Basketball Tips and Predictions

Choosing the perfect picks to fit the bracket is one of the painstaking events in a fan’s NCAA life. Every
time you fill-in the bracket, doubts, hesitations and a lot of self-convincing shall be done before the
entries are filled. Those who have experienced filling out the bracket know that there is so much more than
the Madness March has caused them.
Still thinking on how to gather the right recipe for an effective bracket? There’s two: luck and skill.
Since luck is a phenomena people has no control of, better stick to number two: skill. Yes, you could
predict a very impressive bracket just by basing your chances on the performance of each team. You have to
research briefly to get the precise data to make a better judgment call.
Now, if you can’t still do that, take your chances by browsing down the tips stated below.

1. Points or wins
Usually, the basis of choosing all goes down to the points a team has scored in each event. It’s called Points Ratings. Wins Ratings refers to close games.Whether a team excelled in the victory margins or outperforming others as well, it’s a step you have to get onto. For example, Team Alpha and Team Beta have the same points ratings. But if Team Alpha gained more in wins ratings, then Team Alpha has a better chance
to capture the NCAA hype than Team Beta.

2. Performance
Focus your senses to the fact that power rankings are being withdrawn from NCAA basketball. The relevant
data which includes wins and losses, scores of the games, performance from different places (home,
neutral, away), recent game performances, victory margins, etc. Just basing your choice from these
pieces of data, you’ll have a pretty good idea on what team to give your full faith into. Aside from the
objective ranking, also look at the numerical rating.

3. Consistent Standings
This is what most likely happens during a tournament: teams that are expected to win over other teams win;
and teams that are expected to lose, lose. Those who are expected to win over teams are also expected to
lose to those that they are supposed to. Those who had the opportunity to beat better teams lost their
integrity with stinkers. If you look closer, those who are more consistent are the one who might have a
better shot at winning. If you have been eyeing a team with a very impressive consistency record, then they
would have a high chance of being "the one" and are most likely to beat the underdogs.

4. Wins and Losses
This is the battle between the weaklings and the unbeatable. One look on how a good a win is and how
bad the loss is will let you equally determine if the team deserves the right to be included in your bracket. If the team that won against hard-to-conquer situations and opponents, it is the best inevitable sign to dig into.

5. Recent Play
Consistency in a play is fairly predictable. A team can be great in one encounter and suck on another. To
get a hold on which team outsmarted the most and made a real impression for the last few weeks, base on
otheir ratings. Compare the previous game from the recent one. The first game is obviously of major
importance. If an underdog had been very lousy on the first parts and made it to the final four as the end
approaches, do you think they deserve a better position in that bracket? Definitely, yes.

A Dose of NCAA Basketball History

The National Collegiate Athletic Association was the trendsetter in ambiguity and victory. It is has undergone a lot of ups and downs. From the very founder of the game which all basketball enthusiasts have to be thankful for, Dr. Naismith. He, who showed people that a game this big can come from a game so seemingly small then.
It’s like looking through the hourglass where sands of time has lost track of the day that has passed. NCAA
basketball revitalized the blood of every college individual. Dreamers and supporters alike are the ones who made every event possible.
NCAA begins on the month of March. This is usually the time where cheerleaders strut their moves and the best players are molded into persons who will pave the way to get into the NBA or get into the school of their
choice. "March Madness", as they call it, had become a traditional season where colleges from different parts
of the United States meet for a chance to get to the top.
This wouldn’t all be possible without the help of a few significant people who paved the way for the firsts. First event. First MVP. First team champion.It’s all included in NCAA’s history record.
It was stated that the very first NCAA tournament for men’s basketball was held at Northwestern on March 27, 1939. There were only 8 teams that competed against each other coming from 2 different regions. Oregon was the very first to be declared as champions for that event, defeating Ohio State.
The NCAA was the king of the basketball arena but not until the 1950’s came. NIT went into the scene and was then considered as the more prestigious event than NCAA. Teams then preferred to play in NIT and choose to skip the NCAA season.
Because of this irony, the best teams never met. But either way, some of the best schools choose to enter
both tournaments that made playing more interesting. In the 1940’s, Oklahoma A&M won two titles in the
NCAA. Those who were defeated in NIT recovered much and gained integrity when they entered the NCAA. While some schools decided to stick with NIT, there are others who lost on their first and second round with NIT and decided to finish the season in the NCAA.
A third-place event was added into the game schedule in courtesy with the East region. That was in 1941.
The national third-place game was first held in 1946.This lasted until the 1980’s. In comes 1951. This was
the year where the expansion of 8 teams were made into 16. Seattle became the site of the semifinal and
championship games in 1952. This was also the place where the genuine "final four" was made. 1956 became historical for this year paved the way for the tournament to be divided into regions of four.
Thus, the most magnificent and famous games were made. In 1974, NCAA became a tournament with 32 teams. They also allowed more schools to participate in conferences. When 1979 came, it expanded to 40
participating teams. This is the year when Michigan State won national championship against Indiana State.
This tournament was one of the most historical events ever accounted for in all of NCAA seasons. Earvin
"Magic" Johnson became well known going against Larry Bird.
As the expansion follows over the years, in 1985, it had become a 64-team match. The tournament’s
popularity reached the corners of the country far and wide. Negotiations from television networks to air the
game via satellite speeding through the internet, radio, etc. had been agreed upon.

Playing Basketball: A Game of Defense

Defense in the arena is one of the most vital responsibilities of every teammate in the field of basketball. It is as important as an offensive move. On the contrary, defense can make a team win a specific game even if the winning score is 1-0. It proves that with proper defensive work, a team could pick it off till the championships.
Playing basketball is not just a game of shooting some hoops but also of guarding the ring. Sure they teach offensive techniques that require rigorous training and resistance. But that’s just the beginning. The real technique in winning a game is how to prevent an opponent from making that shot.This is one area that some of the coaches and players poorly rely on. They just don’t seem to realize how important defense is to their strategies. This should be their top priority. Even though defense in the court was proven many times, still, majority of the playing teams doesn’t seem to recognize this and fail to put extra effort to train on this one.
Playing defense is as important as playing offense. That is the second time it was reiterated in this article. Because it is true. No matter how hard you try to get through, you still can’t make the perfect shot because of the extreme defense your opponent is showing. If teams would realize that pursuing for the ball is just a part of the whole game, probably they’ll include defense practice more often than offense. And dedicate their time in it.
A team and its coach must have to attend to all aspects in ball playing. In other words, they have to be well-rounded. Players who think so much of their career doesn’t want to play as blockers. Why? How could you end up as MVP if all you do is block and prevent shots without giving yourself the opportunity to shoot? Think about that. No offense but, if this one popular player who calls the shots never had good teammates who defended every opponent from nagging him, how in the world can he prove himself to make that ball go inside the basket?
Coaches who tend to recognize this would assign respective players to play defense. But that would only prove a 50-50 chance of winning the game. Coaches must train in their players the ability to defend every angle of the court...all of them.
Then again, not all players can play defense. Only some are proven worthy. But still, it is good to be prepared than be caught off guard. Either way, teams must have the spirit in them to guard their base. And in order to do this, each player must have in them these certain qualities:
1. Instincts. A player must know how to react with every situation that may occur inside the court, and fast!
2. Has the knowledge to play numerous kinds of defenses like half-court traps, man-to-man, etc.
3. Infinite stamina to follow his guarded opponent wherever he goes.
4. Supporting number 3, he should also have quick feet and hands to be able to run and move as fast as his
opponent can.
5. Quick reflexes. He should know how to detect an incoming shot and be able to block it. He must have
the ability to jump as fast as he can repetitively.

How to Score Through College Basketball

Still thanks to the undying efforts of Dr. Naismith, intercollegiate basketball was formed. He became both
an instrument and an inspiration. Establishing college basketball, he extended extra efforts by coaching for
the University of Kansas. This lasted for 6 weeks and then handed his position over to the well-known
Forrest Allen.

Naismith advocates and disciples spread through the country and reached each state far and wide. People
like Amos Stagg who introduced it to the University of Chicago and Adolph Rupp became the coach for the
University of Kentucky.

The Real Score

There are only a few who can make it through college basketball. And only those gifted and well-trained teams get into the finals. How you ask. It’s all in the moves you execute.Basketball moves are those actions done individually by players. It could either be a defensive method or an offensive one. This will enable the player to successfully gain total access to score a basket or perform a clean pass to an open teammate.

There are typically 3 ways to outsmart an opponent.

1. Dribbling - a move that is required while bringing the ball at any point inside the court. Dribbling is one requirement to avoid travelling. There are several ways to perform dribbling, some, in the most creative
and protective manner.
One kind of dribble that confuses the opponent is the crossover. The one handling the ball tends to change
from its normal pace to freeze or confuse the aggressive defender. You can usually see this move in
street basketball. This is a playful way that is often seen with players who wants to generate an easy jump
shot or layup. Familiar players like Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson can be seen using this kind of dribbling. The crossover is also called as the "ankle-breaker" because this dribble often catches the defenders off guard, suddenly lose their balance and sometimes fall down.

2. Passes - literally, this means passing the ball. To know these techniques makes the ballhandler be more
skillful on thinking how to pass without the opponent getting in between or being able to get it. There are several ways to pass. One of which is the fundamental chest pass. This is a stepping stone of learning how to pass effectively. A chest pass is performed by stepping with one foot toward your target then push the push forcefully from their chest outward using two hands while making the hands turn over. This is most effective on the perimeter or in open court.
The bounce pass is another kind of pass that is considered as a very effective type of passing the ball. Using a strong amount of energy, the ball is passed by bouncing it off the floor with an angle going to the teammate. At a flash, this could also be an assist because of its speed that can intercept the opponent from retrieving the ball.

3. Shots - these are the basic and most essential element that is needed to win a game. Every shot must be made into perfection to gain a point. Shots can be classified as layups, putback and tip-in, and bankshot.
Other moves and shots involved are the up and under which will rely on a fake shot that is the up and the
step-through that will be the under. A hook shot is also one of the most attractive and effective shots made yet difficult to do.Learn more about these techniques because this will definitely help you score into college basketball.

Holiday Mountain Ski Vacations

Holiday Mountain, located in New York, is a popular area for skiing. Even though the highest elevation is
only 1300 feet, and the vertical drop is only 400 feet, this area is a popular place for the younger crowd,
and it is definitely a great place to learn how to ski.

There are eight lifts, including three chair lifts and five surface lifts. There are 15 trails for beginners, intermediate skiers, and expert skiers. While skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions, there is
much more here as well, including bumper cars, an arcade, and a mechanical bull. There is always something to do at Holiday Mountain Ski Resort.

The best place to stay when visiting Holiday Mountain Ski Resort is the Villa Roma Resort Hotel, which is
located in the Sullivan County Catskills. Villa Roma was named as one of America’s 50 Best Family Resorts by Better Homes & Garden Magazine, and with the amazing amount of fun activities, it is easy to see why. The resort features a rail park for snowboarders, birthday packages, snow tubing, and of course skiing.

Fun Valley Ski Vacations

If you are looking for a great place to go for your family ski vacation, Fun Valley, Iowa is the place to go. This resort caters to families and beginner level skiers, but it is also great for intermediate and expert skiers as well. There is something to suit all levels at Fun Valley.

The top elevation at Fun Valley is 1201 feet, with a vertical drop of 200 feet. There are six lifts, including
three chair lifts and three surface lifts. The new learning center is something to see – and experience if you are a beginner. Tubers and snowboarders are welcome, and there is an excellent terrain park available. Rental equipment, including tubes and boards, is available.

Fun Valley offers outstanding group rates for groups of ten or more. Birthday packages are also outstanding for kids twelve and under. Every Wednesday and Thursday night, the resort offers a student night, with greatly reduced rates. Buddy Pass Friday’s are also popular – bring your friends and you will all save on lift tickets. Coca-Cola sponsors Sprite Saturday’s at Fun Valley, where you can participate in three activities for one flat affordable fee. Sundays are Family Four Pack Day.

Frost Fire Mountain Ski Vacations

For the ultimate family ski vacation, you must visit Frost Fire Mountain in North Dakota. Located near Walhalla, the resort features three lifts, including two chair lifts and one surface lift, 25 acres, and ten trails
for beginners, intermediates and experts. The top elevation is 1346 feet, with a vertical drop of 345 feet.

Although this is not a large ski resort, it is a great deal of fun, and perfect for family ski vacations. This is the perfect place to bring kids to learn how to ski. Both ski and snowboard lessons are available at reasonable rates. There is a rental shop and ski maintenance area on the grounds, and many motel accommodations in the area to choose from. There is a separate terrain park for snowboarders as well.

There are many restaurants to choose from, and you can also visit the areas antique shops when you aren’t busy enjoying the slopes. There are many historical sites to see in the area as well, as Walhalla is the second oldest town in the state of  North Dakota.

Durango Mountain Resort Ski Vacations

Featuring more than 2500 acres of ski area and 75 trails, Durango Mountain Ski Resort has much to offer skiers of all levels. The resort claims that there are approximately two people per acre on their slopes during operation hours. The crowds are small, and lift lines do not exist.

Located in Colorado, the top elevation is 10822 feet with a 2030 vertical drop. There are eleven lifts, zncluding nine chair lifts and two surface lifts. You can find lodging at the resort, or in the town of Durango, which is nearby. If you stay at the resort, make sure that you actually visit the town while you are there. While the town is small, there is much to see and do.

Rentals are available for both ski and snowboarding equipment, and private and group lessons are also available at the Durango Mountain Resort. There are plenty of activities and events both at the resort and
in Durango to keep everyone in your family happy. When it comes to family ski vacations, this is one you don’t want to miss!

Happy The Birthday to Aishwarya Rai

Happy Birthday to Aishwarya rai, Bachan family is celebertaing her 38th birthday today.

Aishwarya Rai was born at 1st November 1973, She is the daughter in law of Amitabh Bachan, she was born

into a traditional south Indian family, Aishwarya started modeling at a young age.

This green-blue-eyed beauty appeared in advertisements for many prestigious firms; the ones that brought her into the limelight were the garden sari and the Pepsi ad. Crowned Miss India 1994 runner-up, she was a hot favorite in the run for miss world title, which she won, her beauty and charm made her India's darling. Ash

stormed into the Indian movie industry, where she has proven herself a brilliant & genuine actress. Her performance in The Duo (1997) was critically acclaimed, and she won the Screen best female debutant award for her role in ...Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya (1997).

She was adored in movies like Taal, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Devdas, her item number in 'Bunty & Bubbly' had sent waves of rhythm across the nation. With her successful Bollywood movies & prestigious Hollywood projects lined up for release it is impossible to ignore this Indian diva in international scenes.

Cost of a Four-Year Degree

When it comes down to the importance of an education there is no denying that the longer you stay in school the better off you are when it comes to earning potential over the course of your lifetime. Recent estimates have presented some rather astonishing figures to support these claims however, and I for one think they are well worth mentioning.

Let's discuss first things first however. A high school diploma will net the average citizen $200,000 additional dollars of lifetime income on average. This is one small baby step when it comes to the educational process however. Some college, even without a degree will even increase that figure an additional $150,000 for a total of $350,000. If this isn't enough to convince you however try the facts and figures that are associated with the additional earning potential that a four-year degree introduces: $500,000. This addition makes a total of $850,000 more over the course of a lifetime in earning potential. I don't know about you but I find those figures to be quite a nice motivator for going back and finishing a degree.

While a person's education may not be an accurate indicator of his or her actual ability it is often used in the business world to narrow down a growing field of applicants for a sadly stagnate number of positions across the country. There are things you just can't see on a piece of paper and ability and capabilities are among those things. Businesses need a defining factor by which they narrow down the field of potential employees and that defining characteristic is often a college degree in the field of business or a complimentary major course of study.

While this may not seem fair to many who have the practical skills companies are seeking employees that can fill multiple roles in order to eliminate positions that have been occupied in the past. For this reason they want business people who have technical skills and a college education provides a brief introduction to many skills that are useful in these situations. Unfortunately, the only way to know whether or not you have these specific skills is if you list them on your resume while those who have a four-year degree are believed to have them by the merit of their educations.

The earning potential alone should be enough to turn your head when it comes to the importance of earning a college degree though there are many more excellent reasons to pursue the completion of your degree. If you haven't considered some of the other wonderful reasons for returning to college and getting your degree, perhaps the reasons below will provide a little additional motivation.

1) Challenge. There is very little in life that offers the challenge of returning to college after an absence. It is a frightening prospect for many and yet can be equally as exciting. You will find that the constant exposure to academic debate is a great way to feed your mind and open your eyes to new ideas. Challenge your preconceptions and challenge the limits of your own experiences by opening up your mind to the thoughts and ideas of others.
2) Learn New Skills. There is never a bad time to begin learning new skills no matter what they say about old dogs and new tricks. The truth is that as long as you open your mind to learning you are feeding it and that is a great thing.
3) Career advancement. Whether you realize it or not, a college degree is one of the quickest paths you can take to career advancement.

If the money wasn't enough to convince you of the impact that a four-year degree can make in your life perhaps the reasons mentioned above were enough to do the trick. Whether or not you realize how much a degree can affect your life the truth of the matter is that it can improve so many things about your life and how you view yourself and the world around you. Now is the perfect time to go back to school and earn your degree.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid

For any student hoping to attend college in the coming year, the first place you need to start is by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid that is commonly referred to as FAFSA. The earlier you fill out this form the better as far as your chances of receiving the full amount of financial aid that is available to you as well as to clear up and fix any potential problems that may arise well ahead of the deadline for aid being awarded.

The final date for application changes from year to year and is generally somewhere near the beginning of summer. Earlier is much better than later as far too many students wait until closer to deadline in order to fill out their forms and if you have any questions you are likely to find yourself standing in or calling into longer lines for your answers.

There are a few things you need to know about the FAFSA. Most schools require this form to have been filled out before they will award any financial aid, not just federal financial aid. In other words you should check with your school but you may need to fill out this form even if you are only applying for departmental scholarships and not federal financial aid. It is a good idea to begin at the financial aid office of the institution you plan to attend at any rate to make sure they do not have additional forms that they require you fill out in order to apply with financial aid through the university or college as well as the federal government.

Another thing you need to be well aware of is that you will need to fill out one of these forms for each year that you hope to receive financial aid of any kind. This is not something that is automatically renewed or guaranteed. There are many changes that could affect the amount of money you are eligible to receive as well as whether or not you are eligible to receive federal funds at all on any given academic year. For this reason you must apply for aid for each year that you attend.

Another thing that you must remember is that while a subsidized student loan doesn't been to accrue interest until you graduate or cease to be enrolled for the required hours, an unsubsidized student loan begin accruing interest from day one. This means that you will owe a substantial amount of money in interest upon graduation if you take out an unsubsidized student loan in order to pay for educational expenses.

Student loans make college educations possible for many people who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend college. At the same time there are many people, who neglect to use these loans responsibly, which is the beginning of irresponsible spending habits that can plague people for the remainder of their lives. Take great caution that you use your student loans for their intended purpose and use them wisely.

The FAFSA also enables you to apply for Federal Pell Grants and Federal Work Study programs in addition to student loans. Of the three mentioned above, student loans should be a last resort rather than a first. The amount of money available can prove to be quite tempting so be very careful and read all the terms before signing up for any and all financial aid. Your high school, college financial aid office, and the Internet are all excellent sources for information on scholarships, grants, loans, and work study programs for which you may qualify.

Avoid Cyber Stalking

Dating services online can be a fun place to meet new people, but because of the anonymity involved with dating online, you run a certain risk that the person you are striking up a conversation with isn't exactly who they say they are. Breaking off an online romance or even simply rejecting a profile emailed through an online dating service can be tricky if you don't do it with some finesse.

Cyber stalking is defined as unwanted contact or threats via email or instant messaging. Cyber stalkers can be relentless, sending mean and inappropriate emails so many times in one day that you no longer look forward to checking your email. They can also send pornographic material or even viruses disguised as apologies (Which you are more likely to open.)

Take heart, there are hundreds of online dating sites, from free dating services online to monthly or yearly membership dating sites, so don't give up, just learn the netiquette involved with saying "no" to a profile sent to you via adult dating online.

Online dating tips for saying "no thanks" include:

• Do not send a reply. It is very bad manners not to open an email, but once you have and would not like to have further contact, just do not reply. In internet language this is a common form of showing no interest, and is considered appropriate.

• If someone whom you have not replied to keeps sending you emails, use the sender block on your email, that's what it's for.

• If you are in a chat room and realize that the person you are chatting with probably isn't a good match, tell them so nicely and wish them well. Wait for a reply and kindly sign off.

• Always be kind and polite, but say nothing that could be construed as an indication that you might change your mind. Cyber stalkers, like "flesh and blood" stalkers, often believe that the other party did something to lead them on, even if you didn't, so leave no margin for error.

Always report this sort of abuse to the online dating service. A reputable company that provides adult dating online will censure or terminate someone who has reports of harassment.

Attracting a Women

Getting girls to feel an attraction for you - that isn't simply based on your looks, the contents of your wallet or the car you've got parked outside - can be really tricky.

After all, how are men supposed to know what each girl's looking for without asking?

If you DID ask, you know your chances would be small, after all, no girl wants a guy approaching her with needy questions - she wants a confident man who somehow seems to know what she's after and can give it to her.

So how do you do it?

How do you become the man that effortlessly exudes confidence, dominance and presence, without turning into an arrogant poser or desperate wannabe?

The answer lies in psychology. It's at the heart of all persuasive social situations, and absolutely central to the success of any guy's attempts at attracting and seducing women. Quite simply, by learning the CORRECT psychological rules, principles and tactics, any guy can play and WIN at the game of seduction. For example, let's look at one such psychological technique, that used correctly boosts any guy's chance of getting a girl's number or hooking up with her at a later date by at  least 50%, each and every time he uses it. It's called option limitation and works on the following principle of human nature:

When someone's presented with only a single choice, often their natural reaction will be to rebel against it and go their own way. However, when given 2 or 3 options, the opposite occurs: they feel their intellectual freedom has been respected and they make their choice from the variety of options they've been presented with.

You can use this universal psychological principle when picking-up or seducing a woman by carefully constructing how you pose important questions or phrases while talking to her.

For example, most men think saying: "Can I have your number?" is an okay way to finish a conversation that's gone well with a girl. But a much more powerful and effective way of saying the same thing would be to use option limitation. Something like: "It's been nice to meet you. Shall we swap numbers or maybe grab a bite to eat and a drink tomorrow?" What you're doing is presenting the girl with a choice between good and better - whichever she says yes to, you win. If you only give her one option, as in the first example, she's likely to create her own alternative, which means there's a chance she won't say yes to the option you gave her. When she subconsciously recognises that she's been given a choice between multiple outcomes, she feels her intellectual freedom has been respected and she chooses one of them.

So, always use option limitation to give the impression there's a variety of options available to the girl - even though each one is fine as far as you're concerned. And to strengthen the effect of option limitation, always try to separate the choices you give the girl with the word "or."  When people hear "or" they automatically recognise that they need to make a choice, and therefore do just that.

Option limitation is just one example of how, whether they know it or not, men who are successful with women CREATE that success for themselves - not through luck or good fortune.

Important – Do Not Fail For Dating Scams

In our days, dating frauds are becoming more common. That's why it is better to know from the beginning how to protect yourself from fraud when using Internet personals and dating agencies. Many people try online dating in order to find a partner, but many of them don't know that online dating has also risks, such as dating scams.

It is considering scam, for example, when a lonely foreign man gets acquired over the Internet with an attractive woman, which will try to get as much money out of the unsuspecting foreigner as possible. Online dating scammers are heartless; they are happy to exploit people's emotions for their own gain. If you get too deeply involved, a dating scam can heart not only your hurt, but your finances too. So, don't be too sincere with the one you are chatting, remember that Internet personals, dating sites allow anyone to join free so you never know who is behind that pretty photo.

The online scams come in many forms and shapes, but the nastiest form is romance scams, when those persons approach you on a dating service. They play with their victim's feelings, send them lovely messages, call them on the phone, and after they built some degree of trust, here come the nasty scam part. They may have many faces: not only they frequently changes names, but they may list themselves by being of different gender, race, age, location.

The major weapon of the romance scammers is photos. If the photos are more attractive, the chances that this could be a scam are bigger. They may get the photos from a modeling site and also photos of innocent people and start using them.

How do they act? First, they approach the victim, by using some attractive photos that are usually uploaded from the Internet. Second, they are ''grooming'' the victim; they establish some lovely correspondence with you, talking about unconditional trust and her honesty. Also, the letters become long, flowery and romantic, and even call the guy '' my love’’, '' my prince'' and so on. She pretends to fall in love with you and talk about her dreams of your first meeting. The next step is to asking for money; after they will come to present you a sad situation, in which they are passing now, will be asking for your help. Such as: they would really like to meet you but do not have enough money or those they have been robbed and beaten and require urgent surgery or treatment for a serious illness. Even if you get in the trap, they will not stop here, and trying to milking the victim for money as much as possible, using different lies as reasons. And finally, take place the disappearing act; start getting out
little by little, sending only few messages and then disappearing at all.

So, to not pass in such a nasty situation here are some things that you should pay attention:

-when you view a profile look out for things like a sleazy user name;  a normal and sincere woman will not use a sleazy user name

- read what the profiles says, because people milking for others money will say something vague that can fit anyone

-look at the photos, if the photos are too attractive, gorgeous and professional in combination with a vague profile it means that there are troubles, that this is a scam; beautiful people are very selective so they include many requirements   in their profiles.

How to protect yourself:

- use your common sense and think first that the offer may be a scam

-never send money or give credit card details

-do not open suspicious or unsolicited emails, you've better delete them

-never reply to a Spam email

-do not agree to transfer money for someone else because money laundering is a criminal offense

The bad part is that guys are more vulnerable to fail for dating scams.  There were many times when men send money to their non existing female admires. So, as an advice, never hand over money or personal details such as home address or bank account to someone who you never actually met.

Also never forget that online dating has many advantages and these dating scams shouldn't stop you to try online dating anymore, especially now that you know how to handle the situation.

Asian Dating

Honour and respect are two of the most important elements in Asian culture, and they shouldn't be overlooked when it comes to dating. For instance, traditionally, Asian women are taught at a young age to know their place around men, treat them with respect and accommodate them, while men are taught to protect and provide for the women. Although these traditions have become a faded practice in Western culture, respect still plays an important role in the Asian dating scene.

If you are Asian and are seeking a serious relationship with a man or woman from your ethnic culture, you will need to take into consideration that every move you make could be watched carefully by your partner's family, who may very well act as the third party to your date. With this in mind, here are a few tips you will want to think about when you begin dating:

Make an Impression -Be on your best behaviour. Listen to your date, create casual conversation, and be accommodating and thoughtful.

Treat your Date with Respect - Remember the saying "treat others as you would like to be treated", well this is when it really counts. Be considerate and patient, even if you find the topic of conversation to be of little interest to you. You should acknowledge what is important to your date and respect it.

Give them space - You don't want to come on too strong in the relationship, as this could either scare off your date, or make him or her jump to wrong conclusions. Creating a comfortable dating experience is the best way for you to discover if what you have found is an acquaintance, friend or potential lover.

Every once in a while visit the planet Earth - Be careful not to be mislead into believing that your dating relationship is something more than it is. Remember, not everyone is seeking a long term commitment (which could include you) therefore, before you let your imagination run wild from misinterpretation, make sure you take a realistic look at the relationship that is developing.

Above All have fun - Let's face it, the whole point to dating is about having a good time, and enjoying the other person's company, so don't be afraid to loosen up. Let your personality shine and take pleasure in your dating experiences.

In the end all that should matter when it comes down to dating, is that you and your date enjoy one another's company, are comfortable together, and share similar interests and values. If you find that there is no chemistry forming, it's time to say goodbye, and move on, regardless of how much your family may like him or her. After all, it is you who has to make the choice when it comes to your love life, for only you can determine who truly makes you happy. Therefore, grant yourself the respect and honour of making and standing by your dating decisions.

Olympic Tour Packages

The Olympics represent unique opportunities for sports enthusiasts and cultural ambassadors to come together to dissolve humanity's differences and unify under the banner of goodwill and sportsmanship. The Olympics are held in even numbered years, with the Summer Olympics celebrated in years divisible by four and the Winter Olympics staged two years later.

Although the Olympics are always an exciting time, anticipation for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing is unparalleled. China has always been an extremely powerful nation, but it is poised to become a true economic powerhouse, one that could well lead the world as the century progresses. The Chinese view the 2008 Games as the opportunity to showcase their development, while the rest of the world is intensely curious about a country, a government, and a people that seem shrouded in mystery.

Because it is largely a closed society, few Westerners have had the opportunity to visit China - until now. Indeed, this year's Games make 2008 Olympic tour packages extremely popular, as they present a unique opportunity to experience Chinese culture and enjoy the camaraderie that accompanies this gathering of athletes and fans from around the world. For many people who love to travel, golf packages, hunting and fishing vacations, and cruises pale in comparison to the chance to become part of history as China unveils its advancements on a world stage.

When you've decided to embark on this adventure of a lifetime, though, how do you decide which travel operator to use? The best 2008 Olympic tour packages can be found online. Look for a travel website that offers over a dozen different China travel packages. For example, you should be able to choose from among seven-day, nine-day, ten-day, and eleven-day tours. Perhaps you'd like to limit your China visit to Beijing, and concentrate on seeing the Olympics and visiting landmarks like Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall. Maybe you'd also like to make your way to Shanghai and Suzhou, a town of canals that has been dubbed the "Venice of the East." Extend your trip for a few days, and you could visit Nanjing to experience its rich cultural heritage, as well as Hangzhou's Lin Ying Temple.

Choosing the right travel company is more than selecting your preferred itinerary, though. You should also ensure that the tour provides guides that speak English, and includes accommodations in four-star hotels. All transportation within China should be provided, including transportation to and from Olympic venues. Price is also a consideration, though it probably shouldn't be the deciding factor. You can, however, expect to book a superb eleven-day 2008 Olympic tour package for under $5,000 per person.

The slogan of this summer's Olympic games is "One World, One Dream." If you've always dreamt of visiting one of the most exotic, mysterious places in the world, 2008 Olympic tour packages will give you an experience of a lifetime. Let the games begin!

Your Mover Is Right For You Or Not

If you manage to find the right mover then half the battle is won. One of the greatest challenges of moving from one city to another, to the countryside, or abroad is locating an efficient and honest mover.

Keep in mind the following: movers must have a good reputation, an extensive network, and be licensed and insured. In addition, they must be professional, polite, understand your needs and proffer the right advice.

Here are a few considerations to put you on the right track:

1. Meet the mover and find out how long they have been in business and whether they can give you a few references.

2. Check the references. Call his clients to check on the services the mover offered and whether there were any problems.

3. Do an online search to determine whether there are any warnings or complaints against the mover.

4. Check with the local chamber of commerce or bank to determine the moving company’s business standing.

5. Check if the mover’s license and insurance are current. Ensure they have workman’s compensation and other benefits in place.

6. Determine whether the mover handles the work himself or assigns it to a sub agent or associate.

7. The mover must have a wide network with offices in the place you are moving to.

8. A reputable mover will be a member of AMSA, the American Moving and Storage Association. As a professional he will have committed to following an industry Code of Conduct and will offer quality service.

9. The ideal mover will not give you an estimate off the top of his head. He will insist to making a preliminary inspection, listing objects to be moved, and ask you to answer a number of questions. Based on which he will prepare an estimate and highlight variables.

10. He will be open minded and explain clearly what you can expect and what you cannot.  He will tell you all about insurance, the actual moving process, transit storage, guarantees and so on.

An ideal mover will value your business and explain his responsibilities clearly.

Once you know you have to move allocate enough time to finding the right mover. Ask relevant questions like will my stuff reach its destination as promised, will the material move as one load or as part of other things, a larger load. What kind of training do your workers receive? Are the workers experienced in packing antiques and other valuables? Do I need additional insurance apart from the one provided by you?

Be prudent and weigh the pros and cons carefully. Never let cost dictate your choice. Sometimes by cutting corners to save a few pennies you may loose thousands in damaged goods or lost goods.

Selecting The Perfect Costa Rica Vacation Rental

Planning a Tropical holiday full of lush jungles, secluded beaches, & friendly people but not  expensive? Costa Rica is the place to go! But where do you stay, a resort or a private villa? Do you require long lines, crowded pools, babies jogging up & down the corridors? I think not.

Selecting the best Costa Rica holiday rental can be the difference between a great holiday & three where you feel like you are 'doing without'.

plenty of vacationers consider the Costa Rica holiday rental as 'just somewhere to stay' since most of your time will be spent in or on the water, or enjoying local attractions. Don't make that mistake. there is no reason to settle for less when, with a little planning, you can find a great Costa Rica holiday rental that you'll enjoy as much or more than the other parts of your holiday.

Remember, your holiday home is where you'll be sleeping, waking up, having lots of of your meals, & resting.

If it rains or is unseasonably hot outside, you may end up stretched out reading a book to while away the day or wanting to watch three of your favorite movies on the DVD - assuming there is a comfortable sofa. & when you meet new friends, you'll require someplace lovely for entertaining. should not your holiday rental be a pleasant get-away with the amenities that make vacations a real treat? "A home away from home"

Here are 10 tips for selecting the perfect Costa Rica holiday rental:

With the web, a web site is the quickest most convenient way for you to get information on prospective Costa Rica holiday rentals. If there's no pics, you'll know right away to keep looking. Brochures, books & guides are lovely, but may have out-dated information.

1. The single most important factor is whether or not you can "see" actual recent photos of the interior & exterior of the holiday rental. it is three thing to read a great description - & a number of them are  'complimentary' (sometimes overly so) - but you require to see what you are getting.

With these lists as a guide, you'll be able to quickly eliminate those rentals that won't meet your needs. Your list might include proximity to the water, the number of bedrooms & bathrooms, type kitchen (full versus fridge & microwave), outdoor amenities such as decks & BBQ grills, ocean views, private pools, outdoor eating areas, tennis courts & other items important to you.

2. List the amenities that are important to you, the ones without which you will feel incomplete. Next, jot down those that are lovely to have, but not deal-breakers if not available.

3. List the activities that you require to be able to enjoy while on holiday. A morning activity like scuba diving, snorkeling or canopy tour then coming back to the villa to relax may be a high priority for you.
You also require to consider how close the holiday rental is to the airport. it is  important to know how far the rental is from your arrival airport. Some rentals can take a half a day's drive & after your flight even an hour's drive can seem an eternity. Your travel time back to the airport at departure can also frustrate your entire holiday. Enjoying your last morning of your holiday by a private pool instead of travelling for hours to the airport can be  important to you. For Costa Rica holiday rentals that are only 20 minutes from the Liberia International airport visit http://www.costarica-vacation-getaway.com. This will help you in selecting a general location.

On your secondary list, you might have things like a hammock for lazing about, or pool waterfall for the relaxing sounds. Exterior stereo speakers, to enjoy your favorite music around the pool. Ice makers to mix your favorite drinks,  in the heat of the day.

Some people feel that a great holiday is being able to walk or bicycle everywhere. Others don't mind a short drive, & still others think nothing of getting on a freeway to enjoy attractions.

You also require to consider how close you require your holiday rental to be to the attractions.

4. Identify your first, second & third choice of dates for renting the villa.
With several dates, you'll save time when making arrangements.

If you prefer a holiday without the hassles of traffic, parking problems, crowds & long lines, select a villa located in the quaint waterfront town of Playa Panama, Costa Rica. Visit http://www.costarica-vacation-getaway.com to learn more.

If you find a villa that you really require & you have some flexibility in scheduling, having alternate dates ready allows you to book right then, saving yourself the time & hassle of having to re-check everyone's schedule & call back - & risking losing those dates in the interim.

5. Call the telephone numbers for the holiday rentals that seem to meet your needs & speak directly with either the owners or the person who's handling the property.

Be prepared with a list of questions. This allows you to compare apples to apples, & keeps you from forgetting something important during the conversation.

It also gives you a feel for the person who will be your contact should you rent the villa & then encounter a problem. If you don't get a warm, friendly welcome to your inquiries, don't expect anything different when you have a problem.

Other things to consider: Is there a welcome basket? Will the owner have essential items in the refrigerator for you, before your arrival? Can you make arrangements for tours? Are there plates, utensils, pots, pans & other essentials for eating & meal preparation - or will you have to bring your own?
Does the rental have air condition or do you have to depend on the winds to comfort you?

6. Ask what amenities are included.
You may learn of something that isn't on your list but is perfect for your designs.
Does the rental have maid service? Last thing you require to do is make the beds or tidy the dishes, even if there is a dishwasher.
Does the rental have a washer & dryer? If so, you will not have to take as lots of cloths with you. Will the maid wash your cloths before your departure? Coming home with a suitcase full of tidy cloths is certainly a benefit.

7. Inquire about restaurants, events & activities & other forms of local entertainment that are close by. Here's where your list of preferred activities comes in handy. You should be able to find links to local attractions, calendars & restaurants on the web site of your Costa Rica holiday rental.

8. Are the owners local or do they have a management team helping 24/7?
Owners are a wealth of information about the area & can give you tips on great out-of-the-way places that aren't in the guidebooks. They also care about your enjoyment & comfort while at their villa.

This can make a huge difference;  should something require immediate attention in the villa. there is nothing worse than calling the rental company about a stopped-up toilet & getting somebody's bored teenager who's manning the phones for the summer.

9. How long has the owner been renting holiday rentals?
If the owner has worked with rental properties, they know what tenants expect & how to get things done.

If this is a new venture, beware. The owner may be in it for "fun" & have no idea how to prepare the villa so that you can have a great holiday.

10. & last, when you look at the pics, can you see yourself having a great time there?

If the pics make you require to go right now, & the answers to the questions above meet your satisfaction, you have found yourself a great Costa Rica holiday rental!

Important Things to Know About Ireland

Ireland has long been an island divided, but is starting to make a serious comeback. Here are 10 things to know about the Emerald Isle.

10 Things to Know About Ireland

An island located close to Britain, Ireland has been in nearly constant conflict with its neighbor. Alas, things have changed dramatically in the last ten years as have Ireland’s fortunes. Religious violence seems to have tapered off and economic growth is some of the strongest in Europe.

Here are ten things to know about the amazing country of Ireland.

1. The island is split between two countries, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

2. Prior to 1921, the entire island was part of and controlled by Britain.

3. In 1921, 26 counties in the south were given independence and became the Republic of Ireland.

4. Northern Ireland is approximately 55 percent Protestant and 44 percent Catholic. This division has led to decades of strife in all aspects of life.

5. Ireland has remained neutral during the two World Wars despite the fact Great Britain played a key role in each.

6.  In 1990, Mary Robinson was elected the first female President of the Republic of Ireland.

7. You will find “rag trees” in Ireland. As the name suggests, trees are covered with rags tied to their branches. The rags represent wishes for a variety of things.

8. In some parts of the country, you can go bowling on Sundays. On the public roads! The idea is to roll a heavy ball from the starting point to a finishing point as much as a couple of miles away. The team that does it in the fewest number of throws wins.

9. The ancestors of U.S. Presidents Kennedy and Reagan were Irish.

10. The Patron Saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick, was Scottish!

Ireland has a long and storied history as well as a unique cultural all its own. As you can tell from the above, this is a place you should visit if you get a chance.

Worth Seeing place is Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an international city and it has vast number of tourists come from all over the world in all year round. According to the Hong Kong Government statistics, the number of international tourists visited Hong Kong in 2005 reaches 10.8 million which represents a 13.1% increase when compared to 2004. Countries such as Australia, Canada, French, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Korean, Thailand, British and United States all contributes significant tourist growth for Hong Kong. This article presents some critical traveler tips for tourists so that you could enjoy more and have a wonderful trip to Hong Kong.

1. Personal Identity and Safety
Tourists must carry valid personal identity documentation such as passport during their stay in Hong Kong. Hong Kong is a very safe city according to the low crime rate. However, due to the densely population, it is not suggested to take a large amount of cash when going out since most of the shops in Hong Kong accepts credit cards. Expensive belongs should be locked in the safe in hotel. You could easily find policemen on the streets whenever you have encountered any problems.

2. Service Charges
Most of the restaurants except fast food shops will add 10% service charges to the bill. Therefore, you may choose to give out the odd dollars from the changes as the service tips. For taxi driver or bellboy in the hotel, there is no pre set norm for the service tips, you may choose to give out whenever you think the service is deserved for.

3. Telephone Service
All local telephone call is free except for the public telephone which charges HK$1 for every 5 minutes. Emergency call is 999 and it is free to call even in public telephone. You could either use IDD telephone call card or credit card for long distance call, or simply through operator for collect call in all public telephone counter.

4. Drinking Water
The drinking water in Hong Kong reaches World Health Organization standard. However, you may also choose to buy the bottle water in the supermarkets if you think it is necessary.

5. Taxi
All taxi only accept cash and they have invoice print out whenever you request. It is easier to catch the taxi in the taxi stop or outside the hotel. Many of the taxi drivers could understand simple English. It is suggest writing down your destination (in English) on paper to minimize misunderstandings. The taxi charges is based on the meter which is HK$15 for the first 2 Km and HK$1.4 for the subsequent 0.2 Km. Besides, there are tunnel charges ranging from HK$3-45 depends on which tunnel you have to take. The charging table is clearly shown on the inner side of the doors so you could check it before you pay. In case of any complaints or lost case, you may record down the name of the taxi driver and his license plate number which is clearly shown on the front seat stand, and reports to the police hotline: 2527 7177 whenever necessary.

6. Mass Transit Railway (MTR)
Hong Kong has 6 MTR routes, which covers most parts of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and New Territories.
Tsuen Wan Route: Tsuen Wan to Central
Kwun Tong Route: Yau Mat Tei to Tiu Keng Leng
Tseung Kwan O Route: North Point to Po Lam
Main Route: Sheung Wan to Chai Wan
Tung Chung Route: Tung Chung to Hong Kong
Airport Route: Airport to Hong Kong
Due to the convenience of MTR and the compact area of Hong Kong, most tourists find it is not necessary to rent car during their stay. Besides, due to the very heavy traffic and the complexity of the city roads, it is not recommended for tourists to drive. In case you really need car rental, you may consult your hotel, and be ready with your passport and driving license.

7. Kowloon Canton Railway (KCR)
The KCR is the major railway which links up the New Territories and the city of Kowloon. It runs through Tsim Sha Tsui East to Lo Wu which takes about 40 minutes for the whole route. Lo Wo is the final station which you could pass through to enter China with valid visa. The train will depart for every 3 to 10 minutes, and the earliest one will be started at 5:35 a.m. while the last one will be departed at 12:20 p.m. The ordinary fair and the first class fair are HK$18 and HK$36 respectively from Hung Hom to Sheung Shui.


8. Tram
The tram service has been started in 1904 and it is the oldest transportation system in Hong Kong. It only services the Hong Kong Island running from Kennedy Town to Shau Kei Wan plus another route to Happy Valley. The earliest tram starts at 6: 00 a.m. and run until 1:00 p.m. and the fair is HK$ 2 for adult and HK$ 1 for children under age12. It is the cheapest transportation in Hong Kong, and you are highly recommended to take a ride at the upper stairs so that you could enjoy all the street scenery of Hong Kong.

9. Star Ferry
The scenery of Hong Kong harbor is famous in the world, especially the night scenery. Besides, there is spectacular light show by the commercial buildings in the Hong Kong island at 8:00 p.m. every night which you must not miss. The Star Ferry has been serving on the harbor for more than 100 years, and the fair is less than HK$3 per rides. You could take the Star Ferry from Cental to Tsim Sha Tsui at around 8:00 p.m. You could enjoy the harbor scenery on the ferry and continue with the light show at the Starlight Road of Tsim Sha Tsui.

10. Hong Kong International Airport
The most convenient route to the Hong Kong International Airport is through the MTR which takes about 23 minutes from Central. It passes through stations of Kowloon, Olympic, Tsing Yi, and the train will be departed for every ten minutes. With the MTR, you would never miss the airplane due to the traditional traffic jam. Other than the MTR, you could take the Airport Bus which starts from 6:00 a.m. at the morning until 11:00 p.m. at night. It covers most part of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon with major hotels.

Sneakers In NYC This Summer

It's summer time and the living is easy. So time to go shopping and get a new pair of sneakers. But you don't want an ordinary pair of sneakers. You want something unique, flashy, and eye catching. So wither your a native New Yorker or your visiting from out of town here are some of the best spot to find sneakers in NYC.

1. Premium Good's
694 Fulton St (Btw. Ft. Green Pl & S. Elliot),
718.403.9348
Train: A or C to Layffette
Hours: 10am-7pm
Looking for Bathing Ape? They have em! Plus a whole slew of sneakers many people have never seen in the US.

2. Alife Rivington Club
158 Rivington St Cross Street: Between Clinton Street and Suffolk Street
212.375.8128
Train: F to Second Ave
Hours: Tues-Sun. 12pm-7pm
This down-low sneaker spot have some SERIOUS kicks that will make you shell out that $300.

3. Adidas Orginals
136 Wooster St
212.777.2001
Train: N or R to Prince St.
Hours: 10am-7pm
My Adidas! Your Adidas! Who does't like Adidas!

4. Training Camp
41 and 6th AVe
Train: D Train to 42nd.
Hours: 10am-7pm
A large selections of sneakers and large sizes for those with big feet.

5. ATMOS
203 West 125th Street
Train: A Train to 125th St.
Hours: 10am-7pm
The best place in Harlem to find affordable and hard to find sneakers.

6. NikeTown
6 East 57th St. NY
212.891.6453
www.niketown.com
Train: N or R to 57th
Hours: 10am-7pm
The mothership for all that is NIKE!

7. Laces
252 Mott Street
212.334.5457
Train: B, N, R to Broadway-Layffette
Hours: Monday by appointment only, Tues-Friday 10am-7pm.
The only sneaker store in town that's execlusivly for women.

8. KCDC
99 North 10th Street
718.387.9006
kcdcskateshop.com
Break out ya skate board and skate your troubles away. otherwise pick up a nice pairk of sneakers here.

9. Dave's Quality Meats
7 East 3rd off the Bowery
212.505.7551
Train: F to Bowery
Hours: 10am-7pm
You won't find salamey here but a dope selections of sneakers and t-shirts.

10. Nort 235
235 Eldridge Street
212.777.6102
Train: Locations throughout Manhattan
Hours: 10am-7pm
if your looking for sneakers that you won't see alot of people wearing then visit this spot.

Free Enjoyment At Disney World

1. Visit Downtown Disney.

It cost nothing to visit Downtown Disney. There are lots of fun shops to stroll through and plenty of people watching oportunities. (If you visit during the day PLEASE take a hat. I think Downtown Disney has it's own micro climate - it often seems degrees hotter than the rest of Orlando.) Don't miss the snoozing man made from lego or the fabtastc magnets at Magnetron Magnetz. Stop in the Art of Disney store - They run a trivia quiz every day and give out prizes if you get them all right!

2. Watch the Magic Kingdom Fireworks

from the beach of the Grand Floridian or Polynesian. You can park at the resorts for a short time for free. Tell the guard you are visiting the hotel coffee shop.

3. Take a free tour of Wilderness Lodge

Check with guest services for times and details. There is also a hidden Mickey hunt (list available from guest services)

4. Watch the Electrical Water Pageant

It takes place each night on Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake - times vary. A long line of barges are transformed into a magical light show. It is short - just a few minutes long but is one of the overlooked treasures of Walt Disney World. It can be seen from the beaches of the Grand Floridian and Polynesian and the Fort Wilderness Marina and Beach

5. Nature Trails at Fort Wilderness

There are many miles of trails at Fort Wilderness, through pine and cypress woods. All free. You can hire bikes but to walk costs nothing

6. Visit The Boardwalk

Best in the evening. Just stroll and take in the atmosphere. There's usually lots of "street entertainment"

7. Visit the The petting farm at Fort Wilderness.

The petting farm is open 7 am to dusk a. There is free day parking at Ft. Wilderness.

8.Take the free garden tour at the Yacht & Beach Club Resort.

Call guest services for times

9.Take the free lobby tour at Animal Kingdom Lodge.

10 Campfire sing-song and a movie.

Each evening a campfire is held at Fort Wilderness (it is free to WDW Resort Guests) near the Meadow Trading Post. Take your own marshmallows to toast. The campfire is followed by a Disney cartoon feature shown on a large outdoor screen.

--- I know I said 10 Free things but I have included one more because #10 is only free to guests staying at a Disney World Hotel!

11 Take a boat ride.

from Dixie Landings to Downtown Disney - it's especially nice at night. Take a stroll round Downtown Disney and catch the boat back to your car at Dixie Landings.

Smart Packing for Traveling

In this day & age of travelling cephalic, there's a few packing tactics to employ. To cut out an extra thirty to forty minutes at the arriving airport, start with packing small luggage. Since carry-ons can not exceed a linear dimension of 45 inches, you can escape the fiasco of the baggage terminal by basically packing & travelling light. To learn how to pack all your needs into two suitcase, read more.

How-to Pack & Travel Lite

Make a list. Compose a pack list. Be sure to coordinate shirts & blouses with bottoms. To maximize your travelling wardrobe fashion savoir faire, stick with solids & versatile basics. Rule-out any clothes that do not match other items.

Use the following pithy packing tips to make your travel light:

Gear up. How to make an awe-inspiring impression out of a basic or mundane outfit? For the most glam appeal, accessorize with a vibrant tie (for him) or a florid scarf (for her). Multihued accessories can liven up just about any attire.

Roll 'em up please. The best way to fit all your clothes is by rolling pants & shirts. First fold each item in half. Then basically roll. To try to maintain any creases, start on the bulkiest end of the news story of clothing.

Employ shoe smarts. For men, any leather rubber-soled shoes can make the day & night transition, easy. For woman, a pair of flip-flops, strappy sandals & comfy wedges can serve all casual - chic dressing needs.

Minimize bulk. After you check for space, edit outfits - ruthlessly. Try to pack microfibers with wrinkle & stain free comfort. With most of your attire, stay in the same color scheme - in case you have to layer up for warmth.

Put under garments on the top. To reduce the embarrassment of under garments becoming the side show attraction of the open luggage scan, place all panties in a plastic bag free of any clippers, lighters or other questionable paraphernalia. For expedient security review, place the transparent bag on top of your other items so security can access the bag without ruining your efficient packing method.

Lose Extra Baggage. Leave the heavy travel guide at home. Duplicate important resources to keep your luggage free of extra pounds. Since most hotels & resorts provide irons & blow-dryers --leave yours at home for light travel.

Leave restricted items at home. If you want to make it through security extra speedy, avoid any firearms, weapons, box-cutters, scissors, razors, lighters & any other item that may be used in a terrorist situation.

Graduate Degree Options

Many people find that in the courses of their careers they wish they had the ability to go back to school for even further education. Unfortunately, not everyone has the good fortune to live in the vicinity of a university that offers graduate level studies in the career they have chosen. Chances are that a good percentage of the population does not and if they do chances are even better that they have very busy personal and professional lives that make intensive graduate studies difficult to pursue at best.

If you are one of the many people that feel you have made your choice and are stuck with your undergraduate degree or that a post graduate degree is simply out of your reach, I hope you will read this article with great interest and learn that there options available to you no matter how far away from a university you live or how little time you have to devote to your graduate studies.

A graduate education is a very intensive course of study that is very narrow and specific. In other words, many students find that their graduate coursework is their favorite by far as it gets into the meat of the subject matter of their interest rather than merely hitting the highlights. Only a small percentage of the population at this point in time has a graduate education. Though this does not necessarily guarantee you any employability it can provide you with very specialized knowledge or skills that will help you perform your job better and qualify you for more interesting and specialized positions in your field of study.

If you would like to pursue a graduate education but feel you are too far from the nearest university that offers a comprehensive graduate education in your field, you might be surprised to find that the nearest graduate level curriculum is as far away as your living room or your favorite Internet café. Online courses give new hope to potential graduate students. Many of them will actually allow you to work around your work schedule and at your own pace while trying to achieve your dreams of higher education and life long learning.

Online courses are becoming more widely accepted across the nation and around the world. We live in the information age and it only makes sense that we are taking control of our educations by using services and demanding services like online courses in order to further our educational goals. At the moment there are only limited offerings for graduate studies, most of them centering on educational fields with only a few graduate degrees offered in other fields such as the medical industry. As demand grows so will the availability of graduate courses and degrees that are being offered online.

If you happen to be fortunate enough to live relatively close to a university that offers graduate studies in your field you might want to check with the university and see if they offer weekend graduate classes. This is a new trend that seems to be growing in popularity as a valid option for those who hope to return to college but can't afford to give up precious work or family time during the week. These courses are much more intense than your average once or twice a week night course but they allow you to pursue your graduate degree in a much quicker manner than traditional programs have allowed and are much more employer and family friendly. Of course you also have the option of taking one or two classes at a time at night in order to achieve your graduate degree as well. Masters degree students only need to take 9 hours a semester in order to be considered full time students and qualify for financial aid.

All in all, you do not need to sacrifice your goals of graduate studies in order to maintain your career or achieve some sort of balance between work, education, and family. Whether you choose online courses, night courses, or weekend courses for your studies you have many opportunities to achieve the degree you desire without sacrificing heavily in order to do so.

Educational Savings Accounts

When it comes to getting a college education, financing is one of the most important considerations that you will need to make. Unfortunately for far too many it is one the last considerations that is made when it comes to the educations of our children. If you are a parent you owe it your child and yourself to plan ahead and plan carefully in order to cover the cost of your child's education. There are fortunately, a few great ways in which you can do this.

The most common is to begin by opening up an educational savings account for your child (under the age of 18). When you open up an educational savings account for your child, you can contribute up to $2,000 per year per child. This is a combined total contribution however and includes the contributions of grandparents, friends, and family in addition to your own personal contributions. The money from these funds can be withdrawn tax-free as long as they are used for educational purposes.

Educational expenses in this case include books, tuition, fees, supplies, and college room and board provided that your child is at least a part-time student. If you do not use all the funds for your child there are options as far as what to do with the remaining funds in the account. The first option would be to leave the funds in the account and allow the account beneficiary to withdraw them up until the age of 30. There is a penalty involved and the beneficiary will be required to pay income tax on those funds. You could also elect to roll those funds over to the next child under the age of 18 who will have educational expenses in the future.

The money you set aside in these accounts to cover the cost of the education of your child or children is not tax-deductible however, it is a great way to begin saving money and investing in the future of your child. If you begin investing the maximum amount $2,000 per year upon birth your child should have a nice nest egg to help cover educational expenses. If your child is fortunate enough to qualify for scholarships and other sources of financial aid you can turn the funds over as a graduation gift or save it for the next college student in your family that comes along. Either way you've saved yourself a good part of the worry that goes along with providing for your family by having this fund set up for your children.

You can sign up for programs like Upromise in order to subsidize your contributions with donations from corporate sponsors as their way of thanking you for buying their products or using their services on any credit cards that you, your friends, and your family members have registered to go into your child's account. Every edge you give yourself when it comes to investing in the education of your children is an edge worth having. College tuition rates are rising at an alarming rate while corporate expectations of college degrees are rising at the same near lightening speed. This means that a college degree is more critical for our children than in any past generations.

Take the time now to check into securing the future of your children by establishing an educational savings account. Let friends and family know that any gifts they are planning to give your children that involve money would be appreciated if they instead invested in the future of your children rather than the now. You can also ask your friends and family to sign up their credit cards with Upromise in order to provide a little bump in donations to your child's college savings account. These little steps add up to significant savings over the course of 18 years. You just might find that the investment you are making is adequate to cover the costs of your child's tuition in full.