Thursday, 11 September 2008

Safest Seat on an Airplane - Where to Sit So You Survive

What is the safest seat on an airplane?

Well, the Boeing Corp.'s web site says: "One seat is as safe as the other."

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) spokesman said, "It's an age old question. There's just no way to say."

And, airsafe.com claims "there is no safest seat."

But, Popular Mechanics magazine has found that all of those assurances by major industry players just aren't true. Could it be that the reason the establishment doesn't want to tell you where the safest seat on an airplane occupies is because it's the cheap seats?

That's right, if there are fatalities in an airplane crash, the people in first class at the front of the plane have less than a 50 percent survival rate. Those in the rear cabin (approximately back quarter) of the plane survive at 69 percent.

David Norland reported that the Popular Mechanics study showed that in 11 of the last 20 fatal crashes in the United States, "passengers near the tail of a plane are about 40 percent more likely to survive a crash than those in the first few rows up front." The study included all jet flights with fatalities in the U.S. since 1971.

They found that in 11 of the 20 crashes, back passengers fared better while in just 5 in 20 did the first class folks come out ahead.

So, when you're looking for the safest seat on an airplane, head toward the back. Your statistical odds of survival are much higher there.

But also keep in mind that there hasn't been a fatal jet crash in the United States since 9/11.

If you have a Fear of Flying, you need to get the the free report "The Quickest Way to Conquer Your Fear of Flying at http://www.10minuteinfo.com/FlyingSqueeze.html

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

Wednesday, 10 September 2008

Gold Coast Travel - Experience Its Wonders

Gold Coast is undeniably a vibrant and strikingly unique city in Australia. One of its key draws that make tourists come back for more is its ability to present several options to keep everyone delighted. This is a paradise for travelers where you would be able to surf in the beach or lounge first in the sun, before heading off to see the wildlife, interesting museums, and thrilling theme parks. The city's warm and friendly locals would really go out of their way just to make visitors feel right at home. Whether you are an adventure-seeking individual or the kind that likes to absorb some culture, the Gold Coast is perfect for you. Some of the places that you can visit are:

Beaches

This is home to some of the world's wonderful beaches like Palm Beach, Burleigh Heads, Mermaid Beach and the celebrated Surfers Paradise. These spots would provide you with fine golden sand, some gently rolling waves, sparkling turquoise Pacific waters as well as the chance to take in the seemingly never-ending Australian sunshine. If you are in the mood to have an early morning jog or take a relaxing stroll during sunset, Gold Coast's spotless and spacious beaches are just right for an unforgettable travel or getaway.

Cavill Avenue

For avid shoppers, this is where you would find Cavill Mall. There are countless clothes as well as specialty shops that are within walking distance. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars that would cater to every budget and taste in Cavill Avenue. You would also find money exchange stores and souvenir shops here. This is also where Hard Rock Café and Ripley's Believe it or Not could be found.

Hinterland

This would offer you lush tropical rainforests, some mountain villages, as well as other unseen treasures. Majority of the hinterland area are national parks, which would let you personally see the natural beauty of the area. Some of these parks are the Border Rangers, Nightcap, Witches Falls, Mt. Warning, Springbrook and Lamington National Parks. Each one of the national parks found in the hinterland site would provide you with maps so as to guide you on the walking tracks. Additionally, plenty of day tour firms offer guided walks throughout the tropical rainforest as well as visits to the natural swimming areas.

Currumbin Sanctuary

This houses the biggest variety of native Australian animals found worldwide. You can feed the multicolored lorikeets, stroll in the midst of the kangaroos, take a picture together with an adorable koala or simply admire some wild animals such as Tasmanian devils, wombats, wallabies, and of course, freshwater crocodiles. You would get to see all of them in their natural habitats.

Theme Parks

Your visit to Gold Coast would not be the same if you would not drop by one of its numerous theme parks. Some of its well-known parks are Dreamworld, Warner Brothers Movie World, Sea World, Wet 'n' Wild, and White Water World, among others. These theme parks would surely enchant all the members of your holiday group, regardless of age and personality.

Gold Coast Accommodation

Of course, your travel would be complete without your Gold Coast accommodation. You might want to check out Gold Coast apartments if privacy is a big deal for you. You can choose from one bedroom, two bedroom, or three bedroom Gold Coast apartments that would suit your travel group. Some other Gold Coast accommodation options are bed and breakfasts, motels, hotels and resorts. No matter which option you pick, you are sure to enjoy your travel in the beautiful city of Gold Coast.

The author is a travel writer who loves to offer her audience different tips on Gold Coast accommodation, particularly Gold Coast apartments, found in Queensland, Australia.

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

Monday, 8 September 2008

Ten Tips For a New Zealand Motoring Holiday

#1 Learn The Rules Of The Road

First and foremost, remember that New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road and drivers yield to traffic approaching from the right side at uncontrolled intersections. This can be confusing at first, but most drivers adapt quickly. Other important rules to keep in mind are that the speed limit on open roads is 100 km or about 62 miles per hour, and that seatbelts are required for both passengers in the front and rear seats of any vehicle. New Zealand authorities strictly enforce their drinking and driving laws, and photo radar is frequently used to ticket speeding drivers.

#2 Check The Insurance Coverage

Most reputable rental companies quote rental rates that include the basic insurance to cover damage to the vehicle. Supplemental insurance is usually available for purchase to cover additional damage like chipped or broken windshields. Insurance policies issued in other countries are not valid within New Zealand.

#3 Have Your Driver's License Available

Before you are able to drive away in your New Zealand car rental , you will have to present your current driver's license from your home country. If the license is not written in English, you will be required to provide an English translation. An international driver's license is not required in New Zealand, but if you plan to stay for longer than one year, you will need to apply for a New Zealand driver's license.

#4 Ask For Assistance

Rental car company representatives are trained to provide assistance to travelers when determining routes and destinations. Ask for maps and guides, and don't forget to keep the rental car company's phone number handy in case you need help along the way.

#5 Allow Yourself Enough Time

While New Zealand is not the largest country in the world, there are few destinations that offer such diversity in its natural and cultural landscapes. If you are only able to spend a few days or a week in New Zealand, you might want to focus on touring one island. If you have several weeks, consider developing a theme for your journey such as exploring national parks or wineries. You can literally spend a lifetime discovering the wonders of New Zealand; so don't try to pack everything into a short visit.

#6 Take It Slow

While the roads and highways in New Zealand are generally very well maintained and signed, they are frequently winding, hilly, and narrow. Allow yourself plenty of time for driving between destinations, and take extra precautions when it is raining, snowing, or icy. Snow chains are required on some South Island roads during the winter months.

#7 Book Your Ferry Crossing In Advance

Most travelers want to explore both the North and South Islands. When renting a camper van or car, you have two choices on how to make the journey. You can leave your North Island vehicle in Wellington and pick up another one in Picton on the South Island, or you can drive your vehicle onto the ferry itself. It is generally more expensive to place your vehicle on the ferry, but it is more convenient. During the peak season, spaces on the ferries book up. Thus, it is important to make your reservation as soon as you can. Ask your rental car company for assistance. If you are prone to seasickness, try to schedule the first ferry of the day when the waters are most calm.

#8 Take Advantage Of Information Centers

Many cities and towns in New Zealand have information centers that provide excellent help to travelers. They can give you information on local sites, attractions, lodging, and restaurants. Frequently, these centers also have internet services, clean restrooms, and postcards for purchase.

#9 Meet The Locals

One of the biggest advantages of renting a vehicle in New Zealand rather than touring on a bus is the opportunity to meet the friendly locals. You will be amazed by the welcoming nature of native New Zealanders, and you might just meet some new friends. Don't forget to ask for tips on where the best places are to eat and stay.

#10 Bring A Variety Of Clothing

In New Zealand attire is generally casual, and you most likely won't need any formal clothing. What you will need is a variety of cool and warm weather clothes that you can layer. The sub-tropical climate of the North Island offers everything from warm temperatures in the summer to very cool temperatures in the winter. Snow falls on both the North and South Islands from May through September, and both islands experience notable amounts of rain, wind, and fog.

Mike O'Brien offers advice and information about New Zealand motorhomes This quality web site is easily navigated with it's simple uncluttered layout and design and it has an ever growing selection of New Zealand car rental, motor home hire and general New Zealand accommodation and hotel information at your fingertips!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_O'Brien

Sunday, 7 September 2008

Use Bargain Car Hire in Cyprus

There is bargain car hire in Cyprus available in every town, with many companies looking for your custom which makes for competitive pricing. It is worth visiting a couple of offices to haggle for the best deal if you are hiring locally, otherwise it is easier of course to reserve on-line and pick your car up at the airport on arrival. A Cyprus country map may be given to you when you pick up the paperwork for the bargain car hire in Cyprus, if not you can always pick one up at one of the many shops that stock them, this will be your key for discovering the islands true identity.

Because Cyprus weather has year-round sunshine, blue skies and clear warm waters, the island rightly has the reputation of being one of the world's top destinations for a sun, sea and sand holiday. But there is so much more to the island, so pick up your bargain car hire in Cyprus and head off into the countryside away from the tourist areas, armed with your Cyprus country map you will discover the true spirit of the region. The countryside has traditional villages and even here the locals will usually have some words of English and may invite you to sit for a coffee. There are acres of vineyards with local wineries, remote monasteries and tiny white churches hidden in the most unlikely of spots.

Cyprus property for sale is sometimes condemned for making the island a concrete jungle, and while those comments may be true of some of the main tourist areas, by taking your bargain car hire in Cyprus into the countryside you can see the island is still remarkably unspoilt, with a Cyprus country map you will discover the authentic island, and may even decide to buy some Cyprus property for sale for yourself to enjoy quality time among the warm-hearted, family-orientated and hospitable people in the most crime free country in the EU. In the villages and small towns, people still leave their doors and cars unlocked however it may be unwise to do this in the tourist areas!

Because of its location as a very strategic island Cyprus has a rich cultural heritage taking in many of the worlds great influences, with your bargain car hire in Cyprus you will find Venetian built bridges that were once part of an ancient trade route, Byzantine chapels, the Romans arrived because of the wealth of copper (this is where the name Cyprus is derived from). Christianity was introduced by the Apostles Barnabas and Paul and Lazarus whom Jesus raised from the dead, came to Cyprus in 33AD and became the first Bishop and Patron Saint. A Cyprus country map will take you on a living history lesson taking in the periods from Pre-Neolithic through to the current Republic of Cyprus.

So do come to the island and with your bargain car hire in Cyprus take advantage of a myriad of pastimes; hiking and rambling, cycling, horse-riding, angling, ornithology, botany, water sports of every description and even skiing and snow-boarding - is it any wonder that a holiday is too short for many visitors and they buy Cyprus property for sale to spend more time here!

Kate Deas-Smith recommends using bargain car hire in Cyprus to find the perfect location for Cyprus property for sale.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Deas-Smith

Saturday, 6 September 2008

Great European Museums to Visit

There are several great museums to visit when travelling in Europe. Here are just a few great suggestions if you are planning to be in the following cities:

Art Museums
While there are well over 60 museums in Paris, they focus mostly around the arts. The most popular ones are:

Paris - The Louvre Museum: This is the largest museum in the world. Established in 1793, the Louvre displays several works of western art and is divided by, Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Oriental Antiques, Islamic art, Paintings, Sculptures, Prints and Drawings. It also includes a whole section that is devoted to just the history of the Louvre. (See below to combine your visits with The Order of Liberation museum also located in Paris).

Paris - The Rodin Museum: To view the bronze and marble works of Auguste Rodin (1840-1917). Visitors can enjoy long walks through several large sculptures and gardens.

War Museums
Europe also has many museums that focus around War and Remembrance. Here are a few suggestions for some of the more popular ones:

Amsterdam - The Anne Frank House: Visit the site of the home where Anne Franks life led to her hiding out from the Nazis in a dim annex of her father's jam factory. While is Amsterdam, interested visitors can also look up the National War and Resistance Museum.

Berlin - The Holocaust Museum: Visit a villa in Wannsee, Berlin where the Wannsee Conference was held to discuss a "Final Solution" to the Nazi plan to exterminate the Jews.

Copenhagen - The Danish Resistance Museum: Visit this museum to see various apparatus that the determined resistance fighters used. It also features the long roll of toilet paper with notes about what it was like to live in a concentration camp. Without pens, the letters were formed by pricking holes with a pin. This was then discovered hidden in a vent.

Paris - The Order of Liberation: This is France's second National Order, following the Legion of Honor. Established by General De Gaulle, the Resistance Museum is entered through the Musee de l'Armee.

London - The Imperial War Museum: This museum is a great exhibit of England's military vehicles, weapons, and war memorabilia. It also includes an extensive library that is open Mondays through Saturdays and contains a massive photographic archive, a 20th century art collection and more. It used to occupy the former Bethlehem Hospital for the Insane ("Bedlam") and was originally founded in 1917.

London (Liverpool) - The Beatles Museum: A national museum dedicated to the Beatles. It included an exhibition of some of the Beatles related musical and personal items. Visitors may are welcome to shop at the museums gift shop where many treasures can be found.

Rome - Vatican City Museum: Visit the Vatican museum and see Michelangelo's masterpiece inside the Sistine Chapel. Visitors can also experience St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square. Enjoy watching guards and citizens wearing Renaissance-style uniforms in the bright colors of the Medici Popes. The tour includes boutique shopping and visits to the Castel S. Angelo, The Tapestry Gallery, The Raphael Rooms and the Vatican Library.

Robert has worked in the travel industry for the past 5 years and has been involved in flight holidays, escorted tours, group travel and cruising. Website involvement includes:
MyGroupTour
In Holidays Europe

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

Thursday, 4 September 2008

Bormio Ski Resort - Europe's Snowy Garden

Bormio is indeed a microcosm of Europe. This new ski resort is Europe's snowy garden. Nestled in the midst of the Stelvio National Park, which is adjacent to the Swiss National Park, the new ski resort in Bormio provides the most breathtaking picturesque natural setting. There is a possibility that tourists will forget their skis and cling to their cameras because of the numerous photo opportunities.

However, the beautiful setting is not the only reason why the new ski resort in Bormio is considered a micro-universe of Europe. The place is steeped in culture and traditions. At the old town, the zigzagging streets are lined with genuine trattorias, the Italian taverns that serve food that equal the quality of gourmet restaurants but the atmosphere is more casual and less snooty. Trattorias are usually run by families and printed menus are rarely found. But the best local wines are always available.

The new ski resort in Bormio also reflects Europe's leadership in the hotel industry. The hotels in the area offer luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. These perks are rarely expected from an almost hidden quaint Italian village. The best part for people who are planning to take a vacation in this new ski resort is that the hotel rates are affordable.

Similar to Europe's collage of the old and new, the new ski resort in Bormio has its "old town" adjacent to the "new town." The new town offers state-of-the-art skiing facilities as well as numerous and conveniently located lifts. For beginners, the new town has several ski schools. The Italian instructors are patient and knowledgeable. And there are numerous ski runs that are especially constructed for beginners.

Europe has always been considered to be steeped in history. The same is true for Bormio. The new ski resort provides its visitor access to three thermal centers that were discovered during the Roman times. These thermal centers have a total of 10 hot springs. All around Bormio, there are wine vineyards that carried on the historic European pride of wine making. There are medieval houses, churches, and towers. In fact, many locals in Bormio claimed that the area was first inhabited during the Bronze Age.

All these are just side attractions in the new ski resort in Bormio. The main attraction, of course, is the network of ski runs. There are ski runs for all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts. There is plenty of snow due to its geographical location. And this leads to a year-round skiing holiday. People can visit the new ski resort of Bormio at any time of the year to ski, to ride on mountain bikes, to snowboard, and to spend a fun holiday.

Will this new ski resort offer excitement to expert skiers? It is best to visit Bormio during the World Cup Downhill Ski Race.

O.B.S. company is currently working on Italian project, Bormio ski resort It represents Bormio cheap hotels and possible Bormio vacations activities.

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

Tuesday, 2 September 2008

Timeshare Deals Online - Finding Your Timeshare Bargain Just Got Easier

Are you considering the purchase of a timeshare? Do you know that there are many ways to buy timeshares and you can get timeshare deals online without having to go through a broker or a real estate agent? There are many timeshare companies that are using online auctions to offer timeshare bargains and there are also many private individuals that are using this medium to sell their timeshares as well.

You do need to proceed with caution though. There are many stories out there of how someone was duped into purchasing a timeshare online and ended up getting scammed by someone that did not really have a timeshare to sell or the quality was way below the standard that is expected by the average individual. Here are a few tips to help you with your timeshare deals online.

First, you need to make sure you do your research. Don't just start bidding in an auction. Make sure you find out what similar timeshares are selling for in the destination that you are looking at because if you do not you could get caught up in an auction and end up paying more than the timeshare is actually worth.

Second, most action sites use a feedback system that is very similar to the one that eBay uses. This means that the higher the score the better, but you also have to look at the percentage. You should never purchase something as expensive as a timeshare from someone that has less than almost perfect feedback and you should always look for someone that has a very high feedback score so that you do not get scammed into buying something from someone that cannot be trusted to list it correctly.

Third, if you have any doubts at all, then ask questions. You can tell by the response or the lack of response if you are dealing with someone that is trying to scam you or if you are dealing with someone that is actually trying to sell a timeshare of their own.

Last, be patient and willing to lose a few auctions before you find your timeshare deals online. If you get caught up in the have to buy now type of mind frame you will probably end up paying more than you need to for your timeshare and that is just not a good thing when you are after timeshare bargains.


Monday, 1 September 2008

Romance and Your Tortola Yachting Adventure

The boat deck, a wide blue ocean, sunset, a bottle of fine wine, and the person you love - it doesn't get more romantic than that. Tortola and the British Virgin Islands are an ideal place to seek out romance, and the privacy and beauty you'll find in a bareboat yachting trip make your vacation the most romantic you'll ever have in your life.

There are many, many places of romantic beauty on and around Tortola. These are some of the best.

Smuggler's Cove is quite possibly the most private beach on Tortola, outside of the several uninhabited sandy islands with no amenities at all. You'll find one beach bar here, no restaurant, and very few people. Though you may be tempted to strip naked and dive into the water, just don't do it! The people of the Virgin Islands frown on public nudity. Save that for another time. To get here, anchor your yacht nearby and swim or dinghy over; though the yachting companies may tell you not to stop here, many locals do anyway, and it's not a big deal as long as you don't dump waste anywhere nearby.

The Peter Island Resort is a perfect place to base your yachting from. Located on a privately-owned island that is undeveloped outside the resort, Peter Island offers moorings for your yacht, perfect honeymoon accommodations with every resort perk, and nothing to do at night but enjoy one another, the beach, the ripe scent of jasmine, and the brilliant stars overhead. Need a perfect beach on Peter Island? Deadman's Bay, though it has a decidedly unromantic name, is rated one of the top ten romantic beaches of the Caribbean; take a stroll here under the palms and seagrape trees and watch the light of the sunset fade, leaving just the two of you alone here.

Another romantic choice: explore the pirates. The British Virgin Islands, and especially Tortola, were a pirate haven. You can go together to set foot on Dead Chest Island, the original source for the pirate phrase "fifteen men on a dead man's chest." Or sail over to Norman Island, locally known as Treasure Island, where you can explore the places associated with Robert Louis Stevenson's book and have lunch at Pirate Bight Beach Bar and Restaurant. Hike up Spy Glass Hill, and at the top you'll be rewarded with an uninterrupted view of Sir Francis Drake Channel on all sides; this historic spot was used by pirates and privateers to watch for passing treasure ships, and you'll quickly see why. An added bonus: nearby Pelican Island is right next to The Indians and Rainbow Canyon, one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world.

Or you can sail from the west end of Tortola along its south coast, passing island after island on the way to Virgin Gorda. The British Virgin Islands were named after St. Ursula and her 11,000 virgins because there are so many little islands that dot the area; most are uninhabited. This means that you can stop at any of them for a romantic moonlight dinner, and private dancing on the beach afterward. All your most romantic fantasies can be lived out here on sun-warmed beaches next to deep blue waters.

Barry Monteiro is a world traveler specializing in great tropical destination getaways. He enjoys writing about his favorite subjects Tortola Beaches and Tortola Yacht Charters.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barry_E._Monteiro