Wednesday, December 22, 2010

What To Expect On A Cruise On The Nile

By Rob Atherton


For a long time, cruises on the River Nile have been taking holidaymakers on a magical journey back in time along this wonderful river. A combination of exploring the wonders of age-old Egypt combined with a peaceful journey south from Luxor to Aswan is ever sought after with travellers.

A regular River Nile cruise lasts seven nights and operate Monday to Monday. Direct flights from Britain bring visitors to Luxor and then they are moved to their cruise ship to check in. The next morning, the journey into ancient Egypt begins with a have a look at to the East Bank of the Nile at Luxor such as the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.

The next morning, the sightseeing heads over to the West Bank of the Nile including the Valley of the Kings just before returning to the boat for lunch. Just after lunch, the cruise boat leaves Luxor heading south for Edfu. Immediately after an overnight mooring at Edfu, there are further trips to temples at both Edfu and Kom Ombo just before continuing to Aswan.

The following morning, its time to check out Aswan and a more advanced structure; the Aswan High Dam. Built in the 1950s, the Aswan High Dam produced Lake Nasser, itself a cruise holiday location. In the afternoon, there is time to sail on a traditional Egyptian Felucca along this very picturesque part of the river. The Cataract Hotel in Aswan overlooks the Nile and it is here that Agatha Christie authored part of her celebrated book, "Death on the Nile".

Immediately after an overnight stop in Aswan, there is free time available to explore the town or alternatively, there is an optional excursion to the superb Temple of Abu Simbel at the other end of Lake Nasser. It is a long way to Abu Simbel, either three quarters of an hour by air or three hours but it is really worth the effort.

Aswan is the turnaround point for cruises and now the cruise boat heads back north the 80 miles to Luxor. The journey lasts 2 days with an overnight stop at Edfu just before heading back to Luxor. The week sailing along the River Nile is over and holiday makers return to the airport and home.




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Cigars Although A Detriment To One's Health Continue To Be Popular

By Edward Alexander


Ever since Christopher Columbus sailed to the New World, cigars have been a part of modern-day culture. Early sailors brought tobacco to Europe from the islands off Central and South America, where they found natives smoking it. Tobacco became an addiction then and remains one today.

Tobacco is mostly grown in Central America and the final products are made there and in the United States and areas of Europe and Indonesia as well. There are two major cigar manufacturers in the world, but many smaller companies, many which have belonged within one family for generations. Some have their own tobacco farms; others buy from a variety of farms to develop their blends.

Tobacco leaves are harvested and stored for curing in sheds on or near the fields where grown. This usually lasts between 25 and 45 days depending upon the humidity and climate as well as the type of sheds used. The leaves must dry without rotting and during this time they lose much of their sugar. After curing, fermenting begins. It is in this time when the leaves' burning ability, aroma and taste develop, all of which is of the utmost importance.

Cigars are made of three types of tobacco. It is the wrapper that has the majority of the aroma and flavor and can also reveal where the tobacco was grown. Lighter wrappers have a dryer taste and darker ones have a sweeter taste.

Most of the cigar is comprised of filler tobacco, that which is filled in the wrapper. This is where the expression of blend comes in, as different types of leaves may be combined for each unit. The binder is as the name suggests, the leaves that actually bind the filler together.

Hand-making these products is considered an art and these boutique cigars are made in several smaller factories. Upon receipt, the leaves are organized by color, size and texture and stored in temperature and humidity controlled areas. Different employees are trained for specific jobs, and while being made each unit goes through a variety of hands. The master blender chooses what type will be made and brings out enough leaves to only be used in that day's work. They are distributed to the rollers who are responsible for pressing the filler leaves to the proper shape and consistency. The leaves are pressed in a wooden mold and then wrapped with the binder leaf before given to the master roller who finishes the work. It is up to the master roller to form the finished product and wrap it. He or she must also check for any imperfections.

The demand for cigars is on the rise again. Even women smoke them, and there are specific blends and sizes designed with femininity in mind. But, it is also well-known that smoking is bad for one's health. In the U. S. Where cigarette advertising must display health warnings, cigar smoking is not required to do so by current legislation. Like cigarettes though, it is illegal for minors to purchase any tobacco item including loose tobacco for self-rolling.

While non-smoking areas continue to increase in number, cigar smoking lounges have been developed. And while they may not be the popular item handed out by dads announcing the birth of a new baby, they are sold all most anywhere from convenience stores and groceries to specialty shops. Specialty shops not only carry a wide variety of individual and boxed cigars, but also a variety of smoking paraphernalia such as holder, travel cases, cutters and humidors.




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Choosing Road Service In Winter Time For Safety

By Adriana Noton


Anyone who has ever been stuck with a flat tire knows it can be hazardous trying to change a tire. With the cold weather coming, it is wise to consider choosing road service in winter time for safety. This is a cost effective way to protect yourself and your vehicle when an unexpected mishaps arises.

Benefits When Joining Auto Clubs

Several different options are available. Before you make your final decision, determine what your needs are and what various companies offer. If you drive long distances regularly but you have a newer vehicle, you may not need the same coverage as someone with an older vehicle. If you are mechanically inclined to handle little incidents like a flat tire you might not need the extra benefits as someone who has no idea about changing a tire.

Auto club memberships are great for individuals as well as families. Even new car owners will find auto clubs helpful in the event of a tire blowout or killing the battery when the lights are left on accidentally. One call will pay for the yearly fee, when you think of the time it takes to call a family member or a friend to come and help you. Tire changing, jumping a battery, even running out of gas is no fun, especially in the cold winter months.

What Clubs Do Not Cover

There are restrictions to what roadside assistance will cover. For instance, they will not service unregistered vehicles, nor do they perform actual repairs. The driver will attempt to get your vehicle back up and running, but they are not contracted to do auto repair. If you run out of gas, you may be charged the cost of the fuel, but the delivery is covered under your membership benefits.

Where to Find the Best Auto Clubs

There are many different clubs to choose from. First you must decide what type of benefits you want. Basic plans offer minimal towing, jump starting a battery, fuel delivery, changing tires, etc. Upgrading to a higher level membership may offer more towing mileage, fuel delivery at no charge, even concierge services. In addition, most organizations offer free travel planning and hotel and travel discounts, bond vouchers, and trip interruption certificates.

How to Sign Up

Once you have found a service simply sign up and pay the yearly fee. You will be sent a card and important information via the mail. Some companies allow you to download and print a temporary card until your new one arrives. When you need assistance, you call the toll free number, state your problem and location, and a company in the area who has contracted with the auto club will be dispatched to assist you. You will need to show your card and a form of ID once they arrive. If the issue is something like a flat tire or a jumpstart the driver will get you back on the road. If the vehicle needs to be towed, they will tow it to your requested location.

Whether you have a flat tire in your driveway or a dead battery 100 miles from home, roadside assistance and towing Brampton services can help 24/7. If you have never considered signing up with an auto club, now is the time, especially with winter fast approaching.




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Advice On Choosing A Cheap Holiday Deal

By Wayne Bromiley


If you are looking out for Cheap Holidays and Cheap Holiday Deals, it pays to be savvy and shop around for what is out there. Where you are going and how many people are going can affect the price of the deal but if you are sharp you can get the best possible deal.

The first thing to check is what you get for your money. For example, you may want to get travel insurance. This is advisable especially flying with a budget air travel company. Check if you are covered by an official regulator, especially in the instance of the company going bust or any possible delays.

One thing to be careful of when you get a cheaper holiday deal is who you are flying with. Ideally your travel company should be protected by a governing body. If you are not sure, check with the company before you book. Paying with a credit card can also ensure you have some payment protection. If you do not have adequate cover you may be stranded when you arrive and may have to pay accommodation costs yourself if you have booked a package holiday.

When choosing a destination it is worth considering where you want to go. While you may be lucky and find a great deal on your dream destination, it is worth looking at places where the exchange rate is favourable. Once you have chosen where you want to go, the next thing to consider is whether you choose a package deal or to pick and choose the various elements.

As well as comparing prices, it is worth getting in contact with companies to see if you can get special deals. In tough economic times they should be keen to get the business, especially if it means depriving a rival of money. If they are not able to offer a lower price, it may be worth seeing if they can throw in an extra like free travel insurance or car hire. The worst they can do is say no, so you might as well try!

When on holiday it is important to be wary of hidden charges. When using your phone, international calls can prove very expensive. If you are accessing the internet on a smart phone that can also prove deceptively costly. Send texts instead of phone calls and keep internet use to a minimum.

Paying on a card in a restaurant on holiday is also something to be careful of. Some banks may limit the amount of countries you can use your card, so it is worth checking this before you travel. It is also worth asking whether you will be charged extra for taking out money from a foreign cash machine. When paying by card, make sure you pay using the local currency as the exchange will cost you extra money.

A good cheap deal should cover all your needs and still be an enjoyable experience. With the right information, cheap really can be cheerful!




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Furniture Removals And Transport Europe Services

By Lupita Bing


There are several furniture removals and transport Europe services. Selecting the right one will depend on a number of different factors. First you will want to consider the rates. You will obviously want to select the company with the best rate plans. But you will also want to consider the reputation of the company. They should have a good, solid business reputation with years of experience.

Removal companies are plentiful but they do not all operate with the same level of professionalism and quality of care. Try to get referrals or look up various customer reviews on several removal services. This is very important when it comes the the transport and care of you valuables. You want to make sure it is a professional operation.

After you have made an informed decision on a removal service, find out about any additional services. Make sure the service your area and will ship your removals to whatever city you choose. There rates should be within reasonable depending on the amount of your removals. Ask around and get other rates just to make sure.

The removal companies will typically have different size vans and trucks depending on the load. There transport vehicles should be clean and in excellent operating condition. The movers will securely transport your goods using all of the necessary equipment to make sure your removals arrive to their destination safely.

Most removal and transport companies can service a range of request small and large. They are able to do jobs that require the removal of a few boxes to entire house removals. It all depends on the type of service you will require. The moving vans typically hold up to 17 cubic metres of items. They usually use a man crew to transport your furniture and boxes between the UK and other European cities.

Most of the companies offer additional services such as packing your items. This will be for an additional fee. Let them know how many items you need packed and they will give you an estimate. In most cases, they will have to come out to your home to give you and adequate quote.

A professional company will provide door to door service in an expedient manner. It is important that the removal company keep you abreast of the transport of your load just so that you have a handle on your delivery. They have tracking mechanism that can keep you up to day as often as you would like.

Almost anything can be transported using these services. Items large and small can be loaded on to the vans. They will even transport vehicles such as cars, SUVs, motorized scooters and motorcycles. Whatever you need, they will be able to transport it to your desired location.

There are many good furniture removals and transport Europe. They cover all of the major cities in Europe. These companies can perform large and small removals. They can also take care of dismantling and putting back together any items of furniture.




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Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Young And Lively Holidays Hints And Ideas For Students And Other Merrymakers

By Wayne Bromiley


Young and Lively holidays are going to change the way you look at your free time. You do not have to endure boring days and nights with the family anymore, as there are great options available today. There is nothing worse than spending your holiday sitting around having nothing to do and landing up in bed at nine at night. It is time you take a stand and find your own destinations, where like-minded people can be met, where fun is the only criteria and where nightlife never ends. Finding such a place could be a bit daunting, so to help you here are three great tips:

Tip one - Use the services of an agent who specializes in holidays for young people

You will notice when speaking to a travel expert specializing in holidays for the young, that he knows exactly where the most sought after resorts, clubs and beaches are in the world. There is no reason why you should be stuck in an old-timers resort when you can party and have fun all day and all night. They will tell you about all the great locations taking into account that you need nightlife, water sports and shopping excursions. They also know where to find you the best deals and great discounts.

Tip two - The on-site staff will also give you lots of information

When you arrive at your destination, be sure to talk to the local staff about where the hot spots are. They will be more than willing to give you their advice on where the best venues are for example where the most popular clubs can be found, where is the best food is and in general, where to be seen. Some resorts have a special orientation day where you can also find out most of the important stuff that young people want to know.

Tip three - Make the most of what is on offer

You simply can't plan going to this great holiday destination and not partake in as many outings as possible. You need to get out of your room and into the sun. Make friends and plan your nighttime partying as quickly as possible. Go to the beach and be prepared to join in if someone asks you to. Think of great things to do and invite others to join you and take advantage of opportunities that present themselves such as going with a group of people to watch a well-known performer, or go out for dinner at a popular restaurant. It is up to you to have fun, because you want to take great memories back home to share with your friends and family.

In Conclusion

It does not matter what type of personality you have, whether you prefer to be a beach bum, a mountain climber, an adrenaline junkie or a party animal, you will find something that is tailor-made for you. Go hiking in the mountains with other hikers, go skiing in the Alps or learn how to wind surf or live for the next rave. The experts are sure to book you into an awesome place; all you need to do is pack and ensure your passport is valid, knowing that you are on your way to young and lively holidays that you're going to remember for many years to come.




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Pork Chop Recipes

By Nicolas Keefer


You don't have to be a qualified chef to churn out a delicious dish. Even the simplest food like a pork chop, could put on its "gourmet clothes" if you know how to prepare it.

You might discover thousands of pork recipes in as many cookbooks, but the recipe I am about to reveal is the best of the lot.

The following recipe can serve four people - cut it n half if there are only two of you unless you are really hungry

4 1-in thick pork chops two large sweet onions, thin sliced vidalia one cup heavy cream Salt & pepper

Four medium baking potatoes (If cooking is not your cup of tea then you can even obtain readymade mashed potatoes and add some butter and milk to get them up to a decent standard) milk & butter for the potatoes if you like real mashed potatoes.

Spinach, greens or green veggie of your choice.

Trim off a few slivers of fat from the chops leaving the rest on., Take a heavy skillet that's big enough to hold the chops and put the slivers in it and heat over low heat until they shed a little fat.

Leave the heat on very low, add the pork pieces and then smother the chops with the sliced onion. Add salt and pepper and then cover the skillet and cook for a couple of hours.

Close to one hour before serving time start planning the mashing and peeling of the potatoes. Ditto regarding the green vegetable. This is not a time-sensitive recipe so just loosen up.

After the 2 hours have finished, expose the chops and introduce them to a warm 200 deg oven.

Turn the heat to higher flame, add in the cream and seer the combination till it has a sauce-like texture. Take special care not to make it too thick.

Place a pork chop on each plate together with a generous offering of mashed potatoes. Ladle the onion mixture over the potatoes & meat and place the greens on the side, perhaps with some vinegar & pepper streaked on them.




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Four Wonderful Reasons For A Road Trip

By Xavier Q. Jefferson


Hitting the road for a few hours, or even a few days, can be a great experience. You get to learn about the area around in a way you couldn't otherwise do, and you can clear out some cobwebs that have been cluttering up your brain. If you've ever taken an extended drive anywhere, then you know how this feels. However, if you haven't, then this article is for you. I'll give you a few good situations that are perfect for taking a road trip, so you can start planning your next one.

A great time of year for hitting the road is in the beginning of spring, especially if you live in an area where outdoor winter activity is limited because of excessive snow and freezing weather. When the first warm weather arrives, hitting the road is a fantastic way to symbolically leave the cold dark days of winter behind, and embrace the warmth and new life of spring.

Another great time for a road trip is when you are going through, or have just gone through, a significant life milestone, or a particularly difficult experience. College graduation, leaving one career and starting another one, or even a particularly difficult breakup, separation, or divorce can be a great opportunity to hit the road for an extended time to prepare yourself mentally for the new chapter in your life.

When you have an otherwise less than exciting event, like the wedding of a cousin you've never met, or some business conference you must attend, going there by car can be a way to use the event as an excuse to get out on the road. You'll find that making it a destination rather than something on 'to do' list can make it seem more important in your mind.

And lastly, a relocation is a prime opportunity to spend some time on the road. Sure, you can hire movers to take care of all the heavy stuff, but don't worry about driving together in one big caravan. Simply pack the essentials, and then take some time traveling from your old home to your new home. Simply by taking a couple of days in between the two, you'll make the transition much easier.

Of course, these are just a few reasons to pack the essentials and hit the road.Once you take few road trips yourself, you'll start coming up with plenty of other ideas that are just as good. And by realizing the transforming power of a road trip, you'll understand how easily you can benefit from them.




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Minnesota Loses First Game of Season

By Ross Everett


Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings are undefeated no more. The Pittsburgh Steelers' used a couple of big plays from their defense in the fourth quarter to break open a close game and defeat the Vikings by a final score of 27-17. Favre put up decent yardage in the loss, throwing for 334 yards but had no touchdowns and an interception. The defending Superbowl Champion Steelers improved to 5-2, while the Vikings are now 6-1.

NFL pointspread players who backed the Steelers as -6 home favorites were rewarded with the cover. Pittsburgh had only covered one of their first six games heading into the contest, and the win improved their record against the number to 2-5. Minnesota dropped to 4-3 against the spread with the setback.

The Steelers largely shut down Minnesota's rushing game, holding Adrian Peterson to 69 yards. Pittsburgh safety Ryan Clark underscored his team's dominance against the run:

"That's the biggest point of the game. You have the best running back in the world and you don't give it to him. They're saying they can't beat us running, and that's a major statement when you have the guy they have back there."

Favre gave a mealy mouthed justification for the loss in his postgame interview:

"There were a lot of what ifs, a lot of reasons we didn't win. The red zone was one of them. They're physical, and they were as good as we thought they'd be. ... When I came here and looked at our schedule and saw the Steelers game, I went, 'Oh-h-h.' "

Favre has only thrown three interceptions in a Vikings' uniform, but #3 was a costly one as it was returned by Steelers' Keyaron Fox for a touchdown to put the game out of reach as Minnesota was driving for a potential game tying field goal. Afterwards, Fox recalled the play:

"Brett tried to force it in there and the running back bobbled it and slipped out of his hands and it fell into my lap. I had just run across the field after Peterson and I was winded, so it felt like it was 100-plus yards."

The Vikings now face another big game next week as they head to Favre's old stomping grounds in Green Bay for a battle with the Packers. It'll be Favre's first appearance at his old home in an enemy uniform. The Vikings are a +3 road underdog with the total set at 48. The Vikings will then have a bye weekend before hosting the lowly Detroit Lions on November 15. Pittsburgh will enjoy a bye week this week before returning to action on Monday, November 9th facing the Denver Broncos on the road.




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Need Somewhere to go? Consider California Vacations!

By Simon Carrick


Whenever you are looking for a fantastic place to escape from just about anything that can be troubling you, you need to realize that California vacations could be the best choice for you. When you know about the reasons why you need to take this kind of trip, you'll wish to make certain that you book your trip at the earliest opportunity to enjoy your vacation much more than what you thought.

One reason that you will wish to take these excursions is that the vast selection of foods that are offered. When you look at these locations you may notice that the food is likely to be broad and diverse when compared with what you typically eat. However, you need to understand that this food could lead you to trying new things so you should be open to that.

One other reason to take these excursions is they will enable you to reconnect with nature if you vacation in the parks that are present. Going into the parks can easily be a fantastic thing to do because you'll be able to easily reconnect with the beauty which occurs around the nation. However, you will also discover that the parks will prove to be helpful in educating your youngsters about the importance of protecting all animals.

Another thing that you could find enjoyable is that these trips will prove to be useful when you are enabling you to get away from the stress of each day life. When you can get away from the stresses that are present you'll notice that it is easy to start to feel happier about yourself and life in general, then you will be able to improve your quality of life.

Having the ability to take a vacation that can allow you to unwind and get away from the everyday stress can be a challenge. That is when you should realize that a few of the excellent California vacations could be calling you. That is when you will wish to understand about the reasons why you need to take these trips instead of any of the other excursions which are readily available for you to go on.




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