Monday, December 26, 2011

Simple Face Painting Ideas For Beginners

Painting faces is fun, exciting and watching the kids admire their designs is very cute. However you may see the faces painted at Walt Disney or the work of someone else who has been doing it for years and think, I could never do that! And, "if my designs aren't so elaborate nobody will want them." Well, you're wrong, you don't have to go all out to do beautiful and kid friendly face painting.

You can start with simple designs and you'll still be the life of the party. One great way to do smaller kids that won't sit still is to use stamps to get the basic design on and then take your brush and fill in the accents. Check your local craft store or Wal*Mart for stamps. Snazarro also has stamps available for those that need something to work off of.

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If you're able to do small check designs free hand, paint some on cardboard stock paper and take it along and have the kids pick one of those. Having some of this around is handy also for practicing or trying out a new idea you just came up with.

Supplies

You can keep these simple as well. Snazarro sells an 8 color rainbow kit that has all the basic colors you'll need. If you want to add some jazz they have an 8 color sparkle set as well. If you're only going to do cheek designs you won't need a sponge, but you will need several different sizes of brushes. It's a good idea to have several of the same size so you can paint for a little bit, then clean your brushes.

Simple Face Painting Ideas For Beginners

For more face painting ideas and tips for faces any mother would love check out Jacey's face painting ideas blog You'll find photos and great resources to jump start your creative juices for new face painting ideas.

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Visiting Dallas? 5 Places You Should Visit

Dallas, Texas is the second largest city in Texas, only trailing Houston. Dallas is a wonderful place to visit, because it offers a wide variety of different attractions that are sure to spark the interest of everyone. When visiting Dallas the 5 places you should visit are the Ballpark at Arlington, Six Flags over Texas, Dealey Plaza, the West End, and the Dallas Arboretum.

The Ballpark at Arlington is home to the Texas Rangers, and also a very brilliant architectural piece. If it is baseball season, then take in a Rangers game, because you will never forget the excitement that you will feel in that stadium. If it is not baseball season, then take a tour of the stadium and enjoy the brilliant architecture and history of the city that awaits you around every corner.

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Six Flags over Texas is a wonderful amusement park that has thrilling rides, amazing shows, and tasty treats. The entrance fee is fairly pricey, but once inside you can ride all of the rides and see all of the shows for free.

Dealey Plaza was created as a grand entrance to Dallas, but now is known as the place where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. No matter if you are a history buff or not, you will definitely enjoy sitting on the Grassy Knoll, or visiting the museum in the School Book Depository.

After visiting Dealey Plaza you should venture out into the rest of The West End. The West End is a very popular destination in Dallas that has over 80 shops and 40 restaurants for your shopping and dining pleasure, as well as many other historical monuments and museums.

Once you are finished running all around the city, you should make a stop at the Dallas Arboretum. The Dallas Arboretum is a very large garden area located on the shores of White Rock Lake. This is a great place to sit down, relax, and have a picnic.

Visiting Dallas? 5 Places You Should Visit

This article brought you by Dallas Texas Bed And Breakfast: The Guesthouse on Allen Street in Dallas TX:

http://www.adallasguesthouse.com/

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Cleaning Canvas Tops on Boats

Cleaning boat canvas covers is difficult unless you know the secrets. Here are some tips to assist your so you can get out on the water where you belong.

Dodgers, cockpit cushions, sail covers and sails must be cleaned because salt water leaves a residue on fabric that attracts and holds moisture on the surface. Caring for canvas when cleaning boat canvas, they key is to be gentle. Never use detergents to clean canvas. Using a soft- bristled brush to prevent damage, apply a mild solution of Lux, Ivory soap or Borateem in water no hotter than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The soap Boat Books recommend is Sudbury Boat Zoap. It works great on Sunbrella materials. Starbrite makes two products: Vinyl Shampoo for cleaning and Vinyl Polish for cleaning pre-coated canvas. After light scrubbing, rinse thoroughly with cold water.

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For more stubborn cases, soak the canvas in a solution of one-quarter cup Clorox, one-quarter cup Ivory soap and one gallon of warm water for about 20 minutes. Again, rinse with cold water to remove all soap. After you've washed the canvas, let it line-dry in a well-ventilated area. The material will shrink if heat-related drying methods are used. Never try to fold or store canvas while it's still wet; this can lead to premature wear and damage. Keep in mind that washing canvas may remove its ability to repel water. Be sure to reapply a water-repellent after. There are several canvas coatings you can buy and they can be easily bought as over the counter canvas coatings or as exclusive marine products. Never use a brush on clear vinyl windows. Use Meguiar's Mirror Glaze in the white bottle to remove cloudiness and fine scratches. Never roll up canvas covers while they are wet. To remove soda stains use water with 70% isopropyl alcohol.

Cleaning Canvas Tops on Boats

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/. Lance is an online writer in retirement.

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Dubai Lifestyle - The History of the City and Day to Day Life in Dubai

Background Information to the United Arab Emirates and Dubai: -

Dubai is one of the seven states that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE); it is located in the Middle East. The UAE borders the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf and is situated between Oman and Saudi Arabia. The United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971 by the then 'Trucial States' after their independence from Britain.

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The UAE is governed by a Supreme Council of Rulers, the council is made up of the seven emirs and they appoint the prime minister and the cabinet for the country. Despite being ultimately ruled by the Supreme Council, as with the other six states, Dubai maintains a large degree of autonomy from the UAE when it comes to general decision making for the city's development.

Oil was first discovered in the United Arab Emirates in the 1950s, before that the country's economy was built on fishing and pearling, since 1962, when Abu Dhabi became the first of the emirates to begin exporting the oil, the country's economy has been completely transformed.

Sheikh Zayed, who has been the president of the UAE since its inception, quickly understood the economic potential for the country from the oil industry. He has continued to ensure that each of the emirates benefits from the oil generated wealth, he has insisted on the reinvestment of oil revenues into the healthcare system, the education system and the general national infrastructure.

The development of the oil industry has led to a large influx of foreign workers to the UAE, in fact Dubai's population is the fastest growing in the world and the foreign population makes up about three quarters of the entire UAE population! As a direct result of this fact the UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf, with other cultures and beliefs tolerated. Dubai has also been quick to understand the need for diversification. Oil in the region is only projected to last for about 30 years and so Dubai has successfully embarked upon a major diversification program aimed to at developing industries and commercial enterprises to take the place of oil as the predominate commodity of the state's economy.

The climate in Dubai is sub-tropical and arid or desert like. The city enjoys almost year round sunny blue skies. Rain is infrequent and if it does fall, it falls in the winter.

Temperatures range from lows of 10°C to extreme summer highs of 48°C. The average maximum daily temperature in January is 24°C and the average maximum daily temperature in July is 41°C when humidity is very high.

About the city of Dubai

Dubai is recognised as the commercial and tourism capital of the UAE and is globally regarded as one of the most sophisticated, futuristic and cosmopolitan cities in the world, in fact Dubai is something of a phenomenon! It is an Arab Muslim society with the fastest growing foreign population in the world, and it has successfully developed harmony through ethnic diversity. It is a city with unrivalled levels of economic energy and architectural ambition, a unique city of contrasts where the most modern and architecturally stunning skyscrapers stand alongside traditional beautiful Arabic structures.

The experiences and attractions available in Dubai are many and varied. From the miles of immaculate beautiful white sandy beaches to the richly exotic Arabian heritage, from the awe inspiring majesty of the desert to the lively international bars, restaurants and nightclubs - a visitor to Dubai is guaranteed an incredible, never to be forgotten experience.
In 2003 Dubai was voted safest holiday destination in the world by Conde Nast Traveller magazine, and in fact Dubai is recognised globally as one of the safest cities in the world. Living in Dubai you will find that it is virtually crime-free with the Dubai police ensuring personal safety and security. Anyone found guilty of committing a serious crime will be severely punished. Alcohol and drug related offences are considered serious.

The economy of the city of Dubai is a mainly service-driven economy, with every business amenity from banking to telecommunications offered. International trading and industrialisation are actively encouraged through the provision of favourable taxation advantages, offshore status, specialist free trade zones etc. Recent innovative projects in the city include the foundation of Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City, bringing 21st century technology to Dubai in the world's very first 'Free Zone' wholly dedicated to e-business.

Day to Day Life in Dubai

Accommodation

If you are considering moving to Dubai one of your first thoughts will no doubt be finding somewhere to live. This is not something you'll find too tricky, there are many companies advertising rental accommodation in the classified sections of local newspapers and they offer everything from private villas to luxury apartments or even shared accommodation. Whatever your budgetary and lifestyle requirements are, the specialist relocation and housing companies will be sure to have something to assist you. If you prefer to find your accommodation privately and avoid any agency costs, many people use supermarkets notice boards to advertise or request accommodation.

In terms of which areas of the city offer the type of accommodation you are after, Jumeirah, Umm Sequiem and the Safa Park area are upmarket and offer villa-type accommodation. Satwa and Garhoud also offer villas but are slightly cheaper. Rashidiya, Mirdif and Al Quoz are mainly Arabic areas and they actually attract a lot of expats.

If you are after an apartment the most popular areas are around Bur Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Road with cheaper flats are available in Deira, Satwa and Karama. Some of the more exclusive apartment developments offer shared gym and pool facilities together with garaged car parking and the like.

Education

If you are considering moving to Dubai with family and are interested in finding out about the education system and the availability and quality of schools, one of the best ways is to ask around! Because of the numbers of expats in Dubai there is actually a large number of primary and secondary schools from which you can to choose. Most schools are private fee paying schools and really the best way to get an idea of the reputation of a school is to ask friends, colleagues and other expats who live in Dubai. Many of the schools also have their own websites where you can learn about the curriculum they follow, after school programs etc.

When it comes to enrolling your child in the UAE there are a few restrictions you should be aware of. For example you are not allowed to change your child's school during the academic year...unless approval is given by the Ministry of Education and the circumstances are 'special'. This means that you have to make sure the school you choose for your child will definitely suit them. Another restriction you should be aware of is that is you move to Dubai on or after the 1st May each year you can't enrol your child into the schooling system for that year. Instead you'll have to enrol for the beginning of the new school year which is usually the beginning of September.

Health

Another consideration you may have if thinking about relocation to Dubai may be the state of the health care system available there. It is fair to say that Dubai has many very well equipped hospitals and surgeries. Dubai's Department of Health and Medical Services runs Dubai, Rashid, Maktoum and Al Wasl hospitals, with Dubai Hospital one of the best medical centres in the entire Middle East. Al Wasl is a maternity and gynaecology hospital.

The Department of Health also run out patient clinics or surgeries and in addition there are a number of quality private hospitals in Dubai offering in and out patient facilities - e.g., The American and Welcare Hospitals. Overall both the private and publicly offered health care services in Dubai are first class.

Working

Working in Dubai you will enjoy a tax free salary and all shop goods can be bought at tax free prices, making it an incredibly attractive city to international workers and international companies. Job opportunities in Dubai and diverse and plentiful, particularly since the additions of the Media and Internet cities...Dubai is a city expanding its horizons at an unrivalled rate.

It is important to mention that some countries worldwide have tax laws enabling them to tax their nationals on their worldwide income. It is important to check your status with an international accountant before taking up employment in the city.

Lifestyle

Dubai has a thriving expat population who make the most of their tax free lifestyle in this amazing city of opportunity. The nightlife in the city is excellent, with cocktail bars, wine bars, themed bars and typical British or Irish pubs available, many of which offer food and entertainment as well.

High standard international cuisine is available in the city's many restaurants and if you are looking for lively evening entertainment there are numerous night clubs around the city. Some of the clubs attract international DJs; there are also Middle Eastern, Indian and Asian nightclubs offering entertainment with singers and dancers. Dubai also welcomes international touring singing and entertainment acts which cater to all tastes and ages...from traditional theatre groups to ballet, from opera to international rock and pop bands - all are regular visitors to the United Arab Emirates.

You can be assured of an exciting pace of life in Dubai and a high standard of living.

Dubai Lifestyle - The History of the City and Day to Day Life in Dubai

Rhiannon Williamson is an experienced publisher who has produced articles for leading travel and tourism guides and financial magazines. Her specialist knowledge about both travel and finance gives her site Shelter Offshore the unique ability to literally cover every single aspect of moving & living abroad - including the often less discussed offshore tax advantages that can be available when leaving our homeland.

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33 Travel Safety Tips

Traveling to unfamiliar destinations can bring to you the sort of troubles you do not want to experience while on the road namely: robbery, rape, or murder. Tourists often fall prey to perpetrators because they do not prepare properly before embarking on a trip. Let's examine some things you should do to prevent your travels from becoming a tragedy:

1. Never list your home address on the luggage tag. If on business, put the company's address on the tag; if visiting friends you can list their address. Use covered luggage tags as well.

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2. Stay with your luggage until the luggage is checked. If you must put your bag down, keep one foot on the handle.

3. Carry important papers with you; NEVER check anything that you simply cannot afford to lose. Photocopy your passport, driver's license and credit cards.

4. Bring a small flashlight. You never know when you'll suddenly be "in the dark" and find yourself in unfamiliar surroundings. At night, keep your flashlight by your bed.

5. Make sure that your prescription medicines are filled properly and labeled accurately. In some countries certain prescription medicines are forbidden.

6. Never wear anything that projects affluence. No gold chains, expensive watches and rings, luggage, or other paraphernalia should be in easy view. Better yet: leave your jewelry at home.

7. If possible travel with only one or two credit cards.

8. Women particularly should never accept a drink from a stranger. Keep an eye on your drink at all times.

9. Vary your schedule; try not to come and go at the same time everyday.

10. Only stay in a hotel that uses cards to open room doors and make sure your room has a peephole and a deadbolt lock. Secure the chain and secure the door by pushing a rubber stop under it.

11. Stay in a room near a stairwell. Never take the elevator if a fire or smoke is detected. Always stay in a hotel where the doors enter the hallway and not directly from the outside.

12. Do not wear name tags in public.

13. Do not use unmarked taxi cabs.

14. Sit behind the driver so you can see him, but he cannot see you.

15. Pay the driver upon arriving at your destination and while you are still sitting in the vehicle.

16. If you must rent a car, rent only from a reputable company. Any operating problems that occur could signal sabotage.

17. Be aware of 'staged' car accidents meant to catch you off card.

18. Back into your parking spaces to facilitate a quick exit.

19. Park only in well lit and well traveled areas.

20. If your cell phone does not work outside of the country, consider renting one that does for the duration of your trip.

21. If detained for whatever reason by an official, ask for identification. If in doubt, tell them that you want to see his superior. Keep your emotions in check.

22. If traveling with children, bring along an updated photograph of each child in the event that you become separated from them.

23. Write your child's name and your hotel number on each card; include a close friend's or relative's contact information on the card. Give a card to each child which they will carry with them as long as you are away. Destroy once home.

24. Discuss with your family what they would do in event of an emergency while away from home, e.g. whom to call, how to contact emergency personnel, etc.

25. Do not discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal information in public within earshot of strangers.

26. Bring along a basic first aid kit with bandages, iodine, mosquito repellant, sunscreen, alcohol packets, dramamine, pepto bismol, diarrhea medicine, etc.

27. Familiarize yourself with train and bus schedules before traveling. Have an alternate plan in place in the event your transportation plans change.

28. Do not flash your passport in public. Discreetly show important documents to officials only.

29. Consider purchasing portable alarms that emit a loud sound.

30. Watch for scams on the street. Children working with adults are notorious as pickpockets.

31. Never flash your money in public. Exchange funds with reputable and recognized exchangers only.

32. Have tips ready in advance for service personnel.

33. Consider renting an escort [security] service if traveling in areas where crime is high.

The key to safe traveling in any area is situational awareness. Distractions because of luggage, children, hotel personnel, strangers, etc. can put you at risk. Know your surroundings and stay in control of every situation.

33 Travel Safety Tips

Matt manages the Corporate Flight Attendant Community a comprehensive resource center for business flight attendants who travel throughout the world. You can visit the community at http://www.corporateflyer.net or http://www.cabinmanagers.com

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Sunday, December 25, 2011

Mexican Celebrations

When people think of Mexican celebrations, they often think of Cinco de Mayo. My friend, there are many more Mexican celebrations to enjoy than just this celebration of a military victory over the French.

Mexican Celebrations

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Mexico is a diverse and ancient country, full of many different traditions and celebrations. The native culture of the Mayans, mixed with the Spanish and even German cultures of those who have ruled Mexico make for a combination of holiday styles and reasons to celebrate that are unparalleled in other countries. The predominant Catholic religion also plays a part in the many different Mexican celebrations, and taking a trip to Mexico during one of these holiday times will make for a most memorable vacation.

One of the oddest (at least to those outside of Mexico) celebrations in this country is the Day of the Dead (El Dia de Los Muertos). Taking place over two days on November 1st and 2nd, this holiday is used to celebrate those who have passed away and other ancestors. In Oaxaca, Mexico, this Mexican celebration is especially important. Starting on noon on November 1st, families flock to the cemetery where Mariachis play music for the dead and items and food are brought to the graves of the deceased to honor them. All of the favorites of the dead relatives are included, and many families set up altars in their homes to honor their ancestors. Started with a religious picture (usually of the Virgin of Guadeloupe), these altars also include pictures of the dead along with offerings of favorite foods and even items such as liquor and cigars.

The Day of the Dead celebrations last two days with the first day and night being primarily for the children and the second being for the adults. Candles and incense burn all through the towns and cemeteries, and a marriage of the pagan roots of this ceremony and the Catholic traditions that were infused into the holiday can be seen throughout the ceremony. Mexican celebrations are extremely happy occasions. Even this one that celebrates the dead is not a scary or dark. Rather, it's an interesting festival that helps people to commune with those who have left them and to come to terms with death while giving the process the respect it deserves.

Many Mexican celebrations spring from religious tradition, such as the Day of the Dead, Christmas pageantry and Easter passion plays. Visiting Mexico during one of these times can help to give tourists a great sense of what the country and its inhabitants are truly like, while also giving visitors a chance and excuse to party.

Mexican Celebrations

Richard Monk is with Facts Monk - a site with facts about everything. Visit us to read more about Mexico.

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Haiti - Culture And Sports

CULTURE

Like Katherine Dunham, Lillian Hellman, W.B. Seabrook, Erik Leonard Ekman, Alejo Carpentier, Selden Rodman, Noel Coward and Angeline Jolie, many people say that Haiti is the most beautiful country in the Caribbean. Known as the "Magic Land", Haiti is famous for its culture. Certainly, Haiti its culture, its superstitions and its music. The superstitions or voodoo plays a profound role in the lives of many Haitians. The voodoo was introduced into Haiti in the late 16th Century. Haiti is also famous for its painting, and finally for its ruins...for example the Sans Souci Palace, the most famous ruins in the Caribbean. Exactly, this enigmatic palace is considered a Cultural Heritage for Humanity by UNESCO. Originally constructed by black slaves, now Sans Souci is one of Haiti's main tourist attractions.

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Since the late 1940s, Haitian painting, best known as "naïve art" or "intuitive art", is famous all around the World. The most important figure was Hector Hyppolite. His work made its biggest splash in the United States in the 20th Century. Other artists known internationally include Rigaud Benoit, Castera Bazile, Joseph Jean-Giles and Jean-Baptista Bottlex.Haiti is famous for its traditional sculpture. The best Haitian sculptor is Albert Mangoes.

FAMOUS HAITIAN

Nelust Wyclef Jean (singer/Haitian-American): Original member of 1990s hip hop group The Fugees. Wyclef Jean is probably the most popular Haitian singer of all time. Jean was born in Croix des Bouquets (Haiti) on October 17, 1972. When he was just ten years old, he moved to the United States. Under leadership of Wyclef Jean and Lauryn Hill, The Fugees had several hits in the 1990s, including The Score (The Score album sold 6 million copies). Since 1997, Wyclef Jean, as soloist, became well-known on the international music scene. Like songwriter and producer, Jean collaborated with superstars as Santana, Withney Houston, Mick Jagger,Bono,Tevin Cambpell, Bounty Killer, Eric Benet, Sarah Connor, Claudette Ortiz, Tarkan, Michael Jackson, Youssou N´Dor, Shakira, Olga Tañon, Carlos Ponce and Julio Voltio. During the last seven years, he has sold more than 10 millions albums worldwide. In 2002, his single Masquerade was a great success.

Since then, Wyclef Jean is a man that always works with love for Haiti, one of the World's poorest countries. Recently, he makes perhaps his best work: "Yele Haiti", a foundation which works for the human development in the Island. Like Miriam Makeba in South Africa or Bianca Jagger in Nicaragua, Jean loves his roots. In an interview for Magazine, Wyclef Jean discussed about Haitian roots: "I am 100% Haitian. I am proud to be Haitian. I still have my Haitian passport. I represent Haiti in everything that I do. Every head in the industry knows that I am Haitian...they know what I'm about. I was Haitian forst. Haitian till die!", said Jean.

Discography: Wyclef Jean Present the Carnival Featuring the refugee All-Stars (1997) / The Ecleftic:2 Sides II a Book/ Masquerade (2002) / The Preacher's (2003)/ Sak Pasé Presents: Creole 101( 2004) /Hips Don't Lie (with Shakira, 2006).

FAMOUS HAITIAN WOMEN

Michaëlla Jean (Governor-General of Canada)/ Yvonne Neptune (former Prime Minister)/Claudette Werleigh (Prime Minister 1995-1996)/Lina Blanchet (singer)/ Edwidge Danticat (writer)/ Michelle Bennett Duvalier(First Lady of Haiti 1981-1986)/ Luce Turnier (painter)/ Ertha Pascal-Trouillot (Head of State 1990-1991)/ Marie Casimir (journalist) / Sonia Sekula (Painter) / Marie Chauvet (writer)/ Suzanne Comhaire-Sylvain (writer)/ Carmen Brouard (singer)/Dayana Bennett (journalist and actress) / Elie Price (singer)/ Blanche Bosselman (singer)/ Lina Mathon (singer)/ Georgette Moliere (singer)/ Simone Ovide Duvalier (First Lady of Haiti 1957-1981)/ Marleine Bastien (human rights leader)/ Garcelle Beauvais (actress and model)/ Deborah Saint-Phard (track and field)/ Antoinette Gauthier (track and field), Louise Pierre (track and field)/ Rose Gauthier (track and field)

Edwidge Danticat (writer): One of the Caribbean's most famous writers in the 21st Century. She has written several novels and collections of shore stories, including Kri? Kra!, nominated for a National Book Award. Danticat attracted international attention in 1997 when she wrote perhaps her most famous novel Farming of the Bones, a story about genocide Haitians under the repressive dictatorship of Rafael Leonidas Trujillo.

Garcelle Beauvais (actress): She is the first Haitian actress to star on television. Although she has lived in the United States for many years, the actress and former fashion model Garcelle Beauvais was born in Saint Marc, a city in Haiti, in 1966. She is perhaps best known for her role as Francesca Monroe on TV's the Jamie Foxx Show. Like Gerthie David, Joelle Apollon, Evelyn Miot, and Marjorie Vincent, she has the classic beauty of the Haitian black woman

SPECIAL AWARDS

Gerthie David "The Black Goddess"

In 1975, many Haitian people were shocked to open their newspapers and see photographs of Gerthie David Miss Haiti in El Salvador. On the night of July 19th 1975, in San Salvador, Gerthie David, Miss Haiti, was the second black woman to first runner-up in the history of Miss Universe Pageant. After winning the Miss Haiti title, Gerthie went to San Salvador, the capital city of El Salvador, to enter the Miss Universe Contest. The competence was exhausting, very hard, for example Miss Bolivia, Jackeline Gammarra, great favorite, was eliminated. This day, Miss Haiti looks like a black goddess. Her exotic beauty and charming personality are amazing! At 1,72m in height, she was the best in the evening gown competition, but her speech about the Haitian superstitions swayed thousands of applauses in the 25th Edition of the Contest. Certainly, Miss Haiti captive to the judges Sarah Vaughan (American black singer), Maribel Arrieta (Miss El Salvador 1955 and First runner-up at Miss Universe 1955), Jean Claude Killy (French sportsmen) and Leon Uris(American writer ).

When Bob Barker, the host this pageant, announces the final placements, Gerthie was cheered by the entire auditorium. Suddenly, her pulse rate beats at thousand per minute... "First runner-up is Miss Haiti!", said Barker. She was one of the most exotic delegates in all history of Miss Universe. In the 1970s, Gerthie David was a model from Port-au Prince and she became a symbol to the Haitian youth.
Next months, in London, Joelle Apollon, Miss Haiti-World, came in sixth place at Miss World 1975.After sixteen years, Marjorie Vincent, formerly Miss Illinois 1991,won the title of Miss America Pageant. The first Miss America to originate from the Caribbean. In other words, Marjorie Vincent has Haitian roots. Furthermore, she was the second black woman to win the pageant.

SPORTS

Like in Brazil or Italy, the football is the most popular sport in Haiti. Certainly, the national pastime is the football. A different of the Dominican Republic or Puerto Rico, the Haitian people don't like the baseball. In the 20th Century, football became the most popular sport in the Island, thanks to such heroes as Sylvio Cator, Joseph Gaetjens and Emmanuel Sanon. In 1974 Haiti qualified for the World Cup in Germany.

Emmanuel Sanon was one of the Haiti's most popular players and played at the 1974 World Cup. Sanon made a great contribution to Haitian football because he played in more World Cup qualifiers any other Haitian. He is still very popular with local fans. Other phenomenal talent was Joseph Eduard Gaetjens. He represented both Haiti and the United States. He made FIFA World Cup History: When scored United States opening goal in the 1950 World Cup against England. Joseph came to the United States in the 1940s to play in the American Soccer League. His beautiful play in the Brookhattan Club made in a national star. In 1953, he played for Haiti for the first time.

It's practically impossible to talk about Haitian athletes without mentioning Sylvio Cator. He is a legend in this sport. Cator won the silver medal in the long jump at 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. Cator returned home to a hero's welcome. From 1928 to 1930, he was record man in the long jump. Cator was a marvelous jumper and footballer. He also played an important role in popularizing football in the Island (it was the captain of Haitian National Team).

Since then, he is an example for young people in Haiti. He died in November 1938, but today the people of Haiti still think of him with respect. Many years after Cator's death, the National Stadium in Por-au-Prince was renamed in his honor. Cator was the first of the great Caribbean sportsmen that would come to dominate world track and field.

FAMOUS ATHLETES

Bruny Surin (Canada-Haiti/track field)/ Edrick Floreal (Canada-Haiti/track field)/ Samuel Dalembert ( USA-Haiti/basketball) / Ronald Agenor (USA-Haiti/tennis)/ Sylvio Cator (track and field)/ Yves Jeudy (Box)/ Dieudonne Lamothe (marathon)/ Ludovic Augustin (shooting)/ Ludovic Volborge (shooting)/ Joseph Eduard Gaetjens (Haiti-USA/football)/ Dudley Dorival (track field)/ Fitz Plantin Andre (football)/ Emmanuel Sanon (football)/ Josmer Altidore (Haitian-American/football).

Dudley Dorival (track and field): Dudley Dorival was born on 1 September 1975 in Elizabeth (New Jersey, USA). Dorival is the son of Haitian parents and got Haitian nationality just in time for the XXVII Summer Olympics Games. Since the 2000 Olympics, Dudley Dorival has competed in international competitions under the banner of Haiti. In Sydney (Australia) Dorival finished 7th in the 110m hurdles. He became the first Haitian to Olympic finalist since Yves Jeudy (boxer) in 1976. He won the silver medal at the 1994 World Junior Championship, the bronze at the 2001 World Chanpionship and the gold medal at the 2002 Central American and Caribbean Games El Salvador. Dorival is one of the best sportsman in the history of Haiti.

REFERENCES:

-Bennet Patterson, Carolyn."Haiti: Beyond mountains, more mountains", National Geographic, Washington DC, January 1976

-Bishop,Randa. "Imponentes monumentos haitianos", Americas, Washington DC, enero-febrero 1987

-Cobb,Charles. "Haiti against all odds", National Geographic, November 1987

-Encyclopaedia Britannica Book of the Year 1981, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Chicago, 1980

-Encyclopaedia Britannica Almanac 2003, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Chicago, 2002

-Guevara Onofre, Alejandro. Enciclopedia Mundototal 1999, Editorial San Marcos, Lima, 1998

-Hunter, Brian. The Statesman's Year-Book 1991-92, The Macmillan Press, 1991

-Moritz, Charles. Current Biography Yearbook 1972, H.W Wilson Company, NY

-Sconfield, John. "Haiti-West Africa in the West Indies", National Geographic, Washington DC, February 1961

-The International Who's Who 1996-97, Europe Publications, London, 1996

-The World Almanac 2001, World Almanac Books, New Jersey, 2001

-Tibballs, Geoff. The Olympics´ strangest moments, Robson Books, London, 2004

-Vargas Llosa, Mario. "Haití: la muerte", El Comercio, Lima, 25.4.1994

-Visión. "Imperio del Poder Vitalicio", Santiago de Chile, 17 de marzo de 1967

-Wallechinsky, David. The complete Book of the Olympics, Aurum Press, London, 2004

-Wallechinsky, David-Wallace, Irving. The People's Almanac2, Batam Book Inc

-http://WWW.Yotube.com"1975 El Salvador Miss Universe" (video)

Haiti - Culture And Sports

ALEJANDRO GUEVARA ONOFRE:I am a writer about Third World issues (human rights, biographies, culture, history, olympic sport, democracy, women´s rights).Alejandro is author of many books…He has Italian ancestry. His hobbies and interests are writing essays, going to the gym, browsing the Internet, Foreign Politics, learning about cultures, reading (his favourite writer is Juan Gasparini from Argentina), cooking Peruvian food, listening to American and British Music (his favourite singer is Barry White). His personal motto is “the future is for those people who believe in the beauty of their dreams” by Eleanor Roosevelt...His heroes are Frida Kahlo (Mexican painter), Mpule Kwelagobe (ex Miss Universe and currently Anti-AIDS activist), Bono, Dian Fossey, Jimmy Carter, Oprah Winfrey,Hernando de Soto, Javier Perez de Cuellar and Mario Vargas Llosa...

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Timeshare Foreclosures - Why You Should Avoid Timeshare Foreclosure

One of the common questions that comes up about timeshares is "What will happen if I stop paying my maintenance fee?" This question is usually asked by timeshare owners who are having difficulty keeping up with their annual maintenance fees, due to increases or a change in personal financial circumstances. Or sometimes a special assessment for maintenance becomes too burdensome.

Many of these folks are under the mistaken impression that there would be no consequences to allowing the payments to lapse. But that could not be further from the truth. Timeshare companies will foreclose on your timeshare if you fail to pay your bill and this will wind up on your credit report, just like if you decided to stop paying your mortgage or a credit card bill. You may also wind up being pursued by a collections company for back payments and could possibly face additional penalties and fees as a consequence of non-payment.

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Some owners actually think that just because they've lost interest in their timeshare and don't intend to use it anymore, that the timeshare company will just take it back if the maintenance fee doesn't get paid. But this isn't how it works. If that were the case you'd find some properties with an abundance of vacant properties on their hands during the least desirable vacation times. So for the most part, no timeshare company is going to let you out of your contract. The maintenance fee continues to be an obligation even if you have no intention of ever using your timeshare again.

So the best bet if you need to stop paying is to find a way to sell your timeshare. Sometimes it even makes sense to simply give it away. Unfortunately, for some sellers, you might be holding onto a timeshare that isn't particularly popular, or maybe your week isn't in high demand. In this situation, it might even make sense for you to offer a financial enticement. For example, you might offer to pay this year's maintenance fees, but allow the new owner to use the week.

Conducting your sale in this way wouldn't save you this year's expenses, but it would ultimately allow you to relinquish the responsibility to someone else. This is far preferable to having your timeshare foreclosed upon.

Just be cautious that when you sell your timeshare you are not being ripped off. You should not pay a salesperson an upfront fee to sell your timeshare for you. A professional real estate person collects commission only after the sale is finalized, not before.

Timeshare Foreclosures - Why You Should Avoid Timeshare Foreclosure

If you would like some advice on selling your timeshare as well as tips on buying and getting the most out of your timeshare vacation, you can check out the timeshare articles on Emma's website: http://timesharingauctions.com/

Emma owns both Disney Vacation Club and Royal Holiday Club timeshares and spends her winters timeshare-hopping in Florida.

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Map Of Maryland

A map of Marlyand will show you everything you need about finding your way around Maryland. The state of Maryland is situated on the east coast of the United States. The topography of the state is quite different from that of other states. It is divided into two regions, namely east Maryland and west Maryland by the Chesapeake Bay. The state is surrounded by Pennsylvania in the north, West Virginia in the west, Delaware in the northeast and Virginia in the south. The Potomac River acts as a natural border with the surrounding state of Virginia. Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and Baltimore is the biggest city of the state.

The state lies in the region of 37°53'N to 39°43'N latitude and 75°4'W to 79°33'W longitude. The Backbone Mountain is the highest point in the state. The Appalachian Mountains also run through the state. The Chesapeake Bay lies on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, with Virginia on the other side of it.

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The most striking part of the state is probably Chesapeake Bay. The shores in and around it are heavily indented. The bay is around 189 miles long and its width varies between 4 to 30 miles. The total length of the shoreline surrounding the bay is around 11,600 miles.

The map of Maryland is topographically unique. The bay is the largest estuary in the United States. More than 150 rivers and streams contribute to the huge size of the bay. The area provides for the development of local waterways and rural farm economy that includes fishing.

Map Of Maryland

Maryland [http://www.z-Maryland.com] provides detailed information on Maryland, Ocean City Maryland, Map Of Maryland, Maryland Lottery and more. Maryland is affiliated with TN.

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The Big Six - Top 6 Major Film Studios in the Movie Business

When you watch a movie, whether it be at the cinema or in the comfort of your own home, it's seldom you actually think about where the movie was produced and how each film company secured the rights to the movie you're watching on the screen. The movie business is extremely competitive. The six major film companies discussed below comprise 90 percent of the US and Canadian box office revenue. If you're pondering a career in film, you may want to pay very close attention to the statistics below.

And while there are a few "mini-majors" still turning a profit in the industry (Lions Gate Entertainment and MGM for example), it's fairly difficult for film companies to stay afloat while competing with these highly successful empires.

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Below you will find the six major film companies (also known as "The Big Six") and a brief description of each:

1. Warner Bros. Pictures. Comprising a whopping 19.7 percent of the US/Canadian market share (2007 figures), Warner Bros. Pictures is the biggest player in the film industry. Securing the rights to major films like Harry Potter, Superman, Batman, The Matrix and Star Wars have made Warner Bros. the No. 1 name in the business.

2. Paramount Pictures. With 15.5 percent of the US/Canadian market share (2007 figures), Paramount Pictures continues to be one of the most successful film production companies in the world. Star Trek, War of the Worlds, the Mission Impossible series, Transformers and Tropic Thunder are just a few of the popular films produced by Paramount Pictures.

3. Walt Disney. One of the most renowned film production companies in the history of the business, Walt Disney now holds 15.3 percent of the US/Canadian market share (2007 figures). With highly successful movies like Pirates of the Caribbean, National Treasure, Meet the Robinsons and Enchanted, there's no doubt that Disney will continue to play a key role in the industry for years to come.

4. Columbia Pictures. Comprising 12.9 percent of the US/Canadian market share (2007 figures), Columbia Pictures remains a big player in the business. Some of this company's recent successes include Casino Royale, The Da Vinci Code, the Spider-Man series and Step Brothers.

5. Universal Studios. 12.2 percent of the US/Canadian market share (2007 figures) belongs to Universal Studios, which continues to make millions for the film industry. With major hits like the Bourne series (Bourne Identity, Bourne Supremacy and Bourne Ultimatum), The American Pie series, Knocked Up, American Gangster and The Incredible Hulk, it's very clear that Universal Studios knows what it takes to make money in this industry.

6. 20th Century Fox. Also known as "Twentieth Century Fox," this highly successful movie production company makes up 11.9 percent of the US/Canadian market share (2007 figures). Some of the biggest and most successful movies from this empire include the X-Men series, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Star Wars Episodes II and III, and the Fantastic Four.

Once again, if you're looking for a career in the film industry, the six companies listed above are the cream of the crop. If you have the opportunity to work for one of these companies, we wouldn't suggest passing it up.

The Big Six - Top 6 Major Film Studios in the Movie Business

Selena Valoure is a huge fan of entertainment and is intrigued to learn more about film production. She knows how hard it is to make it in the entertainment business so, in her spare time, she shares what she's learned over the years with the readers of DiscoverFame.com.

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Saturday, December 24, 2011

A Kid Friendly Place To Play Free Disney Games

Keeping Kids Safe Online Even though we live in a highly advanced society, we still need to be able to provide our kids with a safe haven to relax and have fun. Trying to find places online we feel comfortable with can be exhausting since each website has to be searched for and then reviewed in order to make sure it truly is geared to a "G" rated audience.

The Search Is On After spending countless hours searching through kids party favors, kids toys, kids names, kids issues, etc, parents may find a handful of websites that meet their tough standards, but may not pass the 'two thumbs up' rules by the kids - even if they're really great websites, kids might not be so enthusiastic about butterfly farms, prehistoric dinosaurs, and images of the solar system after about 15 minutes.

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Kid Games And Interactive Fun Parents need a website that they know will entertain kids and still allow them to develop the skills they need to feel confident about using the computer keyboard and mouse, while at the same time, comfortable enough to navigate drop-down menus, nav bars, and call to action buttons on their own. The internet is a great place to build confidence for children of all ages and regular access allows them the opportunity to interact and grow with modern technology at their own pace.

Video Creates A Whole New World Thanks to YouTube and Google, almost every premium website offers a choice of video movies to their web visitors. The use of Multimedia is an engaging way to entertain and educate users about their current products, services, or news item, but for kids... something with a little bit more "oomph" is needed. Something a little bit more magical.

Vivid Lights, Color and Video Games You will know immediately when you have found a website that will get the kids stamp of approval, because it will make you, the parent, a little more curious about a brightly colored link and you will want to know if you click it, what will happen next? A perfect example of this is from the online Disney Game designed from the movie "Ratatouille" where you match wits against the computer to play a memory game.

Free Stuff The Kids Will Love Best of all, parents can let the kids play online games as long as they want to without having to pay a dime. Even the Download games are free for 30 minutes, so the kids will know instantly if it's too hard, or if they like the game and may want it as a birthday gift, etc. Most importantly, you as the parent have provided your child a fun, safe and educational place to be while online.

The-Disney-Channel Blog ~ A kid safe place

A Kid Friendly Place To Play Free Disney Games

A Kid Friendly Place To Play Free Disney Games Online http://thedisneychannels.blogspot.com

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Toys in the Early 1900s

The early 1900s were very different from today. Toys, though they have evolved in many ways, were still the delight of children everywhere. Explore the history of toys, as charted by the History website.

Theodore Roosevelt's Presidency marks the beginning of the "Teddy Bear." In the year 1902, toy bears were named "Teddy" after the president's nickname. The Teddy Bear became known world wide, and is still known and loved today. It was only a few years later when the Teddy Bears were mass produced.

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Crayola crayons were made for the first time ever in 1903 by Edwin Binney and C. Harold Smith.

In 1913, an item called the Erector Set was invented. It was a steel, motorized toy that children could use to build models of just about anything. Its creator was A.C. Gilbert, a medical doctor.

Charles Pajeau created a similar wooden set called Tinker Toys in the year 1914. Tinker Toys was made for younger children.

Raggedy Ann dolls first came on the scene after newspaper cartoonist Johnny Gruelle reproduced the doll he made for his daughter. That was in 1915.

The following year, an architect's son named John Lloyd Wright, invented Lincoln Logs, which were interlocked to make structures.

Polystyrene was invented in 1927, and it is the kind of plastic that was used for making toys in the early days.

Two years after Mickey Mouse was created (which was in 1928), stuffed Mickey Mouse dolls were made by Charlotte Clark. This was the start of Disney merchandise.

The yo-yo became popular in the United States after Donald Duncan bought a yo-yo company in 1929.

Scrabble was developed from a game called Criss Cross, invented by Alfred M. Butts in 1931. It became known as Scrabble after James Brunot bought the rights from Butts, and trademarked the game with this new name. Now more than a million Scrabble games are purchased every year in North America.

In 1935, the Parker Brothers introduced Monopoly. This game is so popular today that there are many different clones of this game, many of which are just as popular.

The View-Master, a three dimensional viewer was developed by a camera enthusiast named William Gruber. The toy became popular when Gruber licensed Disney characters to make still, 3-D images from Disney movies and television programs.

Finally, in 1940, model airplanes were mass produced. They started out as a way for manufacturers to sell planes to the military, but later caught on as a toy.

The toys that we know and love today have had their roots from these ancient times. Isn't it interesting to know that if it weren't for all these creative people most of the games you know today, would never have been?

Toys in the Early 1900s

Victor Epand is an expert consultant about kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls. You will find the best marketplace for kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls at these sites for historical toys, stuffed animals.

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Best Books for Young Adults

This guide contains recommended books for young adults between the ages of 13 and 21. The goals of this guide is to encourage young people to read. Young adult don't really hate to read, they just say, "I don't like reading", "this book is so boring", they just haven't found the right book to read, this recommendations below might give them some new ideas about what to read next. There are thousands of new books published for young adults each year we pick only the best one.

"Twilight (series)" by Stephenie Meyer

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Author: Stephenie Meyer, Publisher: Little, Brown and Company 2005-2008, Language: English, Country: United States, Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Young-Adult Fiction

Review: Twilight is a very dramatic but exciting love story between a regular, 17 year old, girl named Bella, and a gorgeous, nearly 100 year old, vampire named Edward. Bella is forced to move into the small town of Forks, with her father Charlie. There wasn't anything fancy in the town of Forks. It rains all the time, and the sun never seems to shine, this town has nothing great, until Bella finds the Edward Cullen. Once Bella finds the Edward, she can't keep thinking about them. I really enjoyed seeing Bella and Edward going through the ups and downs of their relationship, the fact that Bella and Edward have a mutant baby together just freaks me out to no end and gives me nightmares that keep me up at night. I fully recommend reading these books, enjoy this touching story that will leave you wanting more as you read into their romantic love story. Series: 1. Twilight (2005) 2. New Moon (2006) 3. Eclipse (2007) 4. Breaking Dawn (2008)

Similar Books: Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead, Tithe by Holly Black, Eragon & Eldest by Christopher Paolini.

"Wintergirls" by Laurie Halse Anderson

Author: Laurie Halse Anderson, Publisher: Viking, Pages: 278 pp (Hardback), Country: United States, Genre: Fiction

Review: Wintergirls is about an 18 year old anorexic girl named Lia dealing with anorexia nervosa. She wants to be thin, so thin that she disappears and her body is breaking down and dying because of it. The book begins with the death of Lia's best friend (also suffering from an eating disorder) who dies in a motel room all by herself. Lia not only deals with her anorexia, but with a broken family and cutting problems. This was definitely another amazingly heart-wrenching book written by Anderson about a painful topic that many girls are going through every day. For all of those who have read Speak, please take a look at Wintergirls! this is one of the best Young Adults books I have read.

Similar Books: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher.

"The Hunger Games (trilogy)" by Suzanne Collins

Author: Suzanne Collins, Publisher: Scholastic 2008-2010, Language: English, Country: United States, Genre: Adventure, Science fiction, Young adult

Review: The Hunger Games trilogy is a science fiction love story that takes place thousands of years in the future, where the United States is governed by one Capitol and divided into thirteen districts, the story is about a 16 year old girl Katniss Evergreen in a fantasy world called Panem (Latin for "bread") and who is "chosen" to fight in a to-the-death battle with other children in other districts, the winner of the Game will return with food for their district. The story is beautifully crafted and so unexpected. So many twists and turns that keeps your eyes glue to the pages. The first book was amazing it sets the story and fills us in on the history of Katniss Evergreen. The second book - has a twist in it that you don't see coming. The whole momentum of the story got slowed right down in the third book, the last couple of chapters in book 3 "Mockingjay" had me shedding tears for sure but she finally gets her happiness. I always enjoy reading a book that forces the reader to think deeper than what is simply on paper, and Suzanne Collins has mastered that with these books. The story is advertised as YA, but that doesn't mean it's suitable only for young adults.

Similar Books: The Maze Runner by James Dashner, A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin.

"The Giver" by Lois Lowry

Author: Lois Lowry, Publisher: Bantam Books - 1993, Pages: 179 p. (paperback edition), Country: United States Genre: Soft science fiction, Dystopian fiction

Review: The Giver is an exceptional novel about everyday life in a community with no feelings, color, war, or pain, everything is completely organized. This book is written from the perspective of Jonas who is an 11 year-old boy and the main character of this story. He lives with his father and seems to look and act different than the other people in his community. Then all that changes for Jonas when he turns twelve and is selected to receive all the memories that the society has never known, memories that will change his life forever. I loved The Giver because the plot was very creative, the theme was magnificent, and the setting was vivid, Lois Lowry used great descriptive words to bring the book to life. It's one of the best novels to share with young people, a story that they will remember long after they have finished it.

Similar Books: Messenger by Lois Lowry, Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry.

"Harry Potter (series)" by J.K. Rowling

Author: J.K. Rowling, Published: 29 June 1997 - 21 July 2007, Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books (US), Bloomsbury Publishing (UK), Country: United Kingdom, Media type: Print (hardcover and paperback)

Review: J.K Rowling's Harry Potter series was a brilliant work of literature and fantastic for helping younger readers build their vocabulary and learn important life lessons. For anyone who hasn't read the series and has just watched the movies, the books are a must read. For those of you who are anti Harry Potter I would like to point out some of the saving qualities of these books. First, Potter has good healthy, relationships with adults. Second, Potter has relatives and a professor who do not like him. He shows that not everyone in the world will like you but that is not a requirement to having a good life. The books encourage imagination and creativity. There are other reasons but I think that J.K. Rowling has reintroduced reading for pleasure to our young adults and that is a feat indeed. J.K. Rowlings has a fantastic imagination. Harry Potter has been translated in over 67 languages, and the last four books were the fastest selling books in history. I recommend everyone to read these books because they have something for everyone: fantasy and magic, action and adventure, monsters, romance and laughter, anyone at any age will enjoy this set. Harry Potter Series also in Best Fantasy Books of All Time Happy Reading to all.

Series:

1. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (1997)

2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (1998)

3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (1999)

4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2000)

5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2003)

6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2005)

7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007)

Similar Books: The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis, The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

"The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak

Author: Markus Zusak, Publisher: Knopf, USA (March 14th 2006), Pages: 550 (Hardback & Paperback), Country: Australia, Genre: Novel

Review: "The Book Thief" is the story of Liesel a German girl living near Munich during the Nazi uprising. One walks through Germany in World War II, along with Liesel and her best friend. Liesel is a orphan because her mother and brother freeze to death. The other unusual thing about the Book Thief is its narrator, Death himself. Everyone in the whole world seems to adore this book, one that actually touched me, and even made me cry more than once. Considering that the book is set in Nazi Germany, one may expect to find a bit more brutality but its lighter, its at Young Adult reading level. This book has my highest recommendation if you like stories set during World War II, if you want to read about a girl with such strength and emotion that it'll tear your heart out.

Similar Books: The Messenger by Markus Zusak, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne.

"Percy Jackson and the Olympians (series)" by Rick Riordan

Author: Rick Riordan, Publisher: Disney Hyperion 2005-2009, Language: English, Country: United States Genre: Fantasy, Young-adult fiction.

Review: If you like adventures then you will like this book. A fun, quick Young Adult read that adds adventure as well as some history about Greek mythology, an awesome series, especially for fairly competent, but possibly reluctant, readers in 8th grade and up. The main character Percy Jackson 12-year-old teenage boy who sudden finds out his world is not what he thought it was and his life is suddenly full of magic, danger, and adventure. He is also being attacked by monsters out of Greek mythology. His mother brings him to Camp Half-Blood where he learns that he is the son of a god and a hero who has to go on a quest. I liked the idea of the Greek gods being located in the western hemisphere. I thought it was clever how Riordan incorporated Greek gods into the modern world in a very clever, fun way. Constant adventure and an easy to follow storyline keeps the attention of anyone and everyone that takes the time to sit down and open it, there is no excuse not to read this book because it is totally fabulous! Once you open it, it will keep you enticed all the way until the very back cover. It's not just a best book for young adults but for everyone, even us "adults" who still enjoy the kid inside us.

Series:

1. The Lightning Thief - June 28, 2005

2. The Sea of Monsters - May 3, 2006

3. The Titan's Curse - May 1, 2007

4. The Battle of the Labyrinth - May 16, 2008

5. The Last Olympian - June 12, 2009

Similar Books: Harry Potter Boxed Set by J.K. Rowling, Eragon, Eldest & Brisingr by Christopher Paolini.

"Hush, Hush" by Becca Fitzpatrick

Author: Becca Fitzpatrick, Publisher: Simon & Schuster - 2009, Pages: 391, Country: United States, Genre: Young adult, Fantasy, Romance

Review: Hush, Hush is the story written by Becca Fitzpatrick. It is written through the perspective of the main character, Nora Grey, an average high school student going about her business as usual until her Biology teacher rearranges the class seating and places her next to the sexy, mysterious, dangerous-looking new kid, Patch Cipriano. who is revealed to be a fallen angel with a dark connection to Nora herself. However, the reasons that Nora isn't the typical high school girl are many: she is independent, even at her age, because her mom travels a lot after her dad passed away. Her best friend Vee is obsessed with all the things Nora chooses to ignore - boys, shopping, and drama. The way the book was written was amazing. It never left you bored, or wanting to skip a few pages. I would defiantly recommend this book to girls mostly it's a romance book and it doesn't really seem to appeal to boys. Once you open the pages, you will not be able to put it down!

Similar Books: The Dark Divine by Bree Despain, Torment by Lauren Kate, Nightshade by Andrea Cremer.

"Vampire Academy (series)" by Richelle Mead

Author: Richelle Mead, Publisher: Razorbill, Language: English, Country: United States, Genre: Young Adult, Urban Fantasy

Review: The storyline is really great, and Richelle Mead uses flashbacks of what has already occurred to keep you guessing and to help fill you in at the right moment without giving too much away. Vampire Academy tells the story of Rose a seventeen-year-old Dhampir girl, who is training to be a bodyguard for her Moroi (Moroi are mortal vampires and wield the earth's magic elements fire, water, air, earth) best friend, Vasilisa "Lissa" Dragomir. In the process of learning how to defeat Strigoi (the evil undead vampires) in St. Vladimir's Academy, Rose finds herself caught in a forbidden romance with her handsome instructor, Dimitri Belikov, while having an unbreakable bond with Lissa. The story was an overall good read, the main character is independent and funny, to be honest it was better than twilight, while Bella is weak and dependent, Rose is the exact opposite, independent and strong. I loved watching the characters grow and develop especially Rose and Lissa. Throughout the series they mature so much and it is incredibly fascinating to watch. I will say that these books are for a more mature YA audience because there is mention of some more mature topics. I would definitely recommend this series. It's definitely my favorite vampire series!

Vampire Academy series:

1. Vampire Academy (16 August 2007)

2. Frostbite (10 April 2008)

3. Shadow Kiss (13 November 2008)

4. Blood Promise (25 August 2009)

5. Spirit Bound (18 May 2010)

6. Last Sacrifice [9] (7December 2010)

Similar Books: Feast of Fools by Rachel Caine, Friday Night Bites by Chloe Neill, Chosen by P. C. Cast.

"Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson

Author: Laurie Halse Anderson, Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux (October 1999), Pages: 197 pp (first edition, hardback), Country: United States, Genre: Fiction

Review: Speak is a short novel packed full of tremendous emotions and that dealt with a tragic situation of 14 year old girl Melinda so realistically that it felt real. Melinda Sordino is an incoming freshman that called the police at an end of the summer party before high school started. She is friendless, outcast, because she busted an end-of-summer party by calling the cops, so now nobody will talk to her. After that Melinda has been speaking less and less, to her parents and to the friends who have abandoned her because she called the cops during a summer party. Her parents begin to see that something is wrong. They want to help their daughter but don't know how to. This book is very well written from a teen's perspective, you really get inside Melinda's head in this book, you really do feel Melinda's pain, you just don't know the reason behind it until the end of the book, it's just unbelievable, how good the author is at doing this, the author does a spectacular job of capturing the essence of high school. Speak is a wonderful message of hope, with touches of black humor It's a very dark story but it is still funny too. I recommend this book to all young adults. Similar Books: Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.

Best Books for Young Adults

Get recommendations based on your taste Recommendeo

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29 Little Known Facts About Denmark

Denmark, the little country in the North of Europe, is famous for Carlsberg, Legoland and the Little Mermaid. But did you know these little known facts?

Geography And Weather
In Denmark, it rains every second day. On average, a year has 171 days with a precipitation of more than 0.1mm). In 2007, however, there were 188 days of precipitation. There is usually a brisk breeze blowing in Denmark; the average wind speed is 7.6 m/sec. In a year, the average temperature changes from 0 °C in January to 16 °C in August. The Kingdom of Denmark includes, besides Denmark, the self-governing areas of Greenland and the Faroe Islands. The ice free part of Greenland is almost 10 times larger than Denmark. The Danish countryside is rather flat. The highest point is 180 metres above sea level. Denmark borders with only one country, Germany. If you buy a boat in Copenhagen and sail to the nearest shore on the other side of the water, you arrive in Sweden.

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The Danes
The 5.48 million Danes make up only about 0.8 per thousand of the earth's population of 6.7 billion people. In the early 1900s the Danes made up 1.5 per thousand so, in relative terms, the Danes have become fewer. Life expectancy for Danish women is 79 and for men 74. Danish women are on average almost 29 years old when they give birth to their first child. This is an increase of more than five years since 1970 when women were almost 24 years old when giving birth for the first time. Danish children and youngsters spend many years in school. A child who starts nursery school today will on average spend 16-17 years studying before attaining the final exam certificate. Lars Ulrich of Metallica was born in Denmark. The Great Danes dog breed probably did not originate from Denmark, but from Germany.

Danish Culture
Only three Danish films have sold more than one million tickets. The Danish alphabet has three letters not found in the English alphabet: Æ, Ø, and Å. All three are vowels, and they come after the letter Z in the Danish alphabet. The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art was the Danes' favourite museum in 2007 with 468,000 visitors. The Danes love quality food. This makes this small nation the fifth largest exporter of food in the world. An average Dane travels 13,600 km a year. 43% of all Danes own a car. The Danes sent 42 million MMS messages in 2007. Dublin in Ireland was an important Viking trading center. Place names in the UK ending in -by (Whitby) and -thorpe (Scunthorpe) were Viking settlements. The Danish monarchy has existed for over a thousand years.

Economy
In the last ten years the average wages have increased by 44 per cent. During the same period, prices have increased by only 25 per cent resulting in a considerably higher purchasing power. Danish families had an average disposable income of DKK 280,000 (,000) in 2006. Small and medium-sized companies (77% of the Danish companies employ less than 50 people) dominate the Danish business community. Denmark has 298,000 active enterprises, which corresponds to almost one company per every tenDanes on the labour market. Danish farms are the home of more than 13 million pigs. The majority of the pigs are kept in Jutland, while the remaining number is distributed between Funen, Zealand and other islands. The average tax rate in Denmark is 49%.

29 Little Known Facts About Denmark

Denmark.net is the premier Denmark tourism and information portal, with daily news from Denmark and extensive insider tips to Danish attractions.

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Friday, December 23, 2011

Top Ten Places to Visit in Germany

If you're looking for a place that's rich with remnants of the recent past, then Germany's the place for you. As you may well know, Germany was a key player in the previous world wars. Thus, it filled Germany with monuments to the stories of our grandfathers about times long past but never forgotten.

1.) Berlin Wall

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There's no other place in Germany that's more suffused with charged up emotions than the Berlin Wall. You can just imagine the tears and the blood shed over this very wall. This remnant of the wars stands as one of the greatest monuments to democracy known to man - a sign that freedom will always come out victorious.

2.) The Romantic Road

Driving through the Romantic road would be one of the most pleasant drives you'll experience in your whole life. This road is flanked by scenic landscapes on both sides. Occasionally, you'll pass through a picturesque town, a beautiful gothic church, and sometimes, a quaint countryside inn.

3.) Augsburg

Passing through the Romantic Road will lead you to Augsburg, a town founded by the Roman Legions and named after the esteemed Roman emperor, Augustus. This picturesque town contains such historical places as St. Anne's Church, the place where Martin Luther took refuge, and Dom, a very unusual Cathedral. You can also find here the Renaissance Golden Room, a sight that will make you squint with its shine.

4.) Neuschwanstein Castle

Did you know that Walt Disney used a castle found in Germany as his inspiration for the castle of Sleeping Beauty? It's true, those alabaster walls and those high towers and wide parapets were all based on the Neuschwanstein Castle. It is now hailed as one of the most popular tourist spots in Germany.

5.) The Castles of Fussen

Like most of Europe, several castles are littered throughout Germany. It contains the other two of Ludwig's castles, the first one being the Neuschwanstein Castle. This is a must-see for all those families who are traveling through Germany because the place literally looks like it's been torn out of a storybook.

6.) Lake Constance

Lake Constance is both a tourist spot and an essential source of life for the Germans. Several areas in the country rely on this very lake for their drinking water, and this large lake is also a great place to swim and to go bird watching. Indeed, if you're one for beautiful natural sceneries, then Lake Constance is not to be ignored.

7.) The Black Forest

The name looks like it has been taken from one of the fairy tales, doesn't it? The Black Forest - it sounds like a place where evil witches reside and cursed trees grow, but don't let that deter you though. If anything, the Black Forest can hardly be related to its name as it's a sunny forest with tall and sturdy firs. It's a great place to go hiking and a great place for picnics.

8.) Cologne

When you hear the word, Cologne, what comes into your mind? A beautiful fragrance, right? Well, meet the town that's called Cologne for a reason, and indeed, the town of Cologne has its own peculiar fragrance that's very pleasing to the nose. Also, there you will find a beautiful view of the River Rhine and the Cologne Cathedral.

9.) Dachau

Take a break from the fairytale castles and mystical forests and go to the place called Dachau. Dachau is a concentration camp - a remnant of Germany's dark past where you can just imagine the horrors that took place in this very spot. However, you will also find there a statue bearing the inscription, "Never Again", a solemn promise of the German people that they will 'never again' commit such unspeakable acts - another true victory for peace.

10.) Oktoberfest

The Oktoberfest - technically, it's not a place, but it's just too good a festival to leave out of any 'top ten list' that concerns tourism and Germany. This fun-filled festival in the town of Bavaria is guaranteed to leave you intoxicated and euphoric. You can spend days on end just drinking authentic German Ale and just letting yourself loose.

Top Ten Places to Visit in Germany

Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv]. Visit [http://www.destinationguide.tv/germany] to view or share Germany travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv/germany].

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Top Ten Outlet Malls Within a Day Trip of Tokyo

Top Ten Outlet Malls within a day trip of Tokyo

For those of you who love to shop and bargain, a great way to experience Japan is by visiting some of the outlet malls in and around Tokyo. They can make great date spots or be a fun way for the family to spend a day as there are usually facilities for kids too.

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1. La Fete Tama Minami Osawa

Styled in to be a little like Provence in South France (little bit of a stretch) this spacious mall is a nice place to spend a day shopping and sampling the restaurants and cafes. There is also a toho movie theater nearby. Has the usual mix of sports, outdoor, fashion, lifestyle goods, pets, furniture etc. The spacious enviroment and greenery of Minami Osawa make this a relaxing day out.

2. Grandberrry mall

Grenberry mall is quite large and although it is an outlet mall, it also includes all manner of shops, from pet stores and hairdressers, to lifestyle and fashion shops. This mall is divided into four zones; a family and family life themed zone, a fresh foods zone, an outlet mall zone, and a communication and entertainment zone.

3. Lala Port

Lala Port has continued to grow through successive additions since its inception in 1981. It is now home to more than 540 stores, including many brand name stores, fashion houses, movie theater etc. It is one of the largest shopping malls in Japan and is located just on the border of Tokyo in Chiba, Funabashi.

4. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

Fashion is the main focus for this outlet mall, although there is a little of something for everyone. There is an imax theater, bowling alley and there are plenty of restaurants to enjoy. In the vicinity there is also a ski field and a couple of Onsens to enjoy (Hoshino Onsen is recommended).

5. Premium Outlet Mall at Gotenba

This outlet mall is one of the more expansive shopping malls around and has views of Mt Fuji on a clear day. There is every manner of foreign and domestic fashion brand as well as lifestyle stores and some 20 fooderies. There is a large ferris wheel and a play area for the kids. This is a popular mall and can get very crowded on public holidays and at bargain times.

6. Mitsui Outlet Park Iruma

This large Outlet mall has over 200 shops, 180 of them outlet stores. The main focus is on fashion. There is everything from kids fashion, outdoor and sports fashion, to accesories and fashion magazines. 44 shops opened their first Japan outlet store here, so there is definitely value in taking a look.The food court has 11 shops. There are six restaurants and three cafes to choose from and you can even take your pet. There are also facilities for babies and you can rent a baby cart if you wish.

7. Outlet Park Makuhari

This outlet mall has over 90 stores, mainly fashion-focused. The mall is a fairly open planned two-storey complex and is easy to get around. There are more than 30 restaurants.

8. Outlet Mall Rism

This was the first outlet mall in Japan so is a little older than others on this list. However, with about 40 stores, it is a relaxed place to shop for an afternoon.

9. Outlet Park Yokohama Bayside

Outlet shopping mall near one of Asia's largest marinas. This is a lovely spot by the sea packed with shops all selling at 30 to 70% off. Yokohama is a nice spot to shop as it is more open and expansive than Tokyo. Enjoy the big open skies of Yokohama and the lovely sea breeze while you shop or hang out at one of the myriad of open air cafes. There is everything from brand name clothes, outdoor goods, shoes, casual wear, to household goods and restaurants

10. Sano Premium Outlets

There are about 180 domestic and overseas brands in buildings styled on U.S. east coast architecture. This store has an open and green feel to it with Mt. Mikamo behind it to the east.

It is about 40 minutes by car or 90 minutes from Shinjuku's south exit (JR Highway bus terminal).

Top Ten Outlet Malls Within a Day Trip of Tokyo

Richie Johns is a long term resident of Japan who runs a number of informative sites to help people get useful, practical information on Japan. One of those sites, Eye on Japan, has a list of interesting Top 10's on a wide variety of topics, from best snowboarding areas near Tokyo, best beer gardens, amusement parks, beaches, hamburger restaurants, temples, onsens and more.

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Disney Villains - An Integral Part Of The Disney Culture!

The people at Walt Disney surely know how to entertain you and there are a number of ways they accomplish this. They have their own movies in which not only do they expose you to all the colors the Disney world has to offer, but they are also making live action movies which have other Disney themes in them. Moreover, Disneyland resorts are a great attraction for anybody. Finally, they even have their own Disney Cruise vacations where one can go with one's family and enjoy the cruise along with their favorite Disney attractions. Finally they have their toys and memorabilia that are sold in great quantities all around the world.

The Disney brand has been around for a long time. The first animated feature film, Snow White, was made in the 1930s and was a pioneer as far as animated movies were concerned. Its tradition was followed by many Disney movies in which many Disney princesses were made popular. Examples are those of Ariel in the cartoon The Little Mermaid, Princess Jasmine in Aladdin, Belle in Beauty and the Beast, and so on. Even though the various Disney movies that are made are all different in which they have their own story lines, there are some things that are highly similar in all of these movies. For example, almost all these movies have sidekicks associated with them which are usually cute little creatures. For example in the movie Beauty and the Beast, there were actually a lot of these characters but the clock guy and the candle guy were the actual ones. Then we come to the movie Aladdin, in which the character was the Abu monkey which was the pet of Aladdin and that little parrot which was the pet of Jaffar. Coming to the Lion King, we know the role Timon and Pumba played in the movie. Finally in the movie The Little Mermaid, we all know the role played by that chubby fish which used to stay alongside Ariel.

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Also all these movies have heinous Disney villains! Thus we find that there are striking trends that can be found in these movies that are similar. Also, a more obvious trend in these movies is that there is always a heinous villain that is determined to destroy the main protagonist. These simple movies do not show any internal conflict of character in the cartoons and there is least ambiguity which makes these characters the least human. After all these movies are all for kids.

Disney Villains - An Integral Part Of The Disney Culture!

Almost all of these films contain a small sidekick and heinous Disney villains. Thus the movies, even though different, are similar in many ways. Many of these characters can be experienced almost first hand on the many Disney cruise vacations.

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Thursday, December 22, 2011

Possible Best Buy Deals Coming On Black Friday 2011

Best Buy is certainly one of the largest consumer electronics retailer in North America, Canada and the UK. Most individuals (techie or not) come to this store whenever they need to buy a new laptop, LCD TV, smartphone, desktop computer and other gadgetry. The company has been operating online for years now which gives it even more sales. Likewise, the electronics company has been one of the popular destination for American residents whenever the annual Black Friday event comes.

It is known for giving large discounts through its "doorbuster" specials on popular consumer electronics, and of course people love it. But, even before the actual event, the company had already given discounted items for its loyal patrons to check. And based from my experience, some of these early Best Buy Black Friday 2011 deals are also being peddled on the actual morning shopping spree, in all of its branches nationwide. It's also good to pay attention to last year's item list because that will give you a hint on the item categories the retailer might offer come November 25th.

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For this year, we're seeing the trend on smartphone category including the BlackBerry 9000 series, more high-end stuff like the iPhone 4, Galaxy S 2 and Motorola Atrix handsets might be up for sale. The Samsung Galaxy Tab and original Motorola Xoom might be for sale at discounted price tags as well in the tablet category. Meanwhile, Pre-Black Friday deals are also being given away by the company including a Dynex LED HDTV from its original price of 9.99 to just 9.99 (saving you 100 bucks) or its Insignia camcorder now priced at just from its original 0 price. You might even notice that Best Buy had slashed the tag price for its Disney movie ensemble from to . And we're expecting more in the following days until Cyber Monday 2011.

There are other retail outlets aside from Best Buy that offers exciting deals come November 25 of this year. You know, Walmart, Target and Amazon, to name a few. Some specializes on specific merchandise while others only deals with apparel and home furniture.

Black Friday is certainly one of the most anticipated event in the US - by both business owners and buyers. The latter benefit from getting low-priced merchandise while the former can dispose most of its inventory and gaining profit (by volume) in the end. It's a good day to share your blessings - the true meaning of Thanksgiving - aside from Christmas.

Possible Best Buy Deals Coming On Black Friday 2011

If you're to learn more about Best Buy Black Friday 2011 or details, ads and deals on the upcoming Best Buy Black Friday event, come and visit our site.

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Florida Timeshare Promotions - Timeshare Tours in Florida

One of the ways that you can save a little money on your next vacation to Florida is to take part in some of the Florida timeshare promotions. Because there are so many timeshares in Florida, timeshare promotions are quite common and not just in Orlando. You can go on timeshare tours in Florida in just about any part of the state.

While Orlando is certainly one of the most popular areas, you'll also find timeshares near Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, the Gold Coast, and along the Gulf coast of Florida. So whether you prefer the theme park attractions, Atlantic ocean beaches or the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, there are plenty of vacation deals in Florida and the sales folks there are all eager to have you attend their timeshare tours.

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Now for Orlando, I think it is pretty safe to say that you can really just wait until you arrive to schedule some resort tours. You'll be practically tripping over the promotional opportunities anywhere near Walt Disney World, particularly along Highway 192 through Kissimmee. Any place that you see offering discounts for theme park tickets is likely promoting a timeshare. Just don't take the first offer. Spend a little time bargaining and they will usually increase the value of the enticements to tour a resort.

But for the rest of Florida, if you're looking for a timeshare promotion to help save some dollars on your vacation, then the first place to start your search will be the internet. Wyndham is one of the largest companies in the timeshare industry, so you'll probably want to start with them. There are many websites that offer discounted accommodations at Wyndham owned properties and generally one of the requirements is that you attend a presentation as well. Play your cards right though and you should be able to entice a few more offers out of them for your time.

Other Florida timeshare promotions might include discount theme park tickets, discounted hotel or resort accommodation, dining certificates, tickets to entertainment events like shows or concerts, or even shopping gift cards. So once you know what part of Florida you are planning to visit, do a quick search for timeshares for that specific location to see what kind of deals you can get before you book your airfare or accommodation. You could easily save hundreds of dollars just for a few hours of your time attending a timeshare tour in Florida.

Florida Timeshare Promotions - Timeshare Tours in Florida

Of course, another way to save on your next trip to Florida is to look for timeshares for sale before you even get there, so you can spend your vacation in your own resort home. As Wyndham Timeshares are widely available for resale, you'll be able to find a great resort in your favorite part of Florida for a bargain price.

Emma Martin currently owns timeshares with DVC and Royal Holiday Club and always makes vacationing a top priority.

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The Top Ten Mermaid Movies Ever

Most people have seen Disney's "The Little Mermaid" animated movie. But there are several others which are absolutely excellent - classics. Here they are:

1. My top pick for a mermaid movie is "Splash". Not only is it funny and the plot wonderful, but there is quite a bit of awesome footage of Daryl Hannah mermaiding in the ocean. We can't get enough of that! Keep in mind that this is not a children's movie. It was made in the '80s, and for the most part it is okay for the family to watch. But there is a little bit of nudity (when the mermaid is walking into New York out of the ocean with nothing but her long hair to cover her) and there is some implication of what she and the Tom Hanks character are doing in the elevator, though nothing is shown. The movie is wonderful, with a great story and awesome mermaid footage and lots of laughs, as well as a great romance.

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2. My second top choice is "The Secret of Roan Inish". This is a safe, quiet movie the entire family can enjoy. It was made in Ireland, and as such is slower and quieter than most American movies. It is about a little Irish girl who moves to live with her grandparents. While there she unwittingly stumbles upon the mystery surrounding the island the family used to live on, called "Roan Inish" (Island of the Seals). As she slowly solves the mystery, she brings healing and unity back to the family. In this movie the mythical creature is a selkie, not a mermaid. The selkie lives in the form of a seal. On occasion she climbs up on a rock and removes her seal skin, revealing a beautiful woman. So this movie is a little bit different, and you will never look at a seal the same way again.

3. My third favorite mermaid movie is "Aquamarine." This one is geared to the teen crowd. It has nothing unseemly, so the whole family can enjoy it. It's a delightfully different rendition of the classic Little Mermaid story, with a wonderful surprise ending. The mermaid in this movie is different, more like a regular teen girl. There are several good shots of her in the water. The messages in this movie are high quality, such as loyalty, friendship, personal confidence, selflessness and courage. And it is also very funny.

4. Number four of my top mermaid movies is an old black and white classic called "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid." You will have a challenge finding this movie to watch, but VHS versions are available for sale on Amazon.com. All of the underwater footage was filmed in the famous Weeki Wachee Springs in Weeki Wachee, Florida, only a year after this underwater theater opened. Made in 1948, this movie is about a married couple taking a vacation in the Caribbean. The man is almost 50 and is having a mid-life crisis. While on vacation he accidentally fishes up a live mermaid from the sea! Ann Blyth plays the enchanting mermaid and you will love this wonderful film. The only objections a parent might have is the theme of extramarital flirting, and some funny scenes with a guy trying to give up smoking.

5. One that is a little different, and which only recently came out, is a Japanese anime Miyazaki movie called "Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea", or simply "Ponyo". In this one the fish-girl is depicted as a goldfish with a human face, which is rather strange. But in an unusual twist, this five-year-old fish-girl has to get the little five-year-old human boy to love her faithfully, or she will turn into sea foam and be no more. It is such a sweet interpretation, these small children learning to love and trust each other in such an innocent way. It is a tale of wonder and courage and should not be missed.

6. My pick for number six is Disney's "The Little Mermaid". It was the movie that got Disney back into the popular movie business again in the 1980s. The music and story are a delight. I remember how enchanted I was when it first came out - it is a delightful mermaid movie, fun for the whole family.

7. Number seven for me is the Russian adaptation of "The Little Mermaid." This 1976 film shows plenty of wonderful mermaid footage under the sea. Back then the swimmers had only small flippers, so they had to ripple their legs in a very quick motion for movement. The underwater scenes are only in the beginning of the movie, but they are marvelous!! (I can't figure out how those swimmers could be in the water with all those jellyfish!!). You can find this movie to rent at Netflix and it is directed by Vladimir Bychkov. Again, this version of Anderson's famous story is a little different, almost a completely new story. Be forewarned that there is nudity in one scene, and portrayals of a witch performing magic. Other than those the whole family will enjoy this one.

8. "Barbie Mermaidia" is a little-kid movie, but the plot is good and the scenes are beautiful. I especially enjoyed the unusual design of Barbie's mermaid tail. In this story the main character has to make great sacrifice, and learns some good lessons. I like this one better than the newest Barbie mermaid movie because of its great message.

9. There was much excitement this year over the new release of "Barbie in a Mermaid Tail." This one has wonderfully fun surfboarding scenes. The mermaid world of Oceana was a little strange - basically a mimic of our materialistic society. This made it funny but in this setting you lose the mystery and magic of legendary mermaids. This is what I call a "fluff" movie - nothing deep, just fun images and a nice little story.

10. My least favorite mermaid movie is a kid movie called "Roxy Hunter and the Myth of the Mermaid." It's about a young small-town journalist named Roxy who gradually discovers her new homeless friend (a beautiful blond) is actually a mermaid. The movie is okay but throughout the entire film there are no underwater scenes or scenes with a mermaid in a tail - none - until after the very end. Then, finally, you see about 10 seconds of the blond mermaid swimming underwater with a gorgeous tail. The story is interesting enough, however, and children will certainly enjoy this movie.

The Top Ten Mermaid Movies Ever

Jerilyn Winstead is a freelance writer and daring mother of four living in Colorado. She has started her own business making and selling mermaid tails and mermaid costumes, as well as blogging about everything mermaid at http://www.aquatails.com. AquaTails recently did a demo at the Downtown Aquarium, Denver. You can see the video on the website. We are also expanding into mermaid birthday parties, classes, camps and performances!

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10 Interesting Facts About Costa Rica

While you might know that Costa Rica is a small country in the southern portion of Central America, you may not realize the rich history that abounds there, or the ecologically diverse wildlife living there, or the incredible number of sights to see.

Similar to the state of Florida in the U.S. geographically, it features two long coastlines as well as several tiny islands primarily located on the side of the Pacific Ocean. Costa Rica only spans a distance of approximately 200 miles in length and a mere 70 miles at its narrowest part occupying about 20,000 square miles in area.

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Bordering the Pacific Ocean on the west and the Atlantic on the east, it is home to 20 national parks, eight biological reserves, and a plethora of protected areas teeming with fascinating and exotic flora and fauna. And, if you're looking for adventure, in the northwestern portion of the country, the Guanacaste Province is chock full of stunning sights and exciting activities.

This area draws visitors by the droves thanks to its beaches, rivers, volcanoes, and waterfalls, not to mention all of the wildlife living here, some of which cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. Guanacaste, which derives its name from the native word for the guanacaste tree, quahnacaztlan, is the national tree of Costa Rica and this particular region is the driest in all of the country receiving less than a scant 55 inches of rain per year.

There are only has two seasons, dry or wet, and unlike many other areas of Central and South America, stays pleasant all year long.

High season, or the dry season, is from December through April, and green or wet season lasts from May to November. The tropical climate of Costa Rica averages about 72 degrees Fahrenheit although it can be considerably hotter in the coastal or beach areas and much cooler in the mountainous regions.

10 Facts About Costa Rica

1. The capital of Costa Rica is San Jose, a city with just over one million in population.

2. It follows Central Standard Time or six hours behind Greenwich Mean Time and there is no daylight savings time in the country.

3. Bananas and coffee are the two primary agricultural exports from Costa Rica.

4. The most popular sport is soccer.

5. The democratic government of Costa Rica is the oldest of any Third World country and it is often referred to as "The Switzerland of the Americas."

6. In 1986 the first Costa Rican/American, Franklin Ramón Díaz Chang, traveled to outer space aboard the space shuttle Columbia.

7. The current president of Costa Rica, Óscar Rafael de Jesús Arias Sánchez, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 due to his great efforts to promote peace throughout the Central Americas.

8. It claims five percent of the earth's biodiversity, making it home to one of the richest ecosystems anywhere.

9. It boasts one of the world's highest life expectancy rates at 77 years.

10. People from many other countries travel to it explicitly for receiving quality, low cost health care.

10 Interesting Facts About Costa Rica

Heather has been writing articles for 10 years and enjoys sharing her knowledge about different countries. You can find cheap flights to Costa Rica by visiting Heather's new website at http://www.cheapflightstocostarica.net

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Top Ten Germany Tourist Attractions

Germany continues to attract tourists from across the world every year thanks to the breathtaking landscapes, scenic beauty of the natural surroundings, best accommodation offerings. The hospitality of the German people adds to the tourism importance of Germany. There are some tourist attractions in Germany that are a must see for the foreign tourists. The tourist attractions of Germany appeal to the budget travelers thanks to the cheap and comfortable accommodation facilities that Germany boasts. The Top ten Germany Tourist Attractions include within its domain some internationally acclaimed names.

The Black Forest
The Black Forest located in the Southwestern Germany and is famous for originating the cuckoo clocks. Camping, hiking and skiing are the favorite activities that the tourists can indulge in at Black Forest.

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The Frisian Island:
This popular island surrounds the countries such as German, Denmark and Netherlands. Sylt and Amrum are two major islands of the Frasian Islands that are hot tourist spot with serene beaches, panoramic views and a quite retreat from the bustle of the city life.

Munich:
Munich, the capital city of Bavaria, Germany is located on the River Isar which is on the northern side of Bavarian Alps. Munich is a popular tourist destination of Germany primarily because of the Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest is popular worldwide for the celebration of the Bavarian Beer.

Berlin:
The city of Berlin is one of the most popular Cities of Germany. The place has a historic value that attracts the tourists from across the world.

Neuschwanstein Castle:
This Castle is located near the border of Austria and is well known as a place that boasts a number of architectural marvels. The popular castle inspired by the concept of the Sleeping Beauty Castle is the most popular of all castles of Germany.

Lake Constance:
Fed by the River Rhine, the Lake Constance is one of the longest rivers in Europe and is a famous and picturesque tourist attraction in Germany.

The Romantic Road:
The Romantic Road is one of the most picturesque tourist attractions of Germany that goes winding from the River Main in the north towards the southern part of Alps crossing the scenic villages and towns.

Cologne:
Cologne in Germany is another popular tourist attraction that is actually located upon the River Rhine. The picturesque city of Cologne is gifted with awe inspiring natural beauty and its own style of beer making.

Heidelberg:
Heidelberg is picturesque town with a mind blowing skyline and a beautiful castle.

Dachau:
Dachau is another tourist spot in Germany that offers a picture of the horrors that took place there. A guided tour is available that will take the tourists all around the concentration camps in Dachau.

Visit Germany and enjoy the various tourist attractions that keep on attracting the nature lovers towards its domain. Germany has a lot of things to offer ranging from the history to art to culture to natural wonders.

Top Ten Germany Tourist Attractions

Rohan Arora is travel based writer. I like traveling & exploring new destinations. For more info on Germany tourist attractions visit http://www.travour.com

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