Archive for February, 2009

February 27, 2009: 1:51 pm: CraigTravel

Dubai is both one of seven United Arab Emirates as well as the Dubai Municipality, which is the city that most people think of when they hear the name. Dubai city is rapidly becoming one of the top tourists destinations in the world. The city’s long history as a center for trade in the Middle East has expanded in recent years to attract large numbers of leisure travelers as well as businessmen. Tourism has become one of the region’s leading industries, along with trade, finance, and real estate.

The government of Dubai has worked with various investors and developers to create a modern, clean, and friendly environment for tourists. There is an abundance of shopping, dining, and entertainment venues throughout Dubai. There has also been an explosion in the building of luxury hotels in Dubai, UAE, providing contemporary lodgings with all the amenities of modern life.

One of the unique developments in Dubai is the building of artificial islands. While the area surrounding the city is desert, Dubai’s coastline offers beautiful beaches, sparkling ocean waters, and a variety of opportunites for recreation and relaxation. The construction of the Palm Islands has dramatically increased the number of beaches, resorts, and other attractions in Dubai.

Dubai is known for its scuba diving, yachting, and other water activities such as snorkeling and wind surfing. Sea plane and helicopter tours are great ways to explore the coast. Those wishing to venture into the desert can try dune bashing or a desert safari or take a hot air balloon ride over the dunes.

While Dubai is a thoroughly modern city, it still preserves some of its rich history. Visitors can take a creek tour through Old Dubai that showcases the city’s historic sites and some of its retired trade ships. The city is also home to a number beautiful mosques and other examples of traditional architecture from previous eras. There are also some interesting museums highlighting the region’s history and art. And shoppers will want to explore the local souks (a type of traditional market).

February 22, 2009: 10:18 pm: CraigTravel

Singapore provides much to offer to the world of international business. There are many different cultures all living in one place, which makes the city an attractive option for big businesses from all parts of the world. Singapore provides business travelers with many possibilities. All elements come together here, as technological advances have brought businesses and the people working for various companies, together in the same place at the same time, regardless of where one may physically be. Everyone is connected and that creates opportunities to exchange ideas much more readily. And added with the variety of attractions, cultures from various societies all coming together in one place, Singapore has become a significant meeting place. A place wherein business may be the reason for travel, with the extra added bonus of being a very attractive location to conduct that business.

More than 6,000 companies come together to network and expand. The markets of all the Asian companies are among the fastest growing markets in the world. Perhaps it is the location. Perhaps it is the technological excellence or the trade industry that is placed at just the right place or the strong state of their economy and commerce that makes this country such an attractive option. Singapore has many booming industries, including research in biotechnology, engineering, communications. The federal government even sets aside funding for these as well the growing world of digital technology and communication.

Singapore’s workers are among the most devoted in the world. Much of the workers in industry art experts in their field, as well as in the professional world of banking, law and medicine. This attracts businesses to the area as well, so that workers from other countries are just wanting to ‘rub elbows’ with such greatness and such a dedicated sense of work ethic. Singapore workers teach, inspire and motivate workers from other countries which is very attractive to the owners of those businesses. This has all lead to the country be in the top of the list of the best places to hold conventions of every kind, from business conventions held in luxury Singapore hotels, to music festivals on the street, this country has so much to offer to various businesses from all over the world.

: 10:10 pm: CraigTravel

While Goa, India is famous for its popular beaches, wonderful seafood, and thriving cities, this small state in India is actually a haven of traditional Indian life. With almost 350 villages, Goa is a great place to explore the character and variety offered by Indian Village life.

While the cities are run by Goans, many actually live in a nearby village and commute to the city each day. This suggests that the cities are the domain of tourists and to understand the people of Goa, one needs to venture out into the countryside. There are usually a number of villages within easy distance of the 5 star hotels Goa.

Many of the villages in Goa have beautiful scenery, especially in the mountain areas. However, even villages along the coastline or in the “hinterland” offer stunning views and lovely architecture to stimulate the eye. Each village has its own personality and charm. The pace here is even slower than in the cities, which can be a shock to the system of tourists from bustling urban cities. Villagers tend to be very friendly and the shops and restaurants in villages are usually clean, neat, and offer a fairly good value-for-money. Some villages have become tourist magnets and can be a bit pricer, so careful research is needed.

Villages that are worth exploring are Mollem which includes the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Shiroda, Goa Velha, and Britona. Other villages include Cortalim, Usgao, Benaulim, Savoi Verem, Reis Magos, and Curtorim.

February 21, 2009: 3:48 pm: CraigAutomotive

Of all the vehicle types available, the van has perhaps the most colorful associations, at least in the United States. While each country has its own definition for vehicle types, in the US, a van is a box-shaped four wheel vehicle. While usually the same length and width as a large car, vans tend to be higher from the ground and much taller than cars. The North American definition can include any truck that has a rigid cargo body attached to the cab. This can include box-shaped semi-trailers or trailers used to haul goods.

Cargo vans will have front seat and then a large empty space for transportation of goods. A “dry van” is used for hauling most items while a “reefer” or refrigerated van is outfitted to carry cold items.

Passenger vans are furnished with additional seating behind the front seats. In the case of a “Wagon” van, the van is purchased with the seating provided by the manufacturer. A conversion van is outfitted for passengers with comfort items like elaborate entertainment systems and beverage storage. The conversion may be done by a second company or by the van owner.

In the US, the term can also describe a Minivan. These have similar passenger capacity, but their smaller size and powertrain make them more economical to drive. While they get better fuel economy, they do not have the same cargo space or towing capacity of traditional vans.

Conversion vans gained popularity in the decadent 1970s in the US. Used as traveling bedrooms by some, they were also ideal for road trip parties, drive-ins, and outdoor festivals. Vans in the United States also have a nostaglic association with hippies and drug use. Some of these relic can be found at a local used van dealer pretty much anywhere in the US.

February 20, 2009: 11:47 pm: CraigFinance, Travel

There are many options for night-time fun in Majorca. There are many options for family fun, as well some fun to be had that is, well, not so family oriented. Majorca has increasingly become a favorite destination spot in the Mediterranean. Through the increasingly growing industry of tourism, vacation packages have become available and affordable to those who before, may not have been able to afford to spend time on an island long known for its attraction to wealthy, the famous, and the jet-setting crowds. Aside from the various options for night time partying alone, one may find oneself dancing in one of hip nightclubs next to or eating beside in one of the many restaurants, some superstars from around the world. It has jokingly been said, though not without some truth, that when getting ready for a night on the town, it is best to dress ‘to the nines’, as you just may be dancing along side Russell Crowe or sharing a counter at a local tapas restaurant with Salma Hayek or sharing a poolside cocktail at one of the many 5 star hotel Majorca has to offer with Clint Eastwood or Hillary Swank.

The top clubs in town offer a variety options from all night discos, with 5000 people dancing to tunes spun by the hottest DJs in town, attended to by superstar athletes, pop idols and world famous fashion models. These are local spots that attract the trendy and the young with rave parties, fanciful go-go dancers in thigh high boots dancing on the bars and yes, karaoke. The parties in these establishments tend to be high energy and last all night, so if you are young at heart, be sure that you are young in physical make-up as well, for no one and I mean no one stops dancing until the sun comes up, shines for a bit to allow a little relaxation on the white sand beaches, and then sets back down. And then, it’s just time to do it all again.

If someone prefers live entertainment to mixing boards and video screens, any number of bars and clubs offer it up. From live bands to cabaret shows to the soulful tunes of American Mo-town, to gambling casinos with poker and blackjack tables, to live audience interactive adventures that prove fun for the entire family, to live erotica to foam parties, the streets of this island have it all to offer and offer it up they do. After decades and decades of war and occupation and conquests, this new found atmosphere is something everyone is ecstatic about. The tourism industry has grown 10 fold in the last 50 years. This small island off the coast of Spain will continue to attract the party animals and the families for years to come, there is so much it has to offer and such a lovely climate to offer it in.

: 12:26 pm: CraigBusiness, Fashion

In spite of the state of the economy, fashion mogul Giorgio Armani has opened a new store in New York City. At the store’s opening, Armani proclaimed his confidence that the flagship retail outlet would have no troubles selling his expensive clothing, despite the failing world economy.

The store is located at the corner of 56th Street and Fifth Avenue. It is glass box store featuring an enormous staircase as well as a charming Italian restaurant on the top floor. Dresses on display in the store brandished price tage of $10,000.

Hundreds of New York’s fashion elite were on hand for the opening night party, scheduled to coincide with Fashion Week activities. Many attendees complimented the store’s design as well as the concept of bringing all the designer’s brands into one outlet.

With its location on Fifth Avenue, the store is perfectly positioned to appeal to the superrich shoppers who frequent the legendary shopping district. Whether they inhabit the many luxury apartments in Manhattan or are staying in glamorous five star hotels in New York, women with that kind of money all know and respect the Armani label.

February 16, 2009: 3:50 pm: CraigTravel

The Island of Ibiza, lies in the southwestern portion of the Balearic Islands of Spain. Ibiza has been a destination for travelers since the 1960′s. The laid back-party approach is attractive to hipster’s, hippies and nudists alike. There are 5 star Ibiza discotheques, 5 star Ibiza hotels, and 5 start Ibiza white beaches. It has become a spot where people have found their way to relax and enjoy being alive. This recently attracted musician George Evelyn.

George Evelyn, the producer behind an electronic soul project known as Nightmares on Wax, was approaching the age of 40. At this time, Evelyn discovered within himself a need for a life change, climate change, and logistical change. Originally from Leeds, England he moved to Ibiza, Spain supporting this internal transition, writing his sixth album during the trip. The radical shift in his environment demanded and inspired this new work, as a document to this transition. He went on the road with a guitarist, a bassist and a few guest vocalists. The album started in the van during the trip and recently released, is ‘Thought So’.

The motley group worked in the van, traveling along the roads of England, France, and Spain, improvising rhythms on a laptop computer with the guitar and bass playing along from the backseat. The group was joined halfway through the roadtrip by reggae artist Ricky Ranking. Throughout ‘Thought So” bits of whistling, clapping, laughter and group harmonies reminiscent of old school Motown add to the impromptu recordings and create an approachable and casual feel. This is a group of musicians on the road, not the image Evelyn thought he’d create of himself in the beginning, of one single person sitting alone in a studio. Evelyn has commented that he really didn’t expect it all to work so well, to click in the way that it has.

The group stopped off in Segovia, Spain to record what had been written in the van. The acoustics of the 400 year old hotel room boosted the vocal harmonies and they stayed on longer than originally planned to take advantage of the sound. During the recording session, Evelyn’s DJ, EASE (stands for experimental sample expert) cleared the obvious samples of Quincy Jones by writing to him, asking permission to use samples from “Summer in the City”. This sample became part of the signature Nightmare on Wax tune, ‘Les Nuits’. This piece, which combines scratching, piano, vocal loops and haunting strings predates and has influenced fellow artists such as Autechre and Aphex Twin. It has been called the bassline for a night, for a night out or a night within.

It took Evelyn one road trip, to Ibiza, Spain to find within himself a new way to create, to collaborate and discover this new vibe, to be inspired. The series may be viewed on YouTube, and has created the opportunity for Nightmares on Wax to tour the United States for the first time. It is beautiful record, check it out.

February 15, 2009: 10:33 am: CraigTravel

Any visitor to Thailand is likely to fall in love with this beautiful and exotic country. Often referred to as the “golden land” the country possesses a certain shine or lustre that is both enchanting and exciting.

Officially the Kingdom of Thailand it is ruled by a constitutional monarch. The Thai king holds the distinction of being the longest-reigning monarch alive, having served his people for over fifty years.

Formerly known as Siam, Thailand is predominately Buddhist and that religion has had a strong influence on the culture and traditions of the Thai people. There are Wats (Budhist monasteries) throughout the land, representing different architectural styles and housing some of the most beautiful Buddhist artwork and statues in the world.

Thailand offers a wide-range of experiences. Bangkok is the capital city and has evolved into a world capital of finance, business, and culture. It provides the modern conveniences and luxuries of an urban center with the charm and slower pace of the Thai people. Chiang Mai is more of an artistic and bohemian city. Mae Hong Son provides beautiful mountains and traditional villages. Islands such as Koh Phi Phi Don and Ko Tao offer both evergreen forests and pearly beaches. And don’t forget the legendary island of Phuket, world famous for its hedonistic nightlife as well as its stunning beaches and ocean views.

Visitors will find accommodations available wherever there is something interesting to see or do. There are 5 star Thailand hotels throughout the country as well as guest houses, boutique hotels, and even idyllic beach resorts. Shopping is wonderful throughout the country, with Bangkok offering some of the best bargains in its many open markets and shopping malls. And where else can you get Thai food made with fresh, local ingredients and ancient recipes? For the freshest seafood dishes, make sure to visit the various islands and coastal areas.

February 14, 2009: 10:50 am: CraigTravel

The modern city of Kolkata owes much to its ancient past. Formerly Calcutta, this city is the capital of West Bengal and was once the colonial capital of India, under British occupation. Over the centuries the city has been the home of major developments in science, industry, education, and culture for West Bengal and for all of India.

Famed as the birthplace of modern artistic and literary thought in India, Kolkata has long been a seat of culture and arts. Famous poets, writers, and philosophers have called Kolkata home. It has also produced several Nobel Prize winners. As the capital city, it is the center of Bengali art, dance, music, theater, poetry, and film.

The food in Kolkata is amazing. Some restaurants have been operating for over 100 years. While local Bengali dishes are everywhere, the city is also home to cuisines from all over India as well as foods from other parts of the world. The five star Kolkata hotels usually offer fine dining establishments and world cuisines.

Shopping in Kolkata will delight even the most jaded traveler. There are numerous open markets and bazaars offering everything from traditional crafts and clothing to modern electronic devices and accessories. The city has a number of climate-controlled malls for thos who want to shop in comfort.

Some of the “must see” attractions within the city are Fort William, the Marble Palace, and the Victoria Memorial. Kolkata is also home to Government House, the National Library, and the Indian Museum.

February 8, 2009: 11:49 pm: CraigArts & Culture, Spirituality & Religion, Travel

Bangkok is an amazing city, known for its towering skyline, lovely parks and gardens, and the slower, quiet charm of Thailand. The city is equally proud of its modern marvels (boasting over 1000 skyscrapers) and its traditional heritage. The city has a number of enchanting and significant temples. Visiting each of the temples could encompass an entire trip to Bangkok and provide a uniquely spiritual and architectural experience.

Wat Pho is more commonly known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Located next to the Grand Palace it features a gold-plated Buddha that is fifteen meters tall and 46 meters long. Wat Pho was the region’s first public education center as well as a religious enclave.

The Temple of Dawn is officially known as Wat Arun. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya, the temple is famous for its central pagoda. Rising 79 meters high, the pagado is encrusted with porcelain that sparkles in sunlight.

Wat Ratchabophit’s architecture is a mixture of western and local styles. Wat Mahathat is an older temple that is home to Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University and offers meditation classes to tourists. Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing houses beautiful 19th century murals as well as the Giant Swing that is a reminder of the ancient Brahmanic ceremonies for which is was created.

Other temples of interest in Bangkok include Wat Ratchapradit Sathitmahasimaram, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Bowon Niwet, and Wat Intharawihan. Wat Ratchapradit Sathitmahasimaram is a smaller temple with a royal heritage and was originally a royal coffee plantation. Wat Saket and the Golden Mount, Wat Intharawihan, Wat Ratchanatdaram, Wat Thepthidaram, Wat Trai Mit, and Wat Benchamabophit all have beautiful and one-of-kind features that provide inspiration and insight into Thailand’s rich religious history.

To make the most of any visit, stay in one of the best Bangkok hotels and be sure to enjoy the many superb local restaurants featuring the best food in Thailand. And make sure to bring your bargaining skills as all the shops and markets in Bangkok expect you to haggle, even though the prices here are already much cheaper than western tourists are accustomed to paying.