Best Buy Holiday

Sometimes, the best holiday celebrations aren’t the most famous or obvious ones.

This is especially true on Oregon’s coast, where one big secret is that this time of year doesn’t just mean the area’s notoriously stormy and wild weather, but that it has many days that are unusually dry and warm compared to the rest of the state. But the most delightful secrets lie in the realm of holiday celebrations, which make for some memorable discoveries along this famously pristine stretch of shoreline.

On the northern Oregon coast, the holidays begin not with the usual celebrations, but with a major wine event and loads of signature Lewis & Clark commemorations.

On November 7, it will have been exactly two hundred years since William Clark wrote “Ocian in view! O! the Joy!” as he spotted what he thought was the Pacific Ocean (it was actually a big bay just before the ocean). For the next five months, staring in 1805, the Corps of Discovery spent their time in this part of the Northwest. The Lewis & Clark Bicentennial marks this, and things kick off at Fort Stevens (between Seaside and Astoria) on November 11, with the “Opening Ceremony – Lewis & Clark Veteran’s Day Commemoration.” Oregonian and former Miss America, Katie Harmon (2002), will sing the national anthem, and the event will feature banners from local tribes and other remembrances of the Corps of Discovery.

November 14 brings the Dedication Of The Fort To Sea Trail at Fort Ctatsop (near Fort Stevens), marking the trail from the crew’s winter quarters to their time on the beaches of Seaside.

Fort Clatsop – the replica of the Corps’ winter camp – will feature various “Wintering Over Events” between the Fort and Cannon Beach. This replica tragically burned in early October, but the visitor center there is still the center of many of the winter events, including a living history program about their Christmas at the camp on December 25. On January 7, the celebration comes to Cannon Beach (some 25 miles south), marking the day that Clark, Sacegawea and others traveled to the ocean to see a beached whale.

The adorable resort town of Seaside – which boasts broad, immaculate beaches, the “million dollar walk” of Broadway Ave., and a cove famous for surfing – will be one of the few cities to host a major traveling exhibit on Lewis & Clark. From November 19 to November 22, you’ll find the “Corps of Discovery II, 200 yrs. To The Future,” with a mobile 250-seat auditorium showing multimedia programs on Lewis & Clark’s troupe of travelers. Free. 503-861-4403. www.destinationthepacific.com.

Also on November 19, Seaside will abound with the bounty of the vineyard with the holiday-themed Seaside Downtown Wine Walk. The now-annual event features hundreds of folks wandering throughout the downtown area and taste-testing Northwest wines. $5 for the wristband. 503-717-1914 or www.seasidedowntown.com.

By late November, Seaside really gets lit up with the “Yuletide at Seaside,” where the entire town is decked out in all sorts of light configurations. Highlights include the Holiday Gift Fair on November 25 – 27 at the Seaside Civic & Convention Center, the famous Holiday Caroling & Lighted Float Parade on November 26, the Holiday Lights Tour aboard a bus on December 10 and 11, and the Seaside Children’s Christmas Party at the Seaside Convention Center on December 11. Call 800-394-3303 for more information on all these, or go to www.seasideor.com.

If you want to stay in a castle on Oregon’s coast and enjoy some special holiday events, you need only look about 15 miles south of Seaside to St. Bernard’s Bed & Breakfast. This stunning beauty is built to look somewhere between a medieval structure and a Swiss ski lodge, filled with antique furniture and a spicy sense of romance and adventure – in an exceptionally upscale way.

Every morning means gourmet breakfasts made by the able hand of owner Barbara Dau. Thanksgiving means Dau’s talents will create a special traditional dinner with her artistic flair. It’s open to in-house guests only, and cost is $65, including fine wines as well. The highlight here, aside from the food and wondrous surroundings, is the engaging, convivial atmosphere created by gathering to dine with others you haven’t met before. This, and St. Bernard’s special New Year’s Eve traditions, are becoming an increasingly popular addiction for Oregon and Washington residents.

On New Year’s Eve, Dau puts together a six-course gourmet bash, which features dishes from around the world and matching wines for each. It’s a culinary and wine-tasting trip across the globe. It all ends with champagne by a beach bonfire that is breathtaking every year. www.st-bernards.com. 800-436-2848.

In Newport – the town with two lighthouses – the ancient Bayfront gets gussied up in an incredible array of lights. Nearby, the historic Nye Beach district (known as the “Honeymoon Capitol of the World” for various reasons) has an antique charm that’s somewhere between old Europe and turn-of-the-century America with its tiny cobblestone streets.

For those who want to celebrate with more than a little finery, the stunning bistro-style eatery Village Market & Deli goes into overdrive with its legendary cuisine, offering special holiday dishes to its partial ocean view, sometimes to the shimmering sounds of guest musicians. This pleasure, and the owners’ sister business, Blu Cork Wine Bar, are one of Newport’s hush-hush holiday knockouts. Blu Cork will feature a stunning sourdough bread pudding and chocolate cake for the season that contains a multitude of taste layers, as well as specialty holiday meats, spreads, terrines, pates and champagne – all surrounded by its famous wine-themed dcor and selection of memorable northwest wines. (541-574-9393 for Village Market & Deli).

Andorra, The Principality of Andorra is a very small, landlocked principality in south-western Europe. It is located in the Pyrenees mountains, bordered by France and Spain, and is a very interesting country to travel to. Once an isolated country, Andorra, has currently become a very prosperous country because of tourism and for it’s benefits that it offers to international corporations for taxes.

The name of the country, Andorra most likely originated from the Navarrese word andurrial, which translates to shrub-covered land. Tourism is the staple of Andorra’s small, well to do economy. This accounts for roughly 80% of the Gross Domestic Product. It is estimated that nine million tourists visit Andorra annually. These tourists are attracted by Andorra’s duty-free shopping and also by its summer and winter resorts. Andorra’s advantage has recently shrunk as the neighboring economies of France and Spain have slackened up, providing more availability to goods and lower tariffs on them. With its tax haven status, The banking sector, also contributes in a lareg way to the economy of the Andorra. Agricultural production is so limited because only 2% of the land is arable. This means that most food has to be imported. Lifestock that does exist, is mainly sheep. Local Manufacturing consists of cigars, cigarettes, and furniture.

Andorra, although not a ‘full member’ of the EU (European Union), still enjoys a special relationship with it. An example of this is that Andorra is treated as an EU member for among EU members. This means that there is no tariffs. Andorra really does lack a currency of its own, because it is uses the currencies of its two surrounding nations.

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Thailand means the land of the free lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. It is one of the most beautiful places in the world and one can only experience the exotic beauty of the place when you get there. The fresh air kissing your face when you walk on the beach, the mouth watering dishes and the rush and madness in the market is something you will perhaps not get to see anywhere else.

Thailands geographical region is divided into four parts:

The mountains and forests are in the north. You can find fascinating handicrafts and multicolored orchids.

The central part where you will find paddy field, farms and all kinds of fruits.
The northeast plateau is famous for its rich archaeological and anthropological heritage.
You will find tropical islands in the southern peninsula. The people on this place are involved in fishing, rubber cultivation and tin mining.

The people of Thailand are very friendly and hospitable. This place is rich in monumental heritage and famous for its beaches. Thailand is an ideal holiday destination for all, from those who are looking for a romantic holiday, to shoppers to the food lovers as you get to taste varieties of sea food, down in the street to the most expensive restaurants. It offers something to every traveler.

Many travelers also come here for adventurous holiday. As this place offer all kinds of sport for all ages like scuba diving, snorkeling, wind-surfing and water-skiing .After all these activities you can simply relax by lounging on the beautiful beach sipping your favorite drink with a good company.

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand.Bankok means city of angels, it is a small Thailand in itself. It is the centre of commercial, industrial and cultural activities. If you are looking for peace and simplicity you can visit the Buddhist temples and the amazing part is it stands by side by side with nightclubs and cafs. You can see monks walking in their red robes all over the place and one can only wonder how they can attain such peacefulness in this rush and hectic world.

Another main attraction in Thailand is Phuket known for its exotic island. The nightlife there is lively with its multicuisine restaurants and bars always filled with tourists. But of course if are looking for a quite meal you can do that by going to the right place.

Chiang Mai is another place which is a combination of modern city life and the old village charm. There are elaborate temples and cultural relics some of which are very old close to 700 years. On the top of the mountain is Doi Suthep monastery which overlooks the fertile valley embracing Chiang Mai.The local night bazaar is the favorite shopping place for tourists where you can get hand made local stuff, tribal wears and also latest modern junks for a good bargain.

You will have no problem communicating as most of the hotels, restaurants and tourist places speak English and other European languages. There are various modes of transportation. You can either hire a taxi to go around the city, or take the city bus .There is also something called Tuk-Tuk, a three wheeler. You would definitely enjoy the open air ride on this three wheeler and for longer destinations there are trains always running to all the places.

Thailand is blessed with three seasons-summers from February to May, Rainy season from June to October with plenty of sunshine and the cold season from November to January. A lot of people go for holidays in Thailand during December and January as it is the perfect season to relax and party. Thailand becomes a mini world as people from all over the world come here for holidays during this season.

Surely now you know what your next holiday destination is -Gods very own creation Thailand!!!

While on a cruise, you may want to take pictures as a way to preserve the memories of the wonderful time you had. Pictures of sights, views, friends, and events are the types of pictures the many people take when they are on a cruise, especially those that allow passengers to visit different port cities along the way. Because most people will only take one or two cruises in their lifetime, it is important that they have pictures to show other people and as a way to remember the trip years later.

Unfortunately, after the cruise is over, the pictures sit undeveloped for weeks, months, or even years. While most people have digital cameras, the images from their cruise are never downloaded onto a CD or they are put into a file folder never to be seen again. If you want to create something special for your pictures, creating a scrapbook is one way to preserve your pictures and the memories you have of the cruise.

Scrapbooks are very easy to create and can last for many years. Buying a few supplies including water resistant book, photo glue, and decorative accents are all you will need. Developing pictures from your vacation is the next step. After printing your pictures, you will be ready to add them to the scrapbook. This can be done any way you want it to be. Use your imagination and have a good time reminiscing about your trip.

If you don’t want to create a scrapbook, but you want to preserve the pictures so friends and family can look at them later, buy an acid proof box and have your pictures developed. Placing them in this box will protect them for many years. There are many types of boxes available with pretty designs to choose from.

In addition to pictures, you can add cocktail napkins, show tickets, and any other items you may have kept from your cruise. These are small items that will bring back many memories. Keep these items in your memory box with your pictures so you will have many stories to tell later on.

Taking pictures while on vacation may seem a bit daunting at first, but once you begin, you will find yourself taking pictures of everything you see. Even though some of your pictures will not be worth saving because they were out of focus or they did not have enough light, most of them will tell the story of your holiday.

If travelling with a group, designate one or two people to take pictures so all the events will be photographed. You can share pictures through email later on and let people choose which pictures to print. Some people do not enjoy taking pictures, so only ask those who want to take them during the trip. Documenting your trip by taking pictures is a great way to remember the trip later on and be able to tell others about it.

Lisbon is a relaxed city, full of friendly folk who make the effort to stop and talk. But their city was falling into decay and renovation became a priority.

Recent years has seen Lisbon begin to clean up its act. Hosting the 2004 European Football Championships focused the city and brought about an exiting new era.

For years Lisbon sat awash with building sites and rubble, eager to regain its status as one of the major calling ports of Europe.

Downtown Lisbon was stuck in a time warp. Tight, cobbled streets were a throwback to the 18th century, a million miles from the ultra-modern, cosmopolitan capitals of Europe.

Today, Lisbon is at the dawn of a bright new age and keen to promote itself in a new world of tourism.

The devastating earthquake of 1755 led to new town planning, much of which exists to this day. Urgent reconstruction was necessary to keep Portugals capital up and running. A new infrastructure heralded the start of a new era.

The Praca do Comercio sits at the edge of the waterfront. The pretty square attracts the pigeons en masse and looks up to a magnificent archway. The perimeter is laced with retail stores; busy shoppers dart from one to the other, seeking their bargains.

The square provides a focal point for much of the local community. The folk gather and exchange conversation whilst children dance and play, adding to the general din.

The delightful smell of cooking emanates from the surrounding restaurants and drifts enticingly across the square, inducing your hunger.

Opened in 1901, the Elevador de Santa Justa is an outdoor cast-iron lift. Catering exclusively for those with a head for heights, the elevator provides unparalleled views of the streets beneath. The tiny people below scurry around the busy backstreets, all with somewhere to go.

East of the city, Alfama is a legacy of Moorish times, retaining much of the old architecture. Following Christian victory in the religious wars, the Romanesque cathedral was built on the site of a mosque in 1147.

With visitor numbers static in recent years and facing new competiton from former Eastern Bloc countries offering cheap holidays, the recent announcement by the Maltese government that negotiations were at an advanced stage with two low cost airlines has sparked hopes that the island will see a rise in visitor numbers, much to the relief of some in the tourist industry worried about the future of Malta as a holiday destination.

Even before the new carriers to the island land the existing airlines have been offering return flights at prices seemingly much lower than in the past to try and hold on to their share of the market.

According to on-line travel guide YourMalta.com the airline negotiations have been tempered with the need for the islands government to see that the national carrier, Air Malta, isnt damaged as it is one of Maltas major employers.

Traditionally the UK has been Maltas biggest market for incoming tourists, often making up over half of the islands visitors in any given year, but some on the island see even this market as under threat. And property buyers from the UK have accounted for seventy per cent of Malta property sales to overseas buyers in recent years, settling in Valletta, Sliema, St Pauls, Mellieha, St Julians and Qawra.

A good portion of UK visitors and property buyers for Malta in recent years have been ex-forces who served for the British during WW2 when Malta held out against Hitlers Luftwaffe, and then in peacetime through to 1964 when Malta became independent, who returned for holidays.

But with the inevitability of this market declining a new breed of Maltas holiday and hotel entrepreneurs see Maltas future as less dependent on the UK tourist, and being more cosmopolitan in her outlook.

Declining Market and New Opportunities

Tribune Properties, a UK company specialising in Malta properties, say they have noticed more buyers making enquiries from other countries over the last year. In particular they say they have been receiving enquiries from France, Italy and Germany.

The UK remains the foundation for overseas property buyers considering buying property in Malta, but the overall percentage is reducing as more and more people in mainland Europe have visited Malta, and liked it so much they want to either move to the island full time or buy a holiday home.

The arrival of low cost flights to Malta though could reignite British interest as three and four day breaks a few times a year becomes financially viable. If the airlines fly to destinations in Europe too the number of buyers for Malta property could rise in the immediate and medium term explains Tribunes Managing Director, Roger Munns.

For Maltas tourist industry three and four day visitors in increased numbers will be a welcome boost. There is discussion on the island about extending clubs opening hours beyond the current 4am.

Clubbers in the UK are used to 6am closing, and might be deterred from making a weekend trip with a three hour flight only to find shorter hours available for partying.

There are new opportunities for Malta, and its for the island to decide whether to embrace them and gain a new generation of visitors or ignore them and lose an asset for the economy agree YourMalta.com

Malta has a lot to offer the visitor apart from being a Mediterranean holiday island. Malta has a rich culture and history, and can easily appeal to all generations from toddlers to pensioners. More Italians and other nationalities are discovering Malta as a destination. Malta will become more cosmopolitan. And while some of the older more conservative residents are likely to be against a younger and more diverse mix of visitors from what they have been used to and see change as something to be afraid of, we believe the island will embrace the more cosmopolitan feel, while retaining the features that make Malta a unique visit among her Mediterranean island competitors.

Just a short bus ride, 25 miles north of Milan, is one of the most scenic spots in all of Italy – Lake Como. Its shores are circled with charming little towns and fabulous century-old villas; one larger, and more ornate than the next. The glistening water beckons one to sit, and take time to enjoy all that the lake and surrounding lush scenery have to offer. Lake Como being the third largest lake in Italy, I found it not only tranquil, but magical. With its lush Mediterranean gardens and spectacular views, it is easy to see why it has earned the reputation as one of the most romantic getaways in Italy.

Traveling with my husband, son and daughter-in-law, we were all pleased to arrive at the hotel we had reserved for our stay. The Hotel Bellevue was our unanimous choice. Built in 1820, it neighbors the stately Villa Carlotta. On arrival we were pleased to see that the hotel was situated just feet from Lake Como. The hotel itself was lovely. It had wonderful charm, gardens, antique furnishings, and an outdoor swimming pool. The lobby was stately with a huge Venetian chandelier and a great sweeping staircase. Art adorned every wall. The rooms were lovely, with antique furniture, and soft Italian linens.

After unpacking and settling into our rooms, it was time to explore. No sooner had we left the hotel when we spotted a charming restaurant called The Victorian Tea Garden,” which sat right on the banks of Lake Como. We were seated at a lovely outdoor table covered in crisp white linen. To our delight, a grapevine-covered pergola hung overhead. But what really stole the scenery was the breathtakingly beautiful view of the Swiss Alps. These majestic mountains circled the shoreline and provided a stunning backdrop to the dark, marine-blue waters of Lake Como. It left us with the impression that we had traveled back in time. The owner a gentleman who looked in his 80s – was very hospitable and could not have made us feel more welcome. We ordered Champaign, and toasted each other (and our magnificent setting) with tall, chilled glasses. We sat there in appreciation and awe of the spectacular setting for the next two hours, finishing two bottles of Champaign!

With the sun beginning to set, we returned to the Hotel Bellevue for a relaxing, fabulous dinner. Then, to cap off the evening, we ferried over to Bellagio, the famed, picturesque Italian resort village. Narrow, cobblestone streets were lined with old shops, restaurants and churches. My advice? Dont leave Bellagio without visiting the shops, as here you will find some of the most wonderful silk scarves and ties – not to mention leather goods – in all of Italy.

There was little traffic on Bellagio. This made it ideal for walking and taking the sights in. Bellagio is completely unspoiled, and possesses the grace and charm of “old world living.” It was also very clear that the Bellagio residents loved their gardens, and kept them well tended.

The wide area of Lake Como offers inexhaustible things to do for tourists. It is an ideal place to vacation with family. For those who desire relaxation, the tranquil scenery of the lake surroundings is sure to please. Lake Como is also perfect for anyone looking for a more active vacation; swimming, water-skiing, sailing, hiking, mountain-biking, and horseback riding await. Day mountain excursion trips are also worthwhile ventures. These trips offer the most breath-taking views of the lake and surrounding areas.

Boat excursions from Lake Como are a must. Ferry service will take you to local monuments and exquisite villas, as well as to lovely lakeside towns (I recommend the picturesque town of Varenna.) Or, you may also choose a ferry excursion to neighboring Switzerland. The Swiss town of Lugano offers great shopping, though it is expensive, so bring credit cards.

If spectacular works of art, classical Italian gardens, and elegant, period settings are your interest, I recommend a visit to the famed Villa Carlotta, located in the town of Tremezzo. It offers spectacular landscaped gardens, while the villa is a must-see for antique lovers. The Duomo, better known as the “Renaissance Cathedral”, is another spectacular must-see. Its located in the town center of Como.

Shopping adventures (and treasures) await at any one of the lakeside towns, as do epicurean delights. Taste regional products like olive oil, wine, and cheese in the numerous lakeside shops, restaurants, and cafes.

In the evening, enjoy a glass of wine at one of the local wine bars, and relax before eating at one of the many memorable restaurants that the area has to offer. Most restaurants offer regional or modern cuisine. After dinner, treat yourself to a night of music and dance in local discos; most stay open until sunrise. Or, as my family and I enjoy doing, take an evening walk along the lake before retiring to read a good book.

Lake Como is fabulous unlike any other place. It possesses spectacular views, lush, tranquil settings; fine Italian architecture, elegant, by-gone charm, and warm, hospitable people. With its unspoiled grace and charm, Lake Como offers its guests the opportunity to experience an enchanting slice of life which is relaxed, elegant, and breathtakingly beautiful. It is a place where you will be drawn back to time and time again. Perhaps on a sunny day in your own backyard, your daydreams will beckon you to the shores of Lake Como.

Lions head: Tour Safaris Kenya; Lions head Tour Kenya Safaris Parks

Lions head tour safari in Kenya is offered in several of the countrys wildlife parks. Most famous is the Maasai Mara game reserve where sightings of the African lion are guaranteed-the same way the sun will rise in the morning and set in the evening. Other Lions head tour safari parks in Kenya famous for their African lion populations include the Tsavo, Amboseli, Nairobi, Nakuru and Meru safari Parks. With a little effort and your diver guides acumen, you will be able to spot a pride in each of these Lions head tour safari land parks.

1. Lions head tour safari of Maasai Mara

Maasai Mara game reserve is said to host over 10 prides of lions if not more. The African lion in Maasai Mara is famous for its black mane. The mane will usually be golden in the African lions youth turning to black as it advances in age. The lions of the Mara will be heard roaring next to your camp where they have marked territories and location.

The prides usually occupy one territory (which might be next to your lodge) and its guaranteed that they will always be in those environs every day. The Maasai Mara Lions head tour safari land park is rife with succession battles between male lions. The dominant male is constantly fending off other challenging males. The male will in most cases be heavily scarred on the face as a result of battles fought and won before.

The Lions head tour safari in the Mara will find you in the middle of a pride that wants to use your car for shade. They will sprawl underneath and besides your vehicle for hours ignoring your presence. By and large, the Maasai Mara African lion is to an extent used to humans, but thats not to mean they are any less dangerous. So take no chances.

2. The Lions head tour safari of Tsavo safari park

The lions of Tsavo East especially, are the most dreaded, and were upon which the movie the ghost and the darkness was based. The lions of Tsavo killed hundreds of railway workers and at one point halted the construction of the East African railway line in 1890s. They came to be known as the man eaters of Tsavo

The lions here are the most feared and un-habituated due to their limited contact with humans. They are equally harder to locate but more due to the expansive nature of the park. Your tour driver guide in most cases will most certainly know how to locate a pride since they are familiar with their territories.

3. Lions head tour safari in Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National park is the only wildlife park in the world within capital city boundaries. It is therefore easily accessible and a show case of what other country based lion safari parks have to offer. The African lion prides of Nairobi national park are fewer due to the relative size of the park. They can however be heard at early mornings and late evenings roaring away. It is always an exciting experience in your Lions head tour safari to see the elusive lions in this park before proceeding to the major national parks in Kenya.

4. Lions of Meru National Park

The Meru National park easily holds the number one position of the most remote wilderness areas in the country. The wildlife here, unlike other parks is very aggressive and un-habituated. The African lions of Meru National park compare to those of Tsavo and are as such the most feared. Meru national park however is a darling for tourists in search of virgin natural places in their Lions head tour safari photo hunt.

5. Lions of L. Nakuru National park

Lake Nakuru national park is the most visited park in Kenya. The park is also located 2 from Nairobi and within the Nakuru town and is host to Lake Nakuru, an important Ramsar site. (An Important water-body equivalent to a UNESCOs heritage site). The park is famous for the millions of the pink coloured flamingo that ring the sides of the lake like one large pink bracelet.

The African lion park prides are easily found and are located in a particular area called the lion hill. L. Nakuru is a very famous park since it also hosts the Black and White African Rhino. The white Rhino populations in the park have improved tremendously and are touted as a resounding success of the rhino breeding programme by the Kenya Wildlife Service.

Let your operator advice you on your itinerary to maximize your Lions head tour safari experience in Kenya. For sure you will see enough African lions and more of the big five game here. Thats not a fact its a promise. Enjoy!

Holidays in Malta could be off the list of destinations offered by major tour operators from next summer, according to press reports.

While nothing has been confirmed yet, it has been reported that at least one of the tour operators is seriously considering withdrawing Malta as one of their destinations, and the fear among Malta hotel owners and those in the holiday industry is that once one holiday company pulls the plug on the island, others will follow, relegating Malta from a mainstream holiday island offered by major travel agents to smaller specialist companies.

But First Choice Holidays, winner of the ‘Holiday Company of the Year’ travel award in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and one of the UK’s best known holiday companies have told one Malta travel guide that despite being named in the Malta press as the company most likely to do so they have never said they were pulling out of the Malta holiday market, but did admit that the Malta market was ‘increasingly difficult’ to sale.

Malta has been struggling for some years to adapt to the modern traveller, but government figures released for March showed a year on year drop in tourists of nearly 10 per cent, and most worrying of all was that the number of tourists arriving from the UK, Malta’s main market, fell by over 13 per cent, and visitors from Italy, a market the Tourist Office had been trying to cultivate also fell.

Holidays in Malta and the related tourist sector are a major source of employment in Malta, and with unemployment running at over 8 per cent any fall in tourists could spell long term damage to the island’s economy.

Another sector of the economy that could suffer with the Malta holidays market is real estate.

Property in Malta has risen in price in recent years, and 2004 saw Malta achieving the highest increase among the EU countries, with speculators buying property in Malta in the hope that joining the EU would see Malta real estate increase in value in the short and medium term.

Tribune Properties, who specialise in Malta Real Estate, view the potential downgrading of holidays in Malta as a double edged sword.

Managing Director Michael Johnson says that many Malta property buyers do so after visiting the island on holiday, and liking it so much they want to move to the island full time, while others who normally stay in hotels in Malta want to buy a property they can buy for their own and family holidays in Malta, and see buying a property in Malta as an investment for the future that they can enjoy too.

With less people taking holidays in Malta, the number of potential buyers will fall too.

Silver Lining

While Malta hotels and the tourist industry in Malta wait anxiously for news, the withdrawal of major tour operators from the island might not be all bad news.

There has been some discontent on the island about the rising prices of property in Malta, and with less overseas buyers the possibility of prices falling and more islanders being able to get on the property ladder could be welcome news.

In addition to lower property prices, YourMalta feel that projections of a collapse in the island’s holiday market if tour operators did withdraw could be exaggerated.

‘While the loss of the tour operators bringing tourists to the island is significant, in time the island will be less reliant on their business as more and more people make independent travel plans through the internet, and book their flights and hotels in Malta independently of traditional holiday companies.

Malta tends to attract the older tourist, so it might take longer than somewhere like Ibiza for example which attracts a younger visitor who as a group are more internet friendly’, states Managing Director Roger Munns, ‘but in time when the internet is seen as the primary source of booking a holiday across the age range, Malta will stand as much chance as anywhere of attracting tourists.

There has been speculation for some time now that low cost airlines are going to start offering flights to Malta, and this will help the Malta hotels and holiday market as more people consider three and four day breaks instead of the traditional week or fortnight, boosting the overall number of visitors, especially if Air Malta and the low cost airlines bring the cost of Malta flights to levels seen for the Spanish islands.

With an ineffective promotions board there is plenty of hope still for the holiday market in Malta, despite and not because of the Malta Tourist Authority, who are failing to promote Malta in the UK in any meaningful way.’

Holiday Decorating Tips: Thanksgiving, A Time For Gratitude And Giving

Get new holiday decorating ideas for Thanksgiving and Autumn. Start a new family tradition. Your home will look fabulous and your guests will love you.

Turkey and Cranberries! Yeah!

Before you dig into that turkey, take a moment for each person to say one sentence beginning with…

“Today, I am grateful for…”

You will be surprised at what children say, so keep a notebook handy to write down the gratitudes, or, better yet, record the event.

Thanksgiving Decorating Tips

“Welcome to Our Home” Ideas

Holiday decorating isn’t just for Christmas! Door wreaths welcome all to your home and set the stage for celebrating. Make a simple wreath to hang on your front door with Thanksgiving colors–brown, russet, olive green. Use tree branches from your garden; attach a few gourds, nuts, and ribbons.

Place a gorgeous mum by your front door. You can plant it later and get flowers next Thanksgiving to use inside. It just takes one bright spot near your front door to attract the eye of arriving guests.

Wrap your front door with gift wrap appropriate to Thanksgiving.

Make a “welcome to our home” banner. Add your ribbons and fall leaves.

Group vines, pumpkins, and mums for display impact near the front entrance. Adjust the vines to add height and movement.

Fall Leaves make great interior and exterior decorations. Be sure to hose off any bugs!

Interior Holiday Decorating Tips

Tie ribbons around your candle bases and around your floral arrangements.

Set fall-color leaves under your decorations. Safety Tip: Keep leaves separated from melting candle wax.

Extend your flower arrangements with fall tree branches. Just one flower package makes a huge impact when you divide and spread it around.

Use copper, bronze, and gold spray paint to dress up plain gourds. Fill a glass or crystal bowl with the gourds, oranges, and nuts.

Display vegetables and mini pumpkins on a tray. Fill in any gaps with fall leaves, moss, straw, or wheat.

If orange clashes with your home’s interior, use green apples and spray paint the mini-pumpkins.

Did I already say leaves? Here’s another way to add fall color: Place the leaves in your green potted-plants.

One beautiful way to kick off your holiday season: Wrap tiny gifts in gold foil; top off with brown and russet ribbons, and place the gifts on the dinner plate. Your table will look fabulous and your guests will love the thought.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Jeanette Fisher