eHow.com

Praising the benefits of cruising, eHow.com reports, "All-inclusive cruises are the greatest way to take a luxury vacation during an economic recession. Overall the cost per day for the amenities you are purchasing can be less than half of a traditional vacation. In addition, a cruise vacation offers many things which may not be available on a traditional vacation at a fraction of the cost."

USA Today

Pointing out the enormous value of cruises, USA Today reminds readers that cruises are not just for recessionary times. "The cruise industry always has been relatively resistant to economic downturns, thanks in large part to its reputation as a provider of good value as compared to land resorts."

How Do Cruises Provide Better Vacation Value?

Think about booking a traditional land-based vacation. Airfare is needed to reach your destination. Then you pay for a hotel room (more than one if you have older kids). Three meals a day multiplied times the number of people in your party adds up quick especially when you must also include the cost of snacks. Unless you want to spend all day in the hotel's swimming pool, you'll have to pay for activities and entertainment. Then there's transportation to get where you're going: that means a rental car.

Cruises, on the other hand, are mostly-inclusive or all-inclusive. This means that, rather than paying for each element of your vacation individually, you pay one discounted fee for everything. Three meals a day are included as are snacks. Your stateroom, onboard activities (which include everything from rock climbing and bowling to kid-specific fun and Los Vegas-style shows) is also built into your price. And with so many ports-of-call across the nation, it's easy to find one you can drive to rather than fly.

While land excursions and off-ship events do incur additional fees, many are nominal. Even with adding excursions, cruising typically still provides more value for your money than land-based vacations.

Do It Yourself or Choose a Cruise Specialist?

Travel and Leisure magazine gives this sage advice: "A good travel agent will keep track of price drops (rebooking you if the cruise line doesn't automatically credit the difference), advise on whether to buy airfare with the cruise line or independently, and analyze deals. If an offer seems too good to be true, it might be—does the room look out onto a lifeboat or sit right below the disco?"

When it's time to choose the destination for your vacation, weigh the total cost of cruises against land-based destinations. You'll quickly see you get more for your money when you set sail on the open sea.



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Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com for the best deals from
Norwegian Cruise Lines. © 2009, All Rights Reserved



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/being-green-when-you-travel.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/being-green-when-you-travel.html Fri, 08 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0600
These days, it seems "green" is the world's favorite color. A quick look at the media tells you that conservation concerns have grown from an isolated interest of nonprofit organizations such as Greenpeace to paper products, cleaning supplies and cat litter found in virtually every home. Green - and the mindset that follows it - is everywhere.

Global warming, air pollution, loss of ozone and lower water levels are constant reminders of the condition of our environment. With an eye toward maintaining and preserving resources worldwide, the color green has become synonymous with growth, progress and replenishment.

We have been taught about the ways to be green at home and at the office, such as using energy-efficient light bulbs, planning errand trips to ensure maximum efficiency of gasoline and recycling our paper, metals and plastics. We are even being given the option of hybrid cars or eco-friendly fuel cars, which use ethanol instead of gasoline.

Until recently, however, using green habits while traveling hasn't been commonplace. You now have the option of staying at environmentally friendly hotels while on the road. There are a variety of ways in which hotels become green, thus encouraging travelers to help preserve planet earth while lodging with them. The preference for ecology-minded individuals is to stay at hotels that adopt business practices, which conserve, recycle and protect the environment.

Practices of Environmentally Friendly Hotels

Water Conservation – According to the Southern Nevada Water Authority, Lake Mead has dropped to 49% of its capacity due to drought: down 100 feet since 1998. Likewise, the water levels in the Great Lakes have also fallen. In situations just like these all across the country, conservation of water is a paramount concern. Green hotels are answering the call of nature with effective water-conservation practices.

A typical hotel produces wastewater from sinks, showers, laundry and dishwashers. Environmentally friendly hotels use biodegradable soap, which enables the recycling of the water. The “gray water” can then be used for nourishing gardens and landscaping because it is cleaned as it passes through the soil. The use of wastewater reduces the amount of fresh water that would be otherwise needed.

Electrical Conservation – A green hotel may use sensors to turn lights off when areas are unoccupied; use reflective roofing material to reduce the heat and lower the requirements for air conditioning; and replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. A compact fluorescent light bulb uses 14 watts of power to produce the same amount of light that comes from a 60-watt incandescent bulb. The fluorescent also lasts four to six times longer than the incandescent bulb. The energy savings is huge for the environment.

One hotel chain replaced approximately 5,900 light bulbs with compact, fluorescent bulbs. The Environmental Defense Organization has a calculator that will compute the energy savings and the amount of carbon dioxide prevented. Using this calculator, this hotel chain will prevent 1,039,751 pounds of carbon dioxide from reaching the air and impacting global warming.

Environmental Conservation – Every traveler expects a hotel to be clean. What might be a welcome surprise is that environmentally friendly hotels use eco-friendly cleaning agents. These cleaners are biodegradable and do not contain harsh chemicals or volatile organic compounds.

A green hotel will also use organic cotton fabric instead of synthetic blends or regular cotton. Cotton, in and of itself, is more absorbent and breathes better than synthetic fabric. This makes sheets cooler in the summer and towels more absorbent, which brings added comfort to guests. Organic cotton also provides added benefits by being free of chemicals, dyes, finishes, resins and bleaches…a great plus for allergy sufferers as well as the environment.

Although not the preference, there are situations where disposable items must be used. Environmentally friendly hotels will choose disposable items such as paper napkins and corn-based plastic that are biodegradable.

A green hotel will not overlook the recycling of things such as sheets, towels, table linens, furniture and appliances that are no longer usable or useful to the property. Selling or donating these items keeps them out of the landfill.

Stay at a Green Hotel

EconomicallySound.com reports, “Green Seal, an organization that certifies the environmental practices of a variety of businesses, conducted a survey a few years ago and found that an average 150-room hotel consumes in one week as much as 100 4-person households do in one year." That’s right…only one week.

When your conscience reminds you that average hotels are notorious contributors to global warming and other eco-hazards, ease your mind by staying at a green hotel. You'll find numerous places throughout the U.S. that have an equally high regard for our environment as you do.



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Barbara Wade writes for Kimpton Hotels, a proud pioneer of environmentally friendly hotels. Kimpton Hotels is the right place to stay for sophisticated travelers. Visit http://www.kimptonhotels.com today. © 2008, All Rights Reserved


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/the-western-caribbean-a-tropical-playground.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/the-western-caribbean-a-tropical-playground.html Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0600
How do you make a tropical paradise? Mix one central location with two warm bodies of water and three fun-filled destinations. The result is the western Caribbean!

Situated between Cuba and Belize, in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, are three little islands with big reputations for adventure. If departing from the U.S. and traveling through the Gulf of Mexico, cruise passengers would quickly find themselves approaching Cozumel, Mexico; the Cayman Islands and Jamaica. Let's visit each one and discover why these ports always rank high on vacation and honeymoon wish lists.

Cozumel, Mexico

Located off the eastern shore of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel boasts an annual average temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit. With white-sand beaches and water that seems to swirl from aqua to azure blue, the island is home to some of the best beaches in the world.

Playa Uvas Beach is the preferred location for sunning for many vacationers. More than sand and surf, Playa Uvas has its own restaurant and lounge offering something cool to sip on a hot day. With covered dining as well as a shaded, grassy area that offers an escape from the heat, this beach caters to those who expect the best. You can even get a massage! Comfortable beds with crisp white sheets are arranged under canopies right by the shore for a relaxation experience you won't soon forget.

But Cozumel is more than just beaches. Deep-sea fishing offers the thrill of reeling in huge marlin, sailfish and even barracuda that brings an adrenaline rush which leaves you begging for more. Avid scuba divers (including the late Jacques Cousteau!) love these waters and return year after year to experience the enormous variety of sea life found here. Massive sea turtles, brilliantly colored fish and some of the most interesting marine plants in the world are within reach. From exhilarating ATV jungle safaris to windsurfing and more, Cozumel will leave you breathless.

The Cayman Islands

Comprised of three islands, this colorful grouping of hotspots is vibrant, lively and one of the most sought-after scuba retreats in the world. Whether you choose Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac or Little Cayman, you're in for more fun on, in and under the water than you've ever imagined!

Crystal-clear water, two local shipwrecks, an abundance of coral reefs, and a huge variety of plant and animal marine life make the Cayman Islands an elite destination. Scuba divers from around the globe flock to the Caymans every year because the sights are always changing.

From Cayman Turtle Farm (with over 16,000 turtles of different varieties) to Stingray City (a fascinating way to view hundreds of stingrays in their natural environment) to the spectacular show of naturally forming blowholes, Grand Cayman is a true delight.

Jamaica

A wonderful contradiction of mountains and beaches, Jamaica is eclectic, interesting and a world of fun! From championship golf to scuba diving in Montego Bay, you'll wonder why you never came here before.

Ever been river rafting on an island? You can on Jamaica! Bamboo rafting is a prime pastime in Montego Bay. Hop aboard and hold on tight as you're whisked away down one of three rivers. Rather dive deeper into your vacation? Scuba is a favorite pursuit here. From canyon and wall diving to exploration of the protected waters of Montego Bay Marine Park to the nearby shipwrecks, it's a wonderland just waiting to unfold before you.

At day's end, head out and partake of an active nightlife filled with fine dining and exciting discos. Dance till dawn then start your adventure all over again!

With balmy breezes, bright sunshine and warm temperatures; you'll love soaking up the rays and the scenery of the western Caribbean. Many cruises offer itineraries that call on all three of these ports. Check with your favorite travel agent today for more details and pricing on this family-friendly, exhilarating destination.



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Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including
Celebrity Cruise Line. © 2008, All Rights Reserved





Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/a-small-town-with-a-big-backyard.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/a-small-town-with-a-big-backyard.html Sat, 26 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0600
Located in the rolling hills of eastern Tennessee is a small town with a population of only 4,900. You wouldn't think such a place would make for a great vacation spot. You don't generally find enticing sights and activities the whole family will enjoy in tiny towns such as this. What makes this town the exception is the 500,000-acre playground in its backyard known as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town is Gatlinburg, TN and because of its location it offers exciting activities and attractions for all age groups that will ensure a vacation you'll remember for a lifetime.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The eight to 10 million people who visit this park annually can't be wrong. You'll soon discover why the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is such a popular area of Gatlinburg. Cabin rentals in and around the area give you ready access to some of the best hiking and wildlife you'll ever see.

With over 800 miles of trails, this hiker's paradise unlocks pathways to hours (or days) of fun, excitement and beauty. Novice hikers will enjoy the gently sloping trails with clear views that wind past powerful waterfalls. Seeking a more strenuous activity? Trek along a wooded trail to the crest of a mountain where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views any time of year. Sunsets and sunrises receive special appreciation from hikers because they deliver a palette of amazing colors that spray vibrant reds, subtle grays and calming blues across the sky. There are some serious photo opps here!

Observing wildlife in their natural habitat offers an experience that will not soon be forgotten, especially since the park is home to so many varieties. Open areas offer the best opportunities to see white-tailed deer, raccoon, turkeys, black bear, elk and other creatures of the forest. Rather view from the comfort of your car? Meander down the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail with your camera ready. You're sure to catch a glimpse a black bear lazily sunning himself.

While the wonders of nature are by far the calling cards of the park, there is also lots of history to take in. Take a few moments to tour some of the nearly 80 historic structures in the park. Just imagine how our ancestors lived as you watch an actual gristmill at work or tour the homes of early settlers. You'll quickly gain a renewed appreciation for the modern conveniences of today!

Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park

Whether you have a need for speed or prefer to enjoy the scenery while skiing, everybody loves Ober Gatlinburg. Cabin rentals and chalets are available in and around the area so you can ski till your heart's content. With eight trails geared for all skill levels, you can push an adrenaline rush with the wind burning your cheeks or slowly zigzag your way to the bottom. Two black diamond trails keep the most experienced skiers entertained while a total of four beginner and intermediate slopes give the entire family a way to enjoy the snow. Never skied before? Enroll in Ski School and hone your talent at the hand of a professional instructor.

Year round ice-skating is also available. The centerpiece of a huge enclosed mall, this rink puts shopping and dining right at your fingertips for the ultimate in convenience.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

What would it be like to walk under water and actually see stunning varieties of live sea life all around you? You might think it's not possible, but at Ripley's Aquarium it is! As you make your way through a tunnel that goes under the aquarium you'll find yourself engulfed by over 10,000 sea creatures of more than 350 species. Watch as mighty sharks, giant sea turtles and huge schools of playful fish swim over and around you. Have a face-to-face encounter with a colossal octopus or watch seahorses, tropical fish and even piranhas swim within reach.

The Coral Reef area of the aquarium has hundreds of multicolored fish displaying every color of the rainbow. Native to the Indo-Pacific, these species and many others participate in exciting dive shows that occur regularly in the Coral Reef.

The Shark Lagoon is filled with not only sharks, but fish of every shape and size. The 340-foot long glide path allows you to stare down a green sea turtle, giant stingray and - of course - some very large sharks! Don't get so focused you miss the rest of the sea creatures on display.

Even though Gatlinburg is small in size, it makes a very large impact on those who visit. Whether it's for a weekend or a week's stay in Gatlinburg, cabin rentals throughout the mountains put you in the center of some of Mother Nature's best work. That's probably why so many return time and time again.



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Jim Watson is Owner of Timbercreek Cabins offering lodging near Gatlinburg. Cabin rentals are now available. Visit http://www.timbercreekcabins.com today for a complete listing of cabin rentals. © 2008, All Rights Reserved





Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/2008-brac-update-for-huntsville-alabama.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/2008-brac-update-for-huntsville-alabama.html Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0600
By the time the relocations set forth during the Base Realignment and Closures (BRAC) of 2005 are complete in the year 2011, approximately 4,700 new people will have moved to Huntsville, Alabama due to job transfers. Many of these people and positions will come from the northern Virginia area. Some of them will come from Georgia. Alabama will also see its first four-star command thanks to BRAC. As for 2008, the Tennessee Valley BRAC Commission states that the 2nd Recruiting Brigade facility should be completed in time to house the 2nd Recruiting Brigade that will relocate this year. That will put roughly 700 transfers at the U. S. Army Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama this year.

Along with these changes, numerous support positions may also be created. What can everyone expect as they begin the process of moving to Alabama? And what does Huntsville have to offer that workers didn’t have before?

Huntsville Real Estate

The 2007 Coldwell Banker® Home Price Comparison named Huntsville real estate the most affordable residential real estate market in Alabama. When looking at a 2,200 square-foot house with four bedrooms and two and a half baths, the average cost for Huntsville was $212,183. A similar house in Atlanta, Georgia showed a price of $324,000. Find that same house in Alexandria, Virginia and the price skyrockets to $771,500. In other words, if BRAC has you relocating to Huntsville, real estate prices will be an enormous benefit when transferring from Georgia or Virginia.

Cost of Living

A cost of living comparison from CNNMoney.com shows that an annual income of $120,000 in Washington DC is equivalent to approximately $78,000 a year in Huntsville. To state it another way, relocation from the DC/northern Virginia area to Huntsville is almost like getting a 50% pay increase. The comparison states that in Huntsville groceries were 14% less, utilities were 29% less, transportation was 7% less and healthcare was 18% less than in Washington. While not as large a difference, a $120,000 annual salary in Atlanta would equate to $113,000 in Huntsville. Groceries were 3.9% less, utilities 4.1% less, transportation 3.6% less and healthcare 12.4% less in Huntsville than in Atlanta.

Taxes

Alabama has some of the lowest income tax rates in the nation. You’ll also find very low property tax rates in this area. A home valued at $100,000 in Huntsville would have a property tax bill of less than $600. Not true in Georgia or Virginia. Another item to consider is that retired military and civil service income is exempt from personal income tax in Alabama, making this state an ideal place for those planning to retire from military vocations soon.

Entertainment

Not only is Huntsville an economical place to live, it’s also an entertaining one. Golf and boating are popular sports thanks to an average temperature in the upper 80s during summer and low 30s during winter. Outdoor activities are an option most of the year.

The Huntsville Symphony Orchestra has provided magnificent concerts and award-winning educational programs for over 50 years.

At the newly opened Bridge Street Town Center you’ll find upscale shops as well as familiar favorites. Gondola rides, paddleboats, fine dining, and movies make this a place you have to see to believe.

You can’t talk about Huntsville, however, without mentioning the U. S. Space and Rocket Center. See actual moon rocks, the Apollo 16 command module and more. Adults and children alike will enjoy the center as well as the space camps it offers.

If you're headed to Huntsville due to BRAC relocations, you won’t be disappointed. With its low cost of living and great resources, Huntsville is an awesome place to call home.



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Mike Manosky has over 16-years experience serving the needs of those who wish to buy Huntsville real estate. If you're thinking of moving to Huntsville, real estate listings that match your criteria can be sent to you immediately. Contact Mike today to get started. http://www.movetohuntsville.com. © 2008, All Rights Reserved




Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/visit-the-best-city-in-the-americas-vancouver-british-columbia.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/visit-the-best-city-in-the-americas-vancouver-british-columbia.html Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0600
If you stand in downtown Vancouver and turn in a 360-degree circle, you'll no doubt find yourself in awe. Majestic mountain ranges and crystal-blue seas are only enhanced by the elaborate cityscape of this modern town. To see Vancouver today, you'd never know it had such a rocky start.

The city was devastated by the Great Fire within two months of incorporation in 1886. The wind-swept blaze lasted less than an hour but left the city with just a half-dozen buildings. The people and businesses didn't let the fire destroy their plans for growth, however. They began rebuilding immediately leading to present day Vancouver.

With the distinction of being voted the “Best City in the Americas” for 2004 through 2006 by Conde Nast Traveler magazine, Vancouver and the surrounding area provides a wide variety of unique and exciting indoor and outdoor activities for adults, kids, couples and individuals from all walks of life.

Vancouver is surrounded on three sides by water. Add to that the Coast Mountain Range to the north and east and you have stunning panoramic scenery that makes the perfect backdrop for the city. With mountains and the shore at arm's reach what else could Vancouver offer? How about a rainforest? You'll find it just minutes from the city. You'll also find over 180 parks, world-class museums and galleries as well as magnificent gardens. These attractions plus the mildest climate in Canada make Vancouver an ideal vacation spot.

Vancouver is called home by numerous cruise lines that provide voyages to Alaska from May through September. Chances are you'll find an itinerary that departs from this city so it only makes sense to book a pre- or post-cruise getaway while you're here.

Major Tourist Attractions

The Vancouver Lookout at Harbor Centre is an excellent first stop. The observation deck is located a whopping 50 stories above street level! An quick elevator trip to the top takes a mere 50 seconds and rewards you with an unobstructed, 360-degree view of Vancouver and the surrounding countryside. It's easy to see the reason Vancouver was selected as the host city for the 2010 Winter Olympics from this vantage point.

Stanley Park, one of the greatest parks of the world, is Vancouver’s first park. Located on a 1000-acre parcel of land set aside by Vancouver’s first City Council, Stanley Park boasts a 5.5-mile seawall that completely surrounds the park. There are at least four restaurants offering fine dining in this forest-type environment that delivers park, sea and mountain views. You'll also discover playground equipment, a swimming pool, water park, miniature railway and farmyard with live animals.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is located just minutes from downtown. The bridge was first built in 1889. You find yourself 230 feet above the Capilano River when you are in the middle of the 450-foot bridge. Why bother to cross a bridge? Because on the other side you'll have the unique opportunity to trek through rainforest trails. You can participate in an exceptional Treetops Adventure described by the Capilano Bridge website as “a squirrel’s eye view of a thriving coastal forest”.

Walk from tree to tree on a series of elevated suspension bridges that rise 100 feet above the forest floor and view the rainforest environment without causing damage to its structure. Be sure to visit the Totem Park and other attractions located here.

No vacation is complete without a shopping trip. The Metropolis at Metrotown can satisfy the needs of even the most serious of bargain hunters. With 470 stores, this is British Columbia’s largest shopping center. Exceptional theaters, two indoor courtyards and a food court with two-dozen shops provide a variety of delights to satisfy your appetite.

Make plans to spend time in Vancouver before or after your next Alaskan cruise. Oftentimes, affordable package deals are available that provide great savings for savvy travelers who want added adventure. Check with your travel agent or cruise line for details and rates.



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Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including
Alaska cruises. © 2008, All Rights Reserved




Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/holland-america-launches-80th-passenger-ship-eurodam.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/holland-america-launches-80th-passenger-ship-eurodam.html Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0600
When you're looking for a cruise experience that can be described as "excellent," "exceptional" and "luxurious" Holland America can certainly provide. Since 1872, this premium cruise line has offered distinctive tours to some of the most unique cities in the world. However, it's during this year (2008) that Holland America Line will stretch to achieve new heights.

With an entirely new class of vessels - Signature Class - Holland America will launch its 80th passenger ship: Eurodam. Scheduled for her maiden voyage during summer 2008, Eurodam will be impressive in size, stature and amenities. This award-winning cruise line is sure to garner a few more accolades thanks to this stunning and innovative new ship.

Something To Look Forward To

New to Holland America is a 144-seat topside Pan-Asian restaurant. Guests will delight in the cuisine as well as the scenery. The restaurant and 50-seat lounge offer panoramic views overlooking the ocean and the pool on the Lido deck.

In addition, a specialty restaurant serving the finest and most authentic Italian cuisine, a new atrium bar, and a new photographic and imaging center will be included on Eurodam.

One of the most exciting additions is an extra deck that allows for 63 new staterooms, 10 of which will have ceiling-to-floor and wall-to-wall panoramic windows.

Old Favorites Remain

However, many of the previous passenger's favorites will also be found on this new ship. Explorations Café (powered by The New York Times) will continue to provide specialty coffees, Internet connections and music-listening stations.

The ever-popular Culinary Arts Center (presented by Food & Wine Magazine) will still offer cooking demonstrations and intimate cooking classes. The Greenhouse Spa and Salon will provide thermal suites, a hydro-pool and the largest gym ever built for Holland America.

Eurodam will set sail in July 2008 with a maiden voyage departing from Copenhagen, Denmark. This 10-night tour will be followed by an inaugural season in Europe. Fall brings Eurodam to Canada and New England, and this winter the ship can be found in the Caribbean.

If you're a fan of cruising and want to ensure your passage on Eurodam, consider booking soon. Cruises are already available and are sure to sell out quickly.



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Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including those from
Holland America. You'll find their service exceptional! © 2008, All Rights Reserved




Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/discover-the-ancient-wonders-of-iceland.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/discover-the-ancient-wonders-of-iceland.html Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0600
Viking ships and frigid ice expanses. Snowcapped mountains and rolling hillsides. Water, water and more water. You might imagine all these when someone mentions Iceland. While they are part of what you'll find, the wonders of Iceland reach much farther. According to the Iceland Tourist Board website, Iceland is closer than you think, but far different than you ever imagined. Nothing could be truer!

Mystery, Myths and Mountains

Ancient legends of Leif Eriksson and other Vikings along with the Midnight Sun shroud Iceland in mystery. Stunning mountain ranges offer scenery similar to that found in the movie The Sound of Music during spring and majestic, jagged peaks during winter. All of these are true depictions of Iceland. However, over the years several myths about this gorgeous slice of nature have also developed. Let's clear a few of those up.

Did you know…

>> Wintertime temperatures in several areas of Iceland are higher than those in New York City and other eastern seaboard towns.

>> Iceland is only a 5-hour flight from the east coast of the United States. That's 1 hour shorter than flying from Boston to Seattle!

>> June, July and August offer nonstop fun because Iceland has daylight round the clock.

>> Iceland is virtually a pollution-free country being almost completely powered with geothermal and hydroelectric energy.

>> Iceland has the capability to grow delicious organic fruits and vegetables in greenhouses year round.

Celebrities Rave

Did you also know that celebrities including Saturday Night Live's Will Forte and mega-star Jodie Foster rave about what fun they had in Iceland? Foster, in her interview with late-night host David Letterman, called Iceland "fantastic" and specifically named the lava fields, glaciers, whales, puffins, thermal pools and neon-blue water as some of her favorites.

While not considered a "celebrity," the United Nations named Iceland the best country in the world to live. Quite impressive!

Nature At Her Best

If the outdoors is your thing, Iceland won't disappoint! As Jodie Foster mentioned, glaciers and lava fields are very popular sights in Iceland. In addition, you'll encounter spewing geysers and steaming solfataras, volcanoes, raging rivers and breathtaking waterfalls. Then there are the animals.

With the largest razorbill colony in the world, Iceland boasts a healthy and diverse bird population. Puffins, skua, eiders, Arctic terns, waders and other unique species are found all throughout the country. Add to that an excellent selection of whales, dolphins and porpoises and you've got a show sure to entertain your entire family.

From seasonal festivals to the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa (known to cure skin diseases such as psoriasis!) to whitewater rafting, Iceland is a unique playground offering plenty for all to do and see. Since it's closer (and warmer!) than you previously thought, why not make plans to cruise to Iceland for your next vacation?



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Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including
Mediterranean cruises. You'll find their service exceptional! © 2008, All Rights Reserved




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