The Ancient Sites Of Rome

For 3,000 years Rome has stood at the forefront of civilisation. The might of the Roman Empire brought great wealth and prosperity to the city and its allies. Rome became a treasure trove of extravagant architecture and monuments.

As fortune smiled down on Rome, their riches established communities endowed with ornamental landmarks, many of which stand to this day.

At the core of the once mighty Empire, The Roman Forum was the heart and soul of government. Originally a cemetery, the Forum grew with the Empire and was the nucleus of everyday life. Aristocracy would socialise and decide the course of history during lavish banquets, drinking their wine and gorging on the luscious food.

At the centre of the Forum is the Temple to Julius Caesar built by Augustus, his adopted son and first Roman Emperor. The fresh flowers signify the exact spot where Caesar was cremated.

The Colosseum is undoubtedly the most recognisable of all ancient Rome's landmarks. Built by Jewish slaves, the amphitheatre was synonymous with blood sports.

Opened by Emperor Titus in 80 AD, the imperial thirst for bloodshed was insatiable. Gladiators became infamous overnight as battles between man and beast caught the imagination of the Roman public.

Hundreds of thousands of men and beasts were slaughtered during the course of these Roman games. The butchery continued mercilessly until these particular blood sports were outlawed in 523 AD.

The communities of the Empire held the Roman gods in high esteem; religion played a significant part in the lives of the Romans and homage was paid frequently to those in higher places.

The Pantheon was built as a temple to the gods. The original was destroyed by fire in the 1st century BC resulting in dismay amongst the communities.

During the early part of the 2nd century AD, Emperor Hadrian took it upon himself to rebuild the monument and provide his people once more with a pathway to the gods. Hadrian was an amateur architect and completed the new temple in 125 AD.

Two mammoth doors, like sentinels standing before the path to the gods guard the entrance to the temple. The doors were extensively restored during the 17th century, raising doubts whether they can ever again be classed as original.

Once inside, the unexpected scale of the interior is awe-inspiring. Marble panels grace the walls and floors; remarkably, half of the wall panels are from the original build nearly 2,000 years ago.

About The Author
Steven Cronin owns the City Breaks website featuring city break special offers from luxury hotels to budget accommodations. For more information please visit http://www.sargas.co.uk.

Family Vacation Deals

Ah, the family vacation. It can strip of you every ounce of patience, and leave you strapped for cash. When all is said and done, you're left feeling more stressed than you were before taking your holidays!

Maybe there is another way. To be sure, traveling with the entire family can be expensive and hard to plan; but there are some holiday destinations that will actually help you get great family vacation deals.

Family Cruises

Cruises are awesome choices for family getaways. There are plenty of deals available, when you know where to look. Search the Internet for cruise websites and you can stumble upon a good deal on a great cruise for your family. Some cruises offer discounts for certain age groups, like "kids stay and eat free" with paid adults. These are the deals that you should watch for. Other package deals can include family-friendly tours and extras, like Disney cruises.

Florida Vacations

If Florida is your idea of a great family vacation, you're in luck. There are great family vacation deals available for all sorts of Florida destinations. Some packages will include free tickets to the most popular tourist spots, like Universal Studios and theme parks. Many hotels included in package deals will provide free meals for kids--and anyone with hungry mouths to feed will know what a huge saving this can be. Most Florida hotels are kid-friendly and welcome families by offering discounted rates and kids' activities.

Air travel

Ask questions when you book your airline tickets. While they may not advertise it, some airlines have deals for young passengers. You may save half or even the full price of your child's ticket when you purchase yours. Other airlines offer special rates for kids under a certain age. These savings can really add up, particularly if you have several children.

Many travel agencies, resorts and airlines offer promotional periods when they will accommodate your entire family for one great price. These special packages are generally offered once or twice a year as a means to promote their businesses. Ask around to see which companies will be offering special family promotions, and when they will be available. If you've already booked your time off, don't be afraid to adjust it if it means saving a few hundred dollars.

If you are still in the preliminary stages of booking your holidays, find out where the family vacation deals are. Locate the big bargains; narrow them down to find the ones that suit your family's needs and fit your budget, then decide together. Some agencies and resorts are so family-friendly, they'll offer tips and tricks to help you find the biggest savings. Do a little research before you book. The time you spend looking for family vacations now will pay off in big savings and a holiday that's truly fun and relaxing.

About The Author
Nancy Anderson contributes to several online magazines, including http://jebog.com and http://recreation-site.com.

Sample The Delights Of Paella In Spain

Spain is a wonderful European destination, where visitors can look forward to a wonderful vacation experience, with a choice of fabulous areas to visit. When you come to this destination you will find everything you could want for an exciting and diverse vacation experience, from colourful Spanish culture and rich history to wonderful cuisine such as the local specialty dish known as paella. This is a country that is very popular amongst tourists from other parts of Europe, and you will enjoy unique charm and distinct character no matter which part of the country you visit. Some of the wonderful places that you can select from when travelling here include Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Benidorm, Murcia, and many other wonderful destination that offer a unique blend of beauty, recreation, adventure, excitement, fun, history, culture, and more. There are so many wonderful areas to select from in this country that you will never be short of choice, and you will find it east to find the perfect destination to suit you.

Experience unique experiences with a Spanish vacation

When you come to this destination in order to enjoy some quality down time, you will enjoy some wonderful experiences. You will find a long and fascinating history to explore throughout this country, and plenty of opportunity to enjoy delving into the past and learning more about the roots and origins of the area. You can look forward to exploring a range of historical sites and attractions, and you will find a great choice of museums that will help you to learn more about Spanish heritage and history. You will also find bags of culture in this country, and no matter which part you visit you can look forward to a host of local festivities and events that will help you to learn more about the local culture and way of life. In addition to this, you can look forward to great family attractions, excellent recreational facilities, great shopping opportunities, a vibrant nightlife, and an array of natural beauty amidst which to kick back and relax. You can look forward to sampling wonderful cuisine, from local paella to tapas, and even international cuisine.

Affordable and exciting – make the most of your Spanish holiday

If you want to make the most of your time in this country, you can enjoy extra cash to spend simply by looking for great deals on flights and accommodations, which could net you huge savings on the overall cost of your trip. The Internet is a great place in which to find these low cost deals, and you can easily compare the prices and deals from the comfort of your own home. Once you have found the right flight and hotel for your needs you can make your booking quickly and easily online, saving yourself a great deal of time as well as money, and you can enjoy the benefits if making great savings without having to compromise on the quality of your flights or accommodation. You can even arrange and book your travel insurance online, making it easier to book your whole trip under one virtual roof.

About The Author
Peter J. Wilson often creates detailed papers on areas relating with Spain and spanish culture. Working on his detailed writings like http://www.alicante-spain.com/spain-tips/paella.html, the columnist showed his know-how on areas similar to paella.

Hotel Tips

Never underestimate the power of a good night's rest, especially while on vacation or a business trip. To ensure the best possible hotel stay with the least amount of worry, follow these helpful guidelines compiled by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). ASTA members are trained professionals who know hotels, the services they provide, and, most importantly, the quality you expect.

THE POWER OF CHOICE

Choosing the right hotel is half the battle. Most Americans will spend hours finding the perfect airline ticket, but only minutes to research a hotel room, often going with the lowest price option.

While price is a universal factor, remember that all hotels want a full house and strive for this goal every night. To get the best deal, book early through a travel agent and try to be flexible with your dates. Hotels that cater to business people surprisingly will have great weekend rates, which they consider "off season."

Travel agents will ask for special package deals loaded with options or discounts for seniors, families or the military that may apply. They also understand your needs and expectations, so they will be able to choose the hotel that's best for you, based on the amenities and services it provides, along with its proximity to the interstate, airport, restaurants and attractions.

RESERVATIONS

While direct online booking is an option, it's still advisable to book through a travel agent. If you choose to contact a hotel directly, travel agents recommend that it may pay to connect in a more conventional way—by phone. Many hotels, both national and independently owned, have toll-free numbers to connect you to reservation specialists. If no such number is available and you must call the hotel directly, be sure to call in the afternoon or night, for the mornings are hectic times while guests checkout.

When making a reservation, confirm the quoted rate and record the confirmation number and the name of the person with whom you spoke. Ask the reservation specialist to repeat him or herself, write down the details, and be clear about the type of room you are getting, if it's smoking or non-smoking, and what are the check-in and checkout times.

Once the room is reserved, document all hotel information and a full itinerary to leave with a friend or neighbor in case of emergencies. If you book your room through a travel agent, make copies of the reservation confirmation they provide you, for it will clearly state the hotel's information and your arrival and departure dates.

Have this confirmation information or a printout of your e-mail reservation available when you check-in. Hotels never intentionally misplace or incorrectly enter reservation information, but it's always a good idea to bring evidence just in case.

LATE ARRIVALS – EVEN NIGHTOWLS NEED TO SLEEP

There's nothing worse than driving all day through syrupy traffic only to arrive at the hotel and discover your reservation is expired and there are no more rooms available. The key to never having this happen is knowing how late is late.

Most hotel chains will hold a normal reservation until 6 p.m. For those arriving later in the night, ask to guarantee the reservation with a credit card number. Even those pulling up after midnight with a guaranteed reservation will find a warm bed waiting. Hotels hold the right to cancel reservations that are not guaranteed. If you are delayed en route, call the hotel and ask to hold your reservation until you arrive.

NO ROOM IN THE INN?

Even though losing an expected room due to over-booking or a misplaced reservation may come as a shock, don't let it get you down. Most hotels will assist in remedying the situation by transferring you to a sister location, an associated hotel nearby.

If the lost reservation was guaranteed, then the burden falls on the hotel to ensure that your new room at the sister location is of equal or greater quality and at no additional cost. The hotel should cover any transportation expenses incurred by paying for a taxi or providing the use of their shuttle service.

If this courtesy is not extended, then ask to speak to a manager or contact your travel agent to act as your advocate.

CUSTOMER SERVICE WITH A SMILE

As a valued consumer, your satisfaction is important. Hotel staffs are thoroughly trained, working around the clock to meet your needs. However, problems may arise, such as uncooperative neighbors, so know the hierarchy of the hotel's customer service for a swift resolution.

A quick call to your travel agent is always a good first step, for they speak the hotel language and understand reasonable reparations for each problem. Through advocacy and advice, travel agents can assuage most situations, pleasing you and the hotel.

Staying within the hotel, the front desk clerk is trained to handle problems without involving the manager, so state your complaint clearly and allow them to arrange a remedy. From forgotten toothbrushes to room relocations, front desk clerks offer the quickest and most direct assistance.

If your complaint falls outside their jurisdiction, politely ask to see the manager. Managers better understand the necessities of customer loyalty and possess the authority to offer guests discounts on current or future stays.

If nothing is resolved with the manager, contact the hotel's customer service department. Be sure to write down the names of the people you spoke with, the dates of your stay and the rates charged to aid the operator in assisting you in the most proficient capacity.

CHECKING IN

The only obstacle during check-in should be the line at the counter. With your reservation made, hotels will want to usher you to your room as quickly as possible, so have your confirmation information ready and verify that the rate charged is the rate originally quoted.

Know the proper check-in time and ask specific questions about the area and the provided services. Request a card with the hotel's name, address and telephone information in case you get lost exploring the city.

FULLY STOCKED – THE THINGS YOU MIGHT NEED

Depending on your needs, ask if the hotel offers or provides the following:

» Laundry service or in-room ironing board and iron
» Hair dryers
» Voltage converters
» In-room coffee makers, refrigerators or kitchenettes
» Morning newspaper service
» Complimentary meals (usually breakfast)
» Access to fax machine, copier or printer
» Mini-bar or refreshments
» Data port
» In-room safe
» Cable television, movies or video games
» Portable cribs or rollaway beds
» Shuttle service to airport or other points of interest
» Recreational facilities
» Telephone access charges
» Adequate parking

Hotels often have a limited number of internet-ready rooms or hair dryers, so ask for specific items during check-in.

SLEEP TIGHT – SIMPLE STEPS FOR A SAFE STAY

Safety is a priority for you and the hotel. From your car to their bed, take a few precautions and don't leave anything to chance.

Park in a well-lit space near the hotel entrance or your room, and be sure to lock all doors and keep valuables in the trunk and out of sight. If given the option, always ask for a room with an interior entrance. At the front desk, ask that the attendant write your room number down so that no one can hear it, and quickly pocket your key if it has the room number printed on it.

Once inside your room, lock your door with the deadbolt and the chain lock, and familiarize yourself with the fire exits posted on the back of the door. Do not open the door for anyone unless you verify the identity of the person either through the peephole or verbally, even if you are expecting a friend or room service.

CHECKING OUT WITH NO SURPRISES

At the end of a hotel stay, checking out should be a pleasant experience as long as there are no surprises like left-behind items or incidental charges. Check the room thoroughly before vacating, including drawers, closets and the bathroom, especially behind the shower curtain and the back of the bathroom door.

Most hotels have established checkout times ranging from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you need additional time, request it in advance, or else you may be charged an additional night.

Review the bill to ensure all charges are accurate, and you received all entitled credits and discount. Get a receipt, and if you pay in cash, make sure it is marked, "Paid in Cash."

TIPS ON TIPPING

Unless your hotel has already accounted for gratuities, tipping various employees is expected, depending on the amount and quality of the service. Here's a general guide:

» Bellhop – $1 to $2 per bag (extra if bags are heavy or cumbersome).
» Coat check – $1 to $2
» Concierge – $2 to $10 depending on the service; 10 percent of the cost for securing hard to find items like tickets to the theatre or sporting events.
» Doorman – $1 to $2 for hailing cab (extra in bad weather).
» Housekeeping – $1 to $2 per night (extra for upscale hotels or if room was particularly messy).
» Room Service – 15 percent or at least $2, unless gratuity is included.
» Valet – $1 to $2 each time you request your car (extra in bad weather).

David Brights writes for http://www.showcheaphotels.info where you can find out more about cheap hotels and other topics.

About The Author
David Brights writes for http://www.showcheaphotels.info where you can find out more about cheap hotels and other topics.

Traveling With Family In A Caravan For The Vacation

There is one time in a year, when most of the families get excited about traveling to a very nice place for their vacation. Usually it is during the time, when all the members of the family have their holidays.

We as human beings need a break from our daily routine, for parents their daily routine could be their work, for children it is school or college. But when we talk about vacation, it is the time, when children and parents look forward for it.

A little time once again to get all bonded up, in the daily routine work of life, family members tend to get exhausted and perhaps have a very little time to spend together. It is the only time when all the members once again can rejuvenate and start by once again having fun together.

Families during vacations usually like to spend time on their own without having work or anyone interfering between them. So the places they chose are away from their home, most of the families do like to travel in a caravan. As most of us already know what a Caravan is? It is very convenient because of some of the facilities it has within it, like a small kitchen, and two small bedrooms.

There are families who already have caravan that they own, but there are families who have to hire caravan during vacations. Which they hire and book before hand that is before the vacations start.

Now that could be a drive, and that is the purpose. They can choose to go camping to various different places along with the caravan, most of them carry maps along with them so they don't get lost and also so that, wherever they find nice climate and nice place they can take halt anytime. It is easier to travel in a caravan, because it is also safe specially when there are little children too. Although I have to say there are some safety measures that they can take care of too.

Precautions to be taken while traveling in a caravan, they have to carry first aid, since if you are in the interiors and God forbid if something happens, you already have your first aid kit tool so that you take mandatory steps. And it would also not put you into anxiety about worrying the whole time, incase if some one falls ill, or have a fall or something.

Children and Parents love caravan, because of the small kitchen in the caravan and they don't have to worry about, staying hungry all the time. Even for parents it is less of a worry and usually when children are happy then parents are also happy that makes all of them have a beautiful and fruitful time.

About The Author
Cathy Peterson writes about http://www.traveldealsdiscounts.com ,http://www.traveldealsdiscounts.com/discount-travel-deals/Site59.com and http://www.traveldealsdiscounts.com/discount-travel-deals/Hotels.com.

Tips On Barcelona Sightseeing

Barcelona has a lot to be proud of. A city literally stuffed with spectacular architecture, historical and cultural places of interest, fantastic food and a vibrant nightlife, it is no wonder tourists flock to the area. There is more to Catalunya than Barcelona sightseeing however, including a glorious coastline, beautiful mountains and a fierce independent spirit that will be felt by even the least informed visitor.

Make sure you have a map detailing the places of interest when you arrive in Barcelona; it is surprisingly easy to get lost in Barcelona's bustling streets. A good place to start your tour is Gaudi's Park Guell, an open space filled with pieces of Gaudi's work including benches, archways, walls and balconies. It is a place where Gaudi's imagination really ad free reign, and you feel almost that the works of art are more natural than the plants and trees.

From here you can move easily on to Gaudi's iconic work, the Sagrada Familia. This church was started in 1882 but was not finished when Gaudi died in 1926. Various attempts have been made to complete the work to Gaudi's designs but the church is still not entirely finished and probably never will be. If you don't think you can capture the spirit of the church in your own photographs, you might want to check out the stunning images available in postcard stands that surround the building.

The Barcelona zoo was founded in 1892 and is located in the Ciutadella Park, next to the old town or Ciutat Vella. This is a great place to visit especially of you have children that are likely to lose interest in architecture and history. Some of the seven and a half thousand animals on display include pelicans, American buffalos and red kangaroo, as well as a specialist primate collection which the zoo is famous for.

There is an aquatic park within the zoo that provides a home to bottlenose dolphins among others. Dolphin shows can be seen throughout the warm summer months, and this can make a refreshing escape from the heat of the city. An acclaimed research program at Barcelona zoo is well known for sympathetic breeding of animals in captivity and protection of endangered species, which would otherwise become extinct.

The main avenue in Barcelona, La Rambla is a riot of color and bustle with flower stalls and street performers at regular intervals along the promenade. The main hotels and restaurants center around La Rambla, but you may get a better deal and more authentic dishes if you explore a little further out. One place not be missed is the Boqueria, a fantastic food market to one side of La Rambla, with exotic delicacies you have never even imagined.

The port area received a face lift with the Olympics in Barcelona in 1992. The Olympic village was situated right on the coast and the area is marked by the dual towers of the Arts Hotel, Mapfre Towers and Nova Icaria Square. The main Olympic sites can be found on top of Montjuic, a hill overlooking the city, and can be reached by cable car.

About The Author
Clinton Maxwell writes mainly for http://www.barcelona-information.com , an online site on the topic of travelling in Spain and Costa Brava. You can find his publications over at http://www.barcelona-information.com and various other sources for Barcelona Spain knowledge.

Jerusalem - City of Gold

"It took just 6 days for God to create
His wonderful world - so big - so great
On the 7th day - He had a rest -
He'd worked so hard - He'd done his best
He settled back and looked to see,
"I need a city.. One that's just for Me"
And as He watched in His new setting sun
His eyes looked down on Jerusalem.."

Nikki Katz (9)

Jerusalem!

The news will depict the old city as a place of war. Conflict. Bloodshed.

A place where cultures clash, and old and new don't tolerate one another.

A place of political turmoil. Of suicide bombers. Of death..

But there is another Jerusalem.

A city old and rich in culture, steeped in the golden light of God's eye as He watches with a fierce love, and I know that His city will for all times be a very special place.

From Hillel Street and it's quaint coffee bars to the Holy sites where Jew, Christian and Moslem seek and find their roots, to the Mount of Olives where one can stand and look out over the peach coloured Jerusalem stone buildings, the city is incomparable.

A trip to the Old City, and a delightful barter with Arab stall sellers, and the joy of walking back to ones residence carrying a basket of fragrant smelling fruit and succulent vegetables from the suk.. ahh.

What can compare?

I bump shoulders with Haredi Jews, bearded Greek Orthodox Priests and bare bellied tattooed American teenage girls. There are old and young, firm and infirm - all on their own private mission.

The presence of soldiers is but a comfort to me.

I contemplate their absense.

I know in time they will be, but for now I see them as warriors of Biblical times, fierce in their desire to protect Go's chosen city.

It's all good..

God chose well.

Jerusalem - City of Gold..

About The Author
Gill Katz
Journalist
Johannesburg, S Africa
gillkatz@telkomsa.net

Car Rental – The Freedom To Travel By Your Own Means

Many people do not need to travel frequently enough to make buying a car worthwhile. People who work close to home, have few dependants, or who simply travel very little will rent a car instead of buying one. The process is simple and allows a person to only pay for car expenses when they really need to.

Car rental is also very popular among holidaymakers. When taking a plane to another country you will not be able to take your car, but may find that you want to be mobile and explore the countryside. For this reason car rentals have become very popular in holiday destinations. A variety of cars can be hired; a small car for a family making a cay trip, an off road vehicle for exploration, or a luxury car for a special event. With major rental companies you can order a vehicle online for by phone and it will be waiting for you when you arrive at your destination.

Rentals are also very useful if you have a car but will be unable to use it, perhaps if a partner needs to use the car on the same day, or if your car is out of commission due to an accident and you are awaiting repairs or compensation.

Car rental agencies can be very strict about the treatment of their cars. For many companies, the vehicles must be returned undamaged and without having been picked up for any law violations, or there will be a severe charge. Some companies do not allow the renter to take the car beyond a distance limit or for more than a certain time. It is worth knowing the local bylaws governing road travel if you are renting a car abroad. Speed limits and other things can vary a lot, and it is worth studying a map, as a rented car is no use without a fuel station.

Businesses sometimes get a discount on rental especially if they use the same rental company repeatedly. They may be rented a whole fleet of vehicles, perhaps to take VIPs from the airport to their business.

About The Author
John Gibb is the owner of car rental guidance
For more information on car rental check out http://www.car-rental-information-stop.info

Staying in Barcelona for Extended Periods

If you have ever visited Barcelona, you know it is a place best experienced over a few months instead of a few days. Fortunately, the people of Barcelona know it as well.

Staying in Barcelona for Extended Periods

Like a fine wine, drinking in Barcelona shouldn't be rushed. Visit the city for two or three days and you will get only a small, rushed taste of the flavor of Barcelona. If you have time to spend weeks or months in Barcelona, you should do it. Staying in a hotel, however, isn't particularly attractive. Don't worry, Barcelona has a solution for you.

One of the biggest problem with staying anywhere for an extended period is the lack of accommodation. This is hardly the case in Barcelona. The city has a monstrous apartment rental industry devoted to visitors looking to stay for weeks, months or even a year.

As you might imagine, the apartments come in a variety of styles and prices. Almost universally, they come fully furnished with furniture, linen, towels and so on. Most, however, do not include cleaning, laundry, cooking and so on. Depending on how much you are willing to pay, you can get all of these.

The first step to finding weekly or monthly accommodation in Barcelona is to figure out where you want to stay. While your first thought may be to head to the most attractive, busy section of the city, you need to give it some thought. Yes, it is good to be close to everything, but Barcelona is a late night, bustling place. If you want to take a break from the fun madness, you might find the noise associated with living in the middle of the city is a bit much.

The most popular area of Barcelona is Ciutat Vella, also known as the old city. This is where the action is with nightlife and the exotic tastes of Barcelona. It has an old Roman feel, but never really seems to shut down. The old city is the central tourist destination, so finding accommodations is simple since they are very plentiful. Costs depend on quality, but you can expect to pay $100 to as much as you can splurge per night. Extremely nice places can be had for $150 to $200 a night, which isn't a bad deal if you bring a second person with you.

Barcelona is best experienced over time. Pick up weekly or monthly accommodations and you will enjoy yourself immensely.

About The Author
Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of writing journals. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com to read more about travel and the great outdoors.

Happy Trails for a Stress-Free Year

Finding happiness is easier than you might think. Happiness is all around us, and all we have to do is hop in the car and hit the road to find it. Actually, there is more to true happiness than just jumping in the car, but for many people, self-actualization does involve discovering new places, new cultures, beautiful nature and secret little hideaways. Kathleen Walls, publisher of American Roads Magazine, and David Leonhardt, publisher of Your Daily Dose of Happiness share a few of their favorite "Happy Trails," hoping you, too, will find happiness there.

MOJAVE DESERT

For a Canadian, snow is no big deal. This year, we've been shoveling it since early November. But to find snow in a desert, that really made my eyes pop. It was noon, and it had rained in Palm Springs, California, the previous evening. But the famous Mojave Desert is actually quite high up in the mountains, and the rain fell there as snow. Just how amazing was it to see snow tucked up against the north side of a cactus? Amazing enough that, through my jetlag, I delivered a mostly impromptu speech on the sighting at my Toastmasters club.

If you want to see snow sidling up to a cactus - what a photo op! - head for the desert in January or February, and make sure to choose a desert with a high altitude. The Mojave Desert proved most effective for this. Now, should I mention the Joshua trees?

YELLOWKNIFE

It really is hard to fill one's eyes with wonder, what with Star Wars and The Lord of The Rings and so many special effects that make a person just want to yawn. Then, every now and then, one comes across something truly unique, something that actually does make your eyes pop with wonder. Such is Yellowknife, a town built on a peninsula of rock in the Arctic. What is unique about this town are the houses in the old city. There are some amazing mansions hoisted up on the rock. Well, at least some corners are on the rock. Others are on stilts one or two stories high. Each house is unique, and so are the various contraptions to keep them level on this uneven land. (Why would anybody choose this spot to settle in the first place, with so much flat land all around?)

The second amazing feature is the shanty-town shacks scattered among the mansions. In every other city, the slums and the ritzy parts of town are separate, but not in Yellowknife. I found that a truly stereotype- shattering sight.

LUSK CAVERNS, GATINEAU PARK

Happiness is spelunking. Let's face it, you've done a million vacations on the road and in the air and on the water. How many have you done underground? Two, in my case. Once in Pennsylvania on a boat, and once in Gatineau Park, in Quebec.

If you think of a cave as something cavernous, these don't qualify. The two caves are merely a passage for a stream that flows underground for a few yards. The first cave is just right for little children, who can wade in the gently-flowing water.

The second cave is a little more challenging, as the water pools into a miniature underground lake. In the spring, when the water is high, there's not much room for a head to pass between the water and the roof of the cave. Of course, you have to be daring to brave the cold spring water. June is a great time to visit; by August there's not as much water. And can there be anything happier than splashing in water while exploring a cave? Happiness is watching the sunrise over Mobile Bay. And what better time to visit the city by the bay than Mardi Gras, when the historic city puts on it's party face. This traditional celebration was brought to Mobile by the French even before it was established in New Orleans. That history is preserved at the Mardi Gras Cottage Museum located on the grounds of Oakleigh, an antebellum mansion located in the historic section of this fun city. Centuries of Mardi Gras history are packed into this little cottage. Be sure to visit Oakleigh while you are there. In fact Mobile is packed with great historic sites from the French Fort Conte to the U.S.S Alabama, These sites have been carefully preserved or restored

Take time away from the celebrating to visit Bellingrath Gardens and home, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Weeks Bay Preserve, and Mobile Botanical Gardens (which will introduce you to the ecological diversity of Mobile as well). Then there are all of those parades. All of which are guaranteed to make you feel good.

MACON GEORGIA: SPORTS HALL OF FAME INDUCTION

For some people, sports equate happiness. The Georgia Sports Hall of Fame's 46th Induction Class, which will be held February 7-8 2003, will includes two female pioneers, arguably baseball's greatest home run hitter, one of football's best place kickers, a Peach State high school coaching legend, and one of Georgia's most celebrated golfers.

Georgia Sports Hall of Fame is the newest of Macon's attractions housing memorabilia of pro and amateur athletes in all fields. You can even experience the thrill of driving in a Nascar event without the danger. Climb into a racecar and take the wheel in a fast paced race. Hear the sound when you ram the fence. Experience the thrill of the track. Then get the results of your foray into professional racecar driving. Depending on how well you drive, the results may or my not make you happy. The museum is sure to be a crowd pleaser for sports fans and non-fans alike

FORT VALLEY GEORGIA: FESTIVALOF CAMELLIAS

Flowers are a sure mood lifter, so don't miss the Festival of Camellias at Massee Lane Gardens in Fort Valley Georgia encompasses the entire month of February when camellia blooms are at their peak.(Something is out of place in this sentence.) The flowers begin to show color in October and continue through late March.

Not only camellias show their beautiful faces here. Each season provides a new delight for the eyes with roses, flowering bulbs, day lilies and much more. Even the path winding throughout the gardens is unusual. Scattered randomly through it you will find ancient millstones gathered from middle Georgia. Also along the path you spot granite mile stones from the Old Wire Road witch ran from New Orleans to Washington, D. C. The road was so named because it was the route of the first telegraph lines in the southeast.

After you have absorbed nature's outdoor offerings, visit the two museums housing the largest public collection of Boehm Porcelains. Here you will find nature reproduced so exquisitely you will sometimes think you are looking on a live bird or a blooming flower.

ATHENS GEORGIA: TASTE OF ATHENS

Food is sure to make everyone happy and Taste of Athens, a community fund raiser, is sure to make you feel good all over. You get to sample all of the exotic restaurants Athens Georgia abounds in all under on roof and contribute to a good cause at the same time this February 23th.

Athens' restaurants are hard to beat both in number and in excellent cuisine. Harry Bissett's New Orleans Cafe and Oyster Bar, where you experience the ambience as well as the authentic food of "The Big Easy". It's housed in an old bank building and the mellow brick walls are reminiscent of some of the French Quarter's courtyard restaurants. The majority of the food served here is spicy, for example The Blackened Redfish, gumbo and Crawfish Etoffee, but there are enough less heated dishes to suit any taste. Any festival that brings all of these culinary delights together makes me happy.

It looks like for David, happiness is scenery, and for Kathleen, it's festivals. Whatever it is about traveling that turns you on, now's the time to hit the trail. So "Happy Trails to you until we meet again."

About The Author
Kathleen Walls is publisher of American Roads Magazine at http://www.americanroads.net, and David Leonhardt is publisher of Your Daily Dose of Happiness at http://www.TheHappyGuy.com/daily-happiness-free-ezine.html.
info@TheHappyGuy.com

Florida Is The Mythical Endless Summer

A complete break from routine - with guaranteed sunshine, sand and surf - is the only way to get a genuine taste of the mythical endless summer.

During July and August when the kids are at loose ends, when the corporate world finally slows down and our pace of life allows a little more time for relaxation, consider exploring a lot more of Florida at your leisure - and for as long as you like.

Daytime air temperatures in summer will hover around 30 C. The Gulf waters will be tepid, the Atlantic, fantastic. And once you're off the beach, air conditioning is second nature to switching on the light. There are other reasons to go during the summer as well.

Savings:

The Canadian Sand Dollar program in Daytona Beach. It's a coupon booklet containing discounts at area attractions, golf courses and hotels. Call 1-800-854-1234 or visit www.daytonabeach.com.

The We Love Canadians program in St. Petersburg/Clearwater. Save up to 30 per cent on travel costs with this program. Call 1-727-464-7200 for details or download the information at www.floridasbeach.com.

The Canadian Friends Special at Cypress Pointe Resort in Orlando. Condominium accommodation rates are around $125 per night. Offer expires August 15th. Call 1-800-874-8770 and ask for the Canadian "At Par" Program or visit www.vrivacations.com.

Family Summer Schools:

Family Sleepovers at Sea World, Orlando: Two days of camping out with Beluga whales, polar bears and harbour seals lets you learn everything about them. Lots of fun and activities are planned too. Restricted to families with children in kindergarten through grade 5. Call 1-800-406-2244 or 1-407-363-2380.

Space Camp Parent-Child Program at the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame, just west of the Kennedy Space Center, near Cocoa Beach. This is non-stop fun and education for families interested in space technology. The program takes place on most weekends. Call 1-800-637-7223 or 1-321-267-3184.

Highlights Any Time of Year:

In North Central Florida, don't miss Devil's Millhopper State Geological Site near Gainesville. It features a giant sinkhole with cascading waterfalls and unusual flora.

In the Northeast, don't miss the Jacksonville Zoological Gardens.

Visit Tarpon Springs in Central West Florida - a Greek fishing town where an entire industry flourishes on the netting, production, and sale of deep-sea sponges.

In Central Florida, enjoy nature and learn more about these sub-tropical eco-systems on the Boggy Creek Airboat Rides.

In the Southeast, look for turtles on the beach at Port Everglades, or go snorkelling at the three-tiered reef off Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Beach.

In the Northwest, look for dancing dolphins in the shallows along Santa Rosa Sound and Destin Harbour.

About The Author
News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web.
News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial "fill" items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Costa Rica Caribbean Travel

Wondering where to go? Why not try the world of great tropical adventure that Costa Rica offers?

A Costa Rica Caribbean travel offers you active volcano exploration, wild animals, lush rainforests, and great beaches. On one of the ultimate paradises left untouched on this planet, there are no military, no nuclear power plants, lots of culture to offer, and no winter. A democratic society, Costa Rica is known as one of the most peaceful in the world. The last civil war was in 1948, and since then, armed forces have been abolished and the country has been able to avoid such dangers as despotic dictatorships, military coups, terrorism, and all other forms of internal strife.

Not only that, a Costa Rica Caribbean travel guarantees you a friendly atmosphere wherever part of the country you choose to visit.

The name literally means "rich coast" but Costa Rica is rich for far more than its coast. The country is replete with incredible natural beauties and many species of animals, some of them extremely rare and can only be seen if you go on a Costa Rica Caribbean travel.

The flora biodiversity alone is made up of well over 10,000 species of vascular plants and beautiful flowers. And as for tree species, almost 2,000 have been recorded in this small country in Latin America. This makes a Costa Rica Caribbean travel even more exciting, with such fascinating and endless number of natural habitat for various flora and fauna.

Besides land mammals and birds that would make any sane eco-tourism enthusiast go ga-ga over, Costa Rica is also home to 835 species of fish, of which 700 are saltwater fish. Anglers and fishers are going to have an awesome time dipping their poles in Costa Rica's clear, azure waters to hook any one of these tropical fish species.

But if we focus a minute on the northwest region of Costa Rica, called Guanacaste, where most of the Costa Rica Caribbean travelers go nowadays because of the wide variety of scenery and activities offered, you will realize that there are so many more types of tours you can take. If you want to get really close to Costa Rica and actually see all these wonderful trees, plants, flowers, animals, and fish, then a Costa Rica Caribbean travel is all you need.

There is a wide range of activities to choose from on your Costa Rica Caribbean travel. Most of these depend on the part of the country in which you are vacationing. In the rainforest and you like birds, then bird watching walks with well-informed English-speaking guides or horseback riding are the type of Costa Rica Caribbean travel tours you should take.

You can also take one of those canopy tours, which are popular all over Costa Rica. But if you want the richest and best experience in Costa Rica's rainforests, then avoid those that go through areas which are north towards the west. Here, the climates are dryer so naturally the vegetation lacks some of its beautiful richness in both density and color.

About The Author
Burt Cotton
http://www.caribbean-travel-news.com