Bob Travel

Mauritius is an island of districts, districts that are diverse and have the influence not only of the rich cultural history, but the influence of the various ethnic groups that inhabit the island today.  One of those districts is that of Port Louis.  This is one of the more popular districts with the tourists and as such there is a wide range of options concerning the many luxury hotels.  Mauritius is an island with a variety of landscapes, be they made up of mountains and forests, ocean waves and beaches, or the gardens and the architecture.

The capital of Mauritius is also Port Louis and this is one of the most culturally active and happening cities on the island.  Most who travel to the island on holiday choose to stay in Port Louis for this reason.  Many of the larger companies and corporations have their headquarters and office buildings in the city, and the mix of culture and different races combine to make this one of the most cosmopolitans regions, as well as one of the most important of all the port cities located along the shores of the Indian Ocean.

The population is relatively large in the city, and many of the most impressive spots for tourist activities are located withing this hub.  One such destination is that of Chinatown, which is located here in Port Louis.  As in the Chinatown neighborhoods the world over, when one steps onto the streets in this area one feels as though they stepped onto the streets in the country of China itself.  The food and the atmosphere is overwhelming and enticing.

Shopping here, and throughout the district, is varied and has many options for bargains and rare finds in the many market places and shops.  One such market is the Central Bazaar of Port Louis,  where one can find works of art, antique stalls, and many options for finding the flavor of the island through the various restaurants and food stalls.  And of course, what is true for the island as a whole is true for this district as well, as there are many opportunities for mountain hikes and nature walks.  This is one city on the island that truly has it all.

“I’ll just go sing karaoke,” I retorted, resisting feebly being pulled into yet another store at the Berjay Times Square mall in Kuala Lumpur. The fellow at the desk of the Kuala Lumpur Malaysia hotels we popped into looked at me with pity as Charlene squealed with delight when she found out we were within walking distance of said mall. The fellow in the pinstriped pajama like pants could sense my feeling of impending doom as I was about to lead out of the comfortable hotel with its comfortable leather chairs and cigar smoking room and quick service and out into the busy streets and bedlam of Kuala Lumpur.

But I couldn’t stay indoors all the time, I reasoned, so I am going to do a little shopping. Big whoop. Our ancestors had it worse. Why, my own father had to bathe once a month in collected rain water, in a laundry tub, with a wire brush and a box of Borax. So he said. They were tougher back then. But what made this mall in Malaysia a little different was was the amusement area that includes a bowling alley (not a bowler), a game arcade (not video game savvy enough), and, of all things, a roller coaster, right inside the mall. Now this was a mall I could sink my teeth into, now if I could just get Charlene to play air hockey with me, but I digress. Up on the sixth floor it is, past the luxurious shops and well dressed shoppers in this air conditioned wonderland of shopping. Still, I would rather noodle around Chinatown, famed in Kuala Lumpur, and look at duck in the windows, and even eat some of the said ducks, in the luxury of a little less air conditioning and a lot of interesting food. When in doubt, go to the local China town if you are lucky enough to have one, and have a bowl or plate, and the local version was no exception.

For the adventurous traveler in Formentera, car rental is an excellent option, and a splendid idea.  Car rental will allow you the freedom to explore this amazing place on your own, at your own pace and on your own terms.  There is so much to see, and so many natural attractions, that the days will be much freer, and there will be more room for spontaneity if you can travel the island with your own transportation.  Island living is something else, an enviable way of life that embraces warmth, adventure, relaxation, and inspiration, and this is an excellent way to taste the island the way locals might.  The views on all parts of the island are stunning, and your own transportation means stopping as often, and for as long, as you like.

There are fantastic things to see all year long, excellent beaches and exquisite restaurants, more populated areas and areas that speak of another time, and all of these are suddenly accessible when traveling in a car.  There are also marvelous festivals here, and one of Formentera’s most successful festivals is Posidonia.  Posidonia began as idea in 2004, where artists and professionals wanted to hold a cultural festival with music, art, and performance, with an emphasis on ecology.  Because of Formentera’s natural beauty, they wanted to draw attention to its delicate balance, and promote environmental sustainability, so, with municipal support, the festival became a reality in 2008.

The festival’s newness is one of its primary attractions.  Visitors here participating in the Posidonia Festival can be part of the origins, and watch musical acts infusing the festival with a fresh and vibrant energy.  The three-day festival features some of the hottest musical talents from Barcelona, and also hosts a number of fascinating workshops, some suitable for all members of the family, as well as discussions, talks, live performances that include musical theatre and puppetry.  This is an excellent way to learn about environmental sustainability in the region, educating and entertaining all the members of the household.

I’m not inclined to often make a recommendation, but while I was staying at one of Perth Hotels Australia, I was quite impressed with The Caravan Park at Karrinyup Waters. It’s actually in a suburb of Perth. I found it by accident by car as I was driving to visit with a friend at her home.

I parked my car at the park and notified my friend that I’ll be a little late. I told her way and she told me she was hoping I would do just exactly that, see the park and have to investigate it’s simple beauty. The park is situated on a small lake. It even has ducks, black swans and geese. It was early enough in the morning, so I got to observe the fowls morning rituals, waddling up to anyone who will feed them. I noticed all the humans within waddling distance ignored the ‘Do Not Feed the Fowl’ signs posted everywhere.

I sat down and only after a few moments, felt a presence over my right shoulder. I turned my head, and there was a big black swan starring at me, eye to eye. I had no food to feed him, when he realized this, he left. It was really touch and go there for a few moments, I wasn’t sure if he’d be mad that I was the only one with no food and if he’d bite me, but, fortunately he only walked away, looking for his next human.

I stayed for about an hour and left the park to visit with my friend of many years. She took me to see Perth, the non-tourist Perth. The first place she took me too was a plaza called Forrest Place and when we arrived there was a big happening going on. There were bands, singers, dancers, mimes, clowns on stilts. We asked around to find out why all the hoopla, and apparently it was Catholic Education Day. I guess that’s a big thing in Perth. It was way too much for us so she was trying to figure out where else to take me.

We stopped at the information booth at the plaza and she told us to check out the Perth Mint. My friend has never been to the Mint, she really didn’t have anything better for me, so off we went. I do not recommend this as a place to see in Perth. I think tomorrow, after I finish my visit with my friend, I’ll do my own site seeing.

The savvy traveler knows that hotels in Mumbai are some of the world’s finest, featuring a splendid combination of luxury and elegance.  There is a certain gracefulness in the city, which is one of the world’s largest, that seems almost timeless despite the very contemporary energy that plays out on the streets.  This is reflected in the hotels, to help the guests feel nourished and replenished in the body and the spirit.  The sense of design in  absolutely sumptuous, where tradition and modern styles blend into something that feels like a home away from home.  The food in the hotels is prepared by world-class chefs, and the staff is very knowledgeable about the city, and can help you navigate your way.  With this amazing city, its urban pleasures and proximity to the ocean, there are few places that offer so much in the way of new experience.

Mumbai has a long intellectual and artistic history.  Because of its position as an urban center, where many people confuse it with India’s capital, because of the constant flurry of activity, it has always attracted people who want to write and create new ideas.  In this spirit, the Women Playwrights International is holding their next conference in Mumbai, in November of 2009.  The organization’s primary goals are to promote the work of women playwrights around the world, to establish connections so that their work is more widely-known, and to help protect the rights of writers.  These simple and noble ideas help to form the backdrop of an organization that has, since 1998, held conferences all over the world, including Buffalo, NY, Mexico City, Galway, and Jakarta and Bali.  They have helped to forge strong alliances and networks among women playwrights, and established themselves as a necessary force in global theatre and culture.

The Mumbai conference will focus on the theme of Liberty and Tolerance.  Held at the Kalina Campus, University of Mumbai, it will be a week-long event, featuring symposia and performances, and promises to be very exciting and illuminating.  Co-sponsored in part by the organization Stree Mukti Sanghatana, the Women’s Liberation Organization, some of the focuses of the conference will be identity, humor in theatre, non-violence, and challenges of patriarchy in contemporary theatre.  The combination of art and academic discourse will help participants articulate some of the more essential issues facing women writers locally and globally.

Costa Brava is a specific region of Spain found in the province of Girona. It is a coastal area that stretches from Blanes to the French boarder. The name refers to the Spanish words for coast and brava, meaning wild or rugged. The tourists interest in this area has greatly increased since the 1950s when the Franco regime recognized it as being suited for holiday travel. Since then, many first class resorts have been established and the economic system has become increasingly dependent on this resource. There are many attractions, resorts, restaurants and activities that have been developed specifically for the tourist population, and it has become an extremely popular choice. And while much of the area has become accustomed to a high tourist population, there are still some villages and towns in the area that have been untouched by the movement. These quaint and quiet places have become considered to be gems to visitors who have stumbled upon them.

The Lloret de Mar is by far the larest Costa Brava hotel. It is located on the coast approximately 75 kilometers from Barcelona, which makes it extremely accessible for a weekend or even afternoon getaway. In 1998 environmentalists brought their concerns for the region to the legislature and laws were passed in regards to Costa Brava’s conservation and protection. The coast along Lloret de Mar leads the way and although it is one of the most popular beaches, it is also one of the cleanest. It consistently wins the Blue Flag Award for cleanliness, and is able to maintain this despite all of the ongoing activity. In addition to the resorts, beaches and restaurants there are many cultural attractions in the region. On the Lloret beach is one of the local monuments. It is the Monument to the Fisherman’s Wife, which is a bronze statue sculpture that was created and placed in 1966 to commemorate Lloret’s Millennium.

For travelers looking for a perfect place with a perfect hotel, Manila, Philippines is an excellent destination.  The hotels here are designed to refresh the body and mind, and have a splendid array of amenities that will make the stay here memorable for years to come.  Guests here will find a fantastic combination of hospitality and luxury that will very nicely prepare one for exploring this incredible city.  Manila is a fascinating city with an extremely diverse mix of cultures.  It also has an interesting and very complicated history, and the history of languages and influences find their way into urban culture today.  There is likewise an excellent choice in cuisine, with blends of Asian, Spanish, and U.S. tastes working their way into the menus.  The local specialties are always worth trying, especially for the more adventurous.

Culture here is also a rich mix of styles and innovations, and Manila has its share of artists, writers, and intellectuals.  There are also very interesting and exciting musicians, and the late Francis Magalona captures the Manila spirit in his life’s work.  He was born in 1964 to the famous film stars Tita Duran and Pancho Magalona, and tragically lost his fight with leukemia in 2009.  His was a famous face around the world, not only for music, but also as a television actor, a photographer, and was involved in the fashion industry at the end of his life.  But he is primarily known for his music.

Known as the Master Rapper, and the King of Pinoy Rap, Francis Magalona made 15 records, including EPs, and is perhaps best known for his Freeman and Happy Battle.  He is known for being the first Filipino to cross over into the rap music industry and make a name for himself.  His music has received great critical acclaim for its merging of Pinoy Rock with rap music, and the themes are often very nationalistic, celebrating Filipino identity and marking its history.  He certainly has made his place in the history of the Philippines.

Nepal is famous for many things, and one of them happens to be its Katmandu Valley. It is surrounded by the beautiful mountain range has become integrated into much of Western pop culture. It has been featured in songs such as Bog Seger’s Katmandu, Cat Stevens song of the same name and Rush’s A Passage to Bangkok. It has also been the setting for many works of literature. It was the central location for Kim Stanley Robinson’s book Escape from Katmandu and the critically acclaimed book Arresting God in Katmandu by Samrat Upadhyay. In the movie, There’s Something About Mary, Cameron Diaz’s character mentions that she would like to go there. Perhaps while visiting, she will stay in one of the Nepal hotels.

Bob Seger’s song Katmandu is from the album Beautiful Loser. Seger is an American musician who is greatly known for his rock music. He was born in Michigan and began his career in the Detroit area. He originally performed with the band the System before moving on to have a successful solo career. He later performed with The Silver Bullet Band, which is his most famous group collaboration. Some of his most successful albums are Night Moves and Beautiful Loser. Some of his greatest hit singles are Hollywood Nights, Old Time Rock and Roll, which became recognized as one of the songs of the 21st century, Beautiful Loser, Turn the Page and Against the Wind. In 2004 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He has worked with other musicians and co-wrote the Eagles hit song Heartache Tonight.

Cat Stevens song Katmandu is from the 1970 album Mona Bone Jakon. He is known for his folk songs, and also for his transition to Islam and name change to Yusuf Islam, which he now goes by. He was born in England and began his career in London. He achieved great popularity in the 1970s with hit songs such as Wild World, Trouble, Peace Train, Matthew and Son and Moon Shadow. With his conversion to Islam he left the music scene and devoted his life to religion and humanitarian efforts. He has won many awards for his efforts and is recognized as a major social figure. He has returned to performing and now plays under the name Yusuf Islam.

Delhi is an historic city in India, full of cultural heritage and major historic landmarks. Its official name is the National Capital Territory of Delhi and constitutes the second largest metropolitan area in the country. It is located on the River Yumana and has been continuously inhabited since at least the 6th century BC. This is a significant historical aspect, and there are few cities in the world that can claim this. The Delhi hotels are sometimes situated in historic buildings and offer the guests a sense of the ancient traditions, and timeline significance of this major Indian city.

The Red Fort is on of the major historic landmarks of Delhi and is also a popular tourists destination. In 2007 it was recognized by UNESCO as one of the World Heritage Sites. Construction of the fort took approximately 10 years, it began in 1638 and was finished in 1648. Its name can be translated as blessed residence, as its original intention was to house the Emperor and his family. The design of the building incorporates elements of Persian, European and Indian art. It is ornamental and manifests aspects of high art styles.

The River Yumana,  which runs along the border of Delhi, and also the site of the Red Fort, is the largest tributary of India’s Ganges river. It has a total length of the over 1,300 kilometers, and has served a major role in India’s trade and expedition history. The river’s mythological associations connected it with the Indian god Krishna. The goddess of the river Yami is also the basis of its name. Yami was the daughter of the sun god, Surya, and his wife Samjina. She is the twin sister of Yama, who is the god of death. They are from the Vedic tradition, which is one of the major scriptural and belief bases of Hindu tradition.

When one leaves their hotel, Melbourne Australia excitement and diversity.  There are many different districts and neighborhoods offering everything that is high class and sophisticated to everything that is urban and bohemian.  From the only purified seawater spa in St. Kilda to the funky boutiques and shops in Fitzroy, the city is a mix of culture that blend to make one fine whole, one incredible destination for world travelers.

For example, if one is searching for the finest and most tasty cuisine of Vietnam or Greece, Richmond is the place to head to.  This is a vibrant area that hosts many restaurants wherein in an all day restaurant establishment is often time fused with an incredible live music scene.  There are discount fashion shops as well as some of the best vintage and second hand stores in the country.  This is one of the sites of the early settlement of Melbourne, and as such there are districts set up wherein discounts can be found in the realms of fashion to fresh flowers.  There are also many locations to find rare objects of art and fine furniture.

Little Saigon is located on Victoria Street.  This is the heart and the soul of the Vietnamese population in Melbourne.  The wet markets start at Hoddle Street, and offer everything from fresh meat and seafood, to fresh produce.  The restaurants appear simple no white linen nor fancy silver, but the meals prepared by the chefs are tasty and delicate, not found in many restaurants.  This is an area that serves, fresh and fast…and healthy, all at an inexpensive price.

And the music scene in Richmond, well live music has found its niche here.  No one knows why the scenes pop up where they do, and many cities try to figure that out and plan for it, but there just is no plan, it happens where it happens.  One of the most popular venues for live shows in the city is at the Corner Hotel.  Big time artists play there as well as the lesser known newcomers to the stage.  For jazz lovers, Dizzy’s the place to go for quality acts and a good vibe.  One should most certainly find the time to visit this district in Melbourne, especially of food, and atmosphere and live jams is their thing.

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.

The Bronx Borough in New York is a work of dichotomy.  Wildlife surrounded by ruins, an area that has produced world class athletes and artists, as well as the Mafia and the corrupt forces of law.  This has been a melting pot of all that is good and all that is bad.  There are those that canoe down the rivers, and those that use the Bronx as a location when shooting movies about war torn foreign countries.  American actor Chazz Palminteri grew up on the streets filled with gangster owned restaurants and hotels.  New York, USA has been the American location that myths and legends are made.  During the late 50’s and early 60’s Palminteri was growing up in a city that was becoming more crime ridden and deadly.  The Bronx was in moral and societal decay.  He had the opposing forces of a father that worked hard to make an honest living, and the wiseguys in his neighborhood making large incomes on such activities as gambling, drugs and prostitution.

However, there is one school in the Bronx, that has been attended by some of the greats such as Neil Simon, and Richard Rodgers, and is the school that Palminteri attended.  The school has a reputation for supporting artistic endeavours.  Palminteri created a play called aptly, “A Bronx Tale”, a story of a young man growing up in such an environment as the Bronx, just as he had.  And through mutual acquaintances Palmenteri got his chance.  A man, Peter Gatien, through interactions at a local disco in the 1980’s, came into contact with Palminteri, and agreed to bankroll his project of the play.   By 1993 the play had met with commercial and critical success, and enough backing had been made to turn the play into a screenplay.  Robert DeNiro signed on to direct the film and also to portray the hard working, honest father character.  This film continues to be acclaimed and is a comprehensive story, one of the legends of the great city of New York.

Travelers have come to the right place in looking for the best Hong Kong hotels, because ours have the perfect combination of the old and the new, and they are a brilliant reflection of this brilliant city.  With over seven million people, it is one of the most populated areas on the planet, and there is an intoxicating sense of human energy here.  Combining this with the gorgeous natural settings, and our famous skyline on the water, and one finds a place that is nothing less than splendid.  A fantastic mix of the East and the West, Hong Kong offers an amazing graciousness of style and design that is absolutely contemporary.  Our hotels offer nothing less than the best, so that the experienced traveler can count on a stay here that is absolutely delightful.

Hong Kong is extremely rich in history and culture.  Its cosmopolitan heartbeat has attracted any number of artists, intellectuals, and writers, for generations, and the tradition continues with the work of the young poet Jennifer Wong.  She holds an M.A. in Creative Writing from the U.K.’s University of East Anglia, and she studied literature at Oxford.  Born and raised in Hong Kong, she spends most of her time in England, but returns to her home to attend such prestigious events as the Hong Kong International Literary Festival.

Her volume of poetry, Summer Cicadas, was published by Chameleon Press, and has been praised by critics for its deftness in exploring themes such as youth and love, cultural identity, and cultural displacement.  One of her trademarks is her use of oestranenie, Russian formalist Viktor Shklovsky’s term for estrangement, especially as the idea evolved through the works of the great novelist Haruki Murakami.  She has written herself into a strong lineage, and her delicate and precise use of words to create a profoundly sense of unease, make her a poet to watch.

The city of Barcelona is home to many beaches, amazing architecture, some of the finest art museums in world as wells the top restaurants and night spot, and offers a variety of options for accommodation in the top Barcelona hotels.  The weather is temperate, with the Mediterranean offering relief when the summer temperatures get a little too warm.  If one is sensitive to the hotter weather experienced here, then the months of July and August should most certainly be avoided.  And while the humidity can tend to raise in a accompaniment to the raising temperatures, the beach breezes do offer relief and many of hotels are now equipped with air conditioning units.  Only one month during the year tends to cold in the winter and that is the month of February.  The rest of the year is filled with sunny mild days, and beautiful balmy nights.

Due to this fact, bicycling is one of the favorite past-times of the residents and tourists alike.  Many use the bicycle as their only mode of transportation.  Recently many of the roads and streets of the city have bike lanes added to the sides, providing more room and safer passage for those pedaling around town.  More plans are in the works for addition of bike lanes, as well as a project being undertaken to create more roads in general as the people of the entire country are taking steps towards healthier lifestyles, and environmentally friendly sets of wheels.  Paths run along the water ways for those wishing a more leisurely and scenic route, without the traffic and the noise, and a path the will lead one out of the city, for longer rides is just about completed.

For now, where the paths along the streets are not yet added, the cyclist must pedal with car and become adept at dodging the traffic on the busier city streets.  City planners have been taking additional steps to ensure that Barcelona becomes a more cycle friendly city.  During the weekday, commuters are allowed to transport their bikes on the Metro trains and during the weekend or holiday, and throughout the entire summer months of July and August, the commute is free from restrictions.  The city has also adopted the public bike share system that is becoming more prevalent throughout all the major cities in the world.  In all, similar to the towns with such moderate temperatures during the year, Barcelona is one of the best places for those that prefer and love to bike the streets instead of drive them.

The city of Spain that offers everything from incredible theater and dance performances, to live music and relaxation is the city of Seville.  Hotels are located close to many of the theme parks located in the city, creating a myriad of options for those traveling with children.  The Pavilions Theme park is quick becoming one of the favorite tourist destinations and promises hours of fun for the entire family.  The local bars and pubs offer perfect respite from the days spent in the crowded parks, and jazz is big on the music scene as well as the many restaurants and clubs wherein the famous nightly performances of the Flamenco dancers will entertain and inspire those with interests in world of dance and in the spirit of the traditional cultures and brightly colored, elaborate costumes.

Many tourists find themselves in the city over the Easter holidays, and quite honestly, this one of the best places to be during that time.  There are parades steeped in traditional and ritual ceremony that are not seen anywhere else in the world.  The Spring Fair coincides with the holiday and is held for two weeks just following the week of Easter.  This is an intense party that fills the streets with dancing, music and the feasts and cuisine of the region.  The parties are non-stop and the streets are literally filled twenty-four hours a day.

Another festival that surrounds religion and ritual ceremony is that of Corpus Christi.  The ceremony is filled with feasting, and originated more than five hundred years ago in the Barcelona.  The celebration made its way to the city of Valencia, then to Seville and now occurs throughout many of the cities in the country.  One of the most attended of the festivals occurs in the village Costa de La Luz, located close to the city of Valencia, in fact most traveling to this city fly into the airport in Seville, and then take a car for the short trip to the festival.  The entire region surrounding Seville has much to offer those wanted a taste of the traditional aspects of Spain, and festivals and fun happen all year long, there is never a bad time to travel to this city in Spain.

For travelers looking for incredible four-star hotels, Bangalore has plenty to offer.  With luxurious accommodations in a world-class setting, the sky’s the limit for relaxation.  Room service is splendid and delicious, and guests will find themselves living in the heart of their own dream.  A delicate combination of old and new marks the sense of style here, and the time here will be remembered for the sumptuousness of the decor.  Impressive and also understated, there is a palpable sense of gracefulness that permeates the atmosphere here.

Bangalore itself is a fascinating metropolis.  With one of the largest universities in the world, a technology sector that is extremely well-connected to all aspects of global culture, and a local population that is accepting and welcoming, yet still maintaining a strong sense of their own customs, Bangalore is a traveler’s feast.  There is an urban core here that is strikingly local, but also oddly familiar.  This kind of odd familiarity is at the heart of Bangalore artist Ravi Kumar Kashi’s works.  Born in Bangalore in 1968, he still resides here, after having lived away off and on for a time.  The sense of urban identity that is starting to define modern experience has always been present in his work, but his latest creations take this theme into another level.

He received his first degree from the College of Fine Arts in Bangalore in 1988.  He has also earned an M.F.A. in Print Making from Baroda, an MA in English at Mysore, and, in 2001, studied handmade papermaking in Glasgow from a Charles Wallace India Trust grant.  He has worked as a teacher in engineering, and is also working more and more as an instructor for visual arts.  Although his work is shown all over the world, the paintings and paper sculptures of Ravi Kumar Kashi are shown extensively in Bangalore, New Delhi, and Mumbai.  His work takes modernity as a focus, and adds some peculiar and wonderful twists.  He says that he is extremely influenced by visual culture, as well as the culture of the everyday spectacle.  Many of his paintings have advertising images as the center, but twisted and distorted to become comments on life in the world right now.  His work has an immediacy and an energy that is distinctively his own.

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.

Dubai is one of seven of the United Arab Emirates UAE and is the most populated city of the states or more commonly called emirates. It is located on the southern coast of the Persian Gulf of the Arabian Peninsula and borders Oman and Saudi Arabia. Islam is the major religious basis of the culture of Dubai. Mosques are found in every neighborhood throughout the city where locals attend prayer as often as five times a day. The Jumeirah Mosque is one of Dubai’s largest mosques and considered to be the most beautiful. It is modern Islamic architecture, the style being medieval Fatimid and is built of stone. Dim lighting in the Mosque casts an intriguing glow at night, playing up the artistic facets of this structure.

Native clothing of Dubai is well suited for the high temperatures in this area. The kandoura or dishdasha is a white, ankle length, loose fitting robe-like garment worn by the men. Their heads are covered for protection from the elements. Women wear long sleeved, full length dresses which are also called kandouras. Their dresses will usually have colorful embroidery and are worn with a black abayah which covers the entire dress. A shayla, which is a thin black veil that is worn over the hair, is worn by many women the majority of the time. Jewelry is also very popular with the women and a common accessory that is fitting for most occasions.

There are numerous, beautiful hotels where one can enjoy the hospitality of this area. One of the most famous Dubai UAE luxury hotels is the Burj Al Arab. The standard of excellence was established with the 1999 opening of this truly incredible hotel with its futuristic exterior design. With the many historic sites and cultural events as well as the future projects planned, Dubai is an interesting city to visit.

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.

We knew we had arrived when we bumped into Kuala Lumpur; literally bumped. My husband and I left the Philippines flying with Air Asia. Previously my husband was extolling the benefits of travelling by air; it was after all our 8th flight, but this time, unexpected of course, we had a scary experience. The flight was almost 4 hours long, but right around hour 3 we were told to get ready to land at Kuala Lumpur. Well the cabin got all noisy with everyone wondering what was going on, my husband nudge me to look out the window and it seemed as we approached the buildings and trees and the countryside was unusually close. Also, we were coming in very fast. Then before we knew it, we hit the runway; we hit it near the end of the runway. We bounced a couple of times so hard we were thrown back in our seats from being bounced up out of our seats. Then the nose of the airplane rose and veered to the left. I was too stunned to scream. My fellow passengers must have been stunned also, because it was dead silent. Then, part of the interior structure of the plane came away and hit the people on the head in the row in front of us.

Someone from the crew ran from the back of the airplane to help out the struck passengers, but just as fast as this all happened it was all over. We were still moving down the runway, but at a very slow taxing rate. The aircrew was silent and their attitude was strange. My husband and I are well-seasoned travellers and we had hard landings before, but the crew always had some form of an apology or explanation, but on this occasion they said absolutely nothing.

As we headed off to one of the 5 Star Hotels Kuala Lumpur offers, we were somewhat apprehensive about our next flight with Air Asia and we were somewhat sore from the hard landing. So, we called ahead and arranged for our hotel to have a much needed massage ready for us in our hotel room when we arrive. A hard hitting massage sounds pretty good to us right now.

When I walked around Tenerife, I found that there are many examples of volcanic forces forming the island. I wanted, though, an inside view of the Cave of the Wind, Cueva del Viento. I’ve heard it’s an underground landscape where volcanic lave flows bored all the way through rock to form one of the longest recorded series of volcanic tubes in the world.

The tunnels have three main levels that are linked by fissures, odd chasms and off-shoots. Apparently, the lave came from Pico Viejo located on the eastern slope of Mount Teide. Approximately 27,000 years ago there was an eruption which added to later activities inside these tubes. I could clearly see the different layers of lava as well as some smaller tunnels in which water meandered throughout the caves.

My tour guide, which I arranged for through one of the 5 Star Hotels in Tenerife, explained that the drive to Cueva del Viento would be a steep 10 minute drive above Icod de los Vinos north of Tenerife. When we arrived, there was a visitors center in the center of the small village which was added after a 15 year closure to the public due to a re-vamping project was necessary for public safety. Right now, the tour into the tunnels is free, but that might change. I went well prepared with good hiking boots and an extra coat. I heard it can get quite cooler inside the tunnels.

Once inside, we were handed a helmet with a light attached. This light was powered by a waist belt that had a power-pack attached. I could see about 20 feet all around me with the helmet light. I wasn’t allowed, for some reason, to use my high powered flashlight. I wish my hired guide would’ve told me that before, I felt silly carrying it around. As we proceeded onwards and downwards, the chamber narrows to a tunnel. If you are even the least bit claustrophobic, I recommend not taking this tour. The roof is only maybe a half-an-inch above my head. I was surprised to see insects and small creatures, in the tunnels and watch out for spiders. All in all, I was glad to take the tour. Tunnels forms from volcano’s really are a world onto themselves.

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.

Where in the world can one find the best five star hotels?  Spain might have some answers, and if they’re not definitive, at least the search will be a true pleasure.  Spain is one of the most romantic places in the world, from classical times to now.  It may be the languages that are so enchanting, the island lifestyle that seems to dominate the country, or the intense conversations.  There are also the heady pleasures that permeate the humidity like a welcome friend.  Bullfights, red wine, rich and delicate foods, the land is made of myth and history.

Sometimes myth and history intertwine, like they do in the life of Spain’s celebrated singer-songwriter Joaquin Sabina.  He is celebrated all over Spain, where most every local can sing at least one of his deeply poetic songs by heart, and he is also considered to be a treasure of the world all over Latin America, where he has toured extensively.  Born in 1949, Sabina has become a true living legend.  By the early seventies, he was already positioning himself as a political artist, with his intense opposition to Franco’s fascist policies.  His father, a policeman, would ironically receive the orders to arrest his son, who was already becoming famous.

And very famous as a man who loves women, with several broken relationships already following in his wake.  The formative years of his songwriting would see some 14 albums, and a very lucky break from CBS records.  Some of his best-known albums are “Dimelo en la calle,” “19 dias y 500 noches,” “Yo, Mi, Me, Contigo,” and “Este boca es mia.”   In 2001 Joaquin Sabina suffered a stroke following years of hard living, and he took a hiatus from performing, to follow three years later with “Alivo de luto,” a beautiful album that is deeply melancholy, terribly romantic, and lyrically complex, funny, and sad.  In short, he’d come back from near death to live with gusto, and his recent tours are remarkable for the energy, gracefulness, and self-deprecating humor that guides his songwriting.

For five-star hotels, Mumbai has a lot to offer.  In one of the world’s most dizzyingly-complicated and fascinating cities, the tradition of hospitality is long and extremely well-developed.  Travelers here will be constantly surprised at how their every need is already met.  There is also a luxurious sense of well-being that comes when one sees how delicate and exquisite touches are everywhere.  The sense of design is extraordinary, and there is certainly no lacking for contemporary amenities.  Technologically, guests are kept connected to the rest of the world in any way they can imagine.  But there is also enough here to make one want to escape, and spend the time hiding in comfort here.

Mumbai itself is a tremendously interesting place.  With thousands of distractions every moment, the days can be spent sight seeing, browsing the markets, eating gorgeous foods, and getting caught up in the local culture.  It is an incredibly diverse place, with languages and customs and life-styles that make people watching a real pleasure.  There are also a huge number of local celebrities, and it’s a great place to star-gaze.  One fascinating celebrity couple is the recently married Divya Palat and Aditya Hitkari.  Known as one of the most famous theatre couples in Mumbia, they have been married since 2006, and have starred together in The Graduate, My Way, and The Legend of Ram.  Divya and Aditya attribute at least part of their relationship’s success to their similar drives for work: they’re workaholics, they confess.

In a more recent interview, Palat and Hitkari say that their three favorite pursuits are, in order, food, life, and work.  The work comes easy to this show biz couple, with her background in films and theatre, and his former work as a vj for MTV.  Their visibility in India is high, and Mumbai even more so.  For life, they enjoy travel, and try to make visits to at least three countries a year.  For food, they are constantly looking for ways to surprise each other, by re-creating scrumptious restaurant memories in their home.  Their tastes run toward hot and spicy, which keeps the fire strong in their marriage.

Are you looking for perfect luxury hotel?  Dubai has an answer for you.  The luxury hotels here are renowned for their unique and delightful combination of old-world hospitality and charm mixed with new-world design and technology.  You will be pampered here, and you will also be well-connected to the outside world.  Dubai city is also extremely hip and savvy, and the recent years have seen amazing changes in the cultural scenes here.  True, there are plenty of magnificent beaches, and there are fantastic festivals all year round, and there are also opportunities for shopping in luxurious malls and old-world markets, but the cultural scene is really worth checking out.  In terms of visual art, music, and dance, Dubai city is coming into its own, and establishing itself as a center for art and artists.  There are lots of artists establishing themselves here, and some who have lived here for awhile and are recently emerging.

Wael Hamadeh is one of these emerging artists.  He was born in Lebanon, and studied art in Edinbugh, Scottland.  For the past 13 years, Dubai has been his home.  He works in many mediums, among them are graphic design, mixed media paintings, and photography.  He draws inspiration from his homeland in Lebanon, and he depends on a close relationship with the earth.  Ancestral urges guide him to continually develop his art practice and to make meaning in the chaos of modernity.

He has had many recent shows, and always something new on the horizon.  The bulk of his showings have been in Dubai, and the work is also transferring well to other places, such as San Francisco in the U.S.  His work also shows up in the funkier Dubai haunts, such as Global Funk dance shows, and all show that this young artist is finding connections to make an identity in the local and international art scene.

When it comes to deciding the best city for a luxury hotel, Dubai always comes out on top.  With its world-class tradition of hospitality and service, beautiful accommodations with old-world charm and state of the art design, and amazing location, it is in a class all by itself.  Dubai city is also surrounded by beauty and culture, and great shopping!  The festivals and fairs that are held all year round are generally very family friendly, and even the shopping malls have live entertainments.

Dubai Mall has a solid place in the hearts of consumers all over the globe, with all the comforts of hometown malls, along with exceptional finds, interesting global treasures, and a taste for splendor and spectacle.  One addition to Dubai Mall that is a favorite of locals and international visitors is the stunning Kinokuniya Books.  This monument to literary arts is a staggering 68,000 square feet, and regularly stocks a half million titles, along with thousands of magazines.  It looks like it will go on forever, and it sort of does…!

Having been in business for less than a year, it has already earned the loyalty of a large readership.  Part of a chain begun in Japan, there is a fantastic selection of Japanese manga at Kinokuniya, perhaps the largest in the UAE, and it also stocks a huge number of other titles in Japanese, Chinese, French, German, English, and of course Arabic.  The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, and they also have a good deal of knowledge of Filipino literature and culture, adding to the multicultural mix that is unique and fascinating about Dubai city.  Kinokuniya is a healthy blend of cultural expressions and ideas, and the mix is there on all levels of the company’s structure.  The result is splendid chain, and the Dubai incarnation is a treasure.

While on a business trip and doing some last minute work in my project managers hotel room, I noticed she add some type of wood box on top of her clothes bureau which had a tea-candle, a small water bowl, a small flower vase, incense sticks and a bowl of rice placed inside of it. ‘Hey’, I said, ‘What is that?’, and walked over to take a closer look. My project manager proceeded to tell me that it was an alter. I said that I didn’t know Mumbai Hotels had alters and that my room didn’t have one. She just laughed at me and said that she has a travelling alter. I told her I really don’t know what an alter is, that I’m not religious and asked you to explain what all those things are inside the box.

She told me that one does not need to be religious to create an alter. She said that I could create my own personal alter. An alter can be as simple as a coffee table, a stereo speaker or on top of a television. I just looked at her quizzically and laughed. She told me she considers all space to be sacred and an alter is her way to show gratitude and to create an atmosphere of peace in everyplace her body is, she even told me that the bests of all alters is the alter within myself, an inner alter. I told her that it would be hard to put a bowl of rice, a flower vase and a tea-candle inside, but I guess I could try. She laughed and told me those objects are just symbolic of the elements of life. Water, Earth, Fire and Air. That I already have those elements inside, so I need not worry.

She got up from our make-shift work area, walked over to her alter, lit the candle and the incense and mumbled some words I did not understand. But, when she turned back around, I did understand the aura of peace and serenity she now displayed.

Promoting world-class excellence in five-star hotels, Dubai has a reputation that lives on in the hearts of travelers who make the UAE their destination.  With exceptional taste in international standards of luxury, Dubai city attracts business professionals and entertainment greats from all around the globe.  Real estate investors rub elbows with Bollywood superstars in an eclectic mix that makes for a unique and highly-regarded experience.  Whether your stay here is business or pleasure, there are wonderful exotic treats to fill the hours with fascination and stimulation.

The gallery scene here has taken an immense turn for the better in recent years, and artists and art-lovers are coming to see Dubai as a fantastic place to begin an entrance into a global art world.  There are traditional painters as well as artists pushing their form into the cutting edges, making a gallery visit a necessary part of any itinerary.  One example of a gallery with their fingers on the pulse of this shifting cultural landscape is the XVA Gallery.  Set in the historic district of Bastikiya, where the sea meets the city, the stunning natural landscape makes for a particularly attractive setting to view works by upcoming local and international artists.

The XVA Gallery organized the first Creek Art Fair (CAF), and is involved in the highly-acclaimed Dubai Art Fair.  It is certainly connected to the more visible art events that take place in this part of the city.  The Creek Art Fair is seen as a fringe event that brings together galleries and artists in the area to connect with the region and the art world at large.  The last incarnation of the CAF took place in 16 houses in Bastikiya, which gave artists a place to connect to each other, something extremely vital in a profession that is characterized by solitude and solo contemplation.  It also gave visitors a wonderful opportunity to explore the enormous variety of art in this part of the city, suggesting that there is an enormous wealth of cultural activity at work, just beneath the surface.