Archive for December, 2009

Scuba diving advanced skills demonstration

Demonstration of neutral boyancy, detaching and re-attaching a side-slung deco cylinder, regulator swap, switching to deco gas, deployment of an SMB & twin-set shut-down procedures.

Duration : 0:5:54

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All-inclusive vacation packages offer a number of advantages. While on the surface and all-inclusive vacation may see more expensive, you are covering the costs of your airfare, accommodation, meals, and transportation all in one price. When you add it up, the all-inclusive family vacation may be cheaper than purchasing all the parts separately. Another benefit is that you have paid for everything in advance, and don’t have to worry about extra costs coming up while you are on your trip.

The Caribbean is an excellent place to take your family. There are many attractions, and there is a something for everyone no matter what age. Here are some popular spots for you to consider as you research your all-inclusive family vacation to the Caribbean.

Beaches Boscobel. “Beaches” is a worldwide resort chain that caters to families. Beaches Boscobel, in Jamaica, has something to offer each member of the family. There is a large pool which is a hit for kids of all ages, and a wide range of water sports which include snorkeling and scuba diving. There is no better place than the Caribbean to participate in water sports. You can also try land sports like volleyball, tennis, or golf at the Sandals Golf and Country Club. For smaller children, the Kids Kamp offers its own vacation, with tons of activities including a game center with the latest Xbox and other video games.

Beaches Negril Resort and Spa. Beaches Negril is also in Jamaica, it is a perfect destination for an all-inclusive family vacation to the Caribbean. From the minute you set foot on the beach, you will be amazed by the stunning landscape, the jasmine scent that permeates the air, and the incredible flora. It’s a veritable tropical paradise. The resort’s architecture is also stunning, and includes polished marble, hand painted frescoes, and fine wood throughout. Beaches Negril has a highly skilled staff that excels in treating each guest with individual attention. It is an ideal vacation spot.

Beaches Sandy Bay. Another Caribbean hotspot run by the Beaches resorts, Beaches Sandy Bay welcomes you with a warm, inviting embrace. It’s all about the ambience. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for an exciting adventure, or time to relax, Beaches Sandy Bay is the place for you. The kids will enjoy the many activities which are available to entertain them, and allow you to spend some quiet time with your partner. The Beaches Sandy Bay is a complete escape from the ordinary, into a tropical paradise.

Beaches Turks and Caicos. Beaches Turks and Caicos is a great destination if you are looking for an exotic holiday spot. The crystal clear turquoise waters against the white sandy beaches and combine to make this a perfect destination for an all-inclusive family vacation to the Caribbean. The endless variety of tropical fish will amaze you, and you’ll be thrilled with the experiences you and your family will have.

An all-inclusive family vacation to the Caribbean will be a vacation you and your family will remember for the rest of your lives. No matter what should destination is, plan carefully and have an enjoyable time. Any of the Beaches resorts, as well as many others, will give you a great opportunity to spend quality time with your family and to make memories that you will never forget.

Matt Ream
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/your-all-inclusive-family-vacation-to-the-caribbean-126640.html

7 Good Reasons For Travel Insurance

For thousands of years, risks have been shared during times of tragedy. The first formal insurance company, Lloyd’s of London, was formed in 1769 and their principal concept remains today – to gather the premiums of clients as a pool of resources to return to clients who experience unexpected but covered events. So, that is the secret really, plan for the unexpected and make sure you’re covered, especially when you’re travelling. Whether your trip is a quick one or a round the world cruise, there are many good reasons for travel insurance. Here are just 7:

Medical Emergencies: If you fall sick or are injured during your travel, your travel insurance will give you financial coverage.

Flight Cancellations: If your flight is cancelled or delayed then your travel insurance should help. Depending on the cover available, a room for the night and even alternative travel home can be included.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Even if you have a pre-existing medical condition and it flares up while you’re on vacation, as long as you’ve advised your travel insurance company prior, you should be covered.

Damage or Loss Of Personal property – What are you going to do when your luggage gets stolen? Yes, it happens, all the time. There are organised gangs that work in airports doing just that. Guess what? You need travel insurance.

Loss of Cash or Traveller’s Cheques – You’re in a foreign country far from home. You either lose, or have stolen, your entire holiday fund. You’re going to need help and quick. Again, travel insurance is a must.

Emergency Evacuations – What with global warming and economic pressure more and more holiday destinations are being built in potentially dangerous territory. Who would have wanted to be in Thailand on that Boxing Day? Travel insurance will help if you have to get out quick.

Car Crash – It can be very difficult driving on the wrong side of the road in a strange country. Accidents happen.

Okay, there you have it. 7 good and solid reasons why you need travel insurance the next trip you make. The other alternative of course is to not take out travel insurance, or to stay at home. Now, there’s an idea. But seriously, as always when taking out insurance, especially travel insurance, read the fine print. Importantly, find out before you go what is excluded, not just included. So, always read the fine print. For example, accidental coverage is not provided in case of drunken driving, driving under the influence of narcotic substances etc. Exclusions are also provided for accidents during risky sports like bungee jumping, car racing, scuba diving, white water rafting, flying (except as passenger in regular airliners), gliding, skiing, bike racing, diving, mountaineering, windsurfing etc. The list goes on (insert for your favourite potentially dangerous sport here). That means in case of accidents in these situations the insurance company is not liable to pay any amount to the insured.

Allen Jesson
http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/7-good-reasons-for-travel-insurance-121230.html

Mexico’s Hidden Jewels

Thinking of a vacation to Mexico but want to go somewhere different off the beaten path? Here are some ideas for destinations in Mexico that will take you beyond Cancun or Puerto Vallarta.

Isla Mujeres, located only eight miles across the bay from Cancun, is a tiny island only five miles long and about a half mile wide. Translated, Isla Mujeres means the “Island of Women”. No, it is not a hidden commune filled with females but it is a charming and tranquil fishing village. It has shops, restaurants and about a dozen or so small hotels where you can rest your head.

With a downtown area consisting of only four or five blocks, this makes Isla Mujeres everything that the big tourist areas in Mexico are not. Surrounded by white sand beaches on all sides, snorkeling and scuba diving are popular in the crystal clear turquoise waters. Kayaks, snorkeling gear, and other water toys can be rented on the beach and fishing, sailing and even swimming with dolphins is available here. Isla Mujeres has something for every one of all ages and is a great place to explore the natural wonders of Mexico.

Another great Mexico vacation spot that is often overlooked is Cabo San Lucas. Its location at the southern tip of the Baja peninsula, gives it an ideal climate of about 78 degrees year round. Once a tranquil fishing village, Cabo has evolved into a wonderful spot for vacationers but remains small and charming. Small however does not mean boring, there are many things to do in Cabo.

Deserted beaches, on both the Pacific coast and along the shoreline of the Sea of Cortez, make Cabo San Lucas an awesome beach vacation. If you enjoy water sports, boating, marlin fishing, horseback riding and golf, you will enjoy Cabo. Golf has become very popular in the area and there are five championship golf courses already here and more on the way.

Cabo San Lucas is a perfect vacation spot for those looking for something different. It can be quiet and relaxing for a romantic getaway or it can be a place where you will keep going till you drop with the whole family.

Another one of Mexico’s jewels is Tulum. You will find Tulum about an hours drive south of Playa Del Carmen on the Mayan Coast. Tulum is best known for its Mayan ruins. Small but impressive, the ruins are perched high on top of limestone cliffs that offer a breathtaking view below of the sparkling Caribbean and a romantic coastline.

The little town of Tulum is slowly expanding and there are several very good local restaurants and a few on the beach in the smattering of hotels in the area. Accommodations range from five star boutique hotels to rustic cabanas.

Tulum offers the perfect mixture of tranquility, relaxation and seclusion but still gives you the option of exciting nearby attractions. Day trips in the area are always a good choice and the Eco-tourism experiences are limitless.

It is a much slower paced vacation and a combination of 3-4 days in Playa Del Carmen and 2-3 days in Tulum is a great way to combine the best of both worlds in these treasured spots.

Ricardy Banks
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/mexicos-hidden-jewels-58696.html

Water-friendly Workouts

Did you know that a 150-pound woman weighs a mere 17-pounds in the water?

This is because of the water’s buoyant effect on the human body. This lack of gravity in water is why so many people with joint and muscle pain, and those who are extremely obese, turn to aqua fitness to get their health back. Water fitness is extremely gentle because it cushions the body, putting zero stress on weight-bearing joints and muscles. As a result, aquatic workouts are extremely low-impact and can greatly reduce the chances of further injury and strain – that the same exercises out of water can actually induce.

Those new to aqua fitness will find that exercising in water is gentle and allows for a wider range of movement, which means you are able to move in all directions. This is beneficial to many who are obese or injured – who wouldn’t be able to lift their legs and arms this way out of the water. The water lends its gentle resistance to help build muscle strength and tone safely. Just try to lift your leg up when it’s under water and you will feel the drag and resistance – see you are feeling the effects of gravity underwater.

6 Tips for Water-Friendly Workouts:

1. Although aqua workouts are considered one of the gentlest, please consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine.

2. Make sure the body part you want to exercise is fully submerged.

3. Any exercises should be slow and gentle under the water.

4. Complete each exercise to its full range of motion.

5. Stop immediately if you experience any pain.

6. Start with 5 repetitions and gradually move up to 8 and then 10 – once you feel comfortable.

If you are a water workout novice, and are looking to add a new challenge to your aqua workout routines, try incorporating some free-standing cardio equipment – such as:

Aqua floats – These easily strap onto various parts of the body – the upper arms, ankles, waist and wrist – and keep the body buoyant in the water. The most popular float used in water aerobics classes is the flotation belt. These are used for exercising in deep water because they keep your body afloat and in proper alignment during your workout.

Kick boards – These also support your weight so you can perform lower body exercises in the water.

Swim fins – Although these are typically used for scuba diving and snorkeling, shorter swim fins are used for adding resistance (or webbed feet) to your water workout.

Anna Fleet
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/waterfriendly-workouts-110030.html

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