Thursday 31 July 2008

How To Transport Your Dog Via Airplane

If you are taking your dog with you on the plane, then please read these vital tips, how to make no or less damage to your dog as possible when flying.

  • Before you confirm your ticket, call or ask the airline company's policy about transport dog crates, and what's their policy regarding dog transportation. Most airline companies have different policies, and choose the right one for you, and your dog.
  • Walk your dog before the flight, make sure your dog does all her nature needs before the flight, even if the flight will not take more than 1 hour.
  • Make sure that the airport's and plane's staff know that you are with your dog, and that your dog is flying in the cargo compartment.
  • If you have a puppy, or a small dog, it would be wonderful if you could take your dog with you in the plane, well most of the airline companies allow you to take small dogs, and puppies with you in the passenger compartment, if you have a special transport dog crate or a pet carrier.
  • Before flying make sure your dog meets all the medical requirements for international flights.
  • Let the staff knows where is the water for your dog, while flying humans and other live organisms dehydrate faster than normally, so it is very important that your dog gets all the hydration she needs.
  • Before the take off, stay with your dog as long as possible, your dog will be stressed, if it's possible then stay with the dog till you go trough the gate.
  • There are many situations when the flights delay, that is not very good at all. As your dog should spend less time as possible in the airport and/or airplane. Before you go to the airport, call the airport and ask if there are any planned flight delays.
  • When leaving your dog alone, put yourself, or ask the staff to put a toy with your smell in the transport dog crate, this will keep the dog more relaxed.
  • You should not feed your dog couple of hours before the flight, though, it should be better if you visit your vet regarding this, as your vet will know better about your dog's diet.
  • Try to avoid flights where you have to change the planes before you get to your desired location.
  • When the plane has landed, exit the plane as soon as possible, and go to the baggage waiting room, you should meet your dog as soon as possible, if she was flying in the cargo compartment.

These are the vital tips to successfully transport your dog via airplane. Please do this with the biggest responsibility for the sake of your 4 legged friend.

For more helpful tips how to take a better care of your dog, please visit - http://transport-dogcrates.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Eisters

Wednesday 30 July 2008

Dog Friendly Beaches in Suffolk

With miles of beautiful beaches open to the public year round, Suffolk, in the United Kingdom, is a great place for a lazy walk along the coast with family. Suffolk coasts are famously dog-friendly, and there's never a dog-friendly beach too far away from one of the area's many coastal towns. Below are the most up to date guidelines for bringing your dog out for a day on the beach (May 2008). First, the good news - from October through April, there are no dog restrictions in force in Suffolk, and you can feel free to bring the family pet to any stretch of beach you like. However there are restrictions during the summer on some beaches, so a town by town listing of restrictions from 1st May through the 30th September follows below.

Aldeburgh

Though the main beach is restricted, there is a mile of dog-friendly beach just to the North of Aldburgh which is well signposted, and stretches from the Wentworth Hotel to Thorpeness.

Felixstowe

While the main beach of Felixstowe has dog restrictions in place from May through September, there are dog friendly beaches on either side of the restricted area, which runs from Spa Pavilion to Wheeler Road. These areas are well signposted and easy to spot.

Dunwich

With the beautiful National Trust site of Dunwich Heath, and beach that's dog-friendly almost year round, Dunwich makes a fantastic day out. Be warned, however, that Dunwich is the home to a bird nesting site, and there are occasional restrictions on dogs during nesting season. Please contact nearby Southwold TIC at 10502 724 729 before you make your trip to ensure these nesting restrictions aren't in place.

Lowestoft

While Lowestoft itself has restrictions on the Pavilion and town beach, nearby Gunton Denes is dog-friendly, and is signposted off the B1385, north of Lowestoft. For information on the beaches around Lowestoft, please contact the Tourist Information Centre at 01502 533 600.

Sizewell

Tucked between Dunwich and Thorpeness, Sizewell beach boasts fantastic coastlines which have no restrictions on dogs year-round. A perfect middle ground for a stroll north to Dunwich or south to Thorpeness.

Southwold

One of Suffolk's most famous beaches, Southwold is a fantastic day out for the family. The main beaches of Southwold have pet restrictions in place year-round, however Southwold Benes, just north of the main beach, is dog-friendly. Simply follow the A1095 from Southwold to the Denes. Southwold is also home to the Latitude Festival.

Walberswick

This picture perfect coastal village is holiday home to many British celebrities, as well as being host ot the yearly Crabbing Championship every August 10th. It's also completely dog friendly, with no pet restrictions in place.

With fantastic beaches, open coastlines, and very few places you can't take your canine pals, plan a day out on the Suffolk Coast today. For more dog friendly attractions in Suffolk, Click here

Will Averill is a freelance travel and entertainment writer for the Suffolk Tourist Guide, a complete online guide to Suffolk accommodation, travel, and entertainment.

From Luxury Hotels for a romantic weekend, to days out with the children, or even office team building or client hospitality, you'll find just what you want here in Suffolk.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Will_Averill

Monday 28 July 2008

Pet Friendly Holidays, Trips the Whole Family Can Enjoy

If your family has pets then you'll know how attached you can get to your four-legged friend, they are practically an extra member to the family and so you'll want them to go everywhere with you when it comes to going on holiday.

If your holiday plans this year don't involve flying out of the country (and with the rising cost of flights and living in general not many will be able to afford it anyway!) then there's no reason why you can't take your dog along too. Think of it from his perspective, they get to see somewhere new; chances are it will be in the country so there will be many fields and beaches to stretch their legs and run around. It may end up being a more enjoyable holiday for your dog than for yourself!

The problem with this is unless you have your own caravan or motor home then you may be hard pressed to get accommodation that would welcome you and your dog. Obviously not everyone likes dogs and if the owner of a hotel you book into is one of these people then you're going to be sorely disappointed if you turn up and they turn you away because they don't allow pets.

All is not lost though as there is a niche hotel market for dog-friendly Bed and Breakfasts and hotels in the UK. These hotels accommodate pets either in the guest's rooms or have specific areas or kennels for your dog to stay at. Even better there are some holiday rental cottages that will accommodate your whole family and your pets with the added bonus of having your own living space and gardens for your dog to enjoy.

Quite often these hotels and cottages are surprisingly easy to find, most hotels will clearly state whether they are a "dogs welcome" establishment so you don't have to search specifically for this kind of hotel however it makes sense to know what types of hotels and what areas are likely to allow pets. Countryside getaways are much more likely to permit pets than city locations; popular hiking locations such as the Lake District in Cumbria and Devon are likely to have a lot of pet friendly hotels since people typically may bring their pets on a hiking holiday as it helps them get some exercise.

So this year if you are planning a holiday in the countryside and have a dog then why not save some money on kennel fees and take them along with you, they're bound to love you for it once they're running free in a field or jumping into a pond!

If you have a four legged friend that you want to take on holiday then keep a look out for dog-friendlyhotels that will let you bring your pets. It is worth searching the internet for hotels that are described as "dogs welcome". -

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Adams

Sunday 27 July 2008

Top Ten Ways to Save Money While Traveling With Your Dogs

So you want to take your dog out on the road with you? You have trained them to be a good dog, you need a vacation and you want to take him with you, but your budget is running short this year. Here is a list of the top ten ways to save money while traveling with your dog by your side.

  1. Do your research. Once you decide on a destination, get informed; find anything you can about the area, buy books, go online and prepare.
  2. What kind of vacation do you want to have? Which sounds better to you? Staying at a campground, hiking and canoeing with your pooch by your side; or staying at a four-star hotel, lounging by the pool and getting room service? Make sure that your vacation really is something that your dog can do with you. If not, maybe he should be kept with family/friends or boarded. There are now many locations that will allow your dog to come with you, and some even offer pet sitting services. Again; do your research.
  3. Check out many different places before making a decision. Unless you are totally set on one place to stay at, shop around. You would not buy the first car you see would you? No, you would shop around until you found the right car for the price you are willing to pay, so traveling is no different. This is not a new concept, just look at all the online discount travel sites.
  4. Ask. If you find the perfect cabin, campground, hotel etc. that you want to visit, but they are a little over your budget; call and ask if they offer any discounts. But be sure to let them know that you are traveling with your canine pal. Some businesses will make you pay extra for bringing your pet. Try to get them to wave the fees, some will; some will not.
  5. Offer to help out. We have found that if we call a cabin rental establishment and they have a house cleaning fee for people who bring pets, we offer to bring our own sheets, blankets and vacuum the whole place before we leave. ALWAYS leave the place better than it was when you came. We have one rental company that was not sure about our dogs staying with us the first year, but the next year we called them and they willingly gave us a discount because we had left the cabin spotless when we left the previous year. Treat it like your mother-in-laws house; no one wants a messy visitor in their home.
  6. Search for off-season rates. If you are traveling to a heavy travel destination, check and see when they have the least amount of visitors. For example, if the place is a summer destination, look at going in the spring, fall or winter. Most businesses have different rates for their off seasons. If you can be a little flexible on when you can travel, this is a great way to get that wonderful place at a great price, and a lot of the businesses will be more flexible on allowing pets. As always; do your research; if you want to go to the mountains to go boating and hiking, going in the middle of winter would not be an option, so go online and research the area and make sure it would work for you.
  7. Make an agenda. No, you do not have to plan out day-by-day, minute-by-minute, but do not go totally unprepared. Know what you want to do while you are on vacation and decide how long and when you will do it. Why do this? Because you will find that you can save money if you know what you are willing to do with your dog. If you have an expensive destination, you can plan it for one or two days of your vacation, then plan a couple of days of doing no-cost days.
  8. Spend some days doing free stuff. If you brought your dog with you, there are plenty of things you can do for free that will bring great memories forever. We have stayed at many beautiful locations with our canines, but the most that I remember about our vacations are the times we spent with our dogs, not where we went. Go hiking, dogs love the great outdoors and it usually does not cost a thing! Go swimming, dogs love the beach! Go to the park; most cities have off-leash dog parks now, take your pooch and let them meet up with some of the locals. Staying at a hotel? Take some time out and leash up your dog and go walking. You will get to see so much more and meet more people when you are out browsing the town. Who would not want to stop and pet a friendly dog?
  9. Take a car tour. Okay, so the cost of gas is off the roof, but there is still nothing better than renting a good gas mileage vehicle and hitting the open road with your dog. Open the window let him stick his head out and hit the pavement. We often will take a time-out day from hiking on our vacation and just spend the day traveling from small town to small town. You will get to see some of the best stuff if you get off the beaten path. Other than the cost of gas, this trip does not have to cost a thing, pack a lunch, grab some dog food and water and go. In the summer, we have a school yard tour, we make a habit of stopping at schools in every town and letting the dogs run in the baseball fields or any area that is fenced. (Be sure to pick up after your pets, we do not want any kids stepping in a surprise!) Of course do not do this when school is in session! It gives our dogs an opportunity to stretch their legs and keeps them quite in the car as we continue our drive. And guess what? It will not cost a thing to stop!
  10. Get some help! There is such an overwhelming list of information on the web, use it to find discounted travel sites, and pet friendly businesses. Check out our site: http://www.campingpet.com We are a dog friendly membership club that offers discounts to our members on stays at campgrounds, cabin rentals, canoe rentals, pet friendly restaurants and so much more.

About The Author: The authors of Campingpet Adventure Club are avid pet lovers and adventure travelers. The Price's travel often in their pop-up trailer and tent with 3 large dogs (Buddy, Rusty and Fred) and take them hiking, camping and any outdoor adventure that will accept their dogs! They have stayed in campgrounds, public lands, state, Federal Parks, and cabins.

They own a membership club for people who like adventure travel with their pets. Subscribe at http://www.campingpet.com

Written by: Debbie Price

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debbie_Price

Friday 25 July 2008

Camping Air Beds

Camping air beds are designed with exclusive workmanship and give complete comfort for a pleasurable sleep during your vacation into nature. Your relaxation will turn luxurious and moreover your quality of sleep will improve. The side and top surface of these camping air beds are specially designed with a network of interlinked air cells, which pave the way for the air to penetrate easily inside the sleeping surface. The flow of air and the smoothness of the bed will give you unbelievable stability and comfort from an air mattress.

Camping air beds also come in double beds, where couples can relax side by side. Camping beds are really a significant campground luxury. These beds will give you the best comfort and makes your sleep more pleasurable. The beds are so comfortable, couples plan outdoor excursions more often. Camping allows you can relax with nature, and these mattresses are far more comfortable than the usual gigantic air beds.

One of the most prominent benefits is that the camping air beds are above the ground. Camping air beds are relatively higher off from the ground when compared with the regular air mattresses. People, who suffer with bad knee pain, back pain and several other aches, can find these camping beds much easier on their bodies. They give comfort and soothe, even compared to normal beds. Children that tend to fear sleeping outside are generally able to relaxing on the camping air beds, because they feel more familiar. Usually traditional camping beds will stay close to the ground and uncomfortable.

If you camp often, investing in a camping air bed is a smart idea. There are plenty of camping air beds designs and patterns available. They can be found online as well as at local outdoors shops. You'll want to see and feel the comfort for yourself.

Candis Reade is an accomplished niche website developer and author.
To learn more about camping air beds, please visit Forest Camping for current articles and discussions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Candis_Reade

Thursday 24 July 2008

Tips For Renting Your Next Car

Having a vehicle at your disposal gives you both freedom and flexibility when traveling. Before you rent a vehicle for your next vacation or business trip it's important not only to find the best deal but also to find the right vehicle for your needs.

Choosing a Vehicle

One of the first determinations is what type of vehicle do you need? A small car might save you on gas and rental fees but may not be a practical choice. If you are traveling with children or have a lot of luggage a larger car or SUV might be a better choice. It is also important to consider what souvenirs you might pick up or shopping you might be doing on your trip. Will you need extra space to carry home these treasures?

Where to Book a Vehicle

The length of your trip should be a consideration before booking your vehicle. If you will only need a vehicle for a week or less then it is probably best to go with a major car rental company such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National or Thrifty. If you need a car for longer than a week, then it might be better for your budget to check with local companies or auto dealerships. But be aware that they may not offer the same perks as the larger companies such as roadside assistance if you have a break down.

Getting the Best Deal

Always shop around and compare prices before renting a car. Check out websites and call companies to find the best deals. Ask about discounts such as AAA if you are member. Before booking online do an Internet search for coupons or promotion codes. Just type in the name of the company followed by "coupon code" and you will often find special promotions. This could save you 5 to 20 percent.

It is also a good idea to join the car rental company's loyalty program if they have one. It is often free and entitles you to certain privileges such as avoiding long lines and paperwork when picking up your vehicle since they already have your information on file and may also make you eligible for certain discounts or free upgrades.

Read the Fine Print

Be sure you know the conditions of your reservation. Is there a penalty for no-shows? How long will the car be held if you are late? Is there a fee for additional drivers? Is there a drop-off fee for one-way rentals? Is there roadside assistance if the car breaks down?

Ask About Hidden Costs

The advertised price may not be the real price of the rental. Ask about any additional costs some may include:
• Taxes
• Airport surcharges
• Additional driver fees
• Insurance
• Gasoline bills
• Drop-off charges

Inspect Before You leave the Lot

Make sure you inspect the vehicle with the sales agent before you drive the car off the lot. Have them make a note of any scratches or dings in the car so that you won't be held liable for the damage.

Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. Visit us today for money-saving tips and receive free quotes for cheap second car insurance from respected insurance companies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn

Wednesday 23 July 2008

Bring Your Pet on Your Family Vacation

Everyone knows that people consider their pets as part of the family. Now it is becoming more common to include pets in vacation plans and many travel destinations are accommodating dogs and cats. Many hotels, resorts and state parks allow dogs, although there are certain restrictions, for example due to health codes, dogs can dine with their families only at outdoor restaurants or cafes. It is obviously important that your dog is socialized and well behaved, and remember, not everyone loves dogs!

Some of the top dog friendly resort towns include,

Carmel/Monterey, California
Asheville/Blue Ridge, North Carolina
Portland, Maine
Key West, Florida
Black Hills, South Dakota
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Charlottesville, Virginia
Cape May, New Jersey and
Grand Canyon, Arizona.

These are just a few of the vacation destinations that are pet friendly. There are many State Parks and beaches that allow dogs but they are usually required to be leashed. There are over 200 dog friendly coastal beaches. San Diego is home to Dog Beach where dogs can run free without a leash, as long as they can get along with other dogs.

All dog friendly areas require that dogs are well behaved. When asked, most officials described well behaved as pertaining to the dog and the dog owner. For the dog, this means being calm around many people and other dogs, not barking excessively, not jumping on people and following commands of their owner. For the owner, well behaved means controlling your dog, not allowing him to do his "business" in inappropriate places and cleaning up after your dog.

There are several things you need to do to prepare for a road trip with your pet. You need to be sure your pet has been to the vet and has all his shots up to date. You should have a record of his vaccinations and make sure he is protected from Lyme disease, heartworm and fleas. Remember to pack his pet vitamins. He will need a license and an identification tag with all your information, especially a cell phone number since you will be away from home. It is a good idea to carry a first aid kit specifically for pets.

Make sure you have enough dog food and treats for the trip. It may be a good idea to buy bottled water since some dogs can get sick from drinking water they are not used to. Remember to pack a leash and towels for muddy paws. Also, bring favorite toys and bags for cleaning up after your dog. If you will be staying in a hotel, bring a crate for your dog to sleep in or stay in if you have to leave him alone for any reason.

Most people travel with their dogs, but some cat lovers bring their furry friends along on the family trip. Cats tend to be more attached to their territory so if you intend to travel with your cat, its a good idea to start taking them out when they are kittens. Start with brief trips and be sure to have a quality cat carrier. Have cat toys and a collar with an identification tag. Allow your cat some time to explore his new surroundings.

There are many products available to make travel with your pet easier. You can get car seats or seat belt harnesses for your dog. For dogs who love to go boating, there are doggie life vests. You can buy travel bowls and even portable dog potties and litter boxes. You no longer have to feel guilty for leaving your pet in a boarding kennel while you enjoy a great vacation. Now your pet can enjoy the family vacation with the family.

Joseph M. Sabol is a world class doberman breeder. For further information go to http://theroadhousedobes.com or visit http://petvitamins4u.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_M_Sabol

Tuesday 22 July 2008

Airline Travel - It's Just Not What it Use to Be

Gas prices affect everything and everyone. All you have to do is walk into any store and see the prices of products and how they have increased recently. The same holds true for the cost of your airline tickets. On average they have increased by ten percent and some airlines even more so than that.

If you have been following the news lately then you already know that many airlines are looking for many ways to keep the price of tickets down to a minimum as gas prices rise. This is not an easy task for them. If you want to get a better understanding of what I mean, all you need to do is look towards your own lifestyle. As gas prices have exceeded four dollars per gallon in many parts of the country what have you had to cut back on to make sure you can put fuel in your tank so you can get back and forth to work everyday.

The airline industry is no different. Today most airlines are looking for different yet creative ways to keep prices down. Some airlines have removed the service of all food and beverages while others have removed all unnecessary weight from the airplanes such as too many magazines.

Many of the major airlines have taken it a step further and now restrict the number of bags you can bring and their weight. They have even added a surcharge by as much as fifteen dollars per bag for any bag that you check in regardless of its weight. Before you fly or even before you purchase your ticket, call the airline you intend to fly with and see what kind of extra fees they will be charging you. While you are on the phone ask them how many bags you are allowed to check and what the maximum weight they should be is. The normal number and weight these days are two bags not to exceed fifty pounds per bag, and no you can not bring one bag that will weigh one hundred pounds. Even though it is the same weight, I am sure the airline employees do not want to carry anything that heavy.

Learn how to pack your bags properly and only bring what you absolutely need. If you can purchase it at your destination and it can save you room and weight in your bag then by all means do so. There is no need to drag something along when you can get it where you are going.

I own a hard case piece of luggage. The case by itself weighs twenty pounds and although I absolutely love the case I know in today's world of airline travel it is no longer practical. If you own a hard case switch to a soft case and carry anything that might be breakable with you on the plane (if you can).

Finally, beyond all the new rules and regulations that you will face these days when you travel, you can avoid any undo stress by getting to the airport at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. You never know what issues may arise so by getting there early you will have plenty of time to deal with those issues and still make your flight.

About the Author:
Mr. Tucker is the senior editor for Vacation Nation, an online vacation resource where you can learn about various destinations and travel tips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bruce_A._Tucker

Wednesday 16 July 2008

Self Improvement: Leisure Time, Retirement Time

You've worked all your life and now you are looking forward to retirement. How will you spend your time?

Many people have not created balance in their lives between work and play, so when it comes to leisure time or retirement, they don't know what to do with their time.

If you no longer have to work, or you are working less, here are five areas that you can attend to regarding how you spend your time.

PHYSICAL HEALTH

Consider joining a gym, getting on a regular exercise program, taking up a sport, taking dance lessons, and/or learning yoga or tai chi. Leisure years can be filled with aliveness if you take excellent care of your health.

Do some research on nutrition and learn how to create healthy meals. There are many excellent books on achieving a high level of health, even in your later years. You might have years to live so you might as well learn how to live them in a vital and healthy way!

EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH

If you had not given much attention to your emotional and spiritual health - to the journey of your soul - now is a good time to do it. Now you have the time to read the excellent and inspiring books on achieving inner peace and joy. You have the time to attend lectures, workshop and seminars on healing the beliefs that may be limiting you, on connecting with your personal spiritual Guidance, and on taking loving care of yourself and sharing your love with others.

If you have never been introspective and taken the time to get to know your self on the inner level, now is a great time!

GIVING TO OTHERS

The most fulfilled people in life are those who find ways of giving to others and to the planet. If you have had to work hard all your life, you might not have had the time to volunteer or find other ways of helping. Now you have the time to explore what ways of giving really bring you joy. Would you enjoy volunteering at a day care center, sharing your love with little ones? Would you enjoy becoming part of a peer counseling group, supporting others in being all they can be? Would you receive satisfaction from becoming involved with groups that are helping the environment, helping the homeless, helping battered women and battered families, or helping abused children? Perhaps you would love to be involved with supporting the arts?

There are many fulfilling ways of giving and now you have an opportunity to discover which ways bring you joy.

CREATIVITY

Being involved in creative activities is one of the most fulfilling ways of spending time. What have you always wanted to learn to do? Do you want to learn to draw, paint, or make ceramic pots? Do you want to learn to work in wood, carving or making furniture? Have you always wanted to try your hand at writing, perhaps writing poetry, a novel, or a screenplay? Do you want to become an excellent chef? Maybe you want to learn more about interior design and home decorating? Perhaps you want to create a beautiful garden or learn about flower arranging? Have you always wanted to learn more about jewelry making, weaving, needlepoint, sewing or knitting?

Now is a great time to discover what creative activities being you inner peace and joy.

PLAY

You might find that your physical activities - golf, bowling, and so on are the ways you play. Or your creative activities may be the ways you play. You might also want to find other ways to play, such as playing board games, card games, or doing puzzles. You might enjoy computer games or the many games that are available through TV.

Don't let your leisure years be boring and unfulfilling. If you do not have to work, you have great opportunities to develop yourself in so many ways!

http://www.isnare.com/?aid=252249&ca=Self+Help

Monday 14 July 2008

Teak Porch Swings - Style And Leisure Unite

A porch swing is bound to enhance any deck or patio, but choosing the right type is often tricky. As swings are constructed in a diverse variety of materials finding a resilient swing is a difficult quest. Fortunately, teak porch swings are a popular choice, however, due to their handcrafted appeal and long-lasting characteristics. Since teak is naturally weather resistant, even untreated teak furniture will last under the most severe weather conditions. Thus a teak porch swing suffering under winter snow leaves owners with little cause to worry.

A primary appeal of teak porch swings is their durability and sturdiness. Teak porch swings can accommodate people of various sizes and weights. Whether two lovers are enjoying a romantic swing outdoors, or a mother and her children are sharing some time together, a teak porch swing is ideal for all occasions.

Teak porch swings are also easy to assemble. The swing can be attached to a tree, porch roof or ceiling and even on a wooden frame. The ropes used to attach the teak swing are exceptionally strong and are also weather resistant. Owners do not have to worry about a teak porch swing breaking or falling, as all parts are sturdy. Some teak swings can be purchased with stands, allowing the addition of a swing to a lush garden or by the pool.

Like other teak furniture, teak porch swings are available in an assortment of designs. The backs of teak swings may be slatted, elegantly carved, curved or rounded. Teak swings are also available in a variety of wood finishes. In terms of size, teak porches are usually quite similar to one another in dimensions. While the widths of swings may vary, teak porch swings generally seat two adults comfortably. Rope size is generally 8 feet long, but upon a customer’s request extenders are available for purchase.

Teak porch swings are also popular for their reliability. While swings composed of other materials, like wicker or metal, quickly deteriorate teak does not. Teakwood is naturally weather resistant to sun, rain, and snow. While most woods rot after exposure to weather elements, teak will not. A teak porch swing will look as elegant and quaint years later as it did upon its first sway.

Another reason why teakwood porch swings are highly popular is due to their low level of maintenance. Cleaning teak is simple and hassle-free. Basic soap and water can be used during the Spring to scrub away dirt and refresh all teak furniture, especially porch swings which have remained outside all Winter. Alternatively, there are a variety of teak cleaning and maintenance solvents and oils available for purchase.

A perfect complement to any teak porch swing is a teak coffee table. Since teak coffee tables are sold in many varieties, finding a match for most teak porch swings is not that difficult. A teak porch swing allows people to keep items like snacks, drinks and reading materials nearby while they swing in a smooth, relaxing motion on their very own porch.

http://www.isnare.com/?aid=168277&ca=Gardening

Sunday 13 July 2008

Leisure And Fun In A Child Size Rocking Chair

The rocking chair reminds many people of a calmer time, and old-fashioned relaxation. Rockers have been around for a long time - no one knows how long, but they were mentioned in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1787. It's probably that these classic pieces of furniture originated in America or in England as a kind of garden chair. The first models were undoubtedly homemade, since rocking chairs didn't start being built by furniture companies until around 1800. Rockers are known from at least the 1740s in Sweden and England. Swedish rocking chairs had six legs with an extra long rocker and were usually black and gold. English versions looked like a standard chair, with rockers added onto the bottom. Now available in all styles, rocking chairs are still available all over the world, in a variety of materials. You can get rocking chairs in wicker, metal, plastic, and of course, the familiar wooden rocking chair.

Children can enjoy rocking chairs right alongside their parents. Child size rocking chairs designed for safety and fun are easy to acquire. You can get a wooden rocking chair for kids in the same style as traditional adult rocking chairs, and in a wide range of colors. For very little ones, toddler rockers are available for sale. These chairs have special kid-safe paint, for when those little ones like to chew, rounded corners to prevent accidents, and a low seat so that toddlers can touch the ground when they rock.

There are traditionally shaped children's rocking chairs in every theme you could think of. From pirate themes to fire trucks, princess themes (with cushions and lacy skirting) to tea parties, there's nothing your child can dream up that you can't find. A rocking chair with your child's favorite theme will increase the joy that he or she will get out this comfortable classic. It could be a favorite story time seat, or a place for watching birds and animals through the window. In a child size rocking chair, children can enjoy time with their families.

Another classic children's favorite is wooden rocking horses. Little ones have spent many hours rocking away on their horses, lost in their own imaginations. These days, they're not just limited to horses. There are wooden train engine rockers, boats, carriages, fire engines, airplane and motorcycles. Children can play and imagine on themed rockers that will enhance their playtime.

Wooden rockers, finished with safe, non-toxic materials, are best for children's toys and relaxation. Child's wooden rocking chair or rocking horse will last for decades to come, and can be handed down to your grandchildren someday. Rocking chairs built especially to fit children let them feel comfortable and secure, because their feet can touch the floor. Cozy and safe children's rocking chairs are the best way to share this classic comfort. Let your child rock alongside you and enjoy a story book in a new child size wooden rocking chair. An old fashioned rocking chair will give you and your child enjoyment for many years to come.

http://www.isnare.com/?aid=155685&ca=Parenting

Friday 11 July 2008

Internet Access In Mainland China For Business And Leisure

Internet access in China

It was difficult getting internet access in China a mere 6 years ago. Corporate leased line were difficult to apply for, hotels had no internet access, dial-ups were extremely unreliable, xDSL or cable were largely unavailable and cybercafes largely denied foreigners access.

Today, China is one of the easiest country in Asia to make internet accessible to businesses, homes, travellers and students.

If you are a business traveller or tourist, you will be pleasantly surprised that almost all hotels, down to 3 stars hotels, even in more remote cities offer broadband internet access in their hotel rooms. Most rooms will have an ethernet port for you to hook up to the hotel's broadband. Access is mostly automatically DHCP with dynamic IPs but in certain hotels, you may need to call the reception to allow access from your room.

You can also visit a cybercafe or 'wang ba' as they are known in China. Cybercafes are everywhere in China and can be a dingy 5 computer setup to large cybercafes with hundreds and hundreds of computers. Most cybercafes in China are patronized by young people whose sole purpose are computer games or online-chatting. These youngsters can spend days in the cybercafes without going home. If you find them too noisy for your liking, you can even request for a private VIP room to surf in peace and comfort!

As a foreigner, you will need to show your passport before you can be allowed access to a cybercafe. In many provinces, the local law requires your picture to be taken and your particulars submitted to a central database. The cybercafes are pretty strict about this or they are liable to have their operating licences taken away. Cybercafes are lucrative businesses in China and you can be sure that they implement the required laws most strictly!

One of the problem that you may face in a public cybercafe is that all the log-in procedures and computer operating systems will only be in Chinese even in the touristy areas. Hence, you will need the cybercafe operator assistance before you can eventually start answering all your Hotmails and Gmails.

If you like visiting coffee cafes, you will also find that many of the newer cafes offer internet points for you to plug in your laptop. Most of the time, usage is free. At this point of time, wireless internet access does not seem to be entirely popular as compared to wire access in these cafes.

If you are running a business, getting a corporate lease line or xDSL broadband is a breeze with very competitive ISP fighting for your business. Monthly charges are low and access speed is decent. In fact, many newer office buildings offer broadband access as part of the rental deal and you need not apply seperately to the ISP.

Home users are well taken care of as well. Many new apartment also comes with broadband access or you can apply to the ISPs directly. Charges for monthly sDSL broadband can be as low as US12.

Control of the internet

China is one of the countries with strict internet laws. Having said that, internet usage in China is very, very high for both business and social use. Because personal computers are still expensive by China's income standard, most people access the internet from cybercafes or from offices.

All websites hosted in China needs to be a approved by a government unit. One of the first thing you will notice in China is that domestic sites are blazingly fast but foreign hosted sites tend to be very slow. This is due to foreign sites having to go through a proxy as well as a bottleneck on China's limited conduit out to the international internet pipes.

Many foreign sites such as CNN, Falungong, Playboy and other sites deem sensitive to China's society are blocked.

Web applications and development in China are often of a high standard. Many domestic sites such as Alibaba and Sohu has made it to the very competitive top internet arenas. Many web development companies from Taiwan, South Korea and even the USA has also made China their development base for their web applications as China offers a large pool of competitive and high qualified web developers.

http://www.isnare.com/?aid=20894&ca=Internet

Thursday 3 July 2008

Leisure Activities In Pattaya Thailand

Besides beaches, shopping centers and night-life, Pattaya also offers a great number of interesting sports and other activities for foreigner, especially those who plan to have a long stay in Pattaya. Here are some of interesting activities.

Water sports such as parasailing, sailing, snorkeling, diving, and swimming.

For parasailing, the boats will pick you up from the Bali Hi Pier and take you out to the pontoons where instruction to novices and experts alike will be given. This pursuit cannot be undertaken on windy days, and safety is a key factor.

Sailing in Pattaya is very popular, where various national and international regattas take place. Many sailors sail over to Koh Lan or one of the smaller islands for the day and return in the afternoon.

Snorkeling is the activity which is popular Diving is a very popular pursuit on the Eastern seaboard and Pattaya has several specialist companies with instructors and supervisors. There are many dive sites around Pattaya, the profusion of coral and fish, a sea temperature of around 28 degrees and cheap prices, this is a favorite venue for many international divers.

Swimming in the sea is very popular with both Thais and Europeans. Don’t be surprised if the Thais go in the sea with their clothed. They are not used to showing in public, and it’s warm enough to dry off very quickly when they get out.

Go-karting at the Pattaya Kart Speedway

One of the tracks is 800 meters long, nicely design with water waiting for the clumsy. Moreover there are a few types of karts to choose from and all of them are very good and well maintained.

Golfing courses in Pattaya

Playing Golf in Pattaya can totally spoil you for returning home. You can play golf at a different course every day of a two week holiday and you still won't play all the international standard courses within an hour drive of Pattaya.

Many of Pattaya's courses are Country Clubs and designed by Nicklaus, Faldo, Thompson, Wolderidge, Dye and Trent Jones.

Gyms, spas, and massage

Pattaya has a tropical climate is therefore ideal for the pursuit of outdoor activities. However, for an indoor healthy lifestyle, Pattaya is also among the best. The vast number of 5 star health massage organizations, beauty parlous, spa and fitness centers mean that Pattaya really is the place to improve you overall and look

Other activities in Pattaya

The Pattaya Bridge Club for the more leisurely.

Wandering along Walking Street and its many beer bars, girlie bars, music venues, cabarets, and restaurants.

Day trips to the Tiger Zoo, alligator and elephant farms, sapphire mines, orchid gardens, and culture villages at Mini Siam and Nong Nooch Village; countless other places of interest in the Pattaya area.

Latest Hollywood movies a the Big C and Royal Garden shopping centers; or purchase DVDs at bargain prices from street vendors.

If you’re creative, build a studio to write, paint, or invent things or join a writers group and write about your travels.

Attend an international convention at one of the big hotels.

Numerous places of religious worship: temples, churches, and mosques.

http://www.isnare.com/?aid=203398&ca=Travel