What did the Mayans believe?

By Linda Patterson

The religion of the Maya is remains unknown, considering that the conquistadors of Spain damaged as much of the "heathen" culture as they possibly can before attempting to switch the folks to Catholicism. On the other hand, much happens to be discovered their faith as archeologists explore things just like long lost books, pottery with text or paintings in it, carvings, mural paintings, as well as other different items that have been left untouched.

Because of these items, we currently know a little with what these folks believed, who they worshiped, and how they carried out their spiritual ceremonies.

Religion Of The Maya

The Maya's religion is found complex, with a spider web of beliefs, worshiped beings and also ceremonies. Nearly all cities likewise worshiped their own certain heroes, deities, and also ancestors and forefathers, not unlike the European Catholics along with their saints. For carrying out spiritual rites and acting as a link between spirits and deities, the priest is made responsible. With a significant belief in nature, mythology, as well as the afterlife, the Mayan belief system is surely considered one of the most intricate religions in both ancient and also contemporary times.

The Priests and Gods

The Mayans worshiped a variety of groups of figures: the ancestors, heroes (a special group within the ancestors that executed remarkable deeds during their life), deities, animal persons (animals that act as humans and also serve the deities), spooks (ghosts), demons, bush spirits, goblins (considered as made by the priests to help the farmers), dwarfs, as well as hunchbacks. Just about every group was worshiped and cared for with rituals, retelling of tales, sacrifices, and also other religious ceremonies. Natural features, caves, rivers and mountains are commonly assigned by the Mayans to a certain deity or ancestor. Other diverse forms of worship included purification (bloodletting, confession and fasting), prayer, pilgrimages, along with stunning performances.

The structure of the Priesthood was wide-ranging, yet is not well recognized. Nearly all of what is identified was figured out by the one-sided perspective of the Spanish which conquered them. We do understand that lots of the different deities had their own priesthood, and that each level of the hierarchy had their own duties and also responsibilities. Many even held a title, like oracle, astrologer, or being in control of sacrificing humans. Priests were also research workers, professionals of arithmetic and astronomy. They were the people for the most part in charge of studying the heavens and also writing the charts. This led the right way to astrology and all the other sciences of fortune reading.

Their Sacrifices As Well As Offerings

Both offerings and also sacrifices played out a massive role to keep the deities and many other worldly creatures content. Offerings are in many variety, nevertheless they were also correct, with accurate numbers, quantity, quality, preparations, and also arrangement of items. There is sprinkling of blood in most ceremonial rites, which, in fact, means sacrifices. Turkeys were specifically employed, but in some instances, various other animals, like dogs, deer and fish were also employed, while exceptional occasions called for a person. Bloodletting by the priests and also royal family have also been not unusual. Though fantasized in horror films, cannibalism during these rituals was exceedingly rare.

There is so considerably more to educate oneself about pertaining to their religion, and yet, archeologists are still exposing new facts. It could be that we will never know to what extent their beliefs reach. What's known is that all of their lives centered around what they believed and even who they worshiped.

About the Author:

Duende Tours is a tour operator for trips to Mayan Ruins. Find out more atOnejungle.com and their Mayan Ruins and Nature Tours in Mexico.

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Many Things To Keep In Mind Concerning Available Luxury Train Tours

By Lilia Maillet

There are many different ways to see a beautiful continent such as Africa, however luxury train tours is by far the most elegant. For those of you who have the means to opt for such an option, then this is a trip definitely worth planning. It might cost you a bit more, but it will also provide you with unforgettable experiences.

If you take the time to research the matter online, you will find that various companies can take you through different parts of the continent in lavish trains that will accommodate you in any way you wish. Just browse the web and check out all the relevant websites that you can find. Explore your options of packages, routes and journey duration and book the one that suits you best.

If this sounds like the perfect way to discover for example the area between Pretoria and Cape Town in South Africa, then start planning your trip. In these 1600 kilometres in between the two cities, you'll get to stop and explore historic villages and take pictures of magnificent views. This is something that you would never have the chance to see if you were travelling using any other medium of transportation.

Although this is a luxurious holiday, the prices are still as reasonable as they could be. If you consider what these trains and packages have to offer you, then the prices are competitive. Also, the cost of your journey will of course be affected by the time of the year you choose to travel and how long the trip you'll sign for is going to be.

Once you're on the train travelling through Africa, you will enjoy all three your day's meals in a lavish restaurant, hang out in your stylish room or hang out in the lobby and enjoy the beautiful views through your window. Keep in mind that you'll be requested to dress smart casual and perhaps even wear a more formal outfit when you're having dinner at the restaurant. Also, you should remember that smoking as well as the use of cell-phones and laptops is only allowed inside your room.

The reason for this is that a luxurious Victorian atmosphere is being recreated in these trains, offering you the chance to enjoy something different, relax and be treated to something special. You will be under the impression you've travelled back in time, when you'll be having your drink, reading your newspaper and gazing out your big window.

Travelling through Africa in style is a great way to do it, if you have the means. This is your chance to see this stunning country from a safe and relaxed environment that will allow you to enjoy everything much more effectively. Luxury train tours is a great option to consider if you like travelling in elegance.

About the Author:

You can find details about the benefits you get when you book luxury train tours and more information about Rovos Rail Station in Capital Park, now.

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Enjoy sweet treats when on holiday in Spain

By Catherine McCulloch

If you think of holidaying in gorgeous Mallorca hotels, you'll probably conjure images of delicious seafood, hams and cheeses, and other traditional Balearic foods. However, for those of us who have a sweet tooth, there are plenty of times when even the most delicious savoury snack won't do the job, and the cravings for sweets must be obeyed! Many regular visitors to the island are fans of Greenfields caf in Santa Ponsa, which serves up cupcakes, carrot cakes, and delicious scones.

Why not give some traditional Spanish teatime treats a try, along with a cup of hot chocolate or caf con leche? At Magaluf hotels, and indeed most everywhere in Spain, you'll find no shortage of magdalenas on offer at breakfast time. These small, sweet cakes are not dissimilar to French madeleines. They're light and fluffy in texture, rich with butter, and flavoured with a lemony zest. In Majorca and Menorca, another favourite cake that's served with merienda, or afternoon tea, is ensaimada.

Think of the love child of a bun and a pastry and you've pretty much got the idea! They're made with various different toppings: pumpkin, marzipan, chocolate or apricot jam are just a few. All these traditional pastries are made with the ingredients that grow locally in such abundance, so expect to find almonds, apricots, oranges and lemons flavouring many confections.

Another traditional Spanish favourite served in Magaluf hotels are mantecados, a kind of traditional shortbread flavoured with anise. They're so rich and crumbly that they will literally melt in your mouth, and leave you aching to have another delicious bite and get more inside you! There's another hugely popular option with is perfect for those with a sweet tooth, and that's rubiols.

Made with a slightly thinner dough than ensaimadas, these are filled with pumpkin and syrup or sometimes even cottage cheese, and they're traditionally enjoyed after a meal. They're sold all year round in the many bakeries that adorn the islands, but around Lent it's traditional for families to make their own at home along with panades, a type of savoury pastry.

About the Author:

Click here to find out more about any of the accommodation options at the destinations mentioned above.

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As a courtesy to your hosts; brushing up on Islamic customs

By Catherine McCulloch

With Islam being the official state religion, and the vast majority of the country's population practising, it's polite to brush up on Islamic customs and regulations before staying at any Tunisia hotels. To make things more simple, here's a guide to a hassle-free holiday. Whether you stay on one of the country's all inclusive hotels or a luxurious resort, you're bound to experience the culture and regulations of Islam in some way.

An example of this is the fact that Muslims pray five times a day so you're more than likely to hear their calls to prayer, wherever your local mosque is. An important fact to remember is that Friday is the Muslim holy day, so on this day a great deal of restaurants and shops will be closed.

Also, traditional fasting takes place from dusk until dawn, although it must be said that foreigners and tourists aren't expected to partake in this fasting. However, they are expected to abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing gum in public during the holy month as a sign of respect to their hosts. The extent to which tourists are expected to adhere to these rules varies according to the location of the Tunisia hotels.

Coastal resorts tend to have a more European and relaxed approach to western dress. However, it should be advised that you should still practice modest dress as a precaution whilst staying in main cities and rural areas, or when visiting religious sites. Topless sunbathing, for example, is not advised, as it's likely to cause offence throughout the country. Alternatively, head to Djerba to the Fortress of Kej for a great example of Islamic architecture.

This fortress accurately conveys the military and spiritual identity of the Sufi denomination, and provides a great insight into the historical context of the heavily-influenced style of Sufi in the area. What's more, there's some fantastic all inclusive hotels in the local area, making it easy to pay a visit to this essential site.

About the Author:

For more informationon hotels in the areas mentioned above, click here.

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Make Your Anniversary One to Remember

By Eric Solayman

An anniversary is a celebration of your time together with one another. Time is so precious, and to be with that special someone long enough to merit celebrations is definitely worth a little extra time and effort. But what can you do in order to let your partner know how much all of it means to you?

Anyone can cook up a nice meal and buy some candles. But what about going the extra mile? Taking the extra step that really shows you've put some thought into your anniversary? There are so many different things you can do, so start looking around to transform your day together into one that won't be forgotten. Of course, you can't go wrong when you add a limousine into the recipe.

When a limo arrives at your home, immediately your partner will know that something special is about to happen. Limos mean magic nights or luxurious days. He or she will realize that you've already gone the extra mile - now they'll wonder just what you have planned for the finish line. There are also different limo types you can choose from. Pick one that will suit your needs as well as set the mood for your anniversary plans. From traditional stretch limos to colored limos to Hummer limousines, you'll want to talk to the company to decide which will be best for you. Do you want something exciting? Sexy? Fun? Relaxing? The interior of the limo can also make a difference in terms of space and additions (some Hummer limos have slot machines installed!). Choose the limo that matches the rest of your anniversary plans.

There are also different ways in which you can utilize your limousine. There is always the classic use of a limo - getting from point A to point B. Transport yourselves in style. It doesn't matter where you intend to go; the point is that you have a great time getting there. Whether it's a ritzy restaurant or you feel like being silly and visiting the McDonald's drive through (maybe you met when you bumped into one another on your lunch break?), all you have to do is let your limousine driver know the destination and he or she will take you there. While they do the driving, the two of you can kick back and be together, laughing about fond memories and enjoying food and drinks while you cruise through the streets.

Or instead of using the limo as a mode of transportation, you can turn the limo itself into the destination. Limousine services are more than happy to offer you the things you need to make your anniversary special. They can offer specialty drinks, snacks, and other refreshments, flowers, and even balloons if you want. They know that this is an important day for you and they want you both to be as happy and content as possible while cruising around in their limousine. Pick the limousine you want and make the arrangements. You may even decide to choose a themed Hummer limousine for a real party. Take the entire day or all night and just let the driver wind through the streets while the two of you recount beloved memories over delicious food and bubbly drinks.

The choice is yours. Surprise your partner with a limousine and enjoy everything that it has to offer. It's all about having a great time and feeling relaxed throughout your time in the limo. Just including a limo can make this one of the most remembered anniversaries for a long, long time.

About the Author:

Learn more about Napa wine tour at Elite Limousine. Elite Limousine is one of the oldest limo companies in Northern California which provides limo services for all of your transportation needs.

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How You Can Find Easy To Afford Asheville North Carolina Vacation Package

By Barry Corres

If you enjoy going on vacations but do not enjoy spending money, you have to search for affordable vacation packages. A lot of people think that going on vacations can get very expensive but there are a number of things you can do to find packages that suit your budget nicely. The first thing you can do to find the affordable Asheville NC vacation packages is to determine what your definition of "affordable" is.

You need to set a price range before you start searching for vacation packages as this can help you save time and effort. The internet is the best place to find easy to afford vacation packages is the internet. Several people choose to look for information on the internet since it's easier to access information online.

One more way you can find affordable deals on vacation packages is to time your vacation properly. You can visit websites where there are regularly updated lists of Biltmore for example. When you plan to stay at a popular tourist accommodation that at that time is hosting an event, there are a couple of things you can do.

First, you can look into available promotions that these accommodations have during events they host to find affordable deals. Second, you can try to avoid checking in these accommodations during events. These hotels usually offer more affordable rates just after any event they host so you may want to wait until these events are finished.

You can also look into travel blogs where you can find helpful tips and advice about finding easy to afford vacation packages or accommodations. If you want to learn about information on upcoming concerts in Asheville NC for instance, these travel blogs are also great sources of information.

This will help you plan your trip ahead of time and make the necessary adjustments to your schedule, budget and travel details. And speaking of planning ahead, attending to your travel details several months in advance is the best way to find easy to afford vacation deals. You can also compare a number of vacation packages from each other so you can find the best prices.

About the Author:

If you want to know more about Biltmore events then visit http://www.biltmore.com for more details.

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Various Things To Focus On When You Book Flights Online

By Mathew Merola

Everyone needs for one reason or the other to travel, either for work purposes or in order to experience other cultures and see new places. Living in the UK makes travelling easy and the flight connections for any other country and city are numerous. If you want to explore the world, or if there's somewhere you need to be for work or family matters, then book flights online and be on your way.

Whether it is Europe that you want to visit, any country at all, or America, Asia, Australia or Africa, you'll find that there's a flight to get you pretty much anywhere in the world. Just spend some time browsing the web and explore all your travelling options. You'll discover that they are truly limitless.

Research should be your first step. Wherever you're thinking of going, you should first research the different airlines and routes they offer. Then take some time to compare prices. Usually, the sooner you book, the better the prices you will get.

Remember that the earlier you book, the lower the prices you'll be able to find. If you know for quite a bit of time in advance that you will need to fly somewhere, or if you're planning a holiday that is not yet happening for a few months, then book now and get great deals. This way you'll be able to travel more.

Once you have decided on a specific flight and you are ready to buy your ticket, then enter your details online. Provide the website with everything that it asks you to put in, accept the terms and conditions and then pay using your credit card. The whole process should not take more than a couple of minutes.

The minute you have bought your ticket, you will get a confirmation through an email. This e-ticket you should either print off if you're planning on checking in at the airport, or use the reference number and booking code to check in using the Internet. This way you'll save yourself time and you'll have the luxury to arrive at the airport the day of your flight a bit later than what you would if you needed to also check in.

However if you have luggage, you will still need to line up and check your bags in when you arrive at the airport. Read the security regulations before you start packing and stay updated with the new every times rules. Book flights online today and give yourself the chance to explore the world. It has never been this easy.

About the Author:

Find a summary of the things to keep in mind when you book flights online and a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Australia from the UK on our website, today.

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Planning A Trip To The Palm Beach During Your Holidays

By Jesi Ryder

If you are looking forward to a perfect vacation in Florida during your holidays, then you must not forget to explore the Palm Beach region. It is one of the top favorite beach destinations among the tourists from all around the world. Tropical breezing weather and cool turquoise water are some of the elements that make it a perfect vacation spot for the tourists. The people looking for a break from their daily hectic life can surely explore this amazing destination. You can spend a fun filled vacation with your friends and family in the arms of nature. Tourists can indulge themselves in a number of entertaining activities and water sports. They can also experience the beauty of some amazing attractions at the Palm Beach and nearby locations.

Tourists will find variety of amazing places to explore and things to do during their beach vacation Palm Beach. There is also a historical hotel in the name of Breakers Hotel where tourists must stay during their vacation. This sea facing hotel is popular for its quality services and welcoming decor. Nature seekers will find loads of activities in this beach. Moreover, there is also a Four Arts Garden available that nature seekers and botany lovers should explore. This is a botanical garden that displays some of the native and tropical plans of Florida. There is also a Spanish Garden available that is very close to the Palm Beach.

This beach region features some excellent swimming conditions, sandy beaches and a number of amazing attractions for the travelers. This beach provides some best facilities to the tourists for a good number of water sports. There are also some refreshment stands and changing areas readily available for vacationers. Some of the widely popular hotels and resorts of the island decorate the shoreline and tourists can have the scenic view of the entire beach from these resorts and hotels. There are some resorts available that provide water sports equipments, lounge chairs and shade huts to the tourists.

Just behind this Palm Beach, the tourists can find yet another popular tourist attraction named Eagle Beach. You can become a part of boat tours in order to explore the island and the nearby regions. These boat tours are scheduled after regular intervals of time for the tourists and you can become a part of these tours in order to make your holiday a memorable one. This beach remains packed with a good number of vacationers throughout the year.

There are various attractions near the beach that you can explore during your beach vacation in Palm Beach. One of the popular tourist attractions is the Whitehall. It is a historical landmark that is located very close to Palm Beach.

About the Author:

Looking for a perfect beach destination to explore during your holidays? If yes, then some dazzling seaside vacation spots await your arrival.

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Vacation Spots In Mexico: Grand Luxxe Riviera Maya

By Anita Kirkpatrick

Riviera Maya's beautiful landscape is one of the things that make vacationers come back every year. It is specially equipped to accommodate tourists and offer luxuries like guided excursions and lavish shopping centers. The shoreline is always a short distance away no matter what hotel you choose to stay in because of the number of beaches in the area.

Take advantage of the rich Mayan culture here and see the exotic shops with unique souvenirs. A great way to commemorate your visit would be to take home a piece of local art that accurately depicts the culture of Mexico. You can also choose to go to Playa del Carmen which is just 30 minutes away to experience other amazing restaurants and diving spots.

Riviera Maya has boutiques with authentic pieces and treasures. You simply can't come here without shopping. One of the shops you need to visit is Jade Boutique which has jewelry made of precious metals and stone, handspun glassware and even essential beachwear that you might need.

The daytime excursion offered is one other thing you need to make time for, it's a great opportunity to explore and learn. Participate in historical sight-seeing and museum walks and learn about this country's magnificent culture. Biking, diving, fishing, trekking and jungle walks are only a few of the activities offered to vacationers.

For those searching for privacy, staying in Grand Luxxe Riviera Maya could be your best bet. Sprawling 338 acres, the hotel resort is surrounded with mangroves and jungle inside and out. A concierge is assigned to every hotel tower to better assist the hotel staff in anticipating the needs of their guests.

You can rest easy even when you have your kids with you because this family-friendly retreat will attend to them as well. Your children will be able to socialize with their peers through a Kid's Club set-up by the hotel for guests aged 5 to twelve. A fabulous outdoor area exclusively for children displays a jungle gym and a water park with wading pool.

The golf course on the Riviera Maya is a pleasure for the golf enthusiasts. Behold the pristine green of El Manglar which is almost 3,000 yards of field inter-sped with lakes and white-sand traps. One activity that the whole family can do together is the nature trek which allows guests to look at flamingoes, crocodiles and other exotic creatures inside natural enclosures.

A white sand beach is located near the retreat so guests can easily take advantage of its proximity. The Beach Shack has sports gear and equipment you can rent for water-skiing, parasailing and even diving. There are practically unlimited ways of fun available via the staff in The Beach Shack.

Indulge in the climate controlled Riviera Maya pool with circulating hotel staff that give out cold towels and other luxuries. Stunning and private, the pool is open from 7am to 11pm and is surrounded by private cabanas. Sip cocktails while reading a book and lounging at the pool area or get a relaxing massage from licensed reflexologists.

Like every resort, the Grand Luxxe in Riviera Maya is designed to serve guests of all ages. Try your hand in water-sports, learn to surf and taste gourmet cuisine infused with the colors and spice of Mexico during your stay. Shop, learn, play, explore and discover throughout your vacation in this part of Mexico.

About the Author:

The Suites at Grand Luxxe are very accommodating that any vacation is well worth it.

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Events & Parties: Photobooth Are The Hottest New Trend

By Michael Barrett

What was invented in 1925 and has become the must have addition to parties and events in 2012? Photo booth mania is back with a vengeance. Who would have thought that a modern version of this classic would move from dime stores to arcades and now at the nicest event venues in the country?

The rebirth of photo booth mania started around 2004 and has been steadily growing ever since. You may find some at the local mall in a variety of configurations. But, if you are going to a wedding, bar mitzvah or company party this year you are sure to experience first hand why this old concept has gotten fresh legs!

Unlike the small photo booths of old, photo booths like those offered by Kansas City photo booth company Booth Crazy Photobooths, offer guests a whole new experience. What could be more fun than cramming 10 of your craziest friends into a booth and throwing inhibition to the wind? Guests can adorn the crazy props provided or go natural. Either way, something about being behind that curtain brings out the wild side of almost anyone! It is an experience that they will relive every time they look at the print they received as an instant keepsake.

No blurry pictures here. Thanks to computers, custom software and studio flash the pictures are actually of professional quality. Seeing really is believing. Unlike the hired photographer, its all automatic. With a push of a activator button, you are on your way to some serious fun. Add in some crazy props and your guests will reveal themselves in ways you would have never imagined. At Booth Crazy's Kansas City photobooths, they have 4 shots, 7 seconds apart, it is 28 seconds of photographic bliss.

Photobooth 101- the secret is the timing and having a plan. Practice really does make perfect. Good news! Because most photo booths are rented hourly, you are free to come in as many times as you wish. By nights end, you will be an expert with the photographic evidence to prove it.

Sharing of your photo booth fun couldn't be easier and has likely contributed to it catching on so quickly. Most of the time, your guests will be able to view the photos on-line for a number of days. Often, the images will be given to the host to share. In addition, unlike most photographers, photobooth operators actually encourage scanning! They are your pics, do with them as you like!

So, if you are having a get together and want to provide your guests with a fun activity that they are sure to remember, renting a photo booth may be just the ticket. Just remember that like anything else, it pays to do your due diligence. Photobooths come in many shape and sizes with prices ranging from $500-1500. Make sure you see the booth and know what you are getting. Have fun and happy photo boothing!

About the Author:

Michael Barrett is the founder of Booth Crazy, the leading photo booth rental Kansas City company.

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