Mar
15
2010
0

Top 7 Places Your Children Should Visit in Disneyland

If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!

Grownups pretty much have the say in what to do and where to go at Disney, but it would mean putting up with whines or tantrums if your kid has something else in mind. What are the things that kids must not miss in Disney World?

walt disney fireworks walt disney parade  (The fireworks and the parade)

  1. In Magic Kingdom Park, the fireworks display over Cinderella’s Castle is must-see. Preschoolers would love Dumbo, the Flying Elephant, It’s a Small World, and Mickey’s PhilharMagic. They could experience Cinderella’s Golden Carrousel and Cinderellabration there too. Of course, the traditional 3 o’clock parade must not be missed, so better find a good curbside location.

    walt disney Turtle Talk with Crush                                          (Turtle Talk with Crush)

  2. Bring your tots to Turtle Talk with Crush, or bring them to the Kidcot Fun Stops. Characters on Holiday will surely appeal to their taste or better yet, try the Journey into Imagination by Figment. 

    Beauty and the Beast-Live on Stage 
                                      (Beauty and the Beast-Live on Stage)

  3. In Disney-MGM Studios, kids will love the “Playhouse Disney-Live on Stage!”, “Beauty and the Beast-Live on Stage,” and “Voyage of the Little Mermaid.”

    Festival of the Lion King                                        (Festival of the Lion King)

  4. Kilimanjaro Safaris in Disney’s Animal Kingdom will bring the wonder of African savannah right in Florida for the kids and adults to explore. Aside from this African-inspired adventure, Disney also features the “Festival of the Lion King.” It is said to be the most colorful pageantry at Disney Park that will delight young and old alike.

    Illuminations Reflections of Earth                                 (Illuminations: Reflections of Earth.)

  5. In Epcot, there is a nightly fireworks display called “Illuminations: Reflections of Earth.” It is the day’s “final act” at closing time.
  6. Pony rides are available at the Petting Farm. Children from ages 2 and up can enjoy these, as long as they weigh up to 80 lbs.

    Wonderland Tea Party
                                     (Disney’s Wonderland Tea Party)

  7. Wonderland Tea Party shouldn’t be missed especially by young girls because characters from “Alice in Wonderland” will tell a story, eat lunch or have “tea” with them. If your kids are not into it, maybe My Disney Girls Perfectly Princess Tea Party will be. Here, girls are encouraged to dress up in their favorite princess get-up. They also get a chance to meet Princess Aurora from “Sleeping Beauty.”

Children will love the different activities in Disney World. To make sure nothing is going to be missed, do ask your kids to help you list the places to go and help you plan the trip. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring with you your guide maps—map out your itinerary so you won’t miss an attraction.

Disney World has all kinds of fun for the kids and the kids-at-heart, and new attractions are added from time to time. A trip to Disney World will be a great bonding (and did I mention fun?) time for you and your little ones.

Enjoy!

Written by Michael Gabriel Sumastre in: Home and Living, How To, Guides, Tips, Top 5 and Top 10 | Tags: ,
Mar
01
2010
2

Complete Your Dubai Experience in the Gold Souk

dubai_gold_souk

The Gold Souk offers everyone setting foot in Dubai, an overwhelming display of gold in seemingly countless forms.  An average of over 25 tons of gold are said to be in display at any given time and they are sold by weight. Dubai is definitely the ‘City of Gold‘–literally.

A good thing about the gold souks in Dubai is that, there is always something in gold for everybody. Gold of all colors like white, yellow and red, can be found in almost every imaginable forms of jewelry like bracelets, watches, earrings and many more. They can also be set with expensive valuable stones and their price range varies. This is where the ‘art of haggling’ would come in handy because when the shopkeeper says the price, you could get to have the item 60% cheaper if you’re good at bargaining.

If you are planning to buy a piece of gold jewelry for your significant other, or just buy it for some form of investment, your trip to the Gold Souk of Dubai would definitely be worth it. The savings you can get here may even cover the cost of your travel. If buying is not what you have in mind, the experience in visiting the gold souk would still be worth your while. Your eyes could drink in the magnificence of the displayed pieces there and you’d get to appreciate the craftsmanship.

dubai_gold_souk_deira

Haggling is entirely a normal thing when in Dubai–in fact, many people hop from one stall to another just to listen to others haggling. If you are a bit shy at first, you’ll find out sooner or later that gradually, you become used to it and would enjoy doing it yourself. It is however important to note that the seller keeps a minimum price in mind. The expert haggler could beat him or her to the price while some, who are not yet good at haggling, could end up paying more than the price they should have gotten the piece for.

(more…)

Feb
22
2010
0

The Hustle and Bustle of Relocating: 10 Things to Remember When Moving to New York

lady liberty of new york

So you’ve decided to take a chance on moving to the Big Apple—are you prepared?

To some, it is a daunting challenge to become part of the dynamic hustle and bustle of this famous concrete jungle of skyscrapers, dazzling lights, and busy people. We’ve asked several people who moved to New York from a while back to give us some advice. What do people who’ve done what you are still about to do, have to say to New York movers? These are the top ten things to remember when moving to New York:

1) Bring a map – yes. You may ask around but you definitely cannot do that all the time.

2) Hypochondriac? It would be good to have a bottle of hand sanitizer with you. This city is filled with different people who have different habits. What’s clean for you might not be the same to the perception of cleanliness of the person next to you.

3) How much cash to bring? Bring lots of it but below $10,000 though. If you bring more, you could be held for questioning, thus causing unnecessary delays. This is because $10,000 is the limit set by federal law. If you bring too much cash, you would raise suspicion among the authorities.

4) How much will you set aside for rent? That depends on how much you would like or able to spend for it. You can get a decent apartment for about $500-600 per month. You could cut costs if you have someone to split it with. There are also places that are a lot cheaper but the usual cost that people shell-out is more or less $500.

skyline patio dining in Manhattan Skyline patio dining in Manhattan

casual dining in new yorkThe casual lunchtime in New York 

5) Food during lunchtime in Manhattan could go for $10-20, however, if you are adventurous enough to find great but inexpensive food spots, you could get good food for $6. Should you decide to go for a nice dinner for two, you could get these at $75-150.

(more…)

Feb
14
2010
0

Personalized Teddy Bear: A Great Valentine’s Day Gift

personalized teddy bear for valentines day

Along with chocolates and long-stemmed, deep red roses, soft and adorable teddy bears are a traditional gift for the ladies during Valentines’ Day. So show your girlfriend, fiancée, lover, lady-friends, mother and the many ladies in your life how much they mean to you with especially personalized teddy bear gifts from online teddy bear stores this Valentines’ Day. Cute and cuddly, the girls—both young and old—in your life will love and treasure these little guys they received from you.

The Internet provides you a wide array of choices for which teddy bear to give your significant other. Teddy bears purchased online can be personalized by adding the receiver’s name and your own message for them that can be written on the greeting card it comes along with. Personalized teddy bears make a unique and meaningful Valentines’ day gift because part of the effort—not just the purchasing but the personalizing too—in preparing the gift coming from you.

Shopping online comes with ease, comfort and guaranteed satisfaction for the clients. Purchasing from the online sites offers a lot of benefits. First is that it is relatively easy to browse through the sites. The sites are accessible from the comforts of home and anywhere else with Internet connection. You can browse through the different kinds of teddy bears displayed on the sites until you find one which you think your loved one is going to like.

Included in the display picture of the teddy bears are their descriptions. These make shopping for the perfect Valentines’ day gift easier. Then you can personalize the teddy bear before you bag it and virtually head to the check-out counter. You can choose from the different the modes of payment offered on these sites. In a matter of days after you have made your purchase, your especially personalized teddy bear gifts will be sent right in front of your door. There is no need for a trip to their store to claim it.

(more…)

Jan
28
2010
0

How James Cameron created the world of Avatar?

Watch this 23-minute behind the scenes video to see how the number 1 movie of all time was conceptualized and created by James Cameron.

According to Box Office Mojo, as of January 26, 2010, Avatar earned approximately US $1,878,025,999 worldwide (that’s almost 1.9 billion US dollars). In the United States alone, the movie’s ticket sales for 40 days is a staggering $558,179,737. That domestic gross accounted for almost 30 percent of the revenue worldwide. Next to the US is China (with $103,113,774), Russia ($96,259,863), and South Korea ($79,691,558). The Philippines ranked in the bottom ten with only $5,197,803 ticket sales since the movie debuted on December 17, 2009. Maybe this figure was caused by the MMFF with almost all Philippine cinemas showing only local films from December 25 to January 6?

I predict that Avatar’s total box office sales will increase to 2 billion dollars in the middle of February 2010. And when this happens, the Pandora 3D movie will be the first film to reach the 2-billion-dollar mark.

FYI: The Titanic reached the 1.8 billion dollar profit in 70 days. Avatar did it only for 38 days.  I myself watched the movie 4 times. How many times did you watched it?

Jan
26
2010
0

For Practical Storage Space; Use Carport Kits

carport kits

A carport can cover the path to and from your house or building, as it protects your vehicles. While carports are obviously made for (as its name implies) cars, its use is not limited to just that. It is an effective storage solution that can house garden tools, boats, or even airplanes.

Carport kits or portable garages come in different sizes and materials.

There are carport kits that are simply cloth canopies. They are not only cheap, but also easy to put up or take down. They can come in different colors and do its job: protecting whatever you are storing while at the same time adding beauty to your place.

There are metal versions of these portable garages. Expectedly, they are pricier but sturdier than its cloth counterparts. Metal carport kits are usually made of steel, which is heavy and of good quality, but you can get more or less the same protection with aluminum, which is lighter. A good one has a sturdy frame, steel sides, and roof.

Carport kits are not only limited to home use. They can be used for businesses, farms, factories, churches, and many more. When you are considering hosting an outdoor event, a portable garage is a welcome sight to your visitors. They can be protected from direct sunlight, and so does your vehicles when the party is over.

(more…)

Jan
18
2010
1

How to Clean Outdoor Hammocks

Tahiti Hammock Chair

Tahiti Hammock Chair

Outdoor hammocks provide you a way to enjoy a relaxing afternoon where you can enjoy the breeze outside your own home. And like any other object placed outdoors, hammocks can become dirty over time. Here are some tips on how to clean your outdoor hammocks such as rope hammocks or hammock chairs.

There are generally two types of outdoor hammocks available: those with the spreader bars and those without.

Outdoor hammocks without the spreader bars can be washed using washing machines or by hand. You should tie the ends of outdoor hammocks together with a string just beneath the hanging rings (while the hammock is folded in half), then at the other end. This would ensure that the outdoor hammock would not get tangled.

Next place the hammock inside an empty pillow case. Then tie it securely closed. Using a mild detergent, machine wash the pillow case with the hammock inside it.

You could also clean outdoor hammocks if they are without spreader bars using your hands. Do this by tying the hammock in the same manner as above and then immersing the whole thing in a tub full of water with mild detergent. Hang the hammock to dry before replacing it.

(more…)

Jan
13
2010
0

Technology Trends in 2010

eReaders and eBook Players

eReaders and eBook Players

The year 2009 was witness to the rise and fall of technology and gadget trends. It was characterized by intensified video gaming blow outs, a new approach to mobile phone use and computer portability, and an endless quest to create better and more advanced gizmos.

As the New Year unfolds, video game expert and technology analyst Scott Steinberg unveils at Digitaltrends.com a sneak peek on the “what’s what” in technology for 2010.

1. The year 2010 may be the time for eReaders and eBook Players — digital tablets designed to simulate the customary reading-on-paper experience — to come into their own. Expected innovations in 2010 include selections powered by Android OS, more affordable models and full-color eReaders with touch screen and wireless 3G support.

2. Smartphones will continue to shine in 2010, but with added surprises. Android-run and Windows Mobile-powered smartphones will create an established market. Cell phones will likely be run by applications that offer more power and flexibility, allowing these devices to evolve and potentially replace laptops. Adapting to lifestyles, Smartphones will be must-haves in 2010, and Google’s Nexus One Smartphone is to watch out for.

3D TV

3D TV


3. The household names in television manufacturing are keen at beginning a new era of TV viewership. Shops filled with a display of cutting-edge three-dimensional TVs, as well as Blu-ray players that power 3D flicks, will be anything but extraordinary in 2010.

(more…)

Jan
04
2010
0

The Five Most Common New Year’s Resolutions

Stamping out of the drinking and smoking habit is easily one of the more difficult commitments to make.

Stamping out of the drinking and smoking habit is easily one of the more difficult commitments to make.

Every New Year marks a celebration of new beginnings. Most people associate this occasion with commitments to reform old habits or make lifestyle changes, usually for the better, effective January 1. As 2009 comes to a close, people make pledges to resolve certain practices or issues and experience a fresh start as they welcome 2010.

Check out this prominent list of recurring New Year’s resolutions. Is yours one of them?

1. Get fit.

People vow to put on the right weight by paying attention to what they eat and exercising more. Depending on a person’s need, getting in shape may mean losing or gaining weight. However, this drive for healthy living sparked by the freshness of the New Year normally takes a backseat as people start leading their busy lives. As weight loss or weight gain becomes less of a priority, fitness becomes a lifelong underachieved goal.

2. Quit drinking and smoking.

Stamping out of the drinking and smoking habit is easily one of the more difficult commitments to make. Fact is, not everyone is equipped to make drastic lifestyle changes all at once. Over the years, the availability of over-the-counter nicotine replacement drug and a world of quit-drinking therapies are proving to be effective as vice-quitting aids. However, About.com says that on the average, drinkers and smokers make at least four attempts before finally quitting for good. People repeatedly commit to quit and fail, keeping this New Year’s resolution always on the list.

3. Manage finances wisely.
To say that money is a source of stress is an understatement. The year 2009 was plagued by unstable and unpredictable global economies, thus getting a handle on finances was no easy job. Spending less, spending just right, paying debt or securing the finances for oneself or for the family is a promise that makes it to the top yearly resolutions. It is expected to be part of the list many times over in the coming years.

(more…)

Dec
24
2009
0

Create Your Own Picnic Baskets This Christmas

Traditional English-style Picnic Basket

Traditional English-style Picnic Basket

When it comes to free and truly refreshing (albeit cold) activities this Holiday, nothing still beats the outdoors. All you have to do is head to the park or to the mountains, lay your mat or blanket down, and open up your picnic baskets.

There are still thousands who do this, and yet they don’t have time to create their own baskets. They have to rely on the ready-made ones, which are not only expensive but may not contain everything that you are going to need. Worse, they are not up to your expectations or preferences.

You can make your own picnic basket. It may sound complicated, but with all the right tools and steps, it would not be too difficult for you:

Gather the materials you need.
There are different kinds of materials you can use for your picnic baskets. However, the most common material is called wicker. This could be because it allows everything inside to be properly ventilated. It doesn’t allow the build-up of moisture, especially when you’re travelling long distances.

There are also times when you can use covers for your picnic basket, and this will depend on the theme you want to come up with. For example, if you’re planning to create romantic picnic baskets, it would be great to look for fabrics that depict sunrises, sunsets, hearts, or lovers.

(more…)

Dec
23
2009
0

Should You Buy Used or Brand New Ninja 250

With the sleek look of the Kawasaki Ninja 250R, you cannot help but be amazed when you see it new and enchanting you to be its first rider. What is more, you get the peace of mind that there will be no hidden defects, scratches or abused engines.

You should be aware though that Kawasaki Ninjas are priced differently according to the dealership that sells it. So do your research well to know which ones are reputable and which ones would likely offer you a better price. Take note that motorcycles that are in demand are more difficult to bargain for in terms of price, and with the Ninja 250R as a hot item, just take comfort that the additional price you pay would only mean better performance from a great looking bike. However, check out the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, there is no sense in paying more than necessary.

Buying a Used Kawasaki Ninja 250R
There are a lot of advantages to buying a used Kawasaki Ninja 250R. For one, it is more reasonably priced and not only that, great deals may be found if you know where to look.

Right now, the best place to start is the Internet via Craig’s List at http://www.craigslist.com or sites like eBay.com or more motorcycle-specific retail sites. These sites can be a gold mine for great deals from motivated sellers who for some reason or another needs to sell their current units.

(more…)

Dec
21
2009
0

Merry Christmas everyone!

This is the time to be jolly and merry. May you have all the happiness this season….
Merry Christmas everyone!

Merry Christmas Everyone…

Merry Christmas Everyone…

Written by Michael Gabriel Sumastre in: Home and Living | Tags: , , , ,
Dec
17
2009
0

How to Pick Patio Umbrellas

Retractable Patio Umbrella

Retractable Patio Umbrella

A lot of houses are actually blessed with patios, no matter how big or small they are. However, they are still not able to make the most out of them, simply because they fail to get the right patio umbrellas.

To make sure that you get your money’s worth, learn how to pick your outdoor umbrella with these tips:

Know what kind you are looking for.
There are varieties of designs to choose from when it comes to getting an outdoor patio umbrella, but they can be classified into two. It can either be stand alone or with a built-in table.

The good thing about the former is that you can easily transfer it from one place to another, though it may be able to provide shade at a very limited area. If you want more comfort, you take the latter. Nevertheless, you have to know that it may occupy a lot of space.

Check the fabric used.
There are two requirements you need to look for in your patio umbrellas. First, it should be durable. This means that it should be highly resistant to mildew and molds; these usually occur when something gets exposed to sunlight and water. Second, it should be easy to clean. It must be convenient for you to remove the fabric, if possible. You may want to look for a fabric that is combined with 100 percent 5.8-ounce dye. This fabric is ideal for the outdoors.

(more…)

Dec
08
2009
0

Address Plaque Designs: Take a Pick

Solid Granite Arch Lawn Address Plaque

Solid Granite Arch Lawn Address Plaque

You could be one of those who keep on receiving delayed mails. If not, there’s none that arrives at your doorstep. There could be one plausible explanation: the postman just doesn’t know where your house is.

To make it easier for them—and even for your friends—to know where you are living, it’s time to use an address plaque. The good news is that you have a lot of designs to choose from.

If you have a yard or a fence, it’s better to choose a two-sided lawn address plaque. It can be made of cast aluminum or iron, so the stand doesn’t get damaged easily even under harsh environmental elements like sunlight, snow, and rain. Moreover, it’s easier for guests to know your address because they don’t have to go to your doorstep to read what the plaque is saying.

Do you want something fancy? You can actually add some effects into your address plaque by going for the lighted ones. They can be run by electricity or even by solar energy, which means you don’t have to additional costs to your utility bills. This ensures that even at night, your address can still be easily seen by anyone. Of course, it adds more brilliance and unique décor for your home.

These beautifully crafted numbers come in either satin aluminum or bronze. Enhance your homes look with the finishing touch of our easy to install address numbers.

(more…)

Dec
04
2009
2

The Top 4 Most Memorable Twilight New Moon Moments

Edward breaking-up with Bella

Edward breaking-up with Bella

As you know by now, the latest installment of the Twilight movie franchise, The Twilight Saga: New Moon opened to beat the opening day record of The Dark Knight, earning $26 million on its first day, and then moving on to conquer the third spot on the record debut list earning $141 million on its first weekend. Here are some of the movie’s best moments.

#4 The Paper cut and the Break Up
Mush aside, there would be no New Moon without the break up. I think that this scene was handled quite well in the movie. Teenage girls had their fill of tragedy, confusion and true love with this scene, yet it was not overdone and overly saccharine.

It is one testament of sacrifice and true love, vampire style. The rest of Hollywood surely have exploited this formula before, but not in the way Stephanie Meyer and New Moon did it.

This pivotal scene was made even better with Kristen Stewart’s performance. Admit it, being in a room filled with vampires and you get a paper cut. It defies all logic that all these supposedly refined vampires would start attacking you; much like being naked in a crowded room of men could make them start raping you. But the movie tried to stay true to the book and the scene was made truly magical by Stewart’s acting.

The wolf pack: Paul (the aggressive), Sam (the leader), Jared (the joker), and Embry Call (the fourth)

The wolf pack: Paul (the aggressive), Sam (the leader), Jared (the joker), and Embry Call (the fourth)


Bella confronting the wolf pack

Bella confronting the wolf pack


#3 Meet the Wolves, Bella
One should note that the computer graphics done on the werewolves were really breath-taking and top notch. They were gruesome, big, and completely scary (but kinda cute), almost like how Meyer depicted them in her book.

This scene deserves mention because it introduces us to Laurent’s evilness and holds a surprise when Bella is saved by… another werewolf. This is one of the few times the movie changed what was written in the book. In the book, a pack of werewolves saved Bella, but here we only have one. Maybe it was to give more importance to Jacob’s character and would build into the next scenes where we find Jacob again saving Bella from sure death from diving off a cliff into dangerous waters.

(more…)

Powered by WordPress