The Perfect Fit: Women & Franchising

An interesting combination of factors at this time in history may be the reason so many women are turning to franchising to fulfill their entrepreneurial desires. Women's increased financial power, better education, and corporate experience, combined with their desire for more autonomy and desire to connect with others who share their values make franchising a great fit for many women.Women are better educated now than ever. They have accumulated considerable corporate experience. After years in the corporate world they are tired of being locked into super-human schedules which often include brutal hours and travel obligations. They have grown weary of corporate politics, the corporate craziness of power struggles and meaningless competitive games. They are bored with unchallenging positions. They long for greater autonomy, flexibility and control of their schedules. They begin to hear that entrepreneurial voice, saying "You're smarter and more capable than 90% of the management team - why not use your talents to run your own show?" or, "I've paid my dues and now it's time to do work that I love, work that feeds my soul." or, "Why am I working myself to a frazzle to build equity in someone else's business? Why not build equity in my own?"But women can also feel a note of caution about business ownership. They might begin to wonder if starting their own business will be even more demanding than working for someone else. They may have heard horror stories of entrepreneurs that worked day and night with little financial reward. Or they wonder if they would miss the companionship of working with colleagues; they want to be in business for themselves, but not by themselves. They want to be business owners, and at the same time they want to be faithful to family relationships and responsibilities. Whether single or married, they don't want to take an unreasonable risk that could negatively effect their family or their security. Franchising can often be the perfect fit.Several characteristics unique to franchising make it tremendously appealing to women. By nature women are relational, they generally enjoy, in fact crave, opportunities to work with others toward a shared goal. Women like to connect at a deeper level, to feel that bond of shared experience. Experiencing something in common with others is rewarding at a deep level. Becoming a part of a franchise system meets this need. It offers women a way to be connected with like-minded souls - you have a built in team of franchise owners with whom you can connect. You're not alone. Once you sign the franchise agreement, you become a part of a community.Starting any business is a risk, but buying a franchise mitigates that risk for many women. Buying a franchise means you are purchasing a proven model, along with training and operations systems that have been tested and validated. You don't have to reinvent the wheel. Because it's a proven model it often accelerates the start-up phase, when a business can tax even the most energetic entrepreneur. You don't spend months or years wondering if you'll "make it." You have the confidence that if you follow the plan, the training, the systems, you are highly likely to succeed.Franchising may help you be move more quickly to becoming profitable. There are two primary functions in any business - the developmental function and the implementation function. With a franchise, the entire business concept development cycle has been completed (not to mention paid for) by the franchisor. Once you purchase a franchise, you start right in with the implementation cycle. The majority of your time can be spent on obtaining and keeping customers, not on determining what customers really want and how to provide it. Imagine how many months or years it would take you to come up with your own viable concept -- the product, the services, the pricing, the financial targets, the staffing plan, the entire marketing package, the materials, the website, the sales plan, the sales scripts, and everything else involved in creating a business - perfecting everything as you go along, at the same time you're trying to generate business to pay for the development cycle. Franchising launches you quickly into generating income. You have completely developed and tested products and services to sell. You have branding systems, marketing materials, and operational processes completely developed for your immediate implementation. Very likely, you'll have access to a website. Yes, you have to get your own customers; yes you have to work hard; yes, you have to be networked in your own community. But you can begin making the business work immediately and move more quickly to being profitable.Which brings us back to not being alone - your franchisor wants to see you succeed. Franchising gives you access to people who know what it's like to walk in your shoes who are invested in your success. Most franchisors provide initial training and ongoing mentoring through a variety of means. When you aren't sure how to handle a certain situation, you can pick up the phone and call someone who has been there and done that. When you have an exciting success, you can pick up the phone and call someone who will be celebrating with you.For many women, franchising is a perfect fit and the most congruent way to listen to that entrepreneurial voice. 2005 Darcie HarrisDarcie Harris is co-founder of EWF International, an Oklahoma based firm providing peer advisory groups for women business owners and executives. EWF International franchises are available throughout the Southwest. View this article and others at http://www.ewfinternational.com. darcie@ewfinternational.com

How To Switch to The Fast-Track From the Side Track

Work-In-ProgressWant to win the game?Until you cash-in your chips, consider yourself a Work-In-Progress (W-I-P), as if you were a Picasso unfinished painting which he returned to again and again.Your W-I-P attitude leads to active personal growth and self-improvement while you keep adding and subtracting from your knowledge and belief core, (your painting), and stay willing to change your mind.Those of us who believe we are a finished-product, stop learning and experiencing, leading to an extreme state of comfort-zone-itis. We inhibit our left and right brains, instead of exciting and firing our synapses of discovery.Our comfort-zone is where we make decisions about right-and-wrong, what's important, and what we are capable of doing. Have you recently attempted something for the first-time, using some new electronic gadget or using a special computer program, and heard your still-small-voice whisper in your ear, - You cannot learn that, it's too complicated! -Some of us feel a cold chill in the pit of our stomach warning us of impending doom when we face change and newness! Do you keep trying or get up and walk away?Those who kick-butte are willing to fail more than snailers, and continue to attempt new approaches. They maintain a belief system, an attitude of mind, to keep trying until they find a way, or make a way, to succeed. That's called grit.Comfort-ZoneThere are scientific-facts like gravity and electromagnetism, simply reality, based on personal experience, and beliefs, which come from our family, community and education. Repetition and conditioning create our comfort-zone, and after age 25 we stop revisiting our beliefs and submit to their dictatorship.How many beliefs do we hold that are plain wrong because times have changed, or our decision years ago about people, have not kept up with their personal growth?Scientists seem to lack the ego of the rest of society, who must protect and defend its unchanging beliefs. In any given year scientific journals will report new proofs that contradict what was once proven-truth, and inform us of a new reality. They are stronger because they welcome change in their beliefs.The rest of us, including the author, suffer from distortion-thinking, unrealistic expectations, and twisted self-perception, leading us to beliefs in fables, myths and outright lies. The media, government bureaucrats, and Washington lobbyists, in addition to Eisenhower's industrial-military complex, drug companies and oil producers, have a vested interest in not disturbing our dormant comfort-zone.DisruptionLearning only occurs when there is a disruption of our comfort-zone rituals. That's why we have to experience a disaster, even hit-bottom, before we can change a core belief we hold about ourselves and our gifts and talents.We don't -think- our way to changing beliefs; there must an emotional explosion that shakes up our brain and mind.Your CareerMost of us get comfortable in our career, like putting our feet into old shoes. We stop questioning if the job we do is right for us, permanent or where else we can best develop our genetic gifts and talents. The status quo becomes a core belief in our comfort-zone.Did you know that the average executive changes careers five-times in a lifetime?Not jobs or companies, but lifestyles and occupations. Will you be comfortable with the coming upheavals in your life? What's your competitive-advantage?A recent report by the National Academies, a hot-shot advisory group with no axe to grind, specializing in Science and Technology, warns that heavy-weight corporate changes are three (3) years away.Downsizing, outsourcing, bankruptcies, and mergers and acquisitions, lead to catastrophic changes in your life, ready-or-not. Are you really insulated from change? What's your unique competitive advantage over your peers?You are familiar with the expansion in China and India, but you might be interested in knowing that almost forty (40) percent of major U.S. corporation are moving some of their highest paying positions overseas. No, not yours, right?Not Just IndustrialIt began with cheaper labor costs, increased because of tax incentives by the foreign companies, and now is focused on science and technology. Domestic executives and professionals are rapidly being replaced with international staffers who are highly trained and fully competent. Yes, they are paid one-third of U.S. financial packages.Fortune 500 companies like Exxon and Dow have always operated internationally, but by 2009, small companies will market coast-to-coast, and continent-to-continent. Yes, it's the Internet, and global trading practices, and it will affect your life, and disturb your sense of status-quo.The TalentToday, talent is global; universities in China and India are producing world-class graduates, PhDs in science and technology, and training executives for international management. International companies are linked by scholarships they finance, with emerging markets schools, and their new graduates.Many of these students have proven fully capable of running departments and divisions, and producing impressive profits. Yes, they are fluent in English, thanks to their education and the Internet.The author of the Outsourcing Report, Professor Marie Thursby, of Georgia Tech College of Management, says the coming revolution is based on a working collaboration between companies and international universities that are already established and growing. She has examined fifteen industries and companies in the U.S. and Europe, and sees explosive change as a fait accompli, though existing executives and professionals seem unconcerned and unaware.Two ReasonsThe massive economic growth in China and India leads international companies to want a piece of their growing pie, and operating local is a necessity.The second reason is the increase in the foreign talent pool, their adaptability, and willingness to change, learn and travel, without argumentToday, based on the thousand of foreign students trained in the U.S., who return to become professors in their own country of origin, there is no exclusivity on brain power. The future Nobel Prizes will go to graduates of foreign universities.AndHiring by major companies for positions in the U.S. are being reduced not just for research and development, but including middle management. The highest paying jobs are easing out the harbor for foreign shores.The U.S. is becoming less competitive and in time - a generation - may be marginalized.Did you know that in 2006, Japan has experienced no population growth? The death statistics are look eye-to-eye to new births. Investments in Japan may soon reflect a stagnant domestic economy.Sure, you say, - but it cannot hurt me because my company is not science or technology oriented - . Set your sights on potential declining economic growth in the U.S., and consider the question of your children's future. Are we producing world-class executives, marketing experts and innovators?It is government statistics that U.S. students lag way behind the world in math and science acuity, starting in high school, and students never catch up to world competition. Do want to see your country as a backwater market?We train our kids to be masters of distraction, beginning with video games, TV, and personal-messaging on the Internet.We respectfully suggest our society consider the stranglehold the Educational Establishment has on our resources. Some of our best universities vie for the title of Best Party School, in order to attract paying students.Our experience is with the Reading Establishment, that is delighted with the status-quo, and their members, who are not required to confront their own comfort-zone.Would it make a difference if the average student would Triple their Reading Speed, Double their Memory - Guaranteed!See ya,copyright 2006 H. Bernard WechslerOriginal partner of Evelyn Wood, author: Speed Reading For Professionals (Barron's Publishing); helped market speed reading to 2,000,000, including the White House staff of four U.S. Presidents. Director of Education for Speedlearning Institute, international speed reading and memory training organization.http://www.speedlearning.org/home.php hbw@speedlearning.org

Maritime Security & Counterterrorism Training Videos Break All Sales Records

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL July 23, 2004 " A series of U.S.-produced maritime security and counterterrorism training videos have proven to be the fastest selling maritime training programs in history, according to Martin Glenday, President of Moxie Media. The training series is the first comprehensive ISPS Code and MTSA-compliant maritime security training program designed specifically for seaports and shipping companies to meet both US and international regulatory requirements. After only 90 days from their introduction to the market, there have been over half a million dollars in orders. The Maritime Security Compliance Video Training Series has been purchased by over a dozen foreign governments, including China, Barbados, Grenada, Montserrat, Turkey, St. Kitts & Nevis, and the United States. Other purchasers include the US Coast Guard, the Port of Los Angeles, Maersk Shipping, the US Senate, Dow Chemical, Tropical Shipping, Shell Oil, the National Park Service, TECO Barge Line, Maine State Ferry Service, Hess Oil, the University of California, V. Ships, Wackenhut Corporation, the University of Hawaii Marine Center, Domino Sugar, Crowley Maritime, GlobalSantaFe, Dynegy, Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, and the University of Washington. Moxie Media co-developed the 11 video (or DVD) training program with SeaSecure LLC, a global leader in maritime security and counter-terrorism consulting.As a result of the terror attacks of 9/11, the United Nations and the United States established requirements that port and ship personnel all receive specific maritime security training, said Kim E. Petersen, President of SeaSecure, in a press conference. The extraordinary cost of sending such staff to distant learning centers, including academy fees, airfare, hotels, and time away from work, has been crippling. After receiving extensive input from government and maritime agencies, SeaSecure and Moxie Media created a training program that is easy to use, reasonably priced, and compliant with all US and international regulatory specifications. The SeaSecure & Moxie Media Maritime Security Compliance Video Series has become the standard for the industry and is in use by governments, universities, port authorities, and shipping companies around the world. Ship and seaport security training is now required due to the passage of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, and the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. The ISPS Code was adopted by the UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO) to address maritime security at all international ports and the security of ships engaged in international commerce. The US adopted the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 to codify the requirements of the ISPS Code. Both the ISPS Code and the MTSA have set strict training standards for port and ship operators.Martin Glenday, president of Moxie Media, stated that, With the passage of the July 1, 2004 compliance deadline, the US Coast Guard and foreign authorities are increasing their vigilance to ensure that all required training has been performed by ship owners and port facilities. There is no quicker way to achieve an in-house capability for training compliance and certification than through this video training series. Using the unparalleled international maritime security experience and expertise of SeaSecure, we have developed this series of programs to meet and exceed the mandatory training requirements of the ISPS Code and MTSA. The importance of these videos cannot be overstated. Ports face losing their Statement of Compliance, thereby jeopardizing future visits by ships. And without proper training of their personnel, both ships and ports face increased liability in the event of a security incident. Moxie Media is one of the United States' largest producers and distributors of training and safety programs.For the first time ever, ship, terminal, and port facility operators have the means to train an unlimited number of employees at a fraction of the cost associated with seminar and academy based programs " saving travel costs, tuition costs, and hotel and meals. More importantly, this program will significantly reduce lost time from work and increase productivity. Ports and ships will have the ability to provide ongoing and refresher training for new and returning employees at any time and at no additional charge.Also available for every training program is a comprehensive Facilitators Guide, complete with test questions and answer key. The guide provides the course facilitator with the tools necessary to efficiently and effectively instruct, test, and score students on their comprehension of the maritime security curriculum. Furthermore, Moxie Media and SeaSecure can also provide third party certification of student test results. The cost for the entire series is $2,750, with individual programs available for purchase from $295 to $450 each. Yearly licensing options are available for companies requiring multiple sets.About SeaSecure:Headquartered in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, SeaSecure is widely recognized as the global leader in maritime security and risk management. A multi-disciplinary company, SeaSecure provides risk consulting services (including vulnerability assessments, and design & engineering); risk management solutions (including project management, procurement, and management software tools); training; and, maritime guard services.SeaSecure's staff members have performed security and vulnerability assessments in over 90 countries and 170 seaports. In 2001, SeaSecure was appointed Senior Advisor on Maritime & Seaport Security to all of Florida's deep-water ports. SeaSecure's international clientele includes some of the world's largest seaports, shipping companies, and cruise lines. SeaSecure provides maritime security training to governments and industry, including the US Coast Guard, US Department of Homeland Security, and the governments of China, Aruba, Turkey, Grenada, the Maritime Security Institute, and many others. Its executives sit on the US Senate Port Security Working Group, the Maritime Security Council, the US Marine Transportation System National Advisory Council, and the US Department of Homeland Security's Area Maritime Security Committee for Southern Florida.About Moxie Media:Since 1985 Moxie Media has been producing Training, Safety, Environmental, and Security related video, DVD, Internet and print based programs for Business and Industry. With an award winning staff of writers, producers, directors, editors, and software developers Moxie has built a library of over 1,000 training titles for the Maritime, Offshore Oil and Gas, Construction, Chemical, Utility, Security and OSHA compliant industries. Moxie also provides custom design and production services in a broad range of communications media: Film, Video, Interactive Multimedia, Internet-WWW, and Print. To order the Maritime Security Compliance Video Training Series for ISPS and MTSA Certification, please call toll free in the United States 800-346-6943 or outside the United States 504-733-6907. For more information please visit: www.moxietraining.com

Susan Eisenhower to Visit Triangle

Raleigh, NC November 7 2003-- The International Visitors Council / World Affairs Council (IVC / WAC) and the Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, will sponsor a visit by Susan Eisenhower to the Triangle. Ms. Eisenhower is chair of the Eisenhower Institute in Washington, DC, and granddaughter of former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Ms. Eisenhower is best known for her work in Russia and the former Soviet Union. Ms. Eisenhower will make two speaking appearances in the Triangle. The first will be a luncheon at the Cardinal Club, 150 Fayetteville Street Mall (Wachovia Building), Suite 2800, Raleigh on November 20, 2003 at noon. The event is $30 for members of IVC / WAC; $35 for non-members. Must be paid in advance. Cardinal Club and Triangle Society members can register directly through the Club. Cost includes program, lunch, and all taxes & gratuities. Space is limited. RSVP is needed by November 17. The second appearance will be in Geneen Auditorium, Fuqua School of Business, Duke University, November 20, 6 - 7 p.m., followed by reception & wine tasting from 7 - 8:30 p.m. Ms. Eisenhower will share about U.S. / Russia relations. The Fuqua School of Business is located at 1 Towerview Road on the Duke University campus in Durham. For specific directions, call Student Services at 919.660.7934.The evening event at Duke is co-sponsored by the Fuqua MBA Association, Fuqua International Center, Duke Graduate and Professional Student Council, Fuqua Diversity Cabinet, Fuqua Admissions Department, Fuqua Leadership Cabinet, and Fuqua Association of Women in Business.Ms. Eisenhower has been appointed to the National Academy of Sciences' standing Committee on International Security and Arms Control (CISAC) where she is now serving a third term. In 2000, a year before September 11, she co-edited a book, Islam and Central Asia, which carried the prescient subtitle, An Enduring Legacy or an Evolving Threat? Among other commitments, Ms. Eisenhower serves as an Academic Fellow of the International Peace and Security program of Carnegie Corporation of New York, and is a director of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and the Nuclear Threat Initiative. She served two terms on the National Advisory Council of NASA. About the Eisenhower InstituteThe Eisenhower Institute is a 501 (c)(3) organization founded in 1983 with a mission to advance Dwight D. Eisenhower's intellectual and leadership legacies in foreign and domestic policy through: a rigorous pursuit of facts; the encouragement of reasoned and respectful debate; and the quest for outcomes that serve the long-term interests of the American people while promoting justice and international peace. The goal of the organization is to build a policy institute in Washington, DC that promotes sound and forward-looking policies, and that lays the intellectual and civic groundwork for the next generation of opinion-leaders, policy-shapers and public servants. More information is available at www.eisenhowerinstitute.orgAbout IVC / WACFor 30 years, the International Visitor Council has brought participants to the Triangle from all over the world to meet and confer with their professional counterparts and to experience the United States firsthand. The visitors, who are current or potential leaders in government, politics, business, the media, education, and other fields, are selected by American officials overseas. They come to the United States for two to four week periods of sponsored travel through the auspices of the International Visitor Program of the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs, United States Department of State.When their national itinerary includes the Triangle area, the International Visitors Council arranges their professional activities in a wide variety of fields, including biotechnology, business management, pharmaceuticals, environment law, government, grassroots democracy, print journalism, and broadcasting, finance, trade issues, the arts, and education. The emphasis of the program is to increase mutual understanding through communication at the personal and professional levels.More than 200 current and former Heads of State, 1,500 cabinet-level ministers and many other distinguished world leaders in government and the private sector have participated in the International Visitors Program.Our 2002 merger with the Triangle World Affairs Council complements our current programming and gives us additional resources, including access to former ambassadors and other prominent individuals available for speaking engagements in our area.More information is available at www.ivc-wac.org

BHN to Organize Hotel Investment Conference in Montenegro

NEWPORT BEACH, California, USA --- BHN, organizer of some of the world's most prominent hotel investment conferences, has signed an agreement with the government of Montenegro to organize a conference focussing on hospitality investment opportunities in the Balkan republic. Jim Burba, founder of BHN, and Mr. Vladimir Mitrovic, the Republic of Montenegro's Minister of Tourism, announced their plans to hold the event in May 2001 at the world-renowned Spa Center-Institute Igalo, in Herceg-Novi, Montenegro.Reflecting the importance of the future of the hospitality industry in Montenegro, Minister Mitrovic stated, President Milo Djukanovic of Montenegro personally will invite a select group of international delegates to travel to Montenegro to see the rich opportunities that our beautiful country has to offer the hotel and tourism industry. The region has stabilized and the Republic of Montenegro is ready for the world community to participate in its growth and development as a premier travel destination. The goals of the conference include introducing the international hotel and tourism investment community to the process of privatization of hotels and resorts in Montenegro, identifying new sites for development, explaining management and franchise opportunities and developing a better understanding of Montenegro's government plan for economic development and restructuring. BHN will focus on developing a conference that will help the local government become familiar with the outlook for hotel lending and how hotel deals are currently being done, as well as key issues to shape the hotel and tourism industry in Montenegro. This will be an incredible opportunity for the world's hospitality leaders to view firsthand the limitless investment opportunities that Montenegro offers, Jim Burba explained. The European Coordination Center for the conference will be in the London offices of Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo (WATG). Jim Burba recently joined WATG as Vice President and Worldwide Director of Advisory Services.BHN will plan, organize or produce several upcoming hospitality industry investment conferences which will be held in 2001. Included on the roster of events is: the 16th Annual Hotel Industry Investment Conference and 5th Annual Latin America & Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Investment Forum scheduled for January 2001 in Los Angeles, California; the 5th Annual Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference scheduled for April 2001 in Curacao, Netherlands Antilles; and the 4th Annual International Hotel Investment Forum scheduled for March 2001 in Berlin, Germany. Information about all the BHN conferences appears on www.BURBA.com, the BHN website.For more information, contact Bob Hayes, BHN Director of Communications at (949) 574-8500 or email: bhayes@watg.com

Unique Revenue Sharing Program from Only Fun Vacations

August 4, 2004 -- How would you like to offer your clients, employees, contractors, brokers or other business associates an incredible service that everyone needs? Leisure travel is one of the largest industries in the world. Everyone loves to travel. Whether it is a cruise vacation to the Caribbean, a weekend in Las Vegas or perhaps an all-inclusive stay in Mexico, leisure travel remains one of the most successful tools for maintaining important business relationships. Travel partnerships can be expensive and often fail to provide the quality of service needed to maintain those delicate business relationships. That is where we come in. We can provide you with a total leisure travel solution that can benefit all aspects of your business. What is the cost? Absolutely nothing!Imagine that you could provide your clients, employees or other business associates with a full service travel website featuring booking engines, cruises, vacation packages, destination guides, trip reviews and travel tools. Tens of thousands of pages of the best travel offers you can find. Better yet we can private label the site to reflect your current corporate branding. We also will give each of your client's special incentives to book, such as $100 Gift Certificates with any cruise or vacation booking. Did I mention that all of this doesn't cost you anything? There is one more important detail I forgot to mention, your company will earn 25% of all commission revenue, and for a small yearly fee you can earn 40% of all commission revenue!That's right! Not only does this program cost you absolutely nothing, but you can generate profit to the bottom line as well. Don't see the benefit yet? Maybe you want to raise money for a charity? Need an incentive to get a client to purchase your product? Pass your profits to your clients in the form of a discount? Provide an employee benefit or incentive? Drive more traffic to your website? Enhance your member services program? Create excitement for a promotion or membership drive? The possibilities are endless and we are here to develop a solution for you.We can have you up and running with your own private label site like the www.ameriplantraveler.com website within days. Completely free of charge! Ameriplan uses our leisure travel program to provide a discount travel benefit to their network of insurance brokers. Only Fun Vacations has over 25 years of experience developing strategic partnerships with clients like Sprint, Price Club, Travelnow, OneTravel, Pass Privilege, Nevada Power, Commercial Travel Corporation, Adventure Tracker & Ameriplan USA to name just a few. By providing exceptional value & service we have become a leader in innovative marketing programs and benefit programs. Some of the services we can provide include:-Marketing Promotions-Client Loyalty Programs -Value Added Benefits -Employee Incentive Programs -Special Event Planning -Fundraising -Customized Travel Clubs -Group Travel Services -Honeymoon Registry -Travel Deals Newsletters -Radio Promotions -Travel Fairs With 20 years of experience in the travel industry we have become a well respected organization that is involved in many organizations including the BBB " Better Business Bureau, ARC " Airlines Reporting Corporation, IATA " International Air Transport Association, CLIA " Cruise Line International Association, NACTA " National Association of Commissioned Travel Agents, ASTA " American Society of Travel Agents and Vacation.com the largest travel consortium in the United States. In addition members of our company sit on the advisory boards of industry groups and organizations. Frank Costa, President of CTOFV also hosts a weekly radio show called the Travel Insiders which airs in San Diego, CA. This industry experience has allowed us to create preferred relationships with major travel suppliers like Carnival Cruise Lines, Apple Vacations, Pleasant Holidays, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean / Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Club Med, Sandals and many others.What does all of this mean? Well it means you get experience, service and value when you partner with Only Fun Vacations. Call or email us today to find out more details or to set up a special consultation.

Marilyn Nelson to Receive Award at Berlin Hotel Investment Conference

The hosts of the upcoming 5th Annual International Hotel Investment Forum (IHIF) have announced that Marilyn Nelson, chairman and chief executive officer of Carlson Companies, Inc., will receive the prestigious IHIF Lifetime Achievement Award at the event to be held March 19-21, 2002 at the Inter-Continental in Berlin, Germany. The award is given annually to a hotel industry leader who has demonstrated remarkable leadership, and it is voted by an advisory board to the IHIF. Previous winners include Lord Forte, Gerard Pellison, Paul Dubrule, Gabriel Escarrer and George Rafael.Nelson is responsible for both the future and the daily operations of Carlson Companies, one of the largest privately held companies in the world. It is the parent corporation of a global group of integrated consumer service and corporate solution firms. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, the company operates travel agencies, hotels, restaurants, cruises and marketing services. More than 190,000 people are employed under Carlson brands in more than 140 nations. About the selection of Nelson to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, co-host Jonathan Worsley stated, Marilyn Carlson Nelson is very deserving of this award due to her tireless efforts on behalf of the hotel industry. Since the events of September 11, she has been one of the drivers to get the industry moving again, and she is using her position as chairman of the Carlson group to lobby the United States Congress. Worsley added, Marilyn is a figurehead within the hotel industry. The philosophy of Carlson is summed up in the company's credo: Whatever you do, do it with integrity; wherever you go, go as a leader; whomever you serve, serve with caring; whenever you dream, dream with your all and never give up' sums up the character of Marilyn and Carlson Companies.Upon hearing that she had been chosen to receive the IHIF Lifetime Achievement Award, Nelson stated, It is truly an honor to be personally recognized by my colleagues in the hospitality industry, but I can only accept this on behalf of the tens of thousands of Carlson hospitality team members across the globe who continue to build and operate our industry's most exciting brands.The IHIF is hosted by BHN, Insignia Hotel Partners and Hotel & Motel Management. BHN brings together nearly two decades of experience in developing the world's most prominent gatherings of the hotel and tourism investment community, including the recently held Asia Pacific Hotel Investment Conference in Hong Kong and the upcoming Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) in Los Angeles, California and Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference in Puerto Rico. Insignia Hotel Partners, a premier hotel real estate advisory company, specializes in individual hotel and portfolio brokerage, capital advisory services and asset management. Hotel and Motel Management is the preferred advertising vehicle for hospitality industry suppliers, service providers, franchise companies and management companies around the world. Additional information about the IHIF Lifetime Achievement Award, the program and online registration for the event is available on the IHIF website: www.berlinconference.com .

Buffalo Grove Professional Firefighters Association Deliver Relief Supplies Donated to Hurricane Victims from IPA-IBA

Buffalo Grove, IL September 29, 2004 -- The Inside Sales Department for International Profit Associates (IPA-IBA) facilitated a hurricane relief donation drive asking for employees to support the Buffalo Grove Professional Firefighters Association in their efforts to raise supplies.Buffalo Grove Firetruck E26 and a pick up truck arrived at IPA headquarters to assist employees with the loading of supplies. Trucks were filled with thousands of pounds of requested relief supplies. IPA employee donations included drinking water, nonperishable food items, paper goods, plastic utensils, grills, charcoal, coolers, first aid supplies, toiletries, hand soaps and wipes, work gloves, tents and tarps.Buffalo Grove firefighter Mike Spiro traveled to Atlanta with the Lincolnshire-Riverwoods Professional Association to deliver and distribute the donated supplies to emergency workers in Florida through FEMA.I am excited that we as a company can pull together and help the hurricane relief workers in their time of need, said John Burgess, Managing Director of International Profit Associates. The Inside Sales Department did a phenomenal job of organizing the drive and I am proud that our employees are so active in the community.International Profit Associates, Inc. (IPA-IBA), the largest privately-held business development company for small and medium size businesses in North America, is a leading authority on small business. With nearly $200,000,000 in annual revenues, IPA is the 8th largest management consulting company in Chicago and the 56th largest consulting company in the world. IPA offers a wide range of proven and innovative methodologies to help businesses grow and prosper in both good economic times and bad. IPA and its related companies, including Integrated Business Analysis, Inc. (IBA), International Tax Advisors, Inc. (ITA) and IPA Advisory & Intermediary Services, LLC (IPA A&I), provide comprehensive business advisory services and tax strategies to companies in the United States, Canada and other locations worldwide. Additional information is immediately available by visiting http://www.ipa-iba.com, http://www.iba-usa.net, http://internationaltaxadvisors.com and http://www.aiservices.com. The Public Relations Department may be contacted at: telephone (847) 495-6786; facsimile (847) 495-6773; email pr@ipa-iba.com.

What is the problem with tribal wars in Kenya?

Ever since attaining independence and becoming a republic back in the year 1963, Kenya boasts of having one of the largest numbers of tribe living within it's over five hundred thousand square kilometres. This majestic country has also been endowed with a diverse culture oozing with undiluted language, traditions and tribes. Up until the 2007 general elections, there has been a substantial peace and a steady growth in the country's economy with almost all its sectors receiving escalation in profits and income. The tourism sector, being one of the country's export earners, was topping the list with immense volumes of the number of tourist received in the country. Other sectors such as transport, local entrepreneurship, trade, industry were also experiencing growth.After the much disputed general elections, the country went through one of its worst dreaded experiences; tribal war. This, however, did not come as much of a surprise since there have been quite a number of unrests in some parts of the country over the last couple of years that might have been an indicator of the worse to come. In areas such as Molo, Kuresoi, the Mount Elgon region, the Rift Valley among others, there have been wrangles brought about by land disputes, cattle rustling, and disputes over grazing areas and what have you. The clashes had subsided just before the elections but after later on they were freshly rekindled after the elections.The results of the general elections are believed to have sparked the turmoil that rocked the country in the beginning of the year 2008. However, there had always been tension especially due to the fact that many parties had somewhat become regionally and tribally affiliated. For example, some of the major parties had great popularity within some regions than others; this in the long run led to a major rift between tribes. There was also much talk about how members of a particular tribe were not the favourable leaders in the next government, how members of particular tribe were causing the perpetrators of corruption and all other related occurrences.The country was thrown into confusion after each party came out strongly opposing the results that were tallied by the Electoral Commission. Each one of them had their own results tallied and as expected the confusion and disagreements led to great spate of violence and war. To everyone's surprise, those areas that had been experiencing clashes were the hardest hit. This suggested that as much as the election results had a hand in the wake of the violence, tribalism and ethnicity which had been building over the past finally got a leeway and erupted.The post election violence dealt a major blow to the country's economy as a whole, and this also affected the neighbouring countries since most of them being landlocked depend on Kenya as a transit country for their exports and imports and international trade.The tourism sector was not spared the pain. As a matter of fact, the period that saw the skirmish (which is seen as the high season) saw no tourists coming in or even staying in any of the major hotels in the country. The political unrest resulted in countries from where many of the international tourists come from imposing travel advisories to their citizens thus creating a negative impression on the country's safety. Transport, industry, trade and education are among the other sectors of the economy that were adversely affected by the violence.



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The British and Irish Lions rugby tour to New Zealand in 2005 will be one of the biggest sporting events ever seen in New Zealand.

September 16, 2004 -- Ticketing Overview There will be an unprecedented demand for tickets to the British and Irish Lions matches and the NZRU will be running a ballot, which will provide a fair and transparent system. New Zealand Post will be running the public ballot for the NZRU and up to 125,000 tickets will be available for purchase. Members of New Zealand's Rugby Community, season ticket holders as well as fans living in provinces where the Lions are playing will have an extra chance in the ballot through a weighting' system. Other people and organisations, such as season ticket holders, will have access to ticket sales via direct offers. Prices There will be a range of ticket prices available from the NZRU and provincial unions, ranging from a $10 children's ticket to a provincial match, to $300 for the premium Test tickets. Ticket prices are as follows: Bay of Plenty, Manawatu and Southland: pricing will range from $10 for a child through to $100 for a premium adult ticket. Taranaki: from $15 for a child through to $100 for a premium adult ticket. Otago, Wellington and Auckland: from $20 for a child through to $120 for a premium adult ticket. New Zealand Maori: from $20 for a child through to $150 for a premium adult ticket. Test matches: from $80 in Wellington and $100 in Christchurch and Auckland through to $300 for a premium ticket at all three Tests. Family-friendly prices There will be family-friendly prices for provincial matches. For example, a family of four will be able to see*: Bay of Plenty play the Lions in Rotorua for $90.Southland plays the Lions in Invercargill for $90.Manawatu play the Lions in Palmerston North for $90.Otago play the Lions in Dunedin for $110.New Zealand Maori play the Lions in Hamilton for $130.* Prices quoted are exclusive of booking/courier fee. Ticket Allocations The NZRU is contractually obliged to make tickets available to a number of groups. The biggest obligation is to the British and Irish Lions themselves. Eight thousand official ticket packages have been made available to Lions supporters. The British and Irish Lions have also been given an allocation for each of their provincial matches. International Travel Packages The NZRU has also allocated 2,000 tickets per Test match to the official travel and hospitality agents to sell to All Blacks and Lions supporters outside of Europe, in places such as Asia, Australia and North America. Direct Offers and other Ticket Allocations The NZRU and provincial unions will make direct offers to a number of organisations and people who have supported or served the game of rugby in New Zealand. Stadium members " whose memberships give them the right to see all events at their local stadium " will be seated in their normal seat. Season Pass Holders 2004 provincial season pass holders who renew their pass for 2005 will automatically receive a ticket to the Lions provincial match as part of their 2005 pass.Season pass holders in the Test cities will have the right to purchase a ticket to the Test in their city.Christchurch season pass holders will receive a 20 percent discount off their Test ticket offer. This is because season pass holders in the other Lions Test venues, Wellington and Auckland, will have the Lions matches against the Wellington and Auckland provincial sides included as part of their season passes for 2005. Provincial unions will do their best to ensure season pass holders are sitting alongside other season pass holders they normally watch rugby matches with.Season pass holders should also note that a physical ticket will be issued to all Lions matches, including those games which are part of any season pass. The Rugby Community The NZRU will be recognising the support, commitment and hard work of the thousands of volunteers and other people involved in the Rugby Community, by giving them a greater chance of securing tickets in the public ballot. The Rugby Community is made up of a large number of people who are integral to the running of the game in this country. It is important that they are given recognition. The NZRU in conjunction with the 27 provincial unions is collating all names on a Rugby Community database. It is estimated that this database will number more than 150,000. People who think that they qualify as a member of the Rugby Community should contact their club or local provincial union. For the purpose of the public ballot, the following groups are included in the definition of Rugby Community: All registered players.Coaches and other team managementRefereesVolunteersPlayers, staff and office holders of NZRU associate member and related organisations, including the NZ Marist Rugby Football Federation, the NZ Universities Rugby Football Council, the NZ Rugby Foundation, the NZ Schools Rugby Council, the NZ Colleges of Education Rugby Football Federation, the NZ Rugby Museum Society of New Zealand, the NZ Deaf Rugby Football Union, the NZ Defence Force Sports Committee, the NZ Barbarians Rugby Football Club, and regional junior advisory boards.The Ballot - How It Will Work The ballot will be a fully automated process developed by NZ Post and their ticketing subsidiary, Red Tickets, and will be overseen by the NZRU. Members of the public can register for the ballot in two ways: 1. Via the website, www.lions.co.nz.2. By picking up a registration form from the more than 330 NZ Post Shops throughout the country. The registration period will run from 1 November 2004 until 24 December 2004. No registrations will be accepted before or after this period. The ballot will be run in February 2005. Fans who have been successful in securing tickets will be contacted in the weeks following the draw. Ballot weighting There will be different weightings for different groups in the ballot. Simply put, if you are a member of the Rugby Community, a season pass holder *or live within a provincial union where the Lions are playing a provincial match**, you will have a greater chance in the ballot.The weightings for Lions provincial matches are as follows: Member of the public outside game province " one chanceMember of the public in game province " two chancesMember of Rugby Community and season pass holder outside game province " three chancesMember of Rugby Community and season pass holder inside game province " four chances * To qualify for weighting in the ballot, you must be a fully-paid 2004 season pass holder as at 30 September 2004. ** The game province is defined by the boundaries of your local Air New Zealand NPC provincial union. There are two exceptions to this: people living in the Horowhenua-Kapiti provincial union are considered, for the purposes of the ballot, to live in the Wellington area; and people living in the North Harbour or Counties-Manukau provincial union areas are considered to live in the Auckland area. The NZRU also wanted to recognise the support of season pass holders in provinces which are not hosting Lions matches so they will receive the same weighting as the wider Rugby Community in the ballot. The weightings for the Test matches as well as the New Zealand Maori match are as follows: Member of the public " one chanceMember of Rugby Community and all season pass holders " two chances The different weighting for these matches is due to the fact that they are national' matches. Registering for the Ballot The registration form, whether filling out online at www.lions.co.nz or at an NZ Post shop, will require you to give the following information.Contact detailsYou will be asked to provide a range of contact details, including name and contact phone numbers. If you are successful in securing tickets, you will be contacted on your nominated phone number. It is crucial that you provide accurate contact details.Match preferenceYou will be asked to prioritise the matches you want to get tickets for. If you register to secure tickets for one match only, then that will be your first preference. If, however, you register for more than one match, you will be asked to nominate a first preference, a second preference and so on. Number of ticketsYou will be asked how many tickets you require. For Test matches, you may register for one or two tickets. For all other matches, you may register for one, two, three or four tickets.Ticket price rangeYou will be asked to nominate a price range you are willing to pay for tickets if you are successful in the ballot. The ticket ranges for the Test matches are as follows: 1. upto $1002. $101 - $2003. $201 - $300 The ticket ranges for the provincial and New Zealand Maori matches are as follows: 1. upto $502. $51 - $1003. $101 - $150 Once you have registered online, or if you include an email address on the registration form you send in, you will receive a confirmation email stating that your details have been logged for the ballot. If you do not have an email address, you will only be contacted if you are successful in the ballot.Age restrictionTo enter the ballot general members of the public must be over 16 years of age. Members of the Rugby Community who are under 16 can enter but will need to give their parent or guardian's contact details. When the ballot is drawn, ballot staff will contact the parents or guardians.Children's tickets For non-Test matches, you may request that any number of your tickets be children's tickets, which are sold at a family-friendly price.Each ground has allocated a certain number of children's tickets to be distributed via the ballot. If you are successful in securing tickets but the children's tickets to that particular match have already been allocated, you will be offered the opportunity to buy your requested number of tickets at full, adult prices. Paying for your tickets If you are successful in the ballot and you have accepted the ticket offer, you will have 48 hours to pay for the tickets and associated charges, including a booking fee and courier fee.You will be able to pay: over the phone by credit card; or in person at a New Zealand Post shop, by cash, EFTPOS, credit card using New Zealand Post BillPay.If payment is not received within 48 hours of your acceptance of the ticket offer, your tickets will be returned to the ballot pool.

Tourism and Playa del Carmen Real Estate to get boost - President launches "Vive Mexico"

A key factor in Mexico Real Estate, especially a market like that of Playa del Carmen, is the strength of tourism in the area. For this very reason, contrary to what one might think, now is the IDEAL time to buy here; because of the international recession and the swine-flu travel advisory, the current market is at a low point, which means reduced prices, sometimes very reduced. However, in addition to the confidence which the history of the Playa del Carmen real estate market offers us, (see Second chance in the Playa del Carmen Real Estate market in our real estate blog), the government of Mexico has just launched the Vive Mexico program, which will add to our confidence that the market will soon be on an upward trend, and that this is an ideal time to invest. Those considering buying a home, or looking for an investment in Playa del Carmen may hesitate to buy at a time when appreciation has leveled off. But considering the importance of tourism in this market, any indication that tourism will soon be on the rise again is a good sign. The Vive Mexico program considerably strengthens these prospects. President Calderon is challenging Mexicos tourist industry, Lets show the world what we really are, and do better than ever. This is just what the Vive Mexico program is going to do, redoubling effort in innovative ways to promote Mexicos tourist destinations, and offering special prices to an extent which has never been seen before. So, what does this program include? An unprecedented financial investment of 90 million dollars (1.2 billion pesos). This money will be used to promote Mexico in every way possible as a tourist destination full of life, attractions and benefits with no equal. The investment will be dedicated to promoting tourism in North America and throughout the rest of the world, both encouraging Mexicans to get to know their own heritage, and continuing to show the rest of the world the benefits of coming to Mexico. The message which Vive Mexico has for the world will be delivered through various media, and using celebrities such as actors and soccer players, and public figures from all walks of fame. The campaign has been called much more than just a promotional campaign " its a national movement which requires the participation of all Mexicans. In addition to the campaign itself, numerous other initiatives are being undertaken. One is an updated version of Playa del Carmens Digital Tourist Service Catalogue (Catalogo Turistico Digital), which includes catalogue of all services of interest to tourists in Playa and has been distributed on CD and very successfully received on an international level. The new version will included data from a recent census to offer more complete information. Also the government of this state is organizing an event (Vive la Vida en el Caribe Mexicano, Travel Shop el Mall de los Viajes) to complement the national program with promotion specific to Quintana Roo. So, theres going to be a lot of publicity " what else is going to be offered? In Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya, there are going to be reduced prices, all-inclusive packages which now include even more, such as extra nights in hotels, free entrance into eco parks, and numerous other incentives for tourists. Some packages are being offered as low as 50%. The campaign will focus on bolstering tourism this coming summer season, that is, within the next couple of months. For the Playa del Carmen real estate this means one thing; tourism, a key element in the market here, will rebounds and probably quite quickly. As tourism grows, the market trend will turn back up. This factor, in addition to numerous others which will give buyers confidence in the Playa del Carmen Real Estate market, make this an ideal time to invest in Playa del Carmen.

Cancun Real Estate by Cyndi Ader, originally from the US, has been living in Cancun, Mexico for 17 years. She is a member of A.M.P.I. (The Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals) and is currently a member of the International Relations Committee. She is also an international affiliate of NAR (National Association of Realtors). She is the owner/broker of Cancun Properties Real Estate and specializes as a buyer's broker. for more information (512)-879-6546. Where 9 TOP real estate experts from ALL regions of Mexico come together to share their Tips & Knowledge to help you buy safely !"

Internet World: Premiere Conferencing launches two new conferencing tools and announces UK surge in web and audio conferencing

Media Contacts:Catherine McFarlandKetchum+44 (0)20 7611 3500catherine.mcfarland@ketchum.comEmma BrownPremiere Conferencing+44 (0)20 7890 7008emma.brown@premconf.co.ukPremiere Conferencing Launches Two New Conferencing Tools at InternetWorld In Europe Following Surge in Demand for ServicesWeb Collaboration and Operator-Assisted Calls with Automated Access Provide New Way to Meet Premiere Conferencing (www.premconf.co.uk), a global provider of enhanced, audio and Web-based conferencing solutions and a business unit of Ptek Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:PTEK), has experienced a 45 percent surge in its conferencing services in Europe since April last year. In response to the growing popularity of automated conferencing, Premiere Conferencing is now offering customers two new conferencing tools: VisionCastSM , which provides easy Web access for an easier way to share documents and slides on the desktop with anyone, anywhere and PremiereCall AuditoriumSM, which combines automated access to audio conferences for large groups, with the assistance of an operator to manage the call for presenters.Premiere Conferencing will demonstrate these new services at Stand 945 at InternetWorld, an Internet exhibition, which takes place at Earls Court, London, 2nd - 5th June.Michele Hayden, Premiere Conferencing's managing director in Europe, said: When there is doubt surrounding travel or the economy, we see tremendous growth in the conferencing market. Past experience tells us that these new adopters continue to use the service following a period of intense, initial use. Given the current environment, the market is ideal for introducing VisionCast and Auditorium as they give companies a new way to meet.We use Auditorium and VisionCast for the audio conferences that we offer our clients as an efficient alternative to in-person meetings, said Stephanie Lange-Bourdiec, client care manager at GigaGroup, a leading global IT advisory firm. Our analysts present their visions and opinions on a specific subject using a visual presentation on the Internet. Participants then have the opportunity to interact and discuss during a Q&A session. Our clients really appreciate this format as they can take advantage of our expertise and recommendations without travelling. The average customer satisfaction rate of our seminars is 95 percent. This is also very cost-effective, which was a key element in our decision.The European market is searching for more sophisticated, cost-effective ways to conduct meetings, added Hayden. These services provide customers with tools that are not only easy to access, but also allow companies to capture important information and opinions from an audience that may otherwise be difficult to obtain.VisionCast - An OverviewVisionCast enables participants from around the world to collaboratively work on documents, view presentations, conduct Web tours and draw on whiteboards. Unlike some Web conferencing solutions, VisionCast integrates the Web and audio services so call hosts benefit from one source for live operator assistance, one source for billing and simultaneous playback of audio and visuals once recorded. Customer demonstrations are complimentary.Other features of VisionCast include:Mood indicators that allow participants to convey their opinions about how the presentation is going, so the presenter can adjust accordinglyChat function that allows participants to conduct private conversations with either the call host or each otherVoting to instantly gather audience opinionsAnnotation to enable presenters to draw visual attention to key pointsFull range of meeting management tools including invitations, scheduling and on-demand meeting management tools that automatically send email invitations to attendeesPresentation tools that enable the viewing of slides, applications and/or the desktop, white boarding, snapshot or screen captures, and Internet toursRecord and playback for archiving of meeting contentPremiereCall Auditorium - An OverviewUsing PremiereCall Auditorium, European businesses will be able to deliver messages to a large audience more comprehensively and cost-effectively. Ideal for internal communications such as company announcements, all-hands meetings, seminars, briefings, and training, PremiereCall Auditorium combines the convenience of automated passcode access with the assurance of a dedicated operator. It also enables interactive Q&A sessions to engage the audience and increase their understanding of the message. The European launch follows the success of the service in the United States, where companies have been quick to take advantage of PremiereCall Auditorium at a time when international travel is limited and internal communications remain important. PremiereCall Auditorium conferencing allows for interactive sessions with the audience so the calls can engage participants and heighten their understanding of the message. For example, companies can get the opinions of their employees on a large scale and invite questions to clarify points. Call hosts can also record the meeting for those who might not be able to attend. Key features include: Conference replay available by phone, 24/7Instant passcode access for convenience and to ensure that calls start on timeA professional announcer opens and closes the callDedicated operator assistance for customer support throughout the callMultiple Q&A and voting sessions About GigaGroupGigaGroup provides customers with objective advice for continuously improving Information Technology (IT) and IT Management efficiency. Independently from all IT vendors, GigaGroup helps clients make strategic and tactical decisions about the technologies, people and IT processes needed to excel in supporting business. In particular, we help IT executives learn about emerging and core technologies as well as IT Management issues, compare the features of different products and services, decide with which vendors (services and products) develop a relationship, how to organise teams, align IT with business and measure IT value. GigaGroup also provides CEOs, board members and business executives with coaching and advice on the best use of IT for business advantage.About Premiere ConferencingPremiere Conferencing (www.premconf.co.uk) is the conferencing provider companies rely on when communications really matter. Since 1984, Premiere Conferencing has consistently led the industry in developing the most advanced global conferencing and collaboration solutions, fulfilling today's business-critical communications needs. Premiere Conferencing delivers the highest levels of security, reliability and customer service in a comprehensive suite of communications offerings, from feature-rich automated and operator-assisted conferencing to advanced Web collaboration tools that enable users to create and interact visually over the Internet. A business unit of Ptek Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: PTEK), Premiere Conferencing's international office locations include Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, United Kingdom, and the United States.About Ptek Holdings, Inc.Ptek Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: PTEK) is a leading provider of tailored business communications solutions that enable global enterprises to better communicate with constituents, acquire and retain customers and automate business processes. These solutions, which include conferencing, Web collaboration and messaging, are marketed under the Premiere Conferencing and Xpedite brand names.Ptek Holdings' corporate headquarters is located at 3399 Peachtree Road NE, The Lenox Building, Atlanta, GA 30326. Additional information can be found at www.ptek.com

Internet Cruises - Shopping Online

"If you build it, they will come."That advice, which prompted an Iowa farmer in the 1989 movie "Field of Dreams" to plow over his corn field and build a baseball diamond, has become the mantra of many high-tech startups promoting electronic commerce on the Internet. And the cruise travel industry has also embraced this "shop by computer" concept.Indeed the Internet can be a wonderful source of information to help you plan an exciting holiday, obtaining ship and stateroom descriptions, itineraries, tips on sites to see, passport and visa requirements, shore excursion, shopping, weather and local interest information,but is it the right place to book your dream vacation?Cruise lines are investing over US$15 billion to build at least 50 new ships in the first half of this decade in addition to the over 300 vessels already in service. Each of these ships offer different amenities with unique ambiance and often this kind of information can only be understood and communicated by face to face discussions with a cruise expert to avoid turning a terrific vacation into a mediocre experience.There is a common misconception that because something is offered for sale on the Internet, it will be an exceptional or a major saving for the consumer. More often than not however it is the ease of completing a transaction that is the major benefit for certain types of travel.Do not assume that pricing on the Internet will automatically be the lowest. Often local agencies will have agreements with the cruiselines that allow them to offer exceptional "not to be advertised" specials.Sometimes there are "residents specials" which are applicable only to residents of a particular country, state or province. Most cruise lines offer price protection to the consumer should the fare for your category of stateroom be reduced. A good agent will watch for reductions and ensure you receive the adjustment. Using an electronic service may not provide the same protection or make available specific specials applicable to your requirements.Arrangements unique to your vacation such as special dietary requirements, handling disabilities, and providing meet and greet services, may be overlooked booking on-line and there may be no way to get answers your very specific questions.On the other hand booking your frequent flyer points travel directly with the airlines or even obtaining a air ticket can be a simple process with little risk if you are dealing directly with the airline's booking engine. Above all make sure about who you are giving your credit card to.Where are they located, and how long have they been in business? Can you get references? Are the web transactions secure? Is the currency my currency? How will my documents get to me and are there additional charges that have not been itemized? What happens if I do not receive the tickets?Now for the good news! As a research tool, the Internet is second to none. Most cruiselines have sites that provide detailed information on their offerings. Carnival Cruise Lines at www.carnival.com offers comprehensive information on their ships, itineraries and even the shore excursions available for each sailing.Similar sites are available from Princess Cruises at www.princess.com or Royal Caribbean International at www.rccl.com where you can print a custom information brochure in full color if you wish!The official trade organization of the cruise industry is the Cruise Lines International Association (www.cruising.org). They work in partnership with nearly 21,000 affiliated travel agencies throughout North America to ensure the highest caliber of cruise sales expertise and service for cruise vacationers.This is a fun place for exploring what cruising is all about and CLIA provides links to all major cruiselines, frequently asked questions, vacation planning information and even a cruise expert locator to find an Accredited Cruise Counsellor near you.If you would like to create a printed mini-guide to your vacation destination, you may wish to visit www.fodors.com. The creators of the famous travel books allow you to create your own mini-guides to a destination covering transport, lodging, dining, currency, health, and more in a personalized format.The Columbus World Travel Guide (www.wtgonline.com) is a resource often used by travel agents for complete information on almost any destination in the world. This site will give you history, maps, visa and passport requirements, how to get there, public holidays, political structure, useful addresses, accommodation, business profiles, climate, social profiles and much more.There are also links to other very useful areas on the Internet such as Mapquest, Yahoo Weather, Traveller's Health Services, World Tourism Offices, the Government Travel Advisory and Information services as well as links to ship bridge cameras offering live pictures from their vessels.Having both a computer and travel background, I am excited by the potential of the Internet as a comprehensive research tool. My practical side reminds me that there is no such thing as a "free lunch". It is not how much you save but what you get for what you pay!Sid Kaplan has extensive experience in the travel business. He owned and operated a large retail cruise only agency in Canada and his wife has 25 years experience working for major cruise lines. Their website is http://www.cruisevacationsguide.com which offers advice and tips to those look to create memorable cruise vacations.

Know More about India Visa and Indian Embassy

With the turmoil happening all over the world, going from country to country sometimes making it difficult. The securities to enter foreign land are really tight and most of the times you must have an idea if there are travel advisories on the country you are going. Prior to your international vacation, you should aware of the travel advisories and know more information regarding the country you are going to visit. This will help you avoid too much pressure on the securities on that country. Since is India is one of the favorite tourist destinations because of its unique scenes, it is advisable to know more about visa information and where you can get legitimate information you need . India visa information that you should know must include the application requirements, validity of the visa and know the cultural practices. Prior to filing of your visa application, you should assure that you have a valid passport. When we say valid, that means your passport is valid to use at least six months covering the date of your travel. Also, when you sign application, avoid erasures and spelling errors because this may lead to denying of your application. The expiration of tourist and business visas are valid for six months to ten years but not to exceed hundred eighty days for each stay, so make sure you plan your visit within this period. Likewise, since India has their own religious culture you should make sure that you agree not to perform any religious activities as long as you are here to visit. Application for India visa is not really difficult because of so many India embassies that are distributed around the globe. The Indian Embassy will give you reliable information that you need when visiting India. They are the best and most trusted source when it comes to legalities need when visiting the country. You may check out their offices to get further information and assist you in processing the documents you need. To avoid the hassle, you may also go online, but it is much better if you will drop-by to their embassy so that all of your concerns and the things that you seem not to understand will be addressed. India is one exciting place to have your vacation. In order to enjoy its magnificent beauty, be sure to have all the documents and information you need to know when staying in India. Get all the information you need and start preparing for your India experience.

Eindiavisa.com offers Information About Indian Embassy. It is also Recommended For India Visa Information .

Briefing Paper: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Preliminary Implications on the Economy and Disease Overview

SARS Briefing PaperAuthor: Peter Lytle, Managing PartnerThe Business Development Group www.bdgpartners.com Contact information: plytle@bdgpartners.com or 952-473-3831Permission to use granted.4/22/03Briefing Paper: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Preliminary Implications on the Economy and Disease Overview The purpose of this briefing is to give the reader a current overview of SARS, a baseline of information about the disease and some economic implications to build upon. As the First World War came to an end, we entered a period of global travel; and with that travel, began the first global pandemic. By the end of the pandemic, over 20 million people lay dead. Since that time, we have experienced a variety of related diseases. Some are as dangerous, some with the potential to do as much damage: Aids, Hantavirus, avian flu, variants of CJD and CWD, West Nile, Ebola, Indian plague, smallpox, Legionaries disease and many other varied bacterial and viral infections. On an average, the world is subjected to a new biological threat from Mother Nature every 6 to 10 years. Man-made biological threats can be developed ad hoc: Anthrax and Smallpox. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome or SARS has not received all the attention in the US media that it has in other countries perhaps due to the war. Perhaps because we are all complacent, thinking the ability to manage these diseases is commonplace. SARS has not yet been proven to be a mega disease, but it may be on the verge of becoming one. If SARS were to go unchecked in the world and mimic the problems created in China, Hong Kong or Toronto, we could see a significant impact on our economic marketplace and healthcare system. What is SARS?SARS is a respiratory illness believed to be caused by the coronavirus. In some cases, it is being referred to as Atypical Pneumonia because of its close resemblance to pneumonia. The criteria for SARS are: temperature of 100.5 degrees or more, one or more clinical findings of respiratory illness (i.e. cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, hypoxia, or radiographic findings of either pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome), travel to an area with documented or suspected community transmission of SARS, and/or close contact within 10 days of onset of symptoms with either a person with a respiratory illness who traveled to a SARS area or a person known to be a suspect SARS case. In a limited number of cases individuals also had diarrhea. What is the origin or SARS?A small group of scientists believes that SARS may have come from farm animals. Bi Shengli, of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Beijing, stated that the earliest victims in Guangdong were chefs or bird vendors in contact with chickens, ducks, pigeons and owls. This theory is yet to be proven. The current theory is that SARS is a new coronavirus; similar to the family of coronavirus that causes the common cold and mild to moderate upper-respiratory illness in humans. When viewed under a microscope, they have a halo or crown-like appearance. Some researchers think this strain of coronavirus identified may also be similar to a virus that is far more serious and found in animals where it is associated with respiratory, gastrointestinal, liver and neurological disease, but recent genetic testing has not identified this as the case. In several cases of SARS, metapneumovirs has been isolated; the role in the pathogenesis in SARS remains unclear. Scientists recently sequenced the corona virus found in numerous SARS patients and believe it is new. One of the concerning things about this virus is its ability to mutate rapidly. As one scientist state this is a virus looking for the perfect host or transmission vehicle. The coronavirus identified is currently considered the primary cause of SARS, according to a briefing by World Health Organization on April 17, 2003. Other potential viruses may still yet be identified that may interact with the disease as it progresses however.SARS is believed to have originated in or around the Guangdong province of China in November of 2002 or before. From there it spread to a single hotel in Hong Kong, called the Metropole, then certain hospital clusters involving seriously ill patients. Guests on the 9th, 11th, & 14th, floors of the Metropole Hotel were exposed. International travelers from these floors spread the disease to another five countries; the disease is now in 26 countries. In February of 2003 it appeared in North America for the first time. What is the incubation period for SARS?Typically it is 2 through 10 days. The illness begins generally with an onset of fever of 100.4 or more. The fever is often associated with chills and/or rigors and might be accompanied by other symptoms including headache, malaise and myalgia. After 3 through 7 days, a lower-respiratory phase begins with the onset of a dry, nonproductive cough or dyspnea. In 10% to 20% of cases the respiratory illness is severe enough to require incubation and mechanical support. What is the mortality rate?This is an extremely aggressive disease. In countries where it was originally established, 1 in 20 are believed to be dying. The CDC estimates the mortality rate at about 3.5%, which is similar to other respiratory diseases. Other organizations such as Health Canada have placed the death rate at 4% to 9%. Hospitals in China have experienced up to a 25% mortality rate. It is too early to tell the actual mortality rate and it will likely be different in each country. At the present time (4/21/03), there are 3,947 cases worldwide, there have been 229 deaths and 1,1935 recoveries. Two hundred twenty eight suspected cases have been reported in the US in 35 states, with no deaths to date. Cases studies before 4/5/03 indicated 94% of the individuals had traveled within 10 days before the onset of illness to the areas listed in the CDC SARS case areas. For more information on case areas, please go to www.cdc.gov and access the SARS page.What is the risk of exposure?SARS appears to be spread primarily by direct contact with moisture droplets or body fluids expelled by a SARS carrier. The World Health Organization (WHO) believes, however, that other factors may be involved. Several hundred residents of a housing complex in Hong Kong (Amoy Gardens) some of which are now leaving quarantine and being tracked; may have been infected with SARS even though they did not have direct contact with a SARS carrier. Research into transmission by cockroaches is being conducted in connection with this location. Thirteen labs around the world are currently researching SARS, how it is transmitted and related questions. It is also becoming evident, according to the CDC and other health organizations, that some individuals may be more infectious than others. An April 4th teleconference, by the CDC and WHO, referred to the possibility of super carriers (individuals that are able to spread the disease greater than others).According to Dr. Gerberding of the CDC, in one hospital in Hanoi, 56% of the health care worker population that came in contact with a SARS patient came down with the disease. In Toronto, where the disease has had a significant impact on hospitals and health care, 180 paramedics have been quarantined in their homes, three were hospitalized with symptoms after potential exposure to SARS infected individuals. There appears to be a dramatic difference in the mortality of the disease depending on when it is detected. The US has experienced no deaths and a number of recoveries based on aggressive disease management, while Mainland China has experienced 1,457 reported cases and 65 deaths as of April 16, 2003. Actual numbers will turn out to be much higher. It appears that the government of China has under reported suspected case of SARS to prevent panic and economic damage to their industrial sector.Dr Gerberding of the CDC believes this is a significant and serious threat to world health and one that needs immediate and vigilant attention. We recognize this as an epidemic that's evolving differently. In transcripts from the CDC, Dr. Gerberding and Dr James Hughes, of the National Center for Infectious Diseases, have stated their concern about SARS. The potential for infecting large numbers of people is very great. The WHO said outbreaks in most parts of the world are currently under control but still spreading in China and Hong Kong. Other health organizations remain highly cautious and suggest this virus could still break away. At the present time, many individuals that have been exposed to SARS have recovered or are in recovery. Early medical attention is critical. If you believe you have SARS you should contact local health authorities immediately and try to limit contact with other individuals if possible until you have been instructed on the best course of action. Does the coronavirus live outside of the human body?The virus appears to live about 3 hours outside the human body. Similar viruses have the capacity to live from 1 hour to 6 days outside the body. There are some very limited concerns that if dried, it may become airborne and still remain potent or maybe hosted by animals or in sewage or related environments. Research on other transmission methods is ongoing. Most research to this date indicates a human host is still the primary methods for transmission and the virus does not live well outside of a host. A great deal of attention is being given to Airport transmission. Air passengers may be at some risk. Airplanes do filter air and only passengers in close contact to a SARS carriers or having touched perhaps a lavatory item etc. are believed to be at significant risk. The question is still being studied however and the answers may be months away. At which point a SARS carrier is infectious and can pass the disease on is still under debate. Are there any tests developed to detect SARS?SARS identification testing is under development. Currently a PCR test is being evaluated. Dr James Hughes has noted two CDC tests that look promising; one is an indirect fluorescent antibody test and the other is an Allose test. Both tests require the disease to have some time to establish itself in the human body. Is there any known treatment for SARS?At this time there is no known treatment for SARS; anti-viral drugs, antibiotics and steroids alone have not responded well. An article in the Financial Times on April 2, 2003 indicated that Hong Kong government health officials indicated some success with a treatment of cocktails of anti-viral drugs and steroids to modulate the extreme response by the patient's immune system. Ahang Wenkang, health minister for China believes they have found a combination of Western and Chinese medicine that works but no details are provided. There are vaccines used in animals to manage coronavirus so there may be an opportunity to expand this into human subjects in the future. No specific drugs to date including Ribavirin have demonstrated effectiveness in control of the disease. Mechanical ventilators are being used with acute patients. One concern facing many countries including the US is the lack of this equipment in the event of a major outbreak of SARS. It is estimate the US has fewer than 20,000 of these units available and during the peak of the Flu season most are in use, the question remains which patients would get the access to this equipment. With the genetic code now available for the SARS coronavirus a vaccine can be developed. This is a process that can take years, however and there is a lack of production capabilities for vaccines in the US at the present time. Prevention of the disease is based on keeping away from direct contact with potentially infected individuals. Recommendations are to practice basic hygiene, washing hands frequently, and avoid areas where the disease is spreading. The use of surgical masks is having limited impact unless the mask is worn by an infected individual to reduce the droplets spread by the nose or mouth. Masks that are sealed and rated N-95, used in conjunction with eye protection and rubber gloves are suggested for individuals in close contact with infected individuals. N-95 masks are currently on back order many months by producers and may not be available should a large outbreak occur in the US or Europe. Most masks have a limited period of value (24 hours or less) once used. Improper use of the mask may also not prevent the disease from coming in contact with the mouth or nose. It is believed that a variety of disinfectants are successful at destroying the virus; chlorine-based disinfectants are listed in a number of health organization's information articles. There is, however, no disinfectant that is currently registered or approved for SARS by any government organization at this time. Should I travel overseas?The CDC and WHO have travel advisories out for much of Asia. Check the CDC website. Toronto is also being noted as a travel caution area. In short, if you don't need to travel at this time, don't. Video conferencing is up 50% for Asia. According to the Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy, individuals that are in the US who have not traveled to an infected area have very little risk of becoming infected with SARS. This suggests that staying home may mean staying safe. In some areas of the US Asian and their business are being avoided. There is no indication that Asians in the US are any more likely to have SARS than anyone who has traveled anywhere would. In fact the Asian community may have a higher awareness of the disease than other cultural groups. Travel advisories are currently recommending restricted travel to: Mainland China (especially the Guangdong province), Vietnam (primarily Hanoi), Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Shanix and some organizations have placed a watch on Toronto, Canada. If a traveler acquires SARS in some of these countries they may not be admitted to hospitals but instead be directed to isolation clinics if they exist. Do not expect to find housing in hotels during the course of the disease. Most airlines will not allow SARS patient's reservations until the disease is proven to be gone and the patient fully recovered. Some countries are no longer allowing air passengers from case countries to disembark, and it is possible that a traveler could find himself or herself stranded for weeks or months if caught in an epidemic location. Depending on the time line for this disease (3 to 10 years), the original countries where the disease has run its course may become safer to visit or do business in than countries where the disease has yet to penetrate 70% of the population, assuming a vaccine has hot been found. This is called the Jack-in "the-box theory. After the outbreak of food poisoning at Jack in the Box, it cleaned up its act and became one of America's safest eating establishments. Could SARS be similar to other respiratory or flu-like diseases?Nobody knows. In the 1998 " 99 flu season there were, according to the CDC, 20,000 flu associated deaths nationwide with 80 million doses of vaccine given to the public. The vaccine was between 70%-80% effective in preventing the flu among healthy adults. This could suggest that a similar disease, for which no vaccine exists, could have a devastating effect on any population that is not prepared. If SARS turns out to be an airborne disease, it will likely be considered more aggressive and could mimic the flu. Direct-contact diseases tend to spread slower allowing for health controls. The use of quarantine procedures may help control SARS. Most countries are utilizing quarantine procedures with SARS suspects but have not with used it with the flu, suggesting a lower risk rate for healthy individuals in developed countries. Economic Impact of SARSSARS currently has the greatest economic impact on Asian countries and businesses closely related to those countries. Among the industries currently being affected: Airlines, Asian and some Canadian (Toronto) convention and tourist business and local retail business, travel-related business and production of materials in China. By example, when Qantas Airlines issued the region's first pneumonia-related profit warning two weeks ago, Merrill Lynch cut their estimates on earning by 19%. Cathay Pacific, which is based in Hong Kong, saw its shares drop by 18% and Singapore Airlines dropped by 14% as a result of SARS concerns by investors. KLM, the Dutch Airline, said that it feared the rapid spread of SARS was having a greater impact on the airline industry than the war in Iraq according to a report in the April 3rd edition of the Financial Times. As of April 16, 2003 some of the biggest Asian airlines said they had travel drop offs of up to 70% on flights to Hong Kong. Goldman Sachs analysis, Noboru Nakajima, believes that the disease will be significant in affecting all travel. Concerns by the cruise line industry of a potential SARS outbreak, has also created a major debate on how to manage the problem if it occurs and how to screen customers to reduce the threat. Hong Kong is not a large producer of material goods anymore; on a global basis 70% of its revenues are generated by services. Services are driven by manpower. SARS is a tremendous threat to any Hong Kong based business. Already most schools are closed. Parents are staying home and away from restaurants, retail locations, cinema, and entertainment complexes. The HSBC Bank and other banks have shut down locations and canceled meeting and overseas travel. A number of embassies have closed and families sent home. Should SARS reach the US or Europe as it has in Asia, panic and over reaction will likely appear. With the war coming to an end CNN, Fox and other news media may look at SARS as the next big news item and set off a similar panic to that created Hong Kong. In an effort to contain the damage done to its travel industry, China claims the disease is nearing control. The WHO, on the other hand, has now listed all of Mainland China under a travel advisory. Most health organizations believe that China has lost control of the virus. Manufacturing facilities in the Guangdong province are experiencing shortages of employees as non-dormitory workers stay home or are subject to quarantine. Concern by overseas buyers, that production will lag or their customers may reject goods produced in the Guangdong province, is creating a complex series of global discussion on finding supplemental suppliers before the next holiday season. China has become the supplier to the world in a variety of consumer goods and any unchecked spread of SARS in China will impact companies from Nike to Wal-Mart. China with its large electronics industry could also be subject to considerable damage. Wal-Mart has already asked its Asian travelers from case countries to go into a self-quarantine for 10 days before returning to work. Products shipped from China are considered safe due to the time it takes for them to reach US shore and should not be impacted directly according to the WHO. The workers that produce these products and those companies that have offices in China are at the greatest risk according to a recent article in Business Week.If SARS spreads in the Western countries, the cost of health care could rise significantly. SARS is a very intensive disease to manage because it requires isolation of the patient; health care costs could increase 2 to 3 fold with a significant outbreak. The loss of workers for up to 30 to 60 days will also impact the productivity of countries and companies. Retail sales could fall significantly as they have in Hong Kong where it was reported by the Hong Kong Retail Management Association and Financial Times that retail sales are down by 50% since the outbreak of SARS with a potential 5% to 10% decline in property value estimated by Merrill Lynch The Department of Defense is currently supplying support to the CDC in identification of the virus and in identification for means of infection. SARS could have a dire impact on our defense program and the war in Iraq. If troops in Korea became infected, we would see further destabilization of the region. The cost to the government for increased defense spending to make up for infected troops could have a longer-term impact on the recession. At the present time there is no reason to believe that SARS is related to terrorism, so the positive side is less fear in the population. SARS is too complex and uncontrolled to use as a terrorist weapon, if it did come from a lab it would be more likely to have been the result of a lab accident where the virus was being use to create a vaccine. SARS may have more impact in some countries than others. Companies that purchase items from overseas or are related to the overseas travel industry (primarily Asia) could see longer-term financial issues. Companies in some sectors of the health care industry might see increases in revenue especially if they are in manufacturing of products like surgical masks, etc. Grants for funding research into SARS could benefit Universities and some pharmaceutical firms. SARS could help Internet commerce; catalog companies and delivery companies and digital movies grow as customer stay away from the crowds.Companies, like Disney, could be hurt as consumers stay away from crowds this summer. Travel to Los Angeles and/or Hawaii could be down as visitors shy away from areas where there are large numbers of Asian travelers. If the disease is tracked to certain bird populations, breeders of these birds may be hurt by the additional cost of disinfecting or loss of consumer confidence in purchasing these products due to fear factors. The disease, at this time, is unlikely to have a significant impact outside of China and some Asian countries as long as the WHO is able to maintain the outbreak, but it should be monitored. Companies that are already in difficult shape and somehow related to any key areas mentioned, should be monitored closely as their survival may be directly related to the events of SARS management by world health organizations over the next several years. Events change quickly with biological diseases. Data is often conflicted. You are advised to watch a site like Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (www.cidrap.umn.edu/) or other contacts listed below for frequent updates on this disease.References & Sources*: Hong Kong Dept of Health www.info.gov.hk/dh/ap.htm Singapore Ministry of Health http://app.moh.gov.sg/ Health Canada www.hc-sc.gc.ca/english/protection/warnings/sars/index.html Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy www.cidrap.umn.edu/Center for Disease Control & Prevention www.cdc.gov/ or www.cdc.gov/ncidod/SARS/World Health Organization www.who.int/en/Morbidity and Mortality Weekly http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr /Communicable Disease Surveillance & Response www.who.int/csr/en/Financial Times www.ft.comBusiness Week, Time, Newsweek*Some site addresses are subject to periodic change.Nike and Wal-Mart, Jack in the Box are protected trademarks of Nike Corporations, Wal-Mart Corporation, Jack in the Box, Corp.Trademarks apply to all other names and logos Information in this briefing may be subject to change. Data in various sources may be conflicting. Decision concerning SARS or its impact should not be made on this briefing but should come from the reader's own research

One City in Europe Every College Graduate Should See

It's not easy for a college graduate to just go off on a holiday, but if you had an opportunity to travel for a couple of days in one city in Europe, where would you go?The unanimous choice would be Paris, the dream destination for college graduates of courses like arts, history, literature, engineering, and politics, as well as those into culinary arts and fashion design. Just by being in central Paris, you'd encounter some of the greatest historical sites and the most preserved artworks in our world. The heart of Haute couture or high fashion, glamorous shopping, and excellent French cuisine also resides here.It's but natural for the French to romanticize this place as the "City of Love". Tourists feel such amore for gay Paris, too, and it would be a wonderful place to fall in love. The illustrious Eiffel Tower and impressive Arc de Triomphe are famous landmarks which when illuminated at night would make you agree that you are, indeed, in the "City of Lights".If you had only three places to see, which would they be? Most people agree that Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame should top the list.The Musee du Louvre is where you'd see the immortalized Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, Winged Victory, and Venus de Milo. Adjacent is the controversial Glass Pyramid where Mary Magdalene is said to be entombed. For a fee, you'd escalate to heights unknown by riding elevators leading to the viewing floors of the Eiffel Tower. You'd be awe-inspired to see the stained glass of Rose Windows at Notre Dame Cathedral where Quasimodo watched over.But if you wanted to see more of Paris, how would you do it? Here's how:- Research on travel deals. Make use of travel advisories and maps to orient your self.- Do reliable bookings in advance and online. There are many hotels in the Parisian suburbs, clean hostels, or bed-and-breakfast inns you could reserve. Otherwise, stay with friends or better yet, go with a group of friends for fun.- Set aside some pocket money and a little extra. Bring more Euros with you as exchange rates are higher here.- Buy a Paris Visite Pass for unlimited access to public transport by bus, train, or Metro. You'll also get discounted rates at local museums and diners.- Buy the Carte Musees et Monument pass if you're interested in sightseeing package. You'll get to see Napoleon's tomb and the works of Monet, Rodin, D'Orsay, and Picasso if you do.- Bring your student international ID as most attractions give discounts to students.- Brush up on your French or bring a dictionary to help you communicate better.- Avail of free entrance to cathedrals and churches in Paris which are rich with breathtaking murals.- Take heavy lunches at delis which offer lunch at cheaper rates. Take out from cafes instead of dining in, and make sandwiches to eat leisurely in parks near the Louvre or Tuileries.- Walk. Paris is made for strolling. A romantic promenade along the parks and bridges of River Siene comes for free.How would you make this once-in-a-lifetime tour a reality? The months of November until April bring off-season rates for Paris, so start saving up to live the dream.



Simon Johnnson is the director of content for http://www.executivegiftshoppe.com/passportholders.html. They specialize in passport holders and travel alarm clocks.