Bob Travel

Staying in a Santa Monica hotel in California will place you right next to one of the great places on Earth: The 100-year-old Santa Monica Pier and beach.  In post cards, you’ll see Pacific Park, the only amusement park on the West Coast actually on a pier — the place lit up at night, its Ferris wheel and roller coaster, all on a wooden pier jutting out into Santa Monica Bay.  A row of restaurants and video games.  Spots for fishermen, patiently waiting for their next catch off the far end.  The 1922 historic Carousel.  I’ve lived in Los Angeles for over fifteen years, just six miles away from this spot, and often go out of my way to find my way down to the pier, to walk the length of the wooden planks for exercise, and to watch the sun set over the bay.

The pier opened on September 9, 1909, bringing in thousands of tourists.  Entrepreneur Charles Loof, who built the first carousel for Coney Island in Brooklyn could see the Santa Monica Pier had potential.  In 1916, he build his own “pleasure pier.”  Loof’s Pier had a number of attractions, including a Hippodrome building with vintage merry-go-rounds, a wooden roller coaster, and a funhouse.  The Loof Pier did extremely well in the 1920s, but the 1930s things changed.  The Santa Monica Pier endured difficult weather, and the Blue Streak roller coaster was taken down.  By the 1970s, interest in the two piers had diminished so much that the Santa Monica City Council ordered them demolished; however, Santa Monica residents who recognize what the piers provided fought together to save the Santa Monica Pier.  By 1975, the Hippodrome building and carousel became a Los Angeles County historical landmark.

In 1988, after years of improvements to the Pier, the city council ordered a new substructure of concrete to be built, adding to the Pier’s stability, creating the Santa Monica Pier we see today, with a number of shops, restaurants and rides.

Of all the cities in the world that have the charisma for elegant small hotels, New York is perhaps the finest.  In these specialty hotels, where the local charm is at a premium, New York can offer all the things the greatest city in the world can offer.  Whatever funky neighborhood you happen to be staying, you are in for the time of your life.  Our hotels have the best in style and design, from some of the world’s best artists, making your time here unique and interesting.  We specialize in hospitality, so guests can enjoy all the luxuries a hotel might offer, as well as world-class advice on things to see and do.  It’s the city that never sleeps, but you will sleep in the lap of comfort, and have a million options for what to do in the waking hours.

Walking in the steps of New York’s famous residents is an excellent way to spend any afternoon, and it’s certainly worth it to visit Greenwich Village at least once in a lifetime.  There are walking tours arranged, or you can follow your nose and look for adventure.  You might come across some of the famous haunts of Patti Smith. Born in Chicago, and now living  in Detroit, her glory years as a the Godmother of Punk started here in NYC.  Born in 1946, she moved here in 1967, and the world was never quite the same.

Although her first shot at the city lead her away, to Paris, it planted a hunger that brought her back.  This time, she would become a regular at some of New York’s most recognizable subcultural landmarks, such as the Chelsea Hotel, CBGB, and Max’s Kansas City.  At this time, Patti Smith became close with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, and playwright Sam Shepard, and began making an impression on the local underground scene.  The girl who looked like a crow, and spoke wildly and poetically about Baudelaire and Rimbaud, was becoming something of a legend.  When she recorded her first album, Horses, in 1975, it solidified her role as a rock n’ roll icon, and the rest, they say, is history.

As in many cities in the world, the culture of today, has been influenced by the influx of immigrants over the years, Punjab, India is no exception, with many of those living in the city today the descendants of ancestors from Turkey, Iran, Arabia, and Afghanistan.  Some of those immigrating made their ways to Punjab singularly while during other times in the history, groups from various areas migrated in large groups, in search of a better way of life for themselves and their offspring.  The fertile land in the region of Punjab has created a viable and financially successful farming community, and this sense of community has created a society of people with one singular identity even though most come from many different backgrounds and heritages.  Those working the fields take care of those working in the businesses such as the Punjab hotels and restaurants.  They share a singular religion, that of Islam, and have commonalities in their folklore, their sensibilities and their traditions, and all share in the common goal of similar aspirations and hopes of attaining the best possible lives, for now and for the future.

Traditional values and ethics, combined with a sincere love of strangers and tourists has made Punjab one of the most fabulous places in the country to visit and to spend some time in getting to know the locals.  They love each other, regardless of differences such as background or local dialect, and will share that love with anyone who happens to cross their paths.  Their culture is based on Sufism, and the festivals and the celebrations are often fun and joyous occasions, that reflect the ideas and the philosophies, as well as the traditions and the folk life, the stories and the myths and the beliefs.  The fairs differ in three ways.  There are those based in trade and commerce, those of the seasons of the year, and those of devotional or religious meaning.  Any one of these ‘kinds’ of festivals will open up a view of this Indian town to travelers and adventurers, and are well worth attending.

Barcelona is known for attracting both artists and tourists. It is an incredible global city located on the Mediterranean Coast of Spain. While its financial, entertainment and commercial trade industries account for its status as a global city, some of the incredible architecture of the city accounts for much of its fascination and attraction. Antoni Gaudi was a Spanish architect who designed many of the buildings in what is known as the Gothic quarter of Barcelona. He is known for his unique style and was part of the modernist era. While he is not the only great architect to have designed buildings in the city, he is certainly one of the most renown and honored. The city’s buildings represent its diverse history and tourists staying in a Barcelona Spain hotel are often positioned in one of the historic buildings.

Gaudi was born in 1852 into a family with a long history of coppersmiths. Some of his designs in Barcelona include the lampposts at the Placa Reial and the Casa Mila. His individual style gained him early recognition and remains one of the reasons for his standing out through history. He went through many phases during his career and his later works are focused on religious themes and creations. He was a devoted catholic and late in life he abandoned his secular endeavors. The Sagrada Famila is considered to be his masterpiece.

The Casa Mila is better known as La Pedrera, meaning the quarry, and was constructed between 1906 and 1910. It officially considered to have been completed in 1912. It is located in the Eixample District of Barcelona, at 92 Passeig de Gracia. The building was designed and built for the married couple Rosario Segimon and Pere Mila. There was some conflict between city officials and Gaudi regarding the design and it was not strictly followed during the building’s construction. The owners were fined after its construction due to its having violated some of the city codes, such as height restrictions.

There’s a chill in the air and on the misty hill slopes in Northern Thailand the roses are encouraged to grow. Some blooms are larger than apples and come in colors from red and orange to crimson and white. They are harvested daily and brought to all the flower markets in Bangkok. I learned this on one of my many business trips. Staying at one of Thailand Luxury Hotels, I would arrange to meet these growers of flowers and see how they cultivated their flowers.

I learned from a manager of a floral project, which was initiated by the Royal family of Thailand, that right now, it’s peak production season for roses. They bloom best between February and July. The elevation and the environment are extremely conducive for the roses. But, the manager did tell me that there are signs that the business’s which grow the roses and the carnations in Fang located in Chiang Mai, not too far above sea level, might soon dwindle because of the competitor growers in China’s southern Yunnan province.

Right now, apparently, there is a surplus of flowers in the market due to the flowers coming from Kunming, the capital of Yunnan. Plus, the flowers coming from this region are less expensive and the quality seems to be better. More and more flower shops in Bangkok are carrying only flowers from China. I can’t blame them really, they are cheaper and look better. I asked one shop owner about why she choose China’s flowers over her own countries flowers and she said she’s been in the flower business for over 25 years and she says that the flowers from China are delivered within 2 days of order. Plus, they stay fresher, longer.  I can see that Thailand’s flower business will be hurt and may even collapse if they can’t produce and deliver the same as China.

Four-star Dubai hotels are stunning experiences in old-world hospitality in the heart of an utterly contemporary city.  Dubai is one of the global hotspots, attracting movie stars and entrepreneurs from all over the world.  The energy here is fascinating and contagious, with old markets and new shopping malls, and everything seems to be a recent invention.  There are many recent inventions, in this, one of the most populated cities in the Arab world.  Artists and intellectuals come here to re-invent themselves, and celebrities here come to hide from the definitions the world is creating for them.  The food and the culture are gorgeous, and the architecture is simply dazzling.

Locals and international visitors alike are caught by the range and imagination of architectural styles in Dubai.  First caught up by the visually delightful and seemingly impossible Dancing Towers, Zaha Hadid’s multi-use towers are extremely useful eye candy.  Now known as the Signature Towers, they serve as home to some of Dubai’s financial most influential financial organizations.  Likewise a stunning monument, the Burj Al Arab, or Tower of the Arabs, is meant to resemble a sail billowing in the wind.

These unique architectural experiments are not unique to Dubai.  What was a city less than one-tenth its present size just thirty years ago, Dubai has built itself up into something that is fascinating to behold.  As some journalists and cultural critics note, Dubai, the city, is able to construct itself and simultaneously define itself.  There are no controls over the growth here, because the city is literally in the middle of the desert.  There are no historical associations here, either, because human history has left very few footprints.  As a result, the architects and builders are free to move in whatever directions the culture might dictate.  So there are tremendously exciting works in progress, and interesting projects such as the Rek Jebel Al Jais Mountain Resort, which promise a unique opportunity for architects, and visually stunning new edifices for a new world.

While Hyderabad has many historical landmarks and cultural heritage monuments, the Charminar building is one of the most significant icons of the city. Hyderabad is the capital of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and the monument was built in 1591, shortly after the city had become the capital. It was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah and a legend surrounding it states that it was constructed due to a promise he had made to Allah. Tourists who visit India and stay in one of the five star hotels in Hyderabad have many landmarks, scenic wonders and entertainment options to fill their time, and a trip to Charminar is almost always on the top of the list.

The name of the building translates as the four towers, or mosques, of the four minarets. It is an amazing architectural spectacle and awes visitors from their first glimpse. It is a square monument with four sides measuring 20 meters. Each of the corners has a tall pointed minaret, which reach heights of over 48 meters. This means they can be seen from all over the city, and the building is one of its fundamental icons. There are winding staircases inside the minarets and when one reaches the top of them, they are provided with a spectacular panoramic view of the city. The building is slightly different in construction from the Taj Mahal due to the minarets being incorporated into the actual building.

Each of the four sides of the Charminar has giant arches that open into a beautiful plaza. These main thoroughfares were originally royal roads. The building was built from lime mortar and granite, which demonstrates its basis in Cazia architecture. The inside of the monument is as beautiful as its exterior and is well known for its graceful moldings and carvings. There is a tremendous amount of detail in the design, which gives the appearance of lace. At night it is illuminated and looks spectacular from great distances and up close.

Mallorca, a most beautiful and exquisite Spanish island is also known as the Mediterranean Lady. If you can dream it, you can probably find it on this fabulous island. Favorite of many distinguished and prominent persons throughout the world, Mallorca has something for everyone. You can’t find a more desirable climate, breathtaking panoramic vistas, beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, fascinating history, informative tours, native cuisine, nightlife, relaxation and serenity. It’s all there for your enjoyment. To make your holiday all the more pleasurable, plan to stay at one of the luxurious five star hotels Mallorca has to offer. You will be pampered and catered to by the friendly and courteous staff making you feel like royalty. You will also want to enjoy the numerous, delicious entrees offered by the restaurants.

Mallorca’s world wide reputation for its unbelievable beaches is understandable, what with the fine sand and crystal clear waters. There are so many fabulous beaches for your enjoyment it is difficult to name them all. Some of the more notable beaches include El Portixol, El Molinar, Illetas, Santa Ponca and El Arenal. The beaches are not the only attraction to Mallorca. There are architecturally beautiful, ancient buildings and structures to visit and are accessible by car, organized tours, bicycle or on foot. One such historic building is the Real Cartuja de Valldemossa where Frederic Chopin spent the winter of 1838/1839.George Sand was also a guest there. While visiting Mallorca, one must not overlook the ever-popular museums throughout this island. Both historic and modern museums display some of the world’s finest art pieces and interesting artifacts. Another fascinating tourist attraction is the very unusual cemetery of Deia, high in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains it sits on a hillside surrounded by majestic pine trees and has an amazing view of the sparkling waters below. Robert Graves once called Deia home. There are also many quaint fishing villages in Mallorca where the pace is slow and relaxing, the villagers warm and friendly, the native foods mouthwatering. During your exploration of Mallorca, you will see groves of olive and almond trees as this is a major part of the economic base and the produce is exported worldwide. The lushness of this island is rich with its many variety of trees, vegetation and flowers, all adding to the brilliant colors found on this popular island.

If the nightlife is what brings you to Mallorca, that can easily be found as well. There are numerous, very popular nightclubs featuring talented musicians where you can dance your favorite dances and enjoy your favorite foods and beverages. The cities of Mallorca are not lacking for excitement for those who relish the thrill of seeing the new day dawn while partying with friends and family. Other points of interest include the ruins of ancient fortresses and castles, stately mansions, beautiful churches and the romantic fishing villages where many honeymooners retreat. Mallorca is truly a paradise here on earth.

Nasiruddin Humayun was the second of the Mughal Emperors who ruled parts of India, as well as Afghanistan and Pakistan. He was born in 1508 in Kabul, and succeeded his father in ruler-ship. This caused a bitter rival between Humayun and his half brother Kamran Mirza who would assume the ruler-ship of Lahore and Kabul. He was Emperor for a short period of time, though it was also an extremely significant and transitional era. He lost the kingdom at one point, as did his father, though he would regain it and the new kingdom would be even larger than before, spanning some one million square kilometers. His death left a substantial legacy for hisson Akbar the Great.

Humayun’s sister wrote a biography on the Emperor and characterized him as being extremely benevolent and lenient. He was known for his capacity for forgiveness. He was also portrayed as being extremely superstitious and had a great interest and fascination for the occult and astrology. Once he became Emperor, he reorganized the entire administration according to mystical principles and design. He also had the habit of shooting an arrow into the air. The arrow would have his name on it, or that of the Shah of Persia. Depending on how the arrow landed, he would interpret the results as indicative of whom was to become more powerful. Humayun was also known for his heaving drinking and consumption of opium pellets, after which he would recite poetry.

One of the stories that testified to his forgiving nature involves his youngest brother killing one of Humayun’s most trusted advisors, before leaving with an army headed to Agra. Humayun went his mother’s house and in her company as well as other women he swore that he would not hold a grudge against his brother and simply urged him home. This and other stories present him as a gentle and humane leader, and he was also known for his dislike of war. Humayun died in 1556 and his remains are in the Humayun Tomb in Delhi. This incredible complex of buildings is one of the city’s major landmarks and is visitedby the many guests staying in the Delhi five star hotels.

Delhi is an ancient city located on the banks of the River Yamuna in India. It is the country’s second largest metropolitan area and also ranks as the eight largest in the world. It is believed to have been continually inhabited from the 6th century BC or earlier. It should not be confused with New Delhi, which is the country’s capital and also lies within the National Capital Territory of Delhi. There are many landmarks, cultural traditions and art forms that are based on or representative of the city’s dynamic history. Tourists staying in the Delhi 5 star hotels are often struck by the incredible cultural heritage and ancient status of the city. The Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb are to landmarks that are extremely attractive to tourists.

The Red Fort became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. This is an incredibly beautiful building complex and showcases India’s high level of ornamental design and art oriented architectural style. The actual artwork contained there is a fusion of Persian, Indian and European styles and inspired the creation of the rich and colorful Shahjahani form. Because it demonstrates the long tradition of art significance, it is one of the most important complexes in India. The walls of the Fort have heavy stringed courses along the higher sections, though they are extremely smooth. The main entrance, the Lahore Gate, leads to the Chatta Chowk, which is a covered bazaar street. The walls on this street are lined with spaces for shops and stalls. Delhi Gate lies at the southern end of the street.

Humayun’s Tomb is a complex of buildings whose construction began in 1562. It was designed by the Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyath and is located in Nizamuddin East. It is situated close to the Dina-panah citadel, which was founded by Humayun in 1533. The Tomb was commissioned by his wife, Hamida Begum. The Tomb contains the graves of numerous Mughal Emperors and was built from rubble masonry. It stands on an 8 meter high vaulted terrace and was the first Indian building to use the Persian double dome on a high neck drum. It is spread over an area of 12,000 square meters.

Visitors traveling to India will find the five-star Jaipur hotels to be exquisite in design and hospitality.  All your needs will be met here, for elegant food and intoxicating comforts, along with connectivity for the business-minded, and luxury for everyone else.  The city is one of the most popular visitor’s spots in all of Asia, and it may be a fine idea to take a break from the relaxation and rejuvenation, and see some sights.

The city is magnificent in structure and in form.  Vidyahar the architect of the city, designed it based on an eight-sided mandala (with one more side to reflect the planets).  The presiding deity of Jaipur is Govind Dev, one of Vishnu’s avatars, and based on the text the Vashu Shastra, this deity is located at the center of this mandala, a reflection of the arrangement of political power.  The mandala is a very old symbol, and to apply the symbol to a city was to arrange it so that the citizens would benefit from the flow of power represented in the structure.

A mandala is a very common but misunderstood symbol.  In simpler terms, a mandala is a circle, with designs decorating the outer edges.  These are very common throughout Hindu and Buddhist philosophies.  They seem, at first glance, to be very beautiful images that make nice decorations.  In essence, however, a mandala is a map for the soul’s direction as it passes from one plane to another.  To apply these principles, then, to a city, is to suggest that the citizens are inhabiting a divine place, and are making divine marks on their own journey through time and space in their daily lives.  These are some of the founding principles of the great city of Jaipur.

I am a 22 according to the science of numerology. The Number 22 – Twenty-Two is a Master Number. Numerology is the science of Numbers. The word ‘Numerology’ comes from the Latin word ‘numerus’, which means: number. The Greek work ‘Logos,’ means: word mostly, but it can also mean thought or expression. Numerology does influence all aspects of one’s life. It will create the blueprint with which to base ones future; it can open and reveal ones own deeper natural purpose.

I didn’t know I was a 22 until I was in my thirties. I was checking out of a Mumbai Bombay Hotel when the desk clerk notice my birth date and quickly added and reduced the numbers. She looked an me in awe and told me that I will accomplish wonderful things in my life. I asked her what she meant and she proceed to explain to me about how my soul number is the number 22 and what that means. I just laughed and proceed to check out. I, at the time, had no interest in this numerology stuff, until I notice that that number kept appearing in every aspect of my life. My lot number for my condominium is 22. The initial of my First name is V, the 22nd letter of the alphabet, my middle name adds up to 22 and I have many other instances I could site.

The Master Number of 22 also known to be The Master Builder, they concern themselves with tangible creations with the use of the material form. They are gifted with a wide-range visual imagination. They grasp the totality of their visions like a lightning strike of inspiration. They can fully view the details, understand it’s absolute meaning and know what is required to complete their vision. This is The Master Builder, the number 22.

To find out if one is a – 22 – a Master Builder. One needs to know their birth path number that uses ones complete birth date. It is easy to calculate. Add up the digits of your birth date, then reduce the total down to one number, but the number 22 does not get reduced to a 4. For example, my birth year is 1957 (1 + 9 + 5 + 7 = 22).

There’s room for relaxation and for business in the amazing city of Dubai, UAE.  Hotel accommodation here is a glorious tribute to comfort and luxury.  Your stay will be a pleasure, thanks to the extremely knowledgeable and well-trained staff, who are keen on anticipating and tending to your every need.  This will certainly help to place a splendid center to your travels in the city.  Dubai city has many things to offer every guest.  There are shopping centers and festivals, and there are also some cutting-edge galleries that are worth exploring.

If you are looking for the newest of the new in visual arts, then be sure to allow time to see the Dubai Digital Arts Center.  Some of the more interesting new developments in digital culture are presented here, along with performances.  It is important to see digital arts grow as a force in the art world, because its ties to technology and cultural expression are very strong.  Dubai, a city that is growing and changing in constant and fascinating directions, is often on the forefront of global culture, and is a remarkable place to witness the shifts in creative thought that are currently at work, and will no doubt affect how the world expresses itself to itself in the years to come.

There are some interesting alliances too, that could only be forged in an artistic marketplace.  Digital artists working in their respective fields often have an advantage over other artists, because international access is always already available.  Works can be discussed, and even disseminated, across the world wide web.  There are more forms of digital art that web design, there is photography and graphic art, there is also electronically created painting, digital manipulations of existing art works, and endless possibilities for using digital manipulations, like sound and video, in live performance, among many other possibilities for the form.  Artists in these disciplines can also find linkages to other artists, because of the already existing access to global digital culture.  So it is not surprising, but always welcome, to see links between digital institutions and practitioners.  N3krozoft’s performance of Kasparov9000 was one of these welcome linkages, when artists from Russia and the U.S. joined artistic sensibilities to present a performance here about Kasparov and the computer Deep Blue, using electronic media to make a performance that was a fascinating blend of the digital and the live.  This is a precedent that speaks well of the global community and the next generation of artists and scientists.

There are many attractions on the island of Phuket that explore and celebrate the rich culture and heritage of the island and the people.  One that emphasized the history as well as the city in the modern technological era of today, is FantaSea.  Thailand’s magnificence and charm are showcased, as well as the ancient traditions, through the use of this technology.  This is a theme park that spans one hundred and forty acres and is located conveniently close to many of the best hotels.  Phuket has many different theme parks however FantaSea is certainly the most popular.  The theme park is filled with a wide assortment of activities and many stages that provide entertainment each and every day of the week.

Festival Village is one of the sections of the park that is alive with games, carnivals, shopping markets and tents wherein artists sell their handicrafts and artwork.  The large four thousand seat restaurant, Golden Kinnaree, offers not only a buffet with a large range of traditional Thai recipes, but with cuisine from many other countries around the world.  There is a magic show, reminiscent of the David Copperfield shows in Las Vegas, Nevada USA,  called Fantasy of a Kingdom.  This show stages various grand themes, all surrounding the beauty and the grace of some of the most loved and well known myths and legends, magic and mysteries of the country.  This is a technological extravaganza, a feast for the eyes as well as the soul and the mind.

Another high-tech performance space located withing the park, is the Palace of Elephants. Elephants have been involved in Thai culture for decades, both as work animals and as sacred and worshiped animals.  This theater seats up to three thousand people, and the shows are much like circus shows with incredible music made more so by incredible acoustics of the building.  There are tigers, and elephants, Thai dancers, acrobats, light shows and pyrotechnics that thrill the audience as the dine on the fine cuisine of the Island.  This is a trip in and of itself and should be an experience the entire family will enjoy and remember.

Of the Thai Islands, the largest and one of the most incredible is Phuket.  This tropical paradise is to the south and has sandy white beaches and water of the most perfect temperatures.  This is one of the favorite locations of scuba divers, snorkelers, and wind surfers world wide.  There are many lovely resorts and five star hotels.  Phuket is known for some of the most delicious recipes, many of which include seafood.  Some consider this the best place to go for seafood in all of Thailand.   And many of the resorts, hotels and restaurants are designed with the purpose of creating small get-a-ways amidst the hustle of the busy city.

The definition of the Malaysian word, Bukit is hill.  This is the word the name Phuket is derived from.  As hills are abundant on the island’s interior.  There are vast rubber tree plantations and a few mining communities dotting the island.  As well as many activities for tourists to enjoy, such as hiking some of those hills or taking jungle safaris.  And of course there are the beaches, for just as the seafood is considered the best of the country, so are the beaches of Phuket.

For tourists and visitors there are many options to choose from, be it the islands the beaches and the bays, or the museums that stand testament to the history of this incredible island.  One interesting stop that should not be missed is the Museum of Sea Shells.   This is close to Rawai Beach and is easily accessible.  Contained in the museum are more than two thousand different kinds of shells.  There is the Noble Volute,  the only left handed one ever found, there are giant clams, and fossils more than 380 million years of age.  The museum also owns the rarest of golden pearls in all the world.  The museum is the culmination of forty years of research and searching by the Patamakanthin family.   They have searched worldwide to bring the most unique and the most beautiful shells to their museum, some from Thailand, but others from around the world.  This island is all about the sea, and this museum should be visited at least once, if not many times over, on any one’s journey to this island of Thailand.

There are two extreme marathons that happen annually in South Africa.  One happened a few weeks ago on May 2.  That was the Fifth Annual South AfricanAddo Elephant marathon.  This consisted of various lengths of 25 mile, 50 mile, and a 100 mile runs through the Addo Elephant Reserve.  The second will happen during October 2, 2009 through October 11, 2009.  This is a test of survival as well as a marathon.  Seven days spent running across the Kalahari Desert, 250 Kilometers.  This marathon is limited to just one hundred participants, as they are followed by teams in order to ensure their safety and well being.  These marathons bring participants from around the world, and bolster the community economy through hotel stays and car hire in South Africa.  The team behind these marathons is Estienne Arndt,  Nadia Arndt, and Simon Kelly.

Estienne Arndt was born in 1953, in the city of Durban, South Africa.  He ran his first marathon in 1979.  He has since then become actively involved in all aspects of Road Running,  in event planning and fundraising, as well as the running itself.  In 1988, he was in a motorbike accident and due to the injuries he sustained it was necessary for the doctors to amputate his right foot.  It took him eight years of rehabilitation and training with a prosthesis to qualify for his next marathon.  He was the first person to complete this and has since repeated that journey three times.  Once that goal was achieved,Arndt began a new journey with a new set of goals.

He entered an extreme seven day marathon called the Marathon Des Sables.  This is a trek similar to the one in South Africa, although it is set in Morocco’s Sahara Desert.  He was joined by two companions, and six hundred other runners.  The two are a married couple, friend of his, Geoff and Carol Hilton-Barber.  Geoff is a solo boats-man, and is also blind.  The three completed this grueling event and throughout the race,Arndt began to organize and event similar in his own country, and thus the extreme marathon of South Africa was born out of the Sahara Desert.  His wife Nadia is the coordinator of the race and Simon Kelly is in charge of the media surrounding the event.  For all runners this would be the extreme test of agility and stamina.  And an incredible accomplishment in crossing the finish line.

Jacob Zuma, the President of South Africa has three wives.  Many are questioning as the sit over dinner or coffee in any Cape Town five star hotels,  in the restaurants and on the street corners, the cheeky question of which one will actually be the First Lady of the country. Zuma is of the Zulu tribe, this is a rural based community, existing in poverty and very little education.  This practice of polygamy is still prevalent in the rural communities, however not so much anymore in the larger cities such as Pretoria, Johannesburg and Cape Town.  Zuma was first married in 1973, and since then has been married five times, and has fathered nineteen children.

He is married to Sizakele Khumalo,  his first wife he wed in 1973.  In 2007 he married Nompumelelo Ntuli, and most recently to Thobeka Mabhija.  Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma and the President were divorced more than twenty years ago, but she remains to be one of his closest political advisers and has even holds the position in his government, of Minister of Foreign Affairs.  All of his wives did attend the ceremony for his inauguration last month, however only Khumalo was on stage with him.  Zuma is the first president of South Africa to be a polygamist, and many questions are being asked.  And while Zuma himself will state that he received no formal education,  he is respected for the experiences and the wisdom he has gained throughout his life-time.  When questioned on polygamy though, Nelson Mandela stated that he was formally educated and therefore turned away from the practice.  All questions seem to lead back to the level of education one receives.

Many in the country have become Christians, and they state those reasons as well for not practicing this aspect of their cultural traditions.  Zuma states in his defense, and in defense of polygamy, that the practice is based on openness and honesty, and that many of his Christian colleagues do have mistresses hidden away.  He is very open about his life experiences and his lack of education and firmly believes in who he is, so further gossip and raised eyebrows will have no ill effects on this new President of South Africa.

Andrew Feinstein began his career with the South African government after returning in the early 90’s after his study at the Universities of Cambridge and Berkeley.  He had originally left his homeland in his early 20’s to avoid the draft.  He did not want to be part of the military regiment of Apartheid, which at the time was still involved in wars and fighting on the Northern borders.  When Nelson Mandela was released however, he threw himself into being a part of the transformation of his country.  He first joined the African National Congress,  Mandela’s party.  He was soon taking the lead in situations most crucial and linked to the power transfers that were taking place at the time.  He was an elected legislator for the province of Gauteng which included the cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria, and was soon part of the Cape Town National Parliament.

His joy and optimism was short lived however, as the entire country was in need of restructuring.  While the leadership of Mandela did much to raise the spirit and the hope of the much wounded people of the nation, there was work that needed to be on the ground.  For in order for the country to survive, economic resolutions were necessary.  Industries such has business, tourism and five star Cape Town hotels would not thrive unless the inefficiency and the corruption Feinstein was noticing around him, were ended.  While he is an idealist, he is also very pragmatic, and is aware that for the people of his country of South Africa,   the government must be strengthened by what has happened throughout the tumultuous history, and stand up with a conduct that is ethical and accountable and open.  A government worthy of the respect of the Constitution created in 1996.  He said this is the most vital and important task for them currently.

The government of Mauritius unveiled a 6 month plan a few days ago, a plan to bolster the faltering economy.  The Minister of Finance stated that there must be a balance that will stimulate economic growth as well as controls on spending, in order to prevent the acquisition of a deficit that is in danger of hitting levels low enough to prove unsustainable for the island nation’s economy.  Growth on the island has continued at the rate of approximately five percent in the last four years.  Many companies had been thriving due to the immigration and to the tourism industry such as the five star hotels.  Mauritius relies however on business and trade from Asian and other European markets, which have not escaped the effects of the worldwide economic depression.  Inflation has slowed from almost the ten percent that it was at the end of 2008, to about eight percent the rate it is currently, and is predicted to fall to four percent by the end of the year.

Many businesses have begun diversifying in order to survive.  Once the economy had relied on the production of textiles and sugar, however the island has now begun to expand into the industries of banking and tourism.  This has resulted in Mauritius becoming one of the prosperous and stable economies in Africa.   And the forecast suggests that this will provide beneficial to the yearly incomes of Maurtians.  Tourism has been affected however.  Just about two thirds of those traveling to the island are from Europe, and during the past few months of 2009 the number of arrivals has fallen close to ten percent.  Stocks had fallen for the various hotel and resorts chains as well.  However, these two industries have been marketing aggressively with the hopes that this will soon change.  This island is the perfect vacation destination, with palm tree lined beaches surrounded by the beautiful Indian Ocean, and hopefully the second half of the year will prove to be financially more successful than the first half of the year.

Valencia is a city filled with jewels, one of them is the dry Turia riverbed.  This was once a flowing and steady river, but is now an incredible and popular site for runners, cyclists, botanists and music lovers.  This is a park containing many cultural structures and gardens and is close to and easily accessible to many of the best Valencia hotels and resorts.  This bed stretches seven kilometers, from the City of Arts and Sciences to the east, to the Cabecera Park on the west end.  Between there are stretches of beautifully maintained walkways and paths winding through the gardens and under some of the most charming bridges found anywhere in the country as well as the world.  Sitting in front of an amazing fountain is the Palau de la Musica which hosts many festivals and concerts.  This is just one of the works of the renown architect Santiago Calatrava.

There are many gardens throughout the riverbed.  The Parque de Cabecera is on the west end and is planned and designed exquisitely.  This is a nature and wildlife reserve as well as a playground for children.  There is a man-made lake that is fed the old river’s source.  There is also and outdoor amphitheater which hosts live concerts throughout the entire year.  This is a great section of the riverbed for walks and picnics and boat rides.  One of the oldest of Europe’s botanical gardens is found in this river bed in Valencia.  The University of Valencia started the garden in 1567.  Originally the garden started for the cultivation of medicinal herbs and plants.  It is now regarded by botanists world-wide as a masterpiece.  There is also a convention center, and another stage for live concerts and music.  The Jardin de las Hesperides is filled with sculpture.  Medicinal herbs grow abundantly here, as well as lemon and orange trees.  There is a system of canals that wind through the park and this is one of many perfect spots for picnicking and long, leisurely walks.  All of the gardens are open year round and for those traveling in Valencia this is one spot that should not be missed.

The Le French Festival in Hong Kong is a two and a half month celebration of all things French.  This incredible festival began in 1993.  More than five hundred events have been staged since then, everything from opera, dance, classical and modern music, film, visual arts and culinary feasts.  The entire array of the culture of France is represented.  The year the festival started on April 24, and will run until June 13, with some events running through September.  Many travel to the city for this festival, and this benefits all the businesses of the city, from the cafe to the market to the boutique hotel.  Hong Kong is alive and exciting during these months.

One of the highlights this year, first time outside of France, is the Louis Vuitton.  This is a combination of current works available as well as and informational exhibit that outlines the history of the various artists who have collaborated with the company over the years, including Takashi Murakami and the world renown architect Frank Gehry.  This exhibit began yesterday and will run through the first week of August.  Another fashion oriented exhibition is the history of the ‘golden age’ of fashion in London and Paris, historical accounts from 1947 through 1957.  Collections will be on display from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.  This is a visual feast as the history of haute couture will dress more than one hundred mannequins, as well as the designs of Balenciaga and Dior.  More than three hundred different exhibits feature not only clothing, but the accessories and furniture from the time period as well.  This runs from May 30 through the first week of September.

The music of the festival is eclectic.  The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is collaborating with the Hong Kong Opera to present eight different pieces.  The Philharmonic is also presenting works by Hector Berlioz, one of the well known composers of France.  For Contemporary music, The East West Quartet performed.  This is a four piece band that infuses traditional Chinese music with western techniques of improvisation.  Also, Folk N’ Blues Moriarty will play May 27th.  This is a band that blends many styles including country, folk, cabaret and blues.  This is an incredible time to take a trip to Hong Kong, throughout the entire summer this will be one happening city.

A savvy traveler looking for a luxury Manhattan hotel will find so much to choose from.  The cultural hub for much of the world, this island is a leading importer-exporter for arts and entertainment, business, and hospitality.  It’s also one of the most influential cultural capitols of the world, setting trends in fashion, finance, and cuisine.  It also has entertainers who are capable of invading the consciousness of a nation.

Jerry Seinfeld is one such entertainer, whose New York roots show through during every one of the episodes of Seinfeld, the show that would shape a cynical and amused nation.  In the television show, there are occasional references to his family background, with mentions of an old family back in eastern Europe.  This is a very common U.S. story with similar themes and variations, and there are countless citizens who can trace a link between this country and an old world through the ship manifests from immigrant arrivals on Ellis Island.  But Jerry Seinfeld is a very funny guy.  And he’s been honored recently by the Statue of Liberty – Ellis Island Foundation with a Family Heritage Award.

His first ancestor to arrive here was his grandfather, a Simon Seinfeld, who arrived on Ellis Island as Schimscher Senfeld, at the age of 15, and worked as a fish-seller on the streets of Brooklyn, until making his way through the Bronx, and then to Manhattan.  Seinfeld and his sister have been speaking with the press about their memories of how the family got to the U.S. from Ukraine or Austria (depending on the records consulted).  Much speculation and musing, then, can be made over the way a family’s journey of migration can be turned into something very culturally significant, wrapped in the disguise of a show about nothing.

When it comes to luxury, Mallorca hotels are highly regarded the world over.  With a location that’s impossible to beat, and an age-old reputation for revitalizing the traveler, the island life will take you in like an old friend.  There are beautiful and brilliant restaurants here, amazing beaches that call out every moment of every day, and a lovely culture that’s been forming around the island for centuries.  Both local and expat communities here form the core of Mallorca, and their histories are fascinating.

One of the area’s most renowned residents is artist Cynthia Lennon.  She’s made this island her home, and has settled in here quite nicely over the years, being both a member of the community and an artist enjoying the solitude to get the energy to keep creating new work.  She lives in close proximity of her son, Julian Lennon.  With their shared last name, it’s difficult for both celebrities to leave behind their tie to John Lennon.  And not that they necessarily want to.  She was his first wife, and gave up her art school path to be the caretaker of their son, Julian, while her husband went on to become extraordinarily famous.  Somewhere in the middle of things, John met Yoko, and the rest is history.  Despite some of the bitterness surrounding the split, and the estrangement Julian has felt for his absent father over the years, Cynthia does speak freely about their relationship, and the influence they had on each other.  She is remarried now, having been through a couple of missteps, and is very, very happy.  She is painting, and sometimes recording music of her own, while her son, Julian, a brilliant musician in his own write, runs his own restaurant here.

Cynthia Lennon is not so much in touch with Yoko Ono, as might be expected.  But she has developed a friendship with May Pang, another other woman in John Lennon’s life.  When he and Yoko were temporarily apart, he spent 18 months with May, and refers to this time as a lost weekend.  May Pang released a book about this 18-month lost weekend, “Instamatic Karma,” and Cynthia even flew out to New York from her home in Mallorca for the release party.

If you’re looking for a vacation in the lap of luxury, Ibiza hotels will suit all your travel needs.  With amazingly gorgeous beaches, scintillating food, and fantastic accommodations, you’ll find yourself bathed in relaxation.  You won’t miss the comforts of home when you’re made to feel more welcome than your wildest dreams.  There is a very strong cultural scene here, in part due to the interest of the counter-culture that has had their eyes on Ibiza.  And their bodies dancing.

The Rolling Stones took a very favorable vacation here here in the mid-sixties, and Pink Floyd found a rough and ready source of inspiration here as well, when they made the film “More.”  Since then, it has been a prominent recreation spot for a young generation looking for fun in a beautiful setting.

In 1974, Antonio Escotohado, a philosophy student from Madrid, bought a plumb spot of land for a song, and began a nightclub that has been a counter-cultural mainstay of Ibiza, Amnesia.  Amnesia’s original name was “The Workshop of Forgetfulness,” with the idea that this music venue would be a place where travelers and locals could go to forget the concerns of the world outside.  When he realized that the Greek word “amnesia” already contained the same meaning, the name stuck.

Amnesia has been a very important spot for island culture, featuring some of the most exciting dance music in Europe.  At the turn of the millennium, in 2000, the owners of Amnesia decided to make a gift to the island, and all the locals were given free entrance to the New Year’s Eve bash, and it was a night no one could remember.  It’s still an extremely vibrant hotspot, and it’s not uncommon for party-goers to find themselves parked in, because of the 3 am rush to get to the club and dance the rest of the night, and most of the following morning, away.  Amnesia is a regular host to some of the most brilliant parties in the region.  They have amazing dj’s who are at the top of their form, playing some of the hottest and most impressive Spanish beats on the continent, and their spinning styles take in a multitude of cultural traditions and put out new riffs on a growing techno pulse.  And the resulting rhythm is pure Ibiza genius.

For a combination of beautiful countryside and splendid luxury hotels, Valencia is hard to beat.  Offering fantastic beaches and old-world Spanish charm, Valencia will make any traveler feel perhaps even better than home.  Deeply nestled in some of the most exotic and refreshing landscapes in Spain, the place is a splendid mix of old world charm and vibrant and changing culture.  There are strong pockets of intellectuals and artists here, who will gladly converse, argue, and agree on any number of things Catalan.  There is a very strong tradition for conversation here, and a strong tradition for the written word.

One of the place’s most visible writers is Isabel-Clara Simó.  Born in the Alcoi region, she has a background in philosophy and journalism, with a strong knowledge of French language and culture.  She received her doctorate from the University of Valencia.  At the university, she first came into contact with nationalist groups of artists and critics through Joan Fuster, which lead to the current focus of her creative work.  She served as editor the weekly, El Canigo, a magazine founded by her husband, and from which most of the locals know her work.  She is also a member of the Catalan Writer’s Association, and one of the pre-eminent authors in the Catalan language.

Isabel-Clara Simó is also the author of many novels, including “El gust amarg de la cervesa,” “La nati,” La veina,” “La salvatge,” and “La innocent.”  Her work is deeply connected to the issues of place, and of the shifting role of women in contemporary Catalan society.  Her work has been translated into German, English, Castilian Spanish, Italian, and Swiss.  She worked on the film “Nostotras,” and has been very active in local television, and continues to write weekly columns.

Mallorca hotels are at the top of the world.  They are number one in relaxation, and number one in services and hospitality.  The casual or business traveler alike will find a hundred ways to get comfortable here, with an ambience and warmth that no other place can offer.  There is a fascinating influx of international celebrities here, vacationing or buying homes.  There is also a long and fascinating history about the people born here.

Ramon Llull is one famous local.  Born here in 1232, his life and martyrdom in this eighties, are a very curious biography.  Educated in the Court, and given to lots of romantic adventures, and a hobby of collecting troubadour songs, he had a very profound mystical experience when he was in his early thirties—though truth be told, he seemed to have been prone to mystical experiences.  This particular experience, however, lead him to move in a completely new direction.

For the rest of his years, which were considerable, Ramon Llull spent in attempts to convert non-Christians, and attempting to prove his great Ars Magna.  The Ars Magna was a machine that he had constructed which would prove the faith and reason are the same, or rather, never incompatible.  His proof, with the machine, was something that seemed to make him rather fanatical, and he did devote all of his time to attempts to convert, and writing about the meaning of his machine.  He was either stoned in Mallorca, or on his way back here, in a final mission.  After his death, the Church officially condemned his teachings, on the grounds that faith and reason should remain separate as philosophical systems, although he did have admirers who started chairs in his philosophy at universities, and his work is said to have had a great influence on the mathematician philosopher Leibniz.

This month the people of the city of Manchester, England got quite a treat, quite a show.  As part of a three day festival, that brought the Balearic Islands to Albert Square, the legendary Menorcan Horses of Spain gave the people a small glimpse into their beauty, the skill of the riders and the culture of this small island in the Mediterranean Sea.  For close to fifty years, the British have made up a large segment of the population of European tourists who have made the Islands their favorite destination for relaxation in the spas of the best Balearic hotels, dancing in the trendy clubs, and walking on the pristine beaches.  However, tourism in the Islands has dropped substantially during the economic crunch, and so the Islands were brought to tourists.

These horses have been important throughout Menorca’s history, having been pivotal and necessary during times when the island was defending itself, and during times of celebrations.  This is a very unique breed of horse, with only 1,500 animals registered with the Horse and Breeders Association.  This breed rivals that of the Arabian Horse, as in appearance they are exquisite creatures.  Their coats are black and they have billowing manes.  And much as with the Greyhound racing dogs, they are proportioned with incredible necklines, they are extremely muscular, and are well known for their sober demeanor and consistent character.  They are tireless when it comes to performing, either for the shows or for their owners.

The shows are extraordinary in part due to the skill of the riders, and in part due to the fact that this breed is not only beautiful, but extremely smart as well.  They have been gaining the reputation as the best breed for training, for riding and for their ability to interpret the intricate commands the riders makes using the harness.  They are well known and loved on the Island, and after the performance they gave in Manchester two weeks ago, they are well loved internationally now as well.