Product Description
It is an 8 player position poker table complete with individual trays for poker chips and a drink holder. It also comes with a handy carrying case and a molded handle on the table for easy pull-out. The best thing about this table top is its convenience. It is very easy to travel with as it fits into the trunk of a car or the back seat. It’s not very heavy for travel but it is solid enough for durable use. Folding the table in half reduces the size to about 2 feet by 4 feet for easy storage in a closet or under a bed. Product measures 48.5 x 48.5 x .625 with a 37.25 inch diameter octagonal felt playing surface with a plastic molded perimeter cup holder and chip tray. The backside of the table is durable molded plastic and when folded up, makes for a easy safe transport.
$44.00
Trademark Poker 48-Inch 8-Player Octagonal Poker Tabletop

Trademark Poker 48-Inch 8-Player Octagonal Poker Tabletop is a post from: Fun Traveling

Product Description
Unexpected Italy explores the hidden treasures of one of Europe s most appealing countries. From Renaissance frescoes in Tuscany to 21st-century wineries in Piedmont, from the palace hotels of Florence to the unspoiled hill towns of Le Marche, this compendium of stories sheds new light on one of the world s best-loved destinations. Comprehensive guides and maps help bring each trip to life.
$11.90
Travel + Leisure’s Unexpected Italy

Travel + Leisure’s Unexpected Italy is a post from: Fun Traveling

Product Description
Set of 4 Natural Sandstone Absorbent Coasters. Cork-backed to protect furniture. Made In The USA, EACH IS 4″ DIAMETER. A wide variety of holders are available in our store or contact us for details.
$22.60
THIRSTYSTONE COASTER SET * TRAVEL LEISURE * EIFFEL TOWER PARIS FRANCE

THIRSTYSTONE COASTER SET * TRAVEL LEISURE * EIFFEL TOWER PARIS FRANCE is a post from: Fun Traveling

Product Description
Zip r 4 Leisure Travel Scooter The Zip r 4 is our very popular light weight full featured travel scooter. The Zip r4 easily transports as the heaviest piece is just 29 lbs and unlike other travel scooters the Zip r4 can be assembled in less that 20 seconds because there are no loose wire cables to connect just drop in the battery box and go! The stylish Zip r4 is a stable four wheel scooter that includes a full body shroud in red or blue and non-marking foam filled tires. Zip r3 Leisure Travel Scooter Specification Highlights 250 lb. weight capacity Adjustable rotating seat Flat free tires Drop and go battery box Front and back basket brackets Headlight Full body shroud in Red/Blue Scooter Weight: 106 lbs Battery: 12 V, 12 AH, 2pcs Seat Type: Foldable foam filled Per-Charge Range (Max): 10 miles Maximum Speed: 4.25 mph
$789.00
Zipr 4 Leisure Travel Scooter – Blue

Zipr 4 Leisure Travel Scooter – Blue is a post from: Fun Traveling

On the 12th September 2008 XL Leisure Group went into administration. Following this, Peter Long the Chief Executive of TUI appeared on television and advised holiday makers to book with one of the large operators to avoid this risk. I feel that this is a huge generalization and given that XL Leisure Group was the 3rd largest operator it actually doesn’t make any sense.

We have been operating our company for 5 seasons; we have no debt; we achieve over 90% occupancy every season and we have been profitable from the outset.  We have low administration costs because we transact all of our business online, we have relatively low overheads as we outsource all of our transfers, so I would argue that we are extremely well positioned to weather the financial crisis.

I am not speaking on behalf of all independent travel companies because I am sure that there are many that are not run well.  My argument is that large badly run companies are as likely to fail as small ones.  We have seen this most recently with the collapse of Lehmans and therefore his advice is unjust.

It is difficult to work out just from talking to an independent company whether their finances are in order.  You could therefore argue that a public listed company is more transparent and at least you can make an informed decision… and I would agree.  Therefore I suggest that when your review independent companies that you check they accept credit cards; you ask how long they have been trading and if they are profitable. And if they should fail at least you will be protected by your credit card company.

If you are looking for an independent ski and snowboard company that meets the above criteria check out rudechalets™ and their morzine accommodation

The Financial Crises and the Independent Travel Industry is a post from: Fun Traveling

Made famous by Revolutionary events, infamous by cold winters, and both by the World-Series winning Red Sox, Boston has its fair share of reasons to visit. With such a reputation, however, comes high prices, and it has become increasingly difficult to find bargain deals in the city. That is why we created a list of budget restaurants, bars and activities that both locals and tourists can use when going out in Boston. Spanning the unique Boston neighborhoods, we have suggestions whether you are with family, friends or single. We also provide ideas for dates that won’t break the bank – great especially for a first outing, yet perfect also for a change of pace in the old routine.

Restaurants

Grendel’s Den (89 Winthrop Street, Harvard Square) – Stop by for the happy hour food specials from 5-7:30pm and after 9:30pm at this popular Harvard Square bar. The entire menu (normally very reasonable) is half priced, giving the diner on a budget some great options. Try the Mediterranean platter for steak tips and hummus for only $5 during happy hour. Also, stop by on Sunday evenings for the special dollar menu, featuring items such burgers and pasta. There is a minimum drink purchase of $3 required for the discount prices.

Brother Jimmy’s BBQ (96 Winthrop St., Cambridge) – Enjoy some of the best BBQ you can find north of Memphis and east of St. Louis. While the entrees can get pricey, you can enjoy a great BBQ sandwich and a side for under $10. Try the pulled Chicken with the Eastern Carolina sauce and the mashed potatoes with gravy. If you’re looking to splurge, try a Swamp-water; this fish bowl of liquor is $15, but does come with its own alligator. On Wednesdays, be sure to check out the Ladies Night specials and receive $1 domestic beers and $1 margaritas. Also on Wednesdays, receive a 25% discount on your food purchases with a valid Southern ID (States south of the Mason-Dixon Line and east of the Mississippi). On Saturdays, there are $0.35 wings and $8 pitchers from 12-4pm. For those really looking to eat, stop by on Sundays for all-you-can-eat ribs and all-you-can-drink drafts for $22.95 (two hour max) or on Mondays for all-you-can-eat wings and rib tips and all-you-can-drink drafts for $14.95.

Fajitas and Ritas (25 West St., Downtown or 1237 Hancock St., Quincy) – It’s easy to stuff yourself with fresh Tex-Mex food here without spending too much cash, because Fajitas and Ritas is one of the few places around that serves dinner-sized fajitas for less than $10. For those who prefer the Tex instead of the Mex, you can get a BBQ pulled pork sandwich accompanied by slaw, beans and corn bread, also for under $10. And even though you might be trying to save money, it’s hard not to splurge on a Raspberry Margarita for a bit over $4. No matter your budget, you won’t be hungry when you leave!

McCormick and Schmick’s (North Market Building, Faneuil Hall) – This upscale seafood restaurant can normally cost a pretty penny but at happy hour anyone can afford to enjoy some of McCormick and Schmick’s great food. From 3:30 to 6:30pm Monday through Friday and 10pm-12am on Saturday and Sunday, the bar features a $1.95 menu featuring standby favorites such as burgers, chicken wings, and cheese quesadillas, as well as seafood choices such as oysters and clams. The menu changes daily and there is a minimum drink purchase required. Reservations are suggested. For more info, take a look at their website here.

Drink Specials

Sunset Grill and Tap (130 Brighton Ave., Allston) – While this bar doesn’t have any drink specials, the sheer vastness of its beer selection makes it worth checking out. Offering 112 beers on tap and 380 types of bottled beer, Sunset is truly a beer drinker’s heaven. The prices range based on the brand but try the Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA. This one is 9% alcohol so at about $4 per pint, it can be a pretty good deal. For the drinker living on the edge, there’s the 120 Minute IPA, which is 21% alcohol by volume. The Sunset also offers a menu of tasty, relatively cheap food to accompany your beer selections. You might want to get here early; the lines and wait can get long. For more information take a look here.

Roggie’s Brew and Grille (356 Chestnut Hill Ave., Brighton) – While this is definitely a Boston College bar, anyone looking for a fun scene and young crowd can enjoy this Brighton hotspot. Roggie’s offers 52 beers on tap and martinis for only $5. Also stop by between 4-7pm for $0.15 wings. For those with a larger crowd, or perhaps looking to not remember their night, try the 64 once bowls of mixed drinks for around 17 dollars. As an added bonus, Roggie’s also has a pizza shop right next door for anyone looking for some great cheap eats after a night of heavy drinking.

Pour House Bar and Grill (909 Boylston Street, Fenway Kenmore) – Well known as a college student’s dream bar, this place offers a fun crowd and cheap prices. The deals on food can be exceptional. On Wednesdays after 6pm, try the $2.50 chicken sandwich and Saturdays after 6pm all burgers are half priced. This bar offers a pretty standard selection of drinks, which are also reasonably priced. The service is seat-yourself, but this bar can fill up pretty quickly.

Beacon Hill Pub (149 Charles Street, Beacon Hill) – If you are looking to relive your college years, then Beacon Hill Pub is the place to go. Start with the $1.55 Bud draft pints in plastic cups. Then challenge your buddies to a game of foosball or pinball. Within minutes you’ll feel as if you’re 21 again (or even 18?). Wednesday nights are best if you’re looking for a fun but chill scene – make sure to introduce yourself to Garrett the bartender (and, of course, tip him), and he’ll be sure to remember your poison and prepare it for you as soon as you approach the bar. Thursdays through Saturdays tend to be more crowded, but fun all the same, especially if that is more your scene. Don’t worry about driving and trying to find a parking spot in the impossible Beacon Hill neighborhood – a T stop and a cabstand are only a few steps from the door.

Activities

Faneuil Hall Marketplace (Downtown) – More commonly referred to as Quincy Market, this marketplace offers all kinds of food, shopping and live entertainment. Hungry? Try one of the 17 restaurants or 40 eateries serving up everything from famous New England clam chowda to ethnic Indian and, of course, delectable deserts. Looking for something new? There are multiple retailers, from recognized apparel stores to local gift shops, for you to browse. Just want to be entertained? The musical and variety acts put on by the street performers provide free amusement for passersby of all ages. Or check out The Comedy Connection (see write-up below) for a more organized comedic routine. Located on the waterfront and easily identified by the cobblestone walkways and 19th century buildings, Quincy Market can’t be missed.

Kayak the Charles (Charles River Canoe and Kayak, in Artesani Park in Allston/Brighton) – You’re sure to cross the Charles River at some point during your stay in Boston – but have you ever considered paddling through it? Stroll with a friend to the Charles River Canoe and Kayak kiosk and rent a two-person canoe or kayak for around $15 per hour. Whether you’re looking for a strenuous workout or a leisurely paddle (the waters are typically calm), kayaking the Charles River can provide either one, or anything in-between. Just make sure the skies are sunny, because rentals are not available on rainy days. Easily spotted in Artesani Park by the green-roof, this rental site is open on fair days from May through early October. Check out other options at their website here.

The Comedy Connection (Faneuil Hall Marketplace) Relax for a night and let the upcoming professionals work to make your date laugh! Comedians perform live every day of the week, but you will want to call (617.248.9700) for reservations if you plan to attend a show between Thursday and Saturday. Ticket prices usually range between $12 and $25, depending on who is on stage, but cheaper doesn’t mean less funny – just less well known acts, which often leads to more original comedy. To see who will be performing next, check here.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (280 The Fenway, Fenway Kenmore) – If the long Bostonian winter gets you and your significant other down, and you both need to see something blooming (but know that won’t happen outside in winter), you can visit the atrium in the center of the Gardner Museum, where the garden courtyard is flowering in every season. There are also three floors of art that, upon Ms. Gardner’s direction, have not been modified since their placement during the 19th century. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 11am to 5 pm. If you can convince them your name is Isabella, you can get in for free. Otherwise, show a student ID for a $5 admission fee. You can get to the museum by taking the Huntington Avenue No. 39 bus or the Green Line train to the Museum stop.

Cheap Dates

South Street Diner (corner of Kneeland and South Sts, Beacon Hill) – Nothing beats sharing a booth and a milkshake at a diner with your date. Open 24 hours a day, there is no bad time to take your significant other out for a bite – be it breakfast, dinner or dessert. Actually, no matter when you go, you should still order a slice of their famous chocolate mousse cake! From the jukebox playing the hits of the decade to the life-sized James Dean near the bathroom, South Street provides that happy, romantic feel we all associate with a typical 1950s diner.

Mike’s Pastry (300 Hanover St., in the North End) – Want to show your date how sweet you can be? Then take him or her to Mike’s Pastry and choose from a selection of cannoli, biscotti, cheesecake and every other Italian dessert you could imagine. You can order enough tasty treats to satisfy yourself and your date without being alarmed by the price, but it may be tough to find a spot to sit. The line may be long, but isn’t your date well worth the wait? Well, if not, the goodies will be!

Boston Bike, Beach and Brewery Tour (Boston Common) – If you enjoy bicycling, beaches and beer, then this is the tour for you! On the third Saturday of each month from late Spring to early Fall, the Boston Bike Tours guides its patrons through the Financial District to Castle Island and Carson beach and then to Boston’s Harpoon Brewery for a beer and a tour. The entire trip takes about 4 ½ hours, but only covers between 16-20 miles of mostly flat terrain, so a lot of that time will be spent relaxing at the beach and brewery, and you do not need to be an ‘experienced’ cyclist to enjoy the tour. The guided tour, with bike, helmet, water and beer, is $25 total or $20 if you bring your own bike. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling (617) 308-5902 or visiting their website here.

Walk the Freedom Trail (from Boston Common to Bunker Hill) – Wear a pair of comfortable walking shoes, bring a good friend and spend half a day strolling along this historical trail through Boston. The trail begins in Boston Common (where I suggest you grab a map at the Information Kiosk), continues towards Faneuil Hall, winds through the North End, and then ends with a loop around Charlestown and the Harbor. If you’re not up for walking the entire 2.5 mile trail, you can sign up for a short, 90-minute guided tour from Boston Common to Faneuil Hall ($12 for adults, $6 for kids) or opt for the loop at the end of the trail, which takes you past the Bunker Hill Monument and USS Constitution. Either way, the trail provides a leisurely and economical means to enjoy the sights and history of Boston. Check out a map of the Freedom Trail here.

Boston, a Bargain Travel Guide is a post from: Fun Traveling

Welcome to the Travel Guide & Tourist Information for Chesterfield.

Chesterfield is a historic market town and is situated north of Derby near the rivers Rother and Hipper. Traveling to Chesterfield whether by road or rail is fairly straight forward. Chesterfield is Derbyshire’s largest town and is located just off the A617 which is Junction 29 of the M1.There are train main land train services to London, Sheffield, Newcastle, Birmingham, Bournemouth and Edinburgh ,Liverpool, Nottingham and Norwich.

Chesterfield is best known for its “Crooked Spire” at the Church of Saint Mary and All Saints. The leaning characteristic is believed to be the result of the absence of skilled craftsmen, possibly due to the Black Death as this happened only 12 years previous. There have been other reasons given however. One is that the spire was so shocked to learn of the marriage of a virgin in the church that it bent down to get a closer look. It is said that if this were to happen again, the spire will straighten and return to its true position. Another saying is that a Blacksmith from Bolsover mis-shod the Devil, who then leaped over the spire in pain, knocking it out of shape.

Chesterfield received its market charter in 1204 from King John and now has one of the largest open air markets in Britain and the stalls are either side of the Market Hall, which in its own right, is a historical building. In the middle of town there is a collection of old and narrow streets that make up “The Shambles”, which houses one of Britain’s oldest pubs.

There are plenty of shopping opportunities in Chesterfield. Vicar Lane was redeveloped in 2000 and was made into a pedestrianised, open-air shopping area. This resulted in most of the existing buildings being demolished. In the process two new streets were created in their place and there are now plenty of major brands, such as Woolworths, Marks and Spencers, Co-Op and Argos to choose from.

Other developments include a large area, between the Low Pavements and New Beetwell Street being completely flattened in the 1980′s to build “The Pavements” shopping centre, better known by local residents as “The Precinct”. This is where you will find the larger shops including Somerfield, Boots and WH Smiths. It has entrances opposite Chesterfield Market and also escalators lead down to New Beetwell Street.

There is also a multi-storey car park which was built at the same time. Chesterfield Library’s main entrance is also located just outside the Pavements and at another exit you will find the local McDonald’s. Despite all this development, Chesterfield has retained its character and much of its town centre from the pre-war era.

Chesterfield has lots to offer in the Leisure and Entertainment Industry. The Queens Park is located within the town centre and on the outskirts of the park is the Queens Park Leisure Center which has a good size swimming pool and gym. There are also several indoor courts (for a variety of sports) and outdoor tennis courts too. There are plenty of Gymnasium Clubs for those wishing to keep fit. All of this plus Bowling, Golf and even Ice Skating, in Sheffield, which is only about 20 minute’s drive from Chesterfield.

Travel time to Sherwood Forest is only 30 minutes by car. There are several night clubs located around the town, predominantly towards “Holywell Cross Car Park” and there are many bars scattered around the town including the infamous “Brampton Mile” which has 13 pubs on a one mile section of Chatsworth Road. It is traditional that anyone “doing the mile” has at least one drink in each pub.

The Winding Wheel is a multi-purpose venue, hosting concerts, exhibitions, conferences, dinners, family parties, dances, banquets, wedding receptions, meetings, product launches and lectures. Famous acts to appear recently include The Manfreds, Patrick McGuiness and even The Sooty Show

”The Pomegranate” theatre is a listed Victorian building, with a small auditorium, seating around 500 people. A variety of shows are performed throughout the year.
Both venues are owned by Chesterfield Borough Council, and the box office for both is located in the entrance area of the theatre.

The Chesterfield Museum and Revolution House are also both run by the local Authority and both hold regular free events throughout the year.

If you’re feeling hungry there’s plenty to choose from. This includes Chinese, Indian and Thai restaurants and plenty of takeaways not forgetting of course good old Fish and Chips.

With all of these different events, the wide range of market stalls and shops as well as the activities at the local Football ground Chesterfield has lots going for it and is a perfect destination point for tourists.

For tourists arriving for the first time, there is a lot to see and do. In this travel guide (tourist information part 1) I have provided some basic information and a brief guide to Chesterfield. My travel guide part 2 will look at the tourist attractions in a lot more detail.

Chesterfield Travel Guide is a post from: Fun Traveling

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of city life? Have you just filed a month-long leave to get away from the stress of work and go on a great vacation somewhere in Europe or Asia? Are you excited but a bit worried about how much you are going to have to spend? Don’t fret; travel today need not be expensive. Even with a slow, weakening economy, you can still go on that highly anticipated backpacking trip and have fun on a budget. Anyway, this is the digital age. Promos that you see online will more than help your cause.

Just surf the Internet and you will see what I mean. If you book your plane ticket online, you will be surprised to find that airpline companies, despite the increading cost of fuel, are offering lots of good deals. If you’re not squeamish about seats or airplane food or legspace then you can reserve a seat that costs several dollars cheaper than a first-class one.

And do travel light. Excess baggage is literally a heavy burden on a vacationer’s shoulders. Besides, you don’t want to incur additional charges upon your check-in at the airport, or walk around a strange munchkin land carrying five bags at once. Just pack the bare necessities. Toiletries, you can get at the street corner or the local convenience store.

Any seasoned leisure traveler will tell you two things: research, and make early reservations. Look up the best value-for-money hotels in the place where you will be staying. Read the several customer reviews that you will find on the Internet. Don’t just read the testimonials on cleanliness and customer service; find out, too, if there are any promos, such as “get one free night for every three” or “free breakfast buffets daily”. Hotel management do not always advertise such deals at the entrance lobby, and that’s why a quick online investigation is essential.

When making a decision on what to do – swim at the beach? take a historical tour? visit the local gallery? – be on the look out for vacation and leisure packages that local tourism authorities offer their visitors. Not only do these packages allow you to see as much of the sights of the place as possible; they also save you the time and the money that might otherwise have been spent asking for directions, or looking for tour guides on the street. So don’t be automatic in throwing away travel brochures or in closing the window on travel websites. You never know how helpful they are.

While on your trip, you might stumble upon tourist-friendly novelty shops and souvenir stores bragging about their accreditation. Don’t be too easily lured. Chances are, they are there to catch the visitors’ attention, with heavily padded price tags on the items; you may not even know it. If you’re going to buy on impulse, at least look around before making a purchase. Be sure to know what you really want to take back home with you. And then search the Internet for the most economical commercial districts in the area, where you can haggle with vendors, and where the best promos and discounts are. You’re not being cheap; you are just being wise with money.

Travelling on Promos is a post from: Fun Traveling

Zimbabwe & Zambia – from birds’ eye views to leisurely sundowners

Some might avoid it like the plague, but for Briarley Mann, Thompsons Africa’s intrepid Sales Manager for Northern Europe, it’s all in a day’s work. Bungi jumping 111 metres down into the abyss of the mighty Batoka Gorge on the great Zambezi River, was the most exhilarating and exciting experience of a lifetime. In Zambia and Zimbabwe, to brush up on the many exciting activities offered by the Company, she ‘jumped’ at the opportunity to take the plunge. “It was frightening and I kept my eyes closed and screamed all the way, but I absolutely loved it”, she said. “Although it’s not for the feint-hearted, it is completely safe and I can truly recommend it”.

Best known as the Flight of Angels, a 15-minute helicopter flip over the Falls was next on the agenda. Thompsons’ partner, Batoka Sky, whisked her away in a glass bubble for an angel’s view of the magnificent and mighty Victoria Falls. Radial views of the front and the back of the Gorge were breathtaking. “Flipping in and out of the spray was an awesome feeling and can only be described as sensational”, said Briarley. All the while, the pilot relates fascinating facts of history and interesting stories to his captured audience.

Slowing down the pace and after a short safety briefing, it was time to climb onto the back of one of the world’s largest mammals, the African Elephant, for an incredible game-viewing experience. Your human presence is disguised so, not only are you at a higher vantage point, but you can mingle closely with the game. The elephant and its handler will take you through the bush, crossing a shallow river to a small island where guests can interact with the elephants and share in the knowledge of their handlers. These elephants are orphaned as a result of extreme drought. They were taken into people’s homes and taken care of and then returned to the bush before they became too domesticated. Using them for tourism generates revenue and educates humans about elephant behaviour. “It was very informative and is a win-win situation for both people and animals”, said Briarley.

…2..

Page 2.

Safari holidays to Zimbabwe and Zambia are not complete without a leisurely sunset cruise on the great Zambezi. Thompsons Touring & Safaris’ African Queen is one of the finest boats on the River. As the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park floats by, an abundance of animals can be spotted coming down to the River’s edge to drink. Hippos laze around in groups and crocodiles rest on the banks. A selection of drinks and tasty snacks are served on board and are a welcome treat at the end of a busy day.

Thompsons Touring & Safaris offers a variety of day tours and activities in and around Livingstone and Victoria Falls. All of these can be pre-bought.

11 September 2008

For more information please contact Angela Shackleford on angela.shackleford@thompsons.co.za or Melissa Williams on mellissa.williams@thompsons.co.za or visit www.affordablesafaris.co.za for more information’s on Tours in and around South Africa.

Zimbabwe & Zambia ? From Birds? Eye Views to Leisurely Sundowners is a post from: Fun Traveling

Product Description
Travel, history, art, and recreation information in the Pacific Northwest; includes many full-page, full-color photographs.
$21.95
Northwest Travel

Northwest Travel is a post from: Fun Traveling