This morning I took a walk outside of one of the 5 Star Singapore Hotels where I stay when visiting the city and I noticed that the  Saga Tree was in bloom. I remember as a child, I loved the Saga trees when in bloom because of their bright red seeds.

Now as a biologist, I have a better appreciation and a best understanding of the Saga Tree. The leaves have 2 to 6 pairs of side stalks, each with 9 to 15 pairs of leaflets. ‘Pavo’ I’ve found means peacock and I think the leaves are rather pretty. The tree sheds its leaves seasonally. In Singapore, they shed their leaves every 6 to 8 months, so it’s leafless period is very short. After the leaves fall a flower will appear on the long stalks shooting out the end tips. These are the faintly scented blossoms which reminds me of the scent of orange blossoms back home. The flowers will open gradually from the base upwards and the petals are a nice creamy yellow and then they turn to a dull orange.

The pods of the Saga tree are curved and green, but don’t coil until they begin to split whereupon they also turn blackish.  The seeds are bright red, hard and heart-shaped. The word ‘Saga’ has been traced to the Arabic for goldsmith.  In India and Sri Lanka, the seeds of this tree have been used as units of weight for fine measures, of gold for instance. It’s been suggested that the seeds of the tree were the basis of the very earliest of such systems. What more delightful counters for the primitive and bloody mind than these hard, red, heart-shaped seeds.

The red seeds are considered intoxicants. I found records that in Java, the seeds are roasted, shelled and eaten with rice and said to taste like soybeans. In India, the seeds are also used in medicine. And everywhere, the seed are also used to make necklaces. As I walked back from my nostalgic leisure stroll and noticed I had a smile on my face.

There is simply no denying when the best is the best.  Valencia hotels are simply the top in their class, offering the best in luxury accommodations and a magnificent sense of style.  In Valencia, there is a splendid blend of contemporary and historical, where the cutting edge of style meets the tried and true in graciousness.  The hotels are certainly a reflection of this, where function never bows to form, and vice versa, making a delicate balance for the guest which is nothing less than exquisite.  The style and design here are likewise excellent, both excellently achieved and excellently maintained.

Valencia, the third largest city in Spain, is an amazing tribute to contemporary culture and classical ideals.  There is night life here that is absolutely modern, cuisine that is based on generations of recipes, and a brilliant blend of sophistication and innovation, and a warmth to the place that is absolutely Mediterranean.  The city is a good deal like one of its favorite sons, José Iturbi .  Itubri is definitely well-regarded in his native Valencia, and remembered best for his contributions to classical music.  In the English-speaking world, he is remembered for his roles as a Hollywood actor, having starred in That Midnight Kiss, Three Daring Daughters, Holiday in Mexico, Anchors Aweigh, Thousands Cheer, Two Girls and a Sailor, and Music for Millions, among others.

Although he died in the film capital of the world, Los Angeles, his film career often overshadows his music, but his music was really his great gift to the world.  He often played a concert pianist in films, in fact, and in interviews he often said that he did the films to bring attention to classical music.  He was extremely prolific throughout his long life (he lived from 1895-1980), earning money for his playing when he was just seven years old, accompanying films at the movie houses.  He was always beloved in Valencia, where a street is named after him, and a very prestigious music competition is in the name of José Iturbi .  His impeccable musical training served him well throughout his life, where he played to young and old audiences, and brought a greater appreciation for music through his remarkable talent.

New Yorkers celebrated Gay Pride this last week, as did many people in cities throughout the world.  This was the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots that occurred in Greenwich Village in 1969.  On the morning of June 28, police raided the Stonewall Inn and what occurred was a series of demonstrations and riots.  This instance is the first in the history of the United States where those in the gay community fought and protested a system sponsored by the country’s government.  Those in the community had been persecuted for years, however on that morning they stood together and thus began the movement for gay rights, not only in New York, but in the entire country and throughout the world.

During the 50’s and into the 60′, legal systems in the U.S were extremely anti-gay, and some groups had the mission of proving that gays could become heterosexual through proper education.  By the end of the 60’s however many other groups were standing up for their rights.  This was the time of demonstrations against the Vietnam war, and the time of Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement.  The influence and the power of these political movements, along with the fire of the recent riots in Greenwich Village, inspired those in the homosexual community to stand up for themselves as well.

During this time in history, many businesses did not welcome the business of gays. The few that did were often the bars or some of the smaller best restaurants.  New York City Mafia owned the Stonewall Inn, which was home to many young runaways, hustlers, and drag queens.  While the police regularly raided the bars in the Village and were well aware of the actions, they were not ready for what was in store for them at the Inn.  The situation quickly became elevated and out of control.  This incident began the movement, for within just a couple of weeks following the riots, gay newspapers were conceived and published, and groups were organized that would eventually make history.  In the way that tragedy does tend to motivate, the people were brought together as a unit standing up for not only themselves, but for others in the gay community as well.  The first Pride march occurred in 1970 in just two U.S. cities, Manhattan and Los Angeles.  Now, Gay Pride is a world wide event, a series of celebrations that end with the finale on June 28, commemorating the date, how far society has come, and how much further we still need to go.

Throughout the years many have predicted that there was no way the World Cup would be held in South Africa.  Many feared that the country was still in too much of a disarray, just fifteen years having passed since the end of apartheid.  Those nay-sayers stated that the country and the people would just be ready to provide the adequate accommodations or services, such as transportation, roads, stadiums and luxury hotels.  South Africa is proving to those who doubted them, and to the rest of the world, that not only will they be ready, but they will provide fans, spectators and players with an unforgettable month of games, in some of the finest sports arenas in the world.

The Confederations Cup was concluded last week, and was a bit of a dress rehearsal.  Four venues hosted the games, and the safety and security of those in attendance was never an issue.  More modifications and upgrades to the transportation system will made prior to next year’s tournament, as well as at least fifteen thousand more rooms in the hotels.  One of the debates raging right now, involves a clash in culture, the vuvuzela trumpet, traditional blown throughout the games, has become irritating to some of the foreign spectators and talks of banning the trumpets during the World Cup are creating quite a controversy.

Free admission was offered for the Confederation Cup, close to seventy thousand.  More than three million tickets are expected to be sold for the World Cup, with discounts given to the local South Africans, and free admission to the construction workers who are giving their heart and soul into the building of the stadiums 6 days a week.  A handful of fans from Great Britain reported being mugged, and allegedly some money was stolen from the rooms of Brazilian and Egyptian soccer players.  However steps are being taken to ensure that the police and the security in 2010 will be adequately staffed.

This has become an emotional and an ethical issue, the hosting of the Cup in South Africa.  The world is still afraid of the country.  Still untrusting.  Advocates state that this small and struggling, yet very strong country and her people have given so much to rest of the world in regards to, among other things, the sport of soccer.  This is the way that it should come back to them.  Jobs have been created, and the attitudes and spirit of the people of South Africa has been lifted, giving them hope for the future, and giving back to the rest of the world, the beautiful country of South Africa.

What is becoming widely viewed by the entire world, and gaining architectural and stylistic praises is one of the stadiums of South Africa that will be host to some of the games taking place next June and July for the 2010 World Cup Soccer tournaments.  This stadium, described as looking like a large pot placed above a fiery ring, is Soccer City Stadium.  This venue will be remembered long after the games have ended and will carry the reputation that it is gaining as being one of the most spectacular and amazing arenas in the world.

The design was taken after a calabash, which is a gourd South Africans hollow out, and use either for cooking or for carrying water.  The colors in the brown and orange hues are lit with lights that circle the entire circumference along the bottom, meant to symbolize the fire that heats the cooking pot.  Completion on the stadium is scheduled for later in the year, and upon completion it will become the largest stadium, not only in South Africa, but on the entire continent.  Providing a venue located close to any boutique hotel, Cape Town or Johannesburg offers, is bound to attract tourists for years, if not to attend the games, then to at least have a first hand look at this amazing structure.

This will be the home of the final game of the World Cup to be held July 11, 2010.  This is a structure built using modern and innovative technology.  Over one hundred and fifty boxes will offer incredible views and five star service.  This is not only great for fans, but will provide perfect conditions for those working in the media.  The stadium will contain a fine dining restaurant that will seat three hundred at one time.  This construction has employed more than three thousand workers a day.  The construction schedule is running on time, and would have come in on budget, but the fluctuations in the prices of Italian and German steel has bumped them a bit over budget.  However, this stadium will be the treasure of the country, providing a legacy for further generations to come.

When Google first launch its search engine a new phenomena appeared, doing a search for yourself. Its called Ego Surfing. When I first typed in my name I was surprised to see that I can be ‘Googled’. It’s amazing really and a little frightening. That anyone with a computer and an Internet connection can learn about me. I have an unique uncommon name, so there’s no wondering for the interested party doing a search on me if they are finding information about the right person; they are. They’ll be able to know what I did in my younger day when I was involved theatre and see I some really bad reviews, but I do have some really good reviews too. Or they’ll be able to see a photos of me attending a few charity functions held at some NY Hotels. Maybe, if they’re diligent, they’ll be able to find some of my responses I made on a bulletin board.

I’ve also heard that human resource departments of potential employers will and have used search engines to find if there’s any what’s called ‘digital dirt‘  on the Internet. Checking to see if my personal life is congruent or non-congruent with the image and work ethics of their company. They can even check up on my credit history or see if I’m telling the truth about never having a criminal record. So my social networking sites like MySpace page does not have my real name on it, but my Facebook page does; this one I keep up a clean front. Not that I have to per se, I don’t do anything that one would call ‘digital dirt’. But, I do have a unique way of looking at things that a potential employer might find questionable.

Not only have I done Ego Surfing, but I have Googled people I was dating, old boyfriends, co-workers, friends, neighbors and my relatives. And for some, I found out more about them then they would tell me in person. Maybe it’s because they too have Ego Surfed and feel that if I wanted to know more about them all I need to do is Google.

Going to work Monday through Friday. Eight-o-clock to Five-o-Clock. Walking the dog. Kicking it at the Dance Clubs Friday Evening. Drinking too much and needing a ride home. Sleeping in on Saturday morning. Cleaning the living room, bathroom and bedrooms. Doing the laundry. Grocery shopping for food to make next weeks lunch. Watching the Netflix DVD that just came in the mail. Walking the dog. Meeting with friends at the New York USA Hotel for drinks before heading next door to the movie theater and watch the latest hit. Eat too much popcorn. Saying goodnight to friends and head on home. Flopping down on the sofa and turning on the CD player and listen to some chillaxing tunes. Falling asleep on the sofa.

Waking up early Sunday morning with a crick in the neck. Go Jogging for a mile or so. Reading the New York Times out on the patio after taking a shower. Cooking up breakfast consisting of an Omelet, bacon, wheat toast and fresh orange juice. Calling up a few friends to see what they’re doing. Catching up on Emails. Watching some television. Walking the dog. Checking the personals for anyone interesting to date. Playing World of WarCraft online. Looking up a clock to see it’s 1:37am Monday morning. Regretting playing WoW too long. Making a ham sandwich for lunch tomorrow and going to bed only to wake up at 6am in the morning to go to work. Going to work Monday through Friday.

These are the dreams Michael has as he lays in his hospital bed on able to move, except for him pinkie finger, at the long-term care facility which he as lived in ever since he has a major Stroke. Rehabilitation helps very little. Basically, the physical therapists visits everyday do lift up his mood, but other than that, all Michael does with his idle time is imagine doing something different.

Every year my Twin Sister and I attend an International Twins Convention held this year in New York. I has already booked our room with New York Hotel Suites when my twin, Cindy, told me she didn’t want to go. She gave me reasons like, her husband got laid-off at the beginning of the year, his diabetes hasn’t improved, her angina is still steadily getting worse and the list went on and on. I told her that I will pay for the trip and to not worry about it and besides I already booked our rooms, separate rooms, since she still smokes. She apologised, but said there’s still no way she can’t go.

We are twins, we are identical technically, but we don’t look alike. I am tall, 5′8″ and she is short, 5′2″. She wears a size double-D bra cup and I wear a size B bra cup. She is a meat eater and only likes meals that are consider standard American, such as, Macaroni and Cheese, Steak and Baked potato, iceberg lettuce salads, she drinks a liter of coca-cola a day and makes the classic tuna casserole. Where as I am a gluten free vegetarian and like to eat tofu, mixed greens salads, Ethiopian foods, hummus, I drink mostly water and make the ever classic vegetable casserole. Her Health is bad, she has had open-heart surgery, has a circulatory system of an 80 year old and she only 40 and suffers from migraines. My health is perfect and I practice meditation. She’s non-religious and I very spiritual.

We are the very opposite of each and we are closer than any could be to another person. After all we did share the same womb. So, her not wanting to go to the convention and fight are way all the way through stating that yes, we are indeed Identical Twins, I found disappointing. I know the economy sucks right now and her health is failing, but it’s because of those vary reasons I want her to go. She’s my reason for living and I need to see her happy before she’s no longer around.

Visitors on the lookout for perfect five-star Dubai hotels will find their share of glorious accommodations in the heart of Dubai city. A major center for culture and commerce in the region, Dubai offers a generous share of natural wonder and urban enchantments. And the city itself is in the midst of some very exciting changes, brought on by the cultural exchanges that happen when a city becomes an international hotspot.

One fine example of change and flux in action is B_asement Gallery, one of Dubai’s up and coming spaces presenting and highlighting new art works. Founded by an eclectic team of entrepreneurs, art collectors, and architects, B_asement features emerging artists practicing in the disciplines of installation, video art, painting, photography, and sculpture. The result is an exciting space that speaks to the needs of the region, and also communicates a firm and bold presence in the international art community.

Their first installation, in 2008, was a collection of works by emerging Iranian artists under the age of 40. This was a profoundly bold move to bring attention to under-represented works by important artists in the region. Baharak Raoufi, one of B_asement’s founders, explains that this is indeed one of the strategies of the gallery: to bring to light significant works by significant artistic voices that have before now had to live in the metaphorical basement of the art world. This is a refreshing and intriguing method of creating a new artistic space, and one that the world desperately needs. The continuing success of the gallery speaks to a remarkable vision, and one that should be witnessed first hand. The attention from the local population has been very strong, and there is also a large multi-national presence of interesting and influential visitors at the B_asement. While it is possible to visit the gallery to rub shoulders, there are also amazing artworks that will satisfy and stimulate cultural hungers.

Tourists who are visiting the country and staying in one of the five star hotels in Bangkok have plenty of options for cultural and entertainment experiences. The theatre is always a great way to gain an in-depth awareness of different culture’s social perspectives and orientations and Thailand has a great variety of examples of this. The Crescent Moon Theatre Group in Bangkok Thailand has been operating for 20 years. It was first established in 1969 by a group of students from Thammasat University who loved literature and the theatre arts. It was originally developed to showcase short stories and plays.

Throughout its years, the Crescent Moon Theatre Group has put up many full-length shows as well as developed workshops for students from various universities. It has been through many political upheaval periods in the country and has had its own transitions and structural reorientations. It has become one of the major theatre’s in Bangkok and focuses on serious works with philosophical themes. The group takes a holistic approach to the theatre and sees a production as more than the acting out of a playwright’s script. The script is only one aspect of the creative process, and the bringing of it to life is as essential as the writing.

In 2007 the Crescent Moon Theatre Group held the first women’s festival in Bangkok, featuring female playwrights and directors. The festival, Women in the Moon: A Playwrights and Directors Festival was held in May of that year. It was the first of its kind celebration of Thai women artists and their outstanding contributions to the theatre. It was also centered on establishing a dialogue for artists to share their experiences, work theories and ideas. Forming a community of artists increases individual passion and a sense of connection to the field. The festival was also oriented toward recognizing various issues encountered by women and female theatre artists.

It is great for tourists in Dubai to know that their hotel accommodations can also be progressive marine conservation centers. The Dubai beach resort Atlantis, The Palm is a new city landmark that is beautiful in its architectural design and many accommodating aspects. The Aquaventure theme park in its complex includes in its features the Dolphin Bay marine conservatory. The 4.5 hectare preservation and education center is devoted to the rescue and well being of bottlenose dolphins. It is supervised by a core of Marine Mammal Specialists and allows visitors to interact with these amazing Indo-Pacific dolphins.

Guests can get up close and personal in the shallow water interaction facility. Here they are allowed to play ball with, hug, and feed these intelligent creatures. This feature is available to guests of all ages and is as educational as it is fun and exciting. The program is 90 minutes and restricts the dolphin human ratio to 10 people per dolphin. It begins with a 30 minute water orientation before the actual dolphin interaction will occur. After this once in a lifetime experience, the guests are treated to a non-alcoholic beverage before moving on to the education center.

There is a also a deep water interaction program available at the preserve. Here guests can experience an unparalleled adventure into the depths of the private lagoon. The 90 minute program allows participants to swim side by side with the dolphins and interact with them from the dolphins’ perspective. It also includes a 30 minute orientation period and restricts its participants to individuals who are at least 12 years old and are able to swim. There are six people per pod and the program will take them into the depths of the lagoon along side one of the dolphins. One of the most fascinating features of this program is its signature belly ride, which is an incredible thrill for dolphin human encounters.

Indira Gandhi was born in 1917 as the only child of Kamla and Jawaharlal Nehru. The family resided in Allahabad, where she spent a great deal of her childhood. She also spent some of her early developmental years in Switzerland due to her mother’s convalesced status. Gandhi later attended college at Somerville College, Oxford. In 1942 she married Feroze Gandhi and he died 18 years later in 1960. Indira Gandhi was elected to Parliament for the first time in 1964, which was the year of her father’s death. She was appointed Minister of Information and Broadcasting. Tourists who are visiting the country and staying in one of the India 5 star hotels can see the relevance and impact the family has had on India.

Ghandi demonstrated extraordinary political skills from the beginning of her career, and she held the position of Prime Minister from 1966 to 1977. This was a positive time in India as they were still in the celebratory phase of winning the war against Pakistan. In 1974, her response to an explosion of a nuclear device won her strong support from middle class Indians, and she solidified her reputation as a tenacious and shrewd political leader. However, this was still a transitional time for India, and by 1973, the country was being wracked by economic issues and official corruption. Most of the working class population had very poor living standards and there were many angry demonstrations. In 1975 Gandhi was found guilty by the High Court of Allahabad for using illegal practices during her last election campaign. At this time she was ordered to vacate her seat and there were demands for her resignation. Indira Gandhi’s personal and political life would be controversial and stirred many internal an international opinions. What is undeniable about her is her extraordinary skills as statesmen. She was assassinated in 1984 by two of her own Sikh bodyguards. After her death, her son Rajiv Gandhi was sworn in as the head of the Congress party and Prime Minister.

One of the most significant aspects of Balinese culture is its focus on the arts. There are many styles of dance and theatre that are specific to the island. Also common and essential to the residents’ lifestyle is painting, sculpture and metalworking. Most of the performing arts genres are based on Hindu mythological epics like the Ramayana. Stories from these texts are acted out in stylized movements. Bali is known to have one of the most diverse arts scenes in the world. Tourists who are staying in a hotel in Bali Indonesia have plenty of spectacular cultural and entertainment options to enjoy during their visit.

Bali has a number of famous dance styles including Kecak, Gong Keybar, Baris, Barong and Pendet. The Kecak, also known as the monkey dance, is a form of musical drama. It developed in the early 1930s and is primarily performed by men. Although it is a relatively new style of dance, it has roots in the ancient sanghyang, which is a trance inducing form of exorcism. The Kecak began as ritual trance accompanied by a chorus of men. An alternate name for this dance is the Ramayana Monkey Chant. This is because it depicts a famous battle in the Ramayana where Vanara assisted Prince Rama in his defeat of the evil king Ravana.

The Barong is a dance based on the mythological character of the same name. Barong is significant to many traditions and is the king of the spirits. He is an eternal enemy of Rangda and is a leader of the hosts of good. The Banas Pati Rajah is a spirit that joins a child a birth and accompanies her or him throughout their life. The Banas Pati Rajah is the spirit that animates the Barong. The various regions of Bali have their own traditional Barong. The boar, tiger, dragon and lion are some of the common Barongs. Many of the Barong dances will depict the Barong in battle, and it will typically be struggling against Rangda’s magic and ultimately defeat her.

Ibiza is a beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea that is as enticing to tourists as it is to residents. It is rich in cultural heritage and has amazingly beautiful scenic views, however, what the island is most known for on the outside is its nightclub seen. It is certainly the hippest of the Balearic Islands, though partying and the crazy nightlife element is not the only thing the island has to offer. Art is a strong local interest and much of Ibiza’s heritage is reflected in its art. The island has numerous museums for tourists to experience this fascinating aspect of the island. Tourists who are staying in Ibiza boutique hotels won’t have to go far to find one.

The Van der Voort Gallery Ibiza was founded in 1968. It is one of the most popular and prestigious of the island’s galleries. It is also extremely popular with tourists. It has a reputation as being the best museum on the island, and it houses great works from international artists as well as some of Ibiza’s own. The Van der Hoort has a strong interest in supporting the development of new and upcoming artists. Museum Director Catalina Verdera is strong in her commitment to support new work. The museum represents many artists and among them are Manuel Bouzo, Jordi Alacaraz, Paco Romero and Ricardo Cavada.

The Contemporary Art Museum Ibiza, the House Gallery and the Archeology Museum are other prominent island galleries. The Contemporary Art Museum is located in the small town of Dalt Vila. It was established in 1963 as part of the Bicentennial International Art Show. The House Gallery is in the capital region of Eivissa and is almost exclusively devoted to presenting the work of local artists. The Archeology Museum is also in Dalt Vila and is located next to the Cathedral. The Roman, Greek and Carthaginian periods make up much of the museum’s permanent collection.

The island of Ibiza offers numerous opportunities for sight seeing, cultural encounters, and outdoor adventures. Water sports are popular and some of the common ones include scuba diving, swimming and boating. Hiking the island is also popular and extremely common among locals. The island has two golf courses to accommodate die-hard tourists, but also to cater to residents. It’s nearly impossible to resist a round of golf on this island when beauty and scenic splendor surround the course. Tourists who are enjoying the luxury of the best of Ibiza town hotel should have no problem gathering information on the courses, renting the necessary equipment and getting directions. It’s also common for the best hotels to assist with transportation arrangements.

The island’s two golf courses are located in close proximity to each other. They are the Ibiza Golf Club and Roca Lisa Golf Club and are located in Santa Eularia. While they are two distinct clubs, they are currently in the process of fusing into one much larger complex. The Ibiza Golf Club opened in 1991 as an 18 hole, par 72 course. It is to be found in a beautiful, tranquil and serene countryside. And if that weren’t enough, the course has great views of the Mediterranean Sea. The course has a restaurant, pro-shop and hotel on sight.

The Roca Llisa Golf Club is smaller. It is a 9 hole course and driving range. The amazing views from this club include fabulous views of the cobalt sea. It is snuggly nestled in among pine tree groves. Also, it is open all year long, and while island residents account for most of the non-season golfers, tourists who enjoy the island in the winter months also make use of this great course. The Roca Llisa has qualified instruction available for beginners. There is also pro-shop on site. And with the Ibiza Golf Club right next door, its no problem to venture over for dinner and hotel accommodations.

The Johannesburg Civic Theatre is multi-venue facility that is considered to be the premier home of South African entertainment. Its three main venues include the Nelson Mandela Theatre, the Tesson Theatre, and the People’s Theatre. The Civic Theatre is currently undergoing a transition in names and will soon be known exclusively as the Joburg Theatre Complex. It has been going through this transition as part of its larger renaissance since it became a principle municipal entity of the city of Johannesburg. It has gained a strong reputation throughout the region and tourists staying in hotels Johannesburg are attracted to its many spectacular productions.

The Nelson Mandela Theatre has a stage floor that covers 400 square meters of space. It has a seating capacity of 1069. It presents touring productions and major musicals. Most recently it will be housing the highly successful UK touring production of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Don Black and Charles Hart’s musical Aspects of Love. This is South African’s premier of the musical. The production was directed by Nikolai Foster and has received critical acclaim. The South African production will feature prominent national artists and crewmembers. Aspects of Love was originally staged by Trevor Nunn at London’s West End Prince of Wales Theatre.

The Tesson Theatre is a smaller space and has a total stage floor area of 72 square meters. It has a total seating capacity of 251. The People’s Theatre is the smallest of the complex’s venues and has a total stage floor area of 52 meters. It has a seating capacity of 176 and houses some of the more intimate dramatic productions. One of the recently added features of the Joburg Theatre Complex is its Fringe Festival. This year it will include a one man comedy performance by John Vlismas and a production by the New York based company Dance Evolution. The Imperial Russian Ballet Company will also perform. This is one of the most renown and well-known companies in Moscow. They are famous for their fusion of classical masterpieces with modern choreography.

Most think that these small, brown, flattened critters called bedbugs will only appear in filthy places. Unfortunately that’s no longer true. New York is once again being invaded and the problem is growing through out the world as more and more international travellers and business people bring with them and take home with them this intrusive insect stowed away in a briefcase or suitcase. New York Business Hotels have taken the best defense and have managed to be bedbug free due to their due diligence. But, caution is still the key to make sure when in New York you don’t bring any bedbugs home with you.

Bedbugs can survive in clean areas as well; as long as there are humans to fed on, there will always be a bedbug in waiting for their next meal. However, keeping your environment clean of clutter will help avoid the bedbug due to the fact of fewer areas for them to hide, but bedbug love to hide in the crevices of the mattress and the head and foot boards of the bed. Usually, one need to toss the mattress along with the box springs to get rid of a bedbug infestation.  Sad really, but it’s the only way to ensure that there are no more in your living quarters.

When in New York make sure to keep your luggage and or briefcase off the floor. Preferably on top of a table or dresser. Not on the luggage tray, that’s where bedbugs might hang out. Some tip-offs to the presence of the bedbug are reddish spots of blood dried on the sheets, dark fecal matter stains in the crevasses of the mattress. They like to lay their eggs close to where a human will be, so even check in-between the mattress and springboard for signs. If your brought bedbugs home with you from your trip to New York and find any of these signs listed above, don’t mess around with store bought products, hire a professional pest control firm, one that specializes in bedbugs because there are extremely tough to get rid of and easy to spread to another part of the house.

In the first few decades of the Twentieth Century the island of Ibiza, located in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Mainland Spain, was under tyrannical rule.  First, under King Alfonso the 12th, to Primo de Rivera.  For reasons not entirely understood, these dictators managed to win over the more liberal, conservative or dynastic parties, during elections.  However, this did create some modern movements, such as the formation of the Ibiza Republican Committee.  This committee was founded in 1930, following the opposition of workers during the 1920’s.

Just following this, still in the early 30’s, many fled Nazi Germany, intellectuals such as Raoul Hausmann and Walter Benjamin among those seeking safe harbour in Ibiza.  The tourism board was formed just after the building of many five star hotels.  Ibiza had begun the journey towards the hot spot it has become today, for international travelers as well as those seeking calmer island breezes.  However, it was still a road to this day and age.  Conflicts between the liberal and republican thinkers and the troupes of General Franco’s army resulted in discord and chaos.  During this time churches were destroyed and the execution of priests caused many of those living on the island to flee to North Africa and elsewhere in Europe.  Many others were imprisoned, the intellectuals, the politicians and the priests.  Through the mid 1940’s many were held on the island of Formentera in a concentration work camp.

However, change came in the form of the construction of the airport of Ibiza in 1958.  The island began to move swiftly in the direction of service and tourism industry.  Ibiza’s population almost doubled during the years between 1960 and 1975 due to so many people arriving from other cities in Spain, and those elsewhere in Europe searching for work in this booming new economy.  This phenomenon created the opportunity for the transition towards a democratic and a regime based of freedom.  And while current times have slowed tourism and travel all over the world, this will change, and for generations to come, Ibiza will continue to be a safe, and peaceful and beautiful haven for international travelers.

Bangkok is an amazingly beautiful and vibrant city that has a strong focus on the arts and various forms of performance. Its diverse arts scene includes major touring companies, local professional and high budget spectacles as well as the ambitious productions from local community theatres. Studio 9’s performances are somewhere between these extremes, and it offers quality entertainment at an affordable price. Tourists who are staying in hotels in Bangkok Thailand are often encouraged to attend a show at Studio 9 as part of their overall experience.

The elegant Patravadi Theatre houses Studio 9, which celebrates having over 10 years of production history. Still, it is the youngest and newest of the offerings at the Patravadi Theatre. It bills itself as Dining By The River, and it cannot be accused of false advertisement. Patrons are able to enjoy a magnificent river view across from the Grand Palace. The Studio is a unique venue, and creates a fusion of food and performance for an all inclusive evening. It also has the distinction of providing a stage to some of the country’s most distinguished artists as well as the major up and coming performers who are new to the scene. Not only does it work with a diverse selection of performers, it also offers numerous types and genres of performance entertainment. Dance, theatre and puppetry are just a few among many.

The Grand Palace, which sits across the river from the Patravadi, is one of the most enchanting complexes of buildings in Thailand. Not only is it one of the major cultural icons of Bangkok, but it is an extremely popular tourist attraction. The Palace is filled with regal prestige, which began when it started housing the kings of Thailand back in the 18th century. Tourist will have no problem getting information on the Palace and may well become privy to some exciting historical gossip when they inquire.

For luxury hotels, Singapore puts you right in the center of many worlds, old and new, on the brink of a bright and lovely future.  With all the trappings of modern cities, and all the charms of old world comfort, there are worlds within worlds, just waiting for you to set foot here.  At the center of many different cultural spheres of influence, Singapore is truly on the cutting edge of the most unique and fascinating global phenomena.

It would be no surprise, then, to find that Singapore is a haven for experimental music.  Both in its development of new technologies and for nurturing a new generation of recording artists, it is far ahead of the rest of the world.  The techno label, Fluid Mix is one of the most interesting music labels in Asia today, looking for the newest of the new is sound and sound design technologies.  Hosting events all over Singapore, it is also the house for DJ Stingrays, one of a number of up and coming mix artists from Singapore.  Stingrays is a master of live musical improvisation, laying down large and sturdy beats to keep audiences enchanted.

Another act not to miss in Singapore is the artist working under the moniker One Man Nation.  Working in Rotterdam and Singapore, but with his roots in Singapore firmly, this electronic artist specializes in his very haunting and deeply-layered brand of musical improvisation, with the addition of wild and sophisticated live performance practices.  With three albums already under his belt, his performances are a mix of live art, where a combination of gestures and physical actions intervene in the musical landscape, forcing sound and body to speak to each other in wholly-original languages.  His shows are remarkable in their ability to provoke, lull, and wake up the listener, and are a remarkable contribution to the global music scene.

For many years the Balearic Islands have been a popular tourist destination throughout the rest of Europe.  Many of those traveling had found getaways from the drab winter weather on beautiful beaches and in the many night clubs and restaurants.  However in the last year, the tourism industry has suffered, and many are not able to afford weekend getaways, much less island vacations.  Businesses on the islands have suffered, the best hotels Majorca, Ibiza, Mallorca, Formentera and Minorca have to offer are not filling up as they have in pasts summer seasons.  In the past, many travelers were from Germany and Great Britain.  And what happened a few weeks ago brightened their lives, and was perhaps a pretty savvy marketing and advertising campaign on the part of the tourism industry.  The Balearics came to Britain.  In the first week of May, 2009 the city of Manchester held a festival.  This event celebrated all that is beautiful about these islands off the coast of Spain.

The event was located in Albert Square.  There was traditional music being played on the streets, by bands from the Balearics such as Paco Fernandez, (http://www.pacofernandez.com/) Wonderbrass, and S’Estol del Rei.  A parade of more than one hundred participants, marched through the square in the authentic make-up and costumes of the Islands.  There were tall devils and magicians, circus and dance performers.  The festival was free to the public and included booths set up where artisans and artists from Mallorca and Ibiza showed their wares.  And of course food.  The traditional healthy dishes of fresh vegetables and seafood that are so well known on the Islands, and quite a far cry from kidney pie and pasties.  And the traditional Menorca horses and riders put on a show that is usually only witnessed in their homeland.  For those in England this was quite a treat, and will perhaps hold them until the economy makes a turn, and everyone can start traveling and living life to fullest once again.

Beijing is one city in China with the reputation of being one that never sleeps.  This is true when it comes to festivals, as each month some significant event or person is being celebrated.  Next month, June 2009 it is the Dragon Boat Festival.  This is an exciting event for anyone wishing to venture out of their room at one of the many five star Beijing hotels.  This event celebrates the famous Chinese scholar and poet, Qu Yuan. He lived during the years of 340 BC and 278 BC.  He is the first poet known to be given credit for his work, as before the authors of poetry and literature were never identified.  He created his own verse style, known as Sao.  He lengthened his poems and created more rhythmic verses and a wider range for expression.  He is regarded as one of the most significant figures in Chinese Romanticism and literature and his work continues to influence writers in China to this day.  He committed suicide by wading into a lake and holding on to a large rock.  He did this in protest of the corruption he was seeing in the government at that time.

The Dragon Boat Festival celebrates Qu Yuan’s artistic spirit and genius, and his involvement in politics.  This festival occurs on the fifth of June, as according to the Chinese Calender, this would be the fifth day of the fifth month.  It is sometimes referred to as the Double Five Festival.  Symbolic acknowledgements are made in reference to Qu’s drowning such as throwing packets of rice wrapped in leaves into the waters of the ponds and lakes.  Many wear talismans and charms to ward off the spirits that strike those with summer disease during this time of the year.  The residents hang photos in doorways, drink wine, and give their children small pouches that carry fragrant incense to protect themselves from the evil.

One of the more celebratory events of the festival are the boat races themselves.  Many travel to Beijing from the neighboring cities to witness these exciting races.  The boats are large canoes and are brightly decorated and painted, and of course, have the heads of dragons at the front of the boat, with the stern being shaped as the tail.  Boats are usually forty to one hundred feet long and sometimes require up to eighty rowers.  Each boat has their drummer to help inspire them as well as to give them the rhythm necessary for keeping time with each other.  Dragon Boats are sacred, as are the rituals surrounding the races.  These races occur throughout Asia, in Taiwan, and Hong Kong as well as in cities where Chinese Immigrants have relocated.

Nella Larson was a prominent novelist who contributed greatly to the Harlem Renaissance. While she only wrote two novels and short stories, the impact of her work has been strong and she gave a greater insight into the issues faced by many black Americans during this time. She is most known for her book Passing, which dealt with issues of identity development in the black community. Many light skinned black people lived their social lives “passing” as white. This was a dangerous endeavor due to the consequences one would face if found out, and also for the rejection and disapproval of blacks that did not try to pass for white. Tourists staying in hotels New York USA can still experience the influence of the Harlem Renaissance today.
She was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1891, the daughter of a Danish immigrant and a West Indian. Her parents disappeared from her life at an early age and she went to live with her mother’s relations in Denmark. She returned to the States and attended Fisk University in Tennessee for a short period of time. It has been speculated that she left the university due to her refusal to follow the strict dress codes that were in effect. She returned to Denmark and lived there for four years before returning once again to the US. Due to her parents’ mixed heritage, Larson was considered to be black and she attended New York’s all black nursing school at Lincoln Hospital. She would later become a librarian and in 1919 she married Elmer Samuel Imes, who was the second black American to receive his PhD in physics.

She and her husband moved to Harlem where Larson began working at the New York public library. She developed friendships with prominent figures in the Harlem Renaissance and began to get involved in the movement. She also began writing and had her first works published in the early 20s. She would soon decide to give up her work as a librarian and focus fulltime on her writing. She published her first novel Quicksand in 1928. This was largely autobiographical and received substantial acclaim, though it was not commercially successful. In 1929 she published her second novel, Passing, and it too received critical acclaim.

Believe it or not, Dubai does have bookstores from big Corporate bookstore’s to the small Mom-and-Pops run bookstore. The largest chains, such as Borders, Virgin and Book Corner, with a marvellous inviting interior, carry the latest trends, the latest titles with good discounts. Book Corner also as a great collection of non-fiction such as interior design, architecture and art books. A local bookstore ‘Archie’s Lending Library & Bookshop’, not so much on inside decorations, but looks can be deceiving, it’s one of Dubai’s best kept secrets offering books for lending and even a good collection of Comic Books.
 
The chain bookstores do offer the best variety and selection of not only books. Borders, known through out the world for its children’s sections has delighted parents with live readings to bring their children to listen. Virgin Mega Store is known for it huge selection of music and electronic games and equipment. But, Dubai’s most-loved bookstore is Magrudy’s. Magrudy’s has an excellent selection of English language books. The also have a nice little section for local guide books and maps. The staff, though, is one of the reason’s this bookstore is loved, they are genuinely friendly and their knowledge of the books they carry is impressive. They will even recommend Restaurants Dubai to have a good atmosphere with which to read your newly purchased novel. Their eagerness alone will make you keep coming back just for them and vast knowledge.
 
Not only does ‘Archie’s Lending Library & Bookshop’ have and a lending policy, but ‘The House of Prose’ has an interesting policy also: buy any book at a very reasonable price, read it, then either keep it or return it to get 50 percent of your money back. What a wonderful idea. This secondhand store is a good resource for a bizarre collection of material ranging from crime novels, romance novels to military strategy via ornithology.  So, it depends on your mood, there is an amazing amount of bookstore to choose from in this vastly ever grown Metropolis of Dubai. Happy book hunting and happy reading.

The best spice mix of India is the classic Garam Masala.  A gathering of spices easy to purchase at any local market and wonderful to add to any of your favorite dishes and serve to your family and friends. Garam Masala is a standard spice mix used at all the Palace Hotel India  five star restaurants and at all the local restaurants. Garam Masala is known through out the world cuisine as being one of the most popular spice mixes due to the ingredients: ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cardamon, ground pepper, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg.
 
Garam Masala means ‘Hot Spice’. This is not the same ‘hot’ as in a chille, but it does increase body temperature, pleasantly. It’s Indians equivalent of the French herbs ‘de Provence’ or the Chinese five spice mix. The spice mixture changes from region to region in Northern India. Each chef and or household add or take away a spice to make it their very own. They will even toast and grind all the spices bought from the local Farmers Markets rather than purchase a pre-made blend at a big grocery store. Garam Masala is, as a rule, added at the last step of cooking. Used like a fresh herb, so if cooked too long it will become bitter. It also needs to be added in small quantities to the meal you are preparing or otherwise it will over power the dish.
 
This warm hearted blend of spices is mainly used in Northern India and is used mostly for meat dishes; it also adds a wonderful tasted to vegetable as well.  According to  the India Ayurveda tradition it is a wonderful blend  not only adds a myriad of flavors, but with it’s preventative and curative properties it will promote well-being and good health by allowing food to be digested more easily. The ‘heating’ of the body, as I mentioned above, raises the bodies metabolism with which not only promotes a better digestion, but it is also good at keeping people warm in the winter and much better to use than chillies which makes one perspire then cause one to get cold again.

The ten year old star of the award winning hit film ‘Slumdog Millionaire’  was awoken last week by policemen banging on his door.  The young actor was removed from his home just moments before it was demolished by bulldozers.  Many other small shanties in Mumbai met with the same fate.   The child actor, Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail stated that he was worried most about his kittens, who were lost in the hub-bub and the chaos.  The two young actors in the movie, have yet to see their lives changed in a positive way, even after taking part in a project that produced more than 300 million dollars in box office profits, and garnered eight Academy Awards in Hollywood.

They live currently, in the slums that are illustrated throughout Danny Boyle’s film.  For them, not much has changed.  The young female actor, Rubina Ali, shares a similar life style.  Far from the center of town, away from the city streets and five star hotels, Mumbai supports many people.  And the economy is just not secure enough for them to live in a survival-able habitat.  Both these child stars, spent the nights over the weekend, sleeping outside in the ruins of what was once their homes.  Water and sewer problems are always an issue.  Their homes were built illegally, and it is common for men to come in the middle of the night to tear these little houses down.

Officials in charge of the demolition stated that they were not aware that the two children from the movie were living in the shanties.  They have promised government housing for the families who just recently lost their homes.  Ashar receives gifts from fans around the world.  But sitting in the mess that was once his home, the young boy admits, that he just would like to move.  The filmmakers have issued statements, saying that the welfare of their stars is of utmost concern, and that trust funds have been set up for each one of them.  But it seems that no one, not even the parents of the children, are able to figure out just how much money is in the fund at this point.

Lin Fengmian learned to paint from his father.  As a small child he studied the traditional techniques of the Chinese painting masters.  After his youthful pursuit, he moved to Paris to continue his studies at the Ecole des Beaux Artes, and the Dijon College of Art.  He was met with quick response to his talents, his first piece to be displayed was titled, ‘The Autumn’.  The work was created with oil paint, and the show was a very prestigious event for him to be involved with. Just following, his paintings done in ink were shown, again at the Salon D’Automne, while more than forty of his other works were on display concurrently at the Museum of Chinese Ancient and Modern art in Strasbourg.

His work, shown throughout the best hotels Hong Kong and Beijing offer, has garnered appreciation and respect.  His first one man show, was in Beijing, in 1926.  He strove and managed to capture the mixture of the Western schools and techniques with those of the East.  The synthetic blending proved quite popular and admired.  He used information gathered by his study of the Han Dynasty and the stone cuttings of artists produced during that time period.  Folk art was also a large influence on his work, as he appreciated the simplicity and the distortion of the work.  Many of his pieces he painted on not only canvas, but on china and porcelain as well.  He drew inspiration of such colorful and bold masters as Georges Rouault and Pablo Picasso.  He created many works exemplifying the creative aspects of what these geniuses had produced over the years.

The emotion captured with ink and paint by this man, is often times compared to the works of Matisse.  His style became very well known, a bit of whimsy combined with incredible talent and design.  He combines the rhythm, the light and the textures, with hues that are incredibly breath-taking, and dream-like.  He has over the years, helped to establish and promote various schools of art throughout Hong Kong, including the National Academy, and the Committee for Art Education.  In the Sixties, fearing persecution, he destroyed many experimental pieces he had been working on.  He was in jail for just close to four years, however upon release, was welcomed by large attendance as his exhibition in 1977.  One must look for his work, when traveling throughout Hong Kong.  It is historic, it is inspiring.

The recent Savana Redding case has opened for discussion the important issues regarding the search and seizure rights of school Principles, especially when other students within the school are at risk. In this particular case, in an Arizona middle school at the time of the incident 8th grader Savana Redding was subjected to a strip search due to suspicion she was sharing prescription strength Ibuprofen. The search turned out negative. No drugs were found on Savana’s person, and the teenage girl was traumatized by the experience.

The Supreme Court decided to hear the case to determine what, if any, limitations school administrators have when it comes to searching students in public schools. A Phoenix Arizona lawyer represented the school administrators and an attorney from the American Civil Liberties Union represented Redding. The Phoenix lawyer contended that administrators should not be limited in their flexibility to respond to potential threats in the school that may cause harm or death to other students. However, Redding’s attorney countered that the search was unreasonable and violated her privacy rights.

Opinion on the issue has been hotly discussed across the nation. An  L.A. Times opinion piece expresses the idea that strip searches in public schools are never okay. “I’m no apologist for kids who bring drugs on campus, but if there’s a situation at school serious enough to call for a strip search, it’s serious enough to call the police–and the child’s parents.”

Regardless of the country and the time zone, for one hour on this date, people around the world are turning out, or shutting the light. This is an idea conceived by the World Wildlife Foundation, two years ago in Sydney, Australia. This is an attempt to bring to the forefront of modern thinking, ideas as simple as turning out lights, and unplugging appliances. Small steps, taken towards the greater goal of preserving the ecosystems and the energy of this modern world. This one night will not drastically reduce pollution and waste, but it will serve to remind people just how simple it can be, to take care. So get out the candles, no doubt a more pleasant way to view and evening regardless of the situation, have dinner outside, or give the kids a flashlight and tent and have them ‘camp’ in the backyard telling ghost stories all night. Five star Singapore hotels will be doing it, Bar-b-Que joints in Chicago will be doing it. Art museums in Paris will be doing it.

Advice from Singaporean Amy Ho, World Wildlife foundation’s managing director, is to just do one simple thing each month. And this does not need to be limited to the home, wherein just simply leaving a room and turning off the light has such a huge positive effect…but take the bus, share a taxi. Most of the world’s major skylines will go dark tonight as the pledge has gained momentum and support worldwide. Take a breath in all that. And realize that this night won’t solve environmental issues and concerns in the hour, but serves to reinforce that this is just one, one very easy step, to a commitment to the planet and her resources. One step that unites all people in one common goal, which is to save this earth. If anything else, to have the people of the world combined together, in one idea that is so real and immediate, is so much more meaningful and important than having them fighting for and most often, separate ideologies. For those uncomfortable with one hour of contemplation, black-out parties and celebrations are scheduled. Many activities are planned for Earth Hour, in Singapore and around the world. The solutions seem so simple, tonight perhaps people will see that it just not too difficult nor much of an inconvenience to take care, and to take notice.

In the words of Tom Petty, ‘please, let it matter’. Lee Tzu Pheng was born in 1946 in Singapore. And to this day is one of Singapore’s most recognized poets, no small feat for a, woman. As what happens historically with female artists, she’s had moments of creative silence as she took care of her husband and her children and her household. She is quite shy and that has been reflected in her introspective, lyrical, and thoughtful nature and writings. She searches as many female artists do, for herself. Just simply herself. Her own identity. She has a questioning and curious response to patriotism for her country, and a faith that stops short of excluding her as male driven societies so often do. For many poets, not just female, the writing becomes not just about the happenings of a particular society or culture, but of their own involvement, or exclusion, from it. She did not create a large body, but she created a good body, a well respected and honored body of work. Apart from those participating in luxury travel Singapore provided her with a realism concerning what it is to be Singaporean and a woman.

Pheng was honored with an award, one of only six writers and the only Singaporean, the Gabriela Minstrel Award. Honored by the Chilean government before she was honored by her own. Her contributions to the world of literature and the world of Singapore garnered her this acknowledgment. This happened in 1995 and then in 1996 she was one of only two writers to receive the literary award for the Center for the Arts in Monte Blanc . She regularly participates in public readings, and leads seminars throughout the world, and has had her words set to music by some of the leading composers of the day. Classes in universities worldwide now teach courses wherein she and her writings are the subject matter. She has become personally involved with teaching and advising young writers and started the twice awarded yearly acknowledgement of young talent and the continued effort to nurture and encourage the young to put there hearts down on paper through the written word. She remains the shy girl however, looking calm and serene above the surface, like a swan…but with feet paddling and heart pounding just under the surface, wanting what is always wanted by any artist, to just let it matter.