Travellers who are planning gap years may want to book flights to Thailand as one travel expert described the country as a sophisticated destination.
Chris Lee, marketing advisor for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), commented that Thailand has a lot to offer those on gap years, as well as people holidaying there.
"Gap years are not just about doing a lazy trek, people want to get involved with cultural tourism, do home stays and get a much more down to earth product," he said.
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Thailand 'offers great value for money'
Brits hoping to take a bargain long-haul break in 2010 may wish to consider booking a flight to Thailand.
According to Travelmood, it is one of the best value destinations for British travellers.
Rad Sofronijevic, the company's managing director, said 2009 saw a rise in the number of people making late bookings and noted that, as a result, airlines and hotels are offering great deals for 2010 in order to encourage early bookings.
"Thailand is definitely more affordable for 2010 than it was this year because of the great, value-added deals around," he commented.
Mr Sofronijevic added that flights to Australia and New Zealand are also becoming more affordable for Britons.
News Source for Thailand 'offers great value for money'
According to Travelmood, it is one of the best value destinations for British travellers.
Rad Sofronijevic, the company's managing director, said 2009 saw a rise in the number of people making late bookings and noted that, as a result, airlines and hotels are offering great deals for 2010 in order to encourage early bookings.
"Thailand is definitely more affordable for 2010 than it was this year because of the great, value-added deals around," he commented.
Mr Sofronijevic added that flights to Australia and New Zealand are also becoming more affordable for Britons.
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Boarding pass problems 'may irk those on flights to Thiruvananthapuram'
Those people planning to book flights to Thiruvananthapuram in the near future may wish to double check that they have printed off their boarding pass before travelling to the airport after the publication of new research.
According to accommodation provider Jurys Inns, forgetting to do this - and then incurring a charge at the airport as a result - is one of the most annoying things that business travellers encounter on their trips.
Other things that were found to be particularly irritating by the survey included dim bathroom lighting that does not allow for make-up to be applied efficiently and missing breakfast due to early business meetings.
Forgetting to take a mobile phone or BlackBerry charger - meaning that the device becomes useless once the battery has run down - also made the ranking.
In recent days, Thomson and First Choice predicted that warmer destinations are likely to attract an increased number of customers next summer.
According to accommodation provider Jurys Inns, forgetting to do this - and then incurring a charge at the airport as a result - is one of the most annoying things that business travellers encounter on their trips.
Other things that were found to be particularly irritating by the survey included dim bathroom lighting that does not allow for make-up to be applied efficiently and missing breakfast due to early business meetings.
Forgetting to take a mobile phone or BlackBerry charger - meaning that the device becomes useless once the battery has run down - also made the ranking.
In recent days, Thomson and First Choice predicted that warmer destinations are likely to attract an increased number of customers next summer.
Travellers 'are likely to find good flight deals in 2010'
Travellers are likely to find some excellent deals on flights to Thailand and other popular destinations next year, it has been claimed.
Simon McNamara, director of industry affairs for the European Regions Airline Association, said the past 12 months have been tough for most carriers.
However, he noted that this is likely to benefit holidaymakers and business travellers.
"What could be advantageous for customers may be the fact that airlines will be discounting tickets, in order to attract the numbers in terms of demand once again," Mr McNamara commented.
News Source for Travellers 'are likely to find good flight
Simon McNamara, director of industry affairs for the European Regions Airline Association, said the past 12 months have been tough for most carriers.
However, he noted that this is likely to benefit holidaymakers and business travellers.
"What could be advantageous for customers may be the fact that airlines will be discounting tickets, in order to attract the numbers in terms of demand once again," Mr McNamara commented.
News Source for Travellers 'are likely to find good flight
Flights to India
Looking for flights to India may be a challenging task for many. The trouble is that you will have a tough time selecting from a tantalising array of options as almost all airlines are set to outdo each other with the best possible deals on offer. Mystical India brims with attractions galore – be it culture, looming mountains, lush forests, or sandy beaches. Naturally, tourists flock to the country prompting airlines do their best to pamper travellers.
Often thought of visiting Delhi, the rich cultural city with grand remnants of stately colonial and magnificent Mughal architecture? Unbelievably, you can fly for as low as £245 from London Heathrow Airport! There are scores of other options. If frilly in-flight services matter to you, then you can select from the upper end of the spectrum from Kingfisher Airlines and Jet Airways with price tags of £397 and £322 each.
A trip to India is incomplete without a visit to Mumbai, home to the world’s largest film industry. You can reach this fabulous destination for an amazing £245. Can it really go lower than this? Near Mumbai, India’s premiere beach destination of Goa has long remained a hot favourite vacationing destination. Why not? Laidback but extremely fun filled ambience against a backdrop of surviving Portuguese culture works its magic on the most jaded traveller. You can steal a deal to Goa with Air India for for as low as £417.
To witness an amazing convergence of the old and the new, head to Hyderabad. With epithets like the ‘City of Nizams’ and the City of Pearls, Hyderabad is full of delightful historical landmarks and culinary wonders. Trust Jet Airways to take you there with fares starting from £322. Whether you are a history buff or a pub crawler, make sure to visit the swish city of Bangalore. Once ruled by Tipu Sultan and adorned with many historical buildings, today Bangalore has come to be known as the Silicon Valley of India. Fly to this wonderful destination at a shockingly low fare of £333.
Whether it is Lufthansa for merely £411 for round trip to the ‘City of Joy’ (Kolkata), or a paltry £289 for a trip to the coastal city of Chennai with Kuwait Airways, it is the tourist who is being spoilt for choice. With all these flights to India available from London Heathrow Airport, get ready to explore this enigmatic country on a shoestring budget.
Often thought of visiting Delhi, the rich cultural city with grand remnants of stately colonial and magnificent Mughal architecture? Unbelievably, you can fly for as low as £245 from London Heathrow Airport! There are scores of other options. If frilly in-flight services matter to you, then you can select from the upper end of the spectrum from Kingfisher Airlines and Jet Airways with price tags of £397 and £322 each.
A trip to India is incomplete without a visit to Mumbai, home to the world’s largest film industry. You can reach this fabulous destination for an amazing £245. Can it really go lower than this? Near Mumbai, India’s premiere beach destination of Goa has long remained a hot favourite vacationing destination. Why not? Laidback but extremely fun filled ambience against a backdrop of surviving Portuguese culture works its magic on the most jaded traveller. You can steal a deal to Goa with Air India for for as low as £417.
To witness an amazing convergence of the old and the new, head to Hyderabad. With epithets like the ‘City of Nizams’ and the City of Pearls, Hyderabad is full of delightful historical landmarks and culinary wonders. Trust Jet Airways to take you there with fares starting from £322. Whether you are a history buff or a pub crawler, make sure to visit the swish city of Bangalore. Once ruled by Tipu Sultan and adorned with many historical buildings, today Bangalore has come to be known as the Silicon Valley of India. Fly to this wonderful destination at a shockingly low fare of £333.
Whether it is Lufthansa for merely £411 for round trip to the ‘City of Joy’ (Kolkata), or a paltry £289 for a trip to the coastal city of Chennai with Kuwait Airways, it is the tourist who is being spoilt for choice. With all these flights to India available from London Heathrow Airport, get ready to explore this enigmatic country on a shoestring budget.
Luxury train journey across India 'an incredible odyssey'
One travel journalist has written of the "incredible odyssey into India's past" that he experienced on one of the country's luxury train rides.
Writing for the Guardian, Sarfraz Manzoor described his week-long trip on the Golden Chariot that took him from Bangalore to Goa.
People booking flights to India may want to consider the journey as part of their itinerary on a visit to the country.
Mr Manzoor visited historic locations, such as the ruined city of Hampi, the palace in Mysore and the spectacular statue of Jain saint Bahubali in Shravanabelagola.
Passengers on the train also had the opportunity to go in search of the elusive tiger on a safari in the Nagarhole National Park.
Although he did not see any tigers, Mr Manzoor did find an elephant: "An elephant, its trunk dressed in leaves, emerged as if from a dream. I had never seen elephants in the wild before and it reduced me and everyone else to silence."
The Golden Chariot makes four stops – Mysore, Hassan, Hospet and Gadag -between Bangalore and Goa.
Writing for the Guardian, Sarfraz Manzoor described his week-long trip on the Golden Chariot that took him from Bangalore to Goa.
People booking flights to India may want to consider the journey as part of their itinerary on a visit to the country.
Mr Manzoor visited historic locations, such as the ruined city of Hampi, the palace in Mysore and the spectacular statue of Jain saint Bahubali in Shravanabelagola.
Passengers on the train also had the opportunity to go in search of the elusive tiger on a safari in the Nagarhole National Park.
Although he did not see any tigers, Mr Manzoor did find an elephant: "An elephant, its trunk dressed in leaves, emerged as if from a dream. I had never seen elephants in the wild before and it reduced me and everyone else to silence."
The Golden Chariot makes four stops – Mysore, Hassan, Hospet and Gadag -between Bangalore and Goa.
Travellers offered winter flu advice
Travellers booking cheap flights to Thailand and other popular destinations have been offered some advice on how to keep the sniffles at bay this winter.
Catching a cold or the flu can put a serious downer on holidays. However, according to one publication, there are a number of steps people can take to prevent the spread of germs.
Writing for the Mirror, Nigel Thompson noted that passengers should carry a bottle of hand sanitiser with them, which should be applied liberally and at regular intervals.
"Use antibacterial wipes. They can help in disinfecting anything you may rest your hands on, such as your tray table and arm rests," he added.
News Source for Travellers offered winter flu advice
Catching a cold or the flu can put a serious downer on holidays. However, according to one publication, there are a number of steps people can take to prevent the spread of germs.
Writing for the Mirror, Nigel Thompson noted that passengers should carry a bottle of hand sanitiser with them, which should be applied liberally and at regular intervals.
"Use antibacterial wipes. They can help in disinfecting anything you may rest your hands on, such as your tray table and arm rests," he added.
News Source for Travellers offered winter flu advice
Holidays to India 'a top choice' for 2010
Anyone booking flights to India next year may be pleased to hear that the country has been chosen as one of the ten best places to travel to in 2010.
World Travel Guide highlighted Delhi as a particularly good choice as the city is set to host the Commonwealth Games in October next year.
As a result of the forthcoming sporting event, authorities have made a number of improvements to city's infrastructure and have resolved to teach basic English to workers in the hospitality and transport industries.
The online guide also recommended that visitors looking to escape from the chaotic urban environment should take a trip to the seaside state of Kerala.
"Away from the urban sprawl, this is a vast and diverse land, with tranquil beaches, parched deserts and fresh mountain retreats," the website stated.
The Commonwealth Games, which are taking place between October 3rd and 14th, will showcase international athletes in events such as archery, cycling, wrestling and table tennis.
Airline award winners announced
Singapore Airlines was the biggest winner at the Official Airline Guide (OAG) annual awards this week.
The Asian-based carrier picked up four gongs, including the title of best international first class airline.
Additionally, Singapore Changi was voted the best airport in the world by the registered OAG members and frequent fliers who took part in the ballot.
Other winners included Continental - which picked up the accolades for best airline based in North America and the best executive/business class carrier - and Virgin Atlantic which was awarded best airline based in Western Europe and best transatlantic airline.
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The Asian-based carrier picked up four gongs, including the title of best international first class airline.
Additionally, Singapore Changi was voted the best airport in the world by the registered OAG members and frequent fliers who took part in the ballot.
Other winners included Continental - which picked up the accolades for best airline based in North America and the best executive/business class carrier - and Virgin Atlantic which was awarded best airline based in Western Europe and best transatlantic airline.
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Virgin Atlantic offers bigger planes on flights to Delhi
Virgin Atlantic has announced that it will operate a fleet of larger aircraft on certain routes over the Christmas period to help passengers who will encounter travel difficulties as a result of industrial action at a rival airline.
Flights to Delhi are among those that will use a larger aircraft, along with several major transatlantic routes, such as those to New York and Washington.
An additional 68 seats will be provided on each flight, as the airline will use an Airbus A340-600 rather than the A340-300 model.
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Hyderabad 'offers secrets waiting to be discovered'
A travel journalist recently described his trip to Hyderabad as a "quintessentially Indian experience".
Writing in the Daily Mail, Tim Lott talked about a recent trip to the southern Indian city.
Initially sceptical of the spiritual journey promised by the itinerary, Mr Lott explained that he was completely surprised by what he found.
After spending a few days sightseeing in Hyderabad, Mr Lott's trip took him to a spa resort on Vembanad Lake.
While here, he underwent a soul rebalancing session, which he said was "a remarkable encounter".
News Source for Hyderabad offers secrets waiting to be discovered
Writing in the Daily Mail, Tim Lott talked about a recent trip to the southern Indian city.
Initially sceptical of the spiritual journey promised by the itinerary, Mr Lott explained that he was completely surprised by what he found.
After spending a few days sightseeing in Hyderabad, Mr Lott's trip took him to a spa resort on Vembanad Lake.
While here, he underwent a soul rebalancing session, which he said was "a remarkable encounter".
News Source for Hyderabad offers secrets waiting to be discovered
Jet Airways announces new Delhi route
Anyone booking flights to Delhi could soon be taking a new route courtesy of Jet Airways.
The carrier has announced that it will begin a daily flight from the Indian capital to Doha alongside its existing routes to Mumbai and Kochi.
Delhi to Doha operations and the reciprocal journeys will commence from January 21st 2010.
Nikos Kardassis, acting chief executive officer at Jet Airways, commented: "The launch of our daily services to Doha from Delhi will cater for the strong customer demand for direct flights on the route."
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The carrier has announced that it will begin a daily flight from the Indian capital to Doha alongside its existing routes to Mumbai and Kochi.
Delhi to Doha operations and the reciprocal journeys will commence from January 21st 2010.
Nikos Kardassis, acting chief executive officer at Jet Airways, commented: "The launch of our daily services to Doha from Delhi will cater for the strong customer demand for direct flights on the route."
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Taj Mahal one of the top landmarks in the world, survey says
Anyone who has booked flights to India may be planning to visit one of the country's best-known landmarks, the Taj Mahal.
According to a recent survey by hotels.com, it is the third most popular sight to see in the world, after the Eiffel Tower in Paris and St Peter's in Rome.
More than 10,000 travellers voted in the poll, which demonstrates that the 17th century palace still has appeal for modern tourists.
Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal and is described by the Taj Mahal website as "the epitome of love".
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According to a recent survey by hotels.com, it is the third most popular sight to see in the world, after the Eiffel Tower in Paris and St Peter's in Rome.
More than 10,000 travellers voted in the poll, which demonstrates that the 17th century palace still has appeal for modern tourists.
Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal and is described by the Taj Mahal website as "the epitome of love".
News Source for Taj Mahal one of the top landmarks in the world
Qatar Airways launches new route to Bengaluru
People booking flights to Bengaluru in India will have another option from early next year.
Qatar Airways has announced that it will be launching flights to the city from its Doha hub at the beginning of February.
The Bengaluru route will be the first of three launches which will see the carrier expand its international network.
This will be the 11th destination served by the airline in India and will mean that the company operates 71 flights to the Asian country each week.
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News Media
British travellers aim to jet off more often in 2010, poll finds
A poll carried out by Travelzoo has revealed that 55 per cent of Brits aim to travel more in 2010 than they did this year.
Two thirds (66 per cent) of respondents said that they will be taking one or two holidays in 2010, while 31 per cent intend to take three or more breaks next year.
Of those planning trips, 76 per cent said they plan to take a short break before May.
Joel Brandon-Bravo, managing director of Travelzoo UK, commented: "We're very pleased to see that our UK subscribers are upbeat about their plans for 2010. [They] clearly see travel as a must do element of their lives."
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Two thirds (66 per cent) of respondents said that they will be taking one or two holidays in 2010, while 31 per cent intend to take three or more breaks next year.
Of those planning trips, 76 per cent said they plan to take a short break before May.
Joel Brandon-Bravo, managing director of Travelzoo UK, commented: "We're very pleased to see that our UK subscribers are upbeat about their plans for 2010. [They] clearly see travel as a must do element of their lives."
News Source for British travellers aim to jet off
Skiing will be the next big thing in India
Skiing in India could be the next big thing, according to Richard Rice, the managing director of Ski Safari.
Commenting on trends for the decade ahead as the noughties draws to a close, Mr Rice stated that the ski industry in India could really take off over the next ten years.
"While the likes of Japan, Mongolia and Chile are likely to emerge as viable ski destinations in the coming ten years, we feel that India's slopes will be the hottest draw of the next decade," he predicted.
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Commenting on trends for the decade ahead as the noughties draws to a close, Mr Rice stated that the ski industry in India could really take off over the next ten years.
"While the likes of Japan, Mongolia and Chile are likely to emerge as viable ski destinations in the coming ten years, we feel that India's slopes will be the hottest draw of the next decade," he predicted.
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Holidays are one of the highlights of the year
British people are prepared to give up all kinds of things if it means that they can still have their holidays, one travel specialist has asserted.
Bob Atkinson, an expert at travelsupermarket.com, commented that people view their holidays as "one of the highlights of the year".
He added they will save up and sacrifice all kinds of things in order to ensure they get at least one break in a year.
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Bob Atkinson, an expert at travelsupermarket.com, commented that people view their holidays as "one of the highlights of the year".
He added they will save up and sacrifice all kinds of things in order to ensure they get at least one break in a year.
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Consumers advised to check holiday cover
A travel expert has urged holidaymakers to check how they are protected in the event of their airline or tour operator going under.
With Globespan and Allbury recently failing, Simon McNamara, director of industry affairs for the European Regions Airline Association (ERA), has warned tourists to be careful when booking a trip.
"Any consumer who buys a product needs to look at what protection they need and how much responsibility they should take for this," he said.
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With Globespan and Allbury recently failing, Simon McNamara, director of industry affairs for the European Regions Airline Association (ERA), has warned tourists to be careful when booking a trip.
"Any consumer who buys a product needs to look at what protection they need and how much responsibility they should take for this," he said.
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Travel in style with Indian railway holidays
Travelling across India by train could provide the ultimate in luxury holidays, according to holiday firm Cox and Kings.
The Maharajas' Express train is cited as being the most lavish locomtive in the world and is due to be unveiled in Mumbai in January 2010.
Operating between Mumbai and Delhi and also Delhi and Calcutta, passengers can enjoy the richness of Indian life and culture from the comfortable surroundings of their train's carriage.
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The Maharajas' Express train is cited as being the most lavish locomtive in the world and is due to be unveiled in Mumbai in January 2010.
Operating between Mumbai and Delhi and also Delhi and Calcutta, passengers can enjoy the richness of Indian life and culture from the comfortable surroundings of their train's carriage.
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Ford workers consider short term medical insurance
Ford Motor Company announced that it will offer short term medical insurance as part of a buyout retirement offer for almost all of its 41,000 hourly workers. The offer is intended to reduce the firm's factory work force. The New York Times reports that in the past Ford kept laid-off workers in a job bank rather than remove them from the payroll. This year, however, Ford is actively reducing its work force in anticipation of lower demand for cars in the future.
The short term medical insurance plan is a six month basic health insurance policy but the details of the coverage are not provided. Ford has not announced how many workers are expected to elect the buyout offer.
Considering the larger regional trend of employers hiring temporary workers and the shift toward individual health insurance (as opposed to employer-sponsored group insurance), some of these workers in the Detroit area are likely to consider alternate affordable health insurance options for the long term before deciding whether to accept the buyout package. Those who do not qualify for lower cost options could face higher health insurance costs through their state's high risk Blue Cross insurance pool.
The short term medical insurance plan is a six month basic health insurance policy but the details of the coverage are not provided. Ford has not announced how many workers are expected to elect the buyout offer.
Considering the larger regional trend of employers hiring temporary workers and the shift toward individual health insurance (as opposed to employer-sponsored group insurance), some of these workers in the Detroit area are likely to consider alternate affordable health insurance options for the long term before deciding whether to accept the buyout package. Those who do not qualify for lower cost options could face higher health insurance costs through their state's high risk Blue Cross insurance pool.
Delta Air Lines expects business growth in 2010
The chief financial officer of Delta Air Lines has claimed that the carrier expects to see positive revenue growth next year.
Speaking at the Next Generation Equity Research conference on Wednesday (December 9th), Hank Halter said that Delta is anticipating a seven per cent drop in unit revenue for the fourth quarter, Reuters reports.
However, he also indicated that the airline will experience a return to growth in 2010, possibly as a result of more people booking flights to India, South Africa, Australia and other destinations.
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Speaking at the Next Generation Equity Research conference on Wednesday (December 9th), Hank Halter said that Delta is anticipating a seven per cent drop in unit revenue for the fourth quarter, Reuters reports.
However, he also indicated that the airline will experience a return to growth in 2010, possibly as a result of more people booking flights to India, South Africa, Australia and other destinations.
News Source for Delta Air Lines expects business growth in 2010
Travellers 'are seeking eco-friendly breaks'
The majority of tourists will choose eco-friendly tour operators and airlines when possible, an industry expert has said.
Dermot Blastland, managing director of TUI UK & Ireland, said: "Consumers are going on holiday because they want to have a good time but 60 per cent of them prefer to go with companies who are eco-friendly."
He added that the trend indicates that people are "starting to take climate change seriously".
In terms of destinations, Mr Blastland commented that resorts need to take climate change into account when making any alterations to their premises or developing new attractions.
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Dermot Blastland, managing director of TUI UK & Ireland, said: "Consumers are going on holiday because they want to have a good time but 60 per cent of them prefer to go with companies who are eco-friendly."
He added that the trend indicates that people are "starting to take climate change seriously".
In terms of destinations, Mr Blastland commented that resorts need to take climate change into account when making any alterations to their premises or developing new attractions.
News Source for Travellers 'are seeking eco-friendly breaks'
Special Adventures on your holidays to India
Though India has come a long way from Kipling’s Kim, the country still retains the grand trunk road and snake charmers. The precise destination for adventurous souls, India has it all --- dizzying mountains, never ending rivers, dense jungles, multiple vernaculars, quaint old villages and beautiful beaches. Unbelievable wonders assail the seeker of Eastern mysticism. Visitors to Karnataka’s Mathoor village are shell shocked when they discover that Sanskrit, often said to be the world’s oldest language, survives as the language of choice here. This is in stark contrast to the fact that today international flights to India feed this intriguing, versatile and intricate land with an unceasing supply of travellers eager to explore it.
Among numerous beautiful hill stations, Darjeeling is a gem, which allows one to behold the dazzling glory of KanchanJunga, supposedly the second highest mountain peak in the world. Further world famous hill destinations are the Valley of Flowers, Kashmir, Manali, and Mussourie to mention just a few. For the brave hearts, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Kashmir offer nail biting heli skiing and normal skiing opportunities. The hilly heights are also perfect for hang gliding, snowboarding, rock climbing and ice climbing.
Campers can take their pick from family camping, weekend camping, wild camping and winter camping across the breadth of the nation. Indulge in the adventure of bicycling over difficult terrain on the hills. The great adrenalin rush resulting from the mountain biking in Ladakh which is among the best destinations for the sport will leave you craving to come back.
Adventure sports in India are incomplete without an experience of rafting in the swirling currents of the Ganges in Rishikesh. This sporting bug even bit celebrities like Sir Edmund Hillary and Brad Pitt.
Country’s premier beach destination, Goa offers great water sport and adventure activities. Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Jet Skiing and fantastic opportunities to unearth the secrets of the deep blue sea in the midst of some finest marine life is sure to boggle your mind.
The jungle enthusiast would do well to visit the Sunderbans Delta (home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger), where boating excursions take tourists deep into the jungle. A saying goes that very few who spot the tiger live to tell the tale. It is a fact that due to some inexplicable reason, most Sunderban tigers are inherently man eaters. Among numerous other sanctuaries are the Gir Forests inhabited by the nearly extinct Asiatic lion, Ranthambore National Park, the Kaziranga Rhino Sanctuary and the Corbett National Park. Most sanctuaries conduct jungle safaris including night safaris.
To behold the might of nature, do not miss the Thar camel safari. This ocean of sand reveals how lost you are without your guide and camel. A cruise over the Chambal River is panacea for further craving for adventure. The cruise brings one in close proximity to ferocious crocodiles.
Whatever your travel pursuits may be, this vibrant, enigmatic and diverse land is sure to leave you with memories to cherish for the lifetime.
Among numerous beautiful hill stations, Darjeeling is a gem, which allows one to behold the dazzling glory of KanchanJunga, supposedly the second highest mountain peak in the world. Further world famous hill destinations are the Valley of Flowers, Kashmir, Manali, and Mussourie to mention just a few. For the brave hearts, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Kashmir offer nail biting heli skiing and normal skiing opportunities. The hilly heights are also perfect for hang gliding, snowboarding, rock climbing and ice climbing.
Campers can take their pick from family camping, weekend camping, wild camping and winter camping across the breadth of the nation. Indulge in the adventure of bicycling over difficult terrain on the hills. The great adrenalin rush resulting from the mountain biking in Ladakh which is among the best destinations for the sport will leave you craving to come back.
Adventure sports in India are incomplete without an experience of rafting in the swirling currents of the Ganges in Rishikesh. This sporting bug even bit celebrities like Sir Edmund Hillary and Brad Pitt.
Country’s premier beach destination, Goa offers great water sport and adventure activities. Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Jet Skiing and fantastic opportunities to unearth the secrets of the deep blue sea in the midst of some finest marine life is sure to boggle your mind.
The jungle enthusiast would do well to visit the Sunderbans Delta (home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger), where boating excursions take tourists deep into the jungle. A saying goes that very few who spot the tiger live to tell the tale. It is a fact that due to some inexplicable reason, most Sunderban tigers are inherently man eaters. Among numerous other sanctuaries are the Gir Forests inhabited by the nearly extinct Asiatic lion, Ranthambore National Park, the Kaziranga Rhino Sanctuary and the Corbett National Park. Most sanctuaries conduct jungle safaris including night safaris.
To behold the might of nature, do not miss the Thar camel safari. This ocean of sand reveals how lost you are without your guide and camel. A cruise over the Chambal River is panacea for further craving for adventure. The cruise brings one in close proximity to ferocious crocodiles.
Whatever your travel pursuits may be, this vibrant, enigmatic and diverse land is sure to leave you with memories to cherish for the lifetime.
Holidays in the sun 'a top trend for 2010'
Holidays to Thailand could be among the top trends next year as more travellers head for the sun, according to Thomson and First Choice.
The operator has set out a list of travel predictions for 2010, with warmer destinations expected to experience an increase in popularity.
Value for money will be the most important factor in British holidaymakers' decisions when it comes to booking a trip, the company claimed.
With this in mind, Thomson and First Choice has predicted that all-inclusive breaks will be a favourite choice among those looking to stick to a holiday budget.
Over the past five years, bookings in this area have increased by 32 per cent and the travel agent expects this trend to continue.
News Source for Holidays in the sun 'a top trend for 2010'
The operator has set out a list of travel predictions for 2010, with warmer destinations expected to experience an increase in popularity.
Value for money will be the most important factor in British holidaymakers' decisions when it comes to booking a trip, the company claimed.
With this in mind, Thomson and First Choice has predicted that all-inclusive breaks will be a favourite choice among those looking to stick to a holiday budget.
Over the past five years, bookings in this area have increased by 32 per cent and the travel agent expects this trend to continue.
News Source for Holidays in the sun 'a top trend for 2010'
Tourists offered tips on best Goan beach houses
People who have booked flights to Goa but have yet to select any accommodation for their holiday may want to consider some of the suggestions made by the Daily Telegraph.
The newspaper has selected four of the best beach houses on offer to travellers in the region.
Vivenda dos Palhacos tops the list. Described as a "beautifully restored Hindu-Portuguese hacienda", it is situated just a short walk from Majorda Beach.
Offering individual rooms and one self-contained cottage, the publication claims that it provides an "authentic Goan experience" that is slightly off the well-trodden tourist trail.
News Source for Tourists offered tips on best Goan beach houses
The newspaper has selected four of the best beach houses on offer to travellers in the region.
Vivenda dos Palhacos tops the list. Described as a "beautifully restored Hindu-Portuguese hacienda", it is situated just a short walk from Majorda Beach.
Offering individual rooms and one self-contained cottage, the publication claims that it provides an "authentic Goan experience" that is slightly off the well-trodden tourist trail.
News Source for Tourists offered tips on best Goan beach houses
Cheap flights 'are not going to disappear'
Passengers have become so used to cheap flights that airlines will struggle to raise their prices, an aviation specialist has predicted.
David Henderson, spokesperson for the Association of European Airlines (AEA), commented: "The market has got used to fares at a much lower level. We don't think the airlines will be able to put their fares back to where they were."
He said that, while this is bad news for carriers, it signals the continuation of cheap airfares for tourists.
News Source for Cheap flights 'are not going to disappear'
David Henderson, spokesperson for the Association of European Airlines (AEA), commented: "The market has got used to fares at a much lower level. We don't think the airlines will be able to put their fares back to where they were."
He said that, while this is bad news for carriers, it signals the continuation of cheap airfares for tourists.
News Source for Cheap flights 'are not going to disappear'
Travellers can 'rediscover India' at the Commonwealth Games
Tourists booking flights to India for the Commonwealth Games next year can look forward to a varied holiday, the country's minister of tourism & culture said.
Kumari Selja commented that UK travellers are an important part of the tourism market for India, adding that they often travel around during their stay.
She noted: "They go [to] the beaches in Goa and they go for the wildlife, they go just about everywhere. They are really adventurous people."
News Source for Travellers can 'rediscover India' at the
Kumari Selja commented that UK travellers are an important part of the tourism market for India, adding that they often travel around during their stay.
She noted: "They go [to] the beaches in Goa and they go for the wildlife, they go just about everywhere. They are really adventurous people."
News Source for Travellers can 'rediscover India' at the
Highest rooftop bar in Mumbai opens
Anyone arriving on flights to Mumbai may want somewhere to relax and soak up the atmosphere of the city before embarking on a sight-seeing tour.
If they decide to visit the city's latest bar, then they could be treated to a unique experience.
A rooftop bar, called Aer, is located 34 floors above the streets on the Four Seasons Hotel.
Promising "panoramic city and sea views and [an] endless ceiling of sky and stars," this nightspot could be the perfect choice for a romantic drink or a fruity cocktail.
News Source for Highest rooftop bar in Mumbai opens
If they decide to visit the city's latest bar, then they could be treated to a unique experience.
A rooftop bar, called Aer, is located 34 floors above the streets on the Four Seasons Hotel.
Promising "panoramic city and sea views and [an] endless ceiling of sky and stars," this nightspot could be the perfect choice for a romantic drink or a fruity cocktail.
News Source for Highest rooftop bar in Mumbai opens
Finnair announces charity campaign
Finnair has launched its Change for Good campaign this year in support of Unicef's initiative to bring clean water and a clean environment to the children of India.
Passengers on any of the carrier's flights will be given the opportunity to donate some of their leftover holiday money to the good cause.
Collection envelopes will be placed in seatback pockets and anyone is free to place money in them, which will then be collected at the end of the flight.
Christer Haglund, senior vice president at the airline, said: "Finnair and its customers have already collected nearly €1 million (£910,000) for Unicef work through the Change for Good campaign."
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Passengers on any of the carrier's flights will be given the opportunity to donate some of their leftover holiday money to the good cause.
Collection envelopes will be placed in seatback pockets and anyone is free to place money in them, which will then be collected at the end of the flight.
Christer Haglund, senior vice president at the airline, said: "Finnair and its customers have already collected nearly €1 million (£910,000) for Unicef work through the Change for Good campaign."
News Source for Finnair announces charity campaign
Continental Airlines pioneers cash-free service
People booking holidays to India who are planning to fly with Continental Airlines may be interested in its new on-board shopping service that will allow passengers to pay by card only.
The airline announced that it was making the changes following feedback from passengers and cabin crew that indicated a card service would be preferable for making purchases on the plane.
Handheld card readers will be used to take payment and save passengers having to root around in their bags to find the correct change. However, cash will still be accepted for purchases of duty-free products.
News Source for Continental Airlines pioneers cash-free service
The airline announced that it was making the changes following feedback from passengers and cabin crew that indicated a card service would be preferable for making purchases on the plane.
Handheld card readers will be used to take payment and save passengers having to root around in their bags to find the correct change. However, cash will still be accepted for purchases of duty-free products.
News Source for Continental Airlines pioneers cash-free service
Advice on Taj Mahal alternatives offered for holidays to India
Tourists booking flights to India may be planning to visit one of the country's most iconic landmarks, the Taj Mahal.
Writing in the Guardian, Tom Hall from Lonely Planet offers some advice to tourists who may struggle to see the Taj Mahal during their trip.
Responding to a letter from a woman visiting Agra on a Friday - the only day that the monument is closed to the public - Mr Hall suggested taking in Agra Fort and Akbar's Mausoleum.
News Source for Advice on Taj Mahal alternatives offered for
Writing in the Guardian, Tom Hall from Lonely Planet offers some advice to tourists who may struggle to see the Taj Mahal during their trip.
Responding to a letter from a woman visiting Agra on a Friday - the only day that the monument is closed to the public - Mr Hall suggested taking in Agra Fort and Akbar's Mausoleum.
News Source for Advice on Taj Mahal alternatives offered for
Dubai, Kerala and Cairo feature in list of best small hotels
Anyone booking holidays to Dubai, Kerala, Cairo or Thailand may be interested in a list of the top 20 boutique hotels available to help travellers escape from the winter blues.
Travel journalist Annabelle Thorpe has picked out some quieter options for people looking for a quiet winter-sun break.
Writing in the Guardian, she described the Fusion boutique hotel in Dubai as "a real find". Compared with many of the emirate's hotels, Fusion is a small, 15-room hideaway based in Jumeirah that offers guests classic Arabian villas with gardens.
Also featured in her top 20 is the Villa Belle Epoque in Cairo that "provides an escape from the madness of Cairo's streets in the lush suburb of Maadi".
News Source for Dubai, Kerala and Cairo feature in list of best
Travel journalist Annabelle Thorpe has picked out some quieter options for people looking for a quiet winter-sun break.
Writing in the Guardian, she described the Fusion boutique hotel in Dubai as "a real find". Compared with many of the emirate's hotels, Fusion is a small, 15-room hideaway based in Jumeirah that offers guests classic Arabian villas with gardens.
Also featured in her top 20 is the Villa Belle Epoque in Cairo that "provides an escape from the madness of Cairo's streets in the lush suburb of Maadi".
News Source for Dubai, Kerala and Cairo feature in list of best
Travellers to get better financial protection
Consultation periods on three significant pieces of travel legislation designed to bring a greater degree of financial protection to consumers began yesterday (November 26th).
The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has underlined its commitment to the reform process within the industry that should lead to increased protection for customers.
Mark Tanzer, ABTA chief executive, said: "These consultations are hugely important to our members and all their customers."
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The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has underlined its commitment to the reform process within the industry that should lead to increased protection for customers.
Mark Tanzer, ABTA chief executive, said: "These consultations are hugely important to our members and all their customers."
News Source for Travellers to get better financial protection
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New hotel opens in Bangalore
Anyone planning holidays to Bangalore will now be able to stay at a Premier Inn.
The British budget hotel chain opened its first location in the Indian city this week and announced plans to build a further nine hotels across the country over the coming five years.
Patrick Dempsey, managing director of Premier Inn UK, said: "India represents one of the fastest-growing economies in the world today and we are confident that Premier Inn will be successful in India."
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The British budget hotel chain opened its first location in the Indian city this week and announced plans to build a further nine hotels across the country over the coming five years.
Patrick Dempsey, managing director of Premier Inn UK, said: "India represents one of the fastest-growing economies in the world today and we are confident that Premier Inn will be successful in India."
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Tourists 'are seeking authentic travel experiences'
Travellers are looking for ways to make their holidays more authentic, according to a tourism specialist.
Justin Francis, co-founder of responsibletravel.com, commented that tourists are expressing a greater interest in having "authentic and real" travel experiences.
He suggested that people planning holidays may want to consider a trip that is based around local communities, cultures or environments.
News Source for Tourists 'are seeking authentic travel experiences'
Justin Francis, co-founder of responsibletravel.com, commented that tourists are expressing a greater interest in having "authentic and real" travel experiences.
He suggested that people planning holidays may want to consider a trip that is based around local communities, cultures or environments.
News Source for Tourists 'are seeking authentic travel experiences'
Delhi selected as top ten city to visit in 2010
Travellers booking flights to Delhi in the new year will probably be interested to know that it has been chosen as one of the top ten cities to visit in 2010.
Delhi was chosen alongside cities such as Vancouver in Canada and Nara in Japan by the Dorling Kindersley Eyewitness Travel team, according to a report published in the Times.
As the host of the 2010 Commonwealth Games, Delhi is described as "rejuvenated and refreshed". The travel team also explained that many of the city's monuments have been cleaned ahead of the event and transport links have been improved.
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Delhi was chosen alongside cities such as Vancouver in Canada and Nara in Japan by the Dorling Kindersley Eyewitness Travel team, according to a report published in the Times.
As the host of the 2010 Commonwealth Games, Delhi is described as "rejuvenated and refreshed". The travel team also explained that many of the city's monuments have been cleaned ahead of the event and transport links have been improved.
News Source for Delhi selected as top ten city to visit in 2010
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Travellers advised to try northern Kerala
A travel journalist on a trip across Kerala commented that the northern areas of the state are "well worth exploring".
Writing for the Daily Telegraph, Clover Stroud described a trip that took her from a safari in the Nagarhole National Park to the coffee plantations in northern Kerala and on to a remote region of the Malabar Coast.
She began her trip in Orange County with a boat ride across the Kabini River for a morning safari.
From there, she travelled through the spice and coffee plantations to reach her next destination, where she stayed at a family-run guesthouse.
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Writing for the Daily Telegraph, Clover Stroud described a trip that took her from a safari in the Nagarhole National Park to the coffee plantations in northern Kerala and on to a remote region of the Malabar Coast.
She began her trip in Orange County with a boat ride across the Kabini River for a morning safari.
From there, she travelled through the spice and coffee plantations to reach her next destination, where she stayed at a family-run guesthouse.
News Source for Travellers advised to try northern Kerala
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Thailand a "good bet" for cheap holidays
Cheap holidays to Thailand are among the best value for tourists this winter, a travel journalist at the Daily Mail has found.
Fred Mawer spoke to a number of experts in the industry who all agreed that, for a long-haul winter trip, Thailand is "a very good bet for bargains".
In addition to reduced room rates, the cost of living in the Asian country is incredibly low. Thailand was found to be the cheapest of the 16 long-haul destinations in terms of living costs in a recent survey by the Post Office.
Other destinations recommended by Mr Mawer as offering value for money include Dubai and Sri Lanka.
News Source for Thailand a "good bet" for cheap holidays
Fred Mawer spoke to a number of experts in the industry who all agreed that, for a long-haul winter trip, Thailand is "a very good bet for bargains".
In addition to reduced room rates, the cost of living in the Asian country is incredibly low. Thailand was found to be the cheapest of the 16 long-haul destinations in terms of living costs in a recent survey by the Post Office.
Other destinations recommended by Mr Mawer as offering value for money include Dubai and Sri Lanka.
News Source for Thailand a "good bet" for cheap holidays
Taoist vegetarian festival in Phuket 'an eclectic gathering'
Travellers booking flights to Thailand may want to plan their trip to coincide with the annual Taoist vegetarian festival that takes place every year in Phuket.
It is made up of ancient rituals that take place in Taoist temples across the island, as well as the more bizarre practice of mediums piercing their faces with a range of objects.
Photos published in the Guardian show some participants with spikes sticking out of their cheeks and one man even used knives and shears.
The event has been taking place on the island since 1825, when the festival was started by Chinese immigrants.
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It is made up of ancient rituals that take place in Taoist temples across the island, as well as the more bizarre practice of mediums piercing their faces with a range of objects.
Photos published in the Guardian show some participants with spikes sticking out of their cheeks and one man even used knives and shears.
The event has been taking place on the island since 1825, when the festival was started by Chinese immigrants.
News Source for Taoist vegetarian festival in Phuket
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Regional travellers offered free lounge passes by Qantas
People booking flights to Australia which leave from regional UK airports may be pleased to hear that Qantas Holidays is offering free lounge passes to its customers who have to travel via Heathrow on their flight to the country.
The Australian company announced the initiative today (November 18th), which will benefit passengers departing from Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle.
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The Australian company announced the initiative today (November 18th), which will benefit passengers departing from Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle.
News Source for Regional travellers offered free lounge
Kolkata "India's greatest city"
Kolkata, which has been called "the city of palaces", has captured the heart of one travel journalist.
Rupert Winchester has urged tourists to consider visiting the city in an article in the Daily Mail this weekend.
He describes Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, as "a ramshackle and grubby celebration of India's vivacity, invented by the English with a blend of British design and the indelible characteristics of India".
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Rupert Winchester has urged tourists to consider visiting the city in an article in the Daily Mail this weekend.
He describes Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, as "a ramshackle and grubby celebration of India's vivacity, invented by the English with a blend of British design and the indelible characteristics of India".
News Source for Kolkata "India's greatest city"
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Goa picked as a top spot for a winter sun bargain
The Indian destination of Goa is among a list published in the Times that suggests some bargain breaks.
Casa Colvale is one hotel picked by the publication as offering competitive rates with high-end service.
The hotel is set back from the beach by the River Chapora, making it a relaxing and quiet alternative to the coastal resorts that holidaymakers usually head for.
News Source for Goa picked as a top spot for a winter
Casa Colvale is one hotel picked by the publication as offering competitive rates with high-end service.
The hotel is set back from the beach by the River Chapora, making it a relaxing and quiet alternative to the coastal resorts that holidaymakers usually head for.
News Source for Goa picked as a top spot for a winter
Frequent fliers boosted by Air India and Singapore Airlines partnership
Air India and Singapore Airlines have announced a partnership that will benefit frequent flyers with both carriers.
A new bilateral frequent flyer programme agreement between the businesses means that passengers on both airlines can now redeem miles on flights offered by either company.
Both airlines claim that this will offer their customers a greater level of choice as well as increasing the number of available routes.
News Source for Frequent fliers boosted by Air India
A new bilateral frequent flyer programme agreement between the businesses means that passengers on both airlines can now redeem miles on flights offered by either company.
Both airlines claim that this will offer their customers a greater level of choice as well as increasing the number of available routes.
News Source for Frequent fliers boosted by Air India
Qatar Airways scoops top travel award
Qatar Airways has picked up a prestigious award for the best business class service at the World Travel Awards.
The Middle Eastern carrier beat off international competition to take the title.
This is the second consecutive year that the company has walked away with the award for world's leading airline - business class.
News Source for Qatar Airways scoops top travel award
The Middle Eastern carrier beat off international competition to take the title.
This is the second consecutive year that the company has walked away with the award for world's leading airline - business class.
News Source for Qatar Airways scoops top travel award
HCC announces affiliation with Travel Insured International
In a press release dated 10/30/09, HCC Medical Insurance Services, LLC announced its new alliance with Travel Insured International. HCC Medical Insurance Services LLC is a leader in online health insurance products for international travelers and expatriates. Travel Insured International is a provider of travel insurance services such as trip cancellation, trip interruption and travel assistance services.
HCC Medical Insurance Services President Mark Carney is quoted saying “We are very excited to announce our affiliation with Travel Insured International. In spite of the economic downturn, the international traveler and expatriate’s need for health insurance products continue to grow”.
Travel Insured International’s product portfolio will now include eight additional health insurance products that are already also available online at Freedom Benefits:
Atlas Travel Series – a short-term health policy for individuals traveling outside their home country
CitizenSecure(SM) – annually renewable major medical insurance with a term-life insurance option for individuals and families
StudentSecure(SM) – health coverage for international students and scholars studying abroad
IC+ International Term Life – term life insurance policy for individuals living outside the U.S. for up to 10 years
Other products offered by HCC Medical Insurance Services include: Atlas Group, Atlas Professional, CitizenSecureSM Economy, GroupSecureSM.
About Travel Insured International
Travel Insured International, based in East Hartford, CT, was founded in 1993 by the foresight of insurance industry executive Peter Gehris when he acquired the travel protection division of the Travelers Insurance Company. Travel Insured International delivers strong, affordable benefits in the customer’s choice of a broad range of travel plans, as well as group and customized protection programs. Travel Insured International has established and driven higher standards for policy quality and customer care.
About HCC Medical Insurance Services
The international products are administered by Indianapolis-based HCC Medical Insurance Services, LLC (HCCMIS), a recognized leader in international life and health insurance offering coverage to consumers in more than 130 countries. Through its staff and a worldwide network of distributors, HCCMIS provides quality and value to clients. The company is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to serve its clients worldwide. HCCMIS is a subsidiary of HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HCC), a leading international specialty insurance group headquartered in Houston, Texas. HCC has assets of $8.9 billion, shareholders’ equity of $2.8 billion and is rated AA (Very Strong) by Standard & Poor’s and AA (Very Strong) by Fitch Ratings. In addition, HCC’s major domestic insurance companies are rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company.
HCC Medical Insurance Services President Mark Carney is quoted saying “We are very excited to announce our affiliation with Travel Insured International. In spite of the economic downturn, the international traveler and expatriate’s need for health insurance products continue to grow”.
Travel Insured International’s product portfolio will now include eight additional health insurance products that are already also available online at Freedom Benefits:
Atlas Travel Series – a short-term health policy for individuals traveling outside their home country
CitizenSecure(SM) – annually renewable major medical insurance with a term-life insurance option for individuals and families
StudentSecure(SM) – health coverage for international students and scholars studying abroad
IC+ International Term Life – term life insurance policy for individuals living outside the U.S. for up to 10 years
Other products offered by HCC Medical Insurance Services include: Atlas Group, Atlas Professional, CitizenSecureSM Economy, GroupSecureSM.
About Travel Insured International
Travel Insured International, based in East Hartford, CT, was founded in 1993 by the foresight of insurance industry executive Peter Gehris when he acquired the travel protection division of the Travelers Insurance Company. Travel Insured International delivers strong, affordable benefits in the customer’s choice of a broad range of travel plans, as well as group and customized protection programs. Travel Insured International has established and driven higher standards for policy quality and customer care.
About HCC Medical Insurance Services
The international products are administered by Indianapolis-based HCC Medical Insurance Services, LLC (HCCMIS), a recognized leader in international life and health insurance offering coverage to consumers in more than 130 countries. Through its staff and a worldwide network of distributors, HCCMIS provides quality and value to clients. The company is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to serve its clients worldwide. HCCMIS is a subsidiary of HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HCC), a leading international specialty insurance group headquartered in Houston, Texas. HCC has assets of $8.9 billion, shareholders’ equity of $2.8 billion and is rated AA (Very Strong) by Standard & Poor’s and AA (Very Strong) by Fitch Ratings. In addition, HCC’s major domestic insurance companies are rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company.
Qatar Airways launches flights to Goa
Holidaymakers booking flights to India may be interested to know that Qatar Airways has launched a new route from Doha to Goa.
The carrier offers connections from a number of UK cities, including London, Edinburgh and Manchester.
News Source for Qatar Airways launches flights to Goa
Survey show Brits prefer out-of-season breaks
Out-of-season deals are proving increasingly popular with British tourists, according to research released by Hotels.com today.
The survey revealed that long-haul destinations, including south Asia and the South Pacific, are receiving a lot of attention, with searches for holidays in these locations in the low season rising by as much as 200 per cent year-on-year.
News Source for Survey show Brits prefer out-of-season
Buying Life Insurance
Buying Life Insurance: What Kind and How Much?
Finding the middle ground between being "insurance poor" and unprotected requires assessing real needs and choosing products that are affordable. This article introduces different types of insurance products and the role that they can play in a personal financial plan.
Buying Life Insurance
Conventional wisdom says that life insurance is sold, not purchased. In other words, some people are reluctant to discuss the importance of owning life insurance, and others are simply unaware of the need to have life insurance. Although many large companies provide life insurance as part of their benefits package, this coverage may be insufficient.
Who needs life insurance? If there are individuals who depend on you for financial support, or if you work at home providing your family with such services as child care, cooking, and cleaning, you need life insurance. Older couples also may need life insurance to protect a surviving spouse against the possibility of the couple's retirement savings being depleted by unexpected medical expenses. And individuals with substantial assets may need life insurance to help reduce the effects of estate taxes or to transfer wealth to future generations.
Finding the middle ground between being "insurance poor" and unprotected requires assessing real needs and choosing products that are affordable. This article introduces different types of insurance products and the role that they can play in a personal financial plan.
Buying Life Insurance
Conventional wisdom says that life insurance is sold, not purchased. In other words, some people are reluctant to discuss the importance of owning life insurance, and others are simply unaware of the need to have life insurance. Although many large companies provide life insurance as part of their benefits package, this coverage may be insufficient.
Who needs life insurance? If there are individuals who depend on you for financial support, or if you work at home providing your family with such services as child care, cooking, and cleaning, you need life insurance. Older couples also may need life insurance to protect a surviving spouse against the possibility of the couple's retirement savings being depleted by unexpected medical expenses. And individuals with substantial assets may need life insurance to help reduce the effects of estate taxes or to transfer wealth to future generations.
A closer look at Secure Short Term Medical Insurance
The brand name "Secure Short Term Medical" is one of the best-known and most highly regarded low cost health insurance plans in the U.S. The brand actually consists of four products that each target a specific group of consumers. The four products are: 1) Secure STM, 2) Secure Lite STM, 3) Secure 12x3 STM and 4) Secure Saver STM.
What makes this product lineup work so well? Probably not any one thing in particular but rather a combination of factors. We could make an analogy to an "all star lineup" in a sports team. First, the plan is administered by Health Plan Administrators, Inc., arguably one of the best service organizations in health care today. Second, The Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York enjoys a strong reputation among insurance professionals and consumers.
Next is the length of coverage. This is the only insurance product that can adequately span a gap from just one month to 36 months of continuous coverage. With a growing number of consumers looking forward to post-reform insurance within a few years, the Secure 12x3 offers the flexible length of coverage they need del with the uncertainty of the health care reform timetable.
Eligibility for the four insurance plans is liberal so most applicants will qualify for coverage. In fact, in many cases this is one of the few options available to applicants who have been previously declined for health insurance with another company. The exceptions are listed in the "medical eligibility" section of the online product descriptions. It is important to realize that all short term medical insurance plans exclude coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. This is what makes them so affordable and easy to access.
Only one of the four products screens for weight or previous declines in determining eligibility. That is the Secure Saver, as we might expect, since it it the lowest cost plan with the least predictable out-of-pocket expenses.
Finally, we cannot ignore price. Despite all the talk about the quality of insurance the fact is that many consumers buy based primarily on price. The Secure Lite and Secure Saver rank among the least expensive major medical insurance choices in many parts of the country.
A comparison of the four Secure STM products is published at FreedomBenefits.net and a description of coverage and exclusions is available for each product. Although all of these policies come with a standard "10 day free look", generic sample policy certificates are also available online for all four products for those who want to take a closer look at these insurance options.
What makes this product lineup work so well? Probably not any one thing in particular but rather a combination of factors. We could make an analogy to an "all star lineup" in a sports team. First, the plan is administered by Health Plan Administrators, Inc., arguably one of the best service organizations in health care today. Second, The Standard Security Life Insurance Company of New York enjoys a strong reputation among insurance professionals and consumers.
Next is the length of coverage. This is the only insurance product that can adequately span a gap from just one month to 36 months of continuous coverage. With a growing number of consumers looking forward to post-reform insurance within a few years, the Secure 12x3 offers the flexible length of coverage they need del with the uncertainty of the health care reform timetable.
Eligibility for the four insurance plans is liberal so most applicants will qualify for coverage. In fact, in many cases this is one of the few options available to applicants who have been previously declined for health insurance with another company. The exceptions are listed in the "medical eligibility" section of the online product descriptions. It is important to realize that all short term medical insurance plans exclude coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. This is what makes them so affordable and easy to access.
Only one of the four products screens for weight or previous declines in determining eligibility. That is the Secure Saver, as we might expect, since it it the lowest cost plan with the least predictable out-of-pocket expenses.
Finally, we cannot ignore price. Despite all the talk about the quality of insurance the fact is that many consumers buy based primarily on price. The Secure Lite and Secure Saver rank among the least expensive major medical insurance choices in many parts of the country.
A comparison of the four Secure STM products is published at FreedomBenefits.net and a description of coverage and exclusions is available for each product. Although all of these policies come with a standard "10 day free look", generic sample policy certificates are also available online for all four products for those who want to take a closer look at these insurance options.
Celtic Insurance gains customers with low prices
Pricing of short term medical insurance tends to be more stable than managed care plans or other types of health insurance. As a result, pricing trends tend to develop more slowly and it may take longer for advisers and consumers to identify those companies with cost advantages. One such example is Celtic Insurance that has slowly and quietly winning over customers with its low rates and strong customer service. The coverage is priced and issued completely online at the company's secure enrollment site managed by ehealthinsurance.
The Soapbox
The United States is the only industrialized nation that does not have a universal health care system. Health care is not something that should be allowed to be affected by capitalism. It should not be a business; no one should be making profits off of health care. It should be a basic human right, just like education. Look at what private schools have done to our public education system. Public schools are seriously lacking the funding and resources they need to do their job, if everyone sent their children to public schools, and invested their resources in them, they would be able to offer an exceptional education for everyone. Privatized education is really only a paid for version of separate but equal, but only nothing is even close to being equal; our privatized health care system is nothing different. Just like a good education should never be for sale, health care should never be for sale, or something only the wealthy can afford. Everyone needs and deserves healthcare; no one should ever go broke because they get cancer or lose their home because they can not pay for their medical bills. In our capitalist society, it is impossible for everyone to have a job, there are just not enough jobs to go around; it is impossible for everyone to have a full-time job, or a job paying $100,000 a year. It just does not work for everyone, it is an impossibility for everyone to achieve “the American dream” (it’s a called a dream for a reason right, it’s not “the American reality”, or even “the American possibility”). The few people who are fortunate enough to have a full time job, or work for a company that actually provides health care are very lucky, but they are not the majority. We would never allow an education system to be set up the way our current health care system is. I have never found anyone who thinks that either are not basic human rights or not equally important. Yet there are people out there fighting to keep our current health care system that does not work, I don’t understand how people can be so afraid of providing health care for everyone. Everyone knows someone who has been laid off, or is a student or is self employed or works for a company that does not offer health insurance. Everyone knows someone who does not have health insurance. How could everyone not want their friends and family to be able to go to the doctor if they get sick? Of course taxes will be higher; but if you have health insurance, you already have money taken out of your paycheck to pay for it, you already have to pay high premiums, and you already pay taxes for medicade and medicare. If health care is universal, you are only paying for it once, out of your taxes, and you never have to worry about going to a doctor if you get sick and paying a premium for a surgery that you can’t really afford, but need because it could save your life. Right now, if you are a tourist in France, and you fall and break your leg, you can go to a hospital and have it taken care of, and you don’t have to worry whether or not you can afford it; your leg is broken, you shouldn’t have to worry, you should be able to get it fixed. That is amazing; every country should be so concerned about the well being of all people. Our taxes right now are used for mass destruction and the killing of other human beings for absolutely no reason, and we can’t allow people to go to the doctor if they are sick? It is shameful. I am so tired of the fear mongering going on right now over the health care debate. These “tea parties” look more like KKK rallies, and people have lost all rationality over this. No one in this country is suffering taxation without representation; no one is going to be killed off if there is universal health care. People should really be ashamed of them selves for acting like this, it is disgusting to see. Everyone who has a job pays taxes, we don’t get to dictate where they are spent, but an ethical community takes care of its citizens, all of them, equally. Our taxes need to go to universal health care, it is a basic human right and we should be ashamed of ourselves for taking this long to provide it, and for being so irrational over it. I don’t understand other human beings that live in this world amongst other human beings and have no concern for the welfare for their neighbors. If you don’t want your government to provide your healthcare, than you have an option to opt out of society; you do have an option to not pay taxes, yet you also to choose to not be able to vote or ever receive any sort of socialized service our government already provides. We all make up this society, we are all a part of our whole, and we should all want basic human rights to be provided for the greater good of our society, for the greater good of the whole. There really shouldn’t be a debate here, it is time to be rational, think clearly, and be human. We have to stop fighting each other, and allowing capitalism to stop us from being rational, ethical human beings. We all will need help in some form or another at one point in our lives, we all will go through some sort of difficulty, why do we want to keep holding people down and denying them their most basic of human needs? Let everyone have health care, let’s be decent for once and show the world that the United States values humans above profits just this once.
Buying Life Insurance For The First Time
Buying Life Insurance For The First Time
When one purchase insurance, it means that you are buying something that you would never use it, but in case you need to file an insurance claim, you would come to know how important it is to have right type of coverage. Follow the below given tips in case you are a first time buyer for life insurance.
It is a remarkable fact that people who is actually healthy get best rates on life insurance. You would be asked to pay a superior rate of anything that lessen your life expectancy for example, if you have smoking habit, or if you are overweight, or may be bad in driving.
The life insurance company would certainly ask you about your health check history and might desire you to take some kind of medical you as well test for. While filling up the health advice form you need to be true to them, in case you lie the company would find out and your life insurance policy would be surely canceled. And if in case your sick and were to die and then the life insurance company found out you lied earlier, if, for instance, you said you were a non-smoker but ended up dying of lung cancer from a smoking habit, they would then certainly deny the death benefits.
No matter what type of insurance you're purchasing, the course is fundamentally the same. Once you've determined what type of insurance and as well how much coverage you require, you could start contacting insurance companies online, straight by phone, or even through an insurance broker or agent to get quotes. Get quotes from numerous diverse insurers because premium cost could surely vary widely.
An insurance policy may cost less because it offers less, or dissimilar, features and benefits. And make certain the company you've settled on is highly regarded, with high-quality customer service and also claims-paying ability. All insurance companies are rated by chief rating agencies (e.g. Standard & Poor's, Moody's, A.M. Best) on their available capability to pay claims. You could also access these ratings online, by way of public libraries, or through insurance company literature.
An insurance policy is a legal contract that may be loaded with technical terms that are hard to understand. But read it anyway before you sign on the dotted line to find out about the coverage you're buying. A life insurance policy is a lawful deal, which might be loaded with technical terms that are hard to understand, but you need to read it anyways before you sign on dotted line to find out about the premium and coverage you are buying. For instance, the policy would tell you:
Who is covered?
What coverage eliminations and limitations apply?
When coverage starts and ends
How much coverage is actually provided to you?
How much you would pay for insurance coverage
How you report a loss and to file a claim
The most excellent key for purchasing right amount of life insurance is just to have sufficient coverage policy which meets your need. In case if it carry more life insurance than what you really required; you'll land up paying unwanted for higher premiums. On the other hand it is also significant not to have too little coverage, which might result in you being underinsured.
If you've been putting off for buying life insurance because you don't want to pay the premiums, you might be doing yourself damage in the long run. The younger you are when you buy life insurance coverage, the lower your premiums would pay. Make your life insurance policies work for you by taking the time to occasionally review your needs and coverages.
When one purchase insurance, it means that you are buying something that you would never use it, but in case you need to file an insurance claim, you would come to know how important it is to have right type of coverage. Follow the below given tips in case you are a first time buyer for life insurance.
It is a remarkable fact that people who is actually healthy get best rates on life insurance. You would be asked to pay a superior rate of anything that lessen your life expectancy for example, if you have smoking habit, or if you are overweight, or may be bad in driving.
The life insurance company would certainly ask you about your health check history and might desire you to take some kind of medical you as well test for. While filling up the health advice form you need to be true to them, in case you lie the company would find out and your life insurance policy would be surely canceled. And if in case your sick and were to die and then the life insurance company found out you lied earlier, if, for instance, you said you were a non-smoker but ended up dying of lung cancer from a smoking habit, they would then certainly deny the death benefits.
No matter what type of insurance you're purchasing, the course is fundamentally the same. Once you've determined what type of insurance and as well how much coverage you require, you could start contacting insurance companies online, straight by phone, or even through an insurance broker or agent to get quotes. Get quotes from numerous diverse insurers because premium cost could surely vary widely.
An insurance policy may cost less because it offers less, or dissimilar, features and benefits. And make certain the company you've settled on is highly regarded, with high-quality customer service and also claims-paying ability. All insurance companies are rated by chief rating agencies (e.g. Standard & Poor's, Moody's, A.M. Best) on their available capability to pay claims. You could also access these ratings online, by way of public libraries, or through insurance company literature.
An insurance policy is a legal contract that may be loaded with technical terms that are hard to understand. But read it anyway before you sign on the dotted line to find out about the coverage you're buying. A life insurance policy is a lawful deal, which might be loaded with technical terms that are hard to understand, but you need to read it anyways before you sign on dotted line to find out about the premium and coverage you are buying. For instance, the policy would tell you:
Who is covered?
What coverage eliminations and limitations apply?
When coverage starts and ends
How much coverage is actually provided to you?
How much you would pay for insurance coverage
How you report a loss and to file a claim
The most excellent key for purchasing right amount of life insurance is just to have sufficient coverage policy which meets your need. In case if it carry more life insurance than what you really required; you'll land up paying unwanted for higher premiums. On the other hand it is also significant not to have too little coverage, which might result in you being underinsured.
If you've been putting off for buying life insurance because you don't want to pay the premiums, you might be doing yourself damage in the long run. The younger you are when you buy life insurance coverage, the lower your premiums would pay. Make your life insurance policies work for you by taking the time to occasionally review your needs and coverages.
Great value for money 'provided by cheap holidays in India'
Those who have booked their cheap flights to India may be pleased to hear the point of view of one travel industry representative.
According to Lynsey Devon, an activity sector PR manager for TUI Travel, India is a destination that provides a wallet-friendly break for all kinds of travellers.
Recession-hit Brits prioritise travel to the region "because it is very good value for money", Ms Devon added.
News Source for Great value for money 'provided by
News Media
According to Lynsey Devon, an activity sector PR manager for TUI Travel, India is a destination that provides a wallet-friendly break for all kinds of travellers.
Recession-hit Brits prioritise travel to the region "because it is very good value for money", Ms Devon added.
News Source for Great value for money 'provided by
News Media
Tourists being attracted by 'scorpion man' in Thailand
A man who has taken up a rather unusual pastime has been attracting the attention of those on cheap holidays in Thailand, it has emerged.
Suang Puangsri, aged 38, spent years cooking and sell scorpions to hungry passers-by, but now, as a practicing Buddhist, has decided to punish himself for this by taking up home with 4,600 of the creatures.
He told Reuters: "Although I was happy to have money, I felt suffering deep inside as they were being harmed by me. I felt scared that I was committing a sin."
Travellers have now begun to stop by his home in the small village of Fark Ta in the Uttaradit region, where he makes a living carving animal figurines.
Suang Puangsri, aged 38, spent years cooking and sell scorpions to hungry passers-by, but now, as a practicing Buddhist, has decided to punish himself for this by taking up home with 4,600 of the creatures.
He told Reuters: "Although I was happy to have money, I felt suffering deep inside as they were being harmed by me. I felt scared that I was committing a sin."
Travellers have now begun to stop by his home in the small village of Fark Ta in the Uttaradit region, where he makes a living carving animal figurines.
Delhi 'India's richest city'
Those who have booked cheap holidays to Delhi may find themselves among the country's most well-to-do residents, it has been discovered.
According to the Nielsen Upper Middle and Rich (UMAR) survey, Delhi is India's most affluent metropolis and is home to some of the richest Indians.
Conducted among 35 cities and 18,250 individuals, the paper used criteria such as lifestyle, possessions, consumer behaviour, level of income and quality of education in its evaluation.
According to the Nielsen Upper Middle and Rich (UMAR) survey, Delhi is India's most affluent metropolis and is home to some of the richest Indians.
Conducted among 35 cities and 18,250 individuals, the paper used criteria such as lifestyle, possessions, consumer behaviour, level of income and quality of education in its evaluation.
Flights to Delhi
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Agent 21 at your service! :)
I still keep pinching myself. I have a new car for six months? Free gas/insurance? I get to go on monthly missions? Is this real? How freakin cool!
If you guys didn't know already, I entered this contest for Ford where they picked 100 people from across the USA to get their new Ford Fiesta before anyone else. I was going to post pictures on here too, but the video I made of my experience last weekend tells the story so much better! :)
What is so cool about all this, is that I get to share it with you. Be sure to check out my Fiesta Movement profile everyday and see the new content I will be putting up!
http://www.fiestamovement.com/agent21
I also just finished filming a new R.A.T. episode, off to edit as usual!
Hugs and Joy,
Brittani Taylor :)
AGENT PROFILE
http://www.fiestamovement.com/agent21
TWITTER:
http://www.twitter.com/brittanitaylor
YOUTUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/rhondaanthonytanner
http://www.youtube.com/brittanilouisetaylor
MYSPACE:
http://www.myspace.com/brittanilouise
Ringtones:
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Merchandise:
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#fiestamovement
Butterflies
I had such a fun night last night!! My friend Shane invited me to go with him to a screening of "Butterflies". It is a really cool film by youtube.com/filmester about youtube! She followed around Lisa Nova, OlgaKay, DaveDays, etc. in 2008, so last night was the first screening of the film!
It is funny, because you make all these friends on youtube, and when you get to meet them in real life, they are exactly the same as they are in their videos LOL!
AND I actually wore a dress!! I know!! Shocking huh? I am such a jeans and comfy t-shirt type of a girl, but it is fun every once and a while to show a little leg.
After the film ended, we all just mingled around and took pictures. You might recognize some of these peeps! :)
Seriously, I just love people, and getting to be around others that share the same passion as you is what life is all about! Plus, most peeps on youtube are crazy, so it is a wild bunch haha! :)Also, if you haven't seen it already, I go "Speed Dating" in Shane's latest genius creation.
OHHHH and my profile is up on the Ford Fiesta Movement Site!! I go to training on the 19th and 20th of this month, can't wait to show you guys the car!
http://www.fiestamovement.com/drivers/view/22
Off to edit my latest R.A.T. episode, and then filming a quick Easter video tomorrow! A lot of the youtube peeps don't leave until Thursday, so we are hoping to meet up again on Wednesday!
Hugs and Sunshine,
Brittani Taylor :)
http://www.youtube.com/rhondaanthonytanner
http://www.youtube.com/brittanilouisetaylor
Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/brittanilouise
Ringtones:
http://www.myxer.com/RATTONES/
Merchandise:
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Little bit of this, Little bit of that... :)
Most of the time I am a really positive person, but I do have a bad day now and again. One of the best ways for me to get back on to track, is to realize how much I have, not how much I don't have. That was the inspiration for my R.A.T. 18 Things video! :)
My friend Joe (http://www.youtube.com/joenationtv) and I also filmed a second episode while filming the one above! Hint, it involves the power tools part!! I will upload it on my R.A.T. page on Thursday!
Also, I got the inspiration to do a video log about firsts in my life, first word, etc. from my chats with ya'll on blogtv! Here is the finished product!
You guys all probably know who Fred is on youtube right? Well the dude is about to hit a million subscribers! Youtube.com/winterspringpro are friends of his and are doing a tribute video and asked me to be in it. Here are some pics from the collab! :)
Also, last weekend, I managed a promotion for the USA National Dance and Drill Finals in Anaheim for Secret Deodorant! It was awesome! We gave out product, free hand and arm massages, yoga, and good luck messages that were broadcast on the jumbo tron. I meet so many sweet people, and I was amazed at how good everyone was!
OH and I almost forgot, I go picked to be a Ford Fiesta Agent!! Woot Woot! You know the video I uploaded a few weeks back right? Basically I get the new Ford Fiesta for six months, free gas, free insurance, and I go on monthly missions in the car! So exciting! http://fiestamovement.com/Off to put the finishing details on my next R.A.T. video, and filming another collab video with my buddy Shane on Thursday!
Hugs and Blessings,
Brittani Taylor :)
http://www.youtube.com/rhondaanthonytanner
http://www.youtube.com/brittanilouisetaylor
Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/brittanilouise
Ringtones:
http://www.myxer.com/RATTONES/
Merchandise:
http://www.cafepress.com/ratcoaching
Saturday Movie Madness!! :)
Sometimes I am not the best friend! I work so much, that when I am not working a lot of times I just want to sleep or be alone LOL!
I haven't seen my friend Taylor in two months, so we were way past due hanging out.
Last time I saw him, he just shaved his head, so I hadn't seen him since it had grown in. He looks like a blond Edward Cullen don't you think? I kept cracking up and saying so all today haha!
We went and saw "Knowing" at Universal City Walk. They had the movie premiere I guess for the new Fast and Furious movie there, and one of the cars from the movie was on display, so we drooled and grabbed a tourist to snap a pic!
Overall, really fun relaxing day, even thou the movie was intense! The graphics were awesome, but not sure how I feel about it.
Meeting with a director friend in the morning tomorrow, then Blogtv at 5pm! Click on the photo below to add me and come watch my live show! :)
Filming a new R.A.T. episode on Monday! Have a great rest of your weekend everyone!
Hugs and Friendship,
Brittani Taylor :)
http://www.youtube.com/rhondaanthonytanner
http://www.youtube.com/brittanilouisetaylor
Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/brittanilouise
Ringtones:
http://www.myxer.com/RATTONES/
Merchandise:
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I LOVE CONTESTS!! :)
I only heard about this contest for "Jim Beam" the other night, and the deadline for entering Round 1 is Saturday March 21st @12am EST!
Better late than never right? You can win:
-$25,000
-A trip to Vegas for 3
-And your video gets featured on the Jim Beam Website!
They give you three commercials they have done to spoof, and you get to pick one of the three!
I WILL LOVE YOU FOREVER, be your BFF, Vote for you for anything you are in, if you would please stop everything and GO register and vote!! Click on "Vote for my Tragedy" below! :P
ALSO check out my friend Joe's video that we also did! :)
AND I made a youtube video begging peeps to vote LOL!
Thanks so much to all my internet friends for being wonderful! You guys make my life so rich!
HUGS and Thankful-ness,
Brittani Taylor :)
http://www.youtube.com/rhondaanthonytanner
http://www.youtube.com/brittanilouisetaylor
Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/brittanilouise
Ringtones:
http://www.myxer.com/RATTONES/
Merchandise:
http://www.cafepress.com/ratcoaching
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