One thing I must do before I kick the proverbial “bucket” is to see an Elephant Polo game. Elephant Polo, as you might guess, is a variant of polo played aboard an elephant. The home of the game is Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge, Nepal, but can also be found in Thailand, Sri Lanka, India and England. New York has a team: the Blues. Treetops is the home of the World Elephant Polo Championships. The 2008 Champions were England’s “Air Tuskers”.

Basic polo equipment is used, although the mallet is modified to reach from the back of the elephant to the ground, some six to nine feet. The field or “pitch” is shorter than a standard polo field (the reasons for this will be discussed in a moment). Due to the difficulty in steering perhaps, each elephant has two riders. The first is the “mahout”. Familiar to us from Rudyard Kipling novels, this is the guy who rides on the elephant’s head and encourages both movement and direction. The second rider actually plays the game by whacking the ball and calling out directions to the mahout.

The game was apparently a favorite of the British Colonial period in India, and reemerged after a heavy evening of drinking by the owner of Tiger Tops and his cronies. Some celebrity adherents of the game include Ringo Starr, Bryan Ferry of Roxie Music, the actor Steven Seagal, and the late adventurer Sir Edmund Hillary.

The World Elephant Polo Association governs the play in Nepal and Thailand. The WEPA strictly enforces rules regarding elephant welfare and game play. Other tournaments are managed independently. Most games are played today for charity. Aside from winning the game, other prizes include Best Dressed Team. Any excuse for champagne will do.

The game is played under the auspices of the World Elephant Polo Association (and yes, you can get a polo shirt!) which governs the play in Nepal and Thailand. The rules regarding elephant welfare are strictly enforced. Tournaments are not lengthy, and generally are played for charity once a year. Other prizes eagerly anticipated include the coveted Best Dressed Team Award.

Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge is an award winning wildlife safari and eco lodge in the heart of Chitwan National park. The Lodge is noted for it’s eco-tourism model, it’s conservation activism, it’s organic cuisine and it’s tree house accommodations. The lodge offers elephant safaris to view Bengal Tigers, Bison and Rhinoceros,.

The championships are usually scheduled at the end of November and beginning of December.

Related External Links

• Elephant Polo: The Sport of Kings

If so, there is a good chance that you will be flying out of the Louisville International Airport. The Louisville International Airport is known as being one of the area?s best airports, not only when it comes to offering service, but when it comes to offering low-cost travel options. For that reason, if you haven?t already picked an airport to fly out of, you will want to examine the Louisville International Airport and everything that it has to offer.

Although it is a legitimate concern, you do not have to be worried. You will find that the Louisville International Airport is serviced by a large number of well known airlines. Those airlines include American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, Midwest Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Express, and US Airways. Essentially, this means that wherever you are headed, you should be able to find the flight that you are looking for, whether that flight be non-stop or not.

When it comes to flying in or out of the Louisville International Airport, the airport security follows all rules implemented by the Department of Transportation (DOT), as well as the Transpiration Security Administration (TSA). This means that on all domestic and international flights, sharp objects and liquids are banned from your carryon luggage. However, most items, with the exception of flammable or explosive items, are permitted in your checked baggage. Since problems may arise, it is advised that you arrive at the airport, at least, one or one and half hours in advance. If you are scheduled to fly internationally, it is advised that you arrive even earlier, just in case.

As with all other international airports, the Louisville International Airport requires that you have the proper forms of identification. These items are needed before you are allowed to board your flight. It is important to know that these documents tend to vary from those required for domestic flights. Depending on which airline you are traveling with and where you are headed, you may also need to supply your passport, your visa, your birth certificate, or a certificate of citizenship. You are advised to check with your airline to determine which documents are required.

If you will be leaving for an international destination, but you need to leave your vehicle behind, you can do so at the numerous long-term parking lots. In addition to long-term parking lots, there are also short-term lots available. If you are being dropped off at the airport by someone who plans on helping you get inside, they can use the short-term parking lots for a reasonable fee. When it comes to paying for parking, the Louisville International Airport accepts, cash, most credit cards, and checks.

The above mentioned information should have been enough to supply with you what you need to know, but if you are looking for more information, you can do so online.

Related External Links

People come from all over the world to spend their holidays in Kenya. It’s a visitors dream come true! From night life to wild life, Kenya has something for everyone. Exotic, beautiful Kenya has all the action, adventure, thrills and delights anyone could want. Whatever your interests or passions or idea of a dream vacation, you can find it in Kenya. Do you want excitement? Romance? Family fun? Outdoor activities? Water sports? Are you a camera buff, longing for new and interesting things to aim at? Whatever your dreams are for the perfect holiday, you can find them coming true with holidays in Kenya.

Being a tropical paradise, Kenya holidays have a steadily warm and welcoming climate year round. July and August are the coolest months, but hardly wintry. The rainy season comes from March through June, keeping Kenya green and growing. From the beaches along the magnificent blue Indian Ocean to the cool green inland mountains, Kenya has an almost perfect climate year round. Imagine leaving the cold and gloomy winter weather and arriving in the warm tropical splendor of beautiful Kenya! It is truly the most excellent cure for the wintertime blues. Leave the snow behind and bask in the glorious sunshine of the Indian Ocean coastline, let the warm tropical breezes soothe away your cares. Forget the snow shovel and grab your bathing suit! Exotic Kenya holidays await you!

There are so many white sandy beaches that stretch for miles where the Indian Ocean meets the splendor of the Kenya shores. And if the shores on the mainland are not enough for the avid water enthusiasts, consider this: there are several spectacular islands perched atop the deep blue abyss waiting for you to enjoy the paradises they offer. So many pleasures wait to fill your senses with magical moments and awe inspiring memories of your Kenya holidays. Sunrises and sunsets have never been so vibrant and brilliantly displayed as they are in Kenya, so take advantage of this blissful trip.

The safaris are one of the most popular world renowned activities simply because Kenya safari holidays are so rich in wildlife. Discover a live interactive excursion filled with wondrous animals. This something treasured by people of all ages and Kenya holidays are perfect for enjoying such an adventure. The unbridled territory along with the raw beauty and magnificence of its inhabitants are a superb way to spend Kenya holidays. This rare opportunity is one that will build precious memories that will last a life time.

In Kenya, shillings and Banknotes are the currency. If you have any questions about money conversion, the Central Bank of Kenya is ready to help you with information and advice. Make sure you pay close attention to the rules and regulations concerning foreign currency exchange. It wouldn’t do to run afoul of the law and ruin such a wonderful holiday!

From safaris to the 39 golf courses to the exciting night life, Kenya can provide you with the holiday of a lifetime. Fishing, diving, snorkeling, swimming, air tours and boat tours, wonderful food and total pampering will keep you wanting to return again and again to magnificent Kenya. Romantic get-away or fun filled family adventures, you can find your ultimate holiday escape.

The luxury Kenya resorts are abundant and each with its own set of benefits and perks. Depending on what you want there are accommodations that can suit. Hemingways Hotel provides their guests with an array of advantages. Situated on the beach the ocean is displayed and offers a wide range of safaris. The holiday packages available are highly affordable and rival even the best five star facilities. So, regardless of charm, romantic atmospheres or how well you want to be pampered, this fine resort has you covered. It is ideal no matter if you are on your honeymoon, or taking your family on an unforgettable vacation that is well deserved.

Related External Links

• Game Safari Holidays: Exclusive tour destinations in Northern Kenya
• Beach and safari Kenya holidays | No Blight

Let’s make your Italian experience something unique! Before booking your trip make sure to select the perfect location for your staing in Rome. Rome has many areas in the city center, each one with its own unique touch and style. Where should you start from? Here are some guidelines.

1)TRASTEVERE: this area has the athmosphere of the middle ages and its built in a dedalus of narrow, curling, irregular streets. At the time when most of this area was built there was little need and space for carriages, it was just a place for poor people to sleep. Trastevere remained like this, a maze of narrow streets, since then.

The area of Trastevere is a major attraction for its movie theaters, restaurants, cabaret clubs, crafts artisans and picturesque maze of narrow cobbled alleyways.

During the evenings, cafe and restaurants spill out their tables over to the pavement, Santa Maria square becoming the hearth of the nightlife. In the morning you can best appreciate this friendly and truly roman neighborhood.

2)THE SPANISH STEPS: its called “Scalinata” in italian. The steps are found and recognized by a rectangle like shape and an early Baroque water fountain called “Fountain of the Old Boat” (“La Fontana della Barcaccia”), it was built in 1627-29 at the foot of the stairs.

No doubt it’s the widest and longest staircase of Europe; definitely a must see place in Rome. As of today, the Spanish Steps area has turned into a meeting point and also an attraction if you want to take a romantic or scenic ride around Rome in a carriage pulled by a horse.

3)THE PANTHEON: built by the romans in 27 B.C, once the “Temple of all the gods” (by definition) it was turned into a church in 609. This perfect square rests on a cylinder and it measures 142 ft per 142ft high.

It is the best preserved of all Roman buildings, and perhaps the best preserved building of its age in the world today. When you travel to Rome, The Pantheon is a site you must visit.

There is nothing more relaxing then having your Italian cappuccino, pasta or pizza in one of its many neighbouring restaurants while facing this magnificent wonder of the world. Some of the best souvenir shops and “Gelato” in Rome can be found anywhere in this area.

4)THE COLOSSEUM: originally known as the “Flavian Amphitheater”, was capable of seating 55,000 spectators. Deadly gladiatorial combats and wild animals fights were staged here free of charge by the emperor for its citizens.

Emperor Vespasian wanted but it was finished only under his son Domiziano in 80 AD by his son Domitian, it’s the most famous touristic place where to go in Rome, you can’t leave Rome without witnessing it.

The colossuem is occasionally hosting some special events on the inside. Modern Stadiums and structures got inspired by the Colosseum’s building structure and by the concepts it introduced.

5)THE VATICAN, St. PETER’S CHURCH: since 1377 it became the residence of the Pope. “The Vatican City” is home of the independent state of the Vatican since 1929. A mass from the Pope is held almost each Sunday to the public.

In this occasion the big square in front of st Peter fills with people coming to listen to the inspiring and powering words of the Pope.

It also houses the best museum of antiquity, artefacts, paintings and archeological finds in the world. Many people travel to Rome just to witness this event. Even though attracts many tourists, it’s still a quiet, settled peaceful area to come and visit.

6)TREVI FOUNTAIN: is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome located in the historic centre. It’s the largest standing and most ambitious of the Baroque fountains of Rome measuring 25.9 meters (85 feet) high and 19.8 meters (65 feet) wide.

Trevi Fountain is so called because of its position which is at the intersection of 3 roads (in italian ‘tre vie’). On the back of fountain there is a building called Palazzo dei Duchi di Polis, it represents a replica of the triumphal arch. As the legend goes if visitor throws a coin into the fountain, he/she will be back in Rome!

7)CAMPO DEI FIORI: fresh goods and vegetable products are sold by standowners are in its famous daily outdoor market during the early morning. This is a charming location and traditional gathering point for both tourists and locals to eat, walk around, and people watching.

Campo dei Fiori is full of interesting small boutiques and souvenir shops. During the whole year, people sit outside the Piazza surrounded by many outdoor Trattorias and espresso bars.

At night is when the area turns into lively and chic, with a very animated atmosphere.In recent years has become more and more a popular tourist attraction.

8)PIAZZA NAVONA: built over the oval structure of the “Domitian Stadium”, at the time of the ancient romans it used to be flooded with water to stage naval battle ships and it was seating 30,000 spectators.

Today, three magnificent fountains in marble decorate the Piazza designed by Bernini with an Egyptian Obelisk in the middle of the square. The streets surrounding Piazza Navona are full of interesting small boutiques and souvenir shops.

Epiphany (la “Befana”) is hosted here and from the 8th December until 6th of January Navona square is the host of this event.

Related External Links

• Jewellery Briefs – Info Site Visiting Rome – Areas in the …
• How to face challenges while traveling with kids | Travel Fun
• Rome Areas and Neighbourhoods – Article Information

Thailand has historically remained an independent kingdom (Siam) and has never been conquered by another people. As a result, the country has managed to keep its culture strong and uniquely its own. A wonderful place to experience the unusual charm of Thailand is in the capital city of Bangkok. A fascinating mix of the old and new, Bangkok offers the best that modern life has to offer without sacrificing its rich historical heritage. A large city of approximately 10 million people, Bangkok is the heart of the country spiritually, economically, and culturally.

For tourists, Bangkok is a treasure trove. Imagine a city that is home to more than 400 Buddhist Temples, each worthy of exploration. There are palaces, theatres, legendary shopping malls and great wealth side by side with simple, traditional ways of life. Take a canal boat trip early one morning along the Chao Phraya River that winds through the “Venice of the East”, as the city is nicknamed. As you join the commuters you may see Monks collecting alms, farmers delivering their wares, and children making their way to school. A rare, yet authentic experience that is Bangkok.

For a truly authentic experience, make sure to visit during one of the many festivals Thailand enjoys:

1)Bangkok Songkran: The traditional Thai New Year is celebrated nationally with parades, boat races and music. The Thais prepare through rituals to honor their ancestors, house cleaning and good works.

2)Chinese New Year Festival celebrates the best in Chinese culture. Enjoy Chinese Lion and Dragon dances, special recipes, traditional costumes, and music.

3)Loi Krathong; One of the most beautiful festivals, this is the “festival of the lights”. At night, celebrants gather waterside to float lotus-shaped boats decorated with flowers and lit candles, as a thanksgiving and worship of the Goddess of Water.

Other highly recommended activities include: a visit to the Reclining Buddha at Wat Yai Chai. On the way, stop at the floating market on the River Kwai. You must visit one of the famous Spa’s in Thailand to relax and rejuvenate. Splurge a little at an outdoor artisan market or an upscale mall. You can also take in some traditional dancing or a kickboxing demonstration.

Bangkok is a feast for the senses. With something for everyone, a visit to Bangkok will delight the most discerning traveler.

Related External Links