http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/north-carolina-holiday-destination-asheville.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/north-carolina-holiday-destination-asheville.html Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:34:24 -0600
Here are some tips when planning your next visit to Asheville. There are tons of locations and activities in Asheville and the surrounding area to keep everyone in your family entertained. You can visit America's largest privately-owned home, take in some spectacular mountain scenery, indulge in some great dining and much more.

Planning a Visit to the Premier WNC Mountain City…Asheville

No visit to this luxurious mountain city would be complete without a visit to America's grandest home - the Biltmore Estate. Each year, the staff gears up to dress out the estate in all its finery! On this 8,000-acre estate, activities abound. Why not take a quiet stroll or visit the winery? Take in the beautiful decorations and dazzling lights that adorn this impressive home built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. With several restaurants and events planned year-round, there is something for every member of your family to enjoy.

The downtown Asheville area boasts a wide array of restaurants and shops. Galleries of local art are abundant. Theater and concert goers will also find a wide array of choices from the classical to the funky.

The National Gingerbread competition held each year at the Grove Park Inn is another must see! Both top culinary pros and homespun gingerbread house makers compete. The National Gingerbread House Competition™ and Display takes place on Nov. 16, 2009 and the gingerbread houses will be on display from November 18 through January 3, 2010. These displays would even put a smile on the face of Ebenezer Scrooge himself!

Looking for something a bit more off the beaten track? Watch Old Saint Nick as he repels down a famous 315-foot unique rock outcropping at Chimney Rock State Park. And, yes, the rock is shaped like a chimney! This park is just a short drive from Asheville, located in the charming Chimney Rock Village near Lake Lure

National Culinary Destination

In recent years, Asheville has also turned into a culinary destination. Microbrew businesses are popping all over and Asheville. In fact, in a recent pool, more than 16,000 people from 46 countries cast their votes between March 18 and May 7 for their favorite Beer City USA. In the end Portland, Ore. and Asheville, NC tied for first place.

Asheville is also known for being a leader in the sustainable food scene. Chefs in local restaurants take great pride in using local and seasonal products when available. And, choices are many. Visitors can enjoy a spectrum of ethnic flavors, styles and venues. Seafood lovers will find calabash-style seafood at Fisherman's Quarters II, a family-seafood restaurant in West Asheville; a great steak can be had at the Bohemian, a newly installed restaurant that resembles an Austrian hunting lodge at the gates of the Biltmore Estate; and organic eggs and sausage are a local favorite at the Early Girl located on downtown's Wall Street.

Farmers, food producers and brewers have truly taken on celebrity status in this region and visitors are reaping the benefits!

Accommodations

Whether it's just you or the whole family, again, lodging choices abound. From luxury boutique hotels to family-style lodging -it's all here. The Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn are two top locations for travelers wanting a high-end experience. Asheville also has a string of small independently- owned hotels. The Residences at Biltmore, the Indigo Hotel and the Haywood Park Hotel all provide attractive and mountain-like settings. Rentals are also numerous.
For more information, visit the Web site for the Asheville Chamber of Commerce.

For more information about Asheville,seafood and recipes visit:
http://fishermansquarters.info


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Bryan Sullivan is the Executive Vice President of Write Away, Inc. - a public relations and marketing firm based in Weaverville, NC. He also often writes for regional& national publications about local history, farming, culture and food. He graduated with a degree in communications from Alfred University in New York State and then went on to attend culinary school in NYC where he graduated in the top percent of his class. He proceeded to work in high-end restaurants in New York City, Martha's Vineyard, MA and Naples, FL. Bryan currently lives in Asheville, NC with Liisa and their Black Lab, Annie.
For more information, visit:
http://fishermansquarters.info

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/must-see-majorca-attractions.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/must-see-majorca-attractions.html Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:23:09 -0600
The Beaches
It seems an obvious choice, but the beaches of Majorca really are one of the main attractions on the island. With over 300 days of sun a year, make sure you visit some of the main beaches in Magaluf, Palma Nova, Alcudia and PuertoPollenca.

Caves of Drach
There are many spectacular caves dotted around Majorca and one of the most stunning is the Caves of Drach at Portocristo. Adults and children alike will love seeing the four chambers and the thousands of stalactites that are impressively lit. A highlight of the cave tour, will no doubt be the gondolier boat ride on the underground lake.

City of Palma de Majorca
One of the only true cities in the Balearics, the city of Palma is very different from what you would expect. It has a much slower pace than most Spanish cities but has plenty to offer. The historic quarter has grand mansions dating back to the Renaissance and Baroque churches that make for a stunning backdrop to any stroll around the city. While walking around the city in the day is very enjoyable, during the night, the floodlit cathedral and palace are simply stunning to see.

Train from Palma to Soller
The train that leaves Palma and runs to Soller makes for a great day out. The train has been running this route since 1912 and takes an hour to reach its destination. Along the ride you will travel through stunning countryside, almost making you wish the ride wouldn't finish so quickly. Once you reach your destination in Soller, you can travel to the Port of Soller via a slow moving electric tram.

Bellver Castle
This unique circular castle dates back to the 14th Century and is a real treat to visit. The name Bellver means "beautiful view" and the view of the Bay of Palma is the main reason so many people come and visit.

The island of Majorca has many more attractions to offer its visitors, so why not read up on what is available so you will be fully prepared for what no doubt will be a wonderful holiday.


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This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Search Travel Online who offer the chance to book a bargain holiday with cheap holidays to Majorca

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/iceland-festive-holidays.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/iceland-festive-holidays.html Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:59:49 -0600
But if you can't wait any longer for that ‘unique' Christmas or New Year then look no further than the middle of the North Atlantic and head for Iceland and a memorable Christmas holiday. Whilst the island might be better known as a summer destination, there is plenty to explore in the winter months too, and Iceland really comes alive for the festive celebrations.

Iceland's Christmas celebrations are centred around the remarkable ‘Yuletide Lads.' In the 13 days before Christmas, these mythical little fellows, set on making mischief, are said to come down from the hills and into towns and cities. In recent years, they seem to have mellowed - many children leave shoes in the window to find that one of the ‘lads' has left a present. Be careful though - they're not named ‘Sausage Stealer' and ‘Door Slammer' for nothing…

Reykjavik, the capital, comes alive for Christmas with lights festooned everywhere and a genuinely warm glow about the city. For special Christmas meals, abandon the traditional turkey and tuck into some of Iceland's famous seafood, freshly caught from the Atlantic and cooked to perfection. The city also plays host to a variety of choirs, and something musical appears round every corner. And not surprisingly the already famous nightlife kicks up a gear for the festive period. On the big day why not chill out - and warm up - in the rich mineral waters of the Blue Lagoon? It might not be a white Christmas, but it'll certainly be unforgettable.

When it comes to ringing in the New Year, Icelanders really know how to party. On New Year's Eve, enjoy a feast of Icelandic cuisine followed by a chance to view the city's fantastic fireworks - and if you are really lucky, you might get the opportunity to see nature's own light show, the northern lights. Once the clock strikes 12 it's time to get to Reykjavik's bars and clubs, never bigger nor better than on this special evening.

Some travel companies offer special tours to Iceland at this time of year, and with a host of excursions suitable for festive families or New Year night clubbers alike, these are well worth checking out.

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Explore some festive breaks to Iceland with Discover the World, the leading specialist tour operator to Iceland.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/the-middle-east-an-increasingly-popular-travel-destination.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/the-middle-east-an-increasingly-popular-travel-destination.html Sun, 08 Nov 2009 23:50:47 -0600
So why is this so? To best answer this, we need to know a little more about these countries and how to travel to and within them.

How to get there
Most travelers come by air. The national capitals of Damascus, Amman, Beirut and Tel Aviv all have international airports that are serviced by a range of international and Middle Eastern carriers.

Both bus and private car travel is possible between most of the countries. Generally these are via a number of single crossing points like Syria-Lebanon and Syria-Jordan (at Derá on the new highway that links the two countries). Land routes exist to bordering countries.

Land travel into/from Israel is more restricted. The most common point of entry is via the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge from Jordan.

Syria has a somewhat dated rail network. Some services only run weekly but those on the popular central routes operate several services each day.

How to get around
Trains, buses and taxi's form the centerpiece of Middle Eastern travel services. Car hire with a guide is provided by many local tourist operators. They generally are cost effective and worth considering. Use Google to find them and always ask for (and check) references. Most will require half of the booking fee wired to them before they will confirm the bookings.

A number of international companies including the overland companies offer tours. Again check with Google. A number of universities offer summer archaeological digs. Many of these are fee based and no experience is required.

When to go
The Middle East enjoys a Mediterranean climate but the summers are hot and the winters cold, especially in the north. March to May is the best time to visit. Those who want to soak up the sun will find the coastal areas mid summer comfortable as temperatures are often influenced by cooler coastal breezes. The area suffers from winter rainfall that can make sightseeing difficult and snow covers the mountains between Lebanon and Syria mid winter.

The Countries
Syria
Syria is modern, easy to travel in and relatively safe. It's affordable if you keep away from the more expensive five star international hotels. It has a myriad of charms with excellent food, breathtaking scenery, tons of places of historic interest and friendly people. English is generally spoken in most hotels and markets in the major centers.

Damascus is the major attraction with its wonderful markets and historic mosques and palaces. The Umayyad Mosque and the nearby mausoleum of Saladin (one of the greatest heroes of Arab's history), are a "must see". Plan a couple of days to enjoy Damascus. Consider at staying in one of the renovated boutique hotels that have sprung up in the past ten years. Many of these are ancient palaces in the Old City and are well worth the little extra cost.

Do take the time to drive out to Palmyra for the site of the city that built to rival Rome. Homs with its water wheels in on the road to Apamea. This has an avenue of two kilometers of granite columns. Both are worth visiting and are part of 20 or more major archaeological sites that can be visited by tourists. Wandering around ruins of forts, mosques, churches and palaces provides a wonderful insight into what life was like two thousand years ago. Looping back towards Damascus is the most famous of the Crusader castles, Krak des Chevaliers. It is remarkably intact and it will be enjoyed by castle enthusiasts.

Jordan
Jordan has a huge selection of fascinating history to offer the tourists. It is steeped in the history of the Old Testament. The ancient cities of Petra and Jerash date back to Roman times when they were great trading cities along the Silk Road. Jerash is the "Pompeii of the East" and needs a little background reading to fully appreciate the historic context of the site. Take your time to explore it; you are walking through centuries of history.

Although Amman is the relatively modern capital of Jordan, you'll find the satellite city of Salt with its narrow streets and quaint houses is worth the visit.

Jordan has a fascinating history of craft, Bedouin weaving, embroidery, pottery and ceramics, jewellery and glassblowing. These crafts are still very much part of Jordanian life today. The Bedouin hospitality and wonderful local cuisine is legendary.

Driving south from Amman you'll find the now spreading town of Petra. To walk down the half mile long suq, you will be surprised by the beauty of the pink stone Treasury at the entrance of the old city of Petra. It will take your breath away. Read about Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, who discovered Petra in 1812, before you go. His is indeed an amazing story.

South of Petra is the now modern port of Aqaba made famous by Lawrence of Arabia. West of here you'll find Wadi Rum where the film of Lawrence's war-time exploits was made. Here, an option is to stay with the Bedouins in their cloth covered black tents. They are remarkably comfortable. Take a camel ride out to the secret camp where Lawrence planned his desert campaigns. You might return a little saddle sore but you will have really "ridden" in the footsteps of history.

Lebanon
Lebanon is a relatively small country. The highlights are generally along the coast. Here is the colorful coastal town of Byblos and further north is the ancient Crusader city of Tripoli with it's interesting souqs (markets), mosques and hammams (baths). Turning inland, you will pass through the picturesque villages of the Qadisha Valley, through the Cedars and on to historic Baalbeck which has magnificent Roman ruins said by some to be the best preserved in the world, The route continues through the vineyards at Bekaa and then Umayyad ruins of Aanjar. Nearby is the charming village of Deiral-Qamar and the Beiteddine palace with its wonderful gardens.

Israel
Don't ignore Israel as a possible travel destination. Access difficulties can be overcome by careful planning or with the help of an experienced travel operator.

It's the Holy Land and steeped in history. Most visitors head for Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Jericho but there lots of little know archaeological sites like the old Roman capital of Galilee called Tzipori. In Jerusalem, the old City of David, The Citadel and Church of the Holy Sepulcher with the nearby Wailing Wall, draws the most tourists. What is believed to be the oldest church in the world is in Bethlehem. A silver star marks the place where it is believed that Christ was born.

Some tourists choose to visit the Dead Sea. It is off Highway 90 west of Jerusalem. Personally, although unique, I think that it is overrated. Those with more time might consider visiting Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. Further a field you'll find Masada with its spectacular ruined fortress.

Take care in Israel photographing or showing interest in border and military installations or personnel. You'll get used the very obvious security presence.

Visas
All these countries have different visa requirements.

Generally Israel does not require a visa for most western countries. Tourists are allowed a stay of up to 90 days. However, it is necessary to avoid getting your passport stamped upon entry or exit as this causes problems of entry into Lebanon and Syria. Ask the border officials to stamp your entry permit instead. Better still, put Israel last on your itinerary.

Jordanian visas can be obtained upon arrival at the airport and at most border crossings. It is best to get Syrian visas in advance. USA, most EU, Australian, Canadian and New Zealand passport holders can get a visa to enter Lebanon at the border.

Jordan allows entry/exit to Israel via the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge without a multi-entry visa.

Our Advice
The countries of the Middle East are attractive and exciting travel destinations. The people that you'll meet are friendly and if your leave politics aside, you'll have a very enjoyable travel experience. Middle eastern cooking is a highlight and in all countries you'll find an amazing array of low cost local restaurants. Try the local beers and wines and few of the specialized drinks like Arak (Lion's milk) which is commonly served with mezze.

Talk to your travel agent or check out travel sites on Google. You are guaranteed to have a holiday of lifetime.

The author was in the Middle East in 1986 and Syria and Jordan in 2007. You can read about his fascinating journey in his book Following Marco Polo's Silk Road. It will make a great Christmas present for someone special who loves travelling.


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Author: Brian Lawrenson, Sydney Australia

Brian Lawrenson was born in Yorkshire, UK, brought up in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, married a New Zealander in London and now lives in Sydney, Australia. He and his wife have a passion for travel and have been to more than 70 countries.

Following Marco Polo's Silk Road is his first book. Visit Amazon.com for reviews and ordering.

http://www.marcopolopress.com


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/the-silk-road-chinas-most-exotic-travel-destination.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/the-silk-road-chinas-most-exotic-travel-destination.html Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:25:23 -0500
Starting at the time of Christ, the Silk Road extends from Xian in central China to either the Middle East or Europe. In fact there are many routes, some to Moscow in the north and those into India and Pakistan in the south. Just like travellers in the time of Marco Polo - thirteenth century - the ancient trade routes still exist although the type of goods sold and the method of transport have changed. The reason why the Silk Road starts/ends in Xian is that it was the ancient capital of China and internal trade routes, in many cases along the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, were already established to distribute goods within China.

Many tourists start their Silk Road journey in Beijing. The Imperial City, the Great Wall of China the many places of historic interest will make a 3-5 day stay worthwhile. Add to it a little shopping and time to experience northern Chinese cuisine and you are ready for your Silk Road experience.

How to get there
Most international airlines fly into Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. There is a lesser choice of flights to and from western China and most of these are based out of the capital of Xinjiang Province, Urumqi.

China has rail connections north to Mongolia, Hong Kong, Tibet and west to Moscow. For the more adventurous there are multiple rail links into Vietnam.

Coach access from/to Pakistan is available along the Karakorum Highway, apart from November though April, when it is closed. Delays and discomfort can be part of this route so be prepared. Travel in Pakistan needs serious consideration. We spent 12 wonderful days travelling there in late 2007 but with the rise of the Taliban the risk for westerners has increased dramatically.

Visas are required for all access points to China and I recommend that these be obtained well in advance.

How to get around
Train travel is popular in China although it does have an extensive coach network. Of course you could fly but that would really defeat the main purpose of visiting China - to meet the people. Train travel is reliable, fast and cheap. "Soft" sleeping compartments either for four or on some routes for two persons are available or if you want to join the locals try the "hard" class, but unless you are on a tight budget, it's not recommended. You will need assistance buying the rail tickets as few station staff speak English. The timetables and options can be complex. Ask a travel agency with China experience to help.

Many companies offer tours along the Silk Road. Most of these use a combination of coach and rail travel. International companies include GAP, Peregrine, World Expeditions, Travel Indo-China. You'll find these using Google. Some tours include a tour leader and guide. Standards of accommodation and comfort are reflected in the pricing.

Another option is to hire a guide through Chinese companies like Xinjiang Silk Road Adventures in Urumqi. Local guides can be provided on a per day basis or overall for a tour, at very reasonable prices. Tour guides are required to be licensed in China.

When to Go
China is a vast country covering eight time zones. It's climate varies considerably. Summers can be hot and sticky and the winters extremely cold so the best months are in Spring and Autumn. Consult a good guide book for the temperatures that you can experience at the time of your planned travel so that you can dress appropriately.

Silk Road Highlights
To get the most out of a Silk Road journey it should not be rushed. Allow a minimum of 14 days in addition to any stay in Beijing. If you are including Uzbekistan add another ten days:

The major attractions are:

• Xian the Terracotta Army and other historic sites

• The Labrang Monastery in Xiahe, in the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous region

• The Fort and Great Wall of China Museum at Jiayuguan

• Dunhuang for riding the two humped Bactrian camels in the vast sand dunes. Nearby are the Buddhist Mogao Caves set into a desert backdrop of the Flaming mountains.

• Urumqi has an excellent Xinjiang Regional Museum. Two hours away is the spectacular lake district of China, the Heavenly Lake. Here you'll find Kazakh people living in yurts and grazing their herds of horses, sheep and goats. If you have the time, stay overnight and experience the food and hospitality of the locals.

• Turpan is famous for its grapes, and nearby are the ancient cities of Gaochang and Jiaohe, the Bezeklik thousand Buddha Tombs and the underground water systems called karez that link Turpan to much needed snow melt from the distant Tian Shan mountains.

• Kashgar, a trade route city for thousands of years. Visit the old city before it's demolished and attend the famous Sunday animal market which although dusty is a great spectacle.

• Those with extra time may find the southern Silk Road oasis towns of Yarkand and Khotan of interest. This area is less visited but does have some interesting side trips including camel safaris and treks into the Taklamakan desert. This predominantly Uyghur area has much of interest for those that are looking for something a little different.

• A short train journey or flight will take you across the western Chinese border and then on to Tashkent the capital of Uzbekistan. Here the real gems of the Silk Road are to be found in the ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. Coach travel in Uzbekistan is comfortable and affordable, although the rail line west offers an alternative.

If you are looking for a vacation with a difference and you are a little adventurous, then travelling the Silk Road should be on the top of your list. It is safe and affordable. And it is a hugely rewarding experience. Yes, it will have its challenges but what a story you can tell when you get home, not to mention your fantastic digital photographs of the highlights of this scenic journey.

You could, like Marco Polo, even write a book about your experiences. I did. It's called Following Macro Polo's Silk Road.

Brian Lawrenson
Author
Following Marco Polo's Silk Road
www.marcopolopress.com

email: blawrens@bigpond.net.au


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Brian Lawrenson is British born, South African educated, married to a New Zealander and lives in Australia. His favourite past-time is travel and he and his wife have visited more than 70 countries.
Brian is a Rotarian, a PHF & PP

http://www.marcopolopress.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/dolphins-and-whales-in-the-uk.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/dolphins-and-whales-in-the-uk.html Thu, 29 Oct 2009 12:08:47 -0500
It shouldn't be surprising really that the UK plays host to these wondrous animals. As an island nation we are surrounded by water with over 9,000 miles of coastline overlooking the Atlantic Sea, Irish Sea, the English Channel and the North Sea.

Many species of whales and dolphins can be seen easily from land while others can be viewed from special whale watching boats which set sail from many different locations across the UK. Some of the species seen easily from land or boat include the Minke Whale, Harbour Porpoise and Bottlenose Dolphin. Others such as the Long-finned Pilot Whale, White-beaked Dolphin are viewed at only certain times of the year and appear at specific locations. There are also some rarer species which could appear almost anywhere though they are unfortunately much less common, these include the Humpback Whale, Fin Whale and Sperm Whale. One of the most famous, popular and deadly whale can also be seen along our shores. The Legendary Killer Whale is truly a sight to be hold, especially when hunting its latest victim.

The easiest way to spot dolphins and whales is to take a dedicated whale and dolphin watch trip. These trips take place across the UK, so why not head out into the English Channel to see common dolphins leaping out of the water or sail out from the Shetland Islands and see Killer Whales on the hunt. Another benefit of these organized trips are the knowledgeable guides who can both entertain and inform you on the wonders of what happens off our coastline.

If you would rather keep two feet on dry land then there are a number of spots right around the coastline where you can sit back, relax and watch the seas most graceful creatures swim and play before your very eyes.


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This article was written on behalf of Celtic Haven Wales Holiday Cottage, ideal accommodation for a Pembrokeshire Cottage Holiday

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/diamonds-arent-forever-erosion-and-the-isle-of-wight.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/diamonds-arent-forever-erosion-and-the-isle-of-wight.html Thu, 29 Oct 2009 12:07:33 -0500
Another problem is whole islands eroding, which is exactly what is happening to the Isle of Wight. It's not directly the weather that wears away the island though; instead it is the way the ground has formed over millions of years.

Many parts of the island, mostly on the West coast, are made of layers of hard rock with soft, Gault clay between them. The Gault clay is not nearly as firm and strong as the layers on either side of it, and when it gets wet, due to altered drainage or heavy rainfall, it can simply slip away, carrying layers on top of it away with it.

When this happens, it is called a land slip, due not only to the way it happens, but also the formation of earth that these acts create. It looks as if the land has slid down the cliff side then solidified again. Because of its effects and colour, the Gault clay is locally known as blue slipper.

This has a disastrous effect on the island, with some areas losing as much as three metres of land a year. Footpaths, parks, beaches, and even roads have been destroyed by these landslips.

Unlike normal erosion, the cost, scale and effort involved in preventing landslips is too high to make it worthwhile, on top of which the measures to stop it would ruin the landscape themselves.

Visitors to the island needn't worry; signs of landslips show themselves days, or even weeks before the landslip actually occurs. Some of the landscapes that the landslips create are fantastic and worth visiting anyway.

The other forms of erosion are, as mentioned, not much of a problem. Though the methods used to halt or slow them do cost money, it is a manageable amount. Shoring up collapsing cliffs and the construction of sea defences are the most common solutions.

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This article was written by Tom Sangers for Gurnard Pines, providers of Isle of Wight breaks and Isle of Wight weekend breaks.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/football-fan-on-a-gap-year-why-south-africa-could-be-a-great-destination-in-2010.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/football-fan-on-a-gap-year-why-south-africa-could-be-a-great-destination-in-2010.html Thu, 29 Oct 2009 04:36:01 -0500
The 10th June in Soweto sees what has already been tipped to be a historic live concert to open the 19th FIFA World Cup, and the first on African soil. Such events conjure memories of Diana Ross hoofing a penalty kick during her opening performance, and overblown spectaculars that may have looked just a little too expensive, but 2010 is set to be different - following a format similar to Live 8 with rumoured performances from Beyonce and Madonna and proceeds going to disadvantaged communities. The following day sees the first match of the tournament taking place in the country's largest city: Johannesburg.

Of course, World Cup 2010 is particularly important for England fans and the home country are already preparing for a large number of fans making the pilgrimage from our shores. Fabio Capello's team are perhaps the strongest we've had in years and we have qualified for the tournament with our best foot forward, and with two games to spare after a 5-1 thrashing over Croatia - the omens have never looked so good. Seeing some of these games are an exciting prospect to anyone considering making the journey, but your time in South Africa can be even more memorable.

South Africa has long been associated with gap years and volunteer projects abroad. The reason for this is, at least in part, is due to the country's diverse social and physical landscape. While a vast majority of the population live in its developed first world cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, the rest of the country is made up of vast landscapes ranging from the desert in the northwest and subtropical lands in the east.

A gap year teaching, for example, will likely take you to the more rural communities of the country - where schools exist on considerably simpler means than those of the cities. Short term teachers are needed to teach basic literacy and maths at primary and secondary level to enthusiastic and eager learners for an incredibly rewarding few months. But learning doesn't always take place in the classroom, school life involves much activity including dancing, singing and football of course. In fact, for those eager to play as much as they are to watch, soccer clinics in areas such as Philippolis are also frequently looking for volunteer sports coaches. It will be a busy time, but taking in the sights of a beautiful country and the spectacle of the World Cup will feel all the more worth it.

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If you're interested in volunteer projects abroad visit http://www.aventure.co.uk

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/a-result-of-scotlands-love-affair-with-william-wallace.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/a-result-of-scotlands-love-affair-with-william-wallace.html Wed, 28 Oct 2009 06:11:15 -0500
One of the ways this manifested was in a restored adoration for the Scottish hero William Wallace. Renowned for his organisation of resistance against the English during the Scottish wars of independence, Wallace has been a figurehead for Scottish pride repeatedly, though his true role is often butchered by poets like Blind Harry or films such as Mel Gibson's Braveheart.

The 1800 resurgence saw the construction of one of the biggest monuments to Wallace ever, which, rather unsurprisingly, ended up being titled the National Wallace Monument. It is a tower standing 67 metres tall on top of Abbey Craig. Abbey Craig is rumoured to have been where Wallace stood before the Battle of Stirling Bridge, and watched the English army. The tower cost £18,000 to build, which was raised mostly from donations.

It was designed by the architect John Thomas Rochead in the Neo-Gothic style, and has a spiral staircase of 246 steps. At the very top is a viewing gallery, looking over the hills and valleys of the dramatic Scottish landscape of the Ochill Hills and Forth Valley.

Inside the monument are a number of exhibits and presentations for visitors. A video presentation showing Wallace's achievements is set up in one room, along with a sword that may have been, but probably wasn't, William Wallace's. The sword is a claymore measuring five feet six inches, and impresses many visitors with its size.

For years, the car park played host to a horrific statue created by Scottish mason Tom Church. Inspired by the film Braveheart, Tom carved a twelve metre tall statue depicting Mel Gibson's version of Wallace. It was criticised by locals and national press, and, when it was removed from the site and Tom tried to sell it on, failed to go for the asking price. He then failed to donate it to anywhere as well.

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Tom Sangers writes on behalf of Hamster Cottages, a great provider of self catering Scotland and Argyll cottages.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/the-history-of-royal-forests.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/the-history-of-royal-forests.html Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:17:22 -0500
The enjoyment that the monarchs and aristocracy normally took from the area involved hunting. Red deer, fallow deer and roe deer, were hunted, along with boars, hares, wolves, rabbits, martens, foxes, pheasants and partridges. In a Royal Forest, only those permitted by the monarch could hunt these animals. Offences against these animals, such as trapping or hunting them, came under the category of ‘tresspass against the venison'.

To preserve the land for these animals, there was the other category of ‘tresspass against the vert'. This category made it an offence to enclose land for grazing or arable use, build structures within the area declared a Royal Forest, clear land for agricultural use, cut down trees, or clear areas of the forest of undergrowth. All this applied to all the land within the Royal Forest, even if it was already owned by somebody else.

This meant that any villages or settlements within the Royal Forest suddenly found they could no longer develop new land to feed themselves, nor could they take advantage of the game in the forest to get them through bad harvests. They weren't allowed to own weapons that could be used for hunting, and the only dogs that were permitted were de-clawed mastiffs for use as watchdogs.

Penalties for going against these laws were harsh, especially for hunting. When first enacted, anybody caught hunting a deer in a Royal Forest was to be blinded. Later, even harsher punishments were brought in, including further maiming and death.

The lumber from the forests all belonged to the crown as well, and people living in or near the forest could no longer fell trees or take fallen branches for fire wood. Later on, this was used to supply oak for shipbuilding or sell charcoal for the monarch, but originally it was in place to preserve the woodland for hunting. Later on, this was adjusted so that local villagers could keep any fallen wood if they could cart it more than an axe throw from where they found it before the forester, one of the people tasked with maintaining the Royal Forests, arrived.

When these areas were first created, they were solely for the use of the king and his hunting parties, but, as time went on, the potential for profit was realised, and nearby nobles were granted access to the land in return for a fee.

Over the centuries, the Royal Forests lost their importance, and people living on them were granted more and more rights. Though they sometimes had brief resurgences, they ultimately became purely preservation-focussed, being kept for everybody, rather than just monarchs and aristocracy.

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This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Derbyshire Country Cottages, who offer holiday cottages in Derbyshire and cottages in the peak district.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>