Author: Jon Arnold
Source: ezinearticles.com
Grand Bahama Island is more than just Freeport and Lucaya, more than just casinos, resorts, and tropical entertainment. Outside the city is an entire island filled with gorgeous beaches, natural wonders, including one of the world’s largest underwater cave systems, three national parks, and an incredible resource of marine life.
The Bahamas is known to be the origination of the concept of the all-inclusive resort. All-inclusive properties include all meals, beverages, tips and more. These typically include hotel accommodations for a specified number of nights. All-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas may not be as plentiful as on other Caribbean islands, but the big-name resorts such as Sandals and Club Med, can still be found. These all-inclusive resorts offer a variety of vacation amenities for one flat price, which is almost always cheaper than getting those same amenities one by one individually.
Bahamas vacation rentals can provide travelers with maid service, a personal cook, gardener, private pool, jacuzzi, and 24 hour security guards. Bahamas vacation rentals can run anywhere from $100 a night to $1,000 a night. Regardless of your budget, a beautiful vacation rental can always be found. Bahamas vacation resorts are the perfect place for travelers who want to experience everything the Bahamas has to offer, from one convenient and luxurious location.
Freeport Bahamas offers variety of water sports including water skiing, scuba diving, swimming, skiing and fishing that you can indulge in. Aside from these, there are several other water sports and activities that you can enjoy. Freeport Bahamas is a very popular vacation destination, known world-wide.
One of the big reasons for this is because Bahamas vacation resorts are great places to look into if you are interested in finding many activities all in one spot. In addition to providing its guests with a place to sleep, resorts often feature such amenities as golf courses, tennis courts, restaurants, clubs, water activities, boat and other rentals, shopping, and more. Bahamas vacation package rates are easy to find, and even better pricing can usually be had if the individual manages to get a group together for the trip.
It is important for tourists to keep in mind that this country was under the rule of Great Britain for most of their existence, and they retain much of their British heritage. Bahamas vacation guides will also include details on how to plan a Bahamas holiday complete with details related to what should be packed and which places should be visited. They give a list of all possible things starting from a list of all the festivals which are celebrated to all the documents which one needs to carry to the islands.
For more insights and additional information about taking and planning your ultimate Bahamas Vacation as well as finding super discounts on a variety of activities you are sure to enjoy on your vacation, please visit our web site at http://www.about-bahamas.com
Author: Nomad Rick
Source: articledashboard.com
Mention the word “Siberia,” and images of gulags, frozen tundra and wastelands may come to mind. While there is some truth to these, my impressions of Siberia included more.
Siberia comprises more than 75 percent of modern Russia. Unless you visit, there is simply no way to describe the total landmass of this much-maligned area of the world. To give you some perspective, consider the fact that Siberia is bigger than Canada, has more natural resources than any area of the world, spans nine time zones and contains the largest plain in the world.
One of the best ways to give you an impression of the size of Siberia is to discuss the infamous gulag system. When one thinks of a gulag or prison, visions of guards with guns, electrified fences and so on come to mind. In Siberia, most of the gulags did not have fences or any kind of barrier to keep people in. With freezing temperatures in the winter, huge rivers of mud and water in the summer, Siberia formed a natural gulag for many of the prisoners. If a prisoner escaped from a gulag, there was simply nowhere to go. The closest population center might be 1,000 miles away.
“Siberia” comes from the Mongolian word “sibir”, which means “sleeping land.” In the early 1700’s, Siberia became a place of exile. It continued to be “the last stop” for criminals and political exiles throughout much of the 20th century. The city of Chita is in fact known as the “City of Exiles.”
With the end of communism, Siberia has seen a voluntary migration of Russians who work on the Trans-Siberian Railway or in the massive natural resource industries. Siberia is the home to tremendously large oil, gold, timber and diamond deposits. With the turn to capitalism, the country is making a major effort to take advantage of such resources. This has led to a population explosion in cities such as Irkutsk, Chita and Ulan Ude.
Siberia is always depicted as a land of freezing snow. Having lived there, I can tell you it does get “Oh, my god” cold in the winter. Temperatures can drop into the -40s. In the spring and summer, however, temperatures can reach as high as 110 degrees. With such a massive area, the climates and temperatures fall all over the map. Put another way, the United States could fit in Siberia, so you can see how temperatures might vary.
Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal is the largest fresh water lake in the world. Fed by over 300 rivers, the lake is really an inland sea. The lake has over 30 islands. If you drained all of the water from lakes Superior, Erie, Huron, Michigan and Ontario, you still couldn’t fill Lake Baikal. Standing on one shore, you cannot see the other side. It is simply huge.
Siberia is one of the few locations in the world still considered to be an untamed adventure travel destination. You can fish, hike, camp, hunt, drink vodka, ski, swim, take in a spa and do just about anything you like. The Siberians are universally friendly and can tell one heck of a story.
If you get a chance to visit Siberia, I highly recommend it. Heck, I stayed for a year!
Author: Vinay Chaubey
Source: articledashboard.com
Thiruvananthapuram, the city of the snake god , is the capital of Kerala State and is situated at south India. The city is a blend of modern and traditional architecture. Named after the fabled Serpent God ‘Anantha’ on whom Sri Anantha Padmanabhan (Lord Vishnu) reclines, the city is built on seven hills. Caressed by the Arabian Sea at the west, Thiruvananthapuram is a popular transit destination for Indians and foreigners alike who like to visit south India.
Places to see in Thiruvananthapuram:
? Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple
The imposing seven storied tower makes it the most impressive landmark in the city. The temple is an excellent example of the dravidian style of architecture. There are innumerable pillars, intricate carvings, and mural paintings.
? Kovalam
Kovalam is 12kms to the south of Thiruvananthapuram and is one of the finest beaches in India. It has been developed into an integrated seaside resort. The beach complex has many hotels, cottages, yoga centres etc.
? Sree Chithra Art Gallary
Has a rich collection of paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and Roerich It also has copies of paintings of the Ajanta, Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore Schools besides some works from China, Japa, Tibet and bali.
? Ponmudi
A pleasant resort at an elevation of 912m above sea level. It is 61 kms from Thiruvananthapuram and connected by road. There are many tree and rubber estates around the hills.
? Kowdiar Palace
The home of the late maharaja Sree Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama varma and his family is off limits to visitors but you can have a glimpse from the main gate. If a friendly guard is on duty, he will let you walk a bit inside the grounds where you can get a view of the grand old building at the end of its long drive.
? The Kanakakunnu Palace
This palace in the heart of Trivandrum city is one of the most beautiful buildings. The palace and its sprawling grounds are today the venue for many cultural meets. The Museum The museum building is an architectural splendour. The napier museum, the natural history museum, the reptile house and the Shri Chitra Art Gallery are in the same complex amidst a well laid out garden and park..
? Kuthira Malika
Puthen Malika is also known as Kuthira Malika. This palace was built during the time of H.H Maharaja Swathi Thirunal the king of Travncore who was also a great poet and musician. This palace has wood carvings in the traditional Travancore style. The museum presently displays various painting collections of the royal family.
? Varkala
A pilgrim centre for the devotees of Sree Narayana Guru, one of the patron saints of Kerala, whose motto was “One God, One Religion, One Caste”. It is only 51kms from Trivandrum by road and also boasts of one of the best beaches in the State.
Fairs and Festivals in Thiruvananthapuram:
The Great Elephant Race
Though strictly not a local festival, the conclusion of it is in Thiruvananthapuram. It is a four daylong extravaganza arranged by the tourism department of Kerala. 101 caparisoned elephants march from Thrissur on the 17th of every January reaching Thiruvananthapuram on the fourth day with stop overs at Kochi and Alappuzha. Boat races and folk art performances are arranged during this period where tourists can have glimpses of Kerala culture. The festival is concluded on the fourth day at Kovalam Beach with cultural programs and seaside barbecue.
Nishagandhi Dance Festival
The Tourism Development Corporation organises the dance festival. Leading artists of Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak, Odissi, Modern ballet and other folk form will perform at the open-air theatre of Nishagandhi in the Kanakakunnu Palace compound. Admission is free and the festival usually is accompanied with music.
Vetta and Arattu
This festival is celebrated twice in a year, once in Oct.-Nov and other in March-April. Vetta represents Lord Vishnu hunting down the demon of evil in the forest. The next day afternoon the Arattu procession begins. Images of Lord Padmanabha, Lord Krishna and Lord Narasimha are carried to the Arabian Sea at Sangumugham beach escorted by the members of the Royal Family. At sunset the images are ritually bathed in the sea. Returning the images in a procession back to the Padmanabhaswamy temple concludes the event. Several cultural programs including all-night Kathakali are performed during the festival.
How to get there:
By Air
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (6 kms. from the city) has air links with convenient connections to Maldives, Sri Lanka and many countries to the West of Arabian Sea and other important ports. Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate domestic flights to different parts of the country.
By Rail
Thiruvananthapuram is an important railway terminus on the southwestern coast with train services from all parts of the country, including the southernmost tip of the subcontinent, Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin).
By Road
Motorable roads link Thiruvananthapuram to several important tourist and business centers in India. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation operates bus services of various classes.
Author: hercafe
Source: articlesbase.com
When there are the places in the entire world where the people can get the best clothes at much cheaper prices when compared to the prices in rest of the world then that will be
Author: Bei M Maniago
Source: ezinearticles.com
Beautiful scenery, rich history and plenty of places to go wild make Thailand an exciting adventure for all who go there. It’s a country that satisfies a range of travellers, from tourist types looking to hit the beach and soak up some rays, to young backpackers on hedonistic journeys of discovery. It’s a particular darling of the latter set, with thousands of Brits heading to the country every year for a good few months of travelling around the country’s islands and lush interior. There’s a rich variety of great places to visit and things to do, and months can fly by without running out of activities. If you’re travelling to Thailand soon, take a read of this article to find out more about three of the popular destinations.
Phuket
Located to the west of the country, Phuket is the largest and most popular island in Thailand. The island was hit hard by the 2004 Tsunami, but recovery has surged through tourism in the time since. With miles and miles of idyllic beaches and a collection of hotel resorts that wouldn’t look out of place in a list of the world’s best, tourists pour here by the bucket load. Some of the top resorts lie in the northern town of Ao Bang, where serious pampering comes at a serious price. This is home to a 7km long white beach and the Laguna Phuket golf club. Further south is Patong, a popular resort that lights up with neon during the night while providing home to the island’s most popular beach – Hat Patong.
Bangkok
Once thought of as a dinghy third world city, the fortunes of Bangkok have soared in recent times to make it a sprawling cosmopolitan metropolis. It’s a city which combines ancient culture with air conditioned mega malls, 200 year old homes with strips of sleaze, and Thai street food sellers cooking before restaurants of international flavours. Some people choose on a full blown and exotic city break, while others plan just to pass through on their way from the airport or to somewhere further afield. If you’re going to Bangkok, then get ready for superb food and wild nights, but also check about the current political situation. Recent turmoil has brought unrest to the streets and caused some major airport delays.
Coastal Krabi
Krabi province is fast becoming a tourist hotspot, and many feel some of its unspoilt pleasures will soon mirror the faster paced destinations of somewhere like Ko Samui or Phuket. However, having been a region knocked off its feet by the 2004 tsunami, it hasn’t seen a complete revival to what it once was. Particularly picturesque destinations include Railay and Ko Phi Phi Don. The former has become synonymous to paradise, with incredible cliffs guarding an amazing beach littered with strange limestone formations that make it fantastic for rock climbing. Meanwhile the latter was thought of so highly by the producers of the 2000 film The Beach, starring Leonardo Di Caprio, that they chose it as the setting for their perfectly unspoilt imaginary island. Get there while you still can!
Have you been waiting to book your Bangkok flights and have a great holiday? Just pick up the phone and call DialAFlight now.
Author: ClaireSay
Source: articledashboard.com
My recent decision to move to Panama for four months sounded quite a bit like my decision to move to Costa Rica for six months, or to Chile for five. I made all the travel arrangements on my own, including a stopover in Costa Rica to see my boyfriend. But when it came time to say goodbye after spending three weeks with another human being always by my side, I felt a sudden unfamiliar anxiety about venturing off on my own to a new country.
Traveling alone comes with many ups and downs. In our daily lives we rely on friends, family and co-workers to get us through our days. We often overlook how interwoven our actions and accomplishments are, and how our surroundings define who we are.
As I was sitting alone at the bus terminal in San Jose during the two hours that the bus was delayed, I started having fears of crossing the border alone with my life packed away into two large pieces of luggage. I wondered how I would find my to-be-co-worker in an unfamiliar bus stop the next day; and how would I pass 16 hours on a bus alone? Longing to crawl back to the warm, protective arms of my boyfriend, I boarded that bus and watched as my decision to put 16 hours of time and space between us became a reality.
At the Albrook bus terminal in Panama City, Panama, I stared in awe at my surroundings, which stared right back at me. “What was this little American girl doing alone in such a big place?” they questioned. I was obviously not an intimidating sight, and found it quite simple to get help from others. A taxi driver dialed my friend’s phone number on a public phone for me, a guard watched my bags as I used the restroom, and a fellow passenger offered me a ride to my new home.
Luckily, I was able to decline that offer as my new boss rolled up, as if on cue, to where I was standing in his white ford explorer with a huge smile on his face despite the early morning hours. And I knew that everything was going to be okay.
Best friends or recent acquaintances, we are never on your own in this world unless we choose to be. Traveling “alone” may allow you to forge your own unique path, but there will always be someone nearby for you to fall back on. You just have to get used to accepting the varied forms in which these people come. You never know your own limits, until you take yourself out of the comfort zone, forge new paths and let yourself rely on a stranger.
Author: J Mikula
Source: ezinearticles.com
What better way to see the sights of London than on a coach trip? There is nothing nicer than being shown round all of the sights by a professional tour guide who knows exactly what they’re talking about. Most tour operators have their own itinerary for a tour round London but you can always make up your own.
If you’re visiting London why not visit the London Eye. Standing tall against the river Thames, the London eye gives you the opportunity to view from high the sights of London. Once finished there you could pop over the bridge to the houses of parliament. Where England’s government resides, This building is magnificent and is right next to Big Ben! Another sight to see has to be Buckingham palace, if you’re lucky you may even catch them at the change of the guard. After that why not have a spot of lunch and maybe try a bit of shopping in Covent garden. Covent garden is always full of street entertainers so why not sit back and enjoy being entertained. If shopping is your thing then you have to visit Harrods! The biggest department store (and the most expensive) holds all sorts of souvenirs of London and is a great place to grab some goodies.
Other famous sights include the tower of London, where the crown jewels are kept. Or maybe try the London Dungeons. If scary sights aren’t for you then you could spend the afternoon at the zoo, with loads of animals this attraction is particularly good for families. There are also many museums such as the natural history museum and the science museum. They have lots of new exhibitions and a lot of them are hands on too.
If you’re looking for something to do in the evening then why not try one of the world famous restaurants such as the Rainforest Caf
Author: Brooke Schoenman
Source: ezinearticles.com
The overnight train from Kiev to Budapest is a common route for those travelers exploring Eastern Europe, but train travel in this part of the world can seem a bit out of this century. The task of traveling this route can seem daunting, unsafe and strange, especially when the traveler cannot speak the same language, so many questions may arise. In order to shed some light on this activity, I have answered five common ones below.
1. How often do trains run from Kiev, Ukraine to Budapest, Hungary?
Trains run from Kiev to Budapest daily. There is actually one direct train every day that starts in Kiev and ends in Budapest, while there are also many other potential routes, involving train changes, that can get you to the final destination in Hungary.
2. How long does the train take to travel from Kiev to Budapest?
On average, train travel from Kiev to Budapest will take 24 hours to complete. The direct, daily overnight train will progress for 25 hours, while other variations involving changes can take as little as 20 hours if timed correctly. Ukraine is a surprisingly expansive country in Eastern Europe causing travel to run slower than one would hope.
3. Is there food available on the overnight trains?
Food carriages are usually available at one end of the train, but bringing your own snacks is a more convenient way to travel, but be aware that some people might expect you to share. Coffee and tea are available in each carriage by asking the attendant, as well as hot water for those wanting to cook some instant noodles.
4. How many people will be in my sleeper cabin?
Sleeper cabins can have from 1 to 6 people depending on the class and rate of pay. Second class will have four sleeping units with a sliding door for more privacy. There will be one large window, a small table and usually luggage storage under both of the bottom bunk beds.
5. What do I need to do to prepare for the border crossing?
The border crossing between Ukraine and Hungary will vary depending on the type of route you are taking from Kiev to Budapest. If taking the direct overnight train, the train will usually stop at the border for a while as border guards get on to check passports and possibly search for signs of smuggled goods. If no visa is needed for travel to Hungary, then the passage is generally easy, but no one is able to leave the train during this time. If taking an indirect route, the border crossing may occur at Chop, Ukraine. You will have to pass through customs and passport control where they will check your passport and belongings before entering the train. Once across the border, everyone will remain on the train until guards in Hungary also check passports and belongings.
After spending countless hours myself trying to figure out the ins and outs of travel from Kiev to Budapest by train, I thought these little tidbits could at least give someone else a bit more direction.
Brooke spent 5 months in 2008 – 2009 living in Kiev, Ukraine while teaching English. To learn more about Ukraine travel, take a look at these articles on Kiev to Budapest by Train, which further explains an alternate train route, and Overnight Trains in Ukraine, which explains more of what to expect.
Author: Mark Yates
Source: articlesbase.com
*Taken from the syllabus of The Law Enforcement & Bodyguard Association International LEBAI, special thanks to former Police Commissioner Norman E. Jennings The aim of this lesson is to give you an introduction into Travel Security and the need to understand the importance of Travel Security and the role of security while in transit The reason you need this information is for you to have an understanding as to correct security procedure while travelling in transit All security personnel must understand and practice the basic rules of individual protection, as you may become the potential victim of a criminal or terrorist organisation or group. To the extent possible, security operating in personnel in ‘threat areas’ must avoid routine in the routes and times of movements to and from the work site, your place of residence, and around town (i.e. shopping) even to the point of not eating at the same restaurants on a regular basis. Do not become a creature of habit. Past incidents indicate that terrorists kept their victim under surveillance for a substantial period of time to discover patterns and to determine a suitable time(s) and place(s) for the attack. You are vulnerable when on the move and probably most vulnerable walking to and from the car. Terrorists will most likely choose a time you are inside your automobile. You are fixed – and he may attack in a variety of ways. Make sure the unvaried portions of the route (choke points) are as short as possible. Memorise normal activity. This includes memorising cars that normally park in the area. You can be approximately 80% certain that any attack will occur in a choke point and probably near your home during a routine trip. It is important to remember that you are a better target if you are predictable – the best defence is common sense. Dr. Mark D. Yates at www.asecurityonestopshop.com teaches the following security measures on his security training programmes. 1. If possible, use different doors and gates when departing and entering your home or office. 2 . When going out, avoid going alone. Try to travel with a group of people. If your SSM or Senior Guard has a two-man rule in place, obey it – there is safety in numbers. 3. Conduct a route survey and look at the choke points from the terrorist’s point of view. 4 . Be aware of your location at all times, even if you are a passenger in a car. 5 . Know the location of police, hospital, military, government and public facilities or other secured areas along your routine routes. These areas can provide a safe haven in case of trouble. Know as much as possible about the stores and merchants along your normal route of travel. Are there pro or anti U.S. sentiments displayed by flags, colours, or slogans painted on the buildings. 6 . In so-far as possible, travel only on busy, well travelled thoroughfares; stay away from isolated back-country roads. You will be advised during your in-country brief by the OIC of dangerous areas, pay heed and avoid them. 7. Be constantly alert to road conditions and surroundings, to include possible surveillance by car, motorcycle, or bicycle. All passengers should be vigilant. If you feel you are being followed or are in danger, drive to the nearest military installation, Police Station or Embassy. Keep the vehicle in the centre of the road to have room to manoeuvre in case of an attack. On multiple lane roads, never drive in the centre lane. 8 . Try to get around road obstructions, utilise a shoulder or ditch. Attempt to crash through a vehicle blockade, if necessary, striking the blocking vehicle a glancing blow, no more than one quarter of the way down its length, preferably at the rear wheels. Keep your vehicle moving at all costs, regardless of its condition: for example, flat tire, disabled cooling system, etc. 9. Be alert for, and give wide berth to, cars or trucks parked along the road, particularly if there are several people around them. 10. Maintain adequate distances between your car and vehicles preceding you. Avoid being blocked in. 11. Never exit the vehicle without checking the area for suspicious individuals. If you are in doubt, drive away. 12. At night, always try to park in a well lit area, of f the street, if possible. 13. Lock the duty vehicle when it is unattended. 14. Parcels and other things should not be left in the car so that strange objects can be spotted quickly. 15. Before entering the duty vehicle, ascertain that there are no suspicious objects or unexplained wires or strings outside, underneath or inside. 16. If you find suspicious wires or packages in the vehicle, do not touch them, report them immediately to the proper authority as outlined in your post guard orders. DO NOT TOUCH THE OBJECT, immediately call for assistance. 17. Keep vehicle in a high state of maintenance at all times. It can be a good weapon if used properly. Vehicles should have: outside rear view mirrors, a locking gas cap, inside hood lock, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, semi metallic disc brake pads, heavy duty shocks, premium radial tires with the maximum tire pressure as printed on the tire side wall, and a vehicle alarm system. Always keep the trunk locked. The gasoline tank should be at least half full at all times. Tinted windows make it difficult for someone to tell who is in the car and where they are sitting. 18. If your vehicle has to be left for any length of time, it should be searched before being used again. Whenever possible have the driver stay with the vehicle to observe it. 19. A full search procedure by the driver should include: • Looking Carefully Around The Outside Of The Vehicle. • Looking Through All The Windows. • Checking Around And Behind Each Wheel. • Taking Off The Hubcaps. • Looking Underneath The Car (Particularly The Exhaust And Behind The Gas Tank) -. • Using An Angled Mirror On A Stick If Available • Opening The Driver’s Door. • Checking All Doors Before Opening Them, Seats And Floor • Opening And Inspecting The Car Trunk. • Examining The Spare Wheel. • Checking All Tools. • Opening Hood Carefully And Examining The Engine Compartment. During the residential training lessons provided by Dr. Mark D. Yates he suggests your suspicions should be aroused by: • Unusual Objects. • Objects Out Of Place. • Outward Signs Of Tampering. • Loose Wiring, String, Or Tape. • Packages Left Under The Vehicle. • Ground Disturbed Around The Vehicle. 20. Do not leave your vehicle on the street overnight if at all possible and never leave garage doors unlocked. Check garage doors for unknown objects or strings tied to door. DO NOT touch anything that looks strange to you. 21. Never pick up hitchhikers or stop to assist unknown persons in distress. Terrorists have frequently utilised these situations as a trap prior to assault. 22. During travel, always fasten seat belts, keep doors locked and windows closed. 23. Do not permit taxi drivers to deviate from known and desired routes. Do not always use the same taxi or bus stop. Do not take the first available cab. 24. Be sensitive to the possibility of surveillance. Before departing anywhere, check up and down the street for suspicious cars or individuals. 25. Try to note whether you are being followed. If you suspect so, promptly notify your Senior Guard so the incident can be documented. 26. Avoid civil disturbances and disputes with local citizens. If a dispute occurs, distance yourself with it as quickly as possible. 27. Do not unnecessarily divulge your home address, telephone number or any information about your fellow EPO’S. 28. Ensure that your Senior Guard provides you with a list of key phrases in the host country language: I need a policeman; take me to a doctor; where is the hospital; take me to the embassy; help. 29. Learn to use host country telephones. 30. Learn emergency telephone numbers: Embassy; Senior Guard Residence; you should always carry the exact change needed. 31. All mail should be received through the Approved channels. 32. Never accept unsolicited packages. 33. In most case
s the VIP will secure some sort of host country identification document to be carried by you at all times, your blood type and allergies to particular medication should be kept with this document and should be bilingual: English and the language of the host country. 34. Identification by belief of importance, not only by the individual, but also from the terrorist’s point of view, can cause you to become a target. 35. All duty rosters should be destroyed, not thrown away when they become obsolete. 36. The best way to keep from being identified and selected as a target is not to say, do, wear, use, or display anything that will help the terrorists identify you as a Foreigner. 37. If you intend to hire domestic help, do so through the Community Liaison Office or (CLO). 38. Do not attract attention to yourself. Keep a low profile. Try to blend in as much as possible. The measures listed above are not intended to be a complete or a definite list of individual protective measures. You should be able to think of many more. The bottom line here is DO THINK, and always exercise common sense. SURVEILLANCE It is a known fact to security specialists that terrorist groups and organised crime groups implement surveillance techniques when choosing a target/s. Dr. Mark D. Yates runs both surveillance and counter surveillance training programmes specifically aligned to countering terrorist attacks and kidnap for ransom incidents. Mark Yates advises all travellers to purchase a kidnap for ransom insurance policy from www.asecurityonestopshop.co.uk prior to leaving your Country of residence. Your best chance of avoiding a serious terrorist incident is to spot pre-attack surveillance. The surveillance team may not be as professional as the gun team; several mistakes are now common knowledge by prior surveillance teams. The most common area for mistakes that could be noticed by the victim is at the surveillance pick up point. This is where they first begin to follow. The mistake made is correlation. Their movement or actions can be correlated to your movement or actions. The surveillance team is usually too intent on not losing sight of you to realise they are attracting your attention. For instance, as you leave the driveway, you note to the front or rear another car starting to move as you do. The car should be watched carefully. Do not let on that you are suspicious. You can test the suspect vehicle to confirm surveillance. As you depart from home or work, be aware of activity around you. Notice anything that seems suspicious or that may indicate correlation. Watching for signs of surveillance or attack should be continuous. If, for instance, there is a vehicle behind you in traffic and you notice that is has been there for quite some time, you should make note of the number of people in the car along with their approximate ages. The vehicle may not be anything out of the ordinary. A terrorist would not likely use an eye-catching vehicle. You must get the vehicle to make another statement. This can be as simple as speeding up just slightly, slowing down, or changing lanes. If the following vehicle does the same, then you have one more piece of information. If the vehicle has not used several opportunities to pass, but suddenly moves out as if to pass, you should be ready. Take note of the traffic and figure which technique you would use. Watch for the placement of the other vehicle’s occupants, and if the windows are down on the side next to you. If the day is cool or it is raining, this is a very valuable tip. If the vehicle doe’s not complete the pass in the same speed as used in beginning the pass, be ready. Don’t let it stay in your blind spot. Turn and look over your left shoulder. If attacked, or you see weapons, act quickly. The vehicle in front of you can also conduct surveillance. You can test this vehicle in the same manner as a following vehicle with some additions. Surveillance is normally conducted by the person in the right front seat. The driver cannot glance very often in the rear view mirror without, you becoming suspicious. They know this, so the person in the right front seat does the looking by using the outside right mirror. If you follow a normal vehicle you will not see a face in the out side right mirror as you do in the outside left. If you do see someone’s face in the right mirror, it is the face of the passenger, meaning the mirror has been adjusted for that person’s use rather than for the driver. At that point you should make the other tests to confirm surveillance, such as changing lanes or speed. You can also easily note correlation by watching the turn signals of the car in front. If you make an unscheduled turn and wait later than normal to activate the turn signal, you will see possible correlations. Do not wait so late that they become suspicious of you. If you believe you are being followed, you should consider the following actions: Do not reveal to those following that you suspect them. if you do not have radio communications, notify authorities as soon as you arrive at your destination. If you have communications in the vehicle, notify authorities that you are under surveillance. Give your location, the direction of travel, identifying data of suspected surveillant(s) and your intentions. Dr. Mark D. Yates advises that you never stop or take other actions to force a confrontation. Immediately determine any identifying data that you can observe unobtrusively; for example, make, colour of car, licence number, number of occupants, description of occupants, etc. Normally, existence of surveillance means you are not in danger of being attacked. Consider deviating your route slightly in an apparent normal manner in order to verify that you are being followed. Do not warn the surveillant(s) that you are aware of their presence. Terrorists usually conduct extensive surveillance prior to an attack in order to establish your routine and evaluate your security consciousness. As a rule, surveillance teams are neither trained for, nor have the mission to, assault the potential target. If you feel you are in danger, immediately drive to the nearest safe area. Do not drive to your home. Be alert for slow-moving motorcycles or bicycles as these could be attempts to slow your car. Drive around them at the first opportunity. Report all suspected surveillances immediately to the appropriate security office. A great value for money security purchase is the Dr. Mark D. Yates home study programme on close VIP protection and/or the home study course on anti terrorist driving skills. Both of these written training programmes contain extensive security counter measure information and are available from www.asecurityonestopshop.co.uk Remember, your goal is to avoid an incident. If you can spot the surveillance, you have an opportunity to feed false information to your attackers. You have an audience, play to them! Show them changes in routine that make an attack very difficult to plan. They will probably go to some other victim since they normally watch several potential victims at the same time; finally picking the one where success is guaranteed.
Business Background of Mark D. Yates: A former Managing Director & CEO of a USA corporation and former MD of two UK Companies. Dr. Mark Yates provides his expertise to a cross section of corporate entities including, Information technology, media, mining, banking and other financial & business institutions, security, law enforcement, construction, sales, marketing, manufacture, banking, film & TV, trade unions, graphic & web design & high income generation E-commerce development & sales. Mark is a very experienced corporate trouble shooter and visionary leader. He effectively handles special assignments and specialises in providing practical solutions to complex business problems. A compulsive achiever who demonstrates the ability to consistently exceed desired results. He is particularly adept in structuring International joint venture businesses and is particularly skilled at identifying new domestic & overseas markets for clients. Now Security specialists who consults for the UK’s largest e-tailer of security products and services
Author: Suzy Davis AFS
Source: articleage.com
We arrive to the land of 1000 languages and 1000 gods. At the Intercontinental, the women in my group are welcomed with marigolds and branded with the typical red dot on our foreheads. This hotel is an oasis of luxury in a polluted city of 14 million people. Two days are spent touring Delhi. The obligatory sites include Gandhi’s Tomb and many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. No where else have ancient traditions blended with the modern on a scale so evident as in Delhi. Fat sacred Brahma bulls block traffic creating delays. In this Hindu land, cows rule. Dogs, monkeys and children cross at their own risk.
I love spiced food and begin each day with a 3 alarm-curry breakfast. We head by coach for Rajasthan, the beautiful desert state where cows are replaced by camels. The air is sweeter and everything more colorful. Here is a microcosm of all that India is. The people are genteel with a humility if spirit and still light up at the sight of foreigners. We continually wave through our windows to those who stare with curiosity and seem to say, “why have you come here?” As a fan of the third world, this place has been on my dream list for years. I now vividly enter that element of travel that provides me astonishment.
We’ve come to attend the annual Camel Fair in Pushkar that has taken place for a thousand years. As the world’s largest, it has at its peak attracted 50,000 camels with 200,000 traders. We unpack at our camp called Exotic Adventures. Our spartan tents did have ensuite toilets but toilet paper was at a premium. There was a 24 hour guard outside who stingily rationed our quota. In the desert, nights are frigid and afternoons sweltering. I confided to a guest there from the American Embassy that I felt like I was in an episode of “Survivor.” She laughed assuring me that it was all worth it. Soon my shock turns to awe as I enter the fairgrounds.
Set on miles of shifting sand dunes with festooned camels and a flood of pilgrims, the scene looks totally surreal. Its like a State Fair on steroids. There is a flurry of horse, bullock and camel races, contests for milking, animal decorating, turban tying, tattooing as well as snake charmers, free carnival rides, mystics, astrologers and dazzling stalls of handicrafts at giveaway prices. The ground reverberates with activities. Thousands of Rajasthani woman have arrived dressed in their finest clothes in near neon colors. I watch trained monkeys, painted cows and cobra’s dance. No words can adequately describe how this helter skelter overwhelms my 5 senses. Others can have Europe with its cathedrals and museums. For me, this exotic exposure and cultural immersion is the ultimate travel!
Covered in dust, we return to camp. Each night there is entertainment under the stars with musicians, folk dancers, puppet show or fire eaters. No alcohol is allowed here and all meals are vegetarian buffets. An Ayurveda Center offers us treatments to cleanse body toxins. We decline them: induced vomiting, enemas, nasal drainage and blood letting.
We tour the holy city of Pushkar with its sacred lake created by Lord Brahma. Pilgrims come from afar to bathe in the ghats and worship round the clock. We learn about religions here: Zorastrism, Sihkism, the mystic Sufi’s, Jainists who won’t kill a mosquito, Hinduism that claims no absolute truth and the caste system. We tour temples at the lake; some are “blessed” by priests. Later, a highlight for me was a one hour Camel Cart Safari behind the scenes of the fair. Children line our route shouting to us “hi, hello, one pen please!” We see a camel slaughtered and half naked people washing. Back inside the grounds, we visit an orphanage and scatter individually to get lost in the feverish revelry. We ride huge spitting camels that provide us a heightened perspective of it all. I purchase a dozen garnet necklaces and silver ankle bracelets. Teenage boys approach Terry to photograph him. He’s 6′5”. One politely as him, “Sir, what do you eat?”
Our group was wonderful!
There are endless food courts however we must pass all enticements to prevent “Delhi Belly.” I find the cacophony of chaos delightful. Pushkar is truly a party affair for the locals and we are just observant guests. I’m so grateful to experience such but time to proceed on with our busy itinerary.
We arrive to the famed “Pink City” of Jaipur, now more deep maroon from pollution. In touring its palaces, fort and architectural marvels, we learn of the great Amber rulers and maharajahs of the Moghul empire. History comes alive and I find myself so interested in that which I never cared about. And here is a shopper’s paradise for silk sarees, gems, jewelry and marble crafts. I visited an animal sanctuary called “Help In Suffering.” The worst cases of various species are treated here by volunteer veterinarians. Forty five stray dogs are sterilized daily and I witness a surgery. (See www.HIS-INDIA.com ) You can simply mail them a check to help.
At ‘Help In Suffering’ a dog spaying Making a donation Volunteer vets talk to Suzy
On to see the grand Fatehpur Sikri, “Ghost City of Akbar” that was abandoned due to scarcity of water. We finally reach Agra, a broken city of 2.5 million. Hawkers harass us. Chained bears dance for rupees in the street. Hungry children beg. We are thankful to lodge at the deluxe Sheraton here with its western cuisine and affordable massages at $20. It was like a galaxy change from the downtown.
After witnessing an eyeful of wonders along the way, we have saved the best for last at the world’s greatest tribute to love. Goosebumps rise as I enter the majestic gate to the Taj Mahal. Morning sunlight illuminates it like a flawless pearl?22 years to build by 200,000 men with 2 million pieces of inlaid semi-precious stones. After a lecture on why this perfect symmetry was created for Queen Mumtaz, we disperse to photograph what looks to be a mirage. It is poetry in architecture and as magnificent as can be imagined.
Back in Delhi, we all enjoy a free day of leisure to explore as we choose! Most go shopping as prices are extravagantly low but how many Pashmina shawls does one need? For our final evening we enjoy a show called “Dances of India” followed by a farewell feast of our Last (Indian) Supper.
I remises another journey well done with excellent guides, drivers, assistance and accommodations. I recall my favorite moment which took place at the fair when I hired two “body guides” to assist me through the crowds, Jamal and Ranshi. These two 11 year old boys bonded to me like barnacles and their beaming smiling faces will forever remain etched in my memory of India. This trip has renewed my curiosity of the world reminding me again that my love of travel proliferates itself. The more I see, the more I want to see.
This country is for the seasoned traveler. I am extremely impressed with the fortitude and patience of my group of 60 people in a land of erratic infrastructure. For some it was their first visit to the third world but they all persevered like pros. To witness suffering first hand is the fullest way to appreciate home. We saw things both appalling and joyful. The word “fascinating” however would sum up the entire trip. I must return again.