Source: admin

Source: admin

In the Cage of Death at Darwin's Crocosaurus Cove

Unchanging Threat – Yet Constantly Front Page News

Why is it that earthquakes can happen in Asia, oil can spill in the Mexican Gulf and war can break out in the Persian Gulf, but the savagely sainted crocodile can still be making the front page on the “NT News” (the only newspaper in the Northern Territory) after what has really become millions of years of top of the food-chain lurking and skulking?

They can make front page news without batting an eyelid, practically without even moving: the venerable croc could just be eating a cow (see picture below), or a shark, waiting for a nude takeaway or crossing a road. Matter of fact it happens so often that you’d wonder that it comes as any surprise these days. But the NT, at only just over 200,000 people (spread over a fifth of Australia’s sprawling land mass) clearly isn’t big enough, or probably doesn’t have the readership (cos crocs don’t need to read, more on that cultural thingo later) to support two newspapers – say, NT News and Croc Daily – the latter would probably just be a slow moving hard-copy leather bound edition that doesn’t change for centuriea.

And so you’ve probably got it there in a nutshell: the croc – like rock n roll, beer and sex  – is an unchanging thing, yet open to a range of combinations and permutations, that sees it continuing like Old Man Time himself. And if it’s one thing that we all want in our lives – whether we’re holidaying, travelling or just staying in one place – it’s a bit of routine, y’know something that we can rely on because it’ll stay the same.

But I think it’s more than that. A croc isn’t just something you can hang your hat on, call it home and know it’ll be there at the end of the day. No, as far as the News and the NT are concerned I think the truth runs deeper still.

The Northern Territory vs. The Crocodile

NT News Headlines

First up, let’s look more closely at what the NT and crocodiles have in common – apart from one having the ideal tropical climate for the other to live in and vice versa. We’ve covered the crocodile’s unchanging, slow moving exteritor – their prehistoric survivalism that is both a window to an ancient past and a guide to a universe that acknowledges constancy. Their very prehistoric origins, their thick skin that ignores all change around them, their happiness to just laze in the sun and hang out by the pool and their general muted glee in the monsoon (as opposed to the illustriously crowded dry season) like a real local, only they don’t mind a tourist or too – all these things are what makes the croc and the NT synonymous.

Again – like rock ‘n roll bands that just won’t die and keep on touring and reforming – they are dinosaurs, which are both things close to the heart of the average NT person (or Territorian, as they prefer to be known). Territorian’s might be offered something new, but like a croc they’d like to kill something, chuck it aside and let it rot, until its just ready and old enough to consider.

The Ultimate Metaphor?

So what do you get when you put this all together – when put the croc and the NT side by side? Well the NT News, that’s for sure – but what does this comparison really show? Is it a grand metaphor? An allegory? Could it be that the crocodile, like all these parallels it offers, is the ultimate metaphor for Culture in the NT? Slow moving, dinosaur-like, unchanging, with a fondness of laziness and a taste for a tourist or two. Innovation? A thing of the past, your crocs and Territorians would say. Fatboy Slim could almost be a Territorian name, judged as they are by the size of their belly. And “Why Try Harder When You’re Number One?” could well be the catch-phrase for flexibility, cunning and perseverance that they all embue.

And would the NT News or your Territorian on the street take offence to all this, well like your average croc, its’ their thick skin that strengthens and protects them, allowing no barb to penetrate, no whiff of change to pass through, and no suggestion to land them in hot water.

The Cage of Death

These days, it seems the salt water crocodile is living up to its name, on recent occasions they’ve been seen to be sunning themselves on the city beaches – which is as close to the intrinsic notion of culture you might get. But, to be fair, I’ve yet to see “Croc orders beer in pub” (oh hang, it did walk into a bar) or “Croc caught DUI’ (driving under the influence), so there are territories that the ancient beast of predation is yet to conquer.

But if you should go to Crocasauras Cove and go to the “Cage of Death” – where you are lowered into the water in a plastic “cage” with a 5metre salt water crocodile languidly swimming laps around you – and should you sit in that cage and have him look you straight in the eye, his long thick tail slowly propelling him around you, his stubby, chubby little arms and legs gradually treading water, then you will probably notice that he’s not thinking “How can I get in there and get me a tasty tourist snack”. No, its more like, if I wait long enough, then they’ll probably just chuck them straight in the water for me. Why try harder? Why create a way to do it when it’ll come to you soon enough? Maybe town isn’t the place to look for the true innovators – out in the local Springs there are things to be learnt about takeaways, waiting, and what a trap culture can really be.

- Jack “The Croc Hunter” Brown

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Northern Territory tours & things to do, especially the Cage of Death at Darwin’s Crocosaurus Cove and other Darwin tours & things to do.

Source: Brittany

Toroweap Overlook at the Grand Canyon

Unfortunately, we went when all those fires were happening, and I was sorely disappointed to find that the air and weather was actually better in L.A. Until that point, the only place I’d ever been to with crummier air than L.A. was Houston. I was a bit bummed to find that we actually left footprints in the thin layer of ash that was coating everything.

I bring this up because a couple weeks ago, there was some kind of fire in the Grand Canyon, and it covered a lot of area in a grim, smoky haze. If I had been camping, I’d have been disappointed. Vacations ruined by a wildfires (not to mention everything else ruined by wildfires) has probably cracked my personal Top Ten Bummers in Life list. Or at least the top twenty.

Anyway, I went to Vegas a couple weeks ago with my friends Cam and Kyle. This is probably our third or fourth time making this trip, and for the first time, we all got sick of gambling. Well, Kyle didn’t, but that’s probably because he didn’t blow through his blackjack fund after the first night. We were staying for five days; by the time the third one rolled around, Cam and I needed something else to do, like ride in an air-conditioned 4×4 to this really remote part of the Grand Canyon.

Tour Trekker!

The 4×4, which we christened the Frankentruck, was a huge four-wheel drive truck combined with the passenger part of an airport shuttle bus. And then painted pink, as if it were a shuttle bus from Barbie International Airport. And wouldn’t you know it, the tour company was called Pink Jeep Tours and the tour rigs were called Tour Trekkers.

We were supposed to leave at 7:45 am, so we just didn’t go to bed. Well, except for Kyle, who said he was just going to “rest his eyes,” as if he were my dad or something. I’d like to think someone else on our Tour Trekker was as haggard as we were, but I’m pretty sure that wasn’t the case. Cam conked out immediately; I dozed in an out, which was too bad, because the guide was pretty funny (and had no loss for information) and the scenery outside the windows was awesome. We drove through Nevada, Utah and Arizona, and then headed up to this spot called Torroweap.

Torroweap, or Torroweap Overlook if you prefer, is apparently one of the most isolated spots in the country, and I made a mental note to be sure to be back in time for bus call. We got out and looked around, and I’ll tell you what—I didn’t used to be afraid of heights, but now I’m not so sure. The overlook gives you a dizzying stare at the Lava Falls rapids from a mere 3,000 feet up. With a drop like that, you can kind of see how Wiley E. Coyote has time to show all those dialogue signs—I’m pretty sure you’d fall for a while.

The coolest part about the trip was that I did actually feel isolated. It’s obvious that part of the park is pretty much untouched, and the scenery was amazing. Not only that, lunch was included. Cam made a joke about being “high rollers,” and then by the time we got to Torroweap Overlook, the high roller jokes became really awful puns. Next time, I’m going by myself.

- Steve Steward

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Grand Canyon tours & things to do and other Las Vegas tours & things to do, especially Grand Canyon Toroweap by Tour Trekker.

Source: Brittany

Toroweap Overlook at the Grand Canyon

Unfortunately, we went when all those fires were happening, and I was sorely disappointed to find that the air and weather was actually better in L.A. Until that point, the only place I’d ever been to with crummier air than L.A. was Houston. I was a bit bummed to find that we actually left footprints in the thin layer of ash that was coating everything.

I bring this up because a couple weeks ago, there was some kind of fire in the Grand Canyon, and it covered a lot of area in a grim, smoky haze. If I had been camping, I’d have been disappointed. Vacations ruined by a wildfires (not to mention everything else ruined by wildfires) has probably cracked my personal Top Ten Bummers in Life list. Or at least the top twenty.

Anyway, I went to Vegas a couple weeks ago with my friends Cam and Kyle. This is probably our third or fourth time making this trip, and for the first time, we all got sick of gambling. Well, Kyle didn’t, but that’s probably because he didn’t blow through his blackjack fund after the first night. We were staying for five days; by the time the third one rolled around, Cam and I needed something else to do, like ride in an air-conditioned 4×4 to this really remote part of the Grand Canyon.

Tour Trekker!

The 4×4, which we christened the Frankentruck, was a huge four-wheel drive truck combined with the passenger part of an airport shuttle bus. And then painted pink, as if it were a shuttle bus from Barbie International Airport. And wouldn’t you know it, the tour company was called Pink Jeep Tours and the tour rigs were called Tour Trekkers.

We were supposed to leave at 7:45 am, so we just didn’t go to bed. Well, except for Kyle, who said he was just going to “rest his eyes,” as if he were my dad or something. I’d like to think someone else on our Tour Trekker was as haggard as we were, but I’m pretty sure that wasn’t the case. Cam conked out immediately; I dozed in an out, which was too bad, because the guide was pretty funny (and had no loss for information) and the scenery outside the windows was awesome. We drove through Nevada, Utah and Arizona, and then headed up to this spot called Torroweap.

Torroweap, or Torroweap Overlook if you prefer, is apparently one of the most isolated spots in the country, and I made a mental note to be sure to be back in time for bus call. We got out and looked around, and I’ll tell you what—I didn’t used to be afraid of heights, but now I’m not so sure. The overlook gives you a dizzying stare at the Lava Falls rapids from a mere 3,000 feet up. With a drop like that, you can kind of see how Wiley E. Coyote has time to show all those dialogue signs—I’m pretty sure you’d fall for a while.

The coolest part about the trip was that I did actually feel isolated. It’s obvious that part of the park is pretty much untouched, and the scenery was amazing. Not only that, lunch was included. Cam made a joke about being “high rollers,” and then by the time we got to Torroweap Overlook, the high roller jokes became really awful puns. Next time, I’m going by myself.

- Steve Steward

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Grand Canyon tours & things to do and other Las Vegas tours & things to do, especially Grand Canyon Toroweap by Tour Trekker.

Source: Brittany

Toroweap Overlook at the Grand Canyon

Unfortunately, we went when all those fires were happening, and I was sorely disappointed to find that the air and weather was actually better in L.A. Until that point, the only place I’d ever been to with crummier air than L.A. was Houston. I was a bit bummed to find that we actually left footprints in the thin layer of ash that was coating everything.

I bring this up because a couple weeks ago, there was some kind of fire in the Grand Canyon, and it covered a lot of area in a grim, smoky haze. If I had been camping, I’d have been disappointed. Vacations ruined by a wildfires (not to mention everything else ruined by wildfires) has probably cracked my personal Top Ten Bummers in Life list. Or at least the top twenty.

Anyway, I went to Vegas a couple weeks ago with my friends Cam and Kyle. This is probably our third or fourth time making this trip, and for the first time, we all got sick of gambling. Well, Kyle didn’t, but that’s probably because he didn’t blow through his blackjack fund after the first night. We were staying for five days; by the time the third one rolled around, Cam and I needed something else to do, like ride in an air-conditioned 4×4 to this really remote part of the Grand Canyon.

Pink Jeeps!

The 4×4, which we christened the Frankentruck, was a huge four-wheel drive truck combined with the passenger part of an airport shuttle bus. And then painted pink, as if it were a shuttle bus from Barbie International Airport. And wouldn’t you know it, the tour company was called Pink Jeep Tours and the tour rigs were called Tour Trekkers.

We were supposed to leave at 7:45 am, so we just didn’t go to bed. Well, except for Kyle, who said he was just going to “rest his eyes,” as if he were my dad or something. I’d like to think someone else on our Tour Trekker was as haggard as we were, but I’m pretty sure that wasn’t the case. Cam conked out immediately; I dozed in an out, which was too bad, because the guide was pretty funny (and had no loss for information) and the scenery outside the windows was awesome. We drove through Nevada, Utah and Arizona, and then headed up to this spot called Torroweap.

Torroweap, or Torroweap Overlook if you prefer, is apparently one of the most isolated spots in the country, and I made a mental note to be sure to be back in time for bus call. We got out and looked around, and I’ll tell you what—I didn’t used to be afraid of heights, but now I’m not so sure. The overlook gives you a dizzying stare at the Lava Falls rapids from a mere 3,000 feet up. With a drop like that, you can kind of see how Wiley E. Coyote has time to show all those dialogue signs—I’m pretty sure you’d fall for a while.

The coolest part about the trip was that I did actually feel isolated. It’s obvious that part of the park is pretty much untouched, and the scenery was amazing. Not only that, lunch was included. Cam made a joke about being “high rollers,” and then by the time we got to Torroweap Overlook, the high roller jokes became really awful puns. Next time, I’m going by myself.

- Steve Steward

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Grand Canyon tours & things to do and other Las Vegas tours & things to do, especially Grand Canyon Toroweap by Tour Trekker.

Source: Brittany

The Zuri Kumarakom which is one of the most famous Kerala Resort and Spa offers a great package for 2 nights. This resort that is spread over 18 acres of land beside the Vembanad lake makes for one of the best weekend getaway packages that lets you experience the heavenly beauty of Kumarakom. While you are in Kumarakom you can also cruise down the tranquil backwaters that Kerala is famous for.

These meandering inlets of water flanked by lush greenery offers a breathtakingly beautiful sight. Kumarakom is the perfect weekend getaway that offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. This package includes all meals (buffet), yoga and meditation facilities, evening entertainment at amphitheatre, bicycle for resort tour, and use of stem, sauna, Jacuzzi and gym.

A two nights' stay in Puri, one of the oldest cities in India that is home to both, the beautiful Jagannath Temple and the pristine beach that renders beautiful sunsets, is one of those ideal weekend destinations that you might want to visit. This beautiful coastal city known for its stunning architecture, exquisite temples, pleasant climate, large lakes and clean beaches is a weekend getaway that serves as both -a pilgrimage holiday as well as a fun-filled beach holiday.

If you are looking for foreign weekend getaway packages you could check out the four day long tour of South Africa. This short but delightful trip to South Africa is so designed to enable you to take a peek into the beautiful parts of this country. This is one of those weekend destinations that have stunning locations to take your breath away! Cape Town, the legislative capital of South Africa is famous for several tourist attractions like the unique Table Mountains, the vineyards, beautiful landscapes and pristine beaches. Known the world over for its hospitality Cape Town also has an amazingly rich culture and the food here is also great. On the other hand Johannesburg, also called the City of gold' is one of the most cosmopolitan cities of South Africa.

Author is an associate editor for <a href=”http://www.makemytrip.com/holidays-india/weekend_getaways-tours.html” target=”_blank”>Weekend Destinations. Get all possible information about <a href=”http://www.makemytrip.com/holidays-international” target=”_blank”>International holidays and <a href=”http://www.makemytrip.com/holidays-international/weekend_getaways-tours-travel.html” target=”_blank”>Weekend Getaway.We also provide information about online hotel reservation, flights booking and holiday packages in india.

<!–

Source: admin

Source: admin

Various Norwegian educational institutions are nowadays delivering much more importance to international education with above 170 master level programs being offered in English. Norway also abides by the guidelines of European higher education. As a result, students continuing their study in Norway will be recognized in other countries for their degrees and certificates received here. International students wont have to pay any tuition fees in this country as laid down by a specific rule. The cost of living and study in Norway is comparatively higher than other countries. However, students from foreign countries can avail financial support to meet their living costs here. There are several student scholarship programs, student loans, and fellowship programmes available to bear the expenses of an entire course or a specific number of semesters.

More than 10,000 foreign students are currently a part of the Norwegian higher education system. You can choose your desired program from a host of undergraduate and graduate programs offered by many colleges and universities. Some of the renowned universities in Norway include Norwegian Universities of Life Sciences, University of Oslo, University of Bergen, and Norwegian University of Science and Technology.

Sweden is the second Nordic country that is capable of fulfilling all your educational needs through a number of highly recognized universities and colleges. The country offers all kinds of graduate, postgraduate, and certificate programs to make your study in Sweden an extremely gratifying experience. International students should send their applications to study in Sweden only through the portal Studera.nu. After opening an account at the portal, you can fill the application form there mentioning a list of courses, in order of preference. Take a printout of this form and send it together with the officially scrutinized copies of your required educational documents to the address of University Studies in Sweden. The notification regarding your selection to the desired program will reach you some months prior to the commencement of the semester. The universities in Sweden that attract more number of overseas students include Blekinge Institute of Technology, University of Gothenburg, Stockholm University, University of Boras and Dalarna University.

If you want a safe and exotic environment for your international education, a study in Finland will be the most suitable for you. Some universities in this country are continually rated among top universities of the world. Outside students can make their study a low-cost affair here by opting for a course from several tuition-free universities. The list of top universities in Finland consists of University of Helsinki, University of Turku, Helsinki University of Technology, University of Oulu, and University of Kuopio.

Mr. Pankaj is providing Infinite Courses, India's top most informative and resourceful education portal offering umbrella solution to all education related queries and dilemmas. Explore Study in Norway, Study in Finland, Study in Sweden, and much more.

Source: admin

Source: admin