Have you ever been to Niagara Falls? I have many times with my family. Growing up in Pennsylvania, I lived two hours away by car. My parents could not afford expensive vacations; consequently, we all piled into our car and headed for Niagara Falls. A trip to Niagara Falls was always an adventure.

The most memorable trip I made was about sixteen years ago. My sister and her family, along with me and my family were visiting my mother. I had not been to Niagara Falls in twelve years. I was excited, we all were excited our family was together and we were going to Niagara Falls!

None of us could sleep that night it seemed we were up all night wandering around. We were going to start on our trip about 8:00 a.m. in the morning but for some reason the troops were restless. My mother’s house was tiny and people and suitcases were strewn everywhere.

Somebody suggested at 4:00 a.m. why don’t we leave now, we won’t hit any traffic. All eight of us loaded up in my van and off we went. It was a great idea, traffic was definitely light. Unfortunately, nobody thought ahead at what time we would arrive at the falls.

We drove across the Peace Bridge linking the United States to Canada. When you approach the customs station, there are cars lined up a mile long. The wait usually isn’t very long. The custom’s official will ask you questions.

(1) Where were you born?

(2) How long will you be staying in Canada?

(3) Do you have anything to declare?

(4) Is everybody in the car carrying some kind of identification?

We arrived at Niagara Falls at 6:00 a.m. We had the pick of the parking spots and parking was free. When we all ambled out of the car we all realized at the same moment, we were completely alone and nothing was open. Not even a gas station. You can imagine how that put an instant decrease in the excitement.

We walked around and window shopped the numerous souvenir shops up and down the sidewalk. The souvenir shops are all located on steep hills. We really received our exercise that day. At 8:00 a.m. a restaurant opened and we were once more happy campers.

As you approach the falls, you experience emotions that you probably have never felt. The sheer magnitude of thousands of tons of water gushing, wildly down the mountains is mind blowing.

The closer you come to the falls, you automatically cover your ears with your hands. The ground literally vibrates from the tons of water exploding around you. Prepare to get soaked, it goes with the thrill of standing in front of one of the Seven Wonders Of The World.

When you turn around, you will be facing green grass and beautiful flower arrangements. The flower arrangements follow you everywhere. Benches are placed around the grounds for the sightseer’s convenience. The setting is so calming and refreshing, if you love the outdoors this is where it all happens.

THE MAID OF THE MIST:

Before you step onto this boat you must put on an ugly raincoat. Once on board the Maid of the Mist, you get to experience the foaming, churning water first hand. The boat gets tossed around, and be prepared for a wild wet ride. You will be very happy to be wearing your ugly raincoat.

JOURNEY BEHIND THE FALLS:

Once again, you must dress in an ugly raincoat. The next step, is to enter one of two elevators that take you down behind the falls. This is Mother Nature at her best. You stand in a group with the deafening noise of the falls crashing just a few feet from you. There is only one wall separating you from the falls. Again, you will be happy to be wearing the ugly raincoats or you would be drenched to the skin.

Since, we were all tired from not getting any sleep the night before, my mother, sister and daughter fell asleep on a park bench. I can still picture them in my mind sound asleep oblivious to their surroundings.

After we had taken in the above tours, we are all ready for food. There are many restaurants to choose from. For lunch my family always had a spaghetti dinner. It has become a tradition.

We try to time dinner with the lightening of Niagara Falls which is at sundown. There is a wonderful restaurant directly across from the falls. If you time it just right, you have a seat and can watch the falls change all the colors of the rainbow. The light show if you have never seen it before is breath taking.

This was my daughter’s first trip to Niagara Falls since she was a baby. It was wonderful to watch the emotions on her face, as she watched the falls change breath taking colors for the first time.

It is a fantastic sight, watching thousands of people from every state and country in this world, lined up at the guard rails spreading out onto the lawn watching the light show.

After the light show, we are tired and start trudging up the steep hill to get to our car. We are usually loaded down with souvenirs and very happy to see our car again.

There is so much to do and see in Niagara Falls, you will need more than one day.

Niagara Falls is also known for their honey moon hotels and for their fantastic wedding chapels.

Niagara Falls has a little bit of everything for everybody. If you are planning a trip, think about going to Niagara Falls.

For me Niagara Falls was a time spent in an adventure with my family. My sister and I have memories, we cherish when we spent time exploring Niagara Falls together.

I hope, you enjoyed this article. Feel free to check out my other articles. Let me hear from you.

Copyright 2006 Linda Meckler

Linda has made many trips to Niagara Falls, Canada and hopes to make many more. Currently she has published her first book, Ghost Kids Trilogy, 3 books in 1 book. A children’s adventure for children 8-14 to adult. Love, Family Values, and Charity bursts off the pages. (Book 1) Ghost Kids: 2 children and 2 Ghost Kids team up. The ghost kids want to be reunited with their parents. (Book 2) Blue Vase Mystery: Uncle Charlie the villain of the books wants to be released from a magical blue vase. He will tell the children where the Pirates’ Treasure is hidden. (Book 3) Pirates’ Treasure-the hunt: Go on an exciting treasure hunt.

Visit my website http://www.lmeckler.com or email lmecky@tns.net You can order my book at http://www.amazon.com or http://www.buybooksontheweb.com For an order of 5 books = 40% discount. An order of 20 books free postage and handling. ISBN0-7414-2273-

Singapore is a lively and unique travel destination. Singapore is a blend of both eastern and western cultures which is why this South East Asian nation is such a popular tourism destination for both Asian and European travelers.

Sir Stamford Raffles plays an important part in Singaporean history. Raffles was a British government official who more or less put Singapore on the map as a strong trade and business center.

Hundreds of years before Raffles purchased Singapore from the ruler of Johor in the early 19th century. Singapore had been an insignificant settlement at that time however under the British ruler ship it quickly flourished into one of the economic powers in Asia.

The Japanese took control off Singapore in 1942 during the midst of the 2nd world war. At the end of 3 years of Japanese occupation, Singapore was returned to the British. The Singaporean population soon after made it clear to its British rulers that they in fact wanted to govern and control their own country which lead to its self government which started in 1959.

During the early 1960?s, Singapore briefly joined for a 2 period the Malaysian federation however it soon became clear that Singapore was better off as a fully impendent nation, Many of the larger nations in the regions believed at that time that Singapore was making an error due to its short supply of natural resources and its small size.

The Singapore prime minister at that time, Lee Kuan, believed however that Singapore did have an existence right as an independent nation and he proofed himself right by starting and expanding an export orientated industry as well as a flourishing tourism industry.

The tourism industry has proven to be a very successful and has been an important part in Singapore?s success. Tourists especially love the blend of different cultures and cuisines due to the backgrounds of its citizens. Many Singaporeans have Chinese, Malaysian or Indian ancestors which can be seen throughout Singapore. Have a walk through the streets of Singapore and you can spot a temple on one corner, a church on the next and mosque just next door.

Dining in Singapore is a true delight due to the fusion of the various cuisines which have created some excellent dishes which are unique to Singapore, Not only has Singapore proven to a popular destination for tourists however has also been a big hit with business travelers. Due to the excellent meeting and congress facilities in Singapore, many large international events are held in Singapore which attracts thousands of visitors and exhibitors each month which have increased hotel occupancy levels to the highest in the region together with those of Hong Kong.

Singapore remains an extremely clean town where you will find that Singaporeans try their best in keeping their city spotless. Throwing rubbish on the street is strongly frowned upon by locals and big fines are issued to those that do so. The laws and rules in Singapore are known to be among the toughest in the world as are the punishments to those that break the laws.

Singapore still has the death penalty and has one of the highest averages per capita which it involves the number of people executed. There have been a number of high profile executions recently involving foreign nationals however the Singaporean government was not forgiving or flexible in any way when foreign governments requested clemency or mercy for its citizens.

Singapore is somewhat of the political leader of the group of countries that make up the ASEAN which stands for the association of South East Asian Nations which also include countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand for example.

Singapore has been a stabilizing factor in the region although it had its own share of tensions with neighboring Malaysia over various topics including fishing territories, air space and natural resources. Singapore however has always been able to resolve matters at the negotiation table.

James enjoys the travel industry and is part of the creative team at Globebookings. Visit them for: Discount Hotels around the world.

Madrid is the capital city of Spain. It is the country?s largest city with a population of over 3 million. It is rich in history and offers a range of rich cultural and artistic experiences. It is also the financial and political center of the country. The south of the city is the industrial center.

Modern Madrid developed after the fall of Franco and his Fascist regime in the mid 1970s. Following the isolation brought about as a result of the Franco government the country underwent a period of rebuilding and re-establishing itself on the international stage. It is now a modern metropolis with a bustling tourist trade offering the visitor a host of interesting places to see and things to do.

Madrid is located in the interior of Spain on the Castillian plain. The optimum time to visit Madrid is during the spring and fall. It does get hot during the summer months and the tourist trade is brisk. It can get very chilly in winter.

Madrid is famous for its paella, tapas and seafood. There are many restaurants featuring Spanish delicacies influenced by different Spanish regional cooking. There are also many international influenced restaurants including North Africa and France influences. There is a large variety of local wines and spirits.

Hotels in Madrid range from budget hotels to hotels offering five-star opulence. And of course all types in between this range. Be aware, however, that some of the discount hotels are located in the noisier inner city areas.

Three of the world?s most important art galleries are located in Madrid at the Prado Museum hosting works by Vel?zquez and Goya. The Thyssen Bornemisza Museum, and the Reina Sofia Museum which features modern art.

A night out in Madrid for locals can last the whole night long! The city is a hotbed for flamenco, salsa and jazz. Whether it is dancing to listening that interested in you, there is large variety of music, bars and theaters. The Teatro Real is Madrid?s home for opera.

Shopping opportunities abound in Madrid. Stores range from hand made crafts and art objects to large department stores and fashion and shoe houses.

Madrid is home to one of the world?s most famous soccer teams Real Madrid and their home ?Estadio Santiago Bernab?u? is well worth a visit.

The world?s largest bullfighting arena is the ?Plaza de Toros Monumental de Las Ventas.? The main bullfighting events take place in May and June with smaller events taking place during the spring and summer months.

Visitors come to Spain for many different reasons whether its the museums and art treasures, the shopping and fashion, the nightlife and discotheques, the variety of fine restaurants and cafes, or the sporting events. Whatever the reason for the visit they rarely leave disappointed.

Stan Smith writes for Four Corners Hotels http://www.fourcornershotels.com/index.php/ES–Madrid which offers hotels in cities around the world including hotels located in Madrid.

The Ministry of Kerala is trying to reach new heights with novel ways of administration. Many local festivals associated with temples in different parts of Kerala are even now conducted and managed by the respective ?Nairs? of the region.

Travel to the tropical beaches, fragrant spice plantations, beautiful wildlife sanctuaries and scenic hill stations of Kerala on Tours to Kerala India.

Scientists in the southern Indian state of Kerala have begun examining an unusual phenomenon: coloured rainfall in some parts of the state.

Trichur or as we know it also as Tiruchirapalli with its rich history, cultural heritage and archeological wealth is the cultural capital of Kerala.

Kovalam – Beaches of Kerala are at their best in Kovalam. Rosewood beds are a speciality of Kerala.

Did you know that the Coca-Cola bottling plant in Plachimada in the southern state of Kerala, is one of Coca-Cola’s largest in India?

Onam being the biggest festival in the Indian state of Kerala, Malayalam is the language of Kerala. The most interesting area is the Kuttanad region, called the rice bowl of Kerala where farming is done below sea level, using a system of dykes and bunds.

Once again, Backwaters are one of the unique attractions of Kerala, a chain of canals extending about 1500 kms, with a network of 44 rivers, lagoons and lakes.

The backwaters of Kerala are a hidden paradise and can only fully be appreciate by the slow, gentle cruise of a traditional houseboat. The backwaters of Kerala are also unique and are found nowhere else in the world.

Make sure you take time off your busy schedules and visit God?s own country ? You won?t regret it.

Arjun is an ardent lover of travel, video games, photography and music. Get to learn more about him at ARJUN

Situated at the eastern tip of Cameron County in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, South Padre Island is one of the premier coastal resort destinations in the United States. It is bordered by Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico and is connected to the mainland by the Queen Isabella Causeway. South Padre Island is an excellent place for deep-sea fishing, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of adventure and recreational activities. It is one of the least developed and longest barrier islands in the world. Also, it is a popular destination for college spring breaks. Every year, thousands of students and vacationers visit South Padre Island.

South Padre Island is named after a Catholic priest and settler named Father Padre Balli. The population is about 3,000 and the total land area is 4.9 km?. The island boasts a sub-tropical atmosphere with warm breezy summers and mild dry winters. It is one of the greatest places in the United States to see wildlife in its natural form. The attractions of the island include Andy Bowie Park, Los Ebanos, Port Isabel Historical Museum, Isla Blanca Park, Sea Turtle, Island Equestrian Center, Whaling Wal, Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark, and Gladys Porter Zoo.

South Padre Island is a holiday paradise with more than 5,500 accommodations to suit everyone from families to honeymooners. The area is easily accessible by air from nearby cities. Valley International Airport (HRL), McAllen-Miller International Airport (MFE), and Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) all serve South Padre Island. The South Padre Island Visitors? Center provides detailed information about the area. Various tour packages are available.

In short, warm gulf waters, beautiful beaches, boating, bird watching, fishing, and a variety of year-round activities make South Padre Island one of the most sought-after recreation destinations in the world.

South Padre Island provides detailed information on South Padre Island, South Padre Island Texas, South Padre Island Hotels, South Padre Island Condos and more. South Padre Island is affiliated with Spring Break Contests.

After a day of blogging, surfing and trawling the web, I find myself at Xiawu fandian (restaurant), the small eatery, barely a stone’s throw from the compound where teachers’ residences are located.

The warm spring breeze that nature mercifully blessed us with on Valentine’s Day is now gone. It’s been replaced by the chilly wind that blows in from different directions, but mostly the North.

I zip my jacket all the way up and snuggle in its feathery warmth as I wait for a table. The restaurant is full and I ask for a chair to brought out where I can sit and gaze at the passersby and, hopefully, share a smile and hello with some. I ask for a small helping of baijiu to keep me company and warm my body while I wait.

Huainan is not a firendly city. Hellos are hard to come by and smiles are a rarity. Sometimes, one’s very own students prefer to pass by without so much as a cursory glance or a greeting out of courtesy. Respect for teachers is a tradition in China. Imports are out of the ambit, I think, as I watch a student eye me, then try to look through me and then, on afterthought, cross the street to save herself the bother of a hello. I smile to myself to make up for a lost hello.

I sit, my back to the restaurant, facing the street. It’s wide enough and as dirty as some Indian streets. The sidewalk is mined. Tiles are coming loose and every time an unwary passerby steps on the wrong one, he is splashed with little jets of dirty, brown-black water onto the shoes and sometimes the ends of trousers. I walk gingery, carefully choosing the tiles on which to step. I have learnt through my share of the mines. Now, I am like a war-weary veteran!

After a day of blogging, surfing and trawling the web, I find myself at Xiawu fandian (restaurant), the small eatery, barely a stone’s throw from the compound where teachers’ residences are located.

The warm spring breeze that nature mercifully blessed us with on Valentine’s Day is now gone. It’s been replaced by the chilly wind that blows in from different directions, but mostly the North.

I zip my jacket all the way up and snuggle in its feathery warmth as I wait for a table. The restaurant is full and I ask for a chair to brought out where I can sit and gaze at the passersby and, hopefully, share a smile and hello with some. I ask for a small helping of baijiu to keep me company and warm my body while I wait.

Huainan is not a firendly city. Hellos are hard to come by and smiles are a rarity. Sometimes, one’s very own students prefer to pass by without so much as a cursory glance or a greeting out of courtesy. Respect for teachers is a tradition in China. Imports are out of the ambit, I think, as I watch a student eye me, then try to look through me and then, on afterthought, cross the street to save herself the bother of a hello. I smile to myself to make up for a lost hello.

I sit, my back to the restaurant, facing the street. It’s wide enough and as dirty as some Indian streets. The sidewalk is mined. Tiles are coming loose and every time an unwary passerby steps on the wrong one, he is splashed with little jets of dirty, brown-black water onto the shoes and sometimes the ends of trousers. I wonder if crafty businesses have a hand in that. I walk gingerly, carefully choosing the tiles on which to step. I have learnt through my share of the mines. Now, I am like a war-weary veteran!

Lily passes by, on her way back from a bath, looking very clean and fresh. Her husband follows a respectful step behind. Lily teaches at my university. She is young and pretty and a little fatter than she was a couple of years ago when I first saw her. Her husband works in Hefei. Like Lily and I, he is also a teacher, an English teacher. I am glad for their hellos and smiles. The Chinese bathe in the evening or night and rarely in the morning. I find that intriguing. Perhaps, they like to be fresh in bed and that’s a good enough reason.

More intriguing than the night-time bath is the place where they bathe. Most people bathe in bath-houses. I ask Lily why that is so. ‘It’s cold,’ she answers. I don’t ask how that’s different. I know. Most homes, in the past, did not have a bath. At best, they had dry lavatories, without running water. Residents would fill water in tubs and then splash some down after the deed was done. Many still live in such houses. Newly-built houses and apartments, however, are better equipped and come with all modern amenities, including hot-and-cold baths or showers.

Many bath houses serve a purpose other than just cleanse bodies. Or well, they cleanse bodies both on the outside and the inside. Many offer a massage – a genuine massage – and some offer a massage for pleasure, too! I don’t know if these services are exclusively for men or sometimes for women, too. There are pedestrian bath-houses for those on a budget and there are swanky five-star bath-houses, with lobbies and interiors done up in a style to put first-rate hotels to shame. Rates for a no-frills bath can vary from liang kuai (two yuan) to, well, who knows the upper limit! At least, I don’t.

My apartment has hot and cold shower facilities and I have never felt the need to use the public bath-houses. In any case, certainly not for a shower!

I turn to Lily to ask if she knows how bath-houses came to be more than just. But, Lily is turning white and I don’t want to embarrass her, not as she shivers in the chilly wind after a warm bath.

Rajesh Kanoi (Jack) is a published writer, now living and working in China. Many of his short-stories, poems and articles have been published, including a book of short-stories, ‘From China With Love’ (Lipstick Publishing).

http://www.writingup.com/oneinabillion/publicbathhousesandprivatemassage
http://o3.indiatimes.com/kjack/archive/2006/02/18/484326.aspx