The Tanawin Bay Resort is a home away from home. There are individual houses with thatched roofs, large bamboo terraces and big windows. You can have a spectacular view of the sea on one side, and the majestic mountains on the other. There still is a place in this world where you feel at home right on arrival. Your first married days together will be pure bliss at Tanawin Bay Resort.
Choose to do nothing or enjoy all that the resort has to offer, from pristine beaches, naturally fresh air, swaying palms on top of a hill, water sports to fine dining, entertainment, and acres to explore during your stay. This resort is now for sale or lease. It has a big potential for development with a total area of over 8000 square meters.
About the Author
Real estate agent in the Philippines http://www.ehow.bz/Tanawin.htm
Monday, November 5, 2007
Thursday, October 18, 2007
New philippines beach resort in cebu.
The club fort meds are the one exotic and luxury beach in cebu. There high performance because there place are very clean and there sand are very white and you can see view more wonderful and you can luxury your self and there sea are very clean and the most are there coral rift are very beautiful and you see the colorful fish that sometimes you can sea of your life. And also the sounds of the water are one of the effective medicines. Deed you observe the people live beside of the sea there life are very long that’s the effect of the sound of the sea because you can luxury your self.
Food?
Don’t worry about food because in the club fort meds there foods are very healthy because in the club fort meds are very fisher man and you can eat fresh fish and if you want a high class food like lobster. If you want more information pls click here http://philippinesbeautifulbeachresort.blogspot.com
Food?
Don’t worry about food because in the club fort meds there foods are very healthy because in the club fort meds are very fisher man and you can eat fresh fish and if you want a high class food like lobster. If you want more information pls click here http://philippinesbeautifulbeachresort.blogspot.com
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Go dancing each day the Panglao way by Jysmon Sean
Go dancing each day the Panglao way by Jysmon Sean
SITTING at the foot of Bohol just a short sea-trip from Cebu, Panglao Island has already proved itself to be the new playground of the Philippines...and thousands (if not millions) of dollars of investment money is being poured in to develop the island.
Already it has twice helped Bohol to win the Tourist Destination of the Year contest in the Philippines and hopes to help a third time at the Manila trade exhibition this September when it showcases the beauty of its beaches.
There are even plans approved by President Gloria Arroyo to develop a domestic airport on the island to take over from Tagbilaran Airport, with the intention to upgrade it to international status at some time in the future, to make it easier for the island's thousands of visitors to reach the coral-white sandy shores which surround it on all sides.
There are resorts dotted all around the sandy shores of the island, which connects to mainland Bohol at Tagbilaran and Bool via two road bridges, and each resort is situated in its own grounds on the edge of a sapphire sea.
Already well-known by scuba divers for the diversity of its fish life in the off-islands of Pamilacan, Balicasag and Pungtod, which are easily reached from the main resort area of Alona Beach, the rest of the island is also developing with top-class resorts: Land has already been put aside for a new Tourism Estate.
The off-islands sport hammerhead sharks, some rays, massive schools of jackfish and barracudas, and there are resident dolphins playing just off the beaches, plus (in the right season) whale-sharks. It is also well-known for the inordinate number of nudibranch and pygmy fish (including seahorses) which inhabit the coral reefs on its southern side.
Bohol itself takes pride in Panglao Island, although sometimes other towns in the area become a little jealous - especially since Panglao town itself has won the prestigious street dancing competition in Tagbilaran's Sandugo four times in a row, the only two in the history of Bohol to do so. Now the island town has been asked to 'take a rest' for a while by the Sandugo Foundation to give another town on Bohol a chance to win!
The 'dance capital' of Panglao is not too worried: the Sandugo street festival in July is only the live rehearsal for its' own major event - the Hudyaka sa Panglao which takes place on August 28th every year in the grounds of its parish church. Then the ten barangays of the municipality compete fiercely with each other to see which is the best of the best.
Its' own dance festival brings back ex-Panglao residents from all over the world, and instead of making a day of it, the music and dance lovers of Panglao try and make a whole week of it...and more. Actually, they take nine days and the whole town has a festive atmosphere with parties all over the place.
The big party starts off in earnest at 2pm every August 28th when several hundred dancers and their accompanying bands with their distinctive beat queue up outside the Municipal Hall to dance and parade their way to the grounds of San Agustin Church, where the 'real' party is held on the green. Now the people of Bohol can really see what they have missed out on by telling them to 'take a breather!'
A funfair atmosphere is already in motion - and has been for days! - and the dancers entertain until well past sunset to compete for the 'best of the best' prize.
About the Author
Philippine Wide provides quick information on traveling in the Philippines. Philippine Travel Guide, Restaurant Reservation, Diving Spots, Best Spa and Beach Resorts Reservation Services - Reservation Services for Boracay and other destinations in the country.
SITTING at the foot of Bohol just a short sea-trip from Cebu, Panglao Island has already proved itself to be the new playground of the Philippines...and thousands (if not millions) of dollars of investment money is being poured in to develop the island.
Already it has twice helped Bohol to win the Tourist Destination of the Year contest in the Philippines and hopes to help a third time at the Manila trade exhibition this September when it showcases the beauty of its beaches.
There are even plans approved by President Gloria Arroyo to develop a domestic airport on the island to take over from Tagbilaran Airport, with the intention to upgrade it to international status at some time in the future, to make it easier for the island's thousands of visitors to reach the coral-white sandy shores which surround it on all sides.
There are resorts dotted all around the sandy shores of the island, which connects to mainland Bohol at Tagbilaran and Bool via two road bridges, and each resort is situated in its own grounds on the edge of a sapphire sea.
Already well-known by scuba divers for the diversity of its fish life in the off-islands of Pamilacan, Balicasag and Pungtod, which are easily reached from the main resort area of Alona Beach, the rest of the island is also developing with top-class resorts: Land has already been put aside for a new Tourism Estate.
The off-islands sport hammerhead sharks, some rays, massive schools of jackfish and barracudas, and there are resident dolphins playing just off the beaches, plus (in the right season) whale-sharks. It is also well-known for the inordinate number of nudibranch and pygmy fish (including seahorses) which inhabit the coral reefs on its southern side.
Bohol itself takes pride in Panglao Island, although sometimes other towns in the area become a little jealous - especially since Panglao town itself has won the prestigious street dancing competition in Tagbilaran's Sandugo four times in a row, the only two in the history of Bohol to do so. Now the island town has been asked to 'take a rest' for a while by the Sandugo Foundation to give another town on Bohol a chance to win!
The 'dance capital' of Panglao is not too worried: the Sandugo street festival in July is only the live rehearsal for its' own major event - the Hudyaka sa Panglao which takes place on August 28th every year in the grounds of its parish church. Then the ten barangays of the municipality compete fiercely with each other to see which is the best of the best.
Its' own dance festival brings back ex-Panglao residents from all over the world, and instead of making a day of it, the music and dance lovers of Panglao try and make a whole week of it...and more. Actually, they take nine days and the whole town has a festive atmosphere with parties all over the place.
The big party starts off in earnest at 2pm every August 28th when several hundred dancers and their accompanying bands with their distinctive beat queue up outside the Municipal Hall to dance and parade their way to the grounds of San Agustin Church, where the 'real' party is held on the green. Now the people of Bohol can really see what they have missed out on by telling them to 'take a breather!'
A funfair atmosphere is already in motion - and has been for days! - and the dancers entertain until well past sunset to compete for the 'best of the best' prize.
About the Author
Philippine Wide provides quick information on traveling in the Philippines. Philippine Travel Guide, Restaurant Reservation, Diving Spots, Best Spa and Beach Resorts Reservation Services - Reservation Services for Boracay and other destinations in the country.
Amanpulo Pamalican Island In The Philippines by Ian SG Smith
Amanpulo Pamalican Island In The Philippines by Ian SG Smith
Arrival at Amanpulo in the Philippines actually starts before you ever get there!!
You are taken on arrival at Manila airport to the private Aman lounge prior to boarding the hotels own private twin prop aircraft which flies you directly to the resort. That is some style!!
The first thing that happens on arrival is that you are given the grand tour of the resort, before being taken to your 'casitta'/banda/villa.
We were lucky enough to have a beach casitta, which stood only a short path away from what was almost our own private beach, and what a beach. Imagine white talcum powder as far as the eye can sea, backed by the most beautiful shades of turquoise and pale blue and green sea. I thought I'd seen the finest beaches in the world in the Seychelles - not so!!
The casita has wall to wall windows, so the views of the water are absolutely spectacular.
There is a king sized bed, a huge bathroom with dressing area, separate shower and tub, all just A1.
Outside there is a large sun deck with two day beds and a hammock, and all totally private.
You can add to this the most exquisite cotton robe for lying around in, wonderful fluffy towels, toilet products, and fresh fruit every day.
After all that it comes as no surprise to discover that the food was another feature of Ananpulo. There is an a la carte menu, daily specials, and in fact whatever you want the chef will cook, and you can eat anywhere virtually at any time. A gastronomic paradise!!
Especially notable was the beach club paella, and the barbecues.
This isn't a resort for people who need to be entertained, with most activity being on or under the water, and then of course there is the beach!!
Probably the outstanding thing of all, was the unbelievable subtle and sophisticated level of service, rendering Amanpulo as one of the finest resorts anywhere.
About the Author
Andrew Watkins contributes to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com
Arrival at Amanpulo in the Philippines actually starts before you ever get there!!
You are taken on arrival at Manila airport to the private Aman lounge prior to boarding the hotels own private twin prop aircraft which flies you directly to the resort. That is some style!!
The first thing that happens on arrival is that you are given the grand tour of the resort, before being taken to your 'casitta'/banda/villa.
We were lucky enough to have a beach casitta, which stood only a short path away from what was almost our own private beach, and what a beach. Imagine white talcum powder as far as the eye can sea, backed by the most beautiful shades of turquoise and pale blue and green sea. I thought I'd seen the finest beaches in the world in the Seychelles - not so!!
The casita has wall to wall windows, so the views of the water are absolutely spectacular.
There is a king sized bed, a huge bathroom with dressing area, separate shower and tub, all just A1.
Outside there is a large sun deck with two day beds and a hammock, and all totally private.
You can add to this the most exquisite cotton robe for lying around in, wonderful fluffy towels, toilet products, and fresh fruit every day.
After all that it comes as no surprise to discover that the food was another feature of Ananpulo. There is an a la carte menu, daily specials, and in fact whatever you want the chef will cook, and you can eat anywhere virtually at any time. A gastronomic paradise!!
Especially notable was the beach club paella, and the barbecues.
This isn't a resort for people who need to be entertained, with most activity being on or under the water, and then of course there is the beach!!
Probably the outstanding thing of all, was the unbelievable subtle and sophisticated level of service, rendering Amanpulo as one of the finest resorts anywhere.
About the Author
Andrew Watkins contributes to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com
Wedding Anniversary Idea by Nathalie Fiset
Wedding Anniversary Idea by Nathalie Fiset
Wedding anniversary is a special celebration for couples as they mark another year into their marriage. There are many ideas couples can choose from to make their wedding anniversary as unforgettable as their own weddings. Many couples choose to take vacations and leaving kids and work behind for a few days while they go out of town or out of the country to celebrate. Others opt to celebrate with their families at home, in hotel, or a nearby resort. Wedding anniversary idea must be carefully planned; and it is not a difficult task. Here, we list some great choices you may want to consider for your wedding anniversary:
Out of Town Wedding Anniversary Idea:
1. Relive the honeymoon experience all over again by taking a trip to your favorite destination as a couple. Book a beachfront room in a romantic beach resort destination such as the Bahamas, Hawaii, Brazil, or the famed tropics of Asia such as Thailand, the Philippines, or even in Indonesia.
A 3- to 4-day trip in the scenic tropics will surely make the trip memorable as you sip wine and enjoy romantic meals by the sunset. Go snorkeling together and enjoy what nature has to offer. Mornings can be spent sipping coffee and reading, while savoring the view from your villa or cottage.
2. Backpacking in Asia for the adventurous, low maintenance couple is a unique way of celebrating anniversaries. Take a tour in Vietnam or Cambodia, and see the wonderful, majestic ruins of old civilizations. Book a room in a local hostel, and walk the streets together to sample local delicacies and purchase wares to take back home for the kids.
3. For couples who are strapped with time and are on a budget, booking a night or two in a bed and breakfast is a simple yet romantic way to celebrate anniversaries. With the variety of bed and breakfasts nowadays, couples can choose one with moods and themes that they would love.
This is also a perfect retreat for those who would like more quiet and simple ways to celebrate their wedding anniversaries. There are Victorian bed and breakfasts, and modern ones to choose from. Typically built from family residences, bed and breakfasts offer a homey vibe that couples will appreciate. Enjoy wine and snacks at night, or watch the sun come up together. Mornings are always pleasurable, one can opt to have breakfast served for them in bed or join others in main dining halls.
4. Rough it up and go camping! Enjoy an intimate camping trip to nearby woods or forests. This will provide you with perfect alone time to enjoy conversation, a warm cup of coffee by the woods, and being one with nature. Wake up together to dewy grass and foggy mornings, and a great day for hiking.
Celebrating at Home:
1. Make your wife feel extra special. If you have children, plan something with your kids for her to wake up to. For example, write in the bathroom mirror, "I love you". Or, when she gets home from work, cover the flooring from the main door in the house leading to the bedroom or the dining room for a sweet surprise. Have a home cooked meal waiting for her, and candle light dinner. Children can help bake a cake, and use icing to write a short sweet note on the cake.
2. Throw a small get together in the house with immediate family members and close friends to make it more intimate. Use a fun theme, such as a Hawaiian theme or 70's decade. Then, plan a video where you will say a sweet message to your spouse, and funny anecdotes from your marriage together to present to everyone as the highlight of the party.
3. Get married again! If you are celebrating 10 or more years of marriage, this would be a good time to get married again. Turn your backyard or garden into a sweet reception site, with close family and friends nearby to share the special moment. Each of you can say vows to each other, and during the toast, talk about the sweet and funny differences in this wedding compared to your first. This is an intimate and simple way of celebrating love and life again.
4. Plan for a portrait of you to be taken. Go to a professional photographer who can help you come up with a great romantic theme and shoot classic photos of you to hang in your living room. These kinds of photos will be cherished for a long time not only by you, but by your children and grandchildren.
Deciding what to do for wedding anniversaries is a perfect way for couples to express their individuality and togetherness as a couple. No matter what you choose, it will be an intimate reflection of your life together, and it will always be full of meaning.
About the Author
For more information on wedding planning, please go to: http://www.your-best-wedding.com/wedding-anniversary-idea.html http://www.your-best-wedding.com http://www.safepaydayloans.com http://www.drnathaliefiset.com
Wedding anniversary is a special celebration for couples as they mark another year into their marriage. There are many ideas couples can choose from to make their wedding anniversary as unforgettable as their own weddings. Many couples choose to take vacations and leaving kids and work behind for a few days while they go out of town or out of the country to celebrate. Others opt to celebrate with their families at home, in hotel, or a nearby resort. Wedding anniversary idea must be carefully planned; and it is not a difficult task. Here, we list some great choices you may want to consider for your wedding anniversary:
Out of Town Wedding Anniversary Idea:
1. Relive the honeymoon experience all over again by taking a trip to your favorite destination as a couple. Book a beachfront room in a romantic beach resort destination such as the Bahamas, Hawaii, Brazil, or the famed tropics of Asia such as Thailand, the Philippines, or even in Indonesia.
A 3- to 4-day trip in the scenic tropics will surely make the trip memorable as you sip wine and enjoy romantic meals by the sunset. Go snorkeling together and enjoy what nature has to offer. Mornings can be spent sipping coffee and reading, while savoring the view from your villa or cottage.
2. Backpacking in Asia for the adventurous, low maintenance couple is a unique way of celebrating anniversaries. Take a tour in Vietnam or Cambodia, and see the wonderful, majestic ruins of old civilizations. Book a room in a local hostel, and walk the streets together to sample local delicacies and purchase wares to take back home for the kids.
3. For couples who are strapped with time and are on a budget, booking a night or two in a bed and breakfast is a simple yet romantic way to celebrate anniversaries. With the variety of bed and breakfasts nowadays, couples can choose one with moods and themes that they would love.
This is also a perfect retreat for those who would like more quiet and simple ways to celebrate their wedding anniversaries. There are Victorian bed and breakfasts, and modern ones to choose from. Typically built from family residences, bed and breakfasts offer a homey vibe that couples will appreciate. Enjoy wine and snacks at night, or watch the sun come up together. Mornings are always pleasurable, one can opt to have breakfast served for them in bed or join others in main dining halls.
4. Rough it up and go camping! Enjoy an intimate camping trip to nearby woods or forests. This will provide you with perfect alone time to enjoy conversation, a warm cup of coffee by the woods, and being one with nature. Wake up together to dewy grass and foggy mornings, and a great day for hiking.
Celebrating at Home:
1. Make your wife feel extra special. If you have children, plan something with your kids for her to wake up to. For example, write in the bathroom mirror, "I love you". Or, when she gets home from work, cover the flooring from the main door in the house leading to the bedroom or the dining room for a sweet surprise. Have a home cooked meal waiting for her, and candle light dinner. Children can help bake a cake, and use icing to write a short sweet note on the cake.
2. Throw a small get together in the house with immediate family members and close friends to make it more intimate. Use a fun theme, such as a Hawaiian theme or 70's decade. Then, plan a video where you will say a sweet message to your spouse, and funny anecdotes from your marriage together to present to everyone as the highlight of the party.
3. Get married again! If you are celebrating 10 or more years of marriage, this would be a good time to get married again. Turn your backyard or garden into a sweet reception site, with close family and friends nearby to share the special moment. Each of you can say vows to each other, and during the toast, talk about the sweet and funny differences in this wedding compared to your first. This is an intimate and simple way of celebrating love and life again.
4. Plan for a portrait of you to be taken. Go to a professional photographer who can help you come up with a great romantic theme and shoot classic photos of you to hang in your living room. These kinds of photos will be cherished for a long time not only by you, but by your children and grandchildren.
Deciding what to do for wedding anniversaries is a perfect way for couples to express their individuality and togetherness as a couple. No matter what you choose, it will be an intimate reflection of your life together, and it will always be full of meaning.
About the Author
For more information on wedding planning, please go to: http://www.your-best-wedding.com/wedding-anniversary-idea.html http://www.your-best-wedding.com http://www.safepaydayloans.com http://www.drnathaliefiset.com
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Go dancing each day the Panglao way by Jysmon Sean
Go dancing each day the Panglao way by Jysmon Sean
SITTING at the foot of Bohol just a short sea-trip from Cebu, Panglao Island has already proved itself to be the new playground of the Philippines...and thousands (if not millions) of dollars of investment money is being poured in to develop the island.
Already it has twice helped Bohol to win the Tourist Destination of the Year contest in the Philippines and hopes to help a third time at the Manila trade exhibition this September when it showcases the beauty of its beaches.
There are even plans approved by President Gloria Arroyo to develop a domestic airport on the island to take over from Tagbilaran Airport, with the intention to upgrade it to international status at some time in the future, to make it easier for the island's thousands of visitors to reach the coral-white sandy shores which surround it on all sides.
There are resorts dotted all around the sandy shores of the island, which connects to mainland Bohol at Tagbilaran and Bool via two road bridges, and each resort is situated in its own grounds on the edge of a sapphire sea.
Already well-known by scuba divers for the diversity of its fish life in the off-islands of Pamilacan, Balicasag and Pungtod, which are easily reached from the main resort area of Alona Beach, the rest of the island is also developing with top-class resorts: Land has already been put aside for a new Tourism Estate.
The off-islands sport hammerhead sharks, some rays, massive schools of jackfish and barracudas, and there are resident dolphins playing just off the beaches, plus (in the right season) whale-sharks. It is also well-known for the inordinate number of nudibranch and pygmy fish (including seahorses) which inhabit the coral reefs on its southern side.
Bohol itself takes pride in Panglao Island, although sometimes other towns in the area become a little jealous - especially since Panglao town itself has won the prestigious street dancing competition in Tagbilaran's Sandugo four times in a row, the only two in the history of Bohol to do so. Now the island town has been asked to 'take a rest' for a while by the Sandugo Foundation to give another town on Bohol a chance to win!
The 'dance capital' of Panglao is not too worried: the Sandugo street festival in July is only the live rehearsal for its' own major event - the Hudyaka sa Panglao which takes place on August 28th every year in the grounds of its parish church. Then the ten barangays of the municipality compete fiercely with each other to see which is the best of the best.
Its' own dance festival brings back ex-Panglao residents from all over the world, and instead of making a day of it, the music and dance lovers of Panglao try and make a whole week of it...and more. Actually, they take nine days and the whole town has a festive atmosphere with parties all over the place.
The big party starts off in earnest at 2pm every August 28th when several hundred dancers and their accompanying bands with their distinctive beat queue up outside the Municipal Hall to dance and parade their way to the grounds of San Agustin Church, where the 'real' party is held on the green. Now the people of Bohol can really see what they have missed out on by telling them to 'take a breather!'
A funfair atmosphere is already in motion - and has been for days! - and the dancers entertain until well past sunset to compete for the 'best of the best' prize.
About the Author
Philippine Wide provides quick information on traveling in the Philippines. Philippine Travel Guide, Restaurant Reservation, Diving Spots, Best Spa and Beach Resorts Reservation Services - Reservation Services for Boracay and other destinations in the country.
Travel Destination: Philippine Beaches by Arnold A. Alvarez
Travel Destination: Philippine Beaches by Arnold A. Alvarez
The Philippines is an island archipelago in Southeast Asia with more than 7,100 islands. With a coastline twice the length of that of the United States and at least a beach on every island, the Philippines is Asia's beach capital. Just the mention of the Philippines brings images of warm crystal blue waters and long, white sandy beaches. Here is a list of the most popular Philippine beaches:
● Boracay Beach - the most popular beach located on the northwestern tip of Panay island, Western Visayas. Boracay has 4 kilometers of powder-white beach touted as the "finest beach in the world". Today the island of Boracay has numerous restaurants, bars, cafes and has one of the most vibrant nightlife among Philippine beaches.
● Macatan Island, Cebu - located also in the Visayas, Cebu's Mactan Island has hotels and resorts water sports facilities, bars and restaurants to guarantee every tourist an enjoyable stay during the day and a nightlife of music, food and drinks.
● Panglao Island, Bohol - Panglao is a small island on the southwest of the bigger island, Bohol. The island has several resorts along beach with accommodations, restaurants and bars. Panglao is famous for its splendid underwater corral reefs surrounding the island.
● Puerto Galera, Mindoro - A favorite vacation hideaway for local and foreign travelers due to its proximity to Manila. Puerto Galera is composed of several beaches in northern Mindoro where tourist can choose which beach to go. Puerto Galera has accommodations for all kind of travelers - from the classy to the basic. For the budget conscious, Puerto Galera is the beach to go. It also has one of the best dive spots in the archipelago - a favorite for diving enthusiast.
● Honda Bay, Palawan - North of the capital city of Palawan is Honda Bay. One can find islets dotting the bay with fine sand beaches. Take a boat ride and island hop to the different islands to swim, snorkel, dive or have a picnic on the beach and enjoy the view of clear blue waters. The bay is studded with patches of coral and sand. The rich marine life of the bay will surely make snorkeling and diving more pleasurable.
● El Nido, Palawan - Surrounded by towering marble cliffs that are homes to a number of tropical birds, El Nido is the source of one of the most scrumptious soups specially found in Chinese restaurants - the Nido Soup, made from the bird's nest found on the cliffs that abound in the area. Palawan is known as the country's last frontier; with its virgin forest, unspoiled beaches, corral reefs, caves and beautiful sceneries unmatched anywhere in the Philippines.
● Pearl Farm, Davao - located in the Philippine island of Samal, off the coast of Davao City, Mindanao. Pearl Farm is a world-class beach resort that was once a pearl farm where thousands of oysters were cultivated for their white, pink and gold pearls. The pristine island of Samal boasts of its beautiful white sand beaches, panoramic landscapes and seascapes. Pearl farm is a relaxing vacation retreat set in a tropical paradise.
About the Author
Arnold A. Alvarez is the author and webmaster of several Philippine themed websites ( http://net.philsite.net ) including a Philippine travel guide featuring popular Travel Destinations in the Philippines ( http://www.philsite.net ).
Philippine Travel: Davao by Noel
Philippine Travel: Davao by Noel
Among the many things that are uniquely Davao: Mt. Apo, the country's highest peak and home to the Philippine monkey eating Eagle, which is an endangered species, and the waling-waling, a rare orchid. The famous Pearl Farm Beach Resort is a world class resort that is visited by hundreds of travelers each year.
The increase of modern leisure establishments in Davao city has made her become a popular tourist destination. Some tourist must-sees include Dabaw Etnica, a tiny settlement of the Mandaya Tribe, Dabaw Museum where one could see tribal artifacts and costumes. Travelers should also visit the Taoist and Lon Wa Buddhist Temples.
Davao City is the main agricultural and trading center of Mindanao. She is the biggest cut flower producer in the country and plays a major role in the export of tropical fruits. With the opening of the Davao International Airport, she has established herself as one of the international gateways to the Philippines. The city is known for its exotic fruits like bananas, pineapples, mangosteen, and the smelly but tasty durian, which incidentally is banned in most airports because of its foul smell.
Philippine Airlines flies twice daily to Davao from the Manila (one hour and 35 minutes away - 1,545 Kilometers) and from Cebu (55 minutes away). Flights are also available from Zamboanga (daily, one hour and 20 minutes) and Cagayan de Oro (Four times a week - M W TH SAT - 35 minutes). Major shipping lines also service the Davao area from Manila and nearby southern points.
Shoppers in Davao may treat themselves with shopping sprees at Gaisano Mall of Davao (J.P. Laurel Avenue), Victoria Plaza (J.P. Laurel Avenue), JSGaisano Citimall (Ilustre Street), New City Commercial Center (R. Magsaysay Avenue), Makro-Davao (Bangkal) and SM City Davao (Ecoland). The best place to purchase souvenirs is the Aldevinco Shopping Center (C.M. Recto Avenue). It has a wide range of batik garments, brass products, ethnic accessories and souvenir shirts.
Recommended Hotels:
Apo View Hotel
J. Camus St., Davao City
(082)2216430
Manila Contact Number: (02)8931288 or (02)8939151
Grand Regal Hotel Davao
Km. 7, J.P. Laurel Ave, Lanag Davao City
(082)2350888/(082)2343910
Manila Contact Number: (02)7349055 / (02)7349061 / (02)7349156
About the Author
Noel is the owner of a site dedicated to Philippine Travel. The site provides personal tips and recommendations on popular travel destinations in the Philippines. Also includes information of Philippine history, festivals, music and culture. The aim of the site is to share the many beautiful experiences one could have on Philippine Travel.
Philippine Travel: Bohol by Noel
Philippine Travel: Bohol by Noel
The country's tenth largest island, Bohol could be found at the center of Visayas, just between Cebu and Leyte. Bohol is a popular destination for divers, being surrounded by dive spots such as Panglao, Cabilao, Lapinin and Pamilacan just to name a few. Panglao island is a perfect destination for those seeking peace and quiet. It does not have the beach party life of Boracy, so if you've come out to relax and rewind, you should definitely visit Panglao. We were faced with a dilemma, go whale and dolphin watching or take the day trip that would bring us all around Bohol. The whale and dolphin watching package guy said that we would be boating starting at 5 AM, and it is not guaranteed we'll be seeing anything. We opted for the day trip instead.
A Bohol day tour would include the exact spot where the blood compact between Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legaspi took place in 1565. This blood compact between the Muslim chief and the Spanish conqueror is celebrated every Just with the Sandugo Festival. You will also be taken to the world famous Chocolate Hills, as well as a protected sanctuary where you could see the world's smallest monkey, the Philippine Tarsier. This nocturnal animal is no bigger than a closed fist, and lives on hunting live insects at night. It could only be found on the hills of Corella, 10 kilometers from Tagbilaran. Little is known about this creature and it is certainly one of the more protected animals in the Philippines.
Lunch was at the Loboc River, where a floating restaurant took us to the stretch of the river and back while we were having our buffet lunch with live music in the background. It was supposed to be a 3 day 2 night trip for us at Bohol, but on our third day we weren't ready to say goodbye to the place. Two more nights wouldn't hurt, we thought, so it ended up being a 5 day 4 night trip.
Places to Stay: Bohol Beach ClubBolod, Panglao, Bohol
(038)4115222 to 24
Superior rooms, restaurant, poolside bar, white sand beach, tennis courts, facilities for snorkeling and diving Dumaluan Beach Resort
Bolod, Panglao, Bohol
(038)5029081 / (038)5029092
Air-conditioned rooms, pool, restaurant, dive shop
About the Author
Noel is the owner of a site dedicated to Philippine Travel. The site provides personal tips and recommendations on popular travel destinations in the Philippines. Also includes information of Philippine history, festivals, music and culture. The aim of the site is to share the many beautiful experiences one could have on Philippine Travel.
Philippine Travel: Cebu by Noel
Philippine Travel: Cebu by Noel
A highly urbanized and modern city which serves as the hub of growth and development in Southern Philippines, Cebu is a tropical paradise and business haven in one. Aside from beautiful beaches and all year round tropical climate, luxuriant accommodations, native and world class cuisines and vibrant nightlife all fill Cebu's repertoire.
Today, Cebu is a 33,000-hectare metropolis of three cities and six municipalities. Its population of around one million is a mix of Filipinos with Chinese, with American and European influences. The main dialect is Cebuano or Bisaya, however English and Tagalog are widely spoken and understood.
The recently-expanded and modernized Mactan International Airport services flights from all over the world, preserving its role as the crossroads of international trade in the southern Philippines.
If you plan to visit Cebu it is best to do so between December and May when the weather turns dry. It is coolest from December to February and hottest from March to May. It starts to get rainy in July - August. Daily flights to Cebu are available from Manila to the Mactan International Airport.
Often called the "Queen City of the South" and the "Seat of Christianity in the Philippines", Cebu is the country's oldest city. Ferdinand Magellan first planted the cross on her shores. A rich historic past is evident all around the island, and her people are very proud of their heritage.
Mainland Cebu is made up of five cities; Cebu, Danao, Lapulapu Mandaue and Toledo and 48 smaller towns. 167 islets and islands surround the city, most of which have fine white sand and clear blue waters. These islands are a popular destination for divers from experienced, to first-timers.
Cebu nowadays is comparable to Manila, except probably for the cheap food and the famous cebu lechon, as well as shopping at bargain prices all year round.
Places to Stay:
Alegre Beach Resort
Calumboyan, Sagod, Cebu
(032)2549800 / (032)2556388
White sand coves, restaurant and bar, conference facilities, tennis court and aqua sports facilities
Badian Island Beach Hotel
Badian Island, Badian, Cebu
(032)2536452
Seaquest Dive Center
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal, Cebu
(032)3469629
About the Author
Noel is the owner of a site dedicated to Philippine Travel. The site provides personal tips and recommendations on popular travel destinations in the Philippines. Also includes information of Philippine history, festivals, music and culture. The aim of the site is to share the many beautiful experiences one could have on Philippine Travel.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Travel Asia by BestTripGuide.com
Travel Asia by BestTripGuide.com
Traveling Asia is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. When you travel to Asia, there are so many things to see and do; make sure that you plan your trip in advance. However, remember to leave some free time in you itinerary, because when you travel Asia, you want to make sure that you have the flexibility for an occasional adventure.
As the largest continent on earth, Asia offers travelers a huge variety of places to visit, things to do and, cultures to see. For first time visitors who travel Asia, we recommend the following:
Island Nations- Indonesia: One of the most diverse destinations for travelers to Asia, the Indonesian archipelago can provide enough exciting destinations for a complete trip. Whether you are seeking relaxation, natural beauty, cultural diversity or all of the above, Indonesia will show you an exciting and wonderful Asian travel destination.
Philippines: Comprised of over 7000 islands, the Philippines has become on of Asia's forgotten travel destinations. Due to a recent history that includes martial law and economic corruption, the Philippines has lost much of its previous tourist activity to its more stable neighbors. Those who do visit will enjoy beautiful spots like the Boracay beaches and Lake Sebu.
Japan: For decades, the island nation of Japan has been a favorite destination for travelers to Asia. From amazing Zen temples to kitschy reproductions of western monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Japan has something for every traveler who visits. The hardest thing is fitting it all in.
Southeast Asia Thailand: The Kingdom of Thailand is the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia drawing more visitors than its neighbors. With both mountainous regions and a beautiful coastline dotted with amazing islands Thailand is one a must see for those who travel to Asia. The city of Bangkok, the largest in Thailand is one of the most popular in all of Asia, as well.
Vietnam: A quickly emerging destination among travelers to Asia, Vietnam is reshaping its image among world travel destinations. From the beaches along the coast, to its soaring inland mountains, Vietnam offers travelers to Asia with a sublime experience.
Mainland Asia- China: Too vast for words alone, China is rapidly emerging as the top destination for travelers to Asia. As China continues to modernize both economically and socially, it is becoming easier for those who travel to Asia to visit one of the largest and most populous countries in the world. If you travel to China, follow a loose itinerary and try to see as much as you can.
Korea: South Korea is one of the most westernized of all Asian nations. Travelers to Korea can enjoy the modernity of the capital city, Seoul; or they can try visiting beautiful natural wonders like Songnisan National Park.
India: Another of Asia's largest and most heavily populated countries, India is a complex and diverse nation unlike any other you will experience when you travel throughout Asia. Visitors to India will be enchanted by its unpredictability and surprising cultural dramas that exist among its inhabitants.
Before you Travel Asia visit BestTripGuide.com for all your travel needs.
About the Author
Reed Floren is the co-founder of BestTripGuide.com
How To Find The Best Places In The World To Visit For Kneeboarding by Nicola Kennedy
How To Find The Best Places In The World To Visit For Kneeboarding by Nicola Kennedy
Surfing is one of the most popular sports today especially to those who live near the shoreline. The people who are involved in surfing get enjoyment and relaxation in this very adventurous sport.
Surfing is a sport where the enthusiasts glide toward the shore on a breaking wave of sea water. Surfers usually use specially designed wooden or synthetic boards that are lightweight and allow the user for greater maneuverability.
While surfing is very popular, many are still ignorant to a sport very much common to surfing, knee boarding.
Knee boarding is very similar to surfing. It is a discipline where the user also uses a wooden or synthetic board that is known as a kneeboard - the rider paddles on his belly against the wave.
The popularity of knee boarding increased when the surf movie 'Crystal Voyager' was released by a prominent Californian kneeboard rider, George Greenough. After that, most surfers tried knee boarding and became indulged in the game.
Knee boarding requires a water current just like in surfing. It requires waves that are big and waves where the rider can go into. Only few places can offer this special requirement of knee boarding.
One of the best places for knee boarding is the sea water of Honduras. One of the best in this country is the Roatan Island. The island was the setting of popular TV reality program of Fox, 'Temptation Island 3'.
Roatan Island is one of those islands that is not highly populated and with only few tourists. It is a tropical island of pristine beaches, uncrowded by visitors. Another thing about the island is that it is budget friendly and you can always find place where you can lay your head and body in a minimal price.
Costa Rica is another destination for knee boarding - a country that offers breathtaking knee boarding spots that you can never resist. Most of the beaches of Costa Rica are of serene beauty and with the type of wave required for good keeboarding. Knee boarders will definitely like the place for it is unique and one of a kind.
For those that want their knee boarding to be an experience of a lifetime, Maldives is the place where they should be. Maldives is a tropical island in the south of Asia, where you can find white beaches, crystal clear sea water and virgin shoreline. Maldives offers the knee board riders unbelievable waves.
Maldives make your dream come true. It is the place for discerning kneeboard riders. It is the ultimate destination to those that are already tired of the usual knee boarding places of California that are too much crowded and very much populated.
For those who want a place that is full of beautiful, sexy babes, Hawaii is the best for you. Hawaii has different locations for knee boarding. Its shoreline offers not just waves where you can get along and do kneeboard riding, but it also offers something that will feed your eyes!
If kneeboard riders are looking for the newest and hottest place for the sport, the Philippines is the place for you. Philippines is one of those knee boarding places that is increasing its popularity as one of the best places for the sport. The country offer virgin shoreline and waves you have never seen. The island wil not just feed your enthusiasm for kneeboard riding, but also feed your self for nature adventures.
Knee boarding is a sport that is very precise when it comes to location. These best places are very much applicable for the sport and will make your adventure an experience of a lifetime.
About the Author
Nicola Kennedy is an enthusiastic kneeboarder. Kneeboarding-Supplies.info offers tips and news, information and views about good places for kneeboarding.
Copyright http://www.Kneeboarding-Supplies.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links back to Kneeboarding-Supplies.info are included intact.
Travel On A Bargain! by Dana Goldberg
Travel On A Bargain! by Dana Goldberg
Travel is one of many working people's ultimate getaway. Imagine a few days of luxury & comfort on some exotic beach resort, waking to the lulling sound of waves & the feel of soft breeze gently caressing your face. Imagine looking out of your cabin window & seeing a vast expanse of endless white sand, dotted with seashells & the occasional seaweed. Imagine having breakfast of the freshest fruits right at your bed & being as far away from the noise of urban living as you can be. Imagine being thousands of miles away from your annoying boss & away from the incessant beeping & ringing of the little contraptions that have kept you on a short leash for how long now.
Now, doesn't that sound absolutely delicious?! You have just pictured yourself having a yummy bite of a slice of heaven!
So what's stopping you from just packing up your things & flying away to any of the many exotic destinations around the world?! Oh, right -- the expensive cost that you just cannot afford to pay for right now especially with the new car & house mortgage already on your belt is keeping you from having your dream vacation.
Well, stop worrying about it because there are plenty cheap air travel fares around that will surely solve the first problem in achieving your dream vacation. Travel agencies & airline companies are aware that many people would love to travel but they just cannot afford the expenses that come along with it. For a few years now, cheap air travel fare has been promoted as the #1 solution to travel problems.
Cheap air travel fare can be found in many online sites booking special tours on tourist destinations all over the world. With cheap air travel fare, you need not worry about spending way above your budget!
As if cheap air travel fare was not the best news you've heard so far, you will also be surprised to find that cheap air travel fare often comes with a vacation package that also lets you stay in a good hotel along with the usual accommodations at surprisingly low prices! These vacation packages can include anything from a chauffeured ride from the airport to the hotel & from the hotel to all the tourist stops; to a complete tour package that includes an effective tour guide.
Just think of all the beautiful places you can visit with cheap air travel fare! You can go to the sunny Caribbean this year, then off to classy France next year, maybe exotic Boracay, Philippines after that and then go on a cool tour of Alaska. Or maybe you want to try an Asian tour package & be swept off to an entirely different experience with the exotic East! The possibilities are endless with cheap air travel fare!
How would you like to take a look at the European countryside but you have always been told that Europe is very, very expensive. Well, it IS true. Europe really is expensive. But not if you get cheap air travel fare! The money you save on cheap air travel fare is money that you can use for shopping in Italy, on a chocolate binge in Switzerland, vodka tasting in Russia or beer hogging in Germany!
FUN! FUN! FUN! That & more is what's waiting for you with cheap air travel fare!
About the Author
D.Goldberg is the owner of Last Second Travel Boy. Advice on cheap holidays and last minute breaks.
Philippine Travel: Cebu by Noel
Philippine Travel: Cebu by Noel
A highly urbanized and modern city which serves as the hub of growth and development in Southern Philippines, Cebu is a tropical paradise and business haven in one. Aside from beautiful beaches and all year round tropical climate, luxuriant accommodations, native and world class cuisines and vibrant nightlife all fill Cebu's repertoire.
Today, Cebu is a 33,000-hectare metropolis of three cities and six municipalities. Its population of around one million is a mix of Filipinos with Chinese, with American and European influences. The main dialect is Cebuano or Bisaya, however English and Tagalog are widely spoken and understood.
The recently-expanded and modernized Mactan International Airport services flights from all over the world, preserving its role as the crossroads of international trade in the southern Philippines.
If you plan to visit Cebu it is best to do so between December and May when the weather turns dry. It is coolest from December to February and hottest from March to May. It starts to get rainy in July - August. Daily flights to Cebu are available from Manila to the Mactan International Airport.
Often called the "Queen City of the South" and the "Seat of Christianity in the Philippines", Cebu is the country's oldest city. Ferdinand Magellan first planted the cross on her shores. A rich historic past is evident all around the island, and her people are very proud of their heritage.
Mainland Cebu is made up of five cities; Cebu, Danao, Lapulapu Mandaue and Toledo and 48 smaller towns. 167 islets and islands surround the city, most of which have fine white sand and clear blue waters. These islands are a popular destination for divers from experienced, to first-timers.
Cebu nowadays is comparable to Manila, except probably for the cheap food and the famous cebu lechon, as well as shopping at bargain prices all year round.
Places to Stay:
Alegre Beach Resort
Calumboyan, Sagod, Cebu
(032)2549800 / (032)2556388
White sand coves, restaurant and bar, conference facilities, tennis court and aqua sports facilities
Badian Island Beach Hotel
Badian Island, Badian, Cebu
(032)2536452
Seaquest Dive Center
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal, Cebu
(032)3469629
About the Author
Noel is the owner of a site dedicated to Philippine Travel. The site provides personal tips and recommendations on popular travel destinations in the Philippines. Also includes information of Philippine history, festivals, music and culture. The aim of the site is to share the many beautiful experiences one could have on Philippine Travel.
Your Travel Destination Shall Be Cebu, Philippines by Kim Hald
Your Travel Destination Shall Be Cebu, Philippines by Kim Hald
That may be a presumptuous statement to make but after reading this article thoroughly, there's a good chance that you'd agree to make that statement as well. But first, let's get down to the basics.
Cebu, as mentioned, is in the Philippines. Now, when you mention the Philippines, it's either Manila or Boracay -- those are the first places to come to your mind. But we assure you that Cebu is as good as both those places. Better yet, there's no need to pass through other cities in the Philippines just to get to Cebu. As one of the major ports of the country, Cebu is even directly accessible from other countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong, China.
Since Cebu is highly urbanized, tourists have no need to worry about where to purchase toiletries and other necessities because there are department stores and 24-hour convenience stores strategically located all over the city.
But enough about that and let's get directly to the good stuff.
The Olango Wildlife Sanctuary should always figure prominently in a tourist's travel plan to Cebu, Philippines. In this sanctuary, tourists would able to catch a glimpse of different species of migrating birds coming from places as far as China and Siberia. Based on studies made of this natural phenomenon, these birds choose Olango as a wintering ground and a way to increase their fat reserves before they resume flight.
Cebu's Fort San Pedro is the oldest tri-bastion fort in the Philippines. Built in 1565, its 8-foot thick walls and 30-foot tall tower bore witness to several wars, not the least would be World War II, in which it served as barracks for American soldiers.
Casa Gorordo Museum is also one of the well-loved destinations of tourists once they arrive in Cebu. Taking a tour of this well-kept museum is like stepping into another time and era, thanks to the lovely antique furniture on display and the conservation of residential features from the old days such as the magnificent courtyard.
And speaking of Gorordo, make sure that you visit 415 Gorordo Avenue in Lahug, Cebu City because that is the address of the Sala Piano Museum. In this museum, you'd be able to a see a collection of about hundreds of pianos of different shapes and sizes.
Lastly, there's the Kawasan Falls in Matutinao, Badian. The sight of this majestic waterfall would no doubt make you think how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful world.
About the Author
Kim Hald's Philippines travel site concentrates on travelling and adventuring around the Philippine Islands such as Cebu and Boracay
Philippine Travel: When And Where by John Grant
Philippine Travel: When And Where by John Grant
When you're about to embark on a journey to the Philippines, the two most important questions to ask is "when" and "where". If you're traveling to the Philippines, do be aware that the experiences you're about to encounter is unlike anything you'd encounter anywhere else in the world. Each and every country has its own unique experience to offer you and when you travel to the Philippines, you should expect the same.
When Is It Best To Travel To The Philippines?
Are you allergic to rain? If so, it would do you good to avoid traveling to this part of Southeast Asia during the months of June till November as that's when the occasional typhoon or two makes time to visit the Philippines. Traveling during the rainy season of the Philippines can be quite a hassle, especially if you don't have a car. But if you do, you could expect smaller crowds to contend with as most people tend to stay indoors.
If you're unable to take the heat and still be merry, then you should not travel to the Philippines during the months of March till May because that's officially the summer season of the country. Everyone heads for the nearest beach so if you don't want to feel crowded when you're sunbathing, set your travel date for another time of the year. The Easter season is always busy for everyone in the Philippines so expect a difficult time on reserving transportation when it's Holy Week.
If you're on the lookout for the world-famous fiestas that only the Philippines could offer, schedule your travel date for January, May or December. The flower season of Baguio - described as the summer capital of the Philippines because of its perennially cool weather - is something to look forward to. And then there's the Santacruzan during May and which each and every town parades its most beautiful residents in a walk around town.
Where In The Philippines Is It Best To Travel To?
There are so many types of places to visit in the Philippines that it's hard to enumerate each and every one of them. Beaches, however, are one of the most favorite travel spots of the country so if you want to enjoy your stay in a beautiful paradise of clear blue green water and cool white sand, you could check out Tali Beach, the world-famous Boracay or try surfing the secluded beaches of Surigao and La Union.
About the Author
John Grant has been living in the Philippines for 5 years and has travelled the country extensively. His online Philippines Travel Guide covers major destinations like Boracay Puerto Galera and Palawan.
"America's Greatest Hits" from "Land of Hypocrisy" by Kennie Anderson
"America's Greatest Hits" from "Land of Hypocrisy" by Kennie Anderson
"America's Greatest Hits" by Kennie Anderson (www.landofhypocrisy.com)
Truth often passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted. This process occurs when a new truth is revealed that contradicts current superstition, whether the truth comes out about the Earth not being the center of the universe or the truth comes out about the horrible atrocities committed by the United States government.
Yes, violence and oppression exist all over the world, and the United States is not the only country that has done wrong and made mistakes. But there is currently only one country that has conducted destruction with such strong involvement on a global scale. There is only one imperialistic empire that has been so deeply linked to so many corrupt dictatorships, oppressive regimes, and corporate exploitations. This material will focus on that one country.
Astonishingly, many Americans seem to be completely unaware of many of the atrocities committed by their own country. Ripping off the blindfold, the following contains a partial list of the death toll that American militarism and intervention has caused in the world during recent history (most of the listings are within the past 60 years). The facts of this list are expanded upon in the book, "Land of Hypocrisy." Additional interventions will also be presented in following sections.
This list includes interventions conducted both overtly and covertly. It includes the use of force through militaries armed, trained, funded, and directed by the US. Some of these atrocities only had a few US officials actively involved, but these puppet armies would never have been capable of such destruction without US financing, supplying, and assistance (as detailed following sections show). There are countless mass killings missing from this list that the US is responsible for, but this list covers the most violent crimes committed by the US government in recent history.
Unfathomable death tolls are listed here, but it is important to not just think in terms of numbers and statistics. We should visualize each of the beautiful lives that were destroyed. Imagine stadiums filled with Korean children dying from napalm before your eyes. Visualize the mothers in Iraq digging up the corpses of their children. Picture children in Vietnam who were born without legs or arms because of residual effects of Agent Orange. Envision tens of thousands of Japanese civilians being wiped by out by atomic bombs before they even knew what hit them. Think about the children in Nicaragua crying on the street, seeking their mothers, not knowing that they had been killed by US-created contras. See the atrocities through the eyes of countless loving parents in El Salvador who were forced to watch their infant children beat to death against rocks. Think about what it must have been like to be those victims or their grieving loved ones.
Worthy of noting is that almost all of these slaughters have been directed at non-whites, and the vast majority of the victims of US militarism are civilians. These innocent lives are the victims of the relentless drive by the United States' corporate and military elite for global economic domination. These victims have given their lives so that a small percentage of Americans can prosper.
The following is a partial list of atrocities, massacres, murders, and injuries in recent history for which the United Sates is responsible:
* 3,000,000 Vietnamese murdered over the course of about 30 years of US aggression.
* Well over 300,000 Japanese were massacred when the US raided Tokyo and dropped nuclear bombs on the urban civilian areas of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
* 600,000 civilians were killed in Cambodia by US bombing between 1969 and 1975.
* Over 500,000 people were killed in Laos when America subjected civilians to "secret bombing" from 1964 to 1973, dropping over two million tons of bombs on the country. Over one fourth of the population also became refugees.
* 100,000 people were murdered in South Korea prior to the Korean War by a brutal repression supported by US forces in 1945. This includes between 30,000 and 40,000 killed during the suppression of a peasant revolt on Cheju Island.
* Up to 4,500,000 Koreans were killed from 1951 to 1953 during America's massive slaughter in the Korean War.
* 200,000 were murdered when the Philippines were conquered by American forces. (This took place just over 100 years ago.)
* 23,000 people were slaughtered in Taiwan by US-backed, trained, equipped, and funded forces (Chiang's Nationalist Army) during the late 1940s.
* 700,000 Indonesians (mostly landless peasants) were murdered in 1965 when the US armed and supported General Suharto.
* 200,000 were slaughtered in East Timor in 1975 by General Suharto with US support.
* 750,000 civilians were driven from their homes in East Timor by Indonesian forces in 1999 and 10,000 were killed.
* Over 1,700,000 Iraqis have been killed by US bombings and sanctions, mostly women and children.
* Over 1,000,000 lives were lost during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s in which the US used direct force and supported Hussein and Iraq.
* 35,000 Kurds were killed, 3,500 villages were destroyed, and between 2,000,000 and 3,000,000 became homeless as a result of aggression by Turkey with US arming and training in the 1990s.
* Over 1,000,000 people were killed in Afghanistan's civil war from 1979 to 1992, in which the US strongly supported the Moujahedeen, the most violent and sadistic of the forces. (This also set the stage for the CIA-backed Taliban to attain power.)
* 45,000 people were killed in South Lebanon since 1982 by Israel, always armed and supported by the US
* Thousands have been killed in Palestine and millions (in both Palestine and Lebanon) were made refugees by US-backed Israel.
* Over 150,000 were killed in Greece when America advised, equipped, and financed violent interventions in the late 1940s and late 1960s.
* Over 75,000 civilians were killed and over one million refugees were created in El Salvador from 1980 to 1994 when the US intensely supported the efforts of a brutal regime and its death squads to eliminate a popular uprising.
* 40,000 civilians were killed by the US-backed National Guard in Nicaragua over the course of almost 50 years.
* 30,000 lives were killed by the US contras in Nicaragua from 1979 to 1989.
* 200,000 Guatemalans were slaughtered from 1960-1990s by a military apparatus trained, armed, funded, and assisted by America.
* Over 35,000 Colombian civilians have been killed during the US-supported Colombian war against left-wing rebels.
* More than 4,000 innocent civilians were killed in Panama during the US invasion in 1989.
* Hundreds of thousands were killed by US direct and indirect interventions in Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Peru, and Argentina from the mid 60s through the 80s.
* 50,000 Haitians were killed when the US military destroyed a peasant uprising in 1915.
* Between 4,000 and 5,000 Haitians were killed in the early 1990s by US-established forces.
* Thousands were killed in the Dominican Republic during the 1960s when US and Dominican troops crushed a pro-Bosch rebellion.
* Over 3,000 were killed and countless others injured by US interventions in Cuba.
* Hundreds were killed or injured when the US invaded Grenada in 1983.
* Over 50,000 Somalians were killed between 1978 and 1990 by US-supported Siad Barre.
* Up to 10,000 more Somalians were killed directly by US troops during America's "humanitarian mission" in 1993.
* In the US-supported Rwandan genocide, an estimated 800,000 people were killed in just 100 days in 1994.
* Over 300,000 were killed and 80,000 were crippled in Angola from a US-supported civil war.
* Tens of thousands were killed and up to 200,000 were tortured in Chad by Hissen Habre with US support during the 1980's.
* Over 1,000,000 were killed during Mozambique's civil war (1980-1992), in which the brutally violent RENAMO forces were supported by the US
* 1,500,000 were killed between 1980 and 1988 in southern Africa by the US-armed South Africa.
* Thousands of people in Pacific islands, Puerto Rico, Utah, California, Nevada, Washington, New Mexico, and various other places have been killed, infected, or harmed as a result of US weapon experiments (especially nuclear weapons and weapons using depleted uranium).
* Hundreds of civil rights activists have been beaten, tortured, framed, and killed in the US by government agencies in recent history.
* Hundreds of Black Panther supporters and American Indians were framed, beaten, or murdered by the FBI and its cohorts in the late 60's and early 70's.
* Over 1,200 immigrants and citizens in America (mostly of Arab decent) were detained after September 11, 2001, without evidence of law-breaking or terrorist activity.
* Thousands have been killed during America's recent "War on Terror."
* Over 2,500 US soldiers and over 40,000 Iraqi civilians have perished since George W's recent invasion of Iraq.
For more info, visit http://www.landofhypocrisy.com
About the Author
None
Get Lucky and Get Laid by Elvis Preston King
Get Lucky and Get Laid by Elvis Preston King
If you are "The Man" who wants lots of hot sex with lots of hot women you have come to the right place. Elvis Preston King acts as a pick up girl- guide for the men of the world. It just so happens he has earned himself a spot on the "Living Sex Legend's List." He has slept with more women than any man on earth dead or alive.
There is an underground international pick up artist, ladies man, playboy and dating expert community headed by Cliff from cliffslist.com. Cliff travels the world looking for the top guns of pick up and seduction. He traveled to the Dominican Republic to meet the King, Elvis Preston King and here is what he had to say, "Elvis claims that he is the world's greatest pick up artist, and that he sleeps with one to three women per day, believe it or not it's TRUE."
So you wanna to get laid, you want to have lots of easy sex. You are a dirty old man or a dirty young man looking for hot babes. Then Elvis Preston King is the place to start looking. Elvis lives for the playboy lifestyle. Elvis is for hire. Elvis's whole life is geared around the mancation, a vacation for men only focusing on good times and hot women.
The KEY and BIG difference between Elvis and sex tours is that he picks up girls looking for a boyfriend as opposed to sex tours that pick you up a very USED escort or prostitute. Elvis likes his girls young, beautiful and fresh. Ok there is something to said for an elegant older woman of 35 years also. But the King's normal selection for sex is 18 year old hotties.
American women are what I broke my bed in with at over 18,000 women notched on the bed post in thirty five years over there. But let's face it man, American women are starting to get into feminism, feminatzism and they are just plain no fun any more. Who wants to work his ass off just to get laid. Not your King. I go where the fish are biting, where women love and adore men and especially mature men, like myself. Places like the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Russia, and the Philippines. Don't get me wrong, to pick up and seduce girls from countries like these it still takes skill and hard work, but at least most of the girls in these places won't drop you to your knees with a cut you down insult just for approaching them as some Western women are known to do. In the West men are such wussies or pussies that women think that their pussies are gold plated. It is the weak men in these countries that make it hard for the real men. These wussies kiss girls asses trying to get laid. They take them out for nice dinners and wine and dine them and normally get a kiss on the cheek if they are damned lucky. I never did this crap. I take my girls to the bach pad and screw the Hell out of them and they thank me for it. The feminists feminatzi women would like to string the King up by the balls for this statement. I keep a lot of distance from these types.
Just a word of advice. If you are not a professional pick up artist don't think that women in these countries chase you down the street (unless you are talking about prostitutes). You have to know how and where to find meet, attract and close them.
I have developed a complete system to find, meet, attract and close women. I use the services of a paid wingman. He acts as my secretary chauffeur and tour guide. I have taught him how to BIG me up and even help me close women for sex. However, I hand pick, pick out and pick up my own women.
When you are out with me you just point and smile and do the rest. Your job is just to get lucky and get laid.
Of course, I grab a few hot beautiful women or girls for myself while we are at it. Over on my blog there are detailed reports from guys who have hung out with the King. I suggest that YOU go over there and read them.
So if you are the man looking for sex on a daily basis and want to take an exotic vacation call Elvis Preston King at 809-720-3259 or email the King at loverboybachelor@yahoo.com
About the Author
Elvis Preston King puts on tours picking up and seducing hot babes in real life. Recently named the World's Greatest Pick-up Artist by www.cliffslist.com. Email:loverboybachelor@yahoo.com or visit: http://www.bachelortours.blogspot.com and http://www.msnusers.com/BachelorDreamTours
Unique gambling destinations 101 by Mansi gupta
Unique gambling destinations 101 by Mansi gupta
Gambling in the last century has become a global phenomenon. From a pastime to a full fledged industry, gambling has seen the ups and the downs of the gamblers as well as the countries. Gambling can be conveniently called as one constant phenomenon happening throughout the world. Glamorous gambling was earlier confined to the hottest spots of all Las Vegas. But as a matter of fact gambling had long back crossed the boundaries of United States of America and had secured its footing in many other countries of the world. Today one may come across a gambling extravaganza at the most unexpected places.
No one had ever heard of a small country Aruba. But it has come up as a great destination for the gambling lovers. Set up in a exotic coastal location Aruba offers from five star hotels to top spas for the gambling freaks. The relaxation in the age for playing games at Aruba has made it an even more sought after destination.
Apart from the sun, surf and sand California is fast becoming a got spot for the gamblers. The overflow of gamblers from the Las Vegas and other heavy gambling areas come here to enjoy the holidays apart from their gambling objectives. Apart from the indigenous tribal casinos and the traditional casino set ups California is also coming up with the new age luxurious resorts for the gamblers.
The Egyptian experience can be had at the Las Vegas casinos. But the fact is that Egypt is attracting heavy gambling traffic towards it self here the grandeur of Egypt stands in all its dignity and valor. Egypt having a lot of historical importance attracts a lot of tourists from all over the world. And travel gambling is fast becoming a favored trend. With casinos open for twenty four hours, it is soon going to become a dream destination. All the five star hotels have put up their best shows in all parts of Egypt and it has come as a surprise gambling destination. A breather for sure! The Asian gambling scenario was marred by the fact that in China gambling is illegal and thus the Asian tourist had to travel far off to Vegas. But with upcoming gambling locations such as Macau and Singapore thins are changing. The most happening place as far as the nocturnal life is concerned is Philippines. The place forms a perfect setting for the casinos and gambling clubs to flourish.
Monaco has its distinctive style and serene environment to support most tourists and attract them. But with attachments like gambling the in flow has become multifold. The beautiful city of Monte Carlo has some of the fabulous casinos and they are attracting many tourist gamblers towards it.
Likewise there are many centers of gambling coming up. The customers also are now having high expectation fro these new destinations, having played at Las Vegas. These new destinations will not only have to face giants like Steve Wynn of Las Vegas but also the up coming destinations to maximize their popularity. The more they can serve for less the better the prospects are. It's all up to the casino owners
About the Author
Mansi gupta writes about unique gambling destinations .
Borneo - Sandakan Wildlife Search by Walter Rajah
Borneo - Sandakan Wildlife Search by Walter Rajah
Sandakan is situated on the East Coast of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. On its West is the interior mountain range and on the East is the Sulu Sea. Sandakan is definitely a dream location for travelers interested in wildlife and nature. Our Sandakan Wildlife Expedition brings you closer to three of the worlds most exciting conservation programmes: Turtle Conservation on the Turtle Island Parks, Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center in Sepilok and the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. In addition, this expedition takes you to Gomantong Caves where the largest collection of edible birds' nest is found.
Turtle Island Park The Turtle Island Park, lying some 40Km north of Sandakan and close to the Philippines border, comprises of a group of three beautiful tropical islands - Pulau Selingan, Pulau Bakungan Kecil and Pulau Gulisan. The total park covers an area of 1,740 hectares embracing not only the three islands but also the surrounding coral reefs and the sea. Pulau Selingan and Pulau Bakungan Kecil seem to attract the Green Turtles to come and nest here while the Hawksbill Turtles prefer Pulau Gulisan. No obvious reasons can be found for these turtles' choice of nesting areas. The Green and Hawksbill Turtles come ashore to nest all year round but the best time to visit is between July to October because more turtles come to lay their eggs during this period. However, at least a few turtles do come up to nest every night of the year.
Turtles normally arrive on the islands after dusk. While waiting for the sun to set and the arrival of these turtles, there are many activities that you can explore. The tropical white sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing and tanning whilst the crystal clear water is fantastic if you fancy snorkeling or watching the beautiful sea lives and corals. The park is also a great spot for a BBQ picnic under the long hours of golden sunshine. You can also wander around the island to witness how many turtles have arrived in the island the previous few nights as these turtles leave their marks on the sand.
The Park Rangers will inform you after the first sighting of incoming turtles. You will be escorted to the nesting turtle by the rangers to watch the eggs being laid. Clutches of freshly laid eggs are then excavated and transplanted to the protected turtle hatchery, with minimum delay, to ensure that other wild predators, mainly monitor lizards, do not eat or destroy them. After a period of incubation, the eggs will hatch and the hatchlings will be released to the sea. The release of hatchlings is normally done early morning or night and are released at various locations on the islands again to avoid wild predators. When the hatchlings are released on the shore, they scatter in all directions and instinctively head for the sea. Once they enter the water, they are washed ashore by the incoming waves, but after a few attempts they swim strongly out to the sea. The hope is for these hatchlings to survive the rough sea and to one day return to the Turle Island Parks. Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre The most popular native of Borneo is the Orang Utan; one of nature's most endangered animals. Located 25Km from Sandakan is the world-famous Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre which has been around since 1964. Set in 43 square km of protected and beautiful rainforest at the edge of Kabili Sepilok Forest Reserve, the sanctuary helps once captive Orang Utans learn to fend for themselves in the wild. This sanctuary also enables you to come in close contact with these amazing animals and witness an exciting conservation programme in action. However, you are restricted to walkways and are not allowed to touch these animals in order to protect them from any diseases. The centre also provides medical care for orphaned and confiscated Orang Utans as well other wildlife such as Gibbons, Sumatran Rhinos and Elephants.
In their natural settings, Orang Utan babies stay with their mothers for a period of six years while they are taught the skills needed to survive in the wild, with climbing as the most important skill. At this centre, these babies are paired up with older Orang Utans to learn these essential skills. Meal times are the highlights to both the Orang Utans and visitors to the centre. There are two feeding times each day. This is when about 60 semi-wild Orang Utans swing from their jungle habitat on to the feeding platforms for their daily meals of milk and bananas. Once there is no food left, these animals zip back into the jungle but occasionally some will come back to pose for the last remaining visitors.
There is an Information Nature Education Centre and a mini-theatre within the sanctuary where you can watch a documentary video on the work of the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre.
Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary The Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary lies within the massive floodplain of the lower Kinabatangan River. The sanctuary covers an area of 27,000 hectares and is one of the richest eco-systems on earth. This area is a must visit for any nature lover wanting a taste of an incredible nature experience. These floodplain forests develop as the river meets the lowland. Common features of the floodplain forests are ox-bow lakes, freshwater swamp rainforests and limestone hills.
These wetlands around the lower Kinabatangan link aquatic and terrestrial habitats and help regulate water quality and quantity, as well as maintain the ecosystem's ecological functions, forming a sanctuary for a rich and diverse fauna and flora. It has the highest density and diversity of wildlife in Malaysia. It is also one of only two known places on Earth where ten primate species, including the endangered proboscis monkeys (endemic to Borneo Island), orang utans and Sumatran Rhino. In addition, the rich sanctuary is also home to 200 species of bird as well as 50 mammal species.
The best way for you to view the wildlife and tropical wilderness of this area is by taking an early morning or an evening river cruise along the Kinabatangan River and also a cruise to the ox-bow lakes. See also the colourful local villagers living along the river on stilt houses. You can stay at the excellent Sukau River Lodge, which is erected from local materials consisting of wooden huts built on stilts.
Gomantong Caves The Gomantong Caves, located in limestone hills around the lower Kinabatangan River, have been popular for their edible birds' nests for centuries. These nests are known for their medicinal values amongst the local Chinese community and are collected by using local materials of rattans and bamboo to make ladders that hang over 100 feet above the cave floor.
Once these nests are collected, they are soaked in water where all the mud and feathers are removed leaving clear birds nest which can be sold to the local Chinese community or exported around the world. The collectors of these nests can earn a very high amount of money and consequently, the collecting of nests is tightly controlled by a licensing system.
About the Author
Walter Rajah is owner of Exploration Borneo Tours. Visit his site at http://www.explorationborneo.com for more information and images of Borneo - The Exotic Island Paradise. Check out all the travel packages to Borneo and subscribe to EBT Travel Newsletter for the latest events, travel news, Borneo articles and cheap deals
The Price Of A Virgin - Poverty caused this innocent girl to drop out of school and sell her most precious gift to a total stranger. by Tony Wells
The Price Of A Virgin - Poverty caused this innocent girl to drop out of school and sell her most precious gift to a total stranger. by Tony Wells
Poverty caused this innocent girl to drop out of school and sell her most precious gift to a total stranger
Despite the recent terrorist threats, AIDS and SARS, the Philippines is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. It's a tropical island paradise with over 7000 islands, many of which have beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters. But there's also another reason why each year thousands of male tourists flock to the islands. They come here for sex.
The sex industry in the Philippines is one of the most thriving in Asia. Hundreds of bars, massage parlors, karaoke clubs and sex dens are situated throughout Metro Manila and it's surrounding areas. All of these establishments are filled with beautiful tan skinned, almond eyed girls who practically all speak English and are more than ready, willing and able to serve their male customers.
Because of poverty many of the local girls are forced to drop out of school and start working in this nightlife scene. The law states that no girls under the age or 18 are allowed to work in these establishments but the truth of the matter is that many of the girls are as young as 16. Either they themselves fake their birth certificates or the places where they are working do it for them.
The following is a true story told to myself by a Manila bar girl;
Hi, I'm 18 and from the Philippines and this is my story. Due to poverty I had to drop out of school when I'm only 17 and I decided to go to join one of my girlfriend's and work in one of the girly bars in Manila. This was the only way I would be able to make some money so that I could return to the province and continue with my studies again.
The whole bar scene and meeting all these other girls [of which so many of them were in the same situation as I was] and foreigner men was a shock to my system. Where I'm from, it's just like a small town with not so many people and everyone seems to know each other there. Not only this.. dancing on stage for 8 hours every night was very tiring also.
There's two different groups of girls dancing - the tall girls and the shorter girls. I was in the shorter girls group. Each group danced for 30 minutes, whereby then they would go rest so the other group of girls could dance for 30 minutes. This just keeps up the whole night.. nonstop until we go home (back to our boarding house) at 4am.
We're paid 250 pesos per night for dancing.. but of that 250 pesos.. we have to deduct 150 pesos for our costume rental and for the services of the make-up girls. [Authors note; these makeup artists usually aren't even girls! They were always 'ladyboys' doing the make-up for the girls. I guess they're better at that then even real girls are].
So, this means that us dancing girls are earning only about 100 pesos per night if we didn't get any drinks from customers. If we got drinks then we earn an extra 100 pesos per drink so that's why we love to get plenty of drinks.
Mamasan was very nice to me.. even though I'm only 17 years of age that time, she managed to make a fake birth certificate for me so I was able to work there cause the actual legal minimum age is supposed to be 18. A couple of the girls working there even admitted to me that they were only 16 years of age! I was amazed at this and how young some of them were.
Mamasan also taught me many things.. like how to treat and make conversation to the male customers, how to drink alcohol without getting drunk, and so many more 'tricks of the trade'. She also knew that I was a virgin so this made her even more nice and protective of me. She told me that the normal 'bar fine' for non-virgin girls was only 900 pesos. But.. for me.. my very first bar fine would be 2,000 pesos for the bar, and the customer would have to pay me *40,000 pesos!
Of course, I really wish that I didn't have to sell my 'virginity' for any amount but at this time I didn't have any choice really. So.. I thought to myself, wow.. that's a lot of money! If I can do that and get my 40,000 pesos then I won't even have to work here anymore cause that's already enough for me to go back to the province to continue my studies. I told mamasan that I do agree with that so she was happy also to hear this news.
Two months went by but there were no 'takers' of my virginity yet. Many men wanted to make love to me [and why not? I'm considered quite petite and beautiful also!] but when they learned I'm still a virgin and the price will be 42,000 pesos.. they lost interest quickly cause, 'that's very expensive!', was their usual comments to me.
Then, one day this Japanese businessman, Yuji, came to our bar. He saw me, smiled, and invited me for a drink. He was nice and we got along well. When Yuji learned about me being a virgin and also about the 42,000 peso price - it didn't phase him at all. He immediately agreed! I was happy.. but of course.. nervous also cause I'm about to lose my virginity to a complete stranger whom I'd just only met..
Yuji paid mamasan the 42,000 pesos. Then he brought me to his nearby hotel. He was gentle with me.. even kissing my virgin pussy first 'to make it more wet and horny', is what he told me. That was fantastic cause no one has ever kissed me down there before. I loved that. Then, Yuji got on top of me and slowly forced his in.. little by little it was going in and penetrating me. It kinda hurt for the first several strokes.. but then the pleasure was just as good as the pain so I was also enjoying it. In fact.. when he came inside me.. I also came again.
Wow.. Oh my god… I saw so much blood on his bed sheet afterwards and I was apologizing to him but he said, "It's ok.. this is normal for a virgin doing it for the first time". Later that night… we made love again.. and then once again when we woke up in the morning. Definitely, now, I'm no longer a virgin anymore.
That evening I went to the bar and mamasan gave me my money. I was so happy then. I didn't even work that night.. although mamasan tried to convince me to stay. I was excited and went back to our dorm and packed my things. The next day I took the Rabbit bus back to the province and my whole family was so happy to see me again.
Unfortunately, the money didn't last long cause I gave most of it to my parents so they could fix up our dilapidated house. I was soon broke again and didn't even have enough to continue my studies for even a single semester.. let alone a whole year.
To make my story end now.. and it's not really a happy ending either.. I'm back working in the bar and I hope I can earn enough money one of these days so I can return back to the province and continue with my studies cause the bar life is not a good life for any girl. Thank you for being so nice and listing to my story. [Maria, 18, Philippines]
*Author's Note: $1.00 = 52.5 Pesos so 40,000 pesos is about USD$762.00 at today's exchange rate.
About the Author
Tony Wells is an American who's first Asian eye-opening experience was in 1982 when he went there to work as a Commercial Oilfield Deep Sea Diver. He's currently writing a book about his life's story as the only Black American Commercial Diver in SEA and all other his wild and crazy experiences in Asia.
He has also written articles for airline in-flight magazines such as; Silver Kris, Wings of Gold, and Hemispheres as well as some local Singapore newspapers.
Growing to Know and Love Mary from a Worldwide Perspective by Lisa M. Hendey
Growing to Know and Love Mary from a Worldwide Perspective by Lisa M. Hendey
Growing to Know and Love Mary from a Worldwide Perspective Author Interview with Ann Ball, The Other Faces of Mary by Lisa M. Hendey
Many of us have an "image" of Mary that comes immediately to mind when we offer prayers to the intercession of the Blessed Mother of Jesus. In my mind, Mary looks a lot like a younger version of many of the important women in my own life. For many, images of classic Madonnas by Rafael or sweet holy card remembrances are the face of Mary. Despite her "look", worldwide devotion to Mary remains constant.
As distant lands have come closer through the wonder of air travel and the Internet, new doors have been opened and many of us seek to learn more about the practice of Catholicism in other parts of the world. Watching the sea of humanity present at the recent events at the Vatican, I marveled at the flags and faces representing so many fellow Christians from around the globe. The universality of our faith struck me as I watched an Italian mother, a young Caucasian and an African gentleman all clutch their rosaries in the moments leading up to the announcement of Pope Benedict XVI's papacy.
Thanks to a wonderful new book by Ann Ball, we can learn more about stories, devotions and images of Mary from around the world. In The Other Faces of Mary (Crossroads, December 2004, paperback, 160 pages), Ball introduces us to Mary through the eyes of our fellow Catholics in places such as Vietnam, Nigeria, India, Japan and more. Ball and the many contributors to this book share with us a beautiful gift - the wonderful pictures that accompany the stories and reflections in this book left me wanting to travel to these places and see my own Faith through fresh eyes.
I spoke recently with Ann Ball about The Other Faces of Mary. Q: Ann Ball, author of The Other Faces of Mary and numerous other wonderful Catholic resources, thank you for your time and participation in this interview. Could you please begin by telling us a bit about yourself and your own faith journey?
A: Lisa, I am a convert. I grew up in a small town in an area which was still mission territory for the Catholics when I was a child so there was a lot of mis-information about the church. As an adult, through an unusual set of circumstances I wound up teaching at a Catholic school. My dad always had a St. Christopher medal on his keychain and I found a book in the library of that little school about St. Christopher. I read it and got hooked on reading about the saints - finished reading an entire series of children's books on the saints that year. The following year, we moved and I taught at another Catholic school. One day when I was having the children decorate a bulletin board for Our Lady, one of the sisters saw what we were doing and whispered to me, "She'll get you - just wait and see." Some years later when I announced my intention to join the church, that sister's response was simple "I told you Our Lady would get you."
Q: Ann, you've written on such a broad array of subjects. Please briefly describe this book and tell us what prompted you to take on the topic of lesser known visions of Mary.
A: The Other Faces of Mary is really a book of little known images and titles, not visions, of Our Lady. I have always been interested in other cultures, and Mary is the great "inculturator" of our faith. She comes to her people as one of them, in a form they can most readily understand. Gently she draws them with her maternal love to her Divine Son. We are all familiar with the main titles of Our Lady - Lourdes, Fatima, Guadalupe. But there are other beautiful devotions to Mary throughout the world.
Q: When watching recent events at St. Peter's during the death of Pope John Paul II and the election and installation of Pope Benedict XVI, I was struck by the universality of our Catholic faith as evidenced by the many faces and flags represented in Rome. While the ethnicities varied, devotion to Our Lady and the Rosary seemed to be a common thread. Could you say a few words about Mary's place in our world today as a unifying force?
A: Mary represents the twin jewels of our faith: cultural diversity and universal sameness.
Q: I found the stories and images of your book to be fascinating! How did you research the book and recruit the various contributors?
A: God bless the internet! When writing my first books, my postage bill was enormous and it sometimes took months to get a response. The internet has made it vastly easier to communicate with others overseas. For some of these I appealed to friends. For example, my friend and long-time correspondent Leo Knowles (r.i.p.) traveled in England to bring the story and picture of Ladyewell. Leo was also a Catholic writer, and his essay in this book is the last he wrote. A Vietnamese Buddhist friend from Houston was going to Vietnam and looked up a Catholic friend of his there who found the informatioin on Tra Kieu for me. I knew of the three handed icon and own a lovely copy of it written by my friend Mary Talamini. Naturally I asked her to comment on why she picked that particular icon to write. The one from Japan I saw myself on a trip there and it immediately reminded me of a lovely song I remembered from the 1960s. The author of that song was gracious enough to write a comment for me. For others I appealed to dioceses and priests all over the world. Actually, the stories behind the stories are all interesting. As a researcher who loves Our Lady, this was sheer pleasure for me.
Q: Is there any one "face" of Mary that holds particular devotion for you? Which of the images in the book did you find the most compelling, surprising or interesting?
A: I have two favorites in that book. First, because I am of English extraction, I love the Vulnerata. She is a figure of reparation and her story made me weep. I work with the Basilian mission fathers and I wrote a special prayer to Our lady Vulnerata which we shared with our missionaries and co-missionaries last Christmas. My other favorite is Tra Kieu because she shows the love Our Lady has for her persecuted peoples. As far as I know, her story was previously unknown in the United States, even by our many American Vietnamese Catholics. The picture was brought by Dung's friend from the North part of Vietnam. Later I was able to be in contact with the priest from the shrine there via the internet. I also love Chapi from Peru, especially when she has her hair braided and wears a Peruvian hat like the people of her area when she goes on pilgrimage. I treasure a little statue of her sent to me by the rector of her shrine.
Q: In his introduction to your book, Bishop Gregory John Mansour speaks of Mary as a "common bond" between Muslims, Christians and Jews in today's world. Given the global uncertainties that face us in this time, I cling to my family's daily prayers to Mary for peace and reconciliation as a sign of great hope. How can Our Lady help us explore and appreciate the cultural diversity of today's world?
A: If you get to know and love Our Lady, you can't help but catch her love for all her children! I think Rev. Stephen Doyle, O.P., in his comments on Divina Pastora says it best: "Here, respect for the faith of others and an acceptance of the shared common values inherent in all genuine faith expressions has been pursued." In particular, this image in the West Indies like Our Lady of Lebanon is revered by many of other faiths.
Q: I know that you are busy at work on your next project. Can you share a preview with our readers?
A: My friend Father Damian Hinojosa, c.s.b. and I just finished the research on a book about the Holy Infant Jesus. Many people are familiar with the Infant of Prague, and my own family has always honored the Christ Child under the title of the Holy Child of the Atocha, but there are hundreds of images and devotions to the Christ Child under these titles throughout the world. We wanted to trace the historical background of devotion to Christ as a child, and to tell the stories of some of these images which are still popular today. This subject has never really been explored completely before. There is one out of print German book and a lovely book, also unavailable in the U.S., on the infants honored in the Philippines. So again, another project of pure pleasure for a researcher. And, hopefully, also a great book for readers who love the Holy Child. It will be out this fall from Crossroads. The book has the cull background on the images you may know like the Infant of Prague, and the Divino Niño from Colombia, and many you don't know but will fall in love with. We found a tiny baby Jesus from El Salvador which was "clothed" by seashells when it fell in the ocean, a Little Blind Jesus from Mexico, the Holy Bellringer in Austria, and the image so loved by St. Therese of Lisieux along with many others.
Q: Ann Ball, author of the great treasure The Other Faces of Mary, thank you for another wonderful book and for your time. Are there any additional thoughts or comments you'd like to share?
A: Just my thanks to all those of you who have read what I write because that is what makes it possible for me to have the fun to continue writing. And an invitation to visit my own website at www.annball.com to see the other projects I am working on as well as find activities and stories for children as well as articles for adults.
For more information on The Other Faces of Mary visit http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0824522559/catholicmomcom
About the Author
Lisa M. Hendey is a mother of two sons, webmaster of numerous web sites, including http://www.catholicmom.com and http://www.christiancoloring.com, and an avid reader of Catholic literature. Visit her at http://www.lisahendey.com for more information.
Location or Information: Which is More Important? by Manolito Montala
Location or Information: Which is More Important? by Manolito Montala
Businesses nowadays are now aware of the power of the internet. Who would think decades ago that Yahoo, Google, Ebay or Amazon will became large corporations today? Twenty years ago no one would imagine that this would happen. Now even here in the Philippines there are some online entrepreneur from rags to riches made his way to success. So what is the most important thing to start a business? Is setting up a brick and mortar (this is a physical business like a grocery store for example ) comparable to an online business? It has similarities in some ways like both sell products or services. But the big difference for both to succeed is:
Brick and Mortar -> Need Good Location
Online Business -> Need Good Information
Why did I say that? simple. A brick and mortar business should have a good location, for example, in a place where many people pass by like in a commercial place. A school perhaps. If you will build a store away from the crowd, no one or very few will have a chance to go to your store. Very few people will know that your store exist.
I remember many years ago about my sister who has a general merchandise store. I was wondering why people flock to her store since it is very small and her items was priced higher than the competitor near her place. The other general merchandise store was triple the size compared to her and has much more inventories or items and has lower price. By observing, I noticed that her store was located near the corner of the street and much nearer to the school, church and municipal hall. Because those places have much more crowd so is it the best place to start a business. You know how powerful word of mouth is.
Now we know about the brick and mortar. How about online business? is it enough that you will create the most beautiful website in the world and millions of visitors will flock in? No way Jose. Very far from the truth. Of course you have to promote it online but even if you pay a fortune but your website don't have information what good is it? Internet surfers are looking for information. They search a solution to their problem and when they find it ...BINGO! they are SOLD! For example, your have an aching sole. You search the internet for reasons why it is aching and want a solution to eliminate the pain. Then you search the search engine like Yahoo or Google. You typed "aching sole" and there you found a website that explains why it is aching and gave medical information about the illness and then sells a product like for example a custom made insole for it. It is more likely that you will pull out your wallet and use your credit card to buy it. This is called pre-selling.
So which is more important? Location or Information?
About the Author
About the author: Manolito Montala is an online entrepreneur. Entrepreneurship is his best interest whether online or offline. To know more about it please visit: http://www.thefilipinoentrepreneur.com/
Online Dating Scam: How to avoid Those Yahoo Girls and Hotmail ladies by eking
Online Dating Scam: How to avoid Those Yahoo Girls and Hotmail ladies by eking
Do you think online dating scams only happen to those ladies looking for long term relationship? You are deadly wrong. It happens to everyone, especially YOU. Regardless your sexual orientation; if you are middle-aged male, you are on the romance scammer's no. 1 favorite target list.
Middle aged males like you are more likely have higher incomes, more assets compared to your younger suitors and more desperate to attract potential mates. They know very well your weakness and they are expert at manipulating your feeling. All their concern about you is your willingness to open your heart to them and later on open your wallet.
If you are on online dating scene-always double your safety guard sense on alert before swimming in those deep wild love pool. I know--you may say: DON'T GIVE OUT personal data, No Telephone No., No address or Office address, and most importantly NO your bank accounts information to her before you're really know her.
You are right. But one thing you must know is they are professional.
Do you believe the woman you've been emailing back and forth for months using yahoo free email service is really a woman? Or The Hotmail lady you've been IM-ing is a real potential mate? Mostly those woman and Hotmail ladies are actually professional male romance scammers who pose as women in order to seduce you.
They are able to do this because there are typically more male members in most online dating services and also because most of the communication is conducted via emails and Instant Messaging. If they have to, the romance scammers will hire a female voice to talk to you.
There are more than 8 scenarios these scammers use to seduce you to bite their bait but I will list 2 most recognized scenarios only as below:
1. Online Matching Dating service scenario These romance scammers target YOU by posting fake profiles and tend to hide behind beautiful photographs. They will claim they are from USA, UK, or Europe countries and are working abroad on short term project.
They seek quickly to establish contact then set about establishing intimacy, declaring love, and expressing strong desire to be physically with their victims. They usually work in a group and know how to push your sentimental button.
Victims are conned to believe that they have found their soul mate and wedding are on the way, at last! What the victims do not know is they are exploiting their dreams, ambition and love with the wedding offer.
Watch out those Yahoo women Hotmail ladies, especially from West Africa (especially Nigeria), Western Europe, Thailand and Philippines.
2. Mail Order Brides Scenario Eastern Europe romance scammers tend to use the Mail Order Bride services to scam their victims. These ladies are attractive and quickly establish and declare to their victims that these poor guys are their soul mate and their dream partner.
But before the victims could claim their future wife, they must pay her passport, fiancée visa, ticket, and a huge sum of money in order to make her fly to the victims places. Needless to say, this thing never materialized. The victims always left with empty wallet and more broken hearted than ever.
Watch out those mail order brides from Russia.
To fight these scammers US federal law enforcement agencies has build a website to help combat these cyber romance outlaw. Check it here http://www.lookstoogoodtobetrue.com/
One last word, once online dating security issues arise, please use your head to judge, not your DICK
About the Author
Free gay dating services reviews, read our personal review, find out which dating services suit your need best
http://PrivateGayPersonals.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
