วันจันทร์ที่ 20 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2554

Can I Ask My Cab Driver to Speed to Get Me to My Destination on Time?

Many people who find themselves living in or visiting a city for the first time where they have to use taxi services frequently find themselves with many questions regarding exactly how the cab companies operate, and what the proper protocols are. They may wonder if they can haggle over price, or about how the fare is calculated, or even about the etiquette of asking the cab driver to change the radio station. One of the most common questions that people ask, though, is whether they are allowed to ask their cab driver to speed to get them to their destination on time. There is a short answer and a long answer to this question.

The short answer is that you are free to ask anything that you want, if you don't mind being told "no!" If you are determined to ask, the worst that can happen is for them to sneer and say no. And normally, they will say no. The driver for the taxi service gets the same pay whether he gets you there on time or not. If he speeds, he risks a traffic ticket, which would eat up all of his profits for the day. So the driver normally has no incentive to honor your request. The long answer to this question is that it depends on what country you are in.

In some countries, where haggling is more common, you may be able to sweeten the pot for the driver and make this happen. Again, the driver is risking a traffic ticket if he honors your request, so you have to make it worthwhile for him. In the United States, this might be seen as bribery, but in many parts of the world, it is just how business is done, and it is not looked down on. In those instances, if you offer the driver more money than what a speeding ticket would be, he may be willing to drive faster for you.

Also, in some countries, the rules of the road are not heavily enforced. These are the countries in which you find yourself thinking that the taxi service driver is driving like a maniac, but then you realize that that is how everyone drives! In instances like these, you may actually be able to simply ask the driver to speed, particularly if you can establish good rapport with him, and he will do so just in hopes of getting a better tip from you.




Brandon Caldwell is a consultant for Chicago taxi service and Willowbrook taxi services as well as national courier service businesses.

วันจันทร์ที่ 13 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2554

Marine Tourism Damage - The Causes, Effects and Solutions

Have you ever been to a beach filled with garbage, very little coral and even less fish? Unfortunately this beach wasn't always like this and it was brought to this state by none other than us. Tourism is a major threat to our marine life. It's generally the marine life that attracts us to go on these beach vacations however, it's these beach vacations that are ruining our marine life.

Coral reefs house 25% of the earths marine life, therefore it is in our best interests to protect the coral reefs in order to protect our marine life. There are many reason why reefs and their inhabitance are very important to us. They provide us with entertainment, food and even medicines.

Our idea of an ideal beach vacation consists of a radiating sun, a beautiful beach and crystal clear fish abundant waters. In order to keep this dream a reality we must protect our coral reefs. Snorkeling and diving sites are continually degrading in quality as fish and coral die out, leaving only stark white life less coral.

Throughout the last twenty years developing countries have increasingly marketed their tropical beaches which has lead to an increase in tourists and hotels along these tropical beaches. This is beneficial to the country as it helps to increase the countries GDP and employs the locals in these often remote areas. Unfortunately these developing countries may not be able to look forward to this income for too many more years to come as the increased tourism has drastically damaged the nature which tourists have come to see.

According to a criteria laid out by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature coral is the most endangered species on the earth. Coral is the basis of life for more than 25% of all marine species, without coral a massive amount of our marine life will become extinct. We already have a problem on our hands because ten years ago 2% of our coral was endangered whereas today around 30% of our coral is endangered (according to the Global Marine Species Assessment). This means something must be done today before the problem can get any worse.

One of the major reasons for this incredible damage to our underwater reefs is tourism. There are many ways in which tourism damages the basis of life for our fragile underwater ecosystem. Its damaged through water activities, pollution and transport.




If this article was useful you can find more information at http://marinetourism.scienceontheweb.net

วันอาทิตย์ที่ 12 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2554

Second Homes 101: Advantages and Investing Tips

If you're thinking of buying a second home, don't think twice because you are not alone. Even though there are people out there who worry about two-fold utility bills, double property taxes and mortgages, twice the amount of roof maintenance, heating systems, plumbing and fixtures, still a good number of homeowners realize how second homes can be very good profitable investments.

Second homes can be a permanent getaway spot, a retirement home, or something which you can get profit from through rentals and lease. Depending on your location, a second home is a very good venue to escape the hustles and buzz of the city; it is where you can just sit, relax and get closer to your family. Unlike rented vacation houses, you can tweak your second home according to your tastes and interests in a way that you and your loved ones will feel most comfortable. Also, marketing-wise, homes value are less likely to depreciate, or usually don't depreciate at all.

But before you plunge into second home ownership and buy a second home, you need to consider your needs to make a good decision. Where should it be? How should it look like? Should I get someone who is a pro on real estate to help me decide? And how about the taxes? Worry no more. Here's a guide on how you should start to make one of the largest investments in your lifetime.


  • Where should it be? Look for a location which suits best your interests, personality and hobbies. If you are a party person and you want to be conveniently located with bars, clubs and the best diners, then search for a second home in the city. However, if you don't want to travel to far distances but wants a peaceful and a closer to nature space, look for a second home which is an hour or a two-hour drive from your first home. Usually, second home owners prefer locations near vacation areas where they can play golf, surf or kayak depending in their interests.

  • Decide how it should look like. This primarily depends on your location and your lifestyle. If you don't want to maintain your lawn in your second home every time you go there and rest on weekends, chose those options which are low maintenance - a townhouse for example. You also need to make sure of its size. Consider those second homes which are in bigger sizes if you want your family and relatives to be in it, or if you're planning on having to lease it's right of use.

  • Look for a real estate agent. Having a qualified real estate agent is necessary to guide you through financial and safety considerations, especially in looking for a secured environment for your children and your whole family. Real estate agents can advice you on generating revenues out of your old home as funds for your second home, and chose those second homes for sale which has considerably low property taxes. Also, a real estate professional can help you determine rental prices.

  • Grab the best home. The world wide web is the best venue to search for the best second home listings across different states. Real estate websites offer homes for sale sorted out depending on location, lot sizes, price range and type of bedrooms. There are even galleries of photos showing the houses' interiors, lawn and a view of the location outside. Recently, some websites are incorporating virtual tours to let you look at those houses as if you are physically there. Ah, the perks of technology.
Take time to think and decide before you purchase a home for sale in your preferred location. Heed those tips above to make the purchase of your second home a success. There are thousands and thousands of homes for sale out there. Start looking in real estate sites in the internet. Know what you like in a house and where you like it. Get a real estate professional, settle your finances and alas! You just started a paramount investment for a second home.




Jennifer Lennett specializes in real estate blogging in Briargate, Co (her hometown). If you want to find out more about Briargate real estate and Briargate homes for sale, visit her website at http://www.alltopbriargatehomes.com.

วันเสาร์ที่ 11 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2554

Ten Things You Must Know Before Taking Holidays In Dubai

Dubai has become a very popular tourist destination. There are few things you must know before taking holidays in Dubai. These tips will help you to get the best from your Dubai vacation.

1. Best time to visit - Dubai has extreme weather conditions. Few months of the year are extremely hot. The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. This is the "winter" period in Dubai. The temperature is mild (average 20C).

2. Avoid Ramadan - Ramadan is the fasting month of Muslims. Ramadan usually falls in September-October period. There is a daily fasting time, which approximately starts around 5:00am and ends around 5:00pm. NO ONE (including tourists) can eat, drink or even smoke in public places during this time.

3. Visa requirements - You may have to apply for a visit visa before visiting Dubai. Citizens of few countries (first world countries such as USA, UK, Australia etc) can get visa on arrival. Check with your travel agent to confirm the visa requirement for your country.

4. Liquor - Visitors cannot buy liquor from liquor shops in Dubai. Only residence who are holding a liquor license can buy them. Visitors have to go to a bar in a hotel or to a nightclub to get liquor.

Tip: Buy liquor from the Dubai duty free on arrival.

5. Car rentals - Taxi fare is expensive in Dubai. Rent a car is the best option. Do it in advance.

6. Driving - Dubai is a left hand driven state.

7. Accommodation options - Dubai has a range of accommodation options. So do not spend unnecessarily on accommodation. There are cheap but quality 2 start hotels. If you are travelling with a big group then renting an apartment is the cheapest option. Do not let your travel agent to limit your options.

8. Shopping - Dubai is a paradise for shoppers. Shopping malls, gold and cheap electronics will tempt you to buy even unwanted stuff. Have a shopping budget and stick to it. "Discount" is a common word in Dubai. You must always ask for a discount, because sellers are always keeping a margin for discounts.

9. Language - Arabic is the main language in Dubai. Most of them can understand and speak English. But make sure that you speak slowly for them to understand properly.

10. Law - Dubai has become one of the safest places on earth because of tough laws. Respect the law and Dubai culture.




Author lived in Dubai for 5 years. You can read a unique review of holidays in Dubai and valuable tips for your Dubai vacation in his web site http://www.thatsdubai.com

วันพุธที่ 8 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2554

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is situated in the northeastern part of the U.S and is better known as the granite state. New Hampshire was discovered in 1600 and the date of the earliest settlement goes as far back as 1623. Capt. John Mason gave the state its name in 1630.

Some of the important cities in the state are Manchester, Concord, Derry, Rochester, Salem and Hudson. Portsmouth is the only port and it serves as an important commercial center.

The state has an abundance of natural wealth, with 142 parks and forests. These include the famous White Mountains National Forest with an area of 724,000 acres. Rich in natural beauty, it provides a serene atmosphere and has been a popular tourist destination. Demographically, New Hampshire is a mixed state, with people of different races residing in the state. 95 % of the population is white and the total population of the state is 1,309,940.

The economy of the state rests mainly on its fiscal policy of no sales tax or personal income tax. The absence of these taxes has lured the small businesses from the neighboring Massachusetts, Vermont and Maine, to this state. However, the absence of the tax system has ended up with the people paying exceptionally high property tax.

Tourism has emerged as one of the leading industries in the state. People flock to the state to enjoy the sun and sandy beaches, mountains and the lakes. About 274 islands in the Lake Winnipesaukee and beaches in the Atlantic are the major tourist attractions, giving a boost to the economy.

The state of New Hampshire is famous for its recreational activities and is visited by tourists for the skiing competitions and the winter sports. The New Hampshire International Speedway is considered to be the longest motorcycle race in the U.S.




New Hampshire [http://www.NewHampshire-Web.com] provides detailed information on New Hampshire, New Hampshire Real Estate, New Hampshire Mortgages, Map Of New Hampshire and more. New Hampshire is affiliated with Vermont Vacations.

วันอังคารที่ 7 มิถุนายน พ.ศ. 2554

Tin City

In the heart of Naples lies Tin City, a historical piece of soul nestled in a midst of intimate waterways, is home to more than forty distinctive boutiques and several charming restaurants including The Riverwalk Restaurant and Pinchers Crab Shack, and offers site seeing and sunset excursions, water sports, boating and deep sea fishing adventures, and dolphin watching. Tin City was founded in the late 1800's by group of affluent Kentuckians who wanted to make access to Naples more practical and convenient. Naples by this time had become a true gem of discovery for well-to-do tourists, celebrities, investors, industrials and the like but it was difficult to get to. So, the boys from Kentucky decided to construct a 600-foot pier right into the crystal blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This was quite an intelligent move; not to mention a most profitable undertaking as well.

By the 1920's, the tin-roofed buildings in Tin City became the core of Naples fishing industry, primarily for clam shelling and oyster processing plants along with boat construction facilities and boat maintenance shops. Due to the construction of the Seaboard Airline Railway in the first half of the 20thcentury, industrial trades such as these were made possible, making the transportation of goods to and from the area a reality. The Seaboard Airline Railway fashioned itself as 'The Route of Courteous Service' and by the 1900's was 2,600 miles of railway stretching from Virginia to Florida. The railway contributed greatly to the economic development particularly to Florida bringing vacationers from the Northeast and carrying timber, minerals, and produce (primarily Florida citrus crops) to the northern part of the United States.

Today, one can take a stroll through and find an eclectic array of antiques and nautical displays, all fantastic mementos and reflections of days gone by. Tin City's Waterfront Marketplace is a fully air-conditioned, indoor marketplace that even offers valet parking in-season with free parking also available. Inside the marketplace discover treasures of yesteryear, unique gifts, fine jewelry, apparel, and arts and crafts. Enjoy endless dining options that offer delectable fare from the finest steaks to the freshest catch of the day, complimented by never-ending views.

Looking for accommodations nearest to Tin City? The Bellasera Hotel is a beautiful Tuscan-inspired resort just minutes away, the elegant Trianon Old Naples Hotel, and the charming Lemon Tree Inn are just a sampling of your lodging options. Plus getting to Tin City is easy, and it's in close proximity to downtown Naples. Just follow US 41 to where it ends at Goodlette Road.

The historical magic of Tin City awaits its visitors to discover time and time again. Tin City is a true connection to Naples' past, and beyond a doubt enjoyed by all who visit this very special piece of Naples' history.




About the Author - Tim Ryan specializes in helping buyers find great deals on Naples Real Estate. You can visit Tim's website where you can find thousands of Naples homes for sale.

วันจันทร์ที่ 31 มกราคม พ.ศ. 2554

Disney World Vacation Myths

Disney World is the premiere vacation destination for tourists around the globe, but its popularity has spawned plenty of rumors and inaccurate information about planning a Disney World vacation. For those who are planning their first trip to Disney, it is important to research all aspects of your vacation before making any set arrangements. A good staring point is to address some of the common myths about Disney World. Here is a breakdown of the more widespread misconceptions.

Myth #1 - Tickets Can only Be Bought from Disney.

Many people think that Disney is the only source for theme park tickets. The truth is there are a number of other authorized vendors that can provide tickets. AAA, military bases, and possibly even you employer are all alternatives to buying from Disney. Florida residents are entitled to even more options through the many regional tourist organizations. The key is to talk to your travel agent or AAA chapter before you buy. Otherwise you may miss out on an opportunity to save.

Myth #2 - Vacation Packages are the Best Deal.

Disney vacation packages are heavily advertised on the internet and in travel magazines. Most people assume that the word "package" translates into a discount on the individual prices. The truth is that most of these packages are more of a convenience as opposed to a discount. Typically, the package price represents the itemized costs combined into a large offering. While this can make the reservation process easier, you should study the package options and make sure you can use all of its features.

Myth #3 - The Best Deals are on eBay.

eBay has revolutionized many competitive marketplaces by giving consumers instant access to a wide array of vendors. This holds true for Disney vacations as well, but there are some drawbacks to consider. Most notably, there is always that risk that the seller is running a scam. You can usually assume that if a price is too good to be true, then it probably is. eBay transactions are typically more stringent in terms of refunds and cancellations, so make sure you know what you are doing before you buy. Overall, eBay is probably not the best place to plan your first Disney vacation.

Sorting through the facts and fiction about Disney World should be the first step in organizing your trip. Don't just assume that everything you hear is accurate. Do your research and talk to friends and family members about their experience. References are always the best way to learn about your shopping options. Remember, planning your vacation shouldn't be stressful, and the more you learn about Disney world, the better off you will be.




With so many things to do and places to stay at Disney World, you are bound to need the help of an expert. Disney Vacation Specials offers a comprehensive guide to saving money while maximizing your Disney World Vacation.

วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 20 มกราคม พ.ศ. 2554

Enjoy a Holiday of Leisure, Adventure and Luxury

Are you looking for a holiday spot where you can be at leisure and also get adventurous? How about a holiday where you can mix pleasure with some cultural activities? Phuket with its silvery beaches and emerald green waters and panoramic landscapes is the ideal place for a holiday of the pleasurable kind. We offers comfortable rooms in luxurious hotels in Phuket at affordable prices. Phuket offers visitors a plethora of activities to keep you entertained right through your holidays.

Phuket has an interesting blend of leisure, adventure and cultural activities like museums and picnic spots, scuba diving, festivals and events. A visit to the Thalong National Museum established in 1985 commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Thalong War. This museum gives visitors an insight into the historical past of Phuket and travelers also get to see ancient artifacts which were recovered from the coast. This island also offers great scenery especially at The Viewpoint which is located midway between Nai Han and Kata Beaches from where one can get breathtaking views of Kata Noi and Karon Beach and its surroundings.

Close Encounters of the Exciting Kind

Adventurous tourists can go scuba diving at Sharkpoint where they can get to see the wonders of Phuket's seabed. Snorkeling and scuba diving is the best way to spot sharks and other rare fish that are found in these waters. The Anemone Reef which is located close to Sharkpoint and is a large piece of rock covered by sea anemones whose variety and colors are truly spectacular. The Racha Island is a good place for beginners to go snorkeling to discover marine life.

There are various festivals and cultural events that take place hotel in Phuket all year round. The Phuket Travel Fair held on November 1 is called as the Patong Carnival and is a good opportunity for tourists to get to know the cultural aspects of Phuket. Visitors can see the vibrant colors of Phuket with exciting parades and cultural dance performances during this time. Another major event that attracts tourists to Phuket is the Phuket King's Cup Regatta held during the month of December. This is a yachting event and international yachtsmen from all over the world participate in this event. Do not forget to taste the world-famous Thai cuisine such as Nam Phrik Kung Siap which is a Thai seafood specialty comprising of smoked shrimp mixed with dry chili sauce. It is served on skewers with chilis, kapi and lime which add zing to a great beach holiday in Phuket. With their amazing discounts on hotel accommodations is a great way to discover Phuket.

Excitehotels offers Affordable Hotel Rooms in Phuket




Excite hotels offers affordable hotel accommodation for travelers to hotels in Phuket experience the cultural treasures of Phuket, Thailand with deep discounts and a choice of great to suit a spectrum of travel needs.

วันเสาร์ที่ 15 มกราคม พ.ศ. 2554

Panama City Beach Rentals

Located in Florida, Panama City Beach is one among the best beaches in the world. Known for its clean sugary-white sand beaches and emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach has something to give to all its visitors. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets, the clean beach, exceptional dining experience in fabulous restaurants, and the star studded night skies, all make Panama City Beach a true vacation paradise.

Panama City Beach has that perfect rental services that fit everyone's budget. From condos to motels, from beach houses to town houses, from bedrooms to bathrooms, from snorkel equipment to TVs and DVD players, from baby beds/cribs to roll-away beds, from household items to vehicles, from electric grills to fans, everything that one can think of under the sun is available for rent in Panama City beach. And unsurprisingly, there is a very wide variety to choose from. Rentals are available through agencies or individual owners. These rental services will help you to make one's accommodation easier and cozier. Staying in the perfect vacation rental home, condo or villa can be the most memorable part of a trip to the Panama City Beach.

There are many rental service agencies working in and around the Panama City Beach who can help provide whatever one wants on rent. Direct and indirect bookings are possible, that is booking for goods can be done after reaching Panama City Beach or one can book online. Rent is usually on a weekly or monthly basis. The charges differ from one rental service agency to another and from season to season. Rental services in Panama beach are efficient, making vacation travel and stay a truly enjoyable one.




Panama City Beach provides detailed information on Panama City Beach, Panama City Beach Rentals, Panama City Beach Hotels, Panama City Beach Condos and more. Panama City Beach is affiliated with Daytona Beach Vacation Rentals [http://www.e-DaytonaBeach.com].

วันอังคารที่ 11 มกราคม พ.ศ. 2554

Top Beautiful Islands in the World

Maldives---the country on the Pacific Ocean

There is no country like Maldives in the world which put so many islands together in this small area. Maldives is the country of islands where there are 100 different kinds of islands available for visitors. Recently there are more than 90 islands that have been developed like Full Moon Island, Hilton Island etc. They are all famous for their beautiful scenery and considerate service. Here, no matter how small an island is, it has first-class holiday resorts which face the sea.

The design of these hotels reveals the high living standard of modern people. Every room makes full use of the abundant marine resources so that they all enjoy the beautiful ocean views. What should be mentioned here are the bright and white beaches which covered by coral sand. You can choose to lie on the Beach of Hilton Island where you might have a chance to meet some famous stars or leaders, or you can find a small island with less people so that you can enjoy the happy time for your own. In conclusion, you would surely find a beach that is suitable for you.

1. Male---a mini capital

Male should be the smallest capital in the world with an area of 2.5 square kilometers and a population of 60,000, but it is divided into four parts. There is no orderly asphalt road here but you can see bright white-sand road here. The buildings here are often high and narrow. It is said it can prevent the invasion of devils. Some buildings do inherit the British style because it was under the reign of Great Britain. In this mini capital, car is unnecessary because most people go outside by bike or by walk.

2. Dancing with fishes

Maldives is one of the top three diving lands in the world, so it must be a pity if you do not go diving here. Generally, visitors need to take Dhonis to go boat diving. The diving fare varies from place to place. Therefore, the quality of holiday inn and diving places are key factors that should be taken into consideration when choosing islands. If deep submergence is not available for you, you can try to go snorkeling. You do have a chance to dance with various kinds of fishes.




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วันเสาร์ที่ 8 มกราคม พ.ศ. 2554

How to Look for Genuine Villa Vacation Rentals in Bali

Villa Vacation Rentals abound in the different places of tropical Bali. But how do you protect yourself from booking a luxury Bali Villa Rental that ends up in a tattered bungalow? Your Bali Vacation might end up not in Bali Villas but in some god forsaken shanty - this might seem an exaggeration but at times, some tourists experienced being intentionally misled by some of the unscrupulous villa agents online or off line. So you must always be sure to book your Bali Luxury Villa Rental legitimately.

Any Bali Vacation Rental agency or agent would want to recommend the heart of the Bali island called Seminyak for the prime location for your accommodation. This is a central happening place only minutes away from everything you might need in the course of your stay. It has a booming metropolis that has shopping centers, restaurants with international cuisine, and bars at night to keep you entertained. Some of the local merchandise are easily displayed for sale in the sidewalk by the native Balinese. They reflect some of the rich cultural background of the Balinese people and they usually explain to you in coherent English about their history or culture. There are a few cultural museums around the island if you would want to further learn about the humble history of Bali. You can just ask your booking agent to arrange a day tour in these museums.

Seminyak Villas might be the highest priced accommodations due to their best location and accessibility. Villa Rental Seminyak is usually guaranteed with beach front privacy and additional luxury packages like exclusive pools in their premises. Some Villa For Rent Seminyak has their very own courtyards and gardens that can showcase the rich flora of the region.

If you are more of the surfing enthusiast then you can ask your booking agent to place you in some Villa Rental Canggu. This little fish town is only about five minutes from the Bali International Airport and boast with some of the most swelling waves. Both professional and amateur surfers gather to go and enjoy the challenge of the big waves.

Special arrangements can be listed down by your traveling agent. Some of the local activities can even be part of your itinerary or day tours. You can try scuba diving, para-sailing, hiking, and other outdoor activities on the island. This can keep your stay more interesting and you get to soak in the sun a lot.

To have all your arrangements be assured of legitimacy and you actually getting the tropical vacation in your plans is to check your travel booking agent or agency to be a member of BVRA or Bali Villas Rental Association. This organization is a certifying body that vouches for a villa as being legitimate and existing in Bali. Also investigate your booking company and their background to better your chances of getting the Bali holiday you want. Look for their business registration details like business license, tax number, and contact details. It is even better if someone you know who has visited Bali know and recommend the villa to you.




David K. Bradley is a writer for Indovillas Bali which specializes in Bali Villa Rental and bali luxury villa rental as well as tour and activity arrangements. They offer an assortment of holiday packages and property deals on the island of Bali.