If you spend any amount of time in the backcountry at all, it will rain on you. Remember this - rain is a good thing; without it there wouldn’t be much backcountry to enjoy. How you prepare for rain and how you handle yourself and gear in the rain, makes the difference between a great experience and a horrible one. Here are some great ideas for ensuring your backcountry enjoyment when mother nature rains down on you.
Our best tips for enjoying the backcountry in the rain can be separated into two categories. The first pertains to getting ready to hike, camp or whatever else you love to do outdoors. Here are the Best Outdoor Preparation Tips:
Always check the weather forecast. Understanding the type of rain to expect may even determine whether you go or not. If the forecast calls for severe thunderstorms with tornados, you will probably plan differently than you might for scattered showers. Check before you go, and check when you’re there. A good weather radio is an essential piece of gear for backcountry recreation.
Store everything you take in re-sealable plastic bags, especially socks, matches, flares, food, maps and your first aid kit.
Pack your sleeping bag in a large plastic trash bag or a specially designed waterproof bag.
Pack a brimmed waterproof hat and jacket. Always have rain gear with you, even if it is only a large trash bag.
Treat your tent, hat, jacket and pack with waterproofing spray – even if they’re called “waterproof” to begin with.
For two weeks prior to your trip, be sure to take your multi-vitamins. You should be doing this regardless. A good immune system is an outdoor enthusiast’s best friend.
So now you’re packed and out the door. Once you’re there, common sense and a few tricks of the trade will help you get through unscathed. Here are the Best Outdoor Rain Tips:
Never camp in a low lying area. Look for a durable surface which will allow water to run off more effectively.
Look for a campsite this is somewhat protected from wind, flooding and heavy rain fall. Under a group of small trees is ideal. Keep away from the tallest tree in the forest – that’s where lightning likes to visit.
Place a mat outside the tent door to collect debris. If you are base camping, the weight of the mat is not worth the benefit – so use rocks instead.
Do not touch the walls of your tent when it is wet. This will adversely affect the water resistant capability of the tent. That is – you can create a leak.
Use a tarp under your tent. You should do this regardless of the weather, but when it’s raining it becomes important.
Sleep. There’s nothing better than sleeping in a tent when the rain falls.
Check the forecast every hour. If the storm is worsening, you need to know about it. Do you have extra batteries for your weather radio?
Never hold a fishing pole during a lightning storm.
Emergency flares are excellent for igniting wet firewood.
Body heat is a precious element. Conserve and protect your body by keeping it dry on the outside and wet on the inside. Drinking water becomes very important when body heat is being lost. Change into dry socks, get into your dry sleeping bag.
Keep an eye on your tent, the tent’s rain fly and the ropes/stakes holding your tent in place. Standing water and high winds are the enemy of your tent.
Remember this – when it rains, you’ll see fewer people and fewer insects. Some of the most remarkable times you’ll experience will be in the backcountry during a rain storm – it can be exhilarating! Doesn’t sound so bad after all – does it?
Use this information and you’ll Get It Right The First Time. Get Outdoors!
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Saturday, January 24, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
Best international beaches guide
Vacationing at beach is like heaven or earth for all the aqua lovers and fans. The beach vacation is different from the rest where you the pleasure to get soaked in the sun and sand, experience the ups and downs with the tides and get carried away with the huge waves. To enjoy the water and water activities there are several beach destinations around the world.
• The Capri Islands is an amazingly beautiful coastline. It has no beach yet it is deemed to be one of the best amongst the international beaches. The island has “bathing establishments” in place of beaches. It has a treasure of beach towels, beach balls and beach bunnies. The island is famous to host the rich and facilitate them with perfect luxuries and the exotic Roman art and architecture.
• Barcelona can never be overlooked in the count of beach holidays. Barcelona beaches like the Bora Bora, the nude beach Platia de la Mar Bella, Platja de Sant Sebastia and Platia Barcelona one of the most popular beaches of the world, invite visitors all round the year and from everywhere in the world. Besides the seaside fun and adventure this city of Spain is also perfect for sightseeing. There are marvelous museums, traditional buildings and at display the magnum opus of some of the great architects likes Antonio Gaudi.
• Bermuda has always excited the spirits of all the water devotees. The island is known for some of the ravishing beaches with pink sand and greenish water, fishing activity and uniquely painted homes and cottages. Amongst the well known beaches of the place is the Horseshoe Bay close to the southern end of the island. This Bay is further divided into smaller coves and bays on both the sides and is also a home to many good hotels, restaurants, tennis courts and golf courses. The Astwood Cove is another beach region which is bordered by tall cliffs and beaches with numerous water sports and bewitching flora and fauna. Apart from the beach amusement the island offers delectable sea food and a peculiar lifestyle that makes your vacation a memorable experience.
• Cancun a spontaneously budding tourist destination, also known as Mayan Riviera rests on the ground of state of Mexico. Cancun is a host to some of the best beaches in the world. These beaches encourage a numerous water sports like snorkeling, swimming with dolphins etc. The Xcaret Nature Park, the Xel Ha and the Isla Mujeres are the specific places to thrill you with these activities. The temperature of the place revolves around 80 to 85 degree Fahrenheit. Cancun has also many bizarre and eye catching archaeological sites that keep the tourists busy throughout their visit.
• The Aruba is a Dutch island located in the southern Caribbean Sea and is known for being the best family beach resort across the globe. The Palm Beach in Aruba with its white sands welcomes young as well as the old from all over the world. Apart from water sports the place is also a call to the golf lovers to enjoy while exploring their talent. The weather of this hurricane free place is wonderful with annual average temperature that figures around 82 degree Fahrenheit.
This is just the tip of an iceberg for there are many more lovable beach spots like Jamaica, Negril and Montego Bay, Saint Tropez, Italian Riviera etc. to throng and enjoy
Read More..
• The Capri Islands is an amazingly beautiful coastline. It has no beach yet it is deemed to be one of the best amongst the international beaches. The island has “bathing establishments” in place of beaches. It has a treasure of beach towels, beach balls and beach bunnies. The island is famous to host the rich and facilitate them with perfect luxuries and the exotic Roman art and architecture.
• Barcelona can never be overlooked in the count of beach holidays. Barcelona beaches like the Bora Bora, the nude beach Platia de la Mar Bella, Platja de Sant Sebastia and Platia Barcelona one of the most popular beaches of the world, invite visitors all round the year and from everywhere in the world. Besides the seaside fun and adventure this city of Spain is also perfect for sightseeing. There are marvelous museums, traditional buildings and at display the magnum opus of some of the great architects likes Antonio Gaudi.
• Bermuda has always excited the spirits of all the water devotees. The island is known for some of the ravishing beaches with pink sand and greenish water, fishing activity and uniquely painted homes and cottages. Amongst the well known beaches of the place is the Horseshoe Bay close to the southern end of the island. This Bay is further divided into smaller coves and bays on both the sides and is also a home to many good hotels, restaurants, tennis courts and golf courses. The Astwood Cove is another beach region which is bordered by tall cliffs and beaches with numerous water sports and bewitching flora and fauna. Apart from the beach amusement the island offers delectable sea food and a peculiar lifestyle that makes your vacation a memorable experience.
• Cancun a spontaneously budding tourist destination, also known as Mayan Riviera rests on the ground of state of Mexico. Cancun is a host to some of the best beaches in the world. These beaches encourage a numerous water sports like snorkeling, swimming with dolphins etc. The Xcaret Nature Park, the Xel Ha and the Isla Mujeres are the specific places to thrill you with these activities. The temperature of the place revolves around 80 to 85 degree Fahrenheit. Cancun has also many bizarre and eye catching archaeological sites that keep the tourists busy throughout their visit.
• The Aruba is a Dutch island located in the southern Caribbean Sea and is known for being the best family beach resort across the globe. The Palm Beach in Aruba with its white sands welcomes young as well as the old from all over the world. Apart from water sports the place is also a call to the golf lovers to enjoy while exploring their talent. The weather of this hurricane free place is wonderful with annual average temperature that figures around 82 degree Fahrenheit.
This is just the tip of an iceberg for there are many more lovable beach spots like Jamaica, Negril and Montego Bay, Saint Tropez, Italian Riviera etc. to throng and enjoy
Read More..
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Ben Nevis - a brief history of Humans on the Mountain
If you are planning to attempt to walk up Ben Nevis this summer there are some interesting facts you might like to know. Standing at 1,344 metres high (or 4,408 feet) Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles, and as such is the major challenge for any UK climber or walker. It is also a challenge for people to get into the record books by attempting the climb in peculiar ways!
For the novice or non serious walker, once this peak has been achieved you can sit back and hang up your walking boots knowing that you have beaten the ultimate walk (as far as height is concerned, anyway).
Ben Nevis, translated from the Gaelic means 'Mountain of Heaven'. The first recorded ascent was in 1771, and in 1883 the footpath and observatory were built all thanks to Clement Linley Wragge, nicknamed Inclement Wragge.
Ben Nevis Weather
If you plan to walk up Ben Nevis you will find it hard to pick a day with perfect weather. The mountain summit is only clear on one day out of 10 on average. The old observatory records show 261 full gales per year, and 4,350 mm of rainfall, compared with less than half that amount in Fort William, the town at the foot of the Ben. The wettest month of the year is December. Only in April, May and June is the monthly rainfall less than 25 cm.
The AVERAGE temperature at the summit is one degree below freezing.
Deep snow lies all year in large pockets at the foot of the northern and northa east cliffs, and snow can fall in any month of the year. h
Every year around 100,000 visitors find their way to the summit. Following the path on a summer's day is a fairly safe way to the top, but going off the path or rock climbing can be very dangerous. In a five year period there were 13 deaths on the mountain. Although most averagely fit people can reach the top safely, it is not a walk in the park, and common sense safety precautions should be followed.
Check the weather before you set out!
Always make sure someone knows you are going to climb the mountain so they can raise the alarm if you do not return!
Keep to the path!
Meteorologists on Ben Nevis
Wragge was a meteorologist who climbed Ben Nevis every day to collect weather information. Wragge would collect information from various points on the way up and down the mountain, and his wife would collect readings from their home at sea level. His journey took him four hours to reach the top, and he was away from home for around 11 hours per day. From the 1st June 1881 to the 14th October 1882, and for a similar period in 1882 Wragge climbed the mountain every day without fail. In 1883 sufficient funds were raised to build the path and the 13 foot square room with 10 foot thick walls which was to be the Observatory. To help raise the funds walkers using the path were charged 1 shilling (5p in modern money), and 3 shillings if they were on horseback. Permits could be bought from a shop in Fort William, or from a path maintenance man based at the half way hut.
By 1884 an office, two bedrooms and a visitor's room was added to the observatory, together with a 30 foot tower (which would rise above the snow in the winter. The observatory was connected by telegraph, and later by phone to the Fort William Post Office. From 1884 to 1904, when funds ran out, the observatory was permanently manned and weather conditions were rigorously recorded. The normal summer shift at the summit was two months. They had fresh food in the summer. In the summer tinned food for nine months was taken up by horses, and coke, for fuel, was carried the same way.
To amuse themselves the staff of the observatory made sledges, used snow shoes and skis, and made an outdoor ping pong table out of frozen snow. They carved wood, and played the pipes, violin, flute, mandolin and accordion. One of their more alarming pastimes was to hurl large boulders over the cliffs so they could hear them rumble and crash into the glen below.
Temperance Hotel
A small wooden hotel annexe was also opened, the Temperance Hotel, run by two young ladies who provided food and a bed during the summer months. They charged 3 shillings for lunch, and 10 shillings for tea, bed and breakfast. A fashionable way to ascend the mountain was by pony, and 21 shillings hired the pony and a guide.
In 1916 the hotel also closed, and the buildings gradually fell into disrepair, aided by fire, and climbers who in 1950 were seen stripping the lead from the roof and rolling it down the mountain.
Ben Nevis conquered by Car
In 1911 a 20 horse-power Model T Ford was driving to the top of the mountain as a publicity stunt by the Ford agents in Edinburgh. Henry Alexander Jr, the son of the owner, was the driver. The car was not simply driven up the track - it involved 10 days of preparatory work finding and checking a driveable way to just the half way mark, and to put in bridging planks. It took three further days to drive the car to this point and just two more days to cover the stones and snow to the observatory. The car would sink axle deep in the boggy ground and would have to be hauled out by role. The 'Daily Telegraph' reported at the time that a false turn of the wheel would mean a fall which would have caused total destruction to the car, and certain death to the driver!
Me Alexander was feted as a hero when the car returned to Fort William. After the brakes were adjusted no other repairs were necessary, and the car was driven back to Edinburgh.
Mr Alexander seemed to enjoy his feat so much that he repeated it in 1928, this time in a Standard New Ford (Model A Ford). The last quarter of a mile was driven with four passengers.
Ben Nevis conquered by Bed
In 1981 a group of Glasgow University medical students pushed a bed to the top - they were accompanied by the former newscaster Reginald Bosanquet (then 48) who collapsed 1000 feet up. He later recovered and was able to walk down.
Other weird ascents:
A man from Fort William pushed a wheelbarrow to the summit and back before 1911.
A horse and cart has also been driven to the top.
In September 1980 the kilted Kenneth Campbell of Ardgay, Ross-shire carried a barrel to beer to the top to raise funds for cancer research. The barrel had legs down either side so it could be put down on the ground whenever he needed a breather.
The same Kenny also carried a piano to the summit and back.
So, whilst your planning your walk or relaxing after having achieved it, just spare a thought for the man who climbed the mountain day after day to take readings at the observatory, or those who have attempted the climb in improbable circumstances. For me, once was enough to say I had done it. But maybe the tales of the endeavours above have inspired you…..?
Read More..
For the novice or non serious walker, once this peak has been achieved you can sit back and hang up your walking boots knowing that you have beaten the ultimate walk (as far as height is concerned, anyway).
Ben Nevis, translated from the Gaelic means 'Mountain of Heaven'. The first recorded ascent was in 1771, and in 1883 the footpath and observatory were built all thanks to Clement Linley Wragge, nicknamed Inclement Wragge.
Ben Nevis Weather
If you plan to walk up Ben Nevis you will find it hard to pick a day with perfect weather. The mountain summit is only clear on one day out of 10 on average. The old observatory records show 261 full gales per year, and 4,350 mm of rainfall, compared with less than half that amount in Fort William, the town at the foot of the Ben. The wettest month of the year is December. Only in April, May and June is the monthly rainfall less than 25 cm.
The AVERAGE temperature at the summit is one degree below freezing.
Deep snow lies all year in large pockets at the foot of the northern and northa east cliffs, and snow can fall in any month of the year. h
Every year around 100,000 visitors find their way to the summit. Following the path on a summer's day is a fairly safe way to the top, but going off the path or rock climbing can be very dangerous. In a five year period there were 13 deaths on the mountain. Although most averagely fit people can reach the top safely, it is not a walk in the park, and common sense safety precautions should be followed.
Check the weather before you set out!
Always make sure someone knows you are going to climb the mountain so they can raise the alarm if you do not return!
Keep to the path!
Meteorologists on Ben Nevis
Wragge was a meteorologist who climbed Ben Nevis every day to collect weather information. Wragge would collect information from various points on the way up and down the mountain, and his wife would collect readings from their home at sea level. His journey took him four hours to reach the top, and he was away from home for around 11 hours per day. From the 1st June 1881 to the 14th October 1882, and for a similar period in 1882 Wragge climbed the mountain every day without fail. In 1883 sufficient funds were raised to build the path and the 13 foot square room with 10 foot thick walls which was to be the Observatory. To help raise the funds walkers using the path were charged 1 shilling (5p in modern money), and 3 shillings if they were on horseback. Permits could be bought from a shop in Fort William, or from a path maintenance man based at the half way hut.
By 1884 an office, two bedrooms and a visitor's room was added to the observatory, together with a 30 foot tower (which would rise above the snow in the winter. The observatory was connected by telegraph, and later by phone to the Fort William Post Office. From 1884 to 1904, when funds ran out, the observatory was permanently manned and weather conditions were rigorously recorded. The normal summer shift at the summit was two months. They had fresh food in the summer. In the summer tinned food for nine months was taken up by horses, and coke, for fuel, was carried the same way.
To amuse themselves the staff of the observatory made sledges, used snow shoes and skis, and made an outdoor ping pong table out of frozen snow. They carved wood, and played the pipes, violin, flute, mandolin and accordion. One of their more alarming pastimes was to hurl large boulders over the cliffs so they could hear them rumble and crash into the glen below.
Temperance Hotel
A small wooden hotel annexe was also opened, the Temperance Hotel, run by two young ladies who provided food and a bed during the summer months. They charged 3 shillings for lunch, and 10 shillings for tea, bed and breakfast. A fashionable way to ascend the mountain was by pony, and 21 shillings hired the pony and a guide.
In 1916 the hotel also closed, and the buildings gradually fell into disrepair, aided by fire, and climbers who in 1950 were seen stripping the lead from the roof and rolling it down the mountain.
Ben Nevis conquered by Car
In 1911 a 20 horse-power Model T Ford was driving to the top of the mountain as a publicity stunt by the Ford agents in Edinburgh. Henry Alexander Jr, the son of the owner, was the driver. The car was not simply driven up the track - it involved 10 days of preparatory work finding and checking a driveable way to just the half way mark, and to put in bridging planks. It took three further days to drive the car to this point and just two more days to cover the stones and snow to the observatory. The car would sink axle deep in the boggy ground and would have to be hauled out by role. The 'Daily Telegraph' reported at the time that a false turn of the wheel would mean a fall which would have caused total destruction to the car, and certain death to the driver!
Me Alexander was feted as a hero when the car returned to Fort William. After the brakes were adjusted no other repairs were necessary, and the car was driven back to Edinburgh.
Mr Alexander seemed to enjoy his feat so much that he repeated it in 1928, this time in a Standard New Ford (Model A Ford). The last quarter of a mile was driven with four passengers.
Ben Nevis conquered by Bed
In 1981 a group of Glasgow University medical students pushed a bed to the top - they were accompanied by the former newscaster Reginald Bosanquet (then 48) who collapsed 1000 feet up. He later recovered and was able to walk down.
Other weird ascents:
A man from Fort William pushed a wheelbarrow to the summit and back before 1911.
A horse and cart has also been driven to the top.
In September 1980 the kilted Kenneth Campbell of Ardgay, Ross-shire carried a barrel to beer to the top to raise funds for cancer research. The barrel had legs down either side so it could be put down on the ground whenever he needed a breather.
The same Kenny also carried a piano to the summit and back.
So, whilst your planning your walk or relaxing after having achieved it, just spare a thought for the man who climbed the mountain day after day to take readings at the observatory, or those who have attempted the climb in improbable circumstances. For me, once was enough to say I had done it. But maybe the tales of the endeavours above have inspired you…..?
Read More..
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Beach Camping Parks
Beaches offer joy to every one irrespective of color, creed, or social status. Ever since man learned the art of expressing joy, ocean and beaches have been his theme, whether the medium is a poem, painting, photograph, song or video. The beauty of a sunrise or sun set at the beach is beyond description.
Beach camping is one of the least expensive ways of enjoying weekends or other holidays. One can experience long boardwalks and beach fun like volleyball, swimming, fishing, sailing, wind surfing, jet skiing, water skiing, boating and much more.
As in any activity, beach campers need to take essential camping equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, drinking water, food, cooler, camp stoves, utensils, can opener, appropriate clothes, charcoal chimney, cleaning items, first aid kit, binoculars, bug spray, camera, candles, cell phone, compass, flashlight, GPS, kites, pen and paper and water filters.
Beach camping requires additional equipment such as sunburn lotion, folding aluminum furniture, beach chairs and tables, shade tents, beach wear, beach bags, and beach umbrellas.
With kids there is always a probability for accidents, particularly on beaches. Though all beach camp sites have coast guard services available, it is important for the camper to carry a first aid kit. Whether it is a ready-made unit or put together for the occasion, the kit should include these items: personal medication, bandages, medical tape, sterile gauze, elastic wrap, antibiotics, antiseptic cream, burn ointment, hydrogen peroxide, scissors, tweezers, eye wash and sanitary napkins.
With proper planning and adequate equipment, beach camping can be a captivating human experience!
Read More..
Beach camping is one of the least expensive ways of enjoying weekends or other holidays. One can experience long boardwalks and beach fun like volleyball, swimming, fishing, sailing, wind surfing, jet skiing, water skiing, boating and much more.
As in any activity, beach campers need to take essential camping equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, drinking water, food, cooler, camp stoves, utensils, can opener, appropriate clothes, charcoal chimney, cleaning items, first aid kit, binoculars, bug spray, camera, candles, cell phone, compass, flashlight, GPS, kites, pen and paper and water filters.
Beach camping requires additional equipment such as sunburn lotion, folding aluminum furniture, beach chairs and tables, shade tents, beach wear, beach bags, and beach umbrellas.
With kids there is always a probability for accidents, particularly on beaches. Though all beach camp sites have coast guard services available, it is important for the camper to carry a first aid kit. Whether it is a ready-made unit or put together for the occasion, the kit should include these items: personal medication, bandages, medical tape, sterile gauze, elastic wrap, antibiotics, antiseptic cream, burn ointment, hydrogen peroxide, scissors, tweezers, eye wash and sanitary napkins.
With proper planning and adequate equipment, beach camping can be a captivating human experience!
Read More..
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Backpacks for Charity
There are several sites on the web, that describe programs that provide backpacks full of school supplies to needy children, and backpacks full of toiletries and other necessities for wounded military personnel and for victims of disasters.
A sixteen year old girl, with the help of her Mom and some friends, bought 200 backpacks and filled them with toiletries and other necessities for the victims of Huuricane Katrina. They did this with their own funds except for a wonderful donor who provided the money for shipping the backpacks to the affected area.
There are several church groups all over the country, that have programs which provide backpacks stuffed with all sorts of school supplies, such as notebooks, pens, pencils, paper, crayons, markers, glue and whatever other school supplies they can think of to include. Some scout and youth groups are picking up on and joining this effort.
One program run by couple in California, supplies the children of migrant workers with backpacks and school supplies. They run the program form their garage. They also help poor migrant workers with things like food, clothing, housing and job assistance. A 10 year-old boy in Boca Raton Florida, dreamed up a way to help children in his area.
He began to fill backpacks with school supplies for kids who needed them. By the time he was 11, he had a real organization, and had qualified as a charity under IRS rules. The group donates backpacks loaded with notebooks, paper, pencils, glue and other essentials, to schools and charities, all over the state of Florida, that ask for them.
The young man says that if they tell him kids need the packs, “that’s good enough for me.” The word about this group spread quickly among corporations and non-profit organizations. Corporate foundations, local companies, his Dad’s clients and family and friends all donated cash and supplies. By the time this kid was sixteen he had managed to distribute over 8,000 loaded backpacks.
One of the nations leading office supply companies donated most of the backpacks they have donated about $257,000 in cash and supplies. The young man had enlisted 20 of his friends to help fill the packs, and to personalize them,, and by writing the names of recipients on the luggage tags attached to each pack. The boy’s mom dad, and half-brother all help, and are officers in the organization, however he writes all his own appeal letters.
The last we knew he was worried about finding a successor, since he was heading off to college. He was worrying that the organization would have to shutdown. This would be a great loss, not only to the kids in need, but also to the rest of us, who no matter what our age, can learn from his example. In cities and towns all over the U.S. churches, civic groups, and individuals have been donating backpack with school stuff to kids and packs with toiletries and other items to adults in areas affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. They have no idea what a sign of hope these things are to us.
Read More..
A sixteen year old girl, with the help of her Mom and some friends, bought 200 backpacks and filled them with toiletries and other necessities for the victims of Huuricane Katrina. They did this with their own funds except for a wonderful donor who provided the money for shipping the backpacks to the affected area.
There are several church groups all over the country, that have programs which provide backpacks stuffed with all sorts of school supplies, such as notebooks, pens, pencils, paper, crayons, markers, glue and whatever other school supplies they can think of to include. Some scout and youth groups are picking up on and joining this effort.
One program run by couple in California, supplies the children of migrant workers with backpacks and school supplies. They run the program form their garage. They also help poor migrant workers with things like food, clothing, housing and job assistance. A 10 year-old boy in Boca Raton Florida, dreamed up a way to help children in his area.
He began to fill backpacks with school supplies for kids who needed them. By the time he was 11, he had a real organization, and had qualified as a charity under IRS rules. The group donates backpacks loaded with notebooks, paper, pencils, glue and other essentials, to schools and charities, all over the state of Florida, that ask for them.
The young man says that if they tell him kids need the packs, “that’s good enough for me.” The word about this group spread quickly among corporations and non-profit organizations. Corporate foundations, local companies, his Dad’s clients and family and friends all donated cash and supplies. By the time this kid was sixteen he had managed to distribute over 8,000 loaded backpacks.
One of the nations leading office supply companies donated most of the backpacks they have donated about $257,000 in cash and supplies. The young man had enlisted 20 of his friends to help fill the packs, and to personalize them,, and by writing the names of recipients on the luggage tags attached to each pack. The boy’s mom dad, and half-brother all help, and are officers in the organization, however he writes all his own appeal letters.
The last we knew he was worried about finding a successor, since he was heading off to college. He was worrying that the organization would have to shutdown. This would be a great loss, not only to the kids in need, but also to the rest of us, who no matter what our age, can learn from his example. In cities and towns all over the U.S. churches, civic groups, and individuals have been donating backpack with school stuff to kids and packs with toiletries and other items to adults in areas affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. They have no idea what a sign of hope these things are to us.
Read More..
Monday, January 19, 2009
5 Tips To Help You Choose The Perfect Hawaiian Vacation Destination
Have you recently decided that you would like to take a trip to Hawaii? If so, have you already decided on a destination? What is nice about Hawaii is that you have so many great vacation destinations to choose from. For starters, you can choose from the Hawaiian Islands of Big Island, Maui, Lanai, Molokai Oahu, and Kauai.
When it comes to choosing a Hawaiian vacation destination, there are a number of factors that you should take into consideration. Five of these important factors are outlined below for your convenience.
1 – Overnight Accommodation Options
When vacationing on one of the many popular Hawaiian Islands, you will find that you have a number of different overnight accommodation options. For instance, popular choices among tourists include booking a stay at a hotel, vacation resort, vacation home, vacation condo, or vacation villa. Although many Hawaiian destinations have each of these overnight accommodations available, not all do. For that reason, if you have your heart set on staying at a Hawaii villa, you will first want to examine Hawaii villa rentals and their locations.
2 – Your Vacation Wants and Needs
Speaking of having your heart set on something, it is advised that you take a step back and think about what you want your vacation to be. What do you expect to get out of your next Hawaiian vacation? For instance, would you like to spend your vacation along the beach or farther inland examining all that Hawaii has to offer? Taking your vacation wants and needs into consideration is one of the best ways to find and choose the Hawaiian vacation destination that is best for you, the rest of your traveling party, and your needs.
3 – Nearby Activities and Attractions
An important component of having the perfect vacation involves having constant fun. Boredom is one of the quickest ways to ruin an otherwise fun vacation. For that reason, you will want to take the time to examine Hawaii vacation destinations and nearby Hawaii activities and attractions. Doing so will enable you to find the Hawaiian vacation destination of your dreams, as you shouldn’t experience a moment of boredom.
When examining Hawaiian vacation destinations, namely the Hawaiian Islands, and their activities, you will want use the internet to your advantage or you can request free vacation guides. When doing so, you will see that you have a number of different options. For example, when vacationing on Molokai, you can go out and examine the tallest sea cliffs in the world or you can visit the Kalaupapa National Historical Park on a mule’s back.
4 – Available Vacation Rentals
As previously stated, it is important to make sure that your intended Hawaii vacation destination has a number of vacation rentals to choose from. In addition to having a wide range of options, it is also important to make sure that the rentals are available for your tended dates of travel. If you do find an available Hawaii vacation rental that peaks your interest, you may want to consider making your reservations as soon as possible.
As important as availability is, there are additional factors that should also be taken into consideration, when looking to find a Hawaii vacation rental. These factors should include size, onsite features and amenities, rules and restrictions, and cost.
5 – Cost of Travel
Speaking of costs, cost should also play an important role in choosing your Hawaii vacation destination. For example, if you were to choose to visit Molokai, you may need to make multiple travel arrangements. Not all of the Hawaiian Islands take flights directly from the United States and other countries. These additional travel arrangements may play an important part in your Hawaii vacation costs.
The above mentioned points are just a few of the many that you will want to take into consideration, when looking to choose your next Hawaiian vacation destination. Although you will likely be pleased with your trip, no matter which Hawaii destination you choose, you should still take the time to examine all of your options.
Read More..
When it comes to choosing a Hawaiian vacation destination, there are a number of factors that you should take into consideration. Five of these important factors are outlined below for your convenience.
1 – Overnight Accommodation Options
When vacationing on one of the many popular Hawaiian Islands, you will find that you have a number of different overnight accommodation options. For instance, popular choices among tourists include booking a stay at a hotel, vacation resort, vacation home, vacation condo, or vacation villa. Although many Hawaiian destinations have each of these overnight accommodations available, not all do. For that reason, if you have your heart set on staying at a Hawaii villa, you will first want to examine Hawaii villa rentals and their locations.
2 – Your Vacation Wants and Needs
Speaking of having your heart set on something, it is advised that you take a step back and think about what you want your vacation to be. What do you expect to get out of your next Hawaiian vacation? For instance, would you like to spend your vacation along the beach or farther inland examining all that Hawaii has to offer? Taking your vacation wants and needs into consideration is one of the best ways to find and choose the Hawaiian vacation destination that is best for you, the rest of your traveling party, and your needs.
3 – Nearby Activities and Attractions
An important component of having the perfect vacation involves having constant fun. Boredom is one of the quickest ways to ruin an otherwise fun vacation. For that reason, you will want to take the time to examine Hawaii vacation destinations and nearby Hawaii activities and attractions. Doing so will enable you to find the Hawaiian vacation destination of your dreams, as you shouldn’t experience a moment of boredom.
When examining Hawaiian vacation destinations, namely the Hawaiian Islands, and their activities, you will want use the internet to your advantage or you can request free vacation guides. When doing so, you will see that you have a number of different options. For example, when vacationing on Molokai, you can go out and examine the tallest sea cliffs in the world or you can visit the Kalaupapa National Historical Park on a mule’s back.
4 – Available Vacation Rentals
As previously stated, it is important to make sure that your intended Hawaii vacation destination has a number of vacation rentals to choose from. In addition to having a wide range of options, it is also important to make sure that the rentals are available for your tended dates of travel. If you do find an available Hawaii vacation rental that peaks your interest, you may want to consider making your reservations as soon as possible.
As important as availability is, there are additional factors that should also be taken into consideration, when looking to find a Hawaii vacation rental. These factors should include size, onsite features and amenities, rules and restrictions, and cost.
5 – Cost of Travel
Speaking of costs, cost should also play an important role in choosing your Hawaii vacation destination. For example, if you were to choose to visit Molokai, you may need to make multiple travel arrangements. Not all of the Hawaiian Islands take flights directly from the United States and other countries. These additional travel arrangements may play an important part in your Hawaii vacation costs.
The above mentioned points are just a few of the many that you will want to take into consideration, when looking to choose your next Hawaiian vacation destination. Although you will likely be pleased with your trip, no matter which Hawaii destination you choose, you should still take the time to examine all of your options.
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Sunday, January 18, 2009
5 Tips For Easy Air Travel
There's no denying that it has become more and more difficult to fly without running into snags or problems with the airport or the airlines. Enduring the line at the security check point in some airports is enough to put some passengers in a bad mood. However, despite all of the inconveniences that come with flying, it is a necessity. There are several things that can be done to make flying easier and more hassle free, and all that is involved is a little bit of common sense and planning.
1. Get to the Airport Early
Arriving at the airport early is a no-brainer, especially when the airlines tell passengers to arrive at least two hours prior to a flight's departure time. However, there are many people who refuse to heed this request, and arrive at the airport just several minutes before a flight is scheduled to leave. If there is a line at the check-in counter or at security, this can create a very stressful situation. Not only may the flight be missed, but a new flight must be booked, and the passengers will probably have to travel stand-by on a later flight with no guarantee of a seat until the very last minute.
2. Take a Morning Flight.
Leaving on an early flight does not necessarily mean a 4 a.m. flight must be chosen. However, flights that leave first thing in the morning are less likely to be running late, and they are less likely to be affected by weather problems across the country and/or other planes that may be delayed at other airports. Also, if for some reason the first flight of the day is canceled or delayed, there will probably be several other flights throughout the day that, if necessary, can be taken instead.
3. Try Not to Fly During "Rush Hour"
Airports, like highways, have rush hours. Typically, rush hour in the morning is from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., and in the afternoon from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. These are the hours when airports are the most crowded with people waiting for flights. Crowds mean longer lines at the security check points, more people in the restrooms, more people waiting in restaurant lines, and more people taking up seats in the waiting areas. Flying at a NON-rush hour time of day can alleviate the need to stand in lines and sit with crowds.
4. Try to Take Non-Stop Flights
Obviously, when a non-stop flight is taken, there is less risk of being delayed. Taking off and landing both take quite a bit of time, so avoiding having to do this twice is recommended. There will always be destinations when a non-stop flight is not available, but there are plenty of cities where non-stop flights are just as common as those that stop. It may even be worth a few extra dollars to book a non-stop flight to avoid an unneeded hassle and the possibility of being delayed.
5. Book Connections with Enough Time
If a non-stop flight is not available to a desired destination, make sure to schedule enough time in between flights. When airlines book flights, they often have a layover requirement of 30 or 45 minutes between connections. However, this is often not enough time if the original flight arrives late. In order to avoid this stress, try to schedule connecting flights with at least an hour to spare between the arrival time of the first flight and the departure time of the connecting flight.
Read More..
1. Get to the Airport Early
Arriving at the airport early is a no-brainer, especially when the airlines tell passengers to arrive at least two hours prior to a flight's departure time. However, there are many people who refuse to heed this request, and arrive at the airport just several minutes before a flight is scheduled to leave. If there is a line at the check-in counter or at security, this can create a very stressful situation. Not only may the flight be missed, but a new flight must be booked, and the passengers will probably have to travel stand-by on a later flight with no guarantee of a seat until the very last minute.
2. Take a Morning Flight.
Leaving on an early flight does not necessarily mean a 4 a.m. flight must be chosen. However, flights that leave first thing in the morning are less likely to be running late, and they are less likely to be affected by weather problems across the country and/or other planes that may be delayed at other airports. Also, if for some reason the first flight of the day is canceled or delayed, there will probably be several other flights throughout the day that, if necessary, can be taken instead.
3. Try Not to Fly During "Rush Hour"
Airports, like highways, have rush hours. Typically, rush hour in the morning is from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., and in the afternoon from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. These are the hours when airports are the most crowded with people waiting for flights. Crowds mean longer lines at the security check points, more people in the restrooms, more people waiting in restaurant lines, and more people taking up seats in the waiting areas. Flying at a NON-rush hour time of day can alleviate the need to stand in lines and sit with crowds.
4. Try to Take Non-Stop Flights
Obviously, when a non-stop flight is taken, there is less risk of being delayed. Taking off and landing both take quite a bit of time, so avoiding having to do this twice is recommended. There will always be destinations when a non-stop flight is not available, but there are plenty of cities where non-stop flights are just as common as those that stop. It may even be worth a few extra dollars to book a non-stop flight to avoid an unneeded hassle and the possibility of being delayed.
5. Book Connections with Enough Time
If a non-stop flight is not available to a desired destination, make sure to schedule enough time in between flights. When airlines book flights, they often have a layover requirement of 30 or 45 minutes between connections. However, this is often not enough time if the original flight arrives late. In order to avoid this stress, try to schedule connecting flights with at least an hour to spare between the arrival time of the first flight and the departure time of the connecting flight.
Read More..
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