Top 10 Reasons For Moving To Spain

If you're considering joining the hundreds of thousands of people that up-sticks each year for a life overseas, then Spain could be the ideal place. Here are 10 reasons for making it your destination of choice.

1) Sunshine

A plentiful supply of sunshine is always more appealing than endless days of rain (unless you happen to be an Australian farmer). That's especially true if you come from northern Europe, with its dark winter days and erratic summers. By contrast Spain is, by and large, well-endowed throughout the year with those golden rays. Plus there's no more need to fret about where to go on your summer holidays - simply stay home!

2) Outdoor Activities

With the sunshine and warmth come ample opportunities to get out of the house and enjoy the Great Outdoors - sailing, diving, hiking, climbing, cycling, golf, or simply paddling around at the beach. And in the winter there is decent skiing at both ends of the country, in the Sierra Nevada mountains in the south, or the Pyrenees in the north.

3) Natural Beauty

In many minds Spain has become synonymous with tawdry beach resorts that blight its once pristine coastline. But that is by no means the whole story. Yes, parts are overdeveloped nightmares. But there are still plenty of beautiful stretches of coast to be found.

And once away from the main tourist areas of the Mediterranean shore there are an array of natural wonders to explore, including the wild coastline of Galicia, the lush forests of the Basque country and the majestic Picos de Europa national park.

4) Cost of living

Since the introduction of the euro in 2002, Spain has become noticeably more expensive than it once was, as businesses over all descriptions took the opportunity to round up their prices. Nevertheless, the cost of items such as food, alcohol, petrol and property still compare favourably to those in many other industrialised nations, particularly the UK.

5) Food and Drink

Spain may not have the culinary reputation of France or Italy, but there is more to the local menu than just paella and tortilla (although both are delicious). And as you would expect from a country of such size, there is a great variety of styles between the different regions (with Basque cuisine of particularly high repute). Likewise, while a nice glass of cava or a Rioja red are not to be sneezed at, Spain's wine industry has far more going for it.

6) Pace of Life

Spain is renowned for its siestas and mañana approach to life. The pace may be picking up, especially in major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, but generally there remains a more relaxed approach to the clock, with people taking the time to chat with neighbours, or to linger over coffee at the end of a meal.

7) Health Care

The Spanish state health care system is among the best in the world. Indeed, the World Health Organization, in comparing countries' health systems for its annual report in 2000 (World Health Report 2000 - Health Systems: Improving Performance), ranked it seventh overall. And in my experience (of which I've had plenty) the facilities are modern, well-equipped and clean, the staff are well-trained, and treatment waiting lists are short.

8) Family Life

In general, Spanish families tend to be close knit, and children oriented. It is common to see families spanning three or four generations sitting down to lunch together each day. Children are common sights in restaurants in the evenings too, rather than being left at home with the babysitters while the adults go out. And wherever they go, the children are always the centre of attention, for doting members of the extended family and strangers alike.

9) Fiestas

Fiestas are an integral, and much-anticipated, part of Spanish life. There are famous extravaganzas, like the bull-running in Pamplona (San Fermín) or Seville's Semana Santa and Feria de Abril, that are well worth the effort to visit, if only once. But each town and village has its own catalogue of saints' days and feast days too, which can be just as energetic and intoxicating (in every sense).

10) Cultural Riches

Spain's glory days as a world-conquering empire may be long gone, but a wealth of history and culture remain. There are museums, the world-famous art galleries of Madrid and Barcelona, architectural jewels as distinct as the Moorish Alhambra in Granada, the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and Bilbao's Guggenheim museum. There is flamenco, Picasso and Cervantes. Or simply take a stroll around Salamanca, surely one of Europe's most beautiful cities.

Paul Allen is a freelance journalist and writer who has lived in northern Spain since 2003. He is the author of "Should I Stay Or Should I Go? The Truth About Moving Abroad And Whether It's Right For You," a comprehensive e-book guide for people seeking advice on whether or not to move abroad. For more details about the book, and to get lots of free information and advice on moving and living overseas, visit his website at http://www.expatliving101.com/

Housing Boom Hits Northern Arizona

Northern Arizona's high country lies on a vast landscape of rolling hills, fragrant pine forests and snow-capped mountains. While summer temperatures in the valleys top 100 degrees, temps in Prescott, Payson and Flagstaff average in the high 80s. Even chilly winter days are pleasant because the high desert sun shines 300 days per year. Because of its climate, vast recreational opportunities and low crime rates, this region has seen an influx of retirees and second-home buyers in recent years.

From California to the East Coast, newcomers are taking advantage of low, national interest rates to flood northern Arizona area markets. With most land locked up in National Forests and Parks, the supply of new homes hasn't kept up with demand. In less than two years the housing markets in Flagstaff, Payson and Prescott have increased from 12% to 35%, and real estate agents from all three towns predict another few years of boom. Despite this bullish market, average home prices still remain reasonable compared to other U.S. mountain towns.

Prescott:
At 5,400-feet, Prescott boasts a mild climate with four seasons and pristine air quality. Cultural, educational, job and health care opportunities compare favorably to those found in metropolitan areas, but the city still retains its small-town feel. Subsequently, newcomers have flooded to the area at a steady rate and housing prices have almost doubled in five years. Prescott's 37,500 residents now pay an average of $360,000 for a single-family home. Although significantly above the national average, these prices haven't deterred two-thirds of residents from owning their own homes.

According to Red Arrow Real Estate Broker John Clark, because Prescott is the "most desirable place to live in Arizona," every part of the market is booming. "Years ago, it was more of a retirement community," he says. "Now they come because of jobs and growth, which creates more jobs." They also come to buy second homes. Low interest rates have allowed many Californians and lowland Arizona residents to refinance their primary residences, freeing up money they then invest in second homes in Prescott. Things aren't slowing down either. "Builders are growing homes as fast as they can to meet demand," says Clark, "but we have more buyers than we have sellers and inventory is not available in certain prices ranges."

Payson:
With the 7,000-foot, 200-mile long escarpment of the Mogollon Rim and two mountain ranges as its backdrop, its no wonder newcomers flock to Payson. Scenery and recreational opportunities aside, this town of 14,300 boasts a low cost of living and lower than national average home prices. At $283,000 home prices are ideal for retirees and second-home buyers. Around 80% of residents own their own homes.

According to Coldwell Banker agent Lori Coleman, market prices have increased at rates up to 25% in the last 18 months because of the aggressive market and a lack of available private land to develop. "We've seen prices go up dramatically," she says. Still, she adds, because Payson is smaller and harder to find, prices are lower than what is found in other American resort towns (home prices in Aspen, Colorado, for example, are closer to a million). This appeals to the countless Californians who want to buy second homes and to the retirees that flood the area. Adds Coleman, because Payson doesn't have industry like other areas, "people who are usually here for the long term."

Flagstaff:
Surrounded by the Kaibab and Coconino national forests as well as canyon and desert terrain, Flagstaff residents enjoy stunning scenery and a plethora of outdoor adventure opportunities. At 7,000 feet, this town of 56,000, which sits in the heart of the San Francisco Mountains, is the second highest established metro area in the country. The city boasts the most educated population in the state and a housing market that has increased 50% in the last five years. Average home prices recently reached $403,000. Despite elevated costs about half of residents own their own homes.

Realty Executive real estate agent Pat Loven, a 26-year veteran in the field, says he's never seen such a phenomenal market. "It's not unusual to have multiple offers on your property," Loven says. "There's more demand than there are houses." Because only 18% of the Flagstaff area is privately owned (the rest is owned by the state or reservations), development costs are increasing and houses are appreciating at rates of 12% to 20%. And, says Loven, the future looks bright. The steady flow of incoming students along with an infusion of retirees and second-home buyers looking to escape lowland heat will stabilize markets for years to come. "Even when interest rates were 17%, our market didn't go down," Loven explains. "Investments in this area are a good idea."

Lizzy Scully Managing Editor, http://www.FindYourSpot.com, the Internet's best source of relocation information. http://www.findyourspot.com and [http://www.findyourspotrelocationwebsite.blogspot.com]

Best Bangkok Nightlife Hotels 2009

Bangkok's nightlife has welcomed millions of visitors every year with open arms. It's interesting mix of dance clubs, jazz clubs, pubs and of course the infamous sex districts has attracted hard core party addicts from all corners of the world. Whatever you're into, Bangkok's nightlife has it all and more.

To experience the full breath of Bangkok's nightlife it's best to book a hotel in the center of Bangkok, in areas such as the district of Patpong and along Sukhumvit road. The advantages of staying in a hotel around  those areas is it's easy for tourist to travel and get around. Plus those are the areas where most international shops and businesses are available and familiar to tourist. Another top reason is because of the easy transportation offered by the BTS Sky Train. This is a very efficient elevated train system that runs above the streets of Patpong and Sukhumvit. Since Bangkok's traffic is horrendous especially around the nightlife areas it's best to take full advantage of the BTS Sky Train.

Most people have already heard of Patpong already, infamously known for the seedy sex shows and the equally seedy touts who try to lure tourist in. It's also where dozens of go go bars are lined with even more touts promoting cheap booze and sex. But in and between these dens of flesh are popular dance clubs such as Lucifer. There are several English pubs in the area too with refreshing micro brewed beer and traditional English fare such as Shepherd's Pie and Bangers & Mash. There are also live talented bands playing a mix of rock and jazz to tap your toes while downing your beer.

Some of the popular hotels in the vicinity of Patpong's nightlife area are Montien Hotel, Siam Heritage Boutique Hotel and Swiss Lodge. All of these hotels are top rated so they are very popular.

Another well known Bangkok nightlife district runs along a major road called Sukhumvit. Sukhumvit has a large concentration of upscale clubs to small beer bars that are all equally packed nightly. The names of some popular upscale clubs are Q Bar and Bed Supper Club. Sukhumvit road also runs through two red light districts called Nana and Soi Cowboy. Both are extremely popular with male tourist who have a habit of visiting go go bars. There are literally hundreds of small open air bars or beer gardens where hundreds of freelance Thai prostitutes hang around as well.

There are many Bangkok nightlife activities in this area and it's a wise decision to stay in a hotel around Sukhumvit road. Some names of popular hotel choices are Majestic Grande, Dawin Bangkok Hotel and Ambassador Hotel. The BTS Sky Train also runs above Sukhumvit road and are all within easy walking distance from the hotels mentioned here.

For further information visit Bangkok Top 10 Nightlife Hotels on hotels mentioned here as well as other useful tips on getting around Bangkok.

Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who travels to Southeast Asia, specifically to Thailand for over 8 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business ventures and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.

Condominium Purchase in Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular tourist and resort destinations in Asia, attracting millions of short-term and long-term guests annually from Europe, North America, Australia, and elsewhere. Many of these guests have selected Thailand as a vacation or retirement home, and many others have established small businesses here.

Whether you are young or old, whether you are still engaged in business or retired, condominium living in Thailand is very attractive for a number of reasons. One of these: Thai law, which generally does not allow foreigners to own landed property, does permit foreign ownership of condominiums. The process is simple and easy, but sound legal advice is needed to insure your interests are fully protected.

Whether you are seeking a condominium along a Bangkok mass-transit line; an ocean-side unit in Phuket, Pattaya or Hua Hin; or a condo in the cool mountains of northern Thailand, the procedure is the same: you should insure a title search is performed on the property, and a review of the legal contracts is conducted, before making any commitment. You then need to follow accepted procedures for the inward remittance of funds for the purchase; and finally you may attend the formal title deed transfer at the Land Department or delegate your legal advisor to do so on your behalf.

As a condo owner, you also have rights and responsibilities concerning management of the condominium complex, about which you need to be fully informed.

Insuring all legal steps are handled efficiently will be difficult if you do not already reside in Thailand on a full-time basis, so your choice of an advisor acting on your behalf is critical to a successful outcome.

Many property developers will suggest you use their own legal department to handle the paperwork; however, given the investment you are making in this foreign land, retaining an independent advisor insures your interests are fully protected.

G.A.M. Legal Alliance, a foreign-managed law firm, can provide foreign & Thai advisors to walk you through the property investment process and insure an efficient and legally-sound result. You can send email to info@gam-legalalliance.com if you have questions or visit their website www.gam-legalalliance.com for more information.

Mr. Phillip Venne is an American Legal Advisor who has 15 years of experience providing legal consultations in Thailand to foreigners concerning Thai Immigration, Setting Up a Business in Thailand, Family laws, Property Conveyancing and Foreign Visas Applications.

Staying at the Atlantis Hotel in Bahamas

If you are going on a trip to the Bahamas, then you will obviously need and want to know where the best places are for you to stay; one of the best places without a doubt is the Atlantis Hotel in Bahamas. The Atlantis Hotel in Bahamas is located on Paradise Island, near Nassau in the formerly British Bahamas and just a hop from Florida.

Why Should I Stay at the Atlantis Hotel in Bahamas?

There are many reasons as to why you should stay in the Atlantis Hotel in Bahamas, for one, the absolute fun filled time that you will have there. There is no hotel in all of Bahamas that has as much entertainment as the Atlantis Hotel in Bahamas, and so if you are looking to stay at a resort that is lively and full of excitement, then this is the best option for you.

As well, with the world's largest marine habitat, the largest casino in the Bahamas, a 15 million dollar marina, lagoons, waterfalls, and the underwater ruins of Atlantis itself, vacationing at this resort has truly achieved a distinctive combination of comfort and adventure unlike that of any other vacation destination.

One of the highlights in particular of this resort is that of the Mayan Temple waterslides, which includes: the leap of faith slide, which is an almost 60 foot vertical drop which propels riders at speeds of 35 mph through a clear acrylic tunnel submerged in the shark filled lagoon; the serpent slide, which is a spin through the temple's mysterious core which then passes through a predator lagoon at a leisurely pace; and the challengers, which is a race down high speed dual slides.

There are many other great features of this resort as well, such as the Lazy River Ride which is the quarter mile meandering for tubing, eleven pool areas, Paradise Lagoon which boasts a 7 acre saltwater lagoon for snorkeling with thousands of tropical fish, and much more.

There is world class dining, superior customer service all around, personalized service and amenities; there is truly nothing that you would want at a resort that you could not find at the Atlantis. It is easily the most fun-filled and action packed resort on all of the Bahamas, and this is why it is the number one resort for vacationers who travel to the Bahamas.

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San Diego Beach Hotels

With over 32 million visitors each year, San Diego is without doubt, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Over 300 sunny days throughout the year and endless miles of sandy coastlines, are reason enough for visitors to flock to the Californian city.

The beaches of San Diego are one of the main attributes and offer some great options for a fun-filled vacation. The beaches vary in size and shape. Some of the most popular beaches in San Diego are La Jolla Beach, Mission Beach and Pacific Beach.

Since the beaches are one of the foremost attractions, the hotels located on the coast are a preferred choice among travelers. These hotels are perfect for people who want to partake in the numerous activities that abound the San Diego beaches. Visitors to these beach hotels look forward to enjoying activities such as surfing, para sailing, snorkeling and sunbathing. San Diego beach hotels cater to all these wants and offer much more.

San Diego beach hotels vary in size, ranging from small cottages and inns to lavish seaside resorts. In addition to the basic amenities and services provided by most common hotels, these beach hotels offer special services to cater to the beach-going crowd. Several of these hotels have their own private beaches, cordoned off from the common beach areas. Guests can enjoy a relaxing sunbath or take a dip in the frothy surf. Hotels may also feature oceanfront lawns, seaside restaurants and bars and recreational areas such as beach volleyball courts. The hotels may also provide rental equipment for surfing, scuba diving, and windsailing. In most cases, experienced and well-trained personnel are available on-site to assist the guests.

Some San Diego beach hotels may also offer individual beachfront cottages. These private homes come equipped their own kitchenettes and separate living rooms. Other services include fitness centers, spas, world cuisine restaurants and shopping areas.

San Diego beach hotels set the perfect ambience for an unforgettable vacation in the wonderful city. Guests should book well in advance to avoid holiday time rush and to get the best rates possible.

San Diego Hotels provides detailed information on San Diego Hotels, San Diego Discount Hotels, San Diego Beach Hotels, Cheap San Diego Hotels and more. San Diego Hotels is affiliated with San Francisco Luxury Hotels.

10 Great Things to Do in Pattaya - Who Says Pattaya is Only For Sex Tourism?

Want to try something new? Pattaya is a great place for the adventurous traveler to explore. Get close to nature with an elephant ride at the elephant village, or spend time at the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden. Inexpensive water sports include windsurfing, sailing, water-skiing, parasailing, game fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving.

On land, visitors can choose from tennis, go-carting, motorbike racing, squash, badminton, bowling, jogging and bungee jumping or jumping off the highest seaside rooftop tower at Pattaya Park! The avid golfer can play a round at one of the world-class golf courses. Of course nothing beats swimming in the ocean or tanning on the beach.

1. Pattaya Water Park

This large resort and hotel complex is located in Jomtien, and features a tall, 240-meter tower with three revolving restaurants on different floors. There are three options available for visitors to choose how they would like to get back on the ground: Sky Shutter, Speed Shutter, or Tower Jump - determined by how much of an adrenalin rush you prefer.

At Funny Land Amusement Park, there is a roller coaster, or you can choose an even faster mode of transport in the Tower Shot. A monorail also runs through the resort. Massive water slides, Jacuzzi, whirlpools and a large pool for children provide heaps of fun, minutes from the beach.

2. Pattaya Elephant Village

Experience rural Thai life at this inspiring village and learn about the ways of old while reveling in the presence of exotic fauna. Take a scenic ride on a specially trained elephant and observe the slow pace of country life not found in the bustling city of Pattaya.

Watch as silkworms are harvested for their precious threads, check out old style Thai cooking rituals, trek through the jungle, and if you're lucky visit with a rambunctious tame Gibbon. This is a necessary experience for nature lovers and those who seek a change of pace from the hectic pace of city.

3. Fun Stuff

For a more elevated experience CMT Flying Club offers ultra-light flights and light airplane cruises over the Pattaya countryside. Weekends 8-6pm. Note: Ultra-light flights are dependent on wind conditions so try to reserve in advance.

If you prefer to watch combat, you can check out Muay Thai Boxing where the Beach Road meets the Walking Street. You will see why Muay Thai is considered the king of Martial Arts.

The perfect place for those with an adventurous spirit, try paint ball with a group of friends at Jomtien Paintball World. A hundred balls and face paint for 500 baht, and you're ready to cause havoc! Looking for something more exciting? Make your way to the hi-tech version of paintball at Ripley's Laser Trek.

If you like guns, try shooting real bullets at Pattaya Shooting Range.

Go-Karting can be great fun too; both 400- and 700-metre tracks are available at Mini Siam and Pattaya Go-Cart Speedway. As for profession drivers, a 1,090-metre-track is available.

4. Vimantaitalay Submarine

Dive into the deep blue and explore the ocean floor up close and personal in this exciting submarine adventure. Guests are ferried out to the 'Yellow Submarine' in the azure blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand where their adventure begins. Upon submersion, you will have a chance to explore exotic coral reefs that feature an amazing selection of underwater species, some 25-meters below the sea. Skilled divers display a wide variety of amazing creatures, including puffer fish, sea urchins and if you are lucky, you just might see a rare sea turtle. The experience is dazzling and suitable for children and adults alike, be sure to book your place one day in

5. Koh Lan and nearby Islands

The best city escape from Pattaya is just 45 minutes ride away on a ferry. Koh Lan (Coral Island) is located just offshore of South Pattaya and a little paradise! Beaches are clean, and the water is always so clear. Enjoy all kind of activities like those you find on Jomtien and, in addition, view coral through glass-bottom boats or snorkeling. Some resorts and bungalows are offered at Hard Nuan. Boat trips can be arranged to visit nearby islands such as Koh Phai and Koh Sak. Ferries leave daily from Pattaya South Pier. One-way fare costs 30 baht per person. From Nar Baan Pier you can take a motorbike taxi to your desired beach (20 - 50 baht).

6. Under Water World

Experience up close and personal the enchanting creatures of the briny blue at this intriguing attraction. A compilation of pools and aquariums recreate actual marine habitats found around Thailand, including coral reefs and massive predators from the deep. Tour through shipwrecks and view unique marine life such as enormous rays, razor toothed sharks, and spiny crabs.

Underwater World also offers an assortment of interesting activities, including underwater weddings, shark diving, coral reef snorkeling, and educational tours. This is the perfect venue for children and families that want to learn more about this fascinating environment.

7. Indoor pursuits

Indoor bowling is very popular with both locals and tourists with several alleys to choose from around the city, the one above Tops Supermarket on the corner of 2nd Road and Central Pattaya Road is a favorite with both locals and tourists. Snooker halls in Pattaya are everywhere, as are pool and billiard bars.

There are also a pistol shooting gallery, clay shooting range and archery range. Theatres, cinema, festivals and live music for all tastes are listed in the local community magazines and newspapers.

8. Metaphysical and new age pursuits

In Pattaya other activities include the many relaxing spas and beauty treatments, yoga classes, courses on cooking, Thai language schools, massage, meditation, tai chi and the opportunity to visit the wonderful tropical gardens in the area. Details of all these are in the regular local English newspapers and magazines.

Getting yourself pampered is easy in Pattaya. There are numerous spas and places for exotic beauty treatments, including facials, body scrubs, body wraps, water treatments and more . Some of the most posh and beautiful spas are located in major hotels.

9. Water Sports

• Lakeland Water Ski: Just 5 km. from Pattaya City, this enormous fresh water lake is used for cable ski, a sport that is growing fast in popularity. (Location: Kilometer 150.5 on Sukhumvit Highway)


• Bamrung Sailing and Para-motor Centre: A variety of exciting aquatic and other exciting sports are offered here (complete with short instruction courses), including windsurfing, sailing, Para-motoring and paragliding. Certificates are issued on completion of courses and restaurant facilities are also available. Canoes, catamarans and kayaks are available for rent too. (Location: Kilometer 150 on Sukhumvit Highway)

10. Tattoos

Many people get a tattoo while in Pattaya. This is a big step and hard to reverse, but there is no denying tattoos are currently very popular. If you are going to get one, there are several excellent artists in Pattaya. Be sure you check to see needles are sterilized properly. A less drastic step is a temporary henna tattoo from one of the vendors wandering the beach.

You may take 1 day trip away from Pattaya to taste more Thai experiences. There are many destinations around like Koh Samet (Strongly Recommend), Chantaburi, Ayuthaya, River Kwai, Floating Market and also Bangkok.

Find more detail and contact information of Pattaya activities at Pattaya Beach Hotel.net
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