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If you are deciding whether or not to take the kids to the 2009 US Open tournament, you should really think about doing so. The Open has many fun events for kids to participate in and will offer you and your kids a unique bonding experience that you simply cannot get anywhere else. The Arthur Ashe kid’s day takes place on Saturday August 29th, 2009. The day’s events offer the best in tennis and entertainment. First off, you can see some of our favorite players such as Andy Roddick and Maria Sharapova competing in matches so that kids can get an up close look at some of their favorite tennis athletes.

That is the tennis side of the event, there is also going to be some heavy hitters from the entertainment world at the Arthur Ashe kid’s day as well. You can expect appearances from comedian Will Ferrell and former American Idol winner Jordin Sparks. She is set to perform her new single “Battlefield” at the kid’s day.

The even will also allow for autograph sessions with some of the people participating and appearing. So this could be a great chance for you child to meet their favorite tennis player or musician. There is also going to be circus activities at the event including face painting, plate spinning and juggling.

This is a great way to create a unique experience for younger children, since they will not really be focused too much on the US Open tennis scores and more on the experience as a whole. It’s so great that they have opportunities to give children of all ages a unique experience when it comes to tennis. Perhaps it could spark a new hobby for these children and they will pick up a sport that could last them a life time.

I waited an extra half hour this morning while standing in line to get into Wimbledon, because the security status in England was classified at critical. So, I didn’t mind the extra wait. I was told that the All England Club would be taking extra steps to beef up security by the ticket agent when I was ordering my Sports Tickets over the phone. With all the stuff that happened in London and Glasgow, I don’t blame them on bit.

I watch them early this morning put up more concrete barriers in from of gates which looked like that was to prevent vehicles from entering the premises. I heard that everyone without exception had to enter the venue on foot, that included the tennis players themselves. I was hoping while I stood in the security check line, that I’d be able to see one of the players, but I’m sure they had their own special entry point. I think Wimbledon is doing its best so that they can still put on a successful event and keep safe the competitors and the fans. I read that a few days before the event that bomb-sniffing dogs will scour the grounds in search of suspicious scents and that they’ll be here today sniffing all bags at the entry gates. I even saw a helicopter patrol the skies above.

I just hope all this added security won’t effect how the players will play, won’t effect their psyche. I did see Venus Williams being interviewed last night on the television and she didn’t seem upset at all, actually she said she was glad that any and all precautions were being taken by the All England Club. She was surprisingly upbeat. She seemed to echo the sentiments of all the players. We can’t stop living our lives, that’s what the terrorists want, so I’ll put up with waiting a little bit longer to see the best tennis in the world and know that I will be safe doing so.

I was taking the commuter train from Kowloon to Hong Kong’s border with mainland China for a business meeting I had schedule later on in the day, when I ran into some of my old highschool buddies. They were carrying backpacks full of water, sunscreen and snacks. They were going hiking.

I always have known Hong Kong to be the financial center of the world and a mecca for high-end shoppers like me who frequents the Boutique Hotel Hong Kong has plenty of for the tourist and locals. But, my buddies tell me Hong Kong is also a haven of pristine natural beauty. The peaks of it’s mountains beckons them to walk and climb all of them. They said there are countless islands and coves that when ascended will give a spectacular view of the South China Sea.

Since it’s winter here, they don’t have to worry about rain, but sadly, they don’t have to really worry about the sun beating down on them due to the ever-present haze created by the factories located on the mainland. They told me they started hiking basically to have something to do after being in the office, usually on Saturdays while their wife’s went shopping. But, now they regularly schedule personal days off of work to explore more of Hong Kongs beauty.

We arrive at our stop and step out on the platform at Fanling station. Just two stops from the border. My friends give me a look that says ‘drop everything and join us’. I give them a look of ‘maybe someday, maybe someday’, as they are greeted by their guide which whisks them off to where I can only guess. I head off to my scheduled appointment with clients that will keep me in the confines of business buildings with only a glimpse of the outside, and that’s usually more buildings. One day, I will join them. I will.

It’s possibly one of the most better known attractions in South Africa, Kruger National Park. When I was there, I didn’t want to take a tour, I wanted to explore the National Park on my own, so I called up a Car Hire in South Africa and created my own tour. I did some research first, so as not to get lost or be disappointed. I found out the park itself was established in 1898 with a 12 year conservation crusade by Paul Kruger.

The Kruger park spans a vast 2 million hectares of pristine, unspoiled wilderness. Archaeological and historical sites, where early settlers as well as the indigenous Khoi San people camped. Apparently, I will be able to see faint traces that they were there. I could participate in a biking, hiking or walking tour. Even take a 4×4 safari if I choose. Tempting as that is, I’m still taking my car hire. There are routes I can take spanning the entire length of the park and if I choose to do so, I can park the car and take an energetic hike along the Olifants River Backpack Trail.

There are accommodation at the Kruger National Park. Some are state run rest camps which offers luxury tented camps and outdoor showers or I could stay at one of the many gaming lodges. Any of these options will probably be a delight after a long hot day viewing the majesty and splendor of the park. I could relax with a cocktail and watch the African sunset then go inside and sample the local cuisine. I even read where there’s a remote spot where I could golf!  The Skukuza Golf Course offers nine-holes. What a unique experience that would be, to golf in the wilderness of Africa. Without a doubt, my experience in the park will be one I’m sure I’ll never forget.

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 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.

The various neighborhoods of Singapore, are one of the unique aspects of the culture on the island.  There is rich heritage and a great diversity in that heritage.  While there is this contrast, there is also a blend that is harmonious, be it in the variety of the Singapore restaurants, the architecture, and the arts.  This little island offers the of the Eastern cultures and traditions and the best of the Western as well.  In one tour, one will go from the future, to the past in a single day, from conservative business centers to exotic market places.  One may pass a Hindu or a Chinese Temple, a Muslim Mosque, or a Catholic church all side by side on the same city street.  One may start the day with breakfast as the Singapore Zoo with the orangutans, have afternoon tea at one of the traditional tea houses, and then dress up for a night at the Opera or with the Symphony.  Every day brings something new and different in the city. In the Little India neighborhood, one will feel as though they are truly walking through a smaller version of Goa or Kerela.  The streets are filled with spice shops, palm readers, and the incredible scents flowing out of the kitchens and the restaurants.  Many of the Indians that have immigrated throughout the years live in this enchanting sector.  Little Arabia, (http://www.the-inncrowd.com/littleindiawalk.htm)is filled with mosques, notable the Sultan Mosque which is an architectural wonder.  There are many market places selling everything from vintage Arabic clothing to scarves and jewelry.  This, as in all of the neighborhoods of Singapore, is filled with a variety of options for delicious meals.  The architecture of the Mosque varies incredibly from the style of the Saint Andrew’s Cathedral.  Colonial style is indicative in the spire and the grand white columns.  Then, just down the way is the Renaissance building, the Church of the Good Shepherd, with is the oldest Catholic church throughout Singapore.  All three of these buildings are among those that are most photographed and most admired.

With Rafael Nadal falling from grace a little this season in the French Open in Roland Garros stadium. His knee problems have forced him to listen to his body and take a bit of a break. It’s too bad Rafael Nadal needs a vacation during one of the most important parts of the Grand Slam tennis season.

Roger Federer finally claimed his French Open title this year. It is the only major championship that had eluded him up to that point. But the question remains if that is a real French Open title for Federer. I would think that Federer is excited about his French Open title, but wishes he could have won it with Nadal in the running, although perhaps I’m wrong.

It just conjures up a quote from a silly teen movie “Bring it On.”  In the film, Kirsten Dunst’s character says “ I define best as competing against the best out there and beating them.” Which to say is not really what Federer did. Nadal is the clay court master by far, and a win without a healthy Nadal in the running, is really no win at all.

That is why Wimbledon will be such a turning point for the two tennis rivals. Nadal has taken some time off from other preparation tournaments before Wimbledon in an attempt to rehab his knee. So hopefully he will be in prime condition when he takes the grass courts at Wimbledon.

Although, even with a healthy Nadal, Federer just may be poised to take another Wimbledon title, even with Nadal in the running. The shear fact that he took his first French Open title just may give him the momentum he needs to reclaim his number one in the world ranking.  Federer’s win did nothing to shake up the ATP tennis rankings.