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NASCAR Legend – Ernie Irvin

Like so many other great racing drivers, Virgil Earnest Irvan, better known as Ernie Irvin, began driving go-karts when he was just a boy. He won the California Championship at the age of 15. At 16 he had already switched to stock cars and won his first asphalt race at Stockton 99 Speedway in California. That was just the beginning for Irvin; he made it a point to race every weekend in Madera and Stockton and was no stranger to victory lane. He even missed his own high school graduation to run at Riverside.

In 1982, Irvin headed to the heart of race country: North Carolina. He left California with just $700 in his pocket, but made a pit stop in Las Vegas and ended up with $200 more. Arriving in Charlotte, he supported himself by doing odd jobs, most of which were centered around the race track. He did some welding on the grandstand seats at Charlotte Motor Speedway, built race cars and unloaded Ken Schrader’s moving van.

Irvin’s debut in Winston Cup racing was in 1987 at Richmond Fairgrounds Raceway driving the #56 Chevy Monte Carlo sponsored by Dale Earnhardt Chevrolet. He was nominated for Rookie of the Year in 1988, but lost to Ken Bouchard by three points in the closest battle in Cup history. In 1991, Irvin won the most prestigious race in the sport: the Daytona 500. Just four years earlier, he had watched the race on a small black-and-white television while working at a car wash to support his family and his early career.

Irvin began to develop a very aggressive driving style and earned the nickname “Swerving Irvan” from his fellow drivers. Some of his controversial maneuvers led to a televised apology at one of the drivers’ meetings before a race. Irvin was driving for Morgan McClure Motorsports when his friend Davey Allison was killed in a helicopter crash in 1993. To honor his friend, he wanted to take over Davey’s car at Robert Yates Racing but MMM wouldn’t let him go free and an unpleasantness would soon follow. demand. He ended up taking the #28 Texaco/Havoline Ford after being fired by MMM and made it to the winner’s circle in just his fourth start with RYR. He dedicated the win to Davey Allison.

In 1994, Ernie Irvin was in a near-fatal accident when a flat tire sent him into a wall at over 170 mph. He suffered critical brain and lung injuries that left him with only a 10% chance of survival. With medical intervention and therapy, he recovered and was able to go on stage and receive the True Value Hard Charger Award just 2 months after the accident. Irvin’s focus was on a full recovery and regaining his strength and after months of rehab and strength training, NASCAR cleared him to return to the track.

Exactly five years after his near-fatal accident, Irvin hit the wall again in a practice session and was airlifted to hospital with brain and lung injuries. Less than two weeks after the accident, with his wife and his two children by his side, he tearfully announced his retirement. As of 2007, Irvin was still involved in racing, serving as crew chief for his son Jared’s quarter-midget team. Today he promotes Race2safety, a foundation he started that advocates for awareness and prevention of head injuries, especially in children.

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Some of the best beaches

Lagos is perhaps the most captivating city on the Portuguese Algarve coast. The rather attractive feature of tourism in the city is its enchanting beaches. If you love playing on the beaches, relaxing in its peaceful environment, having a family picnic along the coast, taking your children with you when you travel, or taking an adventure tour to an exciting place, then Lagos is a perfect choice. . The beaches that visitors are treated to after taking flights to Lagos can be divided into two categories; Beaches in Lagos and Beaches around Lagos. The beaches within the city are within walking distance, while the outskirts of the city are a few minutes away by car. Bar Beach and Coconut Beach are located in the city of Lagos, while Praia de Dona Ana Beach and Ponta da Piedade Beach are near the coast of the city.

Beaches in Lagos:

Bar Beach: This beach offers the best place to experience the natural and cultural beauty of this region. It is a famous fishing port in the city that offers beautiful views of groups of fishermen dragging in nets a variety of fishing boats in the sea. If you want to do your best in this place, take your flights to Lagos from September to November. This is the rainy season in the most pleasant region. Vendors selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs are often seen.

Playa Coco: This beach is located within perhaps the best area of ​​the city that is home to many small shops and charming villas, old colonial buildings and large properties. The white sand and crystal clear turquoise water make it more precious for tourism in the city. Having equipped with all modern facilities, the beach is most popular with business travelers who come to the region and take cheap flights to Lagos.

Beaches around Lagos:

Praia de Dona Ana Beach: This beach is located 25 km from the center of Lagos and is therefore a good place to watch the boats coming in and out of the port. It is a quiet place to relax and a safer one to swim. If you take cheap flights to Lagos, you must visit the place for fun and relaxation.

Ponta da Piedade Beach: The beach extends up to 4 km east of Lagos. The area is surrounded by a lush green landscape that is home to many species of plants and animals. It is serviced by first class hotels, excellent resorts, exotic markets and friendly people. After catching your flights to Lagos from the UK or another European or global destination, you must visit this hot spot. These and many other attractive places are there to welcome you to Lagos.

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More about Albania and its hotels

Albania is a country in the southeastern part of Europe. It is surrounded by several countries. You will find Greece in the southeast. Montenegro is to the north. Kosovo is in the northeast. And there is Macedonia in the east.

Albania has some coastlines, which are located in the western and southwestern part of the state. In the western part is the Adriatic Sea and in the southwestern part is the Ionian Sea. The country is less than 45 miles from Italy through the Strait of Orlando which connects the Adriatic Sea with the Ionian Sea. Albania is officially known as the Republic of Albania.

Albania is a member of various organizations in and around the world. Some examples include the United Nations, the Union of the Mediterranean, the Organization of the Islamic Conference, the World Trade Organization, the Council of Europe, as well as the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. It also has a transitional economy form and a parliamentary democracy form of government.

Radio Televizioni Shqiptar or RTSH is the main television channel in Albania. Radio Televizioni Shqiptar had been a member of the EBU or European Broadcasting Union. It is broadcast on two national radio stations under the name RT or Radio Tirana and is broadcast on national television with TVSH or Televizioni Shqiptar. The main television network also works on international satellite television. According to the National Television and Radio Council, Albania has approximately 257 mass media such as 65 television stations and 66 radio stations with 62 local and 3 national stations.

Albanian cuisine features most of the Balkan and Mediterranean nations. These were profound influences from their ancestors. The main Albanian meal is lunch and is usually accompanied by a fresh vegetable salad with green peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes and olives with salt, vinegar and olive oil. Lunch also includes a main course of meat and vegetables.

There are many accommodations located around Albania. Belvedere Hotel Pogradec Albania is one of the few suggestions to stay here. This hotel is located 500 meters from the center of Pogradec and 70 meters from the beach offering a magnificent view of Lake Ohrid. The hotel offers comfortable triple, double, single rooms and suites. All rooms have fully equipped bathrooms, televisions and hair dryers.

You can also try the Sheraton Tirana Hotel and Tower. It is located within the shopping and entertainment complex. This hotel is located in the heart of Tirana, Albania. It is about 16 miles from Tirana Airport and one mile from the Opera House, the National Gallery of Art, the Presidential Palace, the Great Park of Tirana, and the Zoo and Archaeological Museum.

All hotel guests can enjoy bars, restaurants, sauna, indoor and outdoor pool, gym, aerobics classes, massage treatments, live entertainment and 24-hour room service.

The Tirana International Hotel is located in the commercial center of Tirana, Albania. This hotel is surrounded by several restaurants, bars and shops. It is located one and a half kilometers from the Cultural Palace, the Central Bank and the Opera House. It is 25 kilometers from the port of Durres and the beach, and about 28 kilometers from Tirana Rinas airport.

Each room is equipped with audiovisual equipment, hair dryer, coffee maker, air conditioning and color cable TV, as well as direct dial telephone and mini bar. The hotel offers courtesy transportation services from the airport.

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Interview with an expert and author of books on famous and interesting hotels around the world

Today, Norm Goldman, editor of Sketchandtravel and Bookpleasures welcomes Francisca Matteoli as a guest.

Francisca has written several books related to hotels around the world:

*Hotel Stories: Legendary Hideouts of the World:

*Adventure Guide Hotel Stories:

*Stories of hotels on the island:

After living in Brazil, Francisca now lives in Paris. In addition to her books, she has also contributed articles to National Geographic France, Condé Nast Traveller, Air France Hommes, and The Tribune of San Luis Obispo.

Hello Francisca and thank you for agreeing to participate in our interview.
Hi Norma! It’s a pleasure.

Standard:

Francisca, could you tell us a little about yourself and when did your passion for traveling begin? What keeps you going?

Francisco:

I guess it all started when I left Chile for France aboard Le Pasteur. I was very young but I remember it well. It was quite an adventure! Such an adventure, in fact, that I begin my latest book Adventure Hotel Stories with this incredible story. Also, my mother, who is Scottish, and my father, who is Chilean, traveled a lot and told me fabulous stories. I always wanted to travel like them.

Standard:

Why did you decide to write about hotels?

Francisco:

Since my life in France began at the Hotel du Louvre in Paris, opposite the Comedie Francaise, it was natural for me to write about hotels. It was my destiny!

Standard:

Could you recommend to our readers six of the most romantic and unique hotels in the world and why do you consider them so unique and romantic?

Francisca: ok!

**The Soneva Fushi Resort in the Maldives. For the sun, the white beaches, the fabulous food and the divine sunsets.

**The Hameau Albert 1er in Chamonix-France. Part of the famous Relais & Château chain. It’s nice to spend the day outdoors, walking or skiing, and finally enjoying a warm log fire and a good glass of wine. And here, the wine and everything else is perfect! They have 20,000 bottles in their cellar!

**The Dorchester-London. A must in London. British style and elegance to the end.

** The Mission Ranch, Carmel. I love the cozy atmosphere, the soup of the day!, the unpretentious style and the charming town of Carmel. It reminds me of Chile.

**Janelas Verdes Hotel-Lisbon. A literary haven. A well kept secret. I fell in love with the place the first time I climbed the stone steps hidden among plants and flowers.

Standard:

What does traveling mean to you?

Francisco:

Freedom, curiosity, open mind, adaptability and& Anything can happen!

Standard:

How much time do you travel each year? How do you choose the hotels you want to write about? What challenges and obstacles have you encountered when covering these hotels?

Francisco:

I travel more or less 4 or 5 months every year, then I write my stories, I prepare my books, I work on other projects.
I choose places that I really want to see before I die! It can be in France or in the Amazon. And the Amazon means trouble, believe me, but that’s part of the fun too!

Standard:

What country and city have you enjoyed the most and why?

Francisco:

I’ve been home in Patagonia lately, and it was great riding like crazy in a wild landscape. I was surprised by the harmony between man and nature.

Standard:

How do you come up with ideas for what you write? What methods do you use to develop your idea and determine if it is salty?

Francisco:

I always think: what do I want to see? Who do I want to meet? People are very important to me. They are the soul of a country or place. I also like to mix past and present. The salad has to be interesting, human and fun.

Standard:

How have you used the Internet to further your writing career?

Francisco:

I have my own website: http://www.franciscamateoli.com.

I think the internet is great. Save time. It is totally international. People all over the world have access to the Internet.

Standard:

Is there anything you’d like to add that we haven’t covered?

Francisco:

How about: how do you do your hair in the jungle? In another interview maybe?

It would be great Francisca see you soon and thanks for your participation.
Good luck with all your future endeavors.

Tours Travel

Create Las Vegas Clay Poker Chip Necklaces

Many people are beginning the process of creating Las Vegas clay poker chip necklaces! If you’re looking for a unique gift for your poker friends, this is a fantastic choice! Now all your family, friends, and other special people in your life can enjoy their own piece of Las Vegas! In this guide, you’ll be introduced to the materials needed to create these fantastic conversation pieces, as well as instructions on how to create a unique gift for just about anyone.

Materials needed:

o A variety of Las Vegas Clay poker chips

o An assortment of necklace chains with the clasp design of your choice

o A variety of dangling loops to match the necklace chains

o Make gold, silver or red jewelry.

or varnish

o Hot glue gun

o Hot glue gun sticks

o Craft drill or standard drill using the smallest bit

Steps:

1. The first thing you need to do is get a variety of Pro Clay poker chips. You can choose to buy a set of poker chips or just a variety of poker chips purchased from many different games.

2. Once you have the Clay Poker chips you will use, it is important to take the necklace chains and pendant ties you purchased and combine them with the chips. You will want to create each necklace in such a way that the colors of the chain, chip, and loop complement each other.

3. Next, take the transparent layer that you have purchased and completely cover one side of the chip. You need to allow this side to dry completely and then flip the chip over and cover the remaining side. You must allow this side to dry before proceeding to the next step.

4. Now that the Las Vegas Clay poker chips you are using to create your unique necklaces have dried, it is time to drill the hole in the top of the chip with a craft drill or standard drill using the smaller bit . Once complete, take a soft cloth and brush off any shavings that may remain on the chip.

5. Once this is done, decide which side of the Clay Poker chip will be the face of the necklace. Once you’ve done this, plug in the hot glue gun and pull out any craft jewelry you’ve purchased for the product. You can choose to wear one piece of jewelery somewhere on your face or several – the choice is yours.

6. Once the glue gun is ready, put a small amount of glue on the back of each craft jewel you want to place on the poker chip. Then carefully put the jewelry back into place. It is important to do this lightly at first. This way, if the jewel doesn’t fit exactly how you like it, you can adjust it without damaging the chip.

7. Once the jewel is where you want it, press down and hold for about twenty to thirty seconds. This will ensure that the jewelry is firmly attached.

8. If desired, you can now place another layer of clear coat on the face of the tile, making sure to cover the jewel you just placed on the piece.

9. Now, take the loop of the pendant and push it through the hole you drilled in the Las Vegas Clay poker chips. Once in place, you’re ready for the final step.

10. Once the pendant loop is in place, take one of the necklace chains and slide it through the loop. You now have a beautiful and unique necklace made up of genuine Clay poker chips!

If you’ve been considering giving a unique gift to someone, or deciding on a unique gift for several, creating Las Vegas Clay poker chip necklaces is a wonderful idea! The recipient of this unique gift is sure to cherish it for years to come!

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British Virgin Islands – Vacation in paradise

Have you been searching for that one place in the world where you can take a vacation in paradise? The British Virgin Islands are the vacation paradise of the Caribbean, offering desolate white-sand beaches, secluded coves to sail, quaint art and gift shops to satisfy any shopper’s appetite, and fine dining establishments dotted throughout the Islands. British Virgins.

Vacation accommodations range from small, intimate hotels to five-star vacation resorts, with everything one could want. The islands also have private homes and rental villas for those looking for a more relaxing vacation. The topography of the British Virgin Islands varies from island to island, with Tortola having mountainous terrain, to a low reef surrounded by Anegada with an elevation above sea level of only twenty-seven feet.

The British Virgin Islands are made up of over one hundred islands to form a unique and diverse archipelago. The populations of the main islands (4) range from two hundred residents, to the capital island of Tortola, which has around ten thousand people making up the population.

Development on the islands is very tightly controlled, which keeps the British Virgin Islands a true vacation destination with virgin islands all over the territory. However, while vacationing on the islands, you will find all the modern conveniences one would need, while enjoying the reality of the island.

The British Virgin Islands are known throughout the world as a Mecca for yachting and all kinds of water sports. The lure of the Caribbean Sea has drawn many people to the islands to spend their vacations cruising the beautiful waters of the islands. Every type of yacht is available for a vacation charter on the islands, from mega yachts to small family vacation yachts. If you are on vacation ashore, don’t miss a day sailing around the islands, with a professional crew. A one day sailing tour is always a day to remember for many people who make the British Virgin Islands their vacation destination.

Land tours are also offered in the British Virgin Islands, with tours to historic sites, botanical gardens, secluded beaches, and great lunch restaurants with stunning views. Car rental is also available for those who prefer to tour the islands at their own pace. Remember that in the British Virgin Islands we drive on the left side of the road!

Being only fifteen hundred miles from the east coast of the United States makes the British Virgin Islands very accessible, and there are many airline hubs in Europe with non-stop flights to the nearby islands of Puerto Rico and Antigua, with a short commuter flight to the British Virgin Islands. Another means of transportation used during island vacations are the ferries that operate on daily schedules between all the major islands to expand your vacation options in paradise. Some visitors choose to go island hopping during their vacation, to sample the different flavors that all of the British Virgin Islands have to offer.

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Swiss hotels

Located in the central region of Europe, Switzerland is among the most sought after holiday destinations. The country of Switzerland is best known for its mountain range (Jura in the northwest, the Alps in the south), but if you ever visit the place, you will realize that the region is dotted with beautiful lakes, plains, hills and pastures. .

Although Switzerland is a beautiful destination all year round, summer is best suited if you want to spend some time outdoors and enjoy outdoor activities. Summer in Switzerland begins in June and ends in September. Being the peak tourist season, during this time you will find a large crowd of tourists and visitors. Hotel prices in Switzerland are skyrocketing, hotel room availability is low, and attractions are crowded. But if you visit Switzerland during the months of April to May and from the end of September to October, you will find relatively high rates and less crowded attractions, restaurants, hotels and location. If you want to enjoy winter sports, visit any of the resorts located in the Alps region.

To name some places and cities to visit in Switzerland we have:

bern

Among the most charming cities in Switzerland, Bern is located on the banks of the Aare River. Bern is a great attraction and surprises for visitors and tourists. An attractive city, Bern’s hills, lakes, streams and spectacular landscapes make it a wonderful destination for travelers.

Geneva

The city of Geneva in Switzerland is among the world’s leading centers of international diplomacy. Home to the headquarters of several well-known international organizations, Geneva is a very important city. With many interesting places of interest, Geneva attracts hordes of tourists every year. From gorgeous green public parks to colossally beautiful cathedrals and impressive structures… there is much to explore and learn in the city of Geneva.

basel

The city of Basel is an attractive medieval city that boasts many tourist attractions and places of interest. World-applauded art museums built by the likes of Mario Botta, Herzog & De Meuron and Renzo Piano and architectural magnificence like the Renaissance Rathaus (town hall), Romanesque Münster (cathedral), Spalentor (Spalen Gate), Kunstmuseum Basel and Mittlere Brücke / Schifflände, among others. others make Basel a good vacation spot. Culturally and artistically rich, the city can be called the Cultural Capital of Switzerland. It is enough to walk down any street or avenue and you would find at least one art gallery or museum.

Alfalfa

Among the most sought after holiday destinations, the city of Lucerne in Switzerland is in a class by itself. With beautiful mountain scenery and attractive lake views, Lucerne attracts millions of tourists and visitors every year. The most recognized attraction of the city is Lake Lucerne, where the Reuss River is born. Known for its uniqueness and rich cultural life, the daily life of the city of Lucerne is the true essence of the land of Switzerland.

Being a renowned holiday destination, Switzerland boasts of many accommodations. Hotels in Switzerland are certainly in a class by themselves, but in addition to these accommodations such as hostels, inns, motels and self-contained apartments are also available. Staying at Cheap Hotel without Switzerland is a great idea if your idea is to save money.

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Is a cruise vacation for you?

Cruise vacations are great fun and great value, but they’re not for everyone, so I want to explore what to expect from a cruise vacation and help you determine what type of cruise is right for you. In fact, I think almost everyone will love a cruise vacation, but you need to determine what type of cruise is for you: a short 4-day cruise, a long 14-day cruise, a Caribbean cruise, a Mediterranean cruise… well, you get the picture. I must confess that at one time I was not a fan of cruise vacations. In fact, I couldn’t think of a worse way to spend a vacation than on a boat. But in the last few years, I became a fan of cruise vacations and have been on three very fabulous (and very different) cruises (mostly because I was looking for a cheap travel deal) and now I can honestly say that I love a vacation. on a cruise! But let’s go over some questions to ask yourself to determine whether or not a cruise is for you.

1. Do you get sea or motion sickness easily?

The number one reason many people think they won’t like a cruise vacation is because they are prone to motion sickness or motion sickness. I personally understand this because I can get very seasick when traveling on speedboats, small boats or catamarans if I don’t take the necessary precautions. For me, these precautions involve taking a motion sickness prevention product called Bonine (for adults and children) that you can buy at any pharmacy or department store like Target or Walmart (but use only as directed). Personally, I have not had any problems with seasickness on cruise ships (even when we have experienced very high winds or swells and the ship was really rocking).

2. Why do you want to take a cruise vacation?

A. Why do you want to experience a cruise?

PROS:

Cruises are like four-star floating resorts, and they’re so much more than a vacation. They are an experience like no other vacation you have ever had. Cruises are a great value as they are all-inclusive vacations that include your transportation to different ports (when you would otherwise have to book extra airfare), your hotel (since you always have your stateroom), and your meals (offered 24 hours a day). /7 on many cruises). They’re one of the best travel deals you can get for a cheap vacation when you add up what it would cost to take a similar vacation with additional airfare, hotels, and meals, not to mention the quality of accommodations.

You can make your cruise vacation whatever you want it to be. Your days on a ship can be packed with activities from morning to night or you can just relax, shop and sunbathe by the pool, or just hang out in your stateroom. And when you arrive at each port, there are dozens of shore and shore excursions for you to do, too.

CONS:

If you are single or have a couple with no children, you may want to avoid taking a cruise vacation during a non-school season (especially during spring break) or traveling on a cruise line that caters heavily to the families. If you have a family, be sure not to choose a cruise line that caters to older adults (including senior citizens) and is not suitable for children. Several cruise lines have programs for children who travel free (or offer this discount periodically, such as MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises) and these are good cruise lines for you to investigate.

B. Because you like the cruise itinerary and ports of call?

PROS:

One of my favorite things about a cruise vacation is that you can visit so many different destinations on one cruise, without having to repack, and all for one incredible price! On a recent 10-day Western Caribbean cruise, I had a balcony stateroom and went to the Cayman Islands, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, and Mexico for a total of $535 per person (including port fees and taxes!) ! This cruise itinerary was perfect because I had just the right amount of time in each port city and country we visited.

CONS:

Now, from the good to the bad to the ugly when it comes to choosing a cruise vacation based on your cruise itinerary. I took an amazing 8 day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona with ports in Naples, Rome, Florence, Nice and Marseille. I had never been to Spain, Italy or the South of France, so this was a great itinerary to begin with. What I discovered, and what you need to be aware of, is how limited the time can be when porting. Usually the port time is not more than 10-12 hours. For example, when I arrived in Rome from the port (a 60-90 minute train ride), I only had seven hours to sightsee. You definitely need a lot more time than that to see all that the city of Rome has to offer and visit the highlights (Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Colosseum).

On cruise vacations, you should also be prepared that occasionally you won’t be able to board due to inclement weather. This is what happened with Florence, so I couldn’t get my proverbial photo holding the Leaning Tower of Pisa. All that being said, I had two weeks of incredible experiences packed and condensed into four days on the ground, including being wounded by the Pope in St. Peter’s Square in Rome and standing just 12 feet from him when he passed in the famous “Mobile Pope.”

C. Both A and B. Because you want to experience a cruise and like the cruise itinerary?

PROS CONS:

There is a difficult part of planning a cruise vacation if you want to experience a cruise and wonderful ports of call and that is where in the world do you want to go? With hundreds of different ports to choose from, you can find the cruise vacation of your dreams with cruises all over the world, including Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Asia, Bermuda, Hawaii, New England and Canada. But no matter where you decide to go, seeing the world on a cruise vacation is unlike any other trip.

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Eurail train travel: luxury at high speed

You can effectively extend a European tour vacation by several days and perhaps save money. To do so, you need a Eurail pass and a bit of planning ahead.

Is that how it works. With a Eurail Pass you can get from one city center to another in Europe in great comfort at a reasonable price.

The key to this is the phrase ‘city center to city center’. Consider Paris. The airport, Charles de Gaulle, is 23 km northeast of Paris. If you go by taxi in any direction it costs the public debt and takes 45 minutes. There are regular buses and trains, but your journey will never be less than 45 minutes. When you leave, you have to go through security and the airlines want you to be there long before takeoff. At least an hour, sometimes two hours.

Thus, on any flight you find that it takes up to six hours, never less than four, to get to the airport, check in, fly, arrive and pick up your luggage. Then reach the center of your destination.

By train, in all the capitals of Europe (I have searched and I have not found any exception) you arrive at the center of the city.

Yes, you need to be at the train station ten minutes before the train leaves, make it fifteen minutes to be sure, and when you arrive at your destination, you will be there instantly. Your luggage is with you and you are there, right in the center of the city. To test this stay with Paris for the time being.

At Easter, one of the busiest times of the year in Paris, I arrived at Gare de L’Est, one of the main stations in Paris. At the station was the tourist help desk; all stations in Europe have a help desk.

There I explained what I wanted: a cheap room (less than 50 euros per night) in a hotel near Place Republique with views of the rooftops of Paris. And I confirmed it in ten minutes and was happily on my way. (By the way, it was the most romantic hotel room I’ve ever had and this was Paris in the spring and the chestnut trees were in bloom and unfortunately I was alone.)

On this trip I traveled from Salerno in Sicily through Italy and then France, from Spain to Barcelona to admire Gaudí’s work, back to Greece and then back to Germany to Mainz. I had a lot of ground to cover and this was the best way, the least expensive and the most pleasant. I saved a lot of time and a lot of money.

(And if you’re into vintage bikes, you should know that I spent my birthday touring Sicily on a 350cc Royal Enfield that was an exact replica of the 1960s model but made in Madras. I could have rented the 500cc model but I thought going a little over the top).

Usually you will only be faced with relatively short travel times (from Paris to Lyon is two hours, from Amsterdam to Cologne three hours, from Geneva to Paris three and a half hours and so on) and these will be pleasant experiences because the trains they are fast, comfortable (especially in first class) and wonderfully quiet.

The best example of modern trains in Europe are the TGV trains in France, which are part of the EuroCity network.

I’m writing this while traveling on the TGV express (TGV stands for Train a Grande Vitesse, which roughly translates to high-speed train) from Paris to Avignon. Peace of mind, we’re racing on rubber tires, it’s scary. This is first class and there is a three seat configuration in the carriage: two and one. I’m in the solo seat, which is adjustable and comfortable.

There is a folding table on which my computer rests.

Now we are driving through the suburbs of Paris at more than 200 kilometers per hour. We will eventually reach our maximum cruising speed, which is over 270 kilometers per hour. There is no rocking, no rattling, no jolting, and no pulling.

A gentlemen’s carriage for the grand tour of Europe.

For trains between big cities, your best bets are super-fast trains with names like (ah! the romance in the names) Catalan Tago, Maria Theresa, Voltaire, Leonardo da Vinci, Etoile du Nord. These are very fast and are almost never late.

Sometimes you will use the train only as a high-speed, cheap and comfortable transportation, but at other times, the train trip can also be a tourist trip.

Bernina Express in Switzerland, Bergen Express in Norway, Loisirail in France are examples where the journey is part of the scenic vacation.

Important points to remember:

• Keep in mind that Europeans very sensibly use a 24-hour clock in matters of this kind. That is to say: five in the afternoon becomes 1700 hours and half past nine at night is 2130. Easy once you get the hang of it.

• When starting your train journeys, you must validate your Eurailpass by showing your passport. Do this before boarding any train at the information window at any major train station. Your ticket and a validation voucher will be returned to you.

• Keep your validation slip separate from the ticket. It constitutes proof of ownership. (If you’re a worrisome wart like me, make a photocopy of both right away, and remember to keep the copy in the lining of your suitcase.)

• Make sure you go to the correct station. Every city in Europe has several different train stations. This TGV train I’m traveling on left from Gare de Lyon in Paris. But there are six other main train stations in that city of light. Your hotel concierge will advise you.

• When you arrive at the station, make sure you get on the correct platform and in the correct car. The signs are always very clear and the railway staff are always very helpful. There will be a sign confirming the name, number and departure time of the train at the entrance to the platform when you arrive.

• It is essential to get on the right car, instead of the right train; in modern trains it is the wagon that is sent by computer control to its destination. On the side of each car is an identification panel that tells you the number of the car, where you are going, and the names of the most important stops along the way. Review the panel carefully, and if you are still in doubt, show your ticket to the train conductor and explain exactly where you are going.

• Boundaries. A Eurail pass is for x number of trips during a given period of time. Don’t waste the pass on short trips.

Example: I was in Nice and had to go to Cannes. I went by train and bought a ticket. Don’t waste your Eurail Pass on travel on trips that take less than an hour.

• Ubiquity. Every station seems to have a Eurail reservation desk. Be organized and try to book as far in advance as possible if you want to sleep in. These trains fill up, especially during the holiday season, and the earlier you book, the more certain you’ll be getting the right train.

• Sleep on the train. If it’s a very long trip, take the afternoon train and sleep on board. On first class Eurail tickets, the sleeping car is part of the package.

This has great advantages. Saves you the cost of a night’s accommodation and accomplishes what could be a long trip in considerable comfort and style. For example, I went from Salerno in Sicily to Genoa on an overnight train and slept like a baby.

One has to be careful.

There is a story about a passionate young couple who did not wear their nightdress to sleep. In a moment of ecstasy, the young woman clung like mad to the nearest object. Unfortunately, it was the emergency stop communication cable.

• If possible, bring your own snacks. There was a thought in my mind that the food on European trains would be a gourmet’s delight. In my experience, it’s a long way from that. On the other hand, almost all the restaurants in the station serve good food at very reasonable prices as long as you stay away from fast food chains.

• Get to the correct stop. When entering a city, make sure not to get off at a suburban stop, which is usually the stop before the central station. If in doubt, ask the ticket inspector or the guard. It is not necessary to know how to speak the language. Just show your ticket and they will tell you what to do.

• Travel light. If you can’t easily carry your luggage, it’s full. Porters do not exist. Not in any season I’ve seen.

• Use the entire pass. When planning your itinerary, be bold. You can go from Greece to Oslo and pretty much anywhere in between.

• Not the UK. All of this applies to Europe except Great Britain. A Eurail Pass does not work there. Great Britain is not part of Europe. What made you think otherwise?

Sites that can help

Eurail

http://www.eurail.com/

It claims, correctly, that it is the only official Eurail site. This is true. But it is not the only site that can give you information. And it’s certainly not the only site that can sell you tickets. However, it is a very good starting point because from here you can order possible schedules and itineraries.

Europe

[http://www.raileurope.com/us/index.htm]

This is not the official site, but it could also be considered as such. There is nothing about Eurail that I don’t know.

Europe by Eurail

http://www.railpass.com

Again, this is a commercial ticketing company, but that doesn’t stop it from having a lot of useful information on the site.

Boots and all the trips

http://www.bootsnall.com/eurail/

Would you buy a ticket from a company with a name like that? Let’s not be snobs. You have a lot of Eurail experience and your site is very helpful.

Eurail network

http://www.eurailnet.com/

It sounds official but it is still a commercial company that sells tickets. You won’t find much difference in prices between companies, but you’ll find a lot of information on sites like this and find the cheapest pass for your particular trip.

Tours Travel

Get a real insight into the Kingdom of Cambodia and all its magic

Cambodia is a place little known and until recently untouched by tourism. However, it is now slowly reeling from its past and an increasing number of travelers are rediscovering Cambodia’s attractions. The kingdom of Cambodia boasts some of the most magnificent and impressive sights on the planet. The tourist attractions of this country are considerable and diverse in nature. From the huge ancient temples, the dense isolated forests, the pristine islands, the white sand beaches, the vibrant wildlife, the impressive wonders of the world to the beautiful architectural sites, Cambodia is truly amazing. Yes, Cambodia holidays will give you a taste of the beautiful kingdom of Cambodia.

What is unique about Cambodia?

If you want to take a trip a bit off the beaten path, Cambodia is the perfect choice. In Cambodia, you can immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage and history, experience the pristine beauty, and most of all, be swept away by the incredibly friendly and compassionate Cambodian people. There is something magical about Cambodia that casts a spell over tourists. From its welcoming charm, delicious Cambodian cuisine to historical treasures, everything is unique, making a Cambodian vacation a truly unforgettable experience.

Best Destination Spots in Cambodia

1. Angkor: One of the most distinguished tourist attraction places in Cambodia and one of the most magnificent sites in the world is Angkor. This place is a huge and massive temple that features the remains of some capitals of the Khmer Empire. A fusion of symbolism, symmetry and spirituality, the Angkor Wat temple is the largest single religious monument in the world. The architectural and artistic works of the pillars representing the gods and demons are excellent masterpieces.

2. Sihanoukville – This is another popular Cambodian destination also known as Kampong Som by the natives. This region is covered by stunning white sand beaches and several unexplored tropical islands. There are innumerable spas that attract tourists from all over the world. This place is a perfect refuge to rest and relax.

3. Silver Pagoda: The silver pagoda is located inside the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. They have many gold Buddha statues, of which a 17th century crystal Buddha statue is very famous as it is studded with diamonds and emeralds. The interior walls of the Silver Pagoda are decorated with artistic murals depicting the Ramayana mythology.

4. Bokor National Park – This park is home to many endangered species of tigers and elephants. Located at a high altitude, it allows a picturesque view of the coastline of Vietnam and Cambodia.

5. Siem Reap: This is a lively little town located near the famous and impressive Angkor temples. It is a fascinating portal city to the world famous Angkor temples. It has become a major tourist center with its vibrant nightlife, multi-cuisine restaurants, and markets.

6. Preah Vihear: This is also another temple city in the kingdom of Cambodia. There are many temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva built by the Khmer kings.

7. Tonle Sap: Not to be missed is this huge dumb bell shaped freshwater lake that is one of Cambodia’s distinctive landscapes.

If you are looking for a totally different vacation experience, Cambodia will absolutely thrill you. Get ready to experience and explore the magic of this incredibly beautiful country that is full of pleasant surprises for you. Holidays in Cambodia are a paradise for people who want to explore the many wonders of the ancient world.