F1 2010 Review

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When Codemasters obtained the official F1 license frankly we were a bit worried. After all this is the studio that released titles like Grid and Dirt, games renowned for unrealistic handling and an awkward emphasis on crashing. Then news came out and slowly we found ourselves excited about the prospect of having a terrific dynamic weather system, driver personality, the media and many more features new to F1 games. And now, after a wait of over three years, finally the F1 series continue on our favorite next-gen systems, but was it worth the wait?

Modes

The game starts with a press conference. Here you must answer a couple of basic questions to set up your racing profile. It's a highly effective way of starting your career but looks kind of silly when a reporter is asking for your name. One would guess she knows the person she's interviewing.

Once done you'll walk towards the team's motor home, which acts as the main menu in the game. Here you can select between the different modes including: Time trail, multiplayer, career and grand prix weekend, which also allows championship racing.

Career mode is where you'll probably spend most time at. Here you start as a rookie driver for one of the new teams and, as you accomplish curtain tasks and beat your teammate, can work your way up in the team or accept offers from higher up teams. In addition players will also be able to develop the car or decide to put efforts into next years design. An important aspect in F1 not earlier implemented in a video game.

Also new to the series is the press. Finish in the top 3 and you'll have to attend the press conference. Additionally after each race you can face the press and talk about your performance. It's a great feature that brings additional authenticity and it greatly influences relations with the team and competing teams. But the way it was implemented leaves much to be desired. For example the questions always have three possible answers out of which the most right option is the safest. Also the interview always takes place in the motor home with the same person doing the interview, not very realistic.

Gameplay

Codemasters tried to bring in as many details as they could and they've nailed it. Every session starts in the pit box with the mechanics and engineer working on the car. Using the monitor you can see the session times, weather report or change the setup of the car. Surprisingly the option to see the AI ​​cars is missing, so you can't spy on competitors or view the conditions of the track prior to your first flying laps.

More bad news comes when working on the setup of the car, because the game only allows the most basic of adjustments. For example the front wing has just 11 angles to control the front-end grip, a far cry from the many variables enjoyed in real life.

Going round the track is more tactical than ever before. Likewise to real life drivers can now make small adjustments to the front wing or change the engine settings all while driving. It's very important to nurse the car home and only use the performance when you need it otherwise you could end up in the barrier.

Luckily almost every F1 rule has made it into the game. Drivers only have a limited amount of tires available to them and need to keep a keen eye on the engine to stay within the 8 available engines per season limit. Unfortunately though we couldn't select the engine before going to free practice 1, and changing during the session costs us too much time to go out again.

But otherwise these strategic elements have been implemented beautifully. Users can go on track with worn-out tires or choose when to use that fresh engine. Hint: Monza.

Handling

The racing itself is a bit of a mixed bag. The car handles like we've seen on television. So you'll notice the grip changing throughout sessions and sliding in the rain is all but inevitable. The grip also differs per corner and it makes a big difference on the traction.

Unfortunately not every element of a true simulator is present. We could hit the grass without losing control of the car. And even with every aids off there's that feeling that the game is helping you keep control. This is most apparent in the pits because the game allows absolute no control in the pit lane apart from braking and a dodgy "not always working" speed limiter.

On the flip side every car has its own characteristic. The Mclaren is lightning fast in a straight line and the Red Bull can take sweeping corners at insane speeds. And while it's realistic, they've rated the new teams a bit optimistically. The difference between the slowest and fastest car is about 2-4 seconds; we would've liked this to be 4-6 seconds.

In short the game is way too forgiving to match the likes of rfactor or even Sony's last go at the series. But the funny thing is that you forgot all about it when you're actually driving and pushing for the limits because driving a virtual F1 car has never been more fun.

Race

The racing is where F1 2010 really excels. It starts in the pit box where last minute strategy adjustments can be made. After which the game cuts right to the grid, unfortunately skipping any form of race build-up.

During the race fighting for position can get pretty intense, especially with damage and car wear set to full. Helped by a terrific AI that jumps into every gap you leave it.

The engineer helps you along the way. He keeps you updated about the race including the condition of the engine and the position of your competitors. But sometimes he says silly things and the phrases get repetitive fast. This however has bugged every driving game so far and is not a big disturbance to the racing.

More of a problem is the balancing. We experienced an unprecedented amount of punctures and were held up many times in the pits while the lollipop man kept us in place until our competitors passed the pit lane. Very frustrating when you just spend half an hour overtaking those guys. Enthusiastic followers of the sport will also learn that the smart pit light systems of the likes of Ferrari aren't in the game. Talking about details.

Lastly the AI ​​is great when you're racing them but turn into robots when you're not. The difference between the fast the slow teams becomes ever so small and some drivers even refused to pit in a perfectly dull dry race. Did the Marshalls forget the rule that requires use of both compounds or did they just pull a "Massa overshoot grid position Spa incident?"

When you're not hit by the problems though the racing is a hugely rewarding and fun activity. There's no better feeling than nailing lap after lap in Monaco in ultra consistency while stuck behind a Mercedes.

It's even more exciting in the rain. The engineer will keep you posted about the weather but as a driver you can make the call to go on intermediates before the rain hits. And when the track is drying you can avoid the dry line and cool your tires in the standing water. The dynamic weather system is absolutely amazing and light years ahead of any other racing game.

The game succeeds in making every point feel rewarding despite missing features such as the safety car, parc ferme or podium celebrations. But the racing is still the game's strong suit.

Presentation

F1 2010 is without a doubt the best-looking F1 game ever made. The cars and tracks have been recreated in absolute detail. Circuit height differences and scenery positions are textured in pinpoint accuracy. Spa looks absolutely amazing going through Eau Rouge and seeing the grandstand as you gentle press the throttle approaching La source. Monaco also looks stunning with the many flats and the sight of the harbor in the Nouvelle Chicane.

The graphics only get better with dynamic weather turned on. The changing sky and the puddle forming on track are unmatched by any racing game. And true to real life when behind someone only the red safety light is visible. Fantastic!

We did however notice some texture popping and slightly blurry textures especially visible in the background. So there're still some gains to be made.

Sound wise F1 games never really hit the mark for us. In general they've sounded very generic with some even approaching "lawn mower" noise.

Luckily F1 2010 is the best sounding open-wheel racer yet. The engines really have that deep revving noise and over-revving the engine sounds very genuine. In fact the only thing that keeps F1 2010 from sounding perfect is the difference between the cars. A McLaren sounds completely different from a Renault, but that isn't very apparent in the game.

Online

Users can drive online against mates or racers around the globe using the multiplayer feature. The game allows up to 12 racers (1 per team) with an extensive array of options including: full race distance, damage, fuel / try management, penalties and qualifying.

It worked great but we were disappointed about the server search options and the lack of chat in the lobby. Better buy a headset if you want to communicate in any way.

The racing itself worked smooth and bug free. During testing we met many great racers and experienced very close battles. Be successful online and you'll rank up XP points which gives you dips on your favorite car or allows access to games with a "minimal XP threshold".

Conclusion

F1 2010 is a great game. Driving the cars is a lot of fun and the racing can be extremely tense and exciting. Combined with the terrific graphics and sound quality, Codemasters has a real winner here. However some balancing is in order and the handling is way too forgiving. Finally it misses some features that every F1 game should have. But F1 2010 is a great start and has the potential to become part of the best F1 series of all time.

8/10

F1 2010 review

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Source by Robin Chung

Victor Nosa Ikpeba - The Undisputed Prince of Monaco

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The electrifying Victor Ikpeba began his career at the now defunct African Continental Bank F.C of Lagos, before representing Nigeria U-17 squad that took part in the 1989 FIFA U-17 World Cup held in Scotland. His performance at that tournament convinced football scouts from Belgium to recruit him into modest Belgian club side- RFC Liege. He soon established himself as a clinical finisher after making 79 appearances and scoring 27 goals for the Belgian team.

In 1994 French club- Monaco F.C then coached by the present Arsenal tactician Arsene Wenger snapped gave snapped him up. Victor Ikpeba had the most eventful time of his football career at Monaco, as he helped the French club win the League title. He also got an invitation into the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Soccer squad of Nigeria. The Team eventually won Gold after defeating Argentina in the final.

The icing in the cake of the Delta State born Footballer came in 1997 when he won the African footballer of the year award after a wonderful season with Monaco. He played a total of 169 games and scored 55 goals for the Monaco team. This enviable feat earned him the nickname- "The Prince of Monaco".

After leaving Monaco for Borussia Dortmund in 1999, his career took a nose-dived which eventually became worse in the 2000 after the demise of his young wife- Atinuke through breast cancer. Subsequent efforts to revive his career with Real Betis of Spain, Al-Ittihad of Libya and Charleroi F.C of Belgium did not yield much fruit, as he eventually retired from active football in 2005.

It is pertinent to note that Victor Ikpeba was an integral part of the Super Eagles squad from 1993- 2000. He played a total of 30 matches and scored 3 goals for the Super Eagles of Nigeria in all competitions.

His worst miss came in the African Cup of Nations final jointly co-hosted by Nigeria and Ghana in 2000 when he scored in the penalty shoot-out against Cameroon but thought the ball had not crossed the line. He held his head in disbelieve and the referee and his assistant ruled that it was not a goal. Television replay later showed that the whole of the ball actually crossed the line. Nigeria eventually lost the game.

He was a member of the Super Eagles squad that participated at the 1994 African Nations Cup held in Tunisia as well as the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups held in the United States and Spain respectively. He his presently a sports analyst with South African based Super Sports Channel television.

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Source by Clement Sadjere

New Diamond Jewelery Designs: Know About Top Pink Diamonds of the World

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Pink the color of passion

Ranging from dazzling intense pink to more subtle champagne pink tinge, fancy diamonds possessing that rare crystalline structure that allows for them to absorb blue green color to appear pink are extremely popular world over. Pink after all is the color of passion, the popularity of pink diamond engagement rings among celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Victoria Beckham and others prove the theory right.

Such diamonds are judged according to the intensity of their color, ranging from very intense and vivid like the stunningmetein Pink diamond to pale pink of the exquisite Darya-ye-Noor which is an integral part of the Iranian crown jewels. In recent times actress-singer Jennifer Lopez's 6 carat engagement ring brought the rare pink diamonds to the forefront of popular imagination. The rarity of these exquisite diamonds only added fuel to the craze and voila soon pink diamonds have made a grand entry as the hottest accessory to possess.

Famous diamonds that made history

The most well known diamond in the world is not even a real diamond, it is none other that the famous Pink Panther Diamond that Peter Sellers as Inspector Clouseau made famous in 1964. Let us take a closer look at some of the real pink diamonds that have left their mark on history.

• Ocean of Light or Darya-ye-Noor in pale pink weighing 175 carats is one of the most famous and rarest diamonds in the world today. Nadir Shah in 1793 carried off this rare beauty from the Mughal court to Persia along with the Peacock throne and Koh-i-Noor diamond. Many researchers believe that this treasure of the Iranian crown jewels was actually a part of a large pale pink diamond studded on the famous Peacock Throne of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and was later cut into two pieces, while one is famous as the Darya-ye- Noor the smaller diamond is called Noor-ol-Ein studded into a tiara which is also a part of the Iranian crown jewels. It is believed that Darya-ye-Noor was a part of the bigger Diamanta Grande Table, so named by the French traveler Jean Baptiste Travernier in 1642, that adorned the throne of the great Mughals.

• Noor-ol-Ein or "The Light of the Eye" too was brought to Persia form India by the invading armies of Nadir Shah after the sacking of Delhi and Agra. Canadian researchers speculate the light of the eye diamond was actually part of a bigger pink diamond studded on the throne of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Others opine that this precious diamond came form the famous Golconda mines of India. Whatever its origins, there is no doubt that this rare beauty that adorns the tiara of Empress Farah Pahlavi is a unique treasure.

• Steinmetz Pink, at 59.60 carats weight is the largest fancy vivid pink diamond in the world. Originally hailing from South Africa this rare find is treasured mainly for its vivid coloring and flawlessness. A team of at least 8 international jewelers took over 20 months to cut this internally flawless diamond that was introduced in Monaco in 2003.

• Le Grand Conde or the Pink Conde Diamond is a pear shaped exquisite piece of diamond that was gifted to Louis de Bourbon, Prince of Conde by Louis XIII of France in 1643. Louis de Bourbon, who placed the diamond at the center of his bejeweled walking stick, was as the Grand Conde which is exactly what the diamond too came to be known as.

• Hortensia Diamond named after Queen Hortensia de Becuharnias of Holland, who was also the step-daughter of Napoleon Bonaparte, is a flat pale pink diamond that can now be found at the Louvre museum.

• The Williamson diamond is part of a collection of exquisite diamonds that was presented to Queen Elizabeth II in 1947 as her wedding gift by Canadian geologist Dr. John Williamson. It is a 23.6 carat diamond that was later incorporated into a brooch designed by Cartier in 1952.

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Source by Siddhartha Sawansukha

Knowledgeable Hotel Booking Service

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A hotel is an establishment that provides paid lodging, usually on a short-term basis. Hotels often provide a number of additional guest services such as a restaurant, a swimming pool or childcare. Some hotels have conference services and meeting rooms and encourage groups to hold conventions and meetings at their location. Hotels differ from motels in that most motels have drive-up, exterior entrances to the rooms, while hotels tend to have interior entrances to the rooms, which may increase guests' safety and present a more upmarket image. Basic accommodation of a room with only a bed, a cupboard, a small table and a washstand has largely been replaced by rooms with en-suite bathrooms and climate control. Other features found may be a telephone, an alarm clock, a TV, and broadband Internet connectivity. Food and drink may be supplied by a mini-bar (which often includes a small refrigerator) containing snacks and drinks (to be paid for on departure), and tea and coffee making facilities (cups, spoons, an electric kettle and sachets containing instant coffee, tea bags, sugar, and creamer or milk).

In the United Kingdom a hotel is required by law to serve food and drinks to all comers within certain stated hours; to avoid this requirement it is not uncommon to come across "private hotels" which are not subject to this requirement. However, in Japan the capsule hotel supplies minimal facilities and room space. The cost and quality of hotels are usually indicative of the range and type of services available. Due to the enormous increase in tourism worldwide during the last decades of the 20th century, standards, especially those of smaller establishments, have improved considerably. For the sake of greater comparability, rating systems have been introduced, with the one to five stars classification being most common.

"Boutique Hotel" is a term originating in North America to describe intimate, usually luxurious or quirky hotel environments. Boutique hotels differentiate themselves from larger chain or branded hotels by providing an exceptional and personalized level of accommodation, services and facilities. Boutique hotels are furnished in a themed, stylish and/or aspirational manner. Although usually considerably smaller than a mainstream hotel (ranging from 3 to 100 guest rooms) boutique hotels are generally fitted with telephone and wi-fi Internet connections, honesty bars and often cable/pay TV. Guest services are attended to by 24 hour hotel staff. Many boutique hotels have on site dining facilities, and the majority offer bars and lounges which may also be open to the general public. Of the total travel market a small percentage are discerning travelers, who place a high importance on privacy, luxury and service delivery.

As this market is typically corporate travelers, the market segment is non-seasonal, high-yielding and repeat, and therefore one which boutique hotel operators target as their primary source of income. A number of hotels have entered the public consciousness through popular culture, such as the Ritz Hotel in London, UK ('Putting on The Ritz') and Hotel Chelsea in New York City, subject of a number of songs and also the scene of the alleged stabbing of Nancy Spungen by her boyfriend Sid Vicious. Hotels that enter folklore like these two are also often frequented by celebrities, as is the case both with the Ritz and the Chelsea. Other famous hotels include the Beverly Hills Hotel, the Hotel Bel-Air and the Chateau Marmont, in California, USA, Watergate complex in Washington DC ,the Hotel Astoria in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the Hotel George V and Hôtel Ritz in Paris, Palazzo Versace hotel on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, Hotel Hermitage and Hotel de Paris in Monaco (in the French Riviera) and Hotel Leningradskaya in Moscow. Many hotels can be considered destinations in themselves, by dent of unusual features of the lodging and/or its immediate environment.

Treehouse hotels Some hotels, such as the Costa Rica Tree House in the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Costa Rica, or Treetops Hotel in Aberdare National Park, Kenya, are built with living trees as structural elements, making them treehouses. The Ariau Towers near Manaus, Brazil is in the middle of the Amazon, on the Rio Negro. Bill Gates even invested and had a suite built there with satellite internet/phone. Another hotel with treehouse units is Bayram's Tree Houses in Olympos, Turkey Cave hotels Desert Cave Hotel in Coober Pedy, South Australia and the Cuevas Pedro Antonio de Alarcón (named after the author) in Guadix, Spain, as well as several hotels in Cappadocia, Turkey, are notable for being built into natural cave formations, some with rooms underground.

Capsule hotels Capsule hotels are a type of economical hotels that are quite common in Japan. Ice hotels, such as the Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, melt every spring and are rebuilt out of ice and snow each winter. Snow hotels The Mammut Snow Hotel in Finland is located within the walls of the Kemi snow castle, which is the biggest in the world. It includes The Mammut Snow Hotel, The Castle Courtyard, The Snow Restaurant and a chapel for weddings, etc. Its furnishings and its decorations, such as sculptures, are made of snow and ice. There is snow accommodation also in Lainio Snow Hotel in Lapland (near Ylläs), Finland. Garden hotels Garden hotels, famous for their gardens before they became hotels, includes Gravetye Manor, the home of William Robinson and Cliveden, designed by Charles Barry with a rose garden by Geoffrey Jellicoe.

Underwater hotels As of 2005, the only hotel with an underwater room that can be reached without Scuba diving is Utter Inn in Lake Mälaren, Sweden. It only has one room, however, and Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida, which requires scuba diving, is not much bigger. Hydropolis is an ambitious project to build a luxury hotel in Dubai, UAE, with 220 suites, all on the bottom of the Persian Gulf, 20 meters (66 feet) below the surface. Its architecture will feature two domes that break the surface and an underwater train tunnel, all made of transparent materials such as glass and acrylic. Other unusual hotels The Library Hotel in New York City is unique in that its ten floors are arranged according to the Dewey Decimal System. The Rogers Centre, formerly SkyDome, in Toronto, Canada is the only stadium to have a hotel connected to it, with 70 rooms overlooking the field. The Burj al-Arab hotel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, built on an artificial island, is structured in the shape of a sail of a boat.

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Source by Mandy Chagger

Interesting Facts About Olympic Nations - Monaco

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Did you know ...

Prince Albert II -Head State of Monaco- is an ardent supporter of the Olympic Movement. He is president of the Monegasque Olympic Committee and member of the International Olympic Committee ( IOC ). In 2007, he visited the Beijing venue construction sites. "China has already contributed a lot to the Olympic Movement. I hope this will be not only a very successful Games ( Beijing 2008 ) but the one that embodies the spirit", he said. Prince Albert Alexandre Louis Pierre Grimaldi likes all kinds of sports: rugby, soccer, handball, tennis, squash, golf and volleyball. He participated in bobsleigh at the Winter Olympics in Canada ( 1988 ), France ( 1992 ), Norway ( 1994 ), Japan ( 1998 ) and the United States ( 2002 ). H.S.H the Sovereign Prince Albert II was born on March 14, 1958 in Monaco.

The Principality of Monaco competed at the Summer Olympics for the first time at the 1920 Olympic Games in Belgium. It became the 25th member of the International Olympic Committee ( IOC ).

The most popular sportspeople are: Sebastien Gatusso ( 100m, 200m, 4x100m /athletics ), Alexandra Coletti ( alpine skiing ), Christophe Verdino ( aquatics ), Jean Charles Seneca ( fencing), Francis Boisson ( shooting ), Brice Etes ( 800m / track & field ), Patrice Servelle ( bobsleigh ), Lahcen Essoussi ( 10,000m / athletics ), Jean-Luc Adomo (aquatics), Irene Tiendrebeogo ( high jump / track & field ), Joe Barrai ( shooting ), Irina Kazakova ( 10,000m / athletics ), Fabienne Pasetti ( shooting ), Jean Laurent Ravera ( swimming ), Sylvain Faure ( aquatics ), Olivier Jenot ( alpine skiing ), Jeremy Bottin ( bobsleigh ), Mustapha Tantan ( 10,000m / track and field ).

Monte Carlo ( Monaco ) hosted the FINA Water Polo European Cup in 1947. Final standings: 1.Italy, 2.Sweden, 3.Belgium.

The Principality of Monaco - it is the world's second smallest country- did not participate at the 1980 Summer Olympic Games in Moscow ( USSR / Soviet Union ). Why? This European country boycotted the Games to protest the Russian invasion of Afghanistan.

The most popular sports in Monaco are soccer, tennis, judo, fencing, boxing, basketball, athletics, aquatics...

This European country hosted the 2nd IOC Session in 1927.

Sebastien Gattuso is one of the best sprinters of Monaco. Sebastien was the flag bearer of the Monegasque Olympic team at the 2004 Athens. He also participated at the 2007 World Track and Field Championships held in Osaka ( Japan ).

This European country sent 8 athletes to the 1984 Olympic Games in California ( USA ). It competed in five sports: athletics ( 1 ), fencing ( 1 ), wrestling( 1 ), shooting ( 4 ) and swimming ( 1 ).

The Monegasque Olympic Committee was founded in 1907.

Monte Carlo hosted the Fencing World Cup in 1950.

The Principality of Monaco was one of the 80 countries who participated at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin ( Italy ). Monaco's debut in the Winter Games took place in 1984 in Sarajevo ( fomer Yugoslavia / currently Bosnia Herzegovina ).

This country won a bronze medal at the 1963 Mediterranean Games in Naples ( Italy ).

The 2007 Games of the Small States of Europe were held in Monaco ( Monaco ). For the second time, the Games were held in this European country. In total, around 1,200 athletes from 8 countries competed in 12 sports ( aquatics, athletics, basketball, beach volleyball, bowls, gymnastics, judo, sailing, shooting, table tennis, tennis, volleyball ). It was the start of a new time in the history of the sport in Monaco. During an interview, Yvette Lambin-Bertin ( president of the Organizing Committee of the Games ) said, " The idea for the Games of the Small States of Europe emerged during a meeting between the leaders of those countries in 1984 at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The following year, this new sporting event. Focused on friendship, fraternity and solidarity, was launched in San Marino. European countries with a population of below one million inhabitants recognized by the International Olympic Committee ( IOC ) and the European Olympic Committees ( EOC ) take part in the event, i.e. eight nations: Andorra, Cyprus, Iceland. Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco and San Marino. Organized every two years, the second edition of the Games of the Small States of Europe was held in Monaco in 1987..."

Medal count

Ranking..........Gold...Silver...Bronze ...Total

1.Cyprus..........36.........33........24.......93

2.Iceland..........31.........23........24.......78

3.Luxembourg...20.........25........36.......81

4.Monaco..........19.........16........17......52

5.Malta..............4............9........17......30

6.Andorra..........4............6..........7.......17

7.San Marino......4...........6..........6.......16

8.Liechtenstein...3...........5..........5.......13

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Source by Alejandro Guevara Onofre

Laos PDR - Please Don't Rush

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Laos

Imagine a sleepy French village on a drowsy afternoon at the end of summer. That is how Laos feels. Only less vibrant.

The land of crawling broadband and dawdling monks shatters - or at least quietly snuffs - the myth that southeast Asia is all tiger economy hustle and bustle. Every time a ripple of thunder breaks the stillness of the former French colony sandwiched between Thailand and Vietnam, the electricity goes down. Forget that fruit shake you ordered, which requires a blender's input. Better make it a Beer Lao.

Careful how you handle the currency, as Kip are next to worthless, meaning that it's necessary to keep track of lots of zeros.

All these surplus circles mean it's easy to get confused and tender an insultingly small amount or a fortune, then only realise the gaffe because of the look on the cashier's face. It's easy to feel rich with all those zeroes in your pocket, but beware, you may not notice that you accidentally blew a billion, until you don't have the million or so necessary to buy a packet of chewing gum.

Relax. Spend a while in Laos and you may find that you start to adopt the dreamy expression worn by many of the inhabitants. Aside from the non-too-insistent pestering of hawkers and tuk-tuk drivers, pressure scarcely exists. Time elapses at the speed of a lolloping ox.

Thank or blame Communism. No reason for rush exists in a state where enterprise is vaguely frowned upon. Just like sex outside marriage. It is illegal for a man to sleep with a woman who is not his wife in this, the highly regulated People's Democratic Republic, which even has a midnight curfew. Not that you would necessarily notice, because the curfew is enforced ever so softly and by the subtlest of soldieries.

Many travellers return repeatedly, hooked on a country that regularly wins prizes for being so laid back and enchanting, the epitome of oriental charm. Few observers have a bad word to say about Laos.

The so-called Jewel of the Mekong may, however, seem a bit constricted, given that it has a smaller population than urban Paris and few places to visit. Tourists flock to three main towns: Vientiane, the temple-infested cultural capital with the strange rhyming name, Luang Prabang, and Vang Vieng.

While Vientiane and Luang Prabang ooze style and atmosphere, Vang Vieng is rather ramshackle. If you miss the TV show 'Friends' and like it broadcast louder than the thunder that regularly deafens the village, this is the place for you. Younger and/or boozier travellers will enjoy its wildly popular signature activity, 'tubing', which entails drifting drunkenly downriver, slotted inside a tractor tube. Tubing is worth trying once, even if you are t-total, just for the peacefully panoramic views of the mountain-lined Mekong tributary, the Nam Som. Also for the amusement of watching the antics of the young and foolish, who swing from ropes across the river and do all sorts of inadvisable and dangerously daft things with ropes and ladders.

Alternatively, board the plane to Luang Prabang and be spellbound by the radiant temples and their saffron-clad incumbents. Watch the Mekong go by between drowsy spells half-reading a book in a river-bank restaurant, or just wander the streets absorbing the unspoiled antiquity.

Laos ranks as one of the world's poorest countries. What a pity it is not easier to throw money around, there being a limit to the number of silk scarves, stone Buddhas and bottles of snake wine you want to stuff in your luggage. Unlike most of southeast Asia, this place makes you want to spend your money.

The biggest draws are the charm of the people, the French colonial influence on the architecture and the mystique that enshrouds the old Indochinese outpost.

Laos' landmarks, for example Buddha Park, Vientiane's twisted sculpture theatre, are hard to fathom. Then there is the Plain of Jars. Laos' answer to Stonehenge, this Highlands plain is peppered with giant stone urns that defy conclusive explanation but serve as vehicles for informed speculation and fanciful guesswork. Be warned that this area contains a large amount of unexploded ordinance.

Laos has been conquered and occupied by pretty much every country on the planet except Monaco, in a history almost as blood-soaked as neighbouring Vietnam's. After the communist Pathet Lao finally took complete control of the country in 1975 and sent the last King and Queen of Laos on a terminal visit to a re-education camp in a cave in the northeast of the country, they enforced a rigid closed-door policy that was to last more than a decade. The country has only recently opened up to tourism, so the inhabitants have yet to start to think of the visitor as no more than a mobile ATM. Laos is one of Asia's last tourism frontiers, a country with a fascinating and largely intact cultural heritage, peopled by mostly friendly, funny and gentle folk. It can not be more highly recommended as a rewarding and relaxing destination for all travellers, regardless of the depth of their pockets.

Laos has great adventure sports possibilities, with fantastic rafting, mountain-biking, kayaking, trekking, rock-climbing and motor-biking available on greendiscoverylaos.com. Laos' newest and greenest eco-adventure is at the Gibbon Experience, where guests stay in tree-top bungalows and use zip line cables to glide through the canopy of Bokeo Nature Reserve, in search of the elusive and playful Black Gibbon - gibbonx.org. Most visitors to Laos, however, do nothing much more energetic than knocking back a few cold Beer Lao while watching the sun set on the Mekong. Such people will simply explain the attraction of this lovely country lost in time by revealing the true meaning of 'Laos PDR':

'Laos - Please Don't Rush'.

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Source by Simon Ramsden

The Mediterranean Sea - Home of the Best Luxury Yachts

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The Mediterranean Sea covers an approximate area of ​​2.5 million square kilometers (965,000 square miles). It is connected to the Atlantic through the strait of Gibraltar, which is only 14 km (8.7 mi) wide. The Strait of Gibraltar is a narrow strait that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea and separates Gibraltar and Spain in Europe from Morocco in Africa.

Several ancient civilizations were located around the Mediterranean shores. They were greatly influenced by their proximity to the sea. It provided routes for trade, colonization and war, as well as food (from fishing and the gathering of other seafood) for numerous communities throughout the ages. Due to the shared climate, geology, and access to the sea, cultures centered on the Mediterranean tended to have some extent of intertwined culture and history. Two of the most notable Mediterranean civilizations in classic antiquity were the Hellenic City States like Sparta and Athens and the Phenicians, both of which extensively colonized the coastlines of the Mediterranean.

The Romans who dominated the entire Mediterranean Sea for centuries called it Mare Nostrum, " our Sea ".

The Mediterranean Sea has an average depth of 1,500 meters (4,900 ft) and the deepest recorded point is 5,267 meters (17,280 ft) in the Calypso Deep in the Ionian Sea. The sea is bordered on the north by Europe, the east by Asia, and in the south by Africa.

14 countries have coastlines on the Mediterranean Sea. Most of the Mediterranean countries have a long history of tourism. Italy and France being one of the first countries to develop tourism before the Second World War.

The Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, city-states like Monte Carlo and Monaco in France and other Italian cities like Rimini, Viareggio and Venice have attracted tourists for more than 60 years. In later years the Balearic Islands of Ibiza and Formentera became popular with young adults. With the development of tourism in the Mediterranean, the yachting industry developed as well. Spotting luxury boats and superyachts became very common. Renting a yacht and cruising through the Aegean Sea, the Balearic Islands or the ancient coastlines of the Levant is one of the most popular charter yachting destination. To find marinas with superyachts for sale is common in and around the Mediterranean Sea. But not all yachts for sale are produced in the Mediterranean; yachts from Dubai or UAE are as common as yachts from Italian and French shipyards.

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Source by Charles Kalb

UEFA Champions League Last 16 Draw

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The draw for this season's UEFA Champions League last 16 has taken place and it certainly produced some mouthwatering encounters to look forward to. These games will take place on February 24th & 25th with the return legs two weeks later on March 10th & 11th. Here is the full draw as it was drawn in Nyon, Switzerland:

Chelsea v Juventus

Villarreal v Panathinaikos

Sporting Lisbon v Bayern Munich

Atletico Madrid v FC Porto

Lyon v Barcelona

Real Madrid v Liverpool

Arsenal v Roma

Inter Milan v Manchester United

The current champions Manchester United and Sir Alex Ferguson face their old friend, the former Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho and his Inter Milan side who were knocked out by Liverpool last year at the same stage. Mourinho had made it clear he wanted to draw one of the English "big four" clubs and he certainly got his wish, with the first leg to be played at the San Siro. The game at Old Trafford will no doubt revive memories of Mourinho's famous celebration, as he ran down the touchline back in March 2004 when his Porto side scored a last minute equaliser that sent United crashing out of the Champions League. Of course Mourinho and Porto went on the lift the trophy that season beating Monaco in the final.

Sir Alex Ferguson is also looking forward to the tie as well. Ferguson believes it will be very interesting to come up against Mourinho as he has a character with a good personality. Contrary to what used to go on between the two when Mourinho managed Chelsea, Ferguson also said that he has always got on well with the now Inter Milan manager. It didn't take long for Mourinho to also start the psychological word games by talking up Man Utd. He stated that he wanted to be drawn against the best and that he got the European champions. Man Utd could also be crowned World Club Champions in Japan this weekend too. Meanwhile another of the English teams, Liverpool, were drawn against the current Spanish champions Real Madrid and their new manager, ex Tottenham boss, Juande Ramos. The former Tottenham manager has only just taken over at the Bernabeu and will no doubt be looking forward to his return to England with the 9 times winners Real Madrid. Liverpool have the perceived advantage of the second leg at Anfield due to finishing their group on top. The tie is a repeat of the 1981 Paris final, which the English side won 1-0 thanks to a goal by defender Alan Kennedy. That was the last time these two giants of European football have met in a competitive game.

The draw also provided Italian coach Claudio Ranieri the chance of an emotional return to London and Stamford Bridge, against his former club Chelsea, last year's beaten finalists. Ranieri is now the manager get Italian giants Juventus. Ranieri was a popular figure at Stamford Bridge before being replaced by non-other than Jose Mourinho in 2004. This despite Ranieri guiding them to the Champions League semi-final, where they lost to Monaco, who as mentioned above were then beaten by Mourinho and Porto. Arsene Wenger's Arsenal will have the first leg at home as they take on AS Roma. The Arsenal manager believes the Gunners, just like every other team now left in the competition, has a good chance of lifting the trophy in Rome come May. Despite both those difficult ties for Arsenal and Chelsea, they will have breathed a huge sigh of relief as the draw was made as they could have been paired with the current favourites Barcelona. They will have been extremely happy to have avoided the Catalans however, as mentioned above both Arsenal and Chelsea face difficult ties against AS Roma and Juventus respectively.

The "unlucky" team to draw Barcelona were the French champions Lyon and looking ahead to the game, their sporting director Bernard Lacombe admitted that they were very worried. Lyon couldn't have been handed a more difficult game.

The Spanish team Villareal, which finished second in the group stages behind Manchester Utd, were handed, what on paper at least, looks one of the easier ties. They will face the Greek side Panathinaikos which pipped Inter Milan to top stop in their Group. So, Panathinaikos will equally be relived they didn't finish second, as Utd would have been awaiting them. Former champions, and I suspect a dark horse for this season's cempetition, Bayern Munich, will play the Portuguese team Sporting Lisbon and in the final tie of the round another Portuguese team Porto will go head to head with another Spanish team, Athletico Madrid.

There truly are some great games to look forward to in early 2009. No doubt there will be plenty of drama and a few shocks, the UEFA Champions League never disappoints once it has entered the sudden death knock-out stages.

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Source by Rik Sanchez-Talavera

Planning Your Special Corporate Incentives in Paris!

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Paris is one of the world's top business places for group incentive travel in France. There is a large choice of venues Paris, France. France is everyone's favorite destination for most of the Paris VIP and especially so for large corporate events. A specialist Paris Planner in Paris corporate incentives travel, Paris Events becomes a true extension of your own planning team. Paris Planners understand your goals, work to your constraints and share your goals also. Paris Planner organizes corporate incentive meetings of every kind - from six-person seminar to a 5000 visitor congress - we know what's needed. Our goal is to save time and money without sacrificing the quality of presentation.

Paris Planner
Paris Planners are Planning, designing and producing a special Paris corporate event, whether it's an annual conference, sales convention, product introduction or other keynote event, or even a Paris Wedding is a one-shot deal. The best thing you can do to ensure that everything runs smoothly is having a combination of excellent planning before the event and rich experience at the event.

The Gala Evening
A gala (grand) evening is organizing a Theme Evening in the unique setting, so that you can delight your guests and underline your position within your industry. Paris Events is highly accomplished in applying all the resources needed to make your Gala Evening a resounding success for the Paris VIPs. We, the Paris Planners have a range of exotic experiences: futuristic, tropical, oriental, musical, medieval ... enough to enhance any participant and enable an event planner to organize several highly varied evenings during the period of a conference. In addition, we can work with you to create a tailor- made evening to meet your most indulgent demands.

Exclusive Venues
Choosing the right venue and setting a location in Paris France, in Monaco, in a castle or in a building full of character is not a critical thing. We delight to choose most original and memorable places and then according to your demand our creativity will translate your request into a venue that will surprise your guests. Your guests will feel extremely privileged!

Exclusive Dining
With its contemporary design, this dining establishment is undoubtedly the most elegant location in Paris. When it comes to adding the perfect culinary touch to your event, our Food & Beverage team knows what it takes, whether it's for breakfast, dinner, or those moments in between for coffee breaks, luncheons or cocktails. We aim to make your Paris Events in dining hall, a memorable experience!

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Source by Wendy A. Von Fries

Offshore Powerboat Racing - Speed ​​That Thrills

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Only the boats that conform to a particular class can participate in off shore power boat racing. These boats are usually the expensive and large models that are specially built for durability and speed and under the pounding ocean waves which can be quite unpredictable.

Taking part in off shore power boat racing involves expending large amounts of money on fuel. It burns fuel up very fast taking into account the speed of the boat and the distance covered. Power boats are expensive and the cost of the competition is high. People who participate in power boat racing are participating in what is called an elite sport. Power racing is a team sport and is usually sponsored. It is supported and funded by both commercial sponsors and private funding. However, it is still considered to be an amateur sport.

Off shore boat racing is actually a regulated sport. Initially, its focus was on endurance racing but now it has moved nearer to circuit type of racing format. This is sport played on an international level with races being held all around world before crowning the season winner. This way, this sport is very similar to formula one racing. The Union International Motonautique, its governing body is in Monaco. In Europe, Asia and the Middle East, the UIM regulated class 1leads the offshore powerboat racing while in the United States the racing is split between the UIM / APBA / SBI and the OSS. The American Power Boat Association (APBA) has the sole authority to hold UIM events and this includes the Divisionals, North American Championship, the worlds and the nationals.

A powerboat championship is more or less like Formula1 car racing. Powerboat racing in its grand prix style has increased its scope since its inauguration in the year 1981. The season held in 2006 had 27 drivers competing in 12 teams. At a time, there were 24 boats competing in a race. As is in Formula1 racing, championship points are supposed to be earned on the way.

The offshore boat racing has a race course with a 350 meter circuit, typically marked out on a river, lake or a sheltered bay and has multiple turns. Speeds can range up to 170kmph depending on the power boat class. In this kind of racing, usually the speeds are around 140kmph. The longest power boat races usually last up to 45 minutes.

It is a little difficult to find out about the occurrences of racing events. On-line magazines and periodicals are now trying to address issues related to offshore boat racing. H2O Full Throttle, one of the latest magazines along with other special publications like World of Powerboats and Extreme Boats and television channels on extreme sports are constantly providing information regarding this sport.

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Source by Abhishek Agarwal

Abu Dhabi for Motor Sport Enthusiasts

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About Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the second largest city of the United Arab Emirates as well as being the capital. The city lies on a T-shaped island that juts into the Persian Gulf. Abu Dhabi is an important city for a number of reasons, including it is the home of the offices of the federal government and the seat of the UAE government. The population of the city is relatively rich with a high average income.

Formula One
If you are a motor racing enthusiast, there are a number of reasons why the city of Abu Dhabi should be very high on your list of places you would like to visit. Since 2009, Abu Dhabi has hosted a Formula One event every year, and already this is considered to be one of the most prestigious and important on the Grand Prix calendar.

Due to time zone differences the race usually kicks off about 5 PM local time and even at the start of the race floodlights light the track - officials think this is preferable to lighting them halfway through the race and interfering with live TV filming of the event. Abu Dhabi is one of the two Grand Prix meetings where you can watch the action from a luxury yacht. The other event is Monaco; in both cities the racetrack is adjacent to a beautiful luxury marina.

The Yas Marina Circuit where the event is held Is one of the most advanced circuits technology wise in the world. It is also used as a training ground for Middle Eastern racing drivers to practice.

Ferrari World
As well as the Formula One event, Abu Dhabi is also home to Ferrari world. This is the first Ferrari theme park in the world and also the biggest attraction of this kind. The park covers an area of ​​47 square miles. There are over 20 attractions within the theme park including the world's fastest roller coaster which reaches speeds of an exhilarating 240 km per hour. The park has many interactive games, designer shopping opportunities, and authentic Italian restaurants to reflect the Italian Ferrari experience.

Emirates National Auto Museum
If these two attractions are not enough, car fans can also dedicate some time to visiting the Emirates National Auto Museum. Here you will find a large private collection of classic American cars and off-road vehicles, including the museum Sheikh owner's Mercedes rainbow collection. This consists of a Mercedes car of each color of the rainbow. Each car is also fitted with a TV and refrigerator. Children will enjoy the museum because there are a number of military vehicles that they are permitted to climb in and "drive" - ​​one even features a golfing range on top of the roof.

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Source by Janet Harrington

Facts for Formula 1 Lovers

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Speeding on paved roads through some of the most exciting and beautiful cities in the world are Formula One race cars competing for victory. The races typically take place on winding city streets and are referred to as F1 circuits such as Circuit de Monaco in Monte Carlo. The races are both attended and seen on TV by people from all over the world. Formula One racing, considered by many people to be the most dangerous and difficult type of racing, requires top-notch athletic drivers, aerodynamic vehicles, an expert team to assist the driver, and lots of money.

The Vehicles
Formula One vehicles, created specifically for top speed, are single-seat, open cars with front and rear wings. The driver can actually manipulate the front wings during a race. The aerodynamics of the cars help drivers to reach speeds as great as 229.8 mph. This particular speed was registered by BMW Williams F1 team member Antonio Pizzonia during the Italian Grand Prix 2004. Two well-known manufacturers of F1 cars who build the entire vehicle are Ferrari and Renault. Independent manufacturers such as McLaren and Williams need to purchase their engines from another company. Popular suppliers of engines include both Mercedes and BMW. The manufacturers can win the coveted Constructors' Championship by basically having their cars win or finish in top positions in most races. The cars which race during the particular season are assigned points that reflect their finishing position. The points are totaled at the end of the season and the manufacturer with the most points wins.

The Drivers
Not just anyone can be a Formula One driver. The drivers of these mighty cars must be extremely fit both mentally and physically. Cornering forces of up to a sustained 3.5 g require the driver to be extremely strong in order to last the entire race. The speed at which the vehicles travel and the fact that the tracks are not always the same shape require the driver's complete concentration at all times. Both stamina and endurance are necessary for the drivers to compete in as many races as possible and in order for them to withstand the extreme heat which consumes the cockpits. According to Formula1.com, drivers can sweat as much as 3 kg (or approximately 6.6 lbs.) of their weight off during a race.

Formula One Grand Prixs exist all over the globe. They have been in existence for many years. The Grand Prix de Monaco was first held in April of 1929. The most recent race in Monaco occurred on May 26, 28 and 29 in 2011. The circuit consists of 77 laps, and the spectators always relish the opportunity to get closer to the cars racing than in most other Grand Prixs. Singapore held its first F1 Grand Prix in September 2008, and it was the first Grand Prix to ever take place at night. In 2011 the Formula 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix will be held on September 23, 24 and 25th. It's the Marina Bay Street Circuit and it consists of 61 laps. The more Grand Prixs a driver competes in the better his chances for success as well as the success of his team. The Grand Prixs eventually lead to competing for the World Championship prize.

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Source by Cecelia Owens

Europe - Places to Meet Pure Bred Aristocracy and Royalty

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Want to meet a Duke or a true Prince and Princess? One of the easiest and most convenient places to meet pure royalty is at one of the prestigious hotel casinos. They hang out at many of the following five casinos and, once you are in, you can interact with them, play against them and if you are good enough, even beat them. Wouldn't you like to boast that you defeated a King? These five hotel casinos give you that chance.

But do not expect an all you can eat buffet or players with baseball caps and cool shades. Come dressed elegantly and only then will you be let in to share a baccarat game with pure-bred European aristocracy.

The European casinos listed here are the largest and the most luxurious casinos in Europe. Their appointed clientele is less the seasonal tourist gambler and more the upper crust. So, if you are looking for a stylish way to spend your latest lottery winning, you can shoot the dice in one of the casinos listed below while your traveling partners lie around the French Riviera beaches or go on wild shopping trips in the streets of London or Moscow.

1) Casino de Monte Carlo, Monaco:

Monte Carlo has been the favorite gaming destination of Europe's rich and famous for almost 150 years with the first casino that was founded by Prince Charles III of Monaco in 1863. Casino de Monte Carlo is a complex of five posh casinos located by the seashore and decorated in French rococo style with marbled columns, golden ornaments and crystal chandeliers. The overall environment would make you feel like an extra in a French history movie.

2) Casino Metropol, Moscow:

The Russian Federation has the biggest number of casinos and slot machines in Eastern Europe. The best casinos for tourists are obviously the ones located in hotels. Casino Metropol is part of the five star Hotel Metropol, which is not only one of the most elegant casino hotels in the area but it is also conveniently located in the center of Moscow within a walking distance from the Red Square and the Kremlin. The lowest minimum table requirement is 25 dollars and a night at the presidential suite will cost you 2,000 dollars.

3) Baden Baden Casino, Baden Baden, Germany:

The veteran European casino was founded in 1809 and although it has changed several ownerships since then, its reputation as one of the finest casinos in Europe in general and in Germany in particular has not change. Nowadays, the Baden Baden Casino is one of the city's landmarks along with the famous thermal baths. If you ignore the table games and the slot machines, walking through the 32,289 square foot casino looks as similar to a visit in an European art museum with permanent exhibits of oil paintings and sculptures.

4) The Clermont Club, London, England:

If you are visiting the UK, you cannot just pop into a casino but have to apply for a membership at least a day ahead. If you plan to follow this procedure, the Clermont Club in Berkeley Square is one of the most reputable gaming clubs around. Set in a 17th century building, the Clermont Club was designed to resemble the Great Hall at Holkham. In addition to its friendly and convenient gaming room, the Clermont Club includes a bar and a clubroom where members and their guests can lounge over a banquet of a vintage bottle of champagne. Note that playing at online casinos is legal in the UK, so you can just pop into any internet cafe for online games.

5) Casino Barriere de Deauville, Deauville, France:

The elegant seaside casino resort had inspired Ian Fleming in depicting the Casino of Royale les Eaux in his first James Bond novel Casino Royale. First founded in the 1860s by the Duc de Morny, the extravagant palace is one of the most beautiful casinos in the world. In addition to its gaming facilities, Casino Barriere hosts variety of exclusive entertainment shows as well as cultural and artistic events.

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Source by Jack Reider

A Short Biography of Famous Soccer Player - Lilian Thuram

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His complete name is Ruddy Lilian Thuram-Ulien. He was born on 1 January 1972 in Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe. Thuram is an ex-professional soccer player of French and his playing position is as defender (Right back / Centre back). He is the most capped player in the France national side history. At the European Championship, most appearances also have been recorded by Thuram with 16.

Lilian Thuram has some experiences with a number of senior clubs of football. His career started with AS Monaco in 1991. Thuram afterward moved to Parma F.C. in 1996-2001 and next to Juventus in 2001-2006 for value of transfer £25 million, and finally in 2006-2008 to Barcelona club. The greater part of his Italian experience was together with Juventus. He gained 4 Italian Scudetti (two were subsequently withdrawn.) In 2008 Lilian Thuram got retirement from professional soccer because of an uncommon heart defect that miserably happened and took the life of his brother.

Subsequent to becoming world champion in 1998, he was an essential component of France's victory at Euro 2000, which caused the squad being placed by FIFA as favorite from 2001-2002. In addition Thuram participated in the 2002 and 2006 World Cup, as well as Euro 1996, 2004, and 2008.

Lilian Thuram had some honors and award as long as his career as professional soccer player, some of them as an individual honors are include FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball: 1998, Légion d'honneur: 1998, FIFA 100: 2004, and FIFPro World XI: 2006. And his role with some clubs his achievements are AS Monaco FC (Coupe de France: 1991), Parma F.C. (Coppa Italia: 1999, Supercoppa Italiana: 1999, UEFA Cup: 1999), Juventus F.C. (Serie A: 2001-02 2002-03, Supercoppa Italiana: 2002, 2003), and FC Barcelona (Spanish Super Cup: 2006).

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Source by Philip Folsom

The Grand Prix, Monaco

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After Vatican City, Monaco is the smallest country in the world. Even though it's small, Monaco attracts plenty of visitors annually, one of these attractions being the Monaco Grand Prix.

The Monaco Grand Prix has been taking place for over 80 years since the first race in 1929 that was organised by Anthony Noghès. Car races in Monaco originally were organised and run through the 'Automobile Club de Monaco'. In 1928 the club applied to the international governing body of motorsport, so they could change their status from a French regional club to a national club. Today, this race is said to be one of the most famous and to some, the most important car races worldwide.

The race is held on a narrow course laid out on the streets on Monaco. Drivers finish this specific race with a relatively low average speed compared to other Grand Prix races. This is due to the fact that the course has many "humps and bumps", tight corners and a tunnel. In total, the race is 8 laps long with 19 corners and is just 2 miles long. In the off peak season, you can walk the racing route to see just how challenging it is for the drivers!

Spectators of this sport come from all over the world. Most hotels in Monaco during this time of the year host exclusive parties and charge for the privilege of using their hotel views. At a premium, you can get a three-course lunch accompanied by wines, water and coffee, a champagne reception and open bar whilst watching the cars go whizzing by in an energetic atmosphere.

Staying in Monaco during the race season may be pricey, however have a look on Simonseek.com for some prices on cheap hotels in Monaco.

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Source by Rebecca Mai Kelly

Hotel De Paris, Monaco

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Hotel de Paris is located on the Place du Casino, Monte Carlo, Monaco. The hotel was built by Charles the third of Monaco in 1864 and today, stands beside the famous Monte Carlo Casino in the heart of Monte Carlo.

To avoid being disappointed, check that you're getting one of the best rooms for your money. The hotel's 106 rooms are split into four groups, all based on view, luxury and decoration; Exclusive City View, Superior Courtyard, Exclusive Sea View and Exclusive Casino. On top of these, there are a number of suites available that offer even more luxury including single, double, Courtyard, Casino suites and one extra special Presidential suite. All rooms come complete with a minbar, jetted tub and room service of course.

The hotel's restaurants offers rooftop dining for lunch and dinner with views overlooking Monaco harbour, watch out however with the prices! A bottle of wine from the cellar could cost you a small fortune. La Terrasse de la Salle is the more formal restaurant with the more casual eatery being Cote Jardin where mostly buffet lunches are offered.

Other hotel facilities include a concierge service, free parking and even babysitting with a business centre and conference rooms available for those visiting on business. The hotel has direct access to the Aqua-fitness complex at Monte Carlo Spa that boasts a huge heated seawater pool, hammam, sauna and cardio training centre with panoramic sea view.

Upon arrival, all customers receive a complimentary package. This usually includes free admission to the Monte-Carlo Casino, The Beach Club and discounts for many more VIP amenities.

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Source by Rebecca Mai Kelly

Luxuury Yachts - Le Grand Bleu

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Price: $90 million

Overview:

The big yacht called Le Grand Bleu is one of the largest super yachts. Her length is 370ft (114m) and it was built in Bremen (Germany) at the Bremer Vulkan shipbuliding company. Yacht was designed by Stefano Pastrovich, construction by Kuch Yacht and was lunched in year 2000. Pair of 3,600-horsepower Wartsila engines with a crew of 50. International attention was received in Monaco as the home base for Roman Abramovich during Chelsea F.C attempt to beat AS Monaco in the UEFA.

Owners:

First owner was John McCaw Jr. an American businessman who sold this luxury yacht to Roman Abramovich in 2002. Roman want a little bit more and had it refitted to his own preferences by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft. In year 2006 Abramovich gave Le Grand Bleu to a friend Eugene Shvidler. Yacht was refitted again in Jackon (Florida) with a "green" wastewater treatment system as well as Lloyd's certified system, which allows the mega yacht to reuse wastewater after treatment rather than discharging wastewater into the sea.

Features:

Pair of 3,600-horsepower Wärtsilä engines with a crew of 50 and 2 onboard boats 67ft (20m) speedboat and 74ft (22m) sailboat on her deck with room for a helicopter. Interior of the yacht was designed by Terence Disdale.

Current Name: Le Grand Bleu

Type: Motor

Build: 2000

Length overall: 370 ft / 112.78 m

Beam: 58 ft / 17.68 m

Owner: Eugene Shvidler

Crew: 50

Charter: Private

Guests: 24

Builder: Bremer Vulkan, GER

Refit: 2004, 2008

Hull/Structure: Steel/Aluminum

Engine: 2x 3408kW Deutz MWM SBV16M diesels

Range: 5001 - 6000

Max speed: 17 kts / 19.56 miles/h

Cruise speed: 15 kts / 17.26 miles/h

Tonnage: 5317 gross tons

Address: Bue Ocean Yacht Management

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Source by L. Jahta

Gwynnie Should Forget Glee and Star in the Bio-Pic of Grace Kelly

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Gwyneth Paltrow has just a few years left to play the movie role she was born for - the lead in the bio-pic of Grace Kelly, the American actress who quit Hollywood to marry Prince Rainier of Monaco in 1956.

I watched the Alfred Hitchcock-directed To Catch A Thief on television recently, which stars Kelly and Cary Grant, for the umpteenth time. The witty, double-entendre laden script and the pleasing images of the South of France in the 1950s returned like an old friend.

The movie is one of Hitchcock's minor works and hardly classifies as a thriller. It comes to life only when ex-jewel thief Grant and virginal socialite Kelly are on the screen together.

For the first time I was struck by the facial similarities of Kelly and Paltrow, who fortunately would be a sufficiently good actress to carry off the complex role, as long as a singing career doesn't divert her since the success on Glee.

Of course Paltrow could play the older Princess Grace, who died at 52 suffering a stroke - and car crash - while driving in Monaco in 1982. But the Grace Kelly in her mid-twenties - when she made To Catch A Thief and just before she met Rainier - would offer Paltrow a meatier part. Kelly's beauty was at its peak and Hollywood's leading men were at her feet.

Sleepless nights await any director trying to cast the men who pursued Kelly. They are said to include David Niven, William Holden, Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby and Marlon Brando. The last two may have come to blows over her.

Perhaps this is why up on the screen the cocktail of Kelly's glacial beauty and the sensual woman beneath is so potent. She was a Hollywood princess before becoming a real one. In those days film stars were a breed apart. They would never be caught by photographers out shopping in their jeans with no make-up.

Roll the final credits after her wedding as the Serene Highness The Princess of Monaco but before then proper recognition should be given to Kelly's film work, which included the Best Actress Oscar for The Country Girl in 1955.

Researching this article it came as news to me Kelly's long friendship with and support of black American entertainer Josephine Baker. This is the most intriguing part of her Wikipedia entry and the contrast - in all sorts of ways - between the two extraordinary women would make the film a must-see winner.

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Source by Stephen Kahn