On a brighter note, there are always people working to bring certain groups and nations together. The activities range from conferences to trade expos, beauty pageants to film fests and a lot more. These events may have different formats yet they aim for one thing – peace and harmony.

More than 1,700 artists from 21 countries and 44 states are heading to Grand Rapids, Mich. to compete for the world’s largest art prize. A 19-day event, ArtPrize will take over the city from Sept. 22 through Oct. 10 and will allow the public to decide the top-10 winners of $449,000 in prizes, including the top prize of $250,000.

ArtPrize is an open competition which has no formal jury, curator or judge, and asks the public to vote and decide the winners using mobile devices and the web. The competition is open to all artists who are able to secure a location to display their art from any of the 192 venues within a three-square-mile district of downtown Grand Rapids. ”

“The city has become a working gallery with art beginning to appear on our sidewalks, the sides of buildings, fences, downtown bridges and in our parks,” said Mayor George Heartwell.

The Midwest has hundreds of artists coming to Michigan to compete. Illinois alone has more than 100 artists traveling to Grand Rapids. Hundreds more are coming from Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin. Canada, in particular the Ontario region, has more than twelve artists who will display their works.

Visitors making the trip to Grand Rapids will be greeted with travel, hotel and restaurant specials. There are simple maps and a shuttle system in place for the public to vote and navigate the ArtPrize district with ease.

“ArtPrize is designed for both artists and the public,” said Rick DeVos, ArtPrize founder.  “For artists, both known and unknown, the purpose is to bring ideas into the world. For everyone else, ArtPrize is about making it whatever they want it to be – to go look, interact, talk about, vote on and take the event into their own hands.”

During its 2009 inaugural season, more than 200,000 people attended ArtPrize and more than 334,000 votes were cast. From all over the world, 1,262 artists displayed their works at 159 locations.

The 19-day event, also offers a comprehensive program of guest lectures and concerts. Information about ArtPrize and scheduled events can be found at www.artprize.org.

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City driving is about being stuck in the middle of the long stretch of equally-stuck cars and cabs. It is about how quickly you step on the brake and on the accelerator. For the adventurous ones, it is about beating the red light.

If you want to break out from the fumes and loud honks, try off-road driving. Conquer snow, mud, sand, rocks and more. Of course, don’t take your luxury car with you. Aside from the fact that it’s not right for such a terrain, you will also spoil the fun and adventure.

The Jeep® brand is bringing the “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour,” an on- and off-road driving experience, to consumers attending the 2010 Thunder Over the Blue Ridge Air Show, Sept. 3-5 at Shepherd Field in Martinsburg, W. Va.

The “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour” provides the ultimate on- and off-road driving courses for attendees at air shows, auto shows, fairs and festivals all over the country. The program is free and guests can pre-register at www.jeep.com/rocksandroadtour. Typically generating an enthusiastic response, pre-registration is highly encouraged in order to ensure a quick and seamless entry.

The “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour” is open to the public and features obstacle courses that demonstrate Jeep Trail Rated® capabilities. The entire Jeep brand lineup, including the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, will be on site to test-drive. Current Jeep owners are extended the opportunity to drive their own vehicle on a Jeep Owner’s Playground.

“We have created the Jeep Rocks & Road Tour to provide our current and potential customers with an adventurous experience that is exclusive to the Jeep brand,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “We are partnering with various venues across the country to reach out to our loyal Jeep consumers, while branching out to those with new interest in the one-of-a-kind Jeep brand. This tour provides an ideal venue to experience the countless features and legendary capability offered in the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, as well as the other vehicles in the Jeep brand family.”

The “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour” courses consist of several obstacles that simulate some of the rigorous testing that Jeep vehicles endure before customers get behind the wheel. Courses include elements that demonstrate the Trail Rated capabilities of Jeep vehicles for articulation, ground clearance, maneuverability and traction.

Jeep brand vehicles will be on hand for participants to drive over a variety of surfaces. Attendees will learn to navigate off-road challenges, such as steep grades, rocky trails and log crossings, under the guidance of a trained instructor.

The “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour” features a number of interactive activities, including informative product displays. The family-friendly event offers children the opportunity to take part in the Jeep brand experience as well. Jeep kids can drive “Power Wheels” mini-Jeep vehicles; climb a rock wall and more.

The tour travels cross-country and concludes in San Diego on Jan 2.

Jeep Rocks & Road Tour Location, Dates and Times:

2010 Thunder Over the Blue Ridge Air Show

Shepherd Field, 167th Airlift Wing

Martinsburg, W. Va.

*Admission to the Air Show is free; a $10 donation to the United Way is encouraged

The “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour” is located on the west end of the Air Show grounds.

The “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour” is one of several owner-loyalty programs created by the Jeep brand. Jeep Jamborees, which began in the 1950s, are the original off-highway vacation. The success of Jeep Jamborees spawned Camp Jeep, an annual outdoor lifestyle vacation experience launched more than 15 years ago. The enthusiastic response to Camp Jeep and Jeep 101 led to the spin-off “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour.”

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Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, veterans with disabilities and healthcare professionals are expected to attend Abilities Expo on Friday, August 27, through Sunday, August 29, 2010 at Reliant Center. Admission is free and show hours will be Friday 11 am to 5 pm, Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday 11 am to 4 pm.

Abilities Expo has put together an impressive line-up of exhibits, celebrities, workshops, events and activities to appeal to the full spectrum of people with disabilities, from children to seniors and everyone in between. Complimentary rental scooters will available onsite during show hours and there will be free shuttle rides from four local hotels and the parking lot.

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Talking about entering the university, students must prepare holistically (just in case you thought I had used up all my long words!), especially if they will be going to a new environment that is very far from home.  Why?  It is because there are a lot of things to adapt to.  And, you must be ready so that you can face any hardship that may come your way.  You may be living on your own when you go to the university.  This might include washing your own dishes and clothes, buying your own groceries and take note, you have to do these things while studying for your lessons.  Do you think that’s hard enough?  What do you think might happen if you are not so ready for it?  You cannot just give up since your education is also at stake.  I can only advise you to prepare carefully but also not to be thrown if unexpected things happen to you from the moment you pack your things and leave home.

The time, money and effort spent to get students moved and settled into their college homes can be stressful for both students and parents – especially if the traveling is by air rather than U-Haul.

The GO Group, LLC, the nation’s largest airport and ground transportation provider, has some pointers to make cross-country college travel easier.

“Going away to college takes planning to ease the stress and financial burden,” says John McCarthy, president of The GO Group. “Our team has uncovered a few ideas to make the move smoother.”

Suggestions include:

Lighten your load

Purchase linens, towels and other necessities in advance online and have them shipped to the student’s campus address. Many retailers, like Target, have website pages devoted to college furnishings. And if family members are visiting during the fall semester, don’t move the student’s winter clothing until then. Removing the bulkier items from the initial move frees space in moving boxes, suitcases and cars.

Seek out cheaper airfare

According to independenttraveler.com, passengers will find the best airfare deals by booking early or late and by being flexible with travel dates. Since airline prices tend to be cheapest on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday, try to plan the student’s move-in day around cheaper tickets. The travel tip site further suggests using discount airlines (like JetBlue or Southwest) and monitoring travel sites for discounts.

Share rides between airport and campus

Once on the ground, public transportation can be unreliable and taxis are pricey, making it tricky to get from the airport to campus. Shared ride van services are available at most airports, so look for signs near the baggage claim area to point you in the right direction.

Ask for help!

Other than school-specific forums, a few sites, like http://www.collegeconfidential.com/, connect parents and students with questions to others who may be able to help.

The GO Group, LLC, launched in August 2007 as a convenient, one-stop source for door-to-door airport shuttle services, also serves some 60 airports in North America, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe, transporting more than 13 million passengers per year. Travelers can book ground transportation to and from both departure and destination airports through GO’s website, www.goairportshuttle.com.

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Aside from its natural beauty, Jekyll Island’s Historic District has been listed as a National Historic Landmark since 1978. At the center of this district, you will find the two wings of Jekyll Island Club Hotel. It has several suites for rent to cater to tourists and locals alike. There are other thirty-three buildings from the late 19th century and the early 20th century surrounding the hotel. Some of these buildings are mansion-sized cottages used as museums, book stores and art galleries.

Given this gift, the Jekyll Island Conservation Planning Committee was formed to lead the protection of the islands natural attractions. Its natural beauty is the island’s major strength. Any local would favor any conservation measures the government might take.

The Jekyll Island Conservation Planning Committee is hosting a public meeting Wednesday, September 8 in their efforts to attain valuable feedback for the development of their Conservation Plan. The meeting will be held on the island at McCormick’s Grill, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This meeting marks the first in a series designed to encourage dialogue between the Committee and the interested public.

“Because this is such a critical platform, engaging the public is the first step our committee is taking,” said Dr. Terry Norton, leader of the Conservation Committee and Director of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. “We want to make sure the public’s voice is heard within this plan.”

AECOM Technical Services, Inc., a global leader in providing integrated professional technical and management support services, is teaming up with the Committee to aid in the development of the Conservation Plan. Dr. Jay Exum, the Principle Ecologist at AECOM, along with Committee representatives will present to the public their key objectives and schedule for the Plan. Feedback from the public meeting will be documented and utilized in the plan development.

The objective of the Conservation Plan is to complete a design and develop a framework and content that will serve as a valuable management tool in protecting and enhancing Jekyll Island’s natural areas.

“The Conservation Plan is a key policy initiative,” stated Jekyll Island Authority board member and Conservation/Preservation Committee chairman Richard Royal. “I’m pleased to have active involvement from the public and the conservation community. This will make the plan that much better.”

It is mandatory that 65% of the island remain undeveloped, for this reason, every aspect of the revitalization is carefully analyzed by the Jekyll Island Authority and its Board of Directors to ensure that each development site keeps to the set guidelines and ordinances.

Jekyll Island’s Conservation Plan is anticipated to be completed by the beginning of next year.

Located on Georgia’s coast, Jekyll Island with its rich history and quiet, laid-back atmosphere has attracted vacationers for more than one hundred years.  Jekyll Island offers a variety of amenities, including 10 miles of beach, a 250-acre Historic Landmark District, four golf courses, a large water park, 20 miles of bike paths, a tennis center, and an array of lodging options including hotels, cottages and campgrounds.  Owned by the state of Georgia and managed by Jekyll Island Authority, the island’s development is limited to just 35 percent of the available land area to preserve the critical barrier island ecosystem.  Great lengths have been taken to honor this ratio as the highly anticipated revitalization of Jekyll Island moves forward.  By 2012, the island will boast three new hotels, an all-new beachfront convention center with more than 78,000 square feet of function space, a beautifully redesigned entry corridor to the island, beach village shopping and dining area and many more enhancements.  Please visit www.jekyllisland.com for more information or call (877) 4-JEKYLL.

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Chrysler makes sure that they keep their prestige and that they maintain the luxury that it promises to its customers. Every car enthusiast would associate Mopar with quality and luxury. It is part of all vehicles built by Chrysler which includes Plymouth, Dodge, Imperial, DeSoto, Jeeps and, of course, Chrysler. After decades of existence, Mopar has become a part of every car enthusiast’s dictionary. In any car show, it never fails to delight its visitors.

Mopar® will make its presence felt at the world’s largest one-day celebration of classic-car culture, the 16th annual Woodward Dream Cruise on Saturday, Aug. 21. More than one million expected visitors will have the chance to check out Mopar vehicles and performance parts at the corner of 13 Mile and Woodward in Royal Oak, Mich.

“The Woodward Dream Cruise is the perfect place to showcase our Mopar brand,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC. “During this event, Woodward Avenue is over-flowing with enthusiasts and we want to show every single one of them what’s new at Mopar.”

The Mopar ’10 Challenger, a “Mopar modified” 2010 Challenger R/T and the first-ever special-edition Mopar version of a Chrysler Group vehicle, is one of many Mopar rides set to join the more than 40,000 vehicles expected to pack the Dream Cruise. The Mopar Direct Connection Test Lab vehicle, used to demonstrate Mopar performance parts, will also be on display.

Other Mopar vehicles to appear are The General, a “Moparized” Jeep® Wrangler created by the Mopar off-road engineering team that made its debut earlier this year at the Moab Jeep Safari, and a 2010 Ram Laramie Crew 4 x 4 trimmed in a variety of Mopar parts and accessories. Visitors may also get an up-close look at Mopar parts and engines on exhibit and talk directly with Mopar engineers.

In addition, Mopar will feature Ramchargers Tom Coddington, Dave Rockwell, Dick Jones, Peter McNicholl and John Wehrly at the Mopar Direct Connection Trailer at 2 p.m. on Saturday. The famed Mopar-powered drag racing legends will take part in an autograph and meet-and-greet session with fans. Enthusiasts who want to test their own racing skills may do so at the Direct Connection rig. Fans may take the wheel of a video-game version of a Mopar HEMI®-powered NHRA Funny Car and also try their hand in the Mopar sprint car simulator.

Mopar Authentic Performance Gear will be on sale at the Mopar Rolling Speedshop. Mopar hats, t-shirts, hoodies, diecasts and much more will be available for Mopar fans to purchase.

For more information on the 16th Annual Woodward Dream Cruise, visit http://www.woodwarddreamcruise.com.

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To celebrate its roots and multi-cultural influences, the entire neighborhood gets together with live music and food every second Sunday of September. Aside from all the music and partying, this celebration will not be complete without the crafts booths where local entrepreneurs display their finished products, and local growers would even sell their fresh, organically grown herbs and produce, cheese, apple juice, and more. Fresh flowers in the farmers market also add colors to the festival.

Adams Morgan Main Street hosts the 32nd annual Adams Morgan Day Festival on Sunday, Sept 12, 2010.  The location is 18th Street N.W. between Columbia Rd and Florida; “Arts on Belmont” opens at 10am; with  adjacent venues at Marie Reed School and Kalorama Park. Organizer Adams Morgan Main Street Group builds on recent innovations and successful traditions of decades in presenting this keenly anticipated event from 12 PM to 7 PM.

Themed as “A Global Community of Cultures,” this regional DC-area festival features old traditions and new additions, sponsored by PNC and Bolt Bus. Adams Morgan Day is known for its live music, cultural, and dance performances, Kids’ area, and popular “Arts on Belmont.”  Varied international foods abound not only from vendors, but from Adams Morgan’s sidewalk cafes and restaurants. Visitors stroll with vendors on one side and view the year-round indie businesses and shopping of Adams Morgan on the other. Begun in 1978, the Adams Morgan Day Festival, celebrates all cultures together.

Two signature stages, Florida and Columbia offer diverse live music groups. Florida features international music such as Irish, Latin, Caribbean, reggae, and salsa, with a 3pm salsa contest.  The Columbia features music developed from American roots; with soul, rock, Afro-Pop, blues from the Big Woo, and a rousing conclusion from Elikeh Band.

New in 2010 in the Health Pavilion, sponsored by Kaiser Permanente, which showcases health, sports, fitness, diet, and spas at 18th St and California.  At the Green Pavilion, visitors will find under one large tent products, samples, services covering everything eco-friendly including remodeling, recycled, art, office & home products, and solar panels. The Pet Zone showcases products, agility, services and pet adoption and care, but consulting with Maryland’s Dog Whisper can benefit owner and canine.

Arts on Belmont sponsored by Harris Teeter on shady residential Belmont offers a range of work for budgets small and large. Savvy shoppers browse early through works in variety of media: oil, watercolor, metal, textiles, clay, and wood.  It’s fun and educational to meet the artists personally. Jazz in the Park offers quality jazz in quiet family atmosphere with such performers as John Lee, Lovesome Thing, and Jolley Brothers.

The interactive Dance Plaza, sponsored by Safeway, features Cuban salsa, line dancing, female Brazilian-Afro-samba, folkloric and Malcolm X Drummers, with audience participation. Bank of America’s Cultural Stage hosts smaller scale diverse Spanish Hip-Hop, musical theatre, and Japanese Mixed Art Form.  Find free activities and games for all ages in the family-friendly Kid’s Area with rock climbing wall, obstacle course, and prizes, even learn to create colorful sidewalk art.

Adams Morgan Main Street, an umbrella nonprofit, organizes the Festival and wants to preserve Adams Morgan’s eclectic, vibrant multicultural character and promote its small businesses via activities to improve appearance, accessibility, and promotion. For information, 202-232-1960, or  www.AdamsMorganDayFestival.com.

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As much as this season will be filled with celebration and parties, reservations could be a headache if not made early. Flight seats might be all taken or airfare could be sky-rocketed. Hotel rooms and banquets get fully-booked early as well.

It always pays to plan ahead. Keep in touch with friends and family as early as now to organize your schedules. There could be a lot of options — theme parks, resorts or simply the comfort of your own house. But going to hotels are just as fab and never go out of style.

The holidays can be a joyful reunion of loved ones or a rush of frenzied activity, with travelers spending the six-week season in festivities and merriment or finding cause to flee from them.  Suiting all of these motivations is the legendary Breakers Palm Beach, just on the heels of a spectacular, 10-year, $250 million revitalization.  With a peerless beachfront location on the island of Palm Beach, it is easily accessible and perfectly suited to every holiday traveler’s preference.

ThanksGIVING – an opportunity to not just keep the kitchen clean and enjoy a magnificent dinner, but to savor the holiday with extended family and friends at complete leisure, and engage in meaningful charitable activities that put the giving in ThanksGIVING…Forgotten Soldiers, Quantum House lodging for families in medical crisis, Easter Seals and Alex’s Lemonade Stand are among the beneficiaries of guest community service activities:

• Join chefs for a hands-on cooking demonstration and prepare a holiday meal for local charities
• Create greeting cards for mailing to U.S. troops that feature heartfelt holiday sentiments
• Build and stuff cuddly friends for keepsake and to donate to a local children’s charity

Other complimentary Thanksgiving holiday events include the Family Harvest Festival, featuring The Breakers Pumpkin Patch, scare-a-crow building, turkey toss and hay rides with hot apple cider and candy apples; and Ballroom Dancing for couples, including one hour professional instruction followed by 30 minutes of dance time.   While savoring the most memorable Thanksgiving ever, guests can make it equally unforgettable for those in need.  Between November 21-28, 2010, rates start at $399 per room, per night (subject to availability) inclusive of complimentary continental breakfast, daily.

Beyond Thanksgiving, from December 1-25, 2010, guests enjoy:

• Complimentary continental breakfast, daily
• Complimentary kid’s meals ordered off children’s menus, ages 12 and under with paying adult, daily
• Complimentary Kids Camp, daily
• Complimentary fitness classes, daily

December 1-18 – The first few weeks of December are ideal for an early holiday season getaway or a respite before Christmas, pre-holiday travel for shopping or to shore up energy before joining the relatives.  The Breakers’ festive spirit is tranquil yet pervasive, even amidst towering palms and sand castles, with the resort stylishly dressed in timeless, festive decor.   There’s much to be gained for taking a nice travel advance on the holidays:  a bounty of activities (bike tours, scavenger hunts, drive-in movies on the golf course and more), 11 on-site boutiques (including Burberry, Guerlain, Ralph Lauren and designer shops featuring swimwear, children’s wear, home and gift items), or complete renewal on its private beach or luxury spa.  From December 1-18, 2010, room rates start at $329 per room, per night (subject to availability).

Christmas Holiday Week, December 19-25 – Dive into the holiday and its favorite pastimes with Christmas brunches and dinners, storytelling, and the artful staging of winter panorama in sub-tropical Florida.  Yet, The Breakers still sustains its warm-weather oceanfront charm with a multitude of outdoor activities…sunset catamaran cruises, snorkeling, and bonfires on the beach, complete with s’mores and your favorite camp songs.   From December 19-25, rates start at $590 per night (subject to availability).  Kids meals not applicable to Christmas Brunch or Christmas Dinner on December 25.

One never has to step a sandal off property during the entire holiday season, as The Breakers features a premium amenities:  a 20,000 square foot luxury spa; 36 holes of championship golf and 10 Har-Tru lighted tennis courts; a Mediterranean-style beach club with a half-mile private beach, five pools, private bungalows with personal concierges for day-rental, watersports and a remarkable reef a half-mile offshore; a Family Entertainment Center and extensive family and children’s activities; nine restaurants and five lounges; and great shopping all on site.

1,800 team members – including talented chefs, sommeliers, activities specialists, spa professionals, and instructors in golf, watersports and tennis – to make the holiday vacation even more memorable.

For reservations  visit http://www.thebreakers.com/decemberholidays/ or call toll-free 1-888-BREAKERS (273-2537), or contact your travel professional.

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Since this island paradise is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, along with its own colorful native culture,  it is a home for diverse North American and Asian cultures. U.S. President Barrack Obama was born and spent most of his early years in this state.

Hawaii is a popular tropical destination for tourists from around the world. Its blue waters, big waves and warm tropical climate is inviting to over 6 million visitors each year. Hawaii’s healthy tourism industry gives major contribution to its people’s livelihood and to the state’s economy.

The iconic 70-room Hotel Hana-Maui held a colorful Hawaiian blessing ceremony today amid its picturesque oceanfront setting in the small rural community of Hana, on Maui’s secluded eastern shore. The blessing celebrated a new beginning for the hotel under the management of Green Tea, LLC.

“You can’t help falling in love with this place and the people here,” said Joy Berry, president of Green Tea. “Hotel Hana-Maui’s uniquely warm charm and intimacy amid the magical ambiance of Hana really can’t be duplicated.”

“We are fortunate to have an operator that is committed to maintaining the highest standards of hospitality for this wonderfully idyllic resort in one of the most beautiful places on earth,” said Mark Stebbings, general manager of Hotel Hana-Maui.

Employees and guests of Hotel Hana-Maui and residents from the Hana community attended the blessing ceremony, which included hula dances, chants and the untying of the ceremonial maile lei.

Hotel Hana-Maui is located on 69-acres and is surrounded by a 4,500-acre ranch at the end of Maui’s famous Hana Highway. It has been a favorite retreat for generations of travelers seeking unspoiled natural beauty, tranquility, and a Hawaiian sense of place since it opened in 1947.

Accommodations at the “Preferred Boutique” hotel consist of 47 plantation style Sea Ranch Cottages with dramatic ocean and mountain views, 22 low-rise bungalow Garden View Suites, and the turn of the century Plantation House, set upon a four secluded acres above the town center. Nearly half of the Sea Ranch Cottages feature private lanai hot tubs.

To preserve a sense of serenity, the rooms are free from radios, clocks, and televisions. The hotel offers numerous complimentary guest activities, among them daily yoga, Pilates, bicycle tours and rentals, lei making and hula lessons, horseback riding, tennis, and other guided excursions.

Green Tea, LLC, of Denver Colorado is a growing hotel company specializing in the management of distinctive boutique resorts in spectacular natural settings. Exceptional levels of service, world-class spas, and a wide variety of recreational options distinguish its properties for guests.  Its management team has a strong background in all facets of resort operations.

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Take PepsiCo as an example. Aside from its popular beverages, this Fortune 500 company based in New York also owns several fast food chains like Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and KFC.

PepsiCo (NYSE: PEP), the world’s second largest food and beverage business, today announced that it plans to invest US$250 million in Vietnam over the next three years.

“I am pleased to announce that over the next three years we expect to invest $250 million in our food and beverage businesses in Vietnam,” said Mr. Saad Abdul-Latif, chief executive officer of PepsiCo Asia, Middle East and Africa, to a gathering of employees, business partners and community leaders in Ho Chi Minh City.  ”Vietnam represents one of PepsiCo’s most exciting growth opportunities, and this investment is a reflection of our confidence in this dynamic country and the talented people who live and work here.”

The new investment will be allocated to a variety of projects, including increasing manufacturing capacity, adding marketplace equipment like coolers, further strengthening existing brands and broadening the company’s product portfolio via innovation. The investment is in addition to PepsiCo’s investment over the past two years in two new manufacturing facilities, a new foods plant in Binh Duong and a new beverages plant in Can Tho.

Mr. Abdul-Latif also highlighted PepsiCo’s commitment in Vietnam to the company’s Performance with Purpose agenda of achieving business success while making a positive imprint on society.  He cited the company’s move to provide more eating and drinking options for Vietnamese consumers.  In addition to carbonated soft drinks, the company offers Tropicana Twister juice drinks, Aquafina water, Lipton ready-to-drink tea, and two new isotonic drinks, 7-Up Revive and Sting Pro.  And the company’s Poca brand snacks line includes a range of nut-based snacks.  He also hailed the work of local employees in the community, where PepsiCo is a large contributor to social causes such as healthcare and education.

“I am most proud of the corporate social responsibility initiatives undertaken by our team here,” remarked Mr. Abdul-Latif.  ”While we are focused on developing our business and our people, we are equally committed to being an exemplary corporate citizen of Vietnam.”

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But before everyone gets too excited to check on old faces and search for new ones, one part of California will have to party first. As this party is expected to be jam-packed, it will not only feature local talents, but will have some guests too to break the ice.

Some people might be wondering why California would need to import performers when it is already filthy-rich with all of the talents that America could offer. Well, this is no ordinary party.

Hollywood’s hottest DJs and the world’s hottest dancers heat up the Great Park this weekend as “Flights & Sounds Summer Festival” celebrates contemporary dance.  Join in the fun as DJ Casey Conner and DJ Hapa move the turntables and rock the crowds.  Then, catch the acrobatic moves of Korean b-boying break-dancing sensation Last for One.

It’s a DJ House Party at the Orange County Great Park on Friday August 20th at 8:00 p.m. where you will want to dance to the beats of today’s most in-demand DJs.   DJ Hapa has rocked the hottest clubs and events across the world, and is the DJ for the KTLA morning show.   DJ Casey Conner’s dynamic approach to spinning the turntables has made her one of the most sought after celebrity DJs in Hollywood.  Come early and get ready to dance with a little help from Great Park dance instructors at 7:30 p.m. DJs start spinning at 8:00 p.m.

Come back to the Great Park on Saturday, August 21st at 8:00 p.m. to see Last for One, the Korean hip-hop break dancing crew that has helped bring mainstream attention to an underground art.  Last for One are the winners of the 2005 International Battle of the Year, and have since become internationally recognized b-boy kings.

Before Saturday’s performance, visitors can enjoy the Great Park Comedy Corner at 7:00 p.m. featuring Dante with special guests Rebekah Kochan and David Marley. Admission to Flights & Sounds Summer Festival dance and concert series is free, and parking is just $10.

Upcoming 2010 summer performers include a wide variety of first-rate artists, featuring five-time Grammy Award-winning Blind Boys of Alabama, local surfing champion and artist Donavon Frankenreiter, Hector del Curto’s Eternal Tango Quintet and Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys.

Flights & Sounds Summer Festival is presented by the Orange County Great Park Corporation in partnership with Irvine Barclay Theatre. Concertgoers can watch the show from chairs provided in a temporary concert pavilion or bring their own chairs to listen to the music from the Great Park Lawn.

Before each performance, Hangar 244 is transformed into the Hangar Cafe, a lounge-like dining area serving up everything from snacks to full dinners, along with refreshments. The menu features themed items inspired by the global mix of musicians, and visitors can choose to also pre-order their picnics by visiting www.ocgp.org.

The Orange County Great Park is located off the 405 or 5 Freeways at Sand Canyon and Marine Way in Irvine. Admission is to Flights & Sounds Summer Festival dance and concert series is free, and parking is just $10.

The Orange County Great Park and its 1,347-acre master plan is the focal point of the redevelopment of the 4,700-acre former Marine Corps Air Station, El Toro. The Great Park is currently 27.5 acres and includes an iconic tethered helium balloon that rises 400 feet in the air, providing an aerial view of Park development. A $65.5 million development plan to expand the Park to 200 acres is currently underway. The plan will build out a core section of the Park for the most immediate and wide-ranging public benefit, including a sports park, agricultural area and an art and culture exhibition space.

For the entire festival line-up and more information, go to www.ocgp.org.

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The Great Park Summer-Ender is a post from: Travel Articles

Europcar has discovered in its latest survey that for over half a million Brits*, their last trip to the airport was ‘one of the most stressful experiences of their lives’.

According to the new survey** 24% of Brits admitted to suffering PHT (Pre-Holiday Tension) as their best-laid travel plans start to unravel. Nearly a million*** holidaymakers (2%) have actually missed their flight altogether due to one of the causes of PHT, which include delayed or cancelled buses or trains (suffered by 16% of Brits); booked taxis that are late or don’t turn up (14%); anxiety about leaving something behind (12%) and having to turn back mid-journey because they’ve forgotten something (5%).

The survey also found that it was Londoners who appeared to be the worst sufferers of Pre-Holiday Tension, with 31% reporting that their last airport trip was stressful.

Less Delay Reaching the Airport for Brits is a post from: Travel Articles

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Shanghai World Expo 2010 is a huge event for business men and even for plain tourists. Businesses and international organizations from different countries get together to showcase their best. Among the five major cities suggested in the International Exhibitions Bureau’s 132nd meeting in Monaco, Shanghai got the highest votes in all four rounds of voting.

Following the overwhelming success of The 2nd Tourism Property & Attraction Asia 2009, Global Leaders Institute (http://www.globaleaders.com) is proud to announce that this great conference will return on 16 Sep – 17 Sep, 2010 at the Shanghai Marriott Hongqiao Hotel, Shanghai, China.

Local governments in the Asia Pacific region, China, Singapore, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Australia, India, etc., are all seeking global investment for local attractions to promote the local tourism property industry and attraction industry. Many world-class, super mega projects are under planning or under construction.

Being an emerging market, the Chinese tourism industry has grown rapidly in recent years and is expected by UNWTO to be the largest tourism destination country by 2020. In November 25, 2009, the State Council of PRC defined tourism as a strategic pillar industry for the national economy among ‘Suggestions about Accelerating the Development of Tourism Industry.’ This makes the tourism property industry flourish to meet the demands of tourists, including accommodation, travel, shopping and entertainment, etc.

After the successful development of “Nanhai Legend” of Hainan, “Boao National Tourism Leisure Resort” of Sanya, a lot of tourism property projects are under planning, construction, and promotion, and have got great market effect. Under this situation, the tourism Property concept and style has become active. Recently, being promoted by the tourism economy and property capitals, tourism property development has entered into one flourishing era. With the continuous development of property hotels, timeshare properties, serviced apartments, and leisure villas, etc., many world-class theme parks, luxury resorts and eco-Islands, etc. are under planning and construction.

For more details on joining the event, please visit http://www.tourism-attraction.com

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Moving and settling into a college home can be stressful for both students and parents – especially if the traveling is by air rather than U-Haul.

The GO Group, LLC, the nation’s largest airport and ground transportation provider, has some pointers to make cross-country college travel easier.

“Going away to college takes planning to ease the stress and financial burden,” says John McCarthy, president of The GO Group. “Our team has uncovered a few ideas to make the move smoother.”

Suggestions include:

Lighten your load

Purchase linens, towels and other necessities in advance online and have them shipped to the student’s campus address. Many retailers, like Target, have website pages devoted to college furnishings. And if family members are visiting during the fall semester, don’t move the student’s winter clothing until then. Removing the bulkier items from the initial move frees space in moving boxes, suitcases and cars.

Seek out cheaper airfare

According to independenttraveler.com, passengers will find the best airfare deals by booking early or late and by being flexible with travel dates. Since airline prices tend to be cheapest on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday, try to plan the student’s move-in day around cheaper tickets. The travel tip site further suggests using discount airlines (like JetBlue or Southwest) and monitoring travel sites for discounts.

Share rides between airport and campus

Once on the ground, public transportation can be unreliable and taxis are pricey, making it tricky to get from the airport to campus. Shared ride van services are available at most airports, so look for signs near the baggage claim area to point you in the right direction.

Ask for help!

Other than school-specific forums, a few sites, like www.collegeconfidential.com, connect parents and students with questions to others who may be able to help.

The GO Group, LLC, launched in August 2007 as a convenient, one-stop source for door-to-door airport shuttle services, also serves some 60 airports in North America, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe, transporting more than 13 million passengers per year. Travelers can book ground transportation to and from both departure and destination airports through GO’s website, www.goairportshuttle.com.

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Whether it’s the soothing sound of waves on the beach or the noisy exploration of new business opportunities, travel is back this year, as evidenced by six consecutive months of increasing airline revenues.  And women are leading the way. Women now make 70 percent of all travel decisions and comprise more than half of all business travelers. With this leadership role, the inconveniences women deal with while traveling are on the rise as well.

A recent online survey of approximately 1,400 women conducted by the makers of GoGirl, a silicone device that allows women to go to the bathroom standing up, uncovered that finding adequate restrooms was the top travel inconvenience for women, followed by travel delays and navigating unfamiliar territory.

“As women take the lead in travel, our needs are beginning to be heard,” says Sarah Dillon, avid traveler and president of GoGirl. “We don’t have to settle for the travel hassles that we currently face – and the solutions fit into our purses.”

The rapid integration of smart phone applications to plan itineraries, receive travel alerts and serve as boarding passes has put convenient decision-making at travelers’ fingertips. And it’s no different for finding adequate restrooms, with applications such as SitorSquat and Have2P, which locate public bathrooms close to your location.

While smart phones can help locate a lavatory, sometimes the most convenient restrooms aren’t up to par – and sometimes there’s no restroom at all. Posing a solution to these dilemmas are female urination devices, or products that enable women to go to the bathroom standing up where restrooms are unfit or nonexistent. Products of this kind have been widely used in Europe for years, but now the trend has hit the U.S. – with female travelers especially.

“An unexpected convenience, solutions like GoGirl are perfect for any bathroom emergency a woman can face. For travelers, there’s no more worrying about what kind of bathroom you’ll find or if you find one at all; for campers, there are no more soiled shoes. Even if you just want to avoid germs in places like gas stations and airports, there’s a use for these products in almost any situation,” says Dillon.

According to Chuck Weisbart, owner of It’s in the Bag! travel store in Palm Desert, Calif., GoGirl is a go-to convenience items for women travelers.

“Many of our customers do a lot of third-world travel, or go on outdoor adventures while they’re traveling,” says Chuck. “Women love GoGirl for its convenience and practicality – it weighs nothing and takes up very little space when not in use, and it’s one of those products that you’d give an arm and a leg for if you’re in a situation where you need it.”

So women, be prepared for the unexpected inconveniences during travels – because life’s greatest adventure shouldn’t be finding a restroom. For more information about GoGirl, visit www.go-girl.com

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Thousands of readers from around the world elected the Dominican Republic (DR) as the Best Value Destination, according to Budget Travel’s “Readers Choice Awards.” Budget Travel’s Editor in Chief, Nina Willdorf, stopped by NBC’s “The Today Show,” on Thursday, July 29, to announce winners of the magazine’s “Readers Choice Awards” and recognize DR as an affordable and easily-accessible destination for U.S. travelers.

The DR Minister of Tourism’s Vice Minister of International Promotion Magaly Toribio mentioned, “We are honored to be voted a ‘Best Value Destination’ by Budget Travel readers. The award is so meaningful to us because it comes from savvy travelers who have visited the DR and experienced firsthand our refreshing offerings and lively culture.  The DR Ministry of Tourism will continue to exceed expectations so that visitors can enjoy our country’s diverse eco-activities, magnificent nature, world-class beaches and sophisticated accommodations to suit every budget and taste.”

Nina Willdorf, Budget Travel editor, noted, “Budget Travel readers are always looking for affordable, exotic vacation ideas and the DR was the clear front-runner in the category for best value destination. The DR is an easy island escape that’s close to home.”

“With eight international airports, the DR is an easy, direct flight from most major U.S. gateways. With sophisticated cities, resort communities and charming towns and villages in a country with warm, friendly people, the DR is receiving accolades from many top travel organizations as a must-see destination,” Toribio added.

The Dominican Republic’s first tourist was Christopher Columbus in 1492. Rich in history, the DR has developed into a diverse destination offering both Dominican and European flavors to more than one million U.S. visitors each year. Named #1 Golf Destination in Caribbean & Latin America by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, the DR boasts 25 designer golf courses, upscale resorts, pristine nature, and sophisticated cities and quaint villages filled with warm Dominican people. The DR features the best beaches, fascinating history and culture, and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families alike. Visit the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism’s official website at: www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.

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However, since I live in the city, it isn’t very convenient for me to be on the beach whenever I would like.  It’s just so much of a hassle.  But I do grab every chance that I get to head for the beach.  If I am not with my friends, I bring the whole family with me.  It’s also a good time to catch up with each others’ lives.  Are you aware that this is actually needed in order to maintain the closeness of the family?  Why don’t you try it one day?  I would usually take charge of gathering the family members and prepare the food so that they would just have to jump in the car and enjoy the getaway.  We had been to different beaches but I have not been to South Walton.  I did hear positive feedback on it.  So it will be the next on my list.

Beaches of South Walton is enticing travelers to visit the scenic Gulf Coast destination during August and September by offering $250 gift cards good for either shopping at Silver Sands Factory Stores or for future travel on Southwest Airlines. To promote the effort, the destination launched www.250reasons.com to show visitors why they should book now.

“Beaches of South Walton is still the place to BE – the place to be inspired, to be rejuvenated, and most of all, to be rewarded,” said Dawn Moliterno, executive director of the Beaches of South Walton Tourist Development Council.  ”We know many of our loyal visitors have been concerned about the Gulf oil incident, but our 15 beach communities are open for enjoyment and we’re ready to prove it with this reward.”

Anyone who books three nights or more for a stay by September 30, 2010, will receive either a $250 gift card for shopping at Silver Sands Factory Stores, the nation’s largest designer outlet center, or for future travel on Southwest Airlines, which began service to the destination in May.

Vacationers, who travel to Beaches of South Walton August 13-15, will also be rewarded with Florida’s tax-free holiday for back-to-school items. Silver Sands offers more than 100 factory direct stores with designer merchandise at up to 75 percent off retail price. Whether guests are looking to enhance their wardrobe at stores such as Michael Kors, Juicy Couture, Kenneth Cole New York and Coach or shop for back to school at the Gap, The Children’s Place, Levi’s and Stride Rite, there is something for everyone.

“Whether you’re planning that last summer beach getaway, or are looking to finish your back-to-school shopping, this gives you plenty of reasons to travel,” said Moliterno. “August through September is a great time to visit Beaches of South Walton as the destination features a number of exciting activities, including the annual Autumn Tides celebration that begins September 1.”

Autumn Tides is a three-month celebration of the art, culture, food, and natural surroundings that make this coastal community unique. The program features a line-up of classic and new events for visitors who want to see the colors of fall in a new way.  For a full list of fall events, visit www.BeachesofSouthWalton.com.

The rewards program is good only for stays with official Beaches of South Walton lodging partners listed on the accommodations section of the destination’s website.  Gift cards will be distributed at the Beaches of South Walton Visitor Information Center to guests with a printed and dated deposit receipt, the paid receipt from their three-night stay, which includes promotional code (BSW250) and valid driver’s license.

Funding for the program is being provided through a grant from BP as part of the destination’s effort to boost late summer travel to the Gulf Coast.  For more information about Beaches of South Walton, visit www.BeachesofSouthWalton.com or contact the Visitor’s Center at (800) 822-6877 .

About Beaches of South Walton

Beaches of South Walton is a destination located along a 26-mile stretch of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast and comprised of 15 picturesque beach communities, and white sand beaches and emerald green waters for which the region is renowned.  Named as one of the Top 12 travel destinations for 2010 by Frommer’s, visitors to the destination enjoy a relaxing escape:  an upscale, yet casual, place to unwind and rejuvenate.

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Have Your Late Summer Fun At South Walton Beaches is a post from: Travel Articles

Well, this is one thing that I learned from my past experiences.  When I was in college, I entered a relationship.  Yes, we were happy together and we would often express how much we loved each other.  But, one day, my boyfriend opened up.  He told me that  he didn’t feel me reciprocating his love.  Then, he explained to me some instances that made him say this.  I had to admit that I was guilty.  I realized that he was giving me too much but I gave back much less.  However, this was resolved.  We tried to talk about it and I really gave my best to save the relationship.  By the time we graduated, we were almost always together since we were not so busy anymore with our studies.  We even decided to go on a vacation, thinking that it would help reignite the love between us.  However, things went awfully wrong which eventually caused our break up.  I do not exactly know how but the vacation served as an eye opener for both of us.  It made us realize that we really were not meant to be together.  We’re just so different in so many ways.

On the other hand, the couple who went with us gained so much benefit from that vacation.  I, personally, witnessed how sweet they were to each other each day and how much they expressed their love.  So, from that vacation, you can see  two different possible outcomes.  This just goes to show that vacations have varying effects on partners’ lives.

According to research, a commissioned survey reveals why 74% of UK households agree that holidays can change the course of their relationships.

27 million Brits are about to take their summer breaks and for many the next few months will be a pivotal time in their lives as holidays are one of the most powerful ways to help couples decide if they are in the right relationship.

According to a new survey by luxury family holidays operator, Kuoni Travel, being with a loved one 24/7 can help couples get reacquainted, with some even deciding to marry (54%), start a family (46%) or move in together (42%). However a staggering 59% decide to divorce or separate after their holiday experience.

Leading relationship councillor, Christine Webber, commented:

“It’s certainly true that you don’t know someone till you’ve been on holiday with them.  As a therapist more people come to see me for the first time after their holiday than at any other time of the year.  And it’s always about their relationship.

“The good news is that for couples who are happy together a holiday is a marvellous opportunity to reconnect.  Sharing much more intimacy than at home can really boost levels of oxytocin, which is the hormone that is responsible for us feeling bonded and content.  Years ago, I surveyed a large group of women about when they felt sexiest and 96% of them told me that they felt most fruity on holiday. Men take note.

“Sometimes though, it does the opposite.  In my view, it’s a good idea to discover these kinds of differences before buying a house together, marrying or having children. So a holiday can be seriously life changing – but in a very good way.  In a sense the holiday speeds up the inevitable split. It’s a catalyst. If a couple are going to break up, it’s not a bad thing to realise this on holiday when there are no distractions around them.”

According to the survey attitudes between men and women differ with 78% of women agreeing that holidays make or break relationships compared to 68% of men.  Younger generations were even more adamant about this statement with 81% saying it’s make or break time on a holiday.

However for those women in a lack-lustre relationship 25%, believed that a holiday might help them re-ignite passion as over a third said a break helped them get re-acquainted with their partner.

About Kuoni:

Kuoni, the luxury holiday operator, was established in 1906 in Switzerland by Alfred Kuoni, a visionary adventurer and explorer of his time who opened some of Europe’s first travel agencies. Today it has branch operations in over 40 countries and offers a wide range of holidays from Nile cruises and New York holidays through to all inclusive Thailand holidays.

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The island of St. Maarten is a unique place to visit because of not just its natural beauty but its unique mix of cultures. The beaches are the main attraction for visitors to the island. However, the most interesting aspect about St Maarten is that it is divided between two nations and has two distinct cultures, French and Dutch. St Maarten is the Dutch part which attracts quite a lot of tourists. A number of hotels and resorts on the island now offer St Maarten all inclusive packages which include the cost of accommodation, meals and a few activities and are a very economic way to plan out your travel.

A new website has just been launched- www.stmaartenallinclusive.com which is a good source of information for anyone who is planning a trip to the island. This new website offers a comprehensive guide on the island with information on its history, facts, golfing, things to do on the island, planning honeymoons and weddings on the island as well as information on St Maarten all inclusive packages that are offered by the hotels and resorts on the island. The information on the website is precise, helpful and very interesting.

Visitors who have never been to St Maarten before would find it a little difficult to plan out a trip to the island since there are just too many places to visit and many things to do. Before planning your trip to learn more about the island and get information on what you can expect while you are vacationing on the island. The website provides information about the history of the island, some interesting facts and figures, things to do on the island, golfing, honeymoons and weddings in St Maarten along with great reviews of the St Maarten all inclusive packages offered by the hotels on the island.

For visitors to find their St Maarten all inclusive packages the website provides complete information about the resorts and hotels on the island, their honest reviews and information on the kind of packages that are offered by them. This is a great way to find a holiday package that will be within your budget and would also suit all your requirements.

The website also makes it easier for couples to plan for their wedding as well as honeymoon in St Maarten. The website provides information on the St Maarten all inclusive wedding and honeymoon packages which are offered by some of the resorts on the island.

StMaartenallinclusive.com is a place to get honest, accurate and interesting information about St Maarten. The website provides information about the history, facts, things to do in St Maarten, weddings and honeymoons as well as St Maarten all inclusive packages offered by the resorts on the island.

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Family outings are always full of laughter and memories that are very much worth keeping.  Would you agree?  I have had my fair share of these during my childhood years.  We never fail to discover new beaches and resorts every summer, together with the rest of the relatives.  There was always something to look forward to when school finished for the holidays.  Really, no one was allowed to get absent from those gatherings, unless with a valid reason.  So, we were always in a large group, with three to four cars in a convoy.  Could you imagine that?  But, we always saw to it that everybody enjoyed themselves. 

But not all families are like ours. If you are a single parent and planning a holiday, search for somewhere that caters for you. In this way, you could maximize every single cent that you spend but not compromise the quality of your stay.

The Gran Caribe Cancun & Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen introduce a single parent program where kids can stay and eat free.  Why don’t you try this one?

Because families come in all shapes and sizes, Real Resorts is introducing its new Single with Kids Program beginning August 15th.  Single guests at the family friendly all-inclusive Gran Caribe Cancun and Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen can now pay a single guest suite rate and bring along one child, 12 and under, for free.  Additional children (up to four children) can share the guest suite with an adult at a special rate of only $59 USD per child per day.  Single occupancy rates start as low as $149 per night, all-inclusive, at the Gran Caribe Real in Cancun for an ocean view suite (valid through December 23, 2010) and $159 per night at the Gran Porto Real in Playa del Carmen, for an oceanfront suite (valid through October 31, 2010).

The new Single with Kids Program also includes many resort extras such as complimentary kids’ membership in the Oki Kids Club, special discounted rates of $10 per hour for private babysitting service, and family activities such as a special opportunity to dine with other single parents and kids.

The new Single with Kids Program complements the Resorts’ existing Kids Stay Free Program which offers all-inclusive family vacation packages in its Family Suites, Gran Master and Presidential Suites.  Family friendly rates are available that welcome up to three children (depending on suite category) 12 and under for free, when sharing a suite with two paying adults, and teens ages 13 to 17 receive a 40% discount when sharing a room with two paying adults. In addition the Family Suites offer bunk bed configurations for even more room and more fun!

Kids Love Oki Fun World!

Both the Gran Caribe Real Cancun, and the Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen, offer extensive children’s activities throughout the day and evening, enabling parents to have some resort time on their own.  New at the Gran Caribe Real Cancun, is the enhanced Oki Fun World. It includes activities such as water sports, arts and crafts, and the all new junior theater program where kids get to put on a show.  The kid’s club is named for the Resort’s one-of-a-kind water escape — Oki Splash – an expansive aqua park, featuring a replica of a 17th century pirate ship, a medieval castle, multiple water slides and sprays that create a fun water escape for kids and adults from six to 60.

Children staying at the Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen will also enjoy an Oki Fun World experience with beach activities and endless age appropriate activities including water sports, beach parties and crafts.  Teens at either resort have access to the T-Zone, a program and lounge in an age appropriate setting, with activities such as a poolside manicure, beach volleyball, and Wii competitions.  There is also ping-pong and the indoor video arcade.  Additional activities and amenities for families include unlimited golf greens fees (when booking the upper Gran Suite categories); a special kid’s check-in, kid’s size robes and slippers in the suites, and a complimentary Oki Kids Club T-shirt with a back pack.  When staying for a minimum of five nights in an Ocean Front suite at The Gran Caribe Real Cancun or in the Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen, families can receive a complimentary ‘swim with the dolphins’ experience for one person, valued at $140.  Additional family members can also enjoy the experience at a 50% discount.

And all this fun comes with luxury.  Recognized for its warm personal service, each of the resorts offers a wide selection of fine dining including International Buffets with Chef’s Stations, as well as gourmet dining in its selection of a la carte restaurants.  For adults there are lounges serving complimentary beverages as well as entertainment throughout the day and evening.

For more information about the Gran Caribe Real in Cancun and Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen, contact a local travel agent or Real Resorts at 800-760-0944 or online at www.RealResorts.com.

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Nevertheless, for those who are lucky enough and are now preparing for a vacation like this, let me suggest that you go on an Alaskan Cruise.  Expensive?  Definitely, most cruise vacations will cost a lot of money.  But, who cares?  If like me, you have been saving for this, then go ahead and spend freely to enjoy the fruits of your labor.  Here’s one piece of good news.  Here are a few tips to at least maximize the money that you have collected.

For Seattle area residents considering an Alaska cruise, a $400 savings could be reason to take action. That’s the benefit of living near the nation’s top embarkation port for Alaska cruises. Cruise vacations are the perfect getaway for many reasons. Options range from The Bahamas, The Caribbean, and Hawaii, to South America, and Europe. When the clouds blanket Seattle and the raindrops fall, sunshine and palm trees could be just what’s needed. But what about sunshine and the snowcapped mountains of the Last Frontier? Enter Alaska as a top cruise destination.

One of the biggest benefits of cruising from Seattle to Alaska is avoiding the airfare. While cruises to warmer destinations like The Bahamas or Caribbean are still high on the list, those destinations require a flight from Seattle and often additional hotel stays. Without the airfare, a cruise from Seattle to Alaska can be an automatic savings of at least $400. Personal Cruise Counselors Eleonor Oshitoye and Aubrey Williams of Cruise Holidays are aiming to help their Northwest neighbors take advantage of the situation. “Many people in the area still aren’t aware that Seattle is a busy cruise port”, says Williams. “While some people recall seeing cruise ships docked in Seattle, few know where they come from or where they are going”.

“In recent years, several cruise lines have initiated service from Seattle to Alaska, and the options are still growing”, explains Oshitoye. Carnival Cruise Lines provided the most recent addition; The Carnival Spirit, a 2,000+ passenger ship with a 7 day itinerary. Other cruise lines departing Seattle to Alaska include Royal Caribbean, Princess, and Norwegian Cruise Lines. For those who prefer premium and deluxe cruising options, Alaska itineraries from Seattle are also offered by Celebrity Cruises and Holland America.

June through September is the most popular time for an Alaska cruise vacation, but several cruise lines offer service from May to October. Since Alaska cruises are also popular with kids on summer vacation, the timing works great for those who choose to take them along. The July and August sailings are recommended for maximum sun and warmth, and Cruise Holidays recommends booking at least seven to nine months in advance, as availability is often limited.

Any book or website will reveal that Alaska’s beauty is absolutely breathtaking. Travelers can experience huge glaciers, lush forestry, towering mountains, and waterfront towns rich with culture. Experienced Alaska cruisers often refer to the calving glaciers as one of the best sightings, so prepare yourself to be in awe! If you’re lucky, that loud noise you’ll hear is the sound of enormous glaciers splitting off and crashing into the water.

While Cruise Holidays doesn’t focus entirely on cheap cruises, they are committed to helping their customers plan quality cruises that offer maximum value. According to Williams, “ads boasting cheap cruises and low-priced cruise deals are not always the best value. Experienced cruisers know to focus on value by getting the most included in the price they pay”, says Williams, as cruises might or might not include personal cruise consulting, onboard ship credits, cabin upgrades, travel insurance, and other important features.

For 26 years, Cruise Holidays’ team of professional counselors has helped match clients with the perfect cruise and tour packages. As personal cruise experts, Aubrey Williams and Eleonor Oshitoye welcome the opportunity to help clients navigate the complexities of planning their cruise vacation. Whether the cruise destination is Alaska, The Caribbean, Europe, or Mexico, clients are in good hands with Cruise Holidays. For more information on personal cruises, group cruises, and corporate meetings at sea, visit Williams’ and Oshitoye’s Cruise Holidays site online at http://www.elitecruisevacations.com/

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Speaking of discovering a new place, I remember going to the beach with my love, on a particular summer.  Allow me to share this short story.  It was only the two of us yet it was totally fun!  We went to an island and stayed there for a few hours.  Then, there was a rest house at the top of a big rock which we climbed and the view from there was simply majestic!  Together, we appreciated the beauty of nature.  That was really one unforgettable moment.  Would you agree with me if I say, it matters a lot who you are with when you go to a new place?  Well, it definitely holds true for me.  I believe no matter how beautiful the place is, you would always long for that person whom you want to be there with.  In that getaway, I really cherished every moment, from the time we prepared our foods up to the time we went home.  Try a simple getaway like this, just to spend quality time with each other.

Going back to New York, it has been known as the city that never sleeps.  Indeed, streets are never isolated because of people who simply adore the whole place.  It is alive 24/7.  New York can cater to the desires of young adults to the old ones, from shopaholics to scenic spot lovers and from day persons to nocturnal people.

New York City is buzzing with a multicultural vibe making it a popular Virgin Holidays destination.  New York holidays can be inspiring as travelers are bombarded with internationally known symbols from the Empire State building to Broadway to Times Square. It is a challenge to see everything on offer in this huge city with its many different neighborhoods.

Along with the informative bus tours there are some more glitzy ways to see the city; why not take a helicopter ride over the Statue of Liberty or for those less inclined to heights, step aboard a swish cruise boat. Stunning vistas of the city are available from the Empire State Building and the Rockefeller centre and are a must for the first time visitor. Broadway shows are a brilliant night out for anyone on a New York City break with shows ranging from the spectacular family friendly “Lion King” to the raunchy “Chicago.” Virgin Holidays New York hotels are situated on the fashionable Manhattan Island home to locations frequently seen in “Sex and the City” and “Gossip Girl.”

Holidays to New York are full of new experiences and Virgin Holidays help alleviate stress by providing customers with the opportunity to purchase tickets to shows and activities prior to departure. As part of Virgin Holiday’s Rockstar service, they provide:

• A welcome briefing on arrival to New York
• Discount cards for Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Woodbury common Premium Outlets and Planet Hollywood, shop till you drop.

So, hurry!  Book your next vacation to New York.  You surely wouldn’t want to miss all these:

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Go All The Way To Explore New York City is a post from: Travel Articles

I know of someone who hasn’t married yet and has been living with her pet for years.  Do you also live a life like this?  As for her, she doesn’t feel alone because of the pet.  It adores her very much that it always runs after her and wiggles its tail each time she arrives home.  Isn’t that sweet?  There would always be someone (I mean, something, since it’s a dog) who would not get tired and would always excitedly rush to you when you go back home.  It could even help relieve all the day’s exhaustion.  She considers it as her own child to the point that she even sleeps beside it.  The dog has been provided its own insurance, cute and preppy clothes, and it receives almost half of the owner’s income.  Just imagine that!  She is like spending for a family already.  However, she doesn’t mind this anymore especially since that pet is making her feel important and giving her what she doesn’t have right now – a family of her own.

With this kind of relationship, most owners would not even think twice in bringing their pets along, even in air travel, and letting it stroll in a pet-friendly environment which could promote exercise, at the same time.  Ireland, for example.  And, I would like to share with you a few tips to pamper your pets a little bit more.

• Dog friendly holidays of all kinds available in Ireland – from five star to rustic
• Take your dog abroad on the ferry – no passport or quarantine when you travel to Ireland. There’s also no charge for your pet on many ferries.
• Discover Ireland’s beautiful beaches where dogs are welcomed

Are you aware that dog activity holidays are increasingly popular with Brits according to the Dogs Trust?  Clarissa Baldwin, Dogs Trust CEO, says: “We’re lucky to have this great, dog-friendly destination on our doorstep. Dogs love a change of scenery just as much as their owners and I think Ireland makes a wonderful holiday destination for them. They don’t need a pet passport, ferry transfers are quick and easy and the stunning countryside and coasts are every holidaying hound’s dream! Our top tip is to make sure you do your research before you go and check the beach is dog-friendly.”

Holidaying in Ireland with your pet is easy by ferry.  Your pet can either remain in your car (which is free) or spend the journey in one of the on-board kennels so you can visit if necessary. It’s easy on the pocket too with prices starting at a mere euro 20 to add a dog kennel to your ferry travel arrangements.

Once in Ireland, there are numerous hotels and B&Bs which welcome dogs, such as Rathmullan House in Donegal who have a special doggie hotel room or The Twelve in Galway, where your pet can stay in luxury surroundings.  B&B Ireland has over 150 members who accept pets into their homes all over the country. See www.bandbireland.com for more details.

Ireland is also renowned for its beautiful scenery, with breathtaking views. When choosing where to go for walks or days out with your dog, take your pick from expansive beaches to imposing mountains, alongside pet-friendly national parks.

You can also meet other pet owners.  Why not enter your dog in the Bantry pet races on Friday nights in July and August? Or head to the Sunday market in the Peace Park in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin where a wide range of pooches meet up!

Here are some top events for dogs in which your pet can join:

Agricultural shows are a great day out. You can bring your dog and even enter them in competitions with the locals

Also, travelling to Ireland by sea this summer is plain sailing with 15 ferry routes from Britain to Ireland and 277 crossings each way every week. You can be there in as little as 90 minutes so you can begin your holiday straight away and start soaking up the Irish culture.

Whatever you choose to do and wherever you choose to stay, Ireland has a holiday which the whole family will enjoy!  So get packing, and don’t forget to pack the dog biscuits!

Getting there and around:

There are 15 sea routes from Britain to Ireland. Most of the major car hire companies have desks at ferry terminals at cities across Ireland.  For further information on these plus bus and train services in Ireland visit the Discover Ireland website.

Crossings to Ireland from the UK are operated by Stena Line, Irish Ferries, Isle of Man Steam Packet, Norfolkline Irish Sea, P&O Irish Sea and Fastnet Line

Pieces Of Information About Discover Ireland:

Discover Ireland is the body that welcomes visitors to Ireland and encourages them to “go where Ireland takes you.” The Discover Ireland website and phoneline offer a wealth of information and support for tourists who wish to visit Ireland.

Visit our website for more info on dog friendly holidays in Ireland.

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Unfortunately, I have.  It really made that trip an unforgettable experience.  As we were about to go to the airport, something came up.  A relative asked me to buy her a signature bag.  Thinking that we could get back in time, my mom agreed to have that last minute shop.  True enough, we really had enough time.   But, what we failed to foresee was the tons of people that could be at the immigration.  When we arrived, there were already a lot who were patiently waiting for their turn to cross the border.  We were really holding on to our hope that we could still catch our flight, until it was only about half an hour before the plane was due to depart.  So, it happened.  We missed the flight.  We just had to catch the next flight the following morning.  The sad news was, the credit card was not being accepted anymore.  It had already reached its limit.  Good thing was that the money left inside my mom’s wallet was just enough to buy four tickets for us.  Then, we were out of cash in a foreign land.  There was no more hope.

Since there wasn’t a single penny for a hotel accommodation anymore, we had no choice but to stay at the airport and wait for dawn.  It was freezing cold inside but I was really exhausted and so I was put to sleep.  Yes, I slept on a chair.  It never occurred to me that we could get ourselves in that kind of situation.  We even experienced being stared at by airport marshals as if we were scavengers.  Oh, that instance was really a shame.

That trip became twice as expensive because of the replacement tickets that we had to buy all at once.  We got a lot of lessons from that experience.  Imagine, there were four tickets unused and we wasted a lot of money because of that.  To avoid too much wasting of money like this, it is good to know that travelers can now sell their unused travel tickets on the first on-line travel marketplace http://www.re-ticket.com.

Market research shows that over 10% of the travelers do not use their ticket for a variety of reasons, such as sickness, unexpected exams, divorce and so on.  By offering this free of charge marketplace, Re-ticket.com provides a unique platform to help these travelers selling their tickets to other travelers.

Many travel agents and airline companies tell their clients that tickets are not transferable, therefore travelers are forced to buy a new ticket. However, about 40% of the airline tickets are transferable, even train and bus tickets. By filling in the flight number on the website, the Re-ticket system checks whether the ticket is transferable or not. It’s as simple as that!

Airport tax refund

Unfortunately not all airline tickets are transferable, but even for those travelers Re-ticket.com has a cost saving solution. Via the Re-fund service (http://www.re-ticket.com/en/tickets/claim-step1.html), airline passengers are able to request a refund for the taxes and charges. Most airlines tell their clients that their tickets are non-refundable, which might be only half true! One of the components of a flight ticket are airport taxes. A traveler who did not use his ticket is entitled to get a refund for this airport tax. Re-ticket.com has been able to refund 50 USD, or even more per ticket.

Airline companies do not inform their passengers on purpose about this, it is a huge cash cow for them. Normally, the airline has to pay these taxes for departure or arriving on an airport, but if the passenger is not showing up, they keep the money for themselves. At major European airports, airlines already earn about 50.000 USD per day with these taxes. The average passenger is not aware of this and they do not ask for a refund. Luckily http://www.re-ticket.com can help passengers with this.

Re-ticket.com was founded by 27 year old Gregor van der Made. He has been living in Madrid as well as in Buenos Aires In 2008 he returned to Amsterdam where he graduated summa cum laude in Economics.  With the business plan of Re-ticket.com, he won the 2008 edition of the ABN AMRO Bank Summerschool Entrepreneurship in Amsterdam.

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Sell Your Unused Plane Tickets Now is a post from: Travel Articles

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