Monday 25 February 2008

Why You Should Rent A Holiday Home In Corfu

A holiday cottage in Corfu provides you with the chance to explore what this island that is in the Ionian Sea has to offer. Of all the Islands to be found here off the Greek coast this is the second largest and is one of the greenest as well.



On it, there grows more than 3 million olive trees and the oil from these is one of the main exports from the island. However, tourism is also important to the island and many people come to it in order to spend time of some of the most beautiful beaches to be found in this part of the world. Yet for those who do crave a little excitement during their holiday this ideally has plenty for one to do and also some great nightlife as well.



As one tours the island, you will soon discover that you are spoilt for choice when it comes to, selecting which of the many different beaches it is you wish to spend time at. Below we take a look at some of the beaches on offer on this island and where they are located.



1. Arillas Beach - You can easily find this beach and will be astounded by its beauty when you reach it. Because this beach lies within a natural rock, formation carved from the sea it is well protected against the winds that comes in to it.



2. Agios Gordis Beach - This beach is only 35 minutes from Corfu town and is one of the longest that the island has to offer. However, you need to be aware that during the high season, this one can quickly become populated and is the most commercialized of all the beaches on the island. Around the perimeter you will find hotels, restaurants and bars that, you can avail of and there is also a regular bus service provided from Corfu town to it.



3. Barbati Beach - This particular beach is around 13 miles (21km) from Corfu's capital close to the town of Nissaki. This beach has attained a blue flag award, which means that it is well maintained and kept clean. Plus like many of the beaches if you want there are umbrellas and sun beds that can be hired to make your time relaxing on this beach more enjoyable.



4. Gialiskari Beach - This is one of the few beaches where tourism has taken over in fact this is quite a secluded one. Yet there are places where you can get food and drink whilst relaxing by the water's edge if you need to.



Along with the beaches, we have mentioned above there are plenty of other ones to consider visiting. So after settling into your holiday cottage in Corfu you should take some time to study a few maps and look at what beaches you can visit which are close to where you are staying.




There are a wide variety of holiday villas in Corfu which you can rent straight from the owner which will be cheaper than using a travel agent. Also take a look at these holiday cottages in other areas which you can choose from.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Woodward
http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-You-Should-Rent-A-Holiday-Home-In-Corfu&id=999580

Sunday 24 February 2008

Outdoor Hammocks - Camping Benefits and Styles

Outdoor hammocks have a traditional way of bringing us closer to nature. Invented by the Mayans, they have existed for thousands of years.



Camping

Hammocks are lighter than carrying a tent and foam pad. They take a lot less time to set up as well. It only takes a few minutes to tie the hammock to a tree. You can put your camp just about anywhere. You don't need to find a flat spot that doesn't have rocks or bumps. No need to worry about a full campsite either.



The comfort is superb. It's good enough that a lot of people are replacing their home bed with a hammock. You get gentle soothing movement not available in a regular bed. In addition, hammocks don't have the pressure points that a regular bed has. This means less tossing and turning. In fact, most people sleep longer when they use a hammock.



Styles

The most popular style is a white cotton rope hammock with spreader bars. This type of hammock is comfortable and durable, but not great for being portable. Fabric hammocks are the most comfortable. You have absolutely no pressure points. The hammock truly fits you like a glove. They are not as durable or as stylish as the rope hammock.



Double hammocks are for two people and are ideal for the patio.




Final Tip

If you don't have trees or posts to hang your hammock, consider a hammock stand. They come in metal and wood. Wood is more elegant and metal is less expensive and lighter to move.




For further information, please visit Outdoor Hammocks



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kristy_Snow
http://EzineArticles.com/?Outdoor-Hammocks---Camping-Benefits-and-Styles&id=999518

Friday 22 February 2008

How to Sail a Boat - The Basics and Sail Control

How to Sail a Boat - The Basics and Sail Control
By Andre Sanchez




Once you have learned how to sail a boat, you will be able to have fabulous vacations by hiring boats and sailing them on the different types of sea and lake both in your own country and abroad. Like bicycle riding, it is something that you never forget, but each class of sailing boat is different, and you should first learn the basics about the wind and sails.



In addition to driving the boat forward, the wind can also drive it sideways, can cause it to turn and also to roll over! The technical term for this is 'heeling over'. It is how these effects are handled using the sails and their position, and the rudder, that makes the difference between sailors. Good sailors can use wind from practically any direction to move the boat in any way they desire.



The normal way to prevent a boat from turning over is to add weight to the bottom, or keel, or to construct a boat with a broad base, so that no part of the boat can turn past its center of gravity. Once this occurs the boat will turn over. Some boats are designed so that the crew can place their weight outside the center of gravity opposite to the direction the wind wants to topple it. This again helps to shift the center of gravity of the boat.



There are two terms that the beginner must learn to understand. First, each sail has its own 'center of effort'. That is the geometric center of the total area of the sail. The other term is the 'center of lateral resistance'. This is the geometric center of the profile of the boat under water. In order for there to be a proper balance in the boat, the center of effort should lead the center of lateral resistance by a certain amount that depends on a number of factors, including the hull shape and the design of the total sail plan.



The CE can be changed by making changes to the amount of forward and after canvasses, and the CLR changed by altering the ballast, or weight in the hull. This is normally done according to the amount of wind and its direction.



Another important factor for the new sailor to keep in mind is that when the rudder is used to turn a boat, the boat is actually rotating on a pivot. This turning point is generally well forward of the center of the boat, and if you delay too long in turning the boat, the stern will come round much farther than you would expect and collide with another boat if you leave it too long.



Knowledge of these aspects of sailing will come with experience, as will the best direction of wind. Although you might think that a wind coming from directly behind you would be best, in fact that is not the case. A boat can be very difficult to handle with this type of wind, and it is better if it is coming across the boat. Again, this comes with experience, and while textbook learning is useful to a certain extent, the only real way to learn how to sail is to get out and learn with an experienced sailor.



The best place to sit is with the wind at your back - this is called upwind - and just in front of the tiller. If the boat tends to heel over with the wind, you can bend back and get your weight farther outboard. Your forward hand, or that nearest the bow, should be used to hold the mainsheet, or rope, and the back hand the tiller. The tiller itself should be used as little as possible, and pushing it away from you turns it into the wind, and towards you turns the boat away from the wind.



You use the mainsheet to keep the sail operating properly. If it starts to flutter, or 'luff', you should pull it in until stops luffing. You should never pull a sail too tight or it will lose driving power. It should be just tight enough to stop luffing. If you are unsure how tight a sail is, let it out until it starts to luff, and then slightly adjust the trim to stop it. You will have to do this each time you change course, or the wind changes direction.



There are directions in which you cannot sail because the boat will be in the wrong direction for the wind. If your boat stops while it is pointing into the wind, then you should push the sale forward and reverse the rudder. Then let the sail out till it catches the wind, after which you can trim it properly and start sailing again. If you are sailing into the wind, you will have to tack the boat in the direction closest to the wind that you can sail, which is about 35 degrees. You will then have to tack to the other side of the wind to make progress in the direction that you want to go.



Doing this with the wind behind you is called jibing, which is done slightly differently since the boat will be moving at almost full power with the wind behind. You have to do this because you will not find it easy to sail with the wind directly behind you. Tacking and jibing are specific skills that you will learn while sailing, and are the subject of another article.




How to Sail a Boat: The Basics and Sail Control was originally published at http://www.globallifenow.com



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andre_Sanchez
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Sail-a-Boat---The-Basics-and-Sail-Control&id=956915

Thursday 21 February 2008

How to Research and Book a Cruise Vacation

If you're planning a cruise, there are eight key questions you need to ask yourself before you even begin to book. Keep reading to learn what these eight questions are and how to research and book the best cruise vacation for you.



1. Who's Going?



Depending on the age of your travelers and whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family fun free-for-all is going to have a defining impact on the type of cruise you choose.



By determining well in advance who will be going, you can really narrow down the choices.



2. What's Your Budget?



Setting a budget in advance will help you plan how much you spend and the type of cruise vacation that you can afford. A typical cruise vacation costs about $100-$300 per day per person, excluding airfare.



Booking early, booking last minute or being willing to take an inside cabin are ways you can save money on your cruise. Inside cabins do not have a window view of the ocean.



3. How Much Time do You Have?



Knowing how much vacation you have will help you narrow down your cruise choices. For example, if you only have 5 vacation days available, you won't be indulging in that 3-week adventure up the coast of East Africa.



Typically, a week's vacation allows for a solid 5-7 day cruise in the Caribbean. It can also work depending where you are in North America, Hawaii, Alaska, Europe and even the South Pacific.



4. When Do You Want to Travel?



Having a rough idea of when you want to go will help you focus on specific sailing times and even destinations. For example, Alaska cruises only operate during the five summer months.



5. Where Do You Want to Go?



From Africa to the Caribbean to the South Pacific, cruises travel all over the world. If you know, for example, you want to explore the cities of the Mediterranean, you'll be able to focus your search on Mediterranean cruises.



6. What Activities Do You Like?



For every taste, there's a cruise ship that caters to it. From wine tasters to extreme athletes, there are cruises designed specifically for you - you just have to determine your interest.



7. Do You Like Structure?



Some cruise ships have set dining times, ranging from as early as 6:00 p.m. to as late as 9:00 p.m. Others offer freestyle service which allows you to eat when you please.



8. Do You Enjoy Formal Wear?



Before you book a luxury cruise that offers formal dining every night, ask yourself if you're ready to pack your tuxedo. Whether you want to dress up for dinner every night, just a few nights or not at all, there's a cruise for you. Just be sure to research your options before you purchase.




For information on practical travel cruise recommendations, please visit http://www.travel-cruise-adventures.com, a popular site providing great insights concerning help with cruise line and location ideas, such as Holland America Cruise Lines, Crystal Cruise Lines, and many more!



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Stewart
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Research-and-Book-a-Cruise-Vacation&id=995530

Tuesday 19 February 2008

Start Looking For Your Next Great UK Holidays

Summer seems so far away that many people leave their holiday plans to the last minute when they have hardly any time left to make an informed decision and the end result is a not very well organised vacation. With the cold weather here and not much sign of any sunshine this is indeed a great time to start looking out for a variety of summer holiday destinations to cheer up that winter mood. The months pass quickly and often the best places are almost fully booked by the beginning of summer. Have a think about your next holiday and what you would like to gain from the experience. The more thought and planning that go into the decision the better it may well turn out to be for all the family.



A UK holiday offers somewhere peaceful and relaxing to unwind if you choose the right place. You can get away from the city noise and pollution and unwind in luxury style in Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly. Perfect choices for the boating enthusiast with plenty of rental options available from a basic sailing dingy right up to a super fast power boat. If that sounds a bit too energetic then why not consider a walking or painting holiday where you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the natural, unspoilt, wildlife of the area. There are ample opportunities for the budding photographer to snap the rare delights of the birds or the beautiful rolling landscapes that make the Isles of Scilly a well known holiday choice to the many visitors that return there every year.



Have a look at a map of the UK and do some further investigation on the Internet to discover some of the special offers available to the discerning traveller. If you have never spent a holiday in the UK then you are truly missing out on a splendid experience and a most relaxing time. There are many choices of self catering holiday cottages that have been brought completely up to date with modern conveniences ranging through to luxury hotel accommodation with the very best amenities. Whatever you decide make sure that you investigate the many opportunities that the UK has to offer for holidaymakers. The summer season is not too far away now so start looking for a great offer before all the best places are fully booked. Enjoy your next holiday and make sure that you unwind in style wherever you decide to go.




For further reading see the site Tresco for your cornwall cottage holiday and here for your uk holidays and here for a luxury hotel cornwall where you can enjoy a traditional Cornwall holiday in style!



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Henderson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Start-Looking-For-Your-Next-Great-UK-Holidays&id=995463

Monday 18 February 2008

Italian Historical Architecture

Italy is a magical country to visit and spend time; every region has something new to offer whether it is its food, the people, the history or its architecture. Its architecture is unsurpassed in Europe, historically Italy has everything and this shows within its architecture.



To many people the architecture of a country is it's main attraction and this could easily be said about Italy with it's millennia old stones, sumptuous remains of mysterious Etruscan kings, witnesses to ancient pagan rites, memorials to a history whose origins is lost in the mists of time. Ancient temples that have stood for thousands of years and have amazed all those who run a hand over their immortal columns, such as the temples of Agrigento and Selinunte. Entire cities that remain like some marvelous stage set to tell us about life as it was in the distant past. A life cut short, in ancient days, by the dramatic whim of a volcano, such as Pompeii and Herculaneum, or by the implacable advance of malaria, as in Ostia Antica and Paestum. Walls and buildings that have been witness to a boundless power, that of ancient Rome and its countless conquests. Places still capable of moving us deeply owing to the ingenuity of their construction and the peerless historical heritage that they embody.



Italy has a wealth of religious architecture, towers and churches launched towards the sky. Striking spires, dainty cupolas, artistic facades, and bell towers jutting up towards the blue sky and towards an Italian heaven, mysterious naves that guard artistic masterpieces ancient and modern. Visit any Italian city, town or village and you will see churches everywhere, guardians of and witnesses to a faith thousands of years old and then tiny chapels on the mountain tops, solitary shrines on street corners, statues and frescoes for the protection of the home.



Small signs of popular devotion that stand as corollaries to the magnificence of the cathedrals. Italy loves religious architecture. A series of masterpieces that tell the entire story of western architecture: from the elegant Romanesque forms of Santa Maria all' Aquila to the fanciful Gothic spires of the beautiful Cathedral in Milan, from the perfect example of Renaissance architecture in Florence Cathedral to the baroque wonder of Lecce Cathedral. Each one with its trusty bell-tower at its side to announce its presence; including the most famous one in the world: the Leaning Tower of Pisa.



Italian squares or piazzas that seem to be picture perfect stage sets all complete with outdoor cafes to enable you to sit and watch the world un-fold in front of you. Buildings that were created to enchant and impress visiting dignities from an age gone by with luscious façades and interiors that house unimaginable riches and art treasures now have the same effect on those tourists visiting Italy. Towers constructed to bear witness to power that now regale unforgettable panoramas to those bold enough to climb to the top.



Streets resembling open-air museums. Bridges that create seem-less bonds between the banks of rivers such as the Rialto in Venice or Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Walls originally designed to defend a city have later been turned into wonderfully imposing rings that have been giving communities a sense of security for centuries.



Ample flights of steps from which to savor the spectacle of a city's life. The taste for beauty is all pervasive, from the tiny village, to the old town, to cities great and small. Beauty touches every nook, every vista, everything. The ancient Italians left a world of elegant architecture and monuments behind for future generations to stare in amazement at.




I try to pass on my musings on life and experiences in a way that people may find interesting to read.



http://www.cookery-school-italy.com



You may not always agree with my writings but I hope to inform.

Harwood E Woodpecker



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harwood_E_Woodpecker
http://EzineArticles.com/?Italian-Historical-Architecture&id=993658

Sunday 17 February 2008

Shopping, Whitby Style

Venture down some of Whitby's old cobbled streets and you will find a few surprises. Traditional pubs, cosy cafes and some unusual shops await. It's very easy to spend a whole day exploring the wide variety of shops and eateries (is that a real word?) to be found in this historic, quaint town on the Yorkshire Coast.



Gothic visitors will love the clothes shops where you can buy everything from black (surprise!) leather coats, trousers and shoes to jewellery and Victorian costumes.



Whether it's Sandgate's traditional sweetshop - its walls lined with jars full of sweets - or Whitby's last remaining smokehouse, offering fresh kippers, you will find some unexpected treats in the old town. The Fortune family's smokehouse can be found at the end of a row of fishermen's' cottages on Henrietta street, within sight and sound of the harbour.



Other retail attractions in Whitby include Justin's Dracula-themed fudge shop, where you can treat yourself to Dracula's Dream, Captain Cook's Rum & Raisin or perhaps a man-sized Cannonball. All Justin's chocolates and fudges are made on the premises with top-quality ingredients and his Church Street shop is definitely worth a visit, should you be nearby.



The music-lover is catered for with a few shops selling unusual CDs that you don't see very often (I've spent a fortune in one of them!) - lots of folk music on acid!



The market in the old town is great in Winter (especially towards Christmas time) and, if you've eaten too much and feel guilty, there's even a great shop that sells herbs, essential oils and diverse potions to get your system back on track!



Why not give Whitby shopping a try? I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.




Alan Moore invites you to join his free email newsletter The Whitby Bite: http://www.dracula-in-whitby.com/whitby-bite.html where you can learn more about the real Dracula and his connection to Whitby, Yorkshire's unique vampire town.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Moore
http://EzineArticles.com/?Shopping,-Whitby-Style&id=802214

Around Whitby - The North Yorkshire Moors

For those visitors who decide to venture into the wilds of North Yorkshire and the rugged coastline near Whitby, you must remember that this whole area is perfect for a holiday. Travel a few miles inland from the coast and there's whole world to explore and, I think, some of the best scenery in the whole of the UK. Quite a claim, I hear you say!



Even the most die-hard beach lover or sea fisherman should not come to Whitby without exploring a little of the unique countryside that surrounds it. Whitby lies on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors, a unique national park containing more than 2,300kms of paths and tracks. The Moors provide a true opportunity to get away from it all, with their rugged landscape of purple heather, hidden valleys and panoramic views.



Those looking to stay close to the coast can enjoy the Cleveland Way, a path running the length of the North Yorkshire coast - although several days walk in its entirety, it is split into shorter lengths that can easily be managed in a comfortable walk, and which form part of a convenient circular route, bringing you back to where you started.



Those of a more adventurous bent might like to take the Moorsbus from Whitby out into the heart of the moors and start their walking from there. The Moorsbus is a service organised by the National Park which runs small buses to every corner of the moors - a much easier way to explore than in a car, especially in peak season when parking is often very difficult or prohibited.




Alan Moore invites you to join his free email newsletter The Whitby Bite: http://www.dracula-in-whitby.com/whitby-bite.html where you can learn more about the real Dracula and his connection to Whitby, Yorkshire's unique vampire town.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Moore
http://EzineArticles.com/?Around-Whitby---The-North-Yorkshire-Moors&id=802301

Friday 8 February 2008

Sunny Outlook For Spain's Sunshine Coast

This year's World Travel Market at London's Excel Exhibition Centre in November not only drew record crowds, but one of the most popular stands was that of the Andalucia Tourist Board.



The four day event, which hosted 5402 exhibitors from over 200 regions and countries attracted visitors from every corner of the world, with numbers up by 2 per cent on last year's event according to WTM Chairman Fiona Jeffery.



One new exhibitor was the city of Cadiz, famous for its dome-silhouetted skyline that doubled as Havana in the James Bond movie 'Live and Let Die', and Gibraltar, which recently launched a new tourism marketing campaign, was at Excel after a few years' absence.



The mood at the Andalucia and Costa del Sol stands was particularly buoyant. The Spanish Tourist Board announced that the British are not only visiting Spain more frequently, they are exploring less commercial areas such as inland Andalucia, or cultural destinations such as Cordoba and Granada. Almost half of visitors said they visit Spain to experience the culture as well as its beaches.



Britons are also spending more per capita while on holiday, music to the ears of the restaurant and hotel owners for whom 2007 turned out to be a bumper year with room occupancy rates up by over 5 per cent compared to 2006.



Resort developers like Club La Costa Resorts & Hotels are forecasting even better figures for 2008. To accommodate the increased demand for Spanish holidays, Club La Costa is expanding its flagship resort, California Beach in Mijas Costa. The company recently announced plans to open a 215-suite deluxe hotel overlooking the beach in 2009. The California Beach Hotel and Residences will offer an exceptional range of facilities, including one of the largest health spas in Spain, an al fresco live entertainment venue, restaurants, cafes, bars and boutiques, landscaped gardens and pools, 24-hr concierge/reception and security and sea and mountain views from every suite.



The location is ideal, just 20 minutes from Malaga airport, 15 minutes from Marbella and just 5 minutes from the new Miramar Shopping Centre nearby where shoppers will find numerous cafes, restaurants, a multi-screen cinema (showing English language films), supermarket, boutiques and home furnishing retailers.



With over 9 top class golf courses including championship course La Cala within a ten minute radius, the hotel is just minutes from Golf Valley which has one of the highest concentrations of courses anywhere on the Costa del Sol. The California Beach Hotel will be near the yacht marinas at Fuengirola and Cabopino, and for racing fans the Hippodrome, which has day and floodlit evening meets, is a short drive away.



Membership of Club La Costa, one of Europe's leading resort developers since 1984, rose by over 10 per cent during the summer months and Richard Fletcher, Resort Director, expects 2008 to be even busier.



'Spain has always been a popular destination but we've had an exceptionally busy summer. As part of our expansion plans we are building a number of new resorts in Europe, including California Golf, in southern Tenerife, and a number of new projects in Spain, the new hotel and holiday homes. We're also moving into Turkey with an exciting project, the Adonis, near Bodrum which is a special development of modern townhomes with a virgin beach adjacent surrounded by beautiful natural parkland.'



Despite the hotels options the Costa del Sol offers, Britons are moving towards timeshare, recognising it as a holiday 'investment' compared to paying for hotel rooms and one of the main reasons is value for money. Club La Costa's interior-designed apartment suites such as Santa Cruz Suites in Spain sleep up to 6 people. Guests have numerous facilities on their doorstep - including private Jacuzzis - which most private self-catering apartments or hotels don't have.



Richard Fletcher adds: 'Our members like the fact that almost everything is onsite - restaurants, live entertainment, children's entertainment, fitness facilities, our own medical clinic affiliated to Xanit Hospital - one of the best in Andalucia - concierge service and more. Families can relax in the sun with all the comforts of home - space, luxury and excellent service - at a fraction of the cost of a luxury category hotel room.'



While the Andalucian government's '2020' plan intends to keep Spain on top of the international tourist destination ratings by offering even more quality leisure facilities, companies in the private sector like Club La Costa are also investing in the Costa del Sol as a long-term, hard to beat tourist favourite. With the UK still Spain's biggest market, expectations are that the number of visitors to the region will rise by another 5 per cent in 2008, a conservative estimate according to some hoteliers.



The Andalucian Tourist Board's ad campaign strapline is: 'Andalucia te quiere' (Andalucia loves you) and, it seems, the feeling is mutual. The British love affair with the Costa del Sol is back.




Richard Fletcher has worked for Club La Costa Resorts & Hotels for the past fourteen years as Resorts Management Director, overseeing the running of 22 resorts in the UK, Spain, Austria and Tenerife. He worked in hotel management in England from 1966 until his arrival in Spain in 1984 and operated resorts in Tenerife, Mallorca, Portugal and Marbella prior to joining Club La Costa.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Fletcher
http://EzineArticles.com/?Sunny-Outlook-For-Spains-Sunshine-Coast&id=970293

How to Sell Your Timeshare for Free - Several Great Tips

So you've finally decided that it's time to let go of your timeshare. You have two basic ways by which you can sell your unit. One is to have a real estate agent handle the promotions and the actual sale. You'll have to spend for good real estate agency services, though. Logically, you're selling your property because you want to liquidate your assets. If you're not to keen on the prospect of having to spend money just to promote and sell your unit, you can do everything yourself and sell timeshare for free.



Word of mouth advertising



One good way to start selling your timeshare is by telling your friends and acquaintances about your plan. You will want to inform as many people as you can about your timeshare sale. The good thing about word-of-mouth advertising is that your friends will be able to give good referrals to your unit. They can effectively promote the good aspects of the property and attract a possible sale.



Online advertising



The Internet is a good venue for you to be able to reach a wider audience for your timeshare sale. It provides a wide variety of options through which you can sell timeshare for free. For instance, you can participate in user forums and advertise your property to those who are looking for vacation options. You're bound to come across people who are shopping for quality vacation getaway ideas.



There are also various timeshare websites where you can post your ad for free. You can get your property listed there along with pertinent information that you feel your prospective clients will want to know. Make sure to include photos of the unit as well as your contact details so prospective buyers will be able to make inquiries.



You will also want to consider setting up a website or a blog where you can promote your timeshare. There are many free webhosting options that you can try. You can post photos of the place, write about your vacation experiences or just any other general information about the area where the property is located. It's easy to convince people into buying your timeshare if you can provide a lot of reasons why the property makes for a good investment.



These are some of the many things that you can try to sell timeshare for free. In promoting your unit, be as honest as you can while trying to highlight the positive aspects of your property. Think as a buyer would and be ready to provide good answers to possible questions that customers may have.




Find out more about how to sell timeshares for free. For articles and information on selling timeshares for cash then visit http://www.selltimeshareforcash.com and learn how you can sell your timeshare today.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Max_Suther
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Sell-Your-Timeshare-for-Free---Several-Great-Tips&id=968805

Thursday 7 February 2008

Algarve

A few years ago I went on holiday to the Algarve, Albufeira no less – What a lovely laid back tourist spot, fishing boats on the beaches, fishermen mending their nets talking about the catch of the day, idyllic. The scenes have most likely unchanged since the town was nearly all destroyed in an earthquake in 1755. It was merely a fishing village then.

We spent some of the long balmy days on the beaches, enjoying the water sports and getting a tan whilst the nights were spent dining on local cuisine. – fantastic! To get away from the beaten track we went inland to cooler areas and walked amongst the flora the region has to offer, such as almond trees, fig trees, pines and orange-trees. It was great to see the locals in the villages going about their traditonal living. We were made to feel very welcome.

However that was quite a few years ago, has the area changed much? Today Albufeira has a population approaching 40,000 residents with the number of tourists visiting the Algarve swelling considerably also. In fact during 2007 the tourist population increased between 5 to 6%. The largest increases being in golf holidays. The tourism portfolio also includes activities focused on eco-tourism, and culture,

If you wish to rent a really nice holiday property in the Algarve then visit our site where you will in access of 300 properties to choose from.

If golf is your thing book your tee times online

What about the locals today? Certainly the local have not changed in there friendly ways towards tourists in general and welcome the increased income it generates. However they do expect tourist to be polite. They will help you with any questions you have and most shopkeepers speak English.

Modern Albufeira changes in the late afternoons as the sun sets giving it a unique and vibrant character. There still remains a vast amount of restaurants, bars and clubs catering for all tastes and pockets.

The good beaches remain of course with a fine selection both east and west of the town. Praia de Balaia, Praia de Castelo, Praia de Falésia, Praia de Galé, de Olhos d’Agua, Praia de Maria Luisa, and Praia de São Rafael, being the best ones.

If you get too bored with the watersports and sun worshipping you can always visit the new Virtual Archaeological Museum. Or some of the old ruins!

Bahamas Fishing Vacation

A Bahamas fishing vacation is almost as popular as a Hawaiian golf vacation, if for no other reason than the Bahamas are just as appealing to most people as the Hawaiian island. Many people love the idea of going there to fish - after all, with the weather and the great fish all there for the catching, so what else does the sporting enthusiast need to entice him?



Taking such a vacation is a great idea for everyone in the family. After all, what is more relaxing than sunning yourself out on the beautiful waters of the Bahamas while you wait to catch some great game?



Popular Fishing Spots



The two most popular fishing spots for these island vacations are Nassau/Paradise Island. Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and has lots of great sports fishing off its shores. It used to be called Charles Town but was renamed in honor of King William III of England in 1695 and now features sports fishing as well as a plethora of other fun vacation activities.



Paradise Island is connected to New Providence Island (where Nassau is located) by two bridges - the island used to be called Hog Island but when Huntington Hartford (heir to the A&P supermarket company) bought the island in 1959, he changed the name. In addition to the great fishing to be had off its shores, Paradise Island has also been home to the movies Help!, Thunderball, Holiday in the Sun and Casino Royale as well as being a honeymoon spot of choice for Friends' characters, Chandler and Monica.



Fishing Charters for your Vacation



The best way to fish your heart out on your fishing vacation in the Bahamas is to hire a charter, and there are plenty of charters ready and waiting to take you on their fantastic waters. Brown's Charters is the most highly respected charter boat company in the entire country. Brown's Charters will take the angler enthusiast for various types of fishing, including deep sea, shark, bottom dwellers and even light tackle. Another popular charter fishing company is owned by Mike Russell who is largely popular because of his "no splash no cash" policy on his charters.



There is a ton of great recreational activity to be experienced in this scenic paradise. This is a location that already attracts thousands of people annually because of its beautiful scenery and luxury that caters to those with a little money to spend. The opportunity to fish as well only serves to increase the appeal.



The Bahamas fishing vacation will be fun for the entire family - not only will you be able to catch great fish, but the site is a fantastic location for the whole family to relax, unwind and recharge!




For practical recommendations to super travel locations such as to Costa Rica, Europe and many more, please visit http://www.travel-vacation-spots.com, a popular site providing great insights concerning vacation travel opportunities!



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Miller
http://EzineArticles.com/?Bahamas-Fishing-Vacation&id=966912

Tuesday 5 February 2008

Affordable Disney Vacation - A Vacation For Kids Of All Ages

For people who have been visiting Walt Disney World almost regularly, they will have some valuable tips for others who are making their first trip to this fantasy land. If you were to ask your child where they want to go for the holidays, you will hear only one answer Walt Disney World. This is how popular the Disney World in Florida is, more than the Hawaii beaches and the San Diego Sea World, people come to Disney World to unleash the child within them and enjoy themselves and get their money's worth.



If your family has tiny tots, and children of different age groups, make sure to take their interests into consideration while planning the trip. They will each want to visit a part of the park that appeals to them, and so you better be prepared for some running around during your Walt Disney World vacation.



If there are older kids, you can let them go on the roller coaster or other jungle rides on their own while you take the tiny ones to the Fantasyland or for some fun at Mickey's Toontown Fair. They will get a chance to watch all their favorite cartoon characters come alive and play with them which will provide good photo opportunities for you so you can preserve them for later reminiscing.



The important factor to note is do not plan a holiday that is less than seven days minimum, else you wont be able to take in all the sights and adventures on offer. A place so vast, it will blow you away the minute you cross the entrance, the Disney World is every person's dream come true. And better yet, if you can grab a few discounts or park entry passes at cheaper prices. Think ahead of time, you can obtain everything at a lower price than what is offered inside the park, making it possible for those luxurious indulges inside the park.



Plan the tour in such a way that you go through Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square to the Main Street USA where you can pause to indulge in some shopping. After this, walk along to Mickey's Toontown Fair and in case your child enjoys observing the sky or reading about rockets, they will enjoy the sights on offer in the Tomorrowland.



But most of the rides have a long waiting line, and if you want to skip this, you need to come ahead of time to see if you can grab couple of Fast Passes. This pass will allow you to reserve a place, and come back when the waiting time mentioned on the ticket is up. In case you have a senior person or someone bound to a wheelchair, make sure you have kept that in mind while booking the ride. All the rides are wheelchair friendly and if not, the attendants will help get that member seated on the ride. So, the next time you plan on taking an affordable Disney vacation, keep these tips in mind.




Ian Wilkie is an author of many Affordable Disney Vacation articles related too Disney Vacation Club Destination & Disney Vacation Club Time Share and owner of - My Affordable Disney Vacation your one-stop online resource for Affordable Walt Disney World Resort Vacation information.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_Wilkie
http://EzineArticles.com/?Affordable-Disney-Vacation---A-Vacation-For-Kids-Of-All-Ages&id=967279

Sunday 3 February 2008

Make a Reservation and See More of the World

Make a Reservation and See More of the World
By Clinton N. Maxwell




When it comes to the simple definition of ecotourism, you will find that the term can be linked to Hector Ceballos-Lascurain and it allows you to focus on traveling with the earth in mind. Basically, you will be able to see the entire world, without having to worry about ruining the integrity of the area. You will also be able to benefit the world greatly through many different sides of education, but you will also find that this type of tourism will help make the culture widely known to not only the locals, but all who travels to the area. There is a sense of adventure when it comes to introducing ecotourism into a local area.



The key point to ecotourism is to learn how to travel to places of the world and see all the wonders and beauty, but also see the impact of tourism at its best. You will travel with the environment in mind and you will also keep the amount of natural resources in the back of your mind as well. You will try to aware some type of awareness to the local community and try to find ways to provide supporting financial benefits to the others so that you can stimulate the local economy. You will not only need to care about the physical aspect of the land, but the plants, animals, and humans that use the land or area for their shelter and home.



A lot of people feel that when it comes to ecotourism, you will need to become "enlightened" and you will end up participating in experiences that are once in a lifetime opportunities, however, you will find hat it is great to be able to travel country to country, but it is just as okay to see some of the most stunning sights from the comfort of your home. A lot of people will help out by not taking any action other than signing a check. You will find that the money that is invested in the trip will help the community to reserve some of their natural resources and it will also benefit the people greatly.



Our society needs to open up the eyes and try to become aware of all the needs of the local communities and how they can help to preserve the integrity of the earth. It is not something that just one person will need to do, but a community at a whole is the only way that you can make a change. Everyone counts when it comes to eco-tourism.




Concentrating on latest news in tourist news for alicante, the columnist writes articles essentially for http://www.alicante-spain.com . His observations on spain and alicante can be found on his online publications .



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Clinton_N._Maxwell
http://EzineArticles.com/?Make-a-Reservation-and-See-More-of-the-World&id=958870

How To Book Your Vacation Home In The BVI The Best Way

Let me start out by saying that booking your BVI [British Virgin Islands] Vacation Home does not have to be a trial or error thing. You just have to know what you want, and then communicate it effectively. This is so important because it gives your host the peace of mind of knowing that they're meeting your needs.

So already, I have given you the best tool that I can think of. And it is a very good one. It is:

"Know what You Want and Communicate Your Wants Effectively."

So... how do you go about doing this? Okay Let's Go In Steps. I'll take you to step 1 now.

Step 1- Review the Vacation Home offers.

Now I'm not talking about skimming offers. I'm talking about knowing what is being offered and whether or not what is being offered is meeting your needs. If I'm traveling with a friend or my family of 4 can I be accommodated? Is there going to be transportation? A vehicle that I can use, maybe?

These are great questions to start with. If you can't answer them to your satisfaction at the start, then ask your host. A good host, usually has many ways to get in contact with them. Take advantage of this. You'll find that they'll be very happy to answer your questions for you.

Step2- Make the "Information Gathering/Booking" Call.

I have to tell you the truth. As the owner of a vacation home in the British Virgin Islands, I can tell you that we as hosts feel better when you call. Email just doesn't cut it. Because for us, it's not good enough to offer just any service, but the very best. And one-on-one communications achieve this.

So get to the phone and make the call. This is the time to make your host aware of your vacation home or rental needs. To make sure that you ask all the questions that you were intending to on the call, make a list. Feel free to ask any crazy questions. Keep your hosts on their toes! We hosts love a good challenge. But more importantly, we love to know that we are meeting your needs in a great way, so speak and ask away.

Step3- Making Your Reservation Deposit.

You should only follow through with this step after you've done the above two steps. Why? Because if you completed the above steps, you would have already confirmed with your host your vacation homes needs, and because of this your host would be able to make the necessary preparations to accommodate and provide for you on your vacation.

Think about this for a second. Imagine you're the host. And you're going to review your mail. Going through the deposits, and you come across someone that you've never heard about before.

What would you do then with the deposit?

Personally, I would send it back to the sender. In my eyes, it would be wrong of me to hold on to their deposit if I didn't know whether or not we would be able to meet their vacation rental needs. And other hosts would do the same. So follow the steps precisely.

Okay, we're coming to the end of this article, but I want to leave you with this final note, when sending deposits, make sure that you get a receipt mailed back to you. This is good for your records as well as host's. A receipt from your host always says, "I have confirmed our business relationship, and I'm looking forward to providing you with the services outlined that we have agreed to."

Gwendolee Thomas is the owner of Harvest Hill Vacation Homes, A Vacation Rental in Tortola that offers Exceptional vacationer-minded services and Beautiful Vacation Rental-Apartments. To find out more about Harvest Hill Vacation Homes and their exclusive BVI Vacation Home package, go to: http://www.harvesthillbvi.com

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

Friday 1 February 2008

How To Book Your Vacation Home In The BVI The Best Way

Let me start out by saying that booking your BVI [British Virgin Islands] Vacation Home does not have to be a trial or error thing. You just have to know what you want, and then communicate it effectively. This is so important because it gives your host the peace of mind of knowing that they're meeting your needs.

So already, I have given you the best tool that I can think of. And it is a very good one. It is:

"Know what You Want and Communicate Your Wants Effectively."

So... how do you go about doing this? Okay Let's Go In Steps. I'll take you to step 1 now.

Step 1- Review the Vacation Home offers.

Now I'm not talking about skimming offers. I'm talking about knowing what is being offered and whether or not what is being offered is meeting your needs. If I'm traveling with a friend or my family of 4 can I be accommodated? Is there going to be transportation? A vehicle that I can use, maybe?

These are great questions to start with. If you can't answer them to your satisfaction at the start, then ask your host. A good host, usually has many ways to get in contact with them. Take advantage of this. You'll find that they'll be very happy to answer your questions for you.

Step2- Make the "Information Gathering/Booking" Call.

I have to tell you the truth. As the owner of a vacation home in the British Virgin Islands, I can tell you that we as hosts feel better when you call. Email just doesn't cut it. Because for us, it's not good enough to offer just any service, but the very best. And one-on-one communications achieve this.

So get to the phone and make the call. This is the time to make your host aware of your vacation home or rental needs. To make sure that you ask all the questions that you were intending to on the call, make a list. Feel free to ask any crazy questions. Keep your hosts on their toes! We hosts love a good challenge. But more importantly, we love to know that we are meeting your needs in a great way, so speak and ask away.

Step3- Making Your Reservation Deposit.

You should only follow through with this step after you've done the above two steps. Why? Because if you completed the above steps, you would have already confirmed with your host your vacation homes needs, and because of this your host would be able to make the necessary preparations to accommodate and provide for you on your vacation.

Think about this for a second. Imagine you're the host. And you're going to review your mail. Going through the deposits, and you come across someone that you've never heard about before.

What would you do then with the deposit?

Personally, I would send it back to the sender. In my eyes, it would be wrong of me to hold on to their deposit if I didn't know whether or not we would be able to meet their vacation rental needs. And other hosts would do the same. So follow the steps precisely.

Okay, we're coming to the end of this article, but I want to leave you with this final note, when sending deposits, make sure that you get a receipt mailed back to you. This is good for your records as well as host's. A receipt from your host always says, "I have confirmed our business relationship, and I'm looking forward to providing you with the services outlined that we have agreed to."

Gwendolee Thomas is the owner of Harvest Hill Vacation Homes, A Vacation Rental in Tortola that offers Exceptional vacationer-minded services and Beautiful Vacation Rental-Apartments. To find out more about Harvest Hill Vacation Homes and their exclusive BVI Vacation Home package, go to:

http://www.harvesthillbvi.com

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