The Complete Guide To Medical Tourism

Download Complete Guide To Medical Tourism! Title: The Complete Guide To Medical Tourism How to Successfully Plan your Medical Trip Abroad Discount Airfare, American-Trained Doctors and Internationally- Accredited Hospitals have made expensive Medical Treatment Affordable for All! Find out how You can benefit from this trend"¦ You are on the verge of an important decision. You - or someone you love - is in need of expensive medical treatment. You know that treatment is important and you want to get better soon. But right now you-re confused, afraid and worried about the future. The treatment is risky"¦ It-s a LOT of money"¦ Even your insurance policy is just a drop in the ocean. This feels like being held for ransom - but you don-t know where to turn!

No Longer Dreading Bedtime on Trips with the Girls!!

When we are at home I dread bedtime. Not the time when the girls are actually settled in their beds (that's lovely), but the moment when we begin the process. We took a trip earlier this week to Brandon's grandmother's house in North Carolina and I suspected that bedtime would be less than thrilling since we weren't at home. We've gone on trips before, but not a relaxing trip like this was, in which the girls wouldn't be worn out from activity (like Disney World). We went shopping for a few groceries the afternoon we arrived and what to my wondering eyes should appear? Hyland's Homeopathic - Calms Forte 4 Kids. At a Harris Teeter in Salisbury, NC. Go figure. I have used their things before, like earache drops (which work miracles by the way) and so I knew that they make good, very safe homeopathics. So why not try these? I can tell you that they work wonderfully. And my oldest daughter says they really have no taste. Another bonus. Of course, they are only for trips or particularly sleepless nights, not to be used all the time. Here's what their website says: Like all of our homeopathic medicines, Calms Forté 4 Kids™ is a formulation of all natural, safe and effective ingredients. A calmative solution to restlessness, this medicine comes in easy-to-administer tablets that dissolve almost instantly in the mouth. Calms Forté 4 Kids™ works without side effects and won't interact with other medications. * 125 quick-dissolving tablets, easy to administer * Formulated for children ages 2 and up * No side effects * Can be used with other medications without contraindications or drug interactions * Aspirin- and acetaminophen-free * Addresses other causes that can inhibit children from sleeping well, including night terrors, growing pains, and sleeplessness from vacation travel. * Useful for irritability and wakefulness They were a God-send, I'm telling you! I wanted to share this with all my friends who have children. They are definitely worth the effort in finding them and they're worth the money (which isn't a lot by the way). Enjoy your next trip with the kiddos!! :)

How to Find the Best Deals on Travel and Tourism

Few things are more fun to window shop for than jewelry. The sparkling diamonds, stunning designs, and high quality items often come with hefty price tags. If you are looking for terrific deals on Jewelry and Eyewear, you might consider the following tips to help you go for the gold. By Joe Deacon When you are planning your next vacation, there are several things to keep in mind to help you find the best travel deals. It doesn't matter what your destination is or how you plan on getting there, you can find outstanding travel deals to help you keep your vacation budget from being blown away. Think about these tips when you plan your next holiday. Plan Ahead Many of today's airlines offer significant savings, if you book early. As soon as you know your travel dates, start searching for flights, lodging and attraction tickets. Most of the airlines offer exceptional savings, if you book your travel at least a month in advance. Use a Travel Agent Travel agents know all the ins and outs to great travel deals. Many travel agencies book several vacation packages at once to keep the prices low for their customers. If it is getting close to the package date, you might be able to snag a really reduced rate. The agency would much rather make a small profit than have to take a loss. Buy Package Deals This is one of the best ways to save money on vacation. A vacation package that includes airfare, accommodations, and attraction tickets will be substantially less than purchasing each ticket or room separately. Plus you won't have to make each reservation yourself and keep track of all the confirmation information. Travel During the Week Most airlines offer their cheapest fares during the middle of the week. Tuesday through Thursday travel are usually the least expensive days to travel. If you can stay over on a Saturday, many times the fares are cheaper than if you stay overnight a different day of the week. Travel During the Off Season Many of the prime destinations are much, much cheaper during a typical off season. This will apply all the way down to your lodging and event or attraction tickets. You can often find lodging for half the price of the peak times of the year. Use a Budget Carrier Even if you have a flight on a budget carrier that does not include an in-flight movie or meal, you might not mind if it can save you up to fifty percent off the normal airfare. Also consider flying standby, unless your travel dates and itinerary are specific. Join a Travel Club Many travel clubs, like A A R P and AAA, offer great deals for travel packages and even event and attraction tickets. Using their service one time is usually enough to pay for the membership for a year. Look for Discount Coupons You can find coupons online for travel just about everywhere. However, some of the best coupons for travel can be found at an online coupon website. You may find coupons on airfare and lodging or great deals on attraction tickets. Sometimes you may find coupons that you can use even with another promotional offer. Be sure you understand an terms and conditions of the coupon and check the expiration date. Join Free & Earn $10 for Every Free Referral Subscribe free investment ideas to your email Recent posts Joe Deacon is an avid traveler. He's always looking for the latest in travel coupons and tourism coupons. Do your own search for where the world's leading travel and tourism providers post their latest coupons, discounts, and deals so you can get what you want at the fraction of its advertised costs. Article

Jetsettersblog

Kodak Challenge at The Honda Classic March 25, 2009 on 9:15 am | In California, Florida, Golf Resorts, Sports Travel | The Kodak Challenge, a first-of-its-kind competition for PGA Tour players and fans, makes its debut on the east coast at The Honda Classic in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. An Advisory Board of leading golf experts and influentials selected Hole #16 at The Champion Course at PGA National Resort and Spa as the seventh hole in the Kodak Challenge. It is considered the most challenging par-4 among PGA National-s 90 holes. "We are excited to be part of the Kodak Challenge and thrilled that Hole #16 at PGA National Champion Course, site of The Honda Classic, was selected as one of the most beautiful and memorable on the PGA Tour," said Tournament Director Ed McEnroe. "This is a very challenging hole, and one that has provided many memorable moments over the years. We look forward to creating more memories this year with the Kodak Challenge and we think golf fans will be intrigued by this new competition." The Kodak Challenge celebrates beautiful holes and memorable moments on the PGA Tour and challenges players to perform their best on Kodak Challenge holes, with the winner taking home $1 million and the Kodak Challenge trophy. Redesigned by Jack Nicklaus, the 16th hole at PGA National Champion Course is a 434 yard par-4 with a dogleg right around a body of water, bordered by a bunker. Off the tee, the fairway slopes toward the water on the right, however, it-s no easier if a pro plays it safe by staying left. Last year, the hole recorded zero eagles, 45 birdies, 294 pars, 77 bogeys and 21 double bogeys. The full schedule of Kodak Challenge holes is at www.kodakchallenge.com "The Kodak Challenge is a unique and compelling competition for players and fans and reflects both the heritage of our brand and the continued innovation of the New Kodak," said Jeffrey W. Hayzlett, Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. "Hole #16 at PGA National Champion Course is one of golf-s great holes. It-s extremely difficult, but also extremely beautiful. With thrilling play on the first six Kodak Challenge holes, it-s been exciting to watch the leaderboard change each week. We look forward to even more excitement at The Honda Classic as players compete for the one million dollars." After last week-s Northern Trust Open, Dustin Johnson, D.J. Trahan, Dean Wilson, J.B. Holmes, Mark Calcavecchia, Chris DiMarco and Cameron Beckman are tied for the lead in the Kodak Challenge at 4-under-par.

Buy best plasma television

Buy best plasma television by Marie Novak Examples of flexibility include the ability to mount it on your ceiling, or hang it from your wall. For this reason, the plasma screen enjoyed even more popularity than the old-time models in homes and in showcase rooms. Comparing the technology in the older types of television with the newer plasma screen models is always an interesting task. For the plasma screen television, the usage of cathode ray tube, or CRT, is no longer necessary in producing the image. The amount of space required to house a television in the pre-plasma era is mostly to blame on the CTR that was included. Tiny glass compartments, or cells, are injected with a gas called neon-xenon, which is used instead of CRT in a plasma screen television. Such gas is electrically charged while suspended in plasma, resulting in phosphors struck blue, green, and red. It is because of the phosphorus, which erupts, that an image is produced. You may know people who have purchased a plasma screen television due simply to the size alone. This may have a negative effect if you are blinded by the capabilities. Bigger isn-t necessarily better for a plasma screen television, though they typically run the range from being 32"³ all the way up to 63"³. Always take into consideration the size of the room where you will be putting it. Picking a decent sized set - not necessarily the largest - will still give you a television whose presence will be impressive in most anyone-s entertainment room, and placing it in an appropriate place is important. Many different studies have been cited that show the dangers of sitting too close to the TV. For any television that is 32"³-37"³, you should maintain a space of at least 6-10 feet. However, if you are going a little larger, with a 42-46 inch set, then increase your distance to ten to fourteen feet. For people who will buy the plasma measuring 50-inch or more, it is better to stay at a distance of 15 feet. An incredible distance of 25 feet is recommended for TVs that measure more than 60 inches.

All In

A Singapore hotel is giving new meaning to the term 'All Inclusive'. For s$208 - that's £95 to us - the Quincy on Mount Elizabeth is including the room, 3 meals a day, internet, local calls, laundry, mini bar drinks, an evening cocktail and limousine pick up from the airport. Since it opened last month it has achieved 76% occupancy - and this against a backdrop of a 15% fall in visitors to Singapore. This will either strike fear into the hearts of London hoteliers, or it will generate a more hard headed response that the hotel will go broke quite soon. Whatever the response, it is an indication that this is what our competition is doing. I take the view that there are many opportunities in this recession, but there is also a lot of pain on the way for some. The latest Visit Britain research shows just how fearful Americans are for their future, and there are many other countries where there is real worry and little in the way of the comfort blanket of a welfare system. The pattern of the impact of this recession on travel and tourism is beginning to become clearer - 5 star, conference, incentive, air travel, business tourism and the shoulder season are a really hard sell. I wonder who is thinking through the implications of this for our sector? These are the most profitable parts of business and where the serious investment money comes from. Has anybody noticed that this could be very bad for the quality of the sector just as 2012 edges nearer and nearer? I don't suppose that Boris or Tessa is going to get out the begging bowl for the Ritz or the Savoy, but it would be nice to think that someone somewhere has a handle on these issues.

News

Business travel market puts more accommodation partners to bed Mar 27, 09 | 1:54 am Business Travel Market, the new event for the business travel industry taking place from 17-18 June 2009 at London's ExCeL Exhibition Centre, has announced more confirmed accommodation exhibitors. Founding partner, Accor Hospitality, will be promoting their business travel brand Pullman Hotels and will exhibiting alongside Premier Inn, Jury's Inn, Hand Picked Hotels, Grange Hotels, Malmaison Hotels, Britannia Hotels and von Essen Hotels. As well as the UK based hospitality exhibitors, Business Travel Market has also attracted a range of hotel groups from across the globe including Sol Melia Hotels, with over 330 properties in their portfolio; Morgans Hotel Group and Middle East based Rotana Hotels. Serviced apartment companies Fraser Hospitality and Bridge Street have also signed up to attract buyers with their business travel products. Business Travel Market is supported by official partner HBAA, the Hotel Booking Agents Association, which has a designated members exhibitor zone.  In addition HRS, the Hotel Reservations Service, is the exclusive sponsor of the meeting rooms at the event. Business Travel Market event director Paul Robin said: "˜I am thrilled with the support and enthusiasm shown so far by the accommodation sector. I am also pleasantly surprised that the hotel sector, which has been historically reluctant to participate in corporate travel events, seems to be identifying with the Business Travel Market format, which has proved successful in the meetings market in recent years. " Business Travel Market partner and sponsorship director Mark Harris said: "The VIP Hosted Buyer programme is proving a compelling draw for our hospitality exhibitors as it allows hotel and apartment operators to showcase their products and host prospective customers - a first for a business travel event in the UK." Robin also said:  "Business travel buyers know that, apart from air travel, accommodation is usually the biggest spend and with such a good hotel presence at our event we will be showcasing the complete accommodation offering.  Our exhibitors are also reflecting current business travel trends and we have seen a lot of support from the UK based groups as well as a strong presence from the Middle East. " Further details: www.businesstravelmarket.co.uk About Business Travel Market Business Travel Market will take place on 17-18 June 2009 at ExCeL, London. This new event has been designed for anyone who manages, buys, books or arranges travel on behalf of corporates and SME's from across the UK and Europe.  A fusion of high quality conference content and showcase of the industry's newest products and services, BTM's objective is provide visitors, exhibitors and sponsors with the maximum, quantifiable return on their time and financial investments. Amongst the 3,000+ visitors to the event will be over 300 VIP Hosted Buyers, who will spend an intensive two days meeting senior personnel from leading suppliers, and choosing from over 40 educational sessions tiered to delegates' differing levels of experience. Guiding the conference content is an advisory board comprising leading travel industry figures from both the supplier and buyer communities, including Emma Harris, Eurostar; Herman Mensink, Prism Group Inc; Tony Pilcher, Pilcher Associates and Richard Tams, British Airways. The management team is headed by Paul Robin and Mark Harris, both well-known business travel industry figures at home and internationally. As Director, Travel Portfolio at Centaur Media plc, Paul Robin was responsible for the Business Travel Shows in the UK, Germany and Dubai.  Most recently, Mark Harris ran the Institute of Travel Management's annual conference in his role as Head of Marketing.

Tours: Hockey announce a handful of UK dates

(photo by Teresa Christiansen) Get your feet ready for dancing merry old England, because these kids are going to make you tear up the dancefloor in two beats flat.  Sure, there may only be four dates right now up on the board, but we have a feeling that once the band's debut, Mind Chaos, hits shelves on June 2, a ton more shows will be quickly announced.  But before setting off on these very very few headlining dates, the Portland-based indie dance-rock group Hockey will be sharing bills with Friendly Fires as the supporting act for that band's run of dates in the US and the United Kingdom this spring. Dates: May 08 Nottingham, UK Red Room May 11 Reading, UK Plug And Play May 12 Cardiff, WAL Club Ifor Bach May 13 Portsmouth, UK The Cellars (mp3)    Hockey - Song Away Godspeed!

Travel Ideas for Ireland in All Four Seasons

Ireland. Just the name alone is enough to conjure up images or rolling green hills, stone cottages and frothy pints of Guinness served at quaint village pubs. Just with any travel destination, visiting Ireland during different times of the year will give you a completely different experience, and it is good to know what seasons might be best suited to what you are looking to do and see. Spring- Spring marks the beginning of Ireland's tourism season, which unofficially runs from Easter to the October Bank Holiday. Hotels, B&B's and tourist attractions are throwing their doors wide open, so there will be no shortage of things to see. If you make it to Ireland by St. Patrick's Day, head to Dublin to take part in the city's massive five-day St. Patrick's Day festival, including a parade. The temperature should be somewhere between 40-50 degrees F; perfect for hikes and outdoor exploring. Summer-Summer is definitely the height of tourist season, so if you choose to travel to Ireland during the summer months, expect things to be a little bit more crowded. With that said, summertime is the best time of year to visit the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula, once ranked by National Geographic magazine as "the most beautiful place on Earth." If kissing an ancient stone isn't something that interests you, go and check out Blarney Castle and its ancient beauty. Fall- Fall is an ideal time to do an Ireland pub tour. If you want to do an organized Ireland pub tour, you should have no problem finding one through a travel company, and those tend to happen during the months of October, November and December. If you want to plan your own pub and folk tour, look into stopping at destinations like the Abbey Tavern, Bunratty Castle, The Jameson and Guinness Brewery, the Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs of Moher. The fall colors will be beautiful this time of year, and there's no better time to be enjoying the local food and drink while being ferried down windy roads. Winter- If you want to have Ireland all to yourself, consider traveling during the winter. Considered the off-season as far as tourism is concerned, you may find that some B&B's and hotels have shut their doors for the season, as have tourist attractions. That doesn't mean that there isn't a ton to see and do. Not only will you enjoy much lower travel fares during the winter, you'll see meal, rental car and entry costs to attractions drop off significantly. Although the daylight fades earlier at this time of year, make it a point to visit the Burren in Clare, the Antrim coast, the Mournes in County Down and the Wicklow hills for some of the best of Ireland's natural beauty. Visiting Ireland is one of the best ways to get a feel for the richness of Irish culture. When you are unable to get away, wearing a piece of Celtic jewelry can really help create that feeling. Please visit Irish Celtic Jewels. We feature the best in Celtic jewelry that is crafted in Ireland. We have a large selection of Irish jewelry, including rings, earrings and necklaces that can help transport you to the Emerald Isle. We have the highest in quality customer service and superior products, and guarantee you will always find what you are looking for.

Browse > World Travel Deals / Dominican Hotels / Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus Visitors to the Dominican Republic who want to have a really varied holiday, trying something new every day, will find their needs catered to should they book into the Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus in Bayahibe. There is truly something for everyone here, and when you are not doing anything at all you can soak up the sun in the beautiful surroundings - as well as the picturesque scenery outside, the interior of the hotel is really something to behold. Rest and relaxation or fun and frolics - whatever your reasons for coming to the island you will find something that is to your taste almost immediately. The Hacienda Dominicus is really a hotel that can be all things to all people. Bayahibe is a small village tucked away in the province of La Altagracia. The proximity of a number of islands just off the coast make it an ideal location for those who enjoy summer water sports and snorkelling. If it's a game of golf you want, then nearby Casa de Campo is the place for you. The nearest city is La Romana, 30 minutes away, which is home to a fine cigar factory - which should take care of some of your gift needs - and a fine selection of outdoor markets where you can get a feel for the real Dominican Republic. Whatever it is that you really enjoy doing, there is scope to do it from a base at the Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus. The hotel itself has plenty for you to do as well. An all-inclusive tourist resort, it has some of the most stunning natural gardens you could hope to lay your eyes on - the perfect location for an evening stroll. The swimming pool is there, of course, for people who just want to take it easy and relax with a book or work up an appetite for the evening meal. The spa, sauna and numerous Jacuzzis will also make for a de-stressing time which will leave you in no doubt that you have made the right choice by deciding to stop at the Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus. Once you feel suitably relaxed, why not get down to the disco and let the music take you wherever it will? There really is something for everyone here. Obviously a hotel is nothing without a good room to lay your head down each night. The Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus comes up trumps on this front as well, with light, airy rooms that make the most of the natural warm climate. Fully air conditioned and spacious, many of the rooms also have an outside sitting area. So if you want to have some time away from the crowd just to enjoy the peace and quiet in a laid-back atmosphere, and maybe enjoy a meal or a drink from the mini-bar, then go ahead. If you just want to sit back and watch a bit of TV, then the satellite television in the rooms will be the perfect prescription for you. The hotel has got it all covered, all you need to do is show up, check in and have fun.

Gap Year Travel Insurance Cover

Gap Year Travel Insurance Cover Be it the school leaver, fresh graduates or the professionals; every year thousands of people out from each category takes an extended holiday to explore the new and unexplored vistas around the world. But it is really unfortunate that there are very few people who apprehend the risk factors involved on an adventurous travelling around and takes a travel insurance policy to repress the hazards. Many inexperienced youthful travellers usually set out on their adventurous trip without taking the proper coverage shield and later on make regret over it. According to the latest report it has been revealed that merely 30% gap year travellers carry travel insurance protection with them. Policies available on Gap year cover:- There are exact policies available for gap year travellers. For those aged up to 36 the policy is called backpacker insurance cover and for the above class it is known as long stay travel insurance. Although the policies within do not vary and remain same as far a coverage and other things are concerned. For a person taking in a Gap year cover, it is very important to keep down the point that the holiday will be longer than the usual and thus it is essential to carry a protective measure along with to reduce the trauma and the heavy expenses in case things go wrong between the trips. Sometimes due to lack of proper guiding people take some other policy instead of taking a gap year insurance cover, which is not suitable for such an extended holiday. Let's take an example of Annual-multi trip insurance plan which usually have a limit of 35-40 days and thus not at all suitable for a gap year traveller. So just availing an insurance cover is not enough, it is also important to get the right option to make your safety foolproof. Coverage offered under the policy:- Coverage for medical assistance including all medical repatriation, hospital advantage, funeral overheads overseas, etc Emergency cancellation of trip or cutting it short. Cover for loss of important belongings like important documents, baggage, etc. Personal liability- Financial security if something goes wrong with the person while in abroad. Personal accident or injury assistance. Generally, every travel insurance company provides you with the above mentioned covers but sometimes it may differ slightly. So before taking any cover do remember to read the documents and also specify all your exact requirements to the insurance provider. Things to consider while taking a policy:- Make sure that you are covered for the entire period of your trip. In someone also intends to work while in abroad then don't forget to check whether your policy will also cover it or not. Read every small print present in your document. Buy the travel insurance policy before you leave for the trip. Do not forget to evaluate the prices and polices of different insurance companies online. During your Gap year, if you wants to visit your home once or twice. Ensure that the policy you are taking in have this provision with it or not. Don't forget to carry all the important visas of countries, which are important on your lists. Buy your gap year travel insurance cover with insurancebookers.co.uk on your gap year trip. By: William Catherine

ITALY

The Vatican is to receive condoms in the post from subscribers to a Facebook group protesting Pope Benedict XVI's recent comments against the use of condoms to combat AIDS in Africa. Organisers of the Italian group on the social networking website said 60,000 subscribers will send a condom to the Vatican on Friday. But deliveries could total millions after similar Facebook groups across the world also pledged to participate. Condoms will be ''addressed to the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household, 00120 Vatican City'' and organisers are hoping they will all arrive on April 1. The Italian group said the gesture was intended as a ''peaceful provocation... from young people, who are probably the most involved with the problem of sexually transmitted diseases''. The Facebook campaign began in Italy but has spread through Europe, with thousands of people joining from France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria and Bulgaria, organisers said. The pontiff grabbed headlines worldwide last Tuesday after saying condoms not only do not help, but ''increase the problem'' in the spread of AIDS as he spoke to journalists on his flight to Africa. His comments came under heavy fire from AIDS agencies, humanitarian organisations, the European Commission and various European governments including those of Germany, France, Spain, Belgium and Luxembourg. Italian bishops on Monday accused the media, some European politicians and international organisations of having ''mocked'' the pope with their ''offensive'' and ''vulgar'' attacks. Rallying round the pope, the head of Italian Bishops Conference (CEI), Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco, said the barrage of criticism against the pope had ''been prolonged beyond good reason''.

Time Travel Adventure Book For Young Readers

What would you do if you could travel through time? What if it was only a one-way trip? When ten-year-old Aaron moved from the big city to the middle of Amish country, he felt transported to a different and simpler time and place. But after finding a faded and long forgotten diary page of a boy gone missing over one hundred years earlier, Aaron began an adventure more wondrous and exciting than he could have ever imagined. Befriended by a local farm girl named Jake, together they search for answers to this century long mystery and uncover the secrets of an astounding cavern that will take them to the edge of time itself. Growing up in the northern Indiana city of Mishawaka, Todd A Fonseca learned of the Amish culture through frequent family Sunday drives to rural Nappanee Indiana.   During these early years, Fonseca's interest in the arts began with music.  He became an accomplished accordionist participating in national competitions including a performance in New York's Carnegie Recital Hall.  His high school career added drama to his resume.  Having the role of curmudgeon Mr. Hassler in The Pajama Game, led to being cast as the lead in the production Jack and the Beanstalk.  At Marquette University, Fonseca received a Biomedical Engineering graduate degree. He is currently a senior clinical research director for a company researching deep brain stimulation for treating conditions such as Parkinson's Disease.  It is this eclectic mix of experiences with the Amish, the Arts, and Science, that Fonseca has drawn upon to create the juvenile fiction novel The Time Cavern. Fonseca admits, however, that as a child he did not enjoy reading, at least not until he read Madline L'Engle's A Wrinkle In Time. Completely engrossed in the story, he finished the novel in a day and subsequently became an insatiable reader. It was A Wrinkle In Time that inspired The Time Cavern.  Wanting to write a book that featured everyday kids, not the jock or the beautiful girl, Fonseca created a book that would let children experience something as grand as their imaginations--but be real.  Similar to L'Engle, he wrote it as a piece that does not talk down to these readers, but rather challenges their intellect while being entertaining. Having four children of his own, Fonseca wrote from the perspective of their insatiably curious minds.  As the main characters - Aaron and Jake - uncover the mystery of The Time Cavern, they must use their wits to put the pieces of the puzzle together which provides ample opportunity for a wonderful mixture of educational experiences to be seamlessly woven into the fabric of the novel.  The book's official website (www.thetimecavern.com) also integrates a Webquest, similar to Dan Brown's DaVinci code but for kids, to further the adventure.    National award winning author of Numenon, Sandy Nathan writes, "The values dimension of this book must be emphasized...[it weaves its spell with no violence, monsters, explosions, strong language--and not a single vampire!" and Dee Marie, author of Sons of Avalon writes, "I was pleasantly surprised to find "The Time Cavern" overflowing with factoids involving astronomy, science, history, religious acceptance, and family tolerance...all intertwined into an intriguing tale of mystery, discovery and suspense." Because of it's wonderful messages, educational experiences, and engaging story, The Time Cavern is the perfect read for advanced and gifted young readers searching for age appropriate material.  Fonseca's debut novel is currently the top tagged book in Amazon's Young Adult, Juvenile Fiction, Juvenile Adventure, and Amish customer communities.  It is the first book in The Time Cavern series.

Passionate About Travel

Today's guest blogger is funny, fearless, and full of fun. She also writes a delightful blog that leaves me laughing or inspired. Often, both at once. Please welcome Melisa of Lil Bee. ~ Relyn a yellow bicycle in San Diego When I first started dating my husband, Paul, we decided to drive cross-country together. I was itching to leave my job and try something new, and since Paul had the summer off, it seemed like the perfect idea. Off we went in a Jeep Wrangler with two bags of clothes, our chocolate lab, and ourselves. It was insane. We survived on fast food and slept in Super 8 motels. Our air conditioning stopped working during the four-hour drive through 105° Utah. There were laughs, tears, a broken ankle, a broken down car, and an almost-breakup during one heated argument. But, as adventures always go, looking back, it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. flat land and lots of clouds, somewhere near Indiana Four years later, Paul and I have visited some amazing places"”mostly together, though some on my own, for work or with friends. And the list of places we still want to explore keeps growing: Greece, Italy (again...and again...), Morocco, Australia, Corsica, Honduras, South America... the cliffs of Ravello, Italy For us, travel is about seeing each city or country as the locals do. Going off the beaten path, taking endless amounts of photos, and eating at mom-and-pop restaurants. It energizes and grounds you, all at once. a tiny, little tree on the road from Sevilla to Portugal I-m curious"”do you have a passion for travel? What are your favorite places to visit, and what-s next on your list of must-sees? view from our hotel in Oahu All words and images by Melissa of Lil Bee.

Kobe calls ex-maid's allegations "outrageous"

Maria Jimenez, the former maid to basketball superstar Kobe Bryant and his wife Vanessa, filed a lawsuit Friday in Orange County Superior Court, in which she claimed the couple "harassed and humiliated" her and failed to provide health coverage, as promised when she was hired. The maid also alleges that she was forced to quit because of "intolerable" working conditions. Specifically, the 48-year-old maid says Vanessa was repeatedly and incredibly abusive of her. In one instance, she says Vanessa ordered her to put her hand in a bag of dog feces to retrieve the price tag of a blouse. Maria claims Mrs. Bryant called her "lazy, slow dumb, a f---ing liar, and a f---ing piece of sh-t," and when she said she wanted to quit, Vanessa responded that she "had to work until payday to pay for the $690 blouse, which she did." According to the court papers, Maria worked six days a week, for 10 to 12 hours a day, in the Bryants' home from Sept. 2007 to March 2008, handling a number of tasks that included cleaning their house, washing their laundry and cleaning up after their children. After merely two weeks on the job, Maria claims, Vanessa started accusing her every now and then. The maid said she learned that she didn't have health insurance only when she became ill and sought medical attention. Maria says Vanessa "badgered, harassed and humiliated" her "by yelling, screaming and criticizing her in front of Kobe, their children, employees and other people in the house." According to Maria's lawyer, William Vogeler, his client was wrongly discharged because she was working under "intolerable circumstances" that forced her to leave the job. Maria is now suing couple for invasion of privacy, emotional distress, unpaid wages and wrongful discharge. In her lawsuit, Maria is seeking unspecified general, punitive and special damages. She claims she is owed more than $20,000 in earnings that were wrongly withheld. Meanwhile, the Bryants denied the allegations and issued a statement via the law firm Loeb & Loeb LLP. "Ms. Jimenez's outrageous allegations of improper conduct are totally unfounded and patently false," the statement reads. "The Bryants intend to vigorously defend against these untruthful allegations and are confident that the baseless nature of the allegations will be proven."

Walk in Interviews - Planet M, Bharat Flooring

1) Planet M Mobiles. Music. Moves. & mauj Graduate with min of 2 yrs hands on exp as store / floor manager or Fresh MBA with pleasant personality & good communication skill. 2. Floor Supervisors / Sr. Floor Supervisors: Graduate / under Graduate with 01-02 year of relevant exp. 3. Customer Service Associates: Smart Graduate / HSC with good communication skill with 0-1 yrs of relevant experience. Fresher are also welcome. Hands on experience in Music, Mobile or any retail exposure would be added advantages for all the positions. Walk in immediately with your CV & 1 Passport size Photo Date: 24th to 31st Mar 09. Time: 2.00pm-6.00pm Venue: Planet M Retail Ltd., 171, Mittal Court, C- wing, 17th Flr, Nariman Point, Mum-21 You may also post your resume at More Walk in Interview notices - Click here GetJobsalerts in yourEmail - Click HERE "”"”"”"”"”"”"”"”"”"”"”- 2) Enterprise - BPO Services Pvt. Ltd. Vacation Jobs -Earn Learn &Work during your vacations -A chance of your Lifetime to work for 'A Leading MNC March 28th 2009 to June 1st 2009 Real Life Inbound Call Center Experience REQUIREMENTS -18 YRS OF AGO Completed -Fluent English and one regional Language -Honest & Committed Individual -Good communication Skill Walk in from Mon to Sat between 10am-6pm at: Enterprise BPO Services Pvt. Ltd. Office No. 2 & 3, Floor, Washington Plaza, Next to Rantna Hotel, Off S.V. Rd Goregaon (W) Mumbai-400-062. E-mail: More Walk in Interview notices - Click here GetJobsalerts in yourEmail - Click HERE "”"”"”"”"”"”"”"”"”"”"”"” 3) Priyanka Communications India Pvt. Ltd. COME JOIN US FOR BRIGHT FUTURE Authorised Distributor Requires SALES EXECUTIVES (M): Young & dynamic male with 3 to 5 years of experience in channel sales, good communication skill & ability to work under target pressure. (Package Rs. 78000/- to 1.44.000/- p.a + incentives.) Education Qualification min. H.S.C. TEAM-LEADERS (M): With relevant channel Sales experience of at least 5 years in a good company Education Qualification Graduate. SALES MANAGER (M): Young & dynamic male with 7 to 8 yrs of experience in channel sales, good communication skill & ability to work under target pressure. OFFICE CLERK (M): Minimum HSC Passed/ Graduates for Miscellaneous Collection and other work. WALK-IN INTERVIEW Between 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. Priyanka Communications India Pvt. Ltd. 143, Oshiwara Indl, Centre, Opp. Oshiwara Bus Depot, New

Independent vs Guided Tours Part 3 - Extended Travel

In the previous posts, I have outlined the basics of what guided tour travel entails as well as gave a sample itinerary to show what all is included for a basic style trip. Before I decided to make this trip a round the world style adventure, I was looking at stringing together multiple tours in Asia rather than doing it on my own. After much reassurance from friends and researching the differences, I decided to go it on my own, and as a result can travel longer on the same budget. But how much longer? I still have all the researched information that I did this past summer when looking at tours while bored at work. The following is a basic summary of the tours that I was looking at, and their costs. All prices are including similar sight seeing and provided food like the Egypt and Jordan trip illustrated in the previous post. Tours: Intrepid Tours Beijing to Bali - 87 days - $6300 - China through Indonesia on a very similar itinerary to the planned trip. Intrepid Tours Mumbai to Kolkata - 36 days - $1935 - Jumping around India on a very similar itinerary Intrepid Tours Nepal Encompassed - 20 days - $1390 - Including an Everest view trek, much further away from base camp, otherwise similar itinerary Airfare: Dayton to Mumbai, Kolkata to Kathmandu, Kathmandu to Beijing, Denpassar to Tokyo, Osaka to Tokyo, Tokyo to Dayton - $3000 from Kayak. Extras: On top of the tours, I was also looking at doing 1 month in Japan alone and extra time in Bali at the end of the Beijing to Bali trip. Those costs would be the same for independent travel, and are neglected in this case. I should note that this only includes the basic levels of accommodation, transportation, some sight seeing, and minimal food. The cost is already at $12,420 for ~150 days. When you add in $15/day for sight seeing, $10/day for food, and similar visa and pre-trip costs as my planned itinerary, the cost is easily over $18,000 or $120/day. That is over $40/day higher than what you would pay on your own, at a minimum all inclusive. After seeing this, it is a fairly easy decision to throw off the fears of travel if you can stay 50% longer for the same cost. For those on a time limitation or require other needs, a tour might be worth the extra premium however and should be evaluated for your own scenario. The exception to the guided tour mark-up is short trips purchased while you are already at your destination. One example that I have researched is Halong Bay in Vietnam. While it is easy to get to Halong Bay on your own, you can get 3 day packages from Hanoi, with transportation, all food, activities, and sleeping on a traditional junket boat, for similar prices to what you would pay on your own without the hassle of booking it all independently. Similarly tours to Chitwan and Pokhara in Nepal can be purchased in Kathmandu with many included perks for prices not much more expensive than standard rates. So for me, I will leave guided tours alone unless I want to travel to areas of the world that are more difficult to travel on your own or are limited on time. The regions in South America and Asia I intend to visit have dedicated transit routes and are very popular backpacker trails, so tours are almost unnecessary. But don't be surprised if you see me on a few sub-week long tours that I randomly picked along the way for cheap either.

Lower travel budgets could limit security training

Last week, the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), a not-for-profit association of the global business travel industry, announced the results of its latest Business Travel Spend Survey. The survey showed that 71 percent of respondents expected to spend less on travel in 2009 than in 2008. For security executives, this means travel for training and educational events is likely to be cut or eliminated until the global economy gets back on its feet. Since the prospects for a speedy recovery look grim, security professionals must find an alternative way to access training and enhancement for themselves and their staff. With this in mind, the Security Executive Council (SEC) officially launched its new Security Executive Council Live online presentation series on February 17. SEC Live will give security practitioners in any location worldwide access to live seminars, presented by industry thought leaders, that deal with executive-level leadership concerns such as industry research and benchmarking, career and influence issues, security measures and metrics, emerging issues, innovative solutions, strategic planning, security operations and policies, standards and regulatory compliance. The first SEC Live event is The Impact of Economic Recession on Security Program Management: Recognizing and Managing the Shift in Business and Risk Assumptions, presented by Richard A. Lefler, Dean of Security Executive Council Faculty and Former CSO of American Express; and George K. Campbell, Security Executive Council Faculty/Contributing Editor and Former CSO of Fidelity Investments. For a full list of upcoming events and for more information about SEC Live, contact . To learn more about the Security Executive Council, visit www.securityexecutivecouncil.com.

Starfish Trelawny Resort and Spa - Trelawny, Jamaica

I used to turn my nose up at Starfish Trelawny. Boy was I wrong - this resort is VERY cute! I wouldn-t suggest it for a honeymoon or a young vacationing couple. But for families - this is my new favorite place. Now"¦..some of the rooms are configured unusually. The rooms that can accommodate two adults and a child have a double/queen bed; then around a little corner is a twin bed that leads to the balcony. I guess it-s to give the adults a little privacy. But it seems like the twin is just thrown in there. All of these rooms are in the four high rise buildings.The cottages have a better configuration. The first bedroom has the queen/king bed and then another room has bunk beds. The cottages are not overly spacious, but they-re right beside the pool. The resort has a lot for kids of all ages to do. I-m actually going back with my husband and children when school is out. My ten year old daughter saw the pictures and is ready to go now! And it-s very affordable"¦.. Please call the travel agent below to book your perfect Jamaica vacation: Alexis Armstrong, Travel Agent Distinct Destinations Travel Agency 267-760-1103 - cell 215-224-0100 - office 215-224-7928 - fax "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." - St. Augustine

Andong shows spirit of Confucianism, Buddhism

The Korea Herald, 17 March 2009 Andong City epitomizes Korean philosophy deeply rooted in Confucianism and Buddhism. The city, located in North Gyeongsang Province, has a reputation as the best preserved ancient metropolis, and has numerous temples, traditional academic houses, festivals and local delicacies to fill the curious appetite of travelers. Andong faces Youngyang and Cheongsong to the East, Yecheon to the West, Euiseong to the South and Youngju and Bonghwa to the North. The city is the largest in North Gyeongsang Province. Through the dynasties of Silla, Goryeo and Joseon, traditional culture prospered in Andong. It is one of few places in the world where Confucian practices are still directly passed down to descendents to this day, as well as being a center of education. The list of Andong-s main cultural assets includes its Andong Hahoe Village and Dosan Confucian Academy that is dubbed the heartland of Korea-s Confucian culture. There are currently 250 tangible and intangible national assets as well as folk plays handed down from generation to generation. At Hahoe Folk Village, festivals reprise such rituals as mask dance and farm music, as well as "seonyujul," the Korean version of fireworks. Dosanbyeolsi, a state examination conducted during the Joseon Dynasty, is reenacted by bringing together some 300 Korean studies experts from around the world. Sights of stiff-necked scholars are easy to find, as are performers wearing traditional masks ready for a dance performance for travelers. Andong is a place worth visiting to recapture the old Korea. Confucian academies Andong is considered the "cradle of learning," housing the largest number of Confucian academies. Andong was home to many noted scholars, including Taegye Lee Hwang and Seoae Ryu Seong-ryeong. At present, 26 of them remain, showcasing the traditional bi-annual rituals every spring and summer. They include Dosan Confucian School, Nongun-jeongsa Dormitory, Kwangmyeongsil Library, Yangjindang House and Byeongsan Confucian Academy. The most significant one is Dosan Confucian Academy, which inherits the spirit and lifestyle of aristocrats, who believed justice and good manners are key factors in life. Lee Hwang (1501-1570) was a scholar and a civil minister during the middle years of the Joseon Dynasty. He led the scholastic movements in the Gyeongsang area and was a strong rival against the students of Lee Yulgok. Lee Hwang devoted his life to raising his successors and delving into studies. In 1584, King Seonjo (1567-1608) gave orders to build Dosan Academy in memory of Lee Hwang. Hahoe Folk Village Another popular destination, and perhaps the most famous one, is Andong-s Hahoe Folk Village. Nestled in the arms of the Nakdong River, the village offers unrivaled scenery. The village was used by the Pungsanryu clan and has been preserved since the Joseon Dynasty. Some say from a bird-s-eye view, the village resembles a lotus flower floating on the water. The village remains as it looked in the Joseon Dynasty and is still lived in by the descendants of Joseon-s natural law scholar Seoae Ryu Seong-ryeong. Other habitants include clansmen of Ahns from Gwangju and Heos of Gimhae (Ahn and Heo are Korean surnames). Dirt roads as well as rough fences and traditional tiled houses make one feel as through they have gone back in time. International attention The value of Andong has brought the city attention from the international community, not to mention being one of the must-visit destinations for foreign dignitaries visiting Korea. In 1999, Queen Elizabeth II visited, touring around Hahoe Folk Village and the old houses of aristocrats and seeing the process of making kimchi and gochujang (red pepper paste). In honoring the queen for her 73th birthday, Andong also presented her with a special dinner table filled with Korean delicacies for which she reportedly remarked, "Very good! Wonderful!," raising her glass for a toast. On Oct. 27, 2004, Andong joined the 65-member League of World Historical Cities, proving itself to harbor long history and deep traditional and cultural values. Andong also successfully hosted in 2005 the third World Assembly of the International Organization of Folk Arts. In 2006, Andong established the International Mask Arts and Culture Organization to continue and foster the culture of masks that is a universal culture. Mecca of Buddhism Andong is also a mecca of Buddhism and plays a vital role in Korea-s religious and spiritual history. Buddhism of the Andong region focuses on sublimating an ideal community by using nature as itself, as is shown in the architecture of the temples that incorporate lines of nature. The most famous is Bongjeongsa Temple. According to myth, Monk Euisang of Silla-s King Munmu flew a paper-made phoenix into the air, and decided on the site where the bird nestled to build the Bongjeongsa Temple on. The temple houses Korea-s oldest wooden-made architecture Geukrakjeon Hall that is designated National Treasure No. 15. Other Buddhism-related sites include Daeungjeon Hall, Cheongdeung Cave, Gaemoksa Temple, Gwangheungsa Temple, Icheon-dong Buddha, Yongdamsa Temple, Sinse-dong seven-story brick pagoda and Jotap-dong five-story brick pagoda. Nature and leisure Andong is bordered by Mount Taebaek to the East and Mount Noryeong to the Northeast. The city is abundant with green lakes and Nakdong River flows through the center. Andong Lake is the third largest in Korea and one can boat along and even enjoy fishing. Gilancheon Stream in the meantime boasts beautiful mountain views and cliff edges along the stream. Leisure activities are available, including a rafting course along Nakdong River flowing down along Mount Cheongryang valley. Other activities include boating, water skiing and peanut and banana boats. Andong also boasts hot springs and other types of recreational accommodation, including Hakgasan Spa that is located southeast of Mount Haksa, and Mount Gyemyeong recreational forest located 530-meters above the sea level. It accommodates housing facilities, swimming pool, camping sites, campfire sites and more. For information on traveling Andong, visit www.andong.go.kr or www.tourandong.com How to get there By car from Seoul, get on Gyeongbu expressway and take the North Sangju interchange and head to Yecheon and then to Andong. It takes about two hours and 30 minutes. By train from Seoul, catch one from Cheongnyangni station. It takes four hours to reach Andong (Korea Railroad Cooperation 1544-7788). From Busan, catch a train at Bujeon Station (051-809-7788). By bus from Seoul, a direct route is available at Dong Seoul Terminal in Gabyeon Station and takes three hours (02-446-8000). Contacts: l Andong Tourism Information Center (054) 856-3013 l Gyeongbuk (North Gyeongsang) Tourism Information Center (054) 852-6800 al Hahoe Village Tourist Information Center (054) 852-3588 l Dosan Confucian Academy Management Office (054) 856-1073 l Andong Folk Museum (054) 840-6547 By Lee Joo-hee

2009 Nickelodeon Family Cruises

With the immense popularity of 2008-s first ever Nickelodeon Family Cruise, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line will be hosting two more Nickelodeon Themed Family Cruises. For the first time they will feature both a West Coast and East Cost cruise. The West Coast Cruise will sail from July 26-August 2, 2009 on a 7-night cruise through the Mexican Riviera on the Mariner of the Seas. The East Coast cruise will sail from August 9 - 16, 2009 on a 7-night voyage through the Eastern Caribbean on the Freedom of the Seas. Both ships feature many family friendly activities like multiple pools, rock climbing walls, in line skating tracks, miniature golf, and even an ice rink. The Freedom of the Seas features the innovative flow rider surfing/boogie board simulator. In addition to the regular Royal Caribbean cruise attractions, these voyage will feature special "Nick" themed activities. For more information you can visit the Royal Caribbean Nick Cruise Web Site. This cruise offers the perfect opportunity for families who are fans of Nickelodeon to enjoy an out of the ordinary cruise. Royal Caribbean has long courted the family cruise market with both their advertising "Get Out There" campaign and their feature filled ships, but the addition of Nick Characters and Nick Themed activities directly competes with the Disney Cruise line experience in attracting families with young children. Many of the Nickelodeon shows are extremely popular with both pre-school and school age chidren, so the opportunity to meet Nick Characters, or participate in games like "Slime Time Live" is a dream come true for many young people. While I thing I still prefer a more traditional cruise, this is the perfect opportunity for families to come together for a week of fun and sun "Nick" style. Categories: Blog, Features

A to Z of Adventure Travel: K is for Kenya

"Phone home"¦.." (Gerenuk - Samburu, Kenya) Although there may be a better park or more prolific wildlife somewhere, nowhere else offers thevariety and diversity of Kenya in such a compactand accessible area. In short, Kenya offers the one-stop-shopping of safaridom. The East African country is of course best known for its wildlife and game parks. It's most famous is the sprawling Masai Mara which lies along the Tanzanian borderand is the Kenyan continuation of theSerengeti. For most visitors, the Mara is Africa: rolling amber plains filled with herds of elephant and antelope; rivers teeming with hippos and crocodiles; flat-topped acacia trees; rocky outcrops;mud-hut villages and resplendent warriors. When you're in the Mara there is nowhere else on earth you could be than Africa. The Mara is renowned for the annual wildlife migration which sees massive herds moving from one grazing rea to another while predators line up like rugby players at a buffet. Although the migration is every bit as great as any television documentarysuggests,the Mara is just as awe-inspiring at anytime. If you visit only one park or reserve and want a truly African experience, it must be the Masai Mara. Further to the east and still on the Tanzanian border is Amboseli, a great wildlife park in its own right, but withKilimanjaro in the background, one of the most scenic parks on the continent. Anything photographed standing beforethe snowcapped peak immediately becomes poster-worthy. Be forewarned, however"¦Kili can often be shrouded in cloud leaving nothing more than its lowest slopes visible. For a different taste of Africa, try Samburu in the mid-north. Nestled in the semi-desert, Samburu is reminiscent of the Australian Outback"¦except with lions and leopard. For keen wildlife buffs, there are also species found here and not inparks further south, like the gerenuk or giraffe gazelle. Samburu is also home to the Samburu people who branched off from the Maasai many generations ago and have maintained their own traditions and customs. The Rift Valley provides epic scenery from its origins in Mozambique until its demise in Jordan, but few countries benefit from it as greatly as Kenya. From soda lakes painted red by millions of flamingos to volcanoes and baboon-strewn escarpments, Kenya's Rift Valley is a magnificent wonder. Lake Naivasha was a playground for colonials before independence, but its tranquil waters and reed-lined shore belie the hippos that lurk beneath. "Born Free" author Joy Adamson's home is now open for overnight visitors or just for afternoon tea, while Hell's Gate National Park provides a rare opportunity to get out and walk amid the wildlife - thanks to the absence of most of the more dangerous animals! If a week on safari has you yearning to stretch your legs, there's always Mount Kenya to provide a challenge. Although conquering Africa's second-highest mountain requires no technical skill, it is a much tougher trek thanKilimanjarobut every bit as rewarding. Climbs generally take 5 days with an additional day necessary to get to and from Nairobi. Kenya's Swahili coast is a wonderful mixture of relaxation and cultural enrichment. The palm-fringed beaches caress crystal clear waters while the towns bustle with busy markets and the call to prayer. For a truly tranquil experience, try to find a quieter property on the edge of town. Or, for a spot of adventure take the legendary "Man-Eater Express" sleeper train from Nairobi, so named for the lions that stalked the men who laid the track more than a century ago. Whether starting or ending your trip in Nairobi, be sure to visit the dusty National Museum and the legendary Carnivore restaurant. And, if you want one last taste of wildlife that's not as literal as that at Carnivore, take a spin through Nairobi National Park for the opportunity to catch some of the Big Five with the city's skyscrapers in the background. Photo and post by: Simon Vaughan

Recession-proof: Two Salinas-area prep band trips ready to go

Even in an economic downturn, band students from two Salinas-area high schools have managed to raise funds for trips to Washington, D.C., and China. Twenty-three students from Everett Alvarez High School will leave this morning for Washington, D.C., and will perform Saturday morning in an Abraham Lincoln bicentennial concert at the Lincoln Memorial. They will return from their whirlwind tour Sunday evening, and are expected to be in class Monday morning. About 90 students from North Monterey County High School, plus 60 parent chaperones, will leave March 31 for a 15-day trip to China, where they will perform at several locations throughout the country. The 2009 trip marks the third time since 2001 the band has traveled to China. "I'm really excited," said Austria Cho, 16, the band's drum major. "I'm Chinese, and I've never been to China. I'm an Army brat and I've been to Korea but never to China." Cho's mother, Army Lt. Col. America Cho, is stationed in Hawaii and will be stationed in Afghanistan later this year. Cho lives with her father, Tom Cho. Cho's grandparents emigrated from southern China. Her aunt, Alice Sullivan, will accompany her on the trip. This will also be Sullivan's first trip to China. "I can't believe we're leaving in a week," Cho said. "I like reading historical fiction about Asian culture, and I'm looking forward to immersing myself in the culture." "I'm always amazed to see how hard students and parents work to make the trip," said D.L. Johnson, director of bands for North Monterey County High School. "We've had difficulty all along this year, and it's been harder for corporations and companies supporting us." To make up for the donation shortfall, band members and their parents turned to selling coffee, cookie dough and asking relatives for help. About half of the students going on the trip received donations from outside Monterey County, which illustrates the breadth of fundraising required to meet the $3,400-per-person cost of the trip, Johnson said.