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<channel>
	<title>Travel Guide Blog</title>
	<atom:link href="http://backbone2.org/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://backbone2.org</link>
	<description>The premier source for travel advice, deals, tips, ideas, discount travel, news for avid travelers. </description>
	<lastBuildDate>Sun, 25 Oct 2009 06:36:02 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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			<item>
		<title>E-Cigarette: A New Way of Smoking</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/e-cigarette-a-new-way-of-smoking/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/e-cigarette-a-new-way-of-smoking/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 25 Oct 2009 06:36:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[timeshare]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[e cigarettes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[luci starter kit]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1204</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This is a good new for a smoker to change their smoking habit to the healthy way. This is not about stopping your smoking habit but change the way using new device. If you are browsers as well as the smokers you will know the term of e-cigarette. Yes! This is the revolutionary product without [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This is a good new for a smoker to change their smoking habit to the healthy way. This is not about stopping your smoking habit but change the way using new device. If you are browsers as well as the smokers you will know the term of e-cigarette. Yes! This is the revolutionary product without annoying your smoking habit.</p>
<p>There are several <a href="http://www.ecigarettesnational.com/">e-cigarettes</a> that you can buy from ECigarettesNational.Com. What I mean with healthy way is that e-cigarette is less of dangerous chemical from ordinary cigarette. Before enjoying e-cigarette, you must purchase one of the accessories which are <a href="http://www.ecigarettesnational.com/categories/E%252dCigarette-Starter-Kits/">e cigarette starter kits</a>. These kits will be completed by supported device such as battery, charger, and cartridge. Probably, some of you will get confused because this is an unusual way of smoking. But if you are interesting you can try it and feel the different.</p>
<p>For your information, there are several e-cigarette starter kits and one of popular kits is <a href="http://www.ecigarettesnational.com/products/LUCI-Starter-Kit.html">luci starter kit</a>. Most people choose it because it gives different flavor and the design is elegant to bring. Luci starter kit is supported by charger, battery, and also refill cartridge with full flavor. To make you sure you can read some of the review from the customers who take the different sense from e cigarette.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>One Stop Resource of Xbox Gold Live</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/one-stop-resource-of-xbox-gold-live/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/one-stop-resource-of-xbox-gold-live/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:27:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Vacation Home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[timeshare]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[xbox live gold]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[xbox live points]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1202</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Have you ever extended your Xbox Live membership? Did you feel satisfied with the service? Well, though there are some sites on the internet that provide Xbox codes to extend your Xbox membership, not all of those sites are able to provide quality services.
One website that provides quality service along with xbox gold they sells [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Have you ever extended your Xbox Live membership? Did you feel satisfied with the service? Well, though there are some sites on the internet that provide Xbox codes to extend your Xbox membership, not all of those sites are able to provide quality services.</p>
<p>One website that provides quality service along with <a href="http://www.buymmoaccounts.com/xbox-360-live/card-points/">xbox gold</a> they sells is Buymmoaccounts.com. This website has easy to use features that enable you to buy <a href="http://www.buymmoaccounts.com/xbox-360-live/card-points/">xbox gold live</a> easily and comfortably. Their helpful customer support is ready to help seven days a week during office hours. This website is able to send codes of your <a href="http://www.buymmoaccounts.com/xbox-360-live/card-points/">xbox live points</a> and cards within 30 minutes after your purchase.</p>
<p>Therefore, if you want to buy membership or points for your Xbox Life, you should not look any further. You had better buy them at this website since this website is one stop resource of Xbox Live.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>A Recommended Place to Get Limo Services</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/a-recommended-place-to-get-limo-services/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/a-recommended-place-to-get-limo-services/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:49:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Limousines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[airport limo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[limo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Limo services]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1200</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Limousine is known as a type of car that represents a luxury rides. Indeed limousines aren’t cheap and in fact not everyone can afford to buy it. However they still have the possibilities to experience the comfort and prestigious ride in limousines since there are many companies offering services. There are also many limousine rentals [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Limousine is known as a type of car that represents a luxury rides. Indeed limousines aren’t cheap and in fact not everyone can afford to buy it. However they still have the possibilities to experience the comfort and prestigious ride in limousines since there are many companies offering services. There are also many limousine rentals available and no matter what you choose you certainly need to consider it carefully.</p>
<p>If you’re a person who needs to get service of <a href="http://www.starcitylimo.com/index.php?page=airport-hummer-ny">airport limo nyc</a> at more competitive prices then you’re advised to visit Starcitylimo.com. This website represents a company that offers you a chance to get limo services such as a direct pick up service from the airport to the hotel, parties or any possible places you want. In an airport service the driver will set your name in the limousine sign to help you identify the limousine. You’ll experience a comfortable and a luxurious interior of the limousine.</p>
<p>You’re very welcome to visit this website and view some choices of limousine or other <a href="http://www.starcitylimo.com/">nyc limousine</a> services offered by this company. If you’re ready to place an order or needs to get more detailed information about services, terms and conditions or others the customer support will always be ready to assist you.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/the-cu-chi-tunnels-of-vietnam/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/the-cu-chi-tunnels-of-vietnam/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 06 Sep 2009 04:37:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[american]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cuchi tunnels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ho chi minh city]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jungle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[saigon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[soldiers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[viet cong]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vietnam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[war]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1198</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon. A destination known for its famous war with the Americans throughout the 1960&#8217;s until 1975.  Learn all about what life was like in the jungle with an interesting visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located 70 km from downtown.
In the heart of the jungle, 200km of tunnels were [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon. A destination known for its famous war with the Americans throughout the 1960&#8217;s until 1975.  Learn all about what life was like in the jungle with an interesting visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located 70 km from downtown.</p>
<p>In the heart of the jungle, 200km of tunnels were well hidden from American soldiers.  Originally built to protect the Vietnamese from French air strikes in the lat 1940&#8217;s to 1950&#8217;s, they were re-used during the 60&#8217;s as a staging ground for attacks on American troops.</p>
<p>The land was bombarded with napalm and agent orange in an attempt to wipe out the tunnels. Soldiers knew that they were there, but it was almost impossible to find. The jungle was wiped out and became a waste land, but you would never know it today. Trees and plants have grown back showing just how resilient this earth is.</p>
<p>Some guides are actual former soldiers that acted as translators for the Americans. They are filled with a wealth of information and if you really listen and forget that you are on a kitschy tour exploiting the horrors of  war, you can learn a great deal about the tactics used by a people filled with strong will to defeat a more powerful enemy.</p>
<p>The Viet Cong were very clever indeed. They would run through the jungle and disappear by sneaking into cave entrances camouflaged by having termite hills placed on top. Cayenne pepper would be sprinkled around the entrance to disrupt the search dogs senses. The cave entrances were small too. So small that even if the Americans found them, the large G.I.&#8217;s would not fit through. A blast would make the opening larger but it would also alert the people underground that they had been found and they could slip away to another part of the cave. They even had escape routes leading to the river to be swept away to safety.</p>
<p><span id="more-1198"></span>When they did manage to make their way into the tunnels, they were greeted with booby traps. False floors caused the enemy to fall into a bed of sharpened bamboo poles. Spikes were placed on the floors and traps were set everywhere.  You had to know your way around the tunnel to escape injury.</p>
<p>Not only did the Americans have to deal with booby traps, heat and fear of not knowing what was around any corner in the jungle. They had the added burden of foot rot. Their heavy army boots didn&#8217;t allow for room to breathe and being in water and humidity took its toll on their feet making it impossible to walk.  The Vietnamese avoided this by wearing sandals made of tire rubber allowing their feet to breathe. These sandals are on display at the tunnels and you can even buy a pair as a souvenir.</p>
<p>It is impossible to imagine how people managed to live in these tunnels for several years. The passageways were very tight at less than a meter high and they were dark and filled with disease. They had to deal with insects and venomous snakes and the fear of being found out. However, the Vietnamese managed to carve out a way of life however building kitchens, living areas and first aid stations.</p>
<p>Your tour will take you to all of the different types of living quarters and rooms. It is a comfortable tour and the tunnel walls have even been blasted out to make it larger and more comfortable for tourists.  However, there are still some original entrances available to be explored and you will have the opportunity to go into an original tunnel yourself and crawl for 150 meters experiencing what it was like during the war.</p>
<p>First you will have to enter through a small hole in the ground. This is enough to make many tourists chicken out. Some people won&#8217;t even be able to fit inside and will not even have the option to go. But if you can manage to squeeze through, be sure to do so. You will have the one true experience of the day, feeling what it actually must have been like for a soldier to crawl through this claustrophobic space.</p>
<p>During your tour you will learn little tricks like how the Viet Cong tracked U.S. soldiers by following these fascinating plants that actually pointed in the direction that people walked. As you brush by, the leaves of the plants curl in the direction that you are heading. A dead giveaway for the unsuspecting American soldier.  You will try to food of the Viet Cong and you will visit different rooms that were camouflaged above ground, learning all about how the Vietnamese kept themselves from being discovered.</p>
<p>You will learn and experience a lot during your time at the Cu chi Tunnels, but it is not over yet. Before leaving, you can even fire an automatic weapon at the firing range. See what it feels like to fire an automatic weapon.</p>
<p>Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels will definitely give you a feeling as to what life was like during the Vietnam War.  It is unbelievable to think that these tunnels remained in tact through two major wars. One with the French and one with the Americans. If you are visiting Ho Chi Minh, they are certainly worth a visit.</p>
<p><strong>About the Author:</strong></p>
<p>Dave and Deb are Canada&#8217;s Adventure Couple. They have traveled to over 35 countries where they have taken on extreme adventures from Cycling from Cairo, Egypt to Cape Town, South Africa and Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Every new adventure takes them to remote corners of the world where they paddle, hike, scuba dive and trek their way around the globe. <a href="http://www.theplanetd.com" target="_blank">http://www.theplanetd.com</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Spirituality in Laos, The Pak Ou Caves</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/spirituality-in-laos-the-pak-ou-caves/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/spirituality-in-laos-the-pak-ou-caves/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Sep 2009 08:32:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1196</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When traveling to Laos, there are many places and sights to see. But one of the most unique and interesting destinations has to be the Pak ou Caves.  Located near Luang Prabang you can hire a boat or songthaew to take you the 25 km down river.
Located directly on the Mekong River, the Pak [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When traveling to Laos, there are many places and sights to see. But one of the most unique and interesting destinations has to be the Pak ou Caves.  Located near Luang Prabang you can hire a boat or songthaew to take you the 25 km down river.</p>
<p>Located directly on the Mekong River, the Pak Ou Caves are one of the most sacred sights in the country. They are actually still used as a place of worship. Every New Year people from Luang Prabang make a pilgrimage to visit the caves containing over 4000 Buddha images and statues.</p>
<p>The caves contain mostly the traditional tall standing Luang Prabang Buddha statues, but you can find Buddhas of all shapes and sizes.  As you approach the caves from the opposite side of the river, an incredible view unfolds. High limestone cliffs jut above the banks with a black hole cut into its side. As you come closer, you will see the white stairs leading to the upper chamber and know that you are about to witness something magical.</p>
<p>You can take the stairs to two different Chambers. The higher chamber Tham Pheung houses more of the buddhas than the lower cave Tham Thing. They are both impressive, however more light is let into Tham Thing. If you plan on visiting the caves, bring along a headlamp. It can be quite dark and it helps to see the statues better.</p>
<p>While the caves make for a great day trip from Luang Prabang, there are many things that you can do in town. The city is beautiful and there is no better way to see it than by bicycle.</p>
<p><span id="more-1196"></span>A World Heritage Sight, Luang Prabang is not to be missed. As you ride your bicycle from temple to temple, be sure not to miss Haw Kham, the former royal palace. The bright colours of the temples are a treat to the eyes against the lush green vegetation. The inside of the temples are as impressive as the outside containing Buddha images, tapestries, jewels and artifacts.</p>
<p>There is no shortage of food in Luang Prabang. From traditional Lao meals to coffee and pastry shops. You will never go hungry or tire of the choices.  And after you have rejuvenated from a hearty lunch, you are ready to explore more of the sights, like a working Monastery. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a group of monks practicing their drums.</p>
<p>While in Luang Prabang, you must walk the steep hill to Phou Si. It has a spectacular panoramic view of the area and the sunset is certainly one of the most beautiful you will ever see.</p>
<p>Luang Prabang has a famous night market. Pick up all of your trinkets and souvenirs here. Be ready to barter hard though because it is definitely over priced. Restaurants line the streets and you will have no problem finding any food that you are craving to fit your budget.</p>
<p>Laos is a wonderful country to visit and you should make it top on your list before it is discovered by the rest of the world and overrun with tourists.</p>
<p><strong>About the Author:</strong></p>
<p>Dave and Deb are Canada&#8217;s Adventure Couple. They have traveled to over 35 countries where they have taken on extreme adventures from Cycling from Cairo, Egypt to Cape Town, South Africa and Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Every new adventure takes them to remote corners of the world where they paddle, hike, scuba dive and trek their way around the globe. <a href="http://www.theplanetd.com" target="_blank">http://www.theplanetd.com</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Can you Imagine Stone Pinnacles Jutting from the Jungle?</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/can-you-imagine-stone-pinnacles-jutting-from-the-jungle/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/can-you-imagine-stone-pinnacles-jutting-from-the-jungle/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Sep 2009 04:31:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[borneo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gunung mulu]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[malaysia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[national parks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pinnacles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sarawak]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1194</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A small twin engine airplane is the only way to get to Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak Borneo, and looking out the window you will be overwhelmed with the vastness of the jungle that lay below.  Once you have landed on the isolated runway, you truly feel in the middle of nowhere.
The main [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A small twin engine airplane is the only way to get to Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak Borneo, and looking out the window you will be overwhelmed with the vastness of the jungle that lay below.  Once you have landed on the isolated runway, you truly feel in the middle of nowhere.</p>
<p>The main event when visiting Gunung Mulu is a trek to the Pinnacles. An ominous stone forest standing tall in the middle of nowhere. It is not an easy task to see these beauties. You will have to book trip at the headquarters upon your arrival to get your permits and guides in order.</p>
<p>You can book your trek at the park headquarters. Check with other arrivals to see if they want to join your party. It is a great way to save on costs and to enjoy other peoples company. Once you are booked and ready to go, you can settle in for the night to arrange everything that you will need for the following days trek.</p>
<p>You will have to take a 2 hour boat ride into the jungle and then you will be let off at the foot of a trail where you will proceed for almost 9 km alone in the jungle.  You have to be completely self sufficient. Carry all food and snacks that you will need for the next 3 days and be sure to leave most of your packs contents at the park. You should take a small day pack filled with essentials only.</p>
<p>Don&#8217;t forget to tell your driver how long you will be at the Pinnacles. Give them an approximate time and exact day that you will meet them for a ride back to park headquarters. They will be ready and waiting for you when you emerge from the jungle.</p>
<p><span id="more-1194"></span>After a long and adventurous boat ride where you will stop to look at amazing caves, villages and incredible scenery, you are let off to set out alone on an 8.9 km trail leading to Camp 5 where you will make camp for the night.</p>
<p>The trail is well marked and easy to follow, but you will have to cross a couple of rivers. Make sure to check for leaches after each time in the water. They are fast and latch on quickly.</p>
<p>Your destination, Camp 5 is in a beautiful location surrounded by large cliffs, a quiet stream and lush jungle. Here is where you will relax for the night before your climb. Be sure you bring an ample supply of food with you, because there isn&#8217;t any provided. There is a kitchen so you can cook whatever you bring, just be sure to take the waste with you when you leave.</p>
<p>There are dorm rooms to sleep in.  They are clean, but not exactly luxury. Two raised wooden platforms line the room on either side and climbers grab a mat to sleep on. It can make for a fitful sleep especially with the anticipation of an early rise to start your trek.</p>
<p>Waking before the sun comes up, you will get everything together that you will need. Extra water bottles, snacks and lunch need to be carried and you need to do all of this quickly because leaving early is essential. If you don&#8217;t make it to the beginning of the last section before 11:00 am, you will not be allowed to summit.</p>
<p>Many people that try to climb the Pinnacles do not summit.  It is not a high climb, but it is a technically challenging climb without safety ropes. You cross crevasses on metal beams and balance on rocks while holding onto a rope over head. It is a challenge, but the payoff is definitely worth the effort.</p>
<p>But try hard to be part of the group that makes it, because once you step off of the trail you are treated to the most incredible view you have ever seen.</p>
<p>Giant white stones, jutting out of the jungle like sharks teeth, the Pinnacles are  majestically poised for your viewing. The silence is unsettling and soon, clouds and mist roll in making the pinnacles even more ominous.  They turn to a darker shade of grey and take on an even more dramatic look as they tower over the trees.</p>
<p>You can only sit and look on for so long however, because the climb down is even more difficult than the climb up and you have to be back at camp before the sun goes down. It is a slippery and exhausting climb, but to be among the rare few that venture to this part of the world and make it to the look out for this magical view is worth every ache and blister.</p>
<p>Climbing to the pinnacles is definitely a highlight of any visit to Gunung Mulu, but there are other spectacular things to see here as well. An must is to take a 3 km trek out to Deer Cave to see 2 million bats circle above high in the sky at sunset at they feed on insects. Visit the Sarawak Cave, the worlds largest cave chamber and enjoy exploring its many trails, most notably the Head Hunters. If you are making a trip to Malaysian Borneo, make sure to take extra effort to visit Gunung Mulu National Park.</p>
<p><strong>About the Author:</strong></p>
<p>Dave and Deb are Canada&#8217;s Adventure Couple. They have traveled to over 35 countries where they have taken on extreme adventures from Cycling from Cairo, Egypt to Cape Town, South Africa and Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Every new adventure takes them to remote corners of the world where they paddle, hike, scuba dive and trek their way around the globe. <a href="http://www.theplanetd.com" target="_blank">http://www.theplanetd.com</a></p>
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		<title>The Zenni Online Optical</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/the-zenni-online-optical/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/the-zenni-online-optical/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Sep 2009 04:15:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[timeshare]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eyeglasses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fashion eyeglasses]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1192</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Zenni Optical has been well known as one of the best online optical. Many people love to use their service because they have the excellent services and awesome products, either for the prescription eyeglasses or the fashion eyeglasses.
In the Zennioptical.com, you would be able to get some awesome eyeglasses such as the $ 8 [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Zenni Optical has been well known as one of the best online optical. Many people love to use their service because they have the excellent services and awesome products, either for the prescription eyeglasses or the fashion eyeglasses.</p>
<p>In the Zennioptical.com, you would be able to get some awesome eyeglasses such as the <a href="http://zennioptical.com/">$ 8 Rx eyeglasses</a>. Some people even said: I finally found <a href="http://zennioptical.com/cart/home.php?cat=29">My favorite high fashion eyeglasses</a> in this site.</p>
<p>To be a smart online shopper, you’d better get some guidance. In the Cbn.com, you would be able to get the <a href="http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/511892.aspx">How You Can Start Spending Smart</a> tips. Click the tips for you.</p>
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		<title>VAGAMON IN KERALA, INDIA AN EXOTIC HEAVENLY TOURIST SPOT ON EARTH !</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/vagamon-in-kerala-india-an-exotic-heavenly-tourist-spot-on-earth/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/vagamon-in-kerala-india-an-exotic-heavenly-tourist-spot-on-earth/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 Aug 2009 06:00:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Exotic locations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ayyampara]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Green Meadows]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Idukki]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[India]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kerala]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kottayam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Parumthumpara]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vagamon]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1182</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Day before yesterday, second saturday, 8th August, 2009 is a joyful day in my life. Yes,the day we went on a picnic through the misty mountain ranges of Idukki District.  My fourteen friends from the  Office where I am working started off at 7.30 am. from Ettumanoor. I boarded the bus at Thelliyamattom, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Day before yesterday, second saturday, 8th August, 2009 is a joyful day in my life. Yes,the day we went on a picnic through the misty mountain ranges of Idukki District.  My fourteen friends from the  Office where I am working started off at 7.30 am. from Ettumanoor. I boarded the bus at Thelliyamattom, my village town. On entering the vehicle I surveyed my friends. I was disappointed in the unhappy absence of my friends Blase, Paul Varghese and Thomachan, though it was not unexpected. In the early morning itself many of my friends were at the high pitch of enthusiasm. As for us it was a day of complete oblivion, without stress.<span id="more-1182"></span> The party was, indeed, living completely absorbed in the present moment. They behaved with the innocence of L.K.G. children. The bus was moving slowly through the meandering village road piercing the morning snow.The man who drove, namely, Hajiyaar, looked good at his job. He had a long beard heralding an orthodox Moslem outlook.</p>
<p>As per the Itenarary prepared by Premkumar, our first spot was Ayyampaara, much high above the sea level in altitude. It was only 8 km. away from my home. It was incredible for me to think that such a spot enriched by nature&#8217;s bounty was so near me ! I thought that humans tend to ignore the good and the beautiful things which are so near and accessible. We are fascinated by what is far-off and inaccessible. The place got the name from the popular Hindu God &#8221; Ayyappan &#8221; seated on a huge rock running three hectares ! It is only 9 km. away from Erattupetta in Kottayam District of Kerala, India. We alighted there at 9 am. We were spell-bound by the beauty of nature. Yonder, in the valley we could see church domes and buses were seen moving like soap boxes! It was greenery all over. There was the ancient  temple recently renovated, but certainly not having the grandeur and glory of ancient sculpture.We spend about 45 minutes there bathing in the morning sun, absorbed in the ecstacy of the experience. There we sat down on the rock to take our breakfast. Iddily with chutny , saambaarand uzhunnuvada was served, I thank Bhanuprakash for such a tasty, sumptuous dish.               The journey resumed at 10 am and reached Kurisumala near Vagamon. The spot is a pilgrim centre of Christians. There is an aashram which takes after the Hindu traditions.The dairy farm of Kurisumala provides milk to people of even far-off places.We took snaps of landscape and ourselves as there was no want of cams. The group of 15 was high-spirited with ample supply of liquor. Our Haajiyaar was luckily a teetotaller.Naazar too was so.  All of us participated in a musical game called &#8220;Anthaakshari&#8221;. Our team led by Johney won by defeating the other team led by Saji. Thus we enjoyed every second of the trip with alacrity and without inhibitions. The cold climate of the place was enjoyable and the pain of biting cold was mitigated by the incessant intake of peg after peg. The punch or the kick of it was not as strong in the high altitudes as  of the plains. From Kurisumala we set out to our next spot &#8216;pine valley&#8221;.There we had a feeling that we had been loitering in an alien dreamy world. The euphoria was indescribable through human words of mouth. Around 1&#8242;o clock we resumed the journey to our next spot Parunthumpaara. On the way we stopped on a river bank in order to take lunch. The place was exquisitely beautiful in the setting of the tea-garden shining in the flood of sunlight. The air was conditioned by the proper mix of cool and heat, the heavens were cloud-free though it was supposed to be raining cats and dogs ! I had brought rice with veg. curry , Johney had chicken curry, Abey had Beef  curries. Naazar brought pickles, pappad, plates and other necessary paraphernalia. The lunch was majestic and the flavor of it was spicy.The intimacy of the group was reassured and reasserted by the commonness of purpose and attitude of sharing. All of us had taken more food than usual, maybe thanks to the appetizing spell of  alcohol.            After the sumptous lunch we started again . Our next destination was Parunthumpaara. A place near Peermade, about 5 km away from N.H. 223. The panoramic view there was ravising to the eyes. The noisy wind, the cool, the drizzle everything positively contributed to the euphoric ambience. Above all the bottomless depths ! What was there in the yonder valleys! we exclaimed.  The mystery of makaravilakku inthe ponnampalamedu is said to be visible from this spot. Unexpectedly we had to go back into the bus as the drizzle turned into a heavy downpour. In order to intensify the cold thrill  Nazar supplied an ice-cream to each&#8230; We were enjoying it like children&#8230;There was no sign of rain&#8217;s retreat. We decided to sign off though with reluctant minds&#8230;            THE WOODS WERE LOVELY DARK AND DEEP                          BUT  WE HAD PROMISES TO KEEP                  AND MILES TO GO BEFORE WE SLEPT                     AND MILES TO GO BEFORE WE SLEPT             As the bus was moving down into the plains from the mountain peaks, our minds also were also taking u turn from the peak- flight of imagination into the plains of realities&#8230;.</p>
<p><a href="http://search.live.com/results.aspx?q=Vagamon" target="_blank">Source</a></p>
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		<title>A Great Day Out From Taba and Taba Heights on Egypt`s Red Sea Riviera</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/a-great-day-out-from-taba-and-taba-heights-on-egypts-red-sea-riviera/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/a-great-day-out-from-taba-and-taba-heights-on-egypts-red-sea-riviera/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 Aug 2009 03:42:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Exotic locations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Burning Bush]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Egypt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mount Sinai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Roman Emperor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[St Catherines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[St Catherines Monastery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Taba Heights Catherines Monastery]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1180</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[After a few days lounging by the pool or on the beach in Taba or Taba Heights. Even the most chilled out amongst us will start to consider exploring further afield. After all it would be shame to visit a country such as Egypt, so steeped in history and culture, and not venture outside the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>After a few days lounging by the pool or on the beach in Taba or Taba Heights. Even the most chilled out amongst us will start to consider exploring further afield. After all it would be shame to visit a country such as Egypt, so steeped in history and culture, and not venture outside the hotel grounds.<br />
There are some fantastic places to visit from Taba and Taba Heights such as Petra or Jerusalem, but one of lesser known places of interest is St Catherines Monastery.<br />
Why visit St Catherines Monastery? One reason is because not only is this place a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the oldest Christian sites in the world.But this area in the Sinai Desert is where one of the most epic stories of the Holy Bible occurred.<br />
<span id="more-1180"></span>St Catherines Monastery is situated at the base of Mount Sinai. This is the mountain that Moses ascended to speak with God. Where Moses saw the Burning Bush, and where he received the Ten Commandments.<br />
Mount Sinai was also the halfway point on the epic journey of the Israelites from bondage in Egypt to the Promised Land of milk and honey in Israel.<br />
The monastery was built on the site of the Burning Bush by the Roman Emperor Justinian in the sixth century A. D.<br />
So who was Saint Catherine? and how did she manage to have Egypt`s highest mountain, a monastery and a church named after her?<br />
Well she was born into a wealthy Egyptian family in Alexandria in AD 294. She converted to Christianity, and converted hundreds of other followers to Christianity, and became one of the first Christian martyrs.<br />
In those days Christians were persecuted by the Roman authorities, and forced to give up their Christian beliefs. But Catherine steadfastly refused to renounce her faith. This so enraged the Roman Emperor Maxentius, that he ordered her to be tied to a spiked wheel as a punishment. The legend goes that she shattered the wheel by touching it. So Maxentius ordered her to be beheaded. After her execution her body disappeared. But according to legend, after her death she was carried by angels to the top of the highest mountain in Egypt. Now named Mount St Catherine in her honour. Three centuries later her body was found, and transported down the mountain and put into a golden casket in the monastery, where it remains to this day.<br />
During your visit to the monastery you can see and touch a modern day descendant of the original Burning Bush in the courtyard of the monastery. You can also see the rather macabre ossuary, This is the room that houses all the skulls and bones of the deceased monks who once lived in the monastery.You will also get the chance to see the monks living quarters,library and various chapels during your visit.</p>
<p><a href="http://tabasun.co.uk/" target="_blank">Source</a></p>
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		<title>Panjim Goa Travel: Beauty &amp; Spirituality</title>
		<link>http://backbone2.org/panjim-goa-travel-beauty-spirituality/</link>
		<comments>http://backbone2.org/panjim-goa-travel-beauty-spirituality/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 Aug 2009 00:00:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alex Bhaswara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Exotic locations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goa India Tourism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goa Tour]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goa Tour Packages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goa Tourism]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goa Tourist Places]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goa Travel Guide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Panaji]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Panjim]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Panjim City Guide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Panjim Goa Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Panjim Travel Tour]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Panjim Trip]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://backbone2.org/?p=1187</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[On the southern banks of the Mandovi River, lies Panaji or Panjim – the capital city of Goa. Literally meaning &#8216;the land that does not flood&#8217;, Panaji is built around a church facing a prominent square. This Portuguese town is popular for a number of ancient beautiful churches and some of the excellent Portuguese Baroque [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On the southern banks of the Mandovi River, lies Panaji or Panjim – the capital city of Goa. Literally meaning &#8216;the land that does not flood&#8217;, Panaji is built around a church facing a prominent square. This Portuguese town is popular for a number of ancient beautiful churches and some of the excellent Portuguese Baroque style buildings and enchanting old villas.</p>
<p>When it comes to the fascinating sites of the city, Dona Paula tops the chart. The true beauty of the place lies in the meeting point of Goa&#8217;s two splendid rivers. Moreover, the Arabian Sea serves as the secluded bay of Dona Paula with a fine view of the Marmagao Harbour.</p>
<p><span id="more-1187"></span>Coming to the beautiful churches, Panjim city guide is full of Christian pilgrim centres. The Church And Convent Of St. Monica, the Church Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, the Church Of St. Francis Of Assisi, and the Church Of St. Francis Xavier are a few of the post popular churches in the city. Among the ancient places of Panaji, the ruins of St. Augustine&#8217;s Tower is also a major attraction. Apart from that, Aguada Fort also boasts of being the best-preserved Portuguese bastion in Goa. Built in 1612 to protect the northern shores of the Mandovi estuary from Dutch and Maratha raiders, the fort is a favourite site of all the history buffs.</p>
<p>The city also offers something unique to all the art lovers. Places like the Archaeological Museum &amp; Portrait Gallery and the Archives Museum Goa showcase the rarest collections of ancient sculptures and stones of the early and late medieval periods, portraits, coins and currency, revenue and court fee stamps, wooden and bronze sculptures, and armory of the Portuguese period etc.</p>
<p>Apart from that, Bondla Forest and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary also draw a number of tourists from all over the world. In short, the place place offers something or the other for almost all kinds of tourists with different tastes.</p>
<p>Almost all the Goa tour packages include Panaji or Panjim as a key destination. Apart from being the capital, it is historically important city as well. Along with all the beaches and other Goa tourist places, one can visit the ancient and beautiful Portuguese churches in <a onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/article_exit_link');" rel="nofollow" href="http://www.goaindiatourism.org/cities-of-goa/panjim-goa.html">Goa. Panjim trip</a> is ideal for history buffs as well.</p>
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