Saturday, March 19, 2011

Discover The Best Of Mexico Hotels And Festivals

By Claire Collins


One of the best ways to understand a culture is to take part in its celebrations. Travelling to festivals provides ample opportunities to learn about a country's heritage, and to have fun while you're at it! The Festival of Mexico is definitely one of the best events to attend if you're travelling to this beautiful and culturally vibrant country.

Mexico City's most precious area is Zocalo, which has links to Mexico's Aztec heritage. Since 1985 this area has been thriving and this was how the Festival of Mexico first began! The celebrations feature all kinds of events and Zocalo houses almost 400 museums so you will find more cultural highlights here than anywhere else!

It's a good idea to book hotels in Mexico well in advance, as this two-week festival is very popular. There are all manner of events happening, from live music, plays, exhibitions and even a parade. There is also plenty of local food to taste! Best of all, the festival collects proceeds which go to helping disadvantaged children all over Mexico. There's no better incentive to get involved.

All children will benefit from the festival in fact. There is a huge range of events on just for children, from special tours, games, shows, and hands-on-crafts. Take the whole family along to the festival so everyone can get involved in this cultural celebration. You'll find some good cheap hotels right in the city centre.

You can find Mexico hotels in a variety of price ranges throughout the entire downtown area, which make a great base for attending festival events and exploring Mexico City.




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What Is A Timeshare? Read And Find Out If You Would Benefit From Owning One.

By Emil Yau


Timeshares today are misunderstood by many and sometimes carry a "scam" like connotation to them. This is really just bad press as I will share with you in this article why I like timeshare.

A timeshare is a name given to a piece of property shared among number of owners.

Timeshare properties have traditionally been condominium resorts but the choices of properties are increasing every day. You have hotels, motor home parks, campgrounds, and even cruises now offering timeshare options.

The idea of timeshares is said to have originated in the 1960's when it became increasingly expensive to own a vacation house. The idea of splitting not just the property but time for the property for a week was a novel idea to make it more affordable to own time in a vacation resort and also include ownership versus renting. With the sharing of cost of ownership, the cost of maintenance of the property also is spread amongst all the owners. This makes vacation property quite affordable for many people.

How a timeshare property differs from a regular real estate property is that you can only use the property for a specific time duration.

But as more and more properties are being converted into timeshare, flexible timeshare options cannot be ruled out. The flexible timeshare offers owners the option of choosing more than one timeshare destination and also more than one specific time of a year.

The most common timeshare ownership duration is a week.

The cost of a property will of course vary depending on where it is, how desirable it is, and even what season the ownership is. Like basic economics, supply and demand will determine the pricing of a property and its "trade in" value.

Timeshare offers not only a great vacation but can also be a great investment. However, they should not be purchased only as an investment.

If you do not plan to use your timeshare or rent your timeshare, I would advise against buying one because selling a timeshare can be difficult. If you use your timeshare, then it is a great investment because you are then owning instead of renting so to speak. Just like real estate property, they can be inherited by your children. Just like real estate property, they can be rented out if you do not plan to use your week for that year. Just like real estate property, they can be paid off leaving the rest of your vacation time "free" for the rest of your years to come (maintenance fees will still apply). Unlike real estate property, units can be put into a pool where you can then trade for other units. So for example we own a unit in Hawaii, but if that year we want to go to Florida we can put our unit into a pool and then see if there is a Florida unit we can use in its place.

Timeshares are NOT for everyone.

Buying a unit is buying real estate. In the same way you would do your research and due diligence when purchasing a house, you must go into purchasing timeshare units in the same way. Know what you are getting, know the costs, and figure out if it is worth it for you. Know if you will actually use it or not or be able to rent it, because that is a lot of the value it provides. If you don't use it, it will possibly not be a wise purchase for you.

On a personal note, we are part of a family of timeshare owners. It is a good investment for us because we know we will use it. And similar to a house with a 30 year mortgage, when this timeshare is paid off we only need to pay maintenance fees and can enjoy the "property" for the rest our lives and even pass it on to our heirs. Besides that, we find a lot of value in our timeshares because it "forces" us to take a vacation together. We personally live hectic lives and this really holds us accountable to relaxing and taking a vacation with our loved ones.

My hope is that I have explained well what a timeshare property is, and that you are able to use this information to decide whether or not a timeshare makes sense to you.




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How to Choose Your Masquerade Mask Quickly

By Raven Ross


As the holidays approach, more and more organizations and clubs are hosting masquerade balls. These high-end balls are set with medieval decorations and food. If you wish to attend, you would be required to wear a costume and masquerade mask to conceal your identities. How would you choose your masquerade mask?

What you should do before you start looking is to think about what event you'll be attending. If you'll be attending a wedding, then perhaps you would like to wear a white, classy mask. This would opt for a mask on a stick for the ladies, and a half facemask for the guys.

For proms, you would have a wide range of options, but you should keep the color in mind. You should find a mask that will compliment the outfit you would be wearing. If nothing works, the go for the black and white mask. It will work with most if not all outfits.

If you are attending Mardi gras, then you should definitely grab the opportunity to get yourself an elaborate masquerade mask. Designed and hand crafted by artists, these unique, one of a kind masks are sure to satisfy you.

If you are perhaps considering purchasing cheap masquerade masks, then it would be best for you to keep in mind that even if these masks are pretty, they are not constructed well and are definitely not designed to last long.

Make sure, when you choose your masquerade mask, that it is comfortable and fit nicely. If it would just be worn for a couple minutes, then it doesn't matter; but if you are looking to wear it for any longer period of time, then you definitely want to ensure your comfort and that it wouldn't fall off.

It would be okay to use an uncomfortable mask though, if it was just a few minutes. Keep in mind the material when you purchase or look at a Venetian masquerade mask.

Lightweight masks are made from paper mache and feathers, whereas heavier and hotter masks are made from leather. Finally, you should research and find a mask that suits your style and is comfortable and will ensure that you have a great time.




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Gold Coast Theme Parks are Breathtaking

By Stephen Grussa


The actual Australian Gold Coast hosts many of the areas major travel related attractions and theme parks. All these Gold Coast Theme Parks all adopt their particular ideas and provide hours of popular activities set amongst secure surrounds.. Followed below you will discover all of the five major theme parks on the Gold Coast.

Australia's best known theme park is Dreamworld and has been open for longer than twenty five years. Dreamworld delivers in excess of 13 crafted areas about the park. Situated in Coomera on the Pacific Motorway, Dreamworld is easily reachable from both Brisbane and the Gold Coast.. The Gold Coast is unquestionably closer and by car you could expect it to take 20 minutes to get there. From Brisbane it's a comfortable 45 min's by vehicle. The extensive complex covers 30 hectares of crafted rides, displays and sights with wild Tiger Island constantly popular. Within their purpose created enclosures travellers to Dream world's Tiger Island can experience these regal animals with their handlers. The extraordinarily popular water slides at Dreamworld would be the Tower of Terror plus the Thunderbolt. For something a tad bit more low key don't forget to check-out the Koala and Kangaroo sanctuary, the Gold Rush County experience or have a ride on the Riverboat Cruise For everyone visiting the Gold Coast theme parks and wanting to steer clear of the waiting lines then ensure you reserve your passes using the net.

If you would like look like a Hollywood superstar during the day and maybe also feature in one of the movies then drop by Warner Brothers Movie World in the Gold Coast. For adrenalin junkies and people with a desire for speed don't forget to experience the speed of the Superman Escape Rollercoaster that takes anyone from zero to one hundred kilometres per hour in barely two seconds. If the Superman Escape Rollercoaster was not enough of a rush for you then you could try the 'Batwing Spaceshot' which is a speedy and exhilarating 4G vertical launch instantly pursued by a rapid fall into negative freefall. Without a doubt one just for the exceedingly brave. Never forget all the excitement of Looney Tunes Village as well as the attractions that will put you in the action along with hair-raising, eye-popping, and butt-busting special effects so real your entire senses are likely to be on over-time.. Warner Bros. Movie World is without a doubt entertaining for all of the family regardless if you are eight or 80. Warner Bros Movie World is situated on the Pacific Highway, Oxenford (The exit is plainly signed) 20 minutes north of Surfers Paradise, 45 Minutes south of Brisbane.

Sea World is among the long-term favourite Gold Coast theme parks and takes you you on a trip to seek out wonderful aquatic life like dolphins, fish, sharks and polar bears. Enjoy visiting Sea World's Shark Bay, earth's premier man-made lagoon system, at which most people come face-to-face with the most terrifying varieties of sharks on the planet! There's a great deal to try and do at Sea World it truly is nearly impossible to record it all, nonetheless simply to record just a few favourites would certainly consist of: Seasame Street Beach where all the characters, including Bert and Ernie, perform each and every day and the Polar Bear Shores Which ever Gold Coast theme parks you determine to check out during your following vacation, be sure to include the genuinely family friendly adventures at Sea World. Only a quick distance to the main beaches in the Gold Coast, Sea World can be found at Seaworld Drive three kms north of Surfers Paradise.

One of the most important water based theme parks at the Gold Coast is Wet'n'Wild. Take advantage of the fun of be spun out by a Whirlpool which sends site visitors whirling amongst swirling rapids. Dare check out the earth's very first wet roller coaster during your plunge 30 metres by way of crazy water sprays while spinning on just the giant surf board! Take on Australia's most significant water draw card - Mammoth Falls. For something a bit more calm cool off inside Giant Wave Pool or maybe hang out at Calypso Beach. Boys and girls (under 10 years of age) may also appreciate a trip to Wet'n'Wild World with a paddle or swim in Buccaneer Bay - a play ground abundant with fun and fantasy. During the summer months the pools and slides offer a relaxing place to cool down and during the winter months they are heated. Fully qualified lifeguards patrol the park all calendar year. A famous attraction at Wet'n'Wild will definitely be the Dive-in Movie pictures that are held each evening in the course of the December and January School getaways and every Saturday night from November to January. Wet'n'Wild Water World is found on the Pacific Highway, Oxenford (The exit is well signed) which is only 45 minutes southbound from Brisbane and twenty minutes heading north coming from Surfers Paradise.

WhiteWater World is an additional of the massively prominent Gold Coast theme parks and is the perfect family holiday location with sights such as Nickelodeons Pipeline Plunge and the kids favourite Wiggle Bay play location. It is also houses the 4 the best waterslides on earth. White Water World is themed around the Australian symbols of surf, sand and sea, and of course a heaps of fun. Operated by Dreamworld WhiteWater World claims to be the most superior water ride park on the planet and delivers family friendly locations through to the more extreme and daring waterslides and rides for the serious adrenelin junkies.




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Truck Mud Flaps - Protecting Your Truck And The Pedestrians Around You

By Jon Soto


Have you ever heard about mud flaps? Do you have any idea what it is? Well, truck mud flaps or other known as splashguard and mudguards. These are usually used for trucks or vehicles that have a bigger type of tire than normal cars. The purpose of all of it is to protect the truck itself and also other vehicles on the road that pass by. Because trucks have bigger wheels, it has a tendency to splash mud and to make rock fly, which is harmful when tossed to a person, passing cars, and can ruin the trucks exterior.

When you choose the mud flaps for your truck you need to be very careful. You first must know that there are many different mud flaps available on the market which are made from various different materials. The flaps will definitely depend on the type of vehicle that you have and also the kind of flap that you want to be in installed. Once you already picked that mudguard for your truck, make sure that it is installed properly. If in situations that it falls off while you are driving, it may cause problems or accidents to the succeeding vehicles or even pedestrians. This is why it is so important that it is installed well.

There are many different kinds of mud flaps available on the market and here are some listed below.

Heavy Duty Rubber Type - These are some of the most common mudguards used. Usually it comes in straight or slightly curved design which adapts the frame as well as the wheel and well of different vehicle types. There are universal types that are typically rectangular and straight shaped types of flaps that often fit with most kinds of trucks. On the other hand, there are also curved shaped flaps that can only be used on specific vehicle models. You just need to make sure that the truck model that you have fits with the flap you are thinking about getting.

The Molded Plastic Flaps - These are unlike the heavy duty style of rubber flaps becuase this type of flap can go easily with most truck designs. If you decide to go with a molded plastic flap for your truck then you can paint it anytime to match your truck's color and design. The impressive design of this mud flap is also easy to go well along with your truck's wheel wells and fender. This cannot be bought instantly, usually you have to pre-order it before you can have one. This is the best mud guard to use if you especially want you truck's all over appearance to look and you want it to go along with the vehicles design.

Stainless Steel Flaps - The best advantage of these mudguards is that they cannot be stained so easily. Because it is stainless, you do not have to worry about rusts. It is most likely the perfect mudguard for a truck.

Aluminum Diamond Plate Style Flaps - this kind of splashguard is made from the combination of aluminum and heavy-duty rubber. The primary purpose of using aluminum to mud flaps is to weight down the lightweight material so that it cannot definitely fly back while you are driving. Moreover, in terms of installation, this flap requires larger type of bolts to install it to your truck.

Using truck mud flaps an important detail for your vehicle. Not only it will protect your own truck but also it is a means of protection from harming other people and also vehicles. There are definitely numerous types of mud flaps are available and the ones mentioned above are just some of those. The most important thing to remember when choosing is that you choose one that is based on a model and year of your vehicles manufacturing. Not all flaps will go along with different vehicles. In addition, to make sure that it is installed well, just go for service centers and authorized shops or installers.




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Friday, March 18, 2011

Enjoying Malaga through Car Rentals

By Albert Sperk


For someone who wants to freely travel the beautiful surroundings of Malaga, car rental is the perfect idea. It is a better option compared to public transportation for it will not only provide convenience and privacy but also the freedom to travel on your own pace.

The airport of Malaga is just minutes away from the city. From here you can simply look for a Malaga car hire company that can provide you the suitable mode of transportation that you want. Some of these companies can even pick you up at the airport and bring you right back when you're done with your vacation.

Finding the Best Malaga Car Hire

Searching for car hire companies in Malaga is not that difficult. You can have it arranged through a travel agent or find information online. It is advised though to get as many options as possible to make good comparisons in getting the best deal for the car you want. Communication may not be that much of a problem for most of these companies employs bilingual people.

If you want to take a closer look on the options, shopping around is a good idea. Most companies advertise good rates but there might be something more suitable with the rest.It is also important to know what is included in the price being quoted. Some companies includes insurance, road side assistance and second drivers in just one price.

Don't be overly concentrated in getting the cheapest price. There are things that makes your travel even more convenient even if it costs more. Things like air-conditioning on the car is very crucial especially if you'll be traveling to Malaga during the summer season where it usually gets humid and hot.

Also a good tip to save you time and money is having the car pick-up and drop off right in the airport. This way it will be more convenient to start and end your travel.

One thing that you shouldn't forget when hiring a car is having a reserve seat. This is especially important when you'll be traveling with kids. Authorities in Spain are specifically strict in these laws. You don't want being caught with these type of violation in a foreign country. This type of things are usually disregarded, so be sure to have this arranged early on the reservation.

Save Money On A Malaga Car Hire

When it come to saving money, it is always wise to reserve early. This not only gives a good deal on the price but you also have the privilege to choose from a variety of options. If you wait just before your trip, you might be charge more for a greater demand and even worst, you might get very limited options that you don't like.

Finally, it is very important to consider the things that you really need during the travel. The size of the car for example is very crucial. If its going to be a family trip then a bigger car might be better. A couple traveling together may simply go with a cheaper economy car to save money and more fuel efficiency. To take care of all these things going online is always the easiest way to do it.




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Want To See The World? Go By Cruise Ship

By Claire Collins


Taking a holiday on a cruise ship is an option which is increasing in popularity, as people discover the convenience and ease of cruise holidays. For the ultimate journey, without the stress or hassle, why not book yourself on a round-the-world cruise? You can see all corners of the globe without having to worry about organising yourself from A to B.

Imagine going to the sights and highlights of Europe, to Asia, to America and back again, and the whole time you only ever have to unpack your bags once! There has never been a better way to see the world.

Another benefit of all inclusive cruises is that you can stick to a budget, and what's more, you'll be able to enjoy the journey! Instead of being stuck on a plane, or a train, when you travel by cruise ship you can be lounging in the sun, riding a rollercoaster, watching a movie, having a cocktail at the bar, or even learning how to cook! There is so much to do on board, and even though a round the world cruise can be as long as 110 days, you will never run out of things to do!

Then of course there are the exciting and exotic destinations you'll encounter on your RTW cruise. See the Opera House in Sydney, the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, or the ancient city of Pompeii in Italy. You can explore these places at your leisure, or book onto one of the many different excursions at each port stop, which try to make sure there is something to please and interest everyone on board.

If you're still undecided, ask your representative for help. They are the experts after all, and will be able to advise you on the best excursion to suit your needs. These are not always included in cruise packages so be sure to check that out before you board.




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Great Deals on Corfu Holidays this Easter

By Chris Brown


Have you considered Corfu as your next holiday destination? A lot of people tend to stick to the typical European destinations when choosing their next holiday. Why not branch out a bit and go on bargain holidays to Corfu? You'll be surprised at just how much there is to do here and it's perfect if all you want to do is laze around in the sun.

One of the great attractions in Corfu is the crystal clear waters and so Corfu holidays are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Many small isolated coves are only accessible by boat and there are many boat hire companies offering reasonably priced trips around the coast, usually ending with delicious beach barbecues, mainly consisting of the local 'catch'.

You'll want to invest in a glass bottomed boat, as this is the only real way to see the fishes! These are available for hire from the village of Paleokastrista. They also do evening sailing voyages to the nearby islands of Antipaxos and Paxos. Whilst in Paleokastista, take a leisurely walk up to the Byzantine monastery, the Monastery of The Virgin. There is an order of monks still in residence and there are peaceful gardens and stunning views. Paleokristista, known as the Capri of Greece, is a lovely village and there are many walks around it.

Lots of people go on Ibiza holidays to get in touch with nature. A visit to the island of Tagomago is a must if you like wildlife. This island in the north west of Ibiza is renowned for its diversity of wildlife and has a network of nature trails. Another natural phenomenon in the island is the Las Salinas Salt Flats, close to the airport and on the southern most tip of the island.

The Carthaginians constructed this over two thousand years ago. The sparkling salt lakes make this an ideal venue to take stunning sunset photos. Stargazing is also a very popular pastime here too as there is good visibility and no light pollution. The caves at Can Marcha are alive with stalactites and stalagmites which have grown into distorted, wonderful shapes. A lovely place to visit when it's hot outside.




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The Advantages of Getting a Round Trampoline

By Matt McLaughlin


If the weather is nice you can find my children outside bouncing on the round trampoline that we bought approximately 12 months ago. A trampoline gives kids of all ages hours of fun. You get exercise and don't even realize it because we are caught up having so much fun. Our kids now do not have to be told to go outside, they beg.

You can purchase a round trampoline starting at 3 ft in circumference to 16 ft. Before you purchase a trampoline you need to decide what your needs are in the household. Do you have a energetic child or an inspiring athlete. If you want a house trampoline just to provide a place where your child can get some energy out then you need to purchase a smaller trampoline, but if you have more than one child a larger trampoline is the way to go.

We have 5 children so we purchased a larger trampoline with a circumference of 12 feet and our children love it. It has really helped our 2 year old learn to jump, hold balance and gets some energy out all in the process. Our children spend hours on the trampoline having tons of fun.

All kinds of people use trampolines besides children; athletes, gymnasts and cheerleaders use them for training purposes. Kids and adults of all ages use them just for fun and exercise.

There are some safety precautions that come with owning a trampoline. The first thing you need to make sure is that your trampoline is on level ground and if you have younger children it would be a wise investment to purchase an enclosure for your trampoline. The enclosure provides some safety for your children which allow them to stay inside the trampoline while jumping around having fun.

A trampoline is an investment for kids of all ages in time it will pay for itself. Ours was purchased almost a year ago and unless it is raining our kids are jumping on it. If you have a child with energy then a trampoline will make for a good investment.




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Easy Gold Coast Airport Transfers, Local Bus Services, QLD, Australia

By Bailey Jamieson


Australia's Gold Coast resort area is found in the south-eastern part of the state of Queensland. The Gold Coast extends along the Pacific coastline for about 55 kilometres, north from the border with New South Wales, as far north as the Albert River, which is the boundary with the state capital Brisbane. The Gold Coast, also known as Gold Coast City, is a major tourist destination. Most of the main areas where tourists stay are along the coastal strip, which is easily accessible from the Gold Coast Highway, and/or the Pacific Highway. Gold Coast airport is right at the southern end of the Gold Coast, in Coolangatta. Gold Coast Tourist Shuttle Services offer Gold Coast airport transfers to/from most registered holiday accommodation in the Gold Coast.

Airport shuttle services from Gold Coast (Coolangatta) airport are provided by the local bus operator, Surfside Buslines, via its subsidiary Gold Coast Tourist Shuttle. The shuttle services can take passengers to most of the registered accommodation (hotels, self catering complexes etc) in the area.

Tickets for the shuttle service can be purchased online, or via a travel agent. You can also buy tickets on arrival at the airport. The Gold Coast Tourist Shuttle website shows the current prices for transfers. Family tickets are available (two adults and two children). Discount tickets for pensioners are also available, but must be booked in person at the airport desk. The pensioner must be in possession of an Australian Centrelink Pension Concession Card.

Tickets for the airport shuttle can be upgraded to Freedom Passes. The Gold Coast Freedom Pass allows unlimited journeys on local bus services, and unlimited transfers to theme parks in Gold Coast. This can save a lot of money on bus fares, even during a short stay. The Theme Park transfers are also more convenient than getting an ordinary bus to the theme park, as they pick-up/drop-off from your accommodation. Freedom Passes are available for three, five, seven and ten day durations.

For return airport transfers it is essential to telephone the shuttle operator 24 hours prior to departure to arrange a pick-up time. Remember to have your flight details ready. For theme park transfers book before 7pm on the day before your trip.

It is also possible to travel from the airport by local bus. The airport's Transport and Information Desk is found just outside of International Arrivals. The desk staff can help with Surfside Buslines timetable information and tickets. Bus route 702 runs into Southport every 30 minutes (until the last flight of the day). This bus service connects to other services for destinations along the Gold Coast Highway.

There is also a bus route (route 678) to Tweed Heads in New South Wales. This connects to other services at Tweed Heads, and at Golden Four Drive.

Gold Coast Cabs operate a taxi service from just outside the terminal. Gold Coast Airport also licence a number of local ground transport operators. Private coaches and limousines can be booked from these operators. Details on these operators can be found from the Transport and Information Desk at the airport, or on the Gold Coast Airport website.




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