People MoverThe best way to savour the dystopic charms of Detroit is to go round in circles on the People Mover. The 2.9-mile monorail is served by two toy-like cars. A 50-cent token will take you full circle in 15 minutes flat. You can also get off at any of the 13 stations. Don’t panic; if you need a cop just take a photograph at the next station. You will immediately be apprehended.

WHEELSIt was cars that made Detroit great-and then not so great. Henry Ford built his first car here in 1896 and the world’s first concrete road was built in Detroit in 1901. Today all roads lead out of Detroit to the suburbs where there is still some life. It was of course the automobile magnates who started the trend. Be sure to visit Henry Ford’s ‘Scottish Baronial’ home in Dearborn as well as the nearby Henry Ford Museum, an astounding 12 acre display of material culture from steam trains to automobiles (including JFK’s death-ride limo).

 FAST FOOD Stranded in downtown Detroit with no wheels? You might as well eat. For classic Americana try Rivertown Fuddruckers (E Jefferson Ave), a ‘50s style malt shop with the world’s greatest hamburgers. Roma Café (Riopelle St) the city’s oldest restaurant, serves Italian. Tribute (W 12 mile Road) was named one of America’s 50 best restaurants by Gourmet magazine.

THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS is a reminder that this was once a real metropolis. 100 galleries hold an encyclopaedic collection that ranges from Persian miniatures to the French Impressionists. The atrium (below) is illuminated with Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry frescos.

Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson- they all got their start at Motown Records. And then they all shifted to Los Angeles (so did Motown Records) but the famous ‘Hitsville USA’ studio where they all recorded is now preserved as a wonderfully atmospheric museum. The Detroit music scene is a little whiter today. Local talent includes Eminem and Kid Rock. The annual Electronic Music Festival (usually held in May) is huge.

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.

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

The specialists of plastic surgery and dentistry are very popular in Mexico. Medical tourism patients travel to Mexico from all over the world to obtain quality medical care in dentistry and plastic surgery. Americans also move to Mexico for dental health care because the charges of dentist in America are very high as compare to the charges of Mexican dentist. Mexican dentists charge one fourth to one fifth of US dentists price. This trend of medical tourism to Mexico is very alarming for American dentists so they have spread many rumors of infections, oral cancer and poor treatments against Mexican dentists.

In Texas, it is explored that health organizations can operate on both sides of the border but physicians of south Texas argue that they cannot compete with the lower costs of Mexican dentists. Legal system of Mexico doesn’t allow any kind of sue against Mexican doctors. Medical tourists are satisfied with the quality of health services in Mexico and according to an advocacy group of health care issues 90 percent care they received in Mexico is excellent. Mexican hospitals are not popular only for dental and plastic surgery but they provide quality services for bar iatric surgery for weight loss. Lap band surgery, a popular bar iatric surgery is approved by FDA in 2001 in US is also performed by the surgeons of Mexico. The hospitals of Mexico are well equipped with latest technology and medical equipments for all medical tourism requirements.Medical Tourism in Panama

Panama is also a popular place for medical tourism due to its tourist appeal, position and use of dollar as the official currency. The medical specialists of Panama are very popular all over the world and use latest technology and equipment to treat patients. Doctors of Panama are bilingual and can operate on the same technology and medical equipment which are used in Europe and America. The charges of health care in Panama are 50% less than the charges of US. In addition to dental implants, assisted reproduction, plastic surgery, cosmetic dentistry, cardialogy, eye surgery orthopedics and pulmonology are the popular treatments in the hospitals of Panama for people in medical tourism to this country.

The equipment and technology used in the hospitals of Panama is up-to-date and the hospitals are affiliated with international organizations such as Cleveland Clinic, Baptist Health International of Miami, Johns Hopkins International, Miami Children’s Hospital, Tulane Health Science Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Harvard Medical Faculty and Physicians at Beth Israel, The Kendall Medical Center in Florida and Deaconess Medical Center in US. The doctors of these hospitals have latest information about the diseases and medicines.

US trained physicians of Panama provide high quality medical services at reasonable prices. The techniuqes used in health care, facilities and medications are not less than USA. Panama is rich with beautiful tourism destinations such as mountains, beaches and natural places which affect medical tourists pleasantly.

1) BEDBUGS: These disgusting little creatures feed on your blood. Usually nocturnal, they will attack you during the night by inserting a tiny cutting mandible through your skin into a small blood vessel. You probably won’t feel the actual bite, but depending on location, and your body’s reaction, you most probably will feel the after affects which include itching and swelling. Some people are allergic to the bite and can have more severe reactions. Bedbugs are thought not to infect their hosts with diseases from other hosts but studies are ongoing.

Bedbugs have become epidemic in many cities and are causing major physiological and financial distress for their victims, infestations are very difficult and expensive to eradicate. The main vector of transmission for bedbugs in North America is either transportation from one place to another, from hotel to home or second hand mattresses, or migration between dwellings, apartment to apartment through the walls or plumbing.

The hotels industry has been hit particularly hard with bedbugs. Not only are hotel guests being bitten, but are also bringing these parasites home in clothing and luggage. Many products exist to protect travelers such as sprays and travelsheets.

Travelers are advised to check their rooms and beds very carefully and not to place luggage on the bed or floor, instead a hard surface or luggage rack is recommended.

2) SCABIES:  Over a million cases of scabies are diagnosed in the USA each year, with over 300 million worldwide. Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis is the species of itch mite that can infest a human. The adult female mite will burrow into the upper layer of skin and deposit eggs. The resulting infestation can become very itchy and present with a ” scabies rash ” Symptoms may not appear until 2-6 weeks after initial exposure but more quickly if the person has been infested before. An infested person can transmit scabies even if they show no symptoms.

According to the CDC ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ), “Scabies usually is passed by direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infested person. However, a person with crusted (Norwegian) scabies can spread the infestation by brief skin-to-skin contact or by exposure to bedding, clothing, or even furniture that he/she has used.”

Via, AAA traveler’s companion, reports a woman, E. Sturges, contracted scabies from the bedding in a “well-known” motel chain. She was reimbursed for her room, but not for her medical bills. Just google ” scabies from hotel ” and literally hundreds of hits emerge. While human to human contact is the most prevalent mode of transmission, bedding seems to be overlooked and under diagnosed.

How can you protect yourself and your family from acquiring scabies ? Scabies are tiny, females range from 0.25mm – 0.45mm in size and males can be half that size, so they are almost impossible to see. Their eggs are even smaller. Because you can’t really inspect a bed for scabies, your best line of defense is still inspection and barrier protection.” Inspection” as in inspect the bedding to make sure the linens are fresh and have been changed. If you are leery about your bedding and don’t believe the sheets are clean, either ask for a new room or find another hotel.

A barrier travel sheet with a small pore size is your best protection, even after inspection. Companies manufacture and sell cotton travelsheets for the express purpose of creating a physical barrier to scabies, while providing a comfortable, breathable envelope to sleep in. Remember, if you purchase a travel sheet, it must be washable in hot water and dry-able in hot air, otherwise you won’t be able to properly sanitize the travel sheet between using.

3) LICE: Most parents of school age children are familiar with lice. If your child hasn’t had them then you know someone whose child has.

Head lice feed on dead skin and will about 2 days without a warm host to live on. Most commonly , head lice are transmitted by head to head contact but sharing pillows ,hats, headphones and combs, are very good ways to pick up lice. For travelers, the headrests on planes, trains and buses ca transmit lice very well.

The biggest misconception about lice is that they like dirty hair, when actually it’s the opposite, they don’t like oily surfaces, which is why olive oil has been used to rid hair of lice. Most lice treatments are of the chemical type and can be toxic to young children.

Lice do not generally carry diseases but occasionally can cause typhus, relapsing and trench fever. Pediculus humanus capitis, is the most common type of lice to infest humans and lice infestations run in the hundreds of million worldwide.travel sheets can help to protect against all of these parasites as well as just plain unclean hotel bedding. Travel sheets can also be used for children’s sleepovers and house guests.

Thessaloniki is located on the northern part of the Greek mainland, in the gulf of Thermaikos which is a major port in imports and exports. The city was set up in 316 BC and is the capital of Macedonia and the second big city in Greece after Athens.

WHY GO

European culture combined with a variety of other cultures from the north and east, international events such as trade exhibitions and art displays , local festivals all year round, business and fun –extensive nightlife-all these blended together in the unique picturesque setting of Thermaikos gulf in the deep blue of the Aegean and the extensive historic places of interest in and out of the city.

WHEN TO GO

The best seasons to visit are spring, when it is sunny and warm and you can explore the area around the city as well, summer , when you can swim at magic sandy beaches within easy reach of the city, and fall, when international exhibitions take place. In winter months it is cold –sometimes below zero- but it is sunny most of the time.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

By air

There are direct flights from the UK and other European countries and regular connections from the USA and eastern and northern countries as well.

Departures guide at: http://users.otenet.gr/~cpnchris/skgd.html

Airport info at: http://users.otenet.gr/-cpnchris/skg.html

Olympic airways at www.olympic-airways.gr/passengers_info/oapaxaptskguk.htm

By train

There is a train connection from Europe and the East on a regular basis.

Getting Around

Local buses run on a daily basis schedule to and from all suburbs and resorts, towns and cities. The bus service is a good one and the easiest way to move around the city.

See info at: www.ktel.org/fokis/en/thessaloniki.htm

Train services are for distant locations only, not for urban use.

However, the metro runs in the city connecting busy to remote areas.

Visit: www.metrolpa.net/eu/the/thessal/htm

Taxis are easy to find , and if you need a taxi at a certain time you can call the station and reserve it. They are punctual and trustworthy. Call at White Tower station, tel: 0310 214900. See also http://users.forthnet.gr/the/dsilvestriadis/thessaloniki

However, if you want to see everything , you should walk. It’s not difficult to follow a route a day and explore the inner part of the city on foot.

Cycling is not recommended in the down town area as there is a lot of traffic. Rent-a-car agencies are easy to find at the airport and bus and railway stations, and it is a good idea to self-drive around the city and the suburbs.

See www.kosmos-carrental.com/thessaloniki/html

BEST MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

The visitor shouldn’t miss to see the round White Tower, a remnant of the ancient walls of the city dated back to 1866, which is now the characteristic symbol of the city. There are more towers around the city but they are all square shaped apart from two of them.

The Triumphal Arc of Galerius is in the middle of the city, an imposing monument dating back to the third century.

Ayios Dimitrios church, down town, attracts a lot of people, both tourists and locals. It was built in the 5th century and has great architectural value. Worth visiting the catacombs dug under the church which were the hiding place of the first Christians at that time.

St Sophia church, is also a building you shouldn’t miss.

There is a number of museums all over the city such as the Rotonda ,which is a church for St George, and the Museum of Salonica.

Visit www.greekembassy.org/culture/northgreece/thessaloniki.html

BEST UNUSUAL ATTRACTIONS

The Technology park, visit the site at: www.techpark.gr

The Technology Museum, see site at www.tmth.edu.gr/en

The International Trade Exhibition, a big international event, was set up in 1926 and has been running annually in September since then offering a great range of goods and services. It attracts a great number of people every year both business and fun lovers. See www.helexpo.gr

Also the World Trade center , visit site at http://iserve.wtca.org/wtc/thessaloniki_contacts.html

Mt Athos, within easy reach of the city , is a monastery for monks located on the Halkidiki peninsula . It is a well known for the famous ancient items that are displayed there, and it constitutes a small independed community on its own run by monks. They offer free lodgings and meals to all visitors . Female visitors are not allowed in. Prince Charles of UK has visited Athos many times, as well as other famous people.

See http://poseidon.csd.auth.gr/athos

www.medialab.ntua.gr/athos.html

www.bates.edu/-rallison/friends

www.culture.gr/2/21/218/e21800.html

Halkidiki peninsula beaches are sandy , extensive and ideal for summer vacations. The perfect place for camping lovers.

www.huntsidway.com/travel.html

BEST ACTIVITY AND TOUR

• A tour in the city to see the sights. Visit www.greekhotel.com/mainland/thessaloniki/home.htm

www.greekembassy.org/culture/northgreece/thessaloniki.html

For luxury tours-hotels,

www.luxury.gr/thessaloniki-hotels.html

• For sport lovers, Toumba stadium is renowned for the local team of PAOK . There are two more local teams, ARIS and IRAKLIS. For more activities, see

www.medcollection.com/region.asp?lc=53

BEST ALTERNATIVE

• Mt Athos www.it.uom.gr/project/chalkidiki/visit_Athos.htm

• The Aristotle University which is popular for Medicine, Literature, Law, Theology and other studies.

• The University of Macedonia which is the best for Ecomonics and Social studies,as well as for Computer programming.

www.uom.gr

• The concert Hall http://virtuals.compulink.gr/ommth

BEST LOCAL HAUNT

Kalamaria area , on the east of the city is the best place to enjoy seafood by the sea. Michaniona , one hour by bus from the city center , offers fresh fish by the sea as well traditional dishes restaurants along the bay.

BEST LODGINGS

Park hotel, in the center of the city , within easy reach of all the sights.

Contact: Tel 0310 52412

City, downtown area.

Tel: 0310 269421

Elektra, a higher class hotel in the city.

Tel: 0310 232221

Hyatt, a big hotel.

Website: www.thessaloniki.hyatt.com

See other hotels at: www.greecetravelonline.com/accommodation/hotelbyarea.asp?combArea=Thessaloniki

BEST EATS

Looking for fresh fish? Don’t miss the fish tavernas at Kalamaria, a popular suburb by the sea.

Down town there is a big number of restaurants offering all kinds of tasty dishes, from grilled meat to fish and sea food. Bakeries and pastry shops offer a wide range of traditional cakes that can be found only in Salonica, as well as homemade fruit jams.

Try To Horio (the village ) at tel: 0310 327080, and Ta kalivia, at Tel: 0310 845310, for a wide range of dishes, traditional and European ones.

So , what’s the best speciality to try?

A kind of pie called ‘trigona’ (triangles). It’s got a filo wrapping outside and rich creme inside. They are sweet and tasty and are kept in the fridge.

‘Touloumba’ is another sweet dessert . It’s a kind of pastry roll with no filling inside but dipped in heavy syrup. It’s like ‘Baklavas’ in taste, which is a typical Greek sweet in syrup.

Chocolate speaking the ‘anomala’ bits are delicious. They are small unshaped choco bites made of plain dark chocolate and have a filling of whole almonds.

The best meat dishes are Giros and Souvlaki pittas, and the appetizing Greek salad topped with feta cheese.

Take aways are very popular with the students and the locals. Freshly made dishes delivered to your place –hotels included!

You can call To Fournaki tis Giagias at tel: 0310 311 999 for grilled meat and traditional cuisine . Take away too.

Trocadero is a well known creperie. Tel: 0310 942001, and Pizza Hut is international at tel: 0310 049222.

BEST ENTERTAINMENT

The International Trade Exhibition is the most popular event in Thessaloniki. It attracts visitors from all over the world and has been running annually in September since 1926. Many art festivals take place at that time and it is difficult to find accommodation if you have not booked it a month or so in advance.

For more info visit website at: www.helexpo.gr

BEST SHOPPING

There is an extensive variety of shops downtown offering whatever one may think, from clothes and leather goods to trade products and machinery. See the link below for a guide to shopping in the city.: http://users.forthnet.gr/the/dsilvestriadis/thessaloniki

HEALTH AND SAFETY

There is no need to take any special precautions apart from the regular ones when you travel abroad. A Health Insurance will help if you need Private –Hospital medical care, but there are a lot of public hospitals that can help in emergencies.

During the summer months you should take care of the tap water. It is safer to buy bottled mineral water and avoid the sun at noon. A sun block cream and dark sunglasses is a must for everyboby staying in Greece.

MONEY AND COMMUNICATIONS

There is no problem with currency exchange as there are many banks around the city , at the airport and at the stations as well. Most shops accept credit cards and travelers’checks and most hotels change cash for you at low rates.

International phone calls are easy to make as there are phone booths in the streets and e-mails are easy to send as you can find Internet cafes all around the city. The post office service is reliable but there are many private couriers around the city that offer immediate delivery service locally or worldwide.

www.tnn.gr net news

www.wunderground.com/global/stations/16622.html

Weather report

BEST RESOURCES

WWW.THESSALONIKI.GR

History at http://philippos.mpa.gr/gr/recovered/thessaliniki/try(5)/eng

Hotels +apartments at www.greecead.com/gadhome/thessaloniki

American Consulate at http://virtuals.compulink.gr/us-consulate