The City Palace, is located in Udaipur India, Rajasthan. The City Palace was constructed by the then Maharana Udai Singh. As at present the City Palace Udaipur is one of the major tourist attractions in the city of Udaipur. Initial construction of the City Palace Udaipur was done in 1559. Over the subsequent years numerous additions have taken place to the City Palace. The city Palace is in fact a collection of many other palaces built by the various residents of the palace. The City Palace in Udaipur resides on the eastern banks of the Lake Pichola. From the magnificent balconies of the City Palace one can gaze and gain a panoramic view of the world renowned Lake Palace or the “Jag Niwas” as it is called. One can also gain a view of the Udaipur city and on another side the Jag Mandir.

The major entrance point to the City Palace Udaipur is through a triple arched gate, the gate is given the name Tripolia. The Tripolia at the City Palace in Udaipur was built in the year 1725. From here one can gain access to the courtyards, the terraces, the gardens and corridors. The vivid glass mosaic decorations on the walls of the Mor-Chowk give it the name Peacock courtyard. At the Bhin Vilas one can see depictions of the Hindu god Krishna.

Some of the other palaces include the Dilkhush mahal, Moti mahal and Sheesh mahal. The Krishna vilas was made in remembrance of a beautiful princess who tried to stop a battle between adversary princes for her hand by poisoning herself.

One can find good accommodation in Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan. A good Jaipur Hotel to try would be The Gateway Hotel.

Naveen Marasinghe
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-city-palace-home-to-royalty-745380.html

Technorati Tags: Udaipur, Urban Leisure

Paris is an amazing city. We have all heard the sayings “The city of love” “The most romantic city in the world” “The city of lights”, well after visiting this city and experiencing it first hand, I can tell you that it is all true.

The city is very beautiful. The architecture is stunning, the tourist attractions amazing and I found the people to be friendly.

Paris is a place you can’t describe in words to someone, it is a place you have to experience for yourself. The city is like a living museum, with architecture dating back to the 13th Century. That is when Notre Dame began to be built.

The grandeur of Paris really became evident in the 16th century, when Versailles became Louis XIV’s headquarters. In the 19th Century, Napoleon appointed Baron Haussmann to develop modern Paris, with its long boulevards and beautiful buildings, the wide avenues and parks that still make the city unique today.

Paris is internationally renowned for its architecture and its influence in fashion and the arts. Walking is the best way to see and get a feel for the city. You can explore the city’s districts, its old centres, cemeteries and great parks. When you first arrive in Paris, I highly recommend getting on the Hop on, Hop off buses. Stay on and do a circuit and get a feel for where everything is. It is very easy to walk around once you know where you are.

I remember one day, later in the afternoon, we walked from Notre Dame back to our hotel near the Place de la Concorde. It was very charming and it turned dark and the lights came on. We stopped to have a meal in a restaurant. It was just wonderful.

The Champs-Elysées is a fantastic place to experience people watching. Another one is the Place de la Concorde.

Those who fancy a trendier atmosphere, can visit districts such as Le Marais, Quartier Latin, or the quaint Canal St-Martin. If you like art galleries, museums, or famous cabarets such as Folies Bergères, Paris has everything to meet your dreams. Be aware, Moulin Rouge, does not look like much during the day but it comes alive at night when the lights go on.

The top attractions in Paris are certainly the Eiffel Tower, originally a “temporary” construction for the 1889 Universal Exposition, the Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte and the massive cathedral Notre Dame. A walk from Place de la Concorde towards Champs Elysée is also a must as well as the world famous Louvre museum. One place you must visit is the Montparnasse Tower. There are less crowds than the Eiffel Tower, it has an enclosed viewing area as well as being able to go onto the roof. The best part is that you get the Eiffel Tower in your photos! I highly recommend it.

There is obviously much more to explore!

Père Lachaise The largest cemetery in Paris, and said reputed to be the most visited in the world. A huge and peaceful park home of those who have experienced French life over the past 200 years.

Jardin du Luxembourg. The garden of the French Senate which is also a large public park. A recommended place to relax and savour the cosmopolitan atmosphere of a rich palace garden.

Musée d’Orsay. This is the place for art and artefacts from the Middle Ages and Impressionist eras with leading collections. Originally a railway station and the building itself is worth a visit.

Le Marais. Situated on the right bank (3rd and 4th Arr.), this trendy district has beautiful
architecture of the 17th century. There are also many museums, art galleries and historic sites such as Paris’ oldest square, Place des Vosges where you can find Victor Hugo’s residence.

Montmartre. One of the most popular historic areas with the Sacré Coeur Basilica on the top of the hill, the highest point in Paris. It’s also famous for the cafés and studios of many great artists. I recommend taking the tram to the top, then walking down the steps followed by browsing the artists work in the narrow streets at the bottom. A fantastic experience. I bought a beautiful print and everytime I look at it, wonderful memories come flooding back.

Versailles. Near Paris, this is where King Louis XIV built his Palace in the 17th century. For those who love Renaissance architecture, don’t miss it! The Palace has been recently renovated and you’ll also enjoy lovely walks in the well kept gardens.

Bateaux Mouches. One of the most relaxing, and romantic ways to view some of the city’s oldest and most majestic historic monuments is to get a ride on the famous and unique long-boats that leisurely glide along the Seine.
Despite the number of operators from which to choose, most of the boat lines offer similar itineraries and are equipped with an audio announcement system, providing commentary on the passing sights in several different languages.

In Paris, you must differentiate between restaurants, bistro or brassieres. A bistro is usually small, featuring simple food, sometimes with entertainment. A brassiere serves hearty meals along with beer and wine, usually cheap and with a liquor and coffee bar. Like New York or London, the choice is huge. Each place has its own particular atmosphere and style whether recipes are local or from all over the world.
However Paris is internationally renowned as a food capital. It is the right place to test the high-quality French products and delights of traditional French cookery thanks to the talented and creative chefs. Parisian restaurants are real gourmets delight. There are good places for all budgets. Whether it’s a restaurant, a bistro or a brassiere, you’ll be able to enjoy a real culinary feast with gourmets from all over the world.

In Paris you will find lots of trendy and popular bars serving all kind of drinks with a good mix of music and sometimes with DJs. Take your time and sample a few, they are all open late!
Paris has a very diverse nightlife. From high-tech dance clubs to mellow jazz haunts, there’s anything to fit your mood. Also try the famous cabaret venues for a great night of vibrant entertainment!

Paris is home to some of the most famous designers and luxurious brand names in the fashion industry like Louis Vitton or Dior. But you’ll also find more affordable brands matching your budget in the huge department stores or many popular neighbourhoods.

Paris is served by two major airports, Roissy Charles de Gaulle (CDG), 25 Km and Orly 15 Km from the city centre. A third airport, Paris Beauvais, is mainly served by low cost airlines. A paying shuttle service (€13) is organized to and from its terminals and Paris-Porte Maillot.
From CDG terminals, the Roissybus leaves every 15 minutes from 6.00 and arrives to the city centre (at Opéra) after a journey of 45-60 minutes. (€8.40 one way). After midnight there are night busses going to Place du Châtelet, 90 rue de Rivoli every 30 minutes (€8 one way). The cheapest and fastest (30 minutes) is the underground RER B to Gare du Nord running from 4.56 in the morning to 23.56 at night (€8 one way).

From Gare du Nord you are connected to Paris’ metro network. Air France busses go to Porte Maillot. Taxis can be found near the terminals’ baggage collection area exits. Average day fares are €50.
From Orly, the automatic metro Orlyval takes you to RER B Antony station from 6.00 to 23.00. Combined ticket price (Metro+RER+Orlyval)is about €9. Other options are the airport shuttle buses going to RER C Pont de Rungis station. Combined ticket price (Metro+RER+shuttle) is around €5.60. As for busses, the Orly bus takes you straight
to RER B Denfert-Rochereau. Daytime taxi rates are approximately €35.

Public transport. The RATP runs the city’s local transport system. The bus, underground (metro), and commuter train system (RER) is divided into five zones, and is cheap and efficient. The underground runs from 5:30 in the morning to 0:30 in the night. Tickets are valid on both busses and trains, and can be purchased from the stations and in kiosks. Travel cards, ranging from one to five days, are also available at the airport, at underground stations, and from tourist information offices. 1 day travel card zone 1-3 costs approximately €8.30.

There is so much to see and do in Paris. If you are going to visit, make sure you allow enough time so that you can experience all that it has to offer.

Marlene Challis
http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/paris-a-charming-city-727924.html

Technorati Tags: Paris, Urban Leisure

Offering southern hospitality in a stunning beachfront setting, Folly Beach should be more than just a day trip on your next visit to coastal South Carolina. While most people flock to nearby Charleston for the ambiance and history, making Folly Beach a footnote on their vacation itinerary, this picturesque barrier island is actually the perfect centerpiece for getaway filled with relaxing pursuits.

Stretching for six miles just off the coast of South Carolina, Folly Beach combines the excitement of a waterfront vacation destination with the historical beauty of Charleston to provide an all-around amazing trip to anyone who steps foot along its shores. The waves of the Atlantic invite visitors outside for an afternoon on a soft sandy beach, while the wonderfully preserved atmosphere and buildings of the Old South are just a 15 minute drive away in Charleston. With surf, sand, sea, and history at your beck and call, you simply could not ask for anything more from an island oasis.

Should the sunshine and pleasant weather draw you towards the waterfront, the place to be is the Folly Beach County Park on the west side of the island. While you will certainly find plenty of sandy strips throughout the island, this soft expanse features not only 4000 feet of ocean frontage, with 600 feet designated for swimming only, but also 2000 feet along the Folly River for a distinct waterfront experience. Picture-perfect on 100 acres of highland, you can easily enjoy a day of sunning, swimming, surfing, and strolling in the sand as all of your cares melt away.

For those who prefer high-powered excitement on the Atlantic, Folly Beach is also teeming with watercraft rentals to make your adventures that just more memorable. Jet ski rentals are always popular, as are kayak rentals for those who want to explore the shoreline at a slower pace, but a more memorable excursion awaits when you set out with Reel Screamer Charters. Perfect for families, they combine bird watching, dolphin watching, shelling, and sightseeing around the Morris Island Lighthouse to provide a day of scenic beauty away from the crowds at the beach.

Beyond the waterfront adventures, Folly Beach offers fine southern cooking and ambiance in its many delightful restaurants. A cozy corner where you can mingle with the locals and enjoy a hearty breakfast, the Lost Dog Café is the perfect place to refuel before a long day of sun and sand. For delicious, uniquely-prepared seafood in a festive and inviting atmosphere, be sure to hit up the Folly Beach Crab Shack and relax on the outdoor deck for spectacular views and amazing food.

Since Charleston is one of those places in the country that everyone must see at least once, schedule a day or two to soak in the style and grace of this rich city. Overflowing with pre-Revolutionary War buildings, stunning antebellum homes, cobblestone streets, and the fragrant aroma of jasmine and wisteria, you can’t help but feel as if you have been swept away to another place and time. While you could simply wander around town and catch a glimpse of many historical sights, consider purchasing a Heritage Passport ticket for access to five fine homes and the Gibbes Museum. You can also contact the Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau for advance information about tours and special events.

In a land where schedules fall by the wayside and the water dictates the pace of the day, you simply cannot help but forget all of your worries in Folly Beach. Slightly off the beaten path and teeming with dramatic scenery, you can enjoy the very best of this island wonder in a Folly Beach vacation rental that nestles against the soft sand and offers easy access to waterfront delights. In addition to the breathtaking ocean views and gentle breezes that only serve to remind you of your stunning setting, Folly Beach vacation rentals are also only a stone’s throw away from the plantations, houses, museums, and ambiance of beautiful Charleston. Always well-rounded with nary a dull moment, Folly Beach invites you to experience its wonders from a cozy vacation rental that looks and feels just like home.

Jen W.
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/make-folly-beach-your-relaxing-home-base-near-charleston-114263.html

Technorati Tags: beach development, Charleston

There is a never ending list of things to do in Oklahoma City. From theatre and arts to food and wine, there is so much to experience in this much sought after destination.

Movie fans can look forward to catch a flick at the Warren Theatre. It offers a great atmosphere with a splash of movie memorabilia, state-of-the-art sound system, and giant screens. But the real attraction is the balcony option available on two screens every week. It is open for adults 21 years or above, and the deal includes refreshments from the bar as well as meals even while the movie is going on.

If you wish to enjoy movies of artistic quality and aren’t too keen on blockbusters, the Noble Theater should satisfy. Located within the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, you can watch some great movies that are just hard to come by. Short films, foreign films, classics, award nominees, are all shown here.

Shopping is always king size in Oklahoma City, with great malls around to offer that perfect ambience. Penn Square Mall in Pennsylvania Avenue on Northwest Expressway offers a feeling of expensive shopping though it isn’t for the high heeled. Consisting of two levels and multiple wings, it features all your favorite stores and a food court.

The urban environment of Oklahoma City also caters enormously to nature and animal lovers chiefly through the spectacular Oklahoma State Zoo & Botanical Garden and the Myriad Botanical Gardens. The latter is a 17-acre facility featuring more than 1000 different species from six different continents. This is where you will spot really exotic plant life, breathtakingly beautiful and surreal landscapes, and tropical terrain. The main attractions are the Tropical Rain Forest Zone and Dry Tropical Zone.

These are only a few of the myriad things to do in Oklahoma City. There are also great hotels that give you the experience of perfect relaxation. They also arrange shuttle services to important locations in Oklahoma City. There is never a moment to spare!

Shane Wauhob
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/things-to-do-in-oklahoma-city-745421.html

Technorati Tags: Oklahoma, Urban Leisure

If you have ever been to Wisconsin Dells will better understand why it is called as the Water capital of the world. And those who haven’t been to Wisconsin Dells we will introduce you to it. Welcome to the water park capital of the world. Welcome to the city of Wisconsin Dells. Wisconsin Dells is indeed not only the water park capital of the world but a city offering the highest variety of fun for the entire family. A city, you will dream to come again and again to seek the wildest pleasure and exciting adventures. This is the city of Wisconsin Dells, proudly located on the Wisconsin River in central Wisconsin with its unique community. Wisconsin Dells has a population of three thousand inhabitants which swells to many thousands with the ever increasing flow of tourists. That is why fun never ends at the city of Wisconsin Dells.

Why so much to say about Wisconsin Dells that it is mostly incomparable with other theme parks and resorts? The reason is quite explainable. Wisconsin Dells is an unparalleled destination with a stunning natural beauty and more than 80 attractions. From the heart-pounding excitement to stunning natural beauty, think of Wisconsin Dells as the best of Disney™ next to Yellowstone and you’ll get the picture. Wisconsin Dells may be known for its king size water parks but the city offers more fun and adventure in the form of amusement parks, live entertainment, go-cart, scenic tours, mini golf and many more activities and events which will completely fill out your schedules the day you reach Wisconsin Dells. Wisconsin Dells is such a place which is filled with natural beauty and many fun activities in a very cozy area. If you think that participating in the theme and water parks is the number one activity in the city of Wisconsin Dells, look around and you will find that you may be wrong. The activity which tops the chats in Wisconsin Dells is shopping which is more fun with the shops and malls in the downtown area of the city. From the Downtown Shopping District lined with quaint fudge shops to world-class spas with luxurious product lines, feel free to be a bit indulgent. After all, you’re on vacation! In Wisconsin Dells summers remain the most popular time of the year but the other three seasons are also happening with the eclectic mix of events and festivals which make the Wisconsin Dells a destination of year round fun and excitement.

With around the year tourists, Wisconsin Dells is a place which is packed with a number of hotels, theme resorts, river walk hotels and motels. If you are in Wisconsin Dells then it is better to experience the river walk hotels in the city which are a perfect combination of great natural flamboyance and excellent service for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a relaxing fall getaway overlooking some of the most pristine waterways in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin River, Mirror Lake and Lake Delton offer breathtaking views most time of year. The river walk hotel of Wisconsin Dells is suited to every budget. Dining in the restaurants, many of them in the river walk, is a treat to your taste buds with some excellent food being served from al the continents. Some of the recommended River Walk hotels, cottages and resorts in Wisconsin Dells are Caribbean Club Resort, Cedar Lodge & Settlement , Island Pointe Resort, Pine Bay Lodge, Renaissance Resort & Spa, Sand Co. Vacation Home Rentals, Sandrift Resort and many more. So enjoy every minute of your stay in Wisconsin Dells river walk hotels and feel like being in the lap of nature.

Dhiraj Bandurkar
http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/wisconsin-dells-river-walk-hotels-146324.html

Technorati Tags: theme parks, Urban Leisure, Wisconsin

Cypress Gardens first opened in 1936. The park started out as botanical gardens planted by the Pope family. Water ski shows were added and became a popular attraction. The park is known for the Southern Belles dressed in their finest, strolling along the garden paths. This park was very popular, until Disney World and other parks began to open in the Orlando area. After this, attendance at the gardens began to decline.

The park closed in 2003, due to financial difficulties. The park was purchased by a new owner and redesigned in 2004. It reopened in November of that year. Many new attractions were added, but the original charm was retained. The Southern Belles can still be found strolling the paths around the gardens.

There are thirty rides and five roller coasters in the park. This includes the Triple Hurricane wooden roller coaster. This is a short ride that is not too scary. It is the calmest coaster in the park and is perfect for your childs first experience on a real roller coaster. The Fiesta Express is another roller coaster that is good for kids.

The other three coasters are faster, longer and more exciting. The Swamp Thing is a suspended coaster. The Galaxy Spin is a spinning wild mouse type roller coaster. The Okeechobee Rampage is a roller skater coaster. Another coaster is under construction at the park. The Starliner is a classic wooden roller coaster. This coaster was originally located in Panama City, Florida at the Miracle Strip Amusement Park, which closed. It is currently being constructed and is planned to open in 2007.

Cypress Gardens is famous for its gardens. The park is home to amazing gardens and horticultural displays. A holiday display can be seen from Thanksgiving through January 6 of each year. A Poinsettia Festival is held at the park during the Christmas season. There are also a variety of great water skiing shows held daily in the park.

There are a variety of specialty shops for shopping in the park. Many of these contain beautiful hand made crafts made by local craftsmen. Spend some time browsing in the shops and enjoying the crafts. This is a great place to pick up a stunning and unique souvenir of your trip or gift for family or friends.

Splash Island Water Park is part of Cypress Gardens. You get admission to both parks with one ticket. This water park has a wave pool, lazy river ride and slides. The park has a Polynesian theme. There are water rides for younger children, older kids and adults. This is a great place to cool off in the hot Florida summer.

Admission to the park includes access to the gardens, rides, shows, concerts and admission to the water park. The concerts vary throughout the year. Call to find out who is playing when you plan to visit. There are specials allowing you to enjoy two days for the price of one. Ask about this when you purchase your tickets.

Howard Farmer
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/enjoy-the-old-and-the-new-at-cypress-gardens-60063.html

Technorati Tags: Cypress gardens, Urban Leisure

Despite enormous success and change, York is a center that has lost none of its memorable charm. It is hard to believe that, following an English rebellion against the Normans after the exalted fight of Hastings, a survey in 1086 recorded the north as a wasteland. It took generations for the area to recover and present, no componental of Yorkshire could possibly be referred to as wasteland. Numerous castles and abbeys may lay in ruin, but even these ruins are objects of unsurpassable beauty and attract just as legions globetrotters as do the immense number of quaint shops and award-winning restaurants found in the urban place.

The Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington, York is based on the former WWII Bomber Command Station of RAF Elvington and retains the authentic atmosphere of the period, with multitudinous fascinating exhibits housed in restored wartime architecture. The museum is a unique memorial to all the Allied aircrews of Bomber Command, including French, Canadian, Australian, etc. Don’t miss the battle of Britain Service on the 14th September, Remembrance Sunday on the 9th November or Santa’s Plane in December! The Museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm (3.30 pm in winter) and admission starts from just ?3 for children under 15.

A trip to Yorkshire wouldn’t be complete without a go to see to Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden. Explore the amazing ruins of the greater complete Cistercian abbeys in Britain and determine for yourself the life of a antiquated monk. Wander from the dramatic Abbey into the Georgian diversion grounds of Studley Royal’s ornamental gardens, woodland and deer park. Stroll at the side of reflections of temples in elegant formal canals and lakes and uncover the follies high on the valley side. Look out for Anne Boleyn’s seat, the Octagon Tower and the Temples of Fame and Piety. A impregnated programme of family activities and events is available through the year, including storytelling, guided tours, open air theatre and want dress parades. There is also a play area, workshops, tea-room and gift shop.

There is no shortage of High Street stores and shopping centres in York, but if you are after something a little divergent, a trip to the popular Mouseman middle in Kilburn might be just what you are searching for. The magnificently restored village joiner’s shop is crammed burdened of unusual furniture and smaller items these as breadboards, judge’s gavels and serviette holders, larger of which carry an adorable hand-carved mouse in some shape or form. The Pickering Antique middle is another treasure trove for collectors. Over 45 dealers sell a wide range of goods including paintings, furniture, china and porcelain, brass and copperware, postcards, books, clocks and bygone toys. Admission is free and opening times are Monday to Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm.

If you are concerned about parking problems or traffic jams in the city centre, why not consider using one of the legions Park & Ride scenes that York has to offer - Rawcliffe bar (Clifton Moor), Monks Cross (Huntington), Grimston pub (Hull Road), Askham bar (Tadcaster Road) or McArthur Glen Designer Outlet. The seaside place of Scarborough also has multitudinous Park & Ride opportunities and promotes high fine buses operating every 12 minutes to the seafront and town centre in less than 15 minutes.

York is the perfect conurbation for young and old alike and there are more than enough inclination to gratify the whole family. In the places and villages, independent retailers sit alongside galleries displaying arts and crafts of those inspired by the attractive countryside, while welcoming pubs with roaring fires and local ale are found on every corner.

Caron Bednorze
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/see-the-great-and-charismatic-parks-in-york-706889.html

Technorati Tags: Fountains Abbey, York

Through cultures and through history, people have chosen to live in water. Well, not underwater but just on the surface. This is done primarily by living on houses on top of the water. Some houses are fixed structures near the beach. However what is more fascinating are the floating houses or houseboats that serve also as means of travel apart from a means of shelter. Such houseboats provide people with the luxury of traveling while still being at home. Nowadays, as more people preferred to live on land, some still want the luxury of being able to stay on water, thus houseboating as a pastime was born, and becoming more popular among vacation goers.

Houseboats All Over the World

Houseboats are basically boats that have been designed to be fit for people to live in. Houseboats in the past were usually moored, and were not motorized. Such houseboats that were used as permanent homes were more common in Southeast Asia. But nowadays, most houseboats for luxury have motors for flexibility in traveling by boating enthusiasts.

There are also houseboats in India, usually found on Dal Lake in the vicinity of Srinagar in Kashmir and Jammu or on Kerala’s backwaters. These indigenous houseboats were slow and used for trading spice and rice to the Kochi port from Kuttanad. Nowadays most of them are used for luxury trips as part of tourism in the area. Kerala houseboats typically are 60 to 70 feet long and around 15 feet wide at the center part. The body of the boat is made of wooden planks fastened by coconut fiber ropes. The roof is usually made of palm leaves on top of bamboo shafts. Cashew and nut oils are used to protect the houseboat’s exteriors.

European houseboats are more built for luxury than as a residence. Along Amsterdan’s long canals, one could see very expensive and fabulous models of luxury houseboats. There are even houseboat hotels in the Netherlands. Such houseboats are usually moored, and the decreasing availability of moorings have made such houseboats even more expensive. It is estimated that there are 2,400 famlies living in houseboats along the waters of the city of Amsterdam and the size of their houseboats vary according to family size and affluence.

In Great Britain, there are narrowboats along canals that are both used as permanent homes and luxury holiday accomodations for hire. These boats were originally meant for transporting fuel and raw materials along the canals during the Industrial revolution. Nowadays, the canals are being used mainly for recreational and leisure purposes and as tourist attractions. The narrow houseboats in turn have been transformed to accommodate visitors. Other houseboats can be foundin the United Kingdom, particularly in the coastal regions and they are also used as vacation shacks.

Way down under in Australia, there are also luxury houseboats, particulaly along the Murray River. There, a lot of motorized houseboats based on pontoons are present. Some have two or even more bedrooms, others even have several storeys or levels. There are houseboats that have private owners used either as permanent homes or as vacation houses. Several houseboats in Austrialia are available for rent and could accommmodate from four to as much as a dozen persons.

Houseboats are just beginning to become popular in the United States. The use of houseboats can be traced back to the 40s when some people needed a means of being able to stay on the water surface for long terms. Many houseboat enthusiasts consider Kentucky’s Lake Cumberland to be the birthplace of American houseboating. Nowadays, there are houseboats that could span more than 2000 square feet, of luxury living space. There are also many houseboats in Portage Bay and Lake Union in the city of Seattle in Washington. A lot of American houseboats are built and designed for use in waterways and inland lakes, but there are some that can be used along the coastal areas. Most American experience houseboating through vacations.

Houseboats can be fun to live in especially if they are built for luxury. They offer exciting ways of living on water. Houseboats are getting more popular than ever and could probably become one of the standard elements of vacations in the future.

Lee Dobbins
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/give-yourself-the-luxury-of-houseboat-living-53011.html

Technorati Tags: Housebots, Urban Investment, Urban Leisure

As gas prices reach record levels and fossil fuels diminish over time, consumer demand for alternative energy technology will do nothing but increase. In fact, urban electric vehicles, while rather novel in the United States, are more common in Europe, where population densities in metropolitan areas necessitated a search for alternatives to driving full size cars long ago.

The urban electric vehicle is essentially a very small car, typically a two-door hatchback designed to hold two to four passengers (and not much else). Relying on electricity as their primary power source, these vehicles are ideal for urban dwellers who need to get from point A to point B in cities crowded with full size vehicles. They are probably especially attractive to those who live in cities with poorly developed or unreliable public transportation systems.

According to the US Department of Energy, urban electric vehicles are considered regular passenger vehicles. Most contain the normal safety features and amenities American consumers have to come to expect: airbags, safety belts, and heaters and air conditioners. Current urban electric vehicles can reach top speeds of somewhere near 60 mph, and can go nearly 12 hours before needing to be recharged. This represents a significant improvement over earlier models, and should increase the acceptability of the technology among the general public.

Both Nissan and Ford are testing urban electric vehicles and Daimler-Chrysler is in contract to bring the original urban electric vehicle, the Zap! Smart Car into the United States. Previously, Smart Cars had to be imported from other countries, especially Canada, and modified to meet U.S. safety standards. Urban electric vehicles offer a range of benefits to drivers. Urban electric vehicles produce no emissions, which means they have the potential to reduce the harmful environmental impact of other forms of personal transportation. People who live in smog-filled cities may find this benefit especially attractive.

Second, urban electric vehicles, like hybrids and other advanced energy powered cars, often qualify for state and national tax credits. Some argue these credits can make up for the additional cost related to purchasing electric or hybrid vehicles. Finally, the urban electric vehicle’s small size make it an ideal choice for commuters in crowded cities. The compact nature of the urban electric vehicle makes it easier to drive in heavy traffic, and requires much less parking space. As cities become more crowded and gas gets more expensive, urban electric vehicles may be positioned for a massive jump in popularity.

Technorati Tags: electric vehicles, Transport, urban transport

Natural gardens utilize native species of plants which are often quite easy to grow. These plants have adapted to certain site conditions and are generally self sustaining. They’ll need little, if any, fertilizer and no more water than is provided by rain. Natural gardens consist of a rich and varied mix of plants. They introduce a diversity of trees, shrubs and perennials not found in some gardens. Natural gardens also provide a garden with a sense of place. It’s often difficult to distinguish a garden in New York from one in Washington or London even though their landscapes and climates are completely different.

Lawns are one the most common garden features in the landscape but turf grasses are rarely a natural occurrence. While some lawn is preferable, consider introducing wildflowers into a portion of your existing lawn. Wildflower meadows are noted for their stability, low maintenance and wide diversity of plants resulting in vibrant colors, textures and an increased awareness of seasonal change. The meadow approach to the landscape requires a clear understanding of a site’s natural conditions, more so than say a formal perennial garden bed. Wildflower meadows are a constantly changing landscape with some species surviving year after year while others may disappear and be replaced with something new. Along with these aesthetic benefits there are ecological benefits as well, including the reduced need for mowing, the creation of a habitat for native species of animals and the fact that wildflower meadows are very effective at trapping airborne pollutants.

In woodland settings, gardens which emphasize the natural conditions of the forest are easy to maintain and provide the landscape with a variety of plants. In the spring, perennials and bulbs bloom profusely in the dappled shade beneath deciduous trees which have yet to develop leaves. In the shadier conditions of summer, the spring floral display gives way to perennials and shrubs with rich varied foliage. In the fall, after the colorful leaves drop to the ground, a second bloom will often brighten up the garden. Many native species of trees have winter characteristics which are often overlooked. The form of some trees, such as the birch or ironwood, is quite striking. Woodland gardens also provide a shady respite from the hot afternoon sun of summer.

Natural gardens are not limited to country settings, they can be established in urban environments as well. A small urban lot can be transformed in to a garden which resembles the natural environment of the surrounding countryside. Planting a tree which creates dappled shade will allow a gardener to plant many native species of woodland perennials or, in sunnier spots, summer blooming wildflowers. Small native shrubs can also be used. The soft lines and lushness of a natural garden can be a welcome contrast to the consistent geometry of the city. In suburban areas, potions of vast lawns can be transformed into meadows.

If you’re not ready to give up your more traditional garden complete just yet but would like to add variety to your landscape, consider incorporating native perennials or native shrub species into your existing flower and shrub borders.

Gardens which mimic the existing landscape or incorporate native plants are successful because they’re easy to maintain and will thrive even in the most extreme conditions. They’ve adapted to do so. Planting a natural garden can help restore the landscape, attract a variety of bird species and provide the garden with a wonderful mix of under utilized, interesting plants.

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