Benefits | Must See Destinations

Bring A Note

Once we graduate from high school, we stop having to bring notes from mom and dad explaining absences; it is too bad that the last prime minister of the Pacific Islands nation of Vanatu didn’t have the same luxury. The situation is a bit more complicated, but at its core, Prime Minister Edward Natapei lost his job in early December because his office failed to submit correct paperwork explaining his absence.

He had left the country for a week to meet with commonwealth leaders in order to prepare from a quickly approach climate change summit in Copenhagen. Climate change, specifically global warming, has long been a driving issue for the former prime minister. He believes that their island nation is suffering drastically from global warming and has long sought to work on creating a plan aimed at addressing his nation’s climate problems.

One must wonder if, after years of service, the prime minister was forced out because of this very issue. It seems that the majority of the citizens do not rank global warming as a primary concern. Instead, the residents of Vanuatu are focused on life necessities. Sewage treatment, clean water and basic needs are more important. What they may be failing to recognize is that, at least according to some studies, climate change is directly impacting sea levels and weather patterns. For a nation like Vanuatu that relies heavily on tourism and agriculture for its survival, global warming could literally wipe them out.

The good news for Natapei is that it is likely he will still represent the nation at the climate control talks. Currently his vacated position is held by a caretaker and elections will be held to find a replacement. Until then and because of his extensive background in climate control, Natapei will be able to participate in the talks on behalf of his country.

Filed Under: Benefits, Islands Tagged With: Climate change, Edward Natapei, Global warming

Where Have All The Fish Gone

Earlier this year a disturbing study was released. Researchers now believe that in as little as 20 years, the fisheries in many Pacific Island nations will be destroyed. The report cites several different causes of the eminent collapse as well as the impact of such collapse. The report is a stark reminder that the resources the islanders rely on to survive are fragile and may not always be available.

Today the fishing industry brings in approximately $2 billion each year. In many nations the fisheries and the resources they produce are the primary industry. Researchers believe that fisheries themselves have been inappropriately managed. Poor communication between the more than twenty island nations and lack of coordination is largely responsible for the eminent destruction of the industry.

Scientist also point to climate change and the debatable effects of global warming. They believe that coral reefs and fish stocks in the region have been negatively impacted. The Pacific Islands has neither the resources nor the money to invest in a program aimed at combating these effects and this will lead to decreased fish populations as well as a negative impact on the coral reefs.

The island nations of the Pacific Islands must recognize the effect these events will have on their populations. They must take more proactive measures to combat against the falling fish populations. Failure to do so will mean the destruction of the biggest renewable resource in the region. The impact on the countries will be devastating.

The study suggests several measures including increased cooperation between nations, a more strident policing policy and scientific intervention to protect the fish populations. We may not be able to control an unstable environment and climate, but by working together and proactively protecting the Pacific Island fisheries, we will be more likely to protect these delicate ecosystems and the economies they support.

Filed Under: Benefits, Islands Tagged With: Fish

Best Places to Visit in the United States

: Image via Wikipedia

It’s time for a vacation! You work hard and now it’s time to play hard! But where should you go on your vacation? Your time is precious and you want to go somewhere fabulous, fun, and affordable. Take a look at the best places in the United States to visit. You’re going to love some of our top picks.

1. New Jersey. That’s right, New Jersey makes our list. Jersey is so close to New York City, so you can totally spend a day or two in the Big Apple taking in a Broadway play or shopping on 5th Avenue. Then, unwind and relax in one of the New Jersey condos. Staying in New Jersey and renting a condo is much cheaper than trying to find an affordable hotel in New York.

2. Steamboat Springs, Colorado. If you love the outdoors, then you’ll want to visit Steamboat Springs. In the summertime, you can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and river rafting. In the winter, hit the slopes, go sleigh riding, and try your hand at ice skating. Steamboat Springs is a wonderful place to bring the entire family or to come for the night life.

3. Los Angeles, California. There’s just something magical and wonderful about L.A. The celebrities, the near-perfect weather, and the incredible fashion. There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Los Angeles. Take a short drive to Hollywood to see the stars, head to Beverly Hills for shopping, or go downtown to see the Lakers play.

You deserve a wonderful, not to mention affordable, vacation. You spend your valuable time in the office working for someone else. Now it’s time for you to take some time for yourself and enjoy some rest and relaxation. Whether you are looking for the high city life or a low-key small town adventure, you’ll find it all waiting for you.

Filed Under: Attractions, Benefits, General, Travel & Tourism Tagged With: Los Angeles, New Jersey, New York, New York City, Steamboat Springs Colorado, United States

How to Make a Six-Day Tour of England

: Image via Wikipedia

If you want to see the sites of England but are pressed for time, consider this time line for a busy tour.

The Western Sweep. Fly into London, get a hotel, and rent a car. The next morning, drive west towards Winsdor Castle, Oxford, or Stratford-Upon-the-Avon for a half-day. After a few hours and lunch, head further west towards Bath. You can stop for dinner in Bristol before arriving at your bed and breakfast at a farm just outside Bath. The next morning, drive to the nearest Park-n-Ride, where you park your car outside Bath and take a bus to the heart of town, avoiding the cost and hassle of city parking. Spend the whole day and part of the next day visiting the Roman Baths, the fashion museum, Sally Lunn Bunns and Bath Abbey.

The Sweep Back East. After finishing the sites at Bath, swing by Stonehedge and the Salisbury Cathedral for a few hours before driving to the other side of England to Dover. Arrive at your next bed and breakfast in the country and take a walk in the beautiful countryside before calling it a day. The next morning, take a tour of the imposing Dover Castle (and consider taking a look at the famous Cliffs of Dover) before heading out to Canturbury to see the Canturbury Cathedral. Finally, turn toward London. Consider calling a train service or a traffic guide to help you avoid the awful traffic, using England’s information number, similar to Canada 411.

The London Adventure. If you miss traffic, you should be able to head downtown straight from Canturbury. However, be sure to return your car and start using the Tube for transportation. This should give you a day and a half to see the British museums, the many parks, the Thames river, Westminster Cathedral, Covent Gardens, Buckingham Palace, and maybe a show at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater.

Filed Under: Attractions, Benefits, General, Inlands Tagged With: Bath Somerset, Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, Dover Castle, England, London, Salisbury Cathedral, Westminster Cathedral

How to See those Must See Destinations on a Budget

: Image via Wikipedia

If you are like many people you’ve always wanted to travel to some of the most exotic and talked about destinations. These can include trips around the world. The opportunity to visit huge mountains as well as seeing oceans, lakes and streams. While many people might have the time and energy to travel around the world, it is the cost that is keeping them back from traveling and enjoying themselves.

These types of travelers are just in luck as there are now several ways to be able to travel on a budge. In fact, you’ll save so much money that you’ll be able to pay up on your pet’s pet insurance policy when you get back!

Here are some of the travel agent’s secret tips to being able to see those must see destinations on a budget:

Join up with a tour group. Tour groups often get massively discounted trips. Hotels, transportation and food are usually provided on these trips. While it might appear a lot at a distance, if you were to take the individual amounts of each item, tour groups can save you 50% or more on a trip.

Shop for deals. Every travel website has a time when they are offering the best deals. For example, midnight is a great time to look for cheap airfare. It is the time when travel sites update their passenger list and that makes it appear as if the prices are lower. Try searching at various times of the day to get different prices.

Save reward points. Saving up rewards points can help you get travel vouchers as well as discounts on airfares and hotels.

If you shop wisely you’ll be able to afford a trip to some of the world’s most well known destinations. It just takes a little planning and some patience and you’ll be able to travel on a budget in no time at all!

Filed Under: Benefits, General Tagged With: Around the World, Hawaii, Hotel, Magazines and E-zines, Recreation, Specialty Travel, Travel, Travelogues

Marlin Fishing in Vanuatu

: Image via Wikipedia

Located in the South Pacific, Vanuatu is a jewel of an island that lays far off the usual tourist route. Despite its relative inattention by tourists, there remains a lively and active community of sport fishers who thrive on fishing for Marlin. For many, fishing for Marlin is like following a true religion.

Like any island, there are a variety of boat charters available, and the vessels range in size from small banana boats up to 50 foot yachts. The larger boats are recommended because Marlin can be elusive and difficult to reel in and having a good, solid boat under you is essential.

If you’re a novice to the sport, always secure your charter that has a lot of experience. Seasoned anglers can choose to increase the thrill of the sport by using light and ultra-light tackle, though most charters will provide heavier and sturdier tackle for your day on the sea.

Marlin can be caught by bait and switch, with live bait, dead bait and by towing lures. Most charters will spend some of the time trolling lures so that you can travel between fishing spots without missing out on an opportunity.

The bait and switch fishing technique is always popular and is recommended for novice and experienced fishers. Lures with no hooks are trolled behind the vessel and when a Marlin is spotted the lure is reeled in and a hook baited with live bait is then cast out in front of the Marlin. Once spotted, hopefully the Marlin will take the bait and the battle will ensue.

Charters can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, but no matter how long you go out fishing, catching your first Marlin is always an experience to remember. Even seasoned pros love the thrill of the hunt and the battle with this majestic fish.

Filed Under: Benefits, Travel & Tourism Tagged With: Fish, Marlin, Vanuatu

Hitting the Road in Your New Car

: Image via Wikipedia

Sure you could take your used car or maybe even pick up a rental. But if you are going to be on the road for a long drive, you really should look into something that is safe, dependable and comfortable. And should we even have to mention, that you should also find something that is stylish and fits your style. Your older car and a used rental sedan are just not going to fit into those categories.

New car prices really are not that high right now. With all the problems the auto industry has had, most of the companies are dropping their prices and providing great financing terms. Plus, with the manufacturers coming out with great new makes, models and styles; you just cannot go wrong with a new car.

So decide how much you can afford. Ask both the bank and dealer what kind of loan you can get and what your payments would be. Think about trading in your old vehicle or selling it a private buyer. Then choose the perfect car to fit your personality and style. And since you are saving so much because of the great new car prices, now you just need to decide where you are going to go on that road trip.

So you have decided to hit the road and take a trip across country. If you are going to do that road trip thing. Shouldn’t you do it in style? Why not look good whether you are heading to the beach on the East Coast, cruising down the Sunset Strip in Las Vegas or just driving up to the mountains for a nice hike? If you are going to hit the road in style, maybe you should look into buying a new car.Sure you could take your used car or maybe even pick up a rental. But if you are going to be on the road for a long drive, you really should look into something that is safe, dependable and comfortable. And should we even have to mention, that you should also find something that is stylish and fits your style. Your older car and a used rental sedan are just not going to fit into those categories.New car prices really are not that high right now. With all the problems the auto industry has had, most of the companies are dropping their prices and providing great financing terms. Plus, with the manufacturers coming out with great new makes, models and styles; you just cannot go wrong with a new car.So decide how much you can afford. Ask both the bank and dealer what kind of loan you can get and what your payments would be. Think about trading in your old vehicle or selling it a private buyer. Then choose the perfect car to fit your personality and style. And since you are saving so much because of the great new car prices, now you just need to decide where you are going to go on that road trip.

Filed Under: Attractions, Benefits Tagged With: Automobile, RoadTrip, Sunset Strip

Midway’s Buried Diving Treasures

The Midway Atoll sits in an isolated position in the Pacific Ocean in what can only be described as a deserted island chain. The islands seem to be about as peaceful and forgotten as one of the countless other islands sitting in the vast Pacific Ocean. For divers and historical sightseers though, Midway might be one of the most important destinations in the world.

Midway enjoyed a largely tranquil and isolated history until June of 1942 when the island chain became the focus of the entire world. It had only been a few months since the attack on Pearl Harbor. The balance of the war was still in question. The Nazi horde had resumed its offensive in the Soviet Union, and the Japanese military seemed nearly invincible.

The Japanese had wiped out the British presence in the region, and the attack at Pearl Harbor and the series of actions that followed turned the tide of the war against the United States. Magazines printed articles that showed a path of Japanese conquest onto American territory.

The next stage of this conquest was supposed to happen at Midway, which sat on the path towards the Hawaiian Islands. Japan enjoyed an advantage in the size of their force, but the Americans had surprise on their side. American code breakers were able to learn about the Japanese attack. And the American Navy was able lure the Japanese into a trap.

American bombers sank four Japanese carriers. And the Japanese did not have 21st car insurance to replace these forces. With the biggest threat to American security at the bottom of the Pacific, the United States bought time to build up forces and match the Japanese force.

The carriers remain in their watery grave near the atoll, which makes it one of the most interesting and historically significant diving locations in the world.

Filed Under: Benefits, Travel & Tourism Tagged With: Pacific Ocean, Pearl Harbor, United States

How E-Mail Hosting Affects Vacation Packages

Your dream vacation seems so uncertain and so far away. All you really want to do is go to that one destination that you never thought you’d get to. However, when you feel like you can barely pay the rent it’s hard to feel like you can pay for your dream vacation. So your choices conveniently become: get broke trying to pay for a vacation well out of your price range or opt to not go on a vacation. But maybe there is a third option for you. Maybe the option is to save your money, make some savvy deals and go on the vacation you want without having to stress yourself out over it.

Start by picking your destination in an off-season. It could be a little risky but picking your destination in the summer when it’s a winter friendly time could mean a significant price reduction. Don’t think of this as a risk but rather the reward of taking a vacation that you will love when there is a significantly smaller amount of people.

Once you have targeted your place and time of year, then start saving up. This doesn’t mean to charge more of your day to day expenses on a credit card. Placing more debt on your card is a terrible way to do it. Start giving up your cable. It’s a money trap that leads nowhere.

Look on booking your trip directly through the airline. Sometimes the airlines that fly to some of the most distant locations have some of the best discounts. Booking on a travel site makes the searching easier but it doesn’t make it any more affordable. Just like with e-mail hosting, you have to know where to look for the best deals. This will make all the saving you are doing worthwhile when you are taking the vacation of a lifetime.

Filed Under: Benefits, Cons, General, Travel & Tourism Tagged With: Airline, Credit card, Travel

Bora Bora is a Top Pick for the Pacific Islands

: Image by jdolenga via Flickr

Imagine a liberal destination that would allow you to strip-off your string bikini, and dive into the clear, turquoise waters of the Pacific Islands. Imagine the warm sun on your face, the salt curling your hair, and your perfect pedicure covered in white sand. Only the most fortunate brides are able to experience freedom on their wedding days, and on Bora Bora, every bride is lucky!

People freely wade out into the moonlit, warm waters after dinner for a break from all of the entertainment in the area. The stars are so bright that they seem to be singing, shining down on the tourists who were lucky enough to know what Bora Bora has to offer visitors of the Pacific Islands.

News and Journalism in the Pacific Islands have been reporting recently about the laxed laws for would-be weddings. In an effort to bring in more travelers, Bora Bora, Moorea, and Tahiti have followed-up the recent news and journalism in the Pacific Islands with the construction of chapels, specifically for tourists.

After attending a civil ceremony, couples are able to celebrate their weddings in chapels that are built on the water’s surface, away from the noise and chaos of resorts, but near enough to exclusive resorts like Le Meridien in Bora Bora that couples are able to walk to their ceremonies.

According to a Pacific Islands specialist, Glenda McMillan-Anderson, couples used to be required to wait on the islands where a wedding would be held for 21 nights before the wedding could take place. Also, couples were required to advertise the impending marriage, to allow time for objections. Under the new laws, couples need only arrive two days before the nuptials. They are also allowed to advertise their wedding before arriving in the area, so that they meet the requirements of the land without staying in the Pacific Islands for 21 days.

Filed Under: Attractions, Benefits, General, Islands, Travel & Tourism Tagged With: Bora, Moorea, Pacific Islands, Tahiti