Commze

There is no doubting that the top New York City hotels are the best of the best.  Given the location, in the greatest city in the world, how could it be any different?  Here, the world’s best designers, chefs, architects, and artists gather, or have gathered at time or another, to soak up the energy and to contribute their share of talent.  It’s a buzzing place, and the hotels are a reflection of this, except with a large dose of relaxation and rejuvenation.  With a combination of world-class amenities, mixed with a studied practice of hospitality learned from all the cultures in the melting pot, there is a sense here of being close to the heartbeat of the world.

New York could be the pulse of the world, for all we know, and with bands like the Talking Heads, the pulse is exciting.  And an experiment in rhythms, too.  The Talking Heads performed as a group for the first time on June 8, 1975, at NYC’s famous CBGB, and they opened for the Ramones, no less.  An auspicious beginning, but not quite the beginning.  The band members started hooking up a few years before that, as art school students in Rhode Island, and they started to play together using some of David Byrne’s early songs, like Psycho Killer, as beginning tracks, to learn each other’s musical directions.  From the beginning, the rhythms were a combination of infectious punk beats and rock and roll rhythms that had their roots in African rhythm.  David Byrne, whose life-long interest would become apparent in subsequent years, often mentions the African influence in his music from the beginning.

The other members of the Talking Heads were Chris Frantz, Tina Weymouth, and Jerry Harrison.  Their run as a band together was a little over a decade, enough to record some of the most influential albums in punk, post-punk, art-punk, new-wave, alternative music history.  Whatever they were playing, it was definitely abstract.  They certainly had artistic allies in New York, with groups like  Blondie and Television, and visionary artists like Twyla Tharpe, Laurie Anderson, and Robert Wilson working as contemporaries.  The experiment that was the Talking Heads, then, was a rather successful one, and one that David Byrne could later draw on as his music has taken on a more consciously African sensibility and approach.  True New Yorkers, and true world artists.

One of the funnest spots to travel for spring break for students throughout the world is the country of Australia. There are safaris through the outback, numerous surf spots along the coasts, and many options for those wanting the adventures of deep sea fishing or relaxing times out on the waters whale watching.  The Australia spa resorts and hotels offer many amenities, and sometimes even discounted rates for student travelers.  For those wishing and outdoor feast during their break, there is none other than a tour along the Margaret River.

And for those tourists spending time in Perth, Australia, this area is just a short road trip, a four hour drive through some of the most incredible scenic areas of the country.  Spring season in Australia runs from September throughout November, and is a time of wild flowers in bloom, sunshine and the chance to drive along side, while whales swim along side in their spring migratory routes.  All aspects of the River are uplifting and the perfect way to escape the daily grind of college courses and the work week so many get obsessed with.  Lives are uplifted during this time on the continent.

Along the River there are many locations for fine dining as well as the tastings of some of the finest of Australian wines from the various regions.  The vineyards located in the Karri Forest valley offer wine tasting lunches, and are surrounded by caves that tunnel underground.  The perfect spot for walking off the wine and the food in the afternoon.  There are also many beaches located along the forest that are wonderful for a mid afternoon swim, or a ride on the surf boards.  The coastline is dramatic, with cliffs and diving spots, and is even more enhanced by the dolphins and the whales that are regularly spotted in the area.  This is one of the many ideal places in Australia, to get a bit of the outdoors, combined with the conveniences of the modern world.

The city of Melbourne, Australia is the second most dense concentration of population in the country.  Melbourne is located very close to Tasmania, and sits along Australia’s southern coast.  The city’s population has continued to expand, and has been growing along side the Yarra River.  The Port of Phillip has provided the means for trade and commerce during the years, and the industry of tourism has been increasing as well with new resorts, restaurants and luxury hotels, Melbourne has become a vacation destination not only for those from the other cities and villages in Australia, but with international travelers as well.  This city offers a vibrant night life, along with secluded beaches perfect for family activities or those wishing to perfect their skill of surfing.  The mountain range, The Dandenong Ranges, surrounding the city and along the river provide many opportunities for outdoor excursions, be they whale watching cruises in the winter months, or hiking and camping during the warmer months of summer.

The seasons of Australia are as those of the countries of the South hemisphere, with the summer months running from December through February, fall season is March through April, winter season, June through August and Springtime from September through December.  All of Australia is a dry climate, which can make the summer months intensely hot in temperature, and unless one chooses to vacation along the beaches where the temperature remains a bit more consistent, those wishing to spend time inland often choose the other times of the year to visit.  The summer months are perfect of course, for the family holidays on the beaches, or those interested in a variety of water sports such as scuba diving, deep sea fishing, and of course surfing.

However, there are many activities that happen throughout the country during the cooler months of winter.  Many travel to this region to view the migration of the humpback whales, a spectacular experience for those loving marine life, and an incredible feat of nature, as these giant creatures once bordered on extinction.  There is also and extensive winter arts program in many of the hot spots, where theater and music concerts happen on a nightly basis, and the galleries and museums present incredible exhibits, in order to coax those Australians out of their homes on days when the sun happens to not be shining.  In all, every season in the country has something to offer and there is no unappealing time to venture to the country.  All times in Australia, are good times.

The Ngunnawal Tribe of Canberra, Australia has made this region of the country their home for the last twenty-one thousand years.  There is archaeological evidence of existence for this length of time located throughout the area, notably at the Nature Reserve in Tidbinbilla, in the shelter of the Birrigai Rocks, and in the cave paintings located at the National Park of Namadgi.  During the early 1800’s, many of the Aborigines were living and thriving in the area, this is the time of the first settlers of Europe.  The tribes would meet up for festivals and then break into smaller groups as the traveled the land in search of food of the various regions and seasonal availability.

As was coming during the early days of exploration and settlement throughout the entire world, the Aboriginal way of life was sadly disrupted upon the event of the European travelers.  There migratory way of life was interrupted and they were struck with many diseases that they had never before been exposed to.  Smallpox, influenza and tuberculosis took their toll and many of the people on the continent perished as and effect.  And while the Aborigines still live amongst the more recent immigrants, there is a bit of hostility and tension between the various cultures and societies.  Many people continued to work on the farms, particularly herding sheep, but as they became affected by poverty and illness, their numbers have dwindled and much is being done, much more is necessary however, to protect their culture and to preserve their language and their traditions.

The early name for the city was based on a station by the name of Canberry.  Many thought throughout history that the name had roots in Aboriginal meaning, however that is not the case.  The name was officially changed to Canberra in 1913, and as more people immigrated to the city the tourism industry began to thrive and Canberra, Australia hotels became idyllic spots for escape and relaxation.  This particular location was named as the capital city based on the instructions of the Parliament given in 1908, to choose a location that was distinctive, picturesque and had some splendid views, and thus Canberra became that capital.  There are many reasons to visit this area of the Outback, and an abundance of history to be studied in this region.

The 2010 World Cup will take place in South Africa. This is a major international event and it is considered to be an honor to host it. It will take place between June 11 and July 11 of 2010 and constitutes the first time this major football event has occurred in an African nation. Italy is the current defending champion and will vie hard to preserve the title. There will be many people from all over the world who will fly into South Africa specifically for the event. South Africa five star hotels will likely fill to capacity during the designated month next year, and early reservations are essential to ensure a place to stay.

The World Cup is considered to be one of the most important football events of the year, and probably the very most important. It is extremely competitive and many cultures take their football very seriously. It is not uncommon for fights and arguments to arise with fans, who are passionate about the sport. For some societies this is the defining factor of its country’s honor and world position. This idea is somewhat reminiscent of the origin of the Olympics, and it might be a much better and safer world if all issues were decided on the sports field, rather than the battle field.

This year, the winning trophy is still up for grabs, however previous championships have gone to Italy, Korea, France and the United States of America. Italy won their fourth title in 2006 and their team captain was Cannavaro. In 2002 the championship title went to Korea. In 1998 France was able to beat Brazil and win the award. The United States won it in 1994, which ended a previous 24 year defeat spell. In 1990 Italy won their third championship, and consistently remain to be a strong threat and contender.

Singapore is an incredible urban center that has a diverse cultural and entertainment scene as well as a dynamic history, which is incorporated into its current society. Among the many diverse historic and contemporary options for tourists to explore, they often chose to spend a beautiful day out on one of Singapore’s beautiful golf courses. While golf may not be the first thing a person thinks of when considering Singapore, it is actually perfectly suited for the sport. It is sunny most of the days of the year and its climate provides for golfing opportunities through all the seasons. Also, any golf enthusiast is likely to consider playing opportunities regardless of where they’re going or why. Many of the courses are located near a Singapore hotel resort, which makes for easy access.

It is important to note that most of the courses in and around Singapore do have a dress code. Golf shoes, collared shirts necessary and all golfers should come prepared. As with all countries and cultures, a proper observation of Singaporean custom and etiquette is essential for the well-behaved and respectful guest. Of course it also guarantees a much more convenient and less hassled experience. In addition, tourists should be aware that golfing is extremely popular in Singapore, so many of the courses book quickly and fully. Reservations are usually required so be sure and call for the proper access and availability.

Most of the courses in the Singapore area come with all the necessary accommodations, such as showers, pro shops, bars and restaurants. Tourists can definitely expect to spend a great afternoon at one these courses. Some of them are located at resorts and country clubs, and some are public access. If you happen to be staying at a golf resort, you’re extremely lucky and hopefully will be able to tear yourself away to explore the many aspects of Singapore, including attending a Chinese Opera performance or other local entertainment option.

Robert Von Hagge is a world renown designer of golf courses. He has designed three in Madrid including the Costa Brava, Emporda and the Real Sociedad. He now has a corporation by the same name and serves as its CEO. His father was Ben F. von Hagge and was a close associate of Donald Ross, the famous course architect from Scotland. Von Hagge literally grew up on golf courses and they became his life passion. Tourists often enjoy a day of golf while on vacation and some of the Madrid best hotels have information on those he designed as well as others that are located in city and throughout the area.

Because of his family orientation to the sport and his early life on the courses, Von Hagge had worked in many positions on the course by the time he was 17. He had early experience in the pro shops and served as a caddy. All of these elements of his childhood and youth provided him with great insight into what makes for a spectacular course. He studied at the Purdue University Agricultural School where he majored in landscape architecture. Throughout his career he as designed some of the worlds top and most prestigious courses.

He has designed courses for over 50 cities and some of these include San Francisco, Paris, San Diego, Sydney, Tokyo and of course Madrid. The PGA has had many tournaments on his courses, including the Bosque Real Country Club in Mexico City and Le Golf National in Paris. He has won numerous awards for his designs and his name has become iconic with great courses. The firm continues to great courses throughout the world and has many projects in the works. Golf is an extremely popular sport and many people enjoy playing it regardless of their skill levels.