TURKEY

Suleyman, Attaturk – Waiting for the trio.

Right behind Greece and nestling between the East and West, this giant of history with a collar of millennia of contribution to mankind struggles to its feet with amazing speed. Since the defeat of the forces of the massive and feared Ottoman Empire during the early part of the 20th. Century, one deep footprint marks the base from which this incredibly fascinating country seeks to launch its bid for world recognition once again. The footprint is the pledge to modernize and balance its conflicting ethnic demands in an attempt to offer a face unmarred by the bitterness of the past or unrealistic demands. The footprint also belongs to the singular Attaturk whose personality, grinding persistance and fruitful illusions, carved a niche for the country in the hearts of the people of the West whose doors had been firmly shut against it. Striding East and West across the mythical Bosphorus, it revives with a shudder that can be felt in every corner of the globe. Whether this movement dies at its point of birth is still to be seen, but the chances are that its modern founder, weighs heavily on the grateful conscience of a nation which bears the marks of internal strife and a religious friction brought about by the natural antipathy of the Muslim community for the style and what they see as, the cosmetic religion of the West.

A better placed and genuinely hospitable community of cultures would be difficult to find so close to Europe. For the British and Germans, the prospects of good entrepreneurial investments in tourist orientated infrastructures and luxury holiday homes, are unlimited, especially in these early stages of development. Statistics show that the low levels of delinquency and the affectionate nature of its people, show the sort of promise of lucrative adventure that is not to be found in Europe today. The genuine attempt to reduce the aggressive bureaucratic interference found in many European countries, shows the sort of level of emerging understanding that goes with 21st.century thinking. The cultivation of a tourist economy based on partnership of interests stands a very good chance of blossoming even in the crowded cities of Istanbul and Ankara. The Turks have placed the country on a platter and for those with a taste for unusual and stimulating, experiences alongside a passionate and intelligent people, this is very much the place to travel and live in.

A founder and historic milestone

The charismatic Attaturk reconciled the differences between the Christian and Muslim community with the cry to arm the nation with the world´s strongest allies and their financial support. His demands on a strict division between Church and State has, until recently been faithfully respected and it looks as if moderate Islam will continue to follow the rule in the country´s bid for influence and international respect. Today, at the slightest quiver of extreme Muslim demands, the nation´s elite gather with determination to ensure that Turkey will never be a Theological and oppressed nation. The very future of the country and its people depends on this unique issue and one which like Morocco, its people appear to understand only too well. Their instincts tell them however, that the balance cannot be taken for granted in the light of the extremists whose concerns do not include modern concepts of freedom and human rights. As such, therefore, any attempt on the side of the government or religious institutions to overdo their superiority, will provoke heated debate long before the symptoms of disorder reach street levels. The Turkish Islamic community has, in the main, established a firm base of foreign credibility. It’s extreme edges as with other mainly Muslim community, continue to threaten, if only as a constant reminder that the country´s roots are in Islam. Higher levels of employment and a wider distribution of wealth will work wonders with respect to the contentment that usually controls fanatical demands. The Messianic figure of the prophet Mohammed permeates the world of Islam with the same intensity as that of Jesus to the Christians with the added and little understood concept that the latter is also a very highly ranked Messianic ancestor of the people. Islam and Christianity are therefore blood brothers both genetically and spiritually which makes the whole business of religious intolerance a matter more for the ignorant than for the well educated masses, which Turkey already enjoys. The Ottoman Empire and the creation of the world’s most advanced and humane European society which the Caliphate of Cordoba demonstrated, is a product of moderate Islam. It is without doubt what the he highly polished and far seeing Prophet Mohammed clearly wanted, if we study his life and deeds. Alas, like all things that work too well, the minority elements within the Caliphate and the internecine strife instilled the conflict that gradually but surely, saw the work of his followers washed down the drain. It was after all the dreaded and aggressive Almansur who cornered the wounded Christians and left them little choice but to muster every vengeful act of retaliation. The loss of Al Andalus finds a parallel in the sort of conflicts that can be seen in the world of Islam today. Whether or not there is a reason for the intransigence, is beside the point. Turkey however, by establishing a varied and multicultural community of peoples, is capable of absorbing its internal demands both economically and religiously with a firmness that can provide a safe and welcoming home for any visitor. The extraordinary thing about Turkey and its people is that despite suffering the loss of an empire in the same way that Britain did during the last century, it has managed to preserve the cohesiveness and uniformity of aspirations throughout the vast territory that is missing in most of the countries of Europe today. Turkey and its culture grows in status at a remarkable speed because of a self esteem devoid of the arrogant disdain for other cultures which is still present in some of the European countries today and which are now suffering badly as a result. It may also have something to do with its size and its healthy respect for work. Turkey is an industrial state with an appetite for advancement and which already competes favourably with the international community. A dribble of the right funding support without too many strings, would undoubtedly provide the boost for an economic growth that would benefit all who invest in it at this early stage, including the outsider. Tourism could well be that cash flow factor and its heaving cities with visitors from across the globe staring at its monuments and virgin beaches, are testimony to the potential. Without reinvestment in a varied economic platform however, it could easily slide downwards after the brilliant climb.

The seat of the Garden of Eden

Turkey is the only territory to hold the incredible title of the cradle of modern civilisation. It ranks as the base from which most of the world´s social and religious configurations developed from. Its plains before the majestic Taurus Mountains are the very birthplace of modern agriculture and the first establishment of township and settled communities. Its mount Ararat is synonymous with Noah and our supposed natural ancestors, who survived the destructive floods. Its mountain plains, are often quoted as likely sites of the legendary Garden of Eden. Simply going through the litany of the nations and cultures that have populated such an intrinsically fertile territory, both socially and religiously is like reading all the history that we had pushed down our throats since early childhood. The Medians and King Midas – the Physicians with their Jacobite caps and the sun God Mithras and later Zoroaster from which much of Christianity derives – the Romans – the Bythinians with their Christian like baptisms – the Etruscans from Caeria who went on to create Italy and the Latin language, the Hittites and the Hurrians who formed the base of Anatolia and much later the great Constantine who gave Christianity its pedestal and future empire.- all in the same place ! It was from the Istanbul of colossal Mosques and impressive power, that Byzantium harnessed the forces of ancient Rome and assumed its authority. No lesser credit of pleasure and enjoyment must be given to our tales of the Orient – of Ali Baba and the flying carpets that brought misty eyes to the children of the West with an impact beyond anything the west could counter with. Turkey the ancient Anatolia of the letters from Paul of Tarsus to the ancient tribal remnants. Anatolia, where the people of these tribes migrated from to create Europe and whose cities like Ephesus and Edessa rallied to the Christian cause before any other in the West, is brimming with history. A passionate evolution that dies and rises like the legendary Phoenix is difficult to find elsewhere, except perhaps in Persia. Today it stands at the doors of Europe, a little hesitant with so much history behind it. It does not stand with cap in hand but with mind over matter as the future beckons with opportunities that cannot be missed. In exchange, Europe, a little cautious and smarting with Islamic challenges warily considers what is now a foregone conclusion – it’s entry into the community of European nations. The chances that Turkey will play a key role is also fairly obvious in view of the size of the economy and its people. This little step to total integration is not however devoid of very real social problems on both sides of the divide. Europe offers markets and new territorial living space for those who seek it. It also offers refuge (as it has done in the past), to those who prepare themselves to undermine its stability, as eternal conspirators always do, within the safe folds of accommodating neighbouring hosts. The issue however, which has not been properly understood by the West in the past (and often misinterpreted) is a critical one. Any exterior subversive platform, whatever the political or religious inclination, could trigger off a reaction that Europe is immune to but which Turkey would be forced to counterbalance with disastrous results. Even more so if the process of integration including monetary union was already well on its way. This is a major consideration in view of the present centres of conflict and perhaps a decisive one unless formal commitments which reduce suspicions on either side are embedded in the preamble to entry.

Whilst the upper and business classes would no doubt benefit instantly with the access to funding the rigorous and efficient tracking of any form of financial support is crucial to the demands of the much chastised taxpayers who represent a minority in the hitherto wasteful processes of member aids. The lower economic and pastoral members of a society like that of Turkey that covers a wide tapestry of folklore and cultural needs, comprises a challenge for the investors which has not been adequately met in many European countries even today. For the experience to survive and its varied people equally served by the alliance, corruption, nepotism and human rights factors have not only to be addressed, but studiously followed with the sincerity that has not been present with certain beneficiaries of the present European experiment. A permanent platform of genuine production investment with conceptual banking designed to provide a parallel, contributive service is paramount before other issues are tackled. It is this issue of privilege and fraud which has alienated most of the demoralised inhabitants of heavily taxed nations of Europe and which could well prove to be the straw that broke the camel’s back, taking into account the fact that many of the old members of the union have still not reached the contribution stage. Turkey could perhaps be the model for future management, and the need to ensure that future, fixed unemployment rates do not question where the monies have gone.

A British and German target.

Turkey is the now the prime target of the British and German tourist with all the consequences of the cultural interchanges. The English language is the second most taught in Turkey and the British tourists are finding it an added advantage, apart from the strength of the purchasing power the pound has in Turkey and which it is does not enjoy in Europe. The Turkish people are used to cultural mixes of a type not easily understood by Westerners and the respect shown for foreign investment under their more progressive leaders, makes good reading. The British also enjoy a healthy appreciation which comes from the innate admiration the Turks have for fighters and victors. Most of the upper levels of Turkish society are Anglophile and their children are urged where economically possible, to study in British and American schools. Canada also has a fair share of Turkish children whose parents often struggle and perform miracles to get them there. As this concern for education shows, the upper classes of the Turkish people sponsor and support cultural and artistic innovation, taking genuine interest in its national writers revere those who break the cultural barriers and gain international support. Today, it has at least one Nobel writer under its belt. as any Turk will proudly tell you.

The West has also assimilated the Turkish people not only as basic immigrants, but the young, through the rotating, appetizing Doner Kebabs have made its food, the mayor challenge to the Burger empires. The Turks mix well with all nationalities and the Kurds in particular who seek havens away from their cultural conflicts back home, are mainly atheistic and do not represent a threat of radical religious proportions. Although Kurds today can have every religion within their ranks, these are conditioned by their own cultural heritage and all in the main are moderate. In fact, the lesson of the last twenty years shows an integration internationally that now provides the base for a hefty income to the coffers of the Turkish state. Turkish population has spread its wings within the catering business and shown a keen eye on secure investments with an eye on legislation and rule books that others, less concerned, have perished by. It is not easy to fool a Turk because of his natural curiosity as to why things are done in one way or another. If he comes across something that could cause problems by implication, it will not take him long to find out all about it to the point of exasperation of those who have to repeat the performance regularly. Today, the European Turkish community is well integrated socially and genetically in Germany and Great Britain. These factors alone, ensure that every year, increasingly adventurous European tourists from all walks of life choose Turkey as their next port of call. As a result, the development boom is well under way and the relevant Mediterranean and Adriatic shores, still virgin by far, are beginning to swell out in the same way that it did with Spain and France in the eighties. Southern Europe has lost its charm through fraudulent abuses of a nature that has deterred future investment. Additionally, abnormally high number of tourists embroiled in police action and judicial inefficiency has led to unacceptable losses and horrifying experiences to many. The situation continues and European counter support is practically non existant. The lack of social centres and high level entertainment infrastructures at the expense of massive, urban concentrations, has also contributed to this now rapidly accelerating exodus from the scene. The sorry state of its beach with broken promises of proper waste infrastructures have not helped either. The shorelines illustrate the catastrophic ecodisaster that this ribbon development has created, .as less and less tourists dare to swim in the slime. The clarity of the Adriatic is therefore a gratifying surprise. The overwhelming increase in the cost of living in Southern Europe and particularly in the catering, communication and energy services, not to mention taxes and penalties of every shade and variety, has now also triggered the displacement of many foreign business investors. These now seek the sort of simplicity and support of business effort that is non existant in these regions. Even the Spanish people themselves now find shopping in Britain and the USA a welcome respite to the cost of goods like clothing and accessories I the country. London restaurants are nearly half the price of those in Spain and the quality of the food and presentation, (much demeaned by the Iberians), is infinitely superior. Business investment in Spain, Portugal and Italy is also being badly affected as labour costs shoot through the roof and production remains way behind that of any of the Northern countries. Unions and constant Ministerial interference in budding businesses with outrageous penalties (beyond the capacity to pay), for obscure Europe engineered infringements, imply that small and medium sized companies represent an easy way of applying indirect and destructive taxation. The labour courts of Spain, in particular are a nightmare for unsuspecting foreign investors used to democratic controls. The smash and grab tactics of the biased judges, apart from the humiliation experienced by the largely highly educated entrepreneurs, include overnight direct entry into individual bank accounts, the establishing of court auctions, strangely devoid of bidders to confiscate hastily embargoed assets. The machinations of well trained disgruntled workers therefore, can extract untold fortunes from businesses forced to close as a result. This creation of unemployment is either unsuspected in Europe or otherwise ignored.

The European community calls for changes against offending countries, have largely gone unheeded in particular with respect to the chicanery which appears to damage the interests of foreign nationals in the main. The threat of sanctions in extreme cases of unlawful legislation weighed against foreigners, has not even dented the resolve to turn state interests into legal demands. The case in points, is that of expropriations of privately owned assets which are made with a disrespectful lack of concern for human rights and adequate market compensations, that defy the very nature of democracy. Press attention to the matter has permanently damaged the friendly image that led to the uncontrolled lunge for the Spanish shores. The British, who are by nature vulnerable to issues beyond their comprehension, are the worst hit and this explains why the tide has turned and why they are now seeking solace in Turkey and Croatia.

Changes with history in the making

If Turkey ensures that its legislation is up to the needs of the foreign community, the pathway to Europe is well signalled. A substantial slice of the UK foreign travel market has Turkey on it menu and a significant percentage of those who originally chose Spain and France will find their way there within the next five years. The British people are essentially travellers and the exotic and historically interesting has always challenged their mental taste buds. Turkey, without doubt, has all the ingredients that satisfy an investment of a sizeable proportion. For the price of an average, Southern European villa, a substantial or upper market property can be got anywhere in the new emerging areas that are still unspoilt and which offer outstanding beauty and crystal clear waters. The surrounding countries like Italy, Greece, Malta and the Holy Land are within easy reach by air and roads lead to everywhere, anybody would want to go to. Additionally, investment in business property like hotels, ancient monuments and golf clubs are way beneath anything Europe can offer at the price with the likelihood of substantial capital gains within the next five years.

The Turkish people as most Europeans now know, are amiable, very tolerant and good businesspeople. They appear to be straight laced and conscious of the need to be prudent and honest in their dealings with others. There are exceptions of course, but most educated people know that there are many different shades of grey between black and white. Authority in Turkey is probably a little more centralised and stricter than in Britain, but it compares favourably with other competing countries which pretend to be otherwise. Like most highly cultured races with a profound historical colour, fools are not tolerated gladly and self respect is an old fashioned value that the people of the country value greatly. They are by aspiration, lovers of Western ways and many long to be able to reach the shores of Britain and find out what it is all about, from their own point of view. Their television programmes are not all that different to Western ones and political programmes are not excessive or boring. Life in the big cities is as colourful as anyone would expect from the land of Suleyman the Magnificent, which, during his days and empire, rivalled the glories and advancements of most countries of the world at the time. This was recognized by the Christian authorities who left Constantinople hurriedly and who saw the new power emerge with an alarm that later turned to respect as it forged a vast nation that reached out to the Middle East and Europe itself. Turkey after all has been there long before. The Vatican and Christian Crown authorities, not only developed a policy of mutual non interference, but often sought the alliance to achieve a purpose that would have been unthinkable without them. It was also, not unknown for rival parties within the Christian world to lobby the Court of the Grand Sultanate for enough support to trip the balance and for Suleyman himself to act as mediator with the West when times allowed. Like the Austrian, Napoleonic and British empires, the Ottoman came to an untimely end and much to the detriment of Islam within which it had a safe haven. Perhaps,with her entry into the Commonwealth of Europeans, this jewel of a potential force for growth could provide the dynamism and challenge within the folds of those who have, at one time or another, had reason to keep her at bay.

Everyday Etiquette: Great Britain

Meeting People

In general the British prefer to be introduced to strangers, if at all possible wait for a third party introduction when meeting someone new.

Physical Greetings

Great Britain (especially England) is a non touching culture. When greeting someone a handshake accompanied by a “Pleased to meet you” is appropriate. When departing be sure to shake everyone’s hand, a general group wave as is often done in the United States is not looked on favorably.

Physical Space

The British value space between one another.

Eye Contact

Strong eye contact is not overly common among strangers and casual acquaintances, too much eye contact is considered and invasion of privacy. Eye contact is used when one really wants to make a point, when speaking with close friends, and when interest in a person or topic wants to be stressed.

Good Topics of Discussion

If all else fails mention the weather!

Bad Topics of Discussion

Politics, religion, and sex. Also the common American question “what do you do?” is considered rude and too personal.

Communication Style

The British are a big fan of the understatement; this is shown in their choice of words (“indeed”, “quite”), their volume (almost always quieter than other cultures) and body language (when first meeting facial expressions are kept to a minimum). Gestures are kept to a minimum and a polite self possessed manner is strived for.

Waiting in Line

Waiting in line (or queuing) is a never ending occurrence in the UK. You will find lines at every public facility, event, meet-up, etc. No matter how long the line is always go to the back and wait, and stay in line no matter how long it takes.

Walking

In the United Kingdom one walks on the left hand side and passes on the right.

Shopping

Customer service is not as “in your face” as it is in the United States. Generally a salesclerk will ignore you until eye contact is made signaling service is required.

When shopping at the grocery store be aware that if you touch the fruits or vegetables—you buy them.

Public Transportation

Always wait in line for a taxi, bus or train. When on the bus or train it is polite to give up your seat for the elderly, handicapped, pregnant women and parents with children.

When you board a taxi cab be sure to enter the cab from the opposite side of the driver and to sit in the back.

Tipping

Standard amounts are 10 to 15 percent. Services that are tipped are generally the same as those that are tipped for in the United States.

At a hotel bellmen are generally tipped 1 to 2 pounds per bag.

Appropriate Dress

Styles of dress are similar to those of the USA; however colors are often more muted (especially outside London).

Meal Time

Breakfast is typically from 7 to 9 AM.

A traditional “English Breakfast” is a large hearty meal consisting of: bacon, sausage (“bangers”) toast/croissants/muffins/scones, juice, fried potatoes, eggs, cereal and juice. Tea & coffee are also commonly taken.

A traditional “Irish Breakfast” is called a “fry up” and consists of fried eggs, bacon (boiled pork, the name for American style “bacon” is “rashers”) tomatoes, hot cereal, potatoes and juice.

Lunch is typically from 12 to 2 PM

Standard pub fare tend to make up Lunch—sandwiches, salads, etc.

High Tea & Regular Tea

Standard “Tea” is taken between 4 and 5 PM and consists of cakes, sweets, finger sandwiches and of course—tea.

Traditional High Tea is taken around 5 PM and is often a substitute for Dinner. High Tea includes all the fixings of a standard tea but includes a hot dish as well (pot pie, etc.)

Dinner is typically from 7-9 PM, with 8:00 being the traditional time. Formal dinners begin with an alcoholic drink followed by an appetizer.

Table Manners

The British do not switch their knife and fork as people do in the States. The fork remains in the left hand and the knife in the right hand.

Placing your utensils down on your plate signifies to wait staff that you are finished.

When not in use keep your hands in your lap and pass dishes to the left.

Who Pays?

In general the person who did the inviting is the person that pays.

Punctuality

It is very important to be on time.

English American English

Lift Elevator

Toilet/WC/Loo Restroom/Bathroom

Fortnight 2 weeks

To Knock Up To Wake Up

Surgery Doctor’s Office

Kiosk Telephone Booth

Tube Subway

Subway Underground Walkway

Pants Men’s Underwear

Trousers Pants

Napkin Diaper

Lorry Truck

Flat Apartment

Chips French Fries

Biscuit Cookie

To Ring To Call (on the telephone)

For more travel tips about Great Britain visit Glamour Getaways at http://www.glamourgetaways.com

As health care costs skyrocket, patients in the developed countries are looking towards India for tubal ligation reversal. India is capitalizing on its low costs and highly trained doctors to appeal to these “medical tourists.” Even with airfare, the cost of surgery can be markedly cheaper, and the quality of services is often better than that found in the United States and UK. Indeed, many patients are pleased at the prospect of combining their tummy tucks with a trip to the Taj Mahal. Many countries have developed links for speedy treatments in India for their citizens.  In many countries people often have to wait for extended periods of time to undergo operations. Here, medical treatment is not only fast but also costs a fraction of what it costs in USA or Europe. Even tele-consultancy is available connecting U.S. and European medical experts to Indian facilities for expert opinions and transmission facilities.

Tubal ligation reversal enables women to conceive naturally and is the best treatment for most women wanting to become pregnant again after having their tubes tied. Most couples would rather conceive naturally than undergo assisted reproductive treatment with in vitro fertilization. Our follow-up statistics show that it has a higher pregnancy rate and a higher birth rate than IVF. Two out of three patients become pregnant within one year after surgery. The pregnancy rate varies by type of tubal ligation performed, length and health of the remaining fallopian tube segments, age and other factors.

Several factors play a key role in the success rate of reversal. These include:

The type of procedure originally performed

The age of the woman at the time she seeks reversal, women over 40 should discuss their personal chances of achieving success with their health care provider before choosing reversal

The amount of damage caused by the original procedure directly correlates to the possible success of the tubal reversal procedure.

India is a country where several traditional systems of health care have been in use for centuries. Even today these systems form a living and continuing tradition. Indian hospitals offer world-class treatment at very reasonable prices. It offers medical tourism packages. You can travel here and also avail of the medical services. It now offers the option of combining your holiday with a medical package. You can travel for the festive season, and combine your visit to family and friends and a tour of scenic attractions, with a medical checkup. While you’re here, you can spare some time and have an annual medical check up or get some medical treatment at a world-class hospitals. The international treatment comes at very economical prices. You can easily combine your tour with short-term medical procedures, such as tubal ligation reversal in India.

Submit your case details at:

contact@indianmedguru.com

For international patient experience:

http://indianmedguru.com/india-patient-photos.html

As a travel writer for a web based travel portal company, I come across quite a few travel destinations and deals and decided to share my top five travel destinations that offer the best deals including value. My focus is always value, not the lowest price. As we all have different budgets, I like to choose from a range of budget accommodations to deluxe. I sifted through everything from little known destinations for a quiet romantic getaway to all-inclusive resorts for the whole family to cruising. The destinations and properties or cruise make my list when I see true value in the “deal”. For example, if someone says the sale price is $100 per night at 50% off, and I do my homework and realize that the property is always $100 and not really worth it – there is no value. It is when I see they are truly offering a deal that is rare, either a great price that is actually less than you would expect for the level of service and accommodations or if I see tons of added value, I want to recommend it to everyone!My top destinations and the best deals that go with them: 1) Mexico: All-inclusive resorts continue to be a great value – you just have to be careful that it offers everything it says it does. A one price for all drinks, food, water sports (at most resorts) and activities can save hundreds on your vacation. The Riu Palace Riviera Maya in Mexico is my first top pick for price-friendly getaway. The Riviera Maya is about 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Cancun and a 100-mile long stretch located along the coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula. The center of this beautiful area is Playa del Carmen, just across the ocean from Cozumel Island, and half way between Cancun and Tulum (amazing Mayan Ruins). Playa del Carmen is the perfect home base for exploring Mexico’s Caribbean Coast. The Caribbean reef off shore is a big attraction for travelers as well. The Riu Palace offers a wide variety of suites on miles of white sandy beachfront property. With restaurants, bars, and snacks available to you 24 hours a day, this four star rated resort marks high when you’re counting pennies. Their current deal: Air & 4 nights from $606. Please note most air inclusive packages give you a sample price from Florida, assume it will be a bit more from other states – the pricing is right on the web site. I actually found a number of great deals in Cancun as well, and yes, I checked them out through a number of sources. Just go to this site and you will see 50% off (for real) all inclusives in Cancun. During College and University school breaks, it is the Mecca of partying for 18-25yr olds, but during other times of the year it is a good place for everyone. Cancun is a big hotel strip, with tons of bars and restaurants, yes, it is very touristy. However, if you want the value we have been discussing, you will get it at a Cancun all inclusive. All inclusive deals on this page range from $69 per night, with kids free! Do the math on that one – your kids, eat, have activities and stay at the hotel free! For $69, expect a big hotel, many buffets, perhaps a few regular dining restaurants, a lot of people, but lots to do!2) Europe: yes, Europe – I know, it is very expensive for the Americans to go there right now, but if you want to go during the Fall which is a very nice time to go – I did find some deals and steals! While gathering information for this article, I came across this economy friendly European getaway. If you have not been to Europe, having a taste of a few cities is usually a good idea. This way if you fall in love with one, you know to come back, rather than spending a long time in one place you may not end up liking. Finally experience the Eiffel Tower, London and make a wish to return to Rome at the Trevi Fountain. Starting at $805, airfare, 6 nights hotel, breakfast, inner-city flights are all included!If you feel like avoiding the family during Thanksgiving or maybe taking them along and doing something special, I found a great deal to Italy over this time period. For food, weather, scenery and sightseeing galore, pay $819 including airfare to stay two nights in Rome, two nights in Florence and two nights in Venice including rail to each city!I can not discuss value in Europe without mentioning cruising. Right now, it is the best way to go considering the dollar. You can eat and play on the cruise (food and transportation is what will eat your dollars in Europe), then get off the ship and enjoy each city. One great deal is $549 per person for a 7 night cruise from Venice, Italy to the Greek Islands and Croatia! That is $78 a night for room, transportation, activities and all your food. All you have to do is enjoy yourself in the Greek Islands and be one of the first you know to explore Croatia!One other European cruise I felt worth mentioning also departs Italy, but northern Italy and heads towards Spain and Morocco. $849 for 10 nights exploring Barcelona, Casablanca and more! To do the math again – $84 a night for all your food, activities and transportation to each European city, not to mention the outstanding views with Spain and Morocco’s dramatic coast lines to enjoy while cruisin. 3) Arizona: If playing golf and staying closer to home is more your idea of a vacation, then Arizona is a good choice, great prices for four to five star hotels. Arizona, already known for its courses, offers the world class Legacy Golf Course. This 6,908-yard par 71 course designed by Gary Panks was home to the 2000 LPGA PING tournament. Stay at the Phoenix Golf Resort for as little as $82. Spanish mission-style with rich wood cabinetry and jewel-toned fabrics, each suite features a full kitchen or kitchenette, spacious living area, and either a balcony or patio overlooking lush tropical courtyards and spectacular mountain vistas. The facility has golf lessons by PGA pros, activities programs for the whole family and so much more. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a place to re-connect with the family or a golf outing. 4) Colorado: A “Buy Two Get One Free” deal is always music to the ears, regardless of the state of the economy. Gunnison Crested Butte (otherwise known as the Colorado Rockies) in Colorado is offering a bonanza of a deal; offering a free airline ticket for every 2 purchased. If you have a group of people who like to do that yearly skiing tip or a family of three or more, this is it! Gunnison-Crested Butte is a little known destination, which makes it all the more worthwhile. The scenery is breathtaking, and there are so many things to do for adults and children alike. A small plane trip from Denver, even though it seems far, it can be easy to get to. Skiing is the ticket here, and beginning at $720 you can be sure to get your fill of it. $720 includes airfare, 5 nights lodging, 4 days lift tickets and ground transportation. Sound like something you can dig your ski poles in? How about one more deal; a baggage claim up to $30 per traveler! These deals are valid on Delta, United and American and travel must be between January 6, 2009 and March 8, 2009; right in time for fine skiing weather.5) California: For the most part, great weather all year round, different landscapes and attractions through out the state, great values all around. Moving from the South, start with your Disneyland vacation in Anaheim. This is one of those destinations that most people need a hotel for a place to sleep as there is so much to do outside of the hotel. If you want to save some so you can spend the extra cash at the family attractions, check out Americas Best Value Inn and Suites near Disneyland. This is a budget hotel starting at $75 per night, but if you see the prices of other hotels in the area, you will see this is a deal. Driving north, you hit Los Angeles, where you might want to hit Venice Beach for a different kind of beach experience, filled with surfers, drumming circles, entertainers and great cafes and shops. Or if curiosity about the home of the “stars” gets you, visit Hollywood, walk around famous Beverly Hills, you are sure to spot someone you have seen in the movies somewhere. If you decide this is also a location where you will be out of the hotel more than in it, and want just a place to sleep, then I would recommend Americas Best Value Inn Los Angeles as it starts from $69 per night – hard to find prices like that in this city!I couldn’t put together a list of destinations in California and not include a trip to Napa Valley. A wine lover’s paradise right here in the good ol’ USA. Known for producing some of the worlds finest Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot and Chardonnay, Napa Valley is a world unto itself. The Vino Bello resort, the newest resort in Napa Valley captures the essence of what a wine country vacation is all about. Luxurious accommodations, fine amenities and gracious service is what you get here. What about the wine? Their partnership with the Meritage Resort gives you the green light to explore their remarkable selection of American wines and enjoy a fine wine country cuisine. The perfect spot to unwind is priced very nicely for $189. Salute to the wine gods!