Chamonix Haute Savoie is a prestigious alpine town with the legendary Mont Blanc and tumbling glaciers. Everyone enjoy going snowboarding or sometimes visiting the Aiguille du Midi. I usually catch a plane from Colorado Springs and stay at a Chamonix luxury chalet during my vacation.

My family and I used to visited Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing but it never lived up to its description: Located in Beijing’s Wangfujing commercial and shopping district, Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing is set to become the leading mid-scale, full-service hotel for business and leisure travellers to the Chinese capital. Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing, which is just minutes from some of the world’s most popular tourist attractions including The Forbidden City, The Imperial Place and Tian’anmen Square, will be managed by Carlson Hotels Asia Pacific. In a city famous for its unique cultural heritage, Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing redefines the meaning of great service and stylish, comfortable accommodation. The contemporary yet classic hotel was designed by world renowned interior design company Karen Wong Design and features 216 well-appointed rooms, including 16 spacious suites. All guest rooms featuring stunning views of the striking Beijing skyline, high-speed internet access, bedside control panels, executive work desks and security safe boxes. In addition to these facilities, Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing offers business guests private dining facilities, wireless internet access in public areas, the Park Plaza Club lounge and floors, and a business centre featuring full business services, the latest audio visual equipment and three meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 80 people. The hotel also boasts a wide array of cuisines, including a superb range of some of Asia’s most exciting cuisines, served in uniquely stylish and comfortable surroundings. The First Lounge & Bar is designed to blend in harmoniously with the lobby and reception area and offers a snack menu that will be changed monthly. Ooodle specializes in Japanese and Asian style noodles and intriguing cold dishes representing northern Chinese cuisine, while Bloo Dining offers a unique dining experience combining a-la-carte dining with a rich buffet selection. The restaurant creates a colourful and warm environment and features a stunning circular lounge area.

On the other hand in Chamonix the hotel is invariably excellent. As well dining in my families’ preferred French restaurant, Billy KS Seafood, scoffing Cherry Muffins is a memorable experience. Chamonix Mont Blanc France is a big enough town to insure that there is lots of things for the holiday maker to do. With a cinema and a shopping arcade of designer boutiques, Chamonix provides a mix of climbing, old town charm and tourist attractions which few resorts can match.

Hollywood! For so many years the very word has evoked romance, glamour, and a place where dreams can come wildly true… the American dream, anyone’s dream.

Hollywood has had an ever-changing history. Ironically, it was named by a couple of conservative prohibitionists in the 1880s. Harvey Wilcox, from Kansas, was selling lots to Midwesterners with the idea that they could winter in California. His wife met a woman on a train who had a home called Hollywood, and Mrs. Wilcox liked the name so much that she and her husband decided to use it for their project. In 1903 the region incorporated as Hollywood and then in 1910, to take advantage of the plentiful water in Los Angeles, it became part of that city.

The next year the first film studio opened, and over time Hollywood blossomed into the dream-maker that it would remain. Movie stars, elegant restaurants, nightclubs, romance and its shadow of disillusionment, palatial homes for those who had struck it rich and acres of more modest housing for the many workers in the film industry… Hollywood had it all.

Of course, films have always been made in other places, but Hollywood has always been more than a place. It’s a frame of mind. Everyone understands that it’s different from anywhere else.

Naturally, it’s been a tourist Mecca. Hollywood posters and postcards capture the essence of Hollywood, the vintage look reflecting the dreams of a bygone era.

About the Author

Rosana Hart is a reference librarian turned webmaster. Visit her site at http://www.infoandhelp.com/posters/ for a selection of popular posters and articles about their subjects.

Located in South East Asia, bordering Thailand in the north and Singapore in the south, Malaysia achieved its independence from British rule on the 31st of August 1957. With a population of approximately 23.5 million (58% Malays, 24% Chinese, 8% Indians and 10% others), Malaysia is rich in differing cultures and traditions. The uniqueness of Malaysia is that all these differing religions live alongside each other in harmony and peace.

You may be asking “What’s there to do in Malaysia?”. Malaysia offers natural beauties in tropical rainforest, scuba diving; Shopping haven in all major cities; Friendly citizens across the country. Whatever you want to do, ranging from being a potatoe couch at the hotel to extreme adventures, Malaysia has it all.

Having said that, I will now point out to you the essential visits that you should take part in order to make your trip whole (in no particular order):

Petronas Twin Towers

Towering at a height of 452 metres (1483 feet), the Petronas Twin Towers is the highest twin towers in the world. Built to 88 storeys and 32000 windows, the towers are connected via a skybridge. You must book your time to access the skybridge for an excellent birds-eye view of the Kuala Lumpur city. The towers were featured in the movie Entrapment starring Sean Connery and Caterine Zeta Jones. When visiting the towers, take a stroll at the KLCC park (20 hectares or 50 acres) located adjacent to the towers and indulge yourself in shopping at the Suria KLCC located inside the towers.

Pulau Pinang (Penang Island)

Affectionately known as Pearl of the Orient, Penang is famous for its natural beauty and exotic heritage. Located at the northern part of Malaysia, Penang, a bustling island, has a large variety of culture, people and food within the 285 square kilometres enclave. So diversed, you will be able to find churches, Chinese temples, Indian temples and Muslim mosques all within a five minutes walk. Colonial buildings still exist and are constantly being restored to its former glory. When you are at the Pearl of the Orient, you must sample the hawker food found at abundance, take a ferry ride (especially at night) and stroll along the beaches of Batu Ferringi.

Sipadan Island

Located on the north-eastern part of Borneo Island, Sipadan is one of the world’s best dive spots. White sandy beaches borders this 12ha island. The island was formed from a undersea volcano and is raised 650meters from the sea floor. Sipadan is famous for its reef wall, rare reef creatures and the regular appearance of sea turtles. If you are a diver, this is one place that you would not want to miss.

East Coast Islands

On the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, an abundance of idyllic white sandy beaches. To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, hop over to the east coast, put on a sarong, grab yourself a coconut, relax and enjoy the pounding of the waves. Out in the sea, islands such as Perhentian, Tioman and Redang are famous for their dive spots and family getaway.

Cameron Highlands

This 1800 meters above sea level region is a popular getaway from the tropical heat for Malaysians and tourist alike. Cameron Highlands was discovered by a British surveyor named William Cameron in 1885. This highlands resembles England as old English inns, chalets and bungalows still exists today. Attraction in Cameron Highlands includes mountain and jungle hikings, tea plantations, fruits and vegetable farms, flower nurseries and its people. Cameron Highlands has two golf courses if you are game.

Proboscis Monkeys

Living exclusively in Borneo island, proboscis monkeys have the largest nose amongst all primates. Reaching up to 17.5cm long, the reason for the elongated nose is unknown. Another distinctive feature of this unique creature is its pot belly. The proboscis monkey is an endangered species and is listed under the IUCN Red List. Visiting these creatures in its natural habitat is well worth the journey.

About The Author

Mij Gnow is an avid traveller who is infected with the travel bug throughout the year. Weighed down by the corporate world to earn a living, Mij continues to write articles in preparation for his future travels.

Mij is also the creator and administrator of Travel Corridor, http://www.travelcorridor.com; a site containing essential visits around the world.

Listening to a traffic report in Chicago is like hearing a MCSE professional talk about firewalls and proxy servers. You somehow know that what’s being said is important and you should know what it is, but he or she might as well be speaking in binary code. After being in Chicago awhile you learn the terms you need to know, but if you’re visiting or just moved to Chicago it seems like you’ll never get it! Traffic reports use names, but the maps and signs use numbers.

Briefly, here are what those names are referring to, so next time you hear “20 minutes outbound from the split to O’Hare” you’ll know that’s a GOOD thing!

Outbound: Leaving downtown

Inbound: Heading downtown

The Kennedy: I-90 and I-94 together north of the Loop (approx.I-290). I-90 continues to be the Kennedy after the Split until O’Hare

The Split/The Junction: When I-90 and I-94 break off from each other north of the Loop. I-90 heads to O’Hare and I-94 heads northeast.

Edens Expressway: I-94 north of the Split Lake Cook Road

Lake Cook Road: East-west street that marks the borders of Lake and Cook Counties on the north side

Northwest Tollway: I-90 north of O’Hare to Wisconsin

Dan Ryan Expressway: I-90 and I-94 together south of the Loop

Skyway: Connects Dan Ryan to Indiana Toll Road

95th Street: Southern end of Dan Ryan Expressway, marks beginning of Bishop Ford

Bishop Ford Freeway: I-94 from 95th (Dan Ryan) to I-80/Indiana

Eisenhower: I-290, which extends from downtown to the western suburbs

North-South: I-355 from Itasca to I-55

Stevenson Expressway: I-55 from Lake Shore Drive to the Tri-State

Tri-State Tollway: I-294 connects with I-94 on the north and the south end of the city, forming a semi-circle and connecting with every major interstate

Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway: I-88 west from Tri-State

The Loop: area in the heart of downtown that’s encircled by the “L” tracks. Lake Street on the North, Wabash on the East, Van Buren on the South and Wells Street on the West.

Post Office: Sometimes used instead of The Loop. Now vacant building that spans the Eisenhower as it turns into Congress Parkway.

Circle/Spaghetti Bowl: Where the Dan Ryan, the Kennedy and the Eisenhower meet

Hillside Strangler: Named after a nearby suburb. Where the East-West Tollway, the Tri-State and the Eisenhower meet

Mannheim: Just east of the Hillside Strangler and near the western end of the Eisenhower

About the Author

Theresa Carter is the founder and publisher of TheLocalTourist.com, a free online guide to downtown Chicago. Restaurants, bars, shopping, spas, salons, events, etc. Free weekly events newsletter. http://www.thelocaltourist.com

(ARA) - Often thought to be reserved for summer, camping is fast becoming a year-round activity. And while camping trips are planned with hopes of good weather, severe weather always is a possibility, but it doesn’t have to diminish the enjoyment of camping. To make the most of the camping experience, it’s important to consider the weather before packing up the camper or travel trailer.

There’s no avoiding the weather when camping. “The United States has the most extreme weather conditions in the world, second only to China,” says Susan Weaver, of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service. “Weather can change quickly and is very specific to each area.”

Lightning Does Strike Twice

Severe weather can occur anytime of year and often with little warning. According to NOAA, lightning is one of the most underrated severe weather hazards because it usually claims one or two victims at a time and does not cause mass destruction.

“You are in danger of lightning if you can hear thunder,” states Weaver. “Seek shelter inside an enclosed structure; if that is not possible squat low to the ground, with your feet close together and your head between your knees.” Maintain minimal contact with the ground and do not lie flat.

It’s a Twister…

In the Southern states, peak tornado season is March through May. Northern states are more likely to be hit with tornadoes during the summer. People know that during a tornado warning they should move to an interior room with no windows, or in a basement. When camping, that’s not a viable option. Experts suggest retreating to a ditch or other low area, get as low to the ground as possible and cover your head from possible debris. “Do not seek shelter under an overpass; they act as wind tunnels during a tornado,” Weaver warns.

Author Brad Herzog and wife Amy of Pacific Grove, Calif., have been camping for nearly eight years. During their first trip, Brad authored “States of Mind,” a book, which chronicles their experience. One night, while camping in Mississippi, they encountered severe weather. “There were late-night tornado warnings and we were able to track the warnings by keeping tuned to a local station,” Herzog explains. They were aware of the warnings in advance and took precautions in case of a tornado strike. Fortunately the storm passed without any tornados touching down.

Rain, Rain Go Away

Floods and flash floods also are serious threats to campers. “Most people underestimate the threat of water,” Weaver explains. “Never attempt to drive through standing water. It only takes 18 to 24 inches to float most vehicles.” According to Weaver, canyons are particularly prone to flash floods. She recommends not only paying attention to the weather around you but also upstream. If flooding is a possibility in your camp area, immediately move to higher ground.

Running Hot and Cold

Not only should campers remain cognizant of possible severe weather; they also need to be mindful of extreme temperatures or sudden climate shifts. “Extremely cold temperatures and winds rob heat from the body,” says Weaver. This, increases your risk for hypothermia and frostbite. When camping in the winter, pack extra blankets, food and water to reduce these risks.

Be Prepared

It takes planning to handle any weather Mother Nature might throw at your camping trip. Simply following some basic tips can lead to a much more enjoyable camping experience.

* Check the weather before you leave home. A variety of Web sites offer weather forecasts seven days in advance. NOAA’s Web site can be found at www.weather.gov.

* Carry a weather radio at all times. Available at most electronics stores, a weather radio can be programmed to a specific location and provide life-saving notification of a fast-developing storm.

* Talk to your camping group and develop a contingency plan should bad weather arise.

When it comes to providing peace of mind and safety while camping, nothing rivals a reliable power source. Onan, a leader in power generation products, recently introduced a generator designed specifically for the smaller, towable RVs. Onan’s Camp Power is the first installed generator to provide power to the towable RVs so popular with millions of campers. Now when RVers are caught in severe weather, they can have the electricity they need to operate communication devices to monitor the storm and signal for help if necessary.

Brad Herzog knows how reassuring it is to have reliable power with you when the weather turns bad. “When the weather is iffy, it’s nice to be able to tune into a news station to know what’s up.” Since weather can change quickly, it is important to constantly keep track of it while camping.

In addition to powering weather devices for travelers, generators can make camping more comfortable by supplying power to air conditioners to cool the RV or run heaters on cold days.

And rain won’t put a damper on campfire cooking for campers with Camp Power installed towable. A generator can power almost any electrical kitchen appliance. Travelers can cook meals in the microwave or on an electric grill when the weather doesn’t allow them to build a campfire.

Turning Lemons into Lemonade

Despite all your preparations, sometimes the weather simply won’t cooperate with your outdoor plans. But that doesn’t have to ruin the camping experience.

Herzog recalls when he and his wife were traveling through Kansas and they encountered severe storms. “Other people began to pull their cars over and panic,” Herzog explains. “We pulled over to the side of the road made some grilled cheese sandwiches and relaxed while the storm passed.”

“The great thing about being in an RV is if you don’t feel that the weather is conducive to driving, you can pull over and you have your house with you. With powerful generators in your RVs, you can be anywhere and have the conveniences of home,” says Herzog.

Stay Safe

With planning and preparation, it’s possible to camp year round in almost all kinds of weather. Checking the weather forecast regularly, listening to a weather radio and knowing what your group is going to do in the event of bad weather allows campers to have a safe and fun trip anytime of year.

To get up to the minute weather related information, log on to http://www.nws.noaa.gov/. To learn more about RVing and Camp Power, check out www.funroads.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content

About the author:

Courtesy of ARA Content

‘Hoteliers are no longer just in the business of selling sleep, now we’re in the business of creating dreams’

- Chip Conley, Joie de Vivre Hospitality

Boutique hotels have rapidly become one of the fastest growing niches in the tourism industry - with individual and chic hotels opening across the globe in cities such as London, New York and Tokyo. However, despite the concept of boutique hotels being around since the mid 1980’s, most people are still unsure what a boutique hotel is and how it differs from traditional hotel accommodation.

Defining boutique hotels can be difficult as creating an all consuming definition would betray the fact that the entire concept is based around individuality and the alternative feel each of the properties have. However, broadly speaking such hotels are often very unique in terms of architecture and are designed carefully to fit around a central theme which is visible throughout an establishment from its décor to the general ambiance.

While independent hotels are not a new notion, boutique hotels tend to be life-style focussed and try to break free from the accepted style of traditional bland hotel chains. As a result boutique hotels tend to be marketed from the perspective of a brand image or lifestyle choice rather than from a demographic perspective. The idea is people would go out of their way to stay at one of these hotels…even if it means travelling an extra ten miles from the airport.

It is often said that frustration leads to innovation. As a result it was perhaps in response to many consumers boredom with the similar mass marketing designs of the big hotel chains that led to the first Boutique hotels being built in 1980’s New York. Hoteliers like Ian Schrager created a number of contemporary hotels aimed at the thriving young urbanite market that was associated with the city at the time. Elsewhere other hoteliers such as Richard Kessler, Bill Kimpton and Chris Blackwell were following suit and trying to focus their energies on this niche market by building themed hotels in locations such as San Francisco and the Caribbean.

Boutique hotels (or a least the first accommodation that fits the category) first came to light in the UK with the opening of Blake’s Hotel in London - http://www.blakeshotels.com. Created by London designer turned hotelier, Anauska Hempel, the hotel has set the standards for fashionable small hotels around the world with 51 individually designed rooms.

Since Blake’s Hotel led the way London has seen a number of Boutique Hotels open such as Christina Ong’s stylish Halkin and Metropolitan hotels and Gordon Campbell Gray’s One Aldwych. Experts agree that this trend is likely to continue with the increasingly sophisticated and fickle tourism industry constantly looking for new ideas and differentiators. The UK’s biggest provider of short break hotel accommodation http://www.superbreak.com has a devoted an entire section on its website to Boutique Hotels with offers throughout the UK and Europe. The fact that Superbreak describes the hotels as “Cutting-edge furnishings, architecture and the chance to rub shoulders with the stars. You’ll be talking about your stay for years…” backs up the claim that Boutique hotels are selling an experience and not just a room for the night.

For many the future of Boutique Hotels rests with large retailers rather than hoteliers. Many see this as an excellent way to expand their brand and it is only seen as a matter of time before the likes Quicksilver surfing hotels or Harley Davidson road houses come into existence. Although just examples it would appear the branding opportunities could be endless with the consumer soon choosing their favourite type of hotel like they would choose a favourite brand of jeans.

About the Author: Robin Richmondhttp://www.bigmouthmedia.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Hair loss in lads affects approximately 7 million in the UK, the most common kind of hair loss is genetic male pattern hair loss. The loss of hair will probably begin as very early as 19 and develop emotional distress.

Loss of hair is frequently genetic and may target boys as well as females. The hair loss seems due to the hair follicles on the scalp getting smaller and the hair falling out and never regrowing. Hair loss ordinarily follows a pattern around the hair line and don’t forget at the middle of your scalp. Read the Advanced Hair Story from Carl Howell at Advanced Hair Studio.

Baldness is not a deadly virus and does not directly affect your actual health, although your emotional health may become affected through low self esteem.

There are 3 incredible big treatments for baldness, Minoxidil, Finasteride and Strand by Strand from Advanced Hair Studio. The very first main male pattern baldness treatment is a topical cream that is applied on the scalp and can be bought from online pharmacies. The hair loss treatment Minoxidil works by reducing the speed of baldness, simply great. Finasteride works by blocking the chain reaction of the baldness hormone. The terrific Strand by Strand hair regrowth method from Advanced Hair Studio, aka AHS, uses the latest hair loss medical technology and involves new hair growing on the scalp strand by strand over a brief amount of time. With both the Minoxidil and Finasteride treatment methods they need to be consistently used for the hair effects to keep working.

Argentina is on the way back from the economic crisis of the last few years. If you are looking for a travel destination, Argentina is amazing and cheap.

Economic Woes

While Argentina has unlimited beauty, it also has unlimited corruption. The massive corruption finally lead to an economic crisis at the turn of the century. With the currency devalued and jobs hard to find, Argentina was a decidedly dangerous place for travelers. At one point, the country was going through Presidents faster than I go through coffee. At one point, the country went through five of them in a month! Wait, that might not be such a bad idea. Regardless, things appear to have stabilized and the country is back on the travel map. So, what’s to see?

Buenos Aires

Prior to landing in Buenos Aires, you are strongly encouraged to glue your jaw shut. Buenos Aires is a city of jaw-dropping beauty. In many ways, you will feel as though you have magically been transported to Vienna. The European impression is overwhelming. The city is elegance itself. If you’re a meat eater, make sure you experience one of the steak houses. You won’t be disappointed.

Mar del Plata

You’ve been doing sit ups, right? The Mar de Plata is the hot beach area. Literally. Damn hot, sometimes. If you wish to pursue a little melanoma research, this is the place. If you prefer to pass on the cancer research, you can hit the Mar de Plata Aquarium, play golf on five different courses. The area is also rife with discos. Try the ones on the “Noisy Avenue”, but don’t mention my name. There were…problems last time I was there.

Iguaz Falls

If you like waterfalls, this is the place for you. The Iquaza Falls are twice as wide and taller than Niagara Falls. The Falls actually consist of over 250 cascades that came into existence due to a volcanic eruption. If you can, try to visit the falls in the spring or fall as it is ungodly hot and humid in the summer.

Tierra del Fuego

Welcome to the end of the world. At least, that’s the hook for Tierra del Fuego. Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego, is the southernmost city in the world. From the city, you can take the “end of the world” train to see incredible snow covered mountain ranges in the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Words fail me, but the area is definitely worth visiting. Come on, you rode the elephants in Thailand, didn’t you?
Patagonia

No, we are not talking about the clothing line. Patagonia is located in a vast area below Buenos Aires and is famous for uncompromised beauty. Greater Patagonia is actually split between Chile and Argentina. The section in Argentina is filled with glaciers, national parks and so on. I can’t possibly describe it, so I’m not even going to try. Just know that you will not be disappointed.

Argentina

From glaciers to beaches, from elegant cities to friendly little towns, Argentina is a top travel destination. With the economy stabilizing, now is the time to go.
About the Author

Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - Makers of writing journals.

Planning a vacation can be fun, yet a frustration if you have little time, money, or patience. I think many of us suffer from a lack of patience. It can be quite simple if you follow some steps. Remember, you are going on vacation! Get excited! Use your time to plan, to get away from the stresses of your daily life.

Here are a few tips we suggest you follow when planning your trip and saving money!!

1. Figure out where you are going & what you must do while there. There are many great destinations in Florida from the Panhandle, to the Gulf coast, Atlantic Coast, Orlando, or the Keys. They also offer so many things to do, that it’s a good idea to plan ahead of time some activities.

2. Sign up for online e-zines: These are online magazines or newsletters that you sign up for and receive on a regular basis. Make sure they have an opt-in and opt-out policy and don’t share your information.

3. Are you going as a family, with friends, or for romance? How you get there, where you stay, what activities you want to plan will revolve around whom you travel with. There are locations in Florida set up for different types of vacations.

4. Get coupons & Ask for deals. I don’t care how much money you have. Traveling with coupons and discount sources only saves you money on your travels. Even if you go more luxurious, you can save money with these two tips. Ask to get bumped, ask for first class, ask for off-season specials, ask for senior citizens discounts, etc. Just ask.

5. Do your homework and shop around. We have found literally hundreds of online travel sites. Use the well known ones that are recommended. Read consumer reviews, be patient, and make sure you read all the terms and conditions, whether you book online of offline.

6. Join groups such as AAA or AARP. You can also save money by obtaining a frequent flyer credit card and earning points through spending. Just be smart with your credit and don’t go overboard.

7. Rent from an owner. Yes, there are options other than staying in a huge chain. Sometimes, the best deals and nicest places are from someone who is renting out their vacation home.

8. Travel in the off-season. Book early, book late, and name your own price at travel auction sites.

9. Referrals are the oldest, and in my opinion, the best way to do anything. There are people who will recommend hotels, things to do, places to go, that you would have never found otherwise.

10. Using credit cards can save you money and free up cash for other adventures. There is a right way and a wrong way to use them. A vacation is a necessity, not a luxury.

Also, prepare a budget, get all your necessities ahead of time and shop for them, and have fun while planning your trip. Yes, there are a few things you need to take into account, but if you follow a system of steps, planning will be easy. In addition, be realistic about prices, but don’t think you can’t get great deals on your vacations to Florida.

About the author:

Discount Florida Vacations is a total Florida vacation guide offering fun, sun, tips, ideas, recommendations, resources, and experiences for anyone traveling to Florida.
You can find more info. or plan your trip with us at
www.discount-florida-vacations.com