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Global warming and the financial crisis, these double perils have passed by the European Alps, leastwise for Christmas. On the other hand it could have been so wholly contrary. In the weeks before Xmas towns in the La Grave region were cut off as heavy snow hammered down. Motorway routes such as the crowded Col du Les Trois Vallees were cut. There was no electricity or phone lines, residents had to be moved out to make shift dwellings, it looked as though it were a double of 1997.

It appears that all publicity is good publicity. Bessans featured every night on the French news. When power was repaired reservations began to arrive, drawn in by the first class snow.

La Mongie and nearby Blanc Chamonix lay claim to nearly 3.5 metres snow on the top areas at 2300 m alt. and 2 metres at the end of the resorts. At the moment the deepest in France. Montgenevre reports that there is 5 metres at the top of the resort. Unfortunately snow storms have demolished a support of the drag lift that goes up to the domain. They will be broken till the end of January.

Elsewhere in the Southern Alps inquiries are up 19% in Super Besse, Flegere and Les Deux Alpes. Araches-la-Frasse has 2% tenancy and traded a record number of passes during Wednesday. That is timely news for main snowboarding firms.

Summit County encompasses the towns of Breckenridge, Dillon, Frisco and Silverthorne. The area also includes several ski areas including: Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, Copper, Keystone, Loveland and Ski Cooper.

Summit County is located approximately 60 miles west of Denver in the heart of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. It is home to four major ski resorts with some of the best amenities in the world. The area has something to offer for all winter sports enthusiasts. These include skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, extreme skiing ice skating, snowmobiling and of course - aprs-ski.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge has four mountain peaks and four terrain parks which help to make it the second most visited resort in the US. The variety of activities both on the slopes as well as off the slopes in the town of Breckenridge makes it a popular winter sports destination. Breckenridge offers snowboarders and skiers sixteen ski lifts and four high speed quads. Breckenridge is home to one of the best snowboard parks in the Rockies.

Arapahoe Basin

Arapahoe Basin is an area of natural beauty. It has one of the longest ski seasons in North America ranging from November through July with over 360 inches of snow annually. The mountain has an elevation of 13,050 feet and incorporates over 60 trails with 5 chairlifts. Arapahoe Basin is home to the highest terrain park in North America - “Mutha’ Hucker”.

Keystone

Keystone offers something for everyone including three mountains, an eight month ski season, and a 12 hour day which includes night skiing. Keystone has many slow, wide trails suitable for families as well as plenty of challenging skiing for the experts. Skiing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding and the largest outdoor ice ring in the US all feature predominantly in Keystone.

Copper

Copper Mountain is the largest ski resort in Colorado with 125 trails and 22 lifts. It has some of the most scenic views in the Rockies. It is popular with locals and has a balanced terrain ranging from beginner to the advanced level skiing. For nightlife visit The Village for exciting clubs and restaurants.

Although Summit County is famous for its winter resorts, many visitors are surprised at the amount of summer activities. These include outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, camping, canoeing, fishing and horse riding. Or you may prefer the peace and tranquility of pastimes such as shopping, relaxing in the sun, browsing in galleries or eating out at a nice restaurant. There is the added bonus of lower priced accommodations during the summer months making a visit to the area during these months a real bargain.

Summit County in Colorado is a world famous winter destination but offers a variety of attractions year round. The winter visitor is offered a complete range of winter sports activities while the summer visitor can indulge in summer activities at a bargain price. No matter at what time you visit Summit County in Colorado you are assured the ultimate in fun and the ultimate in value.

Kelli Bennett writes for the Kelli Sells Team the top real estate firm in Breckenridge and Summit County. For more information visit http://www.kellisells.com

Italy’s Culture and Influence

Key civilizations have existed in Italy since prehistoric times. Throughout history, Italy has been a main influence of European culture, from the Etruscan community to the dominating Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance period, Italy was the center of art and science. The religious influence of Italy has also been far reaching. The Vatican is an independent state within Rome that is governed by the Pope (or Bishop of Rome), the seat of the Catholic Church.

Italy Tourism - Something Fun for Everyone

Tourists flock to Italy each year to enjoy art galleries and museums, learn about Italy’s many historic landmarks, and view the beautiful outdoor scenery. Italy has much to offer both individuals and families. For the golfer, there are courses available throughout the country. Golf courses can be found in the mountains, by the sea, near art cities such as Florence, Venice and Rome, and even by many of the scenic lakes of Italy.

The Beaches of Italy

Fun in the sun can be experienced by families at one of the many beaches in Italy. There are over 7,600 miles of shoreline snuggling the mainland and islands. The Mediterranean Sea offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and many vacation resorts outline the coasts with sun-soaking sand, lounge chairs and umbrellas. Italy’s beaches are known for their cleanliness and safety. Abruzzo, Apulia, Calabria and Tuscany are among the many regions where beaches were recently awarded with the Blue Flag, an award given to beaches that are clean and offer safe bathing areas.

Nature Lover’s Dream

There are 20 national parks in Italy, where nature lovers can explore the outdoors and rugged terrain. Lakes, mountains, plants and unique animals are bountiful throughout Italy’s parks. Regions where national parks are located include Apulia, Calabria, Sicilia, Sardinia, Tuscany, Piedmont and the Marches.

Nature lovers also enjoy touring unique Italian botanical gardens. There are over 30 of these lovely gardens in Italy. For the bicyclist, each region offers fantastic bike trails for exploring the outdoors and touring various sites and parks.

Explore Art and History in Italy

As one of the world’s most prominent art and history centers, Italy offers many fine galleries, museums and landmarks. Unique museums featuring cars, entertainment, science and technology, and archeology are scattered throughout the Italian regions to suit all tastes. Saint Peter’s Square is one of the most beautiful sites in the world and was constructed by many famous architects, including Michelangelo, Vignola, Raphael and Pirro Ligorio. There are also many castles, palaces and cathedrals that attract visitors each year.

Whether it’s to learn about key periods of time in history, relax with the family at the beach, or to enjoy a romantic getaway, Italy has something to offer for every occasion!

Hiking the Hills and Valleys of Italy

Bring your trekking poles for a terrific hiking adventure in the gorgeous country of Italy! Italy offers some fabulous hiking trails where you’ll discover the land’s unique culture and history, and enjoy great food along the way.

Hiking in Italy is exciting because there are so many beautiful places to explore. Whether it’s nature you love or the busy city life, there are hiking tours available for both. Here are some recommended hiking adventures to consider during your visit to Italy.

The National Park of the Gran Paradiso

Enjoy a mountainous hike through this park’s lovely terrain. You’ll be introduced to the park’s wildlife, experience challenging hikes to view the high mountain peaks of the Alps, and see the glaciers that surround the Rifugio Sella. You might also want to visit the wooden village of Nex Tignet, which looks like it came from a fairy tale!

Tour the Dolomites (Starting in Ortisei, Italy)

The Dolomites, where Mediterranean and German cultures meet, are home of an ancient people called the Ladins, who live in the high valleys surrounding the Sella Group massif. While hiking in the Dolomites, you’ll discover the well-preserved culture and traditions of the Ladin people, view the herding pastures in Gardena Valley, and also observe karstic rock formations.

Tour the Italian Lakes District (Starting in Milan, Italy)

Hike challenging trails while viewing some of Italy’s most picturesque lakes. The lake-side towns of Stresa, Bellagio and Lugano offer delicious cuisine, great shopping and a variety of wines. Each lake is encircled by amazing mountain scenery, and you’ll be able to hike among breathtaking glacial lakes. This hike might include a visit to the islands of Lago Maggiore, where there are gardens, palaces and fishing villages. There’s also a milky-white waterfall called Fiumelatte at Varenna.

Hiking at the Cinque Terre (Starting at La Spezia)

The Cinque Terre is a lovely collection of oceanside villages where Italian seafaring and traditional Mediterranean food and culture coincide. You can hike among the many cliffs and trails that surround the villages, take a tour of nearby Pisa to see the famous “Leaning Tower,” or explore the Medieval art city of Lucca.

Hiking at the National Park of Abruzzo

This is a rugged, challenging hike where you can explore the true wild side of Italy. The park is home to around 300 types of birds, mountain goats, wolves, bears and chamois. Don’t worry - sightings of bears and wolves are rare during hiking tours. This park is the largest national park in Italy and offers beautiful scenes of mountains, alpine pastures and more. Be sure to visit nearby villages to enjoy local cuisine and wines, and discover each town’s unique history.

Hiking at the Majella National Park in Italy

As one of Italy’s newest national parks, Majella National Park offers an abundance of plants and wildlife, a lush green gorge and a lovely mountain village. Explore the Monte Amaro, the second highest summit in the Appenine chain, which is locally known as the Montagna Madre (or Mother Mountain). Other recommended hikes include tours in Tuscany, Le Marche and Capri.

Tips for Hiking in Italy

Hiking in Italy is great if you know where to hike and are well prepared beforehand. Here are some tips to get you started.

Paid Hiking Tours

There are many guided hiking tours where the hike is planned for you. These are great if you’ve never been to Italy or are new to hiking. Full hiking tours offer hotel accommodations, transportation to and from the hiking areas, experienced tour guides, paid entrance to sites, museums and wine tastings along with an itinerary.

Self-Guided Tours

If you are already an experienced hiker and are familiar with Italy, you might want to take a self-guided hiking tour. Remember, let someone know where and when you will be hiking in case of an emergency.

Decide what type of hike you’d like to take beforehand. If you’re a beginner, you might want to try the light trails where villages are nearby. Also, choose trails you will enjoy. Do you enjoy the mountain scene or lakes? Do you enjoy touring villages, farmland or vineyards? Do you wish to observe wildlife during your hike? Once you decide on the type of hike, you can research different trails and areas to find the perfect spot.

Get a Hiking Map

In Italy, many of the hiking trails aren’t marked well. Some of the markings can be found in obscure places such as on a tree or rock. That’s why you should purchase a hiking trail map once you decide where you will hike. A map that outlines the trails for you will help you find your way when markings are not available, or not clear.

Watch for Hunters

Hunting is popular in Italy, so you’ll want to be sure there are no hunters where you plan to hike. Find out from a hiking tour company where you can hike safely, and also what signs to look for while hiking. There are signs for “No Hunting” displayed along some hiking trails.

Use Trekking Poles for Support

Even if you feel up to the hike physically, use trekking poles for support. You might not realize the stress a steep hike can put on your legs, knees and ankles. Trekking poles will help relieve some of the stress and save you from many aches and pains later. Even the most experienced hikers use trekking poles for support.

Pack Light, But Pack Wisely

Your backpack should contain the essentials for your hike, such as food, water or drink, first aid kit, etc. But, don’t pack more than you need. Packing too much might cause your hike to be unpleasant due to the extra weight. Make sure you have what you need for emergency situations. This could save your life!

The mountain scenery, local villages and parks make Italy a great place for hikers to explore and relax!

You can find international cell phones and service for Italy from http://www.planetomni.com. Free incoming calls from all countries night and day and calling the states is just US $.60 per minute! They rent and sell phones and satellite phones as well.

High spirits and vitality govern in abundance when in Barcelona. This infectious capital of Catalonia, and second largest city in Spain, exudes soul and energy, living life to the full. Barcelona’s verve is matched by its magnificent architecture, characterised by one man’s signature, Antonio Gaudi.

1. Las Ramblas

Running from seafront through to Placa de Catalunya, Las Ramblas is a fusion of market stalls and street entertainment. Watch out for the mime artists, though keep a hand on your wallet.

2. Sagrada Familia Church

In progress since 1882, La Sagrada Familia is perhaps Antonio Gaudi’s most magnificent achievement. As yet unfinished, the ongoing construction of this gothic masterpiece is financed through tourism.

3. Picasso Museum

Born in Malaga, Pablo Picasso moved to Barcelona during his teen years. Though many of his greatest works are in private hands, the Picasso Museum on the Carrer Moncada is well worth a visit.

4. Casa-Museu Gaudi

A pink, Alice-in-Wonderland house is the setting for the Gaudi museum. Gaudi lived in this surreal location between 1906 and 1926 with his niece. Exhibits in the museum include furniture, drawings and portraits designed by the great man himself.

5. The Poble Espanyol

Completed in 1929, the ‘Spanish Village’ is a compilation of buildings representing the collective architectural characteristics of Spain. A celebration of all things Spanish, the village has become a gathering place to dine and be entertained.

6. Bishop’s Palace

After being destroyed by fire, Bishop Juan Bautista Grau i Vallespins commissioned Antonio Gaudi to design a new, more magnificent palace in 1887. Upon the bishop’s death, and consequent interference from the diocese, Gaudi abandoned the project. It was not inhabited until 1961.

7. Gothic Quarter

On the site of an ancient Roman village, the Gothic Quarter is a contrast of contemporary and medieval architecture, incorporating the magnificent 14th century cathedral.

8. Olympic Stadium

During 1992, the eyes of the world focused on the Olympic Stadium in Barcelona as they hosted the Olympic Games. Today a popular athletics facility, the stadium was a redesigned version of the original built in 1929.

9. Passeig de Gracia

As one of the major shopping areas of Barcelona, Passeig de Gracia caters for the modest, and also those who prefer the more sophisticated boutiques. Bars and restaurants also line the thoroughfare.

10. Lover’s Day

On behalf of those looking for romance, Barcelona obliges with its own version of St Valentines, known as Lover’s Day, celebrated every April 23rd.

Even though it’s hard to find a rhyming poem in card stores, and rhyme is out of fashion with contemporary poets and poetry critics, people still love them. On the Internet, hundreds of thousands of people searched on the term “Christmas poem” in the month of December alone, in 2004. That doesn’t include searches on Christmas poetry, Christmas rhyme, Christmas verse and Christmas greeting.

Here are some Christmas verses for your cards and e-cards:

The Gift of Knowing You

The Christmas season fills our hearts with joy;
Bright, happy days bring special kinds of pleasure.
We’re wrapped in the excitement of it all,
The sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes we treasure.

Yet when we have some quiet time to think
About our finest blessings all year through,
We focus on our family and our friends,
And appreciate the gift of knowing you!

##

Rhyming poems are harder to write than free verse or prose poems (which modern poets favor), so they are fewer in number and harder to find.

Here’s another Christmas card poem, written especially for folks who spend Christmas in sunny, warm areas, such as Florida and Southern California:

A Sunny Christmas

Every year at Christmas time
There’s not a sign of snow.
Instead we spend our yuletide days
In the sun’s warm cheery glow.

We have the best of Christmas things,
The lights, the gifts, the bells,
(And “snowbirds” who arrive en masse
To fill our beach hotels.)

The glorious weather fits right in
With our happy Christmas mood,
And we can also walk and run
Without having to be snowshoed.

So don’t feel bad for your (location) friends
Who have no snow or ice.
We think our sunny Christmas here
Is a holiday paradise!

##

Start using rhyming poems to make all your greeting cards and occasions extra special. Greeting card poems provide a simple, easy way to make a good impression.

Copyright 2005 by Joanna Fuchs

You’ll find lots of rhyming poems (and a few in free verse) at http://www.poemsource.com Poems are offered in a wide variety of categories, such as anniversary, baby, birthday, Christian, Christmas, father, friendship, graduation, love, mother, New Year’s, teacher, Valentine and wedding. The poems are written by Joanna Fuchs. Contact her through any contact/feedback form at poemsource.com.

The Gift of Integrity

Do you know someone who has high integrity? That person seems to stand out because integrity can be such a rare commodity. As my father-in-law says, integrity is a gift you give yourself. How? By making the day-to-day choices and decisions that shape a strong character. Integrity is shaped in the small choices we make when no one is looking. I believe it works like this: Choices shape our habits; habits shape our character; our character results in our integrity. Then our integrity shapes our choices. A nice circle to live in.

The Gift of Community

Here’s a little-known fact about many of our suburban neighborhoods. Most people do not know the names of their next-door neighbors or the people across the street. That is a frightening fact. We’ve gotten so caught up in rush-rush-rush that many people have no real sense of community, which provides a sense of place and of belonging. Knowing your neighbors is also a safe thing to do. So, whether it is in your neighborhood, a place of worship, a club or other group, create, build and maintain a sense of community in the coming year.

The Gift of Persistence

If you want to achieve anything worthwhile in life, you must have persistence. Persistence is often confused with stubbornness, but it is not the same. Stubbornness is banging your head against the wall trying to do something in the same way that does not work. This is also one definition of insanity. Persistence is continually trying new and different solutions, as many as it takes and as long as it takes, to reach a worthy goal.

The Gift of Rest

Would you intentionally drive your car until it ran out of gas? Though many of us have done this accidentally, it does not make sense to do it on purpose. So why do we do the same thing to our minds and bodies? Many of the most successful people I know have forgotten how to rest. I usually recommend they take an entire day to rest, recover, recharge and reload. Rest is not laziness. It is wisdom in action. So, rest.

The Gift of a New Proficiency

Many people seem to stop learning after they finish school. After a while, I wonder if the brain begins to die or just dry up. Make it a goal in the new year to develop a new proficiency. Take up a sport; upgrade your computer skills; start a hobby. I wonder how much more we would enjoy life if we developed one new major proficiency a year?

The Gift of Encouragement

Life can be discouraging. We can so easily lose our way. Whether it’s a good swift kick in the pants or an arm around a shoulder, I bet there is someone in your life who could use your encouragement. Why not give it?

The Gift of Perspective

Richard Bach said “perspective _ use it or lose it.” Isn’t it easy to lose perspective? With the events since Sept. 11, our perspective has been altered in many ways. Pay attention to how and about what you complain. Is there something to appreciate hidden in there? There’s no such thing as a complaint without something to appreciate, or at least get started on changing, hidden inside.

The Gift of Declutterization

Many of us live with so much clutter in our homes, in our jobs, and thus, in our minds. Clutter creates disorganization, which creates chaos, which is a significant contributor to anxiety and depression. Getting rid of clutter frees up our time and our minds to live the rest of life. If you haven’t used it in a year, and it’s not a family heirloom, throw it out. Handle mail and other papers just once. Make some files, organize your desk. At least clean out a drawer. You will feel lighter.

The Gift of Freedom

In this year when our freedoms and way of life have been challenged as never before, it’s a good time to appreciate and exercise our freedoms.

The Gift of a BYE

For our purposes, a BYE stands for Best Year Ever. As we enter into a new year, many people are pulling back on their dreams and other things they want to do. Instead, why not commit to making the daily choices and decisions that would give you the best year ever? Imagine how you would feel one year from today.

Visit SecretsofGreatRelationships.com for tips and tools for creating and growing a great relationship. You can also subscribe to our f*r*e*e 10 day e-program on how to enrich your relationship today, from relationship coach and expert Jeff Herring.

Along the southern coast of Tanzania, there is an old Swahili town and the surrounding beaches of the estuary and Mnazi Bay Marine Park this park makes a tranquil and quiet alternative to larger beach destinations to the north.

Travelling to this area is an adventure in itself. With rugged almost non-existent roads and a small airstrip; if off the beaten track appeals to you them this is the place of your dreams. Here you will have the Indian Ocean Coast, and the Swahili ruins, all to yourself - not a tourist in site - an unimaginable privilege that makes for an unforgettable experience.

The beaches of southern Tanzania have much that is undiscovered, and offer the chance of adventure and exploration to the willing visitor. In town, a visit to the old German House and the slave market is an interesting day excursion from the coconut palm fringed beaches that stretch endlessly south.

A small town with the lovely and gentle sounding name of Mtwara is close by, along the rugged patch of coastline that leads to Mozambique. This area for the moment is undiscovered by tourism - it is a wonderful place to visit. If you want a remote destination and love deserted white beaches then this marine park is idyllic. The town has one site of particular interest, St. Paul’s Church, which houses some remarkable murals of Biblical scenes painted by German priests.

The town is close to the Mnazi Bay Marine Park [Coconut Tree Marine Park]
where it is possible to experience some of the most isolated dive sites on the coast. The town makes an excellent supply stop for trips to the Marine Park.

This bay was once known as the place to pick up dhow transport to Mozambique. Nowadays, visitors are motivated more by the miles of white sand and the presence of coral reefs close to the shore, which provide excellent snorkeling - even at low tide is good for exploring the coral reefs.

There are many water birds here, particularly waders which include [for those who are interested] the Greater Sand - Crab Plover - Brown-headed Parrot - Mangrove Kingfisher - Four-coloured Bushshrike and the Zanzibar - Black-bellied Glossy-starling.

The area is recognized as being internationally important for its biodiversity, with a variety of mangroves, sea grass beds and coral reefs that provide livelihoods to the local communities. Mnazi bay is quite shallow and just to the north of the Ruvuma River. It is protected on the seaward side by the Rawira peninsula to the south and by a series of small islands to the north. The Tanzanian government and the local people are looking to the future and plan to develop the area for tourism - it is an ideal location to unwind after a game safari in the Southern Circuit of Tanzania.

At the moment there are twelve villages in the, this area is one of the poorest and least developed in Tanzania with the population relying on subsistence fishing and agriculture. To Tanzania’s credit and the progressive legislation for Marine Parks, the local communities are extensively involved in the running of the park which will ensure that the local communities benefit from tourism.

Tanzania is an exciting place to visit and offers more than Kilimanjaro and the Game Safari Circuits for more information look at http://www.tanzania-info.co.uk and http://www.betheladventure.co.uk - use tourism to change lives.

Timeshares are a large part of the vacation travel industry. Travellers who cannot afford to own a home abroad, or who don’t want the worries associated with exclusive ownership, often see timeshare as an affordable alternative. However, unscrupulous salespeople, poorly maintained properties and unexpected hidden costs have brought a lot of bad publicity to the industry. A well-informed consumer can avoid the common pitfalls.

It is always risky to buy property sight unseen, but many people do this when they purchase timeshares. If you purchase in an area where you wish to vacation, you may be unpleasantly surprised when you arrive at your destination. However, many timeshares are purchased with the intent of trading them for others in different locations, and in this case the location of the property is a bargaining chip, not the actual physical property. Timeshares in prime locations such as Hawaii are easier to trade than others.

Recently, big corporations such as Disney, Hilton, Marriott and Hyatt have entered the timeshare market, and their properties are of a uniform standard around the world. First, you should know that if you buy a new unit directly from a timeshare company, it may cost up to 60% more than if you purchased from the resale market. Buying from a time-share company is more expensive primarily because of the company’s marketing costs, which include free trips, meals and vacation activities for prospective buyers. Most customers of these timeshare companies buy on impulse, without any intent to purchase when they first walked into the timeshare seminar. Hard-sell tactics and “Buy-it-NOW-one-time-only-offers!!!” are the rule, and to avoid being pressured into a bad deal, the best tactic is to avoid these sales presentations altogether.

Try the resale market for better deals. Time-share resales are listed on many websites, on eBay and with independent time-share brokers. The search term “timeshare resale” produced approximately 500,000 results on Google, so there are plenty of services to choose from. If you buy directly from an individual, a resale broker or a lawyer can handle the closing for a charge of $300 to $500.

If you are buying a timeshare for the resale value, consider regular real estate instead. Timeshares do not increase in value in tandem with conventional real estate. From a strictly financial point of view, time shares are poor investments. Most real estate increases in value, but this is not always the case with time-shares, especially those bought directly from timeshare companies. If you get a good deal on a resale timeshare in a prime location, it may increase somewhat in value. But usually time-shares are like cars — they are commodities to be used, and are resold for less than the original purchase price. Don’t think of timeshares as real estate; you are buying a vacation plan.

Also, unless you buy in a prime location, swapping them may not be easy. Timeshares are frequently sold on the claim that the buyer can trade a week in one place for a week at another location. This is only true if the location is in demand by other vacationers. Otherwise, expect to vacation in the original location each year.

To find out whether or not you will be happy with a timeshare, it may be a good idea to rent one for your next vacation. Many timeshare units are placed on the rental market by owners who couldn’t get away to vacation at their alloted time, and these units often rent at bargain prices. Check the same websites that offer timeshare resales for available rentals.

There is a new “points” system being offered by some timeshare properties. Instead of getting a week each year, buyers purchase a set number of “points.” These can be redeemed for a week’s stay during the peak season, for longer periods during the off-season, or even spread over the year in two- or three- day segments. Some large hotel companies such as the Marriott also offer a points systems whereby a stay at their hotel earn points in the company’s time-share system. Points systems can be confusing, so be sure you have a clear understanding of the services you are buying. For instance, find out how much advance time is required to reserve a week at the resort during peak season, whether the points have an expiration date, and if it is possible to transfer the points to other facilities in the same resort chain. However, when it comes to vacation planning, the points system offers more flexibility because the buyer is not locked into the same week every year.

Most important, don’t forget the annual maintance fee. Time-share owners are responsible for paying a portion of the property’s upkeep. These annual fees, including maintenance and real estate taxes, typically range from $300 to $700 per week of ownership.

In summary, timeshares can be a good buy if they offer some flexibility in terms of transferring to other locations and timing your vacation. The typical timeshare is a small condo with kitchen facilities and one or two bedrooms, ideal for a family vacation, and since such units rent for $150-200 per night, a timeshare purchase may be cheaper way to travel. However, if you are a mobile traveller who likes to stay in a different town every night, a single person who doesn’t need the extra space, or if you travel at unpredicatable times, then a time share may not be suitable.

If you love Hollywood, you surely would associate Argentina with Madonna’s portrayal in Evita. If you know your history and geography, you would recognize Argentina as the passageway from the Atlantic to the Pacific. And if you like to travel, you would recognize Argentina as one of the more favored tourism spots in South America.

Argentina has a total area of 3.761-million squire km and 99% of which is land. After Brazil, Argentina is the second largest land mass in South America and 8th in the world. Its bordering nations are Chile in the east, Bolivia and Paraguay in the north, and Brazil and Uraguay in the west. The Atlantic Ocean is in the eastern and southern part of the country.

With its size and location, Argentina is home to several tourist attractions that would boldly define the uniqueness of the country.

The Iguazu Falls, part of the Iguazu National Park in the province of Misiones, Litoral showcases the beauty of water and the spectacle of nature. The falls produce 70-meter plummet and is taller and twice as wide as the Niagara Falls. The horseshoe-shaped falls is the result of a volcanic eruption. Surely your travel in Argentina is not complete without paying a visit to Iguazu Falls.

Also in Misiones is the San Ignacio Jesuitic Ruins. This religious community founded by the Jesuits aimed to bring the Christianity to the locals. He 17th century ruins will show how the community has survived and has lived in during its time.

The Teatro Colon in Buenos Aires is Argentina’s pride and one of few structures that has gained the country its reputation and rights to be called as the “Paris of South America.” The opera house is finished in 1907 with a touch of French, Italian Renaissance and Classical Greek. If no show is presented, visitors can see tour the opera house’s interiors.

Also in Buenos Aires is the La Boca, a fancy and colorful neighborhood located near the Rio Riachuelo. “The Mouth” when translated in English is filled with street performers, tango dancers, and tourists taking pictures everywhere.

Meanwhile, a trip in Cafe Tortoni, one of the oldest café where Carlos Gardel, the tango legend and Jorges Luis Borges, the writer spend their precious moments. The 1858 Café Tortoni is the focal point of Buenos Aires’ social life.

Cementerio de la Recoleta is Buenos Aires is the place to go on you Argentina travel if you want to see where Evita Péron lies- wife of the former president Juan Péron with a movie named after her and dedicated for her. Her final resting place is directed within Recoleta neighbourhood, a sophisticated mausoleums where other rich and famous Argentine lies.

Traveling in Argentina would introduce you to tango. And there is no better place to witness the local dance than in San Telmo. The place is once a lonely place for Spanish immigrants. This is where they sang and dance. Men dance with prostitutes. Soon, some respectable women joined in. And as time and people passed by, the dance soon became one of the most recognized in the world: tango. Today, San Telmo still resembles the old Spain with cobbled stone streets and historical buildings but most of all, San Telmo is a unique place where tango is most applaud.

Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides argentina travel resources on http://www.your-argentina-travel.info

As the thought of the next holiday looms in the future, our choices for holiday decorating ideas grow shorter. There needs to be something new and fresh; something we haven’t tried before. Here are the perfect solutions.

Transform inexpensive everyday items into charming containers for holiday candies. Save everyday items like jelly jars or small paint cans for this project. Or if you like you can use your imagination and go out and buy an item that wouldn’t necessarily be used as a candy jar; like a glass porch globe. Allow your imagination to run wild and use paint, stamps or decorative paper to transform your container. Use etching cream on glass jars to create a frosting effect.

Decorate for your next holiday by creating fun hand towels to spruce up the bathroom. Use fabric paint or markers, iron on decals or ribbons and lace to create your own festive holiday scenes. Another fun holiday decorating idea is to replace everyday pictures with holiday cards or pictures. Simply save old holiday cards or pictures of family members from the previous year. Switch your everyday picture out of the frames with the new holiday ones.

Holiday table decorations don’t have to stop with an interesting centerpiece. Create your own place mats, napkins or napkin rings. Buy plain place mats and cloth napkins. Again, use your fabric markers or paint and your decals or ribbons to create simple, fun decorations not only for parties but for everyday meal times. Improve your centerpieces by decorating plain candles.

Use your imagination and search your local craft supply stores for items that will give those everyday candles a little extra kick during the holidays. By using these simple and easy to do projects for your holiday decorating, you can transform your home into a festive wonderland for any holiday.

We found Holiday toilet paper at Party Supplies Online. They have decorations, favors and party supplies for Halloween, Christmas, Hanukkah, 4th of July, Labor Day, and every holiday.

Mrs. Party… Gail Leino is the internet’s leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies, using proper etiquette and manners while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. Free Party Games to help complete your Holiday celebration.