When it comes to getting short stories published, especially for money, there's one thing you need to know, it's not easy. You might think your story is a masterpiece and more original then “Harry Potter” but chances are you're wrong. In the magazine publishing world, a magazine gets over one hundred submissions a week, all by young eager writers hoping to get there story published and maybe rake in a few bucks. Sadly the majority get shot down immediately, either because of a bad story plot, or horrible writing, of course sometimes it's the wrong genre. Whatever the reason though you can still try your best to get published, the following are tips to make your material award winning and certain to be enjoyed.
1. A major reason many short stories are refused is because of bad spelling and grammar. Sure your story could have amazing characters and an interesting plot but if writing style is broken and confused, or the punctuation is misplaced the editors won't accept you. Think about it, they receive such a large amount of submissions that even though your story has potential if you weren't willing to see it through, why should they? Why should they waist their time on a half completed story when there are so many others that are well written and enjoyable. So I repeat read through and correct every grammar mistake, have a friend do it as well and don't submit till you’ve perfected your story.
2. Although this is something any writer should know I'll repeat it, make sure your short story is captivating. Too many writers use good grammar and interesting characters, but their stories start off slow and unmoving and editors will often pass up a story after the first few paragraphs for being boring or un-captivating even if it gets better later on. The reason for this is many readers unless they're bookworms won’t read a short story if it doesn't capture their attention straight away, especially if you're submitting a children’s story. So remember make sure your story starts off with a bang and carries it through the remainder of the way.
3. Whatever you do, make sure the magazine you submit to wants your type of story. Do not submit a horror story to magazines that publishes romance, or vive versa. A large number of rejections occur because the author is too lazy to find out what type of magazine he's submitting to. My advise is to first read a few of the short stories they've previously published, by doing so you'll get a better idea of what they want and whether they'd publish you. The most annoying thing an editor can have is an author who doesn't care about the magazine but just getting his story to as many people as he can.
4. For many beginning writers, you may find it in your head to screw the system, to try and publish your story in as many magazines as possible. I repeat that is illegal unless both magazines clearly state otherwise. You may think they won't find out and you'll be free to carry on illegally but someone will and sue you. In most magazines they have a one time non-exclusive deal, which means once they publish your work you're free to try and publish it through other magazines but not at the same time! If you submit it to two magazines at once, in the hope that at least one magazine will buy it, that's okay, but as soon as you hear back from one, you must notify the other and tell them it's no longer available. Otherwise you're annoying the publishers who may have wanted to use it and will probably get a black mark on your name. Be wise to the system and don't try and cheat it. Remember always read the author guidelines and you won't get in trouble.
Finally getting published is a competitive world but not impossible, just do the best you can do and pray for the rest. If you work hard and put your all into the project, your chances go up. Don't be lazy and write one draft then submit it, instead rewrite and rewrite till you achieve that state thousands of author’s dream about, perfection.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Titanic a exhibition, Luxor hotel, Las Vegas
Millions of viewers worldwide, wept as they watched the titanic sink. And as jack and Rose, stood on the rail, of the unsinkable ship, our hearts broke for them. But that was just one story in the thousands, and while it was an amazing and heartfelt movie, we the viewers want more. I give you Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition.
Located inside the Luxor hotel, Las Vegas, this epic exhibition, plays host to countless objects collected from the wreck, including the big piece. The largest part of the boat's hold ever to be excavated, weighing 20 tons, it is a feast for the eyes. But I'm getting ahead of myself, lets go back to the begging, the entrance.
Thirty dollars is a little more than i bargained for as I bought the tickets for this exhibition. But not wanting to appear cheep, before my girlfriend, I paid the cashier and entered. With no expectations, having loved the movie but not so interested in the actual story, I was a lout. However upon entering, I was caught up in the moment. This is no ordinary exhibition, a man waiting just inside handed me a card, with the name, age, and life story, of one passenger, whom at the end I would find out if he survived.
As I walked through the first room, I couldn't help but be astounded by the objects that decorated the area. Placed in glass domes, and cubes, these relics of a lost age shined with an undeterred brightness, astonishing even me. A sign on the wall told the story of one man, a youngster, who having boarded the ship with his parents, was tragically killed in the sinking. But I don't do the story justice, you must read it for yourself to understand. After that I walked through a number of rooms, each with its discoveries, each with its stories, many of which left us without a dry eye. In a few rooms were fully recreated areas of the titanic, a 3rd class passenger room, complete with a few clothes sprawled about, or a dining room. Showcasing the best of the Victorian age. But the grandest set to behold, was the recreation of the great staircase as seen in the movie. Here you are invited to step halfway up the stairs and have a photo taken, which is ready for your purchase at the end. I climbed the steps gingerly, but my girlfriend, shaking with excitement, pulled me up quicker then was expected. So that when my picture was finally shot, I was in a ruffle and looking quite fragile. But shaking it off, I took a last look about the grand staircase and moved on.
Next we had the night of the sinking, with many stories pasted on either side of the wall. As well as makeshift model of the titanic, and a real iceberg, cold and smooth to the touch. Stories from the night watchmen, and the captain, and many other poor victims of that fateful voyage. The captain, an older gentleman, with wife and child waiting at home, was on his last voyage, when he went down with the ship. Or an account telling how their binoculars were left in France, and had they only had them, they might have survived. There is no use however in thinking what might have been, the story is sunk in our annals of history, and that is that.
Continuing on I walked through a recreated side deck, with what looked like stars above, and waves below. The wind blew through my hair as I looked out, cold hands griped mine, I looked, but they were only that of my girlfriend, shivering beside me. I smiled at her, and whispered, "Don't worry, we'll never sail, I swear."
She seemed relieved and we moved on, lucky for me she doesn't hold me to my promises, as I love the ocean. Finally we entered the room in question, a replica of titanic with it sides ripped out and a detailed account of how this unsinkable ship, sank, stood by. Love stories from the boat, scrawled across the walls and I stood awhile, caught up in the emotion. Wishing that I could change what happened, but knowing all the while that this was a part of history, and a story unlike any other.
The last room held the big piece, towering over our heads, my jaw dropped as I stared up at it. A few thick glass windows littered across, and a sign next it read, its history. While too long to account here, I must say, it's had a stranger life then me, and certainly a longer one. After basking in its glory, I moved on to the sign reading the names of everyone who lived and died on the Titanic. I stood there for ten minutes unblinking, looking for any sign that the man on my card had lived. To many had died, I had read to many sad stories, and I thought that if this guy was dead, it would be too much. But then just as my faith began to dwindle I was rewarded with his name appearing on the survivors list. One thousand and something dead, yet somehow this guy had made it through, that cheered me up a bit, sadly my girlfriend's wasn't so lucky.
In the end as I exited the exhibition, I paused looking back and giving my final condolences to the many people that died that night. And whether they were good or evil, young or old, they all have a tale to tell, a tale about an unsinkable ship, The Titanic.
Located inside the Luxor hotel, Las Vegas, this epic exhibition, plays host to countless objects collected from the wreck, including the big piece. The largest part of the boat's hold ever to be excavated, weighing 20 tons, it is a feast for the eyes. But I'm getting ahead of myself, lets go back to the begging, the entrance.
Thirty dollars is a little more than i bargained for as I bought the tickets for this exhibition. But not wanting to appear cheep, before my girlfriend, I paid the cashier and entered. With no expectations, having loved the movie but not so interested in the actual story, I was a lout. However upon entering, I was caught up in the moment. This is no ordinary exhibition, a man waiting just inside handed me a card, with the name, age, and life story, of one passenger, whom at the end I would find out if he survived.
As I walked through the first room, I couldn't help but be astounded by the objects that decorated the area. Placed in glass domes, and cubes, these relics of a lost age shined with an undeterred brightness, astonishing even me. A sign on the wall told the story of one man, a youngster, who having boarded the ship with his parents, was tragically killed in the sinking. But I don't do the story justice, you must read it for yourself to understand. After that I walked through a number of rooms, each with its discoveries, each with its stories, many of which left us without a dry eye. In a few rooms were fully recreated areas of the titanic, a 3rd class passenger room, complete with a few clothes sprawled about, or a dining room. Showcasing the best of the Victorian age. But the grandest set to behold, was the recreation of the great staircase as seen in the movie. Here you are invited to step halfway up the stairs and have a photo taken, which is ready for your purchase at the end. I climbed the steps gingerly, but my girlfriend, shaking with excitement, pulled me up quicker then was expected. So that when my picture was finally shot, I was in a ruffle and looking quite fragile. But shaking it off, I took a last look about the grand staircase and moved on.
Next we had the night of the sinking, with many stories pasted on either side of the wall. As well as makeshift model of the titanic, and a real iceberg, cold and smooth to the touch. Stories from the night watchmen, and the captain, and many other poor victims of that fateful voyage. The captain, an older gentleman, with wife and child waiting at home, was on his last voyage, when he went down with the ship. Or an account telling how their binoculars were left in France, and had they only had them, they might have survived. There is no use however in thinking what might have been, the story is sunk in our annals of history, and that is that.
Continuing on I walked through a recreated side deck, with what looked like stars above, and waves below. The wind blew through my hair as I looked out, cold hands griped mine, I looked, but they were only that of my girlfriend, shivering beside me. I smiled at her, and whispered, "Don't worry, we'll never sail, I swear."
She seemed relieved and we moved on, lucky for me she doesn't hold me to my promises, as I love the ocean. Finally we entered the room in question, a replica of titanic with it sides ripped out and a detailed account of how this unsinkable ship, sank, stood by. Love stories from the boat, scrawled across the walls and I stood awhile, caught up in the emotion. Wishing that I could change what happened, but knowing all the while that this was a part of history, and a story unlike any other.
The last room held the big piece, towering over our heads, my jaw dropped as I stared up at it. A few thick glass windows littered across, and a sign next it read, its history. While too long to account here, I must say, it's had a stranger life then me, and certainly a longer one. After basking in its glory, I moved on to the sign reading the names of everyone who lived and died on the Titanic. I stood there for ten minutes unblinking, looking for any sign that the man on my card had lived. To many had died, I had read to many sad stories, and I thought that if this guy was dead, it would be too much. But then just as my faith began to dwindle I was rewarded with his name appearing on the survivors list. One thousand and something dead, yet somehow this guy had made it through, that cheered me up a bit, sadly my girlfriend's wasn't so lucky.
In the end as I exited the exhibition, I paused looking back and giving my final condolences to the many people that died that night. And whether they were good or evil, young or old, they all have a tale to tell, a tale about an unsinkable ship, The Titanic.
Discovering Africa: The beginners guide to travelling through Africa.
Africa, Africa, Africa, a word that means many things to many different people. To some it’s a tourist haven, to other it’s a word that describes hell, to me it was home.
I first went to Africa when I was six years old, my parents were missionary’s and so they went there to set up orphanages and to help the people. They were originally just going to visit and maybe stay for a year, but they ended up staying there for over twelve years.
Now my father was a pioneer and he’d often go into war torn country’s leaving my youngest brother and sister with my mom, and taking me and my brother with him. We travelled from country to country, seeing the sites and helping people along the way. Following is a list of some of the places I’ve been in Africa.
In Alphabetical order: Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Cote D’lvoire,
Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Well that’s around it I might have missed a few but that’s the majority, now you may think just cause I’m a missionary that I never went on safari or had some fun in Africa, well your quite wrong. I’ve done things people have only dreamed of doing, but I don’t want to keep all the fun to myself I want to share it, which is why I’m going to be giving you a first hand account of Africa. I’ll take you on a step by step guide through it, explaining to you how best to travel, how not to get yourself eaten by cannibals, and how to enjoy yourself.
To get started I’m going to explain about the different countries in Africa, about the one’s that are safe and welcome tourists, and the one’s that you stay clear of unless you want danger with your travels.
We’ll start with the safe countries. Africa is a continent built on bloodshed from the little African tribes that roam the jungles and fight other tribes for more area or for slaves, to the giant Civil wars that tear the countries apart. But not all of Africa has wars going on, and here are some of the safer area’s in Africa and the one’s more attuned for tourism.
Southern Africa is probably the best area in Africa for tourism, a lot of the countries there thrive on it. For those of you that want to experience African culture without putting yourself in harms way, I would advise Southern Africa as your place to go.
You could start off in South Africa, where you could climb Table Mountain, and perhaps you would care for a swim in the ocean or to surf some of the best spots in the world. However there are some dangerous areas in South Africa so just be careful were you go.
Next you could work your way up to Botswana, which is a dusty and dry country but it does have a lot of wildlife and they have quite a few lodge’s situated in game reserves Ext.
From there you should go to Zambia, however it’s very expensive for Americans and other nationalities to get into, and you might have to bribe a few of the officials there. A word to the wise try to stay clear of Zimbabwe, the country is still on the rocks and things there cost a fortune. In Zambia however you might like to take a stop at Victoria Falls, in Livingstone, and enjoy one of the largest water falls in the world.
From there you could drive up to Tanzania, which is probably the best place for wildlife tourism in Africa. There you encounter people that are friendly and helpful, but be warned you should always have a bit of lose change on your person to give to these people. I lived a year in Tanzania, and let me tell you a more beautiful place in Africa I have yet to see. First on your stop I would suggest the Serengeti, and then the Ngorongoro Crater, after that maybe Mt. Kilimanjaro or its less famous little brother Mt. Meru. There are also a lot of other wildlife parks to chose from and you should purchase maybe a few trinkets from the local vendors, as the people there are experts at their craft and charge much less then in other parts of the world.
From their you have a few choices you can either head down to Mozambique, which sadly I’m not to familiar with but have heard wonderful things about it, or head up to Kenya or Uganda. You also have the choice of going into Rwanda or Burundi, but That I wouldn’t advise unless you’re out looking for danger, cause there are still many rebels there and they don’t take kindly to foreigners.
Now on the off chance you decided to go up to Kenya, then there’s some different things you should know. Kenya is the next most industrialized country, South Africa being the first. Its City’s look European in a way, although crime there is high, it’s still a pleasant enough country with a nice culture and friendly people,
After Kenya you could either go into Ethiopia or through Uganda and then back down through Tanzania. I’m quite sad that I can’t say I’ve been to Ethiopia I’ve met different people who have been there and they said the culture, and the people are wonderful, not forgetting they make the most amazing coffee.
But lets say you go into Uganda well then I say welcome, I lived 2 years in Uganda in the capital Kampala, and let me say It’s a unique Country and does have some tourism not as much however as other countries in Africa. If you’ve ever seen “The Last King of Scotland” then you will have seen a little of what Uganda is like, It used to have a very large Indian population but since Idi Amin up and kicked them all out their numbers were severely lowered, but that was a long time ago and they have slowly trickled back in.
Now for North Africa, I’m afraid I’m not to familiar with it, but I wont leave you empty handed following are a number of web sites which will give you insight to North Africa, http://lexicorient.com, http://www.tourism.egnet.net, http://www.egypt.travel, http://www.libyan-tourism.org, http://www.visitmorocco.org, Ext….
Well now that I’ve covered the southern area, eastern area, and northern area, Lets talk about the south west, the west, and north west.
I’m sad to say that now I’ll have to be discussing dangerous area’s and for those of you that just want a safe journey with maybe the possibility of an occasional robbery then you should stay with southern Africa, cause it’s the wild West out here and anything could happen.
Angola one of the poorest countries in the world, yet it is blessed with natural resources above and beyond the average, sadly it’s been in civil war for the last 27 years and just ended in 2002, but left the country riddled with land mines and cost the lives of 500,000 Angolans. I was there in 2000 while the war was still going and I praise God I’m still alive the things you see there would make the toughest heart soften. Children missing limbs, baby’s without mothers, and even though the war has ended the country is still in constant need of aid and relief. When I was in Angola I stayed in the city of Luanda and let me just say I experienced a lot there. I was only ten but some of the sites I saw and people I met helped shape me, walking down the street and seeing a five year old girl without legs and hands pushing herself along the road on a piece of square wood with wheals on it, can really touch your heart and let me say it touched mine, but besides that there are quite a lot of things to see and do, the culture there was shaped by the Portuguese, but it broke from tradition and is now unique in its own sense. Since It was originally colonized by Portugal they adopted the language but since then its taken on a flavour of its own.
After that we have The Democratic Republic of the Congo, a country that is slightly smaller then one fourth the size of the United States. And one established through conflict, now the war has ended and things are a lot more peaceful, of course for foreigners to get in takes a lot of bribery, unless you’re a miracle worker it should cost you a minimum of three hundred dollars to get in, mainly because you have to pay off everyone that you meet while crossing the boarder, so just be prepared for that. Besides all that there are some nice area’s to Congo, of course its ill advised to drive along a lot of the roads in the north east, as there are still rebels fighting there and they would love to capture a foreigner. Lubumbashi is a relatively safe city with maybe a little crime, just be warned don’t drive with your window down as the street kids often try to grab things from your car.
Next you could go through the Central African Republic, which is the 10th poorest country in Africa. I’m afraid I can’t tell you to much about it though as I’ve never been there, It Hasn’t had as much war as other countries in Africa, and from what I hear it’s generally safe, of course as in any country in Africa you should always watch you back.
Now could either go north into Chad or west to Cameroon, supposing you decide to go into Cameroon then I hope you enjoy yourself. Cameroon is a country that enjoys political stability and is more modern then most countries around it. There are quite a few beautiful sites to see and the culture is lively and original, they also pride themselves in their music and I would advise you to stop and listen.
From there you get into Nigeria, a country that is ripe with corruption and one that I lived five years in. But don’t get me wrong Nigeria like any other country has its pluses. The richness and diversity of the Nigerian culture is a manifestation of the socio-cultural differences of the over two-hundred fifty ethnic groups that inhabit the land for ages. This coupled with over one-hundred ten million people, makes this country one of a kind. You could first travel to Abuja, Nigeria’s capital and enjoy hospitality and refinement. Next travel to Lagos the second largest city in Africa with over eight million people, I lived there for three years and was shocked by all the sites and sounds you experience, some areas are filled with danger and intrigue and other’s are safe and comfortable.
Next if you want some adventure take a flight to Cote D’Ivoire, which is still in a dangerous situation but hopefully getting better. There are quite a number of beaches to go to, and culture is as always diverse. You could also visit Abidjan the former capital and largest city in Cote D’Ivoire.
After that you should go to Liberia, a country that was colonized by freed African slaves, sadly it has been in two civil wars lasting till 2003 that have turned the country into uprising. I remember when I went there in 1998, and how we had an apartment in the capital Monrovia, and how once when the rebels came into the city we had to stay in the bathroom for two days and if we went out we had to crawl on the floor to avoid stray bullets. Or how once we were at a restaurant with a Lebanese friend and a bunch of rebels or in this case Naked soldiers (a term referred to the black rebels who would attack wearing no clothing believing themselves to be invincible) and we had to get into our friends car and crouch in the back seat while he sped down the street trying to get away, I still remember when he pulled out this big pistol and started firing from the car. But besides that there are a lot of beautiful places in Liberia and food and lodgings are inexpensive there.
From there go to Sierra Leone, which before it’s civil war in 1991 was a tourist attraction and many cruse ships would dock there for the passengers to enjoy the beautiful white beaches and crystal clear water which is a wonderful place to go spear fishing in. The country side is also spectacular and since the civil war ended in 2000 the country has begun to grow and flourish, since 2000 almost 72,500 former combatants have given up their weapons to U.N. forces. I was there in 1999 and if you have ever scene the movie “Blood Diamond” then you’ll know what happened. I advise this country for anyone who is willing to risk a little danger to see some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
After that you could go into Guinea although it’s not in such good shape politically and violent outbreaks have been reported to be happening more frequent then ever.
From there you could continue up into the north with which I’m not so familiar or take a flight to South Africa or Somewhere else in the world.
So there I’ve explained a little about Africa and its tourist possibilities, now where you go and what you do is entirely up to you, and I just want to wish you the best cause Africa is not a continent for the faint of heart, but it is also a continent you don’t want to miss.
So like so many people before you it’s your turn to pioneer Africa and turn the Dark Continent, Light.
I first went to Africa when I was six years old, my parents were missionary’s and so they went there to set up orphanages and to help the people. They were originally just going to visit and maybe stay for a year, but they ended up staying there for over twelve years.
Now my father was a pioneer and he’d often go into war torn country’s leaving my youngest brother and sister with my mom, and taking me and my brother with him. We travelled from country to country, seeing the sites and helping people along the way. Following is a list of some of the places I’ve been in Africa.
In Alphabetical order: Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Cote D’lvoire,
Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Well that’s around it I might have missed a few but that’s the majority, now you may think just cause I’m a missionary that I never went on safari or had some fun in Africa, well your quite wrong. I’ve done things people have only dreamed of doing, but I don’t want to keep all the fun to myself I want to share it, which is why I’m going to be giving you a first hand account of Africa. I’ll take you on a step by step guide through it, explaining to you how best to travel, how not to get yourself eaten by cannibals, and how to enjoy yourself.
To get started I’m going to explain about the different countries in Africa, about the one’s that are safe and welcome tourists, and the one’s that you stay clear of unless you want danger with your travels.
We’ll start with the safe countries. Africa is a continent built on bloodshed from the little African tribes that roam the jungles and fight other tribes for more area or for slaves, to the giant Civil wars that tear the countries apart. But not all of Africa has wars going on, and here are some of the safer area’s in Africa and the one’s more attuned for tourism.
Southern Africa is probably the best area in Africa for tourism, a lot of the countries there thrive on it. For those of you that want to experience African culture without putting yourself in harms way, I would advise Southern Africa as your place to go.
You could start off in South Africa, where you could climb Table Mountain, and perhaps you would care for a swim in the ocean or to surf some of the best spots in the world. However there are some dangerous areas in South Africa so just be careful were you go.
Next you could work your way up to Botswana, which is a dusty and dry country but it does have a lot of wildlife and they have quite a few lodge’s situated in game reserves Ext.
From there you should go to Zambia, however it’s very expensive for Americans and other nationalities to get into, and you might have to bribe a few of the officials there. A word to the wise try to stay clear of Zimbabwe, the country is still on the rocks and things there cost a fortune. In Zambia however you might like to take a stop at Victoria Falls, in Livingstone, and enjoy one of the largest water falls in the world.
From there you could drive up to Tanzania, which is probably the best place for wildlife tourism in Africa. There you encounter people that are friendly and helpful, but be warned you should always have a bit of lose change on your person to give to these people. I lived a year in Tanzania, and let me tell you a more beautiful place in Africa I have yet to see. First on your stop I would suggest the Serengeti, and then the Ngorongoro Crater, after that maybe Mt. Kilimanjaro or its less famous little brother Mt. Meru. There are also a lot of other wildlife parks to chose from and you should purchase maybe a few trinkets from the local vendors, as the people there are experts at their craft and charge much less then in other parts of the world.
From their you have a few choices you can either head down to Mozambique, which sadly I’m not to familiar with but have heard wonderful things about it, or head up to Kenya or Uganda. You also have the choice of going into Rwanda or Burundi, but That I wouldn’t advise unless you’re out looking for danger, cause there are still many rebels there and they don’t take kindly to foreigners.
Now on the off chance you decided to go up to Kenya, then there’s some different things you should know. Kenya is the next most industrialized country, South Africa being the first. Its City’s look European in a way, although crime there is high, it’s still a pleasant enough country with a nice culture and friendly people,
After Kenya you could either go into Ethiopia or through Uganda and then back down through Tanzania. I’m quite sad that I can’t say I’ve been to Ethiopia I’ve met different people who have been there and they said the culture, and the people are wonderful, not forgetting they make the most amazing coffee.
But lets say you go into Uganda well then I say welcome, I lived 2 years in Uganda in the capital Kampala, and let me say It’s a unique Country and does have some tourism not as much however as other countries in Africa. If you’ve ever seen “The Last King of Scotland” then you will have seen a little of what Uganda is like, It used to have a very large Indian population but since Idi Amin up and kicked them all out their numbers were severely lowered, but that was a long time ago and they have slowly trickled back in.
Now for North Africa, I’m afraid I’m not to familiar with it, but I wont leave you empty handed following are a number of web sites which will give you insight to North Africa, http://lexicorient.com, http://www.tourism.egnet.net, http://www.egypt.travel, http://www.libyan-tourism.org, http://www.visitmorocco.org, Ext….
Well now that I’ve covered the southern area, eastern area, and northern area, Lets talk about the south west, the west, and north west.
I’m sad to say that now I’ll have to be discussing dangerous area’s and for those of you that just want a safe journey with maybe the possibility of an occasional robbery then you should stay with southern Africa, cause it’s the wild West out here and anything could happen.
Angola one of the poorest countries in the world, yet it is blessed with natural resources above and beyond the average, sadly it’s been in civil war for the last 27 years and just ended in 2002, but left the country riddled with land mines and cost the lives of 500,000 Angolans. I was there in 2000 while the war was still going and I praise God I’m still alive the things you see there would make the toughest heart soften. Children missing limbs, baby’s without mothers, and even though the war has ended the country is still in constant need of aid and relief. When I was in Angola I stayed in the city of Luanda and let me just say I experienced a lot there. I was only ten but some of the sites I saw and people I met helped shape me, walking down the street and seeing a five year old girl without legs and hands pushing herself along the road on a piece of square wood with wheals on it, can really touch your heart and let me say it touched mine, but besides that there are quite a lot of things to see and do, the culture there was shaped by the Portuguese, but it broke from tradition and is now unique in its own sense. Since It was originally colonized by Portugal they adopted the language but since then its taken on a flavour of its own.
After that we have The Democratic Republic of the Congo, a country that is slightly smaller then one fourth the size of the United States. And one established through conflict, now the war has ended and things are a lot more peaceful, of course for foreigners to get in takes a lot of bribery, unless you’re a miracle worker it should cost you a minimum of three hundred dollars to get in, mainly because you have to pay off everyone that you meet while crossing the boarder, so just be prepared for that. Besides all that there are some nice area’s to Congo, of course its ill advised to drive along a lot of the roads in the north east, as there are still rebels fighting there and they would love to capture a foreigner. Lubumbashi is a relatively safe city with maybe a little crime, just be warned don’t drive with your window down as the street kids often try to grab things from your car.
Next you could go through the Central African Republic, which is the 10th poorest country in Africa. I’m afraid I can’t tell you to much about it though as I’ve never been there, It Hasn’t had as much war as other countries in Africa, and from what I hear it’s generally safe, of course as in any country in Africa you should always watch you back.
Now could either go north into Chad or west to Cameroon, supposing you decide to go into Cameroon then I hope you enjoy yourself. Cameroon is a country that enjoys political stability and is more modern then most countries around it. There are quite a few beautiful sites to see and the culture is lively and original, they also pride themselves in their music and I would advise you to stop and listen.
From there you get into Nigeria, a country that is ripe with corruption and one that I lived five years in. But don’t get me wrong Nigeria like any other country has its pluses. The richness and diversity of the Nigerian culture is a manifestation of the socio-cultural differences of the over two-hundred fifty ethnic groups that inhabit the land for ages. This coupled with over one-hundred ten million people, makes this country one of a kind. You could first travel to Abuja, Nigeria’s capital and enjoy hospitality and refinement. Next travel to Lagos the second largest city in Africa with over eight million people, I lived there for three years and was shocked by all the sites and sounds you experience, some areas are filled with danger and intrigue and other’s are safe and comfortable.
Next if you want some adventure take a flight to Cote D’Ivoire, which is still in a dangerous situation but hopefully getting better. There are quite a number of beaches to go to, and culture is as always diverse. You could also visit Abidjan the former capital and largest city in Cote D’Ivoire.
After that you should go to Liberia, a country that was colonized by freed African slaves, sadly it has been in two civil wars lasting till 2003 that have turned the country into uprising. I remember when I went there in 1998, and how we had an apartment in the capital Monrovia, and how once when the rebels came into the city we had to stay in the bathroom for two days and if we went out we had to crawl on the floor to avoid stray bullets. Or how once we were at a restaurant with a Lebanese friend and a bunch of rebels or in this case Naked soldiers (a term referred to the black rebels who would attack wearing no clothing believing themselves to be invincible) and we had to get into our friends car and crouch in the back seat while he sped down the street trying to get away, I still remember when he pulled out this big pistol and started firing from the car. But besides that there are a lot of beautiful places in Liberia and food and lodgings are inexpensive there.
From there go to Sierra Leone, which before it’s civil war in 1991 was a tourist attraction and many cruse ships would dock there for the passengers to enjoy the beautiful white beaches and crystal clear water which is a wonderful place to go spear fishing in. The country side is also spectacular and since the civil war ended in 2000 the country has begun to grow and flourish, since 2000 almost 72,500 former combatants have given up their weapons to U.N. forces. I was there in 1999 and if you have ever scene the movie “Blood Diamond” then you’ll know what happened. I advise this country for anyone who is willing to risk a little danger to see some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
After that you could go into Guinea although it’s not in such good shape politically and violent outbreaks have been reported to be happening more frequent then ever.
From there you could continue up into the north with which I’m not so familiar or take a flight to South Africa or Somewhere else in the world.
So there I’ve explained a little about Africa and its tourist possibilities, now where you go and what you do is entirely up to you, and I just want to wish you the best cause Africa is not a continent for the faint of heart, but it is also a continent you don’t want to miss.
So like so many people before you it’s your turn to pioneer Africa and turn the Dark Continent, Light.
Elephants
There are two elephant species, the African Elephant, and the Indian Elephant. Two distinct species, which live on two separate continents, that surprisingly resemble each other only in shape, first the Bigger one. Weighing over 3,000 kilos, the African Elephant is a fierce and strong mammal like unto the giant mammoths of the past, with an untamable spirit. The Indian Elephant, on the other hand, is a meek and gentle mammal, that weighs under 3,000 kilos, and is very easy to domesticate (1). The African Elephant, residing on the planes of Africa, is the biggest land mammal. With an aggressive outlook and a protective character, it is dangerous when aproaching it or its family. Both genders have tusks, which is unique compared to the Indian Elephant, with whom only the males have tusks. The tusks are ivory, which for a number of reasons, one being the human’s greed and want of all things beautiful, caused poachers to kill these magnificent beasts. In the continent of Asia, resides the Indian Elephant, which is renowned for its gentle nature and smart mind. When colonists first traveled through India, they were surprised by the sight that awaited them. People riding on Elephants! Now, because most of us have since gotten used to this, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise, and yet we cant help feeling awed by these gentle giants, as the natives call them. Sadly, today there are no more wild Elephants in Africa, or Asia, they have been hunted for their ivory, and the remaining population has been put into game parks, and reserves. Is it our curse as humans, to annihilate these wonderful creations by our greed, and selfishness? No, it is not a curse, it is a choice made by people very much like you and me, taught a bad mindset by their elders and peers. But, may we hope that we try to preserve these animals, so that generations to come may enjoy the presence, of both the Indian and African Elephants.
Top ten favorite pick-up lines
Although I've never used them myself, enjoy.
1. Do you have a mirror in your pocket, cuz i can see myself in your pants
2. I have a six inch tongue and I can breath through my ears
3. If you're going to regret this in the morning, we can sleep until the afternoon.
4. Save a horse -- ride a cowboy.
5. If I could rearrange the alphabet, I would put U and I together.
6. "hey come here" *with the motion of a finger telling the chick to come to you*
Girl comes over.
"If I made you come with a finger, imagine what I would do with my hand?"
7. I've heard sex is a killer. Wanna die happy?
8. Wow! Are those real?
9. Excuse me, miss, do you give head to strangers? No. Well, then, allow me to introduce myself.
10. Can I have your picture so I can show Santa what I want for Christmas?
And to end it here's a good one.
Okay, so I came over here to ask you to dance, but I'm kind of concerned. I mean, we could hit it off really well, end up having a few drinks, next thing you know you're giving me your number because I'm too shy to ask for it, I finally get up the nerve to call and we take in a movie, have some dinner, I relax, you relax, we go out a few more times, get to know each other's friends, spend a lot of time together, then finally have get past this sexual tension and really develop this intense sex life that is truly incredible, decide our relationship is solid and stable, so we move in together for a while, then a few months later get married, I get a promotion, you get a promotion, we buy a bigger house. You really want kids, but I really want freedom, but we have a kid anyway, only to find that I am resentful, the sparks start to fade and to rekindle them we have two more lovely kids, but now I work too much to keep up with the bills, have no time for you, you're stressed and stop taking really good care of yourself, so to get past our slow sex life and my declining self-confidence I turn to an outside affair for sexual gratification. You find out because I'm careless and a lousy liar, you throw me out (justifiably so) and we have to explain to the kids why mommy and daddy are splitting up. That's just too sad. Think about the children! For God's sake, if you dance with me and we hit it off, let's just keep it sexual, because we both know where it's going.
1. Do you have a mirror in your pocket, cuz i can see myself in your pants
2. I have a six inch tongue and I can breath through my ears
3. If you're going to regret this in the morning, we can sleep until the afternoon.
4. Save a horse -- ride a cowboy.
5. If I could rearrange the alphabet, I would put U and I together.
6. "hey come here" *with the motion of a finger telling the chick to come to you*
Girl comes over.
"If I made you come with a finger, imagine what I would do with my hand?"
7. I've heard sex is a killer. Wanna die happy?
8. Wow! Are those real?
9. Excuse me, miss, do you give head to strangers? No. Well, then, allow me to introduce myself.
10. Can I have your picture so I can show Santa what I want for Christmas?
And to end it here's a good one.
Okay, so I came over here to ask you to dance, but I'm kind of concerned. I mean, we could hit it off really well, end up having a few drinks, next thing you know you're giving me your number because I'm too shy to ask for it, I finally get up the nerve to call and we take in a movie, have some dinner, I relax, you relax, we go out a few more times, get to know each other's friends, spend a lot of time together, then finally have get past this sexual tension and really develop this intense sex life that is truly incredible, decide our relationship is solid and stable, so we move in together for a while, then a few months later get married, I get a promotion, you get a promotion, we buy a bigger house. You really want kids, but I really want freedom, but we have a kid anyway, only to find that I am resentful, the sparks start to fade and to rekindle them we have two more lovely kids, but now I work too much to keep up with the bills, have no time for you, you're stressed and stop taking really good care of yourself, so to get past our slow sex life and my declining self-confidence I turn to an outside affair for sexual gratification. You find out because I'm careless and a lousy liar, you throw me out (justifiably so) and we have to explain to the kids why mommy and daddy are splitting up. That's just too sad. Think about the children! For God's sake, if you dance with me and we hit it off, let's just keep it sexual, because we both know where it's going.
Imperial hotel - Vienna
I had the pleasure of staying at this hotel awhile back, and my life was never the same. No let me rephrase that, my hotel standards were for ever more changed. No longer would i be satisfied with a bed and toilet, no, now i must have a king sized room, with a gorgeous view of Vienna. Add a plush bed, 40 inch platinum Tv, crystal chandlers, and maybe a stripper, maybe. But besides that last rather rude comment, that is my new standard, call me picky but you have yet to stay at this hotel.
From the moment i stepped through its revolving glass doors, i felt moved up in class as though i had become royalty, a feeling hard to fake. The bell boy stole my bags from me as i strolled up to the desk. Arriving i relaxed as a warm breath of kindness swept through me, emanating from the desk clerks. Who then ushered me through a very easy check in, no problems whatsoever. Even going so far as to offer me the same room Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie slept in one year back, with a special cost. After that i was guided up to my room by a beautiful austrian damsel, and after seeing her safely to my door, i proceeded to strip, shower and go out to enjoy the night.
Following i spent 4 of the best days of my life at that hotel, each day as invigorating as the one before. And every morning as i woke to the sun on my face, the only thoughts in my head were those of ecstasy, and that wasn't just because of the hottie in my bed. Suffice to say that when the day to depart arrived i felt extremely depressed, unable to see the light ahead, and wishing only to revisit the last couple of days. And so sadly i went downstairs to check out. I looked upon the key, a USB chip attached to a step of gold, and then handed it in to the clerk. "Enjoy you're stay?" asked the young man, i nodded with a frown. "Why then are you sad?" said he. "Because i must leave now," i replied in a mournful tone. "Ah but you will come again, everyone does," he smiled. I looked up seeing the truth in his eyes. "we are always here for our guests, giving them a taste of heaven on earth."
A broad smile stole across my face, i knew i would come back, and so that afternoon i left not feeling as though my life was over but instead knowing that i would be back to once again sample heaven.
Pro's -
Staff is friendly and helpful
Room's are hand designed and chosen to make your stay unique and enjoyable.
Many Tv channels and movies to chose from and internet straight to your computer or on the Tv.
Business lounge allows wifi computers, as well as having 3 of their own for free internet access.
Gym is clean and endowed for those looking to boost muscles.
Conference rooms are large and equipped for anything from business meetings to wedding receptions.
Good area of town.
Cons -
Expensive rooms
My rating - 6 out of 5
Hotel's rating - 5 star.
My advise - Perfect for vacation and/or business trip.
From the moment i stepped through its revolving glass doors, i felt moved up in class as though i had become royalty, a feeling hard to fake. The bell boy stole my bags from me as i strolled up to the desk. Arriving i relaxed as a warm breath of kindness swept through me, emanating from the desk clerks. Who then ushered me through a very easy check in, no problems whatsoever. Even going so far as to offer me the same room Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie slept in one year back, with a special cost. After that i was guided up to my room by a beautiful austrian damsel, and after seeing her safely to my door, i proceeded to strip, shower and go out to enjoy the night.
Following i spent 4 of the best days of my life at that hotel, each day as invigorating as the one before. And every morning as i woke to the sun on my face, the only thoughts in my head were those of ecstasy, and that wasn't just because of the hottie in my bed. Suffice to say that when the day to depart arrived i felt extremely depressed, unable to see the light ahead, and wishing only to revisit the last couple of days. And so sadly i went downstairs to check out. I looked upon the key, a USB chip attached to a step of gold, and then handed it in to the clerk. "Enjoy you're stay?" asked the young man, i nodded with a frown. "Why then are you sad?" said he. "Because i must leave now," i replied in a mournful tone. "Ah but you will come again, everyone does," he smiled. I looked up seeing the truth in his eyes. "we are always here for our guests, giving them a taste of heaven on earth."
A broad smile stole across my face, i knew i would come back, and so that afternoon i left not feeling as though my life was over but instead knowing that i would be back to once again sample heaven.
Pro's -
Staff is friendly and helpful
Room's are hand designed and chosen to make your stay unique and enjoyable.
Many Tv channels and movies to chose from and internet straight to your computer or on the Tv.
Business lounge allows wifi computers, as well as having 3 of their own for free internet access.
Gym is clean and endowed for those looking to boost muscles.
Conference rooms are large and equipped for anything from business meetings to wedding receptions.
Good area of town.
Cons -
Expensive rooms
My rating - 6 out of 5
Hotel's rating - 5 star.
My advise - Perfect for vacation and/or business trip.
Best cinemas in Vegas
Under 21, visiting Vegas, unable to gamble, or just wanting to watch the latest blockbuster? Well don't worry, with over 10 cinemas in the city, you'll have your pick. Choose the perfect time, the perfect area, and the perfect cinema.
I have been to Vegas many a time and following is a list of the best cinemas.
A - REGAL CINEMAS RED ROCK STADIUM 16
11011 West Charleston Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89135
(702) 233-6948
http://www.redrocklasvegas.com/entertainment/regal_cinemas.php
Regal Cinema. With over 16 screen's, and high back reclining seats, this cinema is perfect for the whole family. When i went there almost two years ago to this day, i was instantly swept away by the sights and sounds. Located inside Red rock resort, and while not directly on the strip, this cinema will bring you what you want in movies.
5 out of 5
B - UA SHOWCASE 8
3769 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 740-4511
www.fandango.com/TheaterPage.aspx?tid=AACUS
Located near the MGM Grand, this cinema is directly off the strip and for anyone who doesn't want to drive, this is your place. 11 screens make up this cinema, and with enhanced sound, stadium seating, and a bucket of popcorn you'll have the perfect movie going experience.
5 out of 5
C - CENTURY ORLEANS 18
4500 Tropicana Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(702) 889-1220
http://www.fandango.com/TheaterPage.aspx?tid=AADZY
1 mile from the strip, lies a hotel perfect for the underage, with attractions ranging from the pool to the cinema, a better family hotel is hard to come by. The cinema, which is situated inside the hotel, has all the top films playing, clean rooms, and state of the art electronics. The only downside to this theatre is they do not except credit cards, but not to worry, they have a cash machine right next to the box office. So next time your in Vegas with your family stop by, it wont disappoint.
4 out of 5
D - GALAXY NEONOPOLIS 11
450 E. Fremont St.
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 383-9600
http://www.fandango.com/lasvegasgalaxyneonopolis11_aaqkf/theaterpage
At the end of the strip, near the stratosphere, is the Neonopolis. An elaborate cinema, with a restaurant connected and easy access from bus. Moderate prices for its location, and an array of movies to view, makes this a number one stop for people staying on the strip.
4 out of 5
E - CENTURY 16 SOUTH POINT
9777 South Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89123
(702) 260-4061
http://www.southpointcasino.com/entertainment/movies.php
On the strip, opposite end of the Neonopolis, lies Century 16. Set inside South Point Hotel, this cinema is a favorite for those wanting a private night out, not often crowded, it's perfect for a date. They show all types of movies, even ones in 3-D, as well as giving special deals everyday. So if you want a romantic movie night, this is the place to be.
3.5 out of 5
This concludes my review's, and while there are more cinema's awaiting you in Vegas, i have covered my most favorite. So next time you visit Sin City, don't just throw your money away on gambling instead spend some on the movies, i promise you'll enjoy it.
I have been to Vegas many a time and following is a list of the best cinemas.
A - REGAL CINEMAS RED ROCK STADIUM 16
11011 West Charleston Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89135
(702) 233-6948
http://www.redrocklasvegas.com/entertainment/regal_cinemas.php
Regal Cinema. With over 16 screen's, and high back reclining seats, this cinema is perfect for the whole family. When i went there almost two years ago to this day, i was instantly swept away by the sights and sounds. Located inside Red rock resort, and while not directly on the strip, this cinema will bring you what you want in movies.
5 out of 5
B - UA SHOWCASE 8
3769 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 740-4511
www.fandango.com/TheaterPage.aspx?tid=AACUS
Located near the MGM Grand, this cinema is directly off the strip and for anyone who doesn't want to drive, this is your place. 11 screens make up this cinema, and with enhanced sound, stadium seating, and a bucket of popcorn you'll have the perfect movie going experience.
5 out of 5
C - CENTURY ORLEANS 18
4500 Tropicana Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(702) 889-1220
http://www.fandango.com/TheaterPage.aspx?tid=AADZY
1 mile from the strip, lies a hotel perfect for the underage, with attractions ranging from the pool to the cinema, a better family hotel is hard to come by. The cinema, which is situated inside the hotel, has all the top films playing, clean rooms, and state of the art electronics. The only downside to this theatre is they do not except credit cards, but not to worry, they have a cash machine right next to the box office. So next time your in Vegas with your family stop by, it wont disappoint.
4 out of 5
D - GALAXY NEONOPOLIS 11
450 E. Fremont St.
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 383-9600
http://www.fandango.com/lasvegasgalaxyneonopolis11_aaqkf/theaterpage
At the end of the strip, near the stratosphere, is the Neonopolis. An elaborate cinema, with a restaurant connected and easy access from bus. Moderate prices for its location, and an array of movies to view, makes this a number one stop for people staying on the strip.
4 out of 5
E - CENTURY 16 SOUTH POINT
9777 South Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89123
(702) 260-4061
http://www.southpointcasino.com/entertainment/movies.php
On the strip, opposite end of the Neonopolis, lies Century 16. Set inside South Point Hotel, this cinema is a favorite for those wanting a private night out, not often crowded, it's perfect for a date. They show all types of movies, even ones in 3-D, as well as giving special deals everyday. So if you want a romantic movie night, this is the place to be.
3.5 out of 5
This concludes my review's, and while there are more cinema's awaiting you in Vegas, i have covered my most favorite. So next time you visit Sin City, don't just throw your money away on gambling instead spend some on the movies, i promise you'll enjoy it.
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