Company Affair

Since the widening business community grows more and more global with each passing day, cross cultural knowledge is needed more and more too. Everything from leadership training  to etiquette training is being influenced a bit cross cultural knowledge.   The main thing people must understanding about cross cultural training of any kind is that is about communicating effectively.  And not just by words.  The way you dress, your manners, you actions all communicate very specific things, and if you are unaware of your behavior it can place business deals in grave danger.  Small talk in France is frowned upon before a big time negotiation and a Japanese business man will take great offense at you removing your suit jacket just before a meeting. 

While there is no way to know every single cultural rule of every single culture, there is a way of learning how to pick up on these small little rules that can actually make a big difference in your business dealings with foreign clients.  One way is to simply wait and watch to see how other people behave.   Having a cultural expert or translator though nice, is not always available to people, especially if the company is not a huge corporation with seemingly endless resources.  but there are still ways of improving your cross cultural communication.
 
There are many people from the United States who neglect cultural awareness of other companies.  Though they may be the best of their company at home, minor mistakes can wreak the biggest havoc on a business.  Because we are a cultural that values time so importantly, the rushing way of doing things that we take for granted is not often appreciated in other cultures.  It makes business people from the United States look insensitive to interpersonal relationships.  Figuring out how to ask the right questions about a culture the right way can make a huge difference in business transactions.   Much practice is of course needed to make cross cultural communication a well-honed skill, but it is well worth the investment to spend any money possible on improving such a skill.  Sales training alone cannot always win a deal anymore.

While I was in Sydney taking a tour of all the usual sites on a tour bus, I was sitting next to a woman who was a Naturopath. I didn’t know what that was, and I didn’t what to seem stupid, so I kept to myself as best I could. But, later on in the tour, when we were on a lunch break, as I stepped off the bus, I sprained my ankle. She immediately, came to my aid and took me to sit down on a near-by city bench. She then applied pressure on my ankle with both her hands and closed her eyes and told me to focus and visualized a clear light surrounding my injured ankle and visualize a healing taking place. She assured me there’s no wrong way to visualize this and to start immediately.

I was really wanting to go to a hospital, is what I was thinking, but her kindness at wanting to help stopped me from saying anything, so I just decided to do as she instructed, right there on a city bench in Sydney, Australia. A stranger in a strange land, getting some kind of energy medicine applied to my sprained ankle by a complete stranger. I noticed right away, when she laid hands on my ankle that the pain was becoming less severe. She kept pressure on my ankle and her breathing was unusual. Like she was in a trance. I did as she requested, that I visualize a clear light surrounding my ankle and envisioning that my ankle was healed. I didn’t know what that looked like, so I imagined how my other ankle was not injured and so I imagined that my sprained ankle was the same as my non-sprained ankle. We did this for what seemed like an hour or more, but when she took her hands off my ankle and told me to open my eyes, only minutes had passed.

I looked down on my ankle and I could no longer feel the pain of the sprain. There was no bruising or swelling. She told me to move my ankle around to see if I feel full range of use. I could, I could move my ankle all around and then she told me to stand on it. I was reluctant, but, I mean, really, the pain went away, so why not see if I could stand on it. I could! I couldn’t put all my wait on it, but I could finish out the tour, pain-free and get back to one of the luxury hotels Sydney where I was staying. I thanked her for her kindness, and she said with a smile, now you know what a Naturopath is, so don’t hesitate to find one back in the States.

Today, I was with a colleague of mine who was staying at one of the top New York hotels  and we were discussing the benefits of art therapy. It’s often used to treat depression, anxiety and other conditions, like eating disorders and Alzheimer’s disease. We both sited different studies which have found that it helps ease cancer pain and helps women with cancer cope with their diagnoses. What we found most interesting is where art therapy really shines: helping people who have experienced trauma to overcome the emotional damage. For instance, childhood abuse, people who have witnessed traumatic events, soldiers returning from a mission and dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder or even survivors of a traumatic event.

We knew that therapists were at Ground Zero with paints, pencils and paper helping survivors and the rescuers deal with all the horror which arose from the 9/11 attacks. We, my colleague and I, both volunteer for the American Red Cross after the 9/11 attacks and along with dozens of other organizations, created art therapy groups to help New York children deal with their feelings. We expected it was the structure and the encouragement to expect their inner feelings through the art which helped all who participated. We asked them to focus on their experiences, perceptions and imaginations, in turn this will help make sense of what was happening to them. We provided materials so they could paint, sculpt, draw, weave, create collages or even sew if they liked. We told them there was no wrong way to do it, we weren’t going to show it to anyone, it wasn’t going to be hung on a wall, we even told them that they could destroy it if they wanted to. The art was just a tool, a physical way to get in touch with their pain.

Even today, I receive letters from the survivors of the 9/11 attack saying how much they appreciated the opportunity to express themselves the only way art would let them express. My colleague has followed up on many of the survivors to urge them to continue the art therapy, she then has them show her their artwork and she’ll advise them on their progression. We were both doodling as we were conversing and catching up on each others lives.

Venus Williams had jolt this week in her preparations and work to win the US Open.  In a game with Kateryna Bondarenko, a professional tennis player from the Ukraine, she lost in a 1-6 and 7-5 and 6-4 during the 2nd part of the game for the Rogers cup.  Other failures included losing to an opponent ranked 64th. 

In her history, the Rogers cup has always failed to be in her grasp, eluding her the three times she has played.  With her numerous fans cheering her on, it was an extremely disappointing outcome.  For those fans who wish to cheer her on, but have yet to get tickets due to being victims of circumstance, they have a chance through the US Open sweepstakes taking place right now.  With the competition
 
at its highest, it promises to be an event no one should miss, if they are a real tennis fan.
As for Kateryna Bondarenko, she will go on to compete with Agnes Szavav from Hungary.  Agnieska Radwanska from Polandis her other choice to play in the third round for the cup.
Williams is trying to find the silver lining in her situation, claiming that her loss will give her time to rest and recuperate for the US Open.  The games start on August 31st.  She says that her opponent cleaned a great match that was very clean and consistent whereas she made too many errors for her taste, something she will keep in mind this Monday when she starts to compete.

Kateryna Bondarenko, for her part, feel jolted by the win.  Because Williams is such a big tennis player and with much success in her history, the win has given her a lot of confidence.  After all, if she can beat a hardcore player like Williams, she can probably take on just about anyone.  In the final set, she 20 out of 28 serving points which defined the entire set.  Her US Open tennis scores will no doubt echo her recent luck.

Foreclosures.  Brooklyn residents are feeling it.  Chicago residents are feeling it.  And Los Angeles residents are feeling it.  What is “it” exactly?  It is the feeling that life may not be the same as it has been.  But in these times of economic struggle and worry, there is still fun to be had.  And in New York, some of the fun is at the Flea Markets.  Perusing the tables and the stalls at these markets in New York has long been a past time of a certain population, the artistic and the poor.

A great way to find cool items for one’s house, at a minimal cost.  Now days, other populations are taking part in the tradition of rummaging through others cast offs, and they are finding that not only are the deals great, but there is interesting treasures amidst the ‘cast-offs’.  One of the best places to treasure hunt is at the Brooklyn Flea.  There is something for everyone at this outdoor market place.  Relics and furniture, items rescued from the trip to the landfill.

The stuff one finds here is more than just a good find to be found during recession.  They are often times more interesting than anything out there in the new stores, more history than the new items off the conveyor belt.  For not only are there old items, but pieces made new, by artisans and craftsman.  Creative and beautiful bits and pieces that make a house a home.  In Brooklyn, the Flea is not just a shopping experience, it is a hub, where the community and the artists come together each week.

Chic fashion designers show their work, as well as chefs in the food stalls preparing and selling everything from grilled cheese sandwiches, to bread infused with lobster.  This one time small market, has grown in population, and moved from the original Saturday location in Fort Greene, to a grand market held underneath the Brooklyn Bridge each Sunday.  Hard times economically, do not mean hard times socially or emotionally.  The Brooklyn Flea is just one bit of evidence to that fact.

There are many interesting and beautiful aspects of Jersey that attract numerous tourists to its shores every year. It is the largest of the Channel islands, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy sailing and various other water oriented activities and sports, as well as fabulous beaches to simply walk along and enjoy the views. Tourists staying in a seaside Jersey hotel this September are in store for an additional treat. On the tenth of that month, the Jersey International Air Display will take place over its shores. This is a unique spectacular show that features some of the best flyers in the field.

The natural geography of this island is a great contributor the fabulous views and ideal location for the aircraft event. It is interesting to note the display actually takes place far removed from the island’s airport, though it might interfere with some of its scheduled flights. The event includes aircraft and pilots from various countries and in the last few years has grown into a major attraction. This year there will be aircraft from The United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France and Ireland, among other countries, featured. And you can count on their being tourists from these countries there to witness the event as well.

The display is a free event, which is due in part to the tremendous sponsorship the Air Display has received. This testifies the growing interest and status of this event. It is important for tourists to be aware that the Elizabeth Castle will remain open during the event, though access to it may become limited because ferry services will be shut down for specific time periods on this day. In addition, the Grand Aviation Summer Ball will take place on September 5, preceding the display event. Whether you are able to attend the ball or not, the air show is definitely not something to be missed.

Corruption in the countries around the world impacts the lives of the citizens of those countries in many different ways.  In some cases, the effects of corruption comes in the form of the loss of life.  In other situations, it costs the people their money, their health or their freedom.  On the global scale it puts millions and millions of people in a cycle of misery and poverty.  Corruption breeds unrest, politically, socially and economically.  It is at once the cause and the barrier in overcoming extreme poverty and suffering.

In 2008, the gas prices in Guatemala hit the roof.  Businesses and families alike had a very difficult time not only making ends meet, but just simply surviving.  The suppliers however were not suffering, they were profiting in fact, from the act of laundering the petrol through the Mexican borders, a completely and irrefutably illegal act by the way.  Border crossings where the place to conduct bribery, in order to allow empty trucks to pass, the bribes and the empty trucks?  Illegal as well.

While the coverage by the media did note the cheap gas to be found on the border towns, not much was reported on just how that gas got there in the first place, to be sold at often times, temporary gas stations.  Temporary gas stations?  Well these temporary gas stations could somehow afford this cheap gas, when the established and permanent stations, for some reason, could not.  The organizations of Transparency International expressed the concerns of the owners of the permanent stations to the National Customs Office.

They, the IT, were told that all the regulations of customs had been legitimate.  Well, in order for a situation of corruption such as this to come about, what is needed is a coexistence, a symbiotic relationship between greed and permissiveness.  The checks and balances are non-existent, paving the way for obscure decision making, where the desire for wealth by a few, results in illegal activity that directly and negatively affects the lives of the many people in the society, the very definition of corruption.

The island of Mauritius is one of the world’s largest producers of sugar.  The Dutch travelers introduced the the Sugarcane to Mauritius in 1630 and was originally grown in order to produce a liquor that is similar to rum,arrack .  There are fields and farms filled with the green leaves of the sugarcane plant, located just about everywhere one looks.  In each hamlet and village, surrounding the homes and the best hotels, Mauritius lush with this tropical produce.

The government of the island, working in cooperation with the factories themselves, enacted policies and procedures that have served to further enhance the success of the industry, unlike that of the story of the sugar factories of Kenya.  Another one of the policies enacted by the government is intended towards greater diversity and cooperation between the private parties that now own many of the sugar mills.

The sugar production on Mauritius accounts for twenty five percent of the earnings created by the exportation of the sweet powder, and almost ninety percent of the farm land is used in the cultivation of the sugarcane plants.  And of the total land mass, more than twenty five percent of all of the land is used for the farms.  In Kenya, the sugar farms dealing with the consequences of switching to rain water for the agriculture, from the original irrigation systems.

While on Mauritius the plants are water throughout the entire year by a system of huge overhead and above ground sprinklers.  Jean Li Yuen Fong is the Mauritius Sugar Producers Association’s director, and he states that this area also contributes close to sixty percent of the requirements for electricity on the island.  Fong lives on one of the plantations.  He states that come September of this year, the Economic Partnership Agreements will take over the protocol that has been used for many years.  Now the economy that was so dependent on the cultivation of the sugarcane, become a bit more diversified through tourism and the textiles industries.

Typically termed as a gateway drug into other more serious drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, PCP, LCD, and others, psilocybin mushrooms are used for its effects as a hallucinogen.  Drug rehab centers often provide information about this kind of drug as a result of its reputation.  Among these effects is a changed perception in reality (otherwise known as tripping), relaxation, distortions in what the person is seeing, and a detachment from their physical body.  Other experiences are color and light collections vivid in color and form and fantastic and strange visions.

As far as symptoms go, there might be shivering, numbed tongue, perception alteration of time, sweating, a light head, and in more extreme cases anxiety.  Because it acts as a hallucinogenic, law enforcement often blame it for leading people to other hallucinogenic like PCP and LSD.  A residential drug  treatment center will usually have more information about why some people consider it a dangerous drug in its capacity to lead to other more serious drugs.

Other reasons for avoiding the psilocybin mushrooms include what kind of form is taken, from the dried and wild varieties.  Detrimental health problems can occur with the wrong type taken.  Additionally, there are certain kinds of fungi that look similar to the psilocybin mushrooms.  While causing the hallucinations associated with tripping, it can also in the most extreme cases cause death.

Because taking LSD and the psilocybin mushroom cause reactions that alike, this is another reason for its reputation as a gateway drug.  LSD does gives its users a longer and more prolonged experience due to the chemicals used in making the drug.  These synthetic chemicals are the reason LSD is considered a dangerous drug for people in the medical community.  PCP and strychnine, a substance which is poisonous, are often found mixed into a batch of LSD.  And while PCP also has a similar role to LSD and the psilocybin mushroom, it has far more dangerous effects on its uses than either of the two other drugs.

You asked whether or not Psilocybin mushrooms could be laced with LSD. LSD is most commonly used in one of two forms. It is either absorbed in its liquid form onto a piece of paper (a blotter), and chewed or taken as a pill. It may be possible to soak Psilocybin mushrooms in this liquid, or mix LSD with Psilocybin in its powdered form.

More information about the psilocybin mushroom can be found at centers for treatment for drug addiction.  There is also much literature available at local libraries about the connection between the mushroom and other drugs with hallucinogenic properties.

I found the best restaurants Canberra can offer is in Civic. It has heaps of cafes, and it’s a very popular. The Manuka part of Canberra is known as a more sophisticated cafe’ spot, but it’s really not that much better than Civic. I think Manuka offers more to the middle-aged corporate types and Civic is geared for the more cooler types. If you have money to burn, I recommend the Boathouse, it was voted Canberra’s best restaurant, it has a beautiful view of the lake and the food is fantastic. I also like the Tower Restaurant in Black Mountain Tower, because they offer a view of the entire city and they also offer kangaroo as a dish. But, both of these restaurants are very beautiful and both have really good food, even if they are more expensive. The trick I have for eating the food at those two restaurants and still get the view of the city is to order ‘take-away’. But the best ‘take-away’ is Zeffirellis Pizza Restaurant. They give large meals and a drink for under $10. Then, once you figure out where you’ll get your ‘take-away’ from, head up to Mount Ainslie and park my butt on a piece of ground and while I’m eating my meal out of a plastic container, I’ll look out and enjoy an even better view of the city.

Now, as for getting around to Civic and Manuka can be tricky. Canberra is not a foot friendly city and it’s very spread out. Taxis can be expensive, and there are no trains here, so buses are your best bet, that’s if you don’t own a car. The buses are cheap and go almost everywhere at a very good schedule. I, of course, bike my way around, this way I really get a great taste of the entire city first hand. See, now you know why I recommend ‘take-away’. It’s perfect for someone like me with little income.

Beyond a doubt one of the main features of the city of New York is its incredible theatre scene. Broadway has a long tradition of representing the best of American theatre and used to commonly be referred to as the Great White Way. It has also scene many changes and transitions, both in theatre styles, playwrights and of course in audiences. What is interesting and what most theatre practitioners find out when they’ve been in the business for long enough, is that audiences can change from generation to generation, decade to decade, year to year and even night to night. One thing, however, that is generally expected is a standard of excellence, and while that might change over time, it remains strong and steady. Neil Simon is one of the playwrights who has had a long lasting career that has spanned decades and can tell first hand the nature of the changing face of the audience. Tourists staying in one of the top luxury hotels New York City will often stand in line to get tickets the latest Broadway hit, and Simon has had his fair share of those.

Neil Simon was born in The Bronx, New York in July of 1927. He saw his first Broadway play, Come Blow Your Horn, open at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre in 1961. His second show was a musical, called Little Me that opened to a mixed response by both audiences and critics. Overall though, it was higher regarded by critics than it was by audiences and she never saw large audience turnouts. However, it did earn him his first Tony Award nomination. By the year 1966 Simon had a remarkable four shows running on Broadway at the same time. Some of his greatest hits have included the plays The Odd Couple, Lost in Yonkers, Biloxi Blues, The Goodbye Girl, Laughter on the 23rd Floor, and Brighton Beach Memoirs. The list goes on and on, with Simon being one of the most successful Broadway playwrights, and most widely produced writers in the world. More hotels here

When someone says Phuket, Thailand what images come to mind? Some will say, I don’t know, never heard of it. Some will be negative. What a shame. But more often than not, people know about Phuket, people have been to Phuket, people love Phuket and people want to go back to Phuket. Why? Phuket has so much to offer tourists and that is very evident by the vast number who visit every year. Shall we start with the ideal tropical weather with the warm sparkling clear blue water and those breathtaking sunsets? This same water that is perfect for all the popular water sports, such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, water skiing, sailing, speed boating and just plain wading or lying lazily on the beach listening to the gentle waves rolling up on the clean sand. What about the awesome views, the lushness of the trees and rich vegetation? In addition there is the clean fresh air with a subtle breeze that brings the pleasant aroma of the brightly colored flowers.

However, there is so much more than nature, there is the night life with the nightclubs and bars, colorfully decorated and jumping with the loud music, favorite drinks and trendy dancing. There is the historic aspect of this interesting city with tours to get you to and from. And, there is FantaSea. They call themselves the ultimate cultural theme park with few disagreeing. The incredible elephant show, bright, extravagant costumes, rides, games, shopping, and every kind of food imaginable. FantaSea is a definite must do when in Phuket.  Find out about international restaurants here

And of course, there are the fabulous five star hotels Phuket offers. This trip would not be complete without allowing yourself the luxury of being pampered and spoiled. The amenities are numerous, the staff very pleasant and helpful and the restaurants serve the finest cuisine, whether it be local recipes or familiar western entrees. Phuket, Thailand, what are your images of this great city?

What is the difference between a good lawyer, and a great lawyer.  There are many good lawyers practicing in current times.  But the really great ones are, in many cases, difficult to find.  Well, all clients want their phone calls to be returned in a timely manner, and a good lawyer will do that.  However, how many times will a lawyer call without being prompted, just to check in?  Well, Las Vegas lawyers know that that is just what a great lawyer does. 

It is assumed that when one passes the Bar Exam, that one is aware of and knowledgeable about the laws and the justice system, and good lawyers do.  A great lawyer will take a look at those laws and apply them to each specific client.  They understand their client’s needs, they just simply understand their client.  And a good lawyer will keep up with the legal documentation, the work, the court dates while a great lawyer will do the same, however in a more thorough and again, thoughtful manner, always keeping the context of not only the case at hand in mind, but the business of each client they are working with and working for. 

Efficiently working, and effectively getting the job done is the sign of one that is good at their work.  Those that work with the ethics that are above standards, are those that search for the ways in which that work will eventually be more valuable in the long run.  They go above and beyond what is required of them, in these instances clients are literally getting more than they have paid for.  Professionalism reigns in the world of law, and being treated with respect is one thing that everyone deserves. 

Great lawyers not only respect, they get to know and to understand those whom they are working for.  They pay attention to the variety of people they meet and recognized diversity in thought, in modes of communication, and they attend to the individual.  So then, what is the difference between good and great, it is the human aspect.  This is true not only in the practice of law, but in every form of business and in every segment of daily life.

Our four-star Dubai hotels offer a sumptuous blend of innovation and tradition, meeting some of the highest luxury standards in the hotel industry.  Guests here will find themselves enjoying all the amenities our hotels have to offer, including fantastic food, gracious hospitality, and a host of extras that are sure to make a stay here memorable for years to come.  The ambience here is exquisite, where contemporary design meets with classical beauty, making the hotels as inviting as the city itself.  Our lodging provides a splendid base to center your stay in this gorgeous place, that has both desert and beach.  Dubai has really come into its own in recent years, and there are plenty of good reasons why it’s one of the hottest vacation spots in the world.

For one thing, Dubai has some of the world’s largest shopping malls, with a variety of attractions inside the malls.  This means that an already-fantastic shopping experience is further heightened by a host of distractions that will entertain family members of all ages.  There are also a dizzying number of galleries showing some of the most innovative works of contemporary art in the world.  On top of this, Dubai has a dog show!  Already in its third decade, the show, now known as the Pedigree and Whiskas Pet Show is held in late Winter, and is a treat for local pet owners, as well as an excellent attraction for international visitors.

Recently added is a special pavilion for cats and birds, although the emphasis is still very much on the dog.  The Dubai Pet Show has a full day of events that will appeal to animal lovers of all walks (and flights) of life, but the competition is for the dogs.  With categories like Happiest Dog, and Dog Most Like its Owner, there is a genuine spirit of good fun here, although serious competitors will also find their place.  This is a free event, and one that brings joy into the hearts of children and adults who love dogs and all animals.

The five-star hotels in Sydney are a sumptuous combination of luxury and convenience.  We offer accommodations that place a premium on innovation and tradition.  This means that you will have access to the latest technologies, both in in-room entertainments and in communication connectivity; but you will also be treated to old-world niceties and hospitality, something we’ve perfected.  Guests will also have access to features that meet the highest standards in the industry, such as splendid exercise facilities with a wide variety of offerings, along with first-class meals prepared by chefs studied in the newest developments in world cuisine.  This is truly a stunning experience that will revitalize the body and help you prepare for your wonderful time in Sydney.

Sydney is one of the largest cities in all of Australia, and there are tons of activities here that will keep every member of the family busy and happy.  Sydney also attracts some of the best minds, looking to contribute to the artistic fabric of the continent.  Some artists are from elsewhere, some have roots that go back a generation, and others have roots here that are much, much older than that.  Rea is one artist who is challenging classical notions of art and reinventing visual culture in a very interesting way.  In the past few years, she has started to make a name for herself, and give a visibility to her art and its multiple meanings.  Rea was born in New South Wales in 1962, of Gamilaroi and Wailwan ancestry, and earned her BFA at the University of New South Wales in 1993.

Since then, she has worked as a curator, done many tasks for a number of galleries, and more importantly, has developed her work and her voice.  Rea lists, among her influences, bell hooks, Adrian Piper, and Andy Warhol, which suggests a work that is both politically engaged, and plays with pop culture and the nature of the iconic image.  These are certainly apt artistic camps with which to align herself.  Her artwork has its origins in a biscuit box.  Her mother used to keep old photographs there, and she was obsessed with these images of her family and friends as a young girl.  When she started growing up, she experimented in modifying the images digitally, and started to look at how Aboriginal people are represented in art and photography.  Drawing on touristic images of native people, she began to modify the images to construct a deeply urgent, and ironic, cultural critique, from the perspective of a living human being on Australian soil.

Fall is an excellent time for visiting Phoenix, AZ. The spring are goo times to visit too. This is because the days are generally warm and the evening cool. The sunrises over the cool air mass that settles over the valley Phoenix is situated in every evening. The suns warm rays quickly warm the air to a comfortable temperature. Sunrise may see the temperatures being cool, in the 50′s, but the days warm rapidly into the 70′s to 80′s and occasionally the 90′s. The day temperatures and clear sunny skis make for a perfect place for out door living. If you like to sit out side and read, sleep in the sun, hike, bike, run or play sports the weather is perfect for that. As the sun goes down the air cools off quickly in the desert. It can become cool enough for a jacket as soon as the sun leaves the skies. This is because of thermal cooling. The dry air and clear skies do not hold the heat in and so it goes right up into the atmosphere and out to space. Evenings are beautiful sometimes with warm desert breezes blowing through the cool air. Here is the perfect weather in fall and spring. The winter is cooler and still nice. The days generally are in the 50′s to upper 60′s with cooler nights. Nights can get down to freezing occasionally and briefly. The days warm up not quiet as quickly as the rest of the year because the sunlight is not as strong. The sun is low in the sky and cooler at this time of year. The summer is very very hot in Phoenix. In the heart of the summer the sun rise temperature can be in the upper 80′s with day time highs getting into the hundred and teens. These days can be brutal. The sunlight very strong and searing. Mornings heat up quickly and temps will reach 100 before noon and can top out at 115 or more! This is a good time to head down under to Adelaide boutique hotels where it is winter and the temperatures are cooler then the summer in Phoenix.

When traveling in Delhi, best hotels are often difficult to find, because of the choices of accommodation.  Our hotels offer something for the discerning traveler looking for a distinctive and unique lodging.  They are all extremely varied in architecture and design, and each have their own individual feel, catering to the individual looking for a hotel with a personal touch.  There are still the same exacting standards that apply to other hotels, such as excellent fine dining, exercise rooms, and splendid concierge service, so that every need is met and even exceeded.  There are plenty of activities here to keep the whole family entertained, such as swimming pools, lounges, and excellent in-room entertainments.  It is highly recommended, however, that you spend time exploring the amazing city.

Delhi is a fascinating place, where many of India’s diverse cultures meet and comprise one of the world’s thriving metropolitan areas.  The energy here is infectious, and often overwhelming, and attracts artists and scientists from all over.  The energy is evident in the art, and one of the city’s more motivated groups, Khoj: International Artists’ Association, has some very interesting projects.  Khoj is an artist-run organization dedicated to developing international networks and simultaneously promoting experimentation among artists and groups within India.  Their way of working is very cutting-edge, employing grass-roots methods with sophisticated uses of virtual media.  They are also committed to promoting community based arts, and one of their projects is Telephone Pyaar.

Conceived by Abinhandita Mathur and performed with seven young people, Telephone Pyaar is a project investigating the theme of love.    Looking at popular film, reading texts, and listening to songs about the theme of love, the young people are asked to explore all the issues and conflicts that come up.  The focus becomes extremely local, revealing complicated ideas that are specific to time and place.  These ideas are then transfered to fictional phone conversations and recorded, in order to reveal and document a modern Delhi.

The Channel Island of Guernsey is rich with heritage that spans hundreds of years.  One of the aspects which makes this an incredibly interesting destination for world travels, is that there are many archaeological digs located across the island, as well as many historical sites and museums.  For history buffs this is the perfect place, and a great deal on a Guernsey hotel is always to be found.  One of the aspects that makes this, and all of the Channel Islands important throughout history is that Guernsey was once a major trading destination between England, and the much closer mainland of France.

Pottery has been found abundant in the the digs, that has origins in the region of France, Saintonge.  This has led scientists to the conclusion that a large vessel at one time transported the pottery to the island.  One of the areas on the island rich with archaeological finds is the area called Bonded Store.   Many relics have been discovered here, just under Market Street, such as figurines, the Intaglis jewel, ceramics and pottery.  Many of these finds date back to the medieval times of the Roman influence on the islands.

This has helped to create a better picture of what life was like during those times.  Another dig is located in the Belgrave Vinery which as produced some interesting findings as well.  One of the most influential finding was a stone that was found standing that is believed to be approximately from four thousand BC.  The site was excavated just previous to the construction of a new housing development.  Those living on the island are proud of their heritage, having ancestors that were part of the armies of Norman the Conqueror.   Along with the Roman occupation, the island has been occupied by the French as well, this taking place in the mid 1300′s.  By the middle of the twentieth century, Guernsey was occupied again, by the Germans.  By the 1980′s Guernsey had gained independence and continues to grow from their history, into the future of the modern world.

South Yorkshire, England includes four metropolitan boroughs and each has their own unique charm, atmosphere and cultural dynamics. The region of Yorkshire has an interesting history, and is full of magnificent landmarks that attract numerous tourists to it every year. It has amazingly beautiful scenic elements and has even been nicknamed by some as God’s Own Country. Tourists staying in a South Yorkshire hotel certainly understand what is meant by this as they see for them selves just how beautiful the country is. One of the important historic situations it played an essential role in was the War of the Roses.

The Wars of the Roses was a series of civil wars fought in England during the 15the century. It was a time of turbulence and great competition over the crown between the house of Lancaster and the house of York. These bloody battles continued before and after the official wars were recognized and constitute a particularly bitter and violent dispute and conflict. Eventually these conflicts ended with the victory of the Lancasters. Henry Tudor had already disposed his cousin Richard II, who had been a controversial ruler that was opposed by many of the nobles. This was part of what propelled the subsequent conflicts.

When the Lancasters won and Henry was reestablished as king, the official dynasty of the Tudors was ushered in. This would create a ling of monarchs lasting 116 years. This line of rulership claimed to be descendents of John of Gaunt who was the third son of Edward III. Henry Tudor became King Henry IV and was followed after his death by his son Henry V. The Tudors would eventually end with the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. At her death in 1603 she had no heir and her cousin James I of Scotland established the House of Stuart on the English crown.

Walter Savage Landor was an English writer and poet who was born in Warwick, England. He was extremely respected, though he achieved greater critical acclaim and popularity than he did commercially. Tourists staying in a quaint Victorian bed and breakfast or a fine Warwick hotel will recognize the eloquent inspirations for this work as they experience this fine historic city. It is also believed the writer J. R. R. Tolkien drew inspiration from this city in much of his writings. Tolkien is the writer of the Lord of the Rings series, and it is also believed that there are certain elements of the plot that also correspond to events in Warwick history.

Landor is best known for his prose work Imaginary Conversations and for one of his poems titled Rose Aylmer. In Imaginary Conversations, he draws on actual figures from ancient Greece. He presents a philosophical dialogue that includes life issues and themes such as politics, romance, and social relationships. The work its presented in 6 volumes of imagined discussions between various statesmen and writers as well as individuals from the common population that represent both fortunate and unfortunate life circumstances.

At some point in his life, Landor decided to settle in South Wales though he would continue to return to Warwick on occasional visits. He stayed for a time in Swansea, Wales where he met Lord Aylmer and his sister Rose. Rose would eventually become immortalized in a poem by Landor titled appropriately Rose Aylmer. In 1798 Landor published his famous work Gebir. This would be the work and publishing event that would solidify his career and prominent status. After Rose Aylmer traveled to India and died of Cholera, Landor experienced some years of strife and distress. He went to London where he spent most of this time.

Everyone is going green and it’s not a bad idea. So what if the government suspended the cash for clunkers program. There are still ways that you can save on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint this summer.  Here are some easy steps you can take to reduce your electricity bill. And we all know how high that can be in the summer if you run the air conditioning constantly.

Here are some home renovations you can make:

Insulate your house: You can save yourself about 20 to 30 percent on your heating bills and reduce your Carbon dioxide emissions. If you live somewhere colder you can even consider super insulation.

New windows: If you have old windows in your home they could have invisible cracks in them that you can’t see. That means that the air you are using to either cool or heat your home could be escaping. Inevitably, you are letting the bought air out!

New blinds: Having window coverings replaces or put on can also help with your electricity bills. If the sun does not beat through your house via your windows you won’t have to use as much energy to cool it. Consider going to Next Day Blinds, they have a great assortment of styles.  Next Day Blinds also has showrooms available in certain states so you can go check out the shades, covers and array of everything else in person.

Other stuff you can do:

Wash your clothes in cold water: It will use less energy because your washer will not have to heat up to warm up the water.

Only run your dishwasher when it’s full: If you wait until you have a full load of dirty dishes, you will use the dishwasher less often, resulting in less electricity use.

Thailand means the land of smiles, everyone in Thailand wears a smile, how nice is that, young and old alike are all smiles. The friendliness of the Thai people is unsurpassed any where in the world, folks that have traveled the world will confirm this. From Bangkok to Chen Mai from Nakom Panom to Phuket you will be welcomed. Visitors are an honored guest and generally treated as such. Temple complexes dot the landscape and giant Buddhas stand in watch from hillsides and mountains over the valleys below. These statues and complexes of buildings usually gleam in whites and golds in the sunlight with the colorful flapping of prayer flags all around! Rich in history from the prehistoric dinosaur digs in the north west provinces to the centuries old temples and villages around the country to the modern Bangkok, Thailand has it all. The best Bangkok hotel can be a place to process all the experiences of this country rich in cultural experiences. There are over 31,200 Buddhist temples in Thailand in Thai the term Wat means temple. Temples fall into two categories the first category are the Royal temples those built by or under the sponsorship of the royal family and the second category of temples are those temples that that were built by the citizens of Thailand called common temples. Temples server two functions. Some temples only house monks other temples are for carrying out religious ceremonies and functions. There are currently two hundred temples under royal sponsorship, although only six temples enjoy the highest ranking. In villages throughout Thailand monks can be seen in the morning doing their rounds for alms from local residences. This is central to the lives of the monks as working for profit is forbidden.

Ask at any of the hotels Brisbane has to offer about what to do in town and they will invariable mention the Gallery of Modern Art or GoMA. It’s actually part of a complex of museums reached by ambling down River Walk, which is a walkway that’s actually floating and links the business core of the city; and past beaches and swimming lagoons. It’s right on the Stanley River and overlooks the city. The GoMA has works by Australian and artists from all over the world. Giant windows frame the view of the city, and sits next to the Queensland Art Gallery.

Or try the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the largest koala sanctuary in the world. 40 miles north of Brisbane, you can get there by bus which will drop you off at the gate. Animals from Australia are everywhere and we enjoyed the petting zoo. Holding a koala is a must do, so is feeding the kangaroos. They have wallabies which are related to kangaroos, which they look like but are smaller. All these animals are a kick to see, especially in this pleasant sanctuary. Also living there are dingoes and flying foxes, which are large bats. Where else can you get to hold a koala?

For more animals Brisbane Whalewatching will take you on a day tour of humpback whales in Moreton Bay. A high speed catamaran takes you quickly out into the bay where you can observe the whales as well as dolphin pods and turtles. Live commentary make this a wonderfully educational and enjoyable tour. The food is almost as good as the view as guests are treated to a delicious buffet. Seeing the whales is unforgettable as they jump out of the water and come right up to the boat.

Wessex, England is an historic region in the southwest section of the country. It has played a prominent role in the evolution of the English society, dynasty kingdoms and the country itself. It is represented by the symbolic association to the dragon, which dates from the early first century AD. This is first mentioned in stories told by Mathew of Westminster, though he is now believed to by a mythological figure, and Henry of Huntingdon, an English historian from the mid 12th century. Mathew was originally believed to have been the writer of the Fores Historiarum, which contains the mention of the dragon, though this was discovered to be a mistake and although the account exists in the book, there is no indication that Mathew of Westminster ever existed. These early accounts refer to a golden dragon that was raised by the West Saxons in 752 AD at the Battle of Burford. Tourists who visit the region and stay in a Wessex hotel are more than likely to encounter a representation of the dragon during their vacation.

The dragon is seen in the Bayeux Tapestry and is depicted as a fallen golden dragon, although this may not refer directly to Wessex as the dragon imagery was in common use at the time. There is also a panel in the stained glass at Exeter Cathedral that displays the dragon in Wessex and indicates an association to it that predates the Victorian period. The association become extremely popularized in the 19th century, due largely to the writings of E. A. Freeman. The dragon is also found on the Wessex Society flag. The flag is a simple depiction of a golden dragon in front of a red backdrop. The flag was designed by William Crampton. Regardless of the origins or extent of its use, the dragon is a popular symbol of Wessex and the region today.

Although Dinara Safina was beaten by Jelena Jankovic in the final round of the Cincinnati Open she says that she is ready to take on the US Open. Despite the loss she will not let it side track any of her US Open tennis scores.

Safina has been criticized because she hold the world number one ranking for women’s tennis without having one any of the grand slam titles of tennis. The grand slam titles include: Wimbledon, The French Open, the US Open and the Australian Open. Safina has been unable to win any of those events. Although, she is not putting any pressure on herself that she must win the US Open.

She has said in interviews that she really does want to win a grand slam title, and has her sights set on the US Open, but that if she does not win, she will just come back next year and work even harder to win herself a grand slam title. She should be able to hold onto her number one ranking through the US Open but if she does not win it, she could drop to the number two ranking or make a swiftrank back like Murray.

Safina is a tennis player out of Russia, who has been making her mark on the women’s tennis world, despite her not being able to produce a grand slam title win as of yet. So that is why her name may not be as familiar as Serena Williams or Maria Sharapova. Maria Sharapova has been trying to make a comeback ever since she suffered an injury and had to pull out of some tournaments.

The US Open will be interesting on the women’s side because it could be the chance for Safina to prove that she deserves that number one world ranking. We shall see what comes of the event. The women’s side may not be getting has much press as the men’s side because there are just not a lot of recognizable names at the top.

I finally was talked into a funky bazaar-like tiangge and braced myself to haggle. But I really didn’t need any shoes or fashion jewelry or things for the house, and begged off the everyone-has-to-do-this in Manila experience for the more subtler pleasures of, well, eating one of the five meals Filipinos intake daily. They have a great idea, extra meals times calledmerienda. One merienda in the morning after breakfast and before lunch and another in the afternoon after lunch but before dinner and it can be more than a snack.

These are my kind of people, they don’t seem to ever stop eating. Maybe a tokwa’t baboy, nicely crisp pork with an onion, vinegar, brown sugar sauce, or a cooling halo-halo. When we left the Hotel Manila Philippines we were cooled off by this yummy chilly dessert with its crushed ice and cold milk and all sorts of fruit and preserves, the coconut outstanding. It cooled us off for a while, anyway.

It’s not always hot here, what with cold rainy days at a different time of year, try a hot beef or chicken mami at a mom and pop, you can find it everywhere.  Salty broth, eggy noodles, sliced green cabbage, scallions, carrots, and nice chunks of meat.

Or hit the buffet at Kamayan Restaurant. Try the absolutely incredible sushi bar, serenaded by musicians singing Filipino songs, and of course the Kamayan line for the Filipino food. Oh, and you get to eat with your hands here and enjoy the prawns, roast pig, platters of seafood. One cans ask for table ware, but just be brave and go for it, and leave the big sleeves at home.

Instead of clubbing it in Ibiza this trip, this time I decided to hike around and about the city. I purposefully booked one of the Luxury Ibiza Hotels which was close to the pier. This is where I wanted to start my trek. I picked up this walking guide book last time I was here and read through most of it. I has no idea I was missing so much of what Ibiza can offer, besides just the night scene.

The walk starts from the real pier, not the one at Formentera’s embarkation point.  I had no idea what to expect, but I didn’t expect development or even dynamite made the more interesting parts of the walk disappear. My walk was a way to get to Talamanca. I walked straight from the Botafoc Marina to Talamanca beach.  When I made it to Talamanca, I saw there was a wooden walkway in the back of the beach going all the way from the Bar Flotante. I stepped off the walkway to get on the Talamanca Promenade, which the walking book referred to as the ‘walkway’. From Talamanca, initially, I thought was easy and the book was still accurate about a huge hotel is the last building landmark. There seemed to be people doing the same walk as I, because the book says I’d hardly bumped into anyone.

About only an hour into my walk, I should’ve come across a red emblem on a blue arch, but it’s no where in site. Seems like it’s gone. A house has been built on the small hill, which kind of disrupts the walk. I had to go off path a bit, but found the path picks right back up on the other side of the house. This walking guide book I have need to be updated. I did follow the walking directions after that and it just wasn’t any good. There was too much development. All I could manage to do is side-wind my way through some streets and hills, I hope I wasn’t getting lost. Some navigation on this walk was not easy, and a short stretch of overgrown and steep path was difficult.

I was tired, and a little frustrated, only because the walking book was too out-dated, but I have to admit, I really enjoyed being outdoors and seeing parts of Ibiza simple life which I never would’ve just sleeping in my hotel room to get ready for a night of clubbing. I will remember this trek, but, I’ll not share it with any of my friends. I’ve got to keep up my reputation as a partier and not as a naturalist.

Two interesting projects are being produced this summer by students of the Newcastle School of Art, Music and Design school in Newcastle, England.  Some will be performed in touring shows outside the city, and some will bring in people to the town to stay in a Newcastle hotel, to see the shows that take place within the city limits.  One such show will be performed at the Edinburgh Festival this August in Scotland.  The piece being presented by the students of the University of Wales, Newport is a retelling of the play “Hamlet” by Shakespeare.  The title of the new multi-media version is “My Minds Eye”.  This adaptation holds fast with the original themes of Shakespeare’s work, those of the many varieties of love that take place, of death and of uncertainty.

These are themes that run constantly throughout the scenes of the original, and will do so in the University’s version as well.  What the students attempted to do was to deconstruct the play, and then put it back together.  Like the pieces of a puzzle that do fit back into the original, however by different pieces added at different times.  What they are hoping for is a play that is thought provoking and works that though avant garde, will appeal to and inspire the audiences at the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh.

These audiences that have been attending the festival for years are known for their sophisticated and open view of theater that is both contemporary and traditional, often both within the same piece of work.  What they have done is to give all the parts to just four players.  Although this is considered to be an innovative and experimental interpretation, they will be performing using only the original text as it was written by Shakespeare.  The Edinburgh Festival will run through the month of August and will present many such new works by companies from around the globe.

The Cotswolds are a magnificent region located just to the west of the central portion of the country of England.  They make up and area that is ninety miles in length and twenty five miles across.  There are many activities for those traveling through the towns and the villages of the Cotswolds, such as many gardens and parks, the museums, and a multitude of opportunities for shopping excursions in the markets, or night-time excursions in the pubs and restaurants.  One such place of interest located in Gloucestershire is the wonderful gardens of Hidcote Manor.  This is a brilliant surprise to those that manage to stumble upon the Gardens.  There is a series of back country roads that twist through the Cotswolds and lead one to the entrance, maps can be found at any one of the accommodations of Gloucestershire, hotel staff can show you the way to this delightful series of outdoor gardens.

The Gardens were created by Major Lawrence Johnston.  He was originally from the American city of Baltimore, Maryland.  He was very highly educated and became a naturalized citizen of Great Britain.  He even fought with the British Regiments during the Boer War and during World War One.  He had an avid interest in Botany and Horticulture and collected many plant specimens.  He later organized expeditions to head out and find exotic and rare species from the around the world, and he transplanted them to the gardens in the Cotswolds.  This is a very popular attraction and so on many of the bank and national holidays and so it can become very busy during those days, and should the weather be nice…that will bring more people out and about, and admission to the park may be limited.  In general, the park is less crowded after three p.m.  There are several various gardens located throughout the grounds, separated by manicured hedges and walls.  The garden was designed so that the various gardens would come into bloom throughout the seasons, so there is always something in bloom at the Hidcote Manor.

I got a chance to see some historic events be recreated at the Brixham Heritage Festival. Brixham is a place steeped with interesting history events. When my business sent me here to set up some business connections, and put me up in one of the Brixham Hotels, they were unaware that they booked me right in the middle of a Festival. During my down time, I managed to check it out, and boy did I have fun.

Brixham is the place where the Domesday Book originated, it was originally titled ‘Brioc’s Village’. Brioc is a Brythonic personal name and ‘Ham’ is the ancient term for village. so Brixham, I get it! The Domesday Book is the great survey record of all of England’s landholders, their stock and what all of it was worth, so William I of England could tax them accordingly. At one point, Napoleon was supposed to visit Bixham, but was exiled, but he did manage to make the ship he was on his was to exile, stop at Brixham. It’s said that local fisherman rowed their boats out just to get a glimpse of Napoleon, who was reported to walk back and forth on the deck of the HMS Bellerophon in full uniform.

Reverend Henry Francis Lyte who wrote the well know hymn ‘Abide With Me’,  wrote that hymn right here in Brixham. He wrote it at his home which today is the Berry Head Hotel. It’s reported that his health was failing and one day when he was home, watching the dusk sweep over the bay that it was the words to the hymn that came to mind. In more current times, Brixham was a part of the World War II efforts and testaments to that can be found at Battery Gardens which are adjacent to the Brixham Outer Harbour. It’s a series of lookout points laden with heavy artillery that looked over the bay and beyond just in case the enemy tried to attack. Only seven of these Emergency Coastal Defense Batteries remain in tacked, Brixham is one of them.

There way too much history to explore here during the Heritage Festival, my other business meeting won’t allow me to explore all that offered for me to experience. I’ll just have to go on line and do some more research.