Thursday, April 28, 2011

World's Tallest Waterfall

Nineteen times taller than Niagara Falls, Angel Falls in Venezuela tumbles over the table top mountain of Auyantepui, falling into a swirl of mist and water 3,212 feet below.  The falls wasn't known to the wider world until American aviator Jimmie Angel flew over it in 1933 while looking for gold ore for a mining company.  While trying to land atop the falls in 1937 his plane crashed, no one was hurt, and the wreckage remained there until 1970.  It was reassembled and now is on display at the Cuidad Bolivar Airport.

San Francisco

San Francisco has great museums, an international icon the (Golden State Bridge), restaurants offering adventurous cuisine, and hotels competing for visitors.  The weather in April is sunnier and warmer than in fog hound June or July.  Haight-Asbury is a tourist trap now, but counter culture history lives on in Golden Gate Park's afternoon drum circle.  A drum circle is any group of people playing usually hand drums and percussion in a circle.  The Golden Gate Bridge offers spectacular views of the Bay and the city.

Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Almost 10 million people a year visit Great Smoky Mountain National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina, making it the most popular in America, maybe the world.  In April, the mountain laurel start to bloom, the weather is moderate, and 8 million other visitors are still at home planning their trip for the upcoming summer.  Great Smoky Mountain National Park is a hiker's paradise with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short leg stretchers to strenous treks that may require backcountry camping.  Car camping, fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities.

San Diego

Few cities offer many family attractions as San Diego, the famed zoo, wild animal park, Sea world, Balboa Park and much more.  Skyscrapers have shot up in the revamped downtown, but San Diego's ongoing love affair is with nature, sunshine and fresh air.  Tee off at one of 90 golf courses or roller blade through green Balboa Park, or along Mission Beach's board walk.  Keep the kids amused with craft demos at Old Town State Historic Park and a visit to Seaworld. 

London

London weather starts to moderate in early April, though it's no tropical delight.  But the city's famous free attractions-the British Museum and Library, the two Tate Galleries, Harrod's and the ease of travel on the Tube make it an ideal European family destination.  Make the most of your stay in the city with these free London attractions.  From London's exquisite parks, to world class museums, historic houses and stunning art galleries, there are some amazing free experiences to be had in London.  Where else in the world can you meet dinosaurs and creepy crawlies, see portraits of Tudor monarch, travel back to the Battle of Britain and all without spending a penny?

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Tallest Steel Roller Coaster

The Kingda KA Roller coaster hurls its victims to a dizzying height of 456 feet before dropping them into a 270 degree spiral.  This record breaking coaster at Six Flags Great America in Jackson NJ, also accelerates from zero to 128 mph in 3.5 seconds and at one point drops so preciptously that passengers briefly experience weightlessness.

World's Tallest Water Ride

The screaming inducing Pilgrim's Plunge drops 10 passengers from a height of 131 feet at speeds of 50mph, down a water slide tilted at a terrifying 45 degree angle.  Pilgrim's Plunge is founded at Holiday World & Splashing Safari in Santa Claus, Ind, and brave pilgrims who live for heart pounding water rides will have plenty to be thankful for here.

World Tallest Ferris Wheel

It takes 32 minutes for the tallest wheel in the world to make one rotation.  At 541 feet high, the Singapore Flyer is technically an observation wheel, not a Ferris Wheel.  What's the difference?  Ferris wheels are usually much smaller and have swinging chairs, the fixed passenger cars on the Singapore Flyer can hold 28 camera-toting passengers.  Another familiar observation wheel is the London Eye, which is not as high, at 442.9 feet, but still offers fabulous views of the city.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Billy Graham Library

The Graham family home place was built in 1927 on a dairy farm near what is now Park Road Shopping Center.  The original house was moved to a site at the Library, where it has been restored.  The tranquil garden lies at the edge of the woods, at the end of a cross-shaped brick walkway.  Ruth Graham was buried there in 2007.  Original Crusade team members George Beverly Shea and Cliff Barrows have asked to be buried next to their wives in an area just a short stroll away.  Billie Burrows, who passed away in 1994, is laid to rest there.  Named after Billy Graham's wife, Ruth this bookstore features a great selection of Bibles, books by the Graham family and other noted authors, classic Billy Graham sermons on DVD, plus a wide selection of gifts, including music, apparel, and Thomas Kinkade prints and specialty items.  Enjoy a selection of delicious meals and snacks, including deli sandwiches, chicken salad made from Ruth Graham's recipe, the Billy Frank hot dog, BBQ, fresh salads, soups, soft drinks, ice cream cones and cookies at the Dairy Bar.  You have to see Bessie the Cow, you will really enjoy her.  It is a great place to sightsee in Charlotte NC.

Billy Graham has books and tapes that might interest you.  Please check some of the information below:













































































Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Big Island

The largest Island in the Hawaiian chain, the Big Island of Hawaii is where Mother nature pulls out all the stops from fiery volcanoes,  sparkling waterfalls and black lava deserts to tropical rain forests, alpine meadows and miles of golden, black and even green sand beaches.  Inland, its heart is snow capped Mauna Kea, the world's tallest sea mountain, and the vast Volcanoes National Park.  For a respite from breathtaking views, pack a picnic and head for the black-sand beaches of Waipio Valley, where you can laze the day away in the sun.  The fruitful combination of creative chefs, good soil, and rich traditions has made this Island a culinary destination, evident in homegrown fruits, vegetables, meats and seafood that dominate the menus.

Houston Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, and Houston is no exception, its the biggest city of them all.  Begin a tour of this cosmopolitan metropolis at Space Center Houston, where interactive displays recreate the challenges of space exploration.  A thriving Museum District preserves Houston's rich cultural treasures, while an abundance of parks preserve the city's green spaces.  The cow wrestling days may be over in Houston, but you don't have to look far to find traditional Texas culture, its remnants can be found at Gilley's honky-tonk and barbecue joints everywhere.  Space Center Houston brings to life this and other memorable moments in space exploration with lunar simulators and anti-gravity environments.  More earthly subjects fill the exhibits at the Houston Museum of National Science, including a recreated rain forest.

The Greenbrier

White Sulphur West Virginia is a resort worthy of a head of state.  The Greenbrier represents the height of elegance.  You'll enjoy afternoon teas and gourmet dinners in the formal dining room.  During your stay you can indulge yourself at the luxurious spa, partake of the abundant recreational and athletic facilities, tour the famous bunker and the President's cottage Museum, take a carriage ride, and try your luck at the brand new Monte Carlo style casino, or you can just relax in beautiful surroundings and elegant gardens.

Fishing

The Hoover Camp on the banks of the Rapidan River combines fishing good enough for a President with a touch of history.  Herbert Hoover built his simple fishing cabin near the head waters of the Upper Rapidan.  it was known as the Brown House and served as a retreat from the White House during his presidency.  An avid fisherman, Hoover selected an outstanding location, as the Rapidan has been ranked among America's best trout streams.  Mountain streams are home to both native and stocked trout.  Fish and pay and catch and release ponds teem with trout, bass and bream.

Fishing is fun and relaxing.  You will need tools and supplies to fish sufficiently:

























































































































































Madison County

Much of Madison County in North Central Virginia is characterized by rolling fields and valleys that lead to foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  A large portion of its western region is within Shenandoah National Park, where Skyline Drive follows the crest of the mountain chain.  The county got its name from the family of James Madison, the fourth president of the United States (1809 - 1817), which owned land there.  Agriculture is still the dominant industry in the area, with beef and dairy cows, grains and fruit are the major products.  At the Madison Drug Company, established in 1856, you pay 10cents for a Coca Cola and a cup of Coffee.  Antiques and collectibles refers to a clutter of items hanging from rafters, stacked on tables, and jammed into every nook and cranny.  Bits and pieces of antique decorative glass share space with old-fashioned toys.  Within a convenient car commute are well known destinations like Skyline Drive, Luray Caverns, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello home and Montpelier, the home of James Madison.  For those seeking more active pursuits, Graves Mountain Lodge can serve as a convenient home base.  If you're looking for a full service luxury resort with television, a telephone, and other in room amenities Graves Mountain Lodge may not be for you.  Instead it's a place where you can fill your time reading and relaxing.

Emerald Coast

The Florida panhandles Emerald Coast offers long stretches of white sand, safe swimming, wildlife watching and purpose built family resorts such as bike-centric Rosemary Beach.  Rosemary Beach was established in 1995, and its silky sand beaches and one of a kind architecture have quickly made it a great vacation destination.  Rosemary Beach is centered around Barrett Square, and offers many activities including four swimming pools, tennis, a fitness center and various art galleries.  Tourism operators are eager for guests to see that last year's oil spill is history, lodgings and activities are priced accordingly.

Denver Colorado

Bordered by the snow-capped Rocky Mountains and sparkling with glass office towers, Denver marks the perfect blend of outdoor recreation, fine arts and shopping.  America's best art museums and performing arts complexes have nothing over those in Mile High city.  There's more boot stomping and buffalo steak in Denver than you can shake a stick at.  The Denver Art Museum displays the work of international artists.  Racks of snap-button Western shirts and stitched leather boots crowd the shelves at Rockmount Ranch wear.

Digital Lifestyle

Who :  Fluff
What:  Checking the Internet for traveling on Megabus by checking out the prices and scheduling.
When:  March 2011
Where: At home on my laptop
Why:   To travel to North Carolina while being comfortable and convenient
How:  My blog is on trip planning and I was able to plan my trip successfully.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

SYDNEY

Warm natural, sun kissed and naturally good looking Sydney is rather like its lucky residents.  Situated on one of the world's most striking harbors, where the twin icons of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge steal the limelight, the relaxed Australian capital is surprisingly close to nature.  Within minutes you can be riding the waves on Bondi Beach, or gazing out across Botany Bay, where the first salt encrusted Europeans arrived in the 18th century.  It's no wonder Sydney look so bronzed and relaxed with 70 beaches close by.

Seattle

Mountain and ocean views, fresh seafood, great coffee and better wine: What's not to love about Seattle, the largest city in the Pacific Northwest? The sparkling waters of Elliott Bay, Lake Union, and Lake Washington wrap around this city where shimmering skyscrapers and forests of evergreens coexist.  Seattle offers rich experiences for outdoor enthusiasts, families and foodies.  The only question is what to do first? In a city offering remarkable vistas, the view from the Space Needle beats them all.  from the observation deck or restaurant 520 feet above ground, you can see it all.  A cruise to Bainbridge Island from Pier 52 sets up the perfect photo opportunity.

Syria Mercantile Company

The T intersection of two narrow roads that is the closest thing to the center of Syria Va is the site of the Syria Mercantile Company.  Tacked to a bulletin board are hand written notices advertising chain saw repairs, fishing and hunting guides, where to report wild turkey kills and Jessie's Equi-sport therapy ( therapeutic massage for horses).  Inside, aisles are lined with hunting and fishing gear, bib overalls and a mish-mash of other goods not seen at any local supermarkets.  As a visitor in search of rest and recreation you will find a family owned resort that offers a long list of to do's along with a central location convenient for sight seeing.  If you're seeking a place to lounge away a weekend or longer, experience colorful tidbits of the past, or participate in a variety of outdoors activities, this is your place.

Supplies to check out for your use:
















































































































Pequot Museum

No visit to Southeastern Connecticut is complete until you visit the Moshantucket Pequot Museum, where you can descend a glacial crevasse, discover the thrill of a caribou hunt or walk through a 16th century Native village with 12 wigwams and 50 life size figures engaged in the many activities of daily life.  Explore dramatic changes in the land and the people of New England over thousands of years through exhibits so real you'll have to pinch yourself.  Visitors experience a living culture through special events, listening to storytellers weave old tales marveling at traditional dancers whirling in their multi-colored regalia, or enjoying modern jazz with a native American accent.  The Museum also features: research libraries, restaurant, gift shop, meeting spaces, and a 330 seat auditorium.

Here is some information that may be of value to you:

Tanger Outlets

Discover your style of shopping, the nation's leading designer and brand name stores with the widest selection of today's favorite fashion trends, all in a fun, family friendly environment.  You'll love the best price guarantee on everything they offer.  When traveling across America, be sure to look for the Tanger trademark sign wherever you go to find the same quality shopping experience, the brands you know, choices you want and all at prices you'll love.  With every return visit to Tanger Outlet Center, you'll discover the true value of shopping Tanger style.  Happy shopping and savings.

Learning Styles

There are four learning styles and they are: Visual/Verbal, Visual/Nonverbal, Tactile/Kinesthetic, and Auditory/Verbal.
The Visual/Verbal is when you are in a classroom and the teacher is using a blackboard or a projector to explain essential points of a lecture.  You  depend on the information you get from a textbook or class notes.
The Visual/Nonverbal, you benefit from visual aids, maps, charts, pictures, and diagrams in textbooks.  You may not like to work in study groups but rather work in a quiet room.
Tactile/Kinesthetic, you learn best from hands-on activity, or being physically active while learning, and field work outside the classroom.
The Auditory/Verbal learning style is what I like.  I benefit from listening and talking in group discussions.  I learn best when I can read my notes and textbook out loud.  When studying with a partner, I like to hear my partner's ideas so we can work it out together.  Part of my learning style can also be in the Visual/Verbal group because I like to use information I obtain from the blackboard or projector to help me with my learning. My best studying is done by myself at home in a quiet room.   The information I get from my notes, I put into the computer so I can use at a later date.

Vail

Consistently ranked as one of the country's most popular ski resorts, Vail is the big one, the largest single mountain ski resort in the US, covering 5,500 acres of wide open and forested terrain.  Vail has been a celebrated super resort since the 1970's, when it was propelled to stardom by President Gerald Ford, whose family vacationed there.  Off the slopes, Vail is a compact replica of a Tyrolean village, full of restaurants, hotels, and shops.  Vail is not limited to skiing.  In warm weather, you can trade your skis for mountain bikes and hiking boots and hit the trails again.  The streams and lakes nearby are rich with rainbow, brook and trout.  Horseback riding is one of the best ways to explore the rugged terrain.  For white knuckle adventure, try river rafting.  The Eagle River just a few miles west of Vail, offers thrilling white water.

Tuscany and Umbria

The rolling green hills of Tuscany and Umbria have long been the holiday destination of choice for the rich and famous.  No wonder, as both central Italian regions combine extensive culture with indulgent relaxation.  Opportunities to visit fresco painted churches and Renaissance masterpieces in Florence's top art galleries, as well as the Leaning Tower of Pisa.  The leaning Tower of Pisa stands tall and tipsy, climb the 300 spiraling steps for sweeping views of the Tuscan city.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan may be less manicured than other coastal Mexican resorts, but it offers surprisingly affordable beachfront golf, fresh lobster dinners and an authentic cobble stoned old town.  Climb up to Mazatlan Lighthouse, which crowns the rugged Crestor Hill at the bottom of the Peninsula, for swivel views of the city, harbor, foam-fringed bays and the never ending Pacific.  True to Mexican form, at sundown Mazatlan wheels out smiling mariachi bands, unscrews the tequila bottle and dances on tabletops until the wee hours.  Locals and tourists mingle in beachfront bars, clubs and in old Mazatlan's rustic cantinas.  Matazlan's festive hospitality is epitomized by the Hotel Plaza.  Mazatlan's free beach fireworks show every Sunday evening in fall and winter.