Science Horizons

Located in Englands Gloucestershire county, there resting in the Cotswolds hills is a town known as Chipping Campden. The town was beginning to form some time before the thirteenth century as a market area. Chipping Campden itself translates to market valley with the fields. The word chipping supposedly originates from the old English word ceping meaning market or marketplace. The word Campden is accepted as being a Saxon word meaning valley with the fields. This is a fitting name.

The most famous landmarks in the town are the broad, long high street buildings. They are of unusual appearance all being a honey mustard yellow and having a terrace; nearly unbroken and in varying styles, wrapped around the whole of them. The high street buildings are all made from the same type of limestone which gives them their unique color. The limestone is a type of limestone that is referred to as oolitic and is quarried near Chipping Campden, which gives it the name Cotswold stone.

The town is also home to a few historical landmarks, such as the Saint James church which had ranked among the most beautiful churches of England in Simon Jenkins book Englands thousand best churches as well as being home to many extravagant tombs. In 1627 the ancient market hall of chipping campden was built by Sir Baptist Hicks with the purpose of creating a home for the local market.

This market area in the Cotswolds was beginning to merit itself a name in the early thirteenth century; it was earning the name Cepyne Caumpedene which translates to market campden. Chipping is a word that comes from the old English word ceping which means a market or a market place. The name picked up in popularity and the town continued to grow into its new title. People began raising sheep all around the cotswolds and then in Chipping campden the wool was sheered and sent to London, soon chipping campden was a town full of wealthy wool merchants in the middle ages.

There was a large migration of craftsmen in the early twentieth century, who decided to bring their crafts to the town. They were led by a man named C R Ashbee. The craftsmen moved into an old dilapidated silk mill and soon began the guild of Handicrafts.

Another event happening in the small town was being set in motion by a man named Lawrence Johnston. He was a self taught horticulturalist that found himself a home in the village at Hidcote Manor and laid roots that would remain with not only Chipping Campden for ever but with all of England as well. He began his garden project based on the idea of outdoor rooms made of flowers and trees and began working in 1907, he spent forty years finishing what is now considered to be one of the greatest gardens in England.

The Town Chipping Campden still stands strong and elegant as she has for many decades, even though the people who inhabit her are different and the shops that line her are new, she manages to retain the old time rustic feel that a historic town should.

For accommodation in Chipping Campden check this list of Chipping Campden hotels.

Frederick Hoymer Travel Travel, travel and leisure

Peter Pan’s father came from Dumfries – Dumfries and Galloway

Burns died in Dumfries, July 21, 1796, after a lifetime of ill health caused by childhood malnutrition and poverty. His work, however, left a lasting legacy that led to the founding of the Burns Howff Club in 1889. Established at the Globe Inn, Burns’ favorite “howff” (“house”), the club includes a program of events developed to encourage Robert Burns enthusiasm among children. The club also works to promote Robert Burns, Dumfries and the historic value of the contribution of Robert Burns to Scotland’s national heritage.

In fact, during Scotland’s “Homecoming” in 2009, Dumfries celebrated the 250th birthday of Robert Burns on January 25, 2009, with “Burns Light.” The event involved lantern processions through Dumfries that met at the Whitesands for live entertainment. The program featured a spectacular fire show centered on a wicker sculpture of Tam O’Shanter, the central figure of Burns’ epic poem of the same name that was considered his finest work.

J. M. Barrie’s relationship to Dumfries is only one of the many surprises awaiting visitors to this charming city in southwest Scotland and its surrounding countryside. The region is known for an impressive combination of agriculture, woodlands, light industry and tourism. Dumfries and Galloway offer many splendid opportunities for walking, hiking, cycling, fishing and other outdoor pursuits as well as local history with global connections. What’s more, the residents are a well-read lot quite versed in local lore.

For instance, the Rev. Henry Duncan founded the world’s first savings bank at Ruthwell in 1810. The site is now a museum. Not far way, Britain’s oldest working post office sits in Sanq’uhar, dating back to 1763. The region of Dumfries and Galloway can even lay claim to being the site of Scotland’s first Christian Church. Candida Casa was founded at Whithorn around AD 400, with St. Ninian as the first bishop.

Another Dumfries inventor was Patrick Millar of Dalswinton. He designed the “Carronade, ” an armament that later helped repel the French Navy. Millar also introduced the threshing mill and drill plough to Scotland.

Speaking of military machines, the world’s first submarine was made in a factory at N. E. 1, Cochrane, Newbie, near Annan in the region. And while we’re underwater, let’s not overlook the contribution of James Anderson of Dumfries, who was the first man to lay transatlantic cables in 1866. On top of the water, Dalswinton Loch near Dumfries was the site of the world’s first steamboat voyage in 1788. Scotland’s famed bard Robert Burns was reputed to have been a passenger on the vessel’s lone voyage.

The best way to see these sights and more around Dumfries and Galloway is to avail oneself of the many charming accommodations around the region. There are dozens of bed and breakfast inns, guesthouses and first-rate hotels waiting to welcome weary travelers. Any of these inns would make a fine base from which to strike out by car, bicycle or on foot to savor the natural pleasures and manmade achievements of the region around Dumfries and Galloway.

Discover your next hotel in Dumfries or select somewhere to stay from these UK hotels

Frederick Hoymer Travel Travel, travel and leisure

Taking short trips across Europe has become a popular means of letting go. Barcelona city breaks offer a way to pack a lot of recreation and activity into a short amount of time. There is an interesting mix of modern culture and Catalan tradition that you will find no where else.. It can be one of the most cost-effective mini-vacations you can find.

A sudden small vacation is very simple to plan on short notice. Several websites exist where you can find deep discounts on lodging and transportation. By purchasing tickets to several items together you may even be eligible for more money off of your total cost. When travel costs are an issue, these special deals can make your vacation easier to put together.

Barcelona, once a run down industrial city, is now an impressive tourist center. This port city is now considered to be one of the prettiest in the world. The mixture of historical buildings with modern new-age architecture is a sight worth seeing. The city, after standing the tests of time, offers a little something for everyone.

After hosting the Olympic games, the sporting and athletic culture of Barcelona has not died away. The international competition brought more than just sports, it also brought investors. There are several buildings for the purpose of sporting events. Even if you are not a fan of football, attending one of the matches is a unique experience no tourist should miss out on.

Among party goers, the Barcelona night life is well ranked. It does not matter how old a person is, or their recreational tastes, the after hours scene has opportunities for all.

The hills surrounding the city, falling away to the beaches along the Mediterranean creates an atmosphere like no other in the world. Barcelona city breaks top the travel list for many people, and it does not take much to understand why.

Go to our website today at http://www.travelsoon.com/barcelona-city-breaks.html to book the best quality barcelona city breaks at the right prices

Frank James Recreation and Leisure barcelona city breaks, Entertainment, Family, Holidays, home and family, leisure, Recreation and Leisure, Travel, travel and leisure, vacations

If you are looking for a beautiful place at the seaside to vacation, look no further than Great Yarmouth. The extensive coast includes both sandy beaches and rocky cliffs, with spectacular views everywhere you look. This place has been popular as a resort by the sea since 1760.

If history interests you, Great Yarmouth does not disappoint. You can visit nearby the ruins of a Roman fort. Not only are the remains of note, but also the area around them is quite stunning. Other historical buildings of note include a friary from the 1200s and buildings from Elizabethan and Victorian times.

Activities available in Great Yarmouth are varied making it a perfect spot for vacationing as a family. You can find something to interest everyone in your group. If beaches are not what you fancy, there are museums, gardens, theme parks and crazy golf. There are attractions that are made especially for young children as well. If you are a racing fan, there are both horses and greyhounds to watch. You will find plenty to do inside if the weather does not make outside activities advisable.

If wildlife is on your to-do list, there are many options. You can go see the seals at the beachfront or visit the marine wildlife center. There is also a reptilarium in Great Yarmouth and nearby a wild animal adventure park and wildlife gardens specializing in Asian animals.

Of course, options for eating and drinking are plentiful as with any city. In the town center, the shopping ranges from smaller boutiques to a mall of stores. When you need to do shopping but want to be by the seaside as well, this is a perfect place to come.

Adults will be happy to know that many nighttime activities are available here. Besides the restaurants and bars, you will find many discos and nightclubs for dancing. If you want something a bit different, you can even find three casinos here.

Accommodations are also varied in Great Yarmouth. You have plenty of choices from large hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. There are places that cater especially to families. And there are also flats that can be rented as well.

No matter whether you are planning to visit just for the day or for a proper vacation, you can find plenty to satisfy in Great Yarmouth. The city is definitely one of the English seaside jewels.

Find your next Great Yarmouth hotel here.

Frederick Hoymer Travel Travel, travel and leisure

The musical Hairspray is set in June in the year 1962 in Baltimore, Maryland. The main character, Tracy, is an overweight young girl. The young girl dreams of becoming famous. If you do not have front row seats, you will want to bring your opera glasses so as not to miss a heartbeat of this fast-paced musical.

Tracy hears on the television that The Corny Collins Show is having a dance contest and she excitedly wants to enter the contest. Her overweight mother frowns at the idea. (You may have heard actor John Travolta played this part in the movie Hairspray.) Tracy’s mother is just trying to protect her dear daughter out of love as she does not want people to make her daughter a joke for being overweight. Plus, her mother thinks the show plays racist music.

Tracy does make it to the audition with permission from her father, Wilbur. While she is auditioning she meets the popular hunk Link Larkin. Get ready to put on your opera glasses as you will want to catch Tracy’s eyes light up just as yours may have back in high school. Tracy daydreams that she and Link Larkin will end up together one day. She sings absolutely beautiful songs about her love sick dream. Tracy is awakened from her sweet dream as she does not make the cut to be on the show due to her weight, just as her mother suspected would happen.

Poor Tracy then returns back to school. Her troubles do not end at school. Tracy is then given a detention once again due to her hair being so big that kids sitting behind her cannot even see the chalk board! Hence, you can tell a reason why the musical is given the name Hairspray.

While Tracy is in detention, she meets a nice black boy named Seaweed who is kind enough to teach Tracy some dance steps and hot moves. There is a dance party scheduled for the school and the owner of the Corny Collins Show, Corny Collins himself, sees Tracy’s slick moves. He loves how she dances and lo and behold she is chosen to be a dancer on his popular show. This moment will be the perfect time to put on your opera glasses as of course Tracy is ecstatic as this is her big dream!

Again after all this Tracy finds more good news, Link Larkin, the love of her life is to sing a romantic song to her on the show! Amber, who is another girl that attends Tracy’s school is also in love with Link, finds out, and decides to take her rage out on on Tracy, cruelty ensues, including knocking Tracy out with a volleyball.

More things ensue. Tracy and others are invited to Seaweed’s mother’s record shop. A party is planned for all to attend. The group goes to Seaweed’s mother’s record shop as blacks cannot go to The Corny Collins Show since blacks are only allowed on the show once a month on a specific day; that day being Negro Day. Tracy gets into fighting for blacks rights. For these intense acts you will want to wear your opera glasses.

Hairspray is a delight to attend, and a bigger delight to hear, it is no wonder it made such a run on Broadway, Remember to bring your opera glasses to catch every last expression, and the wonderful costumes. This is truly a performance to cherish.

Before you attend any performance make sure that you have a good pair of opera glasses. Here you can check out Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!

Jeff Bridges Art Art, Arts, dance, Entertainment, hobbies and interest, Music, opera, performances, recreation, Reviews, theater, theater reviews, travel and leisure

Opera Glasses are similar to binoculars but they are made for being able to see performances on stage. In old opera houses seats placed in balconies that were subsequently cheaper were very far away from the stage. In some they were so far away on the figures could be seen from that distance but seeing facial features, and thus part of the acting, was impossible to make out. Opera glasses would enable those people in the peanut gallery to see on stage much better to the point of seeing the facial expressions of the actors or singers. They have been popular since the 50’s.

Binoculars and Opera Glasses have several major differences including the fact that opera glasses are smaller and made to be unnoticed or be tucked away where no one could see them until the performance started. Today there are several types that look like a flat case easily carried in a women’s bag or in a suit pocket, but touch a button and they pop up. There are some that fold up on each other and hard to notice unless they are fully pulled out and ready to use. Some manufactures make reproductions of older models that have a rod from which to hold them called lorgnettes enabling the view to hold with one hand. This rod folds and practically disappears when not in use.

Opera glasses can be found for purchase today. There are inexpensive ones that cost about $50 to $100 but there are others that can be more expensive. These kind are equipped with better optics and larger magnifications and may be unique in the way they look. You can also get vintage opera glasses that may cost much more merely because they are antique. Always try them out to make sure they are still in working order.

Often times theaters and opera houses will rent opera glasses for a nominal price. If you go often you may want to consider purchasing your own, but if your visits are infrequent plan on renting. Before purchasing it is a good idea to try out different styles to see what suits you best. There are those people who don’t mind holding them with both hands and some that would prefer using the one hand hold with the rod at the side. You may even find you don’t want to use them as they interfere with the performance or you find it hard to hold them in place.

Opera glasses differ from binoculars in their optical system. Binoculars have a complicated system while opera glasses are simple based on the Galilean optical system invented by Galileo. The image seen is not nearly as sharp as with binoculars but you will still be able to see everything up on stage.

Most opera glasses today are made in China. Most of them have a magnification to 3 X which is adequate for a large auditorium or concert hall. Exceptions to the rule go to 5 X but they are quite expensive. Some will have a center focus and some don’t have one at all. Usually the non focus glasses have a small red LED light that appears between the eye barrels. This will enable you to read the program in dim light without disturbing your neighbor. If you have good vision these will be the ones for you however, if you have a problem with vision and wish to use the opera glasses without your corrective lenses it is better to go with the ones that can be focused. Since there is a central focusing mechanism there is no room for the light so focused opera glasses will not have one.

Cases usually come with new opera glasses and the vintage type will also have them. Soft cases are available as well as the hard type with a velvet lining. Antique glasses can be made of ivory or cloisonne enamel or they may have jewels attached or be decorated with gold or silver. These opera glasses were made to be elegant although you were not supposed to notice them. Either type make a great gift for those who frequent the opera, ballet or theater.

Before you attend any performance make sure that you have a good pair of opera glasses. Here you can check out Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!

Jeff Bridges Art Art, Arts, dance, Entertainment, hobbies and interest, opera, performances, recreation, Reviews, theater, theater reviews, travel and leisure

Wicked is an amazing musical, and a storyline you are sure to love. The story is based off of the original movie of the 1939 movie, The Wizard of Oz. Wicked is the story of how The Wicked Witch of the West got so wicked.

To begin, I advise you to bring a pair of opera glasses. You will find amazing costumes, and characters you won’t believe, you will not want to miss one bit, and this is what opera glasses will do for you. Flowing silk materials make up the costumes, the musical numbers will amaze you. Opera glasses will give you all the detail you desire.

One of the aspects of this play that I truly have enjoyed is the discovery of the childhood lives of each of the witches, both the good witch, and the wicked witch. As you attend you will start to understand why each turned out the way they did.

I know that as you attend Wicked you will be shocked and awed at the twist in the original storyline that you did not expect, and you will find yourself sympathizing with the Wicked witch. You will begin to see the Glinda the good witch was not as you would have suspected. Glinda was really a popular spoiled girl, and the Wicked Witch, Elphaba had quite a traumatic childhood. Elphaba was born with green skin, as was made fun of constantly, she had no mother growing up, and was raised solely by her father. You will see that she was not wicked all along, and that she actually did good things. After you have attended this performance, you may find yourself purchasing the t-shirt, hat, or as I recommend the CD to this wonderful performance, you will find yourself listening to it over and over again.

Wicked is an award winning Tony musical and deserves every praise it is given. Although the New York Times did not give Wicked favorable reviews, just ask anyone who has seen Wicked. You are sure to get a smile with either the word or words “excellent”, “magnificent”, “so good you have to see it!” and more. opera glasses will make the most out of your viewing pleasure.

You know that Wicked is a masterpiece as this year of 2009 Wicked is on its second National United States tour. This musical is so popular box office records have occurred through and through. If you have not seen Wicked yet, you are missing a fantastic musical. I would highly recommending purchasing tickets as you will not be sorry. As mentioned above, do not forget your opera glasses.

Jeff Bridges has always loved the theater and opera, he currently helps run an opera glasses retail site where they sell opera glasses. Including Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!

Jeff Bridges Art Art, Arts, dance, Entertainment, hobbies and interest, Music, opera, performances, recreation, Reviews, theater, theater reviews, travel and leisure

Norwich – Norfolk was first established by the Romans and Anglo Saxon and has been in existence since then. This town keeps the history from this and the other periods alive in their architecture and arts.

The largest open air market in England is place in Norwich. It was started in the 1070s by the Normans and it still boasts a thriving marketplace today. Modern amenities also included, there are several malls in town with a unique one being built in the side of the hill with the roof sporting a garden.

In May, The Norfolk and Norwich music festival is a sixteen day event known internationally. Originally started in 1772 to show off the music and art from the area it has been expanded to include circus acts and dance and theater groups in addition to the music scene.

Norfolk also has many beautiful gardens including the Plantation Gardens hidden in the busy city center. The Animal Ark is also another area that has playgrounds, and a wide variety of inside to an animal wildlife. You can stay all day and bring a picnic or eat at one of the restaurants that are located here.

You can wait until dark and enjoy a vigorous nightlife in town. Tombland has some exceptional bars that are located in some real as buildings in town which give it a truly distinctive environment. You can also find exclusive nightclubs and fun stand up comedy acts in this scene.

This town is mired in history and some of the most famous of the landmarks include Norwich Castle. This royal palace dates back to the Normans from 1067. Today, you can tour the castle and the museum that it houses. The Normans also finished the Norwich Cathedral in 1101 and has the distinction of being the only cathedral to have the Saxon throne in the original position. This cathedral offers beauty and tranquility within the busy city.

The largest protected wetland in England is the Norfolk Broads, which has many wildlife and bird sanctuaries, making this a favor location for birdwatchers. The waterways can be traveled or you can choose to afford on foot or on a bicycle. You can also take a rail tour of the area.

Norwich – Norfolk has many types of things for you to enjoy in this town. The history is rich in varied, giving you a combination of the old and new in a charming way.

To find a hotel in Norwich just click here.

Frederick Hoymer Travel Travel, travel and leisure

The city of Birmingham – West Midlands provides a visitor with the chance to see both modern architecture, art, and dance as well as historic. The activities and events that are sponsored throughout the city celebrate its diversity and change.

Birmingham is home to the International Dance Festival. Here you can see participants from around the world gather to showcase their unique dance styles. Birmingham is home to the Birmingham Royal Ballet, Hippodrome, and Xchange dance troupes who all perform during the festival. A visitor can take part in dance lessons and activities that occur during the four week festival.

The theatres in Birmingham provide regular entertainment and performances by local musicians, actors, and dancers. The symphony and ballet both have their historic beginning in Birmingham and provide both classical and modern works for guests. During the festival you will find street performers, entertainers, and musicals performing throughout the city on a daily basis.

Visiting the Jewelry Quarter is like stepping back in time. This excellently renovated Victorian working district is still world renowned for its fine jewelry. You can visit the shops and boutiques that line the streets or spend time in one of the wonderful cafes or pubs. There are also many fine restaurants in the district that provide international cuisine for the visitor who wants to try different flavors and tastes.

There are many historical sites and buildings to see. St. Martin’s Cathedral built in’73 provides the classic architecture and lines of that era and is breath taking. You will find that Birmingham is one of the few English cities to have building designed in the English Baroque style of the early 1700s’. Visiting the Castle Bromwich Gardens brings together this classic style and formal English garden within a walled ten acre garden. At the end of Holly Maze is an excellent example of the period in a glass house. Throughout the garden you will enjoy the mature growth and foliage of over 600 species of plants from the period.

Birmingham is a city that is full of surprises and places to wander. Taking the canal tour provides you with the opportunity to see many of the sites that could be missed if traveling on foot. There are over twenty-nine miles of canals throughout Birmingham. Many of the canal walks have been renovated to allow a visitor to wander through many of the centres and enjoy the beauty of the city.

There are over eight thousand acres of parks and gardens throughout the city. You will enjoy the Botanical Garden that has been restored in the Victorian style as originally designed. There is constant work being done by the city to improve and renovate the historic parts of the city and blend it with the new and modern structures that have grown over the past few hundred years.

The city offers a visitor many museums and galleries that provide both Birmingham – West Midlands historic beauty and the influence of modern architecture and growth. It provides a vacationer with an enjoyable and unique trip to a city that has a unique and friendly character.

Look for hotels in Birmingham.

Frederick Hoymer Travel Travel, travel and leisure

Cairo deals help you to have a unique vacation at a lower cost.

While many travelers prefer the convenience of a package deal, where the travelers pay one fee for the entire travel package, others enjoy the challenge of planning each portion of the trip. It is sometimes possible to save even more money by planning each portion separately and this gives the traveler more options as to flight details and hotel location.

Some of the best deals on vacations to Cairo will be for vacation packages that have specific travel dates. You have to adjust your schedule to fit with these vacation packages. You may need to travel to a certain airport for flight with your group. Hotel accommodations will all be in the same hotel, meals at the same restaurants and tours of the country will be scheduled.

Some periods of the year offer much nicer weather for travel to Egypt than others. May to September is summer and the months are extremely hot. The best deals on travel are found in these months and many travelers find that the heat does not interfere with their travel. They are able to visit outside the hotel room early in the morning, return to the air-conditioned room in the heat of the day and then go back out in the evening.

Prices become more expensive during the remainder of the year when the temperatures are more agreeable. Christmas and Easter seasons are the most expensive for travel, although the weather is usually great at either time. Christmas may have some cold nights and Easter has the possibility of sand storms.

There is much to see and do in Cairo. Choosing the season of the year to travel will make a difference in the Cairo deals that you find available. No matter what season you choose to travel, however, you will find that a Cairo is an unforgettable experience.

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Bryan P Daley Recreation and Leisure cairo deals, egypt holidays, Entertainment, Family, Holidays, home and family, leisure, Recreation and Leisure, Travel, travel and leisure, vacations