Pousadas of Portugal: All About Portuguese Hotel Architecture

Portugal is a gorgeous country, one in which many area have changed little since colonization, creating a fabulous blend of modern culture in a setting that is truly historic. So many Pousadas of Portugal, or luxury Portuguese hotel accommodations, take advantage of the prevalent gorgeous architecture to create a magical and otherworldly experience for hotel guests. Today we check out the architectural styles that dominate in Portugal's luxury hotels, to give you a little background and information to underlie the magic!

Romanesque Buildings
In the 11th century, Portugal was just finding its feet as its own nation-state. Burgundian knights and monks travelling from France brought their Romanesque architectural sensibilities to Pousadas of Portugal in this time, but mostly to the cathedrals of Lisbon, Coimbra, Braga and Porto. The crenellated facades that you see on day trips away from your luxury Portuguese hotel accommodation were built into cathedrals in order to defend against the Moors and the Castilians.

Gothic Buildings
Ornate decorations, large monasteries and ancient, fascinating tombs are the places you'll find Gothic architecture from the 13th and 14th centuries... as well as in your Portuguese luxury hotel accommodation. To get a feel for the elements of Gothic architecture, check out the Batalha Monastery, the cathedral in Guarda, Alcobaca Monastery and the ruins of Carmo Church in Lisbon.

Castles
These can be built with various architectural features on the inside, but are mostly a style unto themselves. Many Pousadas of Portugal are set up inside castles, featuring solid double perimeter walls and inner square towers made just for feeling like a real princess!

Manueline Buildings
This ornate and imposing architectural style has quite a heavy nautical leaning, utilizing motifs of rope, coral, anchors, etc. The Church of Jesus in Setubal was one of the foremost Manueline buildings in Portugal - you'll be able to tell if your Pousada of Portugal is a Manueline style building through the presence of ropes, life buoys, coral, fish, nautical stripes, ships wheels and anchor motifs throughout the facades and decorations.

Baroque Buildings
If you're travelled throughout the rest of Europe, or even in London or America, you'll probably recognize the Baroque-style luxury Portuguese Hotel accommodation as much more familiar than the earlier styles. Woodcarving was a popular architectural technique, and abundant wealth meant that much of it was plated with Brazilian gold... true decadence.

Vernacular Buildings
These are usually stone-built houses painted in vivid colors - the style is named vernacular because it differs so much across the country according to the building materials that are available. Whitewashing with yellow or blue doors and windows is common in the South of Portugal, and though in their original form these were the ordinary houses of villagers and peasantry, in modern times many of them have been converted (though they retain some of their original architectural motifs) into truly luxury Portuguese hotel accommodation.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the world's MOST POPULAR website advertising companies on the web.
Learn more about Pousadas of Portugal.

Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits Can Fund Affordable Housing

The nation's current economic downturn creates a two-fold challenge for the affordable housing market. On the one hand, demand for affordable housing has risen significantly in the past two years, as more people take pay cuts and lose jobs. Unfortunately, those very job losses simultaneously decrease city and state tax revenues, reducing the availability of tax credits that are used to develop affordable housing. Historic rehabilitation credits can help.

In April, Minnesota became the 40th state to offer Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits. Though the credits aren't specifically intended for use in the creation of affordable housing, developments may qualify if certified historic structures are being restored. Both state and federal credits are available and can be used to pay for as much as twenty percent of the total rehabilitation costs.

Requirements vary by state. Some stipulate that the buildings themselves be designated as "historic." Others allow approval for buildings that are located in an already-designated "historic district." Not all states allow historic rehabilitation tax credits to be used for residential property, and some prohibit their use for the development of single-family homes. Others, like the policy in Minnesota, also require an application to be filed with the state's historic preservation office before construction begins.

Developers interested in Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits should contact individual state historical preservation offices regarding state-specific policies. Information is available through most city and state Housing Development or Finance Authorities as well. Information about historic rehabilitation tax credits at the federal level are available through the National Park Service, which oversees and administers the national program.

Want to get a free program guide of Sean Carpenter's top 8 favorite government programs for real estate developers and investors? Request your free program guide today at: http://www.governmentdealfunding.com/go/programs/

Ground Breaking Environmental Project on Anna Maria Island, Celebrates It's Past and It's Future!

The Historic Green Village is a new retail/professional complex currently being developed in Anna Maria, on Pine Avenue. Plans call for the Green Village to be home to a medical center, cafe, gallery and other retail-oriented shops. The Village consists of over 8,000 square feet of buildings, including three historic buildings dating as far back as 1911.

'Old' Florida-style cottages are currently being remodeled and re-engineered to create a beautiful, environmentally friendly development. Most notably, the Village will be powered only by solar and green technology, including ground-source heat pumps, to provide electricity and water. The Island architecture and green technology combined provides a tropical setting that preserves the past and celebrates the future of Anna Maria Island.

The majority of the project, including the cafe, beautiful gardens and public restrooms will be open to the public in April 2011, in line with the Centennial Celebrations of the historic City Pier.

To attract rich people from Tampa and St. Petersburg, George 'Will' Wilhelm Bean, of the family of the first settlers in Anna Maria, had a dock constructed at the foot of Pine Avenue in 1911. It ran 776 feet out into the deep waters of Tampa Bay, enabling steamers to make daily stops. He also created a gift shop with shells. The end of the pier was covered with fish every day and visitors could see hundreds of fish thrashing about in the crystal clear waters. Fishing is still one of the most popular pastimes on the island for both Islanders and visitors.

After stepping off the City Pier, the wealthy Victorian visitors would stroll along Pine Avenue, which took them through to the other side of the island. Along the way, they would pass Will Bean's cottage, where they could not miss the flock of colorful peacocks strutting around a pond where a fierce alligator lurked. The wonderful, native trees that lined the whole stretch of the avenue eventually disappeared as more development took place.

However, Pine Avenue is now the home of the Historic Green Village, and the developers plan to play homage to what was an essential part of Anna Maria history. Re-cycling and thus preserving some of the wonderful old buildings as part of the project, and native and beautiful landscaping to bring back a flavor of what the Victoria visitors would have seen many years ago.

It is anticipated that Anna Maria Island, will play host to an increased number of visitors during this time, as The City Pier remains one of the Top 3 attractions within the area. Anna Maria Vacation rentals, the most popular type of accommodation on the Island, are already busy, so early booking is recommended in these Anna Maria rentals to ensure you don't miss out on this wonderful historic event, in one of the most beautiful parts of Florida's Gulf Islands.

Pineapplefish offer luxury Anna Maria Vacation rentals in Florida for both families and couples. Explore the breathtakingly beautiful island today.

Istanbul, World's Hippest City

Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul, Turkey is one of the oldest cities in the world. The earliest known settlement of the area dates to 1000 B.C., the time of King David in Jerusalem and a few years after the Trojan War. A city was built on the Asian shore in 700 B.C. by Greek colonists while the Byzantines settled on the European shore. In the 6th century the city was conquered by the Persians, followed by Athens. It was incorporated into the Roman Empire, then became a Christian stronghold during the Middle Ages, known as Constantinople, until conquered by Moslems in the 15th century.

With all this history behind it, you might think that Istanbul is stuck in the past, but the city has become a haven for all things modern; in fact, its new nickname is "World's Hippest City". The historic buildings and mosques mix with the new art galleries, museums and clubs to make this one of the most exciting destinations in the world and the Istanbul hotels are part of the excitement.

On the historic side, the Blue Mosque is one of the most famous and fabulous landmarks to visit, as is the Topkapi Palace, home to the sultan's luxurious lifestyles and the Grand Bazaar, the world's most famous shopping centre. The Hagia Sophia is Istanbul's most famous monument and it mimics the city's history. Built by Emporer Justinian in 537 on the sight of Byzantium's acropolis, it was one of the most beautiful churches in Christendom, as well as one of the most important, until Mehmet the Conqueror turned it into a mosque in 1453. It was converted to a museum in 1934 and is one of the most amazing buildings in the world.

For the more modern take on Istanbul, there are many clubs and restaurants that provide good food and entertainment. There are gypsy bands, discos and wine bars, first class restaurants and hip hop venues, something for everyone. Andon, for instance, has a rooftop restaurant with beautiful views of the Bosphorus, a wine bar featuring soloists, a disco on the ground floor, as well as Istanbul sanat music on the third floor and fasil music on the fourth floor. Istanbul hotels are as special and varied as the city itself. Many give the visitor a historic feel, such as the Bosphorus Palace Hotel and the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, while others strive for a more modern approach like the Central Palace and the Marmara Taksim. Still others, for example Ibrahim Pasa Oteli, straddle the two extremes, old and new, just like Istanbul.

Roo Sadegi is an online travel writer based in London's East End, although he spends much of his time travelling around Europe's travel hotspots.

Gold Country, California

Gold Country is a region that spans more than 100 miles along the western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. In 1848, gold was discovered at Sutter's sawmill along the American River. Word quickly spread to the east with tales of easy riches just waiting to be plucked off the ground. This prompted a massive and expedient migration to the west in what is now known as the '1849 Gold Rush'. Very few gained the wealth that was expected and instead found hardship and struggle in the many shanty towns that popped up along the Sierra foothills. After most of the gold was panned, sluiced, mined and stripped from the hills, many of these '49ers' either returned back home or headed to San Francisco for city life and stable income. Today, Gold Country follows Highway 49 from Nevada City in the north all the way down south of Yosemite. Many of the original mining camps remain as historic towns like Grass Valley, Auburn, Placerville, Jackson, Angels Camp, Jamestown and many more. All of these towns feature original Victorian homes, historic hotels and a plethora of historic sites. In addition, not only does Gold Country retain a rich gold-mining past, but it also offers many other attractions including recreational lakes, natural caverns, giant sequoias, Native-American sites, wineries and much more.

The northernmost towns include Grass Valley, Nevada City and Auburn. All three are accessible from Interstate 80 between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe. Visit what was once the largest and richest gold mine at Empire Mine State Historic Park. Visitors can join a tour and actually enter the mine for an eye-opening glimpse into the life of an 1800's miner. Visit Cousin Jack's Pasties in Grass Valley for a taste of traditional miner fare. The Holbrooke Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in the region and is a Registered Historic Landmark. Directly off Interstate 80 is the town of Auburn where you'll find a quaint, historic portion of town and the county courthouse that today serves as the County Museum. Just a short distant south on Highway 49 lands you at Auburn State Recreation Area where there is a picturesque bridge along the American River and great opportunities for hiking, swimming, whitewater rafting, gold panning, fishing, camping and much more.

Heading south on Highway 49 through Cool, California you'll find Coloma, perhaps the most historic point in all of California. Marshall's Gold Discovery State Historic Park is in Coloma where, in 1848, James Marshall discovered gold at Sutter's sawmill. There you'll find a museum of historic artifacts, portions of the original town and a reproduction of Sutter's mill situated in the original location along the American River. Further south where Highway 49 intersects Highway 50 is Placerville. Originally known as 'Hangtown', it was renamed Placerville to honor the gold panners that were referred to as 'placer miners' back in the day. Peruse the shops and historic buildings of downtown Placerville. Stay in the historic Carey House Hotel on Main Street and enjoy a gourmet pot pie at Z-Pie. Step into an original Gold Country gold mine at Gold Bug Historic Park and try your hand at gold panning. Visit a local winery or head up Highway 50 to Apple Hill for some country-fresh produce and homemade apple pie.

Continuing south on Highway 49, there are several small towns worth stopping at to explore including Plymouth, Drytown and Sutter Creek. At the intersection of Highways 49 and 88 is Jackson where there are multiple sites to visit. Visit the Kennedy Mine for a view of a large-scale mining operation. Several recreational lakes are just west of Jackson and offer opportunities for boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, camping and more. Head up Highway 88 to Indian Grinding Rocks State Historic Park to see the largest Indian mortar rock in all of North America. Join a tour that heads deep inside a gold mine at Sutter Gold Mine. Visit one of several local caverns including Black Chasm and Masonic Caves. Black Chasm features an underground lake worth seeing. Every year beginning in March, Daffodil Hill opens to the public for one month and offers viewing of over 4 acres of blooming daffodils. Feeling lucky? - try your hand at the Jackson Rancheria Indian Casino.

Further south on Highway 49 lands you at our favorite Gold Country region. If you only plan to visit Gold Country once in your life, the region encompassing Angels Camp, Murphys, Sonora and Jamestown is where you should go. Angels Camp lays claim to the only movie theatre in Gold Country, which was once used to entertain miners with dancing girls and theatrical plays. Every year the Calaveras County Fair hosts their frog jump contest at the fairgrounds just outside of Angels Camp. This contest was made famous when Mark Twain wrote a short story about the event called, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County". Main Street has a 'Walk of Fame' where winning frogs are forever memorialized with brass plaques, similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The nearby town of Murphys has a historic hotel and bar where bullet holes can still be found in the walls and ceiling dating back to the 49er days. Murphys is the hub for Sierra Foothill wineries and has tasting rooms along Main Street for just about every local winery. Nearby is Calaveras Big Trees State Park, which features a protected grove of giant sequoias and campgrounds. Several caverns await adventurous explorers including California Cavern, Mercer Caverns and Moaning Cavern. Moaning Cavern offers a rope repel of 165 feet to the cave floor. To the west of Angels Camp, New Melones Lake offers opportunities for boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, camping and more.

Between Angels Camp and Sonora is Columbia State Historic Park. Columbia represents a gold town as it would've been during the 49er era. Park employees dress in period clothing and perform duties like candlestick making, blacksmith and stagecoach driving. Visitors are welcome to try their hand at many trades of the period. Stagecoach rides are available and two historic hotels offer stay within the park for definitely the most authentic 1800's experience in Gold Country. Just a few more miles down the road is Jamestown where you'll discovery Railtown 1849 State Historic Park. Original steam trains are on display along with an authentic station. Take a ride on an original steam engine train that once supplied timber to the local gold mines. Jamestown also has two historic hotels worth considering for your stay, the National or Jamestown Hotels. One even claims to have a resident ghost.

Gold Country is our favorite region in California for its history, beauty, accessibility and endless recreational activities. With an average altitude of 1,500 feet, it has a temperate climate where snow is a rarity. It is centrally located between big cities like Sacramento and Fresno and vacation hotspots like Lake Tahoe and Yosemite. Because of their locations off of major highways connecting Sacramento to Lake Tahoe, Auburn and Placerville can become extremely congested during the summer months and on weekends. Planning around these times may benefit your overall experience in these towns. The residents of Gold Country are welcoming and eager share their knowledge. You think all the gold was mined out of here in the 1800s? Think again - gold panning is still available throughout the region and plenty of gold is still being found. Be sure to converse with the local shop owners to get details and tips if you plan on trying your luck.

California Revealed is comprised of Californians who have spent a lifetime traveling and exploring California. We can give you local insight on popular destinations, but also let you know about the obscure, less traveled destinations that only locals of this state would know about. This is not the most extensive listing of California destinations but instead, an extensive listing of places and adventures that are sure to please you. Simply put, we want you to have a fantastic, unforgettable time in California.

Use our website to find California destinations, hotels, restaurants, entertainment, activities and more. We provide everything you need including website links, maps and contact information. All hotels and restaurants listed on our site receive top consumer reviews, which helps to narrow your choices.

Barcelona, Spain - Barri Gotic

The Gothic Quarter is Barcelona's historic heart. Despite its name, it's not all Gothic, and many of the Gothic-looking features in its narrow streets and historic buildings actually date from the 19th and 20th centuries. The area's origins, however, are even older - this is where the original Roman settlement of Barcino was built.

The Roman centre of town is still the heart of the Barri Gotic - the Placa de Sant Jaume, which today is home to the Catalan and Barcelonan local govemment buildings. Remains of magnificent Roman columns from the Temple of Augustus can be seen in the interior patio of Carrer del Paradis 10, behind the Gothic cathedral, one of the area's true Gothic constructions (at least in part), with beautiful, peaceful cloisters. Peaceful, that is, when the resident half dozen geese aren't creating a ruckus for food! The route of the old city walls, remains of which can still be seen (for example at the bottom of Carrer Baixada Viladecols), roughly traces the outer border of the Barri Gotic and covers Via Laeitana, Passeig de Colom, La Rambla and Carrer de Fontanella. The part of the Barri Gotic nearest to the sea has a somewhat rougher air than the more open, modernised, shopping-orientated zone above carrers de Ferran and de la Jaume I. Two of Barcelona's most popular refreshment areas, Placa Reial and Carrer de la Merce are here. Both visitors and locals come here to sip wine or cider from the barrel and taste traditional tapas. The Gothic Quarter probably has Barcelona's highest concentration of bars and restaurants, so if you're not sure where to go for dinner, just wandering the streets should offer you plenty of options. But the Barri Gotic has more highbrow attractions. In addition to the cathedral, it features many other important examples of religious architecture, from Santa Maria del Pi to the Esqlesia de la

Merce and the matchbox-sized Capilla de Sant Cristobal on Carrer del Regomir. The Museu Frederic Mares, behind the cathedral offers a fascinating insight into the everyday objects used in 19th-century society, from cameras to combs. The Col. legi d'Arquitectes de Catalunya on Placa Nova often holds architectural exhibitions and the Museu d'l-llstoria de la Ciutat is a living historic architectural exhibit in itself, comprising some of Barcelona's major medieval buildings, as well as housing some of the city's most important Roman ruins. A more unusual museum can be found in the lovely Placa de Sant Felip Neri - the Museu del Calcat (shoe musuem) - where you can see the footwear of famous Catalans.

For more information about Barri Gotic or Barcelona, Spain visit GuidedTourBarcelona.com.

For more information about Boston or the Boston Celtics visit GuidedTourBoston.com.

Best Independent Hotels in Windermere

The town of Windermere is one of the most popular summer destinations in Cumbria, England. The town is located just about a half mile away from the countries largest natural lake; the Lake Windermere. From lakes to mountains, parks and gardens, this beautiful town offers a wonderful sight of nature's divine beauty.

Other than these soothing scenes of nature, there are a lot of attractions such as museums, historic buildings and recreational activities which add up to the real Windermere experience. There are many hotels and resorts to accommodate an expansive number of tourists visiting the town every year.

Independent hotels in Windermere come out as a best choice for those who make their decision after a good hotel price comparison. We are listing down top five independent hotels in Windermere which offer the best of luxury and entertainment along with the best price.

1. Cedar Manor

This hotel gets its name from the famous cedar tree, which is said to be about 200 years old. The hotel offers the very best of all facilities you need to make your vacation memorable and enjoyable. This hotel in Windermere was built in 1854; the hotel was initially a private retreat. This hotel has eleven elegant suites, private parking area and a cedar tree garden that is about two centuries old.

2. Linthwaite house

This is a wonderful country house hotel in Windermere. This hotel has the privilege of being voted in the list of top 200 UK hotels and being awarded the 'most excellent country house 2007'. With its welcoming exquisite location and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel provides the best escape from city life. If you are up for a nice memorable vacation in Windermere but after a hotel price comparison then this Windermere hotel is certainly a nice place to choose.

3. The Belsfield

This hotel is a place where luxury and comfort comes in the most affordable price. The classic building dates back to the Victorian times surrounded by 6 aces of garden. The hotel has 64 bedrooms and offers many leisure activities and facilities to its residents. A stunningly reasonable price starting from £48 makes it a popular entry in our hotel price comparison list.

4. Lindeth fell country house

Lindeth fell country house hotel is located wonderfully at place overlooking the magnificent Lake. The entrance gives a warm and welcoming feeling to the visitors. Built as a private retreat in 1909, this hotel retains the elegance of a gentleman's residence. This hotel has its classic drawing room decorated with paintings and equipped with books. A perfect and elegant place to stay, this hotel offers a price range that is reasonable and affordable.

5. The Famous Wild Boar

This one gets its name from an interesting legend of Sir Richard de Gilpin's fight with a wild boar. This hotel in Windermere offers a warm welcoming accommodation with a top quality food and individually designed room.

If you are going to make your decision after hotel price comparison then this hotel is a must have in your list.

Vineeta Greenwood is the co-owner of Windermere Hotels Fairy, an independent hotel price comparison website.

It has one of the world's largest hotel databases and compares prices from all the major online booking sites, making it easy to find the best deals on hotels in a matter of seconds.

Mobilift CX Portable Wheelchair Lift

Mobilift CX portable wheelchair lift is specially designed for wheelchair users to access stages and other elevated platforms. This multipurpose lift is of high demand in universities, auditoriums, churches, colleges, historic buildings and schools.

Advanced Technological Features for Higher Performance

The Mobilift CX portable wheelchair lift functions without the support of external electric power, batteries or hydraulic components. It comes with self-sufficient features that help in manual operation. Mobilift is flexible to use in any residential or commercial settings; no structural modifications need to be made to the building in order to enable use of this device. The large platform of this accessibility device can accommodate electric wheelchairs and scooters conveniently. No special training or skill is required to operate the lift, and it is completely maintenance-free.

Mobilift CX Portable Wheelchair Lift for Multipurpose Use

The Mobilift CX portable wheelchair lift is suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. It is built to withstand extreme temperatures and is now popularly used for helping wheelchair users to board aircrafts, trains and even boats. Its quick elevation time and locking mechanism add more convenience and comfort for the users. There will be no issues related to rust or corrosion as this lift is built of corrosion-resistant aluminum.

Find Reliable Dealers for Quality Services

Usually Mobilift models are offered 2 years warranty. Today, Adaptive Engineering is the leading manufacturer selling this product that is fully ADA compliant. It is available with many dealers and distributors. Experienced and highly qualified technicians are there in most of the companies supplying these mobility products. They will help you with the installation, repair and maintenance services of the products they sell.

The Mobilift CX portable wheelchair lift has proven to be an economical and extremely convenient means of transporting mobility challenged, sick and aged people.

Mobilift CX portable wheelchair lift - DAY Elevator & Lift provides an extensive range of mobility products such as elevators, stair lifts, platform lifts etc.

Benefits of Historic Preservation

Historic Preservation is one of the most inherently "green" professions in addition to providing a multitude of benefits to communities. It can be an effective economic tool for redevelopment, foster business development, create jobs and strengthen communities. Yet many see efforts at historic preservation merely as exercises in nostalgia and as an infringement on property rights. The following are some reasons other than wanting to retain beautiful buildings for being a proponent of historic preservation:

• When you choose to repair and restore an existing home, you are performing the ultimate recycling project. Sustainable practice recommendations include considering the embodied energy of products in addition to the long-term energy savings. When a historic home is demolished, all the energy used to produce and assemble the home is wasted. Since the energy is already expended, preserving the home has much less impact on the environment.


• Historic Preservation reduces landfill wastes. Estimates vary, but it is commonly accepted that between 15% and 20% of municipal solid waste comes from construction and demolition projects. Obviously, landfill debris would be reduced if more people choose to preserve an existing building rather than demolish and build new. When true preservation practices are followed during  historic home renovations ("repair rather than replace"), waste is reduced even more.


• According to noted economist and historic preservation advocate, Donovan Rypkema, "Sustainable Development requires environmental responsibility, economic responsibility, and social/cultural responsibility." Preservation and renovation of existing building stock is the one type of development that merges these three elements, helping maintain vibrant, livable communities in addition to being environmentally and economically responsible.


• Since most historic buildings were built without air conditioning, they already utilize many energy saving features that "green" designers are rediscovering. Items such as wide overhangs, operable windows with screens, screen doors, awnings and ceiling fans can reduce cooling costs when used during our more temperate months instead of relying on mechanical systems. In addition, historic buildings are often constructed of more durable materials than are readily available today.


• The National Trust for Historic Preservation's policy statement on community revitalization sums up several pro-preservation points: "Revitalizing our historic hometowns and Main Streets is not about nostalgia. It is about reinvesting in our older and historic neighborhoods. Preservation-based community development not only protects our heritage, but also is a viable alternative to sprawl that creates affordable housing, generates jobs, supports independent businesses, increases civic participation, and bolsters a community's sense of place."


• Historic preservation makes economic sense. Studies have shown that investment in historic neighborhoods and commercial centers stabilize property values, encourage redevelopment, stimulate business development, and generates tourist dollars. 

Ms. Peck is a Historic Preservation Consultant with over 12 years experience working with historic Florida homes. She is President of Preservation Resource, Inc., which has recently introduced a specialized product line for historic homes at http://www.HistoricShed.com

What Do Archaeological Services Companies Do

An archaeologist is a historian who discovers, collects and studies the remains of contemporary or historic buildings, architectures and societies. Sophisticated tools and procedures are used by the archaeologists to unearth and recover the ancient ruins and artifacts of lost civilizations.

Archaeologists services companies serve as consultants or directors of excavation projects and research programs across the British Isles. In the UK an archaeological investigation takes place to ensure during the process of building removal no damage harm is done to any material of archaeological importance. Modern archaeologists apply specific field techniques and examine materials by using advanced laboratory equipment. The researches carried out by them may involve laboratory work, dating artifacts, examining historical records and by consultancy with outside experts.

Church Archaeology is the study of design and ancient architecture of Christian houses of worship. Professional archaeologists engage in extensive field and laboratory work in order to explain the significance of certain artifacts to the general public. The fundamental researches of church archaeologists are focused on the identification of churches on earlier rituals, basic recording of churchyard monuments and better understanding of the infrastructure of monastic sites. Such work aims to provide a clear research framework for each church within a wider county and regional framework.

The World Archaeological Congress (WAC) is an international forum and a non-profit organization and is the only representative world-wide body of practicing archaeologists. The organization seeks to promote archaeological assessment in all countries, to encourage the development of regionally-based histories and to foster international academic interaction. Its aims are based on the need to recognise the historical and social roles as well as the political context of archaeology, the need to make archaeological studies relevant to the wider community and the conservation of archaeological sites.

Find out about the archaeology and heritage of various landscapes and structures in Great Britain with the help of various archaeological service provider companies. These companies also give archaeological consultancies to ensure that your project is dealt with and channeled through the system in the most efficient manner. SearchMe4 is a local information and online business directory that contains the contact details of the UK archaeological services.

For more information on Archaeological Service, visit our business directory.

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Castle Hotels in Ireland

Looking for something different this summer? Luxurious and unique accommodation in breathtaking locations? Try a castle hotel in Ireland, historic buildings in beautiful surroundings, the ideal place to enjoy a break away.

Ireland is known for its spectacular scenery, great golf courses and some of the friendliest people in the world. There are a number of options available to potential tourists in Ireland from the vibrant capitol city of Dublin to the beautiful location of Cork.

There are a mixture of activities available to tourists with the Guinness Brewery one of the most popular (after all you wont get a better pint of Guinness anywhere else in the world!). There are also numerous museums and historic castles such as Cloghan Castle or Dublin Castle. Another popular place is the Giants causeway, which is steeped in legend and ideal for families.

When you are looking for accommodation in Ireland there are numerous options available, from budget bed and breakfasts and hostels to top quality luxury hotels. But if you truly want an unique experience then when not try a castle hotel. These hotels are formed from former castles and they are found all over Ireland. They tend to be luxurious property's with usually a four or five star rating and they are ideal for special occasions or events such as a wedding.

One of the most spectacular examples of a castle hotel is the Ballynahinch Castle Hotel in Co Galway, it has a fantastic setting with mountains and green trees in a secluded location. There are numerous activities available on site such as fishing or clay pigeon shooting and rooms start from only 140 euros.

One of the most luxurious hotels is available at Solis Lough Eske Castle which is in Donegal, it has a five star rating and a total of 96 guest rooms. The property dates back to the 1400s and there are some great facilities available such as a spa and luxury restaurant. The rooms offer high quality luxury with deluxe rooms and luxury suites available, all spacious and ideal for a relaxing luxury break away.

There are also castle hotels in Ireland available at a lower price for those who a traveling on a tighter budget but still want to experience a unique stay in a castle. Fitzpatrick Castle is a great example of this, it is four star, dates from the 18th century and is only a short drive away from Dublin. The rooms here start at a modest 69 euros and here you will find a wide selection of facilities and range of accommodation from deluxe rooms to suites.

Some as you can see no matter what you budget is or where about you want to stay in Ireland there are plenty of options to stay in a castle hotel. These hotels often provide popular wedding venues and if you contact the individual hotel they can provide customised packages and assist with planning the perfect day for you.

If you think you would like to stay in one of these hotel and are looking for more options then why not try Castle Hotels Ireland for booking options. There are numerous castles available and they can all be booked online.

The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic - Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Canada

Many European settlers settled originally on a seasonal basis along the coast of Nova Scotia and surrounding coastal areas to fish the abundant fishing grounds off the Grand Banks. The fleets of Ships came from England, France and Spain to fish. The settlements were used to dry and salt their fish to use as staple in their own diets and eventually to trade. The communities grew and led to a thriving industry along these coastal towns.

The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic celebrates this rich history of fishing the Canada's North Atlantic. The Museum is located on the waterfront in the historic town of Lunenburg on the South Shore of Nova Scotia. The town itself has been awarded a prestigious UNESCO world heritage designation.

Initially the Museum started in 1967 aboard the 1938 schooner Theresa E. Connor, Canada's oldest saltbank schooner. The ship remains the flagship of the museum docked alongside the current museum and is open to public viewing.

The Museum moved into a large complex of historic buildings along the waterfront. The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic is a former fish plant, and the complex has grown over the years to offer a variety of exhibits on 3 floors along with retired fishing vessels, star attractions, floating alongside the museum including the side trawler Cape Sable and the Theresa E. Connor. Museum staff demonstrate traditional methods of cod fishing and life aboard these historic vessels.

The Museum includes an aquarium, the Ice House Theater with films all day and numerous fishing exhibits. In addition there is a Dory Shop where visitors can watch craftsmen demonstrating how a Dory is built, a maritime gift shop, and the Old Fish Factory, a seafood restaurant offering fresh local fish.

The Lunenburg waterfront is breathtakingly beautiful and the museum stands out with its brightly painted red buildings. Enjoy the fresh and saltwater aquariums filled with native fish. At the viewing tank gently touch starfish and other marine creatures, a definite favorite with the kids. Other exhibits include the Banks Fisheries Gallery, the Hall of Inshore Fisheries, the Dory Shop, the Whales & Whaling and August Gales exhibits and the Fishermen's Memorial Room.

There are additional exhibits on shipbuilding, rum-running, life in the fishing communities and old marine engines. Among other things the exhibits offer old prints, photographs and illustrations of fishing methods and equipment. On the 2nd floor the Fishermen's Memorial room offers a tribute to those men lost at sea from the port of Lunenburg.

During the season experience daily demonstrations on fish filleting, lobster traps & traditional crafts. There are various interactive exhibits including the launching of a schooner model and watching it "slide down the ways". Watch or participate in hooking a mat or quilting in the Life in Fishing Communities exhibit. This museum has something for everyone.

One exhibit contains the world's largest collection of artifacts from Canada's famous schooner, the historic Bluenose. Bluenose 2 often docked alongside the wharf and offered trips and viewings. Currently the schooner is under restoration in Lunenburg.

The Museum has extensive resources for educational and historical purposes and is dedicated to the preservation of Atlantic Canada's Seafaring Heritage. The South Shore Genealogical Society is also located in the Museum.

This Museum is a must see for any trip to the South Shore of Nova Scotia.

Avril Betts CHA - I am an owner of A-Z Tours and Action Travel with my partner Khaled Azzam. We are travel and tour specialists and have been in the travel business for many years.

When it comes to vacation planning, escorted and customized tours we are second to none!...and you'll love our staff, they treat you like family! Give us a call.

Call us: 1-888-682-6449/1-303-670-5640 or 1-800-457-3363/1-604-278-8286

http://www.a-ztours.com
http://www.actiontravel.ca

Hello from Caledon, Elora & Guelph: Fall Colours, Ghosts, and Ghouls

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons in Ontario, and after last weeks early fall colour tour through the Kawarthas east of Toronto, it was time yesterday to check out the areas west of Toronto. My husband and I set off on the highway, left the 401 at Mississauga Road and drove north into rolling agricultural farmland. Our first interesting village along the way was Glen Williams, a little hamlet outside of Georgetown, whose former sawmill now houses more than 30 artists and artisans. We headed north along the scenic Credit River and drove up onto the Niagara Escarpment and literally stumbled over the Cheltenham Brickworks, a now abandoned brickmaking factory dating back to 1930 that utilized the area's clay soil to manufacture bricks for Toronto's housing boom. Abandoned industrial buildings always hold a strange fascination for me, and they offer great opportunities for curious photographers.

Not far away is another very unique area, the Cheltenham Badlands, a unique geological formation of weathered terra cotta hued rock, that originated as a result of deforestation and overgrazing during the early 1900s. It's a fascinating landscape of undulating hills of red clay with greenish stripes, due to the soil's red and gray iron oxide content.

The 800-kilometre-long Bruce Trail that goes all the way from Niagara Falls to the tip of the Bruce Peninsula snakes through this region, and there are several entry points close by. The Niagara Escarpment is a truly unique habitat and home to 300 bird species, 53 mammals, 36 reptiles and amphibians, 90 fish and 100 varieties of special interest flora including 37 types of wild orchids. UNESCO named Ontario's Niagara Escarpment a World Biosphere Reserve in 1990. It's a popular spot among hikers and naturalists.

We headed east and down the Niagara Escarpment again and drove north in its shadow to the Forks of the Credit area and the quaint little village of Belfountain. This popular excursion destination was founded in the 1820 by Scottish and Irish immigrants, many of whom worked in local quarries, railroads, mills and tanneries. Today the village has souvenir shops, a beautiful country store, a spa, and an ice cream parlour.

From Belfountain we drove westwards through the town of Erin into Wellington County, an area of fertile farmland, punctuated by rivers, gorges, small lakes, and golf courses. Our next stop on this country drive was the little town of Fergus, a town known for its Scottish Heritage which Fergus celebrates every year, usually during the second week of August, with the Fergus Scottish Festival. During this three-day event, visitors from all over the world enjoy all aspects of traditional Highland Games with a wee bit of modern flare tossed in.

Fergus has a number of historic buildings in the downtown area, and a major draw in this little town is the Fergus Market, housed in the historic Beatty Brothers Farm Implement Manufacturing building which overlooks the Beatty Dam and dates back to the 1830s. The foundry was the first industrial location in Fergus and today houses a diverse collection of merchants, food retailers, and artisans.

Just outside Fergus is the Wellington County Museum and Archives. The museum stands majestically overlooking the once mill-laden Grand River. Built of locally quarried limestone in 1877 as the House of Industry and Refuge, this landmark structure then provided shelter for the "deserving poor", the aged and the homeless for almost a century. The museum now gives visitors an opportunity to experience the cultural legacy left by the intrepid settlers to this vast county of rolling hills, stony fields, deep gorges and quaint villages.

Another few kilometres down the road is the country town of Elora, one of Ontario's favourite weekend excursion destinations. Elora is situated in a beautiful nature area with glacial rock formations, and its most stunning geological feature is the Elora River which plunges over a number of rapids into the spectacular Elora Gorge. The mill sitting at the top of the gorge, aptly called the Elora Mill, has been turned into an upscale fine dining restaurant and country inn with 32 guest rooms.

The Elora Gorge features several kilometres of 80-foot cliffs, caverns, rapids and quiet pools. During the summer, hiking along the cliffs and inner-tubing through the gorge are favourite pastimes. Hiking trails start right at the Elora Mill. During the winter months visitors indulge in cross-country skiing and scenic nature walks through the area. The Grand River also provides excellent opportunities for fly-fishing, canoeing and kayaking.

The Elora-Cataract trail crosses 47 kilometres of scenic countryside. Between Fergus and Elora the trail passes by the Elora Quarry Conservation Area, an abandoned quarry that is a favourite spot for a refreshing dip. The quiet farmland around Elora is perfect for long country bike rides, and numerous golf courses round out the activities on offer.

During our visit yesterday, Elora was nicely dressed up for Halloween - a variety of ghouls, ghosts, spiders, monsters and witches adorned the buildings, balconies and lamp posts along the town's main streets.The town also offers a variety of shops, antique stories, galleries and diverse dining establishments. Horse-drawn coach rides throughout town are also a popular activity for tourists.

Not far from Elora you can visit Ontario's last remaining covered bridge in Montrose, and you'll have a chance to explore Old Order Mennonite Country. Summer brings a variety of festivals to this area, including the Elora Festival which is a one-month musical showcase of internationally acclaimed musicians and singers.

About 15 minutes south of Elora is the major city of this area: Guelph is a university and manufacturing city with a population of more than 100,000. Its diverse economy also includes high technology enterprises and today Guelph is one of the fastest growing economic regions in all of Canada. Similar to Fergus and Elora, Guelph was founded by Scottish settlers in the 1820s at the junction of the Eramosa and Speed Rivers. The University of Guelph Department of Scottish Studies links academic research to the community of those with Scottish ancestry.The city features many trails for hiking, biking, skiing and horseback riding and a variety of riverside dining establishments.

Guelph's most stunning architectural feature is the impressive Church of Our Lady Immaculate, a Gothic-Revival structure begun in 1877 and completed in 1888. The twin towers, more than 200 feet high, were not completed until 1926. The Church of Our Lady Immaculate is one of Ontario's largest and most impressive churches.

This time we didn't have a chance to explore Guelph in detail as it was getting late afternoon and we had to head back. But there will be another time for exploring this beautiful, historic city and other surrounding communities. But our little excursion out of the city was a perfect Saturday getaway for exploring the history and countryside just outside of Toronto.

Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions (http://www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the transitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest (http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

"Life is a Journey ­ Explore New Horizons".

The araticle with photos is published at Travel and Transitions - Interviews

Vacation in Rome

Everyone should visit Rome for the vacation of a lifetime. Rome Italy hotels offer visitors perfect bases for their Roman holiday excursions. Rome was the centre of the ancient Roman Empire and today is the capital of Italy. It is also the home of Vatican City (technically an independent nation), which is the seat of the Catholic Church. With roots in ancient history, Rome has hundreds of museums and archaeological sites to draw the attention of every visitor with an interest in history, art or architecture. The holy sites within the Vatican include the Sistine Chapel, which contains the magnificent works of Michelangelo, Da Vinci and a host of other great masters.

Visitors arriving by air from points all over the world will find Rome Italy hotels conveniently located near Aeroporto Leonardo da Vinci di Fiumicino, more commonly called Fiumicino Airport. Fiumicino Airport serves about thirty-five million passengers every year, and is Italy's largest airport, as well as the main hub of Alitalia, Italy's largest airline. From Rome hotels located near the airport, visitors have easy access to direct flights to the major cities of Europe and easy access to ground transportation that can take them anywhere in the Rome metropolitan area they wish to see. Rental cars, buses, taxis and the metropolitan train system are all choices for hotels in Rome visitors who stay near the airport. The train ride from the airport to the centre of Rome and the Roma Termini train station takes only about a half hour.

Out of town visitors who arrive in Rome by rail will find hotels in Rome conveniently located in the heart of the city near Roma Termini. Visitors leaving the station can immediately immerse themselves in the history of the ancient city by stopping in at the Baths of Diocletian, which are located just across the street from the station's main entrance. About 150 million people per year pass through the Roma Termini station, which offers rail service to cities all over Europe, including Paris, Zurich and Naples.

People arriving by train and staying in Rome hotels near the station have easy access to the rest of the city by way of taxis, buses and local rail lines that serve the entire metropolitan area. There are many hotels in Rome near the station, ranging in age and style, from older historic buildings to modern luxury complexes

Hotels in Rome has a wide range of choice to suit every budget, luxury 5 star hotel to Rome cheap hotels.Tourists who are in tight budget can find some of the finest Rome cheap hotels around the corner to suit their taste & price range.

Prices for Rome Italy hotels cover a broad range, so visitors on every budget can find a comfortable place to stay during their vacation on Rome.

Find the best Rome Hotels. Hotels in Rome that best meet your personal taste, price & location in here: http://www.romehotelsnear.com/

Planning an Outbuilding For Your Historic Home

There is a seemingly endless list of accessory buildings that have been used in conjunction with residences throughout history including carriage houses, barns, tool sheds, potting sheds, detached kitchens, garages, and privies. While the original uses may no longer always be relevant, these often-simple structures can be adapted to serve a multitude of modern uses beyond traditional garden and tool storage including personal home offices, workout rooms, media rooms, pool cabanas and art studios.

If you are not lucky enough to have a historic outbuilding in your yard, you may be considering purchasing a ready-made shed from a home improvement store. However, these T1-11 or vinyl sided sheds are rarely compatible with the style of historic homes and may even be prohibited by local historic preservation design guidelines. For historic homeowners, a custom-designed outbuilding may be the better answer to meet storage and additional space needs, possibly even providing an affordable alternative to building an addition to a home.

When planning an outbuilding to complement a historic home, there are several basic design principles to consider:

• Keep the outbuilding visually subordinate to the main building. This means that the outbuilding should complement the main building, but not overshadow it in size or detail.


• Make sure the size of the outbuilding will both meet your intended use and look appropriate in your yard.


• The outbuilding should mimic the overall form of the main building. This is most easily done by using a compatible roof shape, slope, and soffit overhang.


• Consider the sizes and placement of doors and windows to ensure that you have room to move equipment in and out, have adequate light and ventilation, and allow wall space for shelving or other storage. In addition, consider how the doors and windows will look on the most visible elevations of the building.


• Duplicate finishes and details from the main building such as siding type, roofing materials, soffit details and window and door type and trim. However, duplicating elaborate details and columns from the main building should generally be avoided due to the less public, more utilitarian nature of outbuildings.


• Keep colors of the main building and accessory building compatible. Paint with either the same paint scheme or a complementary palette.


• Plan the outbuilding location carefully. Make sure the building will not block desirable views (or will block undesirable ones), is not in a flood prone part of the yard, is easily accessible for the intended use, meets local zoning setbacks, and does not interfere with mature trees and landscaping.

A carefully designed and placed outbuilding can be a focal point in the yard, providing an attractive backdrop for landscaping as well as providing an idyllic escape from right in your own back yard. For more information about planning an outbuilding, along with design ideas go to http://www.squidoo.com/Historic-outbuildings-1.  

Ms. Peck is a Historic Preservation Consultant with over 12 years experience working with historic Florida homes. She is President of Preservation Resource, Inc., which has recently introduced a specialized product line for historic homes at http://www.HistoricShed.com

See the Delights of San Juan on a Trip to the Tropical Island of Puerto Rico

When choosing Caribbean cruise deals you may not pay too much attention to whether the liner calls at Puerto Rico, but if that is the case, you could be missing out on visiting a fascinating tropical island.

Puerto Rico's capital San Juan has become a regular port of call for Royal Caribbean Cruises on its liners' Eastern Caribbean routes, allowing passengers to experience a taste of the island's heritage and culture.

If you choose to visit San Juan on your trip around the Caribbean, you will almost certainly enjoy warm weather as you explore its natural beauty and historic buildings.

Even at the coldest times of the year, the average temperature is around 25 degrees C, making Puerto Rico a perfect winter destination.

The tropical climate makes soaking up the sun an enticing prospect and Puerto Rico's capital has a number of beautiful white sand beaches which are ideal spots for relaxing and topping up the tan.

If you are feeling a little adventurous, the beach at Ocean Park is a popular place for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

And if you count yourself as very adventurous, you may want to head out of San Juan to visit the El Yunque National Forest - a rainforest which is home to some birds, amphibians and plant species which cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.

Passengers of Royal Caribbean Cruises and the other cruise lines which call at San Juan will also find plenty to do if they choose to stay in the city during their time in Puerto Rico.

It is packed with historic buildings, many of them dating back to the time when the Spanish first colonised the island in the early 16th century.

The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is the second oldest cathedral in the western hemisphere, while the San Juan National Historic Site includes several forts built by Spanish settlers to defend the city.

While wandering round Old San Juan in search of the famous buildings, you will also walk through the many plazas which act as meeting points for residents, giving you a flavour of the local culture.

Whether you've spent the day on the beach or exploring the old town, you'll probably want to end it by sampling some of the local food and drink.

Head for the bars and restaurants of Isla Verde or Condado and you'll see how the locals like to enjoy an evening out - a memorable way to end your stay in Puerto Rico.

If you are searching for cruise deals for your next holiday why not consider a trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Visit Iglucruise.com where you can find a fantastic range of voyages from cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean Cruises to choose from.

What to Do on Your Bermuda Holidays

For an island only 21 square miles in size, Bermuda has a surprising amount to offer its visitors. With beautiful sandy beaches and an old colonial town, scenic walking routes and historic forts, Bermuda holidays are unlikely to leave anyone bored.

Sand and Sea

It is impossible to list all of the fantastic beaches in Bermuda. Holidays to the island are often defined by the pink sands and the azure sea; whether it's at family-friendly Shelly Bay, pristine (and very popular) Horseshoe Bay Beach or Snorkel Park, or in one of the Bermuda's quieter, secluded coves. However, for those who can tear themselves away, the island has a lot more to offer as well.

St. George

The town of St. George is worthy of a full day visit on Bermuda holidays. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, it is the oldest continuously inhabited British settlement in the "New World", with many of the original colonial buildings and streets remaining. Narrow, winding streets with names like 'Needle and Thread Alley' and 'Featherbed Alley' will transport you back in time as you explore this old town; alternatively, head to King's Square for the Visitor's Service Bureau to find recommended routes or join a walking tour.

Bermuda Railway Trail

In 1948 the Bermuda Railway was dismantled after only 17 years of service. Many sections of the railway bed remain as a public walking trail, which extends from St. George Town in the east of Bermuda, through Pembroke Parish near Hamilton and on towards Somerset Village in the west of the island. Walking the trail is a highly recommended addition to a Bermuda holiday's itinerary, as it offers spectacular views of the island and waters.

Historic Forts

From first settlement in 1612 until 1957, approximately 100 fortifications were built and manned on Bermuda. Many of these have been restored and opened to the public - often featuring the fort's original cannons. Those situated on the outlying islands require a boat trip to reach, which can be a pleasant experience in its own right. Forts open to the public include: Fort St. Catherine, in the north of St. George Parish, with displays and dioramas; King's Castle, Devonshire Redoubt / Landward Ford, on Castle Island off the shore of St. George Parish; Fort Hamilton, in Pembroke Parish and overlooking the City of Hamilton; The Keep at the Dockyard, within the Maritime Museum in Sandys Parish; and Fort Scaur, in Sandys Parish overlooking the waters of the Great Sound. This is only an abridged list; much of a Bermuda holiday's duration could be spent tracking down the various forts, although the majority of visitors need only visit one or two to appreciate these historic buildings.

John Dixon is Managing Director of Prestige Holidays and visits Bermuda at least twice a year. He has been providing luxury Bermuda holidays and luxury holidays to many other destinations for over 30 years.

Popular Chicago Historic Buildings

Chicago is known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, due to its daring and historical architecture. Here are a few of its most popular buildings:

• The Merchandise Mart, located at 350 North Wells, is the world's largest commercial building and largest trade center in the world. Constructed in 1930 and encompassing 4.2 million square feet, the Mart spans two entire city blocks and rises 25 stories. It was designed by the Chicago architecture firm of Graham, Anderson, Probst and White, who envisioned it as a city within a city. The style of the building has a heavy Art Deco influence, and the interior is defined by two wide 650 feet long corridors known as business boulevards, which feature six and a half miles of display windows.


• The Chicago Water Tower, located at 806 North Michigan Avenue, is the second-oldest water tower in the United States. Architect William W. Boyington built the tower in 1869 from yellowing Joliet limestone. The tower, which is 154 feet tall, contains a 138 foot pipe inside that was used for firefighting, as well as to control water surges in the area. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the water tower was the only public building in the burned zone to survive, and is the only one of the surviving structures still standing.


• One of America's most famous office buildings, the Wrigley Building, located at 401-410 North Michigan, is known as the jewel of the Magnificent Mile. Its two towers are connected by an open walkway at street level and two enclosed walkways, and it is made of white terra-cotta cladding. The architecture firm of Graham, Anderson, Probst and White designed the Wrigley Building, which was patterned after the Seville Cathedral's Giralda Tower in Spain. Ground was broken in 1920, in 1924 the north tower was completed and in 1931 a 14th floor walkway was put in place.


• Marshall Field and Company Building, now known as Macy's on State Street, was declared a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, and was designated a Chicago Landmark in 2005. The 12 story granite building, located at 111 North State, was constructed in stages between 1892 and 1914, and is known for its multiple atria, a Tiffany & Co. mosaic ceiling and two outdoor clocks, which serve as symbols of the store.

Spencer Mason writes about Chicago history topics along with information on Chicago condos.

October Festivals in the Smokies

According to the National Park Service, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited national park in the country. The Smokies are filled with wildlife, waterfalls, and historic buildings. While all of these are definitely sights worth seeing, one of the main attractions comes during fall when the Smoky Mountains show off their artwork in the form of beautiful scenery, inspirational music and traditional crafts.

During the month of October, the leaves begin to change and Mother Nature puts on her annual art show with exhibits of amazing color. Enjoy the performance art of music as numerous entertainers fill the air with toe-tappin', hand-clappin' gospel music during this month as well. Artisans from all over the south will also gather in the Smokies to display the art of craft making that has been handed down for generations. Just take a peek at the opportunities that await you in October.

Your Own Private Viewing

October starts a pilgrimage to the Smoky Mountains for those who love the turning of the leaves. Once green and brown, the trees make an unforgettable transformation into brilliant shades of red, gold, and orange. The mountains suddenly become a canvas that could have been painted by Monet himself. This great show of color is a must see, but with so many visitors the roads through the mountains can quickly become crowded. Don't let that discourage you. Here are some tips for taking in the beauty without becoming part of the multitude.

If you plan an overnight trip to the Smoky Mountains, make arrangements to rent a nearby cabin. By staying in a cabin you'll find yourself nestled in the middle of the breathtaking scenery where you can enjoy the peace and quiet. Perhaps your trip is only for a day. In that case, take a hike on one of the many trails that wind through the park. Trails range from those for novice hikers to ones for the tried and true experts. Hiking gives you an up close and tranquil view of the gorgeous fall foliage instead of seeing it through the window of your car.

That Good Ole Gospel Music

During the month of October you can enjoy the art of music at Dollywood's National Gospel & Harvest Celebration. Over 30 popular gospel groups will perform more than 250 free concerts that are sure to lift your spirits. Jeff and Sheri Easter, Kingdom Heirs, Paid In Full and The Kingsmen are just a few of the groups that will be there to entertain you at the biggest southern gospel festival in the Smokies.

If you find yourself hungry at the end of the show, visit one of the many booths offering dishes prepared from local ingredients. Traditional favorites such as fried green tomatoes are just one of the many treats available to purchase.

Generation after Generation

Voted one of the top 20 events by the Southeast Tourism Society, the Craftsmen's Fair in Gatlinburg is truly amazing. You'll find this collection of more than 200 artisans at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Not only can you buy their works of art, but you can also watch as they create these treasures using techniques that have been passed down for generations. Looking for a birthday or Christmas gift? What about a treat for yourself? You'll find countless unique works of art at the October Craftsmen's Fair.

With magnificent exhibits of all types, the sights and sounds of the Smoky Mountains are quite impressive. There's plenty to do in October, so make your plans now. You don't want to miss a minute of the fun.

Bennie McCann is Reservations Manager of Volunteer Cabin Rentals specializing in Smoky Mountain rental cabins in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN. Visit them today at http://www.volunteercabinrentals.com to book cabins for weddings, vacations, reunions and other special events.

© 2008, All Rights Reserved

A Piece of the Puzzle - Incorporating Retractable Awnings Into Historical Renovations

Downtown areas, tree-lined neighborhoods, old main streets - every city and town is defined by the buildings in it. Older buildings, whether it's a turn of the century storefront or a post-war home, has a distinctive design. When buildings are refurbished, the intent is to preserve those distinctive attributes, to preserve the character and scope of the original style.

Retractable awnings have an important role in renovating historical buildings for two reasons:

o A variety of old architectural styles, such as Spanish Revival, Colonial, and Craftsman, incorporated awnings as part of the exterior design, so the awnings themselves are functional and aesthetic extensions of the building.
o Old buildings depended on passive ways of controlling heat, especially through shade elements such as retractable awnings and trees.

Replacing awnings on older buildings, even integrating retractable awnings where there were previously none, is a simple, relatively inexpensive, yet highly visible way to begin renewing the appearance of a building. Retractable awnings are especially beneficial because of easy use and care, combined with highly-durable construction and the ability to provide sun, glare, UV, and heat protection in the spring and summer months and allow solar gain in the winter and fall.

What Matters in a Renovation
Streets and neighborhoods are taken together as a collective influence. That means that one of the most important aspects for preserving historical integrity is properly preserving the exterior appearance of a building. According to the Department of the Interior (which, through the National Park Services, encourages historical preservation), the exterior areas in an old building (commercial and residential) have the greatest affect on preserving the historic flavor of the building. There are a number of areas that reflect the intrinsic style of the architectural period:

o Existing architectural details, such as ornate trim
o Entryways
o Porches and patios
o Landscaping
o Drives and parking areas
o Windows
o Natural passive heat control (retractable awnings and other shade elements)

Assess where awnings were previously installed or where retractable awnings can be seamlessly incorporated. For example, old wood arbors around a Spanish-style home may have rotted away; a retractable awning, covering the same area, is much easier and less expensive to install while still harmonizing with the original design and appearance of the home. Additionally, many homes of all varieties used natural shade elements to control light and heat. Replacing awnings with retractable awnings can help cool the interior without having to immediately install air conditioning or fans or used to replace the shade from trees which have been removed.

Where controlling light or heating is an issue in historic buildings, retractable awnings are especially beneficial since they can be motorized, automatically respond to the sun by using sensors, and change their pitch. Being able to adjust the awning improves both heating and cooling efficiency. Other sensors (wind, motion, and rain) can also be used to protect the awning.

Methods for Integrating Awnings with Your Structure
Retractable awnings are an important facet in an historical facade. The determining factor when selecting retractable awnings is to be true to the style. Old photographs and nearby buildings can give hints on what kind of retractable awning to look for. Retractable awning style, size, color, and location impact the overall appearance. In addition, retractable awnings offer energy efficiency and are both simple and efficient to use.

Style
The most common historic awning style is the most popular even today: a simple stretch of fabric, extended over two or more arms, with a valance hanging in the front. This style is called lateral arm. Lateral arm retractable awnings are a popular style for both budget and high-end retractable awning lines, giving a broad range of options.

Another important style feature of a lateral arm awning is the valance, a strip of fabric which hangs from the front end of a lateral arm, elongated or dome retractable awning. For almost any time period, scalloped or rounded valances were common.

Some architectural styles use more specialized awnings; for example, Spanish Revival prominently features arched windows and doorways, and awnings for those areas, the awnings were also arched (called dome awnings). Dome and elongated dome retractable awnings are also available for historical restorations and are especially popular for commercial awnings.

Size
The awning should fit within the original outlines of the building area. For example, use multiple small awnings over windows instead of one large awning stretching across an entire wall. Also, the projection of the awning should be properly fitted to the right-of-way or landscaping.

The size and projection of the retractable awning is integral to giving the amount of sun and glare protection needed to prevent damage to furnishings or stock and displays.

Color and pattern
One of the most popular fabrics were wide stripes (commonly called a bistro style), in black and white. Colors tended to be light (such as pastels) because of the gently-colored, diffused sunlight. Yellow was extremely common awning color for stores because it reflects light and UV rays effectively and diminishes the amount of sun damage to furnishings and store wares.

One tip: avoid old-fashioned canvas awnings. Although cotton or canvas awnings are historically accurate, solution-dyed acrylic wears substantially longer and has a brighter, truer color, which is why the Park Service recommends it.

Retractable awnings
With a design similar since its inception in the late 1800s, retractable awnings (even motorized awnings) are not unhistorical. Stylistically, retractable awnings look the same as traditional and historic awnings, with some additional benefits:

o Significantly longer lifetime than fixed awnings since the fabric is not always exposed to the sun
o Better overall energy efficiency than fixed awnings
o Simpler use and maintenance
o High quality materials, in most cases
o Unobstructed views
o No additional construction and a light footprint on the building

Looking at the Larger Picture
Architecture is the character of the community. Spanish Revival in Florida, Cape Cod in New England, and Craftsman-style ranch houses in the Midwest all provide distinct spice for their regions. Preserving that appearance is important to business and retail centers, so many cities offer incentives and special design districts to encourage historically friendly updates to commercial buildings and downtown districts. Awnings are specifically mentioned in revitalization projects across the USA because of the widespread popularity of awnings in nearly every decade and architectural style since the 1800s.

Retractable awnings fit into a larger design picture, making that picture a little more harmonious and timeless with a well-designed, well-constructed, and well-chosen architectural feature.

Budget Retractable Awnings sells quality / long lasting window awnings and patio covers for a reasonable price. http://www.budget-awnings.com

10 Things You Absolutely Must See Or Do in London

If you're an infrequent visitor to London and plan to hit the tourist trail then the last thing you'll want is to be pointed in the direction of the underwhelming, the uninspiring or the instantly forgettable. There's enough of that where you live, which is why you're visiting London!

Our guide features London's best galleries, museums, landmarks, historical sites, shopping areas and entertainment zones, all guaranteed to provide the ultimate London tourist experience. The attractions we've highlighted are unashamedly well known, but do you really want to be returning home to tell your friends about the fantastic thimble shop in Pimlico you visited? Or would you rather rave about the phenomenal view of one of the world's great cities from the top of The Eye, or that you've actually seen the beauty of Van Gogh's Sunflowers with your own eyes?

London has a multitude of varied and exciting attractions but these are the ones without which, your trip just wouldn't be the same!

Oxford Street
Britain's busiest high street and London's best known shopping area is chock-a-block full of the largest branches of the nation's most popular shops - over 300 in fact. Many of the biggest high street names have their flagship stores here and the street also boasts the oldest record shop in the world (HMV at number 363). It's not all hardcore shopping though - light entertainment is often provided in the form of chanting Hari Krishnas skipping along the pavement. If you can't find what you want to buy in Oxford Street, you haven't got much of a hope elsewhere.

Nearest Tubes: Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford Circus, and Tottenham Court Road

Camden Market
If you're after a more bohemian approach to shopping than the Oxford Street experience, then get yourself up to Camden. One of London's coolest areas has a seemingly endless array of shops and stalls selling such items as clothing (new, second hand and retro), customised Doc Martins and trainers, jewellery, bootleg CDs and DVDs and craft ware. Open daily; it's a multi cultural experience with some great little food outlets dotted all over.

Nearest Tube: Camden Town

Tower of London
Built by Billy The Conqueror nearly a thousand years ago, this is one of the best preserved and most famous historic landmarks in the world. Full of the history of executions and imprisonments and offering the spectacle of the Beefeaters, the ravens and the crown jewels as well as the majesty of the building itself, this remains THE essential place of historic interest to visit when in London. camelotintl.com/tower_site/index.html

Nearest Tube: Tower Hill.

St. Paul's Cathedral
Britain's best known place of worship and certainly one of its most recognisable buildings, having so often been the centrepiece of state occasions. The cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built 300 years ago following the destruction of the previous building by the Great Fire Of London. An awe inspiring feat of architecture, steeped in history and featuring works of art, monuments, mosaics and the Whispering Gallery, the Cathedral is also still a busy working church. So booking your wedding here during the summer months might just be a bit tricky.

Nearest Tube: St Pauls

National Gallery
The National Gallery is home to one of the greatest collections of European art in the world. Featuring works painted between 1250 and 1900, the collection includes such well known pieces as Van Gogh's Sunflowers, Botticelli's Venus And Mars and Constable's Hay Wain. Sadly, the work of the great Rolf Harris is too recent and too Australian to be included - see the Tate Modern.

Nearest Tube: Charing Cross. Admission: Free

British Museum
Founded over 250 years ago, it could be said that the British Museum is one of London's oldest and most prized exhibits - the museum building itself is one of Britain's greatest architectural landmarks. Housed inside is a collection of art and antiquities from ancient and living cultures the world over spanning two million years featuring the Rosetta Stone, the Easter Island statue and the earliest known image of Christ.

Nearest Tubes: Tottenham Court Road, Goodge Street, Russell Square & Holborn. Admission: Free

London Eye
Undoubtedly the quickest way to take in all of London's major attractions is by jumping on the Eye. There's not much of the city that can't be seen from the top of what has become one of the London skyline's most dominating features. To further enhance your flight on this modern day feat of engineering, you can even order champagne to be served in your capsule (not recommended for the easily nauseas). http://www.londoneye.com

Nearest Tubes: Waterloo & Westminster.

Tate Modern
If random blobs of paint on canvas and piles of rusty old engine parts is your idea of art, then get yourself down to the Tate Modern. Created in a disused power station on the banks of the Thames, the gallery has become one of London's most fascinating attractions since opening in 2000. The collection features works by Picasso, Matisse, Dali, Pollock and Warhol and represents all the major movements since 1900. Sadly, the work of the great Rolf Harris is too art like to be included - see the National Gallery.

Nearest Tubes: Southwark & Blackfriars. Admission: Free (however donations are gratefully received)

Covent Garden
Formerly a fruit and vegetable market, 'The Garden' is now a constant and varied hive of activity. It has a hugely diverse selection of shops, eateries, bars, a market selling art, crafts, antiques and souvenirs, historic buildings, theatres, the Royal Opera House and fantastic free entertainment provided by street entertainers and musicians. If you can't find something to capture your interest at Covent Garden then you must be harder to please than Simon Cowell on a bad day.

Nearest Tube: Covent Garden.

Trafalgar Square
Undoubtedly one of the most famous sights of London without visiting which, a trip to the capital would be incomplete. Not only are tourists drawn to see Nelsons Column, the fountains, the lions, the annual gift of a huge Christmas tree from Norway and the pigeons (dirty little so and sos), but it is where the masses flock to in times of national celebration or when there is cause to demonstrate. Trafalgar Square truly is the meeting place of the nation.

Nearest Tube: Charing Cross.

Lisa Mills owns two commercially driven websites, one selling baby gifts uk and the other promoting toddlers toys.

Mallorca Property Market Update 2008

Demand for property from throughout Europe continued throughout 2007, and most property professionals on the island reported steady interest and sales, with increased activity at the upper end of the market especially. Prices continue to rise, although at a reduced pace, as sellers are being more realistic in their asking prices.

Improving marina facilities throughout the island, continual restoration projects in the countryside to maintain historic buildings and walls make Mallorca one of the Mediterranean's most sought after places to own property. Mallorca's foreign community - one of the largest in Spain - continues to thrive. Tourism is the mainstay of the island along with property and is continuing to become more diverse and upmarket, attracting visitors from all over the world. There are now many more five star hotels and with 24 UK and 21 German airports providing flights to Palma, the island's convenient location and popularity looks unlikely to diminish in the foreseeable future.

PALMA

The island's political and cultural capital is where 40% of Mallorca's population lives and enjoys an average daily temperature of 21.4 degrees and 7 hours of sunshine per day throughout the year. It is the largest medieval old town in Europe with numerous famous buildings, fashionable shops, narrow streets, tapas bars and enough restaurants to satisfy everyone's palate. It is dominated by the Gaudi influenced Cathedral and an eclectic mix of art galleries from the contemporary Es Baluard to the historic Palau March.

Open plazas and avenidas give way to waterfront marinas lined with super yachts. There are two yacht clubs, including the largest and most prestigious on the island, which hosts the Copa d'el Rei each year. The Spanish Royal family holiday each August on the island at their summer palace on the outskirts of the city and regularly compete in several regattas.

A new look to Palma's sea front has begun, with a new convention centre taking centre stage of a EUR40+ million regeneration project at the eastern end of the Paseo Maritimo, close to the fashionable marina of Portixol and opposite Palma's main beach. It will become a major business destination, offering an auditorium, conference halls as well as a new five star hotel, cafes, gym, restaurants and bars.

Shortcuts Property Search report property demand in Palma is primarily for older refurbished buildings, particularly around the Cathedral area of Calatrava and the areas of La Llonja and Santa Catalina. Many of the city's old palaces and villas are currently being totally renovated with the addition of lifts and modern facilities. The faded areas of Portixol and Terreno are also being rediscovered and gentrified - Portixiol is now a very fashionable and chic area. Foreign buyers in particular are looking for property which offers good outside living in the form of lofts, penthouses and courtyards and these inevitably command premium prices.

Santa Catalina

This old fisherman's neighbourhood has become a lively restaurant area with its popular market at its centre. It is a district that borders the contemporary art museum of Es Baluard and the waterfront of the Paseo Maritimo. Prices range from EUR2,000 to EUR3,500 per m2.

Calatrava

The historical heart of Palma surrounds the Cathedral and includes the notable churches of Santa Eulalia and San Francisco. Calatrava consists of quiet narrow streets of historical buildings with restricted access and parking. Prices range from EUR4,000 to EUR9,000 per m2.

La Llonja

This quarter borders the Born on its eastern side and the Paseo Maritimo and up to Es Baluard, the contemporary art museum. It is also a lively area with restaurants and bars particularly around Plaça La Llonja itself. A number of small and exclusive boutique hotels have opened in this area attracting a fashionable following. Prices range from EUR3,500m2.

Portixol/ Es Molinar

Portixol has a small marina, beach and a wide sea front promenade and has become an expensive and chic area. Slightly further along the coast Es Molinar and Cuidad Jardin offer a less expensive alternative. The planned redevelopment of the sea front at the eastern end of the Paseo Maritimo where the access road to Portixol and Es Molinar is located will ensure the area will maintain prices of EUR3,000 m2 and upwards.

Son Vida

Palma's most exclusive residential area has two superb golf courses and two five star hotels. It has spectacular views of Palma and the bay and offers its residents privacy and security, which gives Son Vida an imposing air. Easy access to Palma and the airport make it a perfect location for many buyers. There is strong demand for both existing and new build property here with property starting at EUR1.5million.

SOUTH WEST MALLORCA

As you leave Palma heading west towards Andratx, you pass the village of Genova with its numerous restaurants and approach the areas of Bendinat, Costa D'en Blanes and Portals Nous with its lively marina of Puerto Portals and some of Mallorca's most exclusive eating and shopping.

Real estate here is of a high standard with several urbanisations developed around the Bendinat golf course and Shortcuts Property Search report constant interest in this area. The tunnel link of Bendinat to the main Palma/Andratx motorway has made Palma only 10 minutes away and further served to emphasise this area as a prime location for both permanent and holiday residence.

Apartment prices can go beyond EUR4,500 per m2, but these are well constructed and managed, and have top quality finishes. Old Bendinat has a number of exclusive frontline residences with direct sea access which change hands for well over EUR6,000,000.

The marina of Puerto Portals with its renowned restaurants, bars and exclusive shops attracts an international group of people all year round. The proximity of several golf courses, excellent sailing and a wealth of sports activities make this a very sought after location. There are many apartments that overlook the marina that vary considerably in price, and can represent good investment with refurbishment potential. Overlooking Portals Nous and Puerto Portals is the urbanisation of Costa d'en Blanes where sea view villas command upwards of EUR1.3m million.

Moving further west along the coast, Santa Ponsa is set in beautiful coastal countryside and surrounded by three golf courses. The large urbanisation of Nova Santa Ponsa has been carefully planned to avoid high density building with surrounding green areas and protected green zones. Port Adriano just along the coast is an interesting area to watch - work has started on the improvement of the marina to create berths for super yachts. The expansion design is being led by Phillipe Starck. This will undoubtedly mean more restaurants, facilities and of course, higher property prices.

Beyond Santa Ponsa is Camp de Mar, with a golf course and five star hotel, along with a number of quality developments. This is an area which complements Andratx and Puerto Andratx, just around the bay. In fact, Puerto Andratx must rank as one of the most popular locations in the South West and consequently is one of the highest priced regions. The slopes of the hills surrounding Puerto Andratx are home to many exclusive villas, mansions and apartments, many with spectacular views to the sea, marina and mountains.

A popular yachting port, Puerto Andratx is a working harbour with a flourishing fishing fleet, which adds great charm and character. There are a number of locations around Andratx, including La Mola, Montport, Cala Marmacen and Cala Llamp. There are also exclusive apartment developments with cliff top sea views where prices currently range from EUR4,500 to EUR6,000 m2 depending on location and outlook. Sea view villas start at around the EUR1.8m mark. Building land is rapidly becoming hard to find and as building slows down in the future, supply will be further reduced.

Moving inland the villages of Es Capdella and Calvia enjoy the proximity of the coast and Palma, but without the tourism that coastal locations tend to attract. Fincas and village houses in these areas carry a certain premium as the locations are in high demand from both the foreign and domestic markets.

NORTH WEST COAST AND THE NORTH

Buyers in search of a more rural and traditional side of Mallorca with the most dramatic landscape often gravitate to the North West and north of the island. Dominated by the Tramuntana mountain range stretching from Andratx in the south to Pollensa in the north, the villages of Deia, Valldemossa, Soller, Puerto Soller and Fornalutx will come high on the list of interesting locations to consider.

The protected area of the Tramuntana Mountains ensures that new properties are rare and demand for existing fincas and village houses are constantly high at Shortcuts Property Search. The most notable change in the North West is evident in Puerto Soller, which has undergone a face lift as a new tunnel has re-routed traffic away from the harbour, so now the promenade is open only to pedestrians and a few local cars. New hotels and restaurants have begun to spearhead the port's renaissance and two and three bedroomed village and edge of village properties are commanding prices of EUR550,000 plus. Traditional stone faced fincas can be found for EUR700,000 whilst renovated fincas with sea views are on the market for anything upwards of EUR1.4m.

Continuing up along the west coast are Pollença, Puerto PollenÂa, Formentor and Alcudia. The property market in this area is dynamic and has long been popular with the British market. Village houses, modern apartments and fincas are all in high demand and the extension of the motorway from Palma, which now by-passes Inca, has significantly shortened drive times from the airport and Palma.

The town of PollenÂa with its famous Monte Calvario steps is a much-desired location now the refurbished village square is cut off from traffic. The town boasts a number of musical and art festivals during the year and its growing number of restaurants and galleries give it an artistic atmosphere. It is a lovely place to relax and watch life pass by.

In the Pollensa area there are a number of fincas with land of twenty hectares or more. The valleys of Vall d'en March, Vall de Colonia and Vall de Can Aixartell are sought after for their idyllic locations and mountain views - yet within a few minutes of beaches and the town. A new luxury villa development overlooks the Pollensa golf course.

Another area of interest is the villa urbanisation of La Font, close to PollenÂa. It sits on a hill and the beaches of Cala San Vicente and Puerto Pollensa are just minutes away. Apartments tend to be concentrated on Puerto Pollensa and vary considerably. New apartments are from around EUR450,000 with communal gardens and pool.

The second phase of the Puerto Pollensa ring road is scheduled to open in the summer of 2008. This new road will divert traffic heading for Alcudia away from the sea front to the east of the marina. This will reduce the congestion in the main town centre and along the promenade.

Alcudia has a number of popular urbanisations, including the recently modernised Bon Aire, Mal Pas and Baccares overlooking Pollensa Bay. The small yacht haven of Puerto Cocodrillo is interesting near the golf course with views over the sea in Aucanada. Finally, the exclusive Formentor area retains its exclusivity with very few properties ever on the open market. The natural landscape with white sandy beaches gives this spectacular peninsular a great deal of charm.

OTHER COASTAL AREAS

Shortcuts Property Search predicts the North East and eastern coastline will see the most change in the foreseeable future as improved infrastructure has meant they are more accessible and new development in the South West slows. There are several good new developments offering quality affordable homes close to the sea and within easy walking distance to restaurants and shops.

The improved Palma to Manacor road will make the villages of Arta and Capdepera and the residential areas of Costa de Canyamel and Costa de los Pinos, located between beautiful mountains and beaches in the north east, easier to get to and therefore more popular.

Prices are more reasonable and if you appreciate open spaces, stunning scenery and sandy beaches and are happy to be an hour from the airport, then this area is a good place to explore.

Those wishing to experience Mallorca away from mass tourism will quickly feel at home in this part of the island. The main towns of Manacor, Felanitx, Santanyi and Campos all offer shopping, culture and many good restaurants. The Vall D'or golf course and marinas of Cala D'or, Porto Petro, Porto Colom and Porto Cristo also have a variety of leisure activities.

The surrounding areas of Vall D'or, Cas Concos, Calonge, S'Horta, Es Caritxo and S'Alqueria Blanca offer many quality-reformed fincas. The best locations offer proximity to golf, sea views and natural peace and quiet and attract high spending clients seeking privacy and seclusion. Property prices range from EUR250,000 to over EUR4 million. Land is increasingly difficult to find and areas north east of these villages are taking over.

INLAND AREAS

Villages within a twenty minute drive of Palma form a sort of rustic belt that surrounds the cities outskirts. Buyers here want a more rural country feel but easy access to Palma, golf and of course the sea.

Establishments, Puigpunyent, Santa Maria, Alaro, Bunyola and Binissalem are poular village locations, as are Sencelles and Santa Eugenia. Llucmajor to the east of Palma is now by-passed by the improved PM602 and is beginning to see property prices rise. Heading north, the extended Inca motorway is putting the villages of Campanet, Buger, Sa Pobla and Muro more firmly on the property buyers' map as journey times are reduced.

Shortcuts Property Search notes that prices for older properties in need of renovation in these areas - which had been neglected for years - are being driven up as availability reduces.

LOOKING FORWARD INTO 2008

Mallorca is one of the most popular hubs for super yachts in the Mediterranean. The island is planning to expand eight of its thirty two harbours and marinas and this is spearheaded by the EUR40million++ expansion of Port Adriano near Santa Ponsa and Sol de Mallorca and the planned redevelopment of Palma's seafront at its eastern end. Moorings around the island will increase by 25% and in 2009 Palma will begin work to equip the port to accept 'mega' cruise ships, further increasing its popularity as an important cruise ship destination point.

The old and ugly power station in Alcudia is to be converted into an arts and science museum - a major boost for the area. Also the bay of Can Pastilla will be undergoing a massive regeneration and upgrading, property here will definitely benefit as a result.

A new five star hotel is being developed near Llucmajor by the Hilton group, another boost to an area growing in popularity with the British.

Sea view and frontline properties will remain excellent investments in Shortcuts Property Search opinion as the authorities tighten up already stringent building regulations. Plots for construction particularly in the South West are in even shorter supply and there are fewer developments in construction than in previous years - reducing the choice of off-plan purchase.

Unlike other parts of Spain, where speculative building has led to over supply, the market here is more robust and in certain sectors there continues to be a shortage of good quality property available.

Whilst the market will perhaps not enjoy the high level growth and demand of the last few years, it is expected that it will remain steady with prices predicted to increase 7-10% in quality locations. As the slow down in construction deepens on the mainland, the building moratorium on the island is also predicted to slow construction down here over the next 12 months.

Finally, this year the areas Shortcuts Property Search recommend to watch and invest in are Palma old town, the east around Porto Colom and the north east in general.

http://www.shortcutspropertysearch.com
info@shortcutspropertysearch.com
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