Below are the 20 most recent journal entries recorded in barbeddevil305's InsaneJournal:

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Tuesday, May 8th, 2012
1:59 pm	Save Big Bucks on Travel Health Insurance You may be planning for a quick weekend getaway or perhaps, you intend to leave the country for a much longer time, probably a month-long cruise tour around the world. Whatever your travel itinerary is, you need one thing and that is travel insurance. epaggelmatikos odigos euboias But the question is, with the rising costs of all products and services on the face of the planet today, is it possible to get a cheap dealThe good news is that yes, it is possible. In fact, it is very easy. Saving money on your travel insurance policy is possible if you consider the following tips. Single versus Annual PolicyIf you are a regular traveler, you would save big bucks if you go for the annual travel policy. Annual travel health insurance costs considerably less than single trip policies combined. Of course, this is only ideal for people who travel all the time. If you only travel once a year, it would cost you more instead of help you save money if you go for the annual policy. Worldwide CoverIf you are only traveling to one destination, it would be cheaper to skip the worldwide cover. It would be best to get coverage only for the country that you intend to visit. If you have multiple destinations such as if you intend to go on a European cruise to see Italy, France, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, and Greece, it would be best to get a wide coverage that covers your entire trip to Europe. Choosing the right coverage will lower down the overall cost of travel insurance. Specialist policiesIf you are a senior citizen or you have a pre-existing medical condition, insurance rates will be much higher for you. Same as if you plan to do adventurous activities including bungee jumping, sky diving, skiing, hang gliding, mountain climbing, snowboarding, and so many more. For these circumstances, it would be a smart move to go for specialist policies which will cover your specific situation and at the same time, not hurt your pockets in the process. Policy overlapIf you already have certain insurance policies, you should check the inclusions and features carefully so you avoid coverage overlap. For example, if you already have medical insurance, you may no longer need visitor medical insurance. Instead, you should obtain insurance for trip cancellation and loss or theft. This is unless of course your existing medical insurance does not cover for illnesses and injuries out of the country. For this case, you still need visitor medical insurance. Just see to it that you check carefully the coverage of your policies so you don't buy more than what you need. Comparison shoppingJust like with any products or service, it would greatly help to do thorough comparative shopping for all the insurance policies that you stumble upon. Compare costs and inclusions so you can get one that will not just give you the cheapest deal but one that will give you the best value for your money. Current Mood: nerdy (Comment on this)
1:17 am	Europe Travel Made Easy Schengen Visa What is Schengen If you are curious about what "Schengen" is, Schengen is a wine-growing village in south-eastern Luxembourg near the point where the borders of Germany, France and Luxembourg meet together. Which Countries Can I Travel With Schengen Visa At present, there are 15 Schengen countries in Europe. The 15 Schengen countries are; 1. Austria 2. Belgium 3. Denmark 4. Finland 5. France 6. Germany 7. Iceland 8 epaggelmatikos odigos euboias. Italy 9. Greece 10. Luxembourg 11. Netherlands 12. Norway 13. Portugal 14. Spain and 15. Sweden. All these countries except Norway and Iceland are European Union members. What are the Benefits Of Schengen Visa Before Schengen people from some countries were required to have separate visas for every country in Europe they wished to visit. A vast network of border posts existed around the continent which disrupted traffic and trade, causing delays and costs to both businesses and visitors. With the Schengen Agreement, border posts have been closed between participating countries. Road traffic is no longer delayed; road, rail and air passengers no longer have their identity checked when crossing borders. How to Apply for Schengen Visa People from Non-EU(European Union), Non-EEA(European Economic Area) countries who wish to visit Europe as tourists, and who require a visa to enter the Schengen area, are simply required to get a common Schengen Visa from the Embassy/Consulate of the Schengen country they intend to visit first. First determine which Schengen country you are planning to visit. Then to get your visa, you have to submit required documents to the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting in the Schengen area. If you plan to visit more than one country in the Schengen area, the visa will be issued by the country through which you enter the Schengen area. After this, they may visit any or all of the Schengen countries as tourists or for business without hindrance. They are not required to get separate visas for all the (Schengen) European countries they wish to visit. Required Documents Following are some of the required documents when submitting your application. Check with the embassay or consulate for more detail. Your Schengen visa form You must use the standard document supplied by an embassy or consulate and submit the required number of copies. Passport A passport, valid for at least three months longer than the requested visa. Some other useful documents 1) Have some documents that describe your purpose of visit. 2) Proof for your means of existence (finacial proof) for the duration of your stay 3) Proof of Stay. (Hotel Reservation etc) 4) In some cases proof of medical insurance. Important Information. Eventhough you can travel with one visa between Schengen countries, it is always safe to carry your passport and any other identification with you. Some countries like Sweden and Finland still maintain customs control at their borders. Non-EU members Norway and Iceland are not a part of the EU customs union and therefore enforce the same level of custom control towards any traveller regardless of whether they come from within the Schengen area or not. Current Mood: calm (Comment on this)
Saturday, May 5th, 2012
3:20 pm	Mass Tourism The Tourist's Dream or The Host's Nightmare In the beginning was package tourism. . . . . Well not quite, but the 1960's saw a vast growth in foreign travel by the peoples of northern Europe to the sunnier regions of the Mediterranean, Greece being one of them, and today we have mass tourism which involves moving literally thousands of people around each day. Many people would be surprised that tourism in Greece accounts for only 15% of the GDP for Greece with around 19,000,000 tourists in 2009, far less that than the 80,000,000 that visit France each year, but far more than the 2,500,000 that visit New Zealand each year! Even more people would be surprised that there can be a comparison with tourism in Greece and New Zealand, however New Zealand tourism is characterised by the majority of accommodation consisting of hotels/motel with only 5 23 rooms, and as regular visitors to Greece will know this is the traditional style of much of the accommodation in Greece. Most of these apartment blocks and small premises are family owned and run, and a similar situation occurs in New Zealand. Anyone looking at holidays in NZ will find that tourism from Europe to NZ is handled by small (er) specialist travel agents (the old fashioned sort that will send you where, and when, you want to go), whereas travellers to Greece who are not booking independently will normally use one of the mass tourism' operators. As you would expect when it comes to pricing holidays, travellers from Europe will find that a holiday in NZ is considerably more expensive than a holiday in Greece! And at first glance everyone will say It's the airfare that makes it more expensive'. But is that the only reason Travellers to NZ from Europe will find that there are no charter' flights and so normal scheduled airline services are used, and it is a simple matter to strip out the cost of flights, for instance it is possible to get a 21 day travel and accommodation package to NZ for around 3000, and it is easy enough to find a scheduled flight from London Heathrow to NZ for around 700 return. A simple bit of arithmetic and we can say that accommodation costs in NZ account for around 100 per night. We can easily compare this to a mass tourism trip to Greece, for instance Crete, and find a holiday for around 500 per person for 14 nights including flights, and again we strip out the flight cost as the same mass operator will give you a flight only deal', in this case around 250 per person. Doing the numbers again produces accommodation costs of 17 per night per person or 34 per night for the two travellers, (you cannot book a holiday for one with a mass operator, even if their web site says you can, you will find that if you try to book for one guest it will tell you there is no availability, but the same accommodation is available if you book for two guests! ). In fact, the independent traveller to NZ, who makes their own bookings, will find that there is accommodation at less than 100 per night but will however find it is very difficult to find accommodation of the same standard as you find in Greece for less than 70 per night, even the Youth Hostel accommodation in Wellington, NZ will cost you around 55 per night, in other words accommodation is nearly twice (or more), the price of that in Greece, and this difference can be attributed to mass tourism. So already we can see that mass tourism produces a lower cost to the visitor, but also less revenue for the host country. Looking more closely at what happens to your holiday euro, if you are booking with a local hotel owner in NZ, all of the money you pay to the hotel (less credit cards charges) goes directly to a bank in NZ and thence into the NZ economy, compare this to a mass tourism operator in Europe where you pay your money to the tour operator in your country of origin. Many visitors to Greece assume, quite wrongly, that the money for their accommodation comes to Greece. In fact for the example holiday in Crete the apartment block owner gets around 8 (if he is lucky! ) for the room, for which you have just paid 68 (based on two sharing of course). Naturally costs for apartments varies, for instance an apartment that sleeps four can command a price of 18 per night for which the mass tourism operator will of course charge 136 per night based on four sharing. In some cases Greek apartment owners can receive as little as 5 per night for accommodation that has cost you, through a mass tourism operator, as much as 9 times the amount. These accommodation costs are controlled by the mass tourism operators not by the apartment block owners using a system of contracts which vary in terms and conditions which are often very restrictive in as much that the accommodation owner is not allowed to let his rooms independently and often has to keep rooms empty in case the tour operator wants them, (with a hefty fine if he lets a room and the tour operator finds out! euboia ), and most often he does not get paid for the room if it is empty. Some apartment owners are lucky enough to be on a retainer but these contracts are few and far between! It is interesting to note of as well that those high season' prices, often three or even four times the amount you pay for a low season price are purely an invention by the mass tourism operator, the Greek hotel owner gets the same whatever the time of year. You must also add into the equation that there are instances where the Greek hotel owner has to wait twelve months for his money, and also that the tour operators are usually the people who own the aircraft you fly in and that the tour operators are the people that put the holidays up for sale, specify the dates they are flying and when they are not, so it is not unreasonable to say that the Greeks, who have a reputation for being good businessmen, have effectively lost control of their tourism industry to foreign companies! In these times of economic stress in Greece, there has been some dissatisfaction shown by certain Northern European countries because Greece has required financial' help, "after we have spent all that money on holidays there" (they say), perhaps they do not realise how little of their money actually ends up in Greece Naturally the less money that actually arrives in Greece, the less the government can take in tax too. More recently there has been an even more anomalous situation in Greece with the rise in popularity of the all inclusive' holiday. For those who do not know the term, this is where the visitor pays for everything, including food and drinks, before they leave their home country, enter a resort style hotel with 7 restaurants, (one of which always seems to be Tex-Mex! ), 3 bars, 4 swimming pools, 2 saunas and stay there for two weeks before getting their transit back to the airport at the end of their stay. At present the Greek government is subsidising the construction of these resort hotels, many of which have four hundred rooms or more while the traditional family owned and run accommodations stand empty. And as you might begin to suspect most of these all inclusive' hotels are foreign owned by companies with profit centres outside Greece, and as they can fill them with guests without paying money to anyone outside the operating company then they will prefer to do so. Hence the Greek government is subsidising the taking away' of tourist income from the very people that tourism should be helping, the ordinary Greeks, who are also having to pay more taxes so the government can take their business away. A bit of a circuitous explanation but it accurately describes the situation! Overall the effect of mass tourism in Greece has actually produced some of the lowest priced accommodation in the world, where else for instance can you get a room for 6 per night per person (you can look at some of the mass tourism web sites that are selling off their contracted rooms at cost), but don't think that the mass tourism operator is giving you a good deal, this is the price they are paying the apartment owner. Tourists travelling on their own and savvy independent travellers will be able to tell you that they pay more for accommodation, usually around 20 per room, but this is still considerably cheaper than New Zealand. Other comparisons are easily made between the financial benefits of tourism in New Zealand and Greece in actual euro terms, the figures are easy enough to work out from the various statistics available and it becomes clear that NZ makes around 2600 per tourist annually, while Greece makes around 1700 per tourist annually. But visitors to Greece should bear in mind that most of the money they have paid for their package holiday' is paid not to Greece, but to a company outside Greece. Food for thought perhaps evia. Part 2 which follows next week of the article deals with Social and Environmental issues surrounding mass tourism. In the meantime, dwell on the fact that you have just arrived at 2am at your apartment block, have been welcomed by the owner, as only Greeks can welcome you, and find that there is only you and two other couples staying in the block, and the owner is getting paid 8 per night per apartment, so for working a sixteen or eighteen hour day he is being paid 24. (Various statistics for GDP and tourism numbers from Wikipedia) . Current Mood: hopeful (Comment on this)
Tuesday, March 6th, 2012
9:22 am	Dollar Will Quietly Fall Down While The People Watches The Euro It really is the largest monetary union of the world. When it had been formed, every person thought it would not last. Plenty rooted to it to fail outright. However after that something strange occurred. This union defied the probability. It cleaned up its messes. Union leaders stopped people from exit, after that performed referee since associate states argued on how to manage their economies. Finally, this union designed the leading economy and political body of the world. Investors not simply respected this union - they rapidly considered to hold this union's currency. Fine, until recently euboia. I'm unhappy to state, this union is starting to collapse. Currently all member state is in further confusion than the last. We are watching budget deficits, protests on the street, and debt-infested governments that every one need to limit expenditure but never do. Moreover at present numerous people are snickering on the sidelines saying that this crisis will make the currency to fall down The 'Crisis' Story that No One Is Revealing Assume I am speaking on the topic of the EU, correct Fine I am not I am discussing regarding the U. S. ! That is correct -- the U. S. is actually a monetary union just like the EU. We all share the same currency, same government in addition to that we could travel across state borders without taxation, a passport or changing currencies. Lately, everybody in their brother is beating up the EU. However the genuine fact is, the EU's debt problems are little when compared with our debt issues in the United States. The United states. is the real danger financial system (and currency), however it promises the simplest way to safeguard yourself in the near future. Before we start business, allow me give you with my thought on this so-called euro problem. Euro Collapse Give Me a Break Long ago, earlier there was a euro the European Union members agreed to Maastricht Treaty. This agreement would govern the member nations, so ultimately they might develop a single plan meets all for the complete EU. Amongst other things, the Maastricht Treaty mandated that every member state could only have a budget deficit of 3% of its GDP. To enter the EU, all member be required to meet that limit. A large amount members decided to fulfill the objective via selling their gold, which they did in 1998 as well as 1999. But they made it. When the Union formed, thirteen nations joined together under the Maastricht Treaty. At present, seventeen nations are EU members, and each and every one those citizens use the euro as their currency. Unfortunately, one of those members used voodoo economics to fulfill the budget deficit rule. Basically, they prepared the books to make it appear as if they only had a 3% budget deficit. Right now the facts are finally coming out, years later entering the EU. That country I am certain you are able to guess. It is actually Greece. Is that this surprising Wrong Definitely. But it is also the most important reason why gurus everywhere in the globe are discussing about the approaching collapse of the euro. At this point I can have the same opinion that this will certainly be a setback of the euro. But come on. The euro will NOT fall aside easily because of 1 rotten fruit. It does not make meaning. Greece's whole contribution to the entire Eurozone GDP is merely 2%. When you take out 2% of the full Eurozone's GDP, do you in reality think the EU will fail That is like saying the U. S. GDP would fall down if Idaho left. Not likely to go down! To consider this further, everyone calls EU's troubled states the PIIGS (Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece and Spain). But again, the PIIGS just account for 14% of the overall Eurozone GDP. Imagine the PIIGS Are Dangerous Hear This Numerous U. S. states are already in default because of several causes. A few can't make payments to state schools. A few are in the red on their retirement fund payments. A few aren't paying out their insurance premiums. A few are issuing IOUs on tax returns along with other payments, however they cannot repay without more debt. The list of tired states contains the great states of California, Michigan, New York, Massachusetts including Obama's territory, Illinois. Calculate the majority of these states' debt and the hit to U. S. total GDP is just above 30%! (Remember I said the PIIGS' debt was only 14%) Here is the key difference Greece, or Spain, or whichever among the PIIGS could go down out of the EU at some point or else EU leaders could force them to disappear. California, Illinois, and others are not able to go away the U. S. - moreover Uncle Sam cannot kick them away also! Therefore the United states. is saddled by these defaulted states' deficits, where the Eurozone can well say, good removal to the PIIGS, and move next to as a stronger unit! Simply for instance, let us shine the light on the happenings in Illinois The state is in utter problem, said Rep. Suzie Bassi (R-Ill. ). We're next to bankruptcy. We've got a $13 billion hole in the $28 billion financial plan. The state is paying out expenses with unfunded vouchers since October. One fifith of buses have stopped. Libraries, owed $400 million, are closing one day a week. Educational institutions are owed $725 million evia. Not capable to pay for professors, they really are planning mass lay-offs. 'It's a catastrophe,' said the Schools Administrator. Again, the dire nature from the U. S. states is much greater than the Eurozone members. Chicken Littles Cry About Euro's Impending Demise (Again! ) Yes, these EU member states were fully from line if they repeated deficit spending. It is simply fine the euro suffered fairly. However, to mention the euro will fall down is just difficult. Before the euro even became an definite entity in 1999, there have been those who did not consider it could survive, as well as would quickly collapse. However, the euro, which suffered initially, ultimately arrived on strong. In 2005, after Sweden and Denmark together rejected to join the euro, gurus again called for the euro to collapse. On the other hand the euro simply came back stronger. In 2008, in the financial fall down, they said the euro would go down apart. And again, the euro came back stronger after selling off. So is that this just another case of euro selling as various Chicken Littles run around calling of the euro's downfall, simply to determine it bounce back as well as return more powerful Otherwise is that this ultimately the hangman's noose for euro Personally, I feel it to be the previous. Here is why The euro is the 2nd most liquid currency in the world, also the 2nd most commonly traded currency in the globe. It is the offset currency to the dollar - and also the close thing to the next world reserve currency. So, if you think that the euro will collapse, then you should believe that the U euboia. S. dollar will continue to soar for years. You should assume our deficit expenses that's gone on for more than eight years now can be no big deal. There are several traders who imagine this way. I call them the deficits don't matter crowd. This blatant disregard for the currency's debt all the time reminds me of a man leaping off the Empire State building. He passes the 56th level and screams So far, so good! The point is long-term deficits always matter. Greece found that out. It can be only a matter of time before the United states. does. We're not considering the United States' deficits show up in the dollar's price however. But it can be beginning to head in that direction. While these deficits do come home to settle, any person having dollars will understand just damaging all that debt actually is! Comparatively discussing, our issues are much bigger. However we still have to hear the market and relay what its saying. For right now, I think the markets will go on to concentrate on the debt issues in EU in lieu of here in United States. Traders are punishing the euro, so we'll witness a little more euro weakness for a few months. But, I do think that may change. Until it does, but, we have to safeguard ourselves from euro weakness. It is going to be an definite drag over the improving U. S. economy, and also the U. S. dollar. But while that takes place, the euro will ensure some life another time. You will not be capable to say that you were not warned! Current Mood: jubilant (Comment on this)
Monday, March 5th, 2012
9:14 pm	Holidays In Rome According to a research carried out by Expedia, one of the most important online tour operators, Rome has been the Italian city that best managed the tourism drop-off during the black biennium (2008-2009). The credit of this result goes to the differentiation of the touristic offer, with suitable solutions for both pilgrims and fashion-victims, and to the wide range of accommodations succeeding in meeting everyones needs: from youth hostels to central apartments, from budget hotels to country villas. A deep analysis of the data collected by Expedia shows that in the last two years Rome has been the choice of Italian visitors all over the year and, therefore, the most important touristic market nation-wide. Moreover, in 2008 Rome has been one of the few European capital cities, along with London and Vienna, that registered an increase in the tourist turnout, although it is still far from many destinations of the old and the new continent, appearing in the top travel destinations. In particular, New York was, at the end of 2009, the favourite destination for Italian people: a clear sign of the dollar weakness, as already happened in London, where a great number of Italians were attracted by a weak pound. After New York and London, this year Italians chose to spend their Christmas holidays in Paris, Madrid, Berlin, Prague, Budapest, Miami, Amsterdam, Vienna and, eventually, Rome, at the 11th place. However, if we consider only the Italian market, Rome is the most popular city by far: if you plan to spend your holidays there, make sure you book an apartment or an hotel for New Years Eve in adequate advance. If compared to other Italian cities, Rome had positive results not only during Christmas time, but also during summer and spring holidays. The favourite destinations of summer 2009 were, besides classic seaside resorts (Spain and Greece in Europe, Sicily in Italy), London the omnipresent and other European cities, such as Stockholm, Copenhagen and Rome, which registered an increase in reservations in comparison to 2008. During Easter holidays and the 1st of May, in spite of the tourist drop-off of in art cities to the good of small villages, Rome entered the chart, along with Venice during Easter, Florence and Modena on the 1st of May. As mentioned above, there is a number of reasons explaining the success of The Eternal City as a tourist destination, and the most of them are easy to understand. epaggelmatikos odigos euboias On the one hand, Rome is a wonderful art city, marked on the maps of the religious tourism. On the other, it is a metropolis rich in events and sites to visit, considered one of the most important fashion districts in the world. However, Rome would not be such a popular destination without the wide range of accommodations offered to visitors: a hostel for young people, maybe attending to the concert of the 1st of May, a cheap apartment or an hotel for families, a simple but cosy room in a bed & breakfast or even a prestigious country villa, if you cannot give up the luxury. Current Mood: bitchy (Comment on this)
Thursday, February 2nd, 2012
7:55 pm	Corfu Travel Tips It is the second largest island in Greek epaggelmatikos odigos euboias. It is the well known institution for the people needing the professional care, its rich land and last stop probably for the long but eventful journey. euboia Many of us like to collect shells from the beaches. Here in Corfu at a distance of approximately 2 km from Benitses you will find a museum that houses special collections of shells from the sea, fossils of fishes, corals, and teeth of sharks, sponges along with other marine remains. It is managed by the family of Mr Napolean Sagias who founded the museum. The museum has one of its shells costing around twenty two thousand USD. It has Haliotis iris, the prettiest of all the shells in the world and a heavy shell called Tridacna Gigas which has weight of 65 kilograms. It's not at all the place to spend money excessively rather it offers one to enjoy a perfect vacation to this place. Many of the tourists from different places are attracted to this trendy spot just because of the wide range of customs and cultures are found here and also due to its unique history. Corfu is a great place to visit with your family and loved ones, to get a taste of the ancient history, and take a souvenir of ancient times as a memory on your return journey to home. The island of Corfu is rich with the rememberings of ancient Greek Gods evia. This place can be, to a certain extent, used for an educational trip with your children at the feet of nature at its greatest. Corfuites, or the residents of the island of Corfu have long been known for their beautiful hospitality towards visitors and foreign residents. on the north-east coast, Corfu is home to beautiful hotels that are expensive but classy. If you are interested in spending a calm and luxurious vacation, then these Corfu hotels are just the place for you. The best Corfu hotels are: Kambiello (oldest part of town, the narrow lanes here gives the flavour of life to live in), the Liston (best known for its cafes and restaurants), Achillion made by the Elizabeth of Austria (famous for its villages, museums and a flourishing casino), Pantocrator (known for its monastery, and to see other places including the toe of Italy), Pondikonisi (one of the little island), Vagelistra island and a beautiful limestone animal sculpture- lion of Menekrates that has been quite unique in Vraila street. So, what are you waiting for go to the most exotic place and enjoy all the holidays freely. Rich Moore writes online for a recognized online global travel network that specializes in great value hotels in Corfu. Current Mood: impressed (Comment on this)
7:16 am	How the Expansion of Rome Was the Start of the End for the Roman Empire The story of Rome is one of adaptation. Rome lasted as an imperial power for about 800 years, but only because it kept changing. The early growth of Roman power sprang from a zealous and rapacious republicanism that eventually threatened to destroy the Republic itself. Unlike Athens, however, Rome restructured to resolve the tension between Republic and Empire. Subsequently, Rome began to resemble the Persia of Cyrus and Darius in the measures it took to cope with its increasing size and multiculturalism. In the end, the extension of Roman citizenship made it hard to continue speaking of an empire at all. CitizensAfter 1200 BCE, the eastern Mediterranean entered a dark age and tribes from around the Danube overran both Greece and Italy. Much of central Italy became settled by Latins. In the 8th century BCE, as a new Greece was forming, three Latin tribes came together as the Romans, in the hills around a crossing point on the River Tiber. Here they farmed pigs and traded salt from the mouth of the river. They had a king, who was advised by a council of 300 elders known as the senate. To the north were the Etruscans. From their heartland in Tuscany they gained control of a string of cities and, around 625 BCE, became kings of the Romans. They built a sewerage system to drain the valley and create the Forum, an area where the hillside villagers could meet to trade and discuss matters. Scattered villages now became a city. Etruscan trade between northern Italy and Magna Graecia ('Greater Greece') in the south brought Greek civilization to the Romans and drew attention to a bridge they had built across the Tiber evia. To defend this bridge, an army of all those able to arm themselves was created, with soldiers organized into ranks depending on the equipment they could afford. The first rank kitted themselves out like Greek infantry, with swords, spears, heavy armour and shields they would lock together to create a solid barrier. By 509 BCE, the nobility of Rome was largely Etruscan, but this did not stop them throwing out their king, Tarquin, following his son's rape of Lucretia, a wellknown noblewoman. The Roman kingdom now became a res publica - a 'concern of the people'. To prevent a return to absolute rule, the new Republic strengthened the senate. It received the power to pass law and oversee the appointment of government. Rome was now led by two consuls, professional civil servants elected annually by the senate after climbing a ladder of promotion. In practice, however, transfer of power to the senate was a gradual process. The senate was staffed by the patrician class, the old nobility, and two hundred years of the plebeians (the rest of Rome's citizens) pushing for political representation kept it weak. General strikes won the plebeians their own assembly - and, moreover, access to the senate for the wealthy among them (as senators were not paid). Eventually, political agitation faded as a new senatorial class of nobles and rich businessmen came to dominate government. The Republic was based on an idea that resonated far beyond the senate, however: the idea of the Roman citizen, a free man of property. Since all property was owned by male heads of families, there was only one citizen for each household, whatever its size. The property requirement went back to the Etruscan army; citizenship meant having the means to help defend the Republic evia. With this came the right to vote and other privileges, but most citizens were farmers for whom cooperating to protect and extend their homesteads meant having a stake in society in and of itself. The citizen army was the basis of Roman identity. With the Etruscan kings gone, trade with the south declined and Rome turned to its Latin neighbours, leading a league of cities to take territory and open trade epaggelmatikos odigos evias. Peeved at not sharing equally in the spoils, the other cities rose up against Rome in 340 BCE, only for Rome to abolish the Latin League, absorb its possessions and continue its own expansion. Roman expansion within Italy was nevertheless a subtle matter. Most of the defeated Latins were made Roman citizens and this became a general pattern. Territory was seized, garrisons were stationed in key locations, roads were built radiating out from Rome, but conquered peoples were often given citizenship or classed as allies with partial rights. Rome benefited from both; citizens paid tax and served in the army, allies paid tribute and supplied their own troops. Beyond this, the different peoples of Italy were becoming used to Roman institutions and Roman culture. Current Mood: sick (Comment on this)
Wednesday, February 1st, 2012
6:57 pm	The Top Five Destinations in Greece Despite its relatively small size, there are numerous places for those taking a vacation in Greece to visit during their stay in the country. The Greek islands are the most popular destinations for tourists but mainland Greece has much to offer too. The major destinations include Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Crete and Rhodes, and here are details on each of those places Greece is relatively small but it offers a wide range of places attractive to travelers. The islands are the leading tourism destinations, but the mainland is also worth visiting. Greece's five most popular tourist destinations are Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes and Crete. evia Athens, as a result of its antiquity and influence, is full of historical sites, museums and galleries, most of which can be found within a relatively small area surrounding the city centre. It also offers sites of natural beauty in the shape of its many parks, hills and mountains, which are ideal for those looking to escape the noise and commotion of the sprawling city streets. Thessaloniki, the second largest city in the country, has a continuous 3000-year history and is included in UNESCO's World Heritage list. The picturesque old town, offers spectacular views over the bay and features traditional old houses and small cobbled streets, and there is a great seafront promenade. It is also considered a gourmet city and has a very active nightlife. The island of Corfu, located just off the West coast of mainland Greece, is a popular destination for holiday makers because of its excellent beaches, rich history and mild Mediterranean climate. It is very green compared to other Greek islands (containing over 2 million olive trees) and boasts a 1000 meter high mountain which offers breathtaking views across to neighboring islands. Crete, Greece's largest island and the southernmost one in Europe, is bathed in sunlight for much of the year. Its mountain villages, long sandy beaches, rocky bays, quiet coves, and a big selection of beach bars and nightclubs, make it a popular travel and vacation destination, as do its abundance of wildlife, plants and flowers, many of which are unique to the island. Inhabited since the Stone Age, the island of Rhodes has a rugged, hilly interior and a rocky coast with many good beaches. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in Greece. The north coast has lively nightlife, while the south is quieter, more traditional and rich in historic sites. The best time to visit these places is from April until November, as during that time all over Greece is hot and dry, and enjoys near-constant sunshine. Some destinations do tend to get very crowded during this time, especially between May and September, but it is normally possible to find a quieter beach or resort, should that be your preference, anywhere, so long as you do some research before making a booking. Flight and accommodation prices tend to be more reasonable than other Southern European countries and, if you spend a little time looking through travel websites and contacting different travel agents, you can normally get a good package deal price that is lower than what is listed in travel brochures. Current Mood: hot (Comment on this)
3:21 am	Italy Interesting Historical Facts Learn about Italy interesting fact, which provides information about Italy real history. Italy is a place with which everyone falls in love. Get Interesting facts about Italy here. Officially Italy is known as Italian Republic, is a country located partly on the European Continent and partly on the Italian Peninsula in Southern Europe and on the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily and Sardinia. The land known as Italy today has been the cradle of European cultures and peoples, such as the Etruscans and the Romans. Italy history dividend in to different phases the main being the roman era, the middle ages and the unification of Italy in the 19th century. Italy has a rich cultural and historical heritage evia. Standing as the testimony to the fact are the countrys roman ruins, renaissance palaces and more than 3000 museums, apart from churches and archeological sites dating back to Roman and Greek times. A few more interesting Italy facts and figures The national game of Italy is Football. The national cuisine of Italy is Pasta. The national bird of Italy is Bluebird. The Italian Wolf is considered the national animal of Italy. Italy's national flower is the Lily. The official currency of Italy is the euro which replaced the lira. Interesting Italy facts Rome is the capital of Italy and the country has Republic government. Archimedes, one of the most famous mathematicians in the world, was born in Sicily. Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare's most popular play, was set in the backdrop of Verona, Italy. Amongst the famous personalities that have been born in Italy are Niccolo Machiavelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Antonio Stradivari, Donatello, Fra Angelico, Tintoretto, Caravaggio, Bernini, etc. Pompeii city of Italy was completely buried after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Bubonic Plague killed one-third of the Italian population in the 14th century. Italy was the cradle of first, Etruscan and then, Roman civilizations. It also served as the center of the first and largest empire in Europe, North Africa and the near East. epaggelmatikos odigos euboias Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet were set in Verona, Italy. Niccolo Machiavelli, the famous political scientist and author of 'The Prince' is Italian. Leonardo da Vinci (1452- 1519) the famous Renaissance painter was also a sculptor, architect, engineer and scientist. Michelangelo (1475-1564) who painted the Sistine Chapel was also a sculptor and architect. Spartacus the slave, fought as a gladiator in the Roman Colosseum. He miraculously escaped, then went on to lead a rebellion but was eventually killed in battle in 71BC. The city of Pompeii was completely buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Current Mood: blah (Comment on this)
Wednesday, January 25th, 2012
11:37 pm	Cruises to Greece Cruises to Greece will provide you with a few sights that you may have never seen. A cruise to Greece will include the coastlines, massive rocky mountains, rivers and natural occurrences that have shaped the land to the unique way it is today. With the view of more than 300 huge rocky masses of mountains, cruises to Greece will be the experience of a lifetime. You had better bring your camera so you may enjoy the view of this magnificent country when you return home. The majestic home of the gods, Mt. Olympus, which is the highest of all in this country, is one of the most popular among the cruise to Greece visitors. Although Greece is a country of mountains the islands are another wondrous sight to behold. There are 6,000 islands and only 227 are populated. Throughout the Aegean and Ionian Sea of which you will be a visitor on your cruise to Greece you will see many of these islets and their coves with stretches of sand so golden it is unreal. Greek ports are often the destination of many cruise ships from many foreign countries and over 500,000 passengers use this method every year to visit one of the most wondrous areas of the world. Cruises to Greece are normally booked rather quickly due to their popularity. However, if this is your plan, do not worry; there are many ships that travel to Greece. Do you want your cruise to Greece to be to the capital city of Athens If so, you can arrange a seven day cruise which includes three nights in this beautiful city and then your cruise begins. Stay at the Hilton Athens Hotel and enjoy the fabulous view of the Acropolis before leaving for your cruise. You will fall in love with the country and when you get aboard the cruise ship it will happen all over again. This is truly one of the most magnificent areas in the world epaggelmatikos odigos evias. Many of the cruise packages have no set schedule. When you contact them, they design the cruise just for you. With ports of call at Spetses, Crete, Kea, Nafplion, Mykonos, Monemvasia and Santorini you will have the chance to experience more than just the sea. The best thing about looking for a cruise to Greece is you do not have to be rich to go. There are many prices that can range from those on a budget to the luxurious cruises. A typical cruise to Greece will dock at Patras and on to land to see the Temple of Zeus. The Olympics home which is quite old will be another site and then on to Athens. After this you will be back on board the cruise ship and go to Mykonos epaggelmatikos odigos evias. Hitting all the hot spots for tourists and allowing you to see as much of Greece as possible, you should expect to spend about 15 days on your cruise to Greece. There are amenities galore on the cruise ship. Your meals are all provided and if you like you may have hotel stays at the ports of call included with your vacation. This will allow you the chance to stretch your legs a bit and see the sights. The cruise ships offer almost anything you want such as spas, casinos, swimming, movie theaters and more evia. The cruises to Greece are going to be one of the best times in your life. There are many cruise packages available all year and the tourist season is from May to November. The booking when you decide on the area of Greece you want to visit is easy because there are so many cruises available. Current Mood: dorky (Comment on this)
Tuesday, January 24th, 2012
5:44 am	Yacht and Gulet Charter Marmaris Turkey Yacht Charter"operating yacht charter Marmaris and gulet charter Marmaris. Marmaris is a port city and a tourist destination on the Mediterranean coast, located in southwest Turkey, in the Mugla Province. Marmaris' main source of income is tourism. While little is left of the sleepy fishing village that Marmaris was just a few decades agoafter a construction boom in the 1980s, Marmaris still retains its charm due to the exceptional natural beauty of its location. It is also a major centre for sailing, possessing two major and several smaller marinas. It is a popular wintering location for hundreds of cruising boaters. There are regular ferry services to the Greek island of Rhodes, and large cruise ships call at the port. This land of lacy coastline is ideal for the sun-worshippers, and offers the most attractive coves and inlets for those who would like to swim, dive or fish. The sheltered bay is a favorite for a relaxing holiday, while also being amazingly excellent for a lively vacation of water sports and sailing. Along the promenade, adorned with palm trees, the Marmaris marina is a busy yachting center and also a pretty sight. The "Yacht Charter Show" organized here every May, is an enjoyable event with captains and crews coming together to sail with nature-lovers, among the impressive southern coasts of Turkey. One also may take the famous "Blue Voyage" from here, and make a fascinating trip along the elegant coastline of the Aegean. Marmaris is a yachting heaven with vast facilities for yacht charters. Marmaris has a Mediterranean Climate characterized by a hot and humid summer and cool, rainy winter. Showers and rain are very unlikely between May and October. Summers are hot and humid, and temperatures can reach over 40C sometimes during heatwaves in July and August. October is still warm and bright, though with spells of rain, and many tourists prefer to visit in the early autumn, especially in September, because the temperatures are not as hot euboia. Winters are mild and wet. Winter is the rainy season, with major precipitation falling after November. The annual rainfall can reach to 1181,8 millimetres (46in); the rainfall is concentrated during scattered days in winter falling in heavy cloudbursts which cause flash floods sometimes in flood prone areas. . Current Mood: sad (Comment on this)
Monday, January 23rd, 2012
4:24 pm	Chippenham,United Kingdom (9th May, 2011) Chippenham,United Kingdom (9th May, 2011) -- Azure Holidays, a leading supplier of villa holidays in France, Greece, Spain, Turkey and many other countries, comment on the popularity of their summer holidays in July and August. Established in 2007, Azure Holidays have quickly become one the UK's leading online holiday villa rental providers and can offer luxury accommodation for a range of destinations, including Mallorca, the South of France, Corfu, the Algarve and the Costa del Sol. Azure Holidays have recently witnessed an overwhelming amount of British customers purchasing villa holidays in July and August, with many of their villa rentals now fully booked. However, while Azure Holidays have received a significant popularity for their July and August holidays, they have noticed a reduction in custom from those who usually take 2 to 4 holidays a year. Azure Holidays announced they have a lot of availability for their luxury villa holidays in May, June and September, and believe this may be due to the increase in fuel prices which have left many people reluctant to spend additional money throughout the year. Andrew Jones of Azure Holidays commented: We are delighted with the influx in custom for our summer holidays in July and August. However, many people seem quite reluctant to purchase villa holidays throughout May, June and September, which may be due to unwanted expenditure or their children having to remain in school until summer term. However, here at Azure Holidays we can offer our customers a range of fantastic holiday villa deals which can make paying for villa rentals less costly than a person might have expected. For more information on Azure Holidays and their summer holiday villa deals, visit their website at http://www epaggelmatikos odigos evias. azureholidays epaggelmatikos odigos evias. com/ or telephone 0124 965 6994. About Azure Holidays: Established in 2007, Azure Holidays are a holiday specialist dedicated to bringing stunning villa rentals directly to their clients direct from the owner, facilitating great value for money in destinations Europe-wide including Spain, Portugal and Tenerife. Contact: Andrew Jones Azure Holidays, 17 Bolts Croft, Chippenham SN15 3GQ Tel: 0124 965 6994 Email: contact@azureholidays. evia com About the Submitter. Current Mood: depressed (Comment on this)
3:20 am	Interesting Facts about Greece One of the important nations of the European nation, Greece is mainly known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. This nation, in geographical terms, is known for the islands and forests. The different beaches of Greece attract lots of tourists every year. The picture which comes to our mind when we think about Greece is that of historical sites, Greek Gods and Goddesses, etc. However, there is much to this country than just the rich heritage of past and traditions. As stated earlier, Greece is one of the popular destinations. There are many interesting facts about Greece which helps understand this country in a better manner. Facts about Greece The Greek culture and traditions are considered to be amongst oldest in the world. Though it is not as old as the Indus Valley and other civilizations from India, Greece has a rich cultural heritage; this country/region has produced notable thinkers, philosophers and great leaders. Get more information on ancient Greek philosophy. The interesting facts about ancient Greece and also the today's/modern day Greece are enlisted below. The social structure of ancient Greece was classified into slaves and citizens. However, the Greek civilization evolved later on and this social structure was modified. Human beings started inhabiting Greece about 5000 years ago. It was however, after 2500 years that the Greek civilization started to flourish. Hellenic Republic is the actual/official name of Greece. The following regions (of today's times) i. e. coastal Turkey, southern Italy, few colonies in southern France, North Africa & Spain were part of ancient Greece. Most important members of the Greek society were priests. It was believed that they could communicate with gods. It was earlier believed that the concept of democracy originated in Greece. evia However, this claim is not true because, the Indian state of Bihar (ancient times) was the first to propagate (and implement) the concept of democracy. More information on democracy in ancient Greece should help. According to the ancient Greek beliefs, Gods came from Uranos (sky) and Gaia (earth). The different Gods were held responsible for different happenings (in the surroundings and nature in general). It believed that Mt. Olympus was the place where the twelve Gods and Goddesses lived. According to Greek mythology, Zeus was ruler of all the Gods and Goddesses. The yo-yo toy originated in ancient Greece some 3000 years ago. The yo-yo is considered to be the second oldest toy ever. Modern day Greek population is considered as one of the most obese in the world. In fact, according to a WHO study made in 2002, men and women from Greece are most obese in the entire Europe. The Olympics originated in Greece. In the first Olympics that were organized in 776 BCE, a game called 'stade' (200 meter sprint) was the only event. The winners of Olympic sporting events were awarded with olive wreaths. Chimera is one of the important Greek mythical creatures. This animal has a body and head of lion. At the back of this animal was a goat's head, while its tail was that of a snake. Pegasus is another creature with the body of a horse; wings were attached to the body. More information on legend of Pegasus should be useful. The National Anthem of Greece is very long and it contains 158 verses. It is no surprise that not a single person has memorized such a long anthem. The information presented above, contains interesting facts about Greece history and other aspects. The information presented above includes 10 interesting facts about Greece and also some of the related facts which are equally important. The interesting facts about Greece presented in this article should help gain an insight about this country with great culture and traditions. Current Mood: apathetic (Comment on this)
Sunday, January 22nd, 2012
3:14 pm	Cheap Europe travel packages make your dream holiday come true It was never so easy and reasonable to enjoy a holiday in Europe but with the cheap Europe travel tours have made it possible for you to conveniently plan a holiday at affordable rates. This beautiful country has a lot to offer to its tourists especially who are history lovers and nature lovers. Europe is the second largest continent and bestows so much. epaggelmatikos odigos evias Europe enjoys various tourists from all across the world and leaves the keen visitors spellbound with magnificent and beautiful destinations. Some of the popular countries include Rome, Paris, London, Italy, Denmark, Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Russia, Spain and Switzerland which enjoy huge visitors rush. You will be able to visit and see some of the world famous places at reasonable rates. While moving from one destination to the other, it will be a totally unforgettable experience. A travel guide or itinerary can be consulted so that you can easily find useful and reliable information about all the tourist spot which will enable easy navigation for you. A cheap Europe travel packages is a complete package which is now made available by many travel agencies. They make all the necessary arrangements from tickets to room reservation, food and transportation arrangements and so on. The package is especially designed to provide complete insight of Europe but that too within your resources. These services are provided by the travel agencies at affordable rates since they have tie ups with hotels, transportation service providers etc. If you want to have any information about the package you can search for it on line and apply for it in the same. You will not have to be deprived of what you want to know because internet provides you with all kinds of information you want. In these tour packages the facilities and all the places to be visited in the Europe will be mentioned properly. So you can pick up any package based on your demand and choice of the places. Current Mood: enthralled (Comment on this)
2:46 am	Guide About Zakynthos Island in Greece - Best Sights, Beaches and Places to Eat Zakynthos (Zante) is located in Greece and is the southernmost of the Ionian Islands. It is 300 kilometers from Athens, the capital of Greece. Zakynthos is the third largest of the Ionian Islands. With heavy rains during the winter months and the sparkling sunshine during the summer the climate in Zakynthos is considered mild Mediterranean. The primary drivers of Zakynthos' local economy include tourism, citrus fruits, olives, and raisins. The island has many beautiful beaches and caves to explore while visiting. Zakynthos is home to truly remarkable natural wonders. The Blue Caves, which are located at Volimes, on the West Coast of the Island are a must see. While they are only accessible by sea there is no shortage of visitors. The pristine waters and beautiful views keep the guests rolling in. Another noteworthy natural wonder is the Askos Stone Park also located at Volimes Village. The park was named after the stone structures that are littered throughout. These famous basins were carved out over 600 years ago by collected rainwater. At the park guests will be able to see hawks, doves, peacocks, deer, rabbit, ponies, cows, horses, goats, sheep, turtles, and chinchillas. They will see all these animals along with the natural plants that grow there. The Post Byzantine Art Museum is located in Town at Solomos Square. The Museum displays treasured icons, frescoes from the 16th and 19th centuries, documents and photos of Zakynthos from before the earthquake that happened in 1953. For local history and art there is no better place to visit than the Post Byzantine Art Museum. The water is continuously beckoning tourists and locals alike. One popular site to visit is Water Village. Water Village is 40,000 square meters of water fun for the whole family. The are nine water slides, family rafting, free fall areas, a lazy river, swimming pools, free umbrellas, a mini golf course, mini cars, trampolines, and bungee castles. They also have snack areas and lockers for guests. For more of a relaxing swim one might want to choose a beach. The Gerakas beach is an excellent choice. It has long sandy beaches and turquoise water to go along with its natural beauty. The beach is protected, as it is the home of the Caretta-Caretta Sea Turtles, which are endangered. The Gerakas beach is a perfect spot for a day of relaxation. After a great day of taking in all the sites there is nothing better than enjoying a perfectly delicious meal. The wonderful homemade recipes are passed down from generation to generation. Zakynthos' local flavor comes from the Ionian Sea, mountains, and warm climate. Specialties of Zakynthos are Stuffed Chicken or Rabbit and Beef Ragout. Two great places to try are Avriakos Estate in Vanato and the Alitzerini Tavern at Kiliomeno. The Zakynthos Island is centrally located amongst the Ionian Islands and the mainland allowing for easy travel. There are several ways to reach the Zakynthos Islands including flights, car, ferries, and by bus. The airport in Athens provides a connecting flight that is just 45 minutes. Car travelers can board the ferry at Kyllini. There is a regular daily ferry that only takes an hour epaggelmatikos odigos euboias. Buses can be caught at either Athens or Patras. For a unprecedented time Zakynthos Islands make a superb choice. For further information about Zakynthos you can visit http://www. euboia zakynthos. us/. Current Mood: tired (Comment on this)
Saturday, January 21st, 2012
1:35 pm	Answers To Money And Shopping Questions While Cruising Europe Money matters can be confusing when traveling but maybe this article will help you out. We always take lots of single and five dollar bills with us on every cruise. They come in handy for taxis, tips for tour guides, tips for the staff, and little souvenirs at craft shops. They are handy if you run across a bartender on the ship that is really treating you well. Europe has now changed to the Euro in many countries making it easier to travel from country to country. The countries that are now using that currency are: Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, The Vatican, Martinique, Guadalupe, Montenegro, and Kosovo. Thanks to the miracle of the ATM machine, it is now easier that ever to get money in foreign countries. Use your ATM card in the machine to get the appropriate amount of money for the days you will be in each country. This eliminates carrying lots of Travelers Checks but take a few in case of emergencies. Never carry big wads of money no matter where you travel. It makes you an instant target. Always keep in mind that you will be unable to reconvert coins so spend them liberally. It will be necessary to know the exchange rate so you can figure out how much you will need. If you are doing a cruise in the British Isles you may make three stops in Ireland so plan for three days of the local currency if you dont want to keep finding an ATM machine. If you are cruising around the Caribbean, every merchant takes dollars and credit cards, I recommend using Credit Cards. If you dont use the above suggestion about using the ATMs the ship will provide a service to change dollars into Euros or any other currency necessary. You should have some of the local money for buying small items such as soft drinks or a snacks, tips or local craft items. Any other purchases should be charged to your credit card because this protects you if there is something wrong with the item or it is not what it is purported to be. The very best way to find out where the good shopping is, ask the crew. Some of the shops actually sponsor the cruise lines shopping lectures. The cruise lines will receive a commission from the stores they recommend. Its a great big commercial to a captured audience, but if there is a problem the cruise lines will stick to their policy and get you a refund. So its a matter of comfort level, go on your own if you think you are savvy enough or go with the cruise lines recommendation to be safe. The days at sea the cruise the ships boutiques will have sales so wait until then to see if what you want has been reduced. If you know what you want to buy when you are cruising, check out the costs at home before you go, including the discount stores. Sometimes you can get a better deal at home with the comfort of knowing its returnable if it is defective. If you buy perfume open the sealed box before you leave port to make sure the perfume has not evaporated. At one of the islands we visited I purchased some perfume and just out of curiosity opened it when we returned to the ship epaggelmatikos odigos evias. The seal was still it tact but the bottle was three quarters empty. Since we were still in port I was able to return it to the store for another bottle. Id like to add just a word on traveling to different ports everyday and credit cards. When we were traveling in Europe I purchased several things in different ports on different days. By the third day the credit card company would no longer honor my card because they were suspicious of theft. For that reason, I always carry two credit cards and make sure both companies know I will be traveling extensively. This is a very good tip to know. Follow this money and shopping advice and you should get along fine no matter which country you visit. Happy Cruising. Copyright 2006 Mary Hanna All Rights Reserved. This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged. Current Mood: disappointed (Comment on this)
1:33 pm	B And B In Italy - The Only Way To Explore The Worlds Favourite Country The world is full of under-travelled people. Whilst many people have explored much of the globe more than once, the majority of people have yet to explore more than a handful of countries, let alone areas outside of their own town or city. As they say, travelling makes the world a smaller place. It's not until you've experienced the little and big differences of other countries that you begin to appreciate the importance of overseas travel. A lot of people have soft spots for particular countries or parts of the world, but if there's one country that's on the lips and in the mind of most people, it's Italy. Great food and wine, beautiful people, awe inspiring coastlines, incredible history, fine shopping and amazing weather are just a few contributing factors to Italy's overwhelming international appeal. evia Some people travel to the other side of the world to visit countries of desire. If you happen to be in this category, then Italy is certainly worth the trip. Accommodation is relatively expensive in most areas of this tourist hot spot, so you might like to consider b and b in Italy. With a population of over 60 million, Italy is located in Southern Europe and on the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia and Sicily. There is simply everything for people who are adventuring Italy. While the sights and sounds of this historic country are head and shoulders above those on offer by other countries in the world. But if there's one thing that is eye-capturing and often representative of Italy's uniqueness and splendour, it's the people. epaggelmatikos odigos euboias They are warm and welcoming and they'll ensure that your first trip to Italy won't be the last. Staying in the b and b in Italy is the perfect option for holiday explorers. This form of accommodation is not only cheap but there are plenty of them available right throughout Italy's heartland euboia. If you jump on Google, type in Italy and click on images, you'll quickly discover the sheer beauty that is on offer. You can certainly expect nearly all bed and breakfasts in Italy to be surrounded by mouth watering scenery. Whether you've been to Italy or not, you'll find that most people will consider it to the ultimate place to visit. If you're spending a few weeks or months in b and b in Italy, you could consider picking olives or grapes as a means to earning a bit of money to help pay for the wonderful food, wine and shopping on offer. Whichever part of Italy you discover, you can expect nothing short of satisfaction. Current Mood: annoyed (Comment on this)
1:05 am	Hang Gliding In Rio The last goal I had on my 2009 dreamline was to hang glide off a mountain in Rio. This was one of those goals that I kind of didn't really know what I was getting myself into until the day it happened. My ride to the mountain shows up on time at 11 am. With a little chit chat in the car about some pre-flight jitters and some conversation with the owners about how we were going to shoot the opening of our Rio video - more on that later - off we go. In 15 short minutes from our hotel in Ipanema (the Fasano) we arrive at our mountain. The drive (circling from mountain base to mountain top) takes another 15 minutes to reach what I'm going to call the launching pad. When we arrived at the top, it honestly just looked like a big dirt patch with a bunch of overgrown paper airplanes queued up in one direction. It was so foggy (cloudy) that you could barely see anything. evia My pilot introduced himself and informed me that I would be his co-pilot for the flight (more like the schmuck strapped to him like a terrorist straps a pack of dynamite to themselves). He said beacuse of the clouds we would have to sit on the top of the mountain and wait for the clouds to clear before we could go. I thought ok, no problem, just let me know when to yell Geronomo. Apparently there is a team of guys on a lower level of the mountain that radio up to the pilots and let them know when they see the clouds clearing and to get ready. As I'm making my rounds interviewing the adrenaline junkies around me, I hear (what seemed like) 20 walkie talkies going off at once in Portuguese. Everyone scrambed for their hang gliders - it was like an air raid siren had gone off in Pearl Harbor. My pilot screams in near perfect English "Let's go, Robert, it's time! " "Ok, but isn't there a lesson we have to do first" "No. Well, yeah, when I say run - run as fast as you possible can". He then strapped me to him and then again to the hang glider and put us in line behind 10 other fellow nut balls. As we are inching our way to the launch pad (which honestly is a 20 foot wooden deck angled to the ground) my pilot is picking up our toy plane like a fat lady would pick up her dress so it didn't drag on the floor. I asked him again for any last minutes tips (as my heart started moving into a new rhythm of taccacardia that I haven't experienced before - remember, I'm a cocktail guy, not adrenaline guy). He said "Well, right before we jump, don't look down. It will probably freak you out". I said "Ok. Probably good advice, but I can't see anything from up here, it's so foggy". He said "look now"! Holy S**t! ! ! ! Words can NOT ever describe the rush of looking down from the top of that mountain all the way down to the beach! "Ok, Robert, here we go. . . 1-2-3 RUN! ! ! ". The second after launch you feel like a paper airplane gone bad, then in a nano second a wind catches you and takes you where it wants to go. Surreal, is the only over used word I can think of to capture the moment. You truly feel like a bird flying through the air and you never want it to end. This is one of those moments in life that you will NEVER forget. Remember, filling the void is about not just doing things - it's about doing exciting and interesting things- and Hang Gliding defiantly qualifies! Current Mood: nostalgic (Comment on this)
Tuesday, January 17th, 2012
4:35 pm	Why Is Paris Considered One Of The Most Romantic Cities In The World Norm Goldman, Editor of Sketchandtravel. com and Bookpleasures. com is excited to have as a guest, world- wide Paris expert, Thirza Vallois. Thirza is the author of the three volumes of "Around and About Paris", and another excellent book," Romantic Paris". Thirza has lived in Paris for the past 40 years and holds several post-graduate degrees from La Sorbonne. She contributes to television and radio and has appeared on PBS, BBC, The Travel Channel, Discovery, CNN, The French Cultural Channel, among others. She also writes for The Financial Times, United Airlines' Hemispheres, Cond Nast Traveller, among others. She is the author of Three Perfect Days in Paris, aired as a film on all United Airlines international flights and on television throughout the world. The article has won her the first award of NATJA (the North American Travel Journalists' Association). Thirza has also contributed the Paris entry of the latest edition of The Encarta Encyclopaedia. Thirza is also an expert on the Aveyron area in southern France. During the past several years she has devoted much of her time to exploring and studying this region of France. She is now completing a new book on this last hidden region of France, to be published in 2006. Thirza has also informed me that she has been travelling extensively in the USA, especially to California, about which she has written a couple of articles, with more to follow Today, Thirza will be discussing with us why Paris is so romantic Good day Thirza and thank you for accepting to be interviewed by sketchandtravel. com and bookpleasures. com. Norm: Thirza, could you tell us something about yourself, how you started as a travel author and writer, how many travel books have your written, and why have you chosen to write about Paris Thirza: A long time ago, when I was still a child, and travelling was still the privilege of the "happy enlightened few", I happened to be blessed with an exceptional mother who believed that the best school was life itself and that the best way to embrace life was by travelling. My exposure therefore started at a very young age, as did my love for writing, through which I expressed myself the way one does through painting, singing, playing an instrument, dancing. . . . I never intended to become a writer, it was just part of me. And I never chose to write about Paris. It just happened, and for two specific reasons looking back with hindsight. Being a savvy traveller, it upset me to see how most visitors to Paris (and any other place), do it the wrong way, using directory-like guidebooks that make them go through all the endless lists of touristy "musts", rather than point them to the "real" place, which is the city itself. It is only through an in-depth exploration and the understanding of a place that one can make the most of one's visit, and that's what my books "Around and About Paris" are all about. Like all forms of self-expression, there is always an element of therapy behind the motivation, and I certainly needed to do my own therapy regarding Paris when the idea of writing about Paris began to gestate in my mind, back in the 1980s. Paris has changed dramatically since, but in those days it was an exasperating place, inhabited by very difficult people, to say the least, and my feelings for it were far from the phony "I love Paris in the spring time" picture postcard cultivated by Hollywood. It was really a love and hate passion, and I needed to understand my own heart, which could only happen through understanding the city. It is the combination of the above that gave birth to my 3-volume series, "Around and About Paris". As for "Romantic Paris", it was their natural extension in a way. Once I provided my reader with all the meaty stuff, it was time to relax, enjoy and feast, and who does it better than lovers It was a book written for lovers, past, present, and future, for whom Paris, more than any other city I can think of, has been designed by the gods. This also answers your other question. I have so far written four books on Paris. I have actually written a fifth book on Paris, targeting children, but have never pursued its publication (to my regret), having embarked on my new project, my book on the Aveyron which is now more than two thirds done. Norm:Can you explain to our audience why Paris is among the top romantic venues in the world Thirza:Everyone asks me this same question, on every interview. The answer I give is always the same, and best resumed in the introduction to "Romantic Paris". Rather than paraphrase, let me quote directly from my book:"For decades I tried to figure out why Paris is shrouded in such mystique. Granted, walks at night along the Seine are enchanting, but that alone cannot explain why the very mention of Paris had always conjured up tales of romance, well before it was blessed with gas or electricity, well before its exquisitely lit street-corners were replicated the world over in black-and-white print. After all, medieval Paris was a dark den of filth, reeking with nauseous stench, and the two sinister prison fortresses that jutted out of its skyline could hardly have been conducive to romance. Not to mention the 32 rotting corpses dangling in the offing when the royal gallows was used to full capacity. Yet the myth has been perpetuated for a good thousand years. I racked my brains, I dug into the past, I travelled into my own psyche looking for an answer, but I came back empty-handed epaggelmatikos odigos euboias. There simply is no answer. There lies the beauty of the enigma. Paris is poetry, Paris is mystery, Paris is beauty-an exasperating decoy that never quite delivers, all the more compelling for its imperfection, the archetypal reservoir of all our passions. . . . "Norm:If you had to choose six unique romantic venues in Paris, where would they be and whyThirza:Very tough question, and it sometimes depends on the season or time of day or night, because "romantic" implies seclusion. *Definitely the two western tips of the two central islands, Ile de la Cit and Ile Saint-Louis, but down the steps, at water level, and in the case of Ile Saint-Louis, preferably after dark. *The tiny place de Frstemberg, near the church of Saint-Germain-des-Prs: it is a rare jewel after dark, but is also quite heavenly in the morning, when one can meanwhile take in the delightful little Delacroix Museum. *Place Dauphine, on the western side of Ile de la Cit, also preferably after dark. *Buttes Chaumont, which has all the ingredients of a Brahms symphony that would have appealed to the likes of Lord Byron: a grotto, a dramatic waterfall, a lake with weeping willows, sheer cliffs topped by a Temple de l'Amour-what better place for a lovers' kiss with eastern Paris spread like a carpet at your feet! euboia * Palais Royal (the home of writer Colette and Jean Cocteau), in early morning, before the arrival of the crowds, or at night time, after they have departed. * Montmartre, especially on the little frequented side streets, again in the early hours of the morning, or after dark. Norm:Could you describe to our audience six unique wedding venues in Paris to celebrate a marriage, and explain why you would consider these venues to be most uniqueThirza: Once more the choice is tough, so I am trying to be as eclectic as I can, to match people's different tastes. *Without any shadow of doubt, my first choice would go to a cruise boat on the river Seine. These come in different categories and different price ranges, my favourite fleet being "Les Yachts de Paris". Nothing equals in terms of urban beauty and glamour the city's river views, even more so when seen from the water. Try to prolong your festivities into the night so as to enjoy the splendour of the floodlighting. Les Yachts de Paris10, quai Henri IV, 75004Tel: 01 44 54 14 70 *At a price, every monument of Paris is for hire, even the Chteau of Versailles. If I were to hire one of them (or just part of one) for my wedding, I would probably go for the Jacquemart-Andr Museum, because as the one-time home of the famous art collectors Edouard Andr and Nlie Jacquemart, it has a private feel,to a certain extent, despite its palatial glamour, which makes it an ideal venue for a wedding occasion. The couple's fabulous art collection is on permanent display on the magnificent premises of the museum. Muse Jacquemart-Andr158, Boulevard Haussmann, 75008*Countrified weddings are always appealing, and the Bois de Boulogne is as countrified as you can get within the boundaries of Paris. Le Pr Catelan offers luxury and refinement amidst beautiful green surroundings, combined with the the renowned Le Ntre's top-quality catering. Le Pr CatelanBois de BoulogneRoute de Suresnes, 75016Tel 01 44 14 41 14 *If you wish to have it countrified while staying in central Paris, you can opt for the discreet magnificence of the peach-coloured Laurent, in the lower gardens of the Champs-Elyses, and still enjoy the leafy surroundings of one of the city's most prestigious neighbourhoods (the presidential residence is across the street). Make sure to hire a dining room that comes with a terrace. Le Laurent41, avenue Gabriel, 75008Tel: 01 42 25 00 39*There was once an excellent film by Chabrol, Le charme discret de la bourgeoisie. That kind of charm, which was first and foremost that of the old aristocracy, was beautifully captured by Marcel Proust. It still lingers on Faubourg Saint Germain in the 7th arrondissement, notably in the 18th century townhouse, now the home of the celebrated Ecole Polytechnique alumni, where many of the nation's creme de la creme elite were trained. La Maison des Polytechniciens12, rue de Poitiers75007 ParisTl: 01 49 54 74 74 *The avenue d'Ina, in the plush neighbourhood of the 16th arrondissement, is home to a magnificent town mansion from the late 19th century, decorated in traditional, period French style and overlooking a beautiful garden. Ideal for a wedding in grand style. La Maison des Arts et Mtiers9bis avenue d'Ina75116 ParisTel: 01 40 69 27 00Norm: If you are planning to have a destination wedding in Paris, how far in advance should you prepare for the wedding, and where would you go to find out about the legal requirements Thirza: There is a strict separation between state and church in France (see the recent headlines about the Islamic veil. . . . . ). This is important to understand because only civil marriage is recognised by French law. It is celebrated by the Mayor of the arrondissement where one of the spouses resides, and the ceremony takes place in the Salle de Marriage of the Mairie of that same arrondissement. There is a legal procedure to go by and you will need to seek legal advice for that. If you are considering a civil marriage in France, a lawyer is the person to consult, obviously (although I do know how it works, this is not the right forum to expand on administrative issues). You may also require the service of a notaire, should you be dealing with property issues. Your lawyer can refer you to a notaire. On the other hand, you don't need to be a French resident for the celebration of your religious or non-religious ceremony, nor do you need any legal advice for that. However, you should definitely prepare for it as early as possible because, as they say, "the early bird catches the prey". Certainly months ahead, if not a year, should you plan your wedding to take place in spring or early summer. Norm: If you had to choose three of the most romantic restaurants in Paris, which ones would you choose and why Thirza: * If by romantic we imply secluded cosiness which is what lovers usually seek, and since I haven't yet focused on winter, the Coupe Chou comes first to my mind, located in an ancient medieval house in the Latin Quarter, a few steps away from the Sorbonne. It's all dark nooks and crannies, which are graced with glowing log fires. If only it could snow more often in Paris than it does these days! It would then be altogether fit for a fairy tale. As an extra bonus, this is a medium-range restaurant pricewise. Le Coupe-Chou9, rue de Lanneau, 75005Tel: 01 46 33 68 69* Le Beauvilliers in Montmartre, on the other hand, is a pricy place, but as good as it comes and cheaper than others that fall into that category. Here you step into the romantic splendour of the Second Empire in the heart of real Montmartre, just a few minutes'walk from the differently (yet equally) romantic and cottagy Lapin Agile cabaret, where I would head after dinner, for a night filled with old French songs, sketches and hearty laughter. Le Beauvilliers52, rue Lamarck, 75018Tel: 01 42 54 54 42* Laprouse, a pricy place too, cannot be overlooked either, its scintillating setting having been the rendezvous of Venus's protegs. There is even a private boudoir-lounge where the two of you can dine alone undisturbed. It comes with elaborate, dainty decorations and is named La Belle Otero after the famous, fiery courtesan. If you are worried for your good reputation, note that France's most honoured members of literati also dined here regularly, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, George Sand among them. Remember that the French have a sophisticated, unpuritanical approach to love. Laprouse,51, quai des Grands-Augustins, 75006Tel: 01 43 26 68 04Norm: If a couple were planning to honeymoon in Paris, and were not sure which area to stay in, which three areas of the city would you choose and why Thirza: Saint-Germain-des-Prs/Luxembourg area, Paris at its most sophisticated, colourful and arty, lined with extraordinary boutiques that will be hard to resist. It boasts a greater number of "htels de charme" than any other part of the city, which speaks for itself, and that's exactly the kind of hotel a honeymooning couple would choose to stay at, short of choosing one of the city's luxury hotels. The Marais is similar in spirit but is less spacious, and doesn't have a park. It also has several "htels de charme", though not quite so many as Saint-Germain. Ile Saint-Louis because it is a self-contained miniature of romance, lined with boutiques and eating places of all sorts, and conveniently located for every part of Paris. It has four "htels de charme" to choose among and is within a few minutes' walk from both the Marais, on the Right Bank, and the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank. Norm: Is Paris a safe city to visit Thirza: No city and no place on earth is fullproof. As I am writing this interview South East Asia is subjected to a deluvian tragedy, all the way to the eastern shores of Africa. Paris is as safe as a big city can be, but one should always use one's common sense and avoid carrying cash and other valuables when going out. Pickpocketing is rife, and I have been victim to it many a time myself- A brief moment of distraction and your wallet is gone. Leave all your valuables in your safe, and carry a photocopy of your passport rather than the original document. Watch out even at the airport and hold on to your handbag in all public places (including your taxi: some delinquents may open the door and snatch your bag at a traffic light or in a traffic jam. They often operate on motorcycles and that has happened to me too). Be sensible but not paranoid. Norm: When is the best time to visit Paris from the point of view of climate, crowds, travel deals, etc Obviously spring time is unique. Good weather is never guaranteed though, no matter what time of year, but should the gods be with you, then spring, by definition, is the season of romance, and an early feel of spring can even be detected as early as on Valentine's. I personally have a distaste for July and August, especially from the middle of July on. Most Parisians are replaced by tourists, often in organised crowds, and it just isn't it. This can also happen at weekends during spring because Europeans nowadays are very fond of weekend city breaks. Fall is a beautiful time of year, often accompanied by a lingering Indian summer, which the golden beauty of the trees contribute to enhance. Strange as it may seem, I find Paris particularly romantic in winter, when the leafless trees allow you to enjoy the architecture of its buildings. After dark the city is altogether magical,as its street lamps don it with an amber light. It can be cold, but all you have to do is dress accordingly and make the most of the fact that you are likely to be alone out there and the entire city will belong to you and your sweetheart, as you stroll through the streets or by the river into the late hours of the night. At Christmas time you will also enjoy the festive decorations, which, it being Paris, tend to be exquisitely elegant and tasteful. As for travel deals, they are the same all over the world. Prices shoot up in the summer and plummet in the low season. Norm: How easy or difficult is it to get around Paris Thirza: It is extremely easy to get around Paris. Public transportation (buses, mtro and RER express trains) is very efficient and many lines run beyond midnight. Taxis are easily available except on weekend nights. They also get grabbed into thin air as soon as it starts raining. However, Paris is regularly disrupted by protest and other demonstrations (the French thrive on them), which can paralyse the city, usually from 2:00 pm on, often with no forewarning. It is therefore good to stay in central Paris so that you can make your way back to your hotel on foot, should you experience one of those typically French "happenings". Norm: Is there anything else that you wish to add about Romantic Paris that we have not discussedThirza: Most of the recommendations in this interview are on the pricy side, because we are speaking here of a special event and moment in your life. My book "Romantic Paris" has pages and pages of tips and recommendations of things to be done and enjoyed on all budgets, including low budgets. Paris can truly be enjoyed romantically on a shoestring. The best of Paris is strolling through its streets, and that costs little or nothing. I have designed several romantic walks for you in "Romantic Paris". That's over and above the scores of walks woven into "Around and About Paris". Put on your most comfortable footgear and venture into the city, including in the heart of winter. Soak it all up. And try, just once, to stay up all night, so that you can enjoy a sunrise either from the river, or from the foot of the Sacr Coeur. Thanks once again and best of luck on all of your future endeavours including your future book on Aveyron. Current Mood: peaceful (Comment on this)
4:35 pm	How To Maintain Your Natural Healthy Weight Loss Plan For healthy people to lose weight is simple: burn more calories than you consume. Your healthy weight is determined by the ratio of height and weight in your body or body mass index (BMI) and fat amount. Unfortunately, 60% of the population in North America are considered overweight, because, according to food high in saturated fats and trans fats lead to many diseases and become a BMI index of unhealthy eating a heavy burden on our national health care system. For many people tend to lose weight, but to maintain this weight loss is a big trouble and issue to be concerned. In fact, if you have a healthy weight-loss plan, you will not have any questions, insisted that the weight loss. 1) suggested that trick you into weight loss body For many people tend to lose weight, but to maintain this weight loss is a big trouble. In fact, if you have a permanent healthy weight-loss plan, you will not have any questions, insisted that the weight loss. There are some weight loss tips that may assist you, you may have to bear in mind in their daily diet. 1. Replace high-density low-nutrient density foods Is low, such as fruits and vegetables, food, bulk density, filling, contain fewer calories which means that it can assist in losing your body weight and control the hunger rate in your body. Through the consumption of fewer calories, you can weight over time, to maintain delay. 2. Pile your food Additional food off the air less heat. Studies have shown that people drinking water is no longer off the air than normal milkshake milkshake consumption, 28% of calories, because no additional milkshake mix and quantity of air evia. 3. Food, in order to avoid Keep away any foods that contain saturated fatty acids and trans-fat, high. Dipping, high-calorie fried foods can contain any excess fat will be stored for future use, resulting in weight gain. In addition, saturated fat and trans fats may cause bad cholesterol Clogg of the arteries, causing heart disease. 4. Restrictions on grain varieties Over eating of food will make you go beyond the fullness, because you want to taste everything. Do your best to limit only a handful of snack choices at home you will consume less because you will get tired of the same old food. 5. Replace low-calorie beverages or water, high-calorie drinks Studies have shown that you can drink without weight gain, high-calorie beverages, because high-calorie drinks right through your stomach to register it realization. Therefore, you may intake more calories, but you will still feel hungry. 2) and the weight-loss foods contain high levels of fiber As the fiber to improve colon function, to maintain large intestine strong, accelerated the grain of the muscles and increase transit time stool (faeces volume size), which helps prevent constipation and hemorrhoids. Fiber-rich foods are usually low in fat and, therefore, it is very important to weight control component. Now, we will talk about why the food contains a lot of high-fiber will lose your body weight effectively. 1. Dietary fiber can provide high-calorie food for each Since most fibers could not be digested in your body, this is because they have a negative calorie effect. Fiber does also help to deceive the feeling than you would normally consume low-calorie full of your stomach. 2. To extend the dining High-fiber foods need a lot of chewing and swallowing. Therefore, you need a longer time to complete the meal. 3. To fill your stomach Soluble fiber absorbs water and your stomach to form the gel, this swelling, resulting in a signal in your stomach receptors to your brain, you are still full and no longer need to eat. 4. Stable blood glucose Containing high-fiber foods such as whole grains, yuba released into the blood stream in the sugar slowly, so as to stabilize blood sugar support to help lose weight. Is also a high fiber diet can affect the blood glucose response, the next meal, your blood sugar to keep in one day more stable. 5. Improve your hormones Glucagon-like peptide-1, a small protein produced naturally in the human body, and can slow down the digestive process, so there will be a sense of fullness, so you lose weight. 6. Prevent certain calories Fiber block absorption of calories, strengthen the body's absorption of nutrients. Studies have shown that diet contains only 20 grams of fiber a day to absorb more than 48 grams of dietary fiber containing more than 8% of calories. . How to lose weight food alternative The most healthy weight is determined by the ratio of height and weight in your body or body mass index (BMI) and fat amount. Unfortunately, 60% of the population in North America are considered overweight, according to BMI index. We also discussed the negative weight of the article, "food make you lose weight. " In this article, we will discuss how to lose weight your diet and food alternatives. 1. Dip fried foods crispy and tasty, but it contains a lot of saturated fat, resulting in arteries with cholesterol, heart disease and unhealthy weight gain has. You can avoid these steaming, stir, and consume more cold water fish. 2. Add a teaspoon of pepper and mustard meal will increase the metabolic rate as much as 25 percent. 3. Replace your low-fat yogurt or low-fat condensed cream recipe. 4. Do not stifle your butter or sour cream baked potato. Replacement or a low-fat salsa pepper. 5. Use olive oil or canola oil instead of animal fat or vegetable oil. 6. Add nuts to your diet. Nuts are high fat and nutrition, so include them in your diet, but do not overdo it. 7. Mung bean paste in the peanut butter cookies butter substitute, reduce fat and increase fiber. 8. To meat or cranberry sauce, tomato sauce and gravy Skip poultry. Click here for the hair zone 9. If you do not eat your food, while walking, driving or watching TV, you will eat less and enjoy your food 10. Put your spinach instead of lettuce sandwich, because spinach is more nutritious. . How to lose weight medicine As we have mentioned in other articles, weight loss is simple: burn more calories than you consume. If you have a healthy eating plan, which includes a lot of fruits, vegetables, less meat and dairy products andare low in saturated fatty acids and trans fats, it will help you lose weight and keep it off longer. In this article, next to some of the eating plan, we found that some herbs can help you lose weight and keep it off forever: 1. Fennel Seeds Fennel is a well-known fat metabolism and get rid of the material through the urethra. It has a pungent odor, is a vitamin A can significantly improve a rich visual acuity. Fennel seeds aid digestion and promote liver and kidney function, spleen, so as to ensure processing and the elimination of healthy dietary fat. 2. Cleaver Cleaver is the most famous and health supplements can help remove waste and toxins, one of the lymphatic system is a good antidote. Cleaver is a strange lesson appetite, but by speeding up fat metabolism. 3. Raspberry leaf Red raspberry leaf is very useful to many people's health. Red raspberry leaf can be used to treat various problems. Next to a reputation as a slimming aid, raspberry leaf tea is thought to help control diarrhea, nausea, and help with pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum mothers easier. 4. Japanese Green Tea 3 to 5 cups of green tea consumed in the meal will help to boost your metabolism, which means burning more calories faster. 5. Burdock Root Burdock help improve carbohydrate metabolism, and aid the body's hormonal health and because of its ability to control weight and cleansing detoxification pituitary gland. 6 Stellaria Stellaria media has been widely used as a wash to relieve eye pain, while the leaves can be used to ease the cuts and ulcers. It contains vitamin C, protein, flavonoids, phytosterols and glycosides, as well as a large number of high. Stellaria media may be useful when the weight of a healthy lifestyle, proper diet and exercise, including the loss. 7. Chlorella Chlorella to help restore the body's natural balance and AIDS stimulates intestinal peristalsis, any weight-loss program. 8. Royal Jelly Royal jelly is fed by the workers of honey queen bee to stimulate her growth and development of bee milky secretion. Royal Jelly also said to improve athletic and sexual function, slow the aging process and promote weight loss. More herbal medicines, has the same effects, such as cinnamon, etc. to lose weight 5, how to lose weight of common sense Coupled with a healthy diet plan and consumption of fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy products are saturated and trans fats will help you lose weight and keep it close and low. We must talk to your physician or weight loss specialists before you begin any weight-loss plan to epaggelmatikos odigos evias. Here are some common sense states that can help you to lose your body weight: 1. Do not skip your breakfast Skipping meals will only make you eat the next meal. After a long period of hunger, your stomach triggers the brain to release more chemicals, you eat more (more than two meals combined, the next meal). 2. Accordance with the BMI index According to the U. S. National Institutes of Health healthy weight is defined as body mass index of 24 or less. Body mass index for men and 25-30 women were considered to be overweight. Body mass index is a reliable person, from 19-70 years of age. Research shows that people 64 years old, from dying from heart disease does not deal with the risk of body mass index between 25-27. Body mass index over 28 seems to increase the risk of heart disease. 3. Slowly, surely Change your habits slowly. Day to replace some saturated fatty acids and trans fatty foods And health food. Gradually began to exercise. Walk for several days, a day after 10 minutes 15 minutes, 30 minutes. Keep going until you work, and then gradually rose to do a good job monitoring work plan. Very pleased if you lose 2-3 pounds a week. 4. Medium to stay active in In the computer or TV all day sitting in front will increase the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, II diabetes, obesity, heart disease and depression. 5. Shopping Parking Parking in the parking lot at the end of your car will help you burn more calories. If you calculate calories, burn all your travel, you take measures, such as shopping, grocery shopping, work, pick up kids from school, you will be surprised. 2,506 per mile will burn 125 calories. 6. Moderate alcohol intake Moderate alcohol consumption does not contain fat, cholesterol, sodium, rarely drinks and often associated with women's weight-related losses. Moderate alcohol consumption and better health, live longer. Drink red wine 2 cups cups of women and men, every day will help to enhance blood circulation, reducing heart attack risk. 7. Studies have shown that eating chicken soup with rice and drinking water before a meal will help curb the appetite. m. How to lose weight with the Mediterranean Diet As we have mentioned in other articles, a healthy person weight loss is simple: burning more calories than you input. The most healthy weight is determined by the ratio of height and weight in your body or body mass index (BMI) and fat amount. Unfortunately, 60% of the population in North America are considered overweight, according to BMI indices. There must be something that our eating problems. In areas such as Italy and Greece, where the distant south, most people have a longer living period, because their diet contains fruits and vegetables. In southern Italy and Greece, the only people eating fish and poultry meat several times a week several times a month. Their high-carbohydrate diet, only contains 8% of saturated fat. You can seek for some very good traditional Greek restaurant in your local food products. Here are some dinner, I found the eating habits than we are different: 1. Tasting souvlaki Also shish kebob that it contains a lot of vegetables and a small amount of meat. This is one of about 300 calories, 10 grams of fat meal only an average of 1 / 5 of the saturated fat. 2. Pita Bread Sandwiches Pita bread sandwiches, including a significant lettuce, some meat, feta cheese and cucumber juice. It contains approximately 800 45 of total fat and saturated half grams of calories. Unfortunately, the impact of the Western diet, these meals, we found that some are no longer a real Greek food. They are high in meat and saturated fat, so please do not think that all of the Greek restaurant is the original Mediterranean diet. There are two of the original Mediterranean diet recipes will not only help you lose weight, you can also reduce your blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, the level of bad cholesterol. With dill yogurt 1. Sauce (source from Ellaia) * Yogurt dill sauce * 300 grams. Yogurt, low-moisture content * 1 spoon dried dill * 1 garlic, salt, pepper * 2 tablespoons olive oil ELLAIA * 1 spoon lemon juice. * We are in the pulp and a little garlic salt and mortars. In a deep bowl, with our garlic, dill and pepper, olive oil and lemon we continue until they strike a good yogurt mixture. epaggelmatikos odigos evias We believe that the mixture in the refrigerator. Accompanied by vegetables and vegetable salad. 2. Meat with plums from the Ellaia (source) * 1,5 kg of meat (pork, lamb, beef, or chicken) * 1 onion * Salt, pepper, nutmeg * 1 cinnamon stick * 5-62 Lemon clovesjuice * 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil ELLAIA * Half a kilo plums * 1 cup almonds * 2 tablespoons sugar or honey * Wash and cut the meat part of the. We have a basin, and throw in the large particles, salt, pepper, onion, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and the lemon juice. We left the meat marinated 2-3 hours, and we cherish the water wet to absorb the water, but also to facilitate the peeled almonds. We are placed in a pot of olive oil fried meat. We and liquid immersion Marinades, we add 1-2 cups hot water, we boiled the meat cold until it get soft. We have also put the plums, almonds and honey or sugar, we let them cook a few minutes. Finally, we will provide you with a list of food Mediterranean-style diet. It contains cheese, eggs, fish and seafood, fruits, cereals, legumes, nuts, olive oil, red wine, vegetables and yogurt. In the top of the pyramid contains meat, poultry and lower, more broad-based, with dairy products, oils, fruits and vegetables. 7. How to lose weight fiber Fiber is plant material, humans can not digest parts. There are two kinds of dietary fiber, soluble and insoluble species. Both are important to bowel function. Soluble fibers dissolve in water, forming a gel in the intestine. Insoluble fiber passes through the digestive system virtually intact, and to increase stool volume and the role of sponge to absorb water. If you have experienced a diet plan or program and other weight-loss drugs, supplements, despite your efforts do not seem to lose weight, then you might not eat enough fiber. Studies have shown that people eat up to 60 fiber per day, 85%% of ideal weight. In the U. S. , on average only about 15% of fiber per capita consumption, which may be 60% of adults obese reasons. Here are some foods high in fiber: 1. Yuba Yuba is a high-fiber, contains protein. The dry fiber-rich complex carbohydrates, like other legumes make you feel full faster and easier. Therefore, it is an ideal slimming food. Is also a high-fiber diet can reduce the risk of colon cancer, as well as cholesterol levels, we know that could lead to heart disease. 2. acai berry Acai Berry is full of vitamins and minerals, can help reduce weight, strengthen muscles and increase overall energy. Acai berries help to increase, such as burning more calories doing housework and exercise regularly your calorie consumption rate. This increase in metabolic rate can be dramatically lose weight. 3. Whole grain products Whole grain is very nutritious, as they are vitamins, a good source of phytochemicals, and you need a day, the daily life of minerals. Whole grain products generally take longer to digest, which gives the feeling of fullness, thereby preventing weight loss program from overeating the next person. This is basically how weightlessness help. 4. Broccoli Broccoli is not only low-calorie, but also cheap. Broccoli is the most delicious and healthy vegetables, it can be a readily available throughout the year. Broccoli can help you to lose your body weight effectively, because they are high in fiber and water, so you get some calories of food a lot. 5. Celery Celery has a high concentration of calcium is the light of your endocrine system. The hormones help to break the establishment of fat, weight loss accumulation. 6. Spinach Spinach is a dart green, negative calories vegetable. This is an excellent source of powerful disease fighting antioxidants and iron, a good source of vitamins and minerals. Spinach is a fiber and 1 cup steamed spinach is only 42 calories. 7. Seeds and Nuts Seeds and nuts are rich in protein, nutrients and fiber. It contains Omega fatty acids, which means that many nuts and seeds can make you feel more fully, and to prevent weight loss results you eat too much. All of these are the foods we eat every day, and contains high levels of fibers, help to improve bowel function and transition time, and weight loss. 8. Negative calorie foods These foods make you lose weight, because they have such a small amount of heat, it needs more calories to digest them, and then the food itself contains. One example is the food, which contains 25 calories, 50 calories your body, subject to break down and digest. Celery First of all, if you have to eat celery, you know this requires some work to chew, and with one, which contains a single 5-calorie chewing may consume more calories, and then celery contains a Water ice Ice water significantly cooler than your normal body temperature, so that regular consumption of tap water, rather than ice water will cause your body to burn excess calories, so that its temperature back to normal. Orange A medium-sized orange is sparse 37 calories. Kumquat fruit Each kumquat fruit is 13 calories Lettuce Only 6 calories per cup lettuce services. Lettuce is 10 calories per cup service. Spinach 1 cup of spinach contains 7 calories Cherry Tomato 3 Cherry Tomatoes contain 6 calories. Mushroom Mushrooms is 15 calories a cup. Current Mood: pessimistic (Comment on this)