วันอังคารที่ 23 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Discount Non-Filter Cigarettes

Non-filter cigarettes are the most ancient form of cigarettes. They can be smoked from either end. As the name suggests, they do not have a filter. They are easy to inhale, as there is no resistance from a filter. Actual smoke intake is much higher than normal cigarettes. These types of cigarettes are relatively inexpensive as compared to normal filter cigarettes. As such, discount non-filter cigarettes are offered at even more economic rates.

Non-filter cigarettes have a strong taste and are not recommended for first time cigarette users. Non-filter cigarettes are about 30- 40% more harmful in terms of nicotine content. This startling revelation prevents a large number of people from inhaling them. To encourage and attract users to this non-filters, manufacturers offer great discounts.

For regular, non-filter cigarette smokers, smoking is not a very expensive habit. Competitive market trends have made manufacturers maintain standardized prices on these products. For this reason, a customer may choose any brand that suits their taste. Producers offer discount non-filter cigarettes to influence customers to switch brands.

A number of non-filter cigarette smokers are frequent smokers. This is because these cigarettes have a strong taste and are highly addictive. Non-filter cigarettes are shorter in length and can't be smoked till the end, as they get very hot as compared to filter types. For this reason, smokers simply light more non-filter cigarettes. Using discount non-filter cigarettes can financially sustain increased consumption.

The majority of non-filter cigarette smokers opt for discount non-filter cigarettes, as these are mostly available in cartons. This provides a constant source of cigarettes. As such, these purchases also do away with the chance of running out of cigarettes. This helps save money because single pack purchases are comparatively more expensive. Discount non-filter cigarette offers are available at local stores and on the Internet. Depending upon the source, discount rates may vary.

วันจันทร์ที่ 22 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Unsinkable Adventures in the Mallorca Sea

More and more people are looking towards adventure holidays when it comes to their next trip away. Whatever takes your fancy, whether it's hang gliding, skydiving or risking life and limb trying out caged shark diving, it's no secret that some locations are better than others for these thrilling ventures.

Mallorca, with its Mediterranean climate, offers itself beautifully to all kinds of sports relating to the ocean. With warm waters, hot beaches and a toasty sense of hospitality, Mallorca really lends itself to water-based adventures. That's why so many people flock to this glorious island every year to learn how to snorkel and scuba dive. With safe, open waters, Mallorca is the perfect location to learn.

Back at home, you may find yourself forced to learn something like scuba diving or snorkelling in the safety and apparent comfort of a swimming pool. The enjoyment gained from this is clearly not anything close to what you would experience in the ocean, and is one of the reasons so many people prefer to travel to learn. Part of the incredible experience that is scuba diving is the sea bed exploration - and that's usually something you're going to have to travel to get to. And when you consider the lay of the land beneath the waves, you can understand why.

If you've never been in the Mediterranean Sea before, you may not know why it's so popular with tourists and locals alike. Not only are the crisp, clear waters of this gorgeous basin far warmer than many other seas, meaning it's incredibly comfortable to swim in, but the examples of breathtaking and exotic sea life you can see even just a few feet into the water are unforgettable.

Whether you're sticking to the surface and snorkelling, the chances of you coming across attention-grabbing shoals of luminous yellow fish darting about, of crabs scuttling across the sand and of other sea life in various mesmerising colours are high. And if you decide to go a little lower in scuba gear, you can explore the depths of the ocean's secrets and discover animal and plant life that you never imagined existed.

Once you've booked your hotels in Mallorca and experienced the aquatic adventure of a lifetime, it will be no secret to you why so many divers - amateur and professional alike - choose the beaches of Mallorca every year. In fact, you may find yourself joining the ranks of the enthusiastic and booking yourself a Mediterranean adventure for many years to come!

วันเสาร์ที่ 20 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

A Few Reasons to Visit Riviera Nayarit

Mexico is one of the leading vacation destinations. With its sandy beaches, world class resorts, and lush cultural setting, Mexico is a prime travel hot spot for anyone looking to get away and get some sun. Riviera Nayarit, located on the pacific coastline of Mexico, offers everything a vacationing tourist would want out of a Mexican getaway and more.

Quality resort packages are available at destination Riviera Nayarit, from pampering at one of their first-rate spas, to golf on their lush greens. World renowned hotels dot Riviera Nayarit and provide unique and exceptional indulgences for visitors. Receive a massage while listening to the soothing waves of the ocean, or play a few holes while enjoying the freshwater breeze.

Riviera Nayarit also offers a visual aesthetic like no other destination. From the clear blue ocean waters, to the breathtaking mountains, to the luxurious foliage, Riviera Nayarit provides a spectacular landscape for visitors to enjoy.

Lounge on the gorgeous beaches and soak up some sun, or enjoy some beach activities such as water-skiing or snorkeling. If you would like a more exploratory view, rent a topless jeep and explore it for yourself. Riviera Nayarit offers whale watching, sailing, an aquatic park, and swimming with dolphins and sea lions opportunities. For the adventure enthusiast, the area also offers ATV excursions and breathtaking canopy tours of the tropical rainforest!

Riviera Nayarit provides visitors with an unmatched cultural atmosphere. Tourists can enjoy interactions with the Huichol, one of the groups of indigenous people who survived the Spanish conquest, and who exhibit warmth toward new guests. Visit their marketplace and purchase some of their beautifully handmade artwork and crafts.

Nightlife is also prominent as guests can either take a moonlit stroll along the shoreline, or enjoy one of the 500 restaurants available. Neighboring Puerto Vallarta provides clubs for a more social atmosphere.

วันศุกร์ที่ 19 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Kiwi Culture

Welcome to New Zealand, Aotearoa, land of the long white cloud, and home to a whole lot of Kiwis. I know that the kiwi, whilst it is our national bird, is a flightless ground dweller, but that says little about the people who live in this beautiful country. Perhaps at this point I should say that the kiwi really is a beautiful bird, and to see one in the wild, or even in captivity, is an awe-inspiring event.

Right so now I'm distracted by the kiwi. Where was I? Right, Kiwis, the inhabitants of New Zealand, also known as the youngest country in the world. We really are an interesting bunch, and I say that in the best possible way, and to come to New Zealand is to not only enjoy the stunning scenery, but also to meet some very cool people.

So, let's dive right into it. What exactly is Kiwi culture, putting races and people groups aside, let's find out what makes Kiwis tick.

We have to start off with rugby, which was introduced to New Zealand in May 1870. The first game of rugby was played in Nelson and since then rugby has been something that New Zealand has been quite good at, to say the least. For decades Kiwis have been rugby mad, and it has been every young boy's dream to grow up and become an All Black one day. The All Blacks are a national icon and if they lose a significant game the whole country will go into mourning.

Locally, you can expect pretty much every town and city to have at least one rugby club, and most Saturdays, if you go down to the local sports parks you will be treated to local rugby at its best; town against town, province against province and sometimes even brother against brother. I can speak from experience as I am currently the winger for a local 3rd division team which is truly a Kiwi thing to do. I am in it just for fun, but for a lot of locals rugby is lived and breathed and a win on Saturday is a must, as is the after match get together filled with drinks and battle stories.

Perhaps one of the most recognizable things about rugby is the short shorts that the players wear. This piece of clothing is called a stubby and it has filtered into the dress code for Kiwis everywhere. It's not uncommon to see, even in the dead of winter, a good ole Kiwi bloke wearing a pair of stubbies, seemingly oblivious to the cold. I can't say that I always support this symbol of Kiwi culture, but I have been known to don a pair even when I'm not playing rugby. Perhaps it's good for working on that leg tan, but your guess is as good as mine. It does feel pretty freeing though.

I guess while we are talking around sports it would be fair to mention another growing sport in New Zealand, which, whilst it¬ hasn't enjoyed the national popularity of rugby yet, it is definitely growing in popularity. The sport is football (or soccer depending on where you come from) and the recent success of the New Zealand All Whites and Wellington Phoenix really has boosted it in the nation's eyes. Bring on the Football World Cup and the future of football in New Zealand. Football really is a fantastic sport and for the younger generation is just as popular to play on the weekend as is rugby, so don't be surprised to see a rugby match being played alongside a football match when you visit that local sports park.

Kiwis are definitely not limited to rugby and soccer, however. We excel in sailing, cycling, endurance races, golf, basketball, kayaking, horse racing, growing, cricket and netball. These sports can be found all over New Zealand in some degree and this all goes to show that Kiwis are not only rugby mad, but sports mad in general. Other sports that can be found are tennis, table tennis, bowls, boule, badminton, volleyball, squash, and athletics, not to mention all the self defence schools around.

Okay, so maybe everything is not centred on sports. We are a fun-loving country, but our work ethic is very high and internationally recognized. Most Kiwis believe that if a job is worth doing, then it is worth doing well. Perhaps you have heard of Kiwi ingenuity, also known as No. 8 wire mentality? We are a nation that believes in just getting in and doing it, no matter what the obstacles. If, however, there are obstacles then expect your average Kiwi to successfully and speedily come up with a solution or some ingenious way of getting around the problem using unconventional means and whatever is available at the time. It will generally be to a high standard and achieve what is required.

One attitude of kiwis that you will most likely come across is the "She'll be right!" attitude, which is generally reflected in individuals rather than companies or public operations and is very much linked to Kiwi ingenuity. I should mention at this stage, however, that New Zealand does have very high health and safety standards which make it a very safe place to visit and enjoy participating in the attractions and activities it is known for. Whilst the "She'll be right!" attitude is possibly not the best attitude to have, it in some ways reflects what to expect of the people when coming to New Zealand. We are a very laid back society and love to just relax and enjoy other's company, food and good times.

One of the coolest ways to relax is to have a real kiwi barbeque. If you are invited to one the expectation is to bring something along to share with the group, perhaps something to slap on the barbie or a drink or salad for the group. The males at the barbeque will generally be found surrounding or near the barbeque eyeing up the food with a beverage in hand, and the females will either be conversing elsewhere or in the kitchen catching up and preparing the rest of the food. A barbeque is a very social occasion and the food is really good.

So let's talk now about the variety of food to expect when you get here. Barbeque food is one of the varieties, and it is definitely well worth trying. The meat can be cooked to perfection and you will be amazed at some of the things that go on the barbie. Another well known kiwi favourite is fish 'n' chips. The chips are beautifully deep-fried and come either yummy and crispy or hot and soggy, depending on where and what you like. The fish is battered and deep-fried as well and the type is generally snapper, shark, hoki, rig or blue cod, although the fish 'n' chip shop will have it clearly displayed. Other delicacies you will find in your average fish 'n' chip shop are wedges, spring rolls, donuts, kumara (sweet potato) chips and other yummy stuff. You may even find some battered and deep-fried mars bars and bananas. The amount of fat that may be consumed is potentially high, but it's a delicious meal to try and easily eaten anywhere. I need to mention here one of New Zealand's iconic soft drinks, L&P. This lemon drink is my personal favourite and has its home in Paeroa.

In New Zealand you will find all the usual fast food outlets we have all become so used to, like them or not, but you will also find a lot of places that advertise and sell organic and amazing fresh food and produce, so don't be concerned that all you are going to get over there is barbeques and fish 'n' chips. The dining experience is of a high standard and you will find food from all influences here, from European to Mediterranean to Asian to Pacific. Perhaps none is more famous, however, than the New Zealand seafood experience. New Zealand boasts some world class seafood and you can taste and enjoy some of what the ocean has to offer in many places. Bluff oysters and Marlborough Sounds mussels are examples of iconic kiwi seafood and many other places sell fresh seafood for you to enjoy.

Many Kiwis will compliment their eating with a glass of wine or a beer, and with the amount of wineries and breweries around they are spoilt for choice. Beer did used to be the drink of choice for Kiwis everywhere, but wine is fast becoming the more popular drink and is generally the drink now to have with your meal, hence why when you are invited to dinner a bottle of wine is a common gift to bring.

Unfortunately not all aspects of New Zealand culture are good. The Kiwi male used to be known to be hard, tough and potentially violent, and this included hard drinking. This still permeates into present culture, although thankfully not as much. New Zealand is a changing country and bad habits and mannerisms are starting to be frowned upon. The average Kiwi, however, is definitely not as liberal as their European counterparts and private details and circumstances will generally be kept that way. Kiwis will take everything with a grain of salt and are cautious of anyone who sticks out or is in a position of authority.

In saying all that, however, Kiwis really are for the most part a great bunch to be around, and are fiercely proud of their nation. I have to say that we have good reason to be proud of this piece of paradise as well. Here you will find some beautiful beaches, loads of sunshine and scenery that will blow you away. Kiwis are well aware of what is here as well and that reflects in the activities that many enjoy participating in and the holiday destinations for families and individuals alike. In rural New Zealand hunting is a common past time and there is plenty of opportunity and game out here. Fishing is also a very common activity and there are loads of family friendly places to cast a line or launch a boat to hit the waters for a leisurely day of fishing. Kiwis are very outdoor orientated and just love being on a beach or anywhere in the sunshine. I fondly remember the days when I was younger heading down to the local river and just lazing around in the sunshine.

A common Kiwi past time worth mentioning is market shopping. A lot of towns and cities will, over the weekend, hold a market with loads of things to see and items to shop for. There are famer's markets, art and craft markets, seafood markets and general township markets and here you can expect to see, try and buy some iconic Kiwi food, art and gear. Most towns will also annually hold what is called an A&P show. This is normally held over a weekend or a day and will showcase the best of rural New Zealand. Expect to see farm animals, iconic wood chopping, horses, antique tractors, Ferris Wheels, cotton candy, farm dog trials and a whole host of different stalls, food and activities.

Writing about Kiwi culture would not be complete without a mention of our common rivals. Other nations have their rivalries; i.e. USA versus Canada, England versus France and Sweden versus Norway, and we felt we needed one so we picked Australia. So there is a bit of a size difference there, but we Kiwis like a challenge. We secretly like each other but nevertheless love to take the mickey out of each other. Rugby union and league, cricket, basketball and football are where you will currently find most of the rivalries played out, however, it is a very generalised feeling and one that is happily played out on either side of the Tasman with both assuming superiority but happy to admit defeat, sometimes.

There really is a lot more I could say about Kiwi culture, but I am going to draw to a conclusion here and leave you wanting to come to New Zealand to find out more. We love having visitors over and are proud to show off out nation to anyone willing to see, use and respect it. Good old fashioned Kiwi hospitality is everywhere and needs to be experienced by all. So book your flights, pack your bags and come on over!

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 18 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Countryside Holidays in the Cotswolds

If you've already visited The Cotswolds it's not hard to see why this is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK. The Cotswolds region is a perfect perception of true English living with its honey coloured stoned towns and villages, fabulous scenic countryside, rolling hills and steeping valleys. It was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1966 and provides a perfect countryside retreat for all the family.

Accommodation in The Cotswolds

Finding accommodation is easy in the Cotswolds. There are a number of places to choose from. If you want that independent holiday without the ties of having to be up for breakfast before 10am then there are a range of self-catering cottages available in the area. If you really want to get immersed in rural life then why not stay on a farm bed and breakfast and soak up the countryside atmosphere with traditional English cooking. Alternatively, if you want to receive the service from a Cotswolds hotel there are many country house hotels and luxury boutique hotels in the Cotswolds with spa and leisure facilities to keep you occupied during your Cotswolds break.

Attractions in The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is an area rich in history which is reflected by the number of historical sites dotted throughout the region. They provide brilliant attractions for all the family. Blenheim Place, situated near Woodstock, is a Designated World Heritage Site and is home to the Duke of Marlborough and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Berkeley Castle is situated at Wotton-under-Edge and was built to keep out the Welsh with its various traps such as trip steps, murder holes and enormous barred doors.

Other attractions which are perfect for families include the Cotswold Water Park which is great for children and adults of all ages. There are many outdoor activities to keep you occupied with its nature reserves, water sports, fishing, cycling, camping and a safe summer children's bathing area. The Cotswolds Wild Life Park is located near Burford and features over 200 animal species in approximately 200 acres of parkland.

Walking in The Cotswolds

This unique countryside is a walkers' paradise whether you decide to follow a published walking route, with your own map or with a guided walking leader. The Cotswold Way is a long distance walking trail that runs between the market town of Chipping Campden in the North of the Cotswolds and the city of Bath in the South. This walk offers the perfect chance see some true English countryside, passing through picturesque towns, villages, historic sites, churches and lakes.

All in all, the Cotswolds provides the perfect place for a long holiday, romantic getaway or an Easter break with the family. The Cotswolds stunning countryside, quaint market towns, array of family attractions, gardens, historical sites and wildlife parks are all waiting to be explored. Cotswolds accommodation is available in abundance with its self catering cottages, town guest houses, farm bed and breakfasts and country house Cotswolds hotel. For those who want to really experience the outdoor then camping in the country is the perfect way - there are many camp sites located across the Cotswolds in hidden valleys and ancient Cotswolds woodland.

วันพุธที่ 17 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Discount Cigarettes Online

Recent years have seen a hefty rise in cigarette prices. The major reason is the heavy tax imposed on cigarettes by various states in the US. Another reason for the rising price is the series of multibillion dollar suits filed against tobacco manufacturers. Most smokers find discount cigarettes an easy to avoid the impact of taxes.

Online discount cigarettes has become a catchphrase among the patrons of premium brands such as Marlboro, Newport, Doral, Parliament, Camel and Barclay. With the advent of discount cigarettes, one can now enjoy their favorite brand at a much lower cost. Websites displaying the "discount cigarettes online" tag offer a variety of premium and generic cigarette brands at heavily discounted prices, owing to the tax exemption that online sales enjoy. However, "discount cigarettes online" websites desist from supplying cigarettes to some states because of the strict laws that have been applied to online sales.

Online retailers who advertise "discount cigarettes online" generally operate from states that impose lower taxes on cigarettes. They can afford to supply the goods at much lower prices. Businessmen located in reserved Indian lands, where federal tax laws do not apply, also manage "Discount cigarettes online" websites. A large portion of the online sales originate from Indian reserved lands, especially the Seneca lands. A recent study indicates sales from Seneca lands amount to almost $300 million a year.

Websites sporting the "Discount Cigarettes Online" title usually contain a note ensuring complete security of the buyer's personal information. Most buyers are apprehensive of the possibility of federal or state agencies tracking them down to pay taxes. However, in most cases, local taxes do not apply to online sales. Moreover, the cigarettes ordered through a website are usually delivered through mail, which attracts no tax.

วันอังคารที่ 16 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

The Island of Maui - Hawaii at Its Best

Vacationing on the Hawaiian island of Maui is actually vacationing in two distinct biospheres. The western part of Maui contains a mountainous area including 5788-foot high Pu'u Kuku, deep canyons where rainbows seem to grow like wild vines, and the highly developed leeward beaches skirting the town of Lahaina.

Maui's much larger eastern area, known as Haleakala, contains a 10,023-foot high active volcano, desert areas border on an enormous rain forest, and Maui's famous South Shore, one of the most beautiful beach resort areas on Earth. Mali's two landmasses are divided by central Maui, the location Kahului Airport. The depression which is central Maui is responsible for the island's nickname of the Valley Isle.

Maui's remarkably diverse landscape is what makes it an all-in-one vacation Paradise. Visitors to Maui can indulge themselves in pastimes ranging from hikes along tortured volcanic landscapes and snorkeling in calm waters as brilliant tropical fish dart about beneath them. Maui also offers world-class shopping and dining, Hawaii's first sugar plantation and old resort, and villages in which the ancient Hawaiian culture mingled easily with the 21st century.

Driving along Maui's busy roads will take you past ancient "heaiu," stone platforms once used in ceremonies of worship. You will see the smoke stacks of abandoned sugar mills, and broadcast networks housed in the same brick structures which once sheltered missionaries. A visit to the town of Lahaina will introduce you to Hawaii's whaling past at the Whaling Museum, but it will also offer you the opportunity to attend a surf school and try your luck at hanging ten. If you want to leave Hawaii having experienced an authentic luau, and not the touristy versions offered at most wired resorts, the Old Lahaina Luau is the place to do it.

One of the most famous roads in the Hawaiian islands is Maui's Road to Hana. Its one lane bridges and frighteningly turns are legendary, but no more so than its use of waterfalls and thickly forested gullies plummeting down to the coastlines. Driving the 55 miles of the Road to Hana will let you experience Maui at its pristine best, and the nerve-wracking part of the journey will be broken up with your frequent stops to leave your vehicle for photo opportunities. You will pass countless roadside stands selling fresh fruit and flowers, available at bargain basement prices. To patronize these stands is to contribute significantly to the local economy.

If you decide to travel the road to Hana, consider renting a 4-wheel drive vehicle because of the options it will give you. When you arrive in Hana, having 4-wheel drive will let you keep going until you reach the Ohe'o Gulch. Known for its seven mountain stream-fed pools, Ohe'o Gulch is a great place to park and enjoy a refreshing swim. In a secluded area off the road about a mile past the Ohe'o Gulch is the final resting place of Charles A. Lindbergh.

Even without four-wheel-drive, however, you can cool off in the waters off Hamoa Beach, just two miles outside of Hana.

The waters off Maui are the winter home of more than half of the Pacific Ocean's humpback whale population. After spending their summer is a rich feeding grounds of the Arctic, the whales migrate south to the warmth of Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth. Between the months of November and April, whale watching opportunities abound on Maui. Whale watching cruises are allowed to come within 100 yards of these remarkable creatures. You can also view the magnificent humpbacks atop MacGregor Point Lookout or while perched on the sands at the northern end of Keawakapu beach.

Mali is not an island which will reveal all its treasures in a single visit. It is rain forests and volcanoes merit separate visits of their own, so when you plan your first trip to Maui, do not try squeeze in more than you can properly enjoy!

วันจันทร์ที่ 15 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Ticket to America's Hottest, Hippest Holiday Destination

Carrie observed in the 'Sex and the City' that "New York is all about sex. People getting it, People trying to get it, People who can't get it. No wonder the city never sleeps". Undoubtedly, many would nod in unison but the above captures only one aspect of the city. Exciting, Electrifying, Bizarre...New York never fails to mesmerize its visitors. Being an intriguing blend of people and cultures the city enjoys an incredible appeal amongst visitors streaming in from all corners of the world.

An air ticket to New York would unravel the enduring charm of this iconic city that is truly the gateway to America. Synonymous with New York, the Statue of Liberty stands as a shining example of America's freedom struggle and it welcomes its visitors who come to explore the city. A drive through the brightly illuminated Brooklyn Bridge after sundown is sure to be an exhilarating experience. Stop by at the Times Square for a few minutes and watch people from all nationalities walk past you revealing the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural character of this city. Take time out to visit the historic Lincoln Centre and the many shops of the majestic Rockefeller Plaza.

A bike ride through the Central Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Hugely popular amongst tourists 'Central Park Bike Tours' are sure to provide the excitement you and your family crave for. Tackle the huge waves on its sparkling coastline that are just ideal for snorkelling and scuba-diving. With its diverse landscapes the city is a haven for adventure enthusiasts who can indulge in mountaineering, biking and other adventure sports.

Economical air tickets to New York aplenty during the festive season and once you are here head to the ritzy malls of this city that offer the best of haute couture and haute cuisine. Drawing shoppers to its fold, Macy's, Madison Avenue, Fifth Avenue enclose high street brands like Giorgio Armani, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, DKNY.

New York's cosmopolitan character ensures that the city is a treasure trove of cuisines from all across the world. Serving a vast smorgasbord of dishes delis, fast food joints, fine-dining restaurants in the city offer a feast for the senses. Adding to the experience is ice-cream parlours, tea, coffee joints that are just right for intimate conversations or to unwind after work. Sail into New York next summer and you are sure to remain hooked to this city for long.

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 14 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Intro to Marlborough, New Zealand

What's it like?

With the drowned valleys of the Marlborough Sounds, dramatic peaks of the Kaikoura ranges, New Zealand's largest wine making region, a year round sunny climate and a wealth of bird and sea life... Marlborough has a lot to be proud of.

Home to the Queen Charlotte Track this breathtaking region offers visitor and local alike an outdoor paradise. It is filled with native forests, trout-filled rivers, coastal tracks, sheltered bays for cruising and fishing, mountains and high backcountry - all easily accessible from its towns.

Whether you love wine or wildlife, sea-kayaking or cruising, native bush walks or formal garden rambles, under clear sunny skies Marlborough is a great place to unwind. In town and country there are galleries, museums, shopping, craft studios and food specialties to discover, with numerous tours taking in the best.

Things to do in Marlborough

With 67 kilometres of picturesque coastal forest, coves and inlets that make up the waterways of the Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds to be found along the Queen Charlotte Track, you can get a picture of what visitors can do to spend their time.

Also, with 65 wineries in the Marlborough region, it's easy to stumble upon a wine trail for one, two, a few or many wine tasting sessions (don't worry, many wineries have a cafe or restaurant on site if you need something strong and black to get you back on your feet).

Depending on the fishing ground, an average Marlborough brown trout can weigh from one to three kilograms. Fishing, hunting and wildlife sightseeing trips present more great reasons to enjoy the outdoors.

Main towns and tourism hotspots

Blenheim - the hub of the famous Marlborough wine district
Renwick - a satellite village to Blenheim, right in the heart of the vineyards
Picton - the starting point for walks,outdoor adventure eco-tourism, boating and cruises in and around Queen Charlotte Sound
Havelock - undoubtably the Greenshell mussel capital of New Zealand

วันเสาร์ที่ 13 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Why Guided Kayaking Tours May Best Suit Tourists to New Zealand

As a tourist or visitor you are almost certainly going to be reliant on using a hired kayak. There are several popular destinations where you can hire for anything from a few hours to a few days.

You can choose from

* Hiring independently for a quiet paddle in the area adjoined to the hire center

* Hiring and transporting the kayak to your kayaking destination.

* Opting for guided kayak tours where they may transport kayaks for a group, to your kayaking destination

I would suggest that unless you are doing a short kayak within the location of the hire centre you will find it best to do guided kayak tours. Not only does this ensure safety when kayaking in New Zealand with someone who knows and understands local conditions, but it means you have everything you need provided as part of the package. Along with the kayak you will always require

* life jackets

* safety equipment e.g pumps

* Meals

* Camping equipment if an overnight kayaking tour

* Waterproof Dry bags for cameras, jewelery, spare clothing, food etc

Why Choose a Guided Kayaking Tour ?

New Zealand does have wonderful kayaking...but knowing about

* the tides

* the very unpredictable New Zealand weather conditions

* local knowledge of problem areas such as submerged rocks or logs, power stations on rivers, water currents, etc are invaluable

* Knowing where to find special scenic areas where birds may be nesting, native bush, lovely beaches, glowworm caves or historic sites all add to a more rewarding experience.

* A guided kayak tour takes away the hassles and concerns you may have, ensures you do not get "lost", and makes for a more relaxed enjoyable experience for kayaking in New Zealand

* Safety - a kayaking tour in a group means there is always help at hand

Popular Tourist Destinations with Kayak Hire

You will come across kayak hire companies in many locations as you travel around New Zealand Listed are destinations where kayak hire is readily available. Some camping grounds will have a few sit on kayaks for hire, to just enjoy the local area. For longer kayaks you really need a sea kayak, or larger river kayak complete with rudder, skirt and space for storage of meals, dry clothing, cameras and other items.

* Bay of Islands - Paihia

* Auckland waterfront

* Rotorua - Hire from kayak shops or small kayaks available in camping grounds

* Taupo - several options

* Whanganui River ( 5 days) -a guided kayak tour

* Nelson/Marlborough - Abel Tasman National Park has kayak hire and guided or independent kayak tours, with several company choices

* Kaikoura - for seeing seals and marine life

* Guided Glacier kayaks at Mt Cook and the West Coast Glaciers

Plan some time to enjoy a kayak on your New Zealand holiday. It is a wonderful way of experiencing pristine areas only accessible by water and our diverse marine life. By choosing the right kayak experience for your abilities, time frame and what you most want to see... you will go home with another New Zealand adventure to remember.

วันศุกร์ที่ 12 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Top Things to Do in New Zealand

Throughout New Zealand

Buy the Lord of the Rings location guide, and do some hunting out of familiar scenes from the LOTR trilogy.

North Island

Cape Reinga and 90 Mile Beach

Swim with the dolphins in Paihia, Bay of Islands

Vertigo Climb, Auckland Skytower - beyond the observation decks, and wear an orange suit to do it.

Take a ferry or kayak from Mission Bay, Auckland to Rangitoto Island & climb to the top.

Waiheke Island - only 35 mins by ferry from Auckland, for some great wineries, maybe spend the night.

Raglan- & catch some wild surf.

Waitomo Haggas Honking Holes and tubing the glow-worm caves

Kayak from Whitianga to Cathedral Cove - then go to Hot Water beach and dig your hole in the sand

Drive from Opotiki to Gisborne then around the East Cape and back to Opotiki

Hawkes Bay- wineries, East Coast, North Island

Whakatane- Take a scenic flight over White Island, an active volcano.

Rotorua - to see the geysers, thermal activity and smell, visit Te Whakawerwera for your Maori cultural experience.

Drive out to Lake Tarawera near Rotorua- check out the Blue and Green lakes on the way

Taupo- Tandem Skydive 12,000ft

Craters of the moon outside of Taupo

Tongariro Crossing- one of the best one-day walks in the world, stunning scenery with volcanoes

Walk up Mount Taranaki- West Coast, North Island

Watch the sun rise at Te Araroa - the eastern most place in NZ

Martinborough- wineries- bottom East Coast, North Island

Te Papa Museum in Wellington- you could spend all day here learning about NZ / Maori -culture

South Island

Abel Tasman- for relaxing walking and kayaking around the National Park

Walk the Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough Sounds- Top, South Island
Marlborough- wineries, top East Coast, South Island

Kaikoura- for whale watching and swimming with dolphins

4 day hike, Banks Peninsula - East Coast, South Island

Moeraki Boulders - East Coast, South Island for unusual round boulders
Christchurch- Arts Centre

Akaroa- for a bit of French New Zealand history

Dunedin- for historic homes, albatross, yellow eyed penguins and seal colonies

Oamaru- for Old Oamaru Stone buildings and Penguin watching

Pancake Rocks and blowholes- Punakaiki, upper West Coast, South Island
Mount Cook - South Island

Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers- West Coast, South Island

While looking at the glaciers in the Fox/Franz Josef area take a cruise out to Lake Matheson first thing in the morning to take some amazing photos of the reflection of Mount Cook in the water

Wanaka- a relaxing place in Central Otago

Arrowtown- an old Central Otago Goldfields town with an old Chinese village, 20 minutes from Queenstown

Queenstown- for adventure activities and party atmosphere

Pipeline Bungy Jump in Queenstown

Drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy- have a beer at the Glenorchy pub, after stopping and taking plenty of photos whilst on the drive

Queenstown- wineries

5 day trek of Routeburn/Greenstone Track

Walk Milford Track- one of the Worlds best.

Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park- lower West Coast, South Island
Doubtful Sound in the Fiordland National Park- swim with dolphins

The Catlins- for nature East Coast, South Island

Stewart Island- for nature bottom South Island

Once you have done all these things you will have had a great look around beautiful New Zealand

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 11 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Unique New Zealand South Island Attractions

1. Aoraki Balloon Safaris - hot air ballooning in South Canterbury

Hot Air Ballooning is the air adventure giving you a tranquil and majestic flight, which no other aircraft can offer. It is the ultimate adventure, touched with serenity and romance. Beginning with the awe-inspiring balloon inflation, your sedate and mystical flight unfolds.

The Flight

Flights are generally flown around day-break, when air conditions are traditionally clear, calm, cool and stable. Having met at dawn, you will be driven in our 4-wheel drive vehicles to a suitable launch site chosen by one of our very experienced New Zealand licenced pilots.

Following a detailed flight briefing, you will then be invited to assist the pilot and crew to prepare the balloon for flight. Once aboard the wicker basket, your magical flight begins. The launch is so gentle you will hardly realise you have left the ground. The peace and gentleness of ballooning will surprise you and Methven flight views are unsurpassable. As you drift along with the breeze, the scenery slowly changes until, after approximately an hour in the air, it is time to land.

The successful completion of the flight is celebrated with a champagne-styled buffet breakfast, as a picnic in the field, generally served by a suitably attired waiter with a silver tray. You will also receive a flight certificate.

What a way to end a fantastic adventure!

2. On Yer Bike! - 4wd in the West Coast

Set amidst a backdrop of lush West Coast rainforest near Greymouth, brace yourself for the New Zealand Off Road adventure of a lifetime with On Yer Bike! At On Yer Bike! our tracks are a magical mix of mud, water and narrow, winding trails. You'll enjoy the thrill of navigating one of our 4WD motorbikes across rivers, through copious amounts of our famous mud and through puddles that resemble small lakes!

There are plenty of photo opportunities at the many beautiful spots in the forest. You'll see tall native trees, birdlife, views of the valley and maybe some wild deer tracks. You can even purchase a CD of Photographs of your muddy adventure to keep as a memento of your time with On Yer Bike!

On Yer Bike Adventures is now home to the Hagglund! - This is the most extreme way to get off-road on the wild West Coast.

3. Ziptrek Ecotours - ecotours in Queenstown

The best framed views of Lake Wakatipu can be experienced on an interpretive guided tour using flying foxes as low impact adventure access. Join us on a series of lines that traverse the forest in a way that will never be forgotten. This tour is perfect for families, groups and those who have never ziplined before.

Come join us on our exhilarating zipline (flying fox) adventure above spectacular Queentown! Ride up the Skyline Gondola and then glide through the treetops on a series of flying foxes. Your experienced guides will deliver an interpretive tour as you "Zzziiiiiip" from tree to tree. Breath in some pristine mountain air as you venture on a carefully crafted journey that combines exhilaration, adventure, and ecological exploration.

4. Rosco's Milford Kayaks - kayaking in Fiordland

Find out for yourself why Lonely Planet has rated sea kayaking as THE best way to see Milford Sound. Rosco's Milford Kayaks is New Zealand's longest established owner operated sea kayaking business. This is experience you can count on so relax, choose a trip that suits you and enjoy seeing the real Milford Sound up close and personal from a sea kayak.

Rosco's Winter Kayaking Experience is simply superb!!

You can expect:

More settled weather conditions usually result in very calm water - ideal for exploring Milford from a sea kayak.
Less crowds make winter the premium time to visit Milford.
More wildlife frequent Milford during the winter months. Seals, dolphins and penguins can often be viewed from your sea kayak.
Less motor boats cruising Milford. More peace and tranquillity - just the splash of our paddles.
More photo opportunities often mirror like reflections of famous icons like mile high Mitre Peak.
Less sandflies and usually none at all. Makes your day in paradise even more enjoyable.

5. Wanaka Transport and Toy Museum - museum in Wanaka

With a unique and fascinating collection that has grown to over 30,000 items, the Wanaka Transport and Toy Museum is one of the largest private displays in the Southern Hemisphere.

It is an enormously varied collection which has children's toys including a huge range of Barbie dolls, unusual motor-cycles and rare cars, trucks, ambulances, military vehicles, fire engines and aircraft.

The Wanaka Transport and Toy museum will surprise and delight, with something for everyone.

6. Wauraurahiri Jet - jet boating in Southland

Wairaurahiri Jet takes you into the Southern end of Fiordland National park. We set off from Lake Hauroko crossing the lower part of New Zealand's deepest lake then it's down the wild, grade three rock strewn rapids of the Wairaurahiri River to the sea.

Our trip passes through beautiful unmodified Podocarp forests. We have a short guided nature walk along the way.

Once we are at the sea we set you off to explore the rugged South Coast while we cook your delicious kiwi style BBQ lunch. After lunch it's back on board for the return journey up the river across the lake back to the departure point. We also involve our guests with our own conservation project protecting our native bird.

7. Maniototo Curling International Ltd - iconic New Zealand activity in Central Otago

The township of Naseby in the Maniototo, Central Otago, has become the country's curling capital with the completion of New Zealand's first International and Olympic standard indoor curling rink. (Currently the only dedicated indoor curling rink in the Southern Hemisphere.)

This new facility is attracting additional New Zealand and new international curling tournaments to Central Otago, an area already synonymous with curling. Curling worldwide has enjoyed remarkable growth since it achieved full Olympic status in Nagano in 1998.

Situated in the alpine village of Naseby, only 15kms from the Central Otago Rail Trail, this is the perfect activity for people who are at the midway point of their journey along the trail.

8. Driftwood Eco-Tours - ecotours in Marlborough

New Zealand bird watching and eco-tours.

The tidal estuary of Wairau Lagoon in Marlborough is home to more than 90 different kinds of birds. Royal Spoonbill, Black Fronted Tern and Bar-tailed Godwit are among the thousands that flock here, and it's easy to see why.

The light is always changing on these peaceful waters, there's no one around and the food's great. Driftwood Eco-tours offers you the same experience.

You can choose from the following:

Full-day tours to catch the best time for bird watching and photography
Access to private land - you have the place to yourself
Tours tailored to your interests and you set the pace
Small groups - you or you and your party will enjoy individual guiding
Homemade picnics and fine wine from the gourmet province
Multi day bird watching tours on request

9. Cape Farewell Horse Treks - horse riding in the Nelson and Tasman region

"Don and I reckon we live in the most beautiful place in New Zealand. We were lucky enough to have bought our farm some 17 years ago. We began life at Puponga with a "bull beef unit" (cattle), but moved onto the horse trekking a couple of years later. It is a very family-orientated business, and our main focus is on having a great time and giving people a chance to live their dreams, something we Kiwis don't realise...that we are so lucky to live here."

"Don and I still get a real buzz out of watching a rider who has waited a lifetime to gallop down Wharariki Beach. The feeling is just 'bloody awesome'".

"We are, I guess, very proud Kiwis. We reckon we live in the best place in the world. We love the lifestyle we've created and have the ultimate job."

"We look forward to meeting you, and showing you our corner of New Zealand."

10. Norwest Underworld Adventures - ecotours in the West Coast

Underworld Rafting & The GlowWorm Cave Tours are adventures in one of NZ's largest unmodified Cave Systems complete with spectacular Stalactites & Stalagmites creations & galaxies of GlowWorms that are unequalled on this planet. Adventure Caving is a full-on exploration style activity in a superb sporty active water cave complete with abseils, climbs, crawls and squeezes.

Underworld Rafting - Is our premier activity & the one for which we developed our international reputation. Underworld Rafting is a very special Cave Rafting adventure where you explore the formation filled upper levels before meeting the underground lake to float beneath the most amazing displays of GlowWorms. You complete the journey having fun bouncing down the Nile River Rapids. This is a soft eco-adventure suited to those with confidence in water, 10 and over. Allow 4hrs.

The GlowWorm Cave Tour - Is a dry passive version of the internationally acclaimed "Underworld Rafting". In this fully interpreted soft eco-tour visitors travel by Rainforest Train to the huge Nile River GlowWorm Caves System and are spellbound by the spectacular displays of Stalactites and Stalagmites and surreal galaxies of GlowWorms. This activity is suited for all that can walk unassisted on uneven surfaces. Allow 3.5 - 4hrs

Adventure Caving - Is full-on expedition style caving at its best- complete with abseils, climbs, crawls and squeezes. This is a challenging world class adventure suited only to those fit in body and mind, 16 and older. Allow 5hrs

The Nile River Rainforest Train - is a short interpretative train journey in open carriages through primeval rain forests in the Nile River Canyon. You will pass through the film sites of "The Lost World" and explore majestic cave & karst country. Suited to all, young & old, fit or not so fit. There is wheel chair access. Allow 1.5hrs return.

วันพุธที่ 10 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Bangkok Nightlife

If a traveler doesn't break government rules and regulations, the nightlife of the "city that never sleeps" is relaxed, safe and enjoyable. Bangkok features live music, cool bars, exuberant dance venues and great restaurants. Notorious places like Patpong continue to attract curious tourists to the numerous neon-lit bars, while the night markets sell clothes, souvenirs, DVDs, CDs, wrist watches and handbags, most of which are counterfeit and popular. This "City of Angels" is salt-and-peppered with a variety of places, from loud and noisy pubs, to classy jazz bars, hip hangouts and exuberant dance clubs.

The traveler can find Bangkok by night as a laid-back place to relax with a drink, enjoy a decent dinner while listening to a live jazz performance, take a dinner cruise on a traditional teak rice barge down the Chao Phraya river in the moonlight or enjoy a traditional dance performance at the Patravadi Theatre, where traditional and contemporary theatre elements are integrated into something quite unique and Thai.

The city's night life offers scope for shopping too. Most shopping malls stay open until 9 or 10pm. Some night markets stay open until 11pm or midnight, but never later than 2am.

Although Bangkok's nightlife is to some extent notorious, recent social order campaigns and government rules and regulations have put a bit of a clamp on things for safety. For example, nearly all restaurants, bars and clubs are now forced to close before 1am.

Bangkok by night is accessible by BTS (Skytrain) or MRT (Underground), two of the city's transit systems.

วันอังคารที่ 9 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Ten Things You Would Not Want to Miss in New Zealand

The sun, the people, the waters, and the landscape of New Zealand do not seem to fade in the near future. Bike around, feel the sand, test the waters, taste the food, wade around, hike up, ski down, and look around, and be charmed by what New Zealand has to offer. Here's you list, pack your bags, leave your front door, board a plane, and let your adventure begin.

1.) Rainbow's End

This award-winning Auckland theme park was open in 1982 and since then has offered both kids and adults a way to scream their excitement out. Enjoy the thrill, the spill and the twirl in this amusement center while enjoying other amenities like food and conference centers. Just make sure you save enough dizziness if you're planning to go somewhere else.

2.) Buried Village

More than a century ago, a scenic village was destroyed when lava from Mt. Tarawera covered the entire area. All that remains now of the site are the remnants that should never be forgotten. Learn more about the tragedy that lies beneath the now tranquil paths leading to the Buried Village.

3.) Rock Climbing

Ready to take on a vertical adventure with an attitude? New Zealand offers climbing spots scattered all over the islands, including top of the line climbing spots like Wharepapa and Canterbury. Travel all over the country, and New Zealand will make sure you never run out of places to climb.

4.) Waikato

The land of lush green farmlands and flowing hills offer tourist a chance to loosen up, relax and enjoy the scenery after a busy day in urban centers. With only 90 minutes from the capital Auckland, Waikato is a perfect getaway for people who want an escape from the city life. Discover its majestic mountains, mineral pools, falls, caves, rivers, and hills and interact with local people and make your trip to New Zealand a trip to free your mind.

5.) Bay of Plenty

Go to the Bay of the Plenty and experience a day packed with activities, scenery and experience that only New Zealand could offer. One can do kayaking, white-water rafting, parasailing and jet boating along the Bay of Plenty. A chance to play with the dolphins, doing some skydiving, blokarting, trekking on horseback is experience worth the money.

6.) Wellington

Wellington is the center of New Zealand's art and culture. Come and discover the treasures this city has to offer by touring the city on foot, in a coach, or in a chopper, and visit museums, courtyards and even the sight of Lord of the Rings if you want. Wellington also offers a nice place to stay if you want to enjoy nature, and you are reluctant to leave urban lifestyle behind.

7.) Kaikoura

With the ragged Kaikoura Mountains as a backdrop, Kakikoura boast natural wonders that transcends the barriers of land and sea. The combination of majestic mountains and undulating waters enables travelers to enjoy trekking and mountaineering as well as water activities like whale and dolphin watching, swimming, and more in just one location. If you're looking for nature, excitement and relaxation, you could go to no better place than Kaikoura.

8.) Skydiving

New Zealand has a way to jack up everybody's adrenalin up. There's a lot of jump sites all over the country, but Taupo holds the title as New Zealand's Skydiving Capital. Imagine a 12,000-foot jump which cost less than US$160, requires virtually no experience and is offered by many operators, and you know you have your own adrenal glands pumping.

9.) Milford Sounds

Tired of all too common landscapes that sucks the life out of your vacation? Then try New Zealand's Milford Sounds by traversing dense forests and towering mountains and jumping aboard cruises that will take you to the heart of this majestic environment. Just make sure you hold your chin because you're in for some jaw-dropping adventure you'll never forget.

10.) Marlborough Region

Want to have some Sauvignon Blanc wine while enjoying picturesque environment? Then travel to this northeastern district in the Southern New Zealand Island and get more than just a sip to this exciting spirit. Enjoy the music, learn from the people, traverse the unique landscape, and you're in for a lot of surprises.

วันจันทร์ที่ 8 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Cheap Discount Cigarettes

In earlier times, cigarettes were hand rolled products comprised of indigenous nicotine leaves. This resulted in endless bouts of coughing and swallowing of tobacco leaves. Modern cigarettes have come a long way. The use of filters, processed tobaccos and tight tobacco fills has made cigarette smoking a pleasant and hassle free experience. Smoking cigarettes is not encouraged since nicotine is highly addictive. However, the irony is, people are more than willing to buy cheap discount cigarettes.

Nicotine is a powerful, central nervous system stimulant and is classified as a drug. However, cigarettes are not considered to be drugs and are used by a large number of people. Dependency and its habit-forming nature result in enormous cigarette consumption everyday. For this reason, a number of smokers opt for cheap discount cigarettes. This saves a considerable amount of money in the long run.

Consumption of cigarettes is a compulsive habit for most people. This trend of regular and ever-increasing consumption increases a manufacturers production proportionately. Most cigarettes are at par in relation to price. For this reason, cheap discount cigarette attract customers to different brands.

When a customer decides to buy cheap discount cigarettes, it is advisable to consider the freshness of these cigarettes. There have been instances when people have had to settle for stale cigarettes. Most cheap discount cigarettes are available in bulk quantities. For this reason, users are likely to buy them to eliminate the chance of running out.

Cigarette smoking provides pleasure at ordinary times and comforts the user in times of worry, anger and other tensions. Sale of cigarettes to minors is a punishable offence. However, cheap discount cigarette offers are attractive to this vulnerable lot. For this reason, manufacturers have strict guidelines pertaining to sale of cheap discount cigarettes.

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 7 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Las Vegas Travel Packages

Las Vegas, best known for legalized gambling and numerous casinos, is an amazing city that is incomparable to any other. It offers all that one would expect from a world-class city.

A travel package is a convenient choice that offers additional ways of saving money on travel. It is a booking engine designed to offer customers a wide choice of custom packages at great pre-negotiated rates. In fact, travel packages are fully customizable, which enables customers to select from a wide array of packages and to suit them to their preferences. In custom trips, it is convenient to use travel packages. These special travel packages are updated weekly and allow travelers to take full advantage of all available discounts.

There is a vast variety of travel packages available in Las Vegas, and choosing the best is not an easy task. Plenty of travel packages are available during all seasons of the year. A typical Las Vegas travel package would include services such as hotel rooms, show tickets, nightclub passes or tables, luxury vehicles, and more.

Some travel agencies provide very good offers for serious customers--they give long-term memberships. The membership enables one to be informed of any good travel packages available at any point in time; thus members get to take advantage of such packages.

Travel agencies take full care of the traveler who has chosen to opt for a package. It is highly advisable that a first-time traveler get travel insurance; this insurance offers protection if there is a cancellation due to injury, sickness, or death to oneself, a traveling companion, or an immediate family member. Though travel insurance does not cover unstable, pre-existing conditions, it provides emergency assistance while on vacation. Thus, in this manner, Las Vegas travel packages go a long way toward providing plenty of facilities, covering almost all aspects of traveling.

วันเสาร์ที่ 6 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Destin Florida Hotels

Destin is a small city in the large state of Florida, yet it is a city of significance for tourists. Destin is not only known for its pristine white sand beaches, but also for its green parks, and adventure parks. It is also a fisherman's dream destination. It's also a destination for water tourists. Considering this, almost all of the Destin hotels provide amenities and facilities that could be regarded as aqua-themed.

Destin is mainly visited by people who want to laze on the white sands and enjoy freedom from stress. But that does not mean that it has nothing in store for the adventurous. The adventure water sports and other activities, such as scuba diving, are amongst the best in the world. The Destin hotels bordering the coastline have various tourist activities that are part of the boarding and lodging package.

The Destin hotels provide tour packages that include water adventure sports, dolphin shows and dolphin cruises, golf, the art and literature corners of the city, as well as night packages to entertain one after sunset.

Apart from the night events, such as live band concerts and theme nights, the Destin hotels also organize visits to other night places such as clubs and bars, Broadway shows, beach parties, casinos, and all other entertaining activities that take over the night life of this city.

Destin hotels are known for their facilities and amenities that make for a pleasurable trip to this city. Staying at any of the hotels provides one with sweet memories of mornings, afternoons, evenings and nights spent in the city of white beaches and plush greenery.

วันศุกร์ที่ 5 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Bangkok Culture

Bangkok's culture dates back to many centuries that it is said that archeological excavations in the area north of Nakorn Ratchasima indicate that there were people living here over 4000 years ago. Monarchy played a major role in the medieval times. But now Thailand has a rich bout of democracy with its own constitution.

The Bangkokians are a bunch of warm and friendly people, usually too polite to show offense. Yet, as with any nation, there are borders of behavior that should and should not be crossed. They take great pride in their monarchy. Visitors are well-advised to respect the reverence in which devoted Bangkokians hold their royal family. The Buddhist religion is considered sacred by Bangkokians. Monks, temples, and Buddha images are everywhere and most of the people treat them with great respect. It is expected that appropriate clothing be worn in temples, and shoes removed when entering certain areas in the temples.

For Bangkokians, the maintenance of surface calm and harmony is crucial. Loss of temper, arguing, or direct criticism are best avoided among them, because they feel it serves little purpose in any case. The famous wai is a used as a gesture for both greeting and respect. Wai requires the person to use both of his hands as if praying in front of his face. In general, it is considered to be a mark of respect to try to keep the head at a lower level than that of a senior or older person when talking to or passing them. On entering a private chamber or house, it is customary to remove your shoes. The polite form of address when talking to or about people of similar or older age are to use the title "Khun" and the person's first name.

Many Bangkokians will be too polite to comment on behaviour that is disrespectful of a fellow Bangkokian, but you should be aware that it is still offensive. Looks and appearances are important to Bangkokians. When meeting them, dressing smartly, or at least appropriately, reflects the degree of respect you hold for them.

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 4 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

10 Things To See & Do In New Zealand

You can't keep your eyes off the "God's Own Country" - New Zealand for long. New Zealand certainly is the country of wonders and exoticas. It is the land of glacial mountains, ravishing rivers, luscious lakes, hissing geysers, and boiling mud. Often dubbed as "Kiwiland," New Zealand is widely known for its plenty of rare native flora and fauna.

Located in the south-western Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is the country known for numerous outdoor activities, such as tramping (hiking), skiing, rafting, and bungee jumping. You can swim with dolphins, play with lambs, watch whales, or go for fishing in pristine streams and rivers. Certainly, you can see & do a lot of things in New Zealand, but here are 10 things that you just can't ignore.

1. Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, on the southern tip of the North Island, is the place to enjoy arts, culture, entertainment, and fine foods of New Zealand. You can find numerous music/dance/fine arts venues, theatres, galleries & museums, shopping centers, trendy cafes, and restaurants in Wellington. Just a few hours away, you can access network of walking and biking trails along beautiful wineries and vineyards. Some of attractions of Wellington are - Mount Victoria, Brooklyn Windmill, Frank Kitts Park, Karori Cemetery, Elmscourt, Karori Wildlife Sanctuary, Parliament Buildings, and National Library of New Zealand

2. Auckland, the largest city located in the northern half of the North Island, offers you a number of things to see & do. You can enjoy sailing or yachting in the Hauraki Gulf of the Pacific Ocean to the east of the city. You can enjoy stunning waterfalls, breath taking views, and beautiful beaches at foothills of Waitakere Ranges and smaller ranges to the west and north-west of Auckland. You can enjoy picnicking and walking in this part of New Zealand. Some of attractions of Auckland are - Auckland War Memorial Museum, New Zealand National Maritime Museum, Sky Tower, Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland Zoo, The StarDome Observatory, Kelly Tarlton's, and Auckland Regional Botanic Gardens.

3. Rotorua, known as the thermal wonderland of New Zealand, is one of major attractions of New Zealand. It is a town on the southern shore of Lake Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty region of the North Island. The town's springs and geysers have been attracting tourists for over a hundred years. Famous for geothermal activity, Rotorua is known for its geysers, hot mud pools, steaming craters, and Maoris culture and traditions. Some of attractions of Rotorua are - Government Gardens, The Lakes, Okere Falls, Whakarewarewa Forest, Te Puia, Wkakarewarewa Thermal Village, Skyline Skyrides, Rainbow and Fairy Springs, The Agrodome, and The Buried Village.

4. Bay of Islands, an area in the Northland region of the North Island, is great place for fishing, diving and sailing. Located 60 km north-west of Whangarei, close to the northern tip of the country, the Bay of Islands is one of the most popular tourist destinations. You can have a boating trip thru the Hole in the Rock, off Cape Brett, see dolphins, and down to the Rainbow Warrior wreck. You can see Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Haruru Falls, Stone Store, Puketi forest, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, Kemp House, and the oldest church.

5. Waitomo Caves, located to the south of Hamilton on the west side of North Island, are one of most fantastic tourist attractions. Waitomo is a small village, but its underground rivers through 25 miles of caves take you on a trip that you'll never forget. These pitch black caves, illuminated by the pale green light of glow worms, just appear fantastic, and you just feel like, you are out in open in a starry night.

6. Wanganui City, on the west coast of the North Island, on the Whanganui River flowing from Mount Tongariro via the stunning Whanganui National Park, is lovely city. The city features Wanganui in Bloom, Whanganui Regional Museum, Sarjeant Gallery, Bason Botanic Gardens, Whanganui Riverboat Centre Museum, Wanganui Collegiate School, Royal Wanganui Opera House, and Cook's Gardens. You can also visit Whanganui National Park. Wanganui is two and a half hour drive from Wellington, and a six hour drive from Auckland.

7. Napier, an important port city in Hawke's Bay, was rebuilt in Art Deco style after a massive earthquake in 1931. The city lies 10 kilometers to the south of its twin city, Hastings; Napier & Hastings are sometimes called "The Twin Cities". You can take guided walks, shop Art Deco and eat Art Deco, or go to the beach. You can see Marineland, Aquarium, and Soundshell, the major attractions of the city.

8. Tongariro National Park, the oldest national park in New Zealand, is one of the major attractions of New Zealand. Located in the central North Island, the Park has been acknowledged as one of the 24 mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. It looks fantastic during snows. It is home to three main ski areas - Whakapapa, Tukino, and Turoa. It's popular destination in summer when it is considerably cooler than the rest of North Island.

9. Lake Taupo, in the centre of North Island, is one of the top tourist attractions of New Zealand. The lake is famous for its trout fishing and boating. It is a great base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. Huka Falls, New Zealand's most visited natural attraction is a short drive away in Taupo, a town at the northern end of Lake Taupo. Some of the major attractions include - Aratiatia Dam, Huka Falls, Lake Taupo Museum and Art Gallery, Lions Walk, Waipahihi Botanical Reserve, Wairakei Tourist Park, and Volcanic Activity Centre.

10. South Island, one of the two main islands of New Zealand, is the island of picturesque mountains, fjords, large beech forests, and beautiful beaches. You can get ferries to the South Island from Wellington. The island is known for its scenic beauty. You can relish and capturing scenic beauty of the island. On the South Island, you can visit cities, towns, and other sites, such as Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Nelson, Franz Josef, Blenheim, Kaikoura, Milford Sound, Omarama, Picton (Gateway to the Marlborough Sounds), Queenstown, Southern Alps, and Wanaka.

วันพุธที่ 3 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Bangkok Banks

Banking is a huge revenue sector in Bangkok, as the city is home to a large number of banks. Many foreign banks also operate in the city with subsidiaries all over the nation. Most of the banks are headquartered in Bangkok. They offer a wide range of services including home loans and many other business services like Internet banking, credit cards, and properties auctions.

Some of the biggest banks in Bangkok are Bangkok Bank, Morgan Stanley, Deutsche Bank, ING Bank, and Bank of China. Many banks offer online finance services, as well. They open up a cornucopia of online finance products and promotions, bank information, calculators, branch locators and real-time rates, plus the latest financial news in one complete package.

Every bank in Bangkok offers flexible lending and refinancing options, combined with attractively low interest rates that start at 3.75% for the first year, credit lines of up to 90% of the property appraisal value, and flexible loan terms. They also provide convenient repayment options like the direct debit service. Banks also offer the much needed expert advice and attentive personalized service from their home loan marketing officers.

Internet banking is the latest trend for all Bangkok banks. Direct banking services have been made available on the banks' Web sites. Internet banking is great for viewing account balances, payment of bills, transfer of funds, suspension of check payment, and many even house secure internal e-mail accounts to contact the bank officials in case of enquiries. Bangkok banks use highly advanced and sophisticated technology to ensure fool-proof banking services. Credit card or plastic money is more popular than ever Bangkok. Banks reward their customers with new offers and special discounts. Many banks offer MasterCard, which offer many special privileges to their users.

Other services offered are ATM cards, prompt branch services, currency exchange, maintenance of foreign customers, and phone banking. Banks recognize that good corporate governance is vital to continued growth and they are very much committed to providing quality news and information to keep their stakeholders and potential investors informed and abreast of developments at the bank.

วันอังคารที่ 2 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Discount Canadian Cigarettes

Cigarettes are highly addictive, manufactured, special tobacco cut fills that may or may not have a filter. They are known to be harmful to health and are habit forming. This increases dependency on cigarettes as these are consumed at casual times and to combat anxiety and stress. The United States has a large number of active smokers. For this reason, neighboring discount Canadian cigarettes have a fairly ready market in America.

The availability of various brands of discount Canadian cigarettes makes it difficult to distinguish the origin of the manufacturer. These cigarettes could include Canadian cigarettes, as well as a number of known local brands that are manufactured in Canada. Discount Canadian cigarettes are available in filter and non-filter varieties. These discounts are well planned marketing strategies that help increase sales across the border.

Discount Canadian cigarettes may be available at local stores, though most of them have to be ordered online and are received by mail. When people opt for these discounts, it is important to check if they are duty free. Some discount Canadian cigarettes sound cost-effective at first. However, if shipping and handling charges are added, t the discount does not essentially reduce prices.

Discount Canadian cigarette offers often attract new customers and may effectively influence users to switch brands. This is because smoking is a compulsive habit. If cigarettes are offered at economic rates, users are able to save a considerable amount of money in the long run. For these reasons discount Canadian cigarettes are profitable to the manufacturer, as well as the consumer.

Most discount Canadian cigarettes are bulk order purchases. The discount rates vary depending upon the size of the order. Retailers also make a considerable profit. A user may not be familiar with Canadian cigarettes. As such it is advisable to check the creditability of the discount Canadian cigarettes source. Since these offers are relatively cost effective, it is important to make them unavailable for minors who may be tempted by these offers.

วันจันทร์ที่ 1 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2553

Best Discount Cigarettes

The best discount cigarettes are available on the Internet and in discount cigarette shops. As middle class people are not able to afford the cost of premium brands of cigarettes because of the taxes, they look for good discount cigarettes, and there are many Internet sites selling them.

Discount cigarettes usually include premium brands like Marlboro, Camel, Merit, Newport, Parliament, Winston and USA Gold. Always remember that best tobacco makes the best cigarette, and the brand name is a guarantee for quality. Some people prefer smoother tobaccos like the Turkish variety, while others prefer the more robust flavor of the American blends. There are other blends from other countries as well. Chinese cigarettes are known to give the sharpest kick.

There are two ways to purchase the best discount cigarettes. One is to make a direct purchase from a shop, and the other is online purchase. Online purchases have many advantages over traditional shopping. Purchases can be made from the comforts of home and can be delivered directly to your home. As noted, you can also buy cigarettes on line and save even more money. One of the advantages of online purchases is there is little overhead expenses involved, so you get quality cigarette brands at cheaper rates. You must be 18 years old in order to buy cigarettes online. There are many shops and warehouses having their own online shopping programs. Most of them guarantee that customer details are completely secure. Please understand that smoking is bad for everyone's health.