Traveler's Delight

Cruising Family Reunions

2008-07-01T08:02:00.017-04:00

Reunion by H. Bobis

Cruising Reunions by Dr. Earl R. Smith II

Over the last couple of decades, as Executive Director of Nautical Options, I have arranged a wide variety of events on cruise ships. Many participants have experienced the wonders of cruising for the first time when we organized their friends and family reunion at sea. Often it had been held at a resort or some family members’ house. We helped them take ‘it to sea’. In almost every case the reunion, once taken to sea, remains at sea year after year. Reasons why this seems to be the case:

Ease of organization

Reunions typically depend upon one or two individuals who bear the burden of organizing and coordinating the schedules of widely dispersed family members. Even if the reunion is held at a resort, the coordination of air and ground transportation can be daunting at particular times of the year. Then there is the issue of arranging menus, meeting rooms and having the resort accommodate the scheduling needs of the group. Cruise based events are comparatively simple to organize – particularly if you employ one of the companies like Nautical Options which specializes in them.

Photo by Tolga Kostak

Cost and Expenses

Two things quickly become apparent after you have decided to take a family reunion to sea. The first is how much less expensive the event is. If you go through an organization which specializes in such events and can access the best rates, the cost of a cruise based reunion will be somewhere between 60 and 70% of the cost of the same event on land. The second thing you will notice is that a cruise based event is, by and large, a one line cost. By that I mean a single payment buys the cabin, all you can eat and unlimited, high quality food (watch out for the midnight chocolate buffet!) and all the distractions and entertainment that one could wish for. For the most part individual travelers will end up paying for their drinks, shore excursions, gambling losses and purchases in the many ports of call.

Onboard Entertainment

Cruise ships provide a wide range of on board activities. Every evening there is a Broadway-class show in the main lounge. In addition there are always musicians in the various smaller venues. Each day all sorts of organized activities are on offer. These range from dance classes and wine tastings to trivia games, art auctions, bingo, lectures on the next port of call and a myriad of others. In short, there is never a shortage of things for members of your group to do while onboard.

Cruiseship in San Diego by Margan Zajdowicz

Meeting Rooms

This is where a company which specializes in organizing crews based events can really shine. At Nautical Options we handle all the arrangements for the meeting rooms as well as the arrangements for catering, entertainment and special events. We have managed birthday parties complete with cakes, karaoke competitions, special lectures and a whole range of other activities.

Ports of call

A cruise ship is a resort hotel that changes location every night. Each morning you wake up in a different place than where you went to sleep. Some mornings you wake up to a day at sea and the wonderful experience of enjoying the ship. On others you wake up in a new port of call and to all the amazing options that are available. Cruise lines organize a wide range of shore excursions in every port. All of the vendors are carefully screened and the shore excursions are carefully reviewed. In other words, you don’t have to worry the cruise line has already done the worrying for you. In each port your group will disperse – some on shore excursions, some just heading for the beach and others looking for bargains that are always available in the shops. Dinner becomes a wonderful sharing of experiences and a chance to wear that new shirt or goofy hat that you just could not pass up.

Photo by Ben Earwicker - Garrison Photograpy - http://www.garrisonphoto.com/

Having fun and building memories

Memories that live on and on: over the years I’ve noticed one thing above all else. There’s something about the experience of having a reunion on a cruise ship that keeps the memories alive year after year. I have had clients tell me that five or six years into a series of reunion cruises they still reminisce about the first ones. Other groups post their pictures on the internet and share them with friends and family. Cruising is an amazing experience by itself – but, with your friends and family members, a reunion makes memories that endure.

About The Author

Dr. Smith is Executive Director of Nautical Options. You can contact Dr. Smith at drsmith@lngvw.com to arrange a free consultation.

Tara Travel Agency specializes in Cruises for any occassion:

Destination Weddings, Honeymoons, Reunions

Tales of a Tour Guide

2008-06-30T08:15:00.000-04:00

Central America Adventure Part 1

Antigua, Guatemala to Granada, Nicaragua

I started this tour with a long weekend in Antigua, Guatemala. Having been there many times before made the short visit to this beautiful colonial city a little easier to take because there is so much to do and see! I met my passengers in the morning for a walking tour of the city. Built in the mid 1500’s and once the capital of Central America before being partially destroyed by earthquakes, this historic and colorful city has some fine examples of Spanish architecture, beautiful parks and squares and is surrounded by volcanoes!

After lunch, we headed to Volcan Picaya, an active volcano where it is possible to see (and get pretty close to) lava! We were back in the city to freshen up before dinner. There are so many great restaurants to choose from, it’s a good thing we had 3 nights. After dinner we went to a see some live music, Buena Vista de Corazon, with some of the original members of the famous Buena Vista Social Club from Cuba.

We spent the next day sightseeing in the mountains on our way to Chichicastenango. Home to the largest market in Central America and pre-Christian ceremonies, this small colorful village high in the mountains is worth a visit. We spent the afternoon at Lake Atitlan but could have made it a week! Surrounded by volcanoes with small villages dotting the shore and deep blue water makes this one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

There is so much to do in Guatemala, but that is for another tour. Our next stop was Copan, Honduras, to see the well known Mayan ruins of the same name. These ruins are small in comparison to the great Mayan cities of Tikal or Chitzen Itza but still significant, dating back to 1200 BC. A guided tour of the ruins is a must and the Great Plaza with its stelae portraying Copan’s rulers, the Ball Court, and one of a kind Hieroglyphic Stairway make for a great introduction to the Mayan world. In the afternoon, I take my group up to Macaw Mountain to see different birds that make this region home and to go for a refreshing dip in a small river. Dinner near the small cobblestoned main square completes our perfect day in Copan.

No visit to Honduras is complete without a visit to the Bay Islands, actually that’s all most people know about the country! Well know for scuba diving, these islands are the southern part of the 2ond largest barrier reef in the world. Not a diver? Try snorkeling, sailing, even a submarine tour or just relax on the beach.

Once back on the main land we drive through the original ‘Banana Republic’ backed by Pico Bonito National Park – home to Honduras’s tallest mountain, and along the famed ‘Mosquito Coast’ with a stop in the Lancetilla Botanical Garden, one of the largest in the world, featuring fruit trees from every continent and a crystal clear swimming hole. We are on our way to Lago de Yajoa!

Back in the mountains, this lake is bookended by 2 cloud forest parks, stocked with fish, and home to over 375 species of birds. Nearby, the Pulhapanzak waterfall makes a great place to stop for lunch, a swim, or canopy tour adventure before we head to Danli, a small town near the border with Nicaragua.

Once in Nicaragua, we head to Leon, once the nation’s capital with fine colonial buildings and churches, including the largest cathedral in Central America. We spend the day in the city but head to the nearly deserted coast for sunset, dinner and the night. Early in the morning we can visit Isla Juan Venado, a nature reserve and home to nesting turtles, mangroves, birds and reptiles.

That afternoon we drive right up to the crater of the active Masaya Volcano and spend an hour walking the trails before lunch in Masaya. After lunch we have some time for shopping in the local and artesanias markets before we go to one of my favorite places in Central America, Laguna de Apoyo! This crystal clear lake formed in the crater of a volcano and is the deepest in Nicaragua.

Isla Ometepe is our next stop. It is one of the largest fresh water islands in the world, located in Lake Nicaragua (Latin America’s 3rd largest lake). The island is formed by 2 volcanoes; the active Volcan Concepcion (1610 meters) and dormant Volcan Maderas (1394 meters). Activities here include hiking, horseback riding, an island history tour and a visit to the Ojo de Auga, a fresh water spring.

Our last night is in Granada, another wonderful city and the beginning of the 2ond part of my tour! For more information go to http://www.barefootpanama.com/ or email me at Kevin@barefootpanama.com

Photography by Kevin O'Brien - Tour Guide

A Traveler's Delight

Love for Lisbon, Portugal

2008-06-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

Lisbon landscape by Francisco Ramos

Tejo River by Francisco Ramos

Lisbon is a fascinating city of old-fashioned and funky art, architecture and traditions. It's one of Europe's most enjoyable capitals with its relaxed atmosphere, cultural diversity, reasonable prices and charming architecture. Lisbon is set on seven low hills next to the Tejo (Tagus) river. The city's atmosphere is rich with wonderful old buildings, Europe's longest suspension bridge, and fascinating museums and monuments. Despite the city's muscle-aching hills, Lisbon is compact enough to explore on foot. If your legs get tired, Lisbon has very convenient, bus, tram and subway lines as well as funiculars to take you up the steeper hills. Taxis abound, and are perhaps the most reasonably priced in Europe.

Pavilhao Atlantic by Palo Perez

Mosaic Lisbon Street by Richard Gurgel

The capital of Portugal is currently in the middle of a building boom which began after it was chosen as the host city for Expo 98. Metro lines have been extended, mosaic sidewalks have been re-paved and 18th century facades have been restored. One of the most urgent works is the saving and restoration of the "Alfama", the old town.

Rui Lousao

A good way to orient yourself and enjoy a panoramic view is to climb one of the seven hills - Penha de Franca, Senhora do Monte, Graca, Sao Jorge, Sao Pedro Alcantara, Santa Catarina, Estrela. Sao Jorge is topped by a famous castle, Castelo de Sao Jorge, and has the most spectacular picturesque view - especially as the sun sets over the Tagus river. Generally speaking, you can spend an unlimited time discovering and re-discovering this charming city; however if you are on a tight schedule, don't miss exploring the Alfama District, Bairro Alto, and Belem. Lisbon is a wonderful place to explore, any time of the year.

Cabo Da Roka by Simon Shokry

Belem Tower by Bernard Mukarubibi

The city moves to pulsing new rhythms, as African music clubs are all the rage. Contrasting to this modern diversity, Portuguese fado songs continue to be heard, the soulful music (which originated here) is still hitting notes of passionate melancholy.

Lisbon at Night by Carlos Paes

Lisbon travel

World Class Driving Tour for Car Enthusiasts

2008-05-08T07:22:00.015-04:00

Lamborghini by blue sky

At Chateau Elan, about 45 minutes outside of Atlanta, Georgia, you can drive 5 of the hottest cars in the world for a half hour around the North Georgia Mountains. Yes, this is a traveler's delight ! Chateau Elan is a fabulous winery/resort and host of the Fast and Luxurious - Ferrari, Lamborghini, Audi, Mercedes, and Porsche at your very fingertips for $1500.00. It's cloudy and there's a serious chance of rain but you can still drive if you reserved already. This event is now sold out. Next stop, Knoxville this Saturday.

For more information 1-877-597-6403

Happy Earth Day

2008-04-22T13:29:00.009-04:00

Earth by Rodolfo Clix

"EARTH DAY is the first holy day which transcends all national borders, yet preserves all geographical integrities, spans mountains and oceans and time belts, and yet brings people all over the world into one resonating accord, is devoted to the preservation of the harmony in nature and yet draws upon the triumphs of technology, the measurement of time, and instantaneous communication through space. EARTH DAY draws on astronomical phenomena in a new way – which is also the most ancient way – using the vernal Equinox, the time when the Sun crosses the equator making night and day of equal length in all parts of the Earth. To this point in the annual calendar, EARTH DAY attaches no local or divisive set of symbols, no statement of the truth or superiority of one way of life over another. But the selection of the March Equinox makes planetary observance of a shared event possible, and a flag which shows the Earth as seen from space appropriate."

Quote by Margaret Mead

The Galapagos Islands

2008-04-17T16:31:00.034-04:00

Quito, Ecuador by Justin Phelan

Ecuador is small country in South America. It derives its name from the fact that it lies exactly on the Equator. Ecuador neighbors Peru and Colombia, and although these two are a lot bigger in size and economic power, as a tourist destination Ecuador is their equal. Ecuador offers beautiful old towns, such as the capital Quito, with its big and lively old town, filled with museums, churches, old mansions as well as shops and small restaurants. Then there is the highland of the Andes, with its many Indian villages with their colorful markets, that every photographer and shopper will find an absolute treat. High mountain tops and active volcanoes are never far away. The Amazon basin with its tropical forest offers wildlife and hiking possibilities as well as the chance to get to know the habits of the Indians that live in the Amazon region. Finally you might be able to visit the Galapagos islands . These are a must to all nature lovers. They offer many animals you will not find anywhere else in the world.

Blow rock and Redcliff Crab by Eva Schuster

Galapagos is the nature lover's paradise. Sea birds, sea lions, iguanas, finches, none fear man, and for a short time the tourist can live in harmony and peace with this wonderous environment. The Galapagos Islands are located on the equator about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador. The Galapagos archipelgao is made up of 13 main islands, six smaller islands, tiny islets, and named and unnamed rocks. They are of volcanic origin and cover a land area of 3,090 square miles.

Iguana and Juvenile Boobie by Eva Schuster

Galapagos boast some of the most unusual and rare fauna in the world, many are endemic to Galapagos and found nowhere else in the world. Endemic fauna include: Giant tortoise, Lava lizard, Land Iguana, Marine Iguana, Galapagos fur seal, Galapagos penguin, Waved albatross, Flightless cormorant, Swallow-tailed gull, Lava gull, Lava heron, Galapagos hawk, Galapagos rail, Galapagos flycatcher, Galapagos martin, Galapagos dove,Charles mockingbird, Cactus ground finch and Vegetarian finch.

Ecuador travel

Handle Airport Delays

2008-04-16T13:43:00.009-04:00

Airplane aproaching Heraklion International Airport-"Nikos Kazantzakis" by R.K.

With all the bankrupties, merges and cancellations, Traveler's most common complaint is the airlines. My advice to you is to stay on a friendly basis with your Travel Agent. Let's face it - we have no control over the delay, but its comforting to know that if something does happen, you have someone that can make calls to other airlines or hotels on your behalf. This is especially helpful if you're stuck at the airport for a few hours or overnight. You have enought to worry about.

Bret Michaels loves Mexico

2008-04-15T15:40:00.038-04:00

Cancun by Enyeto Rucker

I really enjoyed watching the season finale of VHI's "Rock of Love". Bret Michaels takes his final two, Amber and Daisy to the ME Cancun in Mexico. The views of Cancun were breathtaking! I especially liked Amber's date. They start off with a Mayan Jungle Experience at the Xcaret and later take a short boat ride to a beautiful cave where massage tables are set up in the water. I was thinking to myself, Amber is going to win this! You could hear the relaxing sounds of the water and nature while they were enjoying a truly magical massage at the opening of the cave. A Traveler's Delight! Later in the evening, they enjoy a sunset dinner surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico. And as if he were reading my mind, Bret says that what he loves about travel is - you find out what you like and don't like. Travel is enlightening in that way. If you really want to test that relationship, just take a trip and see what happens.

Poison: Live Raw & Uncut Summer Tour 2008

Cancun by Enyeto Rucker

Travel Wish List - Cancun, Mexico

The city is actually split into two main areas, the Zona Hotelera, which is a 18 Km long island facing the Caribbean on one side along a long sunny beach strip with many large fancy hotels. The other back side is surrounded by a beautiful lagoon called Laguna Nichupte. The second part of the city is called Ciudad Cancun, which is in the mainland. This is where most of the Cancun local people live, and also where tourists can find more budget accommodations. Ciudad Cancun and Zona Hotelera are joined by this long causeway/bridge. They are literally two different worlds. Ciudad Cancun has some nice restaurants and bars along Avenida Yaxchitlan, and a more Mexico feel to it. The Zona Hotelera has the opulence of Las Vegas, Nevada with a beautiful beach, nice malls, fancy bars and no casinos.

By Benjamin Earwicker - Garrison Photography

By Michel Meynsbrughen

Nearby are many Maya sites that are easy to explore. They offer a unique insight in the Chiprecolombian civilization of Mexico. Many tourists get packages to visit the Chichen Itza, a good 2-3 hrs away by car. But, if a tourist takes local buses, or even better, rents a car...there are many wonderful places to be seen. Some of the closer ones to Cancun are Coba and Tulum, which are near Playa del Carmen, which is also another tourist ocean area on the so called Ruta Maya, within an hour from Cancun. Tulum ruins are near the water, so it is a scenic place, Coba is about 45 mins inland from Tulum....very wonderful place. Renting a bike in the premises is recommended to be able to visit the whole site, as it is very large. There is also a nice tall pyramid to climb with an awesome view of the surrounding jungle....

Pyramid in Tulum by Alejandro Gonzalez

Beach in Tulum by Sergio Penaloza

Near Chichen Itza, just north of the city of Valladolid, there are the recent excavations in a place called Ek Balam. The place is very well preserved, and it is worth a visit...and you'll miss most of the crowds that go to Chichen Itza. If you are into Mayan Ruins, it is recommended that you visit the surroundings near the city of Merida (on the west side of Yucatan, 4 hrs by car from Cancun) and do the Ruta Puuc. This route is best enjoyed in a couple days, but if you are in a rush, you can do it all in one day if you have an early start. The most impressive one is a place called Uxmal...it is well preserved and very large. There are several other ones...about 5-6 of them, among them Sayil and Labna. They are all great, well kept, and uncrowded. From there, after Ruta Puuc, you can drive to Chichen Itza...visiting some small Yucatecan small towns and villages on the way, such as the town of Oxcutzcab, famous for their citrus industry and see their main downtown square, church and market.

Chichen Itza by Mike L.

The other main attraction of Cancun consists of the possibilities to see the world under the waves. Snorkeling and diving in Cancun and nearby Cozumel are among the best of the world. There are these other things around Ruta Maya, they are these waterholes near mangrove area, sort of like sinkholes filled with clean fresh water. These are called Cenotes, and you can swim in them. There are tons around this area and they are worth checking out. To do Cancun on a budget, try Ciudad Cancun for lodging, the hotels are a lot more reasonable there, and there are even a few hostels. You can always catch a bus to the beach area. Cancun is a wonderful destination. For beachcombers who do not want to leave the sun, they can just do that. But for those who want to get some culture and explore the richness of Yucatan and Quintana Roo, the opportunities are endless. This is a very unique area, very different from Mainland Mexico.

Mexican Sunset by Marina Nisi

Mexico travel

King Tut Exhibit in Atlanta

2008-04-10T12:44:00.075-04:00

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo by Tamlyn Rhodes

The Boy King by Paul Porteous

For the first time in 30 years, King Tut is going on vacation ! If you've always wanted to visit Egypt, here's your chance to see over 130 of the Cairo Museum's most prized possessions. In November 2008, Emory University's Carlos Museum will host the Tutankhamun Exhibit at The Atlanta Civic Center. Already on Exhibit in London, Tut will travel to Dallas and then to Atlanta this November. If you would like to book a King Tut Package with VIP Tickets for your group contact Tara Travel Agency.

Pharoe Tout Ankh Amoun Golden Face at

Egyptian Musuem near pyramids by M.A. Makky

Pyramids in Giza by Piotr Lapinski

Travel Wish List - Egypt

Egypt does not need an introduction. It was the introduction to human civilization itself, and has all the evidence to show for it. Tour Egypt from the lively Nile Valley, to the solitary deserts, the diversity of the Sinai desert, the lush oasis, the exotic underwater life of the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean beaches.

"Now, let me talk more of Egypt for it has a lot of admirable things and what one sees there is superior to any other country." - Herodotus, 500 BCE

"St. Anthony's monastery in Egypt's Eastern desert,

complete with the friendliest monk imaginable!" by Photographer Pete Shelley

Cairo, the capital is the place to start. It has the Pyramids, the Sphinxs, the Egyptian Museum, many more sights and more than ten million cairenes to share the experience. Alexandria , the second city of the country has its fair share of historicsights as well and with its location on the Mediterranean it is an ideal spot for yourholidays. The south of Egypt has many impressive temples and graves from Pharaonic times. Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel should all be on your to do list. The Red Sea has great scuba diving : Hurghada is world famous for its under water world.

Red Sea Reef by Damien King

Egypt travel

Charise Pempengco - International Idol

2008-04-04T05:43:00.017-04:00

I live in Atlanta and love how this city is turning into big melting pot of culture. Sonny Perdue's trip to China proved successful and we're proud to announce plans for our own Business Advisory Center in Beijing. Just in case you didn't know, Coca Cola is one of the sponsers for the Summer Olympics and Project Hope. They donate millions of dollars to the children of China . Yesterday, Mrs. Perdue spent time with the children of Trenjin, near Beijing and the trip ended on high note. And speaking of high notes,I wrote this post just so I could feature this talented "Filipina Jennifer Holiday". Originally thought to be Chinese, Charise Pempengco is from the Phillipines. Stay tuned for her guest appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres show !

Panama, more than just a canal

2008-04-01T21:24:00.003-04:00

Beautiful Beach by Kevin O'Brien

My most recent trip in Panama was one of the memorable trips I have ever taken. We started with a well planned city tour on Sunday, first stop, the Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal. We watched ships pass through the locks from the roof deck, had a chance to view a movie on the construction of both the old and new canal projects and spent some time in the new museum. After passing by the old military zone, now the ‘City of Knowledge’, we went to the Amador and an island owned by the Smithsonian. There you can learn all about Panama; how the land was formed, animals past and present, the American military presence, the flora, and all while enjoying the ocean views and maybe even spot a sloth in the trees. After a delicious and fresh seafood meal for lunch with the best view of the city skyline, we went to Casco Viejo. Beautiful cathedrals, colonial buildings, and cobblestone streets make this a perfect place to stroll away the rest of the day. Be sure to try flavored shaved ice in Plaza de Francia and seafood lovers won’t want to miss the famous fish market.

After a short flight Monday morning, we were in a different world, the Comarca de Kuna Yala! There are 365 islands (covered in coconut trees and many uninhabited) that make up the Archipielago de San Blas. The Kuna Indians govern the region with little interference from the national government and even used coconuts as currency until the late 1990’s. We spent two days soaking up the culture while mingling with the Kuna, shopping for their famous molas and watching the traditional dance. We also soaked up the sun on the white sand beaches and while snorkeling in the turquoise Caribbean ocean.

Kuna Indian Woman by Thomas Walker

Back to the city to hop on our transport for the rest of the trip, we crossed the Bridge of the Americas on our way to El Valle. After about 2 hours, we were amazed at the change of scenery and climate. Located at about 3000ft, in the crater of one of the largest, extinct volcano’s, El Valle’s cool climate is great for hiking, spotting wildlife, and shopping for handicrafts. There is also a ‘mud bath’, square-trunked tree, and local zoo where you can see some colorful frogs and other exotic animals.

The Pacific beaches of Panama are another one of the many reasons to visit this wonderful country. Surfing some of the best waves in Central America, scuba diving in the national park compared to the Galapogos, or relaxing by a camp fire on the beach while listening to the sea and counting stars… our guide knew all the best spots!

Boquete Mountains by Joy

I think the parts of Panama that surprised me the most were the mountains. We drove higher and higher into the bread basket of the country with farms clinging to these hills up to an elevation above 8000ft. The lodge we used had wonderful spa treatments, the freshest food, great view of Panama’s tallest mountain (Volcan Baru) and included a hike in the cloud forest. One day we hiked the famous Quetzal trail to Boquete and even were lucky enough to spot one of these elusive, emerald green quetzal birds. Boquete is a little lower and is well known for its flowers and coffee plantations but also has zip lines, white water rafting and rock climbing for the more adventurous.

Before crossing the continental divide, we stopped at some nice little hot springs and cooled off in the Chiriqui River. The views were amazing as we approached Bocas Del Toro. This is a perfect place to wind up the tour. We visited another national park, sailed with dolphins, snorkeled by the mangroves and enjoyed the Caribbean nightlife. Unfortunately, we also had to catch our flight back to Panama City and no one wanted to leave.

Our guide left the island the night before so he was there when we landed. We had plenty of time to test our siesta skills and freshen up before our last night’s dinner. The guide knew the perfect place with exceptional views of the skyline at night. Seeing that our flight wasn’t until late the next day, we decided to test out the cities legendary nightlife… we were not disappointed!
It is easy to see why Panama is becoming such a popular place to travel. Safe and inexpensive, friendly people and beautiful places, adventure and wildlife, culture and history all make this a place that everyone will enjoy.

Thanks to Kevin, our guide with Panama Breezes (http://www.barefootpanama.com/) we had a most memorable vacation and will talk about it for years to come.

Signed,
One happy traveler.

Panama Breezes

S.A.Natural Adventure

http://www.barefootpanama.com/

Fly Non-stop on Delta to China

2008-03-31T22:54:00.015-04:00

Shanghai at Night by Bhavit Naik

China by Mark Foreman

by Pavla Brcakova

Its official, you can now take a Direct Flight on Delta Airlines to the Shanghai Pudong International Airport from Atlanta, Georgia. Delta is stepping up its game and flying to China every single day! Yesterday, the Governor of Georgia - Sonny Purdue along with 40 other bigwigs, made history as the first to fly nonstop to Shanghai on Delta. We're hoping this will boost International Economy in Atlanta and the Southeast.

If you've never been to China, its definately worth a visit. Paris of the Orient: that's what they called Shanghai in the past, when it was still the leading power in trade and opium. Enter the communist revolution, which swept Shanghai into anonymity. Nonetheless, some traces of old can be found in present Shanghai. Today, Shanghai is the commercial center of China and has one of the most dynamic skylines in the world. The 17-million-citizen-strong city shows her dualistic face in every corner of the city. The Old Centre in the Yu Yuan area, where you can find one of the oldest streets of China, the ' sights, is the heart of the modern town. It is a good starting point for a boat trip on the Huangpu river or a visit to the Yu Yuan Market. You will find many city museums and interesting sites along your way, making Shanghai is quite a walkable city. Although the city is fairly commercial these days, Shanghai's residents have made an major effort in creating 'green zones' in the city....and they've succeeded. There is always a park or traditional garden in the vicinity. Sit down, relax and let others do the meditating for you.

Are you tanning your tattoo?

2008-03-27T22:58:00.002-04:00

Tatoo on the beach by Gary Romin

It's getting warm and some of us have already started working on our base tans. I have two tattoos - a butterfly on my chest and a heart on my back. The heart is the oldest, about 15 years old. Yes, the color has faded and you can't make out my name in the middle. The 10 year butterfly is close to the tan color of my skin, so its ok. Until I have it re-done. If you love to tan, you better protect your artwork! Those colors will fade even faster. The best way to do this is to use the highest sunblock possible. New Tattoo? Don't even think about tanning until it completely heals. At the very least, cover it up before going into the sun. The irritation isn't worth it.

Free Food for Animal Shelter

2008-03-27T00:54:00.002-04:00

Dogs on the beach in Capo Miseno by Pietro Ricciardi

Hi, all you animal lovers. This is pretty simple.. Please tell ten (or
more) friends to tell ten today! The Animal Rescue Site is having trouble
getting enough people to click on it daily to meet their quota of getting
free food donated every day to abused and neglected animals. It takes
less than 20 seconds to go to their site and click on "feed an animal in
need" for free. It's in a purple box in the middle of the page. This
doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the
number of daily visits to donate food to abandoned/neglected animals in
exchange for advertising. It's that simple. No obligation.
Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.
http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/

The Dixie Twister

2008-03-20T21:37:00.002-04:00

Photo by Tara Jenkins

Nostalgia Funny Car

Owner: Randall Davis

Loganville, GA

House Boat Cruising in Kerala, India

2008-03-18T22:57:00.002-04:00

House Boat Cruise by Kumar Murukan

Travel Wish List - Kerala, India

Today in Kerala, a leopard was chasing a dog and fell into a well. They managed to get him out and that lucky dog got away. Kerala, known as "God's own Country", is in southwestern India. To the west is the Arabian Sea and the Mountains of the Western Ghats are spread towards the east. Many consider it the most beautiful state in India. Palm tree lined beaches, lush greeney, wildlife, and waterfalls. All within two hours of each other. Its emerald backwaters provide a soothing background for their houseboat cruises. The House Boats Kerala offers 22 hour cruises with Navigator, Cook and Staff. You can see exactly what the inside of one of these look like on their website. It may seem remote, but Kerala has become popular among niche and eco-tourists. Kerala Backwater Tours is a wonderful resource for exploring the different types of cruises and all this exotic place has to offer. Cruising to the market town of Alappuzha is a must! If you're a history buff, Kochi is the place to go. The Jewish Synagogue and old European church are still there. Kerala is 100 percent literate and the cleanest state in India.

Building Nests for Barn Owls in Austria

2008-03-18T22:13:00.001-04:00

Photo by Philip Mackenzie

Once upon a time, I had an owl living in one of the trees in my back yard . From the bedroom window upstairs you could see the large nest. It was always exciting to a see the owl come home, its wings spread across the sky. I never saw the owl up close, but you could tell it was huge. It lived here for about 6 years. One day I realized the nest was gone. What happened? Did the storms blow it away? Had it found somewhere else to live? I'll always wonder. One owl that I find interesting is the Barn Owl. I love its heart shaped face but don't let that fool you. This bird can swallow its prey whole. You can find them all over the world but they're harder to find due to the lack of places to nest and rest. The Barn Owl Conservation Project in Austria is helping to provide man-made nests in hopes of saving their population. They even tell you how to build one on their website.

Dublin, Ireland

2008-03-17T03:42:00.007-04:00

Liffey at Night by Sarah Cuypers

Church in Dublin by Andrzej Windak

Dun Longhaire, Dublin by Andrzej Windak

Travel Wish List - Dublin, Ireland

The capital city of Ireland is one of those places that you should take the time to see. The weather may not be that great but there's lots to do. South of the Liffey River is a starting point for the history lovers looking for museums, churches, and culture. The Temple Bar Area is know worldwide for its exciting nightlife. You'll also find a good variety of restaurants and pubs. Farrington's is popular with tourists. The Guinness Storehouse will probably be one the coolest places you'll visit. Each floor represents a different time in the beer's 250 year old history. There's a Skybar on the top floor, with a Breathtaking View of Ireland. I didn't post a picture because you'll love their virtual tour. After the real tour, everyone gets a Guinness with foam in the shape of a shamrock. Now if you're underage you'll get a softdrink. For lovers of the Arts, take a stroll down O'Connell St. The Dublin Writer's Museum contains work from Wilde, Yeats, Shaw and other literary greats.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

2008-03-17T03:05:00.002-04:00

Englishman living in Ireland by Steve Ford Elliot

Famous Irish Quote

"Travelling - I was all my life at it. I'd still rather be travelling around. I'm always thinking of it. It was a better and a nicer time on the road - more freedom along the roads. We'd be selling tinware, saucepans, cans - country people knew us well at those times and were very nice."- Former Irish Traveller (or "Tinker") Nan McDonagh

Saving Tara Hill

2008-03-17T00:43:00.001-04:00

Tara Hill by Mette Finderup

The name "Tara" is Irish Gaelic meaning "tower" or "rocky hill". My name is Tara and I've always had a fascination for the history behind it. The Hill of Tara in Ireland was a famous gathering place for Irish Kings during pre-historic and historic times. There are plans for a new motorway that put the Hill of Tara on the World Monuments Fund's 2008 Watch List of the 100 Most Endangered Sites in the world. If you'd like to sign a petition to save Tara Hill, you'll be among thousands hoping to convince the Prime Minister of Ireland that this monumental place is worth saving.