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July 15, 2020

5 Great Gift Ideas for Pet Lovers

With the holidays just around the corner, it's time to start thinking of gifts to give your friends and loved ones. Finding unique gifts can present a challenge, and most people never consider giving pet-related gifts. Since the chances are good that more than one person on your holiday gift list has a pet that he or she adores, why not give a distinctive gift that your recipient will treasure? Here are five great gift ideas to get you started: Fine Art Animal Prints Dogs may come in many shapes and sizes, but each has a personality all its own. One of the most delightful gifts you can give to a pet lover is a fine art print of his or her breed. One of the most notable artists offering fine art animal prints is Lorena Pugh. Her print, "Princess," for example, depicts a white toy poodle laying atop a stack of twelve colorful pillows, while "Angel Face" showcases a gorgeous pug who has just snagged a cluster of grapes off of a dining room table. In "Chocolate Craving," she realistically captures the yearning of a chocolate lab as he reaches for a tennis ball against a beautiful background of blue sky. These limited edition animal prints are sure to be treasured, as each comes with a consecutively numbered dog tag to match the tag in the print. Crystal Animal Statues Whether your gift recipient has a dog, cat, horse, or rabbit, he or she is sure to enjoy an elegant crystal animal statue. Typically made from 24 percent lead crystal, hand-finished animal statues are beautiful yet whimsical. Crystal animal statues can depict a wide variety of pets, from a sitting cat to a dog with a bone; from a turtle to a frog; from a horse to a mouse; and from a duck to a dove. Stone Animal Statues Who wouldn't love a playful stone animal statue depicting their beloved pet? Animal garden statues are perfect gifts, as are stone animal statues for the home and office. While some statues - like a sleeping spaniel puppy or an eager dachshund - make you feel warm inside, others - like a cat holding a pair of binoculars up to his eyes, ever watchful for a bird - make you chuckle. Stone animal statues are available for virtually any type of pet, and are certain to be cherished. Animal Posters If you've ever owned a pet, you know how funny they can be. Animal posters depict pets in a variety of outlandish situations (remember the cat in "Hang in There"?), and are eminently affordable. An animal poster is sure to bring a smile to your recipient's face. Entertainment When it comes to gifts for pet lovers, there's nothing more unique that pet-related entertainment. There is actually a music company that creates music for animals, so consider giving a gift of music about and for cats, dogs, or birds. Another great gift idea is to buy a DVD or video that is designed to entertain your recipient's dog or cat. Your friend or loved one can play the DVD or video while he or she is at work or out running errands - guilt free! It's both original and thoughtful to give a gift that acknowledges your recipient's pet as a central part of his or her life. Pet lovers will appreciate and treasure your gift, whether it's a fine art animal print or an entertaining DVD.

July 12, 2020

Be My Valentine

Before there was a Saint Valentine to bring romance into the equation, mid-February was an important date for lovers. From 400 years BC, the Romans held an annual lottery in the name of their god Lupercus. The names of teenage women were put into a box and drawn at random by adolescent men. The 'winners' were legally paired for a year. Meanwhile, the mad emperor Claudius banned marriage for young men - he believed that single men made better soldiers. A Christian bishop, Valentine, disagreed with his Emperor and secretly performed marriage ceremonies until Claudius found out and first imprisoned him, and finally had him clubbed, stoned and beheaded on February 24th, 270. While he was imprisoned, Valentine fell in love with the daughter of his jailer and when he was taken to be executed, he left her a note signed, 'From your Valentine.' Taking Valentine's name in vain, the Church, in AD 496, decided to finally abolish the annual pairing off lottery held in honor of the god Lupercus and so decreed a small change in the rules: From then on, both the young men and the young women would pick a name out of the hat, but instead of getting a year of companionship (and often lust), they drew the name of a Saint whose life they had to spend the next year emulating. Must have been quite a disappointment for the hot- bloodied young Romans! They named the day after Saint Valentine whose involvement, 226 years after his death, was more to usurp the pagan god than to signify love. Thankfully, public memory was more powerful that political will and Saint Valentine remained associated with lovers. Young Roman men, deprived of their lottery, took instead to handing hand-written notes to the women they admired on February 14th. The tradition of the Valentine card was thus started over 1500 years ago! The earliest known card that still exists is currently in the British Museum. It was sent by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife. He was a prisoner in the Tower of London at the time and so his feelings of love were probably more acute than most! In the sixteenth century the Bishop of Geneva tried to reinstate the annual Saint's name lottery, but his efforts were short-lived. February 14th was by then too firmly associated with lovers for the Church to successfully interfere. In 1797 a British publisher, who would have done very well in modern Internet times, published 'The Young Man's Valentine Writer' which offered scores of suggestions of sentimental verses for the creatively challenged. The practice of sending cards anonymously began with the Victorians, who secretly loved anything of a racy nature, but publicly needed to maintain a show of respectful purity. Hence, the verses in the cards became more and more obscene, but the authors remained hidden behind a respectful anonymity. The first publisher of Valentine's cards in America, Esther Holland charged up to $35 for each card. And this was in 1870! Finally, kisses are written as 'x' because in days of illiteracy, your signature was a cross. To convey the effect of an oath, people would draw their cross and kiss it - in the same way that they would kiss the Bible. So the x and the kiss became one and the same. Have a lovely Valentine's day! X

July 10, 2020

The Sweetest Secret for Chocolate Lovers

Many years after the first chocolate was introduced to the Spanish monarchy and failed to steal their approval, Cortez dared to present then King Charles V with the newfound harvest from the New World making all people become chocolate lovers in the future. The bittersweet taste of the cocoa inspired very little support from its drinkers until Cortez blew the world away with a discovery that when mixed with sugar and milk, along with many other sweeteners and spices, chocolate can be very enticing! The concoction was revered in the high courts that chocolate was reserved only for the nobility and the Spanish refused to share this delicacy with any other nation. Dominican Friars who used to process the revered beans finally let the secret out in 1544 and soon took Europe by a storm. A Sweet Chocolate Love Story in Paris Chocolate was introduced to France when Spanish Princess Maria Theresa married Louis XIV of France. As an engagement gift, she gave her fiancé a box of ornately decorated box of chocolates which took the French by the heart. Their marriage must have been maid in chocolate heaven because it was said that King Louis made love twice a day with his wife. The chocolates aphrodisiac qualities were further recognized by the French nobilities , even their art reflected the dark, tempestuous allure of chocolates. Stories such as that of Casanova using chocolates to seduce his lovers and Madame du Barry becoming nymphomaniac were passed on. From Mistake to Praline A funny chocolate anecdote comes to mind; the renowned Duke of Plesslis-Praslin was once kept waiting for his dessert owing to the accidental dropping of a bowlful of almonds in the kitchen. Panic-stricken the chef pours over burned sugar over the beans! The Duke couldn't be made to wait any longer so as soon as the sugar cooled, the chef served the noble a plate of almonds covered with burnt sugar and he was delighted. So impressed that he gave his name to this mistake! Today we know it as praline. America Greets Cadbury Europe remains in awe of this delicious treat, meanwhile Americans discover the chocolate and in 1765, the first chocolate factory in America was built. Soon major countries in Europe followed the examples of Spain along with America to establish more factories and find more ways to serve chocolate. In 1828, it was found that including a little bit of the cocoa butter actually made the chocolate drink a lot smoother. Between 1830's to the late 1840's chocolate makes developed the drink into the solid form and later a fondant was introduced. And so in 1849, the Cadbury Brothers put into exhibit their decadent chocolate creations in Birmingham, England. The Swiss Takes the Lead After many years of dedicated study on how to process the cocoa, the Swiss discovered a way to cook the chocolate by means of refining it via 'conching'. It took about 72 hours of continues rolling and refining. Soon after, putting the chocolate in your mouth, it melts; thus the known texture today. It was a Swiss too that discovered a means to add flavor to the chocolate by filling it. Whatever kind of chocolate you have with you today is a result of many years of devotion to the xocoatl. Men before us have been captured and tempted to their cores that those who followed only continued what they long worked for – to make the chocolate the staple that it is today. What started out as mere beans that men barely noticed has become a valued treat, the creamy, lustful and rich sweets that chocolate lovers will die for!

July 6, 2020

Chocolate Lovers and Obesity

Chocolates have become one of the most popular confectioneries ever made and sold. Chocolate lovers, young and old, rich and poor, have found themselves being hooked with a confessing indulgence for it. Despite of the popularity chocolates have achieved, there are still questions and arguments that are being raised about its influence on the human health. Black and White Chocolates Chocolates have two faces under its name. One is white and the other is black, but of course, these variants represent benefits one can get from the other. Black chocolate, otherwise known as dark chocolate comprises sugar, cocoa mass and butter. On the other hand, white chocolate or milk chocolate has flavorings, vegetable fats and some milk solids. But whether white or black, dark or milk chocolate, chocolates still fascinate and give pleasure to anyone who eats it. Debating Nutritional Value of Chocolates For over the years, chocolates have made its way to being the favorite "confectionery" of all time. But despite the alluring images chocolates have created, debate and arguments have been raised and created on where chocolates should be placed. This is because as we know, chocolates still remain in the 'junk' category. Both proponents of each side have their positions as to what chocolate can do. But for ordinary chocolate lovers, chocolates will still be chocolates. But digging deep into it, lovers or non-lovers of chocolate should and must get a glimpse of these issues. Whichever side has a heavier and more relevant proof, should be taken into a better consideration. Each bite leaves a soothing feeling that is hard to define, but renders a strong desire to experience. Chocolates as Aphrodisiac Aside from the sensation and delight it gives, chocolate also makes itself an aphrodisiac agent. As an energy booster, studies show that, it provides an adequate reserve of energy, especially when they have greater glucose content in them. Food industries have made chocolate an integral part of the global market, and thus, chocolates still remain top sellers in the market today since 600 AD, even from the time of the Mayans. Chocolates and Obesity Though the chocolate world has obtained valuable commendation, they also share a "veto" image just like any other product. These are the days when obesity has become a major word of mouth to every citizen around the globe. Obesity has not just become an ordinary irregularity of body mass, but also is considered as one of the critical causes of chronic diseases. Medical practitioners have spent time doing research to determine the root cause of this problem. From the long list of factors that could trigger obesity, chocolates are found included in the list. Obesity-Chocolate Link An independent study in the UK predicted that occurrences of obesity may rise to more than 50% by the year 2020. Statistics, lawmakers & the medical world have proposed that confectioners should not be sold anymore in the pharmacies as being practiced in many corners of the world. Aside from being linked to obesity, chocolates are also suspected to be one causative factor triggering diabetes. This proposition is still under consideration due to the vast studies that are still in progress to prove the same. Positive Reports on Chocolates On the other hand, good reports on chocolates are still being circulated and made. Studies also show that dark chocolates consumed moderately, can bestow cardiovascular benefits due to the presence of "flavanol" which plays a major role in the circulatory system. This increases the content of high density lipoprotein (HDL), more popularly known as the good cholesterol; thus preventing the occurrence of cardiovascular related diseases. The choice is ours and we are the ones who should decide if chocolates can someday be cheaper than therapy which never requires an appointment. Though a list of contradicting propositions follows, chocolates will still remain the most intimate confectionary close to a man's heart. And with the abounding chocolates in the market, making us crave for every bite, chocolates will forever be a delight for chocolate lovers like me! Now the battle is choosing between chocolates and obesity!

July 4, 2020

City Of Lovers

Paris incites the senses, asking to be seen, heard, touched, tasted and smelt. From romance along the Seine to landscapes on bus-sized canvases to the pick-an-ism types in cafes monologuing on the use of garlic or the finer points of Jerry Lewis, Paris is the essence of all things French. In the great local tradition of the flâneur, or considerate boulevard-stroller, Paris is a wonderful city for aimless moving about. Relaxed quarters such as the vibrant Marais, elegant St-Germain and romantic Montmartre are ideal for street-browsing, shopping and café-sitting, and the city's lack of open space is making up for by beautiful formal gardens, by the pathways and pavements that run beside the River Seine, and by endless hidden or unexpected havens. Wherever one goes historic landmark buildings and contemporary architectural wonders reminds one of the city's pride and grandeur. The lovers should bond with nature, and each other. Paris is filled with beautiful gardens, and all make an extraordinarily romantic setting. Luxembourg Gardens, in particular, is a great spot for couples, and is adjacent to the breathtaking Luxembourg Castle. French kissing is a must here. One must have seen the scene in almost every romance set in Paris - a couple embraces for a deep kiss on a bridge overlooking the Seine River. Take one's honey to the nearest bridge, walk to the center and get smooching. Wine and dine - There are few things better to savor in Paris than a wonderful meal, accompanied by a delectable bottle of wine. One can go in anywhere in Paris to find this. Wander along the Champs Elysee until a sidewalk cafe captivates one's attention. Walk arm in arm. Venture to the Ile Saint Louis (near Notre Dame) for a great neighborhood for walking. The tiny island within the Seine has cute boutique shops, nice restaurants and nightclubs filled with locals. Try Berthillon which is a delicious ice cream that can only be found in this small neighborhood. Jazz it up. This is one of the best cities in the world to listen to jazz, whether it's at a smoky hole-in-the-wall or a popular club. Hit any jazz club, snuggle, sip wine and listen to the sounds of Gay Paris. Long famed as the city of lovers, it's easy to see why Paris still holds interest to couples looking for a little romance. It can be walking hand in hand along the quails of the Seine, or sharing a Bertillon ice cream in the Ile St Louis or even kissing in front of the Sacré Coeur in Montmartre, lovers of all ages can absorb themselves in the same romantic Parisian atmosphere that has inspired centuries of novels, paintings, photographs and films. It is known that the best things in life are free and one of the most romantic things about Paris is the ability to walk for hours finding one's own special corner. Certain areas lend themselves beautifully to this form of exploration, from the winding streets of the medieval Marais to the overgrown cemetery of Pere Lachaise home to Oscar Wilde, Chopin and Jim Morrison. It is certainly a City for lovers.

July 2, 2020

A Society of Yacht Lovers

If you either have or find yourself developing a genuine fascination and love of not only yachts but the lifestyle of yachting, you are not alone. When you begin either using your new yacht or regularly chartering a yacht for a weekend of luxury or a special vacation, it's easy to fall in with a society of yacht owners where you can share your enjoyment of these very special boats and learn from each other as well. Yacht clubs are one way that yacht owners and yacht lovers alike gather routinely to share their common interest in diverse settings. Even if you are not a yacht owner yet yourself, it isn't hard to get an invitation to yacht club meetings where your enthusiasm for yachting will only intensify. One way that the knowledge about yachting spreads easily in almost a viral way at yacht club gatherings is that these societies commonly mix together those who enjoy luxury yachting on a motor yacht to those who love sailing to those who own yachts as big as cruise ships to those who are into yachting for the thrill of yacht racing. In this way even if your addiction is to luxury yachting, by socializing with yacht racing enthusiasts, you can find yourself a guest at a yacht race and get the thrill of that lifestyle in your blood. After viewing your yacht as a place to relax and cruise or sail the seas at a leisurely pace, to see yachts that are customized and trim and ready for high speed racing, you will see yachting an entirely different light. Similarly if you are a speed yacht enthusiast, you may only see yachts the way race horse owners see their thoroughbred animals. But when you "rub elbows" with those who know the joy and fun of luxury yachting, you will see their fascination with your lifestyle and be eager to share theirs with you as well. So if you trade a couple tickets to the next big yacht race for a weekend on a luxury yacht, you will get a new appreciation for why those big lumbering yachts that are built for comfort, not for speed are so appealing. For both the yacht racer and the lover of luxury yachting, this exposure may lead to yet another area of yachting that you may wish to own a part of as your next big yacht investment. Yacht clubs are also good ways to learn about new destinations and theme yacht excursions that you may wish to try out the next time you are planning a yachting adventure. You may never have considered yachting around the British Isles and combining your love of the luxury of your yacht with an exciting vacation exploring historic sights and taking in some of the best culture in the world. So as other yacht owners "brag" about their last great yacht adventure, you can be taking some notes and open up whole new ways you can keep your love of yachting fresh and new each year. Meetings of the yacht club often are held on member yachts or in some location where the members can explore an aspect of yachting together. One of the major boat and yacht shows and expos in town is a great place to hold a yacht club meeting because as much fun as it is to explore new yachts yourself, its so much more enjoyable to do so with other yacht lovers and to discuss and compare yachts with people who know them and love them like you do. If you join a yacht club, you should fully expect and actually want to see other club members use the meetings to "show off" how great their yacht is. Your fellow members will value your opinion and seeing you express admiration for their fine yacht and its excellent facilities. And it won't be long before it might be your turn to host the yacht club onboard your vessel where you can lay out the red carpet for an elite group to admire what you have done to build the dream yacht paradise for you and your family and friends.

June 30, 2020

Animal lovers are never lonely

Early childhood is an impressionable period of life in which children are often dog lovers. Parents have a great contribution in the building of their children's character by encouraging them to be animal lovers and allowing them to have a dog as a pet. Parents should encourage their young to become animal lovers because this will mean never to be alone, to always have a friend, to be comforted when sad, to be happy and needed, to learn responsibility and, last but not least, to love. That's what an animal friend teaches a child: the most valuable lesson of all. Seeing dog lovers in parks, on television, in stores and on the streets, one can realize the benefit of having a pet as company. Having a dog or cat around the house will surely bring animal lovers a lot of smiles. Cuddling, big round eyes sending messages of love, cute fluffy ears or tail moving in signs of joy should make any heart melt. Animal lovers are the ones that feel for these helpless beings. A pet is not an object one buys to keep around the house, but a living thing that communicates and interacts with the persons around it. Animal lovers know that and they appreciate every smile a pet brings on their faces. Dog lovers know that pets depend and need them more than a human ever will. The animals around the house have to be fed and watered and cleaned constantly, just like a child. They need their masters just like a child needs his mother to survive. Having a pet means having a lot of responsibility and dog lovers sacrifice their time, money and effort to keep their beloved company around them. Animal lovers assume the responsibility towards their pets with pleasure and never regret their efforts, because they do it out of love. In exchange, animal lovers receive even more. Animal lovers are never lonely, are always loved by their pets, they never get disappointed and often receive the comfort that a human could not give them. Not to mention animal lovers won't ever feel nagged by their pets, neglected or left aside. Having an animal for a friend is having a true friend for life. Another reason to why animal lovers are never lonely is the fact that their sacrifices talk a lot about the kind of persons they are: communicative, generous, not selfish, always around to help their friends in need, loving and attentive. There are many people who would want these qualities in their friends or their lovers, so animal lovers are very appreciated and loved by everyone. Single persons that are dog lovers can easily find company not only in their animal friends, but in their human friends also. Not to mention that dog lovers usually find dog lovers also as their friends, because their passion for the same pets will give them a lot of things in common to talk about. A shared passion (of any kind) will always bring two persons together. Imagine a dog lover going out to walk the dog every day. Who is he most likely going to have as a friend? Will it be his female neighbor that can't stand dog lovers? Or will it be the girl that walks her own dog in the park every morning just like him? Animal lovers, because they love life and its smallest proofs (animals) will never be alone and they will always share their pleasure with those that appreciate the same thing as them. So if you are looking for company, animal and human, don't forget animal lovers and their pets! They will bring you the soul medicine everyone needs: love.

June 10, 2020

Is Valentine’s Day Just For Lovers?

Valentine's Day is the day of romance and love. It is being celebrated on 14th of February yearly across the world. Different countries commemorate it in different ways. It is the feast of St. Valentine. The Valentine's Day has a little history which is related to St. Valentine who wedded secretly and for that reason, he sacrificed his life to Claudius, the Roman emperor. People always remember St. Valentine on Valentine's Day just like any other saints we honor in their special day. It has been said that Claudius, the Roman Emperor did not want any weddings take place for the duration of wartime. However Bishop Valentine was against him and carried out wedding ceremonies which causes him in death on the 14th day of February. In honor of him, couples rejoice every February 14 in his reminiscence. One more belief of Valentine's Day is the day of his execution during 14th of February, he had a guest who gave him a message to restore confidence that said "From Your Valentine" that seems to be a source of belief. Ever since then, it has been celebrated every year by people around the globe. A lot of people think Valentine's Day as the day for lovers only. They consider it to be the special day where both men and women do extraordinary dates. Why is that? Because of the marriage part which causes the death of St. Valentine's. At present times, we depict intimate dinners for 2 with romantic music, champagne toasts and, of course, the giving of gifts like jewelry, red roses and candy. This is right but not generally right. Valentines day is indeed not only for lovers but for all the people around the world. Each of us deserves to be loved. You can always give a valentine card to anyone you care or love. This is being taught to kids around the world to illustrate them how love conquers all, so that they will broaden love and not be hateful to anyone. Kids will make special cards or for their parents and teachers. All people in the world will have a valentine. Dads may send flowers, jewelries and chocolates to their wife's. Mothers may send gifts or valentine cards to their children. Children might also send gifts and valentine cards to their parents or grandparents as a sign of care, love and respect. Best friends also send valentine cards to one another. Perhaps a simple card or a simple gift would make the relationship stronger and happier. When you give cards to someone who doesn't have a family, it will mean more to them because they have no one else. It would make a big difference. Getting some kind of greeting card will be pleasant to them even if it is not a valentine card. As you can see, Valentine's day is for everyone. It is constantly rewarding to see appreciation and smiles on the face of someone you love and care about. This is an ideal way to commemorate the holiday with a present that will persist to grow for many years, just like your love will. Valentine's Day is a special day to tell everybody how much you love them and express them by giving gifts and treat out for lunch or dinner. Everybody should be happy and has the right to express. If you are single or does not have a family, you do not need to grab a man or a woman to be able to celebrate valentine's day because Valentine's Day is not just about for lovers celebrating their relationships. It's for everyone who you love.

June 8, 2020

Istanbul for jazz lovers

The dates are still to be confirmed but the period is definitely July 2008 for the International Istanbul Jazz Festival where you can be sure the programme will be one of the most interesting and intriguing as the guests have always been of international relevance. Names such as Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, the Modern Jazz Quartet, Stan Getz, Ornette Coleman, Youssou N'Dour during the years have played and entertained crowds of music lovers in Turkish starry and unforgettable nights. This year the Istanbul Jazz Festival celebrates the 15th anniversary and as every year the festival will award a 'Lifetime Achievement Award to one of the old jazz masters for their contribution to the world of music. For these reasons the festival has a wide resonance attracting large crowds of jazz lovers from Turkey and the rest of the world for a packed two-week programme of jazz concerts taking place in various venues around the city. The exact dates are very close! From 2-16 July 2008 these are the names on the stages: Caetano Veloso ( 10 July); Herbie Hankcock (2 July); Al Jarreau (16 July); Lenny Kravitz (30 July) ; Paolo Fresu and his trumpet on 5 July and so on! Tickets range from 30 YTL for students to 80 YTL ( from about 15 euros to 45 euros). For all information, photos, programmes, costs and concert booking see the official website iksv.org/caz If you are taking your holiday a little later this year, and you will be missing the Jazz Festival, don't panic! In October Istanbul treats its music lovers with another packed appointment of concerts and stages of 10 days. The Akbank Jazz Festival programme includes concerts that range from the classical sounds of traditional jazz to the modern sounds of experimental jazz. Akbank Jazz Festival hosts international groups, artists and musicians to perform at various locations in this lively city. The dates although still not official seem to be between October 8 and October 18, 2008. The Akbank Jazz Festival is known to be a festival that brings jazz to every corner of Istanbul, Ankara and zmir this year the festival celebrates its 18th anniversary. Unfortunately the programme is still not updated and we invite you to check the official website later o n this year. pozitif.info. Last year masters such as Archie Shepp Quartet who celebrated his 70th birthday, Mark Murphy, The Phil Woods Quintet, Nublu Orchestra as well as many critically acclaimed young jazz musicians took the stage during the festival and literally took a piece of heart of their fans! For accommodation solutions be happy! Istanbul has still very fascinating old turkish lodgings to offer and at very affordable prices. You can choose to stay in a youth hostel and pay around 7-13 euros per night or choose a familiar guest house with a terrace on the roof with a marvellous view on the blue mosque with prices that range between 18-25 euros per person or a nice hotel better if furnished with a stylish Turkish taste and providing you will all genres of comforts such as the famous Turkish baths. We have selected some accommodation providers among Flashbooking's website proposals: GEZGINCI HOSTEL Istanbul and BUHARA HOTEL Istanbul

June 2, 2020

Honeymoons For Nature Lovers

In the twenty-first century, more and more people are beginning to try vacations that bring them closer to nature, and honeymooners are no exception. The type of honeymoon you choose, of course, is entirely dependent on the type of outdoors person you are. Just because you do not like to camp in a tent does not mean that you can't enjoy some incredible natural sights on your honeymoon. In fact, I would not recommend tenting on your honeymoon at all; it lend itself to a certain lack of privacy and that privacy is very important when it comes to getting to know each other in the days after your marriage. Instead, I would suggest staying at a hotel and looking around for different sights that can bring you closer to nature in a day trip. Here are some suggestions that I have based on information from other people. Each is somewhat specific to location, but perhaps you can come up with some similar ideas for your own honeymoon. Hawaii is one of the top honeymoon destinations, and it is also rife with opportunities for the nature loving couple. A tour of an active volcano is a once in a lifetime experience that both individuals are bound to enjoy. For something truly unique, try going diving with manta rays off of Kauau'i- you go at night, when the rays feed, and there is nothing quite like the sight of a fish that is fifteen feet across coming spiraling up at you in the glow of the boat lights. Both of these tours may make some people nervous, and it is essential to remember that the guides are experts, experienced and well versed in the safety of the operation. Many coastal and island destinations offer great opportunities for nature lovers on their honeymoons. Various companies will offer opportunities to go scuba diving in areas like Australia or the Caribbean. On the West Coast, from British Columbia to California, there are also many opportunities to go out whale watching in the summer. If you are on a winter honeymoon, nothing quite beats the impressive power of nature like a winter ocean storm, something that can be witnessed from the shelter of numerous locations along Long Beach including Tofino and Ucluelet. Land bound destinations can also offer wonderful opportunities for nature lovers. The main draw of Niagara Falls, of course, is the beauty of the falls and the ability to get up close. Why not try a whitewater rafting trip or organized hike? Even areas that appear barren aside from city attractions may offer exciting natural opportunities. Las Vegas has some of the most unique natural scenery in the world, for those who want to get out of the city for a day trip through the Nevada desert. Utah has some of the most incredible rock formations and biking trails in North America. No matter your destination or time of year, the odds are that with a little thought you will be able to find a honeymoon that has just the right amount of nature in it for you. The wonders of nature are available year round, and enjoying it with your new spouse is something that will help bring you closer together and give you memories that will last forever.

January 6, 2020

The Battle Of Chocolates Needs Chocolate Lovers’ Vote

"Chocolat", the comedy released in 2000 based on the novel by Joanne Harris was crystal clear when he said that each person has a different chocolate match. Chocolate lovers all over the world would agree to this. Love and passion for chocolates is relative. One's interest for a chocolate may vary from another person's. See love for chocolates is dependent on a person's taste and his taste alone! Even though the true measure of a chocolate lover is that they would eat anything that is chocolaty, there is more than a hundred percent chance that they have a preferred brand or type. So, with all the chocolates in the world and countries claiming to be the best in producing them, who really takes the hat? Where it Began The history of the chocolate goes back to the times of the Aztecs when they discovered that the beads inside the pods of the cocoa tree can be squashed and processed to produce a dark, bitter liquid which they mixed with spices. The resulting frothy mixture allegedly gave power to their gods and leaders. Even then, they knew the cocoa tree to be of some substance they could use in the future. If only they could find better means to process xocolat, the word they used to call the drink. Only the Aztec leaders were allowed to drink and because the beans were revered so much, it became a currency. When the Spanish conquerors went back to Spain, they tried to introduce the beans to the majesties. Unfortunately, they couldn't find much use for them just yet. But after some major trials and errors, they realized that when mixed with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and some sugar, the sweet result is even more tantalizing. From then on, it grew popularity and for a while, it became Spain's best kept secret. It took about a hundred years before the rest of Europe found about the secret and when it did, it spread like wildfire amongst the nobilities because they are the only ones who can afford the expensive beans. Soon, European countries started their own ways of improving chocolate production. A Triple Treat The battle for finding the perfect chocolaty formula has seeped into the European countries. Spain, surprisingly, took a step back and watched while France, Belgium and Switzerland took turns in making chocolate history. Even the Americas joined the clamor after the industrial revolution and the consecutive wars. However, the fact remains that chocolate lovers know France, Belgium and Switzerland to be creators of the finest chocolates in the world! The French are known for their liberal yet art-loving lives, their sense of fashion, culinary prowess and a distinct way of life. French chocolates however, are surprisingly not generally known to be one of their expertise. French morsels are often embellished with edible ornaments, hand-painted and carved painstakingly, almost like a work of art and what's nice is it is as delicious as it looks! The dark chocolates are subtle in taste and it's neither as sweet nor bitter as any other kind. The taste simply lingers in the mouth. When it comes to developing what we now know as mass produced chocolates, the Swiss takes the front row seats. Chocolate was introduced to Switzerland when Zurich mayor, Heinrich Escher, imported cocoa beans and consumed it in banquets. It was banned thereafter due to its alleged aphrodisiac benefits. But no one can stop the Swiss from becoming the makers of chocolate as we recognize them today. So, what's your vote?

Thursday January 8 2026