Posted by admin | Camping | Posted on July 1st, 2010
Camping is a wonderful way to get away from the rat race of everyday life in the ‘civilized’ world and just relax and enjoy the solitude of the natural world. Folks who like to go camping are known as campers.
Camping describes a whole list of different activities. Hardcore survivalist type campers will set off with little more than the clothes on their backs and the shoes on their feet, whereas ‘campers’ who prefer the use of RVs arrive at a site equipped with all the creature comforts of civilization.
Camping may be the primary activity, but many campers also add other activities, such as hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, etc. Sometimes Camping is combined with backpacking and is done as a series of day hikes from a central location to a certain destination with various camp sites along the way.
Some people take vacations in remote places with cabins and other modern facilities but this is not actually camping. The terms camping, also known as camping out, is sometimes applied to those who live outdoors because they have too or have chosen too, or for people waiting overnight in queues to get tickets for a concert or some other very popular event. Some people also refer to real camping as roughing it.
One style of roughing it type camping is known as Backpacking, which is a mobile variety of tent camping. Backpackers usually have lightweight equipment that can be carried for long distances by foot in a backpack designed specifically for this type of camping. These folks take long hikes across the land and will set up camp at remote or very rural areas. Backpacking equipment may cost a bit more than that for car camping, but the costs are still far less than using a trailer or RV. Backpacking campsites cost very little or nothing at all if you are far enough out in the wilderness.
Going canoing with the intent of camping is similar to backpacking, but uses canoes to get to the campground or site instead of walking. A lot more supplies can be carried in a canoe than in a backpack. Canoe camping is one of the more popular types of camping.
One form camping is combined with cycling. The bicycle is used to carry the camping gear and as the basic means of transportation. This allows the camper or campers to cover greater distances than backpacking although there is less area for storage.
Some folks love being ‘survivalist campers’. They learn the skills they need to survive in the great out-of-doors in any situation. This activity generally requires the skill to obtain food, water, give emergency medical treatments with whatever materials are available, and so on. This form of rough camping is growing in popularity for people seeking the challenge of camping in the wilderness, without any modern amenities that are present at many campsites. It is a great way of enjoying the solitude and beauty of the natural world in it’s purest form.
With all of rising costs of gas, airfare, hotels, etc. camping is becoming a popular choice for many families seeking an fairly inexpensive way of taking a vacation without all the costs of a regular type of vacation trip. Most states have parks that offer a wide variety of camping spots for a fairly reasonable rate. Why not try a camping trip today? It’s fun, inexpensive, and a great way to unwind from the hustle bustle of the everyday world!
Posted by admin | Sports Travel | Posted on June 20th, 2010
Golf is a popular and relaxing sport, but to play the game well, you need the right golf equipment. This buying guide will take you through the different types of golf equipment available, from balls and bags to clubs and clothes.
What equipment do I need to play golf?
Golf Clubs:
Usually a golfers bag contains fourteen or more clubs. Select golf clubs based on your ability. A half set combination of clubs is ideal for a novice and will help a beginner develop a better swing. You need a good variety of clubs with the right combination of shafts and club heads for different shots around the course. For left-handers, there are specially designed sets of clubs. The most common types of golf clubs are drivers, irons, woods, wedges and putters.
Drivers:
You can choose from steel, titanium or composite drivers. The head of a golf driver comes in different shapes like squares, triangles and scoop backs. Golf drivers are made of different metals and vary in weight according to the material used. Heavy headed golf drivers are preferred by many players. Steel shafts are typically used by experienced golfers while lighter graphite shafts are used mostly by beginners. Graphite shafts can be rather expensive and are best for beginners who are serious about improving their game. Cheap golf sets with graphite shafts are readily available.
Woods:
Woods are made from either titanium or stainless steel. Titanium woods are pricier of the two. If you prefer a classic look, then opt for stainless steel woods. They are heavier with a more traditional design. A 2, 3 or 4 wood can be used in place of a driver or long iron for tee shots. Woods numbered 5 through 11 are best used to get your ball out of the rough.
Irons:
Iron clubs are great for shots when you are 125 to 200 yards from the green. They are a staple among clubs and can be made of forged or cast iron. High handicap players should opt for cavity back irons which are designed to improve your game. Mid handicap golfers are better off experimenting with hybrid irons and low handicap players should use blade irons.
Wedges:
There are several different types of wedges, such as the pitching wedge, sand wedge, lob wedge and gap wedge, all of which have different lofts. They have different finishes like chrome, nickel and beryllium copper. These scoring clubs are a vital part of game and should be used when you are 120 yards or less from the hole.
Putters:
Once you hit the green, it is time to pull out your putter. A putter is the shortest golf club of any set and generally the most used. You have many options to choose from. Peripheral weighted putters are better for players with an in and out stroke while mallet headed putters can be used by players with a straight through and back stroke. The traditional blade putter, however, is always the safest design as it is the easiest to use.
Golf Balls:
Golf balls are classified as one-piece, two-piece, three-piece or four-piece based on their construction. Beginners should use one-piece balls. Two-piece balls are more commonly used by the average player for every day golfing. Three-piece balls give seasoned players more control. Four-piece balls are much rarer. Their four layer construction makes them the softest feeling golf ball you can play with. If you are a hard hitter, you will most likely prefer a heavier ball. Soft balls spin well whereas hard balls cover more distance.
Golf Bags:
Just like any other golfer, you will need a bag to store your clubs, shoes and balls as you go back and forth from home to a golf course. The most common types of golf bags are stand bags, cart bags and staff bags.
Stand Bags:
A stand bag has legs which keeps it upright while you golf. Select a lightweight stand bag with two wide straps rather than one so that the weight gets evenly distributed.
Cart Bags:
Cart bags have many pockets and are more rigid than stand bags. They are made for golfers who use carts and buggies to get around the course. Female golfers and older players tend to prefer cart bags. However, they usually are quite expensive.
Staff Bags:
Staff bags can get very heavy, as they have numerous pockets and enough space for a full set of fourteen clubs. They are modeled after professional golf bags and are often made from leather. If you use a caddy and have the money, nothing else comes close to owning a staff bag.
Golf Gloves:
Golf gloves help you get a good grip on your golf clubs to provide better control over your game. Although some prefer to play without gloves, they are highly recommended for novice to intermediate players. There are leather, synthetic, all-weather and winter gloves that you can choose from.
Golf Shoes:
You can wear classic golf shoes, sandals or golf boots when you are out on a course. Look for shoes that can withstand the wear and tear of walking all eighteen holes and are waterproof. Shoes that let your feet breathe are ideal for summers and provide the most comfort.
Golf Clothes:
Your golfing wardrobe should contain outerwear for every season. If you are the kind of golf lover that plays no matter what the weather is like, you will need waterproof, rainproof and windproof golf clothes. Take care that you are comfortable with your apparel during a swing. There are now many outlets to buy golf equipment online if you want to keep up with the trends.
Posted by admin | Sports Travel | Posted on June 4th, 2010
A Beginner’s Guide To Golf Clothing
When selecting a new item of golf clothing you should always take into consideration the dress code or restrictions of your local golf club or course. A more obvious but sometimes overlooked factor is the expected weather conditions across the duration of the game – from a quick nine holes to a full-blown 4-day golf tournament. It is vital to remain comfortable throughout the duration of the game to maintain a consistent performance. Golf clothing should be light and comfortable with enough room to move comfortably during play. A slightly vainer factor to take into account is how you look to your contemporaries and other players on the course – if you look good, you’ll feel good and that will increase your confidence and performance on the day.
Standard lines of golf clothing includes trousers/shorts, shirts, sweaters, fleeces, waterproof suits and suitable headwear. The addition of high performance membrane-based materials like GolfTex by Palm Springs offer exceptional levels of breathability and lightness, with the additional benefit of longevity and the ability to dry quickly in the event of a light shower; whilst the build-up of sweat in warmer conditions can be easily prevented by wicking moisture away from the skin. Golf fashion still maintains the overriding factor in the latest designs and styles of golf clothing; in recent years the influence of other brands such as Nike and Adidas has lead to the incorporation of sporting elements in golf clothing to enhance the player’s performance on the course.
Golf Clothing – Breathable Waterproof Suits
Offering exceptional levels of waterproofing and breathability these suits are designed to protect the entire body from the shoulders down from the bracing elements associated with playing golf in the United Kingdom. This item of golf clothing is lightweight and can therefore be easily stored in one of the many pockets found on the majority of today’s golf bags. The waterproof membrane used in most breathable suits is designed to repel water droplets – allowing the material to dry quickly between showers.
Golf Clothing – Golf Sweaters
A golf sweater is highly recommended in case of sudden weather changes to provide extra warmth and protection against the wind. Sweaters are available in a variety of materials and in a variety of styles including full length or polo-necked.
Golf Clothing – Golf Shirt
Most golf course dress codes require players to wear a collared shirt. Tennis shirts and button down shirts are usually acceptable, but most players opt for a cotton or micro-fibre polo shirt. Golf polo shirts can be just a simple top, or it can come with new material technologies designed to keep you cool and fit perfectly through each moment of your game.
Golf Clothing – Golf Trousers
While most clubs permit men to wear tailored golf shorts, you should check to see whether only trousers are allowed. Women’s golf dress codes usually allow for knee-length shorts or skirts.
Golf Clothing – Golf Headwear
No matter what the weather is doing or is forecast to do, some form of golf head gear is recommended. A wide brimmed hat is usually the most versatile option, providing sun protection on clear days as well as cover from rainfall during wet weather.
Golf Clothing – Personalisation Service
If you’re interested in personalising your clothing we can offer a competitive branding or logo service where we’ll add an embroidered or printed logo or message on clothing or accessories such as bags, towels, caps, and clothing and golf balls. Please visit www.golfballs.co.uk for more information or telephone 01527 598 388 to speak to someone about our personalised golf equipment service.
Posted by admin | Camping | Posted on May 16th, 2010
Summer camps bring fine opportunities for teens, kids and even for girls to not only have fun, but to broaden their minds to learning new things. Some of the best examples are St. Paul Summer Camps.
As most camps do a nice job, you should become conscious that no single camp is a perfect fit for every kid. So, be very practical regarding choosing a camp from the cluster of summer camps for children such as sport camps, computer camps, dance camps and more.
Attending a summer camp is often becomes the first experience for children where they spend an extended period of time being away from home. Many summer camps employ high school or college kids as trainers or guides to make the children feel more comfortable.
Most summer camps provide such a setting for children that they learn enduring values such as integrity and teamwork, character and leadership. Activities just like sports, leadership training outdoor adventures, and carefully selected field trips will be there.
While making inquiries about summer camps, be sure to look at the available options for example computer camps, theater camps, sports camps, dance camps and many more. The camps that center around on the arts are very popular. You should also take the computer camps into consideration as they also offer a good deal.
If you choose St. Paul Summer Camps, there are devoted counselors and brilliant role models available for your kids to see and interact with. Moreover, there are experienced camp organizers in charge of the event. The children who come to attend a camp are secure.
Posted by admin | Sports Travel | Posted on April 15th, 2010
Thinking of places to enjoy a golfing vacation adventure and go somewhere exotic
Consider Thailand as a Golf Vacation destination and you will never forget your experience and the adventure.
In this article I will be talking to you about Bangkok Golf Vacations in particular, although there are hundreds of golf courses throughout Thailand.
First a little about Thailand from Wikipedia. Thailand is home to several distinct geographic regions, partly corresponding to the provincial groups.
The north of the country is mountainous, with the highest point being Doi Inthanon at 2,576 meters (8,451ft.).
The northeast consists of the Khorat Plateau, bordered to the east by the Mekong river. The centre of the country is dominated by the predominantly flat Chao Phraya River valley, which runs into the Gulf of Thailand.
The south consists of the narrow Kra Isthmus that widens into the Malay Peninsula.
The local climate is tropical and characterized by monsoons. There is a rainy, warm, and cloudy southwest monsoon from mid-May to September, as well as a dry, cool northeast monsoon from November to mid-March.
The southern isthmus is always hot and humid. Major cities beside the capital Bangkok include Nakhon Ratchasima, Udon Thani, Nakhon Sawan, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Phuket, and Hat Yai, in Songhla Province.
Bangkok, known in Thai as Krung Thep, is the capital and largest city of Thailand, with an official census population of over 10 million. Bangkok is located on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, near the Gulf of Thailand.
Its also in the World Book of Records for the longest named city, Krung Thep is abbreviated.
Bangkok is one of the fastest growing, most economically dynamic cities in Southeast Asia. It is emerging as a regional center to rival Singapore and Hong Kong.
The World Meteorological Organization has dubbed Bangkok the world’s hottest large city. Moreover, it is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Bangkok is also known for relatively low retail prices.
Bangkok is the place to visit for breathtakingly beautiful temples, magnificent palaces, Thai dancers, Thai kickboxing, museums, and island hopping, with
6 international airports , destinations all within one hour or so flights within Thailand. You will also find great bargains while shopping country wide.
Thailand’s new airport is a work of art which stands alone and sets a new international standard for travelers, with all the latest hi-tech equipment , and visitor friendly features no where else to be found, just now opening in July through September.
So, besides the enjoyment of your golfing vacation, you will also be able to enjoy the visit to Bangkok, Thailand in many other ways, not the least of, which is the fantastic Bangkok nightlife and world-class hotels at rates you won’t believe.
All in all, a golf vacation to Thailand is more than just an average golfing vacation, it’s an adventure to remember.
Lets talk about some of the particular Golf Clubs and Golf Courses in Bangkok.
Windmill Park Golf & Country Club: Designed by Nick Faldo, this 18-Hole, Par 72, golf course is very challenging from the back tees. It features a lot of water for most of the entire course and the Par 5 holes are all doglegs. The last hole is probably the biggest challenge where you have to hit onto an island where the clubhouse is also located.
Bangpoo Country Club: This 18 hole course was designed by Arnold Palmer and is one of the most popular golf vacation destinations. It is located about 60 miles southeast of Bangkok. You will not contend with as much water as you will on the Windmill course but wind will be a factor in your golf game at Bangpoo. Wide Fairways make the course a little easier for the average golfer.
Vintage Golf Clubs: There is a lot more here than just golf. It features a glamorous clubhouse with tennis courts, a swimming pool, and even a fitness center. This 18 hole, Par 72 golf course was designed by Arthur Hills and is a rather flat course. However the greens, fairways, and water hazards are well placed. The Par 5 holes will give any golfer the challenge they are looking for and the 18th hole is especially challenging with a narrow green sporting water on two sides.
Bangpakong Riverside Country Club: Built by the Bangpakong River, this 18 hole course presents unique challenges for golfers at any skill level. The river intertwines through the golf course and into some of the greens themselves.
It sports thick rough areas even though the fairways are wide. Golfers will also have to contend with strong winds in addition to the obvious water hazards.
Thana City Golf & Country Club: This Golf Club is located along the Bangna-Trad Highway. A beautiful course designed by Greg Norman gives golfers a chance to play holes of varying skill levels.
There are Par 4, 300 yard holes up to Par 4, 440 yard holes. Very fast greens make this golf course a real challenge.
Dynasty Golf & Country Club: Designed by Dennis Griffiths, Dynasty is an 18-hole golf course about an hour-and-a-half drive from Bangkok. The greens are well placed and the course is fairly flat.
There are creeks that provide good water hazards and the trees and flowers that surround this beautiful golf course are something to be admired.
Subhapruek Golf Club: (Formerly Bangna Country Club). The name, Subhapruek, was given to the golf course by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in 1995 and means Beautiful Plants.
This golf course is one of the most beautiful courses in Thailand. Every single one of the 18 holes was designed by Pete Dye as a signature hole. The course presents physical and mental challenges that rival the best golf courses in the world.
Natural Park Ramindra Golf Course: (Formerly Winsan Golf Club until taken over by the Natural Group in 1992) Designed by Jack Niclaus, this 18-hole golf course features holes with sandy wastes, water hazards, and bunkers.
Like any golf course designed by Jack Niclaus, it presents challenges golfers at all skill levels can enjoy. It is located near Safari World, about and hour drive from Bangkok.
These are only a few of the golf courses in and around Bangkok, Thailand. You will enjoy exploring to find other courses such as those I will recommend below. A trip to Thailand for a golf vacation is one you will never forget.
Other recommended Golf courses you can search for online before booking your Bangkok, Thailand golf vacation.
Green Valley Golf Club, Rose Garden Golf Club, Kiarti Thanee Country Club, Royal Gems Golf & Sports Club, Krisda City Golf Club, President Golf & Country Club, Krung Kavee Golf Club, Pinehurst Golf & Country Club, Lakewood Golf & Country Club, Panya Indra Golf Club, Lum Luk Ka Golf Club, and Navatanee Golf Club.
Note from the author:
Although there are many excellent choices, my personal favorite is Pinehurst Golf & Country Club, minutes from Don Mueng International Airport, great accommodations in a country setting , excellent service with a smile, and moderately priced to fit within your budget.
Just watch out for the water traps. I’ve donated 100′s of golf balls over the years.
Posted by admin | Sports Travel | Posted on January 13th, 2010
You enter a golf store and are overwhelmed with all the irons, woods, putters and wedges that you see along with the golf balls, clothing and other golf accessories. If you are just starting to play golf, the task of selecting the golf clubs that would work for you could be a bit challenging.
First, you would need to know what a set of clubs is made up of. There are four main types of golf clubs: the Woods, the Irons, the Wedges and the Putter. Today, you may also come across hybrid clubs. A hybrid club is a cross of a wood and an iron. People who are having a hard time hitting their long irons, like a 2 or 3 iron, prefer to use these clubs. You are allowed to have up to 14 clubs and could be in any combination. An example of a good combination for your golf clubs would be one driver, one 4 wood, 3 through 9 iron, a lob wedge, a gap wedge, a sand wedge, a pitching wedge and one putter. However, the combination would entirely be up to you or the golfer as different combinations work for different people.
You then need to know your available options as you buy your golf clubs. You can either buy used or new. Although you would definitely save more if you choose to buy used golf clubs, you may encounter some issues like cracked shafts, worn grips and other problems that a new set would surely not have. If you are buying your first set, it usually makes more sense to buy new ones.
After deciding on buying a new or old set, you now have to decide if you will be getting a complete set or will just buy individual clubs by your own to make one set. Putting together your own set would be a bit more expensive compared to just buying a set of clubs that is already complete. Purchasing a complete set also saves you the hassle and the time in making decisions.
If you are a beginner, it is recommended to buy the complete starter set, which includes one driver, a 3 wood, a 5 wood, the 3 through 9 irons, one pitching wedge and your putter. This could also include one sand wedge and a bag for your golf clubs. Although this set only has 11 or 12 clubs, as your game progresses, you could decide for yourself on which club to add to your set. You could eventually add a 2 iron, another wedge or a hybrid club.
Keep in mind that getting expensive golf clubs will not improve your game or help you play better. You should not spend $300 on just one driver if you could spend a lot less to get everything you need in one package. Getting a complete set would be the best option to save you money that would later on need for replacing lost golf balls.