiz was Regional Manager for Mayor Villaraigosa’s Gang Reduction Youth Development Office where he was responsible for overseeing contracts, development, and implementation of Gang Reduction programs in the San Fernando Valley and East LA regions. Roger Ortiz’ personal community involvement includes being Political Director for HONOR PAC, Executive Board member of the San Fernando Valley Young Democrats, and Block Captain of the Valjean St. Neighborhood Watch. In the past he also served as 1st Vice President of Lake Balboa Neighborhood Council. Ortiz comes to the Van Nuys CAC with a wealth of community involvement. As a homeowner in the community of Lake Balboa he hopes to be an effective voice on the council to address quality of life issues such as noise, pollution, beautification and community outreach. John Parker (Appointed to the CAC in February 2014, representing the Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners) John Parker is a co-founder of Parker Brown, Inc., a construction company headquartered in Canoga Park. John has set the tone for the company's construction operations and corporate management. Parker Brown employs more than 30 people and has achieved many awards. In 2008 and 2009, the San Fernando Valley Business Journal selected Parker Brown as one of the "Best Places to Work in the San Fernando Valley". John served as the President of the United Chambers of Commerce from 2011-2012. The United Chambers of Commerce is the coordinating group for most of the San Fernando Valley Chambers of Commerce. He's a board member of the Valley Industry Commerce Association (V.I.C.A.). He's also a Regional Board member of the Building Owners and Managers Association (B.O.M.A.) of Los Angeles. John lives in Northridge with his wife Maria, and his two sons Conor and Sean. His daughter Ciara and grandson Killian live nearby in Granada Hills. John is involved in his Church serving as President of the Men's Club in the past and is also involved with the American Youth Soccer Association for the last 20 years. Laurence Rabe (appointed to the CAC in September 2007, representing the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office) Born in France, where her father was in the French Air Force, Laurence Rabe was exposed at an early age to flying. She was also introduced to rockets launching out of French Guyana, where she lived when her father was a Flight Director for the European launcher, Ariane. Rabe has also lived in Africa and Hong Kong. Rabe received her Scientific Baccalaureate in France with a focus on mathematics, physics and biology. After preliminary studies in engineering, Rabe launched her career in aviation as a flight attendant for United Airlines from 1993 to 2008. She started in the Paris base for four years and relocated to Hong Kong in 1997, flying U.S. and intra-Asia routes. Rabe is currently self-employed and working on start-up enterprises involved in the environment and aviation. She also is an accomplished athlete with notable achievements that include a 5.0 rating in the United States Tennis Association and a Green Belt Level 4 in Krav Maga (Israeli Self Defense Combat System). After becoming a private pilot in 2003, Rabe followed with her instrument rating in 2006. She flies out of Van Nuys Airport, where her restored 1957 Cessna 172 is based. In July 2003, she fulfilled a dream and flew one of the last flights of the Concorde Supersonic Transport aircraft before its retirement. David Rankell (appointed to the CAC in August of 2010, representing Councilmember Paul Krekorian) David Rankell has been an active community volunteer for twenty years. He began his community involvement with the Los Angeles Police Department in 1991. As he engaged with community leaders at a young age he became involved with various community groups and issues. He has been active with matters pertaining to aviation and Van Nuys Airport since 1995. Rankell has been to the State Capital in Sacramento to lobby for aviation reform and to Washington D.C. to testify before the Federal Aviation Administration. He is an active member of the Van Nuys Division Community Police Advisory Board and the City of Los Angeles Community Emergency Response Team. He has previously served as a Board Member of the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association, a position held for ten years. He also served the American Red Cross in various positions responding to and planning for disasters. Rankell was assigned to the North Hollywood Bank of America shootout, crash of Southwest Airlines flight 1455 (runway overrun), as well as numerous other local air crashes, residential fires, brush fires, flooding events and large scale evacuations. David Rankell is a lifelong resident of the San Fernando Valley and resides in the Second Council District. Wendy Saunders (appointed to the CAC in July 2009, representing Councilmember Nury Martinez) Wendy Saunders is Executive Director of Operations of the Mid, East, and West Valley Family YMCAs. Through her work at the Y and her volunteer leadership as Executive Vice President on the board the SFV Jaycees, she is provides leadership development and job training, healthy lifestyle and anti-obesity programs for children and adults, youth and teen enrichment and character development programs, and high-quality preschool and after-school programs to a diverse constituency comprised of over 15,000 individuals across the Valley. Saunders has successfully completed a workforce merger between the three YMCA centers, reinvigorated and grown the Mid Valley Family YMCA’s Board of Managers and committees, initiated redevelopment planning to identify and analyze options for the revitalization of the Mid Valley Y to ensure its longevity in the mid-Valley for another 60 years, and grown Mid Valley Y membership revenue by 22% since 2003. Saunders has worked for the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles since 1996 and holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Maryland. Wendy Saunders currently lives in Canoga Park, California. Gerald A. Silver (appointed to the CAC in August 1997, representing Councilmember Paul Koretz) Gerald A. Silver is President of the Homeowners of Encino and serves on the Ventura/Cahuenga Boulevard Specific Plan Review Board (PRB). He is also on the board of the Encino Neighborhood Council, and is a member of the Encino Planning and Land Use Committee. Silver served on the Citizens Advisory Committee that prepared the Ventura/Cahuenga Boulevard Specific Plan. He holds a Doctorate from UCLA in School Administration, a Master of Arts in Industrial Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. Silver is Professor Emeritus of Business Administration at Los Angeles City College. He has authored dozens of college textbooks on business, management, systems analysis, computers, programming and graphic arts. Gerald Silver resides in Encino with his wife, Myrna. Wayne Williams (appointed to the CAC in March 2007, representing Councilmember Paul Koretz) As a board member of the Van Nuys Airport Citizens Advisory Council, Wayne Williams advocates to set a deadline to terminate the nosiest jet aircraft from Van Nuys Airport. He also serves the community as a board member of the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association. Williams, an outspoken critic of special interest funding of elections, is a strong supporter of the California Clean Money Campaign in its effort to bring full public funding to the local, state and federal election process.

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The Excelsior Hotel Location and Nearby NYC Attractions The Excelsior Hotel is located on 81st Street overlooking Central Park on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, one of New York’s most prestigious and popular residential neighborhoods. Established in a beautifully restored landmark building, the Excelsior Upper West Side Hotel is conveniently located adjacent to the American Museum of Natural History and the New Rose Space Center, and a short distance to many popular museums, attractions and events UPPER WEST SIDE ATTRACTIONS NEAR THE HOTEL: Rose Center for Earth and Space A distinct part of the American Museum of Natural History, the Rose Center for Earth and Space an extensive reworking of the Hayden Planetarium; including an entirely new structure that encloses the Hayden Sphere and several incredible new shows about Earth and Space.American Museum of Natural History Adjacent to the Excelsior Hotel on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world. It is home to 48 permanent exhibition halls, research laboratories and a renowned library.Central ParkThe first landscaped public park in the United States, Central Park was developed in 1853, spanning 843 acres of land in the center of Manhattan. The park spans between the Upper East and West sides of Manhattan between 5th and 8th Avenues and 59th and 106th Streets. The Central Park Zoo, ice skating rinks, model boat pond, horseback riding, and other activities can be enjoyed in Central Park.Lincoln Center Lincoln Center is a 16.3 acre complex in Manhattan that is home to many prestigious arts organization such as the New York Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, New York City Opera, Metropolitan Opera, and the Julliard School. Lincoln Center is located between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues from West 60th to West 66th Streets.Beacon TheatreThe Beacon is a historic 3-tiered New York City Theatre on Upper Broadway on Manhattan. Today, it is one of New York’s leading live music and entertainment venues.UPPER EAST SIDE ATTRACTIONS:Cathedral Church of St John the Divine The Cathedral of St. John the Divine is the world’s largest neo-gothic cathedral and considered the “mother church” of the Episcopol Diocese.Riverside Park Riverside Park is Manhattan’s most spectacular waterfront park; stretching 4 miles from 72nd to 158th Streets along the Hudson River.Metropolitan Museum of Art The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MOMA) is located at 82nd Street, along “Museum Mile” on the Upper East side of New York. It is home to more than 2 million works of art from every part of the world, spanning the Stone Age to the 20th Century.Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum Opened in 1951, the Guggenheim is one of the best known museums in New York City, and one of the 20th Century’s most important architectural landmarks. The Guggenheim is home to a collection of Impressionist, Post Impressionist, early Modern and Contemporary Art.The Whitney Museum The Whitney focuses on 20th and 21st century American art with more than 18,000 works in a wide variety of media with emphasis on exhibiting work of living artists.The Jewish Museum The Jewish Museum is the leading art museum of cultural artifacts in the United States with over 26,000 objects.

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Les quartiers de Haifa en imagesHaifa districts in pictures Wadi Salib Wadi Siach Neve Shea'nanNeve YosefHalissa La Ville DowntownCampus HaNamal Sur la crete du CarmelOn the Carmel ridgeDenyaCarmelyiaAchuza / AhuzaKababirCarmel FrancaisFrench Carmel Hadar . Bat Galim Kyriat Eliezer Colonie allemandeGerman Colony Le port Place de Paris Check Post et BaieHaifa Bay Matam La Plage! The beach Bay watchBy Amir Zohar from Haaretz June 12th 2008The balconies are colorful, the railings are wrought iron, the arches are spectacular, the lintels are sculpted, but in the heart of Haifa hundreds of stone buildings from the British Mandate period, as well as contemporary glass structures, stand empty and abandoned. In what is called the "lower city," gaping holes that once were windows are now portals for flocks of birds that swoop in from the nearby Dagon Silos, making an ear-splitting racket, to spend the night. Other vacant spaces have been sealed in order to prevent squatting or a demand for tax payment."There is a million square meters of empty built-up space in the city," Mayor Yona Yahav confirmed in response to a question from a city council member. That was in January 2005, at the start of an economic boom in Israel that passed over Haifa, and a year and a half before the Second Lebanon War. Since then the situation has only deteriorated: The local real estate market has plunged by tens of percentage points, and entrepreneurs are keeping their distance from the city.Herzl Street in the Hadar Hacarmel section, the city's prestigious main street for decades, has long since lost its luster. This year part of the street was converted into a pedestrian mall in a desperate attempt to imbue it with character; the rest of the street continues to be a huge bazaar of clothing stores and fast-food eateries. Above Herzl Street, the MadaTech - the Israel National Museum of Science in the old Technion Institute of Technology building failed to become an urban attraction. Below, on Hehalutz Street, dozens of institutions and shops have shut their doors - from the Histadrut federation to bank branches to some unforgettable falafel joints.Along the slope leading from Hadar to the lower city and bay area, Haifa City Hall stands, a fossilized historic monument, whose employees cling to it fiercely even after the courts, the state prosecution and the local branch of the Interior Ministry all left the area and moved to the new government compound in the eastern corner of the lower city. The stagnation continues along the main streets of the lower city - Ha'atzma'ut, Jaffa, Allenby - and in the multitude of colorful alleys that branch off of them. Almost every building has "For Sale" or "For Rent" signs, but there are no takers.How did Israel's third-largest city find itself in a "liquidation sale," in the words of deputy mayor Shmuel Gelbhart?In the 1980s, the municipality, under mayor Aryeh Gurel, began to rezone industrial areas near the Check Post, at the eastern entrance to the city, for commercial use. This caused a large-scale migration of businesses from the port area to alternative sites in the bay. The harbor underwent a change."Ships used to anchor here for a week to offload cargo," Yossi Pincus recalls nostalgically. A colorful figure attired in a sports jacket, a tie and a beret, puffing on a pipe beneath a graying mustache, Pincus, 80 years old, is the founder of a well-known pub in the port and its owner since 1942. "Sailors from all over the world wandered the sidewalks. They brought in huge quantities of whiskey and they drank huge quantities, and there were girls, you know, and bureaucrats from all over the country. But now?"The advent of cargo containers meant that ships spent only hours in the port, on average. The gates of the port closed, the famous bars died lingering deaths, and the hangouts of the sailors started to sell merchandise from South Tel Aviv. Most crucially, all the big economic corporations left, usually to relocate to the center of the country.The situation grew even worse in the 1990s, under mayor Amram Mitzna. Mitzna developed the southwestern section, an open area at the foot of Mount Carmel, where the Center for Science Industries (CSI) was established and drew high-tech giants such as Intel, Microsoft, Google and Yahoo. The Haifa Mall, the Congress Center and the Electric Company tower were also built there. The new municipal stadium is now under construction in the same area, alongside a ramified network of roads that will connect the coastal highway to the Carmel tunnel, which at present looks like a gaping coal mine.Mitzna also pinned his hopes on a local entrepreneur, Gad Zeevi. He helped Zeevi build the Grand Kanyon (kanyon is the Hebrew word for shopping mall) high on Mount Carmel and also to purchase from the state most of the abandoned buildings in Wadi Salib, a former Arab neighborhood where in 1959 the new lower-class residents, most of them Moroccan immigrants, clashed with the police. Mitzna declared that Zeevi would build an artists' quarter there. The sign to that effect still stands in the heart of the neighborhood, amid a jungle of weeds and dozens of sealed buildings."Can I help it if Mitzna gave Wadi Salib to Zeevi and then his businesses got into trouble?" Yahav says today, even though he was deputy mayor at the time and chairman of the Haifa Economic Corporation. "Zeevi came to us with all kinds of ideas that go nowhere, and we are stuck with him to this day, like a thorn in the side."In 2002, when Mitzna resigned as mayor to become the chairman of the Labor Party, the CSI was a roaring success and the Grand Kanyon was crowned Israel's largest mall. The fancy stores of Hadar moved to Zeevi's mall. Since then, Hadar has become a Levantine bazaar. A similar scenario played out in the lower city: The companies and offices that did not move to the Check Post relocated to the modern CSI compound and branches of government ministries left in favor of the "missile" building in the government compound.Comers and goersThe local crisis is also putting to the test the vaunted Jewish-Arab coexistence in which Haifa takes great pride. The empty buildings show that the city is losing residents. But in a mixed city there are some who make a demographic calculation. One example is attorney Walid Khamis, a member of the municipal council for the Balad party, who has announced his candidacy for mayor. He claims that every year thousands of young Jews leave Haifa and thousands of young Arabs move in."What this means," he says, "is that in another 15 years there will be a chance to elect an Arab mayor."The municipality's statistical research unit confirms this assessment. Since 2000, the city's population has decreased by 4,500, to 266,000, of whom about 10 percent are Arabs. The number of Jews fell by 7,200, the number of Arabs rose by 2,700. About 75 percent of those leaving are children and adults up to the age of 44.One of Khamis' sisters is a lawyer, and she and her engineer husband live in Switzerland. Another sister has a master's degree in occupational therapy and runs a private center for child development in the Arab town of Shfaram. Khamis himself is married and has a daughter. His family lived in Wadi Nisnas, the city's Arab section, and his grandfather, Yosef Khamis, was a Knesset member in the Jewish left-wing Mapam party. Khamis' father is a surgical nurse in the city's Bnei Zion Hospital; his mother a teacher in an Arab school in Halisa. His mother's brother is Saliba Khamis, formerly a leader of the Israeli Communist Party, and the father of actor Juliano Mer Khamis.In short, Walid Khamis is a salient representative of the Arab urban middle class. But he says he is an anomaly. "The Arab middle class in Haifa was not generated by economic mobility, but arrived from outside, from the established strata in Galilee," Khamis explains. These affluent residents did not make the move from the village to the city in order to settle in rundown Arab areas. "Since 1948 not one new Arab neighborhood has been built," he continues. "Because of this, the most an Arab can do is to move to streets that the Jews are tired of, in Kiryat Eliezer and in the German Colony, on Hatzionut Road, on the French Carmel, in upper Hadar, in Yafe Nof and on Wingate Street, which is where I live."When an Arab moves to a Jewish street, Khamis says, "The first barrier is the encounter with the Jew who is selling, which is a type of job interview. In every negotiation an Arab feels the conflict of the Jewish seller - the desire not to sell, along with the lure of the money, a situation which of course drives up the price."Apropos of prices, according to a survey conducted last month by TheMarker, the Haaretz financial supplement, a three-room apartment in the poorer neighborhoods can be had for between NIS 150,000 and NIS 300,000 (yes, shekels, not dollars), and in better neighborhoods, such as Neve Sha'anan and Romema, for NIS 400,000 to NIS 600,000. In the well-established areas the average price is NIS 9,000 per square meter, so a 120-square-meter apartment will sell for about NIS 1 million. In light of the sparse demand, architectural finds can be had in the Carmel Center area for half that amount.Another 'State of Tel Aviv'"We are suffering the aftershock of the last war," Mayor Yahav says, offering a patriotic explanation for the city's economic debacle. He does not add that "thanks to" the war, the government pumped vast amounts of money into Haifa for rehabilitation. The funds were spent on an unprecedented upgrading of infrastructures, but because of the steep decline in the demand for housing, there is very little residential construction.The infrastructure projects entailed obstruction of streets and sidewalks for lengthy periods, deterring the few remaining potential buyers."The arnona [property tax] in the Grand Kanyon is only NIS 158 per meter, but in the lower city it is NIS 252 per meter," the owners of the empty structures cry out.Gili Pincus, son of the pub owner, is a member of the merchants' committee in the lower city. "The municipality has no appreciation for the small businessmen who helped create the city," he says. "During the war and the renovation period they demanded full property tax payments in the highest category, as though we were still in prosperous times."Yahav has a ready-made answer to the so-called State of Tel Aviv: a campus at the port. "During the election campaign," he relates, "I was invited to visit the Hurva Club, which was located in an abandoned building at the edge of the harbor. We arrived at midnight and stood on the roof balcony. The place was packed with revelers, the music was strong and the view was incredible: on one side the port and its quiet waters, cranes and ships, and on the other side the lights of Mount Carmel. I understood immediately that this is the place to create the answer to the State of Tel Aviv. We have a plan to turn the streets of Ha'atzma'ut and the port into a center of education with student dorms, which will liven up the whole place."After the elections, Yahav announced that he intended to make the lower city a residential center for young people. The local weeklies were skeptical. But there were also some who took him at his word. "Immediately after the elections, Yahav held a meeting with business people in the train station terminal in the lower city," says attorney Itai Hoefler. In the 1970s, Hoefler's grandfather, Reuven, rented an office for his law firm on Ha'atzma'ut Street, and his father, Meir, bought the whole building. "He [Yahav] said he was going to focus big-time on the lower city, and soon he was talking about the plan for a campus. In the three years since then, my father has bought entire office buildings, mostly from the municipality."Attorney Meir Hoefler, a member of the Likud central committee and a social activist, records in handwriting all the details of the buildings and apartments he bought for $200 a square meter, and smiles with pleasure when his opportunism is likened to that of the wheeler-dealer Israeli lawyer Shraga Biran."Yahav likes to say that 'Hoefler followed my vision,' but let's say that I am following in parallel to his vision," Meir Hoefler says. "We understood long ago that there is no more need for office space in the city, that what's needed is to convert properties into residences for young people. So 15 years ago I already bought from the municipality, for $180,000, the building in which we had leasing rights, and I invested another $1 million to add three stories. In my mind's eye I saw examples from all over the world of how neglected city centers were transformed into thriving Sohos."Do the buildings belong to the municipality?Hoefler: "In 1932, the British dried up parts of the port area and built a wharf, offices and storage depots. They invited businessmen and companies, such as Hamashbir Hamerkazi [a wholesale cooperative] and Hachsharat Hayishuv [Palestine Land Development Corporation], and leased them buildings on the adjacent streets with contracts until the year 2025. When the British left the country, in 1948, they turned over the area they had dried up to the Haifa Municipality, which also assumed ownership of dozens of buildings, including the long structures on Ha'atzma'ut Street."Over the years," he continues, "there were some lessees who purchased the ownership of the property from the municipality. Others remained as lessees only, and the rest of the buildings were leased to government ministries. When the decline started, many private owners found themselves in economic trouble, including huge debts owed to the municipality. Many offices were shut down and neglected, and some of the lessees, particularly on the upper levels, simply abandoned the sites. Three years ago, when Yahav talked about his campus plan, I located lessees of apartments and buildings with all kinds of problems and bought the leasing rights from them, and from the municipality I bought the ownership rights to three buildings."The government offices also left the area. Aryeh Grinbaum, whose private company offers consulting on expropriations, was hired by the municipality to spearhead the project of locating, restoring and rehabilitating the buildings. "With great difficulty we finally managed to identify eight buildings belonging to the municipality," Grinbaum says, "but most of them were leased to government ministries until 2025."'Quick on the uptake'Those buildings were managed by the Israel Lands Administration, at the request of the Finance Ministry. Grinbaum went directly to the ministry's accountant general, who was then Dr. Yaron Zelekha, explained the plan to rehabilitate the lower city, and asked for the abandoned buildings to be transferred to the municipality. Zelekha decided that there was no point in renovating the empty structures, only to return them to the municipality when the leases expired. He issued a directive for their immediate return, with no quid pro quo.And it was just at this stage that Hoefler purchased buildings that the municipality located?Grinbaum: "Hoefler is a local entrepreneur who is quick on the uptake. He bought dozens of apartments and three buildings, not necessarily the ones we located. He bought at $200 a square meter, and is now offering them at $1,000 a square meter."So once again you sold everything to one person, and cheaply?Yahav: "Hoefler was the only one who followed in my wake and bought three buildings. By the way, he is now being offered $1.5 million for a building, but is not selling."Why was a public tender not issued for the sale of the buildings that Hoefler bought?Municipal spokesman Roni Grossman: "There is an exemption from a tender, which allows for the sale of a property to a lessee who has been in possession of the property in practice for more than 10 years."How many buildings were sold to lessees in this category?After checking again with the municipality's legal unit, the spokesman said: "Since the decision was made to establish the campus at the port three years ago, the municipality sold its rights in just one building."Apparently, the legal unit and the spokesman are not coordinated with the mayor, who, like Grinbaum and Hoefler, says that Hoefler bought three buildings from the municipality in the past few years.People who encounter Grinbaum in the harbor area nod in greeting or shake his hand. Wannabe entrepreneurs exploit the chance meeting to huddle with him briefly. "Suddenly everyone is being nice to me," he says. "It wasn't like that at the start. Merchants and property owners looked at me with incredulity, disdain or indifference. Naturally, people also gossiped that I was seizing control of buildings and selling them to friends cheap, and that I had even arranged for my son to get an abandoned property. It is important for me to say that I personally am not involved in any real estate deal, and my son is in fact a student in London."Grinbaum, formerly the director of the Economic Corporation of Nesher, a Haifa suburb, is managing the project alone. He acts as though he wears two hats: "As a representative of the municipality I am persuading the property owners to become part of the plan; and I am persuading the municipality to invest, through municipal companies, as though I were a private entrepreneur. The project covers a narrow rectangle of 100 dunams [25 acres], from the Customs House to the train station, and from the fence around the port to Ha'atzma'ut Street. The initial goal was to populate Ha'atzma'ut and Hanamal Streets with brand names. I argued that only if we solved the acute problem of the hundreds of abandoned properties on the upper levels would something good develop on the street. The idea was to attract young people, but this always involved night clubs. Then the idea was born to bring in educational institutions and build student dorms."A survey conducted among students in Haifa by Chemansky Ben Shahar Consulting Co. found that an overwhelming majority of the respondents objected to living in the lower city. They cited crime, poverty, neglect, pollution and noise as their reasons. Only 10 percent described the area as distinctive and developing. When asked a second time, 45 percent replied, after further thought, that they would be ready to consider living in the area.The municipality is presently converting into student dorms 30 four-room apartments in two buildings in that vicinity, with a spectacular view to the sea and Mount Carmel. The idea to offer venues in the area for some of the activities of the University of Haifa and the Technion was opposed by those institutions. They cited the long travel time (an hour) from the libraries and laboratories, scheduling difficulties and other problems."After Yahav pressured them, they asked us to renovate a building for them," Grinbaum says. University of Haifa vice president Baruch Marzan relates that next year, master's programs in business administration, management of educational institutions and training of judges will be offered in the port area. As the students will likely not be the types who will move to the lower city, the university suggested that students who cannot find lodgings on the Mount Carmel campus be housed in the dorms being renovated by the municipality. The Technion has also acceded to the courting efforts, and its faculty of medicine, whose teaching hospital is Rambam Medical Center, will direct 40 students who so desire to the new dorms.Grinbaum: "The Tiltan College of Design [affiliated with the University of Haifa] has 700 students in an amazing building on [this new] campus. Twenty students have already rented apartments from Hoefler in a building that he converted into residential units. Carmel College, a new adult education institution, has purchased a building and a lot on Hanamal Street. I invite colleges and schools of every stripe to come. We have fabulous spaces that are earmarked for this purpose, at laughable prices of $4 and $5 per square meter a month, and with minimal property tax."Two more stepsDoes Grinbaum's list of purchases and sales reflect signs that the private market has begun to react to new developments in Haifa? The local planning committee authorized a request by the giant Shikun Ovdim construction company to build a 10-story residential building, with 50-square-meter lofts on Hanamal Street. The Fishman Group, which has a huge building with thousands of square meters of empty space along the port perimeter, commissioned a feasibility study on whether to convert the building into an educational institution and luxury apartments.Gelbhart, the deputy mayor, who is a member of the Greens faction and an architect by profession, declared 10 years ago that the lower city was in need of rehabilitation, but he was considered a pest and was ignored. In 2003, the municipal elections were won by a joint list of the Greens and Shinui under Yahav, who in mid-term joined the Kadima party founded by Ariel Sharon (and now led by Prime Minister Ehud Olmert).Gelbhart: "Another two steps are required to complete the turnaround: the breaching of the wall to the port and a change in the route of the rail line, which separates the city from the port. The moment the facade of the port will be opened up we will have a completely different city, a downtown of culture, leisure and entertainment."In September 2007, the National Council for Planning and Building authorized the establishment of a navy base on the area originally dried up by the British. In return, the navy will evacuate its two present bases along the water, and the sites will revert to the municipality, which will be able to build new residential neighborhoods there. The evacuation of the western part of the port was also authorized, and will be opened to the public from Bat Galim to the Customs House.The CEO of Israel Ports Development and Assets Company, Shlomo Breiman, confirms that "at the end of 2010 the construction of the eastern port will be completed, and transportation to and from it will be via the Carmel tunnel at the Check Post and via Highway 6. At the beginning of 2011, the western part of Haifa port will become a 'white port,' as in Barcelona. The city will extend to the waterline, with cafes and shopping centers, and anchorage for passenger ships only. I would expect the Haifa Municipality to be quick about completing the infrastructures for the eastern port. We hope they will also be ready on time in the lower city, especially as regards the rail line - a train goes by there every five minutes."The cost of digging a tunnel for the train, either along the present route or parallel to the Carmel tunnel, will be between $2 billion and $3 billion, says the director of Israel Railways' coordination and control unit, Yaron Dvir. "And I do not see the budget sources for that," he adds.The alternative preferred by Israel Railways is the conversion of the line to an electricity-powered train, with the possibility of embedding that line in the lower city. Dvir: "That is less expensive, friendlier to the environment and less noisy, and it can also serve as an internal mass-transport route." The municipality and the green organizations are opposed to the idea, however, because of the electricity grid - poles and cables - that will have to be erected along the route.Hanamal Street, which for decades was the shabby backyard of the lower city, is also getting a facelift to bring it up to par with the campus plan. The street has been paved with bricks and is closed to vehicular traffic, and a small square with palm trees has been built nearby, next to a green hill. At the end of the street is a large building painted in black, the location until recently of the Hurva Club, the icon of alternative music in the north of the country. Haifa-born film director Amos Gitai is conducting negotiations to buy the building and convert it into a film school which he will head."Film students need an urban environment," Gitai explains. "This building is very special, and it has already been used for cinematic projects. For example I shot part of my film 'Promised Land' there. True, there are difficulties in the negotiations, but the plan will not succeed or fail because of one building. There are dozens of interesting buildings in the lower city."The gallery of contemporary art at the University of Haifa conducted negotiations to move to a private building on the street. But the university and the municipality could not agree on who would pay for the renovation, which will cost $500,000."I keep hearing about plans for the port campus and it is very frustrating," the gallery's curator, Ruti Direktor, wrote to the mayor. "The location is wonderful and is just waiting for contemporary cultural initiatives ... I shelved the ideas for the opening event in May. Is there reason to hope that the idea will, after all, be realized?"Marzan makes it clear that the university will not underwrite the renovation. Yahav wrote in reply, "There is no problem. I will be going abroad soon, and the first sum I will raise will be $500,000 for this gallery."In the meantime, architect Michal Kucik has bought for $670,000 a building adjacent to the one Direktor is dreaming of; it has an area of 600 square meters for renovation and comes with a permit allowing construction of three additional stories. Opposite, an old warehouse that architect Nathan Feibish purchased years ago as a studio has now been converted into a gourmet restaurant, Hanamal 24, at an investment of $1 million. Haaretz restaurant critic Daniel Rogov described it as "charming and exciting" and added, "It can easily compete with the best restaurants in Tel Aviv."Just down the street, architects Merav Eitan and Gaston Zahr have founded O*GE Interactive Gallery for architecture and design, which is housed in an old two-story building leased from Hoefler. The gallery invites local residents, companies, schools, artists and designers to exhibit works on themes chosen by the gallery. The theme for the first year is environment and the green economy, for which the whole building was painted a glowing green which brightened up the faded area surrounding it."We rented the place as a ruin, and the transaction included our part in the renovation according to our design," says Zahr, who is from Berlin and lives in the town of Kiryat Tivon, near Haifa. "We are architects who believe that design changes the world, slowly but surely."And the audience?Zahr: "Haifa is a pretty 'dry' city, and it's a shame, because it has tremendous potential.""It is a city of a great many young people who are not really young," says Nama Altschuler, the founder of the locally famous Cafe Netto on Mount Carmel. "Here, everyone dreams of living on the Carmel. Only if that approach changes will it be possible to transform the city into the Soho everyone is talking about. Because, you know, the students who are studying architecture in Haifa today say that their dream is to design the restaurants of Tel Aviv tomorrow."W On the sitesHaifa MunicipalityHaifa Tourism Officeyou will find detailed descriptions of Haifa districtsPlease send me more pictures. I would like to walk and take pictures around all day but I have to work sometimes! Temples, mosquees, eglises et cathedralesTemples mosques, churches and cathedrals Panoramas Wadi Nisnas Les mille marchesThousand steps

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Cambuskenneth Abbey Cambuskenneth Village, Cambuskenneth Village, Stirling, FK9 5NH Cambuskenneth Abbey is one of Scotland’s most important abbeys and is home to a fine collection of medieval grave slabs and architectural fragments. A footbridge, formerly a ferry, links the Shore to Cambuskenneth Abbey of which only the Campanile, 1300, and west doorway survive. It is one of Scotland's greatest early gothic belltowers, restored by William Mackison in 1864. This dramatic, 3 storey tower in beautiful stonework has a vaulted ground floor and pairs of pointed windows on each face of the belltower at the belfry stage. Cambuskenneth Abbey was founded in 1147 by David I and grew to immense wealth and considerable importance, with a similar relationship to the Royal Castle of Stirling as Holyrood Abbey had to Edinburgh. In some old charters, its abbots were described as Abbots of Stirling. It was in Cambuskenneth that the nobility and clergy of Scotland swore fealty to David Bruce as the heir of King Robert in 1326 at the first parliament to include representatives of the burghs. It was also at Cambuskenneth Abbey in 1488 that James IIII was buried after the Battle of Sauchieburn. Of its many famous abbots, the most notable was Patrick Pantar, who became both Abbot and Secretary to James V. At some point before 1562 the Erskine governor of Stirling Castle seems to have become the proprietor of the lands, for in that year the Queen confirmed the grant of a large portion of the monastery lands and the abbey to his nephew Adam Erskine, who was later to become Earl of Mar. Opening Times

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Search: Click to subscribe Home Historic hotel closes doors Posted by: tdt - By Nathan French Gleaming crystal chandeliers, historic accommodations, sumptuous cuisine, and most recently locked doors. The Historic Eklund Hotel in Clayton, New Mexico has fallen prey to declining tourism. The hotel, restaurant, and bar closed its’ doors at the end of April. The hotel, a famed piece of the Old West including a saloon with bullet holes in the tin ceiling was constructed in 1892, and underwent an extensive 2.3 million dollar renovation just five years ago. However, that may be where the trouble began. The owners, Eklund Association Incorporated, purchased the hotel in 1992, but have struggled with dwindling business and are still wrestling with debt from the renovation. The extensive remodel was paid for with a $2.16 million loan from the First National Bank in Clayton which is guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development business program. The State Historic Preservation Office also loaned an additional $200,000 for the project. The hotel’s closing has had an impact on the Clayton community. The Eklund Saloon was one of the two bars in town and the restaurant was one of the main dining establishments in town. The hotel also served as one of only eight lodging choices in Clayton. Many of the community’s 2100 residents see the Eklund as one of the gems of Clayton, and its’ closing seems like a step backward in the progress and revitalization of Clayton. Clayton most recently has embarked on a downtown revitalization project, and the untimely closing has impacted the project. However, most recently, Clayton city officials and residents are hoping to reopen the Eklund in efforts to stabilize the area’s economic future. Several residents and officials who are involved with the other Clayton revitalization projects are looking at the possibility of purchasing the Eklund after the foreclosure process has completed. The foreclosure process can often take around five months, but potential investors are hoping it will be much sooner. Print Click Here to view full size calendar Home About ContactSports Obits Classifieds Calendar Galleries Archives Lifestyles Advertising Web design by 887 Media

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Broward County > Parks > West Creek Pineland Natural Area West Creek Pineland Natural Area Natural Area Site Customer Satisfaction SurveyRules & RegulationsHours, Maps, and Directions Story 1WEST CREEK PINELAND NATURAL AREA 4900 W. Hillsboro Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33073Phone: 954-357-5100 • Fax: 954-357-5101 • Email: NaturalAreas@Broward.org Size This 7.43-acre tract consists of two parallel pineland parcels connecting the City of Coconut Creek's urban greenway trail system. The site, adjacent to the county's Helene Klein Pineland Preserve and Saw Palmetto Natural Area, buffers visitors from busy Hillsboro Boulevard and showcases the C-5 canal. This trio of natural areas, although separate and distinct, is critical for migratory birds for refuge, forage, and resting during long migration routes, as well as a habitat for nonmigratory bird species. This site consists primarily of mesic flatwoods, often seasonally wet but considered an upland natural community with mostly sandy soils and hardpan top layer. The protected natural area is representative of the pine flatwood communities once common in this region prior to urban development. The bisecting C-5 canal provides a freshwater component to the landscape and introduces additional wildlife to the pineland community. The characteristic tree seen at this site is the South Florida slash pine, with mixed understory of saw palmetto, American beautyberry, and a variety of native pineland grasses. Dead slash pines, called "snags," are critical for several of woodpecker species, and birders love these areas for the chance they offer to see these active and often vocal birds. Resident and migratory birds such as the great horned owl, pileated and red-bellied woodpecker, belted kingfisher, great egret, great blue heron, anhinga, several species of hawk, osprey, mottled ducks, and various wood warblers can be seen at West Creek. Among the freshwater fish documented in the canal are alligator gar and largemouth bass. Nearly 15 species of butterflies are prevalent throughout the site and commonly seen from the greenway. The site is accessible to pedestrians only, with parking available at nearby Helene Klein Pineland Preserve or, slightly farther away, at Hillsboro Pineland Natural Area, both managed by Broward County Parks and Recreation Division. A six-foot-wide paved trail - part of the Coconut Creek multiuse greenway trail system - runs through the southern end of the property and features a 100-foot-long pedestrian bridge that crosses the C-5 canal. Interpretive signs, benches, and a large, shaded gazebo are provided for leisurely wildlife observation and resting along the greenway. Vantage points are especially good along the bridge, and visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars. This section of the greenway is referred to as the Long Pine Greenway. Wildlife observation is encouraged, although bicycles, inline skates, skateboards, and motorized vehicles are prohibited on the trails. As with all natural area sites, pets are not allowed. EcoAction Days (October through May) Volunteer workdays help keep our natural areas clear of garbage and invasive plants. They're held on the fourth Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon. Closed-toe shoes are required, and long pants and long sleeves are suggested. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own gloves, hats, sunscreen, insect repellent, and drinking water. Ages 13 to 17 must have a parent or guardian's signature on the registration form prior to participating. Volunteers under the age of 13 may participate, but only if accompanied by a parent or guardian. High school students can use the hours from these workdays toward their required community service hours. Check the volunteer Web page for the latest workday registration form. Preregister by calling Quiet Waters park at 954-357-5100. Although West Creek Pineland is representative of a typical mesic flatwoods habitat, it was undoubtedly changed forever by the introduction of the intricate South Florida canal and ditch systems in the early 1900s. In 1912, three years before Broward County was carved out of Palm Beach and Dade counties, the location of the future natural area was owned by the land development company Palm Beach Farms. Ownership of both the east and west parcels that now make up the site changed hands several times from the 1950s to the 1980s, as the general area became increasingly developed. Both parels were purchased separately by Broward County in 2004, through the 2000 Safe Parks and Land Preservation Bond program. Florida Communities Trust, a state land acquisition grant program, was also a funding partner in the purchase of West Creek. The natural area is accessible from Broward County Transit Routes #14, #31, and #48. Parks and Recreation Division

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Home Campgrounds Camp Finder App Tips and Articles Camping and RV Forums Campground Operators Tips and Articles » California State Parks suffer from budget cuts RV and Camping Tips and Articles California State Parks Suffer from Budget Cuts but Benefit from Volunteers Written by:Timothy Fitzgerald More tips and articles As the Great Recession ripped through the nation it devastated families, communities and businesses. Even today television news journals document the stories of families who have lost their jobs, homes, and pride as a result of the Recession. One story that has flown under the radar is the implications the Recession had on State Parks. Since the peak of the Great Recession State Park budgets have been slashed, leaving many of the parks underfunded and understaffed. The results have been far reaching. Minor repairs have become major repairs, park facilities have been closed, and special programs have been reduced. In California, more than 5,000 projects for repairs don't have adequate funding. State Park administrators and visitors now must answer the question, "where do we go from here?" Some propose filling the staff vacancies with volunteers. The idea is simple - volunteers take on the roles and responsibilities of former employees. But volunteers aren't interested in taking on that type of a responsibility. Roy Stearns, Deputy Director for Communications of California State Parks explains, "There is often talk that volunteers could just take over the system or that they are already running it now. Not true on either score. We have about 24,000 volunteers this year. Most are retired folks who wish to work a few hours per week or per month. They are not skilled in maintenance, peace officer duties, lifeguard duties, budget and administrative operations, heavy equipment operators, grounds keepers, senior park and recreation system management, program management, park management, and the like. They mostly help in the area of interpretation and education, presenting information and programs to the public, working in the visitor's centers." California State Parks has had about 24,000 volunteers this year. Last year they did an all-time high of 1,087,486 hours of work and that had an economic dollar value to the department of over $22 million. In Florida volunteers have logged more than 1 million hours of service annually. But despite the volunteer efforts budget cuts have led to financially dire situations - especially in the California State Park system. Since the 2001 - 2002 season California State Parks has had its general fund support reduced by $70 million, with $14 million of that budget having been reduced in 2008. To compensate for the budget reduction the Parks department closed restrooms, campground loops, and visitor centers, removed trash cans/fire rings and reduced the number of school tours and interpretive programs. Currently the Parks department has a deferred maintenance backlog of about $1.3 billion, yes billion dollars. And there are more than 5,000 projects for repairs - things like fences, sidewalks, roofs, bathrooms, plumbing and more that have not had adequate funding for more than 20 years. The department does not have a new budget, and so they continue to operate on last year's budget. But that money is gone and they are operating day to day on credit with businesses that supply goods and services. They haven't paid some water companies for three months; other vendors for supplies are in the same boat, waiting for a state budget to get paid. Why can't they just raise fees to make up for the difference? Wouldn't that have an impact? To a point. "We see that when we raise fees, attendance goes down, and so it becomes a point of diminishing returns. Our fees make up about one-third of our budget, so we would have to more than triple fees to pay the bills, but if we did that, attendance would drop dramatically and we would not then realize the funding we were hoping to achieve to operate the system", explains Stearns. For now, it's a guessing game as to what the next best move is. Without a budget in place the California State Parks department is at the whim of policymakers who control the parks' budget. Let's hope they value parks as much as we do. Copyright ©2010 Camping Road Trip, LLC Find campgrounds and RV parks - Smart Search Now.Read campground and RV park reviews to help you find the perfect place to stay. Trail Blazing Joan Completes North Country National Scenic TrailThe North Country National Scenic Trail, a 4,600 mile trail spanning, is the longest hiking path in the country. This August, Joan Young, became the first woman to hike the entire trail. Do Something Fun at Oregon State ParksOregon has it all: glacier-carved mountains and volcanoes surrounded by dense forests and undulating prairies cross-cut by coursing rivers , windswept coastline. The question isn't what can you do in Oregon. It's what can't you do. Top Ten Places to Visit in CaliforniaCalifornia is full of amazing outdoor fun. It offers some of the best National Parks and scenic drives in the country. Here's our list of the best places. Read more RV and Camping tips and articles. 0 comment(s) so far... Login to Add Your Comment

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County Home > Parks & Recreation > Tanglewood Park > Park History Tanglewood is rich in history, beauty, and southern charm. Tanglewood’s story lies not only beneath the surface, but can be experienced as an ongoing living process. The property now known as Tanglewood Park was part of land claimed by Sr. Walter Raleigh for Queen Elizabeth on March 25, 1584. John Cartaret, 2nd Earl Granville acquired a sixty mile stretch of land in western North Carolina in the early 1700’s known as the Granville District, granting land to those who had established surveys. William Linville, who settled with his family from Virginia and Pennsylvania by 1747/1748, acquired seven grants along the Yadkin around the shallow ford. More European settlers arrived in the Yadkin River Valley, including William Johnson, an immigrant from Wales. In 1757, ten years after Linville built a cabin on it, and just four years after the Moravian settlement of the Wachovia Tract in the nearby communities of Bethabara and Salem, Johnson purchased the mile square central portion of what became Tanglewood from the William and Ellender Linville. After obtaining the property, Johnson built a fort overlooking the Yadkin River to protect his family and neighbors from attacks during the French and Indian War. Currently, this spot is marked by a monument just south of the Manor House. In 1765 he died and is now buried on the highest hill in the area called Mount Pleasant. In 1809 a simple frame church was erected next to his grave and remains today as one of the park’s architectural attractions. Although services are no longer held there, many people are united in marriage at the Mount Pleasant Church each year. In 1859, James Johnson had the eighteen-room Manor House built on a hill in the center of the estate. The house was a gift of love to his daughter, Emily, for a wedding present. Two wings were added later. The Johnson heirs sold their property in 1921 to William Neal Reynolds, brother of tobacco entrepreneur R.J. Reynolds. At that time the Tanglewood tract was enlarged to over 1,100 acres and the Manor House expanded to twenty-eight rooms. Mr. Will, as he was called, raised and raced thoroughbred harness horses and established Tanglewood Farm as a home to some of the country’s finest pacers. In the Manor House, Mr. Will had a special room dedicated to his trophies, called the "Trophy Room." A fire that started mysteriously in a trophy room display case in 1980 did considerable damage, but the room has been restored. The room is surrounded by plaques and horse photographs. It is obvious that Mr. Will was a horse lover, and this tradition is carried on with Tanglewood Farm. Trail rides, hayrides, and carriage rides are available by reservation. Today, the Manor House is a Bed & Breakfast Inn with ten guest rooms, sweeping staircases, the Trophy Room, 20’s Room, and Rock Fireplace Room. These facilities are used for weddings, meetings, and overnight accommodations. It is rumored that Mr. Will’s spirit makes friendly visits to the house from time to time. Mr. Will’s wife, Kate, a horticultural enthusiast, began the extensive native and ornamental plantings at Tanglewood and employed German master gardener, Mr. Frank Lustig, who continued her plans and his life’s work. He contributed the 800-bush Rose Garden on the Manor House lawn, the Arboretum behind the house, and the nearby Fragrance Garden to the Estate. For 60 years, even after the death of his employers and their gift of the estate, Lustig poured his talents into Tanglewood. He is buried in the graveyard at Tanglewood next to the historic church. In 1951, the Reynolds willed the Tanglewood property to the citizens of Forsyth County to share as a public recreational park. The couple had no children. The Reynolds willed the property as a gesture to have others benefit from the beauty, elegance, history, and recreation their country estate had to offer. Thus, Tanglewood Park was born. The public recreational facility is owned by Forsyth County. The combination of its streams, woodlands, and grassy pastures with the traditions of its architecture, horses, gardening, and wide range of recreational activities make Tanglewood an ideal countryside park to visit over and over again. Whether your journey brings you on business or pleasure, we offer something for everyone. How Tanglewood Got Its Name There are several stories on how Tanglewood was named. One version is that, while strolling through tangled underbrush where timber had been cleared, the name occurred to Kate Reynolds. Another version is that the heirs to the Johnson family had noticed the tangled undergrowth. Kate Reynolds read Tanglewood Tales by Nathaniel Hawthorne frequently to her children, and named the family farm Tanglewood. Apparently, Mr. Will asked if the name could be continued after his possession of the property, and the Johnson heirs said they would be honored. Both stories are told, no one thus far can prove either one. The reader should decide which story they prefer to believe. Kate Reynolds wrote this poem about Tanglewood: "The seat of creeks and mighty trees, Of fertile soil and balmy breeze . . . Twould fill a page, had I a book, To tell the joys of Tanglewood!"

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Grand Union Canal Walk: The Thames at Brentford to West Drayton After a walk from Gunnersbury station, we reach the River Thames at Kew Bridge and start a walk along the Thames Path westwards. There are lots of boats permanently moored here, now serving as houseboats. The great waterway, the River Thames, looking rather pathetic with the tide out. To be fair, this is only part of the river, those old docks being on an island, but it is the Thames, and the line of the borough boundary between Hounslow and Richmond - perhaps suggesting that this was once the main channel. After a rather frustrating bit of the Thames Path, which flits between the riverfront and the road, making the route much longer than the riverfront, we reach the entrance to the Grand Union Canal. The boatyard by Thames Lock, with boats marooned on mud at low tide. As the route (which is still the Thames Path at this point) diverts around that boatyard, a view of the water of the River Brent pouring over a weir - the Grand Union Canal in its lower stretches is actually the canalised River Brent. Finally we reach Thames Locks after the diversion around the boatyard, and from here on it is a classic towpath walk. This lock number 101 on the canal from Braunston, making 158 locks from the Thames to Bordesley Junction in Birmingham. George takes a quick rest by the towpath. This bit of the Grand Union Canal and River Brent is semi-tidal, the level rising a little at high tides. The Grand Union Canal Walk and the Thames Path makes an abrupt change of level here by what the Thames Path guidebook described as a ladder. Well, not quite, but the signing was distinctly temporary (that on the left with its back to us is just held down with a sandbag). Crossing the A315 Brentford High Street, we join section 7 of the Capital Ring, which has come across Syon Park from Richmond Bridge. We follow the Capital Ring into section 8 where it leaves us at the Hanwell flight of locks. The signpost also shows that it is 139 miles to Birmingham along the Grand Union Canal Walk. Brentford Gauging Locks, with the River Brent joining on the right. Modern apartments dominate what was once a bustling docks area, but with a mixture of boats and reasonably attractive housing it looks a pleasant area. George heads off towards old and new - the disused covered loading area through which the towpath makes its slightly spooky way, and the gleaming modern glass skyscraper of the GSK head office. We then reach Clitheroe's Lock, the first "classic" Grand Junction Canal lock we have met. The locks between here and Braunston are of this pattern. A graceful cast iron bridge, made at Horseley Iron Works near Birmingham in 1820, carries the towpath from the south to the north bank of the canal. Looking back from that bridge, the canal going around the corner to the right while the River Brent disappears over a weir (protected by the fence that is just visible) and under the M4 viaduct. The Hanwell Locks are a flight of six (numbers 97 to 92) which lift the canal away from the River Brent for the last time - the Capital Ring leaves us here too, making its way along the river. Here we look from lock 97 to locks 96 and 95. George rolling around on the grass below lock 93. An unusual lock cottage at lock 93. Looking back from lock 92. Behind the wall was the (1st) Middlesex County Asylum, better known as Hanwell Asylum, which opened on 16 May 1831. The site is now home to the West London Mental Health NHS Trust: the very high barbed wire topped fences give it the air of a prison. This unusual structure is known as Three Bridges, or sometimes as Windmill Bridge. Here Windmill Lane is carried over the canal by a cast iron bridge, and the canal itself is carried over a branch of the Great Western Railway in an iron trough. The bridge dates from 1855 to 1861. The name is inaccurate, as really there are only two bridges, but it is still an interesting structure, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and is a rare surviving example, most of the cast iron structures he designed having been since replaced. Only 90 miles to Braunston, the northern end of the Grand Junction Canal with the Oxford Canal. We then reach Bull's Bridge, junction with the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union Canal, sadly looking rather shabby, even without the graffiti. Paddington basin lies about 13� miles away along a level pound - the level canal between Paddington and west London, and even as far as Slough, helped this part of the canal to remain competitive against the railways much later than elsewhere. Looking north-east along the Paddington Arm. Looking to the Nestl� factory, a destination known to generations of working boatmen as "Hayes Cocoa". Here we pass under the Great Western railway mainline. One of a number of bridges remaining on the towpath side which allowed access to wharves served by the canal. Since Bull's Bridge, we have been sharing the route with the London Loop, and so we have walked bits of the route here, though the Loop takes, well, loops, off to the sides of the canal, so parts are new to us. George takes a breather on this warm Easter weekend. Another side arm no longer in use, and the site of a business park. After this the canal is straight and less interesting as it makes its way through the suburbs of West Drayton and Yiewsley. Lucy picked us up near West Drayton station, setting up a future walk from there, perhaps to Rickmansworth. I don't think a walk all the way to Birmingham is likely, but perhaps eventually to Cosgrove (north of Milton Keynes, where the regular railway stations cease) may be appropriate eventually - or even to Blisworth, which would cover all of the canal that we haven't done by boat. We shall see, but in the meantime, an enjoyable spring walk. Zoom in for more detail, or see map in larger window: Ordnance Survey | Open Street Map | Google Maps Total distance 17.4km in 4 hours 40 minutes (3 hours 35 minutes on the move according to the GPS). Unless otherwise stated, all images copyright (c) Stephen and Lucy Dawson

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http://www.bastropmuseumandvisitorcenter.org - Specification Required - This town, one of Texas' oldest settlements, was first called Mina. The name was changed around 1837 to honor Felipe Enrique Neri, Baron de Bastrop, a prominent Dutch nobleman--or so the colonists thought. Actually, he was an impostor named Philip Hendrik Nering Bogel, born in Dutch Guiana to ordinary Dutch parents. Appearing in Texas as Baron de Bastrop in 1805, he obtained a colony grant, established a freight business and was appointed second alcalde of San Antonio in 1810. He was a primary negotiator with the government of Mexico for Stephen F. Austin's original Anglo-American colony, became an elected representative to the Mexican state of Coahuila (which included Texas) and helped establish the port of Galveston. The counterfeit baron's enterprises resulted in little profit, and when he died in 1827, fellow legislators covered the cost of his burial. It wasn't until more than a century later that records in the Netherlands revealed his identity. More than 130 historic structures in Bastrop are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, with 31 displaying a Texas Medallion. Main Street is lined with century-old structures housing shops and restaurants. Bed-and-breakfast accommodations in historic buildings are available. Main Street and Fisherman's Park on the Colorado River offer picnicking, fishing and boating. The historic Iron Bridge has been converted to a park above the Colorado River. For golfers, the city has three 18-hole courses. Horseback riding also is available.

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Holiday exhibit by Kathy Sosa opens Tuesday ... Proposed closures ... 2 suspects waive hearings ... Holiday exhibit by Kathy Sosa opens Tuesday ... Proposed closures ... 2 suspects waive hearings ... Jared Olar: If the U.S. collapsed, would we notice? Even your average historically illiterate person has probably heard of the Roman Empire, and odds are he�s probably heard that it declined and fell.Eighteenth-century historian Edward Gibbon even wrote a classic work with the helpfully descriptive title, �The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.�Thinking of Rome�s decline and fall, perhaps you imagine hordes of barbarian invaders sacking Roman cities, putting villas to the torch, and creating all of those picturesque ruins that have done so much to improve the European landscape and attract tourists.I remember that in grade school and high school, I and my classmates were taught to think of the Roman Empire coming to an end in A.D. 476, when the barbarian king Odoacer deposed the last emperor in the West, Romulus Augustulus.Maybe that�s the common conception of Rome�s �decline and fall.� Gibbon, however, continued the story long after the end of the reign of Romulus Augustulus. In fact, he brings his account right through the so-called Dark Ages and medieval times, to the fall of Constantinople to the Muslim Turks in 1453.Odoacer�s coup d�etat, after all, was not the end of �the� Roman Empire, just the Roman Empire in western Europe. In the East, the Roman Empire continued even though the �Roman� emperor didn�t live in or have any real control over the city of Rome, former capital of the empire, but instead lived in Constantinople, sometimes referred to as New Rome.Under Justinian in the sixth century, the Eastern Roman Empire briefly reestablished control over large parts of Western Europe, but after a time the empire lost those western territories to �Dark Age� barbarian kingdoms. From the seventh century on, the Eastern empire was under almost constant pressure from Islam, which over the centuries consumed Constantinople�s territories until at last nothing was left but the capital city itself.Meanwhile in western Europe, on Christmas Day in the year 800 in the city of Rome, the pope granted the imperial crown to the most powerful of those barbarian kings, Charlemagne. Conceived as a restoration of the Roman Empire in the West, Charlemagne�s empire would come to be called the Holy Roman Empire, which would survive until 1806, when the self-crowned French emperor Napoleon officially put an end to what was by then, as Voltaire said, �neither holy, nor Roman, nor an empire.�You could say, then, that the Roman Empire didn�t really fall in 476, but persisted until the end of the Eastern empire in 1453 and the end of the Western empire in 1806.But whatever date you prefer for the fall of the Roman Empire, the year 476 serves as an important and useful marker in European history, because that was when the old Roman order collapsed.Page 2 of 2 - The funny thing is, at the time no one even noticed that it had collapsed. For most people life went on much as it always had. It wasn�t a calamitous event like the sacking of a city or a massive natural disaster. After all, there was still the emperor in Constantinople, from whom the barbarian kings received Roman titles and to whom they were nominally subject.It�s not like people suddenly adopted different languages, religions, clothing styles and architecture. People had no way of knowing that things had definitively changed forever, and that it would be 324 years before Italy would see another emperor.It reminds me of a passage from Douglas Adams� work of sci-fi humor, �Life, the Universe, and Everything,� where Adams writes of a time on an alien planet �when in a recent national speech the Financial Minister of the Royal World Estate of Quarlvista actually dared to say that due to one thing and another and the fact that no one had made any food for a while and the king seemed to have died and most of the population had been on holiday now for over three years, the economy was now in what he called �one whole joojooflop situation,� everyone was so pleased that he felt able to come out and say it that they quite failed to note that their entire five-thousand-year-old civilization had just collapsed overnight.�Surveying the aftermath of the 20th century�s social and moral collapse, and noting how Chris Cox and Bill Archer have said that, �The actual liabilities of the federal government � including Social Security, Medicare, and federal employees� future retirement benefits � already exceed $86.8 trillion, or 550 percent of GDP,� and that it would take $8 trillion annually just to balance the budget at current spending levels, I find myself wondering if we�d notice, or even care, if our society collapsed.Jared Olar may be reached at jolar@pekintimes.com. The views expressed in this column are not necessarily those of the newspaper.

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The engineering wonder that is Hoover Dam. Hoover Dam tours have always been the classic Las Vegas daytrip. Whether you drive yourself, take a Hoover Dam bus tour or fly over in a helicopter, the reaction is always the same: "Wow." more...Hoover Dam is, by any account, spectacular. From an architectural standpoint, the curvilinear arch construction is beautiful. But it's the early 20th century art deco design that elevates this engineering marvel to the level of art. Hoover Dam is a hyper-functional piece of sculpture. And the scale is grand.To think that engineers carved out space in Mars-like Black Canyon, backed off the mighty Colorado river, then built the biggest concrete structure known to man ... well, that would be a huge project in any era. But knowing this was built during the Depression leaves you simply astonished.And, oh yeah ... it's all about an hour from the Strip. No wonder this Wonder of the World is such a popular tourist destination.Once known as Boulder Dam, Hoover Dam was built between 1931 and 1936 on the border between Arizona and Nevada. It was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, but somewhat controversially named after former president Herbert Hoover.The dam created Lake Mead - the largest reservoir in the United States by volume. The dam's generators provide power for public and private utilities in Nevada, Arizona and California. About a million people tour the dam each year. Heavily traveled U.S. 93 ran along the dam's crest until October 2010, when the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge was completed. Construction on the nearly 2,000-foot-long bridge began in late January 2005. This signature bridge spans the Black Canyon, connecting Arizona and Nevada nearly 900 feet above the Colorado River. Yet another reason to marvel. And yet another reason to say, "Wow." Keyword The Twilight Tour with Limo Location: Hoover Dam,Lake Mead,Las Vegas Strip

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LEGENDS OF AMERICA Legends Main Page Explorers & Traders Overland Trails Spanish Exploration Historic People Heroes & Leaders Indian Wars Notable Native Americans Feuds & Range Wars Frontier Trails Fur Trade Treasure Tales Westward Expansion Byways & Trails Quirky Roadside Legends-Lore Ghosts & Paranormal Native American Legends Legends Store Posters & Wall Art T-Shirts & More Legends Photos States & Places FB - Legends of America FB - Ghost Towns FB- Legends Store FB - Native Americans FB - Legends' Photo Prints Newsletter-Mail Legends Blog (2004-14) MISSOURI LEGENDS The Haunted Lemp Mansion in St. Louis 4 Next >> The Lemp Mansion in 1892 A house is never silent in darkness to those who listen intently; there is a whispering in distant chambers, an unearthly hand presses the snib of the window, the latch rises. Ghosts were created when the first man woke in the night. -- James Matthew Barrie, "The Little Minister" Said to be one of the ten most haunted places in America, the Lemp Mansion in Missouri, continues to play host to the tragic Lemp family. Over the years, the mansion was transformed from the stately home of millionaires, to office space, decaying into a run-down boarding house, and finally restored to its current state as a fine dinner theatre, restaurant and bed and breakfast. The Lemp Family began with Johann Adam Lemp who arrived in St Louis from Eschwege, Germany in 1838. Building a small grocery store at what is now Delmar and 6th Streets, he sold common household items, groceries, and homemade beer. The light golden lager was a welcome change from the darker beers that were sold at the time. The recipe, handed down by his father, was so popular that just two years later, he gave up the grocery store and built a small brewery in 1840 at a point close to where the Gateway Arch stands today. Lemp first sold his beer in a pub attached to the brewery, introducing St. Louis to its first lager. Before long, Lemp found that the brewery was too small to handle both production and storage and found a limestone cave south of the city limits. The cave, which was located at the present-day corner of Cherokee and De Menil Place, could be kept cool by chopping ice from the nearby Mississippi River and depositing it inside, providing perfect conditions for the lagering process to run its course. Lemp�s Western Brewing Co. continued to prosper and by the 1850s was one of the largest in the city. In 1858, the beer captured first place at the annual St. Louis fair. A millionaire by the time of his death, Adam Lemp died on August 25, 1862 and his son, William, began a major expansion of the brewery. He purchased a five-block area around the storage house on Cherokee, above the lagering caves. In 1864, a new plant was complete at Cherokee Street and Carondolet Avenue. Continually expanding to meet the product demand, the brewery eventually covered five city blocks. By the 1870s the Lemp family symbolized both wealth and power, as the Lemp Brewery controlled the St. Louis beer market, a position it maintained until prohibition. In 1868, Jacob Feickert, William Lemp�s father-in-law, built a house a short distance from the Lemp Brewery. In 1876 William Lemp purchased it for his family, utilizing it as both a residence and an auxiliary office. While the home was already impressive, Lemp immediately began renovating and expanding the thirty-three room house into a Victorian showplace. From the mansion, a tunnel was built from the basement through the caves to the brewery. When mechanical refrigeration became available, parts of the cave were converted for other purposes, including a natural auditorium and a theatre. This underground oasis would later spawn a large concrete swimming pool, with hot water piped in from the brewery boiling house, and a bowling alley. At one time, the theatre was accessible by way of a spiral staircase from Cherokee Street. By the middle 1890s, the Lemp Brewery gained a national presence after introducing the popular "Falstaff� beer, which is still brewed today by another company. The Lemp Western Brewery was the first brewer to establish coast-to-coast distribution of its beer. At the same time he was building his own business empire, William, Sr. also helped Pabst, Anheuser and Busche get started. In the midst of this success, the Lemp family experienced the first of many tragedies when Frederick Lemp, William Sr�s favorite son and heir apparent died in 1901 at the age of 28. Frederick, who had never been in extremely good health, died of heart failure. The devastated William Lemp was never the same, beginning a slow withdrawal; he was rarely seen in public after his son�s death. On January 1, 1904, William�s closest friend, Frederick Pabst, also died, leaving William indifferent to the details of running the brewery. Though he still arrived at the office each day, he was nervous and unsettled. His physical and mental health began to decline and on February 13, 1904, he shot himself in the head with a .38 caliber Smith & Wesson. In November 1904, William Lemp Jr. took over as the new president of the William J. Lemp Brewing Company. Inheriting the family business and a vast fortune, he and his wife, Lillian, began to spend the inheritance. Filling the house with servants, the pair spent huge amounts on carriages, clothing and art. Lillian was a beautiful woman who came from a wealthy family herself. She and William Lemp, Jr had married in 1899 and William J. Lemp, III was born on September 26, 1900. Before long Lillian became known as the "Lavender Lady" because of her fondness for the color. In addition to her lavender attire and accessories, she went so far as to have her carriage horses harness' died lavender. In the beginning, Will enjoyed showing off his "trophy wife" but Will was a "player." Born with a "silver spoon in his mouth," he was used to doing and acting as he pleased. When William began to tire of his beautiful wife, he demanded that she must spend her time shopping. Allotting her $1,000 a day, he gave her an ultimatum that if she didn't spend it, she would get no more. In the meantime, Will was busy running the brewery during the day and pursuing all manner of decadent activities during the night. Holding lavish parties in the caves below the mansion, he would bring in numerous prostitutes for the "entertainment" of his friends. Enjoying the swimming pool, the bowling alley, and the free flowing beer, his friends who attended these lavish events were known to enjoy a high time in the earth below. Will's shenanigans caught up with him when he sired a son with a woman other than his wife. Today, there is no official documentation that this boy existed. However, the rumors that this boy was hidden in the mansion attic for his entire lifetime have been prevalent over the years. According to St Louis historian, Joe Gibbons, when he interviewed a former nanny and a chauffer who worked at the mansion long ago, both of them verified that the boy did exist and was housed in the attic quarters that also housed the servant's rooms. Spawned from Will's philandering with either one of the many prostitutes or a mansion servant, the boy was born with Down's Syndrome. A total embarrassment to the family, the boy was hidden away from the world in order to cloak the Lemp's "shame." Known today as the "Monkey Face Boy," this unfortunate soul continues to show his presence at the Lemp Mansion. Finally, William, Jr. tired of his "trophy wife" and filed for divorce in 1908. Why she didn't make this step with all of his goings-on, could be nothing more than a sign of the times. The court proceedings surrounding the divorce became a major St. Louis scandal with all four St. Louis newspapers devoting extensive front page coverage to the messy affair. The trial opened in February, 1909 to crowds that flocked to the courthouse each day to witness the drama of tales of violence, drunkeness, atheism and cruelty. Virtually ignoring William's decadent activities, Lillian almost lost custody of William Lemp, III because of a photograph that was presented at the trial that showed her smoking a cigarette. In the end, she retained custody of their son but soon retired from public eye. The only time that she was ever seen wearing anything other than lavender was on the final day of her divorce proceedings, when she appeared entirely in black before the judge. With the divorce, Will�s troubles had only just begun. In 1906, nine of the large breweries in the St. Louis area had combined to form the Independent Breweries Company, creating fierce competition that the Lemp Brewery had never faced. In the same year, Will�s mother died by cancer on April 16th. Though the brewery�s fortunes were continually declining, the Lemp Mansion was entirely remodeled in 1911 and partially converted into offices for the brewery. At this same time, William allowed the company�s equipment to deteriorate, without keeping abreast of industry innovations. By World War I, the brewery was just barely limping along. William soon built a country home on the Meramec River, to which he increasingly retreated and in 1915 he married for a second time to Ellie Limberg, widowed daughter of the late St. Louis brewer Casper Koehler. Then Prohibition came along in 1919. The individual family members were already wealthy so there was little incentive to keep the brewery afloat. For a time, Will hoped that Congress would repeal Prohibition but finally gave up and closed the Lemp plant down without notice. The workers learned of the closing when they came to work one day and found the doors shut and the gates locked. On March 20, 1920, Elsa Lemp Wright, William�s sister, the wealthiest heiress in St Louis, shot herself just like her father had years before. Elsa was said to have been despondent over her rocky marriage. Liquidating the assets of the plant and auctioning the buildings, William, Jr. sold the famous Lemp "Falstaff� logo to brewer Joseph Griesedieck for $25,000 in 1922. The brewery buildings were sold to the International Shoe Co. for $588,000, a fraction of its estimated worth of $7 million in the years before Prohibition. After the end of the Lemp�s brewing dynasty, William, Jr. slipped into a depression. Acting much like his father, he became increasingly nervous and erratic, shunning public life and often complaining of ill health. On December 29, 1922, William shot himself, in the heart with a .38 caliber revolver, in the very same building where his father had died eighteen years before. William, II took his life on the main level of the mansion, just inside the entrance to the left. At the time of his death, this room served as his office. He was interred in the family mausoleum at Bellefontaine Cemetery, in the crypt just above his sister Elsa. William�s brothers, Charles and Edwin had long ago left the family business, so with William Jr. gone, it seemed that the Lemp empire had finally ended. Edwin had entered into a life of seclusion at his estate in Kirkwood, Missouri in 1911. Charles had never been involved in the brewery and had chosen to work in the banking and real estate fields instead. In 1943, yet another tragedy occurred when William Lemp III died of a heart attack at the age of forty-two. Continued Next Page Lemp Brewery today. Photo by Kathy Weiser, October, 2004. From Legends' General Store Route 66 Posters & Prints - From Chicago to Los Angeles, and everywhere in between, see colorful posters depicting many of the icons, colorful business, and fun characters along the more than 2,000 miles of the beloved Mother Road. These are original designs that you will NOT find anywhere else! Posters measure 11"x17" are are produced on semi-glossy, 12 point paper. Just $7.99. About Us Contact Us Article/Photo Use Guestbook Legends Of Kansas Links Photo Blog Site Map Writing Credits Copyright � 2003-Present, Legends of America�

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usa | world | animals | vocabulary | health | science | math | history Silk Road The Silk Road was an interconnected series of routes through Southern Asia traversed by caravan and ocean vessel, and connecting Chang'an, China with Antioch, Syria, as well as other points. Its influence carries over on to Korea and terminated eventually in Japan. Silk road is a translation from the German Seidenstraße, the term first used by German geographer Ferdinand von Richthofen in the 19th century. The continental Silk Road diverges into North and South routes as it extends from the commercial centers of North China, the North route passing through the Bulgar-Kypchak zone to Eastern Europe and the Crimean peninsula, and from there across the Black Sea, Marmara Sea and the Balkans to Venice; the South Route passing through Turkestan-Khorasan, through Iran into Mesopotamia and Anatolia, and then through Antioch in Southern Anatolia into the Mediterranean Sea or through the Levant into Egypt and North Africa. Marco Polo at court of Kublai Khan c.1280 These exchanges were critical not only for the development and flowering of the great civilizations of Rome, China and India, but they laid the foundations of our modern world. While goods and religious ideas may have travelled the whole way, ancient trade was probably conducted over sections of the routes and it is probable that merchants and travellers very rarely, if ever, covered the whole distance between Europe, or the Middle East, and China, by land. As domestication of efficient pack animals increased the capacity for prehistoric peoples to carry heavier loads over greater distances, trade and cultural exchanges among widely separated populations developed rapidly. For example, the dromedary may have been domesticated as early as circa 1100 BC, and the nomads of the vast Eurasian steppe-lands had domesticated horses around 4000 BC. Domestication of the Bactrian camel followed later. Grasslands stretch like a long ribbon between the desert and the main agricultural and urban regions all the way from the shores of the Pacific to Africa, and deep into the heart of Europe. These grasslands were sufficiently fertile to provide grazing, water, and fuel for caravans to pass through while avoiding trespassing on agricultural lands. This presented ideal conditions for merchants, mounted warriors and caravans to travel immense distances without arousing the hostility of more settled peoples. Routes along the Persian Royal Road (constructed 5th century BC) may have been in use as early as 3500 BC. There is evidence that Ancient Egyptian explorers may have originally cleared and protected some branches of the Silk Road. Lapis lazuli was being traded from its only known source in the ancient world – Badakshan, in what is now northeastern Afghanistan – as far as Mesopotamia and Egypt by the second half of the 4th millennium BC. By the third millennium BC lapis lazuli trade was extended to Harappa and Mohenjo-daro in the Indus valley. The ancient harbor constructed in Lothal, India, may be the oldest sea-faring harbor known. In one scene in the pyramid of Pharaoh Sahure of the Fifth Dynasty, Egyptians are returning with huge cedar trees. Sahure's name is found stamped on a thin piece of gold on a Lebanon chair, and 5th dynasty cartouches were found in Lebanon stone vessels. Other scenes in his temple depict Syrian bears. The Palermo Stone also mentions expeditions to Sinai as well as to the diorite quarries northwest of Abu Simbel. The oldest known expedition to the Land of Punt was organized by Sahure, which apparently yielded a quantity of myrrh, along with malachite and electrum. The 12th-Dynasty Pharaoh Senusret III had a "Suez" canal constructed linking the Nile River with the Red Sea for direct trade with Punt. Around 1950 BCE, in the reign of Mentuhotep III, an officer named Hennu made one or more voyages to Punt. A very famous expedition was conducted by Nehsi for Queen Hatshepsut in the 15th century BCE to obtain myrrh; a report of that voyage survives on a relief in Hatshepsut's funerary temple at Deir el-Bahri. Several of her successors, including Thutmoses III, also organized expeditions to Punt. Westerner on a camel, Tang dynasty, Shanghai Museum. One of the Tarim mummies photographed by Aurel Stein circa 1910.From the 2nd millennium BC nephrite jade was being traded from mines in the region of Yarkand and Khotan to China. Significantly, these mines were not very far from the lapis lazuli and spinel ("Balas Ruby") mines in Badakhshan and, although separated by the formidable Pamir mountains, routes across them were, apparently, in use from very early times. The Tarim mummies, Chinese mummies of an Indo-European type, have been found in the Tarim Basin, such as in the area of Loulan located along the Silk Road 200 kilometers east of Yingpan, dating to as early as 1600 BC and suggesting very ancient contacts between East and West. It has been suggested that these mummified remains may have been the work of the ancestors of the Tocharians whose Indo-European language remained in use in the Tarim Basin (modern day Xinjiang) of China until the 8th century CE. Some remnants of what was probably Chinese silk have been found in Ancient Egypt from 1070 BC. Though the originating source seems sufficiently reliable, silk unfortunately degrades very rapidly and we cannot double-check for accuracy whether it was actually cultivated silk (which would almost certainly have come from China) that was discovered or a type of "wild silk," which might have come from the Mediterranean region or the Middle East. By the time of Herodotus (c. 475 BC) the Persian Royal Road ran some 2,857 km from the city of Susa on the lower Tigris to the port of Smyrna (modern Izmir in Turkey) on the Aegean Sea. It was maintained and protected by the Achaemenid empire (c.700-330 BC) and had postal stations and relays at regular intervals. By having fresh horses and riders ready at each relay, royal couriers could carry messages the entire distance in 9 days, though normal travellers took about three months. This Royal Road linked into many other routes. Some of these, such as the routes to India and Central Asia, were also protected by the Achaemenids, encouraging regular contact between India, Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean. There are accounts in Esther of dispatches being sent from Susa to provinces as far out as India and Cush during the reign of Xerxes (485-465 BC). When Alexander the Great's successors, the Ptolemies, took control of Egypt in 323 BC, they began to actively promote trade with Mesopotamia, India, and East Africa through their ports on the Red Sea coast, as well as overland. This was assisted by the active participation of a number of intermediaries, especially the Nabataeans and other Arabs. The first major step in opening the Silk Road between the East and the West came with the expansion of Alexander the Great deep into Central Asia, as far as Ferghana at the borders of the modern-day Xinjiang region of China, where he founded in 329 BC a Greek settlement in the city of Alexandria Eschate "Alexandria The Furthest", Khujand (also called Khozdent or Khojent - formely Leninabad), in the state of Tajikistan. The Greeks were to remain in Central Asia for the next three centuries, first through the administration of the Seleucid Empire, and then with the establishement of the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom in Bactria. They kept expanding eastward, especially during the reign of Euthydemus (230-200 BC), who extended his control to Sogdiana, reaching and going beyond the city of Alexandria Eschate. There are indications that he may have led expeditions as far as Kashgar in Chinese Turkestan, leading to the first known contacts between China and the West around 200 BC. The Greek historian Strabo writes that "they extended their empire even as far as the Seres (China) and the Phryni" (Strabo XI.XI.I). Zhang Qian leaving emperor Han Wudi, for his expedition to Central Asia from 138 to 126 BCE, Mogao Caves mural, 618-712 CE.The next step came around 130 BC, with the embassies of the Han Dynasty to Central Asia, following the reports of the ambassador Zhang Qian (who was originally sent to obtain an alliance with the Yuezhi against the Xiong-Nu, in vain). The Chinese emperor Wudi became interested in developing commercial relationship with the sophisticated urban civilizations of Ferghana, Bactria and Parthia: “The Son of Heaven on hearing all this reasoned thus: Ferghana (Dayuan) and the possessions of Bactria (Ta-Hia) and Parthia (Anxi) are large countries, full of rare things, with a population living in fixed abodes and given to occupations somewhat identical with those of the Chinese people, but with weak armies, and placing great value on the rich produce of China” Hou Hanshu (Later Han History). The Chinese were also strongly attracted by the tall and powerful horses in the possession of the Dayuan (named "Heavenly horses"), which were of capital importance in fighting the nomadic Xiongnu. The Chinese subsequently sent numerous embassies, around ten every year, to these countries and as far as Seleucid Syria. “Thus more embassies were dispatched to Anxi [Parthia], Yancai [who later joined the Alans ], Lijian [Syria under the Seleucids], Tiaozhi [Chaldea], and Tianzhu [northwestern India]…As a rule, rather more than ten such missions went forward in the course of a year, and at the least five or six.” Hou Hanshu (Later Han History). The "Silk Road" essentially came into being from the 1st century BC, following these efforts by China to consolidate a road to the Western world and India, both through direct settlements in the area of the Tarim Basin and diplomatic relations with the countries of the Dayuan, Parthians and Bactrians further west. A maritime "Silk Route" opened up between Chinese-controlled Jiaozhi (centred in modern Vietnam [see map above], near Hanoi) probably by the first century CE. It extended, via ports on the coasts of India and Sri Lanka, all the way to Roman-controlled ports in Egypt and the Nabataean territories on the northeastern coast of the Red Sea. The Roman historian Florus also describes the visit of numerous envoys, included Seres (Chinese), to the first Roman Emperor Augustus, who reigned between 27 BCE and 14 CE: "Even the rest of the nations of the world which were not subject to the imperial sway were sensible of its grandeur, and looked with reverence to the Roman people, the great conqueror of nations. Thus even Scythians and Sarmatians sent envoys to seek the friendship of Rome. Nay, the Seres came likewise, and the Indians who dwelt beneath the vertical sun, bringing presents of precious stones and pearls and elephants, but thinking all of less moment than the vastness of the journey which they had undertaken, and which they said had occupied four years. In truth it needed but to look at their complexion to see that they were people of another world than ours." ("Cathey and the way thither", Henry Yule). Soon after the Roman conquest of Egypt in 30 BC, regular communications and trade between India, Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka, China, the Middle East, Africa and Europe blossomed on a scale never seen before. Land and maritime routes were closely linked and novel products, technologies and ideas began to spread across the continents of Europe, Asia and Africa. Intercontinental trade and communication became regular, organised, and protected by the ‘Great Powers’ of the day. Intense trade with the Roman Empire followed soon, confirmed by the Roman craze for Chinese silk (supplied through the Parthians) from the 1st century BC, even though the Romans thought silk was obtained from trees: "The Seres (Chinese), are famous for the woolen substance obtained from their forests; after a soaking in water they comb off the white down of the leaves... So manifold is the labour employed, and so distant is the region of the globe drawn upon, to enable the Roman maiden to flaunt transparent clothing in public" (Pliny the Elder (23–79 CE, The Natural History). The Senate issued, in vain, several edicts to prohibit the wearing of silk, on economic and moral grounds: the importation of Chinese silk caused a huge outflow of gold, and silk clothes were considered to be decadent and immoral: "I can see clothes of silk, if materials that do not hide the body, nor even one's decency, can be called clothes... Wretched flocks of maids labour so that the adulteress may be visible through her thin dress, so that her husband has no more acquaintance than any outsider or foreigner with his wife's body" (Seneca the Younger (c. 3 BC–AD 65, Declamations Vol. I). The Hou Hanshu records that the first Roman envoy arrived in China by this maritime route in 166 CE, initiating a series of Roman embassies to China. Notably, the Buddhist faith and the Greco-Buddhist culture started to travel eastward along the Silk Road, penetrating in China from around the 1st century BC. Blue-eyed Central Asian Buddhist monk, with an East-Asian colleague, Tarim Basin, 9th-10th century. The Kushan empire, in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent, was located at the center of these exchanges. They fostered multi-cultural interaction as indicated by their 2nd century treasure hoards filled with products from the Greco-Roman world, China and India, such as in the archeological site of Begram. The heyday of the Silk Road corresponds to that of the Byzantine Empire in its west end, Sasanid Period to Il Khanate Period in the Nile-Oxus section and Three Kingdoms to Yuan Dynasty in the Sinitic zone in its east end. Trade between East and West also developed on the sea, between Alexandria in Egypt and Guangzhou in China, fostering the expansion of Roman trading posts in India. Historians also talk of a "Porcelain Route" or "Silk Route" across the Indian Ocean. The Silk Road represents an early phenomenon of political and cultural integration due to inter-regional trade. In its heyday, the Silk Road sustained an international culture that strung together groups as diverse as the Magyars, Armenians, and Chinese. Under its strong integrating dynamics on the one hand and the impacts of change it transmitted on the other, tribal societies previously living in isolation along the Silk Road or pastoralists who were of barbarian cultural development were drawn to the riches and opportunities of the civilizations connected by the Silk Road, taking on the trades of marauders or mercenaries. Many barbarian tribes became skilled warriors able to conquer rich cities and fertile lands, and forge strong military empires. The Silk Road gave rise to the clusters of military states of nomadic origins in North China, invited the Nestorian, Manichaean, Buddhist, and later Islamic religions into Central Asia and China, created the influential Khazar Federation and at the end of its glory, brought about the largest continental empire ever: the Mongol Empire, with its political centers strung along the Silk Road (Beijing in North China, Karakorum in central Mongolia, Sarmakhand in Transoxiana, Tabriz in Northern Iran, Astrakhan in lower Volga, Bahcesaray in Crimea, Kazan in Central Russia, Erzurum in eastern Anatolia), realizing the political unification of zones previously loosely and intermittently connected by material and cultural goods. The Roman empire, and its demand for sophisticated Asian products, crumbled in the West around the 5th century. In Central Asia, Islam expanded from the 7th century onward, bringing a stop to Chinese westward expansion at the Battle of Talas in 751 CE. Further expansion of the Islamic Turks in Central Asia from the 10th century finished disrupting trade in that part of the world, and Buddhism almost disappeared. The Mongol expansion throughout the Asian continent from around 1215 to 1360 helped bring political stability and re-establish the Silk Road (vis-à-vis Karakorum). With rare exceptions such as Marco Polo or Christian ambassadors such as William of Rubruck, few people traveled down the entire length of the silk road. Instead traders moved products much like a bucket brigade, with luxury goods being traded from one middleman to another, from China to the West, and resulting with extravagant prices for the trade goods. However, the disintegration of the Mongol Empire did not see the continuation of Silk Road's political unity. Also falling victim were the cultural and economic aspects of its unity. Turkmeni marching lords seized the western end of the Silk Road, i.e. the decaying Byzantine Empire. After the Mongol Empire, the great political powers along the Silk Road became economically and culturally separated. Accompanying the crystallization of regional states was the decline of nomad power, partly due to the devastation of the Black Death and partly due to the encroachment of sedentary civilizations equipped with gunpowder. Ironically, as a footnote, the effect of gunpowder and early modernity on Europe was the integration of territorial states and increasing mercantilism. Whereas on the Silk Road, gunpowder and early modernity had an impact quite the opposite: the level of integration of the Mongol Empire could not be maintained, and trade declined (though partly due to an increase in European maritime exchanges). The disappearance of the Silk Road following the end of the Mongols was one of the main factors that stimulated the Europeans to reach the prosperous Chinese empire through another route, especially by the sea. Tremendous profits were to be obtained for anyone would could achieve a direct trade connection with Asia. When he went West in 1492, Christopher Columbus's only wish was to go to China and create another Silk Route. It was one of the great disappointments of western nations to have found a continent "in-between", before the potential of the New World slowly started to be realized. The wish to trade directly with China was also the main drive behind the expansion of the Portuguese beyond Africa after 1480, followed by the powers of Holland and Great Britain from the 17th century. As late as the beginning of the 19th century, China was still considered the most prosperous and sophisticated of any civilization on earth. In effect, the spirit of the Silk Road and the will to foster exchange between the East and West, and the lure of the huge profits attached to it, has conditioned most of the history of the world during the last two millenia. Click here to go back to the Asia page! This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Silk Road".

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Bishops Lydeard Bishops Lydeard Postcode for Sat Nav: TA4 3RU Bishops Lydeard Station is the southern terminus of the West Somerset Railway. It is four miles from the County town of Taunton and the M5 Motorway (Junction 25). Please be aware that there is a maximum height barrier so access to the car park is for vehicles under 2.1 metres. Bishops Lydeard Station has a booking office and sells the full range of West Somerset Railway tickets. Please see the Fares Pages to find out more about fares from this station. The station has toilets, with facilities for disabled passengers and baby changing rooms. There is a large free car park and coach parking is available. The Gauge Museum on Platform 1 has many items of local rail interest and shows how the railway affected the people who worked on and used the line. The Museum also contains a working model railway open normally at weekends and Galas. Platform 1 is also home to the Taunton Model Railway Group whose layout, Bath Green Park, is intricately detailed and can be viewed when it is open on Gala days. On Platform 2 you will find the station shop and the Whistle-Stop Cafe, adjacent to the Signalbox, selling a comprehensive range of model railway equipment old and new, books and other souvenirs. The Whistle-Stop Cafe sells hot and cold snack items as well as a soft drinks and sweets. The village of Bishops Lydeard is situated at the foot of the Quantock Hills and is about five minutes walking from the station. The old village is a mixture of red sandstone and brick buildings which are all very charming to look at. Further up the road into the village is Mill Lane which, if followed, takes you to the village watermill which has been spendidly restored. Bishops Lydeard Mill welcomes visitors on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays from 30th May to 30th September (plus Bank Holiday Mondays) and Saturdays in August between 11.30am - 4pm. The mill is home to a working water wheel, the wheelwright�s shop and the blacksmith�s shop. Once back on the main road further into the village is the Bird in the Hand Pub offering food and drink, garden and a children�s play area. Alongside the pub is a small craft shop. The Village Church is the very impressive St. Mary the Virgin and the earliest part dates from the 14th Century. There are some beautiful wood carvings in the church and the village charter from 1291 can be viewed. As you make your way from the station towards the village you will find the Lethbridge Arms, an old established inn, which offers food and drink including real ales in a number of rooms. The large wall in the car park is of historical interest as having been built for the playing of Fives, a Somerset game which was once very popular but which has now died out. A Fives Wall in West Somerset is unusual as the most popular area for the game was the south of the county. Near the church is a fascinating relic of the tram system in Taunton, a post that supported the electric wires, now in use as a lamp standard. The trams were closed in the 1920�s and no one is really sure how it got there. Other local attractions include Cedar Falls Health Farm and the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. History of Bishops Lydeard Station The station, opened with the original Taunton to Watchet Line in 1862 and originally had only the main building, Goods shed and the Station Masters House (opposite the Shop on Platform 2 - it is now let out as a holiday home) until the Great Western Railway added the other platform and Signalbox in 1906. The station is home to the West Somerset Railway Association, the supporting charitable body of the Railway. Please visit the West Somerset Railway Association Web Site for further information.

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Washford Washford Postcode for Sat Nav: TA23 0PP The station is now home to the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust who have set up a museum and workshop on the site of the old Goods shed and yard demolished by British Railways in the 1960s. The museum contains some wonderful artifacts of the S&DJR and is well worth a visit. The Museum The Somerset and Dorset Railway Trusts museum at Washford contains relics from the former Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway which ran from Bath to Bournemouth with branchlines to Highbridge, Burnham on Sea, Wells and Bridgwater. All finally closing in 1966. Please note that the museum is not open every day. Please click here for opening dates. A Railway Remembered Explore the mass of exhibits, ponder on the old station names and soak up the evocative atmosphere. Relics to be seen are station nameboards, lamps, tools, signalling equipment, tickets, photographs, handbills, rolling stock and steam locomotives. Step back in time as you operate the levers in the reconstructed Midford Signal Box Museum Admission Prices Adults £2.00 Child £1.00 Family £5.00 Members Free Washford Station has toilet facilities and is accessible to disabled passengers but does not have a disabled toilet. Tickets are not sold at this station and passengers are asked to purchase their tickets on the trains from the Guard or ticket inspector. Cleeve Abbey Special Offer to WSR Ticket Holders: A few minutes walk from the station brings you to Cleeve Abbey, a beautiful Cisterian Abbey, in the care of English Heritage and open from 29 March - 3 Nov, daily. Cleeve Abbey offers a 20% reduction on admission charges to those visitors who can show a same day dated WSR ticket on entry. [The offer is available between 29 March - 3 Nov, 7 days a week. Closing times may vary - visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/cleeve for details. The Abbey offers families a great chance to explore the history of the monks who lived at the Abbey with a fun story pack as well as providing visitors with the opportunity to wander around the grounds and Abbey buildings which remain at this peaceful site. Although the main abbey church is no more, the remaining outbuildings give a fascinating insight into monastic life. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing and encourages visitors to linger. Further on from the abbey is Torre cider farm where you can learn how Somerset cider is made and even sample some of the produce. There are also several pubs including the Washford Inn at the end of the Station ramp and The White Horse, near the abbey, which serve food. History of Washford Station Washford Station is the first station on the �extension� from Watchet to Minehead and is different in style from the buildings of the earlier line. The station opened in 1874 and unlike some of the other stations on the line is in the village it serves. The Station is painted in Southern Region colours setting it apart from the other stations, painted in the colours of the Great Western Railway and its successor the Western Region of British Railways. The small wooden building next to the main building is the original signalbox which contains a set of levers. Although the �Midford� exhibit has been designed to represent an ex-S&DJR location, the lever-frame is in fact a part of one from the former signal-box at Woolston (near Southampton). Find out more about the Somerset and Dorset Trust Find out more about English Heritage's Cleeve Abbey.

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Liberty's Wingate hotel receives certificate of excellence from TripAdvisor May 24, 2013 : Liberty University News Service The Liberty University-owned Wingate by Wyndham hotel is centrally located on Liberty's campus. Here it can be seen lit up in green beneath Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre with Williams Stadium in the foreground. The Liberty University-owned Wingate by Wyndham hotel on Candlers Mountain Road recently received a certificate of excellence from TripAdvisor.com, placing it in the top-performing 10 percent of all the businesses worldwide that are represented on the website. The award is given to businesses that consistently earn high ratings from TripAdvisor travelers. Liberty became the new owner of the hotel in June 2012, purchasing it in a foreclosure auction for $9.2 million. Since then, the university has been investing resources into the property to improve the guest experience and ensure it remains one of the top-performing hotels in the region. One of the first steps was hiring the Atlanta-based hotel management company Hotel Equities, a firm that is closely aligned with Liberty’s mission and values. Sal Capriola, operations coach for Hotel Equities, said Liberty and his company have made both capital investments (roof repairs, landscaping, upgrades to HVAC units, enhanced television channel selection, bathroom renovations, and a new laundry unit) as well as a “people investment” through additional training for staff members. “Our goal is to improve every aspect of the operation, from service to cleanliness,” he said. “The hotel was already a top choice for many guests to the Lynchburg area, and we’re working on improving upon the overall experience. We’re giving the team the tools they need to do the job the right way, and the way Liberty would want to be represented.” He said it made sense for Liberty to make these investments in the property, especially with its close proximity to campus, its convenient location off U.S. 460, and its beautiful view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is conveniently located on Liberty’s mountain property, just below Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre, the school’s year-round ski slope. Before Liberty became the owner, the university was already greatly impacting the hotel’s business each year, drawing thousands of guests to the area for campus events and for intensive classes for Liberty University Online students. The hotel was built in 1998 and was remodeled in 2009. myLU Sign In

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Explore this region Attractions in Edinburgh & The Lothians Visitors travel from all over the globe to see Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. So why not come and see the attractions for yourself? Edinburgh Castle is the city’s defining feature and sits perched on an extinct volcano that overlooks the city. Inside the castle, some of which dates back to the 12th century, you will find treasures such as the Scottish Crown Jewels. The fascinating Scottish National War Museum is also within the walls, reflecting the castle’s long military history. Edinburgh Zoo has always been popular but is now definitely worth a visit as it has just become home to two new star attractions, Tian Tian and Yang Guang, the UK’s only giant pandas. Make sure you don’t miss out by going online to reserve a place to see the pandas before heading to the zoo. Other exotic residents include Asian lions, chimpanzees, penguins and zebras. Step back in time at The Real Mary King’s Close to discover an underground world which shows Edinburgh life hundreds of years ago. Find out if plague victims really were sealed in their homes, and if ghosts haunt these ancient streets. One of the most unique ways to learn about the history of the city is on a visit to Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, a Victorian observatory on the Royal Mile. Enter a darkened rooftop chamber and marvel as a 19th century device resembling a periscope projects a white beam of light onto a concave table to reveal incredible moving images of the city and its inhabitants. Hear colourful tales of Auld Reekie before exploring four floors of interactive exhibits where you’ll encounter fantastical optical illusions. Step inside a room where you can shrink or grow, get lost in a mirror maze and try to keep your balance in a swirling vortex tunnel. The Royal Yacht Britannia, which took the British Royal Family around the world, provides a glimpse into the private lives of royalty. Once onboard, you have the unique opportunity to see the state apartments and the engine room. Follow in the footsteps of Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela to explore the one place where the Queen said she could truly relax. Witness the Forth Bridge, an engineering marvel which has spanned the Firth of Forth for 125 years, connecting Fife with Edinburgh. Comprised of 53,000 tonnes of mild steel, this immense red structure is a iconic part of the east coast skyline and has been named as Scotland’s sixth World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In Midlothian, you can visit the gothic Rosslyn Chapel, made famous by Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code. Further attractions in the Lothians include the Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World and the award-winning Scottish Seabird Centre, which will delight nature-lovers. Find out about free attractions in the area. Historic attractions Discover the fascinating history and heritage of Edinburgh & The Lothians through the region’s outstanding historical attractions, including sites in Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the nature and geography of Edinburgh & The Lothians which offers outdoor activities, wildlife watching and a variety of other ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Head out of the city with a visit to one of the many beautiful country parks in the Lothian countryside for a fun family day out in the great outdoors. Explore the museums in Edinburgh & The Lothians and uncover a variety of fascinating exhibitions for young and old. See T-Rex, Concorde and Steiff Bears in a variety of museums. Art & culture attractions Visit the arts and culture attractions of Edinburgh & The Lothians, which include brilliant galleries, fantastic art centres and entertainment venues. Food and drink From Michelin-star dining to a fantastic choice of bars and pubs, come and experience the true taste of Edinburgh & The Lothians Wildlife attractions Across bustling city and tranquil countryside, there's a wealth of wildlife attractions to be found in Edinburgh & the Lothians, from soaring seabirds to delicate butterflies. Explore the parks and gardens of Edinburgh - a city full of great green spaces filled with plants and flowers. Search for Places Search Accommodation Region miles Type of Accommodation Search What's On Region miles Type of Event Search things to do Region miles Type of Things to Do Search Food & Drink Region miles Type There are a wide range of tours available in Edinburgh & The Lothians, including bus, whisky, walking and ghost tours. Free things to do in Edinburgh & The Lothians The amazing range of free attractions in Edinburgh & The Lothians are a wonderful way to discover more about the area. Uncover fantastic shopping opportunities in Edinburgh & The Lothians from high street trends to vintage boutiques.

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Back to the Newsletter Page SEPTEMBER 2005 NEWSLETTER To our Guests & Friends, After a long, hot, dry summer, Hermannites are anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new season. September is a delightful month to visit Hermann as summer fades into fall, temperatures moderate, farmers and grape growers bring in the harvest, and colors change from shades of green to golden hues. Activities are plentiful in and around Hermann this month. Check the local calendar on our web site to find out what is going on. If you'd rather "do your own thing", perhaps the day trip described below would be of interest. (You will note an asterisk (*) throughout the newsletter. This indicates a reference to Hermann Hill's Three-Mile Walk. Information about the walk is on our web site.) Day-tripping north of Hermann We received some positive feedback about the Day Trip we described in our August newsletter, so we have planned another. This month, we elected to head north of the Missouri River to the Shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows at Starkenburg, Crane's Country Store and Museum, and the Apple Wagon Antique Mall at Williamsburg. There are several suggested routes to take on this tour. No matter which one you follow, your travels will take you through the rich farmland and majestic bluffs along the Missouri River and on roads that wind through hilly countryside and densely wooded areas. (A brief stint on Interstate 70 could not be avoided.) The sign at the intersection of Hwy. 94 and Hwy. P directs visitors to the Shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows The tour described in this newsletter covers approximately 80 miles round trip. Visit our Day Trips page to view this tour. Bridging the Mighty Mo After years of planning, a new bridge across the Missouri River at Hermann is soon to be a reality. While the current bridge continues to serve the purpose of getting folks back and forth across the river, a more updated structure has become a necessity. The Missouri River Bridge at Hermann was in 1930. A new bridge will be constructed just west of this bridge. It is due to open in December of 2007 When it was completed in 1930, the Missouri River Bridge at Hermann* was considered a feat of mammoth proportions. But as vehicles got larger, and the amount of traffic increased, the narrow, old bridge created a white-knuckle adventure for drivers trying to avoid being side swiped by oncoming traffic. Drivers! Fear no more! If all goes according to plan, a new, up-to-date bridge will replace the old relic in December of 2007. Ground breaking for the new Highway 19 Missouri River Bridge is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hermann Riverfront Park. Sen. Christopher "Kit" Bond, for whom the bridge will be named, and Rep. Kenny Hulshof will address the crowd, members of the Highway 19 Missouri River Bridge Transport Corp. will give a brief history of the current bridge, and a ceremonial champagne toast will replace the golden shovel. Dignitaries from throughout the State of Missouri and Gasconade and Montgomery counties (the border of the two counties is at the center of the bridge) have been invited to attend. Following the ceremony, the City of Hermann will serve bratwurst to all in attendance and the Hermann Municipal Band will give a short concert. The public is invited to attend this historic event. This will be no ordinary bridge. The plate girder bridge, with a length of 2,247 feet, will replace the current through truss bridge. It will be arched in the middle, and the elevation will be 12 feet higher at the center than the existing bridge. Outside-to-outside dimensions will be 55 feet, 4 inches and will include two 12-foot driving lanes, two 10-foot shoulders, and an 8-foot lane for pedestrians and cyclists. Several overlooks facing west are planned for the structure. Lighting for the bridge will be in keeping with the period light posts in downtown Hermann. Concrete piers are being cast to resemble limestone rock, which will be illuminated at night. The estimated cost of construction is $32,816,558.10, a far cry from the $800,000 that was estimated to build the current bridge. Additional funding is being allocated by the City of Hermann to cover the costs for electric power to illuminate the bridge. The Highway 19 Missouri River Bridge will benefit the area in many ways: by providing housing for workers employed by the Jensen Construction Company of Des Moines, creating jobs for local workers, continuing to make Hwy. 19 a major north south route through Missouri, increasing the number of people visiting the area, and the list goes on. The new bridge may change some aspects of life in Hermann, just like the current bridge did when it was completed 75 years ago. But, change can be good. To read an account of the construction and dedication of the existing bridge 75 years ago, click Hermann Bridge. Honoring a fallen hero Marine Lance Cpl. Erik Heldt was the Hermann area's first casualty in the Iraqi war. He was killed while conducting combat operations near Ar Ramadi, Iraq on June 16, 2005. A scholarship fund has been set up in his name that will be awarded to Hermann High School scholar/athletes based on academic achievement, athletic ability, and need. To enhance the scholarship fund, a benefit fundraiser is being held at OakGlenn Winery on Sunday, Sept. 18, from noon to 9 p.m. The public is invited. The event will include a meal, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. Ticket and program information is available on the winery's web site www.oakglenn.com. Or, you may call the winery at 573-486-5057. Marine Lance Cpl. Erik Heldt Hermann Hill elevator Due to recent changes in the law by the Missouri legislature and Governor, we will no longer be able to allow guests to use our elevator. If you required the use of the elevator during an upcoming stay at Hermann Hill, let us know and we will refund your reservation in full. Installing roof trusses for Cottage #1. Cottage #2 (next door) is now under roof. Hermann Hill Village update In August, we poured the foundations for Cottages #1 and 5 and began framing #1. Cottage #2 now has a roof, windows, four fireplaces, a deck, and HVAC ducts. We now have temporary electricity on site so we can turn off the noisy generators. To view more photos of our progress, click on the Hermann Hill Village page. October newsletter: The evolution of October in Hermann. Hermann Hill Vineyard and Inn 711 Wein Street - P.O. Box 555 - Hermann, Missouri (MO) 65041 Phone: (573) 486-HILL (573-486-4455) | Fax: (573) 486-5373 Email: info@hermannhill.com | Website: www.hermannhill.com

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NEW SYSTEM TO STREAMLINE STATE PARK RESERVATIONS March 15, 2012 System available online April 17; all reservations will shut down April 1-16PRATT — Have you ever wondered what state park facilities are still available on a busy weekend or wished you could make a reservation in advance from home, when park offices are closed? The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) Outdoor Recreation Management System (ORMS) — available April 17 — will provide that service and much more. In addition to allowing customers to make reservations from the comfort of home, photos of each campsite and whether it’s available will be hosted online. In most cases, ORMS will save park users money, through reduced service fees and more efficient management. The system also will allow staff to mark sites with problems — such as broken hydrants or electrical issues — until these issues can be fixed. ORMS data will show which sites are used the most, making management planning more efficient. ORMS will allow park staff to look within the system to see what sites are full and who is on that site, making emergency notifications much faster.For those without computers or who still prefer using a phone, park staff will be able to use ORMS to help callers with reservations.Reservations made before ORMS is launched will be moved into the new reservation system, so there will be no need to renew existing reservations. A cancellation/reschedule policy will be implemented, similar to the policy for camping cabins. The number of campsites available for reservation will vary by park. The rest will be available through the traditional first-come, first-served method. Shelter and group campground reservations will continue to be made only through the park office where the facilities are located. In order to implement ORMS, the current reservation system will be shut down from April 1 through April 16. During this time, no reservations will be taken either online or by phone.On March 31, all state parks will host a Free Park Entrance Day, with open-house in the offices, allowing customers to purchase park permits on the last day of lower off-season pricing. During open house, ORMS demonstrations will offer customers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the new system. Also during the open house, visitors can enter a drawing to win a free one-night stay at a state park or public land cabin of their choice (terms and conditions apply, no purchase is necessary to enter. Call park office for details). Those who cannot make it to a state park open house March 31 and see a demonstration can go online to Reserve America — www.reserveamerica.com — and familiarize themselves with how to use the system ahead of the launch date. Forty states are currently using the system, so pick one and see what they have to offer.Among many other benefits of ORMS, park users will be able to make a reservation online from home, be assured to have a site if they have made a reservation, and avoid reservation errors such as double-booking. Park staff will use ORMS to manage walk-in as well as phone sales. For those sites that can be reserved, users will be able to search for specific locations, sites, dates, and lengths of stay. Searches can be narrowed by amenities such as site size, utility hookups, equestrian facilities, hiking and biking trails, boating facilities, swimming areas, and more. Visitors without a camping permit can purchase one online before leaving home.State park cabin reservations may already be made online at reserve.ksoutdoors.com or by calling or visiting a state park office. Constituents should continue to use these venues through March 31. ORMS is much more than a camping and cabin reservation system. It will help KDWPT staff provide better customer service and more accurate visitor information. For more information, contact the nearest KDWPT state park or phone the Pratt Operations Office, 620-672-5911, and ask for the Parks Division.-30- Back to 3/15/12 News

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A blog about life in London Lifestyle » Some Interesting Facts About The Big Smoke aka London Some Interesting Facts About The Big Smoke aka London Posted by William Wallace on Aug 12, 2009 in Lifestyle | 2 comments I have put together an interesting wee list of interesting facts about The Big Smoke, which you maybe never knew. If you do know them, ah well such is life and I don’t suppose it will do you any harm to be reminded of them! For those of you that do not know, The Big Smoke is a nickname that is often used to describe London, England, usually by people that do not actually live in the city. I have personally never heard the term uttered once on the streets of London in the 6 months I have lived here. But never the less I like the term because I feel it sums the place up perfectly. It is likely that London came by its nickname The Big Smoke, because of the smog and pollution that was created by the industrialisation of the city in the late nineteenth century, nothing has changed there I guess. Some Interesting Facts About The Big Smoke aka London 1. Did you know, The Great smog of London was the term given to the worst ever instance of smog that affected the city during the period of Friday 5th to Tuesday 9th of December 1952. This period is acknowledged as being the UK’s worst ever air pollution event. It is estimated that up to 12,000 people died prematurely and 100,00 were made ill by the Great Smog. 2. There are two cities in London, if that doesn’t confuse you nothing ever will. Let me explain there is the City of London in the east and the City of Westminster to the West. The City of London, was what you could say the commercial capital of the city and Westminster was the Government Capital of the City.. 3. The official centre of London can be found at Trafalgar Square and is represented by a plaque on the ground behind the King Charles I statue. This is where all distances to and from London are measured from and to this very day the road mileage distances on the road signs in the UK are still measured from this point. 4. King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland was the only monarch of England to ever be tired by a legal process, deposed and sentenced to death. During his trial at the Great Hall at Westminster, Chief Judge Bradshaw read out the verdict of the court, “he, the said Charles Stuart, as a tyrant, traitor, murderer and public enemy to the good of this nation, shall be put to death by severing of his head from his body.” He was beheaded in public, in front of The Banqueting House in Whitehall, London (which still exists to this very day) on 30th January 1649. A scaffold stage was especially erected for the occasion. Did you know the statue of Charles I on horseback at Trafalgar Square, was deliberately positioned there by his son Charles II, to look down Whitehall towards the spot where his father was executed. 5. The Tyburn Tree was once upon a time the site of “kings Gallows” from 1196 to 1783, and was London’s main execution spot, where believe it or not more than 50,000 people were executed. On the traffic island at the junction of Edgware Road & Marble Arch is a plaque, which marks the site of the Tyburn Tree and only a few minutes walk is the Tyburn Convent where the nuns still pray for the souls of those that died. 6. It is estimated that 25% of the population living in London were born in another country, I wonder if the fact I was born in Scotland includes me in those figures. 7. The Thames is not only the oldest place name in London, but in the entire UK. 8. The River Thames is 220 miles long from its beginning at Thames Head, in the Cotswold Hills to its end at the lighthouse at Nore and it is a combination of four other rivers the Isis, the Churn, the Coln and the Leach. 9. Did you know the Central Line in London, the red one, which runs from Ealing Broadway or West Ruislip to Woodford (via Hainault) or Epping is a total of 74km (46 miles) and serves 49 stations. 10. There are around 40 ghost tube stations in London, don’t get scared they are not manned by ghosts, they are in fact abandoned or relocated tube stations that are no longer used by London Underground. If you look closely at my list of interesting facts you will find a few places of significant historic value that are worth visiting in London. Seek and ye shall find…… Emm / August 23, 2009 Fascinating post!! henry / June 8, 2010 Pretty sweet… Great post Trackbacks/Pingbacks Goodbye London | Globetrottergirls - [...] here, experienced how different living East feels to living West. We explored more of the ‘Big Smoke‘ in that … Follow Us! Categories 101 Londoners Picture Series Life In London London A to Z of Things To Do London Graffiti London Street Photography The Sam Smith's Quest

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Where on earth is Skye? Winging it with conviction SYRIA 2 - Palmyra, Krak and Aleppo The East & Middle East on skyewilson's travel map. On the morning of 27 June we were guided around Palmyra. Built in AD 2, the city ranks as one of the world's greatest historic sites and, 2000 years after its construction by the Arab Queen Zenobia, it remains one of the most capitals of the ancient world.Odenathus the Younger awarded himself the original title of “King of Kings”. To be sure, his brilliant military actions had earned him the gratitude of Rome: the Palmyrene armies twice defeated the Persian armies and, in AD267, the Senate of Rome named him the “Corrector of the East” in return. The authority of Oriental Palmyra seemed destined to extend over a vast territory but Odenathus and his son, the heir to the throne, were assassinated in mysterious circumstances. Rumor had it that Zenobia, the King’s second wife and mother of a very young son, was in some way involved in the crime. In fact, the queen immediately revealed herself to be an exceptionally able monarch. She was boundlessly ambitious for herself, for her son and for her people. Within six years she had affected the whole life of Palmyra. In AD270 the Queen, who claimed to be descended from Cleopatra, took possession of the whole of Syria, conquered Lower Egypt and sent her armies across Asia Minor as far as the Bosphorus. In open defiance of Rome, Zenobia and her son took the title “August” and had coinage struch in the name, thus setting themselves up as rival to Aurelian who was at that time having difficulties on the German borders of the Empire. Rome ended up defeating Zenobia and it is not known how she ended her days – although rumour has it that she married and lived out her days quietly in France!Palmyra flourished for 1,000 years in ancient times as part of the Assyrian caravan route, before being annexed by the Greeks, and then taken over in turn by the Romans. Palmyra is Syria's main attraction and we spent the morning exploring the splendour of these remote and extensive ruins (with the Arab Castle in view on the horizon). After walking past ancient temples and along the colonnaded, we explored the baths and theatre before heading over to the impressive Temple of Bel. It was rather disconcerting to have fighter planes buzzing overhead this morning – a stark reminder that we were very close to the border with Iraq. The others went back into town after that but I wanted to see the tombs in the valley that I’d seen from the Arab Castle the night before. Brendan had organized a taxi for me which picked me up outside the entrance the Temple of Bel.There was another passenger along for the ride and I wondered who he was until he jumped out of the taxi when I did at the first tomb – he was the key holder! There was already the requisite camel out the front, ready to take the one or tourists who might venture past, for a ride. The difference this time was that she had her baby with her – and here I thought I would be sick of photographing camels! There weren’t any other tourists at the site so I had it all to myself and what a strange place it was. Most of the tombs were in ruins but this one was in quite good nick – it had about four stories, with little lookouts along the valley through the thick brick walls. On each floor there were eight cavities from floor to ceiling and in each cavity were about six ledges (some were intact and some no longer existed) which would have been where the bodies were stored. There were some statues on the first floor, facing the door as you walked in, which were of the first residents of the tomb – after them it would have been filled with their family members. Driving on we passed a Bedouin herder with his flock of goats and sheep. I commented on how big the dogs were and the driver told me not to pat them as they have been trained to be very suspicious of anyone bar their owner. Apparently the pups are kept in a deep hole when they are first born. The only people to feed or give the animal water in the first months of its life are family members. This means that the dog becomes very protective towards the family and excellent guards for people who live such an isolated existence. He told me that he was Bedouin and did I want to visit a Bedouin family? Unfortunately I didn’t have time or else I would have jumped at the chance. Our next stop was the Three Brothers Tomb – this tomb, unlike the others, was underground. I was unable to take photos inside but it had three separate chambers – the first one immediately to your right as you walk in had statues of the three brothers reclining. The back chamber had very beautiful reliefs and the third chamber, to your left as you walked in, was interesting in that it sold chambers for use by non-family members. I suppose that people died when they were passing through on the caravan routes and had to go somewhere! Back in Palmyra I went to the post office for stamps and then bought a couple of silk scarves for Mum and Lis. I had bumped into a date merchant earlier in the day and he had asked me to make sure I looked at his shop. “Later, later” I said. Well I guess later came because he saw me and called out, “You promised you’d come by later”. I had too so in I went – he had offerings of dried dates from last season and a paste made from ground up dates. It was all delicious but I politely declined buying anything but he kissed me goodbye nonetheless. Apparently the same thing happened to Ely but he didn’t get a kiss when he left…A private minivan picked us up for our drive to Krak. The words ‘private minivan’ make it sound like we were travelling in the lap of luxury but this wasn’t exactly the case. I was concerned it would make the journey! Just out of Palmyra we passed the turnoff to Iraq – thankfully we veered right instead of left. It was an interesting drive – to start with we were driving through a flat, dusty, pretty miserable part of the world which was dotted with Bedouin tents (no doubt with gargantuan canines snapping their teeth at unwanted trespassers). Then we came into an area which was rocky and hilly, passing a number of army looking camps with tanks parked in ‘garages’ under hills, huge satellite dishes and training grounds. The trees in this area were on an incredible angle from the high winds that must blast this area. As we got closer to Homs the country became more arable with fruit trees and cropping. Sadly we didn’t have the chance to visit Homs but I heard from another traveler that they had really enjoyed the city.We arrived at Krak in the late afternoon – our hotel, and my room, had a view looking straight out over the castle of Krak des Chevaliers (Castle of the Knights) which is considered by many to be the greatest fortress in the world. In fact Lawrence of Arabia called it 'the finest castle in the world'. The guys went to find somewhere playing the World Cup (the only place it was playing happened to belong to the owner of the hotel’s brother!) I sat out on the balcony and had a beer while I watched the sunset, making the bricks of the castle glow a beautiful red.A large group were eating and I could hear oooooinng and ahhhhing about the food. “Yummo” I thought and ordered up, getting the set menu, thinking that everyone else was eating at the other place while watching the football. Of course, they all arrived back just after this enormous pile of food had been placed in front of me. I would have been quite content just to eat the babaganoush with leven bread but there was the usual mezze followed by a chicken dish which was all washed down with fresh watermelon. No complaints from me – the food was incredibly good. There were a lovely couple from the UK who were sitting close by and I ended up having a good chat with them. We were joined by a Syrian/German guide who specialized in train travel through Syria – it was all quite interesting until he started to show us footage of each of the trains he’s travelled all to soundtracks like Star Wars and Titanic. A true train spotter if ever I saw.I was very sad to get back to my room and find that my trousers had well and truly done their dash. I bought them with Ali at Rosebud Just Jeans and they were taken up by Grub, seamstress extraordinaire, who made one leg higher than the other so I had to walk on a slight angle whenever I wore them to make them look they were the same length..... These trousers had been worn to death (literally as it turned out) all through South America. I gave them two weeks recovery time while I was in London and when I put them back on for my flight down to Cairo it felt like I was putting on pjs – they were so comfy. While in Egypt I had discovered that they were starting to wear very thin around the seat and I took them to a few tailors hoping that a piece of material might be able to be sewn inside to keep them together – turns out the material was too fine and sewing them would just make another hole. I wore them until I could wear them no more (almost to the point of indecency) but they had served me well and I would miss them. Anyway this paragraph is just to say good-bye and thank you to those fantastic trousers - I wish you joy wherever your next journey may take you. 28 JUNE - Aleppo This morning we walked over to the castle - there were some beautiful thistles lining the road. Then we had a guided visit of Krak des Chevaliers, one of the world’s most famous Crusader castles. It seems that little has changed in the 800 years since the Crusaders knights built the castle in order to protect the so-called “Homs Gap”, the gateway to Syria. It commands a view over the valley between Homs and Tripoli and it was through this passage that Syria communicated with the Mediterranean. In ancient times the importance of this strategic corridor was immense. It was of crucial importance to the Crusaders and other foreign invaders in their conquest of the coast. Conflict over Crac des Chevaliers continued through the ages but, being a perfect model of medieval fortification, the castle was never besieged or taken by storm. It was a fierce and bloody dispute, but in the end, the Mamluks, led by Sultan Beybar, managed to recover it in 1271 through a military trick and one month of fighting. Crac des Chevaliers was built on the site of a former castle erected to accommodate Kurdish garrisons; “Crac” is a modification of the Arab word “Qal’a”. The citadel stands as high as 700m above sea level and has a huge 13 towers, in addition to the many stores, tanks, corridors, bridges and stables. It can accommodate 500 soldiers with their horses, their equipment and provisions for five years. It was interested to learn about the women’s temple where the big cheese was able to house his wife and daughters (all the other knights and soldiers were monks) – the women could only enter and exit the tower by a narrow stairway which had to be accessed using a ladder. It was all very involved. The chapel was another highlight, with wonderful acoustics and evidence of the different religions through the ages.This photo is of Dan shooting an arrow and the incoming enemy. Now, I don’t know about you but I probably wouldn’t hold a bow and arrow between my index finger and thumb…. Let’s get that in close up…. After we’d had a good wander through the castle, we transferred by minivan into Homs, stopping on the way to get a coffee from a roadside vendor. What a great set up! We caught a public bus from Homs to Syria's second-largest city, Aleppo. It was a great trip and the bus was packed and cramped. Music videos blared the entire way, icecream vendors hopped on and off and a man sat down next to Dustin, promptly put his head on his shoulder and fell asleep. Classic! We got into Aleppo in the late afternoon and walked through the souq to our hotel, Dar Halabia, which was only one of two hotels located in the Old City. It was a lovely hotel in one of the old houses which had been renovated and expanded – rooms were now spread over three houses. We then went for a walk towards the Christian Quarter, passing a goldfish salesman who set up shop on the wall of a public square. We stopped for a drink at the famous, if rather run down, Baron Hotel where I had a G&T. Actually I had two! After that we wandered to a nearby restaurant which had been recommended to Brendan – the food was good, but the menu was better! I guess number 13, in this case, really is an unlucky number. Would you like some salmonella with that? The other thing that cracked me up about this place is their obvious love of the Guiness Book of Records – it doesn’t look like the guys are agreeing on how the Longest Kebob, Skewen in the World should be cooked…. 29 JUNE - Aleppo Architecturally diverse, 'Halab' as the locals call it, means 'milk', originating from the ancient story that Abraham gave out milk to travellers as they journeyed through the region. At one time Aleppo was the northern capital and it’s now still the largest city in northern Syria (and rivals Damascus as the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world). Aleppo is situated on the crossroads of several important trade routes, strategically connecting Mesopotamia, the Fertile Crescent and Egypt. Consequently the city is a melting pot of diverse cultures with Muslim Arabs, Armenians, Russians and Greek Orthodox Christians. Hidden in this city, that was planned by the Greeks, are the many vestiges of the successive civilizations who once ruled here. Walking through the old city one is again in the Middle Ages and overwhelmed by the scents, colors and hubbub of the swarming labyrinth that is still a market place today, and although the Silk Road caravans no longer arrive, traders still have their offices in the caravanserais of old.We started today with a guided tour of Aleppo's Old City, starting at the entrance to the souq which is on an angle so that it couldn't be rammed. We had a wonderful tour through the Old City stopping at sites along the way, including different stalls in the fabulous covered souq where our guide, at the soap stall, explained a process of making the famous olive oil soap or the spice souq, where he talked about the properties of each of the spices. We stopped in a khan (the caravan ‘motel’) of which there are many in Aleppo – most are now used as shops. Out of the souq we passed a house with graffiti on the outside wall and our guide explained that this graffiti was of Mecca and shows that the inhabitant had visited Mecca, making it an auspicious house. From the Old City wall we were able to see the Green Mosque, the President's private mosque, off in the distance. We were able to visit a men’s only hammam and walk through the hot and cold rooms, as well as check out the swimming pool which looked a bit green to me (our guide told us it was no longer in use but Dan had a hammam later that day and was told to jump in there – we saw a couple of cockroaches down there too so not convinced about the cleanliness of that hammam particularly). We also visited the mental asylum where it was interesting to learn about how the site for the asylum was chosen. Pieces of meat were hung up in various places all around Aleppo – the meat that went off last was chosen as the site for the asylum as the logic went that the air was healthiest there. There were enclosed wooden balconies on the outer facade of some of the houses – these were apparently built by jealous husbands to prevent their wives being seen by anyone other than him and are known as mushrabiya. They also allow the women to view public spaces without being seen. It was early afternoon when the tour ended at the imposing citadel. I left everyone and took myself off for the afternoon. Little did I know the adventures that Aleppo had in store for me. Initially I was looking at my map thinking that I would be able to find the souvenir section of the souq which is just behind the citadel but I wandered way too far and when I realized this, I just kept going. I ended up in a little street and found a shop under a bridge which I went into to see if they had falafel. Nope, no falafel (and from the stains on the front of his shirt I was kind of glad that I wouldn’t be eating food that had been made by him) but through hand signals he demonstrated that he did have something in the back room of his shop that he wanted to show me. I’ll warn you before I go any further that you should skip this section if you’re squirmish about blood or anything like that. So I walk into the back of his shop and there are a group of around 6 men standing around a man sitting backwards on a chair with his shirt off. There was another man standing over him fiddling with something on his back. When I walked around I could see that there were two suction cups on the man’s back which were slowly filling with a plasma like substance (it wasn’t runny like blood). When they had filled to a certain point the ‘doctor’ would slowly release the suction and remove the ‘blood’ – you could see that small slits had been made in the skin where the blood came through. Anyway, it was all rather gross and I had no idea what was going on except that one man kept saying ‘operation, operation’. Ah huh. Another man, who spoke a bit of English, was bought into the room to translate to me – he told me that the man was getting this done to make him stronger. I asked if he’d ever done it and he said no, he was too scared. He then ran out of the room, dry retching! I didn’t quite know what to do – should I stay or should I go now? If I go there will be trouble, if I stay there will be double. Thankfully the ‘operation’ came to an end when some oil was rubbed over the wounds and I was able to thank them very very much (shukran jezelan – phonetic!) and maah assalama (goodbye). I walked out, took a few breaths of clean air, and then continued on my quest to find falafel. I know I shouldn’t have been hungry at that time but I was and, what do you know, there was a little falafel shop right across the street. An old guy and his son ran the joint – they sat me down, gave me a cup of tea, offered me fuul and pretty much barred the entrance so no one else was allowed in. That didn’t last long - as soon as the old guy left his son pulled out his mobile phone and started taking pictures of me eating. That’s cool, I can still look devastatingly stunning with a mouthful of food. Then the guy from the first place (who pulled me in to watch the ‘operation’) showed up with an English translator, asking why I hadn’t eaten in his establishment. I apologized, telling him that I didn’t think he had falafel. He laughed and said he was just teasing me, that I was eating in his brother’s shop so it was just like eating in his shop anyway. Ha ha ha ha. The joke kind of got lost in translation I guess. The original guy who had translated about the ‘operation’ and run out gagging came to find me and asked that I visit him at his tomatoe stall down the street. I said I would be happy to after I’d finished my lunch.It didn’t take long for me to find the tomatoe man – who offered me a sunny fresh tomatoe and the services of a young boy, who was probably around 8, to take me up to show me the mosque. I entered the mosque’s internal courtyard with its canopy of around trees and vines without realizing that it was time for midday prayers. The Call to Prayer started to be sung while I was in the courtyard and I turned around and saw the priest (they’re probably not a priest are they) calling into a microphone. I indicated to my camera and he nodded assent – how incredible. There were men happy to be photographed washing their feet and then the tomatoe man arrived and suggested that I take ‘portraits’ of the men at prayer. I told him that I didn’t think that was appropriate and after a bit of back and forth I think he agreed so he suggested I come back after prayers instead. That might be a better idea. My boy was still with me, talking to me in basic English about the World Cup – he was a great Messi supporter and, as the most famous footballer in the world, I at least knew who he was talking about. He wouldn’t introduce me to anyone by name but would point at them ad say, “Brasil” or “Spain”, then turn up his nose or give a thumbs up depending on his view of the team. I got introduced to the local cop who was an Argentina supporter and on it went. I continued wandering down the street with my little friend and found that it was filled with small shops and stalls offering everything you could possibly need - everyone knew about me and that I was on my way. There was a soldering stall, hardware shop, three guys busy making stringy cheese (they make it look easy – it’s not) with two young guys helping out with the simpler part of the process. There was a pizza shop, a juice vendor and a shop selling herbal remedies. I took photos if people asked for one to be taken but this was all about living the moment, not photographing it. This little community in a tiny area of this big city just dropped everything to welcome me to their part of the world. There was smiling and laughing and a bit of trepidation from the toddlers who weren’t quite sure what to make of it all. I shouldn’t have eaten that falafel sandwich because I was offered more food there than I was in the rest of Syria put together! And culture dictates that it would be rude to refuse. They’re poor but they’re incredibly generous – they don’t have much in the way of material possessions but their lives are rich and fulfilled. It’s hard to put into words how these snippets in time can affect one’s life – I will look back on those hours in the back streets of Aleppo and know that not many people will ever have the opportunity to have an experience like that. This is why I travel and why I was falling head over heels for Syria. Afterwards I made my way back through the Old City and souq, checking out the Umayyad, the Great Mosque which is only a couple of years younger than the mosque in Damascus, on the way. I also wandered up to the Christian quarter, admiring the 15th century houses and equally old churches along the way, to reach an antique shop which was recommended by the guidebook. I hadn’t bought my Syrian present yet but I had a good idea of what I wanted and I’d done some price comparisons in the souq so knew how much I should expect to pay. The shop was a “Dad’s Delight” shop (as I’ve come to call junk shops) and was filled with all manner of goodies which had me entertained for a good hour. The owner’s son kept filling up my tea cup as I deliberated over which café thermos to buy. I ended up going for the one that was the oldest and most beat up but it’s a wonderful thing. Here’s the balcony of the shop I took my sweet time making my back to the hotel, stopping along the way - first I was dragged into a fish shop where I was taken into the back room to inspect their haul. Onwards through the Christian Quarter.... Then I stopped in a coffee shop where I was the only woman and the only foreigner. No problem! I enjoyed my tea while I watched the men at their cards – after I got chatting to a couple of them they invited me to take photographs. Then I wandered by the food section of the souq making friends with all the merchants. I was greeted, again, with smiles and joy. One of the butchers, who spoke pretty good English, would point to the cut of meat and ask me what they were. Lucky I’m a farmer’s daughter or I would have been stumped – as it was I got 9 out of 10 (some variety of offal tripped me up!) I stopped to have a chat and watch the tinman tinkering - and then admire the garlic of a garlic vendor whose smile never faltered. It was getting close to dinner time and the smell of cooking food permeated everything. The last part of the walk was past the shoe repairmen (or should I say, for the majority, boys). I met up with the group and felt like I was glowing after my sublime day. We walked back into the Christian Quarter and ate dinner at a pub (which gets a good write up in the Lonely Planet but we didn’t rate at all – there were no set meals and the food was expensive). After that we wandered over to Aleppo’s main square where a big screen had been erected for the World Cup. It seemed like the entire city had turned out to watch the match. Before leaving the next day I got up early to make the most of my last moments in Aleppo and Syria.You can probably tell by now that I loved this country and it’s quickly become my favourite Middle East destination. The US State Department may want us to think that Syria is populated by terrorists, zealots and other bogeymen but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The Syrians are among the most friendly and hospitable people in the world. Since Bashar al-Assad took over the reins from his father in 2001, modernization has been on the national agenda. Syria is modern, efficient and very proud. Fortunately all this modernization doesn’t mean that Syria has lost sight of its past. The country has more than its fair share of significant historical sites, all of which are respectfully maintained by the authorities. The ancient cities of Damascus and Aleppo are listed on Unesco’s World Heritage list, as is the sensationally beautiful ruined city of Palmyra. Mighty Crusader castles, labyrinth medieval souqs, jewel-like Damascene houses and sacred Umayyad mosques are only some of the treats on offer; there are plenty more for those who are keen to search them out. Best of all is the fact that these monuments are often woven into the fabric of daily life – the locals worship in the mosques, shop in the souq and eat and drink tea in the houses. And they’re happy for travelers to join them. Also, as I may have mentioned once or twice, the national cuisine is absolutely superb so come with a big appetite! I can understand how visitors to Syria end up developing a lifelong infatuation with its gentle charms because I am now one of them. Posted by skyewilson Archived in Syria Tagged blogsherpa Comments (2) (Entries 1 - 1 of 45) SYRIA 2 - Palmyra, Krak and AleppoSYRIA 1 - Damascus to PalmyraJORDAN 2 - The NorthJORDAN 1 - The SouthEGYPT 5 - Sinai & Red Sea Photography Algeria (6)Argentina (4)Australia (3)Bolivia (2)Chile (1)Cuba (4)Ecuador (3)Egypt (6)England (1)Jordan (2)Libya (3)Nepal (3)Peru (3)Syria (2)Tunisia (2) skyewilson (45) Favourite Links © Authors: skyewilson

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13 Hotels in London Still buzzing from its 2012 Summer Olympic success, London is by no means resting on past glories. Rather it is transforming them. The former Olympic Park has re-opened as the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which means the public can now enjoy 250 acres of beautifully landscaped open space. And though it already boasts two Tate Museums, it is bolstering its inspirational offerings with bold new initiatives, such as the Science Museum’s £4 million Media Space and the Guildhall School’s state-of-the-art performance venue. In addition, the West End, thought irrevocably uncool once the East End’s gentrification hit its full stride, is now back with enough new galleries to make New York’s behemoth Chelsea art district seem small in comparison. If you think you know the city and the boutique hotels in London, think again. A visit today proves just how quickly and dramatically a city can reinvent itself. Below find a list of our selection of boutique and luxury hotels in London.

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Viewing a humpback whale, Yalour Islands, Antarctica.Photo taken by: Lindblad Expeditions Help Us Save the Ocean. Donate Now Milestones & Firsts 10th Anniversary Benefit (2013) 2012 Benefit Gala in NYC Books and Other Gifts Sven-Olof Lindblad – Board Member Sven-Olof Lindblad learned early on the joy and wonder of exploring the pristine corners of the globe through extensive travels with his father, Lars-Eric Lindblad, the expedition travel pioneer known to many as the father of “eco-tourism”. Today, Sven continues the Lindblad tradition of exploration through his company – Lindblad Expeditions (LEX). With its hallmark staff and carefully researched and planned itineraries, Lindblad Expeditions owns and operates seven vessels and the company is lauded for it innovative exploration and conservation efforts. Most recently, the company forged a multifaceted strategic alliance with the National Geographic Society (NGS) in which the two organizations collaborate in the areas of exploration, technology and conservation. From Lindblad’s earliest days, the company set out to proactively protect the world’s wild places. Sven Lindblad continues to run his business with the approach that respectful adventure tourism can be a key factor in helping to sustain a region and, in some cases, even repair it. With that philosophy in mind, Lindblad Expeditions has built robust travel philanthropy programs in the Galapagos, Antarctica, Baja and Alaska. To date, the company has raised over $5 million to support local efforts in the destinations where it travels. Lindblad Expeditions received the 2007 Tourism for Tomorrow Global Tourism Business Award, presented annually by the World Travel & Tourism Council. The coveted award recognized Lindblad Expeditions for “outstanding leadership as a global model for environmental stewardship.” Previous Person Next Person ProgramsThe Kalpana Chawla “Spirit of Columbia” Scholarship

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Red Rock really does rock. Hike. Helicopter. Or high-performance vehicle. It doesn't matter how you get there, just get there. Red Rock Canyon is one of the Valley's most popular destinations. And despite its exotic good looks (as seen in movies and on numerous TV commercials), Red Rock is about 30 minutes from the Strip. more...Officially known as Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, this 520-acre spread is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and protected as a National Conservation Area. It's visited by more than a million travelers each yearSeemingly more a mountain range than a canyon, the area is dominated by spectacular layered walls of colorful hard rock and sandstone. Up to 3,000 feet high, it's a popular hiking and rock-climbing destination. But its jaw-dropping beauty and fiery red highlights surely make the range one of the most photographed attractions in the Southwest.A 13-mile loop road provides vehicle access to trailheads and viewing spots. And a visitor center is located at the start of the loop road. Most Red Rock tours take you around the scenic loop, with frequent stops for photographs. You'll see red and tan sandstone, colorful carbonate rock and, if you're a bit more adventurous, Indian pictographs, too. Nearby Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, once owned by legendary billionaire and Las Vegas resident Howard Hughes, has stunning views of the marvelous Wilson Cliffs. Green and cool, this working ranch is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch. Red Rock Las Vegas tours typically provide transportation right from your hotel, making it the perfect half-day getaway. Keyword

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STATE PARK WINTER SERVICES LIMITED BUT AVAILABLE Colder weather battens down some facilities during winter; all parks openPRATT — Kansas state parks began their off-season on Oct. 1, and it runs through March 31. During this time, many state parks reduce services although all remain open. Office hours and services vary from park to park, but most offices are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday but are closed on holidays.In addition, most unheated toilets and shower buildings with running water are shut down for the cold season. Most heated buildings remain open through the regular hunting seasons, and some remain open year-round. While drinkable water is available at each park headquarters all year, water is shut off at campgrounds and day-use areas that are prone to freezing pipes.Most parks have some drinkable water available at freeze-proof valves in campgrounds into late November or early December, depending on the weather. Electricity stays on year-round where it is available. Each park remains open to vehicles; however, some campground loops may be closed. Some boat ramps across the state may be closed or only usable by shallow-draft boats. For details, look up individual state parks at the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website, www.kdwp.state.ks.us. Conditions may also be checked by phoning individual parks before planning a trip.-30- Back to 11/4/10 News

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central spectrum pulau indah infrastructure & tariff live beyond pulau indah connect with ease contact Career pulau indah Located at the western side of Port Klang, Pulau Indah was known in the past as Pulau Lumut and was connected only by boats. Its activities centred to agriculture and fishing. Literally translated, Pulau Indah means ‘beautiful island’. And for the many visitors who have been to the island, indeed it is just so with its traditional Malay villages, its unhurried way of life and the lush green surroundings and mangrove coast all set on the southern side of the island. The northern side of the island on the other hand is developed with industrial estates and commercial developments. Today, Pulau Indah is fast becoming the centre of growth supported by the port’s development and its rapid progress, in line with the Selangor State Government’s effort to transform it into a centre for eco-tourism, commercial and industrial importance. Central Spectrum aims to develop Pulau Indah into a high-income economy district and provide work opportunities with a commitment to turn Pulau Indah into a prestigious land of prospects. Copyright © 2012 Central Spectrum (M) Sdn Bhd. All Rights Reserved.

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HomeLeisure & OutdoorsTravelSightseeing InternationalFort Cornwallis (Penang, Malaysia) Fort Cornwallis (Penang, Malaysia) Fort Cornwallis is located in Georgetown, Penang. It is the largest standing fort in Malaysia. „ A delightful old fort in the world heritage city of Georgetown Penang. Fort Cornwallis, Georgetown. Penang.Fort Cornwallis is the original site where Captain Francis Light landed in 1786. He initially built a wooden structure to act as a fortress but it was later rebuilt in stone using convict labor from India in the early 1800's. The surrounding area was quite inhospitable with very thick jungle and undergrowth and there is a story that said that in order for soldiers and locals to tame some of the jungle Light had a cannon filled with Spanish gold coins which was then fired into the jungle. The men used their machetes to cut down the fauna to reach the gold coins thereby clearing the jungle.The fort was built in the shape of a star right on the edge of a small headland in Georgetown. The ramparts facing out to sea and also inland was laden with canons some of which are still in place today there are approximately 17. One of the larger cannons which faces out to sea in a prominent point has been named Sri Rambai which was made in 1603 by the Dutch and given to the Sultan of Jahore. Local legend has it that any childless couple should lay flowers in the barrel of the great gun and shortly after the woman would conceive. Most of the cannons were seized by the British from Pirate ships and from other sources. Some of the cannons have gone missing over the years but four of the cannons are in the grounds of the Eastern and Oriental hotel. The cannons are dated Circa 1787 and have the Royal insignia of King George III. Hence the Capital of Penang is called Georgetown, named after him.The fort is named after Charles Marquis Cornwallis, a distinguished Governor General of India. The fort was erected to thwart potential French attacks which never actually happened. The Germans were interested in attacking Penang and establishing a base out in the Far East but again this never came about. The only time that it was occupied by invading troops was during the Second World War by the Japanese who established a base after the British had retreated to Singapore.Who was Francis light?Francis Light was the illegitimate son of a local woman Mary Light born in 1740 in the small village of Dallinghoo, Suffolk. He was taken in by a local gentleman William Negus who put him through the local grammar school at Melton. In 1759 Francis Light joined the Royal Navy and received a commission.After the war with the Dutch and French, Light was stood down from his commission. He eventually was given a commission with the British East India Company and he headed out East to protect the valuable spice routes and British interests in the East. The Sultan of Kedah was under constant threat of invasion by the Burmese, Siamese and the French were interested in Penang. The British offered protection in exchange for the right to stay put in Penang. However the Sultan back tracked on this agreement and in order for Light to maintain his fort and the occupation of Penang he had to make a payment to the Sultan of the sum of 6,000 Silver Spanish dollars per annum. For this it gave the right of the British to stay in Penang. There were 10 conditions signed at the treaty including the Sultan agreeing that no taxes should be paid for the spices landed there.Light married and had three daughters and two sons one of whom became Colonel William Light became the founder or the City of Adelaide in Australia. He died of Malaria in 1794 and is buried in the local Christian cemetery in Georgetown.Fort Cornwallis.You enter the fort over a small wooden drawbridge which brings you into a very large open area which has been transformed into an auditorium and arena where concerts and events are regularly held. Just in front of you once inside the fort is a statue of Captain Francis Light although his facial features are in fact based on those of his son. In one corner there is a small stone built chapel which is still intact although no longer in use. The white painted chapel is very small and to enter it you have to lower your head to get through the doorway. It is quite small inside and probably would only hold about 25 people inside at any time. It is fenced off with wrought iron railings.To the left of the chapel are barracks in which the soldiers were billeted. The fort is surrounded by a raised double rampart built of stone and filled with sand and grassed. It is here on the surrounding ramparts where the cannons are sited most looking out to sea although there are gun turrets surrounding the whole fort perimeter. In the northern corner of the fort is a very thick built building which housed the ammunition for the cannons. The walls of are very thick in order to protect the munitions from blowing up. The ramparts of the fort afford excellent views over the straits of Malacca looking over towards mainland Malaysia. Inside the fort there is a small gift shop and refreshment stall with some seating in spot shaded by trees.Fort Cornwallis is reputed to be the only fort left intact by the British out in the Far East. It is a very worthwhile monument to visit.I would recommend a visit to Fort Cornwallis. You should allow approximately one hour for your tour. It sets the scene for the historical birth of Georgetown and is quite useful in establishing the foundation, proliferation and historical development of the Island of Penang and as a very important strategic port for the spice trade.The fort is open from 08:30 to 19:00 hours every day.Cost of admission: - 2 Ringgits. (Approximately 50p)Address: - Padang Kota Lama, 10200 Penang, Malaysia. Comments Kek Lok Si Temple (Penang, Malaysia) Kuala Lumpur Towers (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) Sights & Attractions in Penang (Malaysia) Old Jail (Kuala Lumpur) Sungei Palas Tea Centre (Malaysia)

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Calendar | Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County New Lincoln stamp to make its debut Wednesday Postal Service releasing new Lincoln stamp at Old State Capitol Send a link to a friend [February 10, 2014] SPRINGFIELD � The Old State Capitol is preparing to make Abraham Lincoln's 205th birthday a truly historic one with celebratory events on Feb. 11 and Feb. 12, including the release of a new Lincoln-themed stamp. There will be an unveiling ceremony at 1 p.m. Wednesday for the new Lincoln stamp, featuring an image of the Lincoln Memorial. U.S. Postal Service officials will be on hand, and the Lincoln Land Community College chorus under the direction of Sue Hamilton will perform. Following the ceremony, visitors will have the opportunity to purchase commemorative envelopes. On Tuesday, the state historic site will host the Abraham Lincoln Association symposium's keynote speaker, Dr. Bruce Levine. Levine is a professor of history and African-American studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. His address is titled "Fall of the House of Dixie: 1864 and the Beginning of the End." The event begins at 7 p.m. As the symposium continues on Wednesday, visitors can take in more history discussions. At 11 a.m., Dr. John F. Marszalek and Dr. Douglas L. Wilson will speak on the theme "Year of Decision: 1864." Marszalek is professor emeritus at Mississippi State University and managing editor of the Ulysses S. Grant Association. Wilson is professor emeritus and co-director of the Lincoln Studies Center at Knox College. The stamp ceremony and these symposium presentations are free and open to the public. The Old State Capitol, administered by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, was Illinois' fifth capitol building and the first in Springfield. It was the site of many important moments in Abraham Lincoln's life. [Text from file received from the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency] < Tourism index

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Stogumber Postcode for Sat Nav: TA4 3TR Passengers can buy their tickets in the Refreshment Room (the old station office). Furthermore you can partake of one of the station�s now famous cream teas. On gala days bacon rolls, sausage rolls and pasties are always popular and in the colder weather tea and crumpets are served. Opened in May 2011 was the new waiting room. The Friends of Stogumber Station (FoSS) have been rebuilt the waiting room as closely to the original as is possible by the RAMs (restoration and Maintenance) team at Bishops Lydeard. So why not visit the station, enjoy a hot drink and some of the splendid food served by the cheerful station staff. Relax in the garden or simply soak up the old world charm. Stogumber is a picturesque but thriving village set in a valley between the Quantock and Brendon Hills. The main enterprise is agriculture and the village is surrounded by rolling farmland. The Parish comprises the village itself and several hamlets, including Vellow, Capton, Kingswood, Coleford Water and the "Vexfords�. The focal point of the village is the Square, which contains the pub shop and St. Mary�s Church, a large Norman church with an interesting William Morris style ceiling. The street leading up to the Square, High Street, is the most photographed part of the village, with its mix of colour-washed and thatched properties. History of Stogumber Station Since its construction in 1862 the station has seen many changes. Initially the small platform had a waiting room and signalbox while on the other side of the line there was sufficient space for a large goods shed and a spur which terminated at a cattle dock. The goods facilities fell into disuse by the 1950s and the dilapidated goods shed was demolished late in British Railways ownership. Also on the north side of the line was another small building serving as a goods lockup. This little building was constructed from the local red sandstone and was demolished before the railway was obtained by the WSR plc. The cattle dock had its bars and uprights cut away and the stable blocks which made the surface to the access ramp seem to have been �robbed out� many years ago. The signal box was demolished in the 1920s and was replaced by a ground frame which was removed later with the goods facilities in the 1960s. For a time Stogumber played host to a camping coach. Water for this coach was stored in a tank wagon that was replenished weekly via a Taunton train. However this last vestige of any sidings at SR was removed in the early 60s when the camping coach was removed. Stogumber�s buildings then fell into general disrepair and the waiting room, that was now considerably rotten, was demolished soon after the WSR plc took over.For a time Stogumber was managed by Harry Horn, the Station Master and a small group of volunteers known as the Friends of Stogumber. However time told and this band of volunteers dissipated into other railway work. Following the death of Harry in 2000, his wife Iris, carried on as Station Master and kept the station and its gardens in very good order. However Iris was not getting any younger and in 2009 she was admitted to hospital and the station team at Bishops Lydeard was asked, by the Company, to ensure that the station remained open. A small group of volunteers came together and Friends of Stogumber Station was reformed. Sadly Iris passed away in the autumn of 2009. Jenny Davidge is the Station Master. The fledgling FoSS started to grow almost as soon as it was created and it now stands at 34 members. There are 17 staff working on the station and between them they manage the buildings, gardens and platform. FoSS is also holding a large donation that will be used to finish off the inside of this building. There are plans to completely refurbish the cattle dock and open this area as a viewing gallery with disabled access so that visitors to the station can enjoy a cup of tea and watch the trains go by. Whilst on the subject of trains it will soon be seen that the stopping pattern for Stogumber will change for the galas. All down trains will stop but every other up train will pass straight through the station. From an operational view point this will save on coal as the heavy gala trains will not have to work very hard to get away from the station. The bonus for Stogumber will be that photographers and customers in the garden will be treated to the sight of trains working hard right through the station. The new viewing gallery on the cattle dock (when it is complete) will give an unrivalled view that will probably be one of the best on the whole line. Why not join the Friends of Stogumber Station (FoSS)? Visit the Stogumber Village Website.

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HomeLeisure & OutdoorsUK / Ireland GuideSightseeing NationalSt Paul's Cathedral (London) St Paul's Cathedral (London) Magnificent architecture Interesting time line in the crypt Not as many interesting dead people as Westminster Abbey Expensive Admission Compare pricesReviews Sort by: Southwark Bridge And St. Paul's Cathedral From London Bridge by George Fennel Robson London, St.Paul's Cathedral, 1890 by Camille Pissarro St Paul's Cathedral, London by Mirrorpix England, London, Millennium Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral by Assaf Frank St Paul's Cathedral London 2004 by Dan Chung CubicFun St Paul's Cathedral London UK 3D Puzzle Organ Extravaganza! - The Organs of St Paul's Cathedral, London John Scott The Grand Organ of St Paul's Cathedral, London (DVD with bonus CD) UK, London, St. Paul s Cathedral and Millennium Bridge over River Thames Framed Print English Sterling Silver St Paul's Cathedral London 3d 3d Cubic Fun Giant Jigsaw Puzzle St. Paul's Cathedral London Sealed Essexgirl2006 "Interesting time line in the crypt""Magnificent architecture""Well maintained" Disadvantages "Not as many interesting dead people as Westminster Abbey ""Expensive Admission" Worth Making the Effort to Visit St Paul's Cathedral is one of the more iconic sites in London and was built in its present state in the late 17th century, by Sir Christopher Wren, having been destroyed in the Great Fire of London (1666). In fact there had been a church on the site since the 7th century, and this was not the first time it was destroyed by fire. I first visited St Paul's Cathedral as a child and remembered climbing up to the Whispering Gallery. My most recent visit was on its annual 'free' day which coincides with the Lord Mayor's Show (usually a Saturday in November), but otherwise it is £18 to get in (concessions available). The nave as you arrive is spectacular, and the cathedral seems quite spacious (they may have taken seats away if there wasn't as service as it didn't seem cluttered at all). It's nice to walk down and is very well maintained. It doesn't have as many sculptures and memorials compared to the ancient Westminster Abbey. Don't forget to look up when you get under the Dome. I didn't climb up it this time (there was a queue). The crypt underneath the main part of the cathedral was the part I spent most time in. There is an informative timeline of the life of St Paul's since first consecrated. This is also the place to see the tombs of the likes of Lord Nelson and Duke of Wellington amongst others. A lot of older tombs were destroyed in the fire. Mainly it is military giants, but the likes of Alexander Fleming and Florence Nightingale (who was rather hard to find) are also here. The price to get in is high, so maybe worth coming on the busy (but free) Lord Mayor's day. I am really pleased I made the effort Comments happysh2009 see review On 20th June 2013 I went to London for visiting St Paul's Cathedral with my friends.Brief information about St Paul's Cathedral:St Paul's Cathedral is a Church of England cathedral and seat of the Bishop of London. It was founded in AD604 and was destroyed many times. The present church was built in the late 17th century and designed by Sir Christopher Wren. It has been one of the most famous and most recognisable sights of London. What to see in St Paul's Cathedral:St Paul's Cathedral is a building of English Baroque style. For tourist the visit of the building includes three parts.(1) The Cathedral FloorFollowing the multimedia guide the visit starts from the Baptismal Front, which is located at the main entrance of St Paul's Cathedral. Next is the Nave. Like the great Medieval cathedral of York, St Paul's Cathedral nave is long and wide. There were many historic moments happened here. Walking along the nave you will see the beautiful dome, which is the most visible and most notable features in London. The dome has mosaic paintings with religious stories. It's the finest dome I have seen in my life. There was a group students around the centre of the dome to practice songs. At the end of the Quire is the High altar, there is a Jesus Statue. At the end of the North Transept there is a painting, The Light of the World by William Holman Hunt. It is a really great painting. I was touched when I saw it.(2) The CryptThe Crypt is underground. It's the memorial place of many British great people and militaries soldiers. First you will see Winston Churchill memorial gate, from which you can enter to the memorial area. Wllington's tomb and Nelson's tomb are very noticeable you can't miss them. You can also see William Blake's memorial and Christopher Wren's tomb. I was surprised to pass Florence Nightingale's memorial wall. Outside the Crypt there is an Oculus, where you can see St Paul's views film. You can also have a lunch at the restraunt nearby. By the way the toilets are also in this level.(3) The GalleriesThe Galleries visit includes there parts. The first is the Whispering Gallery, which is 30 meters from Cathedral floor and 257 steps up. The second is the Stone Gallery, which is 53 meters from Cathedral floor and 376 steps up. The third is the Golden Gallery, which is 85 meters from Cathedral floor and 528 steps up. The East view from the Golden Gallery include the Barbican, Tower 42, Tower Bridge and HMS Belfast, etc. The Southe to West View include the Shard, Tate Modern, London Eye and Watierloo Bridge, etc. The views were fantastic and really worthy the effort. However bear in mind the steps are very narrow and you can only stay on the top of the cathedral for a couple of minutes.Location:St Paul's Cathedral is located in the city of London. You can take bus, tube or train to get it. The coronation station is the nearest spot to walk to the cathedral.Opening times and prices:St Paul's Cathedral is open for sightseeing from Monday to Saturday between 8.30am - 4pm. Currently the admissions are £16 for adult and £8 for child. If you book earlier on line you can get some discount.Conclusion: St Paul's Cathedral is a fantastical and impressive church of England, which has a significant influnce in british history. It's a great place for a day out. Comments MagdaDH a must see in London St Paul's Cathedral is quite possibly the most beautiful building in London. We lived within a half-hour walk of St Paul's for several months, and on some days I ended up walking home from the bus-stop near the Cathedral, I can't recall why, now, but I do remember seeing that building in all weathers, at all times of day (and night) and in various seasons. At first I wasn't sure: I am not that fond of monumental buildings, and Rome's St Peter's, although both impressive and fascinating, left me aesthetically less-than-awed. But, imperceptibly, St Paul's beauty crept up on me. I remember seeing the silhouette of the church one evening, almost-black purple on the background of almost-purple evening sky, and feeling deep gratefulness that I was given the chance to see it. There has been a church here for over 15 centuries, but the current building dates to Christopher Wren's massive building programme after the Great Fire that ravaged the City in 1666. It is the seat of the Bishop of London and a massive,monumental church with second-largest dome in the world and it is a focus of English (and British) national pride as well as being one of the icons of London. During the WW2 it was symbolic of London's resistance during the Blitz, and it was (and remains) a place for many state occasions, from the funerals of Nelson and Churchill to Jubilee celebrations as well as - in hindsight - less worthy occasions like the overt-the-top wedding of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer.Wren submitted many proposals for the replacement church before a design was accepted, and even his final project - so-called Warrant Design - was substantially changed during the construction which took over 20 years. Wren employed Nicholas Hawksmoor, the future architect of several other outstanding churches of the era, as his principal assistant. St Paul's is usually classified as an example of late Renaissance or ''rationalised'' English Baroque. English Baroque had, on the surface, little to do with the often overblown and breathlessly ornamental designs of continental Baroque (although there were great variations in that as well between various regions). English Baroque, best exemplified by Christopher Wren's body of work, has more to do with the preceding Renaissance (Palladian) styles and the following neo-Classical (Palladian revival). Baroque proper never really caught on in Britain, partially because its associations with triumphant Catholicism, and partially because of the English distaste for histrionic overstatement so characteristic of that style. What Wren (and other architects of the period) took from the Continental Baroque designs was a dynamic equilibrium of changing views, a spirit of construction rather then a specific style or shape. St Paul's remains a fantastically successful realisation of this fusion of neo-classical and Baroque principles. The dome is a signature part of the Cathedral, 108m tall to the cross at the top and visible from many places around the City. It actually wasn't included in Wren's Warrant design, which instead had a lantern with a small dome, topped by a pagoda-like spire. The final dome is a three-layer construction, which balances the needs of distance-viewing (fulfilled by the large outer dome) with the internally pleasing design (smaller inner dome). The lantern is actually supported by structural cone between the two domes. Whispering gallery (a high climb, and a bit claustrophobic, but worth it) runs around the inner dome. The interior of St Paul's is not as special as the outside, although still an impressive and beautiful sight. The Baroque influence is much more apparent here, and the dome is magnificent. Whether the interior visit is worth the entry charge of almost 15 GBP depends on your budget, really, but the dome climb and the dome galleries (whispering, stone and golden) are worth doing if your budget allows. Family ticket of 35 GBP effectively admits one child free (though under 6-year olds don't pay anyway), while gift-aiding gives a 12 months' pass. Perhaps the best way to see the interior - without the Crypt and Galleries, though - is to attend a service at St Paul's. It's still very much a living church, with hourly prayer and daily services. The Cathedral closes for sight-seeing at 4.30pm Monday to Saturday and is devoted to worship all Sunday. Evensong is sung daily, usually at 5pm and there are also morning (Matins) and mid-day Eucharist services. Music is important here, and St Paul's Choir is known for its excellence, and even if you are not a Christian, it's a spiritual and aesthetic experience worth making time for. Comments martinjones22 A gorgeous, staggering, hugely historical building thats not to be missed! St. Paul's Cathedral, one of London's most famous attractions, dominates the London skyline and is very hard to miss. However, its distinctive dome and famous bronze cross are just the tip of this spectacular Cathedral's beauty. The first thing visitors will notice before entering the Cathedral is a statue of Queen Anne. The statue faces away from the Cathedral, this was deliberately done; in the early 1700's Queen Anne bore 17 haemophiliac babies, one of which died in early childhood. As the children were taken from her one by one, Anne became depressed and began to drink large amounts of alcohol and became morbidly obese. She also, most importantly, began to turn her back on religion, refusing to believe in such a cruel and awful god. Londoners made up a poem about Anne that reads "Poor Queen Anne, left in the lurch, she faces the gin-shop, with her back to the church". This is unfortunately the Queens major legacy, and is why this statue is so newsworthy. The fact that it costs £12.50 for adults, £4.50 for children, £11.50 for senior's and £9.50 for students has proven to be slightly controversial with some visitors; however if people wish to access the Cathedral simply to worship and not for sightseeing then they are allowed to do so for free by informing an attendant of this. As soon as we got into the Cathedral, we were given a small free tour by an attendant. The attendant gave us a brief glimpse into the history of the church. The 'new' St. Paul's Cathedral was created by Christopher Wren following the Great Fire of London, and has been used for Charles & Diana's wedding as well as the ceremony for Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee. The Cathedral was also host to the funerals of Winston Churchill and the Duke of Wellington amongst others.One of the first things visitors will notice is the number of memorials. There are memorials to Florence Nightingale, Winston Churchill, Sir Alexander Fleming and two special and noticeable memorials to Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington, both of whom are buried in the Cathedral. The Cathedral has a large crypt that visitors are allowed to access and pay their respects to these great men of British history.The Cathedral floor also includes the beautiful painting Light of the World; I am not personally massively into art but the Light of the World really spoke to me and is definitely worth visiting in itself. There is so much else to see around the Cathedral floor, and some of the views are absolutely stunning. It is also very interesting seeing the workings of an active Cathedral. Visitors are asked to remain still and silent and join in an hourly prayer through their visit; and whether you are religious or not it is simply courteous to respect their practices. After visitors have seen the cathedral floor and visited the crypt, they are able to visit the 'Whispering Gallery'. This is 99 feet and 259 steps up, and is definitely worth the effort. The Whispering Gallery gets its name from a fantastic quirk of the gallery, that allows a whisper to be said on one side of the gallery and heard on the other side. Me and my girlfriend tried this and it really works!My girlfriend is scared of heights, so she stayed at this level, however i was feeling daring so i decided to carry on going up! After 378 steps, visitors come across the Stone Gallery. The stone gallery is 173ft in the air and offers some beautiful views of London.For those who are fit and healthy enough, and who do not have a large fear of heights, the Golden Gallery awaits! The Golden Gallery is 280 feet in the air and it takes 530 steps to get up to it! It is extremely tiring and it can be slightly daunting climbing up and up the spiralling staircase; however for those who do it you will be so glad that you did! The small outdoor gallery offers simply the most beautiful views of London that are available, its absolutely fantastic! You feel a real sense of achievement climbing all the way up, however for those with even a small fear of heights you may wish to consider whether its right for you, the gallery is small and can get very crowded, and its such a long way up in the air!For those of you who have been left at the bottom by their loved ones, there is the chance to take part in a religious service. These happen regularly during the day.To summarise, the Cathedral offers both religious and non-religious visitors a fantastic way to spend a few hours. From the memorials, paying your respects in the Crypt, the stunning paintings and Cathedral design, the services, the Whispering Gallery or a 280 feet high view of London - A day at St. Paul's is not to be missed! Comments devongirlie Has to be done at least once in your life. St Pauls Catherdral was built in the late 1600s and designed by famous architect Sir Christopher Wren after its predecessor burnt down in the Great Fire of London. It is a fabulous building and is certainly worth a visit. It's surrounded by a number of tube stations although the nearest is St Pauls, so its quite easy to get to. It stands magnificent in the middle of a small square, surrounded by ordinary London buildings.St Pauls is open to sightseers between 9.30 and 4.15 on Mondays to Saturdays and prices are:Adults: £12.50 Children: £4.50The big draw in visiting St Pauls is the Whispering Gallery, although studying the architechture of the ground floor is also well worth it. It's a fabulous building, quite breath taking and quite vast, it gives the appearance of having limitless space. When I fist visited several years ago reaching the Whispering Gallery involved twisting and turning through tiny spaces in the walls of the cathedral as well as climbing well over 800 steps. Recently however, they have created a new stairwell that makes access much easier. There is still a certain amount of narrow spaces but to begin with you climb a wide wooden spiral staircase. I couldn't tell you exactly how many stairs, but it doesn't seem as much as before.The Whispering Gallery seems quite ordinary at first, and is also quite narrow, having room for only two people side by side, and that's a squeeze. The walls are a plain boring brown and the floor partly stone, partly wooden. What is amazing is the view. Looking down over the metal railing to the cathedral floor far below makes my legs wobble so I don't do that much, but its also worth looking up at the fantastically beautiful dome. 'How did they get up there to paint that?' was a question I heard many times.There are benches that ring the circular gallery and to get the full effect of the Whispering Gallery you have to sit and put your ear against the wall. If someone on the opposite side whispers into the wall the sound travels around the dome and can be heard by anyone. It's magic when it works but it doesn't always. Ask one of the members of staff who watch the doorways in the gallery to whisper for you. They seem to have the knack of whispering just right.After this you can chose to descend to the cathedral floor or go on up. There are two more galleries. The next climb takes you to the Stone Gallery on the outside of the building. It goes all the way around the outside of the dome, although it is blocked in one place so you have to travel back the way you came eventually, you can't go full circle. This offers fantastic views over London, but these have to be glimpsed between the stone pillars that guard the edge. This isn't nearly as scary as the Whispering Gallery even though its higher, because you can't actually see below you, only out.For the brave, there is then the Golden Gallery. This is reached by a further climb up a metal staircase above the interior dome and inside the exterior dome. The staircase has nothing immediately either side of it and is made of metal that has holes in which allow you to see below you. For this reason I have never attempted it. Yes - I am a wuss! But if you make it to the top the Golden Gallery is completely enclosed with windows that offer more fantastic views over London. Be warned - if you start you have to finish. There is one way up and another way down, there is no turning around if you don't like it.In the basement of St Pauls Cathedral there is a cafe and toilets. It's no more expensive than any other London tourist attraction cafe, and they do some lovely cakes to restore your energy reserves after all that exercise. It'll be the next day your legs cease up completely! Comments ozziekay THIS IS A MUST SEE..... My parents arrived in London from Australia, and I've spent much of the week showing them around with attractions available with the London Pass. St Pauls is absoutely the best attraction in London. The London pass allowed us entry into St Pauls (equivalent of £10), and we purchased the Supertour pass. This tour gave us a behind the scenes look, and access to areas within the cathedral, which are not available to public access. Including the deans entrance, and The choir area, where the Choir boys sit. The detailing of the ceiling and the history of the building, has less to do with religion and more to do with the History of London and it's people. This absolutely must be added onto any tourist agenda. We were taken on a tour of the crypt and told all manner of interesting stories about the people buried there. Spend the £3 for the super tour. You won't regret it. Comments mohs419 I know that when you mention a great atraction, St Pauls Cathedral, doesn't immediately spring to mind. My friends and I drecided one week to explore the attractions of London and i must say that this was one of my favourite attractions. The cathedral is open from 0800-1600 Monday-Saturday. It costs just £5 for an adult to get in (£4.50 if you are in a group of 10+) and £2.50 for children under 16 years of age(£2.25 if you are in a group of 10+). Guided tours cost £2.50 for adults and £1 for children under 16. These tours last 1 and a half hours and start at 1100, 1130, 1330 and 1400. You can get recorded cassette tours of the Cathedral and of the Crypt, these cassesette tours last approximately 45 minutes and are available from 08.30 to 15.00 in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. There are 7 parts to the cathedral: the crypt, the cathedral floor, the whispering gallery, the stone gallery, the dome, the golden gallery and the ball and lantern. The ball and lantern is no longer open to the public for health and safety reasons and it stands at 355.5feet (108.4m) high. The most interesting part to the cathedral i thought was the whispering gallery. If you whisper up against a wall on one side of the dome it can be heard on the other as if you are speaking normally, this is because of the way that the dome is built. Although i found this bit the most interesting the rest of the cathedral is equally interesting. There is a shop and a cafe in the crypt of the cathedral. This is deffinately a great attraction, especially if you have an hour an a half to spare at some time. Well worth the money Comments Well worth a visit - Advantages: Great views from top, History attached to building - Disadvantages: Lots of stairs Comments I had visited this beautiful place many years ago as a child and my dad and I had climbed up as far as the famous Whispering Gallery. We did not go right up to the top as mom was waiting for us at ground level – she’s not too good with climbs and heights! I had always wanted to return to complete the climb but had never got round to it until recently. I had made a list of all the things that I wanted to do during my lifetime and one of these was to climb to the very top of St Paul’s Cathedral. A friend of mine lives in London and I went to stay with him for a weekend so that I could get to a work seminar near Tower Bridge early on Monday morning. As a surprise he organised a trip to St Paul’s Cathedral and took me to the top, even though he’s not very keen on heights either! St Paul’s Cathedral is situated just north of the River Thames in Central London within yards of the St Paul’s tube station on the Central Line. The dome of this impressive building is visible for miles around. You get a lovely view of it from the river cruise, which runs from Greenwich to the Houses of Parliament. If you look to the north as you sail down the river St Paul’s Cathedral is suddenly framed through a sudden gap in the buildings. St Paul’s Cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and is constructed of Portland Stone. Building began in 1675 and it was completed in 1710, and it replaced the former Gothic cathedral from the 13th century, which had been destroyed by The Great Fire of London in 1666. The top of the cathedral is 365 feet from the ground and the dome, supported by 12 massive buttresses, is 112 feet in diameter. If you want to climb St Paul’s cathedral you must pay a small charge towards the upkeep. It costs more than 4 million pounds a year to keep St Paul’s open that’s about £7 per minute! The first place you reach after climbing 259stairs is The Whispering Gallery. The acoustics are such that whispers from one side of the gallery can be heard clearly on the other side over 100 feet away! You can then continue climbing the stairs as they circle, inside the wall cavity, around the dome until you get to the first viewing platform. You can then climb flights of wooden stairs to reach the very top. These stairs are quite narrow but don’t worry about meeting someone going in the opposite direction as there is one set of stairs for people going up and another set for those coming down. The views over the City of London from the top of the cathedral are amazing. I am not keen on heights at all, if I feel the least bit unsafe, but up here I felt completely safe with the strong railings all the way round the edge of the platform, and I was able to enjoy the view without any fear. Back down in the main body of the cathedral one of the most powerful exhibits, for me anyway, is the painting called The Light of the World by William Hollum Hunt, depicting Christ knocking at a door. This is a symbol of Him knocking at the door of a heart and asking the question inscribed at the foot of the painting – “Behold I stand at the door and knock. If any man hear my voice and open the door I will come in to him and will sup with him and he with me.” Wherever you stand before the painting the eyes of Christ are looking straight at you. I once read a story about a guide showing people around the cathedral who stopped at the painting and, after describing it, she told the assembled gathering that the original of the painting had been sold for many millions of pounds. One of the visitors said ‘The original of that painting was sold for thirty pieces of silver’. For the non-Christians amongst you that is the amount the Judas Iscariot was paid for betraying Christ to the Roman soldiers. Back to the cathedral – there are many famous tombs in the crypt including those of Wren, Turner, Nelson, Wellington and Reynolds. Wren’s epitaph is inscribed in Latin beneath the dome and translates as ‘Reader, if you seek his monument, look around you’. The south-west tower contains a huge bell known as Great Paul, which weighs 17 tons. Now that would give you a headache if it fell on you! The High Altar was consecrated in 1958 after bombing in 1940 damaged the original one. There is a chapel dedicated to 28,000 US servicemen who lost their lives during the war. St Dunstan’s Chapel is set aside for private prayer and there is always a priest or a sister available for spiritual counsel. As you would expect there is a shop in St Paul’s selling a good selection of souvenirs. In fact as I sit at my computer here I am facing a print of The Light of the World. There are also toilet facilities. St Paul’s is a working cathedral and there are four services each day to which anyone is warmly invited to attend. Even if you have no religious convictions I would recommend a visit to St Paul’s for the sheer awe-inspiring beauty of the place. If you are a Christian then it will be a truly humbling experience. Comments MykReeve Prompted by seeing St Paul's Cathedral at the beginning of the film 'Lawrence of Arabia', where a memorial to the hero was unveiled in the crypt, I decided to pay a visit to one of the most familiar sites on London's skyline. I was impressed by the solemnity that the place still inspires, despite the volume of tourists that visit the cathedral each year, and was surprised by the number of famous British personalities, as well as military figures, commemorated in the building. HISTORY The first St Paul's Cathedral was built from wood on the present site back in 604 AD, only to be burnt down in 675, and rebuilt. In 962, the cathedral was burnt down again, this time by Viking invaders, and rebuilt in stone. Work on Old St Paul's Cathedral wasn't completed until 1310. When lightning struck the cathedral in 1561, Elizabeth I contributed to the repair work. In 1666, the cathedral was destroyed in the Great Fire of London, and two years later, Sir Christopher Wren was commissioned to produce a new design for the cathedral. Wren's first two designs for the cathedral were rejected, and a design isn't selected until July 1675. The cathedral took only 35 years to build, and was the first English cathedral to be completed during the lifetime of the original architect. During construction, the work took place behind big screens, partly so that Wren could charge people to see the building before its completion, to help pay for the construction work, and partly so that no-one could see the changes Wren made to the approved design. The construction of the cathedral was primarily funded by a tax on coal entering the Port of London, levied to finance the reconstruction of the City following the Great Fire. The cathedral was first used for a service in December 1697, before the construction work had been completed, at which thanks were given for peace, following a war between England and France. In 1710, construction work was completed on the cathedral, having been supervised by Wren from beginning to end. Over the following three hundred years, the cathedral has been the site of numerous major events in British history. Funeral services were held in the cathedral for Admiral Nelson (1806), the Duke of Wellington (1852), and Winston Churchill (1965). Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee service was held in the cathedral in 1897, George V's Silver Jubilee service was held there in 1935, and Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee service was held there in 1977. However, the event that most British people will associate with the cathedral was the marriage of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. In the Second World War, the cathedral became an icon of hope for the people of London, withstanding the extensive bombing of the city during the Blitz. Photographs of the cathedral's dome surrounded by smoke and fire strengthened the nation's spirit. In 1944, the cathedral's bells, which had remained silent throughout the war, rang to celebrate the liberation of the city of Paris. In 1945, the cathedral held ten services to mark the end of the war in Europe, which were attended by 35,000 people. A fiftieth anniversary service marking the end of the Second World War was held in the cathedral in 1995. VISITING THE CATHEDRAL The cathedral is arranged in the shape of a cross, with the great dome over the intersection of the cross. The longer part of the cross runs from west to east, with the main entrance at the west end, and the High Altar in the Quire to the east. - The Cathedral Floor When you arrive at the cathedral at the main entrance, you pass the Chapel of All Souls and the Chapel of St Dunstan on the left hand side. The former chapel is dedicated to Field Marshal Lord Kitchener, and the dead of the First World War, and the latter, to St. Dunstan, one time Bishop of London and Archbishop of Canterbury. After passing these two chapels, you reach the admission desk. St Paul's Cathedral has charged an admission fee since 1709, but fortunately, the price of admission is relatively low. At present, it costs just £5 for adults, and £2.50 for children (concessions and students are £4), which buys you admission to almost every part of the cathedral, including the dome and crypt. From the entrance, you walk east along the nave of the church. In the north aisle, on the left hand side of the nave, you can see Wellington's monument; an imposing monument to the "Iron Duke", bearing plaques around the base commemorating his victories. Heading east from there, along the north aisle, you pass a series of plaques commemorating the Deans of St. Paul's Cathedral since 1066, and turn left into the North Transept of the Cathedral. This is where you find the Cathedral's font, and the Middlesex Regiment Chapel, which bears William Hollam Hunt's painting 'The Light of the World', depicting the figure of Christ knocking on a door, as it opens from the inside. From the North Transept, heading east once more, leads into the Quire. The central part of the Quire, which holds the choir stalls, the High Altar, and the Bishop's Throne, is inaccessible to the public, however, the aisles on either side of the Quire are open to the public. At the west end of the Quire aisles are intricate and elaborate wrought-iron gates designed by French metalworker Jean Tijou, who produced most of the cathedral's metalwork. In the North Quire Aisle can be found Henry Moore's 'Mother and Child', alongside a small memorial to modern martyrs - Anglicans that have died for their faith around the world since 1850. The South Quire Aisle holds an effigy of John Donne, a one time Dean of the cathedral, and one of Britain's most famous poets. This statue was the only monument of Old St Paul's to surv ive the Great Fire, and still bears scorch marks from the fire. The aisle also holds a display cabinet containing some photographs of the cathedral taken during the Blitz. At the extreme east end of the church in the Apse, behind the High Altar, can be found the American Memorial Chapel, honouring the American servicemen that died in the Second World War, which was dedicated in 1958. A roll of honour, positioned directly behind the High Altar, contains the names of more than 28,000 Americans that died while travelling to, or while stationed within, the UK. The South Transept holds the Nelson Memorial, which is a far more restrained affair than the Wellington Monument. The central dome area features an impressive marble floor, however, most eyes will point skyward, towards the intricate, and beautifully decorated dome. The cathedral is still a house of worship, and regular prayers are said on every hour from the pulpit in the centre of the cathedral. Visitors to the cathedral are asked, whatever their denomination, to pause in their tour during the prayers, and listen to the brief sermon. The Lord's Prayer is read at these prayers, and visitors are encouraged to join in its recitation. The sermon is relayed over the cathedral's public address system all over the building, though not to the upper reaches of the dome, nor to the crypt. I was surprised by the fact that the prayers were relevant to current events, rather than just a standard set text - when I visited the cathedral in early April 2001, prayers were offered for the farmers affected by the foot-and-mouth crisis, for example. To the east side of the central dome, are two sets of stairs leading down to the cathedral crypt, one on either side of the Quire. To the south-west of the dome is a set of spiral stairs leading up to the Whispering Gallery and Dome. - Crypt The crypt houses the bodies of Admiral Nelson and the Duke of Wellington, as well as a great number of memorials to British soldiers killed in the line of duty. The east part of the crypt houses the graves, memorials and tombs, along with the cathedral treasury. The west part of the crypt has been redecorated to house the cathedral's toilets, shop, refectory and café. The café and refectory are relatively expensive - a cappuccino will set you back a hefty £1.80 in the café. The extreme east end of the crypt houses the Order of the British Empire Chapel, a solemn place, whose silence is only occasionally broken by the buzz of an overloud audio guide, or an overenthusiastic child. The OBE Chapel houses the majority of the cathedral's memorial plaques, commemorating the artists William Blake, Henry Moore, Edwin Landseer Lutyens, Sir Joshua Reynolds, Antony van Dyck, Joseph Mallard William Turner and Sir John Everett Millais; and scientists Alexander Fleming and Henry Wellcome. Composer Sir Arthur Sullivan (of Gilbert and Sullivan) is buried here In the south-east corner of the chapel, lies Sir Christopher Wren's rather nondescript tomb, accompanied by a small plaque bearing the epitaph "If you seek his monument look about you", and a stone bearing his architect's mark. Directly to the west of the entrance to the OBE Chapel is a room containing the tomb of the Duke of Wellington. Wellington's tomb itself is a simple granite casket, surrounded by hanging banners made for his funeral procession. Around the sides of the walls are plaques commemorating Field Marshals during the Second World War, including Viscount Slim and Viscount Montgomery of Alamein. To the west of Wellington's tomb, is Nelson's tomb, which lies at the centre of eight short corridors, the walls of which are covered with memorials to the British military servicemen who died in action. Nelson's tomb is a far showier affair than Wellington's, and is located directly beneath the cathedral's dome. Nelson was killed in battle, but was prepared for this eventuality, having taken his coffin to war with him. The coffin had been carved from the mast of a French ship sunk during one of his earlier victories. At one side of the coffin are presented a call to national prayer that Nelson wrote while in view of the enemy, before the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Around Nelson's tomb are arranged numerous memorials, dedicated to the British killed in the Gulf War, at Gallipoli, and in the Falklands Campaign, for example. Plaques are also dedicated to individuals, such as Florence Nightingale and T. E. Lawrence, whose simple bronze bust is positioned high on the wall at the north-west corridor, facing Nelson's tomb. Another bust is dedicated to the memory of George Washington, America's first President. The Treasury is located to the north of Nelson's tomb, and holds the cathedral's collection of silverware, and the copes worn by the Dean and Chapter of St Paul's Cathedral at various important events. Many of the treasures on display in the treasury are not owned by St Paul's itself, but by other London churches, as many of St Paul's Cathedral's own treasures have been lost over the years. The Diamond Jubilee cope worn at Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee service, and the garish Silver Jubilee cope worn at the service for Queen Elizabeth II (which bears representations of the spires of 73 of London's churches) are both on display. - The Dome & Whispering Gallery Heading up the low spiral steps from the cathedral floor up to the Whispering Gallery is relatively unchallenging, and only takes a few minutes. The Whispering Gallery is 99 feet above the church floor, and getting there involves going up 259 steps. The gallery is well below the cathedral's dome, and is best known for its peculiar acoustic properties - if you whisper against the wall on one side of the gallery, you r whisper can be heard on the other side. This works remarkably well, though obviously is better if there are fewer people in the gallery. If there are a good number of people in the gallery, the continual sussurus is quite unsettling, particularly if, as when I was there, you can pick out a specific voice saying "We know all about you".... At least, I think it was a real voice, and not just in my head... If you want to continue up the dome, it?s a further 119 steps to the Stone Gallery, level with the lowest part of the dome. These steps are a good deal steeper than those between the Whispering Gallery and the Church Floor, but fortunately there are benches to rest on every twenty-or-so steps if you're as unfit as I am. The Stone Gallery is external, and the south side of it is open to the public on the way up the dome, allowing you excellent views out over the Thames and the Millennium Bridge to the Tate Modern. From the South Gallery, you can either elect to head back down to the Whispering Gallery (wimp!) or head up to the Golden Gallery. The Golden Gallery is a further 152 steps up, and is 280 feet above the church floor. To get there, you have to walk up an internal staircase, within the outer dome, but inside the inner dome... so you've got a dome surface on either side of you.... Still, the slope of the inner dome surface gives you an idea of how close to the top you are. When you reach the top, you can look through a small square window down towards the centre of the cathedral floor, far below you, before heading out onto the Golden Gallery. You can walk all the way around the spire in the Golden Gallery, and you get spectacular views out over London on a good day. The Gallery is about two-thirds of the height of the London Eye, but obviously requires a lot more effort to get to! Walking back down is much less challenging than walking up, obviously, but the stairs are often a lot narrower, so you'd be well advised to watch your step! STAFF I found the staff of St Paul's Cathedral extremely friendly and helpful, and easily the best informed and most enthusiastic employees that I've met at a tourist attraction in London. I asked one guide where I might find the memorial to Lawrence of Arabia, and he not only showed me where it was on the map, but described its location relative to other memorials in that area of the crypt. The guide in the Golden Gallery was also very friendly, and keen to point out major tourist attractions visible from the gallery. CONCLUSIONS St Paul's Cathedral is deservedly one of London's most popular tourist attractions. The admission price is not excessive, and there's plenty to see in the cathedral. Obviously, the building is a house of worship, and so visitors should bear this in mind, and show appropriate respect. Anyone interested in British military history will be fascinated by the veterans of major campaigns interred or commemorated in the cathedral. Even if you have no interest in history, there's plenty to see, in the beautiful decoration of the cathedral's interior, and the views from the various galleries around the dome. Comments Millennium Bridge (London) Hyde Park (London) Highgate Cemetery (London) The O2 (formerly the Millennium Dome) Kingston Lacy (Dorset) Dunluce Centre (Portrush) Etal Castle (Northumberland) Norham Castle (Northumberland) Berkshire 4x4 Segway Tours (Dinton Pastures)

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vestman Finland feels like a fairy tale. And not just that one about the bearded guy in a red suit, flying around delivering presents one night a year. Golden summers and deep dark winters, untouched forests and tech-savvy cities: it all just feels a little magical in Finland. The long days of sun-drenched summers set the country abuzz with festivals, whizzing bicycles and smiling faces, while the subzero winters offer the opportunity to cozy up to Finland’s more intimate side, in wood-fire saunas and warm cafes. You can discover your inner Nordic warrior trekking and skiing through wilderness wonderlands like Lemmenjoki and Oulanka National Parks. Traverse the waterways and swoon amid the Art Nouveau architecture of worldly Helsinki—making sure to stop into a Black Metal nightclub for a taste of something purely Finnish. You can literally get off the beaten path in cycler’s paradise Aland archipelago, or step into a whole other world amid the midnight sun and roaming Reindeer of Lapland, homeland of Santa Claus. It’s all set under the hallucinogenic swirl of Northern Lights, and it’s all in Finland. Enough to make you start believing in fairy tales again? Regions in Finland The Ålands, off the west coast of Finland between Turku and Stockholm, form an archipelago of 6,500 islands, islets, and skerries. The total land mass is about 1,320 sq. km (510 sq. miles), yet it's the water... read more Finnish Lapland Above the Arctic Circle, Lapland comprises one-third of Finland, the country's northernmost, largest, and most sparsely populated province, which is why it's often called "The Last Wilderness in Europe."read more Saimaa, an extensive lake district in eastern Finland, has thousands of islands and straits and lots of blue water. It's a land of small villages, vacation centers, and welcoming people, wrapped in the peace... read more Southern Finland Southern Finland is a province of Finland. Relatively small in area, the province is the most populous in Finland and is dominated by the urban sprawl around Helsinki, the capital. Founded in 1550, the "Daughter... read more Western Finland Western Finland is Finnish region that is split into seven areas: Central Finland, Central Ostrobothnia, Finland Proper, Ostrobothnia (the only mainland region in Finland with a slight Swedish-speaking majority),... read more

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Tibet Lhasa and Beyond Wall Calendar: Tibet, known for its beautiful landscapes, the Potala Palace and the highest mountain ranges on earth, is a living country full of bustling towns, villages, monasteries and nomadic areas at risk of suffocation and dissolution under Chinese government policies. Tibetans are on the precipice, balancing a determination to pursue their cultural and religious identity against Chinese pressures to assimilate and the onslaught of modernizing development. With each passing year, Tibet becomes more and more Chinese as government development bulldozes over these communities. This calendar takes readers from town to town, offering them a chance to get to know these places and the Tibetans who call them home. Each month features a different hometown, highlighting the significance of the area and juxtaposing it with Tibetans' political turmoil. UPC: 762109062364 EAN: 9781602376236 Amber Lotus

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Crowcombe Heathfield Crowcombe Heathfield Postcode for Sat Nav: TA4 4PA Crowcombe Heathfield Station was built in 1862 when the line was opened and stands at the highest point on the line, just under 400ft. above the sea. The station is surrounded by lovely scenic countryside and a network of lanes, bridle ways and footpaths offering walking, cycling and horse riding. A leaflet (obtained from the stations) prepared jointly between Crowcombe Heathfield and Stogumber Stations shows the lanes and footpath routes in the area and there is a web site www.fochs.org.uk which is well worth a visit. The visual charm of the station and surroundings has caught the eye of several TV and film directors leading to scenes being shot at the station for "The Flockton Flyer", The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe", "Land Girls", and The Beatles film "A Hard Days Night". The station has a booking office and prices from this Station can be found on our Fares Pages. There is also a small shop and toilet facilities as well as a disabled persons accessable toilet on the station. During operating days the station is open for hot and cold drinks, cakes and famous "Bread Pudding" and you can be assured a warm welcome awaits you. On Gala days this is widened to include hot savoury snacks, soups and a coal fire to welcome you during the cold weather! Why not do the 'One Mile Walk'? Enjoy a very gentle and easy 1 mile circular walk from the station in either direction. The walk gives some lovely views of the line, �The Avenue� with its beech trees and crossed two railway bridges. The station is the ideal start/end point for a walk on the Quantock Hills or a cycle ride round Somerset�s country lanes. History of Crowcombe Heathfield Station The first sod on the original West Somerset Railway was lifted as part of the cutting at the tranquil wayside station which is a perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by, or for the more energetic to start or conclude a walk in the Quantock Hills. The station is not close to any major settlement and this has made it popular with film crews in the past. Sequences that feature Crowcombe Heathfield include Ringo Starr riding a bicycle down the platform in A Hard Days Night and in the opening sequence of Land Girls. The main station building dates from the 1860s whilst the wooden building on the opposite platform is a replacement for an earlier structure demolished by British Railways. Similarly the signal box dates from the preservation era. Its brick built base was built new by the West Somerset Railway whilst the wooden top comes from Ebbw Vale in South Wales. Please visit the Crowcombe Heathfield Station Website.

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jonrawlinson Don’t let its stereotypes fool you—Greece is more than crumbling monuments and crumbly cheese. Greece is as much a vibrantly diverse, modern European country as it is a cradle of ancient culture. One of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, Greece lures sun-starved visitors with its larger-than-life history, its never-ending nightclubs and its tzatziki-dipped gyros. But a promenade along its stylish city streets, narrow hamlet lanes and rugged coastal paths soon reveals another side of Greece. Start in gracefully gritty capital Athens, where trendy boutiques and sophisticated restaurants line streets filled with strolling urbanites. Look up, out of the city haze and into the distance, and you see the looming Acropolis, arguably the most famous monument of the ancient world. You can hike amid the spring wildflowers of Mediterranean island Crete, and feast on both an abundance of seafood and a wealth of Minoan, Venetian and Byzantine history. Head to the once-remote mountain towns of Zagorohoria, a heaven for hikers, climbers, photographers and those in need of some crisp-aired respite. Tackle Olympia, home of the Ancient Olympic Games, and let loose in the hedonistic nightclubs of Mykonos. And wherever you go, experience the Greek exuberance for life—and olive oil. It’s what Greece is all about. Regions in Greece Looking for a new or different experience with Greek islands, some that still give a sense that this is how Greeks live? The Aegean Islands might be the destination for you. Far removed from the Greek mainland... read more Exciting and exasperating, worldly and oh so hot, Athens is a city that attacks the senses and stirs the spirit as only the cradle of Western Civilization can. Homeland to gods, goddesses and some of the... read more Central Greece (Sterea Ellada) is best known as the home of Delphi, the famous ancient oracle and spectacular sanctuary that is one of Greece's "must see" destinations. Delphi has it all: a gravity-defying... read more Per square mile, Crete must be one of the most "loaded" places in the world -- loaded, that is, in the diversity of its history, archaeological sites, natural attractions, tourist amenities, and just plain... read more When most people think of the "Isles of Greece," they're thinking of the Cyclades. This rugged, often barren, chain of islands in the Aegean sea has villages with dazzling white houses that from a distance... read more "The Dodecanese" -- the very name suggests someplace exotic (in fact it is merely the Greek for "twelve islands"!) and these islands, if not exotic, certainly have been providing visitors for many, many centuries... read more "The isles of Greece, the isles of Greece" -- when Lord Byron tossed his bouquet, he was not under the spell of today's popular Cycladic islands but of Western Greece and the Ionian Islands. Located off Greece's... read more Northern Greece In 1997, Thessaloniki -- the capital of Macedonia, the second-largest city in Greece, and the emotional heart of Northern Greece -- was the European City of Culture. Thessaloniki had always suffered a bit by... read more What's special about the Peloponnese? It's tempting to answer, "Everything." Virtually every famous ancient site in Greece is in the Peloponnese -- the awesome Mycenaean palaces of Kings Agamemnon and Nestor... read more Saronic Gulf Islands The islands of the Saronic Gulf are so close to Athens that each summer Athenians flee there for some relief from the heat and the crowds in Athens. If the summer of 2007 -- the hottest in at least 90 years... read more Sporades With their excellent golden sand beaches, fragrant pine trees, and unspoiled villages, you might think that the Sporades ("Scattered") islands have always been major tourist magnets. But because these islands... read more Western Greece Evergreen slopes, deep-set rivers and lush valleys, villages of timbered houses, slate or tile roofs -- this can't be Greece. But it is. It's the northwestern corner the Greeks know as Epirus. Plentiful rainfall,... read more

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Passport Booklet Parks by Name Parks by Location Rec Trails Program Nevada Trail Maps Land and Water Conservation Funds Rec. Trails Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort The first permanent non-native settlers in the Las Vegas Valley were a group of Mormon missionaries who built an adobe fort along Las Vegas Creek in 1855. The fort was called Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort. They successfully farmed the area by diverting water from the creek. Today, the park includes a remnant of the original adobe fort, which contains interpretive displays. The Visitor Center contains exhibits on the history of the site, as well as historic artifacts. Historic interpretation is and will remain the focus of the park. The Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort is located in downtown Las Vegas, at the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Washington Avenue. The Park and Visitor Center are open from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, year round. OLD MORMON FORT now has a park FACEBOOK page. Check under Media heading. Friends of the Fort CONTACT PARK 500 E. Washington Ave. The Fort on Facebook Park Slideshow More than 150 years ago, a spring-fed creek flowed through this valley, creating an oasis in the desert. With the only free-flowing water and grass for miles around, the site attracted native Paiute people as well as traders, emigrants and gold seekers traveling the Old Spanish Trail to California. The Spaniards called the place las vegas, Spanish for the meadows. In June of 1855, William Bringhurst and 29 fellow Mormon missionaries from Utah arrived at this site and built a 150-foot square adobe fort, the first permanent structure erected in the valley. The Mormon outpost, complete with a post office, served as a way station for travelers. The creek provided irrigation for fields and orchards. Lead was later discovered in the mountains to the southwest, and the mission was expanded to include mining and smelting, but the effort proved unsuccessful. After less than two years, the Mormon effort was abandoned after dissension arose between two of the local leaders, adding to the discouragement of many in the group. In 1865, Octavius D. Gass bought the site and developed a large-scale ranch that included a small store and blacksmith shop to serve travelers and nearby mining communities. In 1881, Gass defaulted on a loan using the ranch as collateral. The ranch was passed on to Archibald and Helen Stewart. Although Archibald was killed in a gunfight in 1884, Helen, with the help of her father and others, continued to operate the ranch. In 1902, Helen sold the ranch and water rights to the San Pedro, Los Angeles & Salt Lake Railroad. A new town, Las Vegas, sprang into existence in 1905 when the rails reached the valley. From this place, Las Vegas has since expanded to become one of the nation's major metropolitan areas. THE LAS VEGAS SPRINGS AND CREEK It all started with water. Rising from underground aquifers about four miles west of the Fort, springs supplied Las Vegas Creek with a year-round supply of water that flowed for several miles before being lost in the desert. For thousands of years the creek was the site of seasonal camps for various groups of native people, who hunted the animals and collected the wild plants that grew at the oasis. Later, the creek provided early travelers with a welcome place for water and feed. Starting in 1895, the water was used for irrigating crops and orchards by the Mormons. After the city of Las Vegas was founded in 1905, the spring water was diverted into the town's water system and the creek largely dried up. THE OLD FORT The original fort was built by the Mormons in 1855. It consisted of an adobe enclosure 150 feet on each side, with towers or bastions at the northwest and southeast corners. The adobe building closest to the creek is the only surviving part of this structure. The other walls and the bastion at the northeast corner are reconstructions. The building was most recently used as a testing lab and office for the United States Bureau of Reclamation, which leased and renovated the building in 1929 during the construction of Hoover Dam. THE RANCH HOUSE In 1865, Octavius D. Gass, a miner from El Dorado Canyon acquired the Mormon fort site and used part of the foundation and walls to build a ranch house. Gass also bought out other landholders to assemble a sizable ranch, and built a store and blacksmith shop to supply travelers. Later the ranch was taken over by Archibald and Helen Stewart. Helen occupied the ranch house until she sold it to the San Pedro, Los Angeles & Salt Lake Railroad. Getting the most out of your visit … Take time to walk the paths and enjoy the feeling of a time in the not-too-distant past when, from this lonely outpost, the desert stretched away to the distant mountains. For many years, efforts have been underway to preserve this site, which has historical significance in southern Nevada. Under the Nevada Division of State Parks and other interested historical groups, the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort has been restored to an historical appearance. One structure is original, while others have been reconstructed using the best archeological and historical information available. During June, July, and August, expect highs to be from 100-106 degrees, fall and spring are mild from high 60s to 90s, and winter months are cool at 50s to 60s. An entrance fee is charged to enter the fort, $1 per person over 12 years old and children 12 and under are free. A group use area is available by reservation. There are series of programs throughout the summer geared towards children and adults. Throughout the year we have the Soldier’s of the Fort demos (call for details). Annually in June we have Settlement Day, in October Nevadaween and in December Pioneer Christmas. The “Friends of the Fort” also provide a series of programs throughout the year. To make your visit and the visit of others more enjoyable, please observe the following rules: We do not allow dogs, except service animals. We do not allow bicycling inside the park. Passport Booklet About The Nevada Division of State Parks plans, develops and maintains a system of 23 parks and recreation areas for the use and enjoyment of more than 3.3 million visitors a year. Read more... Search for: Connect with State Parks News Click here for all the latest Nevada State Parks news! Nevada State Parks | NV.gov | Dept. of Conservation | Governor Brian Sandoval | Nev. Maps | Forms

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Patagonia Paradise Threatened by Population Boom ARGENTINA: April 27, 2006 CHOLILA, Argentina - At the far end of Lake Cholila in the Patagonian Andes, snowmelt runs off jagged peaks and glaciers and flows into sparkling emerald waters brimming with trout. At the near end, bulldozers carve 200 plots out of a mountainside for homes for city dwellers looking to get away from it all in this rough, remote corner of Argentina. These new arrivals are simply seeking the same thing as Patagonia's pioneers -- freedom, wide open spaces, a peaceful existence, rare commodities in a crowded world. A century ago, Cholila was where Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid holed up to make an honest living as cattle ranchers before the Pinkerton Agency tracked down the notorious American bank robbers and sent them running again. But each day this piece of paradise becomes more accessible as new roads and airports bring tourists, tourists create jobs, jobs draw migrants, migrants demand government spending, spending brings more migrants, and so on. It would seem there should be room for everyone in one of the world's least densely populated places, where some 2 million people live in a space the size of France and Germany combined. But up and down Patagonia, in both Argentina and Chile, authorities face a tough balancing act between improving the lot of locals while preserving this place at the end of the world. "This is the beginning of the world because it is paradise. You won't find what we have in many places," said Cholila Mayor Hector Miguel Castro. "But you have to strike a balance between conservation and life." Cholila's population stands at 3,000 and the mayor expects it to hit 4,000 in five years before "hopefully" stabilising. HOTBED OF ACTIVITY Cholila is gaining a reputation as a centre for abundant, well-paid work. "It is a marvellous place and there seems to be a lot of work," said Virgilio Ruiz Diaz, 27, who arrived from Paraguay a few months ago to help build low-cost, government-funded homes. "As far as I can see, there is a good future here." Many in Cholila say they want growth but they don't want the village to become another El Bolson, a beautiful mountain town one hour to the north that drew hippies in the 1960s and now struggles with slums. "Our population is growing 10 to 12 percent annually and these last few years have been infernal," said El Bolson Mayor Oscar Jose Romera. But still there is work for his 25,000 inhabitants, in construction or fruit and flower harvesting. The biggest Patagonian boomtown of them all is El Calafate, the gateway to the Perito Moreno glacier, one of Argentina's top tourist attractions. Argentine President Nestor Kirchner laid the foundations for El Calafate's growth as governor and since he became president in 2003, road and home building has been nonstop. Alarm bells rang through Patagonia a decade ago as foreigners bought swathes of land. Italy's Benetton family is the region's biggest landowner with its sheep ranches and magnates like Ted Turner also own sweeping "estancias". Across the Andes from Cholila in Chile, Doug Tompkins, founder of US clothing company Esprit, has created the world's largest private nature reserve, Pumalin Park. But foreigners alone are not to blame for the encroachment. Argentines and Chileans are discovering the beauty of a land that loomed large in the imagination of the world's wanderers, from naturalist Charles Darwin to author Bruce Chatwin. MORE PEOPLE = LESS VALUE Cholila, or "Valley of Flowers" in the native Tehuelche language, was largely bypassed since the times of Butch and Sundance, and life offered few comforts. But now the machines are moving in. An ATM was installed a few months ago and the local radio station gave patient instructions to first-time users who left their cards behind. Road crews are paving the 32 km (20 miles) of dirt road to the north and an airport for small planes opened this year. "Growth is good because this place was completely abandoned," said Manuel Hernandez, 75, who came to Cholila upon retirement and runs a grill serving the town's famed beef. But there are also detractors who believe Cholila is heading down a dangerous road. "I am anti-asphalt and I don't care if my car gets ruined on the dirt road," said Cristina Danelon, who runs La Caprichosa general store at the crossroads. "It is going to bring another type of people." From her counter, Danelon sees the increased truck traffic going out to the Lake Cholila housing development, 15 km (10 miles) off the main road. She wonders if more developments will follow at Lake Cholila and other unprotected areas. But the mayor says there won't be a rush on Cholila land because the wealthy landowners won't sell. Indeed, some are buying land around their ranches to stop it from falling into developers' hands. "This growth has its limits," Castro mused. "Owners of large natural spaces don't want a massive influx of people. They want to preserve their land. And they also want to maintain its high value. More people means less value." Story by Mary Milliken REUTERS NEWS SERVICE

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The Strip. Still the street of dreams. By bus. By helicopter. By day or by night. Touring the Las Vegas Strip is still an intoxicating, visually overwhelming experience.A Las Vegas Strip tour is on many a bucket list. And why not? This iconic, neon-lit street of dreams has fueled fantasies, TV melodramas and movie romances since the postwar generation got its first driver's license. more...Simply known as Las Vegas Boulevard until the mid-forties, legend has it the Strip was named by Los Angeles Police officer Guy McAfee after the City of Angel's fabled Sunset Strip.The Las Vegas Strip, though, is a four-mile (6.8 km) stretch, designated a scenic route and an all-American road. Many of the largest resorts in the world are located on the Strip. In fact, it's home to 15 of the world's 25 largest hotels.The Strip's dramatic architecture has been chronicled by academics and pop-culture aficionados alike. Architecture students still read "Learning from Las Vegas," a classic textbook of the genre. And noted author and cultural critic Tom Wolfe rhapsodized fondly of Strip hotel's dramatic lines, soaring swoops and neon-flecked parabolas.The first casino built on the old highway was the El Rancho Las Vegas, opening on April 3, 1941, with 63 rooms. It stood for almost 20 years before being destroyed by a fire in 1960. Its success inspired Las Vegas' first boom; construction of a second hotel, the Hotel Last Frontier, began in 1942. Organized crime figures, such as New York's Bugsy Siegel, took interest in the former cowboy town, leading to construction of the fabled Flamingo in 1946, followed by the Desert Inn in 1950.Back then, a newly mobile middle class ogled the Strip through the windows of Buicks and Edsels. The Edsels are gone, in favor of helicopters, buses and Segways. The ogling, though, has remained the same. Keyword Vegas Nights Vegas Voyage

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http://www.giddingstx.com - Specification Required - The town was established on the H&TC Railroad when the track was laid from Brenham to Austin in 1871. Early settlers were mostly Wendish immigrants who moved from the Serbin community six miles south. Notorious outlaw Bill Longley was hanged here Oct. 11, 1878; there is a historical marker at his grave in the cemetery on U.S. 290 at the west city limit. Find local information, maps, and sign-up for tours at the chamber of commerce. Events include the Lee County Fair in May and a Fourth of July Celebration. During both events, a restored carousel built in the 1800s is available for rides in Firemen's Park. #TexasToDo

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Originally built in 1909, the Santa Monica Pier is home to an amusement park and an aquarium, as well as dining options ranging from gourmet fare to cotton candy and ice cream cones, and much more. Photo courtesy of the Santa Monica Historical Society Museum Collection Press Events Request Info What's New Book a Hotel Travel Trade Meeting Professionals Local Community Visitors Visitors | Santa Monica Pier | Farmers' Markets | Muscle Beach | Chess Park | Public Parks | Nearby Southern California Attractions Santa Monica PierPACIFIC PARKPacific Park is a full-service amusement park located on the Pier with rides and attractions for kids and adults, including such unique rides and activities as a five-story West Coaster roller coaster, the nine-story Pacific Plunge tower ride, the only over-water miniature golf course, and the nine-story Pacific Wheel ferris wheel – the only over-water ferris wheel in California, and the first solar-powered wheel in the world.TRAPEZE SCHOOL OF NEW YORKThe Trapeze School of New York (TSNY) offers up a high-flying, fun-filled experience on the Santa Monica Pier. There are opportunities for everyone, from the thrill-seeker to fear-facer, athlete to couch potato, casual flyer to serious aerialist. Classes are two hours long and are taught in groups of up to 10 people. No prior experience is necessary.OCEAN FRONT WALKThis wide, paved footpath extends south from the Pier and is lined with shops and restaurants. The kids will love the stone-walled sandbox with a concrete Viking ship in its midst. An interactive dragon’s head looming in the grass nearby rounds out this children’s attraction.A row of volleyball courts is available on a first-come, first-served basis. CAROUSELA National Historic Landmark, the 1922 Looff Hippodrome Carousel is where Paul Newman worked in The Sting. ARCADEThe Playland Arcade is packed with over 200 games and attractions, from the classic to the contemporary. Play PacMan while your kids try out Dance-Dance Revolution… or vice versa. AQUARIUMThe Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is located at beach level under the historic Carousel. Featuring hands-on presentations and interactive exhibits, the Aquarium is a part of Santa Monica’s own “Heal the Bay” program, an initiative to educate, inspire and empower its visitors to be stewards of the environment. Check out what other travelers say about Santa Monica on TripAdvisor. ©2008 - 2011 Santa Monica Convention and Visitors Bureau. Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA. All Rights Reserved. Principal Photography:

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Master Class Master ClassFrom Russia With Love... Part 3 By Monte Zucker • Posted: Oct 1, 2003 Photos © 2003, Monte Zucker, All Rights Reserved When we last left Monte he was making his way through the Kremlin's incredible interior... One of the highlights of my visit to the Kremlin was undoubtedly seeing some of Russia's greatest treasures that are housed there. We entered by an incredible staircase into a wondrous collection of some of the finest artifacts that I'm sure I'll ever see during my lifetime. Fortunately, I was allowed to photograph some of these great treasures. I used my new 24-70mm Canon lens wide-open at f/2.8 with the ISO set to 1600. I was amazed at the quality of the images I got at such a low-light level. Being a clock collector, some of the first things that caught my eyes were the unbelievable gold clocks that were in abundance. This one in particular seemed to stand out for me because of its setting. The fact that everything was just sitting out there in the open--the gold table, the clock, the candlesticks, the statues--was amazing to me. Have you ever seen real Faberge eggs? They defy description. They are intricately designed with gold, jewels, and sometimes intricate statuary built into them. They unquestionably live up to their reputation. Many of the eggs were on display in locations around the world, so only a few were on display. Those that were, however, were displayed together with other magnificent artifacts once used by some of Russia's most famous rulers. One entire section of the museum was a display of crowns. No figment of your imagination could ever come close to the actual crowns. I photographed this one individually, because Nadir told me that this is one of the most famous. All of these pictures were made by photographing directly through special glass windows. I shot them all by available light. Window after window contained the actual gowns that were worn by Russian royalty. Each was displayed with the actual accessories that were worn with each of the dresses. Unbelievably gorgeous tapestries were hung on the walls with each of the gowns. Each of these tapestries had originally hung in the palaces from which the gowns came. I photographed this particular gown from the back because its train was over 24 ft in length. Yes, that's real gold thread woven into the fabric. The waistlines of all of these gowns were so tiny, I can't believe that the women who wore them could even breathe. One room was filled with horse-drawn carriages; it staggers the imagination to think about the people who rode in them and where they were going. A single afternoon didn't give us the opportunity to see even half of the contents of the museum. I was informed that the pieces that are on display are still used for very special occasions. For my real final evening in Moscow I celebrated at Dolf's restaurant with both Roustam and Nadir. Here's what the front of the restaurant looked like as we entered for our farewell dinner. If you're ever in Moscow you can't consider the trip complete unless you've dined at Cafe des Artistes. It's the only restaurant with outdoor seating on the one street in Moscow that's closed from cars. It's right in the middle of the theater district. My original family roots are from Russia. My father was born there. I definitely feel a pull to go back. Once again, I attribute both my invitation to speak in Russia and the success I felt upon my return home to the fact that the world will always love and buy classic portraiture. Digital cameras haven't changed that--they've simply made it easier and better to produce it. I'm not sure what the future holds for all of us. The one thing that I am certain of is that as the Russian treasures have retained their value throughout the ages, even increased in value, so it is also possible for some of the photographic images we create in our own lifetime to become a great part of tomorrow's treasures.

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The Civilized Alternative to the MegaPlex GALLERIA 6CHASE PARK PLAZAMOOLAH THEATRE Art & Movies Child Attendance Policy A LANDMARK COMEBACK: BOWL A FRAME, CATCH A FLICK, LIVE THE LIFE AT THE MOOLAH TEMPLE A Multi-Million Dollar Restoration Project Gives the Former Home of The Shriners New Life, Focus, and Fun in the Heart of Grand Center ST. LOUIS (December 29, 2004) - What was once prime real estate for Pigeons is now one of the most unique entertainment and living destinations in St.Louis. Today, Restoration St. Louis is announcing the completion of the ambitious, multi-million dollar renovation of the Moolah Temple building on Lindell. The $17.2 million project has not only brought the landmark back to life, it has given St. Louis its first massive single-screen movie theater in decades, plus an eight-lane retro-styled bowling alley, and 40 luxury lofts giving residents an incomparable view of this unique city neighborhood. There is truly nothing like it. The 110,000 square foot Moolah was originally built in 1913 as the home for the Shriners. The group left the building in the mid 1980's, moving to their new facility in Creve Coeur. Rodney Thomas, Chairman of TRiSTAR Business, purchased the vacant property in 1988 with plans to eventually convert the building into offices. Although a few businesses showed interest in the project, none committed to become tenants. TRiSTAR decided not to pursue its redevelopment plans, and the building was left unchanged. For nearly twenty years, the Moolah building stood vacant. By 2002, the property was in a desperate state, and bringing the structure back to its original grandeur would take an almost Herculean effort. Amrit and Amy Gill, considered two of the premier developers of historic properties in St. Louis, took on the massive project. The Gills have been active in redevelopment since 1991 and their company, Restoration St. Louis responsible for the Moolah rehab. "When we first toured the Moolah in 2002, it was in extreme disrepair,"says Amy Gill of Restoration St. Louis." "We had to carefully maneuver our way through piles of discarded wood and debris. Pigeons were living in every crack and crevice. The paint was peeling and the floor was cracked and damaged. It was heartbreaking. But, even with all that was wrong with the building, we knew it could be rescued. The incredible architecture, the Moorish influences in the design, the vast space. this building was a treasure that needed to be restored." Construction began on December 15, 2003 -- the rehab focused on restoring the vibrant colors and architecture of the Moorish design while giving the building purpose. The design called for a building that exuded quirky charm and provided unusual amenities, including a movie theater and bowling alley. The finishing touches were added in the winter of 2004, and the Moolah is ready to welcome a new generation of visitors to the cultural heart of St.Louis. Harman Moseley, owner and operator of the Chase Park Plaza Cinemas And Galleria 6 Cinemas, along with his daughter Julia serve as the visionaries behind the Moolah Theater and Lounge. "We wanted to generate some excitement in the city, and I think we've Done that," says Harman Moseley. "This movie theater is like no other in town. We are catering to those who are looking for an alternative to Massive movieplexes by offering personal touches you can't find anywhere else. We have installed St. Louis' biggest screen measuring 20' X 45' screen, provided lush leather couches and loveseats plus a full balcony and stadium seating for up to 400 people. Patrons can visit our Movie Theater Lounge either before or after a show and enjoy a drink at the bar or bring their beverage into the theater with them." From the massive movie theater located on the Moolah's main level, Guests are invited to head downstairs to another quirky find: The Moolah Lanes," St. Louis' Bowling Temple." The retro-styled bowling alley will feature eight full lanes plus pool tables, video games and a grill. The décor is vivid, bright lights fill the space and custom designed cityscapes of New York, Chicago, San Francisco and St. Louis hang over the lanes. One very important high-tech addition to the Moolah Lanes is the StarLink Internet Jukebox, a system that operates without cd's, features a flat panel touch screen surface, and offers access to thousands of songs and artists. Jim Barton, who has made Maplewood's Saratoga Lanes a landmark in its own right,will operate Moolah Lanes. "Where else can you see a movie, enjoy a drink after work, bowl a few frames, and then head upstairs to your loft? Nowhere." said Barton. "That's why the Moolah is so special. You'll have your pick of things to do in a building that will constantly surprise you. From the huge barrel-vaulted ceiling in the theater to the bowling alley bar that is designed as an actual lane, you can't predict what you'll see around the next corner. Families will enjoy the Moolah, single people will enjoy the Moolah. there is truly something for everyone here." Loft living is a growing trend in St. Louis city, and the Moolah's Living space reflects that popularity. Half of the 42 units have already been reserved, chosen by a diverse group of residents interested in the excitement and convenience of an urban lifestyle. The Moolah's units are large, ranging from an 800 square-foot pied-a-terre to a truly massive two-story, three bedroom living and working space. The lofts include high-speed internet access, telephone and cable, with monthly rent ranging from $700 to $2100. To restore its unique Moorish flavor, Restoration St. Louis tapped Building specialists BSI Contractors and architects from Trivers & Associates. Designer Kevin Kerwin, AIA, of HKW, did the interior design. A triumph of restoration and revitalization, the newly rehabbed Moolah Temple building will celebrate its grand reopening January 20, 2005. Galleria 6 Cinemas Moolah Theatre Join our mailing list and get our latest news and events: © 2013 St. Louis Cinemas.All Rights Reserved.

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Sharing our news, views and tips on travel planning. Go to TravelMuse.com Experiential Travel Historical Vacations Incredible Capture Industry Beat Themes and Activities TravelMuse News Urban Endeavors 5 Things to Do in Queens, NY Comments OffDestinations, New York, Offbeat, U.S. DestinationsSeptember 5th, 2012Julie Schwietert Collazo The US Open is held in Queens, one of New York City’s five boroughs and home to the most culturally and ethnically diverse communities in the United States. If you’re attending the US Open and you’re not from New York, you might wonder what there is to see and do in the neighborhoods that whiz past you as you take the 7 train to the Mets-Willets Point station. Though few tourists and visitors venture into Queens, favoring Manhattan and Brooklyn over the other boroughs, there are lots of “only in New York” experiences you can have in this under-visited borough. Here are five things to do in Queens while you’re in town for the US Open, or really any time when you want to check out the cool attractions in this region of NYC: 1. Time travel in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. You won’t have to wander from the US Open grounds to act on this tip, as the tennis stadiums are located in the park’s boundaries. The park–New York City’s second largest–was host of two New York World’s Fairs (1939-1940 and 1964-1965); several relics from those fairs remain on display today. The large Unisphere sculpture is the most visible and photogenic of these relics, but the most interesting (and the ones that are closest to the US Open venue) are the mosaics and time capsule that serve as snapshots of mid-century pop culture. And those snapshots aren’t without controversy. Read this interesting article from local radio station, WNYC, to learn about the “mosaic mystery.” Time Capsule Mosaic Image: calestyo 2. Eat your way through Flushing’s Chinatown. One stop beyond the US Open on the 7 train is Flushing, home to New York City’s lesser-known Chinatown. As busy and bustling as Manhattan’s Chinatown, Flushing is, well, flush with Chinese restaurants specializing in most regional cuisines, though locals in the know tend to visit Flushing for dim sum. Get off the 7 train at Main Street, come to street level, close your eyes, spin around, and wherever you’re facing when your eyes open, head in that direction to find an authentic Chinese restaurant. Flushing's Chinatown Image: Terry Ballard 3. Walk Flushing’s Freedom Trail. Barely familiar even to New Yorkers who consider themselves connoisseurs of the little-known, Flushing’s Freedom Trail is a walking path with historically significant sites that offer important insights into both New York’s and America’s past. Along the path, you’ll find the home of the man who invented the carbon filament light bulb and New York City’s first public high school, as well as the oldest house of worship in the city. A stop on Flushing's Freedom Trail Image: Francisco Collazo 4. Visit the Louis Armstrong House Museum. Harlem and Greenwich Village are more famous for their roles in musical history, but Queens is a surprisingly rich repository, too. For almost 30 years, Louis Armstrong lived in a modest house in the Corona neighborhood; today, the house is a museum that is open to the public. Though it’s a bit out of the way, it’s a must-visit for serious Armstrong fans, as the house has been preserved as it was when he and his wife lived there. Louis Armstrong House Museum Image: Paul Lowry 5. Watch the sunset from Gantry Plaza State Park. Long Island City, one of Queens’ neighborhoods and the closest one to Manhattan, sits on the East River and has perfect, unobstructed views of Manhattan, best seen at sunset. Take the 7 train to Vernon-Jackson, walk west on 50th Avenue all the way to the water, and enjoy the view from the end of one of the piers or from your own hammock at the northern end of the park. Gantry Plaza State Park Image: Francisco Collazo America’s Favorite Farmers’ Markets Comments OffThemes and ActivitiesAugust 10th, 2012Julie Schwietert Collazo It begins in early June–my obsessive tracking of the quality of sweet corn. At that point in the season, it’s early–far too early–for the kernels to burst with juicy, sunny, sweetness, but every week I buy half a dozen ears, roast them in the oven, and offer my estimate of how many more weeks we have to wait for the corn to hit its peak. That high point lasts two weeks at most, but I enjoy every minute of it. I’m fortunate to live in New York City, which has year-round farmers’ markets, but I asked around the office and among TravelMuse followers on twitter and Facebook: What are YOUR favorite farmers’ markets? Here are some of their answers: 1. Pearl Farmers’ Market, San Antonio, Texas The Pearl Farmers’ Market is located along the banks of the San Antonio River and features the goods of producers whose farms are within 150 miles. Typical Texas fruits and veggies–like the variety of peppers shown here–aren’t the only items on offer; there’s also grass-fed bison, heritage pork, and charcuterie. Image: Gruenemann 2. Santa Monica Farmers’ Market, Santa Monica, California This farmers’ market, considered one of the largest and most diverse growers-only farmers’ markets in the U.S., was a top pick among staffers and TravelMuse twitter followers. Its website reports an average of 9,000 shoppers at its weekly Wednesday market. Image: Sharon Mollerus 3. Cold Spring Farmers’ Market, Cold Spring, New York This farmers’ market in the Hudson River Valley is open year-round, but it’s best in the summer, when it’s held on the grounds of Boscobel, a historic house-turned-museum with this view of the Hudson River. Bonus? You can picnic on the Boscobel grounds after you do your shopping. Image: ScubaBear68 4. Mountain View Farmers’ Market, Mountain View, California Mountain View is one of the five biggest farmers’ markets in California and a regular winner of “favorite farmers’ markets” contests. The variety of vendors and the market’s proximity to the Salinas Valley (aka: “America’s Salad Bowl”) make this market a top pick. Image: IrisDragon 5. Nicollet Mall Market, Minneapolis, Minnesota The Nicollet Mall Market is convenient for people who live and work in downtown Minneapolis, and it’s an ideal place to pick up lunch during the summer. It’s also close to public transportation. And the eggplant! Isn’t it gorgeous? Image: Cultivate Landscapes 6. Ballard Sunday Farmers’ Market, Seattle, Washington As its name suggests, the Ballard Sunday Farmers’ Market is open on Sunday only. Year-round, through sun, snow, wind, and rain, Ballard says it’s “more reliable than the post office.” Other reasons to visit? Hard cider, honey-smoked albacore, and other Pacific Northwest-inspired treats. Image: Brian Glanz 7. Pike Place Market, Seattle, Washington Yes, another market in Seattle, but how could we leave Pike Place off our list? It’s probably one of the most-visited markets in the United States. Plus, it’s not strictly a farmers’ market; open “19-1/2 hours a day, 362 days a year,” Pike Place is known for its fish and seafood, too. Image: angelan. 8. Aptos Farmers’ Market, Monterey Bay, California Any farmers’ market worth its salt should have live entertainment, and Aptos does. In addition to what looks like some absolutely delicious corn, Aptos serves up live bluegrass and accordion music, and it offers a variety of classes, including pickling and canning. Image: DavidDennisPhotos Olympic Sites in Mexico City and Vancouver Comments OffThemes and ActivitiesAugust 2nd, 2012Julie Schwietert Collazo What becomes of an Olympic venue once the Games have ended? We take a look at Olympic sites from the 1968 Games, hosted by Mexico City, and the 2010 Games, hosted by Vancouver. Mexico City Mexico’s capital, Mexico City, hosted the Olympic Games in 1968. The selection of Mexico City was significant for a number of reasons: it was the first time the Games had been held in a Spanish-speaking country, the first time they had been held in Latin America, and the first time they had been held in what was considered a “developing” country. Photo: Julie Schwietert Collazo For a brief moment, it looked like the International Olympic Committee would cancel the Games, as a massacre of student and civilian protesters occurred just 10 days before the Games’ Opening Ceremony. The IOC decided not to cancel the Games; however, the world’s biggest sporting event was definitely politically charged that year and Mexican officials were relieved that the Games concluded without significant incidents. Today, many of the venues that hosted athletic competitions during the 1968 Olympics remain active sporting sites for Mexican athletes, and are open to the public. Arena Mexico, not far from the city’s main square, the Zocalo, hosted wrestling matches in 1968 and continues to do so today. Popular lucha libre spectacles are held here regularly, drawing massive crowds eager to watch this beloved and uniquely Mexican sport in which masked and costumed wrestlers try to best one another. Another Olympic venue you can visit for both a sense of the past and a dose of local culture is the Estadio Olimpico Universitario (University Olympic Stadium) at UNAM, Mexico’s largest and most prestigious university, located in the south of the city. The site of the Opening and Closing Ceremony of the 1968 Games, as well as many track and field events, today’s it’s the home field for the popular Pumas soccer team. Vancouver was one of the most recent Olympic hosts, so it’s hardly a surprise that many of its venues are in excellent condition and are open to the public for recreational purposes. One of the most popular spots for locals in Vancouver is the Richmond Olympic Oval, which was the site for speed skating competitions in the 2010 Winter Olympics. After the Games, the entire complex was converted into a 23,000 square foot fitness and recreation center that’s open to the public on a membership basis. There’s a 31 route climbing wall, a paddling center, two Olympic size skating rinks, and dozens of courts for badminton, basketball, and volleyball. Don’t feel like working out? You can take a guided tour of the venue instead. Photo: tgreyfox One of the most popular Olympic sites in Vancouver–and one of the most accessible, too– is the Olympic cauldron, which remains in its original location near the convention center. It’s ideal for a photo opp. Besides the Cauldron itself, the natural views here are spectacular, with the North Shore Mountains visible in the distance. To learn more about other Olympic sites you can visit in North America, check out our feature article, “Destinations of Champions”. 5 Things to Do in Cancun This Summer Comments OffDestinations, International Destinations, MexicoJuly 25th, 2012Julie Schwietert Collazo Cancun isn’t just for Spring Breakers hoping to escape Mom’s and Dad’s watchful eyes. Though high schoolers and college students descend upon Cancun for one party-hardy week each spring, the rest of the year tends to be much more mellow. But maybe you don’t know what Cancun has to offer beyond the ubiquitous souvenir t-shirt from Senor Frogs. If that’s the case, here are six things to do in Cancun this summer. 1. Swim With Whale Sharks Whale sharks, the largest animal in the seas, spend four months of the year (May-September) off the coast of Cancun, and visitors can see them—and even swim with them—by taking an excursion with a licensed tour operator. The whale sharks are gentle giants, gliding slowly through the water as they feed. You can watch them from your tour boat or swim alongside them with a guide; this activity is recommended for travelers ages 10 and up. Swimming with whale sharks in Cancun. Photo: CollazoProjects.com. 2. Swim With Dolphins If whale sharks seem too overwhelming or if you’re prone to seasickness, you can stay on land and swim with dolphins in the Cancun Interactive Aquarium’s pool. You’ll be introduced to the animals by a professional trainer, who will stay with you in the pool throughout your session. During your time with the dolphins, you’ll see how they’re trained and watch the commands they can fulfill. This option is also better for younger children, as there is no minimum age limit to participate. Before or after your swim, you can also visit the aquarium’s museum, which features touch tanks and other displays. Swimming with dolphins at the Interactive Aquarium. Photo: CollazoProjects.com 3. Go to the Zoo Cancun isn’t just about marine animals; at CrocoCun Zoo, you can also have one-on-one encounters with land mammals and reptiles, including parrots, crocodiles, snakes, monkeys, and more. A professional guide leads you on an hour-long tour through the well-kept, humane zoo; during the tour, you are invited to touch, hold, or feed most of the animals. Kids touch a crocodile at CrocoCun Zoo. Photo: CollazoProjects.com 4. Explore Mayan History 2012 is a particularly important year in Mayan history, as the Mayans’ long-calendar reaches its end. Travelers with a particular interest in archaeology and indigenous history have been visiting Cancun’s and the Riviera Maya’s Mayan sites in large numbers this year; why not join them? You can take a day trip drive to the most-renowned site, Chichen Itza, which is 60 miles from Cancun proper, or you can stay closer to the city and visit El Rey, a 47-structure site in Cancun. Other sites within 60-80 miles’ driving distance include Tulum, Xcaret, Xel-Ha, and Ek-Balam. The main temple at Ek-Balam, a Mayan site an hour outside of Cancun. Photo: Donna M. Airoldi 5. Take a Day Trip to an Isla Cancun has several islands—Isla Mujeres, Isla Holbox, and Isla Contoy—off its coast that are increasingly gaining the attention of visitors. Mujeres and Holbox are known for their laid-back, takin’-it-easy pace, while Contoy is a national park that invites supervised eco-tourism visits limited to 200 people per day. Ferries run from Cancun’s Puerto Morelos to the islands; though you could easily do a day trip to Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy, it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to have time to enjoy Isla Holbox, which requires a longer trip from Cancun. Once there, you can relax on the beach, snorkel, fish, or kiteboard. Limiting visitors to Isla Contoy means you're likely to find a stretch of beach to yourself. Photo: Alaskan Dude Incredible Capture: Pulpit Rock, Norway Comments OffThemes and ActivitiesJune 28th, 2012RGreenberg Though Norway may be better known for Vikings and salmon, Pulpit Rock is one of its most famous attractions. Located in western Norway, visitors must hike about two and a half miles, climbing about 1,982 feet along the way, to reach the gorgeous views afforded at the edge of this cliff. See the original post on the NileGuide blog Image: Today is a Good Day/Flickr 6 Most Beautiful Places to Take a Leap of Faith Comments OffDestinations, Experiential Travel, International Destinations, Offbeat, Outdoor AdventuresJune 20th, 2012RGreenberg Craving a rush of air, adrenaline and great views? Check out these stunning jump-off spots that will leave you breathless in more ways than one. 1. Bungee jumping at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Located between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world – so it should go without saying it is an ideal place to fall 111 meters with a cord attached to your ankles. We wonder if the fall’s namesake Queen Victoria ever felt the rush of plummeting off this waterfall? We guess not. Image: On The Go Tours/Flickr 2. Base jumping from the Sky Tower, New Zealand People from all over congregate to the 328m Sky Tower, distinguished as one of the tallest free-standing structures in the Southern hemisphere. Feeling the need for speed? This base jumping spot is the place for you – jumpers reach up to 85km/hr while on their way down. On top of this fast and extremely high fall, you also have to worry about wind entering your equation. Fortunately, base jumpers use a guide-cable-controlled to avert the jumper from bumping into the building. Image: Andy Beal Photography/Flickr 3. Skydiving over Lake Taupo, New Zealand Take skydiving to the next level by flying above one of the last active volcano regions in New Zealand. It is very popular for people to experience one minute of freefalling in this 15,000 feet drop. Also, if you are a skydiver on a budget, skydiving over Lake Taupo is known for low-cost jumps. We’re not sure if this is a good thing or not. Image: Antoine Hurbert/Flickr 4. Hang gliding the mountains of Bariloche, Argentina Hang gliding in Bariloche, Argentina is said to be an incredible experience any time of the year, but summer has been recognized as the truly best time. Image: patrícia soransso /Flickr 5. Zip lining the treetops of Durango, USA If you are an adrenaline junkie jonsing for the great outdoors, then it is time for you to zip line through the treetops of Durango, Colorado. As you travel high up amongst the trees, you can spot reptiles and birds from an incredible vantage point. Sounds like an ideal day to us. Video: Gary Gaurdreau/Vimeo 6. Paragliding Babadag Mountain, Turkey In October the small resort town of Oludeniz hosts an annual Air Games week for all the air lovers around the world. Located at the foot of Babadag mountain, be one with nature as you para-glide through the mountains, cedar forests and shores of the Mediterranean. Image: babadag.com Love this topic? Read the whole post on the NileGuide blog 5 Prison-Turned-Hotels Anyone with even a slight appreciation of irony would enjoy knowing that hellish prisons around the world, closed down because of overcrowding and human-rights abuse, have reopened as posh hotels and kitschy hostels. [Read the full post at the NileGuide blog.] 1. The Liberty Hotel – Boston, USA Image: Ben+Sam/Flickr Although The Liberty Hotel might have the gosh darn coolest design of any hotel on our list, it certainly wasn’t always that way. Back when The Liberty Hotel was the Charles Street Jail, the place was so overcrowded and nasty-gnarly, the US District Court ruled it was unconstitutional for even criminals to live there. Image: liluinteriors Constructed in 1851, the Charles Street Jail was designed by famed Boston architect Gridley James Fox Bryant, who created a massive granite structure with an octagonal rotunda, a 90-foot tall atrium, and 30 arched windows that measured 33 feet high. A mix between a Gothic cathedral and a fortress, the Charles Street Jail was once home to Malcolm X, Sacco and Vanzetti, and Boston mayor James Michael Curley. Image: The Liberty Hotel After failing inspections, the Charles Street Jail was closed to inmates in 1990 and renovations began to turn it from an all-around dump into one of the swankiest hotels in Boston. The Liberty Hotel maintained the grand exterior and rotunda while totally refurbishing the jail cells into rooms considerably bigger than the original 7 x 10 foot floor plan. Interested in rubbing shoulders with the “in” crowd without paying the big bucks to spend the night? Grab an appetizer at The Liberty Hotel’s restaurant Clink (teehee) or a drink at their bar, Alibi (haha), which has an impressive array of celebrity mug shots. Oh, The Liberty Hotel, you’re so clever. Incredible Capture: La Recoleta Cemetery, Argentina Comments OffIncredible CaptureJune 15th, 2012RGreenberg Image: Trey Ratcliff/Stuck in Customs/Flickr Located in Buenos Aires, the La Recoleta Cemetery contains the graves of famous people including Eva Perón, Raúl Alfonsín, and presidents of Argentina. Built around 1732, the cemetery surrounds the Our Lady of Pilar convent and a church, and contains incredibly beautiful crypts such as the one captured above. The city that surrounds the cemetery is the bustling capital of Argentina. Full of tango, art, and hundreds of bookstores, it’s no surprise that a culture with such a flair for life would have a similar flair for the after-life. [via NileGuide] 9 Secret Cave Cities Comments OffInternational Destinations, OffbeatJune 15th, 2012RGreenberg There were two recurring themes that surprised us while researching cave dwelling cultures from around the world: 1. Mongols. 2. George Lucas. Read on to see where we’re going with this. 1. Cappadocia, Turkey Image: Curious Expeditions/Flickr Image: sputnik 57/Flickr The Cappadocia region of central Turkey has some of the strangest, most incredible geology anywhere on earth. And for 3,500 years, humans have managed to build 200 incredible cities in this rocky, mountainous terrain. Lucky for modern day visitors, the cave cities in Cappadocia provide thousands of years of history and miles of caves to explore. And on top of that, all the artifacts found within the caves have been incredibly well maintained over the centuries. The dry, arid weather inside the caves has made for almost perfect conditions for preserving the artifacts, and there is still undoubtedly much more to be discovered. Image: whl.travel/Flickr Image: drreagan/Flickr Along with constructing incredible cave complexes, the multiple groups that have called Cappadocia home also utilized the unique Fairy Chimney rock formations native to the area – turning them into homes. Found only in a few places on earth, the formation looks like a tall pyramid with a large rock balanced on top. Native cultures hollowed them out and used them as freestanding dwellings. Pretty cool huh? Image: Vin60/Flickr 2. Vardzia – Southern Georgia Image: en.wikipedia.org We certainly don’t envy any 12th century monarch. With the Mongols terrorizing Europe, it must have felt like your chances for survival where slim. So when Queen Tamar of the Caucasus heard that the Mongol army was at her doorstep, she demanded the impossible: Build an impenetrable fortress on the side of the Erusheli mountain. Although it seems barely feasable by modern day standards, in 1185 construction began. When the complex was completed it had 6,000 apartments on 13 levels, a throne room, a church, and an exterior of terraces for growing crops. Incredibly Vardzia also had an irrigation system and a secret entrance only accessible via a hidden tunnel. Image: onbangladesh/Flickr Image: zigurdszakis/Flickr Luckily, it worked in protecting the queen from the Mongols. Unluckily, a hundred years later a massive earthquake in 1283 destroyed much of the complex, exposing the interior apartments that were originally hidden inside the mountain. Even after the damage, monks continued to live in what was left until being attacked by Persians in 1551. It is now open to visitors, and a small group of monks maintain the incredible ruins. 3. Petra – Jordan Image: paalia/Flickr The Nabataeans established Petra around the 6th Century BCE as their capital city. An important stop on the Middle Eastern trade route, Petra’s iconic structures weren’t built until around zero AD. The most famous ruin, Al Kjazneh or “The Treasury”, has an incredibly detailed facade carved out of a sandstone rock face. Image: To Uncertainty And Beyond/Flickr Image: tympsy/Flickr Many of the details of the Greek-influenced architecture has been lost over the years, but it still makes for an incredible site. Although it isn’t known what The Treasury was constructed for, it was deemed a World Heritage Site is 1985. But perhaps even more exciting than that, it was also in Indiana Jones an the Last Crusade. Image: archer10(Dennis)/Flickr 4. Coober Pedy – Northern Australia Image: DuReMi/Flickr The small town of Coober Pedy has 3 great things going for it. 1: It is the Opal Capital of the World; 2: It is the set location for 3rd Mad Max movie; and 3: It was used while filming Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Other than that, living there is pretty rough. Located in a desolate strip of land in northern Australia, temperatures hover at around 105 degrees Fahrenheit for most of the summer. Along with the sweltering heat comes 20% humidity. Not such a comfy place to live – especially since power to run air conditioning is pretty expensive all the way out in the middle of nowhere. Image: DuReMi/Steel Wool/Flickr To combat the insufferable temps the original opal prospectors in 1915 built underground homes, and to this day that’s how most of the town lives. One of the only modern additions? Chimneys that can be seen from above ground. Since it’s become somewhat of a tourist attraction in the past 20 years, Coober Pedy offers a few underground hostels in case you’re dying to live like the locals. Image: whale05/Flickr 5. Uplistsikhe – Eastern Georgia Image: Lidia Ilona/Flickr Located 5 miles from Gori, the city of Stalin’s birth, Uplistsikhe is an ancient town built into the soft rocks of eastern Georgia. Some structures have been dated all the way to the Early Iron Age, but Uplistsikhe really began to hit its stride in the Middle Ages when it was a major stop in the Silk Road. At its peak the city housed a population of around 20,000 residents who lived in 700 caves. Unfortunately in the 13th century, Mongol invasions left the city ravaged. Already weak, subsequent earthquakes struck soon after, which severely damaged the rock city and left it largely uninhabitable. Image: masterplaan/Flickr Today only around 150 caves remain, many of which have barely survived. One of the most incredible structures still left standing is the 9th century church of Uplistulis Eklesia. Although the church was Christian, it was built directly over a previously constructed pagan sun temple. No matter what your religious bent the views from the church are pretty darn incredible. Image: SusanAstray/Flickr Image: Mart Laanpere/Flickr 6. Yaodong in the Loess Plateau – China Image: Next Stop Beijing For centuries, inhabitants in the Loesses Plateau in northern China have been building their houses into the side of steep cliffs. Cave dwelling may seem like an ancient tradition, but recently Yaodongs have been praised for their eco-friendly construction and sustainability. Modern Yaodongs are constructed carefully with proper precautions, but this wasn’t always the case. When the 1556 Shaanxi earthquake hit northern China, an astonishing 85K people died when their cave homes caved in on them. Image: Clare’s Research Trip 2010-2011 Image: en.wikipedia.org Today there is an estimated 40 million people who call Yaodong home including one famous former resident, Mao Zedong. 7. Matmata – Southern Tunisia Image: Panegyrics of Granovetter/Flickr If the interior of these buildings look familiar it’s probably because you’ve seen one before. Remember in the beginning of the first Star Wars movie? Yep, Luke Skywalker’s Aunt and Uncles home was actually filmed in a troglodyte house in Matmata, Tunisia. Troglodyte complexes have been built by the Berbers that live in this region for centuries, possibly even since Egyptian times. They are created by digging a large central pit, and then creating artificial underground caves around it. Image: 10b travelling/Flickr Image: Syromaniac/Flickr Even though these homes are ancient, it wasn’t until 1967 that they were “discovered” by the outside world. After 22 days of consistent rain, the small and private community of Matmata were forced to contact authorities when many of their homes began collapsing. It was previously thought that only nomadic tribes lived in the area, and officials were shocked when they came to investigate and found the troglodyte homes. Image: matee, but who cares?/Flickr In response to the flooding, above ground homes were built, but as soon as the underground dwellings could be repaired the new homes were abandoned. 8. Bamyan – Central Afghanistan Image: AfghanistanMatters/Flickr The modern story of Bamyan is a tearjerker, so prepare yourself. Bamyan was once an important religious center for Buddhists, and at one point 2,000 monks built their homes in caves in the sandstone cliffs above the city of Bamyan. In addition to creating magnificent paintings inside the caves, the monks also built two massive statues of Buddha between 544-644. Standing 180 and 121 feed high, these were the largest standing statues of Buddha anywhere in the entire world – modern day included. Tragically in 2001 the Taliban intentionally destroyed the statues, calling them an “affront to Islam” and blowing them up with dynamite. Image: United Nations Photo/Flickr Previously the Taliban also used the monks’ caves to store ammunition, but once they were driven out of the region the caves became reoccupied with locals looking for homes. Amazingly, the new cave dwellers have found more treasures in the caves, including the world’s oldest oil paintings and a 62-foot reclining Buddha statue. Image: Tracy Hunter 9. Kandovan – East Azerbaijan Province, Iran Image: basheem/Flickr When the Mongols invaded Iran in the 13th century, Iranians fled all over the country. A community ended up in northwestern Iran, and found a bizarre rock formation they decided to call home. These cone structures were created by eroded volcanic ash, and have made incredibly temperate and sturdy houses for the past 700 years. Image: Eliza_Taibihi/Flickr Most homes built in Kandovan are between 2 and 4 stories tall, and have actually made this very remote village a popular tourist destination within Iran. Read the whole post on the NileGuide blog Incredible Capture: Church of Livadia, Crete Comments OffArt and Museums, Incredible CaptureJune 11th, 2012RGreenberg On the island of Crete – the largest of Greece’s islands – stands the Church of Livadia. It has quite the colorful interior, reflecting Crete’s distinctive culture from the rest of Greece. Image: Wolfgang Staudt/ Flickr The island has its own poetry form, Mantinades, along with music and indigenous dancing. The people of Crete also often wear traditional dress in everyday settings, including knee-high black riding boots and black shirts. Most of the population is Greek Orthodox, and religious holidays play an important role in gathering the people of Crete together. (via NileGuide)

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Stogumber Postcode for Sat Nav: TA4 3TR Passengers can buy their tickets in the Refreshment Room (the old station office). Furthermore you can partake of one of the station�s now famous cream teas. On gala days bacon rolls, sausage rolls and pasties are always popular and in the colder weather tea and crumpets are served. Opened in May 2011 was the new waiting room. The Friends of Stogumber Station (FoSS) have been rebuilt the waiting room as closely to the original as is possible by the RAMs (restoration and Maintenance) team at Bishops Lydeard. So why not visit the station, enjoy a hot drink and some of the splendid food served by the cheerful station staff. Relax in the garden or simply soak up the old world charm. Stogumber is a picturesque but thriving village set in a valley between the Quantock and Brendon Hills. The main enterprise is agriculture and the village is surrounded by rolling farmland. The Parish comprises the village itself and several hamlets, including Vellow, Capton, Kingswood, Coleford Water and the "Vexfords�. The focal point of the village is the Square, which contains the pub shop and St. Mary�s Church, a large Norman church with an interesting William Morris style ceiling. The street leading up to the Square, High Street, is the most photographed part of the village, with its mix of colour-washed and thatched properties. History of Stogumber Station Since its construction in 1862 the station has seen many changes. Initially the small platform had a waiting room and signalbox while on the other side of the line there was sufficient space for a large goods shed and a spur which terminated at a cattle dock. The goods facilities fell into disuse by the 1950s and the dilapidated goods shed was demolished late in British Railways ownership. Also on the north side of the line was another small building serving as a goods lockup. This little building was constructed from the local red sandstone and was demolished before the railway was obtained by the WSR plc. The cattle dock had its bars and uprights cut away and the stable blocks which made the surface to the access ramp seem to have been �robbed out� many years ago. The signal box was demolished in the 1920s and was replaced by a ground frame which was removed later with the goods facilities in the 1960s. For a time Stogumber played host to a camping coach. Water for this coach was stored in a tank wagon that was replenished weekly via a Taunton train. However this last vestige of any sidings at SR was removed in the early 60s when the camping coach was removed. Stogumber�s buildings then fell into general disrepair and the waiting room, that was now considerably rotten, was demolished soon after the WSR plc took over.For a time Stogumber was managed by Harry Horn, the Station Master and a small group of volunteers known as the Friends of Stogumber. However time told and this band of volunteers dissipated into other railway work. Following the death of Harry in 2000, his wife Iris, carried on as Station Master and kept the station and its gardens in very good order. However Iris was not getting any younger and in 2009 she was admitted to hospital and the station team at Bishops Lydeard was asked, by the Company, to ensure that the station remained open. A small group of volunteers came together and Friends of Stogumber Station was reformed. Sadly Iris passed away in the autumn of 2009. Jenny Davidge is the Station Master. The fledgling FoSS started to grow almost as soon as it was created and it now stands at 34 members. There are 17 staff working on the station and between them they manage the buildings, gardens and platform. FoSS is also holding a large donation that will be used to finish off the inside of this building. There are plans to completely refurbish the cattle dock and open this area as a viewing gallery with disabled access so that visitors to the station can enjoy a cup of tea and watch the trains go by. Whilst on the subject of trains it will soon be seen that the stopping pattern for Stogumber will change for the galas. All down trains will stop but every other up train will pass straight through the station. From an operational view point this will save on coal as the heavy gala trains will not have to work very hard to get away from the station. The bonus for Stogumber will be that photographers and customers in the garden will be treated to the sight of trains working hard right through the station. The new viewing gallery on the cattle dock (when it is complete) will give an unrivalled view that will probably be one of the best on the whole line. Why not join the Friends of Stogumber Station (FoSS)? Visit the Stogumber Village Website.

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Washford Washford Postcode for Sat Nav: TA23 0PP The station is now home to the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust who have set up a museum and workshop on the site of the old Goods shed and yard demolished by British Railways in the 1960s. The museum contains some wonderful artifacts of the S&DJR and is well worth a visit. The Museum The Somerset and Dorset Railway Trusts museum at Washford contains relics from the former Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway which ran from Bath to Bournemouth with branchlines to Highbridge, Burnham on Sea, Wells and Bridgwater. All finally closing in 1966. Please note that the museum is not open every day. Please click here for opening dates. A Railway Remembered Explore the mass of exhibits, ponder on the old station names and soak up the evocative atmosphere. Relics to be seen are station nameboards, lamps, tools, signalling equipment, tickets, photographs, handbills, rolling stock and steam locomotives. Step back in time as you operate the levers in the reconstructed Midford Signal Box Museum Admission Prices Adults £2.00 Child £1.00 Family £5.00 Members Free Washford Station has toilet facilities and is accessible to disabled passengers but does not have a disabled toilet. Tickets are not sold at this station and passengers are asked to purchase their tickets on the trains from the Guard or ticket inspector. Cleeve Abbey Special Offer to WSR Ticket Holders: A few minutes walk from the station brings you to Cleeve Abbey, a beautiful Cisterian Abbey, in the care of English Heritage and open from 29 March - 3 Nov, daily. Cleeve Abbey offers a 20% reduction on admission charges to those visitors who can show a same day dated WSR ticket on entry. [The offer is available between 29 March - 3 Nov, 7 days a week. Closing times may vary - visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/cleeve for details. The Abbey offers families a great chance to explore the history of the monks who lived at the Abbey with a fun story pack as well as providing visitors with the opportunity to wander around the grounds and Abbey buildings which remain at this peaceful site. Although the main abbey church is no more, the remaining outbuildings give a fascinating insight into monastic life. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing and encourages visitors to linger. Further on from the abbey is Torre cider farm where you can learn how Somerset cider is made and even sample some of the produce. There are also several pubs including the Washford Inn at the end of the Station ramp and The White Horse, near the abbey, which serve food. History of Washford Station Washford Station is the first station on the �extension� from Watchet to Minehead and is different in style from the buildings of the earlier line. The station opened in 1874 and unlike some of the other stations on the line is in the village it serves. The Station is painted in Southern Region colours setting it apart from the other stations, painted in the colours of the Great Western Railway and its successor the Western Region of British Railways. The small wooden building next to the main building is the original signalbox which contains a set of levers. Although the �Midford� exhibit has been designed to represent an ex-S&DJR location, the lever-frame is in fact a part of one from the former signal-box at Woolston (near Southampton). Find out more about the Somerset and Dorset Trust Find out more about English Heritage's Cleeve Abbey.

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Hottest Restaurants in the World: Where to Eat Now By Zagat Staff | January 13, 2014 We've shown you the most important restaurants of 2013 and the openings we're most looking forward to in 2014, but, what are the super-buzzy destination eateries around the world that you must visit right this second? We've rounded up 10 white-hot dining experiences from Brazil to Singapore that should be on the short list of any gastro-savvy traveler. Check them out below, and tell us your picks in the comments. of Amass, Copenhagen, Denmark A disciple of some of the world's best restaurants (Per Se, Noma, Fat Duck), chef Matt Orlando (a Southern California native) opened Amass earlier this year, and it remains one of the hottest tables in Copenhagen right now (if not all of Europe). The cuisine is New Nordic and changes daily; he's inspired by the "spontaneity" of the most perfect ingredients available each day. The sprawling industrial space is softened by an outdoor fireplace and a garden in the kitchen. Before its opening, Rene Redzepi predicted that Amass would be "Europe's opening of the year," and, based on its success, we'd say he wasn't totally off base. David Toutain, Paris, France David Toutain's eponymous new restaurant opened just before Christmas in Paris' Seventh arrondissement and is already tearing up the culinary scene thanks to Toutain's original and inventive prix fixe menus (which change daily). The 32-year-old toque has worked with some of the world's most famous chefs (Alain Passard; Andoni Luis Aduriz; Paul Liebrandt), but in a recent profile, Toutain said he's most inspired by the farm-to-table ethos of New York's Dan Barber. Like so many other chefs of the moment, Toutain does magical things with vegetables. Reservations are already scarce, so work well in advance. Burnt Ends, Singapore This high-concept “elegant BBQ” restaurant is perpetually packed for its modern interpretation of open-flame cooking - basically, expect a serious char on just about everything. Based on chef David Pynt’s East London pop-up that ran during the summer of 2012, the Singapore iteration cooks all its food in a custom-built brick kiln. Perth-born Pynt honed his skills at the famed grill mecca Asador Etxebarri in Spain and Noma before opening Burnt Ends in Singapore earlier in 2013. Expect a long wait as the eatery only accepts reservations for its counter seats at 6 and 6:30 PM daily. Trois Mec, Los Angeles, CA Staffed by an all-star trio of chefs - Ludo Lefebvre, Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo - Trois Mec is still the hottest restaurant in LA and its most coveted reservation. (Seats are only available via pre-purchased tickets that are released on certain dates; you can find more info here). The most sought-after seats are the ones along the bar where diners are up close and personal to the kitchen and to Lefebvre, who is typically leading the team. When you walk in the door, you get a rousing "Bonsoir!" (much like hearing "Irasshaimase!" when you walk into a sushi bar), which makes you realize that although you’re pre-paying for your five-course dinner ahead of time, like a ticket to a rock concert, the food is serious (inspired mostly by Lefebvre's French background) but the vibe is fun. Pakta, Barcelona, Spain Japanese-Peruvian fare comes to Barcelona in the form of Pakta (Quechuan for "union") from chefs Kyoko Li, Jorge Muñoz, and Albert Adrià, the former pastry chef at El Bulli. This trio has combined their respective heritages (Japan, Peru and Spain) to create the menu at Pakta. The small plates are inspired by the Nikkei cuisine of the Japanese who migrated to Peru about a century ago - expect local ingredients like fresh fish to be served alongside traditional Peruvian vegetables, and, of course, some Adrià-style magic in the form of spherifications like bursting soy “caviar” bubbles. Sushi Nakazawa, NYC After receiving four stars from the NYTimes in December, reservations at this small sushi restaurant went from "impossible" to "who do you think you're kidding?" Its chef, Daisuke Nakazawa, is a protégé of sushi master Jiro Ono, and here he offers omakase-only dining either at the 10-seat bar (live out your Jiro Dreams of Sushi fantasies) or in the 25-seat back dining room. The no-frills setting makes the sushi the focus, and its prices match its exclusivity: $120 for the 20-course tasting menu ($150 at the counter). Story, London, UK After working in some of the world's most famous restaurants, Tom Sellers set up on his own in a simple wood and glass edifice right next to Tower Bridge in 2013. Story remains one of the most coveted tables in London nearly nine months later. Reservations open at 9 AM on the 1st of the month for the following month, so if you have a dinner date in mind, have their number on speed dial. Lunchtimes are much easier to come by. Must-try items include the now infamous bread and dripping (if you haven't been, we won't spoil the surprise) and the Three Bears porridge; if the heritage potato - the dreamiest mashed potato ever - is on the menu, order a double portion - you’ll be grateful. If you're longing for a visit to Fat Duck but don't want to make the trek, Story is the next best thing. Saison, San Francisco, CA Chef Joshua Skenes relaunched his beloved Saison almost a year ago in a new larger space with higher price tags, but devotees will tell you, it's worth it. The regular tasting menu will set you back $248, and there's also the "extended" tasting menu for $398, with two to four more courses and luxury ingredients (hello, caviar), but Skenes will tell you that he's not making food for the elite. His adherence to live-fire cooking in addition to his manipulation of flavors and textures makes him one of the most influential American chefs, and also makes Saison a highly sought-after reservation. D.O.M., Sao Paolo, Brazil Alex Atala’s 15-year-old restaurant was edged even further into the spotlight this year with the release of the D.O.M. cookbook (including an infamous "ant on a pineapple" recipe), as well as his inclusion on the cover of Time magazine's controversial "Gods of Food" issue. These factors plus Atala’s talks at the MAD Symposium and his TV show in Brazil make him a powerful figure in international food. Atala opened a second Sao Paolo restaurant, Dalve e Dito, in 2009, but D.O.M remains one of the world’s hottest tables with its contemporary approach to Brazilian cuisine, using only hyper-local ingredients. Basically, it’s the Noma of South America. Quintonil, Mexico City, Mexico Opened in 2012, Pujol alum Jorge Vallejo teams up with wife Alejandra Flores (who mans front-of-the-house) to present his take on modern Mexican cuisine. Using indigenous ingredients and innovative techniques, Vallejo is giving his former boss a run for the money for the title of "hottest restaurant in Mexico." And, bonus, he's doing it all in a casual, relaxed environment minus the usual stuffiness that one might expect for food of this caliber. That being said, we suggest making reservations well in advance. Trois Mec Sushi Nakazawa Restaurant Story Decor- Service- CostVE Stay in-the-know with our Everywhere newsletter

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Hebrew: Yarden, meaning: “the descender;” Arabic: Nahr-esh-Sheriah, “the watering-place” the chief river of Israel The Jordan is mentioned in the Old Testament about one hundred and eighty times, and in the New Testament fifteen times. It flows from north to south down a deep valley in the center of the country. The name descender is significant of the fact that there is along its whole course a descent to its banks; or it may simply denote the rapidity with which it “descends” to the Dead Sea. It originates in the snows of Hermon, which feed its perennial springs. Two sources are generally spoken of: From the western base of a hill on which once stood the city of Dan, the northern border-city of Israel, there gushes forth a considerable spring called the Leddan, which is the largest spring in Syria and the principal source of the Jordan. Beside the ruins of Banias, the ancient Caesarea Philippi and the yet more ancient Panium, is a lofty cliff of limestone, at the base of which is a spring. This is the other source of the Jordan, and has always been regarded by the Jews as its true source. It rushes down to the plain in a foaming torrent, and joins the Leddan about 5 miles south of Dan (Tel-el-Kady). But besides these two historical springs there is a third, called the Hasbany, which rises in the bottom of a valley at the western base of Hermon, 12 miles north of Tel-el-Kady. It joins the main stream about a mile below the junction of the Leddan and the Banias. The river thus formed is at this point about 45 feet wide, and flows in a channel from 12 to 20 feet below the plain. After this it flows, “with a swift current and a much-twisted course,” through a marshy plain for some 6 miles, when it falls into the Lake Huleh, “the waters of Merom” (q.v.). During this part of its course the Jordan has descended about 1,100 feet. At Banias it is 1,080 feet above sea-level. Flowing from the southern extremity of Lake Huleh, here almost on a level with the sea, it flows for 2 miles “through a waste of islets and papyrus,” and then for 9 miles through a narrow gorge in a foaming torrent onward to the Sea of Galilee (q.v.). Along the whole eastern bank of the river and the lakes, from the base of Hermon to the ravine of Hieromax, a region of great fertility, 30 miles long by 7 or 8 wide Ruins are numerous enough. Every mile or two is an old site of town or village . The words of Scripture here recur to us with peculiar force: 'I will make your cities waste, and bring your sanctuaries unto desolation… And I will bring the land into desolation: and your enemies which dwell therein shall be astonished at it… And your land shall be desolate, and your cities waste. Then shall the land enjoy her sabbaths, as long as it lieth desolate' (Lev. 26:31-34).”, Dr. Porter's Handbook. From the Sea of Galilee, at the level of 682 feet below the Mediterranean, the river flows through a long, low plain called “the region of Jordan” (Matt. 3:5), and by the modern Arabs the Ghor, or “sunken plain.” This section is properly the Jordan of Scripture. Down through the midst of the “plain of Jordan” there winds a ravine varying in breadth from 200 yards to half a mile, and in depth from 40 to 150 feet. Through it the Jordan flows in a rapid, rugged, tortuous course down to the Dead Sea. The whole distance from the southern extremity of the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea is in a straight line about 65 miles, but following the windings of the river about 200 miles, during which it falls 618 feet. The total length of the Jordan from Banias is about 104 miles in a straight line, during which it falls 2,380 feet. There are two considerable affluents which enter the river between the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea, both from the east. The Wady Mandhur, called the Yarmuk by the Rabbins and the Hieromax by the Greeks. It formed the boundary between Bashan and Gilead. It drains the plateau of the Hauran. The Jabbok or Wady Zerka, formerly the northern boundary of Ammon. It enters the Jordan about 20 miles north of Jericho. The first historical notice of the Jordan is in the account of the separation of Abraham and Lot (Gen. 13:10). “Lot beheld the plain of Jordan as the garden of the Lord.” Jacob crossed and recrossed “this Jordan” (32:10). The Israelites passed over it as “on dry ground” (Josh. 3:17; Ps. 114:3). Twice afterwards its waters were miraculously divided at the same spot by Elijah and Elisha (2 Kings 2:8, 14). The chief events in gospel history connected with it are: John the Baptist's ministry, when “there went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and were baptized of him in Jordan” (Matt. 3:6). Jesus also “was baptized of John in Jordan” (Mark 1:9). Author: Matthew G. Easton, with minor editing by Paul S. Taylor. See the Christian archaeological video which describes the Jordan River and biblical events surrounding it: On the Promised Land: Crossroads of the World (part of the Faith Lessons video series). “The same faith that caused Israel to safely cross the Jordan at its flood stage releases His power in our lives today when we commit our lives to Him in total trust.”

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The soul of the city. Neon flash and vintage on one end, and old-school cool with a hipster attitude on the other. Here, it all works. With the arrival of the El Cortez Cabana Suites and the Golden Nugget's Rush Tower, this walkable district is charged with a new energy. And it may be the best people-watching spot in town. more...It's where it all began. The Rat Pack even cruised these famous streets. But today, Downtown Las Vegas' hotels are thriving. There are hints of vintage Vegas everywhere, but remodels, renovations and overhauls have turned the hotels, lounges, bars and restaurants of Downtown Las Vegas into a spectacular sight. And it's one you'll want to see firsthand. Enter The Plaza hotel under the classic twinkling dome and feel like a high roller. Then stride across the marble floors into plush, luxurious rooms with first-class amenities and exceptional service. It's the result of a $35 million overhaul. And you'll feel the excitement throughout the hotel. Step right out the front door to explore Fremont Street.And while strutting around the Fremont Street Experience, you'll find an assortment of Downtown Las Vegas hotels that offer views, escapes and hideaways. If you haven't been Downtown in a while, you'll discover the D Las Vegas, formerly the Fitzgerald's Irish-themed hotel. The common spaces of this hotel are shiny, sparkly and oh-so-modern. It's the latest to give itself a facelift and it's changing the face of Downtown Las Vegas. Just around the corner, Main Street Station features several authentic Pullman trains and various antiques from around the world.What's great about staying Downtown is that all of the attractions are close together so you can explore more with less walking. Finish a dinner at Hugo's Cellar at Four Queens or a night of dancing at Gold Diggers in the Golden Nugget, and walk yourself right back to your room without worrying about a bus, taxi or a long hike. Keyword Gateway Motel 928 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV Room reservations available daily. High Hat Regency Motel Hostel Cat Las Vegas Enjoy a budget-friendly hostel on Las Vegas Boulevard. Located across from the historic Aruba Hotel, and just minutes from the downtown Arts District, the Hostel Cat is a fri... More The Howard Johnson is home to one of the best Cuban restaurant in Las Vegas, located just minutes from downtown Las Vegas and the Fremont Street Experience. The Florida Caf... More Las Vegas Hostel Las Vegas Hostel feels like staying at a resort, except the hostel is full of other travelers like you! They have a swimming pool, hot tub and air conditioning in every dorm a... More

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The Hotel InterContinental Chicago is located at the heart of Chicago's "Magnificent Mile", which features an extraordinary collection of shopping, dining, nightlife and cultural attractions. The hotel lies only minutes away from Water Tower Place, Navy Pier, and the American Girl Place. The Lincoln Park Zoo and the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum are just three miles from the hotel. Experience spectacular views spanning up to 80 miles and 4 states! Consider visiting the Sears Tower Skydeck, open until 8:00pm, or the Hancock Observatory, open until 11:00pm. The Art Institute of Chicago The Art Institute is one of the world's most famous art museums, particularly known for its collection of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings by artists like Monet, Renoir, Seurat and Caillebotte. Favorite works include "A Sunday Afternoon on La Grand Jatte��1884" by Seurat, "American Gothic" by Grant Wood, and 33 of Monet's paintings. Other galleries take visitors through the art of ancient, medieval and Renaissance Europe; decorative arts like the popular Thorne Miniature Rooms; textiles of the world; prints and drawings; architecture and photography. If you plan to arrive on Tuesday, March 2, consider visiting the Art Institute. Tuesdays are free to all visitors, and the museum is open until 8:00pm. The Field Museum The Field Museum was founded to house the biological and anthropological collections assembled for the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893. These objects form the core of the Museum's collections which have grown through world-wide expeditions, exchange, purchase, and gifts to more than twenty million specimens. On permanent exhibit is Sue, the largest, most complete, and best preserved Tyrannosaurus rex fossil yet discovered. The Shedd Aquarium Opened in 1929, the Shedd Aquarium is one of the oldest public aquariums in the world. Take a voyage into the Oceanarium and Amazon Rising, and be touched by the beauty of the aquatic world and Shedd's conservation efforts to ensure its survival. The Adler Planetarium The Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum provides exhibits and education about astronomy, has an astronomy museum, and also has the largest public telescope in Chicago in the Doane Observatory. If you plan to stay over Friday March 5 evening, consider visiting the Adler Planatarium "Far Out Fridays". Enjoy the spectacle of the starry sky on the first Friday of every month! Scope out the many activities including: telescope viewing of the night sky, unlimited shows in the historic Sky Theater and the world's first StarRider Theater, lectures by leading space science specialists, and Doane Observatory tours. Far Out Fridays are on the first Friday of every month from 5 to 10 pm. Home • Agenda • Registration • Committee • Travel • FAQ • Chicago UICCAT 801 S. Morgan, M/C 234 Chicago, Illinois 60607 USA Administration: +1 312-996-2716 Copyright © 2004 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois

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Planning Refurbishments and Closings Extra Magic Hours Park Operating Hours Ticket FAQ Accommodations News Special Offers Theme ParksAnimal Kingdom Dining Locations Beyond the Parks Wandering the World Theme ParksDisneyland DCL News Disney Fantasy Blogs Disney & Central Florida News Blog Deb's Digest AllEars® Team Blog A Mom and the Magic Picture This! Photo Blog Disneyland Blog Searching Disney with Steve AllEars® Guest Blog AllEarsNet TV Rate/Review Walt Disney World Resort Hotels Walt Disney World Dining Walt Disney World Water Parks Walt Disney World Special Events Walt Disney World Tours 2015 Flower & Garden Festival Garden Rocks Concerts Festival Map 2015 Topiary Scavenger Hunt Outdoor Kitchens Menus Preview of 2015 Festival Part 1 Kid Fun at the Festival Florida Artists Bring Pixie Dust to Festival Topiaries and Gardens World Showcase I Topiary and Gardens Entrance Future World East Topiary and Gardens Future World West Flower & Garden Archives Where Have All the Flowers Gone? The 2006 Flower & Garden Festival by Debra Martin Koma ALL EARS® Senior Editor This article originally appeared in the May 2, 2006, Issue #345 of ALL EARS® (ISSN: 1533-0753) I'm just back from the opening weekend of the 2006 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, and I know what you're thinking... You're thinking, it must have been awesome! It must have been great! You must have had a wonderful time! Tell us all about it! Well, tell you about it I will, but I hate to say this... it wasn't awesome. It was OK; don't get me wrong. But as far as knocking my socks off? Eh. I've seen better. I've seen better, that is, at Epcot itself in years past. This year, there are topiaries and there are flowers and there are exhibits and there are demonstrations… but somehow they seem a little lackluster compared to what I recall from last year... and the year before, and the year before. There aren't as many roses for one thing, and the roses that are there seemed to be in poor shape -- brown-edged petals, a little droopy. Some of that could be due to the unseasonably warm, even HOT, weather we experienced that first weekend of the festival. But the care just didn't seem to be there. Many of the country pavilions in World Showcase seemed to sport a significant shortage of flowers, too. Sure, there were the usual gorgeous gardens in Canada, but there was nothing extra-special along the walkway down toward Le Cellier. And yes, there were geraniums and cosmos and plenty of other flowers in Italy and in France, but again, nothing out of the ordinary. Some of the topiaries have been moved around to new locations -- nothing wrong with that, of course, but their absence wasn't filled by anything else -- there was just a big old "nothing new" where they used to be. And one truly inexcusable error, in my opinion at least, was that many of the elements of Japan's Shishi-odoshi, or "Clacker Garden," weren't working. If you've not seen this type of display before, here's how it works: running water trickles along various bamboo rods or tubes, causing certain bamboo to shift and tilt and strike the rocks or small gongs at random intervals. This creates an unusual and almost musical experience. I just love it. This year, on the festival's first day, however, at least three tubes were either stuck or improperly aligned, so that they were not operating as intended. I went back a few days later, only to find that a few other tubes were also stuck and not working. It was a little disappointing for me, a returning visitor, but perhaps those who have never been to the Festival before wouldn't have noticed anything amiss, or missing. I'm not usually a negative person, and finding fault is not what my trip to the Flower & Garden Festival was about. So, lest you think I've turned into an old curmudgeon who can't see the beauty amongst the blooms, I will say that the Flower & Garden Festival is still a fabulous time to visit Epcot -- the park is beautiful, with added splashes of floral color, and nobody does topiary and gardens better than Disney. There are a few, but only a few, new things this year, beginning with the display located at the front of Epcot. You may have read that the Festival opened with the U.S. Postal Service introduction of a new set of Disney stamps. Called "The Art of Disney: Romance," this set of four stamps features famous Disney lovebirds: Lady and the Tramp, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella and Prince Charming, and of course, Mickey and Minnie. The introduction of these stamps set the tone for the whole festival, the theme of which is "Romance" this year. That's certainly evidenced in the new topiary scene, "Crazy over Daisy." Brightly colored topiaries of Donald and Daisy are depicted as having just emerged from the "Tunnel of Love" -- a series of heart-shaped arches that frame the ducky duo sitting cozily in their boat. Bright red begonia heart topiaries accent the scene on either side. Closing out the scene on the back end is a very non-romantic Stitch topiary, who sends off exiting guests with a "Thank You for Visiting." Also new is Tinker Bell's Fairy Garden, a children's play area overseen by the Peter Pan pixie herself, located along the Imagination Walkway. I thought the Tinker Bell topiary was beautiful, and the play equipment (slides, tunnels) was cleverly camouflaged by greenery, while children could play safely without fear of hurting themselves if they fell on the springy shredded rubber mulch that surrounded them. Another new exhibit can be found over in Future World East. Growing Future Gardeners features whimsical scarecrows sporting Mickey Mouse t-shirts and funky gardening tools that will appeal to the littlest gardeners, as they explore miniature versions of plots that they might be able to plant with their families. My favorite was the "sensory garden," which encourages the planting of fragrant herbs to fill the air with scents such as mint and rosemary. Another innovative idea that might appeal to kids is the "salsa garden," in which you plant all the ingredients (peppers, tomatoes, onions) to make this savory condiment. RETURN ENGAGEMENTS Many of the exhibits from previous years may be found in new locations this year, like the troll topiary in Norway, and the dwarf topiaries in Germany. If you think an old favorite is missing, just look around -- it's likely to be there, just in a new spot. The water garden exhibit ("Water Garden Wonders"), complete with lily pads and goldfish, can be found along the Imagination Walkway, across from Tinker Bell's Fairy Garden. Just next to Tink's play area, is the "Tricks of the Trade" exhibit, which gives a behind-the-scenes look at how all those hanging baskets and topiaries are assembled. In one example, the bare wire form of a topiary ostrich shown alongside its foliaged counterpart allows you to see how Disney's horticulturists construct these living works of art, using sphagnum moss, colored ivy, and other plants as their medium. The Fragrance Garden in World Showcase's France pavilion has returned once again, sponsored as in the past by French perfumery Guerlain. This garden again features topiaries in the shapes of the company's classic perfume bottles, as well as scent boxes that allow you to lift a lid and get a whiff of a perfume, while trying to figure out which essences were used to create it. Guerlain's L'heure Bleu, for example, is composed of extracts of carnation, iris, violet, anise and rose. If you really want to make some sense of the scents, there's a 20-minute tour (free!) daily at 2, 4 and 6 p.m. The popular "SpaceNet," a structure for kids who love to crawl and climb, is in its usual location in Future World East, right next to the returning Minnie's Magnificent Butterfly Garden. If you love butterflies, you won't want to miss this spot, where you can actually walk among hundreds of monarchs, gulf fritillaries, zebra longwings and more. And don't miss the small chrysalis house, where dozens more winged creatures are waiting to spring from their cocoons. Festival sponsor Home Depot is again presenting the Ultimate Backyard Garden Party adjacent to Morocco in World Showcase. With three distinctive sections (one for a child's birthday party, one for a backyard wedding, and the third for the ultimate luau-style barbecue), the display should generate plenty of ideas for those looking for something new to do in their back yard -- and if you have any questions, the helpful Home Depot staff are right there to answer them. Don't miss the wedding cake topiary in the Backyard Wedding area! One of my favorite things during the Festival is "The Power of Flowers" bedding plants, which hug the banks of West Lake. While I may have felt that some areas of the Festival were lacking, these vibrant hues of reds, yellows, oranges, pinks, and whites in patterns of hearts and, no surprise, Mickeys, make for an eye-catching vista. As my mom would say, "It makes you glad you have eyes." Not only are the bonsai back in the Japan pavilion this year, but they are back in two places -- both right along the water, framed by the imposing Torii Gate, as well as up by the pavilion's pagoda, Yakitori House. And if you like bonsai, don't miss China's version of the miniature, manicured trees. The Penjing exhibit is opposite the impressive, mist-snorting bromeliad Chinese dragon, which this year is situated in one of the pools in front of the Temple of Heaven. BEYOND FLOWERS As usual, the Flower & Garden Festival affords visitors a chance to see and meet a series of guest speakers who specialize in various aspects of horticulture. This year the "Great American Gardeners" series, which is presented every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., debuted with Paul James, host of HGTV's Gardening by the Yard. Due to James's popularity, his talk was moved outside, to a seating area around the back of the Festival Center. Unfortunately, attendees had to sit in full sun, so that, while James was quite entertaining and informative as he answered audience questions, his audience was slowly being roasted. It made several spectators wonder why the event couldn't be held in the vacant and unused Odyssey restaurant, but James alluded to the fact that the following day might see the addition of umbrellas or fans or both for the comfort of the audience. When I walked by the area a few days later, though, I saw neither. If you're a hardy soul who doesn't mind the heat, you might want to stop by to see one of the upcoming speakers, which include: Roger Swain, former host of PBS's Victory Garden; Patricia Lanza, author of "Lasagna Gardening"; and Raymond Western, a Guerlain perfume specialist. But bring a mister and wear a hat and sunscreen! If you're visiting Epcot during the week, Disney experts are on hand to share their tips at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Their topics range from flowering trees to container gardens to bamboo. Also in the Festival Center, experts from the University of Florida present their gardening ideas daily at 1 and 4 p.m., covering such topics as herbs, wildlife-friendly gardening and landscaping for the environment. The Festival Center also houses a marketplace, with artists and garden merchants from around the country, such as watercolorist and ALL EARS® advertiser David Doss. This year's opening weekend also featured Dave Smith, director of the Walt Disney Archives, who not only signed copies of his book, "Disney: The First 100 Years," but gave talks on the relationship between Disney and stamps. (As an aside, on May 5, Newbery Award-winner Gail Carson Levine, author of "Ella Enchanted," will be on hand to autograph her new novel, "Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg.") For those who want an even more in-depth look at the festival displays, a three-hour tour, Gardens of the World, is hosted by a Disney horticulturist on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (call 407-WDW-TOUR for reservations) for $59. It seems that each year Disney does a little bit more to keep children happy during the Flower & Garden Festival. In addition to Tinker Bell's Fairy Garden, and the SpaceNet, there's the children's play area in World Showcase's Ultimate Backyard Garden Party. There are daily ladybug releases at 1 and 3 p.m. near the Outpost in World Showcase, and there's the Garden Railway Depot, over near the Germany pavilion's miniature railroad. And in upcoming weeks, there are special themed weekends geared specifically toward the younguns -- Characters in Bloom Weekend, May 19-21, and I Dig Bugs Weekend, June 2-4. And if you're looking for some entertainment at the end of a long day of smelling the roses, don't forget the "Flower Power" concerts held at the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase. Nelson (featuring Gunnar and Matthew Nelson, sons of the late '60s heartthrob Ricky Nelson) kicked off the series this year, and, to my surprise, drew big crowds. As one mom, whose daughter had planned their trip around the group's appearance, told me, "You don't like them because you're not a twentysomething girl." Sigh. No, I'm sure not. I didn't get the chance to see Nelson, but you can be sure I wouldn't have missed the show if one of the upcoming performers like Davy Jones of the Monkees, or The Turtles, or Paul Revere and the Raiders, had been onstage. These acts perform three times nightly, 5:45, 7 and 8:15 p.m., and lines form early -- if any of these are your faves, you may want to consider lining up at least a half-hour before showtimes, even if it's a performer that YOU don't think will be very popular. (I learned the hard way.) Despite my feeling that some of the pizzazz was missing from the Festival this year, I did still enjoy my time ogling the orchids, peering at the pansies, and sniffing the snapdragons. In fact, I wish I could go back again before the festival is over... just to see if they've fixed that Clacker Garden! (EDITOR'S NOTE: A friend who visited the Festival after I returned home reported to me today that she had seen a Disney gardener struggling to correct the problems with the Clacker Garden a day or two ago -- let's hope she was finally successful!) RELATED INFO: The 13th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival runs until June 11. To learn more, click HERE. For photos of the displays and exhibits, click HERE. Share YOUR opinions on this year's Flower & Garden Festival in our Rate and Review Section. 2007 Dates for Epcot's Flower & Garden Festival: April 13 - June 3, 2007 AllEars® Amazon Store | AllEars® Merchandise | Press Room | Contact Us Subscribe to AllEars.Net's RSS feed. New to RSS? Click HERE for more info. Read more about us or advertise with us. We respect your right to privacy. Please take a moment to review our privacy policy and terms of use. Copyright © R.Y.I. Enterprises, LLC, All Rights Reserved, 1999 - 2015. Copyright © DWills, All Rights Reserved, 1996-2000. AllEars.Net, AllEars® Newsletter and any other properties owned by RYI Enterprises, LLC are not affiliated with, authorized or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with, The Walt Disney Company, Disney Enterprises, Inc., or any of their affiliates. All Disney artwork, copyrights, trademarks, service marks, and trade names are proprietary to Disney Enterprises, Inc. or, its subsidiary, affiliated and related companies, as the case may be. For official Disney information, visit http://www.disneyworld.com

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Aragonese Castle The Castello Aragonese is easily the most impressive historical monument in Ischia. It stands on a volcanic rock connected to the island by a bridge built in 1438 by Alfonso of Aragon. The Castle, overlooking the vast horizon of the sea, was originally built as a castrum in 474 BC by Gerone of Siracusa and, after a long period of abandonment, reached its golden period during the fourteenth century. Under the Aragonese dynasty, it became a political, cultural and spiritual centre of notable interest. The Renaissance court of the noble poet Vittoria Colonna, saw the peak of the castle's splendour. Her court raised the Castello to heights of unheard glory: it breathed new life into the place; the arts and sciences flourished as never before under these skies - even Michelangelo was enticed here - but the decline had already begun in the 15th century and continued for more than 100 years. More Information

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epcprince Tanzania is one of the greatest safari destinations in Africa, covering a diverse selection of landscapes. It's home to the Big Five -- elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos -- which used to be the favorite trophies for game hunters but are now some of the more popular animals to watch on a game drive. About 25% of Tanzania is occupied by parks and reserves, and in the ocean aquatic life is protected in a number of marine parks. Most visitors spend the bulk of their time game viewing in Tanzania's popular northern circuit, where the Serengeti National Park has to be one of the most famous wildlife areas in the world. It's here on the grassy undulating plains that the annual migration of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and other animals takes place -- one of the greatest movements of animals on earth. Equally impressive is the Ngorongoro Crater, a caldera created by collapsed volcano that supports a staggering number of animals. In southern Tanzania, in the vast and untouched Selous National Park, large herds of elephants and buffalo roam in a landscape that's reminiscent of what the whole of East Africa looked a few hundred years ago. Tanzania is also home to archaeological sites such as the Olduvai Gorge, where traces of early man were discovered, as well as historical coastal towns where the Swahili way of life can be experienced. The highlands boast some impressive mountains, including Kilimanjaro, the tallest in Africa and the only mountain in the world over 5,000m (16,000 ft.) that can be walked. Along the coast are unpolluted beaches; the impossibly atmospheric island of Zanzibar, which is steeped in culture and history; and excellent diving on the reefs around the islands of Pemba and Mafia. In the seldom-visited west of the country is Lake Victoria, the world's second-largest lake and the source of the Nile, and the skinny Lake Tanganyika, on whose shores Stanley uttered those immortal words "Dr. Livingstone, I presume" upon finally finding the great African explorer. Today, it's the location of isolated parks harboring healthy populations of chimpanzees. Like much of East Africa, Tanzania is home to the fiercely traditional and striking-looking Masai people; seeing an isolated, red-robed warrior stalk the plains is a lasting image of Tanzania. Their beaded jewelry and red checked blankets make good souvenirs to buy. Tanzania also offers other interesting arts and crafts, most notably the Makonde sculptures carved in ebony, and tanzanite, a turquoise-blue semiprecious stone unique to the country. Top Destinations in Tanzania Mbeya

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Live it now! USA 01 800 488 0920 Intl 0052 998 287 4015 VisitMexico Airports and entry requirements Currency and Exchange Holidays Hostels and backpackers States Stay in touch Taxes and Tips Things you should know before you visit Mexico Transportation in Mexico Traveling with pets and food products Weather and time zones Destinations Acapulco Costalegre Emerald Coast Ensenada Guanajuato Hidalgo Loreto Los Cabos Oaxaca Palenque Queretaro Riviera Maya State of Mexico Teotihuacan Valle de Bravo Activities Adventure and Nature Weddings World Heritage Cities Culture Mayan world Magical Towns Health Sun and Beach Our Stories Promotions Español English Français Deutsch Italiano 日本 中文 Portugues 한국어 Chapultepec Castle, Mexico City Chapultepec Castle, Mexico City San Angel, Mexico City Ciudad Universitaria (University City), Mexico City Museum of Popular Art, Mexico City Mexico Park, Mexico City National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City Home : : Culture : Museums : Chapultepec Park Stroll Chapultepec Park Stroll Covering an area of more than 1,600 acres, Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Park) is Mexico City’s largest oasis and one of the loveliest places to visit. Chapultepec Park, divided into three sections, is home to forests, lakes and several important sights and attractions, most of which are located in the first section near the Paseo de la Reforma, Mexico City’s main thoroughfare. Situated at the end of a long paved path near the main entrance to the park, the Monumento a los Niños Heroes (Monument of Young Heroes) is one of Mexico City’s most important monuments. Built in 1952, it honors six young cadets who refused to surrender to American troops during the Battle of Chapultepec in 1847. From the monument, follow the road leading to the top of Chapultepec Hill and you’ll arrive to the Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle), formerly an imperial palace and presidential residence. Today, Chapultepec Castle houses the country’s National History Museum. Outside you’ll have marvelous panoramic views overlooking Mexico City. More attractions located within this first section of Chapultepec Park include the Chapultepec Zoo, Botanical Gardens and several interesting museums such as the Modern Art Museum, Tamayo Museum and National Museum of Anthropology. The greatest museum in Mexico—and arguably one of the finest archaeology museums on the planet—the National Museum of Anthropology is so vast that it’s often difficult to tour all of the exhibits during a single visit. Plan accordingly. Another of the top tourist attractions is a cultural performance known as the rite of the voladores (flyers). This ancient ritual, believed to have originated in the state of Veracruz, is performed daily just outside the main entrance to the National Museum of Anthropology. It involves four men wearing traditional costumes and playing instruments while "flying" from the top of a tall pole to which they are attached by ropes. A fifth man remains at the top of the pole playing a flute and drum. After visiting Chapultepec Park, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Paseo de la Reforma. Several interesting Mexico City sights and attractions are located along this main boulevard including the Monumento a la Independencia, La Diana Cazadora and El Caballito, as well as numerous high-rise buildings, luxury hotels, shopping centers and the U.S. Embassy. A wide pedestrian promenade extends along the middle of the boulevard, making it easy to explore this area of the city on foot. On Sunday mornings the Paseo de la Reforma is closed to traffic to accommodate the city’s cyclists. Book here to visit this great city Located in the central region of the country, Mexico City is the capital and the largest metropolitan and most important area in the country. Loaded with a mix of tradition and modernity, it attracts tourists from all over the world because of the beauty of its buildings, as well as its museums, parks, restaurants and stores giving life to its magical neighborhoods. The great variety and number of activities offered is virtually endless. Mexico City offers an inexhaustible and deep wealth to satisfy all tastes. ...More San Angel and Chimalistac Get off the beaten path and discover unique museums, posh estates, a vibrant Saturday market and a tranquil little gem. Mexico City's Secretary of Tourism recently named the San Angel neighborhood a Magic Neighborhood. San Angel was once a retreat for wealthy city residents. Cobblestone streets, plazas, gardens and elegant estates are reminiscent of the neighborhood's rich colonial past. San Angel is home to monuments, historic residences, a former Dominican monastery, a cultural center housed in what was once a municipal palace and several interesting museums. ...More UNAM, Not Your Average College University City's main campus in Mexico City has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mexico City's National Autonomous University, the largest public University in Mexico, is a source of national pride. The University's main campus, or Ciudad Universitaria (University City), located southwest of the historic downtown in the Coyoacan borough, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. The University City campus is one of Mexico's great architectural and cultural achievements of the 20th century and its importance is recognized throughout Latin America. Impressive modern architecture and artistic masterpieces by some of Mexico's top muralists, including Diego Rivera, Juan O'Gorman and David Alfaro Siqueiros are excellent reasons to visit. ...More Mexico City's Museo de Arte Popular Learn about Mexico's rich traditions, history and culture through the wonderful world of folk art. Handicrafts and folk art, also known as popular art, play an important role in the history and culture of Mexico and are often representative of the country's various regions and indigenous groups. The Museo de Arte Popular (Museum of Popular Art) is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Mexican popular art. The Museum of Popular Art is housed in a splendid Art Deco building in the heart of Mexico City's Centro Historico (Historic Downtown) close to the Bellas Artes Palace. ...More Go Bohemian in Roma and Condesa Join the artsy cafe culture of these two vibrant neighborhoods southwest of the historic downtown. The artsy, bohemian neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa make up a mostly residential area of Mexico City located southwest of the Centro Historico. They are separated from one another by Av. Insurgentes; Condesa is located to the west of the avenue and Roma to the east. Roma and Condesa offer a pleasant change of pace from Mexico City's busy downtown. Spend the day wandering around the neighborhoods, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and admiring the beautifully restored Art Deco architecture. ...More Mexico's National Museum of Anthropology The National Museum of Anthropology reveals life in Mexico from Mayan times to the Spanish conquest. Mexico City, a teeming metropolis of intensity and innovation, has at its heart one of the most important museums in Mexico, Museo Nacional de Antropologia (The National Museum of Anthropology). The Museum contains one of the world's largest collections of archaeological and anthropological artifacts from pre-Hispanic Mayan civilizations to the Spanish conquest. Located within Chapultepec Park, the Museum is one of the most comprehensive and impressive facilities in the world. ...More Bellas Artes Palace Epic murals by Diego Rivera and a Tiffany stained-glass curtain are but two reasons to visit this architectural marvel. You won't want to miss Mexico City's imposing Palacio de Bellas Artes (Bellas Artes Palace), located about seven blocks the west of the Zocalo, next to the Alameda Central Park. Immediately you will see why this grandiose domed Palace is among the most important of the city's myriad sites and attractions. Commissioned by President Porfirio Diaz to replace the previous National Theater that was demolished in 1901, Italian architect Adamo Boari began the project in 1904. ...More Three Days in Mexico City A kaleidoscope of eras and mementos, of new experiences and splendors from past centuries: that is Mexico City. Here you can jump from one era to the next by just walking across the street. From the mysterious remains of the Pre-Hispanic towns found right in the city’s heart, such as the Templo Mayor, you can go to the colonial era with its endless temples, beautiful houses, and patios with arches and water fountains. At sunset, the best option is to get pampered at a restaurant on the Condesa district, a neighborhood with a captivating Art Noveau style; or at Coyoacan, a colonial neighborhood. ...More Coyoacan and Casa Azul Visit artist Frida Kahlo's former home and neighborhood with its iconic Coyote Fountain. Coyoacan was among the first of the Mexico City's neighborhoods to receive the Secretary of Tourism's Barrios Magicos (Magic Neighborhoods) designation. Coyoacan's tree-lined cobblestone streets, colonial-era estates hidden behind high walls and several interesting churches, museums and artisans' markets make it one of the most pleasant places to visit in the capital. Mid-morning is an excellent time to tour one of the neighborhood's top attractions, La Casa Azul (The Blue House), the former home of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. ...More Templo Mayor, Mexico's Great Aztec Empire Archaeologists are still unearthing artifacts from the Pre-Hispanic civilization at Templo Mayor in Mexico City's Zocalo. Under the hustle and bustle of modern Mexico City lie the ruins of the Pre-Hispanic Aztec capital, once known as Tenochtitlan. At the center of this ancient empire was the Templo Mayor, the most important religious area for the Aztecs. Archaeologists discovered it under the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, located in the Zocalo, in the mid-1900s and excavated in the 1970s. When the Spanish Conquerors arrived, they destroyed the temples and built over the Aztec empire. ...More A Cultural Tour of Mexico City Thanks to the great number of museums, monuments, traditional neighborhoods, historical buildings and cultural centers, the Mexican capital is the city where there is no space for boredom. For those who like history and plastic arts, you just need to walk along the Historic Downtown and discover, practically at every corner, a museum with interesting exhibitions. Music lovers will not want to miss the shows at the Bellas Artes Museum. Chapultepec Park, with the National History Museum at the Chapultepec Castle, and the National Anthropology Museum, require a full day of your vacation agenda. ...More Teotihuacan, Place of the Gods The ruins of Teotihuacan archaeological site are among the most remarkable in Mexico. The Aztecs believed that the gods created the universe in this ancient city that once flourished as the epicenter of culture and commerce during Mesoamerica's Classic period. Located about 30 miles north of Mexico City, it makes an ideal day trip for history and anthropology buffs. The site was inhabited from around 200 B.C. until its collapse almost one thousand years later. Teotihuacan is thought to have had a population of about 200 thousand inhabitants at its peak. ...More ATV Routes on Ajusco Mexico City is full of surprises and the Cumbres del Ajusco National Park is just one example. At a height of 3,900 meters, this volcano is as well-known in the capital as the Popocatepetl or Ixtaccihuatl volcanos. Its thick vegetation gives it a unique beauty, as well as interesting trails to travel, particularly at the wheel of all-terrain vehicles (ATV). The ATV routes on the Ajusco mountain will provide you with an action-packed experience surrounded by nature. Furthermore, when you go there and have fun, you’re also helping to regenerate one of the “lungs” of Mexico City. ...More Casa Estudio Luis Barragan Visit the residence and workplace of Mexican architect Luis Barragan and admire one of the 20th Century's most precious buildings. In the Tacubaya neighbourhood, at number 12 of Calle General Francisco Ramirez, stands an austere concrete façade that would pass unnoticed if not for its grand stature. It is difficult to imagine that therein lies a 20th Century architectural delight, which has been deserving of a number of national and international prizes and which is visited by thousands of people every year. ...More Listen to Mexico in the National Music Library Do you want to immerse yourself in Mexican culture? In the National Music Library, housed in a beautiful historic building, you will get to know the very rich heritage of the country's music. Let us imagine a portrait of Mexico: its landscapes, towns, colonial cities, artistic creations, typical sweets, its choice of food… now, to complete the picture, let us add folk songs which have portrayed daily life, official speeches, popular slogans, radio soap operas, interviews and literary works, all of them in the voices of their authors. No doubt these and many other sounds are an essential part of the cultural wealth of the country. ...More Mexico City, World Heritage City One of the oldest cities in America, Mexico City received the recognition of Heritage City in 1987 due to its Historic Center and the Xochimilco National Park. The Historic Center, called the heart of the city, was recognized for its historical and cultural value, being a peerless example of an urban settlement, and because it confirms the merger of two cultures in its buildings, houses, streets and cathedral. Meanwhile, Xochimilco holds the title of World Heritage Site due to its chinampas, which show the exceptional work performed by its ancient inhabitants to build their habitat on a less than favorable territory. ...More Chapultepec Park: discover it at night! Mexico City Chapultepec Park, located on the western side of Mexico City, receives thousands of people daily. During the course of the day, this great lung of the city is teeming with life: street vendors with their carts offering fried food, drinks, hot dogs, candy, toys and balloons; children playing, couples strolling, some people sit on benches, reading, and some others relax under the shade of the trees. But the park has another facet known only to a few. At night, when the crowds are gone, the only thing you hear is the sound of crickets and the wind whistling through the trees. ...More Gastronomic Tours: try “a little bit of everything” Mexico City Few places in the world offer such contrasting and diverse dining options as Mexico City. Here, in every corner, as well as in its finest restaurants, converge fresh flavors from the sea, juicy northern style steaks, and exotic spices from the south. Here, coexist 50 regional cuisines from all over the country, with their own ingredients and procedures. In this city you can crave something every hour. Some food experts have engaged in the task of creating tours during which you can find the best and most representative culinary delights in this city. ...More Mexico City, a conglomerate of flavors Mexico City The cuisine in the Mexican capital is as vast as it is rich in flavors. There are so many currents converging at this place, it is impossible to take them all in, in just a few days: there are luxurious places for those trying to get up to date on the latest food trends, traditional places to try typical food, markets and tianguis (open air markets) where you will be able to taste pre-Hispanic Mexico. In all of these places you will find tasty alternative for eating during Lent. One thing is certain: there is no reason not to delight the palate. ...More What to smell in Mexico City Mexico City Xochimilco, besides being famous for its canals and trajinera boats, has one of the most traditional nurseries in the city. The name of this area in Mexico City is a toponym of Nahuatl origin which can be translated as “Place for the sowing of flowers” or “Field of flowers”. Visit the Madreselva (Honeysuckle) Market, one of the most traditional markets, which is located in Lomas de Tonalco, calzada Xochimilco, Tulyehualco, where you will be able to find all kinds of flowers, plants, shrubs and some other hard to obtain plants such as birch trees. ...More Xochimilco Market: finger licking good Mexico City To the south of Mexico City, in the heart of the Xochimilco neighborhood, sits one of the most traditional markets of Mexico City. To tour it from start to finish is an activity the locals carry out every day, but an unusual experience for visitors. Venture into it and become seduced by its colorful fruits, it food stands, its immense variety of plants and flowers, its toys and everything being sold in its corridors. To walk along the long main corridor of Xochimilco market is a rich cultural experience, and, undoubtedly the best way to get close to the local gastronomic tradition. ...More What to touch in Mexico City Do you have children at home who are eager to touch, climb, run and jump, but to whom you wish to offer an enriching experience? Take them to a museum were they are not forbidden to touch everything being displayed and where they can allow their imagination to run free. Take them to the Papalote Children’s Museum located at Constituyentes 268, in the second section of Chapultepec, where playing, touching and learning are essential requirements. Allow your children to coexist with dozens of other children eagerly looking forward to having fun and learn through the interactive exhibits. ...More What to Listen to in Mexico City If you want to learn about our country using your ears, you must visit the Fonoteca Nacional (National Archive of Recorded Sound). Here, the sound memory of the Mexican culture is stored, and you will be able to listen to testimonies of its beliefs, speech patterns and rhythms that shape the national identity. Visit the audio library, where you will have Access to thousands of audio files, including music, political speeches, interviews and much more. Immerse yourself in its reading room, where you will find hundreds of audio-book titles, newspapers and specialized magazines. ...More What to See in Mexico City If you are staying to the south of the city, near Coyoacan, you must visit the recently remodeled Cineteca Nacional (National Film Archive), located at the Mexico-Coyoacan Avenue number 359, where, in addition to being one of the best offerings in art films at affordable prices, it now has a new Gabriel Figueroa outdoor forum, where spectators can enjoy free films and other exhibitions. The remodeling of the cineteca included the creation of green areas, renovated movie theaters, new technology, a film museum, video-library and a restoration laboratory. ...More What to taste in Mexico City Mexico City A delicious tradition which coincides with Holy Week is the Sherbet Fair in Santiago Tulyehualco, in Xochimilco. This year it will be held from March 23rd to April 1st, and you will be able to enjoy its delicious sherbets, homemade, with 100 percent natural ingredients. The fair has its roots in pre-Hispanic times, when the first Xochimilcas only offered this delicacy to high priests. In ancient Tlatelolco customers could find sherbet, which at that time was a luxury item for which a high price of up to 20 cocoa seeds had to be paid. ...More San Juan Market: only for demanding palates Mexico City Located right in the downtown historic center, the San Juan market, officially called Ernesto Pugibet, is over 150 years old. It began as a modest “tainguis”, with merchandise spread on the ground, and is now one of the most popular markets in the city. It is visited by those who are looking for gourmet products, exotic ingredients or imported food. In short: what is unique about this market is that here you can find delicacies that are not sold anywhere else. Among the most popular stalls is La Jersey, where you will be warmly greeted by Perla and Celso. ...More The Sports Palace Mexico City Although its name makes it a sports venue, explorers such as you will be able to find out that not only sports events are held in the Sports Palace, but rather, it is an arena in Mexico City where concerts, fairs and exhibits are held. It received its name because it was built for the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico by architects Felix Candela, Antonio Peyri and Enrique Castañeda Tamborell for the basketball tournaments. ...More The wrestling cathedral Walking among a sea of stalls dotted with very Mexican colors has never been so much fun until you dare to discover the wrestling spectacle in Mexico City, in the iconic Arena Mexico, located in the heart of the city. Discover the folklore in the ring as you watch Mexican wrestling, and remember the legends of popular wrestlers such as the saint, blue demon and thousand masks, mythical characters of folk culture ...More The Racetrack of the Americas Adrenaline runs at full gallop very close to the Periferico Manuel Avila Camacho, one of Mexico City’s most important avenues, because, on Industria Militar Avenue without number, the Racetrack of the Americas is located. This is a unique venue built in 1943, which, after a period of inactivity, reopened in 1999. Over 1,800 thoroughbred horses and mares live in the stables, where experts are particularly concerned with their food and training for a good performance. ...More Spas in Mexico City Mexico City Mexico City, one of the largest in the world, has some of the best and most exclusive spas in the country. In the center of the city, on Reforma Avenue and its surroundings, there are some of the most important hotel chains such as the W Hotel, Mexico City Hilton, Four Seasons, JW Marriot, Habita, Marquis Reforma, among others, whose spa services are among the most unique experiences you will ever enjoy. Imagine areas of up to 4,921 square feet with the most breathtaking views of the city, but completely themed to help you become disconnected from everyday life. ...More The Azteca colossus Mexico City Architect Pedro Ramirez Vazquez, who was in charge of building the Azteca Stadium, could never have imagined the passion of the football soccer fans it hosts today. To plan and execute its complex architecture was not an easy task for the architect, since the area chosen for its construction was covered by volcanic rock left by the eruption of the Xitle volcano. In order for today’s fans to celebrate each game held there, 180 million kilograms of rock ...More Hermanos Rodriguez Motor Car Racetrack This legendary circuit, which was opened in 1959, is also known as the cathedral of motorsports in honor of the Mexicans Pedro and Ricardo Rodriguez, pioneers in this sport. Its tracks have been the venue for 16 Formula 1 Grand Prix, where race car battles were held between Senna and Prost, Mclaren and Ferrari. Built within the Magdalena Mixiuhca sports complex, it has all kinds of sports fields. ...More Tour Chapultepec by Bike For a few years now, a considerable section of Mexico City’s population has been using bicycles as an extra means of transport, which has helped in the promotion health and the environment. On your next visit to Mexico City, you’ll notice this change immediately as you find ecobici (eco-bike) stations across several of the city’s tourist areas, providing a new form of individual urban transport which allows locals and tourists alike to travel short distances in a way that is comfortable, fun and eco-friendly. ...More Glass and concrete giants Mexico City Kings of the heights and architectural icons, these skyscrapers forever changed Mexico City’s skyline. Big cities are recognized by the size of their buildings, and Mexico City is a thriving metropolis, where the country’s financial hub beats in its skyscrapers and business centers. These steel and concrete giants are also architectural gems that fill the capital city with personality in areas such as the Paseo de la Reforma, Polanco, Bosques de las Lomas, Palmas and Santa Fe, among others. ...More Papalote Museo del Niño This museum opened in 1993, as the first museum for children in Mexico. Its location could not be better, in the heart of the second section of Chapultepec Park, the largest natural park in Mexico City. And its venue, a blue tiled building, was designed by the famous architect Ricardo Legorreta. You and your family can enjoy the beautiful green areas inside and surrounding the facility. Using the slogan “I touch, I play and I learn”, the Papalote has become one of the favorite spaces for children in Mexico. It offers the best interactive learning experiences for discovering, imagining, participating and coexisting, using play opportunities as its main tool. ...More Antique Toy Museum of Mexico Mexico City This museum, located in the heart of the Doctores neighborhood in Mexico City, is an honest museum, open to all visitors. It offers a different way of approaching popular Mexican history and culture to strengthen the bonds of national identity. It exhibits from miniature toys, the size of a pinhead, to huge mechanical robots with electronic movements. The exhibited collection consists of 20,000 toys of the more than one million pieces kept in storage. The collection of the Antique Toy Museum of Mexico was started by Roberto Shimizu, a nostalgic Mexican of Japanese descent who began to hoard every toy he could get his hands on. ...More First Stop: The Zocalo Begin your exploration of Mexico City in the heart of downtown, where ancient and modern worlds intersect. The Zocalo is the ideal spot to begin your sightseeing in Mexico City. Once the main center of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, this is the beating heart of Mexico's capital. Within a few meters you will discover pre-Hispanic ruins and majestic colonial buildings. In the surrounding streets you will encounter a cross section of Mexico City's population: business executives, workers, and fashionistas, as well as vendors, buskers and Aztec dancers. Tourists and locals alike wander these streets where Mexico's past and present intersect. ...More Home Meeting Industry Tourism Board © All Rights Reserved 2012 - Terms and Conditions Viaducto Miguel Alemán 105 Col. Escandón Mexico City, C.P. 11800.

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OC Restaurant Week Eyes Seasonal Business Surge Posted on 10/14/2010 by DispatchAdmin Joanne Shriner OCEAN CITY – A highly anticipated time of year is approaching in Ocean City, as Restaurant Week returns Sunday with the goal of satisfying all sorts of appetites. According to Susan Jones, executive director of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, the concept of a Restaurant Week began in 1992 in New York City. At this time, the Democratic National Convention was in town and the city wanted to create a fixed-price menu for $19.92, to represent the year. Since then, other cities have picked up on the prix fixe menu and now they are popular around the country. Restaurant Week, which originally took place in June in the resort area, was such a success that it became apparent it should be more then once a year. “Due to the event’s success and the request from past diners, we thought we should organize the event twice a year,” said Jones. “This is actually our third fall … time flies when you’re having fun.” Having it in the fall benefits restaurants because it brings in more business as the busy season slows down around town. “The whole purpose behind the promotion is to create business for the restaurants and to stir the local economy,” Jones said. “In the summer time, we chose a week that is not so busy and that’s the same thing we’re doing now. Were trying to do it at an off-peak time to get them business.” Chef Paul Bryan of the Horizons Oceanfront Restaurant at the Clarion Resort says he thinks the fall edition of the event is more successful than its summer counterpart. “It is right after the busy season and a lot of people who are serious diners like to take their time,” Bryan said. “When they come in, they are able to experience it without it being hectic. It allows a diner to come in, sit down, and taste the food,” Bryan said. “They can check out the presentation and it also allows them to go to other restaurants in Ocean City and experience their cuisine.” According to Jones, Restaurant Week is a joint venture between the association and the restaurant members. The restaurants offer a two-course meal for $20 and a three-course meal for $30. The association does all the marketing and outreach to the restaurant diners and then the restaurants provide the association a creative menu. Pino Tomasello, owner and executive chef of Fresco’s, has participated in Restaurant Week since it was first introduced in Ocean City. “We participate to give the opportunity for new customers to try our restaurant and introduce something new,” he said. “I’ve noticed people are looking to come in for a great special. We make an effort to be worthwhile for someone to travel a distance and to get a good deal out of it.” It isn’t always about the quantity of people coming into the restaurant, but also the quality of the food presented, Tomasello pointed out. “I would never cut the quality,” he said. “I always buy what I believe is the best.” Having Restaurant Week in the fall also allows the restaurants to create a menu that is parallel with the season’s fresh ingredients. “A lot of our fall items are under fall presentation,” said Bryan. “We are using a lot of fall ingredients, such as, butternut squash, earthy vegetables, zucchini, snow peas, broccoli rabe, things of that nature.” The promotion benefits both the customer and the restaurant, according to Jones. “It is a good in regards to the diner in that it gives them an opportunity to try a restaurant that they haven’t tried before,” Jones said. “Also, for people who are a little leery to try fine dining because they think it may break the bank, it gives them a chance to try a creative menu at a affordable price. … I think this kind of price point seems to work really well and I think the diners like it because they know what there spending before they sit down.” According to Tomasello, his customers are grateful for the portion size they receive for the price. “Just because it is $30 doesn’t mean we make the portions small,” he said. “I give the same portion as if it is off the regular menu.” Tomasello added that diners say that they should do it longer. Fresco’s and Horizons have gone ahead and offered the prix fixe menu on and off throughout the winter season. “It’s off-season and people are always looking for a deal,” Tomasello said. “The feedback has been very positive,” Bryan said. “The people who are experiencing it for the first or second time have always come back. It has always been on a positive, upbeat note.” Restaurant Week begins Sunday, Oct. 17 and ends the following Sunday, Oct. 24. “I enjoy doing it every year and I am looking forward to see customers come back,” Tomasello said. Bryan said he anticipates another successful event. “We are looking forward to a successful restaurant week,” Bryan said. “It had been proven in the past that it is a good thing for us.” Jones feels that the success of restaurant week should be available to all restaurants, no matter the size or price range. “Next year we plan on tweaking a few things for the smaller restaurants,” Jones said. “Those who aren’t quite at the $20 or $30 price range. We might do a $10 or $20 price point.” Visit HYPERLINK "http://www.oceancityrestaurantweek.com" www.oceancityrestaurantweek.com to see participating restaurants.

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3375 Koapaka St. Ste. G-350 www.hawaiianair.com Compare Airline Companies Worst Flight Service Experience in 40 Years By SPQ - 02/10/2009 Depart 10:30AM Las Vegas (LAS). Arrive 2:40PM Honolulu (HNL) 02C, First Class, Boeing 767-300. Hawaiian Airlines. Flight 7. 6 Hr 10 Min. The flight to Vegas was fine and no issues. The return flight from Vegas to HNL was a disaster!! I was flying with **, both of us flying full fare 1st class, not a discount ticket, not an upgrade or a mileage ticket, on Flight 7 Vegas to HNL on 1/18. After checking in & having already passed through security, it was announced that because of mechanical problems that the flight would be delayed until 8pm, but no guarantee could be made that the flight would even be available at that time. This was not going to be acceptable for us, as we had prior business commitments which we had to keep. We returned to the ticket counter where there was a long line. There was no separate line for 1st class, everyone in the same line. We butted in line, and asked why priority was not being given to 1st class passengers. This ending up in an argument with the Hawaiian counter person and even some of the waiting passengers which did not make our day any better or help anyone else either. Finally, we were rescheduled on a US Airways flight to LAX, economy class, where we were to transfer to Hawaiian Airlines for a flight to HNL. The Hawaiian counter person told us that we could go direct to the gate at the main terminal after passing through security. We did exactly that, but at the gate, we were informed that we would have to go through security again at the gate because the boarding pass must have a security punch or you can not board. Fortunately, security came to us at the gate, however, this is now the 3rd time I am going through security (I have a hip replacement), and I still have not boarded a plane! We arrive at LAX to find that Hawaiian Airlines is located at a different terminal, so we have to exit the terminal, and proceed to the Hawaiian Airlines terminal. Hawaiian airline personnel (Vegas) did not tell us that we would have to change terminals and go through security again. The security lines are so long for economy that they are lined up outside, 3 blocks long, very slow progress. If we do nothing we are definitely going to miss our flight and be stranded. Therefore, we go to the LAX Hawaiian airlines counter, talk to one of the counter people about the possibility of an upgrade to 1st class. She states one seat in 1st class is available, but states that we gave up our right to 1st class seats when we changed our itinerary to economy. We stated that we were forced to change our itinerary because of a Hawaiian Airlines mechanical problem, and gave up nothing voluntarily. She tells us no. We ask for her boss who is standing right next to her, and her boss, tells us the same thing. We are now very frustrated to say the least, but then request that they give us passes that will allow us to go through business/1st class security, so that we might catch our flight. She refuses, and again we ask to talk to her superior, she says she is upstairs on the 2nd floor and down the hall. On top of it all, she yells at us to take our attitude somewhere else! We are totally frustrated, as it now looks like we will miss our flight and be stranded. However, with no other options, we head off for security. With no possibility to make t

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Mallard Heaven By Eric Keszler A journey to one of North America's most famous waterfowling regions reveals why eastern Arkansas is still so important for greenheads and those who would pursue them. Like most of us, I've done some interesting things in my time. But, like most of us, I've also missed out on many of life's grandest experiences-those activities seemingly reserved for the very gifted, the very fortunate, or the very wealthy. I've never pitched a shutout in Yankee Stadium. I've never taken the checkered flag at Daytona. I've never climbed Everest. And I've never faced down a charging Cape Buffalo in deepest Africa. But when it comes to waterfowling, I can proudly say that I've played in the big leagues, reached the apex of the sport, and rubbed shoulders with the best in the business . . . because I've hunted mallards in Arkansas. It's simple really. Eastern Arkansas has long been one of North America's top destinations for duck hunters because of one basic fact: It is also one of North America's top destinations for ducks. As the Mississippi and Central flyway's waterfowl head south every fall along the continent's longest river, they find themselves funneled into the famous Mississippi Delta, that legendary region of swamps, bayous, and flooded forests. Historically, this region provided a perfect blend of food, shelter, and weather-just what you look for if you're a duck in search of a winter home. Today, of course, much of that landscape has changed. Only 20 percent of the original natural wildlife habitat in the Delta remains. In spite of that, the Delta is still an extremely important area for ducks-especially mallards. Approximately one-fifth of North America's mallards spend the winter here. And of the seven states with Delta land, Arkansas is by far the most important. Arkansas has 9,000 miles of streams statewide and contributes around 8 million acres of land to the 24 million acres of the Mississippi Delta floodplain. In 1999, hunters in Arkansas killed more than 1,146,000 mallards-considerably more than any other state and nearly three times as many as Louisiana, a distant second in total number of mallards harvested. Considering all of these factors, eastern Arkansas really does seem to be a kind of mallard heaven. And if that's true, then the town of Stuttgart, Arkansas, is the pearly gates. Billing itself as the Rice and Duck Capital of the World, Stuttgart is at the epicenter of the duck hunting world. But the flurry of activity around Stuttgart seems a world apart from the down-home style of duck hunting that has become a way of life across the rest of eastern Arkansas, where every other pickup has a dog box in its bed and a DU sticker in its window, where most convenience stores and restaurants open at 3 a.m. to serve a bleary-eyed camo-clad clientele, and where hundreds of thousands of acres of public and private land are managed for waterfowl and waterfowl hunting. I found myself immersed in this unique Arkansas atmosphere in mid-December as the guest of Charles Snapp, a lifelong mallard enthusiast who learned the art and business of duck hunting from his father. Snapp guides hunters in northeastern Arkansas near the town of Walnut Ridge, where he combines a converted motel and restaurant and access to thousands of acres of prime public and private land into a complete Arkansas duck-hunting experience. According to Snapp, the key to success in this part of the country is flexibility. Depending on weather, time of year, hunting pressure, phases of the moon, and other factors, large concentrations of ducks can be found in several different kinds of habitats. Snapp's advantage is that he can choose from virtually all possible habitat types in the area-flooded rice or bean fields, sloughs and river bottoms, or some of the state's best stands of flooded hardwood timber. As Snapp's guest, you usually don't know what kind of area you'll be hunting until you drag yourself out of bed in the inky-black predawn and join dozens of hunters gathering in the main lodge to get their assignments for the day. Those assignments are based on the results of the previous evening's scouting trips around the area. Many of Snapp's guides spend their afternoons cruising the countryside to find out what the ducks are up to. "The best duck caller is the man who's where the ducks want to be," Snapp told me while getting the troops organized. "And the only way you can find out where the ducks want to be is by scouting." That particular morning we headed to the Dave Donaldson/Black River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) near Pocahontas. One of the largest public areas in the state, in wet years this WMA provides as much as 18,000 acres of waterfowl hunting in a classic Arkansas flooded timber setting. Joined by DU regional biologist Scott Manley, who is working with landowners and others to provide waterfowl habitat across Arkansas, we loaded up the boat and puttered off into the timber. The night was still black as coal, and the woods here were thicker than I had imagined. Narrow channels through the flooded timber provide "roads" for hunters. I sat in the bow and held a flashlight above my head to help Snapp see where we were going, and I wondered how anyone could find anything in these ghostly woods. I asked Manley why Arkansas is still so important to mallards, considering the changes that man has wrought on the landscape over the years. He gave me several general reasons. First, he said, is tradition. For longer than anyone can tell, the Mississippi Delta has been the historical wintering grounds for the mid-continent mallard population. Eastern Arkansas is attractive to those southbound birds because of its sheer size and because of its water resources. For illustration: "The Delta portion of Arkansas," he said, "is twice the size of the Delta portion of Mississippi." Add to that the number of major drainages in Arkansas, and you begin to put a lot of water on the landscape. Those drainages include the White River, St. Francis River, and Arkansas River-a major east-west drainage that even pulls birds eastward from the Central Flyway. We arrived at a huge hole in the timber and began unloading. Hundreds of decoys were already sitting motionless on the chest-deep water. Snapp explained that the Dave Donaldson/Black River WMA is one of only a few public areas in the state where hunters are allowed to leave their blocks out overnight. That's a unique regulation, but it comes with a unique caveat-you are not allowed to prohibit someone else from hunting over your decoys. That means if you show up at your spot and someone else is already there, you better just make a quick friend and plan on spending the morning hunting together. But we were the only hunters in this hole this morning. Manley and I hung our gear on either side of a huge old Nuttal oak, steeled ourselves against the icy water pressing against our waders, and turned our eyes skyward as the heavens began to lighten. As I leaned against that oak, trying to stay concealed, I started thinking about how long the tree had been there, and the millions of acres of trees just like it that had blanketed this area more than 100 years ago. Manley told me that even though many of the original forests have been cleared and much of the habitat has been converted to agriculture, eastern Arkansas still has a relatively large hardwood component, compared to the other Delta states of Missouri, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Illinois. Snapp's scouting report served us well. Because there had been a full moon the night before, the birds had been feeding in the surrounding grainfields all night. At sunrise, they would begin moving into the timber to find shelter and resting areas. And that's exactly where we were waiting. It was a clear day, and the sun was already nearing the treetops when the first flights began arriving. Just about every duck hunter in Arkansas will tell you that sunny days are the best for hunting timber. But try to find out why that is and you're likely to get a variety of responses. Some waterfowl biologists theorize that on clear days more ducks will head for the woods because they feel uncomfortable in the open fields and somehow more vulnerable to attack from airborne predators. Others say that ducks don't necessarily search out timber on sunny days, it's just that they're more likely to drop in to a decoy spread when the sun hits the water and hunters can stay out of sight on the shady side of a tree. Whatever the reason or combination of reasons, the mallards seemed intent on finding a place in the timber on this sunny morning. Groups of as many as 20 or 30 birds would circle around our hole, just above the trees, casting suspicious glances at the imposters on the water. We kicked the water to give the decoys some motion, and Snapp enticed them with feeding chuckles and greeting calls. And then, just as if there were runway lights and arrows pointing the way, two or three would drop out of every group, following the exact same path into the hole, where they would hang above the decoys, presenting almost embarrassingly easy shots. It seemed like only a few minutes, but it was probably more like an hour, as I stood gape-mouthed, watching this spectacle and trading pick-off shots with my partners for the day. And I thought: "This is like being the star in one of the best duck hunting videos ever made. It's like one of those moments when the planets are aligned in your favor, your tee shot glides long and straight down the middle of the fairway, your free-throw swishes light as a feather through the net, you place your fly gently and tantalizingly in front of a rising trout. In short, you can do no wrong." On the way back to Walnut Ridge, Manley gave me a tour of several nearby project sites where DU is helping private landowners manage their agricultural operations for waterfowl. "Probably more so in Arkansas than in any other state in the Delta, people are serious about wetland restoration and management efforts," he said as we walked along a dike built around a flooded rice field. Combine those efforts with restoration activities by Ducks Unlimited, state and federal agencies, and other groups, and you begin to see a patchwork of waterfowl habitat spread across the state, providing waterfowl with a variety of food, shelter, and other resources. Later, I spoke with Ken Reinecke, a wildlife research biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey and a recognized expert on mallards and their use of the Delta. Reinecke enlightened me on the importance of Arkansas to North America's mallards. One of the main reasons for that, he said, is people. "People in Arkansas are disproportionately active in managing habitats for waterfowl-rice fields in particular." Rice does seem to be a magic ingredient in the recipe that makes eastern Arkansas such an attractive place for mallards. Of the approximately 3.3 million acres of rice grown in the United States, 1.5 million (45 percent) are grown in eastern Arkansas. And around 250,000 of those acres are actively managed for waterfowl after harvest. Snapp pointed out that rice farming leaves a lot more spilled grain on the ground than other agricultural products-sometimes a few hundred pounds per acre. He also noted how rice farming in the state has changed over the years. Most of the rice used to be produced in southern Arkansas, around Stuttgart, he said, but today there is more rice produced in northeast Arkansas than anywhere else. Back in Walnut Ridge, we gathered around the sign in front of Snapp's lodge, hoisting our day's take to pose for a customary picture. An amazing number of people in cars and trucks on the busy road that runs in front of the lodge were honking, waving, and giving us the thumbs-up as they passed by our little photo session. "Welcome to Arkansas," said Snapp as the flashbulb popped. I might as well have been standing on the mound in Yankee Stadium, the crowd roaring in my ears. For more information or to book a hunt, contact: Charles Snapp Davy Crockett Guide Service Walnut Ridge, AR 72476 www.arkansaswaterfowl.com Arkansas' RICE Project To help provide much-needed habitat for ducks and other wetland-dependent species, farmers are cooperating with DU and private landowners through the Arkansas' RICE Project (Rice Industry Caring for the Environment) to manage rice fields in the winter. By flooding their fields after harvest, these farmers are creating valuable habitat, but they are accruing other benefits as well. "The average amount of soil lost from fields in winter that are disked in fall, then allowed to drain after storms, is approximately 1,000 pounds per acre, and only 30 pounds/acre when conservation practices are applied," says DU Regional Biologist Scott Manley. On a 2,000-acre farm, that would mean a total savings of nearly 2 million pounds of soil every winter." Manley is working with landowners across Arkansas to come up with ways to keep the soil on the farm, where it belongs. Too often, soil is consistently swept off the farm by rainstorms, slowly degrading the quality of our rivers, lakes, and eventually, our estuaries. "This is a teaspoon-by-teaspoon approach, but we have to start someplace. The more farmers enrolled in our program, the more soil that stays on the farmland and out of our waterways." In Arkansas, a mild winter climate coupled with abundant rainfall will encourage growth of winter weeds. DU works with farmers to impound winter rainfall on their fields, which helps decompose residual straw and suppress growth of winter weeds. Manley says that holding water on rice fields until the end of February can be substituted for fall disking to reduce straw, cut herbicide use for winter weeds, and save farmers as much as $22/acre in field preparation costs come spring.

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Jonn Bearcat Redmond The Iona of the East Of all the islands on the Firth of Forth, in Scotland, on which there remains ruins of the old churches,I have heard is The Bass Rock,the May Island, Fidra, Inchkeith, and Inchcolm,the latter being the most interesting, it has splendid old ruins of an old abbey which stands on a camp area where followers of Columbus settled, This is probably where historians got the name Iona of the East, we all know that St Columbus spread the gospel all over Scotland, and originally from the sacred Isle of Iona in the west, havent been there myself but have been told that the best ruins are still to be seen there, and the best religious establishments in Scotland, most of what I have written here I read years ago in a book called, The Islands of the Forth, and what people have told me over the years, not being a religious man myself am interested in old Scotland, and the architecture etc, The most precious building on Inchcolm is the Celtic cell which was lived in by an old hermit that was very much into St Columbus, The cell stands at the north west corner of the abbey garden, you may read all about it if you read into the origin of the abbey, They say that King Alexander 1st was crossing the Forth, sometime during the first half of the 12th century, he riegned according to history books from 1106--1124,,anyway he was caught in a big storm and had to land for safety at Inchcolm, he and his serfs and Lords, were cared for by the hermit, who lived in the cell on the island, and helped to feed the King and his friends on shellfish etc and drinking fresh milk from the cows on the island, King Alexander in year 1123 founded and blessed the abbey out of his gratitude for being saved, and taken care of, by the Columbian follower he even brought some religious Canons, from the Monastry at Scone, which the King had founded ten years before, so thats why the Hermets Cell was preserved by later monks, These little churches and Cells were all over Scotland, on desolate spots and on Islands, I was told by a travelling friend of mine the oldest ones are to be found on one of the Isles to the south of Oban place called the Isle of the Saints no doubt it ould have a gaelic name as most things on that side of Scotland has, there is no exact date when all this happened, its same with the Cell on Inchcolm no one knows the exact date, It only measures about 15ft long and 4ft wide, its style is like a little building in its a little window, it has a barrel roof, seems to be popular, to this type of place, The great thing is they are still there for all to see so the Cells must have always been well cared for by all monks, and Columbus followers, evn in later times farmers used them to keep their animals in them pigs and cattle, or just to keep tools and equipment in, The orginal Monastry thats there would have been added at a later date the church being the oldest part, there is a smaller church there called The Ladys Chapel, dedicated to the blessed virgin behind where the altar is,I think it deserves a visit if at anytime you decide to visit Scotland, and I would suggest a visit to the islands on the Firth of Forth, the architecture is far to complicated for me to describe as I am not skilled enough to enlighten you into an excitement that you just have to cast an eye on it, but as just a Scot who is proud of his country I just feel you should visit it, after all thats a long time ago when you think of stonework from the 11th century, There is much history and folklore to be learnt visiting the islands on the Firth of Forth, ,The Kingdom of Fife is only part of Scotland that is covered by water unless you drive west you cant leave the Kingdom without crossing our famous rivers the Forth at the southern end and the Tay at the northern end, and each bridge are one of a kind the railway bridge over the Forth is a Cantilever and was built over a hundred years ago, The Tay bridge in North Fife leads to Dundee is longest bridge in Europe, the original Tay bridge collasped during a storm in late Victorian days,all subjects worth reading about, suggest you seek more info ; Recommended reading is The Islands of the Forth by John Dickson .F.S.A. Emeralds Chased in Gold also by same author also suggest you read anything on the River Forth or Firth of Forth as we Scots call it and also The Firth of Tay ,,,and all you can find on St Columbus, and I also suggest that your visits to Scotland takes you to Inchcolm Island the Iona of the East, and also to the sacred island Iona on the west, there is a magical feeling on this Isle, and many graves of the old Scots Kings. Alba Gu Brath Return to John Redmond's page

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Tour: HF - 2013 (HF) - 2013 / 2015 Questions? 866.755.8581 DAY 1Arrive in Rome, Italy Welcome to Rome! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions and leave the hotel for a welcome dinner with pasta and wine at one of Rome’s lively restaurants. (Dinner) [STORIES] [CULTURAL] DAY 2Rome Morning guided sightseeing features visits to the VATICAN MUSEUMS and SISTINE CHAPEL, world famous for Michelangelo’s ceiling paintings and The Last Judgement, monumental ST. PETER’S SQUARE and BASILICA, and the COLOSSEUM and ROMAN FORUM, where Roman legions marched in triumph. To make the most of your stay, join our optional Roman Highlights excursion, and see the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the sites and squares of medieval Rome made famous in the movie Angels and Demons. (Breakfast) Vatican Museums"In the early 1500s, Rome was full of neglected ruins from the days of the ancient Empire, which still contained artworks buried amongst the rubble. The Renaissance had seen a sudden growth of interest in all things classical, and the popes – cultivated men who were in touch with the intellectual currents of the day – were the richest art collectors in Italy. They began offering substantial cash rewards for any sculptures, until Rome was scoured by freelance treasure hunters on the hunt for pagan masterpieces. The most dramatic discovery occurred in 1506, when a Roman father-and-son team of excavators reported a promising find near the ruined Baths of Titus. The artist Michelangelo himself excitedly hurried over to help with the work, followed by the pope’s official agent, Guiliano da Sangallo. When the excavators brushed away the dirt of 1,000 years, they found an enormous marble sculpture, perfectly intact, of a muscular Trojan hero being attacked by giant snakes. Guilano cried out in amazement, “This is the very Laocoön described by (the ancient Roman author) Pliny!” The sculpture was carted off to the Vatican Museum."Trevi Fountain"Rome is one of the most filmed cities on earth, with its signature set location being the Fontana di Trevi, or Trevi Fountain, a romantic, 85-foot-high baroque masterpiece depicting the god of the sea, Neptune, and his Tritons. Not surprisingly, the best time to visit Fontana di Trevi is late at night, when the crowds have gone, the din of Rome’s traffic has died and floodlights dance magically on the water. In fact, the whole centro storico takes on a calm, timeless aspect after dark, and it is well worth stretching your legs after dinner on your own Fellini-esque promenade." [CULTURAL] DAY 3Rome–Florence Enter Tuscany and arrive in Florence, “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Follow your Local Guide for a visit of the ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS with Michelangelo’s celebrated David. Admire the magnificent cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry’s heavy bronze “Gate of Paradise,” and visit sculpture-studded SIGNORIA SQUARE. Time to check out the enticing shops with Florentine leather goods and gold jewelry on Piazza Santa Croce before joining a Tuscan dinner with wine, traditional bruschette, and Tagliata Fiorentina at Finisterrae restaurant. (Breakfast, Dinner) La Piazza Della Signoria"What’s the best vantage point to ponder the most illustrious town square in Florence, the Signoria? An outdoor table in the venerable Caffè Rivoire – preferably over a delicious, if not painfully expensive cioccolata con pane, a dark and mud-thick hot chocolate. Late at night, when the crowds have gone, you can search the long shadows and imagine that very little has changed here since the 1400s. The Signoria is the most elegant sculpture garden in Europe. Masterpieces include the splendid Neptune Fountain by Ammannati, Hercules and Cacus by Bandinelli and a precise copy of Michelangelo’s David, all strategically poised in front of the Palazzo Vecchio. This grand public space has been the centerpiece of Florence since the 15th Century, the golden age when the city was established as the most beautiful in Europe. Eminent merchants in their ostentatious finery met here to discuss business in the midst of Florence’s raucous daily life." [CULTURAL] DAY 4Florence–Venice In Venice, enter in style by PRIVATE BOAT to ST. MARK’S SQUARE. Admire the Byzantine basilica, the Clock Tower, lavish Doges’ Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Watch skilled GLASSBLOWERS fashion their delicate objects, then there is time to explore or to join an optional gondola ride. A PASTA PARTY with wine has been prepared at a local restaurant as a proper Arrivederci on your last night in Italy. (Breakfast, Dinner) Bridge of Sighs"The world’s most poetically-named bridge, Il Ponte dei Sospiri, the Bridge of Sighs, was built in 1614 so that prisoners of the Venetian state could be transferred in secret from the Doge’s Palace to the so-called Nuovi Prigioni, or New Prisons. The wistful name was actually conceived by the English poet Lord Byron in the early 1800s that imagined the horror of prisoners taking their last glimpse of Venice before going underground to captivity. " [CULTURAL] DAY 5Venice–Lugano, Switzerland–Lucerne Enter the Swiss Alps and stop in the subtropical town of Lugano in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. Explore Piazza Riforma or stroll along spectacular Lake Lugano. Then, admire the towering majesty of the Swiss Alps and St. Gotthard on the way to picture-book Lucerne. Why not sign up for a folklore party with yodeling and alphorn blowing for a first-hand impression of Alpine merrymaking? (Breakfast) [STORIES] [CULTURAL] DAY 6Lucerne During your walking tour, admire Thorwaldsen’s emotional LION MONUMENT and the ornate patrician houses lining the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Cross the famous covered CHAPEL BRIDGE to the Jesuit Church. A special Swiss CHOCOLATE SURPRISE awaits to give you a real “taste” of Switzerland. Shop for Swiss watches or knives, and to make the most of your stay, choose from our optional activities: climb Mount Pilatus by cable car or take a cruise on the fjord-like lake. (Breakfast, Dinner) Lion Monument“The Lion of Lucerne” (Lowendenkmal) is a compelling statue in the north section of Old Town dedicated to the 42 members of the Swiss Guard who were assigned to protect Louis the XVI, Maria Antoinette and their family at the Royal Palace. When the Tuileries was stormed on August 10, 1792 by rioting Parisians at the start of the French Revolution, the king ordered the soldiers to lay down their arms. They were subsequently slaughtered by the crowd and the royal family was captured. Louis had made a big mistake. In 1821 Danish sculpture Berthel Thorwaldsen finished the sculpture, a 30-foot likeness of a wounded and dying lion with a broken lance in its heart and his paw resting atop the fleur-de-lys shield of the Bourbon king. The Latin inscription translated “To the bravery and fidelity of the Swiss.” [CULTURAL] DAY 7Lucerne–Paris, France Say Auf Wiedersehen in Basel and cross the border into France. On your way to Paris, drive past the vineyards of Burgundy with views of beautiful castles and past Fontainebleau Forest. An optional excursion is available to try out local specialties in one of Paris’ lively restaurants followed by a drive through the “City of Light.” (Breakfast) [PHOTOS] [STORIES] [CULTURAL] DAY 8Paris Discover the world capital of chic and style with a Local Guide and admire its most famous sights: the Opéra, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysées, and more. For a bird’s-eye view, take the elevator to the second floor of Paris’ most famous landmark: the EIFFEL TOWER. An optional excursion to the lavish baroque Palace and Gardens of Versailles is available. Tonight, an optional evening out for dinner and a show at the Moulin Rouge may be the best way to say, “Au revoir, Paris.” (Breakfast) French FashionThere’s more than one way to conquer the world. The flabby, charismatic “Sun King,” Louis XIV, knew that he could impress the French people with his insanely lavish royal lifestyle, but he also wanted to make his mark on Europe. Throughout his 55 year rule in the 17th Century, he campaigned vigorously to establish Paris as the continent’s capital of style, promoting its gourmet food and wine, haute couture, cutting-edge perfumes, opulent furnishings and exquisite jewelry. Every new innovation required Louis’ personal imprimatur, making him the world’s first fashion dictator. Author Joan DeJean claimed in “The Essence of Style” that Louis’ devotion to elegance has shaped the culture of indulgence today – “Without the Sun King’s program for defining France as the land of luxury in glamour, there would never have been a Stork Club, a Bergdorf Goodman, a Chez Panisse or a Christophe of Beverly Hills.”Eiffel TowerImagining Paris without the Eiffel Tower is like London without Big Ben or San Francisco without the Golden Gate Bridge. But no sooner had the architect Gustav Eiffel beaten his 700 competitors in the design competition for the 1889 Centennial Exposition, celebrating a century since the French Revolution, than a vocal outcry began to halt construction of the edifice. Three hundred famous French artists and writers signed a petition in the newspaper “Le Temps” denouncing Eiffel’s radically modern design as “useless and monstrous,” a blight upon the elegant fabric of the City of Light. Others critics were even more vicious, describing the proposed tower as a “tragic street lamp,” a gymnasium apparatus…incomplete, confused and deformed,” “a giant ungainly skeleton,” “a half-built factory pipe,” “a carcass” and even “a hole-riddled suppository.” Nature-lovers argued that it would disturb the flight patterns of Parisian birds. Even as the iron lattice began to rise, Parisians continued to refer to it by the less-than-flattering nickname, “the metal asparagus.” Of course, no sooner had the tower opened in 1889 than the rabid criticism evaporated. [CULTURAL] DAY 9Paris–London, England Board the high-speed EUROSTAR TRAIN for a smooth ride to London, arriving in the afternoon. Meet your local host, who will assist you during your stay in London. Why not take in a West End show tonight? (Breakfast) [STORIES] [CULTURAL] DAY 10London Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide includes all the famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben beside the River Thames, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and more. Highlights are a visit to ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL and the ceremonial pageantry of the Changing of the Guard, if held. Afternoon at leisure. Optional excursions are available to the Tower of London or to Windsor Castle, and later, maybe enjoy dinner, followed by a cruise on the River Thames. (Breakfast) Changing of the Guard"Changing the Guard dates to Henry VII (reigned 1485-1509) and was designed to show military discipline as well as ceremony. The tall bearskin hats were introduced in the 18th century to make the soldiers look taller and thus more frightening, and they were adopted for ceremonial use in 1832. The ceremony we know today started in the late 1800s and involves real soldiers who fulfill all military duties, guarding the Queen being just part of their service."Tower of London"Since its founding in the 11th century, the Tower of London has served many roles: impregnable fortress, royal residence, armory, treasury, home of the famed Crown Jewels, and a prison for those who offended the monarchy. To this day it is guarded by the “Beefeaters,” a name that likely originates from when Tower guards were paid part of their salary with chunks of beef, a practice that continued until the 1800s."Houses of Parliament"Big Ben may be the most famous feature of the Houses of Parliament, but equally impressive is the hammerbeam ceiling of Westminster Hall. The Hall dates back to 1097 and, at that time, the roof was supported by pillars. During the reign of King Richard II (14th century), however, it was replaced by the hammerbeam roof seen today. This roof – its beauty and sustainability – is even more impressive when you know its history. It was built with beams made from trees that were ancient at the time, reputedly acorns, dating back to the 6th century (or earlier). If only these walls (beams, rather) could talk!"Buckingham Palace"Amid the splendor of modern cities it’s hard to imagine what places looked like before they became what we know today. In a previous incarnation, the ground where Buckingham Palace now stands was a mulberry garden cultivated by King James I as food for silkworms. The silk industry he hoped to nurture never materialized, and eventually a roadhouse was built there, followed in due course by the Blake House, Goring House and Arlington House.Originally known as the Buckingham House, built as a townhouse by the Duke of Buckingham in 1709, the estate was acquired by King George III in 1762." [CULTURAL] DAY 11London Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast) [PHOTOS] [STORIES] [CULTURAL] DATES & PRICES|OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

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Tickets for events at Adelphi Theatre Adelphi, The Strand, London, WC2E 7NN Venue Info Adelphi Theatre Adelphi, The Strand, London, WC2E 7NN General Information Transport Accessibility Venue Information The Adelphi Theatre on The Strand, London is the fourth building on the site, having originally been founded in 1806 as the Sans Pareil by merchant John Scott and his daughter Jane. Together they gathered a theatrical company that was the host of many plays, musicals and pantomimes. In 1819, the theatre reopened under its present name, where many of Charles Dickens' stories were adapted for the stage including Nicholas Nickleby. The old theatre was demolished and reopened in 1858 and again, a third theatre was opened in 1901 where it was the host of productions such as The Earl and the Girl in 1904. The Adelphi's present site opened in 1930 on The Strand, close to many of London's top hotels, and was redesigned in an Art Deco style by Ernest Schaufelberg. The theatre continued to host plays and musicals, and in 1993 Andrew Lloyd Webber's Really Useful Group purchased the Adelphi and refurbished it. The Adelphi was the original hosting of the American musical, Chicago, having played there from 1997 until 2006, when it transferred to the Cambridge theatre. After the successful run of Sweeney Todd starring Michael Ball and Imelda Staunton, the Adelphi Theatre hosts the world premiere of The Bodyguard musical starring Heather Headley and Lloyd Owen. The most convenient Tube stop to reach the Adelphi by is Covent Garden on the Piccadilly line, which is just 400m from the theatre's entrance. However, as this station can get very crowded at evenings and weekends you can opt to walk to the theatre from Embankment instead, which is serviced by the Northern, Circle, Bakerloo and District lines. By Train The nearest mainline train station is Charing Cross, which is fortunately also located nearby to the theatre and is also reachable on the Bakerloo and Northern lines. If you are being dropped off at the theatre by taxi the main entrance is off the Strand. Taxis can be pricey and if you are only travelling a short distance and are capable of doing so by train or bus, public transport may be a better option. By Bus As with most busy areas of London, there are a great many bus routes from all other parts of the city that will take you to Covent Garden and the Strand - you simply need to check the front board of the bus for destination information. Masterpark at Whitcomb Street. Meters on Charles II Street and in St James's Square. Single yellow lines in the Haymarket. www.parkingforbluebadges.com (Comprehensive parking and interactive bus information for Blue Badge disabled drivers travelling around London) There are also single yellow lines and parking meters on Maiden Lane which is just behind the theatre, although there is no guarantee that these will be available given the Adelphi's central location. FOYER - no steps STALLS - no steps DRESS CIRCLE - 41 steps up (steps lead to the back of the Dress Circle only) UPPER CIRCLE - 79 steps up (steps lead to the back of the Upper Circle only) Step-free information Step free access is available into the Stalls via the main entrance on The Strand and open 30 minutes before the performance. There is a slight slope from the back of the Stalls to the front. There are 2 wheelchair spaces in row X24 and X25 of the Stalls with one companion seat alongside each wheelchair user. Additional companion seats directly in the row in front. Wheelchair transfers are available to any end of row seat in the Stalls. Access into the auditorium is via the main entrance on The Strand Toilet Facilities There is an accessible toilet in the Stalls for wheelchair users by the level access entrance. Hearing Systems The theatre uses the Williams infra-red headset system and 7 headsets are available from the front of house staff in main foyer. These headsets are for people who are hard of hearing, please note there is no induction loop system in the auditorium for hearing aid users. There is an induction loop at the Box Office to assist hearing aid users when booking tickets. For further information regarding hearing systems, please call the theatre stage door on 0207 836 1166. Guide Dogs The theatre management are happy to look after your Guide/Hearing dog during the performance. Please approach a member of the front of house team when you arrive at the theatre and they will make the necessary arrangements. Access Bookings Autistic Spectrum Info The theatre would be grateful for any additional information regarding your needs prior to going to the theatre, especially anything regarding sensory issues or matters relating to Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Please feel welcome to call the theatre management on 0207 836 1166 so they can offer you more assistance throughout your visit. General Access Info TBC - The Bodyguard Please note the prices mentioned above are per ticket and only available for the disabled person and companion. Additional tickets are charged at the regular rate. May 2016 January 2016

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Travel diary spanning March 1911 to December 1911, written by Miss Olive Oliver during her round-the-world tour of the United States of America, Britain and Europe.Olive was a wealthy woman born in Armadale, Melbourne in 1879. She also died there in 1961. She did not marry or have any children.Olive was 32 years old when she took this tour and she travelled with her father, William Oliver, her brother, William Donald ('Don'), and her friend, Gretta Nicolls. The travel diary is a small, leather-bound paper diary and includes some extra entries on notepaper from the RMS Lusitania that are pinned in. The diary entries are mostly written in pen and are typically half a page to a page long. Olive wrote almost every day from 9 March 1911 to 31 December 1911, discussing her daily activities such as visiting tourist sites, 'doing the shops', having afternoon teas, and going to galleries and theatre productions. The tour lasted about a year, so it seems there would have been a subsequent diary covering the last months of the trip in Europe and her return home during 1912, but unfortunately it has not survived. This diary is part of a collection that also includes about eighty travel brochures, maps, railway timetables, postcards and guidebooks that were collected by Miss Olive Oliver during her round-the-world tour. Olive's round-the-world tour began with her sailing to Canada and then touring through the USA to Seattle, San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, Del Monte, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Grand Canyon, Chicago, Niagara Falls, Boston, New York and Washington. From the USA, Olive sailed to Britain where for the majority of her stay she lived in London but also went on motoring tours through Wales and Scotland. Olive then travelled to many of Europe's major cities including Paris, Brussels, Antwerp, Amsterdam, Berlin, Dresden, Vienna and Engelberg. During the tour Olive and her companions travelled by train, motor car and ship, including the Royal Mail Line S.S. Makura, the Cunard Line RMS Lusitania (later famously torpedoed and sunk by a German U-boat on in 1915 during World War One), and the Orient Line S.S. Osterley.During this era the world was opening up to the independent or 'New Woman', with many women being granted new economic and legal rights. There were unheralded opportunities for travel and recreation, as well as work, particularly for middle- and upper-class women. Many of the travel brochures, guidebooks and postcards that Olive collected were clearly aiming at attracting women tourists and feature prominent illustrations of women at play. Small A5 paper diary with handwritten entries from 9 March 1911 to December 1911. The entries are typically around half a page to a page long. Olive Oliver Collection - The sea chest, diaries, travel brochures, guidebooks, maps, postcards and other ephemera in this small collection document Miss Olive Oliver's international travel experience as a wealthy, unmarried Australian woman in the early 20th century, and taps into issues of gender and national identity.During the first few decades of the 20th century, the world was opening up to the independent or 'New Woman', with many women being granted new economic and legal rights. There were unheralded opportunities for travel and recreation, as well as work, particularly for middle- and upper- class women. In light of this, the collection in general highlights the types of recreational activities popular at the time for wealthy women tourists, such as shopping, socialising, dining and sightseeing. In particular, Olive Oliver's diary also provides fascinating insights into her own particular holiday choices and experiences, and her selection of ephemera souvenirs evocatively highlights her itinerary. The changing role of women in society is evident in the key role that women play in the graphic design of the travel ephemera and postcards in this collection, as well as in the content of some of it. For instance, Miss Oliver was tapping into contemporary popular culture relating to women's emancipation as she travelled around the world. This is particularly evident in some of the postcards that she collected featuring women at work at a major insurance company in New York.More than just an insight into women's travel and a record of one particular person's holiday, however, the collection is also a signifier of place and national identity in early 20th century Australia. Being located a long way from much of the rest of the world, Australians have long had an interest in travel outside their own national and state borders, and this collection is a reminder of this interest. The collection highlights the importance of travel in the lives of Australians who had immigrated from places such as Britain and Europe. Although Australia's own local tourism industry was expanding in the early 20th century, there was still a strong lure to return 'home' to the 'old world'. There was also a strongly held attraction for the 'grand tour' to Britain and Europe, and trips to new world countries such as America, to expand the cultural education of Australians. The emphasis on travel to countries from which new Australian settlers were traditionally drawn highlights the cultural outlook and identity that Australians engaged with at this time, which was typically British and Eurocentric. This outlook and world-view has persisted from the days of settlement through to recent decades, when it shifted somewhat as interest in travel to our Asian neighbours developed and the origins of immigrants became broader.Finally, the survival of this collection for almost a century until its acquisition by the Museum highlights the importance that this international tour had in Miss Oliver's life, and the collection will be a remarkable resource for better understanding early 20th century travel. Olive Oliver Collection Collecting Areas Leisure Acquisition Information Donation from Lois Comeadow, Dec 2009 Miss Olive Oliver, 9 Mar 1911 - Dec 1911The diary was used in Australia, Canada, United States of America, United Kingdom and Europe. Inscription - front, embossed, gold: ''Collins' / Royal Diary. / 1911.' Recreation & tourism, Travel, Diaries Category 2D format 128 mm (Width), 18 mm (Depth), 203 mm (Height) State Library of Victoria, [Link 1]*&CNT=15, accessed 16/07/09 Southern Pacific Historical and Technical Society, [Link 2] accessed 16/07/09 Australian National Maritime Museum, [Link 3] accessed 16/07/09 Family News and Research Data, Oliver Society, Issue No. 21, 2005, p.14 Emails from the donor. [Link 4] Holidays, Journal Writing, Leisure, Rail Transport, Recreation, Shipping Lines, Ships, Trains, Travel & Tourism Share CollectionIn 1911 Miss Olive Oliver, a wealthy 32 year old woman from Melbourne, embarked on a round-the-world tour of the United States of America, Britain and Europe. The extensive journey took her to many grand cities and ...

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The Cook Islands and the Pacific Island Nations: Will the Last Person Leaving Please Turn Off the Lights? Andre Vltchek The Cook Islands and the Pacific Island Nations: Will the Last Person Leaving Please Turn Off the Lights? Andre Vltchek From Rarotonga, the Cook Islands. The sea is blue, beaches with golden sand boast palm trees bending almost to the water surface. Beneath barely detectable waves, marine life is fascinating and diverse. On hotel terraces, coconut juices cool the refined throats of jet setters. Traditional huts rub shoulders with some of the most expensive resorts in the world. 500 US dollars would hardly sustain a couple for more than a day here in one of the most expensive parts of the world. Together with neighboring French Polynesia, this has become one of the most expensive parts of the world. Rarotonga Welcome to Rarotonga – the main island of “Cooks”, a country spanning a huge expanse of the Western Pacific, but with a combined land mass of just 236.7 sq kms. “Raro” may be the main island of the country, but its coastal road runs only a bit over 31km. Muri Beach, Rarotonga The Cook Islands, a former New Zealand colony, is a subdued English-speaking answer to its Francophone neighbor, one of the most lavishly posh places on earth, French Polynesia with its hedonistic icon Bora-Bora. Cook Islands map With all that beauty, one would expect an enormous influx of foreigners searching for sun and sea, and a local demographic explosion to serve them. But the opposite is true: the Cook Islands are losing people at an alarming rate. And despite the arrival of desperate migrant workers from Fiji, the Philippines and elsewhere (almost 300 were given permanent residency status this year), the total number of people living here is declining at alarming rates. According to estimates of the “CIA World Factbook – Cook Islands,” the population fell to 12,271 in 2008. Some older statistics that still circulation claim a total population of the Cook Islands of 18,700, of which 10,000 to 12,000 live in Rarotonga. Between 1996 and 2007, according to statistics of the Ministry of Education of the Cook Islands, student enrolment in elementary schools decreased by 20% as a result of migration. There are now 60,000 Cook Islanders living in New Zealand alone. The total population of the Cook Islands is only around 18,700, of which 10-12,000 live in Rarotonga. Auckland, a promised land for many Cook Islanders “I can definitely understand why people are leaving”, explained painter Ani Exham-Dun, who owns a small gallery Art@Air Raro and is a New Zealand-born Cook Islander. “There is nothing they can do here. The other day a girl was caught painting graffiti on the wall in the capital. As a punishment, she was told to scrub graffiti off the wall. That’s what the government did, instead of thinking about how to make life for local young people at least a bit more exciting.” Boredom is, of course, only one of the problems the Cook Islands have to struggle against. With luxury tourism becoming the main source of income, prices skyrocketed. A small bag of cassava chips at the gas station now costs almost 4 NZ dollars (3.50 US dollars) while a milkshake sells for 7 or even 10. Food, as in the rest of the Pacific islands, is mostly imported from New Zealand or Australia and exorbitantly expensive. But local minimal wages have been stagnating at 5 NZ dollars an hour. Yet little is being done to encourage local production, while the country falls ever deeper into a dependency trap. “It is evident that the Cook Islands depend on imported food,” explains Vili A. Fuavao, Sub-Regional Representative for the Pacific & FAO. “But very little food is produced there. Cook Islanders are going abroad in search of job opportunities. Meanwhile, some desperate unemployed people from Fiji and elsewhere are trying to migrate to Cooks.” “The Cook Islands are one of the best performing countries in the Pacific”, explains Elisabeth Wright-Koteka, Director of the Central Policy and Planning Office of the Prime Minister. “Our people want the same standards as New Zealand. But we do not have enough resources to satisfy them. Independence was both blessing and curse. Blessing: because we have our own country and we have freedom of movement, which is guaranteed by the fact that all of us are in possession of New Zealand passports. Without it, we would be just another Tarawa (in Kiribati) – overpopulated, stuffed and desperate. Curse: because now we don’t have enough people and we have to import workers from the Philippines and Fiji and even that is not enough to fill the gap.”Fijian internal migrants in Lautoka port The Cook Islands are not the only country that is losing its most enterprising sons and daughters to richer nations in the area and beyond. “In the past 40 years the Polynesian island of Niue has experienced a population decline greater than that of any other independent state in the world,” John Conell observed in The Journal of Ethic and Migration Studies in August 2008 of Niue – the country with the smallest population on earth. “More than three-quarters of all Niue-born live overseas, mainly in New Zealand. The balance continues to shift overseas, mainly because of the presence of kin, education and employment opportunities there.” There are more Samoans and Tongans living abroad than at home. These two countries are sending young people to New Zealand, Australia and elsewhere, in order to support families at home. More than half of the GDP of Tonga is provided by remittances and foreign aid, and Samoa is not far behind. According to “Statistics New Zealand”, in 2006, Samoans were the largest Pacific ethnic group in New Zealand, making up 131,100 or 49 percent of New Zealand’s Pacific population (265,974).” The entire population of (independent) Samoa is around 180,000. Over 50,000 Tongans live in New Zealand and tens of thousands more in Australia and the United States. 112,000 live in Tonga itself.Even tiny Easter Island, Chilean territory, has more people on the mainland than at home. At the 2002 census, 2,269 Rapanui lived on Easter Island, while 2,378 lived in the mainland of Chile (half of them in the metropolitan area of Santiago). Needy people from some of the poorest nations in the Pacific – like PNG (Papua New Guinea) and the Solomon Islands – find it difficult to obtain visas. Only relatively well off and educated citizens can secure trips to Australia, New Zealand or the United States, leading to brain drain. Three Micronesian countries – Palau, RMI (Republic of Marshall Islands) and FSM (Federated States of Micronesia) – have “Compact” agreements with the United States: a deal that brings foreign aid to government coffers, while allowing American military bases to be built on the territory of these nations. Citizens of Palau, FSM and RMI can travel to the US and settle there. They can also send their children to study. Many educated ones never come back. Some of the families from Kwajalein Atoll (where the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site (RTS) is located) that receive rent payments from the US government never spend it in the Marshall Islands. The 2006 Asian Development Bank Study on Remittances in the Pacific states that “Migration is very significant in Pacific island states, especially in Polynesia, primarily as a response to uneven economic and social development. In many Pacific island countries, the remittances that flow from internal and international migrants to family members at home are increasing in growing importance, especially in Polynesia where they often represent the single most prominent component of national income. They reach levels rarely found elsewhere in the world.” But in the Cook Islands, claims Elisabeth Wright-Koteka, migration is not necessarily about remittances. “It is different here than in many other island nations. It is not about escape from the culture as in Samoa or Tonga. It is not necessarily about money. We have a culture of migration. We are sailors. Our whole history is about movement. We used to be a colony of New Zealand and we used to send migrant seasonal workers. Migration became part of our culture, of growing up. Young people always like to go away and experience what it is to live in big cities, in the “big smoke”. Some come back. The biggest cohort of returnees is that of people in their 40’s who managed to save money abroad and want to start a new life back in the Cook Islands”. Secretary of Education of the Cook Islands, John Herrmann would probably agree, but due to migration he is facing urgent problems: “I am struggling to find secondary school teachers”, he explained at a meeting with UNESCO representatives. “Many of our teachers have left the country and we are increasingly relying on overseas teachers, particularly on those from New Zealand.” In fact, almost the entire country is now relying on foreign workers and professionals. But education is not the only sector suffering from labor shortages - almost entire country is now relying on foreign workers and professionals. A skilled masseuse in one of the luxury resorts on Muri Beach turns out to be a university-educated economist from Suva, the capital of Fiji. While declining to be identified, she assesses the situation this way: “There are more than 600 Fijians working in the Cook Islands. About one half are employed legally, the other half being overstayers. After the last military coup in Fiji, the situation is extremely bad. Families are breaking apart because they have no means to survive on meager salaries. We are forced to leave. But unlike Cook Islanders, we have only our own (Fijian) passports and now we need visas to go almost anywhere. The Cook Islands are one of the best countries for us to work. There is almost no racism here, unlike elsewhere in Polynesia. People are very welcoming and compassionate. Wages are low for them, but excellent for us. Many Cook Islanders are leaving for Australia or New Zealand and there is always a demand for foreign workers. We are simply filling the gap.” It is obvious that the problem is becoming increasingly severe. While the Cook Islands as a whole are experiencing depopulation, there is also alarming internal migration which is devastating the outer islands and atolls of the archipelago. The outer islands are hurting more than Rarotonga. Many adults of Aitutaki and Mangaia have left, first to Rarotonga and then to New Zealand. They were simply unable to find jobs on their islands. Many have left elderly people to care for their small children – a situation almost as desperate as on the outer islands and atolls of the much poorer Polynesian country of Tuvalu. To put it bluntly, there are almost no jobs in Aitutaki and Mangaia. Some time ago the Government of New Zealand severely cut the Cook Islands civil service and reduced or terminated many subsidies that helped support the economy. Unemployment soared and wages plummeted, forcing many to seek employment in New Zealand, predominantly in the shipping industry, where they frequently suffer drug and alcohol addiction. Given the choice, the vast majority of Cook Islanders don't want to leave New Zealand. Some, however, have been returned by extradition, fighting addiction and criminal records. Paul Panchyshyn, a visitor from Winnipeg, Canada, was alarmed by what he witnessed in Mangaia, one of the outer islands. “Mangaia is an Island that has seen its population drop by half in the previous decade. There are only about 600 souls left on this unspoiled Pacific gem that was once an exporter of pineapples (reportedly the best in all the South Pacific) and coffee. Cheap exports from Asia and Central America eventually squashed these cash crops and now what few people live on the Island exist solely for the meager tourist dollars. While we were on Mangaia, there were rolling blackouts, actually blackouts of 20 hours a day because diesel was in short supply. We found out later that the one tanker used in the Cook Islands was booked to bring Survivor supplies to Aitutaki and thus Mangaians had to go without fuel and fresh supplies for weeks on end, further diminishing their tourist appeal. Mangaians are wonderful people and fiercely loyal to their Island and the land of their forefathers. Tere, our guide on a cave tour in Mangaia, said the Island had been approached numerous times by big resort pitchmen and every time Mangaians turned them away. I asked why, when the population was dwindling so drastically, they could turn down such major investment. He said it would be an insult to their ancestors, that Mangaians were connected to their land and they would never sell even an inch of their Island to foreign investors. Stubborn, yes. Stupid, no. There are probably few places in the world that have the rugged untouched beauty of Mangaia and it's so refreshing to hear them insist on keeping it that way.” It is obvious that the problem is becoming increasingly severe. The Pacific islands are losing people. Environmental refugees are pouring out of Tuvalu, which may be the first country to become uninhabitable due to rising sea level from global warming. Kiribati is facing similar problems, plus overpopulation and social malaise. And the same can be said of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) with some of the worst ecological and demographic problems anywhere in the world (mainly as a result of the US nuclear experiments and present day missile range on Kwajalein Atoll). Funafulu. Only the very old and the very young remain in Tuvalu Social destitution and racial intolerance in the larger Melanesian countries (PNG, Solomon Islands and Fiji) is sending tens of thousands of people to distant shores in search of a better living or simply for survival. And Polynesia, the eternal paradise once immortalized on the canvases of Gauguin, is not doing much better than the rest of Pacific. Riots in Tonga, child abuse and feudal oppression in Samoa, tremendous efforts (mainly international) to sustain Niue as independent country with only 1.200 inhabitants, gang culture and confusion in French Polynesia. “I left the Cook Islands and went to New Zealand”, recalls Elisabeth Wright-Koteka. “But I decided to return. I simply like to be here. I like my job, my house. I would like my kids to grow up here. To be a Cook Islander… What is it, really? Maybe a sense of belonging, something we carry inside. It is abstract. We are like a Parrotfish from the long reef – a fish that travels the world but always finds its way home. But coming back doesn’t mean that we stay in one place forever. Maybe our lot is exactly that: a movement between the wide world and the reef.” As she speaks, a light breeze begins to penetrate the tropical heat. It is suddenly easier to breath. But the water of the Pacific is slowly rising while more and more people are boarding planes with one-way tickets that will take them far away from the palm trees, transparent water and quiet nights of unspeakable Polynesian beauty. Andre Vltchek – novelist, journalist, filmmaker and playwright. Co-founder of Mainstay Press publishing house for political fiction and LibLit (http://liblit.org). His latest novel – Point of No Return – tells the story of a war correspondent covering New World Order conflicts. A Japan Focus associate, he lives in Asia and the South Pacific and can be reached at andre-wcn@usa.net. He wrote this article for Japan Focus. Posted at Japan Focus on November 17, 2008. His homepage and blog are available here. Recommended citation: Andre Vltchek, "The Cook Islands and the Pacific Island Nations: Will the Last Person Leaving Please Turn Off the Lights?" The Asia-Pacific Journal: Japan Focus Vol. 47-1-08, November 17, 2008. See other articles by Andre Vltchek on the Pacific Island nations: Fiji’s Mercenary Military, the US and the Politics of Coup D'état Samoa: One Nation, Two Failed States Paradise Lost. Logging and the Environmental and Social Destruction of the Solomon Islands From the Kwajalein Missile Range to Fiji: The Military, Money and Misery in Paradise Sinking. Tuvalu and the Pacific Islands in an Age of Global Warming We welcome your comments on this and all other articles. More are available on our homepage. Please consider subscribing to our email newsletter or RSS feed, or following us via Twitter or Facebook. Authors: For all articles by the author, click on author's name. Andre Vltchek Created by DataMomentum.

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Global Market AdvisorsPublic Policy RFP Advisory Tourism Strategy Gaming Legislation Hotel Feasibility Analysis Development & Joint Ventures Route Expansion Frequent Flyer Programs Steven M. Gallaway Andrew Klebanow Jonathan V. Galaviz Kirk Saylor Jonathan V. Galaviz Jonathan V. Galaviz Mr. Galaviz creates and manages government relations strategies for a variety of Fortune 500 companies and trade associations seeking to grow in Asia and is widely acknowledged as world-leading independent analyst on the casino gaming, hospitality, and airline industries. Jonathan frequently appears on CNBC, BBC, ChannelNewsAsia, and Bloomberg TV and holds an MBA from Oxford University (England). He serves on the boards of The CENTECH Group, a U.S. technology defense contractor, and StackStreet, a digital media networking platform. He also serves as the volunteer President of The Economic Club of Las Vegas. Jonathan began his career in 1996 working at the U.S. Senate in Washington DC in the office of U.S. Senator Pete Domenici (R-New Mexico). From 1998 to 2002 Mr. Galaviz was employed in a variety management consulting roles at Spectra Corporation, Whittman-Hart and Mandalay Resort Group (now a part of MGM Resorts International). From 2002 to 2013 Mr. Galaviz was partner and head of Galaviz & Company LLC (and Globalysis Ltd.) until GMA purchased the practice in early 2014. In 2011 Mr. Galaviz served as the Interim Head of Campus for the University of Nevada’s (UNLV) campus in Singapore to conduct a special financial turnaround – after less than a year in this role, he successfully completed the task and was widely praised in media and academic circles. In 1997, he studied finance at the National University of Singapore as a foreign exchange student. He is a member of the National Association for Business Economics (NABE). Copyright © 2015 Global Market Advisors LLC

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Best Listing Resource 10 Most Famous Lost Cities of the World A city becomes lost when it is abandoned by its inhabitants and left to decay. This can be the result of war, migration, or natural disaster, but in each case these cities can act as a sort of time capsule, leaving a civilization frozen in history and waiting to be discovered. While many of these cities have indeed been rediscovered, others have never been found and have taken on the status of legend. Whether real or mythical, here I have compiled some of the most famous lost cities that have captured the imaginations of historians, archeologists, and adventurers. Described by Plato as an advanced civilization and formidable naval power, Atlantis is said to have conquered much of Europe before sinking into the sea as the result of some kind of environmental disaster. While Plato’s story is seen by most as a work of fiction, his description of a massive civilization years ahead of its time technologically has captured the imaginations of countless writers. The City of the Caesars Also known as the Wandering City and the City of Patagonia, The City of the Caesars is a mythical city that is believed to have been located on the southernmost tip of South America. The city has never been found, and at this point it is considered more legend than anything. Troy was a once-legendary city located in modern day Turkey. Troy was long considered by many to be the stuff of myth until it was first excavated in the 1870s. It was discovered that there were actually numerous cities on the site, which over the years had been built on top of one another. The Lost City Of Z Supposedly located deep in the jungles of Brazil, the lost city of Z was said to be an advanced civilization with a sophisticated network of bridges, roads, and temples. No evidence of its existence has ever been uncovered. In recent years, a city known as Kuhikugu was discovered in the Amazon Rainforest that showed evidence of sophisticated fortifications and engineering, leading many to speculate that it may be the source of the Z legend.

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Red Rock really does rock. Hike. Helicopter. Or high-performance vehicle. It doesn't matter how you get there, just get there. Red Rock Canyon is one of the Valley's most popular destinations. And despite its exotic good looks (as seen in movies and on numerous TV commercials), Red Rock is about 30 minutes from the Strip. more...Officially known as Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, this 520-acre spread is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and protected as a National Conservation Area. It's visited by more than a million travelers each yearSeemingly more a mountain range than a canyon, the area is dominated by spectacular layered walls of colorful hard rock and sandstone. Up to 3,000 feet high, it's a popular hiking and rock-climbing destination. But its jaw-dropping beauty and fiery red highlights surely make the range one of the most photographed attractions in the Southwest.A 13-mile loop road provides vehicle access to trailheads and viewing spots. And a visitor center is located at the start of the loop road. Most Red Rock tours take you around the scenic loop, with frequent stops for photographs. You'll see red and tan sandstone, colorful carbonate rock and, if you're a bit more adventurous, Indian pictographs, too. Nearby Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, once owned by legendary billionaire and Las Vegas resident Howard Hughes, has stunning views of the marvelous Wilson Cliffs. Green and cool, this working ranch is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch. Red Rock Las Vegas tours typically provide transportation right from your hotel, making it the perfect half-day getaway. Keyword

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Homepage. This page: Bristol Freighters & SuperFreighters operated as a car ferry by Silver City airlines, plus cars. Silver City air ferry & a Morris Minor car. This is the latest old photograph to feature a car and a Silver City Bristol Freighter, or in this case Superfreighter, that I've bought recently. A Morris Minor, registration YMB 219, is shown loaded on board the Silver City car ferry, and is in the process of being strapped down. A daring chap is stood in front of the aircraft's windscreens, giving them a quick buffing up - no Health & Safety in those days! A separate photo showing the same Morris Minor, parked at a French roadside filling station, can be found here. A note on the back of this original photo says: "A window cleaner with an unusual job. This maintenance man at Lydd airport clambers over the ferry aircraft to clean the cockpit windows". A number of these aircraft were operated by Silver City, ferrying cars, by air, between England and France in the late 1940s and into the 1950s and 1960s. 2. Hillman Minx boards the Bristol. Next, another of my favourite photos (dated 9-52 on the rear), showing an early Hillman Minx driving onto a Bristol 170 series Superfreighter. The uprated Superfreighter can be identified from the earlier Freighter by its taller doors, and longer front fuselage. 3. Several 1950's cars. Leo kindly sent this photo-postcard over, featuring not only classic aircraft, but a number of interesting cars. To the left is a laden Triumph Mayflower, with luggage on its roof and a Union Flag patriotically attached to its radiator. Somewhat shinier is a French-registered 1951 Cadillac, and also a similarly-licensed, but RHD, two-tone Aston Martin DB2. In the background, a Silver City freighter awaits its next cargo. The bi-plane, registration G-AESR, is a De Havilland DH89 Dragon Rapide, in use with Trans Channel Airways. The DH89 was registered to Air Kruise (Kent) Ltd (trading as Trans Channel Airways) in March of 1953, until another change of ownership in January 1956. Later that year it was pranged while serving in Libya, and its registration cancelled in September 1956. The location of this photograph, depending on its age, could either be Lympne, or Lydd, in England, or Le Touquet in France. The Silver City aircraft in this case is a Bristol Freighter, rather than Superfreighter. (Please click the thumbnail to view full-size image.) 4. Loading a Morris Minor. Jeremy kindly sent over the next snapshot of a Silver City Bristol Freighter. In this image, his family's Morris Minor tourer is shown while being loaded into the aircraft at Lydd. The date of this photo was May 1956. His parents and grandparents undertook a round trip to Italy and back in the Minor, to visit WW1 sites that his grandfather had associations with. The Minor was registered ONF 583, dating it to 1954. Background to Silver City. After publishing this page on oldclassiccar, I stumbled across this old magazine in a box of paperwork, which features a pair of Silver City aircraft on the cover, one flying, and the other unloading its cargo of E-Series Vauxhalls. The magazine dates to 1955, and contains an article about flying these lovely old machines. Silver City were set up after WW2, operating three Avro Lancastrians, which were civilian-ised versions of the RAF's four engined bomber. These were soon joined by several Douglas DC-3 Dakotas, the operation now located at the Blackbushe airport. The Bristol 170 first joined their fleet on lease in 1947, and inspired the company's owner to set up new service, enabling the rapid air transportation of civilian vehicles, and their passengers, back and forth across the Channel. The first flight of this new service, from Lympne in Kent, took place in July 1948, and a report appeared a couple of weeks later in a contemporary motoring magazine, singing this service's praises. In 1954 the company moved to it's own new airfield, named Ferryfield, at Lydd in Kent. Cost to fly a car to the Continent was 25 pounds, with an extra 4 pounds charged for each passenger, flights taking their cargo to Le Touquet airfield in France. In the late 1950s, Silver City changed hands, ultimately ending up being taken over and the aircraft re-branded as British United Airways (BUA), still operating the car ferry service with the old Bristol Freighters. The final air ferry trip was made in 1971. Comfort in the Bristol Freighter was not it's strong point, not forgetting that it started out in life as a transport aircraft for the RAF. The Silver City fleet had clam-type opening doors, into which the car(s) were driven. The design of the loading area was altered over time, to allow greater headroom, which explains why the doors differ in some photographs of the Silver City aeroplanes. A magazine in 1948 tested out the new air service between Lympne and Le Touquet, taking an Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster along for the flight. It was necessary to pre-book one's flight, and arrive 1 hour before take-off. Customs was dealt with on arrival, and members of the Silver City staff took responsibility for loading the car into the Freighter's hold and securely chaining it down. The crossing, from England to France, was approximately 42 miles, and this took 20 minutes or so with an English-speaking company rep meeting the passengers on the other side. There were a few rules that applied to the cars being carried - they could have their fuel tanks filled up to 3/4 of their maximum capacity, and on arrival in France, petrol coupons to the equivalent of 40 gallons would be issued by the customs office. These early flights could hold two reasonably sized cars - a Bentley MkVI accompanying the Armstrong Siddeley on this particular flight. Passengers during the flight sat in their own cabin to the rear of the aircraft, rather than inside the cars. Although flying a car over to the Continent cost more than going by sea, the great time savings more than made up for the extra expense in the opinion of the journalists on that early trip By all accounts, the Silver City service is now looked back at with great fondness, opening up as it did the Continent to many people who had not previously set foot on foreign turf. On this site there are some interesting scans showing timetables issued by Silver City. Another old photo of a car-carrying aircraft, this time showing a Land Rover boarding an RAF Beverley, can be seen on this page. A great photo of a 1909 Humber disembarking from a Silver City "Biffo", may also be found on the 1959 Bleriot Memorial Race page. Return to the old transport photos - Page 5. www.oldclassiccar.co.uk (C) R. Jones. Content not to be reproduced elsewhere. Website by ableweb. Privacy Policy, Cookies & Disclaimers

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W Hotel in Westwood offers free fitness classes Lori Corbin LOS ANGELES -- A posh Westside hotel is offering fitness classes, and it won't cost you a dime this summer."It's a way to stay healthy, bring the community in and also, it's a great treat for the hotel guests as well," said Kit Rich, a fitness pro. It's a fun promotion at the W Hotel Los Angeles in Westwood that can have you poolside 9 a.m. on Saturdays during the summer for free Pilates classes. "You literally just show up. You show up, you come by the pool, make sure you're wearing workout clothes and that's all you need," Rich said. The class is a combination of Pilates, yoga and circuit training. "So it's fat blasting. You'll get the stretches that Yoga gives you, but you'll also get all those Pilates core benefits," Rich said. "What better way than to get the people from out of town coming and mixing with the locals and a wellness experience," said James Gancos, general manager of W Hotel Los Angeles - Westwood. In the winter, the same W Hotel sets up an ice skating rink on the pool, inviting the public to come skate and take classes on the ice as well, which Rich also teaches. "I've been teaching for a really long time, so just know that if you haven't worked out in a long time or if you're not quite sure what this is, just know that I'll take good care of you," Rich said. The class is low impact. It's suggested you bring a water bottle and maybe a mat in the event it gets super busy. Free exercise runs until the end of summer, and if by chance you've worked up a little bit of an appetite, they've also got a delightful discount on dining. "When you are finished with that, you get a complimentary glass of mimosa, and you also get 20 percent off if you stay for brunch," said Dakota Weiss, executive chef at the W Hotel Los Angeles - Westwood. The restaurant serves everything from waffle paninis for those indulging to summer salads and egg white omelettes if you're feeling virtuous. For more information, visit http://www.wlosangeles.com/laweekends, or call (310) 208-8765.

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In 1911 Miss Olive Oliver, a wealthy 32 year old woman from Melbourne, embarked on a round-the-world tour of the United States of America, Britain and Europe. The extensive journey took her to many grand cities and places of natural beauty. Olive travelled with her father, William Oliver, her brother, William Donald ('Don'), and her friend, Gretta Nicolls. Throughout the trip, Olive kept a travel diary and collected brochures, postcards, menus, concert programs and maps from the places she visited. Museum Victoria has acquired these items as well as Olive's large wooden sea chest, and together these make up the Olive Oliver collection. The diary is a small, leather-bound paper diary in which Olive wrote of her daily activities from 9 March 1911 to 31 December 1911. As the trip lasted about a year, it is likely that there would have been a second diary covering the months of the trip during 1912 but unfortunately it has not survived. The diary and colourful ephemera enable Olive's travels of almost a century ago to come to life. Yet more than simply recording the story of one woman's travels, the collection gives insights into early 20th century Australia and the cultural outlook and identity that Australians engaged with at this time. It demonstrates the desire among early and subsequent generations of Australian settlers to return 'home' to Britain and Europe, as well as visit other 'new world' countries, and it highlights the importance placed on gaining a cultural education outside of Australia through the 'grand tour'. The collection is also a record of an era when the world was opening up to women, especially middle and upper class women, as they were granted new economic and legal rights, and presented with unheralded opportunities for travel and recreation, as well as for work. Apart from the details of her journey, little is known of Olive except that she returned to Australia, did not marry or have children and died in Melbourne 1961. If anyone has any further information about Olive Oliver, please contact the Discovery Centre at Museum Victoria. More Information Tourism, travel, travel souvenirs, passenger ships, trains Authors Ms Meredith Moodie Article types Collection Share Moodie, M. (2010) Olive Oliver Collection in Museum Victoria Collections http://collections.museumvictoria.com.au/articles/4244 Accessed 01 December 2015 Text content on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence Ms Meredith Moodie Olive Oliver's World Tour - United States of America 1911 HT 24987 LeisureTravel diary spanning March 1911 to December 1911, written by Miss Olive Oliver during her round-the-world tour of the United States of America, Britain and Europe. Olive was a wealthy woman born in Armadale, Melbourne in ...

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Bishops Lydeard Bishops Lydeard Postcode for Sat Nav: TA4 3RU Bishops Lydeard Station is the southern terminus of the West Somerset Railway. It is four miles from the County town of Taunton and the M5 Motorway (Junction 25). Please be aware that there is a maximum height barrier so access to the car park is for vehicles under 2.1 metres. Bishops Lydeard Station has a booking office and sells the full range of West Somerset Railway tickets. Please see the Fares Pages to find out more about fares from this station. The station has toilets, with facilities for disabled passengers and baby changing rooms. There is a large free car park and coach parking is available. The Gauge Museum on Platform 1 has many items of local rail interest and shows how the railway affected the people who worked on and used the line. The Museum also contains a working model railway open normally at weekends and Galas. Platform 1 is also home to the Taunton Model Railway Group whose layout, Bath Green Park, is intricately detailed and can be viewed when it is open on Gala days. On Platform 2 you will find the station shop and the Whistle-Stop Cafe, adjacent to the Signalbox, selling a comprehensive range of model railway equipment old and new, books and other souvenirs. The Whistle-Stop Cafe sells hot and cold snack items as well as a soft drinks and sweets. The village of Bishops Lydeard is situated at the foot of the Quantock Hills and is about five minutes walking from the station. The old village is a mixture of red sandstone and brick buildings which are all very charming to look at. Further up the road into the village is Mill Lane which, if followed, takes you to the village watermill which has been spendidly restored. Bishops Lydeard Mill welcomes visitors on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays from 30th May to 30th September (plus Bank Holiday Mondays) and Saturdays in August between 11.30am - 4pm. The mill is home to a working water wheel, the wheelwright�s shop and the blacksmith�s shop. Once back on the main road further into the village is the Bird in the Hand Pub offering food and drink, garden and a children�s play area. Alongside the pub is a small craft shop. The Village Church is the very impressive St. Mary the Virgin and the earliest part dates from the 14th Century. There are some beautiful wood carvings in the church and the village charter from 1291 can be viewed. As you make your way from the station towards the village you will find the Lethbridge Arms, an old established inn, which offers food and drink including real ales in a number of rooms. The large wall in the car park is of historical interest as having been built for the playing of Fives, a Somerset game which was once very popular but which has now died out. A Fives Wall in West Somerset is unusual as the most popular area for the game was the south of the county. Near the church is a fascinating relic of the tram system in Taunton, a post that supported the electric wires, now in use as a lamp standard. The trams were closed in the 1920�s and no one is really sure how it got there. Other local attractions include Cedar Falls Health Farm and the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. History of Bishops Lydeard Station The station, opened with the original Taunton to Watchet Line in 1862 and originally had only the main building, Goods shed and the Station Masters House (opposite the Shop on Platform 2 - it is now let out as a holiday home) until the Great Western Railway added the other platform and Signalbox in 1906. The station is home to the West Somerset Railway Association, the supporting charitable body of the Railway. Please visit the West Somerset Railway Association Web Site for further information.

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The latest guides Guide categories Listed under categories: - World Heritage Sites - Ancient Rome - Wonders of the World - The Colosseum, Il Colosseo, The Flavian Amphitheatre. Constructed: - Between year 72-80 AD. Founded by: - Emperor Verpasian. Function: - Roman stadium. Active: - No. Today: - One of the most famous buildings in the world and the number one symbol for Ancient Rome. Traveler reviews: Wow! Me and my friend took a guided tour of the colosseum and it was really worth it! However, the building pretty much speaks for itself and it is easy to go on your own. - John AU One of the greatest buildings in the world. Make sure to go early in the morning if you want to dodge the worst crowds. If not, expect loong queues. - herina43 Do You want to publish a short review of this site? Send it to us at review@worldsiteguides.com and we'll do our best to publish it! Quick menu; - Appian Way - Basilica of St John Lateran - Castel Sant'Angelo - Catacombs of San Callisto - Catacombs of San Sebastiano - Church of Domine Quo Vadis - Circus of Maxentius - Colosseum - Column of Marcus Aurelius - Pantheon - Piazza del Popolo - Piazza Navona - Protestant Cemetery - Pyramid of Cestius - Roman Forum - St Peter's Basilica - Theatre of Marcellus - The Spanish Steps - Tomb of Caecilia Metella - Trevi Fountain - Vittoriano » Italy » Rome » Colosseum Go to download Colosseum, Rome Colosseum history The Colosseum was built by Emperor Verpasian, the founder of the Flavian Dynasty. The Colosseum was actually originally called “the Flavian Amphitheatre”. The construction started in year 72 AD and the whole building stood completed 8 years later. The Colossus The huge structure was constructed on top of a park built by the previous emperor, Nero. This park included a massive statue of Emperor Nero, which was allowed to remain next to the theatre. The statue was known as the Colossus statue, from which the theaters current name – Colosseum – derives from. The name was further changed towards “Colosseum” during the Middle Ages. In Italian, the amphitheatre is still known as Il Colosseo. A massive stadium The size of the Colosseum is imposing. Its elliptical structure reaches 189 meters long, 156 meters wide and stands almost 50 meters tall. The number of people it could accommodate is not certain, but estimates put the figure at around 50,000. The architecture was carefully planned in order to fit all these people. Its architects adopted solutions very similar to those used in modern stadiums to deal with the same problem. The Colosseum had a total of eighty entrances at ground level. Each one was numbered, just like each exist and each staircase. In order for spectators to find their seats, they were given tickets in the form of numbered pottery shards which directed them to the appropriate section and row. The sections were based upon class and rank in the society, with the higher classes getting the seats which provided the best view. Innovation at its finest The Colosseum was not only groundbreaking when it comes to sheer size; it was also one of the most innovative and complex buildings of its time. The arena in particular had some very innovative solutions. The arena consisted of a wooden floor covered by sand which concealed an elaborate underground structure known as the “hypogeum”. The hypogeum, literally meaning “underground”, consisted of a two-level subterranean network of tunnels and cages. The underground was where gladiators and animals were held before contests began. Several tunnels connected nearby stables and gladiator schools to the hypogeum which allowed them to enter the structure undetected. By raising and lowering several hidden shafts and platforms, both gladiators and wild animals could be summoned instantly into the arena. Gladiators One can’t mention the Colosseum without mentioning gladiators. These classic warriors got their name from the roman short word, Gladius, which was used by the Roman legionaries. A gladiator was normally a prisoner of war or a slave who had been given the decision to either stay as a slave or fight in the arena. For the ones who got the chance to chose, the decision was most likely hard -but easy. Slavery meant a slow, often painful death. On the other hand, successful gladiators could become very famous and even earn some money. If they survived enough battles, they also won their freedom by gaining the wooden sword. Arena battles The gladiator battles were by far the most appreciated of all shows. Before the battles began, the gladiators always paid homage to the Emperor’s stage with the famous words; “Ave Caesar, those who are about to die salute you.” The gladiator battles were often duels between two combatants, matched up against each other depending on why type of equipment they carried. If one gladiator had been defeat in a duel, but not killed, he could ask for mercy by raising his arm. The emperor then decided his fate by either giving thumbs up or thumbs down, while the crowds did their best to affect the decision. Other shows that frequently took place in the arena were battles between wild animals and between men and animals. The animals were mainly imported from Africa and the Middle East and included creatures such tigers, lions, bears and panthers. The games were usually held for a whole day or even several days in a row. To mark the inauguration of the Colosseum in year 80 AD, Vespasian's successor, Titus, held games one-hundred days in a row. In the process, thousands of wild animals and gladiators were killed. More than entertainment The theatre quickly became the most important political tool of an emperor. Emperors used the Colosseum to entertain the public with games. It was here that the emperor met and controlled the people of Rome. The arena continued to be used for contests well into the 6th century, with the gladiatorial fights in early 5th century. Destruction Throughout the years, the Colosseum has been damaged several times. Within its first 500 years, several earthquakes accrued which led to both external and internal damage on the structure. Lightning also hit the Colosseum one time, resulting in a fire which destroyed wooden parts of the amphitheatre's interior. Severe damage was dealt to the Colosseum in the 14th century, when a major earthquake caused parts of the outer walls to collapse. The result of this can still be seen today, as the whole southern part of the outer wall is gone. During the Middle Ages, ancient Roman buildings and monuments weren’t respected in the same way they are today. For this reason, much of the tumbled stone was reused to build palaces, churches, hospitals and other buildings elsewhere in Rome, which has made any large rebuilding projects impossible. Other signs of the medieval spoliation can also be seen on the Colosseum. The bronze clamps which held the stonework together have been hacked out of the walls, leaving numerous marks which still scar the building today. Other usage During its history, the Colosseum has not only been used for games and events. After the last gladiator and hunting events, it has been used as a church, as a cemetery and even as a fortress at one point. During the 16th and 17th century, Church officials sought a productive role for the old Colosseum. Pope Sixtus the 5th even suggested that the building should be turned into a wool factory, but his proposal fell through. Restoration This thought of making the building productive was later abandoned. Instead, several Popes had various stabilization and restoration projects initiated. What they didn’t know at this time, is that this decision was about to make the Colosseum extremely productive in the future. Without their restoration projects, the Colosseum of today would not have been the same. Throughout the 19th and 20th century, the façade has been reinforced and the interior repaired. There has also been a major restoration project more recently, finishing in year 2000. This project involved cleaning the building in order to deal and combat the effects of air pollution. Why visit the Colosseum ? The Colosseum was the Roman Empire’s most impressive building. The ruins of the Colosseum have fascinated people over the centuries with its striking beauty. One can only imagine how great it was during its prime time. The Colosseum has become one of Rome's most popular tourist attractions, receiving millions of visitors each year. Hardly surprising, as the Colosseum is not only one of Italy’s most famous buildings, but one of the most famous buildings in the whole world. Visitors to the Colosseum can enjoy walking in what use to be the Roman Empire’s most impressive building. The underground of the Colosseum, the hypogeum, is now totally exposed, so visitors can really get a good look of the fascinating levels. Colosseum location The Colosseum is located in Rome, Italy. The Colosseum is situated next another of Ancient Rome's greatest sites; the Roman Forum. For the exact location of the Colosseum, check out the location map to the right. Colosseum resources Colosseum video gallery [HD] The ancient Roman Colosseum. Tamcgath. The Colosseum at dusk. (GFDL) David Iliff. The exposed hypogeum of today. MarcusObal. The walls of the hypogeum. (GFDL) Wknight94. The Colosseum at night. (GFDL) Marco Rimoldi. The Colosseum exterior. Sebastian Bergmann. Illuminated Colosseum. j.reed. Marks of the spoilation. (GFDL) Wknight94. The outer wall reinforced. Kari_Marie. Outer wall decoration. Russell Yarwood. The inner wall of the Colosseum. Amelia samulo. Interactive location map. For a larger and more detailed map, check out our Italy map. Do You like the Colosseum? Click below to download your Colosseum audio guide. (If your broswer won't download the guide, right-click the botton and choose "save target as..") Let your friends know! | Terms and Conditions | Sitemap (c) worldsiteguides.com 2011 all rights reserved last update: 2011-04-03

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Trail Directory | Join ADT | News & Information | Merchandise | Guest Book Newsletter Historic First Hike First Thru-Hike First Equestrian Ride FAQs for Travelers ADT Background Millennium Trails Bill & Laurie Foot's ADT Journals Stark's Run Lipton Simple Steps ADT Ford Adventure SOME QUOTES FROM JOYCE AND PETER COTTRELL How do you feel after finishing the ADT? "I'm oversatisfied, it's an overfilled cup, it's a special treasure...I'm mostly speechless... I'm not tired, I feel energized. I'm ready to do something else. Ending in California was wonderful. It was fun, we had good weather, it was beautiful." On the last day, "the seals were just out not far from shore, flipping around in a big school" Would you recommend the ADT to others? "I would recommend this trail to anyone. Even if you can only go for a day or a week or a month. But only if you're prepared." What were some favorite parts? "Tincup, Colorado, an old mining ghost town where we were welcomed at the annual community potluck was inspiring." "Kansas was fantastic, walking along the Santa Fe Trail and imagining being in a wagon. The people there were wonderful, they all knew about their history and wanted to share it with us. And the land took us by surprise, it was not flat, it was beautiful with rolling hills." How many shoes did you wear out? "We lost count after a dozen pairs." What will you do next? "There are too many things to do. There are trails all over. We might give talks at schools. And we need to save some money." What will you miss most about the ADT? "I'll miss waking up every day knowing I'll meet someone new around the next corner." What was the biggest surprise on the trail? "How we people from New England, who are so close-knit and who hold so close to ourselves could knock on doors and ask for a place to stay and be greeted with such kindness and generosity." How do you feel about finishing? "It's very gratifying. It's a relief to finish, but I'll miss tomorrow and the next day. The experience sort of rubbed in. It's kind of sad when it comes to an end. It was amazing." What kept you going? "We didn't think it was such a feat. We didn't know until Colorado that we were the first people to backpack it." "The adventure is so great that you can't stop. When you're hiking the trail, you don't know what's around the next bend. You meet new people and you talk to them, and it's so interesting. Then you don't know what you'll see over the next hill, and you don't want to miss it." What was the worst part? "The worst part was the desert area when we had no water. It was 107 degrees [in Nevada]. The water we were carrying was so hot you could hardly drink it." What will you do now? "It's sort of a shock because 'boom' that was it, now it's over-what do you do now? Now, when we go home, it'll be tough. We'll see the same people. We're not going to see someone new every day. This trail started us meeting people. We'll have itchy feet. We're thinking about the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, the Appalachian Trail extension up to Canada or down do Florida. We hope we can do them before we're too old." "Tincup, Colorado, really made quite an impression." "The first time we looked down on Lake Tahoe. It was so beautiful. I didn't have a clue when I was going to see. And then we went down to meet the people" in Tahoe City who'd invited them to dinner. "This trail opens you up so much to trust people, to talk to people. It was fantastic. That's why we tell people to go out and do what you want to do if you have a dream. Go for it, don't wait." Coast-to-coast hike background A day on the trail with the Cottrells

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Grant County -- Thumbnail History HistoryLink.org Essay 8010 : Printer-Friendly Format Covering a total of 2,660 square miles, Grant County -- located in the Columbia Basin region of central Washington -- is the state’s fourth largest county. It was initially carved out of neighboring Douglas County in 1909. The original (and much larger) Douglas County had been created in 1883 when the Washington Territorial Legislature formed Lincoln and Spokane counties from a larger Spokane County, then separated the new Lincoln County into Lincoln and Douglas Counties only a few days later. Early Days Prior to Washington achieving statehood in 1889, the area now known as Grant County was sparsely populated. It lay within an eco-region known as shrub-steppe, a dry grassland characterized by shrubs such as sagebrush, greasewood, and bitterbrush, and by grasses such as bluebunch wheatgrass. Indian cultures such as the Interior Salish, Wenatchi, and Okanogan were the earliest inhabitants of the region, many of whom settled along the Columbia River. The first white settlers, arriving in the mid-1800s, devoted themselves primarily to raising livestock. But as railroads began to traverse the area, new settlers arrived and changed both the complexion of the land and the local economy. Over time the influx of newcomers saw the area gradually moving away from ranching and toward traditional farming -- perhaps a natural occurrence, considering that the land was marked by plains, hills, and valleys, typically ideal for farming. But even as small farms and orchards began to dot the landscape, Grant County land still wasn't tamed by any means. In the spring of 1906, for example, several hundred cowboys were hired to drive away the area’s wild horses, with up to 5,000 animals eventually removed from the landscape. This “roundup” captured and herded these horses into waiting railcars, which shipped the animals to buyers in the East. The gradual transition from grazing livestock to farming wasn’t an easy one. Grant County has a semi-arid climate -- generally warm and sunny throughout the growing season but not always with enough rainfall to support farming operations without additional water resources. Early settlers to Grant County, of course, tended to situate their farms on or near available waterways, but significant portions of the land were without natural access to water or were otherwise unavailable to buyers. (Some the area’s best farmland was owned the railroads or their ownership successors, making its purchase an expensive proposition.) Grant County residents would soon discover that unlocking the area’s agricultural potential would depend greatly on their ability to irrigate the land. Attracting Newcomers Once the Washington state Legislature formally created Grant County on February 24, 1909, the newly created county government (located in the city of Ephrata) began efforts to attract new citizens. For example, for the 1909 Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition, held in Seattle, Grant County produced a promotional pamphlet that described the area as an agricultural paradise that was home to “Thousands of Prosperous and Happy Human Families” (AYP Pamphlet, cover). Among the pamphlet’s various selling points, Grant County was said to have few pests, excellent weather, and top-notch schools and churches. It was also quick to note that “[f]armers in Grant County make more money and make it easier than the farmers of any other section” (AYP Pamphlet, p. 3). To support that claim, the pamphlet’s authors called upon several local farmers for their own personal stories of settling in Grant County. S. H. DePue of Stratford provided one such testimonial: “I came to what is now Grant Count six years ago this spring and had about $700. I bought a relinquishment the first year, paying $375 for it, and put the balance of my money into horses and machinery. In the fall of 1904 I bought a half section of land under contract, going into debt for the full amount. I now have these quarters nearly all under cultivation. I have 21 head of good work horses and colts and all necessary farm machinery, and consider that I have made about $12,000, clear of all debts, in six years. I know that this is a good country for any one [sic] to invest money. We have a fine climate and a very productive soil, which, if farmed right, will bring good returns” (S.H. DePue, June 1, 1909; AYP Pamphlet, back cover). If the promise of an agricultural Shangri-La wasn’t enough, another selling point for early Grant County was its access to no fewer than three major railway systems: The Great Northern Railway and the Northern Pacific Railroad, which came to the region in the late 1800s, followed by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul, which arrived soon after the turn of century. Not only did farmers enjoy excellent growing conditions, it was said, but also the convenient means to transport their crops to markets outside of Eastern Washington. New settlers were definitely needed -- when Grant County was formally created, its population was a mere 8,700. Wilson Creek was the area’s largest town at that time, with a total population of 600 people. (In 2006, Wilson Creek’s population was around 250.) A key to Wilson Creek’s early growth had been the installation of a local irrigation system, one successful enough that residents began to contemplate erection of an accompanying electrical plant. Ephrata, the county seat, was originally platted in 1901, but until 1909 was better known as the center of the local sheep industry. Coulee City was the oldest town in the new Grant County, founded along the banks of the Columbia River at one of the better places to cross -- thus making it a natural destination for travelers coming through the region. Soap Lake was home to a number of sanatoriums where outsiders came to relax and partake in the “curative” properties of the mineral water, while Moses Lake -- in 2006 Grant County’s largest city – could “hardly be called a town yet” in 1909 (AYP Pamphlet, p. 17). All that Moses Lake could boast was a store, a blacksmith, a post office, and a few houses. Other cities of note in the new Grant County included Quincy, Hartline, and Warden. A Story of Water Although the AYP pamphlet claimed that crops and orchards in Grant County could prosper without special irrigation, this wasn’t entirely true: At the time the county was formed, it had gone through several years of unusually wet weather. In reality, Grant County was far drier than most farmers would have liked, making water access a crucial factor in crop yields. (In 1879, one government official described the area in and around the Columbia Basin as “a desolation where even the most hopeful can find nothing in its future prospects to cheer” [Matthews]). And indeed, water would play a crucial role in the history of Grant County -- sparked mostly by the Columbia Basin Reclamation Project in the 1930s and 1940s. Although grass and sagebrush were plentiful, the dry farming methods of this period were not always enough to tame the land, and certainly not enough to support large-scale farming operations. Attempts to formally irrigate Grant County began as early as 1898, although most efforts were relatively modest. Most early irrigation methods relied on gravity, pumping from nearby lakes and rivers, or through wells -- all of which were inadequate to support farming in all but a few locations. With these small irrigation projects adding relatively little to Grant County’s agricultural prosperity, larger plans requiring significant funding were entertained. In 1914, for example, Washington voters were asked to consider a $44 million bond issue that would have created a water pumping system for 435,000 acres in an around Quincy. This measure was defeated at the polls. Reclamation Other ideas had more traction -- including one that would transform Grant County and surrounding areas for generations to come. What would eventually become known as the Columbia Basin Reclamation Project sprung from the minds of a group in Ephrata who regularly convened in the law offices of William M. Clapp. In the spring of 1917 this group was discussing how local farmers could better aid America’s soldiers in World War I, when it was suggested that a dam might be constructed on the Columbia River at Grand Coulee, formed some 15,000 years before during the last ice age. With high rock walls that formed a natural retention area for water, damming the Columbia at Grand Coulee might allow for irrigation water for farms to be pumped away from the reservoir using power generated by the dam itself. Intrigued by the notion, the Ephrata group kept their idea amongst a small group of supporters while exploring the feasibility of such an undertaking. When preliminary engineering reports suggested that the idea might be possible, the group launched a publicity campaign in support of the project. When Rufus Woods (1878-1950) of The Wenatchee Daily World first announced the plan in the pages of his paper on July 18, 1918, what would eventually become known as the Columbia Basin Reclamation Project -- which included construction of Grand Coulee Dam -- was officially born. The task ahead for the Ephrata group -- to secure federal funding for the project -- was indeed formidable, and put them conflict with a competing reclamation scheme. The Grand Coulee project was opposed by a rival group proposing a gravity plan, which sought to dam the Pend Oreille River in Idaho and bring water to the Columbia Basin region through an extensive canal and tunnel system. These two groups started waging a war of ideas during the late 1910s and early 1920s, a period in which the need for a comprehensive reclamation project became increasingly apparent: Poor farming conditions and economic hardships during the 1920s and 1930s caused the population of Grant County to fall below 6,000. “Drought and depression had wrought a ruin as complete as usually results from war, pestilence, and famine,” noted historian C. A. Hawley (p. 8). Toward Grand Coulee Dam Despite a 1920 legislative study that recommended the gravity plan over the Grand Coulee plan, the Ephrata group and its supporters pushed on and eventually waged the more successful public and political campaign. A later study, in fact, supported the Grand Coulee plan in part because it could generate enough hydroelectric power to help offset the cost of irrigation canals. In 1933 the key piece of the project, the construction of Grand Coulee Dam, was finally approved, bringing much-needed construction jobs to Depression-era Grant County. Although it would open eight years later as one of the largest man-made structures ever completed, this first approval in 1933 was for a much smaller project, which was gradually expanded during construction. When work began, in fact, there was no guarantee that irrigated water would ever reach Grant County or the surrounding communities. Until the area had been organized into irrigation districts, paying variable rates of around $85 per acre to the government, no irrigation would take place. These payments were to be made in equal annual installments over a period of 40 years, beginning 10 years after water first became available through the project. This stipulation posed a bit of a problem. First, a state law had to be enacted to set forth the requirements for forming an irrigation district. Then, under the terms of the measure, only affected property owners would be allowed to vote on the irrigation district, and in this case many of the landowners did not physically live in central Washington. (And of those who did, many were wheat farmers or livestock ranchers who didn’t necessarily support the irrigation project.) As a result, the Columbia Basin Irrigation League was formed in order to “round up the vote” (Hawley, pp. 9-10). Three separate irrigation districts were established, with the Quincy-Columbia Irrigation District being the first to be voted upon -- a pivotal contest that may very well have determined the fate of the remaining two. All stops were pulled out to secure passage of the irrigation district measure on February 18, 1939, including a special train provided by the Great Northern Railroad that brought in more than 300 outside landowners. The measure passed handily, 709 for and 34 against. Later elections on irrigation districts to the south and east passed easily, based on this crucial first vote. Meanwhile, the Grand Coulee Dam project was gradually expanded and moved toward completion, with its first generator going on line in October 1941. When completed the dam contained 12 million cubic yards of concrete, stood as tall as a 46-story building, and created a 150-mile long reservoir behind it. But as impressive as Grand Coulee was, it was just centerpiece for the larger Columbia Basin Irrigation Project, which would eventually include four smaller dams and several reservoirs, lakes, and canals. Steps Forward, Steps Backward Grand Coulee Dam was certainly a marvel (“the eighth wonder of the world,” it was called), but its completion wasn’t all for the better. A total of 400 farms and 10 whole communities were obliterated by Grand Coulee’s rising waters, members of the Colville and Spokane Indian tribes had to be relocated, and several Native American archeological sites disappeared, seemingly forever. (White landowners, at least, were compensated for their losses, but not always to their satisfaction.) Environmentally, Grand Coulee Dam had a tremendous impact. It was built without fish runs; salmon swimming upriver to spawn were unable to cross the immense concrete barrier, and salmon populations north of the dam ceased to be. Yet there were also some long-term environmental benefits, though perhaps unintended by the original planners. A by-product of irrigation has been runoff and spillage from the canal system, which has created what is now known as the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge. With nearly 30,000 acres of newly created wetlands, ponds, and marshes, the Refuge supports a variety of waterfowl, fish, and other wildlife that normally could not thrive in the arid conditions of Eastern Washington. The Columbia Basin Reclamation Project also established several man-made lakes on top of existing waterways, providing a huge recreational resource. Grant County has eight separate state parks, many of which are destinations for campers, boaters, fishermen and fisherwomen, and hunters from throughout the state. Delivering on the Promise Grand Coulee Dam was completed right in time for America’s entry into World War II and played an important role in supporting the war effort in Grant County and throughout Washington state. Although overseas fighting halted work on the region’s irrigation canals, the dam itself supplied cheap power for Seattle manufacturers such as Boeing, as well as for the atomic experiments occurring farther down the Columbia River at Hanford. With the end of hostilities, work on the Columbia Basin Reclamation Project resumed. The irrigation portion of the project was formally approved in 1943, and digging began soon after. When the first irrigated water from the project was delivered to Pasco in 1948, it ushered in a new era of Grant County history that C. A. Hawley dubbed the era of “reclamation and recovery.” (This, despite the fact that the Columbia Basin Reclamation Project would eventually irrigate only one-fifth the estimated 2.5 million acres backers at one time envisioned.) Even so, farmers in the region have reaped benefits far exceeding the harvesting/growth predictions for the Project. And these benefits have come at a fraction of the going rate: Instead of local farmers paying one-half of the irrigation project costs, they’re actually paying around 10 percent -- a subsidy that power consumers are paying for through higher electricity rates. The combination of newly irrigated land and cheap electrical power was a boon to Grant County and the surrounding region. In 1939, when the population of the county was slightly over 14,000, approximately 41 percent of its land was given over to farming operations (Northwest Industry). Even so, only 17 percent of the population was engaged in the farming or mining industries -- most of the available workforce (45 percent in the early 1940s) was in the construction trade, in particular on the Grand Coulee Dam project. Once the irrigation canals began delivering water to local farming communities, the complexion of Grant County changed dramatically. By the end of the 1960s, almost 20 percent of all the irrigated land in Washington state was located in Grant County, and a full 60 percent of its land was used for farming operations (“Summary of Pacific Northwest Industries”). Food Processing Plants Arrive The positive effects of the Columbia Basin Reclamation Project were felt as early as 1951, when The Wenatchee Daily World announced that the sugar beet yield in and around Moses Lake -- approximately 25 tons per acre – was twice the national average. And this yield was based on a mere 1,600 acres of irrigated land. As a result, during the 1950s Grant County became Washington’s fastest growing county, based largely on continuing irrigation and the new industries it attracted. Access to producing farms, plentiful water, inexpensive land, and cheap electricity lured several food processing firms to Grant County, which had an immediate impact on the local economy. The first major firm to open was the U and I Sugar Company, which began operating its Moses Lake plant in 1953. By the mid-1970s, U and I would employ from 350-600 people during any given year, and boasted Grant County’s largest sugar-beet slicing capacity -- upwards of 11,000 tons per day. Other firms followed U and I: Potato processing such as the Carnation and American Potato Companies in Moses Lake, as well as the Lamb-Weston outfit in Quincy. And since these plants were dependent on electrical power for their operations, the Grant County Public Utility District (PUD) -- which currently operates the Priest Rapids and Wanapum dams along the Columbia River -- also grew during this period to become a major player in Central Washington power issues. Grant County Today Growth in Grant County cooled during the early 1960s, as construction on area dam and irrigation projects began to slow. Then, in late 1965, the U.S. military delivered a blow to the local economy when it decided to close Larson Air Force Base in Moses Lake. Larson originally began as a temporary installation during World War II, but had hosted various units since that time. Food processing was the mainstay of Grant County’s economy during the 1970s and 1980s. In fact, according to a February 1975 newsletter published by Seattle First National Bank, about 90 percent of Grant County’s entire manufacturing workforce was employed in local food processing plants. Farming, of course, continued to play a vital role, and parts of the area returned to its roots when ranching began to be profitable again in the late 1960s. Today, cheap electrical power and inexpensive land continue to drive growth in Grant County. According to the Washington State Office of Financial Management, its total population in 2000 was almost 75,000, a marked increase from the 43,000 that called Grant County home in the mid-1970s. This trend is expected to continue, with Grant County projected to reach some 100,000 residents by the year 2025 (Washington State Business and Project Development website). The County’s main industries continue to be agriculture and food processing, with its largest employers being food-processing plants such as J. R. Simplot (Moses Lake), ConAgra (Quincy), and Ochoa Foods (Warden). Local government (including the Moses Lake School District and the Grant County PUD) is the area’s second largest employer. A few construction and manufacturing companies also serve as major employers, such as Genie Industries (cranes) or Inflation Systems (airbag manufacturing), both located in Moses Lake. Overall, however, the majority of Grant County businesses are small, with fewer than 50 employees. The area’s other economic gem has turned out to be airport at Moses Lake -- the former Larson Air Force Base, which was transformed for civilian use in 1966. As of 2006, the Grant County International Airport covers almost 4,700 acres of land and has five separate runways (including one so large it serves as an alternate landing site for the NASA Space Shuttle). In addition to freight and cargo services, the airport is widely known as a training facility for commercial and military pilots, including those of The Boeing Company, Japan Airlines, and the U.S. military. Sources: “Grant County, Washington,” promotional pamphlet for the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition (Seattle: A.Y.P. Committee, 1909), University of Washington Special Collections; Rufus Woods, “Formulate Brand New Idea for Irrigation [of] Grant, Adams, Franklin Counties, Covering Millions of Acres or More,” The Wenatchee Daily World, July 18, 1918, p. 7; “Grant County,” Northwest Industry, Vol. 2, No. 7 (April 1943), p. 13; “40,000 Tons Sugar Beets in This Pile,” The Wenatchee Daily World, December 3, 1951, p. 1; W. Gale Matthews, “Beginnings of the Columbia Basin Reclamation Project,” 1952 typescript, Grant County Historical Society, Ephrata, Washington; “A Brief Geological Description of the Columbia Basin Project,” ca. 1952 typescript,Grant County Historical Society, Ephrata, Washington; C. A. Hawley, “A History of Grant County,” 1953 typescript, Grant County Historical Society, Ephrata, Washington; Al Smith, “County Marks 50th Anniversary Today,” Columbia Basin Daily Herald, February 24, 1959, pp. 1-2; “Grant County Agriculture,” 1965 typescript, National Agricultural Statistics Service (U.S. Department of Agriculture) website accessed November 10, 2006 (www.nass.usda.gov); “Grant County,” Summary of Pacific Northwest Industries (Economic Research Department of Seattle-First National Bank), February 1975, pp. 7-8; Janet (Jenkins) Nelson, “Douglas-Big Bend-Grant: The History of the Formation of a County,” 2003 typescript, Grant County Historical Society, Ephrata, Washington; “Grant County,” Washington State Business and Project Development website accessed August 16, 2006 (www.choosewashington.com); “Grant County Geography,” Workforce Explorer website accessed August 16, 2006 (www.workforceexplorer.com); HistoryLink: The Online Encyclopedia of Washington State History, “Columbia National Wildlife Refuge” and “Grand Coulee Dam -- a Snapshot History” (by Cassandra Tate), “Retreating glaciers create Puget Sound and Grand Coulee as the Ice Age ends about 15,000 years ago” (by Priscilla Long), “First irrigation water reaches Pasco on May 15, 1948” (by Elizabeth Gibson), “Washington Territorial Legislature creates Lincoln County on November 1, 1883” (by Paula Becker), “The Last Grand Roundup is held near Ephrata in 1906” (by Kit Oldham), “William Howard Taft and Republicans win general elections in Washington on November 3, 1908” (by David Wilma), www.historylink.org (accessed September 3, 2006). By Eric L. Flom, November 15, 2006 Related Topics: Counties | Licensing: This essay is licensed under a Creative Commons license that encourages reproduction with attribution. Credit should be given to both HistoryLink.org and to the author, and sources must be included with any reproduction. Click the icon for more info. Please note that this Creative Commons license applies to text only, and not to images. For more information regarding individual photos or images, please contact the source noted in the image credit. This essay made possible by: The State of WashingtonWashington State Department of Archeology and Historic Preservation Blue Lake, near Coulee City, 1950s Grant County, Washington Courtesy U.S. Department of Agriculture Basalt bluffs along Route 243, Grant County between Vantage and the Hanford Reservation, October 2003 Dry Falls, Columbia River, 1940s Blue Lake, near Coulee City, 1930s Deluxe Hotel and Wild Life Cafe, Grand Coulee, 1940s Grant County Courthouse (George Keith, 1918), Ephrata, 1940s Moses Lake, 1960s Entrance to Larson Air Force Base, Moses Lake, 1963 Courtesy Clyde Owen Grant County International Airport, Moses Lake, n.d. Courtesy Port of Moses Lake Downtown Ephrata, 1940s Ephrata, 1950s Aerial view of Ephrata, 1960s Power lines, Grant County on Route 243 between Vantage and the Hanford Reservation, October 2003 HistoryLink.org Photo Priscilla Long

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Established in 1834, this elegantly restored and remodeled hotel graces the main street of downtown Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. With easy access of the Pennsylvania Canal, the Old East-West Turnpike and two major railroads, the hotel provided accommodations for generations of travelers. After 150 years of serving the community the hotel closed its doors in 1992. It was purchased and restored to its former grandeur, then reopened in 1997 by Norman & Nancy Buck. The hotel is the only one in Lewisburg to withstand the ravages of time and progress. Its plush carpeting, polished brass, and distinctive woods reflect the period in which a bawdy river town was being transformed into Victorian elegance. The present facility now combines a fascinating history with present day amenities and services. Information Request Directions Contact Us The Lewisburg Hotel (570) 523 -7800 136 Market Street Lewisburg, PA 17837 Site Designed & Maintained by CRM Marketing & Design

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SEARCH Phoenix more than just sun in the desert Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau/Associated Press One of the most popular views in the Phoenix area is from the top of Camelback Mountain, which rises 2,704 feet above sea level between Phoenix and Scottsdale. By TERRY TANGAssociated Press PHOENIX – With cactus and strip malls obstructing the views at times, visitors easily could write off Phoenix as a place where water and culture are scarce. But this metropolis – which includes upscale Scottsdale and college town Tempe – is a nature lover’s oasis with pristine peaks and the vast Sonoran desert. As for the urban landscape, it’s more than just golf courses crowded with retirees. In central Phoenix, which predates Arizona’s 100 years of statehood, you can find historic homes and classic bungalows, including one designed by master architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Brightly colored murals around town show how much the Hispanic community has influenced the city.Now that the summer months have given way to milder temperatures and snowbirds are finding their way here to escape colder climates, here are five free ways to heat things up in Phoenix:Camelback Mountain hikeOne of the most popular views is from the top of this red sandstone landmark situated between Phoenix and Scottsdale. Trekking to the top, which rises 2,704 feet above sea level, isn’t for the faint of heart. Fortunately, there are less exhaustive trails at the base. You may also get a warm-up having to park a little farther away. The free lot fills up quickly. City officials tentatively are scheduled to begin improvements to traffic congestion in early 2013. Considered one of the best hiking cities, Phoenix has several other peaks that don’t cost a cent to climb: http://phoenix.gov/parks/trails/index.html.First Friday art walkDowntown Phoenix takes on another life come nightfall the first Friday of each month. This walk started out in 1994 with galleries and other venues staying open later to showcase local artists. But First Friday has snowballed into a people-watching phenomenon. Art aficionados, skater-boys and teens looking like they just came from Comic-Con deluge Roosevelt Street in the Roosevelt Row neighborhood. Artists selling anything from T-shirts to Day of the Dead figurines are stationed along the sidewalks. It’s also worth venturing onto streets off Roosevelt. You’ll find numerous old homes converted into businesses. The locals frequent this area for the bars, late-night munchies and Roosevelt Growhouse, a boutique and community garden that also houses a beehive.Tempe Town LakeThis 2.5-mile human-made lake that provides flood control for Tempe also is a haven for cycling, jogging and other activities. Feel free to skate or stroll the 12-foot-wide paths that lie on either side of the lake. On any given day, you can spot people kayaking, sailing and even dragon-boat racing on the water. The lake also is the site of free special events, from Fourth of July fireworks to the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade every December. Typically, there’s no fee to watch annual sporting events such as Ironman Arizona. Rio Salado Audubon CenterForget about city life just a couple of miles south of downtown at this hidden nature center. The Rio Salado Audubon Center is nestled in a 600-acre preserve along the Salt River. The park is home to at least 200 different species of birds and other wildlife including coyotes and jackrabbits. Take a walk or bicycle ride along the 16 miles of riding trails. Indoors, there are interactive and photo displays to peruse. Parents looking to amuse their children can choose from numerous free activities after school and on weekends. You also can toast Mother Nature at a monthly Birds ’n’ Beer talk (lecture and snacks are free, beer from a local brewery is offered at a reduced rate). Closed Mondays, http://riosalado.audubon.org. Historic Neighborhoods TourIn 1996, a coalition of city residents led by Gerry and Marge McCue sought to dispel the myth that downtown Phoenix wasn’t safe and had no decent housing. Their grass-roots effort culminated in a handy guide to 34 historic neighborhoods. You won’t find any cookie-cutter rows on these tree-lined streets. Each one is a showcase of past architectural trends. The styles range from Tudor to American Colonial and Craftsman. Make sure any self-guided tour includes a stop at Encanto Park. Home of Phoenix’s first public pool and golf course, the lush 222-acre park is a historic landmark. Paddle-boat across the lagoon or take the kids on the carousel. With an estimated 80,000 printed over the years, the free maps have become staples in some hotels and antique stores. You also can get a copy by calling the McCues, who say they will leave it on their porch for pick-up. If the couple happens to be home when you retrieve it, you may also get free advice about how to make the most of your visit (602-253-5579). Frank Lloyd Wright fans should go to east Phoenix to gaze upon the home Wright built for his son at 5212 E. Exeter Blvd., which sparked a recent controversy when it was bought by a developer who announced plans to tear it down. Constructed in the 1950s, the home has a circular spiral layout modeled after the Guggenheim Museum in New York. The property remains in preservation limbo as the City Council considers granting it landmark designation, which would delay demolition for up to three years. Most Read in Lifestyles Bend’s beer culture is the cream of the hop Founder of Durango-based Great Old Broads for Wilderness dies Project to decode apples’ genetic history Don’t lose your luggage this winter

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Palacios, Texas Published Since 1907..Online Since 1999 INDEX BIRDNOTES PALACIOS FORUMS EMAIL THE BEACON 'Silent Voyager' Charl de VilliersNears End of Historic Journey By Sharon Langton Ragle While the rest of the America is stringing Christmas lights, Charl de Villiers, 44, is sweltering in the southern Caribbean. But he is only a couple thousand miles away from sailing into the record books after a grueling and lonely 10-month journey. When he arrives back at his berth at the Serendipity Resort and Marina here in Palacios between 1-2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19, he will be the first deaf person in history to sail solo around the world. He has left St. Lucia in the Windward Island chain of the Caribbean. Sailing the Island Time, a 1977 Tartan 37, he is now heading straight for home. Charl had set sail from Palacios on March 6 with a plan to follow the trade wind route across the Pacific Ocean, over the top of Australia, and then southwest to the Cape of Good Hope. From there he would sail northwest across the Atlantic Ocean to reach the Caribbean Sea, then continue to the Yucatan Channel and into the Gulf of Mexico and back to Palacios. A hero's welcome is definitely in order. A big homecoming is planned for Charl when he sails back into Palacios. His wife, Beverly, is posting updates on his website www.silentvoyager.com and she hopes the people of Palacios will turn out in record numbers to greet him -- befitting the world record he will set when he ties up to the dock at Serendipity Resort and Marina. You can also possibly watch Charl return to port via Day On The Bay Services' webcam at Serendipity by clicking HERE. "Charl has great perseverance and tenacity. He is extremely resourceful," said Beverly. "Because he is challenged in the communication arena, he is often regarded as less able than most. His solo circumnavigation will show the world that even those with disabilities can fulfill their dreams." Dennis and Truda Ward, who run the Serendipity RV resort and adjacent marina, are keen to have Charl back. When asked if there would be a berth available for Charl, Truda said, "There will always be a place at the dock for Charl and Island Time, we will make sure of that." A PROUD FAMILY Usually in endeavors such as this, the challengers have many sponsors -- companies to provide them with sails, electronics, survival gear and communications equipment. Charl had only one sponsor -- Vodocom, a South African communications company. They provided funds for a satellite phone. Beyond that, the entire journey was funded with their life savings and donations from friends and family. Beverly has also had t-shirts made (they are available at www.silentvoyager.com) to help defray costs. It has been a tumultuous year for the de Villiers family. Shortly after Charl sailed from the dock here in Palacios, his father-in-law, Tommy Bryant, became ill and died. Beverly, a beautiful and spirited women in her own right, has had to keep the home and family together and try to find the resources, emotional and financial, to support his journey. His children have rallied to help their mother while their dad is on this grand adventure. Sharleen, 19, is a sophomore at Texas A&M in Corpus Christi. She is understandably proud of her father's accomplishments. "My dad is just awesome, I am so proud of him," she said. "Imagine being deaf and alone in the dark out at sea. How scary that must be. People need to sit up and pay attention. Give people with disabilities a chance. Don't always presume they can't do it. My dad has proved they can." Gideon, 17, is a senior at Industrial High in Vanderbilt. He will be glad to see his father home again. "My dad has incredible courage. He skydives, plays rugby and is even a registered Texas Rugby Referee," Gideon said. "Yes, he is deaf, but it makes no difference, he can do everything a hearing person can do." CONQUERING CHALLENGES Charl de Villiers was not always deaf. But when he was eight years old, there was a terrible accident with a barbeque and lighter fluid at his home in Cape Town. He was severely burned over much of his body and whether he would even live was in doubt for almost a year. The massive doses of antibiotics the doctors gave him to save his life destroyed his hearing and he became profoundly deaf by age 10. He then attended a special school to learn to lip read along with his academic courses and eventually went to a regular high school to finish his education. It is perhaps this adversity and the strong will to live and thrive that has given de Villiers the always-present desire to push his limits to see just what he can do. And it is a lot, more than most hearing people ever dream of. He started his adult life as a farmer on the northern border of South Africa in the time of the "insurgency", or the war with guerillas crossing the border from Zimbabwe, killing farmers and workers alike. He carried a gun in one hand and a plow in the other, and managed to keep his wife, Beverly, and two young children, Sharleen and Gideon, safe. When he and his young family immigrated to this area, they joined Beverly's father and mother, Tommy and Joy Bryant. Charl worked at Formosa Plastics for over 10 years. He lip reads and speaks two languages, Afrikaans and English. He has never heard English spoken, for his childhood language was Afrikaans. However, since he moved here in 1993, he has learned to lip read and speak it with only a slight accent -- an incredible accomplishment. With his need to be physically active, he day-sailed in Matagorda Bay and also played rugby -- one of the world's roughest sports -- with a local team, the Victoria Kronks and also with the Kwaggas, an all South Africa team. An avid skydiver with over 1500 jumps, de Villiers was a member of a world record setting deaf skydiving team. Now he is poised to set one more record. SAILING SOLO AROUND THE WORLD Many people sail around the world, and many sail alone. But never before has a deaf person attempted it, and the challenges were tremendous. First there was the issue of whether the Coast Guard would even let him sail in U.S. waters without a hearing person aboard. In a case in California, the Coast Guard cited a deaf man who sailed alone and ruled the deaf must have a hearing person with them. This ruling was challenged and quickly thrown out without ever going to court. Charl breathed a sigh of relief. His idea was to make only three stops -- Panama to transit the canal, Darwin Australia, and Cape Town, in his native country of South Africa. But breakdowns forced him to stop at five more ports before reaching Cape Town. He also stopped at St. Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean for rest and because he just wanted to see it (the only way to reach this small island, the exile home of Napoleon, is by boat). Now, after putting in to St. Lucia for a short rest and fresh food and water, he is homeward bound. Hearing is a big part of the routine of ocean sailing -- listening to the radio for weather and for companionship, calling other ships in the area or authorities on land before entering port. All these are denied Charl since he cannot hear. His computer and satellite phone, allowing him to send e-mail, became a critical part of his sailing gear. He cannot hear the sounds his boat makes or system alarms that go off alerting a hearing sailor to danger. His other senses must make up for that and he is supersensitive to vibrations and the motion of the boat. Besides dealing with the normal wear and tear on equipment, he was robbed in Pago Pago, American Samoa. The culprits, taking advantage of his deafness and extreme fatigue after 14 days at sea, broke into the boat and stole his computer, survival gear, cameras, food and clothing. He was fortunate to get much of it back, but not all and he went barefoot from there to Darwin, Australia, because he couldn't find shoes that fit in Pago Pago! But perhaps the weather has always been his greatest challenge -- as it is with all circumnavigators. He found the Pacific Ocean much rougher than he expected. Pacific means calm, and it was anything but calm except on rare occasions. In the southern Indian Ocean and rounding the Cape of Good Hope he was pounded by gale after gale, with winds up to 50 knots and seas in some places 40 feet, a result of wind against current. In a storm near Madagasgar, he lost part of his wind-steering unit, which steered the boat while Charl rested. For many days he had to hand steer in ferocious seas. At the same time his computer died. He was usually able to warm the computer in the engine room to make it work when the salt water and air got too much for it. But this time it was gone for good and the only way to communicate was short, terse position reports on his satellite phone to let people back home and around the world know he was alive and still fighting to make safe harbor. SOUTH AFRICA HOMECOMING At that point, the closest port was Durban, on the east coast of South Africa. As he closed the coast, the wind graciously mellowed enough for him to motor through the very narrow channel and tie up to the International Dock. From Durban he made his way around the southern tip of Africa to Cape Town, stopping several times to sit out the vicious cold fronts that blow from the west, around the Cape and up the east coast. When these southwest winds smash into the south setting current they sometimes create the most dangerous waves on earth. He was greeted in South Africa as a hero, a native son who had achieved so much in his sailing quest. His wife, Beverly, and mother-in-law Joy, both also from South Africa, flew over to see him and participate in the welcome his native country gave him. Once docked at the Royal Cape Yacht Club in Cape Town, he visited his old alma mater, the Mary Kihn School, where he got his early education, including lip reading. There, he gave the students of today a lecture about his journey and also an inspirational message -- "Just because you cannot hear," he told them, "You are still capable, intelligent people who can accomplish as much as you can dream of." "Charl has a drive to succeed in whatever he does. It is important to him to show the world that just because he is deaf it does not mean he is stupid," his mother-in-law, Joy, remarked. "I admire his courage and what he has achieved for himself and the deaf community at large." Freelance writer Sharon Langton Ragle and her husband, Dave, sailed to Palacios last year. Like many, they found a town they just couldn't sail away from and have become permanent residents. She is the author of "The Oceans are Waiting --Around the World on the Yacht Tigger" - published by Sheridan House. Click here for article at the outset of Charl's journey. Click here for article on Charl's return to Palacios. Click here for pictures of Charl's return to Palacios. News | Sports | Youth | BirdNotes | Letters | Obituaries Guestbook | Lifestyles Picture Page | About Us | Local Links Early Files | Classifieds | Home Send mail to editor@palaciosbeacon.com with questions or comments about this web site. Copyright � 2004-05 Palacios Beacon Online. Site owned and maintained by Nick West. FastCounter by LinkExchange

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SNA and AMISOM dislods al Shabaab from of Buulo Mareer - Monday, 01 September 2014 06:54 Ethiopia eyes more revenues from tourism - Monday, 01 September 2014 06:52 CBE collects 9bln Birr from housing program - Monday, 01 September 2014 06:49 City administration donates condo to GERD - Monday, 01 September 2014 06:42 Islamist rebels attack intelligence site in Somalia, 12 killed - Monday, 01 September 2014 05:12 ‘Knowledge on policies, strategies vital to discharge responsibility,’ say students - Saturday, 30 August 2014 09:22 Declaration of Intent for Joint Initiative on Youth Employment in Africa Signed Addis Ababa, 20 September 2013 (WIC) - The Initiative is a response by the AUC, AfDB, UNECA and ILO to the call by African Heads of State and Government to tackle more decisively the youth employment challenge in Africa. ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, September 17, 2013/ – The signing ceremony for the Declaration of Intent for the Joint Initiative on Youth Employment in Africa (JYEIA) took place on September 12, 2013 at the Headquarters of the African Union Commission (AUC) in Addis Ababa. The Initiative is a response by the AUC, African Development Bank, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and the International Labour Organization to the call by African Heads of State and Government, at their Summit in Malabo, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, held in July 2011, to tackle more decisively the youth employment challenge in Africa. It is also a follow-up to the 2004 Ouagadougou Declaration and Action Plan. (Photo: Signing Ceremony of the Declaration of intent between the AUC-AfDB-ECA-ILO on Youth Employment )The Parties were represented by Mustapha S. Kaloko, Commissioner for Social Affairs; Lamin Barrow, the Bank’s Resident Representative in Ethiopia; and Hans Hofmeijer, Acting Africa Regional Director, ILO; in the presence of Minata Samate, Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Ethiopia and the AUC and ECA; as well as officials of the Regional Economic Communities and members of the public. Providing financial support and technical expertise to promote youth employment at country, sub-regional and continental levels, the JYEIA will focus its interventions on three main areas, namely policy support; design and implementation of programs and projects; knowledge-building and dissemination.In his remarks at the ceremony, the Bank’s Resident Representative recalled that the 2012 African Economic Outlook, which was devoted to the theme of youth employment, underscored the urgent need for governments to pursue an integrated strategy in order for African countries to translate the “youth bulge” in their populations into a “demographic dividend”.Barrow reminded the audience of the Bank’s continued commitment to assist its Regional Member Countries promote youth employment and alluded to the timeliness of the JYEI as its seeks to leverage the comparative advantage of the Four Parties to enhance coordination and synergy, as well as to design and implement operations that would effectively tackle the problem of youth employment. Barrow also cited examples of recent Bank initiatives that can be replicated or scaled-up in Africa. These include the Souk At-tanmia initiative for young entrepreneurs in Tunisia; the provision matching grants for enhancing employability of young graduates in Morocco; the Skills Employability and Entrepreneurship Programme in Rwanda; and the Pan African University Centre of Excellence project developed under the auspices of the AUC.For his part, AUC’s Commissioner for Social Affairs noted the progress made with start-up activities in Burkina Faso and Senegal. He also expressed optimism that the challenge of competing resources for member states will be surmounted in taking forward the implementation of the JYEI.ILO’s Acting Africa Regional Director, Hans Hofmeijer, emphasized the need for home-grown solutions for promoting employment for the continent’s growing young population, recognizing that the Initiative is adopting a framework approach rather than a one-size-fits-all in developing its support program. (http://www.sierraexpressmedia.com) Related Stories Most Read Eritrean rebels claim to have killed dozens of intelligence agents Al Shabaab on move to recruit young fighters ahead of massive military assault In 2014 Chinese-African trade will surpass $200 billion Meeting of Eastern Africa Defense, Security Council in Nairobi Kenya, Somalia vow to eliminate Al-Shabaab ENCDC holds a conference on the prevailing of freedom, democracy and justice in Eritrea Kismayo Airport resumes functioning Tana High-Level Forum kicks off © 2013, www.waltainfo.com. All Rights Reserved. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia About Walta InfoContact UsAdvertise With UsSite Map

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Join Now Chinatown Townhouses About Chinatown LA's Chinatown is located downtown, just south of Dodger Stadium. For the most part, its territory is circumscribed by the 110, 101, and 5 freeways. As one might expect, Chinatown is awash with small, Asian-American-owned businesses like specialty grocery stores, bargain retail establishments, and authentic Asian food restaurants. The area's population is predominantly Asian American, as well. Circa the year 2000, Chinatown's population began to dwindle as many of its residents emigrated to Monterey Park, but like the rest of Downtown Los Angeles, it is now undergoing a modest renaissance. Easy access to most of LA's major freeways puts Chinatown firmly in the middle of the city's hustle and bustle and, traffic permitting, makes for strong cross-metropolis mobility; the Metro Rail station there and its proximity to the Metro's Downtown confluence help in this department as well. Traffic congestion and parking scarcity can both be issues in Chinatown, but that tends to be true of the Downtown area more generally, so just plan ahead.

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3401.0 - Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia, Jun 2014 Quality Declaration Latest ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 07/08/2014 SummaryDownloadsExplanatory NotesRelated InformationPast & Future Releases Page tools: Explanatory Notes Glossary Abbreviations Passenger Card (Appendix) Data Quality Issues (Appendix) Seasonally Adjusted and Trend Estimates (Appendix) The Importance of Passenger Data for Australia's Official Statistics (Appendix) Quality Declaration - Summary Time Series Spreadsheet (I-Note) Standard Errors QUALITY DECLARATION – OVERSEAS ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES, AUSTRALIA Overseas arrivals and departures (OAD) statistics are compiled from administrative data provided by the Australian Government Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP). The main source data are incoming and outgoing passenger cards completed by persons arriving in or departing from Australia. Data from passports and visa (entry permit) applications and approvals are also provided from DIBP's Travel and Immigration Processing System (TRIPS). These three data sources are collected, compiled and matched together by DIBP. For information on the legislative obligations of the ABS, financing and governance arrangements, and mechanisms for scrutiny of ABS operations, please see ABS Institutional Environment. OAD data provides information on all recorded movements across Australia's borders, both in-bound and out-bound, by category of movement and numerous other variables (listed towards the end of the Explanatory Notes under Additional Statistics Available). The three main categories of movement are: permanent movements; long-term movements (one year or more); and short-term movements (less than on year). These data (while refined further) are used as inputs into international tourism, net overseas migration (NOM) and through NOM into the estimated resident population (ERP) of Australia and its states and territories. Geographically, OAD data is available at the Australia and state and territory levels. For all arrivals, state and territory data is based on the state or territory of intended address. Compilation of OAD statistics use the Standard Australian Classification of Countries (cat. no. 1269.0). Care should be taken when interpreting OAD movement data as 'people' as these statistics relate to the number of movements of travellers rather than the number of travellers (i.e. multiple movements of individual persons during a given reference period are each counted separately). The statistics exclude the movements of operational air and ships' crew, transit passengers who pass through Australia but are not cleared for entry, passengers on pleasure cruises commencing and finishing in Australia, and unauthorised arrivals. Users requiring data on the number of travellers (people) who stay within (or away from) Australia for at least 12 months may find NOM estimates more suitable to meet their needs. For more information on NOM see the Explanatory Notes in Migration, Australia (cat. no. 3412.0). International tourism contributes to estimates of the direct economic contribution of tourism to the Australian economy. The estimates are included in the tourism satellite account linked to the Australian system of national accounts and to Australia's international trade in goods and services on a balance of payments basis. TIMELINESS OAD statistics are released monthly, approximately 5 weeks after the end of the reference period. OAD statistics are derived from a combination of full enumeration and sampling of movement records. All permanent movements and all movements with a duration of stay of one year or more are fully enumerated. The number of movements where the duration of stay is less than one year are fully enumerated, however their characteristics are sampled. From January 2005, 4.9% of all short-term movements have been selected for sample. Statistics relating to these movements are therefore weighted estimates. Two types of errors are possible in an estimate based on a sample; non-sampling and sampling: Non-sampling errors: These arise from inaccuracies in collecting, recording and processing the data. Every effort is made to minimise such errors, both through careful design of the passenger cards and through checks on the information once it is received. During the edit process some items are corrected where they conflict with other known information. Missing replies to certain items such as age, state and country of previous residence and main country of intended destination are also imputed by reference to other related items. For further information on non-response rates and data imputation see the Data Quality Issues Appendix of this publication. Sampling errors: Estimates based on a sample are subject to sampling variability, that is, they may differ from those that would be obtained from full enumeration. One measure of the likely difference resulting from not fully enumerating the OAD collection is provided by the standard error. There are about two chances in three that the sample estimate will differ by less than one standard error from the figure that would have been obtained from full enumeration, and about nineteen chances in twenty that the difference will be less than two standard errors. For further information on standard errors applied to OAD movements see the Standard Errors section of this publication. COHERENCE OAD data measure crossings of Australia's borders. The data are available from 1901, for various categories of traveller (e.g. permanent, long-term and short-term arrivals and departures) and periods (e.g. annual, quarterly and monthly). Electronic data are available from this website for categories of traveller on a monthly basis from January 1976, with selected variables available from January 1991. To provide a high degree of consistency and comparability over time, this administrative data has required careful and continuing maintenance and development to protect the integrity of the data and the efficiency of the collection. Changes that have occurred over the collection period include: sampling methods, estimation methods, concepts, data item definitions, classifications and time series analysis techniques. For example the change in boundaries and existence of various countries can affect their comparability over time. INTERPRETABILITY All published OAD data are available as original series estimates. Trend series estimates and seasonally adjusted series estimates, for short-term visitor arrivals and short-term resident departures, are available from January 1976. Additionally, for these two categories, trend and seasonally adjusted estimates are available by country of previous residence and main country of intended destination from January 1991. Seasonally adjusted estimates allow users to analyse short-term movements including irregular impacts on the series while trend estimates provide a better method to analyse and monitor the underlying direction of the short-term movement series. In most cases the trend series is the best source of information on the long-term direction of these statistics. Further information can be obtained from the Explanatory Notes and Appendixes in this publication. OAD data are available in a variety of formats on the ABS website. The Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia (cat. no. 3401.0) publication provides the most comprehensive source for statistics on OAD in Australia, particularly for short-term movements. Over the years OAD data have been released via various outputs including .pdf, spreadsheets and data files. Currently, this publication is released as a monthly web only release (e.g. Key Figures, Main Features, Explanatory Notes, etc.) with an associated 12 time series spreadsheets (Excel format) available from the Downloads tab. Graphs on the monthly change to short-term visitor arrivals and short-term resident departures (Trend) are available in Key National Indicators (cat. no. 1345.0) More detailed or customised tabulation of OAD data may also be made available through ABS Consultancy Services. A list of variables for OAD data is available towards the end of the Explanatory Notes under Additional Statistics Available. For inquiries contact the National Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070 or email client.services@abs.gov.au. This page last updated 6 August 2014

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Churchill Island Heritage Farm Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia In addition to the native wildlife a visit to Phillip Island gives the visitor a unique opportunity to view the bygone pioneering spirit that made Australia. Churchill Island sits just of the Phillip Island coast and is accessed by an all vehicle bridge. It is significant to Victoria's history in that it was the site of the first European agricultural activity. The island has been farmed since the 1850's. The island is only 57 hectares and is now open to the public as an historic working farm. The restored farmhouse, cottages and outbuildings gives a glimpse into the lives of the early Australian settlers. For an old settlement the farm it is remarkably accessible with well graded paths allowing wheelchair access to all but one of the historic buildings, the cellar. Visitors Centre There are two designated disabled car parks directly in front of the entrance to the visitors centre. They are designated by signs only but are next to the flag pole. The entrance also serves as a loading space between the two bays for added room or side ramped vans. The path to the visitors centre is flat and wide of a hard packed gravel surface. The visitors centre contains a gift shop, information display, accessible toilet facilities and a licensed cafe with views over Western Port Bay. Click on an image for a larger view or view our full photo gallery Path to the Homestead On leaving the visitors centre there are two paths. The one straight ahead is marked with the disabled symbol and leads directly to the homestead's front garden. The one to the right gives access to the lawn area but ends in a steep sandy climb to the farms outbuildings. The Homestead The path from the Visitor Centre centre enters the old garden of the homestead. The path is circular around the central garden and is accessible right around. Don't miss the historic canon. The front verandah of the house has steps, however the path on the left hand side of the house gives access to the rear verandah which is level. Exercise some caution, however as the paving has some dips. The rear door is also level and gives access to the homesteads central wide hallway. All of the rooms have been restored to the period furnishing and are all fully visible from the central hallway. Barriers prevent entry into the rooms. Rogers Cottage John Rogers arrived in Sydney from Cornwell England in 1838 and after trying his hand during the Gold Rush returned to the Western Port region. He became the legal owner of Churchill Island in 1866 and built this little cottage. He lived here with his wife Sarah and their three children two of whom were born here. The simplicity of this cottage reflects the hardship of the times. The back door to this cottage is wide and has a flat entrance. There is plenty of room inside to explore from a wheelchair. The Workshops, Outbuildings and Animals Like all early pioneering farms they had to be self sufficient. See the machine workshops, blacksmith, horse working yards and sheep shearing. Displays rotate around the farm from 2:00 pm onwards. The area between these displays is level and smooth gravel pathways giving access to all display areas. Phillip Island is a 90 minute drive from the centre of Melbourne via the Monash Freeway and the South Gippsland Highway. Once on the Island the Churchill Island Heritage Farm is clearly sign posted. For further details see their web site Map courtesy Phillip Island Nature Parks

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Home Living Jewish Travel Record numbers of tourists visit Israel in 2012 Living JewishTravelUncategorized Record numbers of tourists visit Israel in 2012 By Steve Walz - October 29, 2012 258 0 SHARE Despite dire warnings of imminent conflict between Israel and Iran, foreign tourists ignored the spectre of nuclear Armageddon and flocked to the Holy Land in record numbers in 2012. According to Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, the Jewish calendar year 5772 was the “best tourism year ever,” with more than 3.5 million visitors spending at least one day in the Holy Land. Within the context of the secular calendar year, from January 2012 until the end of September, a new record of 2.6 million visitor arrivals was registered, seven per cent more than the same period last year and six per cent more than the previous record in 2010. Of these arrivals, 2.2 million were tourists, four per cent more than the same period last year, and 444,000 were one-day visitors, 27 per cent more than last year. The Ministry of Tourism anticipates that the total number of visitors to Israel by the end of December will mimic the Jewish calendar year’s record-setting statistics. The impressive numbers caught the ministry and hotel industry executives by surprise. “At the end of the day, the statistics are surprising, because the original tourism industry forecast for 2012 was that incoming tourism would decline due to the repercussions of the Arab Spring in the region, as well as the Iranian threat,” said Uri Steinberg, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Tourism’s marketing department. “What we discovered was that the lure of foreign tourism to Israel was much more resilient than we thought. Can you imagine what the numbers would have been had there been no ripple effects in the region from the Arab Spring?” A Ministry of Tourism survey of incoming tourists conducted last year found that there was a substantial increase in the numbers North American Jewish tourists who visited Israel, Steinberg added. “The increasing trend of North American Jews visiting Israel is influenced by friends and neighbours and not by the mass media, which has not painted a positive picture of the situation in and around Israel.” In the coming months, in order to take advantage of the word-of-mouth positive experiences, the ministry will launch a marketing campaign based on the concept of ‘friends inviting friends’ to visit Israel. “We are taking nothing for granted,” Steinberg said. Israeli hotel executives and Steinberg are cautiously optimistic that the success of 2012 will carry into 2013. Based on a random survey of some of the top hotels in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, bookings for the forthcoming fall and winter tourism seasons remain strong. Tel Aviv, which has a pulsating round-the-clock Mediterranean lifestyle, has resonated with Hollywood celebrities, such as Emmy Award-winning actor Claire “Homeland” Danes, who recently posed for a fashion photo shoot in Tel Aviv for the New York Times’ fashion magazine. She told late-night TV talk-show host Conan O’Brian that Tel Aviv was one of the most “intense” party towns she had ever visited. The Port of Tel Aviv is renowned for its trendy bars and dance clubs. “As Tel Aviv is also considered the commercial centre of Israel, there is still a very strong market for business travellers from North America and the U.K., even during the winter months, with many conventions, corporate meetings, etc.,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, general manager of the five-star Sheraton Tel Aviv Hotel. “There are also many tourists who come from the U.K. to Tel Aviv for long weekends during the winter in order to escape from the cold weather back home, so they can enjoy the sea and sun in Tel Aviv. For them, 70 degrees in January is considered warm!” In Jerusalem, Alex Herman, the vice-president of sales and marketing at the Inbal Jerusalem Hotel, which was recently tabbed by the globe-trotting readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine, as being one of the top five hotels in the Middle East, said that the City of Gold’s crisp, fresh air and lack of crowds makes it a great locale for a winter getaway. “During the fall and winter months, the hotel features conventions, organizational gatherings [such as the recent Hadassah Centennial mission], not to mention the Jewish and Christian holiday seasons, as well as winter vacationers who come from the U.S.A. and Canada to visit their kids in the local yeshivas and seminaries,” said Herman. “The hotel features winter-themed attractions, which could include special treatments in our spa, new culinary offerings in our restaurant or local tours of the city that revolve around a holiday theme.” Several Israeli hotel chains also offer a variety of deals in the Dead Sea region, where large numbers of European, Russian and North American tourists seek to escape from the chilly weather back home in order to bathe in the warm, healing waters of the Dead Sea. Following is an abridged list of winter deals offered by some of Israel’s finest hotels: • Inbal Jerusalem Hotel (www.inbalhotel.com): The hotel is continuing its free rental-car program. The Hertz promotion features a free car for guests who stay three consecutive nights (terms and conditions apply). There are also advance purchase (booking) rates available during various periods, when tourists receive up to a 20 per cent discount on rates – full prepayment required and non-cancellable. The hotel features a heated indoor pool and a state-of-the-art health club. During the fall and winter months, the hotel’s award-winning chef, Moti Buchbut, preps a series of new culinary experiences in the Sofia Restaurant. • Dan Hotels (www.danhotels.com): Dan Tel Aviv is offering a special seven-nights rate from the first night of booking. The deal runs from Nov. 15 to Jan. 7, 2013. It is valid for the following room categories: standard, deluxe, deluxe, with use of King David Crown Lounge; Executive Sea View Rooms. Dan Panorama Tel Aviv has a promotion from Nov. 25 to Feb. 28, (excluding Dec. 23 to Jan. 1) with special rates for guests staying a minimum of two nights. Dan Panorama Jerusalem and Dan Boutique are offering special rates from Nov. 15 to 24. The Dan Jerusalem recently opened a renovated fifth floor, adding another 46 rooms to the 31 rooms, which were also renovated on the sixth floor. • Sheraton Tel Aviv Hotel (www.sheratontelaviv.com): The hotel is offering a “Winter Pamper” package from Nov. 16 to March 2, 2013. The deal is based on a minimum four consecutive night stay in a Deluxe Room. The package features a daily buffet breakfast and a 50-minute massage per person, per stay. Rates: single $300 (all figures in Cdn dollars); double $320; supplement for Club Room, $45; supplement for Tower Room, $90 The hotel also features one of the best kosher restaurants in Tel Aviv. The Olive Leaf offers a French Mediterranean menu prepared by renowned chef Charlie Fadida. • Rimonim Hotels (www.rimonim.com): This growing hotel chain is offering a “Discover & Drive” package. Tourists can combine their stay at any of the participating Rimonim hotels with a Hertz rental car. A group “E” vehicle for the duration of the vacation is available at a variety of Hertz locations, allowing you to explore Israel from north to south, including the Dead Sea, Ramon Crater and Eilat regions. Tourists are encouraged to include their preferred car pickup location in their reservation remarks. Tourists who book this package are also entitled to free parking at a Rimonim Hotel (except Rimonim Optima in Ramat Gan). • Isrotel (www.isrotel.com): The chain recently reintroduced its newly renovated Isrotel Ganim Hotel. Located on the shores of the Dead Sea and only a 90-minute drive from Jerusalem, the Ganim is the only hotel that features two indoor Dead Sea-water pools. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massage, mud treatments, shiatsu, reflexology and cosmetic, as well as a hotel salon. Reservations are being taken for the hotel chain’s newest “jewel in the crown”– the Royal Beach Tel Aviv. In May 2013, the Royal Beach Tel Aviv will be integrated into Isrotel’s exclusive collection of five-star luxury-class hotels, which includes the renowned Royal Beach Eilat and the Beresheet and Carmel Forest hotels. The 230-room facility is located opposite Tel Aviv’s beach-front promenade, with each impeccably designed room overlooking the Mediterranean and urban landscape of Tel Aviv. tweet Steve Walz RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR For tourism in terror-stricken times, Israel projects normalcy There are no faint hearts in Fort Worth, Texas Don’t let Palestinian terrorism scare you away from Israel Popular Recent Subscribe to the CJNSubscribe RSS FeedView

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HomeLeisure & OutdoorsUK / Ireland GuideHotel NationalHotels in Cardiff in general Hotels in Cardiff in general a guide to some of the best hotels in Cardiff As recently as ten years ago few people would have chosen to come to Cardiff for a short break or a business event, but two major developments have changed that. Firstly the old Cardiff docklands were transformed into the smart, Cardiff Bay, complete with a large freshwater lake, restaurants and visitor attractions; and secondly, the Millennium Stadium was built to host the Rugby World Cup in 1999.ALong with these developments came dozens of hotels, including Wales' first 5 star hotel - the St. David's hotel and spa in Cardiff Bay. Now the choice of accomodation is fantastic. Here's a guide to a few of the best places to stay.Park Plaza Greyfriars Road, Cardiff, www.parkplaza.com This four star 129 room hotel is just minutes away from Cardiff’s cultural highlights and within a stones throw of the city’s main shopping area. With original Welsh art in each room and leisure facilities that include a 20m pool, this is a hotel that aims to please the eye as well as weary feet. (rooms around £70 per night)The St. David's Hotel and Spa Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay +44 (0)2920 454045, www.thestdavidshotel.com Cardiff’s original five star hotel offers 132 rooms all overlooking either Cardiff Bay or the inner harbour and the waterfront. Guests can also enjoy alfresco dining in the summer at Tides restaurant as well as the luxury spa facilities. Prices range from £165 to around £600 for a residential spa break.Jolyons 5 Bute Crescent, Cardiff Bay, +44 (0) 2920 488775 www.jolyons.co.uk Commanding stunning views of the new Wales Millennium Stadium, the city’s first boutique hotel offers six glamorous rooms, decorated with an eclectic blend of furniture and style. Nestling just below is Bar Cwtch, a cosy wine bar that also serves traditional Welsh breakfasts and lunches. Rooms start from £75 for a single up to £125 for the suite.Saco Apartments, Cathedral Road, 0845 122 04 05 www.sacoapartments.co.ukOffering an alternative to standard hotel rooms, these five star graded one and two bedroom apartments overlook Sophia Gardens and Glamorgan County Cricket Ground, and are just a few minutes away from the city centre. The apartments feature a large living/dining area, fully equipped kitchen including dishwasher, master bedroom with king size beds and separate bathroom. High speed internet access and free parking is also available. (rooms availale for around £80 per night)The Royal Hotel, St. Mary Street The four star Royal Hotel, which is famed for hosting a farewell dinner for Captain Scott before he set sail on his ill-fated expedition to the Antarctic in 1910, reopened in 2005 after extensive refurbishment. All 64 contemporary bedrooms feature either LCD or plasma screen televisions, DVD’s and CD players, award-winning hypnos beds, and 100% Egyptian percale cotton bed-linen. (Rooms start around £65 per night)NosDa Backpackers, Riverside, www.nosda.co.ukThe Cardiff Backpackers has always been popular with those on a budget, and now the team behind the hostel have opened another venue, directly opposite the Millennium Stadium. Nosda (which means good evening in Welsh) offers a mix of dorms and private rooms, most with en-suite bathrooms, but still with budget travellers in mind. Below the rooms is Tafarn, a Welsh cantina offering all kinds of locally produced and well priced food, and in the basement is Tafod, the underground sound lounge which hosts regular live music nights. (rooms start around £23 per person per night).There are plenty of other hotels in and around Cardiff of course, and most are just a short walk from the attractions, shops and restaurants. The web site www.visitcardiff.com lets you see what's available and book online. It's important to be aware of events taking place at the Millennium Stadium, however. On event weekends the hotels tend to bump up their prices, rooms have to be booked for a minimum of 2 nights and they get booked up months in advance of major events.Book a trip during the week, however, and you're likely to be able to get a great deal. Hotels like the Vale Hotel often offer spa and golf packages at great prices for instance. Comments Angel Hotel (Cardiff) Hilton (Cardiff) The West House Country Hotel (Cardiff) Cardiff Marriot Hotel (Cardiff)

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Valley of Fire brings the drama. Valley of Fire State Park is one of the places Southern Nevadans are most proud of - it's as spectacular during the day as the Strip is at night. more...Whether you've been there or not, you've likely seen it dozens of times. Its vivid red formations have proven irresistible for photographers and movie directors alike; a scene-stealing backdrop for countless films and TV commercials. Valley of Fire's spectacular red rocks have even doubled for Mars in numerous sci-fi flicks.The movies first came to Valley of Fire in 1966, when Burt Lancaster and Lee Marvin rolled in to shoot The Professionals. In the mid-'90s, it was here that Star Trek's Captain Kirk fell to his death, with Lake Mead clearly visible in the background.More recently, Michael Bay's Transformers filmed a scene where the autobots are driving along the valley with other military vehicles during sunset. And even the video game "Need for Speed: The Run," features a pivotal scene shot here.Valley of Fire State Park is the oldest state park in Nevada and was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1968. It derives its name from red sandstone formations, formed from great, shifting sand dunes during the age of dinosaurs, 150 million years ago. These bright, red features were often said to appear almost "on fire," especially at sunrise or sunset.As far as tours, Valley of Fire adventures run the gamut: You can hike, ride the bus or even see much of its beauty from your car. So whether you're driving or hiking, Valley of Fire knows how to bring the drama. Keyword

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Washford Washford Postcode for Sat Nav: TA23 0PP The station is now home to the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust who have set up a museum and workshop on the site of the old Goods shed and yard demolished by British Railways in the 1960s. The museum contains some wonderful artifacts of the S&DJR and is well worth a visit. The Museum The Somerset and Dorset Railway Trusts museum at Washford contains relics from the former Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway which ran from Bath to Bournemouth with branchlines to Highbridge, Burnham on Sea, Wells and Bridgwater. All finally closing in 1966. Please note that the museum is not open every day. Please click here for opening dates. A Railway Remembered Explore the mass of exhibits, ponder on the old station names and soak up the evocative atmosphere. Relics to be seen are station nameboards, lamps, tools, signalling equipment, tickets, photographs, handbills, rolling stock and steam locomotives. Step back in time as you operate the levers in the reconstructed Midford Signal Box Museum Admission Prices Adults £2.00 Child £1.00 Family £5.00 Members Free Washford Station has toilet facilities and is accessible to disabled passengers but does not have a disabled toilet. Tickets are not sold at this station and passengers are asked to purchase their tickets on the trains from the Guard or ticket inspector. Cleeve Abbey Special Offer to WSR Ticket Holders: A few minutes walk from the station brings you to Cleeve Abbey, a beautiful Cisterian Abbey, in the care of English Heritage and open from 29 March - 3 Nov, daily. Cleeve Abbey offers a 20% reduction on admission charges to those visitors who can show a same day dated WSR ticket on entry. [The offer is available between 29 March - 3 Nov, 7 days a week. Closing times may vary - visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/cleeve for details. The Abbey offers families a great chance to explore the history of the monks who lived at the Abbey with a fun story pack as well as providing visitors with the opportunity to wander around the grounds and Abbey buildings which remain at this peaceful site. Although the main abbey church is no more, the remaining outbuildings give a fascinating insight into monastic life. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing and encourages visitors to linger. Further on from the abbey is Torre cider farm where you can learn how Somerset cider is made and even sample some of the produce. There are also several pubs including the Washford Inn at the end of the Station ramp and The White Horse, near the abbey, which serve food. History of Washford Station Washford Station is the first station on the �extension� from Watchet to Minehead and is different in style from the buildings of the earlier line. The station opened in 1874 and unlike some of the other stations on the line is in the village it serves. The Station is painted in Southern Region colours setting it apart from the other stations, painted in the colours of the Great Western Railway and its successor the Western Region of British Railways. The small wooden building next to the main building is the original signalbox which contains a set of levers. Although the �Midford� exhibit has been designed to represent an ex-S&DJR location, the lever-frame is in fact a part of one from the former signal-box at Woolston (near Southampton). Find out more about the Somerset and Dorset Trust Find out more about English Heritage's Cleeve Abbey.

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Welcome to the Yellowstone Historic Center 104 Yellowstone Ave - West Yellowstone, Montana 59758 Discover the fascinating history of travel to our nation's – and the world's – first National Park, whether you are a regular or first-time visitor to the Yellowstone area. Take a glimpse into our extensive collection of artifacts and documents relating to this history of travel and of West Yellowstone, the town established in 1908 for the sole purpose of serving visitors to the amazing place known as "Wonderland." Come see our Museum in the historic Union Pacific Depot and enjoy our exhibits, which tell many stories of how people have journeyed to and through the region since the founding of Yellowstone National Park in 1872. The Museum features stagecoaches, trains, buses, planes, and snow machines that have transported tourists from around the world. While you are here, explore the 10-acre Oregon Short Line Historic District surrounding the Depot, which includes other Union Pacific Railroad facilities built to serve park visitors. Preserving and restoring these structures is part of our vision for the future. Experience the wonders of travel to Yellowstone through the eyes of the Yellowstone Historic Center. We're glad you're here! Enter the 2015 Raffle! Win a two night stay at the 320 Ranch in Big Sky. Click here for details and an order form for tickets. Drawing will be held on Dec. 18, 2015. Gicleé Reproductions of Gary Carter's Painting Available The YHC is offering high-quality reproductions of Gary Carter's painting "West Yellowstone 1916" which hangs in our Museum. Click here for more information about this opportunity to purchase one of these prints. Click here for an order form. Web Design by Net Wave | Copyright © Yellowstone Historic Center | YHC Policies & Terms of Use

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If you're in the mood for a little exercise, walk or ride your bike across this famous bridge for some of the best views of the city. User Rating: Off South Street Viaduct Park Row, near Municipal Building 212 484 1200 (Tourist information) Opened in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States. It stretches 5,989 feet (1825 meters) across the East River and connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. At the time of its construction, it was the largest suspension bridge in the world and the first steel-wire suspension bridge. The bridge was designed by the New Jersey architect John Augustus Roebling, who died before construction began after he contracted tetanus from a wound sustained in a ferry accident during surveys for the bridge project. Built from limestone, granite, and cement, the Brooklyn Bridge is an example of Gothic-style architecture, with its characteristic pointed arches topping twin passageways through huge stone towers. Because Roebling designed a bridge and truss system six times stronger than he thought it needed to be, the Brooklyn Bridge is still standing, while many other bridges built around the same time have had to be replaced. In the past, the inside lanes of traffic on the bridge carried the elevated trains of the Brooklyn-Manhattan Transport (BMT) Corporation from stations in Brooklyn to a terminal at Manhattan's Park Row. Streetcars shared the other lanes with other traffic until the elevated trains stopped using the bridge in 1944 and the streetcars moved to the center lanes. Six years later, the streetcars also stopped running, and the bridge was rebuilt to its present configuration, with six lanes of automobile traffic. A separate walkway runs along the centerline for pedestrians and bicyclists, and boasts some of the best views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines.

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Istanbul Attractions Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) One of the greatest Byzantine buildings in the world, Hagia Sophia is famous for its impressive size, remarkable architecture and beautiful mosaics and frescoes. The massive ochre-coloured domed structure is one of Istanbul’s most popular attractions. It was commissioned as a cathedral in the 6th century and remained the most important church in Christianity for over 900 years. In the 15th century Mehmet II conquered the city and converted it into a mosque, adding the minarets and fountains. It functioned as such for the next 481 years until the founding of the secular Turkish Republic in 1934 when it was declared a museum. The interior has elements from its time as a cathedral and then as a mosque, including incredible Byzantine mosaics, icons and marble columns, a mihrab (niche indicating the direction of Mecca), and Islamic calligraphy inscriptions on the dome from the Ottoman period. Address: Sultanahmet Square Telephone: (212) 518 1802 Transport: Sultanahmet tram stop Opening time: Open daily except Mondays from 9.30am to 4.30pm Admission: 15 YTL Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) The Blue Mosque, with its six graceful minarets and tiers of magnificent domes, is one of the most striking and immediately distinguishable buildings on the Istanbul skyline. Constructed as an Islamic rival to the Hagia Sophia in 1609, it is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture and is still used by hundreds of worsh ippers. The interior is splendidly decorated with thousands of blue and white Iznik tiles embellished with traditional Ottoman flower patterns, and it is this special feature that gives the mosque its name. Its design of successively descending smaller domes, soaring columns and 260 stained glass windows leaves a lasting impression of graceful accord and open space. At the back of the mosque is a Carpet and Kilim Museum exhibiting antiques from all over Turkey. Address: Hippodrome, Sultanahmet Telephone: (212) 518 1319 or (212) 518 1330 (for museum information) Opening time: Open daily, access restricted during prayer times, especially at midday on Fridays. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday between 9am and 4pm Admission: There is no charge for visiting the mosque, but the museum has a small entrance fee Topkapi Palace Museum The Topkapi Sarayi, built by Mehmet the Conqueror as a Sultan's Palace, consists of a sprawling collection of buildings arranged aroun d several interconnecting courtyards. Magnificently situated on one of the seven hills of Istanbul with uninterrupted views over the Bosphorus River and the Golden Horn, it was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for almost four centuries. Home to nearly 3,000 people, it served as royal residence, harem, state administration and military barracks. One of the most popular sections is the harem, once the quarters of about 300 women who were the sultans' wives and concubines, and their children. Visitors can view the apartments, halls and terraces of the harem, and see the lavish royal bedchamber and Imperial Hall, as well as some of the greatest examples of Iznik tile work in Turkey. No expense was spared in decorating the palace and exquisitely designed rooms, intricately detailed fountains and gateways, and the splendid Treasury, housing one of the greatest collections of treasure in the world, afford insight into the opulent lifestyle of the sultans of the Ottoman Empire. Address: Topkapi Sarayi, Sultanahmet Opening time: Open daily except Tuesdays from 9am to 5pm Admission: 20 YTL. A separate ticket is required for the harem

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Regions in India Andhra Pradesh lies in the southeastern region of India, with the Bay of Bengal on the east and shares boundaries with Orissa on the north, Tamilnadu on the south and Karnataka on the west. Weather is extremely... read more Goa, a state in India's West region, is a former Portuguese colony with rich history. It is 3,700 square km in size with a population of approximately 1.4 million. Goa has a unique mix of native and Portuguese... read more Haryana is a Hindu-dominated state that split off from largely Sikh Punjab in 1966. It surrounds Delhi on three sides and is dominated by its suburban and commercial sprawl. The remainder of the state is largely... read more British India's princely state of Jammu and Kashmir is now divided between India and Pakistan. India claims the entire area of the former state, whereas Pakistan regards the same area as "territory in dispute"... read more Karnataka is a state in Southern India. Kannada is the official language of the state and the mother tongue of around 70% of the population. Other linguistic minorities include Urdu (9.72%), Telugu (8.34%),... read more Kerala, a state in Southern India is known as a tropical paradise of waving palms and wide sandy beaches. It is a narrow strip of coastal territory that slopes down the Western Ghats in a cascade of lush green... read more Madhya Pradesh is a state in the plains of India. The name "Madhya Pradesh" means "central region," and derives from its geographical position. It is one of the few states of India that is completely surrounded... read more Located in the West region, Maharashtra is the third largest state of India by size and the second largest by population. It stretches from the west coast to the interior regions and its climate varies with... read more Orissa borders on the Bay of Bengal. The eastern part, which is closer to the sea, is more prosperous with a lot of tourist locations and religious sanctuaries, while the western part is a hilly and forested... read more Punjab is a state in the northwestern part of India. Chandigarh is the capital city of Punjab. It serves not only as the capital of Punjab, but also the mainly Hindi speaking state of Haryana, which was formerly... read more Rajasthan is a state in northwestern India. It is mainly arid and its western border is adjacent to Pakistan. The main attraction for travelers is the vast Desert of Thar and one of the oldest mountain ranges... read more Sikkim is an East Indian state bordering Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan in the Himalayan foothills. The name has been coined from the words 'Su','Him', or,"beautiful home." The snow covered mountains & lush green... read more Tamil Nadu, the land of Tamils, is a state in Southern India known for its temples, architecture, food, movies, classical Indian dance and Carnatic music. The language spoken in Tamil Nadu is predominantly... read more The Capital Region Delhi is northern India's largest city. One part of it, known as New Delhi, is officially designated the capital of India, but the names are often used interchangeably. Like the rest of the Gangetic Plains,... read more Uttar Pradesh is a state in the Plains region of India. In 6 BC, Uttar Pradesh was associated with two new religions: Jainism and Buddhism. It was at Sarnath that Buddha preached his first sermon and laid the... read more West Bengal was born with the partition and independence of India, with millions of refugees pouring into the state. It has since seen a lot of turbulence. Rich in culture and literature, immensely proud of... read more

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Royal Leamington Spa, or commonly just referred to as Leamington is a spa town in England. The town was granted the “royal” prefix in 1838 by Queen Victoria after she visited the town. It is most famous for its “waters”, which were believed to be medicinal. This theory was popularized in the 18th century by Dr. Kerr and Dr. Lambe. The water comes mainly from River Leam which flows right through the town. It was believed that the water could cure various illnesses although this theory was later discredited. The town depends primarily on tourism for its income and it’s thus the leading industry. This could only be possible if there were attractions to the town, of which there are many. The Royal Pump Rooms and Baths This is perhaps the most significant among Leamington attractions, first because of its history and the famed healing properties of the water. Opened in 1814, it attracted people from all over the world, especially the wealthy and famous, who expected cures by bathing in the pools. This led to the initial growth of the town since there begun construction of townhouses around the town to house the many visitors to the town. It is also famous for having the first gravity fed piped hot water system in the world, a huge discovery at the time. The function of the Royal Pump Rooms and Baths has changed over time although its significance as one of the leading Leamington attractions has not. It was extended to include a Turkish bath, which is just basically a giant Jacuzzi, and a swimming pool in 1863. Then it was opened to the public in 1875, unlike being just for a select few. Over time, though, the popularity if the Baths declined, I suppose maybe people figured it wasn’t all it was hyped up to be. It was then reopened in 1999 after renovations by the district council as a cultural center. It now has the Leamington Spa Art Gallery and Museum among other facilities such as a library, café and assembly rooms. Curiosity about the Baths has however kept people worldwide fascinated and it is still a major tourist attraction. Plus, spa waters can still be sampled outside the building, for those seeking cures. For a town with a population of about 50,000, there’s bound to be a lot of space. And it’s been allocated to well-maintained gardens and parks. There’s the Jephson Gardens, located close to the royal pump rooms. Leamington is prone to flooding due to the river Leam and Jephson Gardens was destroyed in 1998 during one of the worst floods. It was, however, restored and improved by the district council and is now a very elegant space, with serene environment and proper lawns. It’s a great place to walk around and relax. The Victoria Park is another popular Leamington attraction. This is another proper garden which was dedicated to the Queen Victoria on her visit. It has a different feel to it compared to Jephson Gardens, with fewer trees it gives a sense of freedom to relax and maybe have a picnic. Victoria Park has always been the host of the England Bowls National Championships. Another great Leamington attraction is the Ufton Fields Nature Reserve. This is for those who love the outdoors and would love some shade. It has a wide variety of tree species, too, if you like that kind of stuff. The elephant walk is located on the other side of the River Leam and was used in the 19th century as a slippage to the river. It was used to water circus elephants in winter quarters. Quarry Park Disc Golf offers a golf course as well as great views. Rivaled by Newbold Comyn, another golf course. Other parks are the Mill Gardens and the Dell. There are many landmark buildings that add to the Leamington attractions, most famous is the All Saints Church. Designed in the 18th century in classic Gothic design, it is a magnificent structure that really catches the eye. There are other churches too, the United Reformed church, catholic, but still a great sight. There’s also a small mosque that has that unique Muslim architecture, and a Hindu temple, Gurdwara Sahib Leamington and Warwick, which is located in Warwick but also serves Leamington. Both are very attractive structures that are a great attraction to tourists. The town hall is also a significant feature to the landscape, but the statue of Queen Victoria is the main attraction to the square. It was almost destroyed during World War II by a German bomb but survived. It was only moved by an inch from its plinth and was never returned to its original position. As a reminder of the incident, it is recorded on a plaque on its plinth. The Lansdowne Crescent is also a significant landmark, although it attracts music lovers mostly because famous guitarist Jimi Hendrix died in a hotel room there in 1970. Althorpe Studios & Gallery is another Leamington attraction. It consists of artists’ studios and exhibition rooms where numerous art galleries are held. You will definitely love the large variety of paintings and sculptures you can find here. Besides the Queen Victoria statue, there are several other important monuments. Like the oak tree just to the northeast of the town centre. It commemorates the Midland Oak, a tree that grew near the spot and is reputed as being at the centre of England. There is an annual festival held in the Pump Room Gardens called the Peace Festival which is a celebration of alternative culture. It has become a massive Leamington attraction because it attracts visitors from all over the world. Classical music concerts are also organized throughout the year in the Leamington and Warwick area, including the International String Quartet series at the Royal Pump Rooms. This is a huge attraction for classical music lovers. There are also sports events hosted in Leamington, but mainly tennis because Leamington is closely associated with the founding of lawn tennis. The first tennis club was formed in Leamington and the general rules of tennis were formulated there. The local football club Leamington F. C. also has a stadium there and it is great for visitors to come and watch the football matches there. Being a historic town, Leamington has got a great deal of attractions. For historians, it offers glimpses into the past since most structures have been well preserved. It is also an important town to England because it was among the early cities. Currently, there has been urbanization, with more modern complexes built up, but still the landscape remains largely as it was in the past. This is a town that has clearly tried to maintain its history, and I think that in itself is an attractive quality. Weather Leamington Resources Local news with Leamington Observer Local news with Leamington Courier BBC Website for Coventry and Warwickshire Classifieds Classifieds

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Home » Your Visit » Stations » Crowcombe Heathfield Crowcombe Heathfield Postcode for Sat Nav: TA4 4PA Crowcombe Heathfield Station was built in 1862 when the line was opened and stands at the highest point on the line, just under 400ft. above the sea. The station is surrounded by lovely scenic countryside and a network of lanes, bridle ways and footpaths offering walking, cycling and horse riding. A leaflet (obtained from the stations) prepared jointly between Crowcombe Heathfield and Stogumber Stations shows the lanes and footpath routes in the area and there is a web site www.fochs.org.uk which is well worth a visit. The visual charm of the station and surroundings has caught the eye of several TV and film directors leading to scenes being shot at the station for "The Flockton Flyer", The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe", "Land Girls", and The Beatles film "A Hard Days Night". The station has a booking office and prices from this Station can be found on our Fares Pages. There is also a small shop and toilet facilities as well as a disabled persons accessable toilet on the station. During operating days the station is open for hot and cold drinks, cakes and famous "Bread Pudding" and you can be assured a warm welcome awaits you. On Gala days this is widened to include hot savoury snacks, soups and a coal fire to welcome you during the cold weather! Why not do the 'One Mile Walk'? Enjoy a very gentle and easy 1 mile circular walk from the station in either direction. The walk gives some lovely views of the line, �The Avenue� with its beech trees and crossed two railway bridges. The station is the ideal start/end point for a walk on the Quantock Hills or a cycle ride round Somerset�s country lanes. History of Crowcombe Heathfield Station The first sod on the original West Somerset Railway was lifted as part of the cutting at the tranquil wayside station which is a perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by, or for the more energetic to start or conclude a walk in the Quantock Hills. The station is not close to any major settlement and this has made it popular with film crews in the past. Sequences that feature Crowcombe Heathfield include Ringo Starr riding a bicycle down the platform in A Hard Days Night and in the opening sequence of Land Girls. The main station building dates from the 1860s whilst the wooden building on the opposite platform is a replacement for an earlier structure demolished by British Railways. Similarly the signal box dates from the preservation era. Its brick built base was built new by the West Somerset Railway whilst the wooden top comes from Ebbw Vale in South Wales. Please visit the Crowcombe Heathfield Station Website.

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saxo-oxford39sopening0-01102010 10 Below, the restaurant and bar at the hotel, is located below ground level and seats about 75. Click here for image slideshow saxo-oxford39sopening1-01102010 The lobby at The Oxford Hotel, which features concierge check-in, mixes metal art fixtures, such as the tree stump table in the seating area at right, with dark wood tones. A glass-walled workout room on the hotel’s top floor also includes a Jacuzzi spa, sauna and steam room. One-bedroom suites include kitchens with built-in stove tops, dishwashers and refrigerators. The Oxford features rooms with an average size of 550 square feet. A standard room (pictured) comes with a soaking tub and separate shower. Click here for image slideshow Oxford's opening After almost three years and about $12 million, the 59-room downtown hotel is set to open soon By Tim Doran (@TimDoraninBend) and Dean Guernsey Published Jan 10, 2010 at 04:00AM The lobby of The Oxford Hotel in downtown Bend lacks the chest-high counters found at most hotel front desks. Instead, guests checking in sit in cushioned chairs at regular-sized desks, almost like the loan or new account desks found in many banks. Concierge check-in, valet parking and other detailed services will be the elements that management says will set The Oxford Hotel apart from others in Bend. The Oxford, which is expected to open to the public within days, aspires to become the only four-diamond hotel in Bend and only the second in Central Oregon, after Sunriver Resort. And the attention paid to environmental impacts could help it earn a green-building certification through the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design system. Located at 10 N.W. Minnesota Ave., The Oxford Hotel becomes the 17th and highest-end hotel for the Bend-based Baney Corp. Construction on the hotel, which was projected to cost around $12 million, began in April 2007, according to The Bulletin's archives, with the company's construction crane becoming a fixture in the downtown skyline. It has 59 guest rooms, 2,000 square feet of high-tech conference space, a seventh floor, a glass-walled workout room and a restaurant and bar called 10 Below. Located below ground level and named after the street address, 10 Below has seating for about 75, said Ben Perle, general manager. Lighting in the restaurant area comes from fixtures that look like deer antlers — made of a white ceramic or porcelain material. Even the restrooms outside the restaurant have attracted attention. Both the men's and women's restrooms have one-piece horizontal concrete slab sinks, gray for the men and white for women. Water in the men's room sink flows into a drain made to look like a large crack in the concrete. Each of the stalls in the women's room has a chandelier, and a mirror on the wall. The 59 guest rooms, which average 550 square feet, have soaking tubs and separate showers. Instead of prepackaged pouches of coffee, The Oxford will offer containers of fresh ground coffee from Bellatazza, and a French press, along with the coffee maker. The larger suites, which approach 800 square feet, contain full kitchens with built-in stoves, dishwashers, concrete countertops and refrigerators. Perle said The Oxford plans to offer a pillow bar, giving guests a choice of pillows, such as feather or one that conforms to the head and neck. Pull-out sofas come with Tempur-Pedic mattresses, he said, and the bedding is 100 percent organic, made in part from recycled plastic or with ingredients like bamboo. Rates range from $129 to $329 a night, depending on availability and season. The Oxford Hotel was designed and constructed with energy- and resource-saving features. Bathrooms have dual-flush toilets, which Perle said are common in Europe and provide two different flushes, depending on the need. “That will save tens of thousands of gallons of water,” he said. The hotel uses electrolyzed water — basically saltwater charged with electricity — as a sanitizer, degreaser and cleaner. “It has replaced 98 percent of our cleaning products,” Perle said. Because it lacks the chemicals most commercially produced cleaning solutions contain, the electrolyzed water is healthier for employees and guests. It is produced on site, so it saves shipping costs, eliminates pollution that would be produced by trucks delivering commercial cleaners, and means no empty cleaning containers end up in landfills. With its mixture of metal sculptures and solid wood, The Oxford Hotel brings a cosmopolitan feel found in Europe or large cities like San Francisco, Perle said, along with Western touches throughout to reflect Central Oregon and the High Desert. A conversation area in the lobby contains a tree-stump table — one cast in a metal with an almost chromelike shine. In the executive board room just off the lobby, rough-hewn juniper logs with some bark still visible line the entire rear wall — log cabin style. The Oxford Hotel also pays homage to Bend's history with key cards that carry historical images of the city, such as the Pilot Butte Inn, a picture of downtown with dirt roads and the Bend Fire Station — many years before it became Staccato at the Firehall. About the hotel • Seven floors. • 59 guest rooms averaging 550 square feet in size. • Restaurant and bar called 10 Below. • 2,000 square feet of banquet and meeting space. • Smart panels in each room with audio, video and high-definition connections that will display on the 42-inch LCD flat-screen television. • Water-saving dual-flush toilets. • Complimentary shuttle service to the airport and around Bend. 3291605

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You are here: Main Page Edinburgh City Search Results The George Edinburgh For your convenience, our prices are shown in DKK. However, please note that these hotels will charge Euro (€). 8.2/10 478 reviews The George Edinburgh 19 - 21 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PB, Scotland Award-winning luxury hotel and conference venue in the heart of historic Edinburgh. When it comes to hotels in Edinburgh, very few can compete with the style and sophistication of The George. None can compete according to the Scottish Hotel Awards 2011, which awarded The George the title of Best Hotel in Edinburgh. The George belongs to the luxurious of Edinburgh’s hotels, from its fabulous 249 rooms and ample facilities to its ideal location in the centre of the city which is designated as a ‘World Heritage site”. The hotel is within easy reach of rail and air links and it is close to the city’s business district, plus a plethora of local attractions including the famous Castle, Princess Street Gardens and Holyrood Palace. A little further a field is Edinburgh Zoo and Leith Port which is now home to the Royal Yacht Britannia. The George is also famous for food and drink and are very proud to be associated with the Tempus Bar & Restaurant, an award winner itself. Princess Street George Street

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