Wednesday 29 October 2008

7 Travel Tips For Staying Healthy While on the Road

Traveling to new destinations can be exciting and fun. However, if you don't prepare yourself for the differences you will encounter you may end up feeling tired and achy. Here are the top seven tips for staying healthy and feeling good, no matter where your traveling adventures take you.

Forget About Jet Lag: Here are some great pointers for beating jet lag. First, don't drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages on the plane. Drink plenty of water, and eat whole grain carbohydrates which may help calm your nerves. Then, after getting to your destination, take a ten-to twenty-minute walk as soon as possible, and eat a light snack. If you think you'd like a little nap, you will want to keep it to less than an hour-so you'll still be able to get to sleep at night.

Never Stop Moving: On a long flight it's important to get up every half hour and move around for a full minute to keep your circulation moving. Or if you're in tight quarters and can't get up, "wiggle" while you sit. Lift your heels and move them from side to side. Bounce your legs up and down on the balls of your feet, then put your heels on the floor, lift your toes, and wag them from side to side. Another good idea is to wear compression socks which gently "hug" your legs, helping to keep blood flowing back to your heart.

Don't Drink the Water: Even if your travels don't take you out of the country-it's smart to avoid the local water. You can never be too sure what steps were taken to purify it. Plus, even minor differences in the water can lead to stomach problems and constipation. You can opt for bottled water, if it's in a glass container. Plastic bottles can leach toxins into the water, especially if the bottle gets warm.

Eat Energizing Snacks: Airports and rest areas are notorious for snacks like chips, candy bars and soda-which are not only unhealthy, but can also drain your energy. A good idea is to take along raw seeds, carrots, apples and celery sticks, slices of green and red pepper, or fresh fruit. These enzyme-rich foods will help you maintain your energy much more effectively. Granola bars can also be tasty and are easy to travel with.

Remember Probiotics: Unfamiliar foods can affect your digestion. Probiotics can help by giving you the necessary bacteria to boost digestion, and to keep your constitution healthy. Plus, they promote healthy bacteria in the urinary tract and vaginal area, which is important if you're going to be spending time in a wet bathing suit.

Brush Your Teeth: It's not always convenient to brush your teeth while traveling. A suggestion is to carry a travel-size bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide. Just swish a teaspoon or so in your mouth after every meal or snack. Just make sure you don't swallow it, as the bubbles can upset your stomach.

Exercise that body: Exercise charges up your metabolism and reduces stress. If you're sightseeing, swimming, or playing tennis or golf on your vacation-that's great. But if your vacation's more sedentary, check out the hotel fitness center and spend 30 minutes on the treadmill or in the pool swimming. Or, just get out and take a walk, and soak in some much needed "alone time" for you.

Wherever your travels take you-try to have a wonderful time. Feeling good while on the road will surely help! Just following these few simple steps can make a big difference in how you feel while away from home and remaining healthy after you return!

Deborah Mumm is a Health Awareness Specialist in northern IL. She has been working in the Clean Air, Pure Water & Nutrition industry since 1996. To obtain FREE reports, discounts and healthy home tips register at http://www.healthy-environments.com . Be sure to claim the 7 Steps towards an Allergy-Free Home!

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

Saturday 25 October 2008

Famous Places in China Throughout History

A whole panoply of attractions span the entirety of this enormous, ancient and diverse nation. China is packed with monuments and artefacts that predate those in most of Europe, Australia and the USA. Despite political upheavals like the Cultural Revolution, such iconic structures as the Great Wall and Potala Palace remain.

More than 2,000 years old, the Great Wall is the best-known and most awe-inspiring sight. It stretches 6,400 km (4,000 miles) across large parts of the country, with its most popular section in Badaling County, Beijing, amidst a beautiful mountain range. It is a myth that the Wall can be seen from the moon, as no astronaut has ever reported this as being possible.

One of the other more famous places in China is the Forbidden City in Beijing, an assemblage of grand palaces where 24 emperors previously lived. The casual visitor would need days if not weeks to visit every room in the Forbidden City, so best to concentrate on the throne room of the magnificent Hall of Supreme Harmony and the 120,000 square metre Imperial Garden.

Shanghai's Bund is a chic, art deco district that was once home to the concessions of the European imperial powers. To its east is the Huangpu River and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, while on its main drag are the Huifeng Bank and the Shanghai Customs House. JG Ballard immortalized the city in his novel 'Empire of the Sun'.

One of the more bizarre yet also one of the most famous places in China is the Museum of Emperor Qin Shihuang's Terra Cotta Warriors & Horses. As the name suggests, this is a tomb containing hundreds of ceramic models dating back to 210 BC.

For sheer aesthetic beauty alone, Potala Palace is unrivaled anywhere in the world. This 1,000-room complex in Lhasa, Tibet, was originally the home of the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, the Dalai Lama, currently exiled by the Chinese occupying forces. The palace's architecture merges wonderfully with the natural features of the Red Mountain, which it is built into.

On the Yungui Plateau, the Dian Chi Lake is another of the more famous places in China. Rising almost 2,000 metres in altitude, the lake can sometimes appear to be joining with the sky above it, a curiously wondrous effect that many visitors have commented upon. At dawn and dusk, the sunlight refracts the sunlight in such a way that it embles many silver fishes. Arguably the best view of the Dian Chi Lake is from the West Mountain.

3 of Yellow Mountain's 72 peaks are all above 1,800 metres tall. Its four most appealing spots are the Pine Forest, the Strange Stone, the Cloud Sea and the Hot Spring. It is located in the bucolic Anhui Province.

These are just some of the many famous places in China, with many more located around this unique country.

Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about famous places in china, please visit China and Tourism for current articles and discussions.

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

Tuesday 21 October 2008

Visit A Las Vegas Golf Course

In this useful article about booking a vacation to a las vegas golf course, we hope to show you the numerous aspects that this significant subject has to offer you. Keen golfers always like to try out new locations and golfing vacations are very popular. Las Vegas is known for its casinos and entertainment venues but many people would prefer to spend time on a Las Vegas golf course, of which there are many. The courses are situated in some impressive scenery and there are golf and hotel and flight packages for all in vacations. Weekends are the busiest time, especially in summer and winter bargain deals are available. The Badlands Golf Club is suitable for novices or experts alike and has four sets of tees. The desert terrain and ravines make this course, well worth a visit. Reservations are accepted up to 60 days in advance and green fees include the use of a golf cart. The Desert Rose Club is a well established Las Vegas golf course, having opened in 1964. The course has received some upgrades and its location is among the pine trees and surrounded by mountains. Golf carts are available but many people prefer to walk the course, as the soft greens are so pleasant. The club acts as host for the annual Clark County Amateur competition. Reservations are accepted up to 7 days in advance.

No matter what you though about the first part of this article, the second part is bound to blow you away. The Bali Hai resort club is considered to be one of the most luxurious in the Las Vegas Golf Course community. The par-71 design on the Strip incorporates water features, pine trees and white sand bunkers. There is a well stocked pro shop with tropical themed clothes and art works. A warm up area contains automatic ball teeing. Fine dining is promised at the Cili restaurant, which overlooks the course and has a private patio dining area. Reservations are taken up to 6 months in advance and green fees include a golf cart. The Falls Golf Club is up high in the mountains in desert canyons. Sheep are to be seen grazing in parts of this elevated Las Vegas golf course. The elegant clubhouse has a Tuscan theme and features a large chandelier and beautiful furnishings. Golfers can set their watches by the 60 foot working bell tower. Reservations are accepted up to 90 days in advance and green fees include a golf cart and complimentary practice balls. The Wolf Creek club was voted Best New Course in the USA by Golf Digest on its introduction in 2000. Views from this Las Vegas golf course include the town of Mesquite, colorful rocky canyons and waterfalls. The clubhouse contains a gourmet restaurant on the terrace and a pro shop. Reservations are accepted up to 60 days in advance and one year for group parties. It is small things, like this article, that can aid you in your search for information about booking a vacation to a las vegas golf course. So, sit down and decide which road would be best for you to take.

By: Gnubas

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Thursday 16 October 2008

Car Travel Tips - Driving in Mexico

It is a real luxury to be able to drive your vehicle almost anywhere that you would like to go. Driving to Mexico is something that many Americans are interested in doing instead of booking an expensive airline flight. But before you drive off to another place outside your own country or state, take care to get important information regarding what driving is like there. Rules and regulations may be different so having the facts up front can save you plenty of heartache and woe in the event that something unexpected happens.

Call your insurance company and ask them if you are covered in Mexico. Quite often you will be required to take out separate insurance for the time you will be in Mexico with your car. This is because Mexico laws state that accident parties are all guilty until proven innocent. That can take a lot of time, so be sure to cover all bases in terms of protection and collision coverage for your car.

Keep in mind that road maintenance standards are not as high in Mexico as they are in America. There are many more potholes and areas of really rough terrain. If you drive something with 4X4 or a large vehicle that is sturdy, this may not worry you. However, those with small or very expensive vehicles may want to think about leaving them at home.

It's important not to stop for any hitch hikers in Mexico. We have all heard stories of people being robbed or attacked. Though this is not guaranteed, it is much more likely to occur if you stop for random strangers on the road. There are times when trying to be nice will only come back to haunt you. Mexico is a place where it's best to stay alert and cautious at all times.

Watch out for livestock on the roads. Farm animals in Mexico are not stored rurally like they are in the U.S. Many of them are free to wander which often makes them the target of some poor, unfortunate driver. A cow can be quite deadly to hit, especially in a smaller vehicle. Pay close attention at all times to animals on the road or in the ditch nearby.

Do not attempt to drive around Mexico without a road map. Unless you are a regular visitor that knows your way around, this would be a big mistake. It is not always safe to stop and ask for directions. Get yourself a good map that has main roads and towns clearly indicated. Of course, a GPS unit wouldn't hurt either.

Bring all necessary paperwork regarding your car and yourself. Proof of your identity may be required by local police. It's absolutely necessary to have proof that your car is legal and that you are who you say you are. You should never travel anywhere without bringing all of your identification and necessary papers with you. This can land you in serious hot water if something were to happen, like an accident of some kind. The key to effective travel in any place away from home is proper preparation.

Enjoy your car travel and find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. Visit us today for money-saving tips, cheap auto insurance quotes and helpful car insurance advice at http://www.AutoInsuranceRatesDirect.com

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

Monday 13 October 2008

Personal Safety at Home and Afar

Having a trip away is good for mind and soul, regardless of whether you opt for a city break or beachside retreat. The purpose of taking a break is of course to rest and enjoy the experience but it's important not to forget about taking care of your personal safety.

Safety should begin at your accommodation regardless of whether you're staying in a tent, beach hut or five-star hotel. Have a look at the layout of your accommodation so you know how and where to escape in an emergency.

As you would do at home, exercise caution and make sure you don't leave any windows open if you're away from the property and even when you're sleeping. Doors should be locked at these times as well. Keeping valuables out of sight also helps to prevent a spontaneous burglary.

Taking care when you're out and about is equally important and you can follow the same principles when at home or on holiday. Exercise common sense and avoid straying into unknown areas, particularly at nightfall. Carrying a personal alarm is always a good idea, so if you get in a situation that requires help you can attract attention easily. Use public transport or take a taxi to get around but remember care still needs to be taken for both of these options.

Unfortunately crowded public transport in many locations equates to a thief's paradise as pickpockets can discreetly extract valuables as the owners are distracted in the hustle and bustle of travel. If you have your wallet or purse out before boarding the train, perhaps to get change or your ticket, the savviest of thieves will take note of where you place it once aboard your transport of choice, so always take care and be as discreet as possible.

Spending time at the beach is a common activity whether you are on holiday or at home and the same safety precautions should be taken wherever you are. Being aware of seaside dangers and spotting likely hazards will make sure everyone stays safe when enjoying the warm waters.

When you arrive at the beach take a look to see if there are lifeguards on duty. Also look out for rocks, general sea conditions, safety warnings and if there are any flags on display. You also need to make sure you know what different coloured flags symbolise so get researching before you travel.

Safety by the swimming pool is also important and you should check the deep and shallow ends as well as being familiar with where any buoyancy aids are stored.

When travelling overseas, it's always wise to take extra care as foreign temperatures and humidity can affect you in different ways. It's wise to read up about the country you are visiting before you go and always make sure you have travel insurance in place before departure.

Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

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

Wednesday 8 October 2008

Holidays in Norway - For Pleasurable Vacation

Norway brings striking sceneries to its visitors for a stunning holiday. This country has diverse cities, amazing centers and sites rich in architectural and historical value. With a combination of beautiful museums and huge glaciers, Norway is an ideal holiday destination for both adventure and history lovers.

Below are some of the cities and places one must visit when holidaying in Norway:

Oslo

Oslo is a remarkable Norwegian city that serves as a major tourist attraction for those holidaying in Norway. Tourists and visitors on their Norwegian holiday can enjoy visiting places like galleries and museums. The rich culture of this city can be seen in its attractions like the National Gallery, The Munch Museum, The Norwegian Folk Museum, and The Norwegian Museum of Applied Arts, Norwegian Home Front Museum, The Thor Heyerdahl Kon-Tiki Museum, Oslo City Museum and the Viking Ships Museum. This Norwegian city is also house to architectural rich attractions like the royal palace Kongelige Slott, the parliament building Stortinget and the Akershus castle.

Nidaros Cathedral, Trondheim

This tourist attraction is a fabulous building from the medieval times. Situated in Scandinavia, the building is considered as a national shrine in Norway. Tourists and visitors on their Norwegian holiday must visit this huge structure and see the beauty of this cathedral. Many parts of this attraction are decorated with religious, ornate biblical as well as royal stone statues. Those holidaying in Norway in the summer months can also enjoy crown jewels.

Ajostedal Glacier National Park

Tourist and visitors on a family Norwegian holiday can always visit this tourist attraction for their family vacation. This national park has a lot to offer from glaciers, waterfalls, museum to adventures like hiking, skiing and walking.

Stavanger

This Norwegian city is the cleanest Norwegian attraction and is a place worth visiting for those holidaying in Norway. Many tourists and visitors enjoy the city's architecture and harbor with historical value. You can also witness amazing wooden buildings, the Norwegian oil museum, Rogaland Art Gallery and the Fish Cannery Museum. Those who appreciate history can enjoy this Norwegian city by strolling through the old town with its cobblestone walkways and 18th century houses.

Tromso

Tromso is a major tourist attraction that offers a variety of things to enjoy for a great Norwegian holiday. From cultural activities, restaurants, bars, a brewery, museums to street music. The virtual planetarium here is a crowd puller and offers a visual delight.

Bergen

Former Norwegian capital, Bergen is another favorite tourist attraction for many tourists and visitors holidaying in Norwegian. The most striking feature of this Norwegian city is the beautiful Bryggen buildings dating back to the 17th century. The town also has some historically rich galleries and museums with Bergen heritage and art.

Best time for a Norwegian holiday

Tourists and visitors holidaying in Norway prefer its late spring time for vacationing. An ideal holiday in Norway would be advised from the months of May to September.

I hope you found this article of interest, if so, you can find out more at http://www.last-minute-holidays.me.uk. At this site you can watch a variety of holiday videos as well as learn more about holiday destinations and get a Last Minute Holiday. You are free to republish this article provided a working hyperlink remains to our site - Simon Johnson

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Sunday 5 October 2008

A Guide to the Beaches of Goa in India

Goa is India's smallest state with a mixture of both Indian and Portuguese influence that can be found all over the city. If you've been to Goa, you'll understand what I mean when I say it's a real breath of fresh air and it is really very different from any other state in India.

Goa is known for its beautiful beaches, and what better then to visit Vagator beach, one of Goa's beauties. Lined with coconut palm trees along sandy coves, this crescent shaped beach is a well known favorite for tourists as it is also near the 500 year old Chapora (Portuguese fort). Some people say that if you stay from dawn till dusk, you get to witness the seawater changing different hues of blues and greens and you get to see fishermen in their traditional attire come back from sea with their families dressed up in bright and beautiful clothes to welcome them home; something truly different indeed.

One of the most popular in Goa would be Anjuna Beach. This beach is a haven for the young tourists and party goers and the most famous party beings its full-moon (acid house / trance) parties. These parties filled with endless drinking and dancing go on all night next to a fire and are some of the most looked forward to parties in Goa. What else sets this unique beach apart would be its Wednesday flea markets which are great for hardcore bargainers and shoppers.

Fancy some dolphin watching? Try out the Cavelossim, Varca and Benaulim beaches in Goa. Apart from being beautiful and filled with soft white sand, these beaches have all one thing in common; their dolphin watching. Take a boat out into the sea and watch these dolphins up close or better yet, in certain areas; you might even get to touch them!

If you are looking for solitude, look no further than Agonda Beach. Long and lonely, as people describe it, there's a certain beauty about this place that would make you feel calm and at peace with everything. Watch the wave's crash onto the shore or stroll along this beautifully fringed Palm Beach. If you like you can even hire a tent and camp here overnight whilst listening to the serenity that this beach has to offer.

If you'd like another tranquil beach, try Cola beach in Cancona. This beach, also known as Khola, is unspoiled as its location is pretty much hidden. Exotic and stunning, this beach will take your breath away with its golden white sands and crystal clear waters.

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Goa holidays and Last minute villas.

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

Obtaining a China Visa - New Changes to the China Visa Application

Thanks to the Chinese Embassy, tourists and business people can go to China will less hassle, and they may even be able to go back more than once. Several changes have been made that relax the requirements needed to complete a China visa application. This opens a world of opportunity to those looking to enter into business in the country and to those simply looking to enjoy the countryside and culture.

Business Applications

Prior to the 2008 Olympic Games, everyone was left scrambling to collect all of the necessary paperwork needed for their China visa application and that included many of the world's business people. Called an F Visa, anyone doing business in the country was required to have a Visa Notification Form and was next to impossible for some to obtain.

Numerous pieces of identification papers and proof of intent were needed. Airline tickets, itinerary, and proof of their hotel reservations were also required in order to obtain the necessary paperwork. New changes implemented by the Chinese Embassy have done away with these forms completely meaning they are no longer required in order to enter the country.

Tourists and Tourism Papers

Anyone traveling to the country for a visit or holiday had a series of identification papers and proof in order to fulfill the requirements of a China visa application. Anyone wishing to explore the country has to have an L visa before flying over. This means they have to gather up the required documentation together with their application and take it directly to the Chinese Embassy or one of five consulate offices.

This process has become easier as well. While identification and other items are still needed, tickets from the airline you will be flying with, proof of your hotel reservations, and a set itinerary are no longer needed. This means you will no longer have to book your entire trip and wait for the tickets and accommodation receipts to arrive before applying for entrance into the country.

Want To Go Back?

You may also be allowed to make two trips instead of just one with the same paperwork. Referred to as a double entry, this style of permit allows you to enter the country twice during a 180-day period. After the six months, entry into the country will require another application. The visit is limited to a total of 30 days. However, before the recent changes, this was not allowed.

There are things to take into account. The Consular Officer decides the amount of time you can stay, the number of times you can enter the country, and the validity of your forms. The country also prevents those who have an infectious disease or mental disorder from entering the country.

Many different resources are available to make this even easier including online forms and lists of requirements to help you get through the process. Now that new laws have made getting a China visa application easier than ever to acquire, many more people have access to the unique culture and country.

Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information on china visa, visit http://www.oasischinavisa.com.

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

Wednesday 1 October 2008

Getaways For the Autumn Season

Autumn is a season of change and magnificent splendor....bringing with it, the many memories of the year that is passing.

On a sunny, clear brisk day, wherever you happen to live, whether it be in the city or the countryside, you'll enjoy feeling the breeze running through your hair and gently touching your face.

A magnificent palette of autumn color surrounds you.... bright reds, rusts, yellows, greens, and purple, invigorating you with the closeness of nature's beauty!

Take advantage of what is not so very distant, by taking a stroll, or a bike ride to your local park or village hillside, for a spirit-lifting experience, which has no price!

For a more adventuresome, get out your back pack and hiking boots, or plan a drive to your state national parks or mountains for a family weekend holiday. Look into the travel deals and getaway vacation packages offered on the internet

Drink in all the autumn color, as you walk through the woods, feeling the leaves crunching under your feet, the sun's rays streaming through the tree's branches while the birds chirp above.

Families can getaway and enjoy picnics together, while viewing the carnival of autumn colors around them. There may be other activities to enjoy, such as mountain biking on the trails, horseback riding, fishing canoeing, or kite-flying. View the sunrise, and the sunsets and revel in the breathtaking hues of blazing and glorious autumn color. You will want to just take a step back and catch your breath!

Remember to pack your camera! Capturing these gifts that nature freely bestows, will assure you of recollections of the most pleasant kind, throughout the year!

Autumn is the season of harvest, too....and, a perfect time for a drive to the country. Visit the apple farms with family and friends, and spend a great time picking apples. Try visiting a pumpkin patch to get a perfect pumpkin for your Jack-O-Lantern, or picking fresh and flavorful corn directly from the cob....to enjoy with your dinner that evening, along with the jug of homemade apple cider you purchased on your way home!....

It's not only about picking apples and corn, or choosing a pumpkin... you can find pony rides for the kids, or horse or tractor-drawn hay rides.

Check out the various web sites where you'll be able to locate places not far from home, in the counties close to you, where these special treats are offered. Make it a day trip, or you can stay over night.

No matter what the situation may be...If you have been feeling stressed out at work, preoccupied with the economy, suffering election fatigue, or just in need of a 'well-earned break', make time to enjoy the uplifting gift of Autumn..... Search for travel deals and getaways which best speak to your lifestyle and pace!

Take advantage of this magical time of year by taking a stroll, or a bike ride to your local park or village hillside, for a spirit-lifting experience, which has no price!

Decide what best fits your budget and plan to glory in the enchantment of this magical season! To find out more about special travel deals and getaways, come visit us at http://yourtravelguideonline.com

We have lots of special deals, online travel booking, home based business opportunities and so much more. Why not pick up our free travel tips when you're there. We would love to have you visit us

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