http://www.1h7.com/ Articles at 1H7 News Database en-us http://www.1h7.com/travel/cape-town-as-a-holiday-destination.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/cape-town-as-a-holiday-destination.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:23:26 -0500 Cape Town as a Holiday Destination

Cape Town is regarded by many as the ultimate holiday destination with outstanding natural beauty, amazing food and a huge amount of activities for all different travellers.

Getting to Cape Town;

Getting to Cape Town is straight forward as it is serviced by many major international airlines on a daily basis such as British Airways, South African Airways and the Dutch airline KLM. Cape Town international airport has recently been refurbished and is one of the most modern and state of the art airports in Africa.

Cape Town accommodation;

When it comes to holiday accommodation in Cape Town there is something for every type of travellers from 5 star hotels such as the Cape Grace in the Waterfront to the B&B in townships such as Khaylistaha. There is also the option to rent a villa in Cape Town in exclusive areas such as Clifton, Camps Bay or even Bantry Bay through rental agencies such as DG Rentals.

Once you have stayed at some of these amazing properties and hotels - you may find yourself wanting to buy property in Cape Town!

Getting around Cape Town;

In order to enjoy a holiday in Cape Town it is strongly recommended that you hire a car. Many of the major car hire companies are present at the airport such as Hertz, Budget, EuropCar and many local hire companies.

It is also possible to use one of the many local touring companies who will whisk you through many of Cape Town's beautiful tourist hot spots in a luxurious people carrier.

For an authentic South African experience hail a taxi at the side of the road - be warned, you will need to hang on for a dear life as they turn corners and run red lights with no regard for human life!

Things to do in Cape Town;

Cape Town has many titles when it comes to activities; an African clubbers Mecca, a wine connoisseurs dream getaway, a sun bathers dream hot spot, a thrill seekers paradise, an eco warriors perfect environment, probably one of the best shopping destinations in South Africa and maybe even Africa and a sport lovers top spot.


The many tourist attractions on offer simply blows the mind;

- Table Mountain
- Kirstenbosch Gardens
- Robben Island
- Cape Point
- Signal Hill
- Lions Head
- Cape Winelands & Wine Route
- Groot Shcur museum
- The V & A Waterfront
- La Colombe (regarded as one of the finest restaurants in the world)

Cape Town Holiday Tips;

- The local currency is the South African Rand (R) if you exchange money in Cape Town there are many reputable bureaus at the airport, in banks and in many of the shopping malls
- There are many diverse languages in Cape Town such as Xhoza, English, Afrikaans and Zulu. In most cases everybody will be able to speak English
- You won't need any vaccinations when visiting Cape Town
- There are many beggers and street vendors at traffic lights be wary of people around the car as it can get daunting with 5+ people selling their wares
- If parking you car there is normally a car guard who will watch your car - if you feel so inclined a tip of R1 - R5 is acceptable. If it is late at night and you are at restaurant then a tip of R5+ is normal

You'll be back;

Once you have experienced some of these amazing activities, stayed in some of the awesome hotels and enjoyed the warm summer sun we bet you'll be visiting Cape Town on a regular basis.
]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/destin-beach-weddings-timeless-and-classic.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/destin-beach-weddings-timeless-and-classic.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:25:03 -0500
A Destin Beach wedding has become very popular in recent years. The cost of a beach wedding ceremony or vow renewal can be less than that of a home wedding held in an indoor location. You can find many terrific beach locations that are great for Destin wedding ceremonies. The key is to locate the right venue during the right time of the year. The best idea is to plan as far ahead as possible to ensure you get the best rate and the best availability. You may want to contact a local planner specializing in the Destin beach wedding. There are several out there that can do a wonderful job for you.

Hiring a professional to help you plan your Destin beach wedding can help you deal with a somewhat overwhelming task. The professionals in this arena have the contacts and the experience to make your beach wedding run smoothly and be as memorable as possible. They have the experience to deal with the weather conditions that may arise and they can help you to have the most fulfilling wedding day imaginable. These professionals can help your guests have a wonderful time as well. Your wedding will be the talk of the town with the help of someone who knows how to work with the beach wedding scene.

A Destin wedding package is all that is needed for a memorable wedding. It is romantic, simple and elegant. When planning your beach wedding consider a photographer specializing in beach weddings. There are a variety of issues that could arise in a beach wedding that need the experience of a professional photographer who has been in that position before. You certainly can't rely on the weather to always cooperate and having someone on hand who is calm under pressure and has dealt with similar circumstances is paramount to making it all work for you and keeping the crowd calm and cool.
]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/staying-in-amsterdam.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/staying-in-amsterdam.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:46:10 -0500
Amsterdam hostels, hotels and apartments are found in locations around the city. Hostels are especially popular with the young people who flock here from around the globe. Amsterdam hostels are not always the bare-bones, crowded places you might expect. Some offer both hotel-style rooms and dormitories, and amenities are sometimes comparable with what you would find in a budget hotel.

Hostels in Amsterdam are sometimes located near tram stops, and many hotels are located near Central Station. Public transportation makes getting around easier, but it isn't always necessary. The city is smaller than many European capital cities, and is easily walkable.

This may explain why hotels, hostels, apartments, and other Amsterdam accommodations can be found in neighborhoods throughout the city. Amsterdam accommodations are not limited to hostels and hotels, although these options are quite popular. Apartments and houseboats are also available for families and larger groups.

Most Amsterdam accommodations can be booked online, and plenty of hotel reviews can be found on travel websites and forums. It's also possible to buy city passes online providing discounts on public transportation, museums, restaurants, and other attractions.

Online planning and booking will make your trip to Amsterdam easier. Be sure to choose the right Amsterdam hotel, hostel, apartment, or houseboat. If you plan to be on the go, you might consider booking accommodations with an on-site restaurant and a currency exchange. ]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/knowing-how-things-work.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/knowing-how-things-work.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:06:26 -0500 aircraft parts & supplies. While we fly on an airplane for hours on end we typically have very little idea how the aircraft actually works. Oh sure, we know it has something to do with that jet engine and the air speed which keeps it up. And yeah, those wings are probably pretty helpful, but we don't really know how parts work with each other to keep us airborne.

Actually, in a way, we are probably much happier not knowing how things like aircrafts work because, you know, it's kinda scary to realize how fine of a line we are walking from a nice, clean flight and a fiery wreck. Every part on an airplane needs to work together in complete and utter compliance to make sure that you're able to get from point A to point B. In truth, we probably know more about the in flight movie then we know about the plane we are flying in.

The thing is, though, you could say the same thing about just about anything that we use, from our computer to our cars. How do they work? We don't know, we just use them and then complain if they don't work. Take for example this thing I'm typing on right now: my computer. Now, how does the letters that I am typing end up on the screen? Heck if I know. Frankly, I'm getting a bit of a headache right now thinking about it. The thing is, because there are people who are experts in the field, I don't need to know about how it works. Oh sure, it would be nice, but the way things are right now I could go my entire life without knowing what a microchip does and I would be fine.

It would actually be a beneficial for people to learn more about the things that they use and how they work. Take a car for example. There is an entire business built around the idea that people don't know how a car works and how to fix said problems: mechanics. If we all knew how a car works we would be able to fix most of the problems ourselves. The sad thing is when we learn how easy it is to fix certain parts of our car we realize how much money we wasted on our ignorance.
]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/experience-the-rich-culture-of-volcano-national-park-in-rwanda.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/experience-the-rich-culture-of-volcano-national-park-in-rwanda.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:09:15 -0500
The park was first found in 1925 as a small area bounded by Karisimbi, Visoke and Mikeno. The primary intentions of the park were to protect gorillas from poachers. It became the first National Park in Africa to be created, which brings with it a great deal of history that must be seen.

Many recognize the park based off of the famous American naturalist Dian Fossey, who took her conducted her research on gorillas here. She arrived in 1967 and set up the Karisoke Research Centre, which is another site-seeing destination you must take in. She is widely credited for saving the gorillas from extinction. Following her horrific murder by unknown assailants in 1985, her life was portrayed in the film Gorillas in the Mist.

There is a great deal of wildlife to view when visiting Volcano national park. Outside of the mountain gorilla you will also find golden monkeys, black-fronted duiker, buffalo and bushbuck. There have been sites of elephants in the park, but they are actually quite rare today. And as for birds, there are 178 recorded bird species to enjoy.

Tourism in the park has picked up greatly over the years thanks to the beautiful views and tremendous options available to offer. Gorilla visits are atop the list with four habituated groups open to tourists giving you the opportunity to spend an hour with the gorillas.

Climbing Karisimbi volcano is another extremely popular activity as it provides a thrill unlike anything else you will ever experience. The two day trek with overnight camping at an altitude of 3,800 m is just not something you get to do frequently. You can also climb Bisoke volcano in one day if you would prefer not to stay the night.

There are some magnificent lakes and caves scattered throughout the park that are deserving of attention. And because of the extraordinary story and everything Dian Fossey has done for the gorillas and the country as a whole, many pay tribute to Fossey by visiting her tomb.

Volcano national park in Rwanda offers tourists an incredible adventure full of sites, animals, and rich history. From the lakes to the volcanoes to the remarkable mountain gorillas, there is no question it will be a trip unlike any other.


]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/sites-and-sounds-to-take-in-while-visiting-akagera-national-park-in-rwanda.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/sites-and-sounds-to-take-in-while-visiting-akagera-national-park-in-rwanda.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:04:25 -0500
Akagera national park is located at the lower altitudes of the Tanzanian border. What you will find is that it is dominated mostly by swamps and lakes that are actually quite magnificent. All of the swamps and lakes follow the course of the Akagera River, which is one of the main sources of the River Nile.

Something that you must do while visiting the national park is take in all of the animals that surround the area. Giraffes and zebras flood the savannah with more than a dozen different types of antelope as well. It is not often you have the opportunity to see the world's largest antelope in person, which is the eland.

In addition to giraffes, zebras and antelopes, you will also find pods of hippopotami and incredibly large crocodiles basking in the sun. Some of the continent's most crowded levels of water birds fill the lake shores while the marshes play home to some of the most endangered bird species in the world.

In addition to the large concentration of animals including elephants, lions, buffalos, gazelles, baboons and more, there is a number of other things to take in. In order to really take in everything the region has to offer, camping can be a terrific way to enjoy it all. It is often recommended that you talk with park officials to find safe areas prior to parking your tent somewhere in the park.

While camping, you can take on some terrific fishing with gorgeous lakes and rivers full of various kinds of fish. It can be a nice relaxing way to experience the outdoors while having fun in the sun with family and friends.

Believe it or not, you can actually experience a little bit of tennis while in the park as well. The Akagera game lodge has tennis courts to swing the racket and get a little exercise while on vacation as well.

The simple fact of the matter is that Akagera national park in Rwanda is full of various activities to partake in, sites to see and animals to experience. It truly is a once in a lifetime adventure that you do not want to miss out on.


]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/what-to-experience-in-nyungwe-national-park-in-rwanda.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/what-to-experience-in-nyungwe-national-park-in-rwanda.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:44:17 -0500
Nyungwe national park consists of 1,000 square kilometers cross the magical hills of southeast Rwanda. Currently, it is the largest block of mountain forest in East or Central Africa, which is precisely why it draws in such large tourism crowds. In addition, it has a rich history as it is one of the most ancient parks dating all the way back to before the last Ice Age.

Something that quickly captures visitors' attention is the gorgeous diversity of floral spread throughout. The forest consists of more than 200 different types of trees and a wide array of flowering plants such as colorful orchids and beautiful giant lobelia. This in itself makes hiking and walking through the forest worth the trip.

With that, you will find an extensive list of well-maintained walking trails that spread throughout the forest. While hiking the trails, you will find spectacular viewing points and waterfalls randomly located along the way. And if you are looking to make a trip to the reserve, it can be visited from the towns of Butare and Cyangugu.

Rwanda is known for its wide array of mammals and species, and Nyungwe national park is no different. It is most known for its primates with 13 different species to enjoy in all. Some of the different kinds of primates you will find include chimpanzees, L'Hoest's and the extremely acrobatic Angola colobus.

Outside of primates, birds can be seen everywhere throughout the park with the most important ornithological site in Rwanda being the Albertine Rift. There are almost 300 bird species located in this area with two dozen living in a handful of mountain forests. Perhaps the most gorgeous bird specie you will see on the trip is the great blue turaco, which is a blue, red and green bird that streams from tree to tree.

It is virtually impossible to highlight everything there is to do in the Nyungwe national park in Rwanda. But taking in all of the different animal species and magnificent views from trails is a must. There are few places quite like this area that offer the kind of breathtaking views you will find.


]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/sober-haven-bali-offers-a%80ceat-pray-lovea%80%9D-retreat-for-the-ultimate-safe-and-sober-vacation.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/sober-haven-bali-offers-a%80ceat-pray-lovea%80%9D-retreat-for-the-ultimate-safe-and-sober-vacation.html Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:27:17 -0500 Sober Haven Bali has announced plans for an “Eat, Pray, Love” vacation retreat at its picturesque sober sanctuary tucked in the same spiritual island paradise where actress Julia Roberts retraced writer Elizabeth Gilbert’s spiritual journey in her 2006 best-selling book.

Located in Seminyak on the west coast of this “Island of the Gods”, Sober Haven Bali offers luxe accommodations combined with 12-step support for the ultimate in safe and sober vacation adventure.

Inspired by the release of Gilbert’s popular screenplay, filmed in Bali, Sober Haven Bali has put together a week-long “Eat, Pray, Love” experience designed to guide guests through many of the local cultural and spiritual landmarks highlighted in the movie. At the same time, visitors will have the benefits of Sober Haven’s colonial styled resort with its five-star meals, yoga, meditation, surfing, golf and many other activities, all in a supportive environment that celebrates sobriety.

In keeping with the momentum of Gilbert’s spiritual journey, Sober Haven guests will have opportunities to meet with Balinese spiritual teachers and immerse themselves in Balinese cultural offerings such as the Kecak Dance Tour, one of the Island’s most fascinating and powerful cultural exhibitions. Explore the temple of Uluwatu with its ceremonial areas, traditional carvings, and resident monkeys that live naturally in many Balinese holy places.

Enjoy a vitamin lunch at Wayan’s restaurant, a sunset seafood dinner on the beach and other uniquely Balinese landmarks visited by Gilbert during her journey.

Sober Haven is also surrounded by a wide choice of boutique shopping, international dining and artistic offerings for those in search of a more decadent sort of spiritual comfort.

Whether it is the lure of retracing Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Eat, Pray, Love” journey or the desire to relax and be pampered in this island retreat, Sober Haven offers a transformational holiday specifically designed with celebrating recovery in mind and spirit. Attendance at local twelve-step meetings is offered every morning and evening, making it easy for guests to remain close to their program.

]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/take-a-holiday-for-the-senses-on-the-greek-island-of-paxos.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/take-a-holiday-for-the-senses-on-the-greek-island-of-paxos.html Sun, 29 Aug 2010 17:15:33 -0500
According to Greek Mythology, Paxos was created by Poseidon when he struck Corfu with his trident in effort to gain peace and quiet. The pebble beaches of Paxos are surrounded by sheer, precipitous cliffs that create scenery that is both breathtaking and expressive.

The sea around Paxos has vivid colors; it is pleasantly clean, clear, and cool. Dramatic fauna and flora are abundant, especially in spring. Ancient olive trees line the hillsides allowing the mind and senses escape to the treasure of comfort and beauty that awaits vacationers.

Traveling the Island

Paxos is charming and quaint and can be traveled easily in a couple of days by motorbike or car. The three main towns on the island are Logos, Laka, and Gaios. All of which exhibit the classic Hellenic Ionian style with bright and colorful homes lining the promenades.

The rural area environment has a landscape that features low stone homes surrounded by bountiful and lush gardens. There is always something beautiful to see and many photo opportunities while you're sightseeing or walking.

The three main resorts all have natural harbors; Gaios being the biggest and busiest. Traveling farther inland you will find old churches and buildings and many hiking or biking trails if you seek to further explore the island's rich history.

Accommodations in Paxos and Things to Do

Travel around the entire island on a day or half day cruise. Picturesque wind-carved limestone cliffs, sculptural rock formations, and caverns line the way. Crystal clear, calm waters surrounding the island only add to the exquisite beauty.

A bit of history from World War II is just off the island. Inside the cave called Papanikolis, a Greek submarine found refuge and hiding during the war. The vessel known as "Stephanos I" will allow anyone who desires to swim near the cave.

There is plenty of opportunity to swim, snorkel and relax. This island is wonderful for travelers seeking relaxation and to get away from the rest of the world, and the weather is similar to the weather in Crete - another holiday island.

The locals are all very friendly and happily greet visitors. A spectacular sunset can be seen by traveling to Erimitis, a bar which sits above the cliffs of the west coast.

Paxos is a worthwhile day trip if you don't have a lot of time, but want to escape for a bit. There are many hiking and biking paths that go around the island via trails, coves, and beaches.

You can easily take in the un-hurried, traditional, and tranquil Greek lifestyle. Many people visit this wonderful island because of the miles of pathways that lead to unspoiled, secluded beaches and coves.

Accommodations in Paxos fill quickly during peak travel season. Accommodations generally include rental of a room in a villa or an entire villa. Many villas have private pools.

The island also has two hotels that often receive rave reviews from happy guests. Regardless of your lodging choice, you will not want to stay inside with such a picturesque joy all around you.

A Holiday Worth Every Kilometer

The island of Paxos is only 19 Kilometers, but it offers an intimate charm and beauty for those who crave quiet, peaceful relaxation. Retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday modern living and escape from it all. July and August comprise the peak travel season for holidaymakers. ]]> http://www.1h7.com/travel/a-brand-new-football-season-is-set-to-begin.html http://www.1h7.com/travel/a-brand-new-football-season-is-set-to-begin.html Sat, 28 Aug 2010 08:34:33 -0500 Yet another NFL football season is all set to be on fire. With preseason well underway and the football season fast approaching all eyes are on the new players. Which team will make it to post season play? The teams are busy trying out the new guys to see who measures up to each team’s personal standards. NFL players and fans alike are starting out in high gear. This promises to be one of the most exciting seasons for all those involved.

The ardent fan has already made their NFL season picks. Although each has their own personal favorite team they have to consider some realistic stats. A lot of stock is placed on the stats of returning players while some rookies are wowing the crowds. Last year’s standings will soon be laid aside as this year’s NFL picks surface.

With each preseason game behind and the NFL season fast approaching many rookies are causing a lot of head turning. Several are playing all out and deserve a second look.  Players are going that extra mile to make the difficult catches and some are actually hurdling over defensive players toward the goal. These teams whose players are giving it the extra push will most certainly be among some of the top Football picks as this season begins.

All bets are on hold until the preseason comes to an end. Then fans will begin to see more of the first string players and a lot of the preseason hype can settle into the constant activity of this year’s season. Each week’s plays will dictate the next week’s football picks. These can change with the tide of the game as teams will rise and fall as the season progresses.

Start with your own NFL picks and check them against the odds and the pros. Chances are as with each football season there will a lot of surprises.  Underdog picks may rise to the top and some super powers may fall to the bottom. Who knows what a season will bring? Get your NFL picks in early by keeping up with player and team stats. This is one year you’ll have to stay ahead of the game while making your football picks.

]]>