Great Vacations at Home
Thursday, March 31, 2011
You might actually enjoy the process of renovating your home, preferring to do improvements instead of hiring professionals. Since you've got a week off from work, why not take one room and work on changing it into something bold and new. There are so many options to explore, including painting it a vibrant color with accent trim, shining up light fixtures and fans, and moving furniture around.
Set off on a cultural journey by heading to the museum, local art venues, and your town's library. Get in touch with the history of the area in which you live, and find out the back story of your town or state. For example, New Jersey is called the "Garden State" and Missouri is the "Show me State." Find out why at a bookstore you love, and not only will you get some culture, you'll learn something new as well.
Schedule a day of you-time by going to a day spa, perhaps even getting a manicure and pedicure. Make time for a massage, and get your hair done in a different, dramatic style. You might consider changing the color of your hair or adding highlights. If you're open to the idea, you may want to try out a henna tattoo.
Try a theme for each night of the week. On "picture day," you can see a movie, take pictures of the sunset, and then rent a movie for later on that night. On "animal day," you might consider visiting a zoo or local farm and then watching animal shows on television. Perhaps you could go root for a local baseball team on "sports day," then watch "Field of Dreams" later on at home.
Get outdoors and get active, weather permitting. Hiking is a great way to soak in beautiful scenery while also getting a nice workout. Camping out with friends under the stars can make you feel connected to nature for an old-fashioned and low-tech adventure. See if your group can do it without any of the usual luxuries that have become necessities, such as cell phones, PDAs, and portable games. Try to connect with each other and the wild at the same time.
Money is always a factor when we think about a vacation, but you don't need to spend a fortune to find fun during your time off from work. With a bit of research, you can find interesting sights to visit in your town and you can have a fabulous stay at home vacation you'll really enjoy.
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Posted byBertie at 4:35 AM 0 comments
Learning Through Cultural Tourism
It's such an easy and extremely common commodity, but cuisine is a large part of the lives of humans around the globe. Every country is blessed by their own flavors and special tastes of cuisine. Culture and communities pride themselves on their food. Mexican food is way different than Thai food, yet each country is famous for their distinct food dishes. Food is the ultimate cultural vessel that encourages people to come together a community. When there's any community party or event, food is the first and most common item on the agenda. Cultural travel that surrounds food is simply a great way to be see the profound effect that food has on it's culture. Get familiarized and begin to love a countries unique foods and local people will accept you and enjoy your company. Food is a necessary commodity that can be used as a door to a culture.
Communication is an important aspect when it comes to cultural travel. Not understanding the simplest communication by inhabitants is a pretty easy way to stand out as another tourist and not pay attention to the culture. There are major cultural tourism benefits in taking the effort to learn a selection of words in the language. A few things to focus on learning is the normal greeting, a way to express thank you, and just to say goodbye. For great cultural travel results, attempt to learn a few words of local slang, words that locals use. Learn lingo about your passions, and things that revolve around what your cultural tourism plans are.
A culture's etiquette rules are an extremely important aspect to consider during cultural tourism. Manners, customs and traditions, are what make up a worldview. A view on the world determines the way in which everything is accomplished, the philosophies of various actions, and the way in which locals think.
Being a cultural travel enthusiast means reading or observing the customs and etiquette world views of a culture. The world is so distinct and each world culture is special in it's own individual way. Parting from the usual tourist and backpacker trail and heading to destinations that are less important or even going to normal local places, is a way to make sure that cultural travel is meaningful.
Many cultural travel dimensions exist that anyone can focus on for the duration of cultural tourism. Focusing in on a single dimension can be beneficial, but opening up your view and meeting local people is what is most vital. Traveling around the world is an unparalleled opportunity to study, to open up a persons worldview and to learn about a people's culture. If we as travelers can leverage the cultural aspect of travel and learn from the many experiences, travel will surely be successful.
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Posted byBertie at 3:05 AM 0 comments
Learn How To Book Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Many travelers who want the comforts of home while on trip, choose Gatlinburg cabin rentals. Families in particular are finding that Gatlinburg cabin rentals are a much cheaper way to love first class accommodations at fair prices. Travellers can visit exotic locations and expensive cities for half the cost and triplet times the space of a traditional hotel . However, despite the perks of vacation rentals, many people have yet to try them out. There are various reasons for this, but one common issue is that the would be first time rental homes renter is simply nervous about (or doesn't understand) the rental deal. It's true, that when person books a hotel they basically know what they are buying, a level of stale predictability. With a little homework and due diligence, anyone can find vacation rentals that far exceed their expectations.
Most vacation homes sites have Surely made it easier for tenants to market their rentals online, turning a home or condo into a luxury retreat that will bring back top dollar requires significant preparation, preparation, and attention to detail. Currently all of the vacation rental list sites are basically the same. They each have their own color scheme and look but their search functions and features are approximately identical. Simply by googling rental homes you can find a myriad of listing sites, so, just find one you are comfortable with and you're ready to start searching.
The hardest part of the whole vacation rental process (and maybe the reason many people don't rent them) is finding properties close to your destination. There are hundreds of vacation rentals in every major city, but if, for example, you searched cheap cabin rentals, or Orlando villas, on any of the major listing websites you would be given results. Most likely, guests will want to explore the area while staying in cabins for rent. Having a resource guide that includes local restaurant menus, brochures of nearby attractions, and a guide to parks, hiking trails, museums, historic sites, shopping destinations, and tourist attractions will be appreciated when staying at vacation homes.
consequently, if you are traveling to a large metropolitan area like LA, it's best to find the name of the actual city you want to stay in. Unless you are familiar with the area you should start with Google Maps. From there you will be able to see the surrounding cities, attractions, etc. To use our Gulf coast vacation rentals example, maybe you want to stay at the beach rather than in city. .
Okay, you've booked your first gatlinburg tn cabin rentals and now its time to go enjoy it! Each year more people are discovering that vacation and cabin rentals in georgia are the best way to travel, they enjoy privacy, space, and a unparalleled experience every time. Next time you are planning a vacation, please take a look at all the wonderful mountain cabin rentals that are available to rent. We spent quite a a few years staying in hotels, and then one year we hired a house. We have never stayed in a hotel again. To my family, this is the only way to have a fantastic holiday. You really do get the best of both worlds.With a little work you can find the perfect vacation rentals. for your party and have more fun and relaxation then a hotel could ever provide. So, for your next pleasure trip, remember to book a vacation rental. Happy vacationing!
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Posted byBertie at 10:03 AM 0 comments
Get Familiar With Family Hotels In The Italian Riviera
It is an interesting fact to know that a few of the world's well-known artists have been nurtured in Italy. Italy is famous for its varied cultural heritage and renowned heritage of arts. The country is also well-known for its distinguished cuisine which serves to attract people from other countries too.
However, in the past several years, tourists seem to seek the pleasure of natural serenity available in Italy. Undoubtedly Italian Riviera known for its panoramic beauty is the best place that can be found in Italy.
The Italian Riviera is a lengthy piece of land located in the sea coast, close to the border of France and Liguria. The sandy beaches amidst the coves and coastal cliffs make the area very appealing. Every day of the year, the weather in Italian Riviera is pleasant and comfortable, because of which it has become a famous all-time tourist place.
Europe has no equal for Italian Riviera as far as its natural splendor is concerned. Therefore it is considered a perfect place for a vacation especially for the whole family.
Young or old, every member of the family has enough to enjoy in Italian Riviera. However, the picturesque beauty of the place plays a huge role in bringing the family together. All the family members join together in admiring the marvelous creation in the midst of the rushing waves over the tranquil sandy beach.
Plenty of leisure activities are available. They can choose to hike through many of the hiking tracks, or go for dining out to one of the restaurants amidst the natural views. Since the recent past, Italian Riviera is specialized in the hospitality industry, providing a number of family hotels and lodges.
Group discounts are available in family hotels, and therefore family members all together can make good use of this concession. With various service standards and accommodation facilities, a broad range of hotels can be found in Italian Riviera. The family can choose from them based on their need. The cost varies in proportion to the size and type of the lodging area. The cost also depends on the location you choose.
If you wish to go for the top quality family hotels in the most popular town of Portofino then you should be ready to pay more. Because it is the trend in the region is of luxury traveling so you will find most of the family hotels to be of high standard. There are several hotels that will provide you with a relatively lower cost of accommodation but their service will be based on their cost. Moreover they may not always be in the prime location that you would want.
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Posted byBertie at 8:42 AM 0 comments
Argentina Has A Little More Than A Dozen Spas
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Argentina's natural spring spas are tucked away from civilization and cozily nestled in protected forests. The remote and ecofriendly locations of these spas make them ideal destinations for nature buffs who would like to enjoy the view of stunning sceneries while submerged in revitalizing natural springs or taking advantage of these spas' facilities such as outdoor pools, thermal spas, massages, aroma therapies, and others more.
Bariloche has three natural spas - Lahuen Co Temas de Epulafquen, Thermal Spa Cavihue, and Copahue Thermal Spa. Mendoza only has one thermal spa, Termas Cacheuta. Rejuvenating and relaxing, these natural spas are affordable alternatives to the country's luxury spas.
Argentina's luxury spas are mostly concentrated in Bariloche although some are also found in Salta and El Calafate. Since they are "luxury spas," tourists opting for them must be willing to splurge a little. Because these luxury spas are conveniently set in hotels, they are often preferred by modern and city tourists as they are very easy to reach. Hence, Argentina's luxury spas are only for tourists who have money, who think that natural spas are inconvenient, and who would like to take a break after a tiring day of visiting several Argentina attractions.
Bariloche has the most luxury spas in Argentina. They are the Llao Llao Resort and Spa, the Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel and Spa, and Nido del Condor. In El Calafate, there is only the Posada Los Alamos whilst Salta too only has one luxury spa called the House of Jasmines. Even though these luxury spas are more expensive than natural spas, they are the easiest to reach making them equally viable choices regardless of their cost.
Wine spas are the newest spa treatments offered in Argentina but the use of local grapevines for similar body treatments are not new to indigenous Argentineans. Since Mendoza and Salta are where Argentina's wineries and grapevine vineyards are concentrated, you can find many wine lodges offering wine spas here and among the best are Estancia Colome, Cavas Wine Lodge, and Patios de Cafayate. The Faena Hotel and Universe of Buenos Aires also offers the same wine spas. This hotel is the most convenient choice for city tourists who would like to feel how it's like to have a wine spa treatment.
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Posted byBertie at 6:37 AM 0 comments
How To Experience Whale Watching With More Than Just Your Eyes
Imagine being able to be a part of one of the worlds most fascinating, underwater mammals, lives, if only for a day. When you're this close to life under the surface, you might find it difficult to head back to shore. Many tours are given in places all over the world, but on most of these trips, you're stuck up on top and are only able to see what's going on when the whales decide to come up for air.
Some people dream of swimming right along side a whale, but no matter how trained you may be, accidents can still happen. Plus, many people believe that doing this is dangerous to both you and the whales. You may not be swimming freely alongside one of these majestic creatures, but when you're below deck in the special area designed to see all sides of the world below, you might feel even closer to your dream.
You may have had the chance to take a "glass-bottomed" boat ride in the past. You may have even been in a tour submarine, but the view is limited to a small area beneath or beside you. Plus you may have had many people in the way as well. In the tour that puts you into the water with glass between you and the sea, you are able to look in every direction, like being in the fun turret of a fighter plane in the sky. This will give you a much closer feeling to the animals you love to see.
It is a great tour guide who can show you sights and educate you at the same time. Your captain and crew aboard this tour will do both. They are more like guardians of the beasts they observe, getting help for those they may come across that need assistance for some reason. You will have a great time becoming one with the sea and its inhabitants, and they will be sure that all are safe, including the denizens of the deep.
A lot of people have seen whales and dolphins splashing through the waves at the surface, but not many are able to see them gliding through the water below. Along with being able to see everything that's going on under the waves, you're also allowed hear the animals communicating with one another. When you hear a whale singing for the very first time, it's likely to leave a remarkable impression.
If you're afraid of being out on the water because you suffer from motion sickness, there are nets that you are able to sit in and get close to the water. Not only will you feel a bit better physically, you'll also be within arms reach of the animals you've come here to see.
If you're going to be traveling to Southern California, a whale watching trip could be just the thing to renew your spirit and your mind. Forget your land-legs for a while and experience what it might be like to live life under the waves above. Adventure is waiting, all you have to do is step on board.
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Posted byBertie at 6:02 AM 0 comments
Reasons Why A Person Is Scared To Drive
Monday, March 28, 2011
This kid of phobia is blind to gender, age, race or religion. It can attack anyone. Usually, the affected people are the ones who know how to drive. In some cases, the affected do not even have any experience of being behind the wheels. This is quite rare but still it happens.
If that is the case, the fear is usually the result of an incident that involved the person in questions. The accident is very traumatic in nature. Therefore, the affect is enormous.
Such experiences are usually the cause of the problem. These accidents can really leave a mark on the people who were involved.
It could be that the affected was involved in an accident in which their car hit another one up front. The accident might be over. However, due to the severity of the event, images can still flash through the mind of the driver.
Some of the affected drivers go through severe panic and anxiety while driving. This is more likely to happen in the areas where the accidents occurred. This anxiety and fear can be so crippling that it leads to people quitting driving totally.
Pedestrians, who happen to be the victims of car accidents, also suffer from this phobia. They might avoid driving.
They are scared of the fact they might cause someone the same problems that they once underwent. This fear alone is enough to keep them away from the steering wheel. They do not want to the cause of someone's suffering. This turns into exaggerated experience of anxiety while driving, which eventually leads to them quitting the idea of being behind the wheels completely.
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Posted byBertie at 4:42 AM 0 comments
Things To Consider When Purchasing A Used Toyota Camry
Start by finding out if the car has been certified (a TCUV), through their checkpoint system of over 160 different aspects of the car. Only Toyota dealerships will be able to give vehicles this test. The test includes checking all safety systems as well as more superficial items.
Even if you don't purchase a TCUV, a Carfax report can give you important information. It will tell you about the vehicle's history based on it's VIN number. You can find out if the car was ever in a severe accident or flood, as well as if there has been any title problems. Ownership history is also included.
Without a Carfax report, you can take the automobile to a mechanic of your choosing to inspect the engine and safety systems. Check the service records for indications about how the maintenance has been performed. Tire tread is easy to spot and should be at safe levels. If not, you may have to negotiate with the seller.
A test drive of the vehicle could reveal other relevant information about the engine and handling of the car. Listen carefully for any unusual sounds. The interior can be evaluated then as well, from the cleanliness of it to how well it suits your frame.
A used Toyota Camry can provide you with a quality car for years to come if you take care in making your pre-owned vehicle selection. By considering the above mentioned items, you will have a good foundation for making an informed decision.
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Posted byBertie at 2:52 AM 0 comments
50cc Scooters
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Restrictions and licensing fees are a lot smaller for 50cc scooters and they are not legally defined as motorcycles. This definition is applied to vehicles above an engine capacity of 50cc. However, an in-between definition or class has been defined by some jurisdictions. Therefore, between 50 and 150cc, vehicles are defined as motorized bikes. In other parts of the world, 50cc scooters and above, are defined as motorcycles.
Therefore, the terms of such a vehicle's classification vary from state to state and cannot be discussed as if they are interchangeable. Therefore, when you shop for a scooter or you are searching for information, you have to take these facts into consideration as well in order to understand everything properly.
Technically, 50cc scooters are among the smallest and best designed on the market. They are very popular because of their low cost, the reduced fuel consumption and the possibility of being used by teenagers and adults alike. They are sleek and sporty at the same time, so such a vehicle is seen as a trendy alternative to public transport.
You can nip around with a scooter or moped, avoiding the traffic jams of heavy traffic. Even though they have a rather small cylinder capacity, 50cc scooters have four stroke engines with a high performance for various mobility and transportation uses.
However, 50cc scooters share similar features with the larger models, because the design lines are usually kept almost the same by manufacturers. Therefore, there is an electric start and a kick start mode, the brakes and exhaust come in competition variants and they all have some form of storage space beneath the seat.
Before buying such a small motorcycle, you ought to learn some details about the certification for registration, the warranty, the fuel consumption and the technical limitations of the model. However, the same advice hold valid for larger designs too.
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Posted byBertie at 6:18 AM 0 comments
Do Not Overlook A Fishing Chair - You Will Regret It
On most fishing trips you will be standing or sitting on bumpy terrain and the stability of your chair is of paramount importance. The stool type is not suitable for this and it is better to look for a chair with four legs that can be fully adjusted. This will give you the security and confidence you must have to avoid accidents.
Seats for this sport come in a wide range of prices and, as the old saying goes, you generally get what you pay for. At the lower end of the price scale the chairs will be poorly padded and not very comfortable. The backrest will also probably be fixed. For more money the chair will have thick padding making it comfortable to sit on for long periods. They will also come with backrests that incline and offer more support to the spine.
The type of material used in the chair's construction is also very important. Obviously they are going to be used in conditions that are not very kind to the usual materials used in chair construction so good quality here is necessary. As well as being waterproof the material should be very hard-wearing and be able to withstand all sorts of knocks and bumps.
Another consideration is all the little extras that the more expensive seats usually have. These include things like built-in pockets to hold small tools or personal items. They sometimes also have armrests that swivel out of the way when necessary. These additional conveniences can all help to make for a more enjoyable experience when fishing.
When discussing chairs for fishing it is worth mentioning a hybrid type of product. This is the bedchair. These are primarily for people who are night fishing and they provide a comfortable bed when needed and they can also be turned into a chair. Because they are not purpose built for sitting on they are probably not as good as the normal seat for this, but when space is at a premium they can fulfil two roles.
Remember that you tend to get what you pay for when it comes to making a purchase. The more expensive models will be fully adjustable and will be more comfortable and convenient in use. If you keep the advice given above in mind when shopping for a fishing chair should enable you to choose the most suitable one for you.
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Posted byBertie at 3:48 AM 0 comments
Yoga Holidays - Check Out the Benefits You Get From A Yoga Holiday
Saturday, March 26, 2011
These holidays would be of tremendous value to you if you are going through traumas or major concerns, such as fertility problems, anger or illness. They help you bring a balance back into your life put your situation into perspective. The next paragraph gives an example of one such situation and how yoga holidays can help a person deal with their individual problem.
On the subject of anger, this comes in many guises and can lead to killer diseases. It can result from the result of a traffic jam, having an argument with someone or a work related incident which undermined your confidence. It has been recognised that anger can be controlled by the use of yoga. For instance, taxi drivers in USA have taken the positive action of using yoga to cut their road rage.
When deciding on which yoga holiday to go on, you have to consider many points. The location, the activities offered and also the amenities are just a few. Yoga holidays can be found in many places around the world. When the decision is made on which country you will take a yoga holiday, your next decision will be the actual location in that country. As an illustration, do you want to be near the sea, near a city or even the mountains? You also have to take into account what amenities and what activities they have as these could be a deciding factor in your final choice.
Another aspect of your yoga holiday that you have to give great consideration is the qualification of the yoga teachers. A lot of yoga holidays are being run by yoga teachers who went through a fast track course. You may prefer to find experienced qualified yoga teachers with at least a few years experience.
After considering the yoga teacher qualification you must then think about the yoga training you want. Maybe you are already familiar with yoga from a self taught perspective and want to have individual one to one training or maybe you are a beginner. You will need to research to ensure you find the correct training.
Yoga holidays combine many holistic therapies and you should expect to find: * Acupressure * Shiatsu * Reiki * Aromatherapy * Bach Remedies * Chakra Balancing * Reflexology * Crystal Therapy * Healing Treatment * Holistic Massage * Lymphatic Massage * Hopi Ear Candles * Indian Head Massage * La Stone Treatments * Royal Thai Massage * Sports & Deep Tissue Massage * Thermal Baths, Spas, Saunas and Hot Springs * Plus more ...
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Posted byBertie at 7:11 AM 0 comments
The Major Inconvenience Of Driving Phobia
For fear of any kind is something that will have a greatest consequence not only to the victim but also the environment; the people around you.
People suffering from this type of fear would never even think of getting back in their own car. They would always make sure they are not being forced to drive. They seem to make their life a lot more complicated than it has to be, being this way.
Ordinarily, they would rather ride the bus or request other people to drop them off to supermarket or post office or maybe even malls. Frankly though, this may seem so fine but the truth is they are making the matter worst.
The hassle from the situation is so trivial. Honestly, there's just a lot of other event that the person's more apt to be left alone. It cannot be denied they will have a lot of trouble dealing with friends and family members due to this condition.
What even more painful and debilitating is the idea of being dependent for a ride to your relatives and buddies. They may be at one point enjoy and give you the ride you need but this will not be forever.
The truth is that dependence to anyone is not always guaranteed. There might be times when the people around them seem to just take them for granted. After all they would think, these people are not invalid.
Living the life you want with this fear is almost unfeasible. It's just not easy to be in the shoes of these people with this fear.
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Posted byBertie at 5:37 AM 0 comments
Are You Covered By Your Insurance While In A Different Country?
Friday, March 25, 2011
God forbid, if you were to fall sick, you will find it very difficult to manage all alone by yourself without any family or friends nearby to support you. If you are hospitalized the medical costs can run up to be quite a lot for it can be very expensive.
Some countries might insist on insurance stamping before issuing visa, but if not you take the initiative to buy the insurance before you leave your country. This is one area that you should never take lightly and better learn from others mistakes.
Let us tell you a few things about why it is important to cover insurance when you travel abroad:
It is quite possible that while you are abroad, you might fall sick or contract some disease or even have a fall or an accident. In such times you can be rest assured that your health insurance will provide for all the medical expenses and you can avail treatment without having to worry about the bills. You can also try out all the adventure activities without having to keep worrying about an accident and have fun.
In case you are not covered under health insurance and fall ill while staying with friends or relatives in a foreign country, then they would have to take care of your as well as your hospital bills which can be a huge drain on them and is not the correct thing to do.
It is quite possible that the medical care abroad might be better than what you have in your country and hence you welcome it. But then you should get your travel insurance to take care of your medical cover and leave your hosts free from having to shell out money. At most you can depend upon them to take care of you otherwise.
If you compare the total cost of your travel and stay, the insurance cost that you would be paying as premium works to be very less and inexpensive. But then you can still negotiate by taking at least three quotes from different companies and see which one works the best for you. You might be able to get them to give you an extra cover for your laptop and other valuables free of cost too.
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Posted byBertie at 4:36 AM 0 comments
The Best Way to Secure an Inexpensive Bad Credit Boat Loan
Look at your credit history and work to strengthen it. You can immediately request for any errors in your credit report to be repaired. You can also begin paying much more expenses and repaying credit card debt more timely.
Try to find a boat that will cost you as much as its specific worth. You should shop around to find an excellent offer on the vessel first. In this manner, you'll get to borrow less to secure the purchase. This is a basic yet powerful way to save money on bad credit boat loans.
Consider generating a bigger down payment for the boat in order to decrease the amount of money you borrow. In this way, the total amount of money that you've to repay will be much lower. Subsequently, the loan will be less costly.
Try to get financing from loan companies that are part of the National Marine Banker's Association. This Association helps companies in need of such equipment to begin with. They offer different kinds of financing plans that pose an inferior monetary burden on the debtor. They have various forms of loan payment support programs as well.
Consider getting bad credit boat financing from a dealer, but be careful about this option. Dealers work in cooperation with both manufacturers and lenders, so they can help you secure a more inexpensive deal. Still, you need to make sure that the dealer won't trick you into including the insurance and warranty in the borrowed amount.
Use any of these methods to save on bad credit boat loans to have a maximum affordable deal.
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Posted byBertie at 3:26 AM 0 comments
Tips For Owner Truck Drivers To Save Money
Thursday, March 24, 2011
A large proportion of non-business people do not understand how this works and to be fair, it does work differently in different countries. Here is a simple example: if you earn 400 and 100 is expenses and the tax rate is 25%, you will still pay tax: 400 earnings - 100 expenses = 300 profit x 25% tax rate = 75 tax.
Not as a lot of people think: 400 earnings x 25% tax rate = 100 tax - 100 expenses = zero tax.
With no expenses, the tax bill would have been: 400 earnings x 25% tax rate = 100 tax
Therefore, in this example, you still need to pay for 75% of your expenses yourself. Obviously, the way to save money is to cut down on expenses. As we all know, this is easier said than done.
Since the truck is the largest single expense, you ought to begin there. Shopping around for the best deal is second nature when it comes to purchasing a vehicle, but it is even more important, when the vehicle is as expensive as a truck.
Regrettably, these are very hard times and many firms are going to the wall, but this does create opportunities to the owner-driver. There are tremendous deals on second-hand trucks, if you do your homework and have the truck thoroughly checked before you buy it.
You can off-set the interest you pay on the funding against profits, but you should certainly go for the best deal you can here too. Try getting a better deal by bundling several insurances into one or try placing all your insurance policies with one broker for a higher discount. Or even do away with the broker (middleman) and go straight to the insurer.
Maintenance is cheaper than repair and it is allowable. It is also cheaper to take a number of common parts with you than be forced to rely on high-priced emergency call-outs.
Fuel is a gigantic cost, so can you get a fuel card on the routes you drive? If not, pay for everything with a credit card that offers rewards, but pay off the card every month without fail. Pay by direct debit to make sure. Use it only for business.
Taking a shower can be expensive, up to $10 a time, twice a day. Using your own towel, soap and shampoo can bring this cost down, but some garages offer free showers, if you purchase a minimum volume of fuel or oil.
Eating healthily is also expensive on the road. This could make it a good strategy to install a refrigerator in your cab and fill it up where food is cheap and handy. Cutting down on fry-ups and steaks and eating more fruit would be healthier for most drivers anyway.
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Posted byBertie at 8:25 AM 0 comments
Sleepaway Summer Camp
Summer Kids Camps traditionally have been located in a natural surroundings with forests, trees and lakes. Activities include: campfires, hiking and canoeing. Today, summer camps has evolved and no longer is camp just a general traditional camp, its now all about specialized activities. You can find camps like: Circus Camp, Computer Camp, Fishing Camp, Math Camp, as well as specialized camps for children wwith special needs.
These camps constantly add new programs and evolve taking into consideration numerous and various needs and interests of kids and teens. There are summertime camps for all ages. The most important purpose of many camps is educational, sports and cultural development of kids and teenagers.
The list of possible types is endless, but the most popular camps are: educational camps (with college credit courses and non-college credit courses; academic adventure camps; preparation courses; science and nature; tech camps and language camps); art camps; sports; weight loss and travel.
Overnight camps give children a special opportunity to grow and develop. It promotes maturity, as well as getting along with others. Counselors or camp leaders are often college students on summer break. The best camps try to hire "teaching students" because they love being with kids
In some places the campers can stay overnight and they are called "sleepaway camps", and at some places the campers go home each night and such places are called "day camps". This may be the first place kids spend some time away from home and the conditions are usually good and the adventures give kids a lifetime memories.
Have your kids ever been to sleepaway summer camp? Try www.SummerCampAdvice.com to find the best summer camps.
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Posted byBertie at 7:14 AM 0 comments
Why You Should Take Someone With You To Buy A Car
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Excitement can sometimes really get the better of you if you do not watch it. Do not feel dull; anyway it is not an isolated case since this is true most of the time.
Consider the following grounds why it is a must that you take someone with you when you purchase your car.
Excitement can make you restless if it is not channeled in the right way. And if that is the case there is a high tendency that you make hasty and unstable decisions, you might be grabbing the first car they offer you. When you have someone with you, he can point out vital things which you have failed to spot.
Making a decision is so very easy. But making the best and trusty decision for the query on hand is another thing. We have to accept it we are not perfect and we are not super human being so we make mistake, which is fine. Still there are times that we should make the best decision and this is one of them. With a buddy to help you out, it would be possible.
Business would always think of the profit they would be able to make. Talking to business people could be exasperating and confusing with all the strategies and scheme they would present just to get you to buy to them. They would be giving all the advantages that car would have to offer but not the disadvantages. Your buddy since he is unattached would be able to give comments that would be unbiased and factual.
A company might be more knowledgeable or would know something that you do not know. Therefore he can provide you some insight to help you re-evaluate your preferences.
Lastly bear in mind that you would not be able to think of everything that needs to be considered in deciding what car to purchase even if you had it planned for months or years. So it is best for you if you would take into consideration a buddy's view. Two heads will always be better than one. In the end you would be convinced you have made the most reliable decision.
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Posted byBertie at 5:15 AM 0 comments
Hold From Booking A Hotel On Your Next Vacations
The vantage of vacation homes make it easy to look after your family without having to get every meal from a restaurant. But also you can have more freedom to choose a sum of other self-catering options usable: whether the chef in the group offers to do the cooking or even, as one of my guests opted for her 40th birthday, you can hire a local consultant chef, usually for a fraction of the cost of feeding out in a restaurant.
In the case of family vacation an advantage is that many perfect vacation beach rentalshave games and toys and even playgrounds for the children.
Usually home vacation rentals by owner are very popular in UK, where locals are more cozy with cottage rentals, and self catering accommodation than in America. Europe is an first-class choice for a vacation destination because it has such a wide variety of things to offer. Its a good idea to plan on staying in vacation villas or condos for at lowest part of your stay in order to make the most of your holiday. When you stay in Europe holiday lettings, whether in UK, Spain or Paris, you'll be able to take advantage of the fact that doing so allows you to set your own schedule according to your needs and desires.
The advantage of vacation beach rentals make it easy to look after your family without having to get every meal from a restaurant. But also you can have more freedom to choose a number of other self-catering options available: whether the chef in the group offers to do the cooking or even, as one of my guests opted for her 40th birthday, you can hire a local consultant chef, usually for a fraction of the cost of eating out in a restaurant. In the case of family vacation an advantage is that many perfect cottage rentals have games and toys and even playgrounds for the children. If you own cottage rentals You can make money by taking advantage of this trend and using your house as a vacation beach rentals.Then relax and delight having a home away from home in some location you've always wanted to go.
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Posted byBertie at 4:51 AM 0 comments
Tips For Travelling with Children
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
If possible, on a car journey, you can prevent much of what you will otherwise have to deal with is to travel when your children will likely be sleeping. If you are travelling at a different time or you feel that they may be too excited to sleep then let them run around beforehand in order for them to burn any excess energy. Don't cancel this out by giving them sugary drinks or snacks. It is also advisable to have something to keep them amused during the journey such as colouring or puzzle books.
If your children are a bit older, they will often take pride in being responsible for holding the map and shouting out directions. This will also save you from the otherwise inevitable question, "are we nearly there yet?". If they are bored, try entertaining them with games such as "Eye Spy". It may be wise to research others before the journey as it can soon become tiresome.
If you're flying to your destination, the situation can be far more intense. You may have to suffer their whining whilst queuing as children often don't understand why they have to stand around for so long which can boil over into the departure lounge.
Once your children are on board, the fun really begins as you will then be forced to keep them busy for potentially a long flight. The answer to this, if your preparation was right, lies in your flight bag. There will hopefully be some items to keep them entertained such as an iPod or snacks. Snacks are almost essential as the food served on the flight may not satisfy them and then the whining could really begin to escalate.
Posted byBertie at 6:39 AM 0 comments
Few Comfort Tips On A Long Plane Trip
If you are still on medication, it is good to always carry your medication with you in a carry-on luggage which you will take into the plane. You should consult your doctor's advice on how you can maintain sleeping and eating habits while you are on your trips. That is the only way you can manage a jet-set life.
If you are often going on long trips and you are on liquid medication, you could start by asking the doctor to replace it with pills which are easier to carry in the flight. Alternatively, ask the doctor to give a written notification to the airline, if the pill version cannot be possible.
Keep moving up and down in the plane. It is important to keep moving around in the plane at some intervals to avoid numbness of the limbs if you are on a long flight.
Plenty of water is very good for your skin and general health, including the lungs. The air inside the plane is generally very dry come to think of it. That is why it requires that you keep taking plain water, juices or other liquids apart from alcohol which will only end up dehydrating you some more.
Make sure your diet is well balanced before going for your flight because you might not continue getting nutrition in the foods served in the plane. It is not good to overeat thinking that you would be able to compensate for the absent nutrients.
If you are going to enter a different time zone, it would be useful if you can begin by adjusting your sleeping and feeding times in advance, just before going on the trip.
Scuba divers should know that it is very dangerous to fly immediately after this exercise because the body needs time to stabilize after going deep into the water, and coming up again. It will need some 12 to 24 hours. This is a fact that the scuba diving instructors should actually tell their students.
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Posted byBertie at 5:39 AM 0 comments
Picking A Kids Summer Camp
Monday, March 21, 2011
At Overnight Camps campers are encouraged to participate in different kinds of activities. Whether your child enjoys outdoor activities, playing sports, indoor games, creating art projects, or canoe trips, he or she will surely enjoy time at the camp with other kids discovering new interests. Camp counselors provide guidance and are role models and mentors, adding to what your child has been taught at home and at school.
When it comes to selecting the right camp for your child, important camp information is needed and the right questions need to be asked. The best place to start is www.summercampadvice.com, a free website devoted entirely to helping parents and kids find the right summer camp for their particular needs. Acquiring that information takes time and patience, but the results can be priceless. Meanwhile, here are some basic areas of attention that you have to consider before you send your child off to summer camp.
Children at the age of nine of ten may not be ready for a sleep-away camp yet so if your child is in this age bracket, choose a camp that offers activities for one day. Forcing your young child to an overnight camp may be unfavorable but if the camp has well-qualified staff that can handle children and if it only takes two to three days, you can still try it.
Find out your child's needs. Keep in mind that every kid is different and they have various needs and desires. Make sure to choose a camp that is appropriate for your child's age and it should meet the emotional, mental and physical his or her needs.
The grounds, facilities and equipment are much less important than the staffing choices, but they can offer clues about the attitudes of the camp's directors. What is the condition of the cabins, bunks, bathrooms, kitchen, and mess hall? What about the equipment used for the activities? Is it properly maintained? Facilities and equipment that look a little rustic and worn can be perfectly acceptable as long as they are clean and still in good safe working condition. These questions can only be answered if you conduct a tour before making your final decision about which summer camp is best for your budding camper.
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Posted byBertie at 6:11 AM 0 comments
Choosing A Used Nissan Altima Automobile
Over the years this automobile has proved itself as one of the fastest 4-cylinder cars in competition. It allows four people to be seated comfortably and has had different colors and shape designs over the years. There are manual or 4-speed automatic controls available.
These are such things as a sunroof, high-powered CD stereo, speakers locations and other things, again this depends on when it was manufactured. With each new model there were additions made which included new ideas. These are things that can be looked for when making a purchase.
If one is planning on purchasing a 2008 model in sedan or coupe form, there will be a 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. The company's Hybrids, sold only in certain states, combine a 4-cylinder engine CVT with a battery-powered electric engine. The unusual feature of this particular car is that it does not require plug-in charging.
This automobile is listed on Consumer Guide Automobile as one of the best buys based on size, market position and price. It was formerly built in Smyrna, Tennessee but is now built in Canton, Missouri. It has been built since 1993 with different versions up to the present time.
When looking for a good automobile, there is no doubt that a used Nissan Altima ranks high on the list. Over the years it has proved itself as a reliable both in cold or hot weather and in adverse road conditions. Whether in general use or in competition its unfailing performance cannot be beat.
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Posted byBertie at 2:49 AM 0 comments
Summer Camp Means More in Minnesota
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Why is it so much more? It is filled with encouragement, love, acceptance, and real friends that will be part of your camp memories for life. Your counselors are great people to look up to they act as parents, older siblings and more. You may even end up looking at them as siblings. Your Uniqueness is celebrated and Acceptance is everywhere. This is what makes Swift Nature Camp place that i can not wait to return to each summer.
Activities are everywhere at summer camp, there is so much to do. Here are just a few: Archery, Swimming, Fishing, Boating, Tubing, and Riflery. You are never bored and active all day long. The counselors help you get better regardless of that your skill level is. All activities are noncompetitive and so we all support each other, rather than worry who is best.
When I think of Swift, I think of trips. I'll never forget the Superior Hiking Trail or going to Ely. What an adventure! I loved the trails, nature, and sights of the forest. It was fun getting to know the other persons that hike with you. The wildlife you see is extremely cool. We saw hawks, bald eagles, deer, ospreys, trout, and carp. This is why I love Minnesota Summer Camps
Life in a cabin is about learning from others and with others. It is becoming a team of understanding. Sure, sometimes we had our fights or minor issues, but almost always they were resolved and we grew closer as a team for them.
The Nature Center is a great place to learn about Nature and the beautiful environment of the North woods. We always have fun this is not school. The animals in the zoo are fun to take care of, especially since my mom, back home, will only let me have a cat. It is kinda like being at an animal camp.
I'm returning to Swift Nature Camp a wonderful Summer Camp in Minnesota for years to come.
Learn more about selecting the best summer camp at www.SummerCampAdvice.com
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Posted byBertie at 5:33 AM 0 comments
How Different Nations Prepare Curry
Any dish that falls in the line of hot stew these days is called curry. We have the African, Indonesian, Thai and Malaysian curries at this particular moment.
The main ingredient is coconut milk plus some bit of chilies. Depending on the geographical area of the country, all her neighbors will be preparing the same dish of curry.
The way the Thais prepare their curry is so different from the methods used by other countries. They use wet spices which are not cut into small pieces. This type of cooking is found all over Southeast Asia hence that's how their tradition does it.
For the Indians, they opt for dry spices which are very fresh and they are cooked in their normal size to bring about a lovely meal. This clearly shows that the Thais' way of cooking differs from the Indians'.
The stew made by Northern Indians is always made by use of onions which have been minced for some period of time.
The Indians don't consider the curry dish as their staple food because it was invented by the Europeans. However, this does not mean that this breed has no interest in this type of food hence they enjoy it a great deal even if they are not the ones who came up with the whole idea of this lovely dish.
Just because the stew is spiced with many ingredients, it never implies that the dish qualifies to be called curry. Thus, if you have been doing this thinking that you are enjoying a dish of curry, then you have been mistaken.
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Posted byBertie at 4:32 AM 0 comments
Overnight Youth Summer Camp
Saturday, March 19, 2011
As youth get older Summer Camps provide more freedom and independence than they might get at home or at school. However it is important to select a youth summer camp that understands this and still sets boundries at each ages development.
One of the best types of camps for new campers are traditional camps that offer many different types of activities and teach each of these. Some parents believe Educational camps are a better road because they are not the same as summer schools because they have many kinds of non-academic activities.
If you are looking for a summer camp for a High school students you may look at a academic camp. Where college credit may be give upon completion of the program. You might even check an Adventure Camp where teens do out of camp trips and adventure.
Independence is best built gradually. We want to build such skills as making sound decisions, caring for one's own needs, taking action to meet goals, being responsible for one's own actions, and seeking out the information we need to guide choices. None of these things will develop magically or over night, however. Kids need a range of experiences, from simple to complex, in order to learn these skills.
Wise decisions begin with baby steps. We wouldn't dream of turning our young adults loose in a car with out training and supervised practice. So why would we not do the same in decision making. Small children need to be allowed to make decisions as soon as they are capable of choosing between two things. This can with guided choices "Do you want your striped pants or your green pants today?" or "It's your turn to choose what veggies do you want for supper." Now here is the important part. What do you say after the decision? Do you process the results from their decisions? Point out the advantages and disadvantages of each choice, and then allow your child to choose. Be sure you are intentional and only suggest acceptable choices sot here is no chance of making a wrong choice. As kids grow open the door to making choices.
As one looks for a youth summer camp remember that the activities are just the beginning. Camp offers so much more. If this is an important aspect of camp for your child be sure and talk to the Directors about the "whole" child developmental plan.
Some children might look at a technology summer camp where computers are the main focus offer technology education for adolescents. Campers will develop their skills in web and graphic design, in robot building and game creation, and programming languages.
Art and performing art camps give the opposite direction and offer classes in music, theatre, visual art, speech and debate, dance, circus art and other things.
If parents do their homework and select the best overnight youth summer camp their teenager will bring home a lifetime of wonderful stories and great memories.
Have your kids ever been to sleepaway summer camp? If not, now is the time to find the right overnight camp visit www.summercampadvice to learn more.
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Posted byBertie at 5:05 AM 0 comments
The Importance Of A Second Opinion When Looking For A Car
Sometimes it is pointless to advise somebody to get a second opinion in buying a car because most of the time, he will just ignore it.
However, it is a better idea to have somebody to help you out when buying a car because of several reasons.
An honest person to tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of buying a certain type of car will surely help you choose a better one. In addition, the third person can also help you find some inconsistencies in case there are.
If you are alone in buying your new car, there is a possibility that you become drastic with your decisions. However, if there is someone else whom you can discuss with or whom you can confide in with about certain concerns, you will have a better buy in the end.
Pressure from the salesmen and showroom personnel might be too much to bear when you are alone. Being with somebody will help neutralize the situation since that somebody is less pressured since he is not the one who is buying.
Two heads are better than one; normally better decisions are made if more than two people are involved in decision making. It is even better if the other person knows more about car than you do to give you better insights about other cars.
Last minute hiccups may come up which are vital in finalizing your decision to buy or not to buy the car you've been dreaming of. In this case, you have to be ready to listen to some advices and opinions that could make or break your plan to have a new car. It is better for you to postpone your purchase and do several other investigations or even go to other car showrooms, if in the end you buy the better car.
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Posted byBertie at 4:17 AM 0 comments
Summer Camp For Kids
Friday, March 18, 2011
Overnight Campsfor kids help children improve their communication skills, leadership skills and teamwork. Other skills that kids can develop are resourcefulness, responsibility and trust. Since your child will learn a lot from a summer camp, it is important to choose the best one that can provide the most benefits to your child.
You need to choose a summer camp that possesses all the right elements - it should have the right focus, safety measures and the right supervision level. It is important to note that the camp choices for your children in past is different from today. There are different kinds of camps that provide various programs - music, sports, religion, drama, adventure, technology, weight loss and a lot more so it is important to ask your child about his or her interests before choosing a summer camp.
The most important aspect of camp life will be the quality of attention your child receives. The ratio of camp staff and counselors to campers should also be considered. Are there enough counselors for all the kids who will stay at the camp? Are they kid-oriented, capable and do they have the right training, knowledge, and skills? Does the camp have a resident nurse on staff? Questions like these should be asked and explored well before you enroll your child at a summer camp, and the place to start is by having a conversation with the director of the camp you'd like to find out about.
Find out your child's needs. Keep in mind that every kid is different and they have various needs and desires. Make sure to choose a camp that is appropriate for your child's age and it should meet the emotional, mental and physical his or her needs.
The grounds, facilities and equipment are much less important than the staffing choices, but they can offer clues about the attitudes of the camp's directors. What is the condition of the cabins, bunks, bathrooms, kitchen, and mess hall? What about the equipment used for the activities? Is it properly maintained? Facilities and equipment that look a little rustic and worn can be perfectly acceptable as long as they are clean and still in good safe working condition. These questions can only be answered if you conduct a tour before making your final decision about which summer camp is best for your budding camper.
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Posted byBertie at 5:06 AM 0 comments
The Best Summer Kids Camp
Another resource may be your child's coach or a local coach. Varsity coaches at the high school or college level may either run a program or know one that they recommend to their players.
Selecting a Kid's Summer Camp requires doing your homework to ensure success of the experience for your child. Here are a few questions you will want to ask:
* How long has the camp been in operation? How long has it been at it's current location?
* If the program is sports based. Is it associated with a 'big' name, such as a professional ball player? How often is he or she at camp. Often these celebrities lend their name to a camp, but their involvement is limited.
* Who are the coaches? What is their training? Preferably you are looking for varsity college coaches with college players as assistants. Ask how much of the staff is returning from previous seasons.
* What is the ratio of instructors to campers? How are the groups organized? Is there room for movement to a higher skill level after camp begins?
* How many campers are returning from the previous year?
* Does the camp run a complete evaluation of skills at both the beginning and the end of the program? Will the camp provide a written evaluation at the end?
* What are the ages of the campers who attend? Ask for the number of campers enrolled in your child's age group.
*What is the level of play? Does the camp accept all skill levels?
Like any other activity session you might enter your child in , its best to get references. If you don't know any families who have used this particular summer kids camp, then ask the director for a list, be sure you call the families, you will want to know:
* What did parents and child like and dislike about the program?
* What did the camper dislike about the program?
* What did the staff do to impress you?
* Did the camper's skills noticeably improve?
Selecting a Summer Camp is no easy task visit www.SummerCampAdvice.com to learn more
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Posted byBertie at 5:04 AM 0 comments
Parents Pick Summer Camps
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Summer is so much closer than you might think and with it the question of what camp to select for your kids. It's a question not to be taken lightly. Most agree camp should include: a safe place, with caring staff and be Fun, but there's much much more.
Each year 10,000 kids go to summer camp, But camp is no longer the traditional Overnight camp. No, it includes all summer opportunities ranging from day camps to residential camps, specialized, church, private and public camps a decision can be no easy task.
Know your child, know the camp and know yourself will help in making sure your child has a wonderful time at camp. Be sure t first take your child's personality and preferences into account. Now is not the time to force a specialized camp, specially for the first time. Is your child shy or outgoing? Athletic or academic? Independent enough for sleep-away camp or not quite ready to leave home? "Knowing your child and match a camp to their needs, provide a much higher chance for achievement,'' says Lonnie Lorenz, director of Swift Nature Camp, a traditional, noncompetitive, summer camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 specializing in nature and the environment.
An important consideration is whether your child would be better off in a more general program like a traditional overnight camp or a more specialized program that focuses particular skills like performing arts, technology, music, sports or academics.
Maybe your child is not quite ready to leave home so a day camp might be the way to go. Children do go to overnight camp as early as 6 but most common is to be 9 or 10. "If your child still not showing signs sometimes you just have to say ready or not you have to give them loads of encouragement and send them off,'' says Lonnie.
Now you have a good idea as to what type of camp will best serve your child, now how do find one? The internet is amazing! Much research can be on the web. But do not stop there, call references, get brochures. and when possible visit the camp. This may require scouting out camps a summer in advance
Lonnie suggests that "Parents talk with camp directors to ensure their rules, routines and procedures are an extension of what's followed in their home". "You want to feel comfortable with the folks your handing your kids over to." Also consider: child-to-staff ratio, the daily routine and how the staff deals with new campers,homesickness, problems, food allergies Lorenz said.
Picking the right camp is often not as difficult as paying for it. Camp can range from $225 per week for a church camp to $1000 a week for a private camp. Be sure t realize that not all camps are created equally. Having said that even the best of camps are offering payment plans, financial aid, sibling discounts, scholarships and other assistance so be sure to ask.
"Independence that's the goal of raising children. Yet, often it's the parents who have the hardest time letting go '' Lorenz said. " We have seen it all to often where parents limit their children's growth''
When your child comes home you will hear the stories about all the accomplishment and fun but what you see is that they've leaned to grow in their appreciation of themselves and their appreciation of others.
Picking a Summer Camp See www.SummerCampAdvice.com
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Posted byBertie at 5:02 AM 0 comments
Find a Kids Camp
Children's camp can provide a child with opportunities for never ending daily fun the way few other places can. Pure, nonstop fun would be reason enough for anyone to want to be at a sleep away camp, but resident camp offers even more to a child's unfolding life, and the best camps offer a wealth of benefits. Science Summer Camp
Children's camps are healthy places to be. Physical exercise is a natural part of a healthy child's life, and camp is a natural provider of constant, safe exercise. The overnight camper's intellect and imagination get plenty of exercise as well.
Summer camp offers a wonderful chance for kids to learn the skills of social interaction in a more creative and independent way than school settings allow. Guided by capable adult friends and role models called counselors, campers get an independent chance to apply what they have been taught at home in a larger world. If a summer camp is a coed camp, there is even more opportunity for kids to learn how to relate with members of the other gender as friends and equals.
Given our current economy sleep away camp is easily the most affordable summer care choice available. Camp is so much more than childcare. It's a place and time for kids to gain independence, enhance their skills, make new friends and above all have fun. Camp is a wonderful value.
Campers grow into themselves, setting newer and higher standards for their own behavior. The kids camp daily context is activities that encourage perseverance, listening skills, teamwork, and the ability to recognize similarities and appreciate differences in each individual. Self discovery becomes a lifelong habit.
Sleep-away camp is an opportunity for each child to come to a new place and try new things while making new friends. Everyone starts as an equal with a chance to just be them self. Summer camp is so much more than the most affordable childcare choice parents can make?
To learn all about selecting a summer camp visit www.summercampadvice.com
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Posted byBertie at 4:58 AM 0 comments
Summer Camp is Great for Homeschooled Children
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
homeschool camps can be a beneficial extension of home schooling. Home school parents needn't be afraid to challenge a child by giving him or her opportunities to test his or her education. Summer camp is a great place to help parents get children ready for life on his or her own. At summer camp, staff members encourage perseverance and listening. Campers learn teamwork and appreciation of differences. In the camp environment children see others' successful behavior away from the family and learn to achieve it themselves. This education in independence stays consistent with the groundwork of at-home teachings while expanding on it.
Jeff Lorenz, Director of Swift Nature Camp in Wisconsin, says that "Summer Camp provides children the chance to be independent and assume leadership roles. Without parents or siblings around, campers often discover their capability to show responsibility, thus improving self-confidence when they return back home".
Advance research work is a part of picking a summer camp that will reward effort with a richly rewarding experience. You can start with the size of a camp as a first criterion for picking the right camp for a home schooled child. The first places to look might be smaller camps in which children are likely to receive the most frequent individual attention. This would bridge the attention a home schooled child is accustomed to with the new wider social setting of a camp environment.
Summer camps offer a wide variety of accommodations to choose from for fitting the camp environment to a homeschooler's comfort level. If a child is age seven and under and has never been away from home a day camp program may be the best choice. An overnight camp may be a better fit for a child age 8 and above who is ready to be away from home.
Overnight residential summer camps offer home schooled children a new and exciting opportunity to socialize with other children. Lasting friendships and memories are made at camp each year. Many campers return every summer, continuing on to participate in a Counselor in Training programs for teens. Some campers eventually become counselors and pass on the values and opportunities of the camp experience to new campers.
The best choice of summer camp should combine familiar and new activities. Most traditional and noncompetitive camps provide opportunities in many areas of activity, offering potential comfort in pursuits a child has tried before or feels confidence in skill with as well as activities that ask a camper to leave his or her comfort zone. The choices of activities available at a summer camp should provide opportunities to discover new skills.
Camp accreditation is a very important factor when considering a camp. Most States have legal regulations intended to hold camps accountable to the safety of every child. Beyond the regulations of any given state, the best source to ensure camp quality is accreditation by the American Camp Association, a nationwide organization. An ACA approved camp is the best first assurance of quality when parents begin the process of picking a summer camp.
Testimonials from current and former campers and references from youth counselors are also very useful information for deciding if a camp is a good fit for a home schooled child. Current and former campers are usually happy to talk candidly about the experiences summer camp has brought to their lives.
Many camps offer prospective parents and campers an "open house" opportunity to come and visit for a day, tour the grounds, and meet staff members. An open house provides an opportunity to put a child's fears at ease and make sure a camp feels like the right one. During the winter months, camp directors might offer gatherings in places closer to home as a way to meet them along with staff and other campers.
Meeting with the Camp Directors will be the most important part of the process of selecting a summer camp. Openly discussing concerns and feelings with the camp owners is of great value to the process of choosing the right camp. The directors should leave parents of homeschoolers feeling comfortable and well informed about making such an important and potentially rewarding choice for their child.
Learn more at www.SummerCampAdvisor.com , a free website offering parents information on finding that perfect summer camp for their child.
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Posted byBertie at 5:23 AM 0 comments