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Monday, February 28, 2011

The Ins and Outs of Traveling

Traveling is a beloved performance and hobby that many habitancy enjoy throughout the year, as they are able to recognize far-off lands or simply study the nooks and crannies of their own local backyard. To make the most out of any adventure on the road, sky, or water - it is foremost to conduct appropriate research, properly prepare, and most of all - stay safe.

Travel Preparation

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It doesn't matter if you plan on leaving in the morning and returning at night or will soon recognize other parts of the world on a weeklong tour - establishment is key. A great whole of habitancy believe that establishment for trip is something that begins when you pack your suitcase, but true society begins within the home. Before setting off, it is foremost to make sure your home appears lived-in. For example, you can leave a light on or set your radio on timers to lessen your risk of a burglary when you are away.

Make sure to cease any disposition deliveries, as piled newspaper and mail are dead giveaways for an empty home. If you have any pets or plants - arrange for them to receive care. It is also a good idea to leave your keys and itinerary with a trusted friend or neighbor. Before leaving the home, double-check all windows, doors and the carport for secured locks.

Before leaving on a trip - travelers should sort out all appropriate paperwork and resources. This means organizing your guide books and maps, passport and visa(s), insurance, personal identification, and birth certificate. Currency and backup methods of cost are also become foremost on any trip. You will also need to store prestige cards, travelers' checks, Atm cards, and foreign currency (if necessary) in a safe, easy-to-find location.

When packing for a trip, begin by setting out the allowable luggage in front of you. Lay out weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear first. Next, pack clothing for warm weather, rain protection (if needed) and attire for nights out on the town. Other basic essentials consist of a trip alarm clock, small binoculars, address book, camera, and film (best stored in a carry-on bag). You may also want to add a few maintenance items at this point, together with batteries for your camera, mini sewing kit, trip iron (or steamer), as well as laundry soap packets and laundry bag (if necessary).

Those who pack curative supplies are able to stay one step ahead of unforeseen circumstances when bistro food doesn't sit well or you're planning a trek in the mountains. A few suggestions consist of a first aid kit, aspirin, diarrhea tablets, laxative, insect repellent, alcohol wipes, sunscreen, petition sickness remedy, and antibiotic ointment.

If you do not have a detach toiletry bag - you can store the following essentials in a sturdy Zip-loc bag: comb, brush, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, deodorant, lotion, creams, and shaving cream. Many individuals will sometimes pack their own towel, washcloth, and all other toiletries even though hotels contribute these items.

Popular trip Destinations

When settling on a trip destination - the objective of your trip will play a needful role in choosing favorable locations to recognize and the places you pick to visit will depend on your intentions. Are you planning a honeymoon? Is this a house outing? Do you want to enjoy a definite activity?

Are you interested in discovering a singular cultural icon (such as the Eiffel Tower, Broadway and Times Square, Grand Canyon, Egyptian Pyramids, Disneyland, or Hollywood)?

Popular destinations to keep in mind when experiencing what the world has to offer includes the beaches of Miami, the romantic attract of Hawaii, celebrity sightings of Los Angeles, wineries in Italy, the appealing lights of New York City, and abundance of shopping opportunities in Chicago.

How to Stay Safe When Traveling

Staying safe while visiting other locales is one of the most foremost factors to think when touring a new city or country. The best arrival is to mask your identity as a tourist to lessen your chances of encountering any trouble. As a traveler, you should leave your valuables at home or locked away in a hotel safe. Wearing clothing that stands out could deliver unwanted attention as a tourist. In some locations, pickpockets and thieves are notorious for pinpointing out-of-towners. Stay alert when traveling by subway and visiting commonly frequented tourist sights.

Wherever you go, don't forget to respect the locals and their culture. Before visiting other city or country, get a heads up on the local customs or laws. For instance, there are some countries that take offense to gestures notion cordial in North America, such as a 'thumbs up.' When it comes to money, it is recommended to carry small amounts of cash, use Atm machines in public places, and rely on travelers' checks. Additionally, every location has areas that are not safe for visitors. As soon as you arrive at your intended destination, ask the hotel staff the 'lowdown' on the various sections of town.

The Ins and Outs of Traveling

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Saturday, February 26, 2011

The People's King - A Young Monarch With a Heart of Gold

Indeed, the year 2008 had been the landmark in the annals of Bhutan history as habitancy from all walks of life offered their heartiest felicitations and gratitude to all the kings who shaped the destiny of the Drukyul.

On November 6, 2008, Bhutan ultimately crowned her young King Jigme khesar Namgyal  wangchuk as the fifth hereditary monarch of  Bhutan. The coronation was a major event in the life of the kingdom as high dignitaries from India and across the world attended the function. Already known as the people's king, his majesty the fifth Druk Gyalpo has pledged to serve Bhutan and its habitancy with fidelity and to the best of his ability.

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Today, a new dawn of democracy has risen in the Land of the Thunder Dragon and retention the torch of democracy is none other than this dynamic Druk Gyalpo- King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk, the eldest son of His Majesty the forth King. This new King is believed to be the realization of a religious prophesy made more than a decade ago- a sacred reincarnation destined to safeguard Bhutan and her pride. A peak in to his early life reveals that he had an impressive academic track record. With a short stint in early instruction in Bhutan, the fifth king began his tryst with higher studies and Graduated from Cushing Academy and Wheaton College in the United States. He took up Foreign service schedule at Magdalene College at Oxford University and earned an M. Phil degree in politics. To hone his defense and administrative skills, the new king joined the National Defense College, New Delhi and Uk based Kennedy school of Governance.

Bred in an ambiance of primary Bhutanese environment, the new king as the crown prince attended the Royal Court of his Majesty the forth king. With an immense exposure to the legal Traditions Of And Culture Of The Land and the realities of the Country tucked under his belt, he confidently took over as the fifth hereditary monarch of the young Himalayan Kingdom. His Coronation truly promised the attainment of new heights of peace and develop for Bhutan and its people. The new king has also received an honorary degree of Doctorate in law from the University of New Brunswick, Fredericton in Canada. In increasing Bangkok's Rang sit University has awarded him an honorary Doctorate in Philosophy, politics and economics.

He also received hands on feel in state supervision and often toured along with his noted father, the forth Druk Gyalpo to have firsthand knowledge of the Country and its people. At the very young age of 17, he became the Crown prince of Bhutan. He also had the privilege of representing Bhutan at the 27th Un general assembly held on May 8, 2002, in which he addressed the leaders of 190 member countries while the Un extra session for children. The young king was installed as Trongsa Penlop on October 21, 2004. Being a great sportsman, His Majesty often enjoyed participating in Archery and basketball tournaments with the general social and students at large. He had an occasion to serve the chief patron of the Scouts connection of Bhutan and advanced sound relations with the youths of the Country which helped him to understand their problems. He is concerned about the conditions of the victims of society along with School drop-outs and drug abused.

After taking over the responsibility of the state, the fifth king addressed the nation for the first time on December 17, 2003, when the forth Druk Gallop led the forces operation to flush out Indian insurgents taking refuge in the Bhutanese territory along the Indo-Bhutan border. In his address to the nation, he said, "we must pledge to fulfill the responsibility that we have inherited and place the nation above all else on the fast track of development". In his various address to the youth of the country, he has been emphasizing that the many compel of the country is its political stability and once a robust cheaper is developed, the country will have a strong foundation for a vibrant democracy.

On July 18, His Majesty the fifth king signed the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan in the nearnessy of parliamentarians of Bhutan and international community. The ceremony was symbolic as it transformed monarchy into Constitutional Democratic Monarchy.

Following the signing of the Constitution, the king embarked upon a mission to keep peace and tranquility in the country, safe its security, perceive the vision of Gross National Happiness and promote a vibrant democracy. Thus, the era of a new enlightened Democracy will be a blend of achievements of the fourth and fifth kings. It is the declaration of a new vision.   

The People's King - A Young Monarch With a Heart of Gold

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Friday, February 25, 2011

From the Propylaea to the Parthenon

As one passes straight through the east portico of the Propylaea and pauses for a occasion before the inner area of the Acropolis, one is overwhelmed by the paramount vision that meets one's eyes. The Parthenon with its imposing mass dominates this large esplanade. To the left is the Erechtheion, the very essence of grace and elegance, clothed in Pentelic marble.

How separate is the spectacle now from that in antiquity when, following the Sacred Way from the Propylaea to the Parthenon, one stood before a veritable forest of statues and other dedicatory monuments! Today only a few broken remnants remain as testimony to Athenian greatness.

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To the east of the semi-circular marble base of the sculpture to Athena Hygieia, already described as being situated at the south-east angle of the Propylaea, lies the quadrilateral sub-foundation of an altar. Farther on, a drain cut out of the rock, from south-east to north, carried rainwater to a cistern behind the Propylaea. Beyond this drain are a large whole of quadrilateral and oblong bases for the stelai on which official decisions were recorded, as in a news-sheet. By these means laws, decrees, treaties, etc. As well as sentences of punishment against defaulters, were made known to the public.

On the right a stairway carved in the rock led to the precinct of Artemis Brauronia (the Beargoddess), whose cult was followed primarily by women and girls. Here was a stoa and a temple to Artemis with her two statues; one, an old seated image of stone, the other, agreeing to Pausanias, an erect figure by Praxiteles.

Close to the entry of the Brauronion, perhaps in the sacred precinct itself, stood a bronze sculpture of the Wooden Horse of Troy. Two blocks of Pentelic marble, part of the six blocks which formed the front of the base, are still standing. Other statues, which Pausanias mentions as being in this place, represented Athena and Marsyas and Theseus and the Minotaur.

On a rock terrace approximately facing the Parthenon was the precinct of Athena Ergane (Patroness of Arts and Inventions). Here a stairway covered with votive stelai whose bases may still be seen led to the terrace of the Parthenon. In the middle of the precinct of Athena Ergane and Cimon's Wall on the south stood the Chalkotheke, a storehouse for bronze articles, arms and the armored rams of war-ships.

On the left of the Sacred Way In the middle of the Propylaea and the Erechtheion there is a large rectangular platform, leveled in the rock, which probably bore the astronomical bronze sculpture of Athena Promachos (Protectress of the City), fashioned by Pheidias in 449 Bc from the proceeds of the spoils taken at Marathon. The goddess was shown in full armor, with her lance held upright. The proportions of this sculpture were so heavy that the gleaming point of the lance and the crest of the helmet were descriptive to mariners approaching Peiraeus from Cape Sounion. The Acropolis was robbed of this unique sculpture when Justinian conveyable it with other masterpieces to Constantinople, where it was destroyed in a fire.

From the Propylaea to the Parthenon

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Thursday, February 24, 2011

Waikoloa Beach Resort Offers It All

When it's time to cash in your chips and go on that vacation you've de facto been having dreams about, it's foremost to go somewhere that will take care of you. Taking time away from your regular agenda doesn't all the time come easy, so you want all this traveling and money-spending to be worth your while. Relax. Selecting a place that is established as a prime vacation destination, that has been pleasing travelers for years and shows no signs of losing steam anytime soon isn't hard. Take Waikoloa Beach Resort in Hawaii, for example. This hotspot is sure to please, so set your sights here and then leave all your uncertainties behind.

Waikoloa Beach Resort is located on Hawaii's Big Island, and as opposed to many other de facto pleasant towns and regions, this place comes right out and declares its readiness to be the best traveler magnet ever. Hawaii's natural beauty and total opportunities for ocean activities both low-key and pumped up mean it has something for everyone, not to mention the shops, restaurants and accommodations fit for royalty.

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Golf courses, spas, and even cultural sites will all be within reach here. The Kohala Coast is known as the golf capital of the Aloha State and offers remarkable views of land and sea along with professionally designed championship courses that might do a whole on your powers of concentration. In the middle of Beach and Kings, golfers of all skill level will feel like they're in heaven. After rejuvenating your spirit on the greens, kick off those shoes and slip into a plush robe for a pedicure, massage, or skin treatment. Run of the mill facials are old news these days; check the menu for cutting edge beauty treatments that use the most exotic ingredients - where else are you going to have this opportunity?

As far as the beach, the choices are limitless and consistently framed with a most pleasing backdrop. Snorkeling in the crystal waters and viewing colorful, absorbing fish up close will make for an indelible memory, and plopping down on a beach towel in the warm white sand won't exactly be forgettable either. From absorbing to laid-back, each second has the potential to dazzle your senses.

Kings' Shops are a top stop for visitors to Waikoloa Beach Resort; not only is this a vast variety of retailers offering both designer and regionally crafted goods, but it's a venue for many special events that highlight the cultural richness of the Hawaiian culture. From the annual Ukulele Festival to the Rubber Duckie Race, there is an array of fun and absorbing happenings that visitors should make an exertion to partake in if their visit allows it.

Of course, the whole island is packed with improbable sites, fun activities and natural wonders unlike the ones usually visible from your own window or during your regular trips away from homes. Volcanoes, rain forests, lush vegetation and pineapple fields aren't common, and neither are chances to swim with dolphins, view breaching whales and soak in a sunset that puts all others to shame.

Another great thing about this area is its accessibility in terms of accommodations. Waikoloa Beach Resort Vacation Rentals allow every drop of satisfaction to be squeezed from this already promising trip because they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, styles and price ranges. Condos and villas are the most coarse lodgings to be had, so don't expect to find tons of isolated beach houses that will make you feel like a castaway (head to one of Hawaii's other islands for that experience). This means you'll feel super associated to all the hotel-like amenities you've come to expect, pool, beach bar, equipment rental, etc...but your actual room will be more than just a box with little space and a less than stellar view. Condos are comfy and as spacious as you need them to be; often arrival with designer kitchen appliances, air conditioning, wireless internet and tasteful decorations. If you've never experienced the bonuses of a vacation rental, now is the exquisite time.

Waikoloa Beach Resort rarely sends citizen home feeling disappointed, so make your way to the west coast of Hawaii's Big Island if you're ready to go somewhere certain to be worth your while.

Waikoloa Beach Resort Offers It All

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Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Beechworth chamber

If you are planning a trip to Victoria, Australia, you must stay in Beechworth. It is a exquisite area of country which gives you several options for accommodations. To find your exquisite Beechworth Accommodation, you must first know what to look for. There are several options that can make or break your romantic get-away or your trip with your kids or your trip to relax by yourself.

Bed and Breakfasts are the place of top recommendation. They will give you a unique trip full of authentic country living in Australia. They are beautifully decorated and often only comprise a handful of rooms--one, the Alba Country Rose, has only two rooms!--so these are extremely coveted. They are not very expensive, in the range of 0-0 per night.

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The thing that is so great about them is that you of course institute your own type of vacation. Because an individual owns the house in which you will be staying, you can therefore pick your Bed and breakfast based on his or her personal likes. Some owners like kids and pets and cooking for a lot of people. Others don't allow any of that. This means you'll be able to find a place for you and stay with other guests like you.

If you want it more rustic without air conditioning or a pool or a television, you can even find these. Because there are so many and they all offer separate things, you can of course tailor your chamber to yourself. That is the great thing about Bed and Breakfasts.

Cottages for rent are someone else choice for quaintness. They are normally attached to a larger property, which can give you a sense of grandeur and glamour, like Lakeside Studio is a cottage near the Lakeside Chalet. Either can be rented, or both together. Cottages like this are often called "Self Contained" accommodations and are exquisite for habitancy seeing to get away from it all and not deal with an owner, like with Bed and Breakfasts.

If you want to get away but you are traveling in a large group, your prospects are slim. This is why you can often rent rooms--or the whole building!--in the larger estate house, like Lakeside Chalet. If you have ever wondered what it would be like to stay in a hotel with only your friends, or own a large Manor with your friends, this is your chance to find out. They are very elegant buildings.

As with any town, there are hotels and motels. You can get appropriate chain hotels, but who wants to do that? If you go to La Trobe, however, you get the country aspect, along with the benefits of a hotel. They have a spa and, since it is near many historic buildings, you get the organized activities they have like a ghost tour.

The final Beechworth chamber choice is to go camping. Lake Sambell Caravan Park is exquisite for this. You can get a cabin, with or without electricity, you can camp in a tent, or in a camper. You can be left to your own devices on the recreation trails or you can play volley ball and mini golf.

Beechworth chamber

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Monday, February 21, 2011

Things to Eat in New York City

However many thousands of restaurants, cafes and vendors there are to eat from in Nyc, if you don't look for options before you get hungry, you might get stuck with no direction, or on the pavement without a crucial reservation.

These are the extremely recommended places to eat from tourists and locals alike, so if you do miss out on that reservation, you can all the time move down our list and hit up one of the other cheaper 'non booking essential' places (and by that we mean hot dog joints).

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Let's start off with the high-priced stuff and move our way down...

It might be expensive, but Craft on 43 East 19th street is worth the money and the strengthen booking. The food is known for all the time being delicious, and countless rave reviews agree. Reviews also note the good aid and layout of the restaurant, which has a romantic and contemporary feel.

The Gramercy Tavern is similar in nature, if not a New York treasure. Pay a itsybitsy extra and see for yourself the cozy atmosphere, extravagantly designed meals and the dedicated and knowledgeable service. Don't be fooled, there isn't an ounce of snobbery in this restaurant and the staff are friendly and welcoming. You'll find it at 42 E. 20th St. Make sure you book ahead, this one fills up fast!

Moving onto Freemans restaurant found at the bottom of Freemans Alley (funnily enough), off Rivington street . The wait for a table is lengthy after 7pm, but grab a bottle of wine and wait it out. The food is great, the climate is chic, hip and excellent for a Friday or Saturday night. Make a booking, Freemans gets pretty busy most nights.

If you want to try something a itsybitsy dissimilar (very different), head to Lips at 2 Bank St. A great meal is served alongside a great show. To be specific, the meal is served to you by a fully decked out drag queen and the show is an energetic drag show. Sounds kitsch, but the show is amazing, even drawing out laughs from the most conservative of straight men. Have a go, you unmistakably won't regret it! Make a booking, just to be sure you don't have to wait.

Luke's Bar and Grill is a happy medium in the middle of the high-priced and the cheap. You'll get good food, in a nice restaurant for decent prices. The meatloaf here draws a big crowd, so if you're stuck for choice, stick with this known winner.

Now we get down to the stuff that's easier on your wallet (if not your stomach). Pommes Frites is a primary Belgium eatery, cooking up primary Belgium fries with primary sauces on the side. Their burgers are a great feed and you'll probably feel overwhelmed when production the choice for a sauce on the side. You can find these great, fresh fries rolled in newspaper at 123 2nd Ave.

Last of all (no, we are not going to endorse McDonald's) is Gray's Papaya, a New York legend. Gray's arguably have the city's best hot dogs ever. And that's a pretty big deal in New York. Gray's has three locations, 539 Eighth Avenue at 37th Street, 402 Sixth Avenue at 8th Street, and 2090 Broadway at 72nd Street.

At Gray's you can savor a truly astonishing hot dog 24- hours a day, for a ridiculously cheap price. The meal deal for two hot dogs and a drink will set you back only .50, and you won't regret this purchase, it almost rivals the filet mignon from those other posh restaurants above. If you're ever stuck for a quick bite, do yourself a favor and try one of Gray's Papaya's hot dogs.

Things to Eat in New York City

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Sunday, February 20, 2011

voyage Trends For 2010

Over the last ten years the voyage industry has had to tackle terrorism, Sars, tsunamis, bird flu, swine flu, and the first ever true global recession. Straight through it all the industry has proven to be robust, resilient and dynamic, looking new ways to deal with adversity. 2010 brings with it fresh challenges and opportunities to which the industry must again adapt and react. The cyclical nature of the industry stems from the fact that it is inextricably related to the condition of the global economy. As you would imagine therefore, the next twelve months promise necessary turn in the voyage industry. This article will focus on emerging trends and hotspots for 2010 and give an comprehension into what can be predicted by buyer and operator alike.

"If our hotel bookings are whatever to go by, people are still carefully to voyage but are choosing how and where they spend their money much more carefully," commented Juliet Kinsman, Editor-in-Chief of Mr and Mrs Smith. "Value will continue to be important, whether that means creative online searching for great deals, exploring new destinations that offer currency advantages, or joining voyage clubs for exclusive discounts." Indeed, reflecting on the current economic setting, many voyage professionals have commented on new bargains, noting that it's predicted that value for money will be the top priority, with view and branding taking a backseat in the advent years. Travellers are looking for an optimal price/quality equilibrium when choosing their luxury vacation.

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Furthermore, travellers are demanding far more from their holidays - gone are the days of a the uncomplicated sun/sand combo - nowadays the query is for exotic voyage combined with customized, greatest experiences. Travellers are seeking above-and-beyond adventures in intriguing new destinations. Luxury adventure voyage is on the rise and consumers can enjoy a growing selection of luxury safaris, heli-ski trips, niche boat cruises, personalized art tours, tailor-made culinary courses, and high-speed car tours in top vacation destinations like Cape Town, Provence, Tuscany and New York. Moreover, adventure travellers are seeking more than just adrenaline thrills but healthy cultural quests in which they learn about their destination and environment. Indeed, as claimed by the Vacation voyage Chanel '... The more enriching experiences are adored over a luxurious lifestyle.'

Additionally, although neither a newcomer nor a veteran, eco voyage is certainly carving its place into the voyage market. Hotels are becoming increasingly self-sufficient and travellers are considering a hotel's environmental credentials a lot more. 2010 will therefore see a prolonged rise of intimate, sustainable villa resorts developing in eco-friendly destinations. Two such examples are Fregate, a private island in the Seychelles, which is saving sea birds and makes its own spa products, and Vigilius Mountain resort South Tyrol, Italy, which harnesses its own natural energy. Green voyage promises intriguing adventures and conscientious voyage experiences.

Not technically a trend but it's worth noting that 2010 will be a sport-fuelled year and that this will have a huge impact on where people select to travel. First and foremost, the Vancouver Olympics in February is an event that will significantly affect the voyage industry. The 17 days of Olympics are predicted to attract a global television audience of 3 billion people; more than 80 countries and 6,850 athletes and officials are predicted to participate according to the 'Prco voyage industry Trends and Highlights for 2010' report. The occasion ceremonies will be held on February 12, and as a effect Vancouver is the city to visit in the Western hemisphere in 2010. South Africa is also going to be a voyage hotspot with the 2010 Fifa World Cup kicking off there in June. The event is predicted to lure half a million fans to the country. Tourism in India will also enjoy the benefits of sporting events with the Commonwealth Games taking place in October.

Other destinations to keep your eye on this year are China, India and the Gulf States, where industry insiders are expecting voyage to skyrocket over the next twelve months. Travellers are becoming more courageous with their travels and increasing their horizons. While the global economy is in the toilet, China and India continue to show signs of growth, offer favourable transfer rates and low voyage expenses and therefore increasingly warrant visiting. As their respective tourism industries start to strengthen these countries are going to become top destinations for 2010 and beyond. according to sceneadvisor.com, in the middle of China and India alone it is predicted that over 35,000 hotel rooms will have to be added to meet the impending demands.

On the other side of the planet, Latin America is set to see foremost increase as a luxury voyage destination this year. Hotels such as Francis Ford Coppola's Blancaneaux Lodge in Belize, the Haciendas luxury hotel in the Yucatan, and other outposts in San Jose, Uayamon, Santa Rosa and Temozon (Mexico) are but a few examples of the increase of luxury hotels in the region. In the spotlight especially are Panama, Peru and Ecuador, which are focusing massively on promoting their respective exotic and exclusive services. In addition, Mexico is spending .6 million on improving its luxury infrastructure and Argentina is to see five new 5-star hotels open in the next two years (Prco report).

Whilst Europe is by all means still a hub, especially with the new high-speed rail links into Spain and Italy, the focus for 2010 is certainly added afield where transfer rates are good and currency is cheaper, therefore gift the buyer much more for their money.

voyage Trends For 2010

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Saturday, February 19, 2011

Cyprus And The Egypt connection

The Egyptians must have undoubtedly liked the beautiful Island of Cyprus because they just kept on arrival back. Possibly it had something to do with the fact that in those days (1500 Bc) they didn't have those luxury holiday resorts like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. Anything the fancy whether it was the sandy beaches or the great atmosphere they just kept on arrival back to her shores. They first took a trip there under the education of Thothes the third round about 500 Bc but they only hung nearby Cyprus until the Mycenaen Greeks turned up. They (the Greeks) have been the main cultural influence on Cyprus since that time and Greek is the native language too.

Anyway, the Egyptians decided to pop back over to Cyprus again for other visit in the 16th century Bc. It was all the idea of the top dude of the time who was some guy called Amasis. They however legged it rather abruptly when the Persians arrived to embrace Cyprus into their ever increasing empire. This was not all bad news for the Greeks though because at least it introduced them to the decadent luxuries of those astounding Persian rugs. Unfortunately for the Persians however there was issue brewing on the far horizon in the form of a dude called Alex. Alexander The Great as he preffered to be known had been pretty busy conquering most of the known world and had a single bone to pick with the Persians.

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Then guess what? Yep that's right the Egyptians decided to pop back over to Cyprus for other visit some time after 323 Bc. The Island was then ruled by Eygptian rulers including Queen Cleopatra who maintained control right up until 58 Bc when the Romans turned up. We all know at least a dinky of what went off after that lively Anthony, Caesar and Queen Cleopatra as she attempted to hold onto her empire. Well, like my old granddad used to say "all good things come to an end" and they did for the Romans too. Their Global empire eventually came tumbling down nearby their heads and they passed along with the Egyptians into Cyprus history. Then the Byzantine empire moved in followed by the Venetians who made great blinds but weren`t to nice to ruled by. So Cyprus let the Ottoman empire in who didn't give them any blanket boxes (ottormans) but they have hung nearby ever since but that's other Cyprus history lesson.

The great news is that now Cyprus is invading Egypt and you can take part if you want. Every week a cruise liner leaves Limassol and sails to port Said packed full of invading tourist. They have a great time on board dinning at the captains table, gambling in the casino and generally enjoying the delights of Ocean cruising. When the ship berths in Eygypt the invading Cyprus traveler board a fleet of luxury air conditioned coaches and head out across the trans desert highway towards Cairo. If they stay alert they will even catch a view of the legendary Suez canal too. Once they arrive near Cairo it's off to see the pyramids and maybe even take a camel ride into the desert. Then it's a short hop down the road to take a look at the Sphinx (not the trendy bar in Protaras) that giant stone cat in the middle of the desert.

The feature of the day for most population is a visit to the Cairo museum to see the famed burial mask of the boy king Tutankhamen. Ultimately there should be time for a bit of sell therapy in the bazaars before setting off again for Port Said. Back on the ship in time for dinner, more decadent gambling at the roulette table and a steady cruise back to Cyprus. Then after breakfast it's all ashore for onwards trip back to hotels and apartments in time for some more sun bathing or whatever. It doesn't look like the Egyptians are too bothered about arrival back to the Island anytime soon but you never know. If cruising isn't your cup of tea but you are concerned in Egypt's impact on the Island you could all the time pay a visit to the Nicosia museum. There you can see what is arguably the best range of Egyptian artifacts in Cyprus.

Cyprus And The Egypt connection

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Friday, February 18, 2011

Kolkata - India

Kolkata, earlier called Calcutta is the cultural capital of India. The population of Bengal, called the Bengalis are artistically inclined and even in this modern age and era they have retained their original values and aesthetic senses.

According to history, there was a knot of three small villages near the river Hoogly. Gradually, this settlement advanced into modern day, metropolitan city called Kolkata. Earlier, it was called Kalikatta, the land of goddess Kali. The Calcuttans are a warm and loving population and they may not be as wealthy as their counterparts in Mumbai or Delhi but in spite of it, Kolkata has been called a city of joy. Calcutta was India's capital while the British rule and was later shifted to Delhi.

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The Howrah Bridge is the most famed landmark of Kolkata. Built on the river Hoogly, by the British, it connects the center to the city. It is a hanging bridge and engineering marvel. More than 2 million population cross this bridge daily to enter the city.

Victoria memorial is another beautiful monument. Its pristine green lawns and architecture is a unique blend of Mughal motif and always in vogue European architecture. It was built in memory of Queen Victoria and has rare and beautiful bits of history on display.

Next to this historical memorial is the Birla planetarium built by the famed Birla family. The planetarium is immensely enjoyed by those who are curious in the planetary positions and other aspects of the universe. The shows are short and continuously updated. The race procedure in the heart of the city is beautiful to look at and one gets astonished by the fact that in the middle of a metropolitan city there can be such a great span of greenery.

Nearby you can visit the St Paul's Cathedral. It is the first Episcopal Cathedral that was constructed in the eastern part of the world. Somewhat in the same locality is the heart throb of millions, the beautiful Eden Gardens whose size and beauty flashes in your mind the cheering applauding cricket crazy Kolkata crowd. The beautiful garden attached to the stadium has exotic flora, just like the 273 acres in size, botanical gardens which has a banyan tree more than 300 years old!

Next to the Eden gardens is the menagerial seat of the state, the writers building. A 10 minutes drive from there can take you to Nirmal Hriday, the heart and home of the great saint, mum Teresa.

The Alipur zoo in Kolkata is the largest zoo in India and you need to keep aside an entire day for a visit to this place. You get to see the Royal Bengal Tiger and many other rare species too.

Kolkata has some beautiful modern as well as old hotels to suit your lifestyle. Among the five stars are the Hyatt Regency, Itc Sonar Bengal, The Taj Bengal, the Oberoi Grand, Peerless Inn, The Hindustan International, The Park and The great Eastern Hotel. There are allocation hotels too for the shoe string allocation traveler.

Kolkata - India

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

Chicago - The Windy City

Chicago was founded in the early 1800s and served as a connection between the advanced East Coast and the enlarged Wild West. On the shores of Lake Michigan, the amelioration of suburbia and skyscrapers was low but persistent. Though the devastating fire of 1871 grounded Chicago, it came back again and this time increase took pace every decade. By 1900, it crossed the mark of two million people.

Chicago is now the third largest city in the United States next to New York City and Los Angeles, California. Not only being the third largest city in the U.S, Chicago also ranks among the world's foremost market and transportation centers

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From what I have read, Chicago is nicknamed the windy city for dissimilar reasons. The first intuit is that the Mayor of Chicago boasted so much about Chicago hosting the worlds fair, which implied the Mayor was windy. other intuit was that the politicians in the Chicago are full of hot air therefore implying the windy city. The last intuit is that the editor of a newspaper was trying to promote Chicago as a summer resort and used Lake Michigan's summer breeze as a selling point. I do not know which of the reasons above gave Chicago its nickname the windy city but they all seem to make sense to me.

Chicago is also celebrated for its exquisite art institutions and museums, great food and great jazz music. If you have an appetite for sports, Chicago has the legendary Bulls, Bears, and Cubs, which are well known all over the world.

Chicago is a astounding place to visit. The fever of Chicago will impress you.

Chicago - The Windy City

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Wednesday, February 16, 2011

The Orlando Potter construction Ny

The Orlando Potter construction is for me one of the best terra cotta realizations of New York City (and United States). This is a unique piece of art. Lay back, enjoy and take your time to observe all the details and complexity of its structure and keep in mind that it's 120 years old.

This is someone else great construction and location to sit and admire the beauties of New York City's Architecture. Once you sit down on a bench in the City Hall park you are surrounded by structure that made New York City history and don't forget your binoculars because there is a lot to see .The Orlando Potter construction is a real charm and has a lot of class, elegance and appeal, it's also surrounded by prestigious structure like the row park construction (1 block north) that was until 1903 the tallest construction in the world.

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There was a beautiful and huge four story Post Office, beaux-arts style (picture 1910) on the angle of Broadway and Park Row street that was demolished in 1938 because of a land-rights dispute between the city and federal authorities. The Post Office space was added to the city hall park for the 1939 World's Fair.

On the south of the Orlando Potter construction is the city hall; Architecture charm of it's own, The oldest City Hall in the nation that still houses its former governmental functions, New York's City Hall is one of the finest architectural achievements of its period (1803-1812). City Hall is a designated New York City landmark and its rotunda is a designated interior landmark as well. And of procedure right in front of the Orlando Potter construction is the Woolworth construction by Cass Gilbert, a world-class construction and part of New York City's glory and history. There is all around the City Hall Park great structure that are to be discovered. Keep in mind that like in all New York City, what you see today is not the same landscape that was there when the construction and surrounding structure were built, many changes were made and are still made today. For example the First known edifice on this site was a brick Presbyterian Church by the American Architect John McComb (1763 - 1853) also will known for the New York City Hall. When the Presbyterian Church decided to build a new edifice downtown in 1856, the lot was divided in two and a trio of friends that included Orlando B. Potter bought the south lot for over 0,000 (that would be about .500,000 in today's Dollars) As you can see New York City was already at the turn of the 20th century a healthy and important Real Estate city. The trio erected a five-story stone structure construction known as The Park Building.

The newspaper "The New York World founded in 1860-toke office in the Park construction and then was called the World Building. January 31, 1882 a terrible fire destroyed the construction fully and 12 habitancy lost their lives. Orlando B. Potter was very criticized for the materials used because of the intensity and quickness of the fire. Orlando Potter felt guilt for the habitancy that lost there lives in the tragedy and at the same time was a good businessmen and understood what needed to be done to turn the page on such an event he also lost over 0.000 above guarnatee and half of his income was lost. He focused on finding the permissible materials (fireproof) so such a dramatic event would not happen again. It also created a collective turn over about the way structure were built and with what type of materials. Remember that at the gilded age (end of the 19th century) an 11-story construction was carefully as a big construction and was as a matter of fact the starting of the skyscraper area based on engineering developments of the 1880 that had enabled construction of tall multi-story buildings. This definition was based on the steel skeleton--as opposed to constructions of load-bearing masonary. It's sad to say but history already proven use that out of tragedies come remedies and it's out of that tragedy that Orlando Potter found the materials to built a construction that would be for that period a major step forward fireproof construction; brick, terra cotta and steel. He also proved that you don't need marble or fine stones to make a masterpiece. The Potter construction is a masterpiece surrounded by the monsters in the neighborhood that attract habitancy like magnets and leave the Orlando Potter construction unknown but it has no infer to envy them because of its excellent Architectural concept, form and creation. Its rigorous details were finely crafted to originate a masterpiece,

The Orlando Potter construction construction began in April 1883 and was completed in 1886. Architectural Historians give the name "Potter" to this construction because Potter, Orlando Brunson, a Representative from New York; born in Charlemont, Franklin County, Mass., March 10, 1823; attended the district school, Williams College, Williamstown, Mass., and the Dane Law School, Cambridge, Mass.; studied law; was admitted to the bar in 1848 and commenced convention in Boston, Mass.; in 1853 he moved to New York in 1853 and worked in the development of a sewing engine company (Grover & Baker Sewing engine Co.) were he was President until 1876; he was a foremost figure in the New York Democratic party but unsuccessful for choice in 1878 to the Forty-sixth Congress; elected as a Democrat to the Forty-eighth
Congress (March 4, 1883-March 3, 1885); declined to be a candidate for renomination in 1884; member of the Rapid Transit Commission of New York City 1890-1894; died in New York City, January 2, 1894; interment in Greenwood Cemetery. (Source: Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1771-Present.)

Orlando Potter didn't only find the material he wanted to use but also the right Architect for the job Norris G. Starkweather. Norris Garshom Starkweather, who signed his name N. G. Starkweather, was born Garshon Norris Starkweather in Windham County, Vt in 1818. In 1830 we was an apprenticed to a constructor and became a undertaker of a package deal on his own in 1845. Norris started his career as an Architect in Philadelphia in 1852 with Joseph C. Hoxie and became a full partner in 1854 but the partnership did not last and was dissolved the same year. Norris G. Starkweather started his own convention and was very active with church design. In 1855 he designed the First Presbyterian Church in Norristown, Pa, The first Baptist Church in Camden, Nj (Camden is a town in New Jersey just on the other side of Philadelphia) and the first Presbyterian Church in Baltimore. Norris left Philadelphia of Baltimore in 1856 because of the Baltimore Presbyterian Church to supervise the construction that lasted 5 years. In Baltimore Norris was noticed and secured other commissions with villas and the remodeling of the Barnum's City Hotel in Baltimore. In 1860 he appears in Washington D.C with an office. While the civil war period Norris is enrolled in the Sixth Regiment of Maryland Infantry, company F. He is mustered August 27, 1862 and mustered out May 24, 1864. In 1868 he his back in Washington in partnership with a Philadelphia constructor named Thomas M. Plowman. The partnership lasted until 1871 and from that date until 1881 Starkweather is listed by himself. between that period some projects were terminated like the Cooke's Row, the remodeling of St. John's Church in Georgetown, the Academy construction for the Convent of the Visitation.

In 1881 Norris G. Starkweather leaves Washington D.C for New York, opens an office with a young Architect named Charles E. Gibbs. They had there first office at 37 Park Row, moved to 822 Broadway from 1882 till 1884 and at 132 Nassau street from 1884 - 1886 but in 1885 the partnership dissolved and Norris moved in at 325W 23rd Street. The major commission of the firm was the Orlando Potter Building.

Norris G. Starkweather died on December 18, 1885 prior to the completion of the Potter construction and was buried in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
The Orlando Potter construction Is smaller than it's prestigious neighbors but has an request for retrial of it's own. With only 11 stories high it as a matter of fact attracts the eye. The massive (black bottom) red brick and terra cotta colored brownstone makes the construction looks like an intrusion in the landscape because of its black bottom, red color and Architectural styles. I put styles with a "s" because of the different styles that were used; some architectural historians call it the "Queen Ann style" but it is more a beautiful mix of Renaissance Revival, Colonial Revival and even Neo-Grec It is a great example of the Brick and Terra Cotta durability, for over a century it has withstood New York's greatest weather cycles and still required no rehabilitation for 100 years. The black lowest is a cast iron structure covered with bitumen to avoid premature rusting. The construction sits on a half block and two corners from Park Row Street, Beekman street and Nassau Street. It has on the ground level stores all around and a total of 59 apartments with the entrance at 145 Nassau Street. The front façade that was and is made to be seen from Park Row street is a considerable piece of art and detail work. The construction looks quite uncomplicated but the more you observe it (with binoculars) more you realize its complexity with different fenestration patterns at each floor, a lot of brick patterns of all shapes that give a sense of complicity

The materials used were:

Cast Iron and Iron: the two first floors are covered of cast iron that matches the upper style. The Ironwork for the façade and construction was performed by five suppliers: J.M. Duclos - Co (New York City). The company's logo is stamped on the Iron Work on the lowest angle of Beekman street and Park Row Street; J.M. Duclos Co that terminated the façade and H.W. Adams. Jackson Architectural Iron work and Lehigh Iron Co. That worked on the interior structure. The floor beams and roof beams are of rolled iron and the floors (except the basement) are iron girders. The interior framing is in iron with interior hollow cast-iron structural columns that are encased in wire netting covered with fire brick and plaster and flanged wrought-iron joists, set thru the brick walls, carry wrought-iron beams.

Take you binocular and look at the face bricks in detail and you will see an tremendous variety of brick shapes that you won't see elsewhere. It is a real piece of art.

Common brick: common brick, also known as backing brick or bonding brick, is a less costly and less terminated brick intended for interior usage in thick brick load-bearing walls or on the less-visible portions of buildings. It is often found on the sidewalls that abutted the walls of neighboring structure in closely packed urban blocks.

Face Brick: Face brick is a kiln-burned brick with a smooth surface, intended for the graphic portions of buildings. You will see a lot of shaped face bricks from radial, angular, hinge, coping, conical...

Engineering brick: Engineering brick is a strong, dense brick used for heavy construction such as sewers and foundations.

Brownstone colored Terra Cotta: baked clay of any shape (in molds) Terra cotta is hard, semi fired, waterproof ceramic clay used in construction construction. Used in general for wall exterior and garnish as it can be fired in molds. Oftentimes, white or colored glaze is applied on the face of the brick. Terra cotta is widely used in the attractive arts, especially as an architectural material, either in its natural red-brown color, or painted, or with a baked glaze. Architectural terra cotta became very favorite at the turn of the 19th - 20th century. From 1900 to 1912 the Us output of terra cotta quadrupled. Atlantic Terra Cotta company was one of the foremost producers and its output accounted for 40% for of the terra cotta shop in New York City. By 1908 Atlantic Terra Cotta Co. Was the largest producer of Architectural terra cotta in the world with four plant including Rochy Hill, New Jersey; Staten Island, New York; Eastpoint, Georgia; and especially Perth Amboy, New Jersey that was paramount for its exquisite texture for development terra cotta.

In the case of the Orlando Potter Building, Norris G. Starkweather used brownstone terra cotta from The Boston Terra Cotta Co. That was in company from 1980 till 1893, they were one of the first terra cotta clubs on the east cost mostly serving Boston, Chicago and New York City. The Boston Terra Cotta company used the Orlando Potter construction in its 1885 inventory to promote their work, demonstrating the load bearing vigor in which the terra cotta was integrated into the exterior brick bearing walls. A total of 540 tons was used (over 1,000,000 pounds) The Boston Terra Cotta Co superintendent James Taylor (1839-1898) that was carefully as "the father of the American Terra Cotta." His work as of today is carefully as masterpieces of Terra Cotta.

In his hands the lowly terra cotta was worth its weight in gold. James Taylor was often in New York supervising the work preparation of the terra cotta for Orlando Potter's construction and had a lot of opportunities to meet Potter himself who all the time followed the construction of his buildings. Potter and Taylor got along well together and finding the rising needs and query for terra cotta in New York City Potter decided to originate his own Terra Cotta company "The New York Architectural Terra Cotta Company." that was created in January of 1886 with Walter Geer and Asahel Clarke Geer. James Taylor was hired as superintendent and worked for the New York Architectural Terra Cotta Co until his resignation in 1893. The team was exquisite to originate the finest in terra cotta in the United States. The New York Architectural Terra Cotta Co. Was the only major architectural terra cotta company in New York City and it grow to be one of the biggest in the United States but all things have an end and the query for terra cotta started to decline in the end of the 20's and the company went bankrupt in 1932 because of the lost of interest in terra cotta, a convert in style and in materials.

Description of the Orlando Potter Building.

The first impression depends on how far you are from the construction and the time you want to spend finding at it. If you're far from it the first thing that surprises you is its red color that contrasts with its neighbor, it's also small compared to the well-known structure surrounding it. Once you start getting closer to it; forms start appearing, start growing from its facades, the construction starts to show you it's ornamentals terra cotta that first looks fused in the brick patterns (and they do make fusion with the mass). The first-rate coming is from Row Park (street) right in front of City Hall Park. From there you see 2 faces of the construction (Row Park - Beekman Street) with the third underground in the back (Nassau Street) from there it looks like a angle construction and not a half block building. Take benefit of the City Hall Park, chose a nice bench in front of the Potter construction and observe lowest to top. It is an eleven- story construction with two basement stories. On Park Row the façade is 115 feet long, on Beekman street it is 150 feet and on the Nassau street side it is of 89 feet. The Beekman and Nassau is a 90-degree angular angle and Park Row and Beekman is a 60-degree angular corner.

The black ground level (base) and first floor is the cast iron façade floor. The black is anti-rust to safe the iron from premature rusting. It matches very nicely the upper styles. It is a very nice work that diminishes the coldness and impersonality of the iron. It give an impression that the iron was molded to an under structure. It is one of the rare survivors of the cast iron facades that you can still see in the United States (Not only rare but complex). The former ground level was shop fronts but was altered some times over the years. Originally the shop fronts were framed with thin cast iron colonnettes with a display window. The entrance to the elevator lobby was on Park Row north; it had duplicate doors, shallow steps and columns supporting a heavy broken scroll pediment. It was removed in 1941 and a shop was installed using a part of the elevator lobby. On the center façade of Beekman street was also an entrance with a triple arched portico with a projecting pediment supported by bracketed columns. In 1912 this entrance was altered and converted into a shop. On Nassau street the north end was the former entrance of the elevator lobby that is now entrance of the residential apartments. At the construction of the construction there were about two hundred offices on the upper levels. Today there are a total of 59 Apartments.
Above the cast iron lowest section starts the body section with it's six stories. If you take a good look at the construction there is a very nice harmony and progressive complexity in the attractive terra cotta and brick patterns.

The body section the piers between the duplicate windows has a nice brick pattern with hinge bricks on the angle pier and hinge bricks in the middle of the columns on the two first floors. The piers also are bearing members and include flues to exhaust the fumes of the furnaces, on the top of each piers - flue is a chimney terminated in terra cotta attractive motifs. If you look at the window perimeters and you will also consideration cove bricks. As you start observing you observe all this brick patterns that give a nice request for retrial and a determined research of complexity. Each windowsill is in cast iron, between each window the brick column lays on a terra cotta block. At each floor the window pattern is different to give it an invisible growth in complexity. The lintel of each window is in attractive terra cotta with motifs of different style at each floor; the brownstone color matches very nicely the brick color and give an impression of unity. On each floor you will observe brickwork that makes this construction so unique. Just look over the first brick floor lintel, a nice brickwork that progresses and modifies floor by floor with a research of "simple" complexity. I like to call it uncomplicated because you need to observe and pay attention or you will not see and consideration all the construction has to offer.

The Trio Norris G. Starkweather (the Architect), with the help of Orlando B. Potter (the owner) and James Taylor (Boston Terra Cotta Company) did some intense research in the brick patterns and attractive terra cotta that makes this construction a real masterpiece.
In 1992-93 An exterior rehabilitation and cleaning was performed by Siri & Marsik (architects) and Henry rehabilitation who did an broad repointing, patching of terra cotta and some brick replacement. Roughly 15 years passed by and it looks like the rehabilitation was done yesterday. The worst enemy for terra cotta and bricks are the pollution. The pollution erodes and darkens all type of materials and is a concern for our Architectural patrimony in many large urban center
On the fourth floor (2nd brick face floor) over the lintel is a nice attractive terra cotta arch. On the same level (height) of the arch, on the pier you can see a very nice attractive terra cotta with a flower motif, If you have binoculars look at the motif you can see small dots in the terra cotta that recite the stems - nervure of the flower. If you don't have binoculars look at the picture on page 7. Once again it shows the ability of the work. On the fifth floor over the pier window the terra cotta is a dragon with nice details. (See picture page 8) from they're until the eighth floor, nice brick patterns and terra cotta and this all around the three facades (Park Row, Beekman street and Nassau St.) On Beekman street there is a U shape light court in the center of its façade that starts from the third floor to the top of the building, this was a common convention at that time to get a maximum day light in the construction and offices. Remember that the construction was build in 1883 and that the galvanic incandescent light bulb was perfected (by Thomas Edison) in 1880 just 3 years before the construction was built. But gas lighting was a mature, well-established industry. The gas infrastructure was in place, franchises had been granted, and manufacturing facilities for both gas and equipment were in profitable operation. Perhaps as important, habitancy had grown accustomed to the idea of lighting with gas.

The two last stories:

Are very worked in the brick patterns with a lot of different brick shapes and terra cotta. It was done with a lot of proportions. The former three quarter round angle column (corner of Park Row and Beekman street) has a foremost pinnacle. Right behind the angle column in the dead angle is a flue from lowest to top that was made to exhaust the furnace gases to chimneys concealed by terra cotta finials. The piers of the eighth story have stylized terra cotta composite capitals (see picture bellow) with the Park Row and Beekman angle one very impressive in the details and quality, complexity of molding with an eagle in the centerpiece (see picture above). This structural setup gives an impression the last upper floors are resting on the piers and capitals wit the top window arches development liaison between the capitals. Above the ninth floor are corbels surmounted of a terra cotta cornice that give an impression of supporting the two last floors. The last floor is the only floor with arched windows. In the middle section of the eleventh floor, little alternate bays are surmounted by pediments. Two attractive pinnacles erect from the mid section on each façade. On the roofline are terra cotta broken scroll pediments and urns.
The Orlando Potter construction was completed at a cost of .2 million (about million in today's dollars.)

At the time the construction was completed some newspapers severely criticized Orlando Potter and the Architect Norris Starkweather. The record & Guide was probably the most aggressive stating, "All the good work that has been done in new architecture has been thrown away on the designer of the Potter construction which is coarse, pretentious, overloaded and intensely vulgar"

It is a fact that fine Architecture and Architects are like painting masters, and most of them die even before being recognized and going into prosperity.
The Orlando Potter construction is and will be one of the finest brick-terra cotta realizations of the 19th century.

The Orlando Potter construction Ny

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Tuesday, February 15, 2011

5 Most Awesome Summer Music Festivals

Festival season is upon us, and if the smells of sizzling grills in your own backyard aren't doing your summer justice, maybe it's time to expand your land and share it with a crowd of music-obsessed, and sweaty, dancing people. There's no other way, I say. You know that summers are made for the life of leisure. So we've compiled a list of glorious, music-drenched festivities happening very soon that will be sure to singe the soles off of your tap-tapping feet.

Every year, there's an astonishing festival-buffet to select from--it's only a matter of knowing what kind of rug-cutting and neck-straining you'd like to accomplish. And so, without additional ado, we gift to you the 5 most awesome music festivals this summer and beyond!:

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1. Bumbershoot

Taken from the slang word for an umbrella, Bumbershoot is the largest urban arts event in North America. The annual music & arts fest will have you in a reverie of sound--from folk, rock and alternative acts from around the globe, from local favorites to legends--your ears will really thank you a hundred times over. If you're into other flavors of ear-candy, the event also offers a feast of comedy, spoken word, dance, literary arts and theater performances to satiate those cravings. The Bumbershoot festivities take place over Labor Day weekend at the 74-acre Seattle Center, Seattle, Washington.

2. Long Beach Blues Festival

The Long Beach Blues Festival gathers a savory cluster of notes that will make your soul melt. Also taking place over Labor Day weekend, this event presents the best of blues-rock, electric-blues, and jazz at the beautiful, tree-dense Rainbow Lagoon Park in Long Beach, California. The park sits close to the Pacific Ocean, so you can sway and groove to the funky and soulful melodies, all while cool breezes from the coast caresses and washes over you.

3. Pitchfork Music Festival

If independent music rings true to your blood, Pitchfork's Music Festival will make your veins weep. Prepare yourself to feel July's most weighty indie-intensive party, and know that you were a part of it all. Later you can tell your grandchildren you traveled to Chicago in the same flannel shirt and flip-flops for days, and ate only organic yield from diving dumpsters, just to sweat it out with the hippest, and probably most obsessive, music freaks in existence.

4. Siren Music Festival

Ah, Coney Island. Nostalgia for old-time arcade and carnival food will tempt you, but the sounds from Siren Music Festival will put you under its spell and take you back to glorious reality. The all day, all ages event is free--sure to put a big smile on your pocket. Investment to the Coney Island amusement park in mid-July and revel in the new and old of independent music. You'll have an awesome time bobbing your head to-and-fro, reminiscing on summer loves, and doing so inside a legendary and fascinating landmark. Did I mention that it's free?

5. Lollapalooza

What's left to say about Lollapalooza? Every August in Chicago, rock rules the stage. And the die-hards, the true, pure rockers of our age, reunite to make that stage a glittering altar. Only the most talented artists headline here, ensuring that every festival makes music history. And if rocking out to Arcade Fire and Lady Gaga in the same field doesn't blow your mind, we don't know what will. So frolic down to Grant Park, Chicago this summer--it's a gorgeous disaster waiting to happen.

5 Most Awesome Summer Music Festivals

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Monday, February 14, 2011

Good Ecotourism Plans consist of responsibility

Accountability and transparency in any endeavor make for success, along with solid planning and experienced management. In the case of ecotourism, the right mix of these ingredients can lead to economic improvement and sustainable growth for local populations.

However, the ideas of responsibility and transparency are not always easy to get over to those complex in a project, even in the most open democratic society. As ecotourism expands, business watchers will learn that not every country that promotes and benefits from ecotourism is democratic or capitalist. The differing ideologies and political structures of these countries may stand in the way of the improvement of good ecotourism practices.

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Most countries, no matter the government structure, welcome the economic benefits that come with establishing holiday resorts in good locations. In fact, economic benefits in the form of new jobs and more government wage are a prime motivation for introducing tourism or any other business to a region of the country. Beyond this economic inducement however, responsibility and transparency can suffer, as a go for few individuals gain the most from the projects and don't want the general public to know it.

The incentive is strong to ask ecotourism as a growing industry, especially in countries that are experiencing poverty conditions among a primary measure of the population. The prospect of economic benefits may move government leaders to use this business as a tool to alleviate poverty, while reserved supply conservation and cultural preservation are lost in the shuffle.

Government and financial "movers and shakers" in countries around the world put strong emphasis on economic activity, expecting new jobs and new projects to pull the population out of any question situations. But expecting so much of pure economic activity, in the form of wage from tourism, is not the acknowledge to the larger question.

Instead, these government leaders should ask what could be done to comprehend benefits over the board, from the economy to natural resources, from public interaction to cultural heritage. Balance is the key to success in most every scheme and ecotourism is no different. No singular factor or interest group should dominate the consulation or take more than a uncostly share of the new wage generated by ecotourism. This is true anywhere, from Bendiorm, Spain to Alaska.

Of course, this is where responsibility and transparency fit in. While it would be impossible to move tourism programs without taking government interests into account, those government agencies must comprehend that interference is not the same as involvement. As these projects are planned and started, all someone complex must be willing to work with the right values in mind. If this does not happen, the host country may find that disruptive influences creep into the process. These factors may do more than slow down the advance of an otherwise excellent project. The wrong influences can destroy any occasion of a good ecotourism project's survival.

Planners and developers, from government agencies and secret companies, must put solid policies in place first, and adhere to these guidelines. Comprehension where culture and natural resources fit into the process is primary to the success of any ecotourism project. Keeping government leaders and scheme developers accountable is a required step as well. If there is the primary responsibility and transparency during the project's lifetime, all complex should see long-term benefits.

Good Ecotourism Plans consist of responsibility

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Saturday, February 12, 2011

Mount Wuyi Rated in the World Top 10 Happiest Places

Mount Wuyi rated World Top 10 Happiest Place according to a modern record released by Daily Mail, the third largest English daily newspaper in the world. The other nine Happiest Places were Vanuatu, Montreal (Canada), Texas (Us), Bhutan, Colombia, Malawi, Andorra, Hidakagawa (Japan) and Denmark.

Located in northwest of Fujian Province, Southeastern China, Mt. Wuyi is one of the hottest attractions in China. Preponderant for its natural beauties and exotic local cultures, it attracts thousands of tourists from home and abroad every year.

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As regards to natural beauties, spirited river, majestic mountains, aged plant spices, and wild animals are the gems of Mount Wuyi. Its tranquil beauty and intact environment offer a refuge to the primitive forest, so it is called "Natural Arboretum". Wuyi Mountain is rumored to have the beauty combining Mounts of Hangshan and waters of Guilin together. Whatever, the place is an ideal place for city citizens to enjoy the charms of countrysides.

Beside its marvelous natural beauties, Mount Wuyi has a long cultural history. Wuyi Palace, built in the 7th century A.D., is just one scholar piece of local architectures. It had been an leading center of China's Taoism and was listed as one of the top nine Taoist Temples. A large numbers of aged folk structure scatter in the green world, backed by hills or perched by rivers. The mountain also boasts many other cultural relics along with numerous stone inscriptions. Anything who take a tour will positively enquire more about mysterious Chinese cultures.

In 1999, Mount Wuyi was enrolled as a World patrimony site for its unique natural and cultural values.

Mount Wuyi Rated in the World Top 10 Happiest Places

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