<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Vacation Packages &#187; Owen Jones</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.wystravel.com/author/OwenJones/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.wystravel.com</link>
	<description>Finding the right vacation packages for you</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2011 21:38:12 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1</generator>
		<item>
		<title>Truck Driving Shows</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/travel/truck-driving-shows</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/travel/truck-driving-shows#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:25:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[communications]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[disease]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leisure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sport]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trucks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vehicles]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/travel/truck-driving-shows</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Truck drivers work hard and are the backbone of the supply system of most regions in the world. Our provisions and our requirements of life would just not be easily obtainable without trucks and their drivers. Trains, boats and barges cannot do the same work. There are certain to be some truck drivers who just see driving as 'a job', but it is likely that most drivers love what they do and love the lifestyle.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Truck drivers work hard and are the backbone of the supply system of most regions in the world. Our provisions and our requirements of life would just not be easily obtainable without trucks and their drivers. Trains, boats and barges cannot do the same work. There are certain to be some truck drivers who just see driving as &#8216;a job&#8217;, but it is likely that most drivers love what they do and love the lifestyle.</p>
<p>They are modern day cowboys getting the food to where people require it. These truckers love their lifestyle and they love being with like-minded people, other truckers, which is why there are truck driving shows. Many truckers like to spend some of their spare time every year at a truck driving show or two. These shows can last a weekend or even a week and are meant to be enjoyable events for the whole family.</p>
<p>At these truck driving shows, visitors can expect to find thousands of similar-minded people, advice on modern semi-trucks, discounted insurance, new semi-truck accessories and clothing. That is enough to satisfy the business sense of the trucker, but there is also food, live concerts, and other forms of entertainment.</p>
<p>Truckers are regaled with masses of information on all aspects of trucking: recent trends, recent regulations and laws, up-to-the-minute border crossing rules and much, much more. Visitors will come away with bags full of information to read at their convenience later.</p>
<p>Kids love the stalls, the side shows, the food and the live bands, some of whom are very well-known. These truck driving shows are real showcases. Real razzmatazz with all the fun of the circus.</p>
<p>Manufacturers of semi-trucks and trailers put on shows of the latest models and often have professional drivers putting them through their paces before your eyes. You can also climb in to get the feel of being in the latest technology obtainable at the moment. It is not unusual to be offered a reduction, if you sign up for a new tractor at the show.</p>
<p>Truckers are surveyed over and over again, but it gives them the opportunity to recommend changes to future models of semi. There will also be unique offers from insurance firms and opportunities to join truckers&#8217; clubs and associations.</p>
<p>One of the most popular events is the Show and Shine, where working truckers show off there prized working vehicles. No show dogs here, only sheep dogs. All working trucks not just show trucks. Owner operators and independents really love them. They are for the genuine enthusiasts.</p>
<p>It is well-worth going to truck driving shows if you have never visited one. The truckers organization you are in should have a list of the truck driving shows in your area, otherwise you can go on line and find lots of them in the summer months. If you want to go for free, why not arrange a drop or / and a load in the locale so the stay over pays for itself?</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the author of this piece writes on various topics, but is currently concerned with <a target='_blank' href="http://escort8500.com/led-automotive-lights.html">LED automotive lights</a>. If you would like to know more, please go to our website at <a target='_blank' href="http://escort8500.com">Escort 8500</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/travel/truck-driving-shows/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Scuba Diving Tours</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/travel/scuba-diving-tours</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/travel/scuba-diving-tours#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:19:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leisure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[scuba diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[self help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sport]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Swimming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/travel/scuba-diving-tours</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When it comes to scuba diving, many swimmers are misinformed. They think that you have to be a competent diver and a strong swimmer to enjoy underwater swimming.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When it comes to scuba diving, many swimmers are misinformed. They think that you have to be a competent diver and a strong swimmer to enjoy underwater swimming.</p>
<p>However, this is simply not true, although before you go scuba diving in the ocean, it is sensible that you have some fundamental knowledge of diving and decent swimming skills. However, you do not have to be an experienced diver. After all, everyone has to go scuba diving for the first time.</p>
<p>Scuba diving is a pretty self-explanatory activity really. Scuba divers can be seen in many movies and in many amusement parks. While the general idea of scuba diving is the same everywhere in the world, what you will see underwater is not. There are a number of marine animals and plants that can only be seen in certain countries. This is one of the reasons why you should book a scuba diving voyage carefully.</p>
<p>In Thailand for instance, scuba divers are often able to swim with porpoise and sea turtles. This alone is worth the cost of scuba diving for many people. Aside from swimming with sea animals, you can also spend your scuba diving holiday examining life and the environment underwater.</p>
<p>Just a few of the many marine creatures that you can easily observe in Thailand are large lobsters, electric eels, sting rays and a large number of different kinds of fish. The fish found in Thai waters are very wide-ranging because of the fantastic environment they have there, which includes natural reefs, sandbanks and wrecks..</p>
<p>Maritime creatures are unquestionably the most exciting part of scuba diving, but there are also other submarine activities in which to participate. For instance, many scuba divers enjoy diving along coral reefs. Coral reefs are not only home to a large amount of marine animals, but they are also great to explore. You will find it exciting swimming around the many different shaped reefs.</p>
<p>Having said this, unless you are an experienced underwater diver, you should go scuba diving with a trained professional. These professionals are most commonly found by means of scuba diving tour groups. Scuba diving tour groups can be found all along the coast of Thailand. Scuba diving is a prevalent pastime among foreigners in Thailand, so you would be astute to book your scuba diving trips well ahead of time.</p>
<p>As well as booking a scuba dive with a trained diver, you can also take scuba diving lessons at most coastal resorts in Thailand. Many of these places also offer guided tours. Scuba diving lessons are obtainable as group lessons or private lessons. Private lessons may be a bit more expensive, but many first time scuba divers consider them worthwhile, in more ways than one.</p>
<p>To find guided tours designed for scuba divers, you can ask in local sea front bars, at your hotel reception or at the nearest tourist information office. Whether you have already chosen your destination or not, you will easily be able to find local underwater tours or lesson, especially in the more popular Thai cities like Pattaya and Phuket. The things that you will see underwater will make your holiday even more unforgettable and make you wish you had started years before.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on a lot of subjects, but is currently involved with <a target='_blank' href="http://bodyglovewetsuitsale.com">Body Glove wetsuit</a> products. If you would like to know more about <a target='_blank' href="http://bodyglovewetsuitsale.com">Body Glove Wetsuit Sale</a>, please go over to our website for some great offers.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/travel/scuba-diving-tours/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Dog Friendly Rentals</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/dog-friendly-rentals</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/dog-friendly-rentals#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Feb 2011 01:04:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[cheap vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cottages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hotels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relaxation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rentals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[uncategorised]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/dog-friendly-rentals</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The majority of people really love their pets, to the point where they become part of the family. Some pet owners cannot stand to be parted from their pets for more than a day or so and for these people, going on vacation can be a problem, because they do not want to leave their friends behind. Obviously the answer is to take your cat or dog with you. Dogs are easier to take away than cats, because they are more well-trained]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The majority of people really love their pets, to the point where they become part of the family. Some pet owners cannot stand to be parted from their pets for more than a day or so and for these people, going on vacation can be a problem, because they do not want to leave their friends behind. Obviously the answer is to take your cat or dog with you. Dogs are easier to take away than cats, because they are more well-trained</p>
<p>If you are only going for a couple of days, say on business, finding a hotel near to the place of your meeting should not be too much of a problem, unless you want to stay at one of the big names in the city centre. It is often the smaller, family-run hotels or guest houses that allow pets, although some want you to keep your dog in a kennel on the premises overnight. larger hotels tend not to be very pet-friendly.</p>
<p>If you propose taking your pet with you, it is better if you make this clear when you make your booking as more hotels do not permit pets than do allow them. Normally there is no extra charge for a pet, but you are liable for any extra cleaning costs, should your pet get caught short.</p>
<p>If you are going away on holiday or for a longer period of time, it is sometimes a lot easier to find a holiday rental that will allow you to take your cat or dog with you. Again, it is best to make it obvious at booking that you want to take your dog with you. Luckily, there are about fifty percent of rentals or more that will allow this, although once again, you will be held responsible for any damage or mess made by your dog.</p>
<p>A tip: if on getting there, you see that previous pets have caused some damage or stains, take photographs on your first day and have them dated. Modern cameras often have the facility to date stamp photos or you can use a newspaper. Otherwise, point out the damage to your host.</p>
<p>When you travel with your dog, it is best to put the animal in some sort of a cage particularly when driving. A loving dog can be a diversion in a car. If it wants attention just when you are trying to perform a complicated manouevre, it can cause an accident. Some dogs get very frightened in cars and want to sit on their owner&#8217;s lap, this is also not a good idea and could lead to a charge of dangerous driving. Additionally, if your dog is not caged and you have an accident, it could be thrown through the windscreen. If you are travelling by air, then the airline will insist on a cage, but they usually have their own.</p>
<p>Once you arrive at your pet-friendly rental, give your dog some of his normal food to eat, lay out his blanket from home, and put out one of his favourite toys, just to help make him feel at home. After all, everything will be strange to him and he might be able to smell the previous furry tenant. If cleaning staff will be entering your rental during your holiday, make sure that you are there at least for the first few times they visit.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on many topics, but is currently concerned with <a target='_blank' href="http://poconosvacations.org/pocononos-rentals.html">Poconos rentals</a>. If you are interested in a rental in the Poconos Mountains, please go to our website at <a target='_blank' href="http://poconosvacations.org">Poconos Vacations</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/dog-friendly-rentals/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Skiing In The French Alps</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/skiing-in-the-french-alps</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/skiing-in-the-french-alps#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Dec 2010 14:04:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[cheap vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[destination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[france]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobby]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holiday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skiing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sport]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vacation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/skiing-in-the-french-alps</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Most people dream of going away on vacation to somewhere warm or even hot, however there are those who seek out the cold and the snow so that they can go skiing. It is true, lots if not most of those who go skiing in the winter can also afford a summer vacation somewhere warm as well. Skiing in the French Alps is one of the favourite choices of novice and experienced skiers alike.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Most people dream of going away on vacation to somewhere warm or even hot, however there are those who seek out the cold and the snow so that they can go skiing. It is true, lots if not most of those who go skiing in the winter can also afford a summer vacation somewhere warm as well. Skiing in the French Alps is one of the favourite choices of novice and experienced skiers alike.</p>
<p>But what if you cannot ski at all and would like to learn? Well, you could go the French Alps anyway and learn there or you could learn the fundamentals at home, perhaps on an all-weather slope, so that you get full value for money when you get to France. There are quite a few all-weather nylon slopes dotted around most Western countries, usually situated at leisure centres.</p>
<p>If you studied how to get dressed, the basic moves and the safety aspects of skiing and being on snow, than you could get on with learning better techniques from the experts at the French Alps resort after you arrive there. This way you will not miss out on the fantastic skiing in the French Alps, which along with the Swiss Alps, which it connects to, is one of the best regions for skiing in the world.</p>
<p>Learning how to stop is a wise idea, but before you can practice your stopping technique, you have to be moving, which can be fairly scary. This and health and safety codes are the first things that you will be taught when you take lessons either at home or in the Alps.</p>
<p>Knowing that you know how to come to a halt gives you the confidence to get you going and practicing other techniques like turning. You see, one of the difficulties with skiing is the novices, they tend to get in the way, so you need to look out for them and learn how to come to a halt before hitting them or how to go around them.</p>
<p>There are normally at least a few kinds of slopes at these French alpine resorts ranging from moderate slopes for beginners to steeper, faster courses with obstacles like trees and rocks for practiced skiers. The weather can change in an amazingly short time even within an hour, however at the best times of the year, the weather is normally pretty warm from about 10 AM until 2 PM.</p>
<p>This gives you time for a pre-breakfast walk, a leisurely breakfast and four hours on the slopes, before lunch and apres-ski entertainment. The evenings&#8217; entertainment is legendary, which is another decent reason for a late start. French food and drink is world famous and the food and drink in the French Alps is no exception.</p>
<p>Skiing is quite physical and necessitates the aspirant skier to be fit and strong. Therefore, if you have let yourself go a bit, you might think it wise to visit a gym for a couple of weeks before your vacation to get back into shape.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the author of this piece, writes on several topics, but is now involved with <a target='_blank' href="http://skipackageholidays.org/short-ski-breaks.html">short ski breaks</a>. If you would like to know more, please go over to our web site at <a target='_blank' href="http://skipackageholidays.org">Ski Package Holidays</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/skiing-in-the-french-alps/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Hiking And Camping Is Undergoing A Revival</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/hiking-and-camping-is-undergoing-a-revival</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/hiking-and-camping-is-undergoing-a-revival#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:27:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[cheap vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leisure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nature]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[supplies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vacation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[walking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wildlife]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/hiking-and-camping-is-undergoing-a-revival</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Are you interested in getting closer to nature? Do you like walking and sleeping under the stars - or under canvas at least? If you do, then a walking or hiking and camping holiday may be just the thing for you. A hiking and camping holiday will get you out in the fresh air, permit you to observe nature first hand and cost you very little to boot. In short, hiking and camping are the ideal blend, if you are looking for a healthy, low-cost break outdoors.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Are you interested in getting closer to nature? Do you like walking and sleeping under the stars &#8211; or under canvas at least? If you do, then a walking or hiking and camping holiday may be just the thing for you. A hiking and camping holiday will get you out in the fresh air, permit you to observe nature first hand and cost you very little to boot. In short, hiking and camping are the ideal blend, if you are looking for a healthy, low-cost break outdoors.</p>
<p>Not only that but you can either go alone with a few good books, take a lover, take a friend or take the family with you. All in all, you have many options available to you if you want to trek off into the wild blue yonder on foot.</p>
<p>There are a couple of ways of approaching a vacation of this kind. You can either book into a hiking and camping site or you can literally only head off. If you have children with you then the camping ground is a necessity, but otherwise the decision is yours, although it has to be kept in mind, that camping off site is or can be illegal. Trespass is absolutely illegal as is causing a nuisance of yourself, putting wild animals under stress for no good reason, damaging trees or property and littering.</p>
<p>So, if you are a novice to hiking and camping, you will probably be better off going to a hiking and camping site or park. Do not be put off by this thought, some of them are truly enormous. Check out the Poconos and other national parks for instance.</p>
<p>There is no doubt that price is a factor in the choice of a camping holiday for many young people, but it is hardly ever the sole reason why people like to get away and sleep under the stars. Going back to nature and bird- and animal-watching are other common reasons.</p>
<p>If you fancy this sort of holiday, it is worth bearing in mind that hiking and camping have become highly popular pastimes of late. They always were well-liked, it is true, but they waned in the Eighties and Nineties, and are seeing a resurgence now. Therefore, do your homework, think about where you would like to go, get some leaflets or look on line and book up early. Yes, nowadays you have to book up early to get into the best hiking and camping sites again.</p>
<p>A final note of warning, if you decide to go off into the wilderness outside a camp site, let people know where you are. Take your mobile phone and a couple of fully-charged extra batteries and say when you are going to phone in that you are safe and make certain that you abide by it. It is very expensive if Air-Sea Rescue are called out on a wild goose chase.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the author of this piece, writes on a number of subjects, but is now involved with the <a target='_blank' href="http://eggcratemattresspadforsale.com/egg-crate-foam-mattress-pad.html">egg crate foam mattress pad</a>. If you would like to know more, please visit our website at <a target='_blank' href="http://eggcratemattresspadforsale.com">Egg Crate Mattress Pad For Sale</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/hiking-and-camping-is-undergoing-a-revival/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Thailand And Landscape Architecture</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/thailand-and-landscape-architecture</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/thailand-and-landscape-architecture#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:25:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[cheap vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[abroad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[architecture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[asia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[buddhist]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[enlightenment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[festivals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holiday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thailand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vacation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/thailand-and-landscape-architecture</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Landscape architecture plays an important function in the development of all contemporary cities. The principles of landscape architecture are used in order to create open 'breathing spaces' so the city has some fresh air and does not look cluttered. Landscape architecture is taught in Thailand and is acknowledged as a profession offering professional qualifications at degree level.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Landscape architecture plays an important function in the development of all contemporary cities. The principles of landscape architecture are used in order to create open &#8216;breathing spaces&#8217; so the city has some fresh air and does not look cluttered. Landscape architecture is taught in Thailand and is acknowledged as a profession offering professional qualifications at degree level.</p>
<p>If someone wants to practice as a landscape architect in Thailand, then he or she has to have a bachelor&#8217;s qualification in landscape architecture from one of the two universities offering the course. Chulalongkorn University and Thammasart University turn out around 100 post graduates between them in landscape architecture each year.</p>
<p>Bangkok is home to most of Thailand&#8217;s landscape architectural companies. There are around thirty substantial businesses and about eighty freelance landscape architects.Lots of the post graduates would like to continue their study or gain more experience abroad before settling down to practice in Thailand. In order to work as a landscape architect in Thailand, one needs to obtain a license from Thailand&#8217;s official Association of Architects.</p>
<p>The Thai Association of Architects plays an vital role in maintaining standards of landscape architecture. The Thai government, both local and national, use landscape architects to help with the design of such projects as motorway development, inner city reconstruction and airport design. On a more understandable level, landscape architects are involved with the Royal Flora Expo in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand.</p>
<p>The Association of Architects in Thailand is a private organization but it works hand in glove with the Ministry of the Interior. It assists the government control four professions which can have an effect on the environment and one of these is the occupation of landscape architecture. However, landscape architecture does not make up 25% of the Association&#8217;s work. At 15% of the association&#8217;s workload, it is valid to imagine that landscape architecture is under represented in Thailand.</p>
<p>The Association of Architects issues licenses to applicants based on the results of three principles. These concepts are education, experience and examination. The principle of education is satisfied by gaining a BA in landscape architecture. Then the applicant has to provide proof of work experience and finally, the association has its own examinations which the landscape architect also has to succeed in.</p>
<p>Landscape architecture is still in its infancy in Thailand. That is to say that, landscape architecture has just recently began being applied to public developments. There have been landscape gardeners working on the gardens and palaces of rich Thais for centuries, only like in each other country with a wealthier ruling class.</p>
<p>Two of Thailand&#8217;s most famous landscape architects are Somwang Leevanjikul and Chanvudhi Varavam, both of whom have been concerned in large government projects in Thailand using their skills in landscape architecture to create Thailand&#8217;s cities and countryside a better searching place to live.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on several subjects, but is now involved with <a target='_blank' href="http://packageholidaystothailand.org/loy-krathong.html">Loy Krathong</a>. If you would like to know more, please visit our web site at <a target='_blank' href="http://packageholidaystothailand.org">Package Holidays to Thailand</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/thailand-and-landscape-architecture/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Skiing In Croatia</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/skiing-in-croatia</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/skiing-in-croatia#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Dec 2010 12:54:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[cheap vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Croatia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[destination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobby]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holiday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skiing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sport]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vacation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/skiing-in-croatia</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Twenty or thirty years ago, no-one in their right mind would have gone to Croatia, unless they were in the army, but that has all altered. Nowadays, Croatia is part of the European Union and is much more hospitable to tourists.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Twenty or thirty years ago, no-one in their right mind would have gone to Croatia, unless they were in the army, but that has all altered. Nowadays, Croatia is part of the European Union and is much more hospitable to tourists.</p>
<p>One of the tourist activities that Croatia is building its reputation on is skiing. It is a warmer country than northern France, Switzerland and Scandinavia, so it is feasible to take a skiing vacation in the mountains and finish the holiday off with a week at the seaside.</p>
<p>One of the best skiing regions to visit is Zagreb and in particular Bjelolasica, which is where the Croatian Olympic skiing team trains. The facilities in this area are excellent and the prices are a lot cheaper than you would pay in either in the French or in the Swiss Alps or in Scandinavia. In fact Croatia offers fantastic skiing facilities at a very affordable cost.</p>
<p>The Croatian skiing community is of very high standard and they know that they have to compete with the history of the more famous French and Swiss ski resorts so they really pull all the stops out to make certain that the tourists and sports people that come to their country derive value for money and would like to come back again.</p>
<p>They comprehend that word of mouth advertising is the best and the cheapest form of advertising that you can get.</p>
<p>Another well-liked Croatian skiing destination is Platak. Platak is located nearer the Adriatic and can be a bit more costly than Bjelolasica because it is a little cut off, but it just depends where you want to go and what you would like to do.</p>
<p>Platak is a decent all round skiing resort which has plans for improvements on a huge scale. During the coming years, Platak will have more ski slopes of different levels of difficulty and more hotels and chalets of all price bands.</p>
<p>You would be forgiven for thinking that there might be a language barrier in Croatia and to be honest there can be, but the ski resorts are all staffed by people who have studied most of the common European languages. It shows how much can be done in twenty years if the government and the people have the correct and the same point of view.</p>
<p>Croatia has a very varied cuisine, so tourists and skiers from all around the world should be able to find lots of suitable food and drink. Croatia has a border with Hungary and their wine is very good. All in all, Croatia offers decent skiing facilities at a knock down price, but just how long they will be able to offer these fantastic facilities at these attractive prices remains to be seen.</p>
<p>If you are a dedicated skier, it could be worth going to Croatia and buying a time-share or some other type of accommodation now before the inevitable cost rise when the rest of Europe realizes how cheap skiing in Croatia actually is.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on several subjects, but is now concerned with <a target='_blank' href="http://skipackageholidays.org/short-ski-breaks.html">short ski breaks</a>. If you would like to know more, please visit our website at <a target='_blank' href="http://skipackageholidays.org">Ski Package Holidays</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/skiing-in-croatia/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>European Skiing Destinations</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/european-skiing-destinations</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/european-skiing-destinations#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Dec 2010 14:29:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[cheap vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobby]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holiday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leisure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skiing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sport]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/european-skiing-destinations</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Europe is the birthplace of skiing. The first drawings of a skier were discovered in a cave in Nordland, Norway. The drawing has been dated at 5000 BC. Norway was almost certainly the home of skiing or what is called Nordic Skiing anyway.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Europe is the birthplace of skiing. The first drawings of a skier were discovered in a cave in Nordland, Norway. The drawing has been dated at 5000 BC. Norway was almost certainly the home of skiing or what is called Nordic Skiing anyway.</p>
<p>Alpine or downhill skiing almost certainly comes from central Europe in the region of Switzerland. There are so many skiing resorts in Europe that there is a huge number of slopes for every level of experience.</p>
<p>You can ski in almost every country in Europe. The least famous skiing resorts are almost certainly in Scotland, but they do have them and the most well-known resorts are in the French and Swiss Alps, which are actually the same place, but they extend over two different countries.</p>
<p>The French and The Swiss alps are the most commercialized for luxury and are also the most expensive. Not far east from there is Austria which, although less famous is also an attraction for skiers from Eastern Europe.</p>
<p>If you would like to go skiing at a more affordable rate go to Italy up on the Swiss border. There you will get practically the same skiing conditions as in the French and Swiss Alps but with Italian food and language, which means less English is spoken though, if you see that as a disadvantage.</p>
<p>Roughly the same price is Andorra which is Catalan (Spanish to you and me, but not to them). Andorra sits in the Pyrenees Mountains with borders on France and Spain. The Spanish influence is the greater of the two. Skiing in Andorra is famous for its teaching. It is a fantastic place to learn skiing or to take the family.</p>
<p>If you would like to visit a rising star in the skiing firmament, go to Croatia. Skiing in Croatia is also among the most reasonably priced in Europe. The facilities are excellent, but local wages are low which keeps the costs down. The food is good and so is the wine, though not maybe a match for French, Italian or Spanish cuisine.</p>
<p>Bulgaria is another rising location on the skier&#8217;s map. Skiing is not well commercialized in Bulgaria but the locals have been skiing for centuries, it is merely that they are only just beginning to learn how to commercialize it. The locals are friendly, but do not expect much English to be spoken.</p>
<p>We should not forget the home of skiing, Norway and the rest of Scandinavia. Expect top class facilities in Scandinavia with top class prices to match. The locals are very friendly, but might not speak English. The food is more likely to be local as well. You are more likely to find decent skiing conditions all year round in Scandinavia too.</p>
<p>There are so many skiing resorts in so many European countries, that if you wanted to, you could organize a skiing tour of Europe. If you wanted to ski in Scandinavia and Andorra, you would have to fly, but you could do the Swiss, French and Italian Alps. Or Austria and Bulgaria or Bulgaria and Croatia.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the writer of this article, writes on several subjects, but is now involved with <a target='_blank' href="http://skipackageholidays.org/short-ski-breaks.html">short ski breaks</a>. If you would like to know more, please go over to our web site at <a target='_blank' href="http://skipackageholidays.org">Ski Package Holidays</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/cheap-vacations/european-skiing-destinations/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Berkhamsted Castle &#8211; A Little Of Its History</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/vacation-destinations/berkhamsted-castle-a-little-of-its-history</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/vacation-destinations/berkhamsted-castle-a-little-of-its-history#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:41:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[vacation destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[architecture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[castles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cornwall]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[history]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[military]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[politics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[war]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/vacation-destinations/berkhamsted-castle-a-little-of-its-history</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The exact origin of Berkhamsted Castle is unclear. It was almost certainly built by Robert, Count of Mortain and Earl of Cornwall, who was the half-brother of King William I. Robert prospered from the Norman Conquest in 1066 and grew even more rich during the following years.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The exact origin of Berkhamsted Castle is unclear. It was almost certainly built by Robert, Count of Mortain and Earl of Cornwall, who was the half-brother of King William I. Robert prospered from the Norman Conquest in 1066 and grew even more rich during the following years.</p>
<p>However, his son made a big slip-up by backing Robert of Normandy against King Henry I. Henry confiscated the castle and its grounds and put it up for rent. A number of wealthy families rented it from time to time, one of whom was Thomas Becket.</p>
<p>Berkhamsted Castle is of the classic style for its age in that it is a motte and bailey castle. The motte is a tall conical rise of earth on which would stand the last line of defence, the keep. Two ditches surround the bailey with a rampart in between. The ditches may or may not have been full of water.</p>
<p>The motte and bailey and its keep were the ancient equivalent of a modern strong or safe room. If the outer concentric walls of the castle were breached, the family occupying the castle and their most trusted soldiers would flee into the keep and lift up the drawbridge. Any would-be attackers now had to approach across open ground, in effect a killing field.</p>
<p>Then the invaders would have to cross a ditch or a moat under heavy fire, climb over a rampart and swim another moat. If they got that far they would face a sheer keep wall with no windows doors or toe-holds while a withering shower of rocks and arrows poured down upon them from a great height.</p>
<p>The keep at Berkhamsted Castle has been taken away quite some time ago. It has to be remembered that castles were symbols of foreign oppression and were fiercely hated by the indigenous locals. The first castles or forts really were Roman; then came, Saxon forts and castles and finally Norman castles &#8211; all owned by marauding foreigners.</p>
<p>So once a castle was destroyed or badly damaged, it was not unusual for the locals to pillage the ruins in order to build a new cottage for their family or a new cowshed for their livestock. It was easier to steal the rocks from the rundown castle than quarry them themselves. So, the original rocks that made up Berkhamsted Castle are almost certainly to be discovered under centuries of plaster in the near-by local farmhouses.</p>
<p>Having said that, there are still parts of the original flint wall from the era of Thomas Becket&#8217;s occupancy of the castle. The pieces of stone were probably too small to be worth pinching.</p>
<p>The remains of three semi-circular towers flank this wall which ran from the motte to the bailey. They too lie in ruins although the foundations show what they were. There are also the ruins of a barbican at the north end of the bailey.</p>
<p>There are hundreds, if not thousands of castles in the United Kingdom. Most of them are in ruins but some are very well conserved and some are even still lived in, like Windsor Castle for example.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the writer of this article, writes on several subjects, but is now concerned with the <a target='_blank' href="http://bouncyhouserentals.org/bouncy-castles-for-sale.html">bouncy castles for sale</a>. If you would like to know more, please visit our web site at <a target='_blank' href="http://bouncyhouserentals.org">Bouncy House Rentals</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/vacation-destinations/berkhamsted-castle-a-little-of-its-history/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Cottage Rentals</title>
		<link>http://www.wystravel.com/vacation-destinations/cottage-rentals</link>
		<comments>http://www.wystravel.com/vacation-destinations/cottage-rentals#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:15:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Owen Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[vacation destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cottages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[history]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wystravel.com/vacation-destinations/cottage-rentals</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Most people look forward to going away on vacation and a lot of people like to make complex plans and bookings. After all you usually have to make allowances for flights and hotels. However, there can also be car, sightseeing and bicycle bookings too, depending on the type of vacation you want.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Most people look forward to going away on holiday and a lot of people like to make complex plans and bookings. After all you usually have to make allowances for flights and hotels. However, there can also be car, sightseeing and bicycle bookings too, depending on the type of vacation you want.</p>
<p>Instead of a hotel, you might want to think about renting a private cottage. Cottage rentals are a good alternative to a hotel or guest house. In general, cottage holidays are self-catering, so you would have to be ready to put in a little more work than if you went on an all-inclusive hotel stay. A small cottage on the coast in an isolated setting would suit many people, but a holiday cottage on the coast might be better for others.</p>
<p>If you choose the right spot, you can have whatever type of cottage you want. Go to the coast if you like sailing or snorkeling. A coastal resort location would offer more night life most likely. If you want a quieter fishing vacation with canoing or boating, a quiet lakeside hideaway would be more fitting. Then there are mountain huts and several other levels of solitude and nightlife too.</p>
<p>If you would like to visit museums and other touristic sights, you should select a location near an appropriate city. It just means a little forward planning and consideration.</p>
<p>We live in Wales and there are thousands of rental cottages of all types in all manner of locations. If you have a big family, you could hire several cottages close to each there and live in a kind of old fashioned community. There are also modern camps like &#8216;Center Parcs&#8217; which have hundreds of very modern cottages in small groups of four or five so that families or friends can stay in a group together.</p>
<p>These modern cottages are very plush, with Jacuzzis, swirl baths, large flat screen televisions and all manner of entertainment equipment and satellite TV. The cottages are set in acres of woodland and wildlife is everywhere. There are deer, badgers, foxes, squirrels and dozens of types of birds including kingfishers, geese, ducks and swans.</p>
<p>The swimming pools are completely heated and go inside and outside into the woods, so that even in the middle of winter you remain warm. There is also archery, boating and hiking with many courses of differing hardship to follow. It is great to walk in the woods knowing that you cannot get lost with animals around every corner.</p>
<p>The wildlife is used to human company, so much or it is not scared and they come right up to you if you stop for a picnic. These holidays are not so cheap as going to a self-catering private holiday, but they are safe, particularly for young families.</p>
<p>You can come across cottage rentals through a travel agent, but you can also find them by searching in your local newspaper. These are some of the best finds because the cottages might be only a few hours drive away, but that is remote enough to make a big change. You do not really need to get on a plane to have a great holiday with a difference.</p>
<p>Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on many subjects, but is currently involved with the rental of <a target='_blank' href="http://welsh-products-online.co.uk/welsh-coastal-cottages.htm">Welsh coastal cottages</a>. If you are interested in a cottage or Wales in general, please go to our website at <a target='_blank' href="http://welsh-products-online.co.uk">Welsh Products Online</a></p>
<p>Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on many topics, but is currently involved with <a href="http://welsh-products-online.co.uk/welsh-love-spoons.htm">Welsh love spoons</a>, or Wales in general, go to our website at <a href="http://welsh-products-online.co.uk">Welsh Products Online</a></p>
<p>categories: cottages,holidays,vacations,history,rural life,social issues,religion,hobbies,celtic,education,government,travel,writing,other</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.wystravel.com/vacation-destinations/cottage-rentals/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

<!-- Performance optimized by W3 Total Cache. Learn more: http://www.w3-edge.com/wordpress-plugins/

Served from: www.wystravel.com @ 2012-02-08 18:05:28 -->
