I have not been to many "ghost towns", but I have seen a couple. Still, this does not make me an expert, but almost every time my wife and I visit family in Mesa, we like to ride out and take a stroll through Goldfield.
Established in 1892 when a fairly large amount of gold was discovered in the area, Goldfield has had its ups and downs. The first find petered out in about five years, and although another set of investors used newer equipment a few years later to get more gold, that also ran out, and in 1926, the town died a second death.
It was, in it's day, a fairly desolate and isolated area, and without the gold, there was not much to attract the visitor. However, in 1966, Robert F. “Bob” Schoose, a long time ghost town, mining, and treasure-hunting enthusiast made a trip to the Superstition Mountains. He instantly fell in love with the area and established a home in nearby Mesa, Arizona.
Eventually, Bob Schoose decided that he wanted to own a ghost town. However, after inspecting the site of the actual town, he was only able to find a few remnants of the original Goldfield. He did not let this deter him and finally purchased a five acre site which was the location of the old Goldfield Mill.
Not having a "real" ghost town, Bob set out to create his own.
Over the years, businesses have been added which give at least the sensation of being in an old town. Even the most casual observer, however, can easily recognize that the "town" is actually not much more than a set, and not even a very realistic one. It is actually a setting dotted with ancient appearing artifacts which gives the illusion of a ghost town of the old west.
Even so, for the city slicker wanting a glimpse of the Old West, the child, or the adult who still remembers old Saturday morning westerns with Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, or Rex Allen, can still stir up some of the old feelings just by wandering down (or up) the dusty street.
There is a reconstructed mine tunnel, a narrow gauge railroad, and several sellers of modern, though often old-appearing, souvenirs. There are places to eat, and, as I did recently at my wife's request, the visitor can get a sepia-toned photograph in semi-authentic western garb.
All in all, I would not put the Goldfield Ghost Town at the head of a list of "must visit" places, but, if you are in the area and have nothing to compare it to, or if you just want to get a feel for the past, it's worth a visit. After all, it's free to walk the streets and watch the weekend gunfights. Don't forget to pick up a bag of the Golden Carmel Corn Nuggets or the Churro Nuggets (my personal favorite) at "Mother Lode Mercantile".
If you DO choose to visit Goldfield, one thing you really should do is visit the museum and take your time looking over the exhibits. They are about as real as it gets. Hey! If nothing more, you will at least be able to say you saw Doc Holliday's coat!
You can learn more by visiting the Goldfield Ghost Town website.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Finding Cheap Theme Park Tickets
By Cyndi Mason
Granted, theme parks of all kinds can get pricey. That includes amusement as well as water parks. It's expensive enough to try to take only yourself to one of these places for the day let alone an entire family of four or more. This is particularly true when you pay the regular in season prices. These can be expensive. However, on the other hand, if you know how to look for and locate some deals, there are many ways to find cheap theme park tickets. Not only that, but you can also find ways to save money on souvenirs, food, and many other things.
Something you can do to find cheap theme park tickets is to go to your computer and look on the Internet. There are several major amusement parks like Six Flags that will offer discounted tickets and more special deals when you visit their websites. They must be the official websites, though, if you want to find exclusive deals. You can also look for package deals through travel sites as well as websites for accommodations that are near the theme park that you want to visit. Sometimes they'll throw in discounted tickets if you book a room through their establishment.
You can also find ticket outlet companies that offer tickets for discounted prices. In fact, once you order them, you can print them out right from your computer. This keeps you from having to wait for them to get to your home through the mail. Instead, you can buy them, print them out and use them instantly.
Amusement parks will usually offer special promotions through popular soda companies. Check cans of your favorite soda drink. You just may find some information printed on them or on bottle labels that will tell you how to take advantage of these promotions.
Watch out for fliers and brochures that may be available at your local grocery stores, malls and restaurants. Many of these will have free coupons that you can use at various parks. These can help you save money when you plan your next trip to an amusement park.
Subscribe to newsletters that offer special promotions and other bargains for theme parks. In this way, you'll be informed each time discount tickets for theme parks become accessible through any website on the Internet. This is one of the best ways to know as soon as the tickets are released to the public for purchasing.
As you can see, there are various ways to find cheap theme park tickets. This is true no matter where you live or where you plan to travel.
To make your trip planning even simpler, you'll be able to find many of these promotional offers and discounts for theme park tickets at Theme Park World. That's right! The work and research will all be done for you so there won't be a need for you to traipse all over the Internet to find the best deals for you and your family. So check back often if your family loves visiting theme parks.
Article Source: Finding Cheap Theme Park Tickets
Granted, theme parks of all kinds can get pricey. That includes amusement as well as water parks. It's expensive enough to try to take only yourself to one of these places for the day let alone an entire family of four or more. This is particularly true when you pay the regular in season prices. These can be expensive. However, on the other hand, if you know how to look for and locate some deals, there are many ways to find cheap theme park tickets. Not only that, but you can also find ways to save money on souvenirs, food, and many other things.
Something you can do to find cheap theme park tickets is to go to your computer and look on the Internet. There are several major amusement parks like Six Flags that will offer discounted tickets and more special deals when you visit their websites. They must be the official websites, though, if you want to find exclusive deals. You can also look for package deals through travel sites as well as websites for accommodations that are near the theme park that you want to visit. Sometimes they'll throw in discounted tickets if you book a room through their establishment.
You can also find ticket outlet companies that offer tickets for discounted prices. In fact, once you order them, you can print them out right from your computer. This keeps you from having to wait for them to get to your home through the mail. Instead, you can buy them, print them out and use them instantly.
Amusement parks will usually offer special promotions through popular soda companies. Check cans of your favorite soda drink. You just may find some information printed on them or on bottle labels that will tell you how to take advantage of these promotions.
Watch out for fliers and brochures that may be available at your local grocery stores, malls and restaurants. Many of these will have free coupons that you can use at various parks. These can help you save money when you plan your next trip to an amusement park.
Subscribe to newsletters that offer special promotions and other bargains for theme parks. In this way, you'll be informed each time discount tickets for theme parks become accessible through any website on the Internet. This is one of the best ways to know as soon as the tickets are released to the public for purchasing.
As you can see, there are various ways to find cheap theme park tickets. This is true no matter where you live or where you plan to travel.
To make your trip planning even simpler, you'll be able to find many of these promotional offers and discounts for theme park tickets at Theme Park World. That's right! The work and research will all be done for you so there won't be a need for you to traipse all over the Internet to find the best deals for you and your family. So check back often if your family loves visiting theme parks.
Article Source: Finding Cheap Theme Park Tickets
Monday, April 2, 2012
I Want to Write About My Travel Experiences and Write Restaurant Reviews
Yep! That's me.
As I say in the description of this blog, I love to travel. However, I love to write too, and, if you are reading this, it's possible that you do as well!
Some like to write about travel just for the personal satisfaction. Some enjoy the feeling of helping others find their way in strange places. Some do it to make money. Some like the little bit of "fame", no matter how small, which finds the travel writer or restaurant reviewer.
For most, like myself, it's probably a little bit of all four reasons.
Like many such activities, before you can be considered an "expert" you have to pay your dues.
In the old days, this meant traveling around, writing articles, and submitting them to various print publications. For better or for worse, the Internet has made it possible for people to begin by publishing their own articles at many places online and to take advantage of many options available to the budding travel writer and/or restaurant reviewer.
What I am doing right now is one thing that almost anyone can do....blogging.
Again, the blogger has many goals. A blog may be for expressing opinion, getting things off your chest, for sharing knowledge. Many, driven by those, and other desires, find that blogging for fun or some other reason may eventually turn into blogging for cash.
If you love to travel, dine in restaurants, or pursue some other hobby, you can enhance the experience by blogging about it. You can also create a travel website or submit articles and reviews to article directories such as EzineArticles.com.
A great place to begin creating some of your first restaurant reviews is at UrbanSpoon.com. However, if you want to get serious about writing restaurant reviews, you might want to look at www.beafoodcritic.com.
With the Internet, you can be a travel writer or restaurant reviewer without waiting for editors of other people's writing venues.
As I say in the description of this blog, I love to travel. However, I love to write too, and, if you are reading this, it's possible that you do as well!
Some like to write about travel just for the personal satisfaction. Some enjoy the feeling of helping others find their way in strange places. Some do it to make money. Some like the little bit of "fame", no matter how small, which finds the travel writer or restaurant reviewer.
For most, like myself, it's probably a little bit of all four reasons.
Like many such activities, before you can be considered an "expert" you have to pay your dues.
In the old days, this meant traveling around, writing articles, and submitting them to various print publications. For better or for worse, the Internet has made it possible for people to begin by publishing their own articles at many places online and to take advantage of many options available to the budding travel writer and/or restaurant reviewer.
What I am doing right now is one thing that almost anyone can do....blogging.
Again, the blogger has many goals. A blog may be for expressing opinion, getting things off your chest, for sharing knowledge. Many, driven by those, and other desires, find that blogging for fun or some other reason may eventually turn into blogging for cash.
If you love to travel, dine in restaurants, or pursue some other hobby, you can enhance the experience by blogging about it. You can also create a travel website or submit articles and reviews to article directories such as EzineArticles.com.
A great place to begin creating some of your first restaurant reviews is at UrbanSpoon.com. However, if you want to get serious about writing restaurant reviews, you might want to look at www.beafoodcritic.com.
With the Internet, you can be a travel writer or restaurant reviewer without waiting for editors of other people's writing venues.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Thinking of Visiting Barcelona? An Overview ot the History of Tourism There.
Site of the 1992 Summer Olympic Games, the city of Barcelona is a lesser known but excellent destination for the tourist than some of the more famous Cities of the World. In addition to being a stop for the visitor to Europe or Spain, its location on the Mediterranean coast also makes it a popular destination and departure point for many cruises.
One of the most individual aspects of Barcelona is its homage to hometown architect, Antonio Gaudi (1852-1926). In fact, an appreciation of Gaudi architecture is what brings many visitors to the city.
In the following article, the author, who has business in Barcelona, offers his unique point of view.
============
History of Tourism in Barcelona
By Gaizka Pujana
Because its people attract tourists, it is frequently written about in books, and its locality often described and romanticized.
The founding of the city began with the occupation of the Romans in the First Century B.C, who imposed walls and as a result, for a long period of time, separated villages from the walled area which is actually a part of the city. As of late, the different Catalonian countries united and pushed forward the rise of Barcelona as a tourist capital.
The Olympic Games in 1992 has had a remarkable effect on the city, and it is because of this sports extravaganza that the city has built its heritage around sports. Because of the successful staging of the Olympic Games as the destination city and host, the government was able to promote Barcelona and made it one of the top destinations for travel whether for business or personal time. Together with this rise in tourist visits, Barcelona decided to have a Hotel Plan, where numerous hotels were built to house tourists from all over the world.
Up to this day, Barcelona has a count of 534 hotels with different hotel star ratings. The hotels are categorized under: bread and breakfast, best value, family, luxury, trendy and vacation rentals (tripadvisor.com). This outstanding boost in hotel availability and performance is a direct signifier that the demands of accommodations have steadily increased over the years.
Because booking and travelling has been made easier through online marketing, more and more tourists find it hassle free to confirm reservations over the internet. This has played a big role towards attaining the Record Year for 2011. Since 2005, visitor counts to Barcelona continued to rise (ehotelier.com) and 2010 saw the double digit increase, leading to outstanding performance in 2011.
Together with the contemporary architecture and a unique immersive experience being offered by the city itself, these factors create an overall package for the tourist to remember Barcelona. And because the result of returns depends on the good experiences of a tourist, so does the marketing spread also through shared experiences and word-of-mouth. The combined efforts of tourism authorities, smart campaigning and the local people and their hospitality in bringing more tourists in Barcelona has strengthened the industry in many ways, long since the biggest sports event took place.
Because there is strength in numbers, so do memorable experiences of the city and its activities have when it comes to a unified effort in accommodating tourists well. Barcelona has proven its abilities as the City of Marvels. And she just might bring in more curious visitors over the years to come.
Do not forget that you can save money on your accommodation by renting apartments in Barcelona cheap or cheap apartments Barcelona.
Article Source: History of Tourism in Barcelona
One of the most individual aspects of Barcelona is its homage to hometown architect, Antonio Gaudi (1852-1926). In fact, an appreciation of Gaudi architecture is what brings many visitors to the city.
In the following article, the author, who has business in Barcelona, offers his unique point of view.
============
History of Tourism in Barcelona
By Gaizka Pujana
Because its people attract tourists, it is frequently written about in books, and its locality often described and romanticized.
The founding of the city began with the occupation of the Romans in the First Century B.C, who imposed walls and as a result, for a long period of time, separated villages from the walled area which is actually a part of the city. As of late, the different Catalonian countries united and pushed forward the rise of Barcelona as a tourist capital.
The Olympic Games in 1992 has had a remarkable effect on the city, and it is because of this sports extravaganza that the city has built its heritage around sports. Because of the successful staging of the Olympic Games as the destination city and host, the government was able to promote Barcelona and made it one of the top destinations for travel whether for business or personal time. Together with this rise in tourist visits, Barcelona decided to have a Hotel Plan, where numerous hotels were built to house tourists from all over the world.
Up to this day, Barcelona has a count of 534 hotels with different hotel star ratings. The hotels are categorized under: bread and breakfast, best value, family, luxury, trendy and vacation rentals (tripadvisor.com). This outstanding boost in hotel availability and performance is a direct signifier that the demands of accommodations have steadily increased over the years.
Because booking and travelling has been made easier through online marketing, more and more tourists find it hassle free to confirm reservations over the internet. This has played a big role towards attaining the Record Year for 2011. Since 2005, visitor counts to Barcelona continued to rise (ehotelier.com) and 2010 saw the double digit increase, leading to outstanding performance in 2011.
Together with the contemporary architecture and a unique immersive experience being offered by the city itself, these factors create an overall package for the tourist to remember Barcelona. And because the result of returns depends on the good experiences of a tourist, so does the marketing spread also through shared experiences and word-of-mouth. The combined efforts of tourism authorities, smart campaigning and the local people and their hospitality in bringing more tourists in Barcelona has strengthened the industry in many ways, long since the biggest sports event took place.
Because there is strength in numbers, so do memorable experiences of the city and its activities have when it comes to a unified effort in accommodating tourists well. Barcelona has proven its abilities as the City of Marvels. And she just might bring in more curious visitors over the years to come.
Do not forget that you can save money on your accommodation by renting apartments in Barcelona cheap or cheap apartments Barcelona.
Article Source: History of Tourism in Barcelona
Friday, March 30, 2012
Restaurant Review: El Paisa - Bedford, Texas
I don't normally eat breakfast at a restaurant, but, as it happens, after having a great breakfast at the Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington, Texas earlier this week, it happened again. My daughter wanted to try out El Paisa, and, since she had an early morning appointment and needed me to drive her, I agreed to try it out with her and my grandson...age 3. His comments will not be included in this report.
I had driven past El Paisa, a dine-in mexican fast-food restaurant, on Harwood Road in Bedford, many times and usually made a mental note to eat there sometime. No real reason, just had an air about it.
The first thing I noticed was how clean and neat the outside was.
Once inside, the lady at the register was very friendly, helpful, and, as my daughter put it on UrbanSpoon, "sweet". She was also very patient as my daughter is visually impaired, my grandson is...ahem...active, and I had no clue what I wanted...and have been without my ADHD meds for several days!
Eventually, my daughter decided to get one of the breakfast plates. She got a breakfast "torta" for her son, and I got a breakfast burrito with egg and bacon, and a cup of coffee.
Seated and looking around, the inside was not new, but still very clean and attractive in a simple, mexican motif manner. The bathroom was good sized and also clean, by the way. There was fairly quiet Hispanic music playing in the background of the restaurant, lighting was good but not intense, and the overall ambiance was comfortable.
El Paisa Dining Area
The food was prepared in what appeared to be a clean kitchen. I have been a restaurant manager and try to look at such things.
One word for servings at El Paisa is "big". The breakfast plate was big, my grandson's breakfast torta was big, as was my burrito. I could have played football with it! They put three eggs in almost everything, by the way.
El Paisa Breakfast Torta
Even the coffee, which was good, by the way, was in a big cup, and the lady offered me a refill for free.
The food was delicious, and my daughter, who knows these things, informed me it was "Mexican" not "Tex-Mex". Having had most of my Mexican food experiences in Texas, I noticed that the food at El Pais in Bedford, TX, reminded me of what I got in Mexican restaurants in California. A bit lighter but still flavorful. Sometimes the food in "Mexican" restaurants, even the ones I really like, overwhelms me. This was good, simple fare and I completely enjoyed the experience.
I will be taking my wife there for a meal in the near future. If you like Mexican food, you might want to visit El Pais in Bedford, Texas.
=====================
CITIES OF THE WORLD
I had driven past El Paisa, a dine-in mexican fast-food restaurant, on Harwood Road in Bedford, many times and usually made a mental note to eat there sometime. No real reason, just had an air about it.
The first thing I noticed was how clean and neat the outside was.
Once inside, the lady at the register was very friendly, helpful, and, as my daughter put it on UrbanSpoon, "sweet". She was also very patient as my daughter is visually impaired, my grandson is...ahem...active, and I had no clue what I wanted...and have been without my ADHD meds for several days!
Eventually, my daughter decided to get one of the breakfast plates. She got a breakfast "torta" for her son, and I got a breakfast burrito with egg and bacon, and a cup of coffee.
Seated and looking around, the inside was not new, but still very clean and attractive in a simple, mexican motif manner. The bathroom was good sized and also clean, by the way. There was fairly quiet Hispanic music playing in the background of the restaurant, lighting was good but not intense, and the overall ambiance was comfortable.
El Paisa Dining Area
The food was prepared in what appeared to be a clean kitchen. I have been a restaurant manager and try to look at such things.
One word for servings at El Paisa is "big". The breakfast plate was big, my grandson's breakfast torta was big, as was my burrito. I could have played football with it! They put three eggs in almost everything, by the way.
El Paisa Breakfast Torta
Even the coffee, which was good, by the way, was in a big cup, and the lady offered me a refill for free.
The food was delicious, and my daughter, who knows these things, informed me it was "Mexican" not "Tex-Mex". Having had most of my Mexican food experiences in Texas, I noticed that the food at El Pais in Bedford, TX, reminded me of what I got in Mexican restaurants in California. A bit lighter but still flavorful. Sometimes the food in "Mexican" restaurants, even the ones I really like, overwhelms me. This was good, simple fare and I completely enjoyed the experience.
I will be taking my wife there for a meal in the near future. If you like Mexican food, you might want to visit El Pais in Bedford, Texas.
=====================
CITIES OF THE WORLD
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Restaurant Review: Buttermilk Cafe - Artlington, Texas
When you travel you eat, and, since you often eat at restaurants which you know nothing about, I have decided to include the occasional restaurant review on my travel blog.
At the moment, my own abilitiy to travel is curtailed due to some personal and family health issues, but that will change in a few months. As it is, my wife and I don't get out much except for the common errands, and don't eat out a whole lot, and, when we do, it is usually at a few favorite restaurants.
One of these favorites for the last year has been the Buttermilk Cafe on Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas. A down-home sort of place, which reminded us of another favorite, Lil' Tex, in Copperas Cove, Texas, it was popular with the locals (of which we are now a part), served hearty, if not gourmet, American food, in large portions with good-ol-gal hospitality from the waitresses.
I love having a sweet waitress, young or old, call me "Honey" or "Darlin" (no "g"), or even "Sweetheart", by the way.
Anyway, a family task took us down into Arlington early yesterday morning, and we decided to stop in and have breakfast at the newly opened Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington, Texas, just a hop, skip, and jump South on Collins from Cowboy Stadium.
We were greeted warmly by the waitstaff, and our waitress, Kaylee, made sure we were taken care of, including starting a new pot of coffee for me.
To be honest, when I write about a restaurant, I have to admit that I do not know a whole lot about how food should be prepared...or taste. Oh sure, I can tell when it tastes okay to me, but I spent 21 years in the military, dining happily off messhall food, C-Rations, and MRE's.
So, other than saying the food looked and tasted good, I'm not going to say any more on preparation, appearance, and taste.
Hey! It was the Sampler with eggs, all the meats, grits and toast! Basic breakfast. However, it was hot, it tasted great (to me...Mr. Dead Tastebuds), and it was served quickly by an attentive Kaylee, who also kept my coffee cup filled. Diners at other tables and booths seemed to be getting fast and friendly service as well, by the way.
What more could I ask?
My wife, who does recognize good food, ordered a greek omelet with biscuits and gravy and assures me that everything was excellent, except that the biscuits, which were supposed to be soaked in gravy anyway, were a tiny bit hard for her liking.
The portions were even more than we normally get at the Buttermilk Cafe in Hurst, and, for once, even I could not finish....our dog got a treat.
A few weeks earlier, we had introduced one of our daughters, the gourmand and would-be gourmet cook, not the one who is a parole officer, to the Buttermilk Cafe in Hurst, and she is hooked. We intend to introduce both of them to the Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington.
We do heartily recommend the Buttemilk Cafe in Arlington (817-459-4477), at 404 North Collins St., Arlington, Texas 76011. They serve a basic American menu, have daily specials, and don't hold back on the portions. The food tastes good and the service is excellent.
Visitors to the Arlington, Texas area may want to know that the Buttermilk Care in Arlington is convenient to Six Flags, Cowboy Stadium, and the Texas Ranger's Ballpark. While Six Flags would be a bit of a stretch, a healthy fan could easily walk from the restaurant to a football or baseball game. Although located slight away from "the action" there are many other good restaurants, quality motels, and plenty of shopping of all kinds within a mile or so. To reach I-30, just head north on Collins for a mile or so. Go east on I-30 and south on Highway 360 to get down to I-20.
You "can" reach I-20 by going south on Collins, but you go through a lot of stoplights and neighborhoods.
If this comment entices you to go there, please let them know where you saw this review.
At the moment, my own abilitiy to travel is curtailed due to some personal and family health issues, but that will change in a few months. As it is, my wife and I don't get out much except for the common errands, and don't eat out a whole lot, and, when we do, it is usually at a few favorite restaurants.
One of these favorites for the last year has been the Buttermilk Cafe on Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas. A down-home sort of place, which reminded us of another favorite, Lil' Tex, in Copperas Cove, Texas, it was popular with the locals (of which we are now a part), served hearty, if not gourmet, American food, in large portions with good-ol-gal hospitality from the waitresses.
I love having a sweet waitress, young or old, call me "Honey" or "Darlin" (no "g"), or even "Sweetheart", by the way.
Anyway, a family task took us down into Arlington early yesterday morning, and we decided to stop in and have breakfast at the newly opened Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington, Texas, just a hop, skip, and jump South on Collins from Cowboy Stadium.
We were greeted warmly by the waitstaff, and our waitress, Kaylee, made sure we were taken care of, including starting a new pot of coffee for me.
To be honest, when I write about a restaurant, I have to admit that I do not know a whole lot about how food should be prepared...or taste. Oh sure, I can tell when it tastes okay to me, but I spent 21 years in the military, dining happily off messhall food, C-Rations, and MRE's.
So, other than saying the food looked and tasted good, I'm not going to say any more on preparation, appearance, and taste.
Hey! It was the Sampler with eggs, all the meats, grits and toast! Basic breakfast. However, it was hot, it tasted great (to me...Mr. Dead Tastebuds), and it was served quickly by an attentive Kaylee, who also kept my coffee cup filled. Diners at other tables and booths seemed to be getting fast and friendly service as well, by the way.
What more could I ask?
My wife, who does recognize good food, ordered a greek omelet with biscuits and gravy and assures me that everything was excellent, except that the biscuits, which were supposed to be soaked in gravy anyway, were a tiny bit hard for her liking.
The portions were even more than we normally get at the Buttermilk Cafe in Hurst, and, for once, even I could not finish....our dog got a treat.
A few weeks earlier, we had introduced one of our daughters, the gourmand and would-be gourmet cook, not the one who is a parole officer, to the Buttermilk Cafe in Hurst, and she is hooked. We intend to introduce both of them to the Buttermilk Cafe in Arlington.
We do heartily recommend the Buttemilk Cafe in Arlington (817-459-4477), at 404 North Collins St., Arlington, Texas 76011. They serve a basic American menu, have daily specials, and don't hold back on the portions. The food tastes good and the service is excellent.
Visitors to the Arlington, Texas area may want to know that the Buttermilk Care in Arlington is convenient to Six Flags, Cowboy Stadium, and the Texas Ranger's Ballpark. While Six Flags would be a bit of a stretch, a healthy fan could easily walk from the restaurant to a football or baseball game. Although located slight away from "the action" there are many other good restaurants, quality motels, and plenty of shopping of all kinds within a mile or so. To reach I-30, just head north on Collins for a mile or so. Go east on I-30 and south on Highway 360 to get down to I-20.
You "can" reach I-20 by going south on Collins, but you go through a lot of stoplights and neighborhoods.
If this comment entices you to go there, please let them know where you saw this review.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Going Where They Don't Speak English? Learn the Language.
I lived in Europe for six years. It wasn't my idea, but Uncle Sam said to do it, so I did....and loved it!
One of the things that made it so great was that before I got stationed to Germany, the army sent me to the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California to learn German.
I remember two American sitting in a train in Munich, complaining loudly about their visit to Germany because nobody spoke English. Actually, a great many people in Germany, and other European contries, DO speak English, but, often they will not try because of the poor manners and attitudes of many visitors to their country.
On the other hand, I cannot count the number of times that people began smiling and chatting when I revealed that I spoke THEIR language! My ability to speak, read, and write German not only allowed me to enjoy my stay in Germany so much more, but helped me feel almost as if I was in my native land.
If you are going to visit a foreign land, try at least to learn the language, or at least a few key phrases.
=======================
Top 5 Reasons to Learn a Foreign Language Abroad
By Marie Von Schlieben
"I speak English, so I don't have to learn a foreign language..."
If you have thought this more than twice then...welcome! You found the right article to read!
You share your language with approximately 480 million other people around the world. Still, this is just 7 percent of the world's population! There are 6,999 remaining languages after linguists that you've ignored so far. It will take time and effort to learn one of these foreign languages, but it will definitely be worth it as it will have a positive effect on your personal, social and even professional development. Even if English is not your mother tongue, you're still welcome as you will have even greater benefits by learning a second foreign language.
First of all, you probably already have an idea in mind where you would like to go and which language you would like to study. This is great! But then there's this feeling that you aren't 100% convinced yet because you don't know what to tell your parents and your friends and sometimes you even need to convince yourself. Don't worry that's normal, it's called your weaker self and I have it as well. So here comes the ultimate list to convince you to have a serious talk with the lazy person living inside of you:
1.) Experience a new culture by fully immersing yourself
By choosing to learn Spanish for example in Latin America instead of doing a course in your hometown you've already made the right choice regarding two important points. First, you will learn the language a lot faster in the country where it's spoken because you are constantly surrounded by it. Secondly, you will experience cultural differences such as traditions, foods and special customs by living in this place. Even though it is for a short time period you adapt to the daily life which allows you to get a more distinct point of view.
2.) Travel and see new places
Once you get out of your comfort zone you get excited, nervous sometimes even a bit scared and this is exactly what makes you develop personally. Only if we leave our comfort zone from time to time are we able to learn and develop. A new place, people you don't know and things you are not used to, will help you to broad your horizons. Without even mentioning all these beautiful places that you will discover on day or weekend trips during your stay abroad.
3.) Make new friends
When you arrive at the language school you chose to study at, there will be a bunch of other people from all over the world that are there for the exact same reason as you are. They all left their home countries in order to experience something new so it is super easy to get to know them. Staying in your hometown would mean that you would completely miss the opportunity to meet these people from all over the world.
4.) Gain a useful skill
Yes, it's true. Today every boss will tell you that it is important to speak a foreign language. Why? Because we live in a globalized world. If you want to make yourself more competitive in the labour market, language skills always help and open doors to job opportunities world-wide. Furthermore, leaving your home country and going abroad is a challenge in many ways. You will not only come back having learnt a foreign language but you will have also trained your memory, increased your self-discipline and have gained more confidence by interacting with others.
5.) Support the local community
The prices for language courses abroad are usually lower than taking classes in your home country and by studying abroad you help the local economy to grow. The school pays the taxes and the salaries of the local teachers and organizes day trips with local guides as well as offers family stays or other kinds of accommodation. This provides an added income for these families so even your stay even has a positive impact on others. With this tourist driven financial support many communities ensure their economic stability.
Whenever or wherever you want to go abroad, learning a foreign language will help you in many ways. If you want to travel a country it enables you to get in touch with the locals, if you want to read foreign literature in its original version it allows you to understand the linguistic niceties of the native language of the author (same thing for movies).
Sharing fun moments with the other students, seeing new places and getting out of your daily routine is a great and a unique experience that you should not miss out on!
Aside from Spanish courses in Spain and Latin America, do you know other places that are popular to learn a foreign language? What are the benefits that you consider when going to study abroad?
Marie von Schlieben is currently living in Spain and knows a lot about Language Travel, more of her articles can be found at her Blog about Spanish & Latin American culture and history.
Article Source: Top 5 Reasons to Learn a Foreign Language Abroad
One of the things that made it so great was that before I got stationed to Germany, the army sent me to the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California to learn German.
I remember two American sitting in a train in Munich, complaining loudly about their visit to Germany because nobody spoke English. Actually, a great many people in Germany, and other European contries, DO speak English, but, often they will not try because of the poor manners and attitudes of many visitors to their country.
On the other hand, I cannot count the number of times that people began smiling and chatting when I revealed that I spoke THEIR language! My ability to speak, read, and write German not only allowed me to enjoy my stay in Germany so much more, but helped me feel almost as if I was in my native land.
If you are going to visit a foreign land, try at least to learn the language, or at least a few key phrases.
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Top 5 Reasons to Learn a Foreign Language Abroad
By Marie Von Schlieben
"I speak English, so I don't have to learn a foreign language..."
If you have thought this more than twice then...welcome! You found the right article to read!
You share your language with approximately 480 million other people around the world. Still, this is just 7 percent of the world's population! There are 6,999 remaining languages after linguists that you've ignored so far. It will take time and effort to learn one of these foreign languages, but it will definitely be worth it as it will have a positive effect on your personal, social and even professional development. Even if English is not your mother tongue, you're still welcome as you will have even greater benefits by learning a second foreign language.
First of all, you probably already have an idea in mind where you would like to go and which language you would like to study. This is great! But then there's this feeling that you aren't 100% convinced yet because you don't know what to tell your parents and your friends and sometimes you even need to convince yourself. Don't worry that's normal, it's called your weaker self and I have it as well. So here comes the ultimate list to convince you to have a serious talk with the lazy person living inside of you:
1.) Experience a new culture by fully immersing yourself
By choosing to learn Spanish for example in Latin America instead of doing a course in your hometown you've already made the right choice regarding two important points. First, you will learn the language a lot faster in the country where it's spoken because you are constantly surrounded by it. Secondly, you will experience cultural differences such as traditions, foods and special customs by living in this place. Even though it is for a short time period you adapt to the daily life which allows you to get a more distinct point of view.
2.) Travel and see new places
Once you get out of your comfort zone you get excited, nervous sometimes even a bit scared and this is exactly what makes you develop personally. Only if we leave our comfort zone from time to time are we able to learn and develop. A new place, people you don't know and things you are not used to, will help you to broad your horizons. Without even mentioning all these beautiful places that you will discover on day or weekend trips during your stay abroad.
3.) Make new friends
When you arrive at the language school you chose to study at, there will be a bunch of other people from all over the world that are there for the exact same reason as you are. They all left their home countries in order to experience something new so it is super easy to get to know them. Staying in your hometown would mean that you would completely miss the opportunity to meet these people from all over the world.
4.) Gain a useful skill
Yes, it's true. Today every boss will tell you that it is important to speak a foreign language. Why? Because we live in a globalized world. If you want to make yourself more competitive in the labour market, language skills always help and open doors to job opportunities world-wide. Furthermore, leaving your home country and going abroad is a challenge in many ways. You will not only come back having learnt a foreign language but you will have also trained your memory, increased your self-discipline and have gained more confidence by interacting with others.
5.) Support the local community
The prices for language courses abroad are usually lower than taking classes in your home country and by studying abroad you help the local economy to grow. The school pays the taxes and the salaries of the local teachers and organizes day trips with local guides as well as offers family stays or other kinds of accommodation. This provides an added income for these families so even your stay even has a positive impact on others. With this tourist driven financial support many communities ensure their economic stability.
Whenever or wherever you want to go abroad, learning a foreign language will help you in many ways. If you want to travel a country it enables you to get in touch with the locals, if you want to read foreign literature in its original version it allows you to understand the linguistic niceties of the native language of the author (same thing for movies).
Sharing fun moments with the other students, seeing new places and getting out of your daily routine is a great and a unique experience that you should not miss out on!
Aside from Spanish courses in Spain and Latin America, do you know other places that are popular to learn a foreign language? What are the benefits that you consider when going to study abroad?
Marie von Schlieben is currently living in Spain and knows a lot about Language Travel, more of her articles can be found at her Blog about Spanish & Latin American culture and history.
Article Source: Top 5 Reasons to Learn a Foreign Language Abroad
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