Many people who are stuck in their daily grind dream of adventure and fun. Many decide to go backpacking, from place to place. However their are many taking advantage of working for the many different cruise ship operators. Whilst backpacking usually entails staying in one spot and earning enough to move onto the next destination, working on cruise ships means you are getting paid to travel.
The impression that most people have of working on a cruise ship is that for the length of the contract (which is usually around 6 – 8 months) they live a life full of adventure, fun and allot of alcohol and sex. For the most part I can tell you that it is true. Life on a cruise ship is full of those things on a daily basis.
Being part of a cruise ship crew is an adventure where you sleep, eat and breathe the life of being on the seas. The advantages of being part of the crew is for the most part, you get free travel and get to go to some of the most exotic locations in the world and get paid for it, copious amounts of alcohol are consumed and is very cheap (as little as 1 dollar a drink), and you are travelling with allot of like minded individuals who more or less want the same thing fun and great times. Not to mention that there is a hell of allot of room swapping and sleep over’s with crew and passengers alike.
Another advantage of working on a cruise ship is that you are paid in cash and depending on what you are doing on the ship as part of your job you can return home at the end of a contract with quite a fair bit of money in your pocket. People who have been doing it for a number of years quite often have bought and paid off houses outright and if you choose to make a career out of it which quite a number of people do, well most cruise directors are often quite wealthy and live the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle.
It must be said that life on the seas is not for everyone and there are cases where people have signed on for a contract and have found themselves wanting to catch the next plane home. However, those that do stick it out and are more relaxed have the time of their lives. Not only do you get an adventure, but also you make friends with people all over the world and come home with enough memories to write a book. The other thing to remember is that life on a cruise ship can often be intense including the fun. Cruise ships often work 7 days a week and so you can find yourself having time off rather than whole days off, yet most find their work on a cruise ship a totally enjoyable experience that it is not that much of an issue.
Another important thing to remember when looking at which cruise company to work for is that different cruise companies allow their workers different privileges or freedom when working on their ships. For instance Disney as they are mostly a Christian Family values type company can be quite restrictive when allowing their crew to do certain things on the ship. For instance I believe that you must be a non-smoker to be employed by Disney and the consumption of alcohol by crewmembers might be very restrictive. As far as I’m aware, the cruise ship that allows the most freedom and privileges as well as the best pay rates for crewmembers are Princess Cruises.
If the money or the thrill adventure is enticing you to think about applying, make sure to think about it carefully before signing up. Things that must be taken into account is the fact that you will have initial expenses that include a full medical check up, sea safety training as well as travelling expenses to meet up with the cruise ship, after which this initial expense the company generally pays. You are signing up for a contract period of about 6 – 8 months that will mean you will be away from your family and friends. (Although most cruise ship companies offer very cheap deals for family members to visit). If it still sounds enticing and you decide to take on the experience then you will surely have an experience of a lifetime.
November 07 2009 | Uncategorized | Comments Off
Herbal combinations are a powerful way to reduce or eliminate acne symptoms. But, using herbal mixtures can sometimes increase acne activity or breakout temporarily. Do not panic, since herbs are a powerful way to cleanse the blood and start the acne healing process.
Here?s an acne herbal tea that you can make. You can also look for this tea in a health food store. Just look at the various tea combinations and check for these ingredients. If you want to make your own, here?s what to buy:
* Figwort 1 ounce
* Turkey corn 1 ounce
* Echinacea 1 ounce
* Thuja 1 ounce
* Yellow dock 1 ounce
* Arctium lappa ? ounce
* Iris versicolor ? ounce
You can also make a tea using any one of the following herbs. Chose one of these herbs or combine 2 or 3 of them to make a more powerful herbal acne tea. Drink the tea throughout the day.
* Burdock
* Dandelion
* Echinacea
* Fragrant valerian
* Goldenseal
* Ivy
* Marshmallow root
* Purslane
* Watercress
* Wild strawberry leaves
* Yarrow root
Herbal Extract
Here?s an herbal extract that is designed for acne. Its main function is to improve liver function, purify the blood, reduce acne inflammation, and fight acne bacterial infections.
This herbal extract is a liquid and is taken in water or as drops into your mouth. Follow the instructions on the bottle on how to use it.
The name of the herbal extract is Burdock-Sarsaparilla Compound and contains the following herbs,
* Burdock mature seed - helps to purify the liver, balances hormones, neutralizes acid, is anti-inflammatory, and useful in purifying the blood.
* Jamaican sarsaparilla root ? helps scaling skin, is blood purifying, reduces itching, helps balance hormones
* Nettle mature seed ? is anti-inflammatory for the skin, neutralizes acid waste with its high mineral content
Read the rest of this article: Acne Program - Herbal Mixtures To Drink
November 06 2009 | Uncategorized | Comments Off
by Nancy Jaffer/For The Star-Ledger
Monday April 20, 2009, 12:39 AM
Rolex FEI World Cup Finals
LAS VEGAS — The dream of an American sweep at the last Rolex FEI World Cup Finals to be held in the U.S. for years fell short of reality Sunday, as even two perfect rounds over the fences couldn’t enable McLain Ward to take the international indoor show jumping title.
Ward, the Olympic double gold medalist from New York, was not quite as fast as Germany’s Meredith Michaels Beerbaum in the first leg of the competition at the Thomas & Mack Center on Thursday night, and that proved to be the difference that gave her a third World Cup title.
Like Ward, who rode Sapphire, Beerbaum and her 16-year-old equine partner, Shutterfly, were penalty-free in the two-round power jumping finale before a vocal crowd of 7,497. Beerbaum retained the two-penalty lead over Ward that she carried into the class, but the world’s number-one ranked rider called her triumph “the hardest win I’ve ever had.”
Ward had worked on a plan since last year to be the first American show jumper since 1987 to earn the title. It could have been quite a coup if he emulated the achievement of his countryman, Steffen Peters, who took the Dressage World Cup honors Saturday night.
“I certainly would have liked to have won, but I’m proud of what my team, my horse and myself did,” said Ward. “We did the best we could, and 99 percent of the time, we would have won.”
The only other American to finish in the ribbons was Ward’s 2004 and 2008 Olympic teammate, Beezie Madden, 12th on an up-and-coming mount, Danny Boy. Third place went to the Netherlands’ Albert Zoer on Oki Doki, who stalked the leaders throughout the competition.
Since 2003, the Cup finals had been held every other year in Las Vegas, but because of the economy, the organizer withdrew bids for 2011 and 2013. It was announced after the show, however, that a bid will be put in for 2014.
Source
November 03 2009 | Uncategorized | Comments Off
You may have seen the infomercials featuring stars like Jessica Simpson and Vanessa Williams, but is the science behind the acne treatment Proactiv Solution solid? Is it all sales pitch or does this product really work?
With over one half of adult women and one fourth of adult men experiencing some form of adult acne, it is no longer just a problem associated with adolescence.
Acne occurs when a pore or hair follicle gets clogged with oil and bacteria. As more and more oil enters the follicle from the skin, the pore eventually becomes inflamed and turns into a pimple. Pimples can be whiteheads, or small white lesions below the surface of the skin, or blackheads, formed when the trapped oil and bacteria come to the surface of the skin. Both the whitehead and blackhead are considered non-inflammatory acne. Inflammatory acne can take the form of papules, pustules or cysts. These are more serious forms of acne and may cause scarring.
Acne can occur on the face, neck, shoulders, chest and back. Although your teenager may not believe it, acne is not life threatening, but it can lead to scarring, embarrassment and lack of self confidence. Most doctors agree that acne can?t be cured. Several strong prescription medications are prescribed for the most severe forms of inflammatory acne, but these often have side effects.
As a solution for acne, Proactiv Solution works by helping to clear existing blemishes and stop new ones from forming, The core system is a three step system combining several different medicines to accomplish these goals. Proactive was developed by two dermatologists trained at Stanford University.
First, the benzoyl peroxide in the renewing cleanser gets down into the pores and kills the bacteria residing there. Gentle cleansing grains clear the clogs in the pores and help exfoliate the dead skin cells to prevent future clogs.
Next, the toner helps further open the pores and remove the rest of the dead skin cells. The alcohol free formula is gentle and refreshing and helps balance the skin?s surface.
Finally, the repairing lotion soothes the skin, provides moisture and treats the pores with micro formulated benzoyl peroxide to protect the skin against future breakouts.
Proactiv doesn?t just treat current blemishes, it works to prevent future ones by removing the bacteria and dead skin cells that can accumulate in the pores. Botanical extracts in the formulas leave skin soft and supple without the redness that accompanies most other acne treatments.
Read the rest of this article: Acne Solution Treatment
November 02 2009 | Health | Comments Off
You could have sworn that sushi smelt funny.? Unfortunately that thought is two hours too late and now you’re curled up in the toilet inventing a new guttural language.?
And then a new fear strikes you.? You’re in a foreign country, alone, and you really should go to hospital. Or should you? What do you need to know? What should you look out for?
Dr Sneh Khemka, Bupa International’s Medical Director, tells you what to look out for if you need hospitalisation overseas.
Being admitted to hospital
1. Choose the best option
If you’re being admitted as an emergency or taken by ambulance, you often won’t have much choice in where you go.? However, if you can exercise choice, it’s important to select the best hospital for you – does it have the right services (eg a CT scanner), is it clean, can the staff speak your language etc?
2. Let your insurer know
Once there, you should let your insurer know you have been admitted as soon as possible so you can ensure you are covered for all treatments that you receive.? If you can let them know before you attend, they may even be able to point you to the best facility in town.
3. Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask questions that may seem difficult – it is important that you know what is happening to you, and instead of being offended, medical staff have a duty of care to ensure you are kept up to speed with what’s going on.
4. Provide the right information
You will be asked for your demographic details (age, sex, next of kin etc) and your medical history.? It is a good idea to carry with you a list of previous operations and treatments you may have had, along with a list of medications and allergies.
You will also be asked about how you are going to pay for treatment.? Without insurance, it can be frighteningly expensive, so you’re best to be covered and you can give them the contact details for your company who should then be able to settle your bills.
What to look out for?
5. Location is important
Hospitals do not have the same standards of care everywhere. Depending on which country you are in, and whether you are in a big city or the rural countryside, hospitals can differ greatly.? Many developed countries will have a government regulation committee that will inspect all hospitals to make sure there is a minimum standard of care.? However, in other areas it is completely unregulated.
Generally speaking, hospitals in developing countries have less
regulation and lower standards than those in developed nations.?
Sub-saharan Africa is notorious for its underfunded and understaffed
institutions and parts of South America have poor legacies for the
state of healthcare.? However, South East Asia and the Indian
subcontinent have some of the best hospitals in the world.? It’s all a
matter of choosing the right place.
6. Cleanliness is next to…
As a general rule of thumb, cleanliness is a good indicator of the level of safety in a hospital.? Word of mouth is also a good way of gauging a hospital’s reputation.? However, if you are insured with someone like Bupa International, you will more reliably be able to find out which are the good and bad places, as we have experience and check hospitals around the world for quality.
7. Consider benefits of private vs. public hospitals
Private hospitals are generally as good as public hospitals and in many places often better.? Private hospitals tend to have better
funding and can therefore afford better equipment and facilities.
However,
public hospitals may offer a range of services that private ones
cannot, including intensive care units, emergency cardiac interventions
and a wider range of staff for paramedical services such as
physiotherapy and radiology.
What role does my insurer play?
8. Returning home is not necessarily the best option
It is not always the best option to medivac you home, Bupa International runs a full medivac servicec called WMA (Worldwide Medical Assistance).? WMA get calls from all over the world, and because we know the local services and hospitals, we can often find you excellent treatment without having to fly you back home, meaning you can carry on your trip after treatment.? We may need to send you to a nearby country, but if you need urgent attention, having you in an aeroplane for an extended period is not the best idea.
In determining whether or not to medivac a patient home, we look at all the medical details of the customer, what medical services they are likely to need, and the level of cover that they have purchased.? We also take into account the personal preferences of the customer, and often will pay for a family member to travel with them should there be the need.
Then we look at where will be the best place to send them so they can get the best and quickest access to the treatment they need.
9. Understand the hospital fees and charges
There is an emerging problem amongst certain hospitals that, if incentivised in the wrong way, they are more likely to intervene with a procedure or test which may not be entirely necessary.? This is the case with not only foreign visitors, but local patients as well.
We encourage our customers to let us know in advance of any planned treatment so we can talk through the options with both the patient and the doctor, and ensure that they are acting in a medically sound manner, and not just doing things for the sake of a few extra bucks.
For hospital out-patients, you will need to pay the bill when you are discharged and make a claim from your insurer later.? For more serious problems or hospital in-patient admissions, your insurer will liase with the hospital directly about the bill.
Avoiding hospital in the first place
10. Take your own first aid kit
An emergency medical kit
always comes in handy, but what you can do with one is limited.? Kits
should ideally contain basic painkillers, antiseptic, anti-diarrhoea
and rehydration preparations, bandages and plasters.? Customs and
prescription laws restrict the amount you can carry around with you.
For
any worrying conditions, it is always best to seek expert medical
advice – things can be picked up before they develop into major
problems and sometimes you need a doctor to give you medications you
cannot otherwise access.
If you take any medications, eg
insulin, it is essential to keep an adequate supply, and to keep stores
in two separate bags in case one is lost. Also, if you are
anaphylactic, don’t forget to take adrenaline with you (and give your
travelling companion instructions on how to use it).
11.? Use your common sense
The biggest single problem that the traveller will face is dehydration (from diarrheoa and vomiting).? Access to a plentiful supply of rehydration salts and clean drinking water is paramount.
And making sure you’re adequately insured so that not only will your bills be paid, but you’ll have a ‘friend’ that can help you through particularly troublesome times.
Been to hospital whilst travelling?? Share your stories below to help others stay safe on the road.
October 30 2009 | Uncategorized | Comments Off
It’s unbelievable … What if I told you that most of the popular beliefs about acne, are in fact myths?
Let?s take a look at some popular beliefs about acne to dispel any other rumors …
Myth #1: Is it true that increased stress spreads acne?
Not exactly. What is true is that ultimately stress can have a very minimal or minor influence all by itself. It cannot actually cause acne, but it can influence reoccurrences of acne as stress increases the body?s creation of a substance called cortisol that in turn causes your sebaceous glands to produce increased amounts of sebum oil that can be blocked in pores. Note, however, that some medications people take when trying to deal with or treat stress can have a large influence on acne as the result of medication side effects.
Myth #2: Acne is contagious, true or false?
Not! No one can "catch" acne; it is non-communicable.
Myth #3:You’ll outgrow acne, so just leave it alone - myth or truth?
This is false. Acne strikes all ages and is treatable, but shouldn?t be left alone to possibly worsen.
Myth #4: Being out in the sun helps acne, right?
In the long run, no. The sun may appear to help clear up your blemishes and redden your skin, thus lessening the overall reddish effect of the targeted acne area when it was outstanding. However, rays from the sun can cause skin damage and actually irritate skin more, worsening any existing acne problems in the process and clogging more pores as skin cells dry up and slough off quicker than normal. So use caution (and sunscreen) here!
Myth #5: Sweating helps clean out your hair follicle areas, myth or reality?
Another myth. In reality, strenuous activity can temporarily increase your body?s oil production that can actually worsen acne problem areas, causing recurrence or intensification.
Myth #6: Acne problems are directly proportionate to sexual activity, or lack thereof; true or false?
False, another myth. Just because teenagers are going through hormonal changes, does not mean that this has anything to do with acne. Both are separate issues. Same with adult acne and sex; two entirely different issues.
Myth #7: People with acne are dirty and don?t wash enough.
Not! This is another myth. Acne is the result of a build up of oil, dead skin cells and bacteria in a closed pore. Period. Dirt is not even a factor in the equation.
Myth #8: Acne is only on external issue or surface deep; i.e. people shouldn’t make such a big thing out of it, myth or reality?
Myth. In reality, yes, it basically is only on your skin (and underneath the surface a little bit). However, the effects run much more deeper than that in many instances. More than 50 percent of those suffering acne problems reported negative comments and other feedback from members of society, regardless of whether or not there was any scarring left for others to see afterwards. And resulting internal depression and low self-esteem can be harmful emotionally not only short-term but over a person’s lifetime. So acne can indeed be a very big issue requiring healthcare treatment and support.
Myth #9: OK, myth or reality: there is a cure for acne?
Myth. Although there is no cure at this time, there are many treatments available that do a great job. As the saying goes, "Prevention is the best medicine;" however, there is no need to suffer in silence with all the options available on the market today for all price ranges.
So there you have it … now that you are armed with this information you can do something to treat your acne condition. Why not visit Emily Clark’s website at now to get more helpful information and subscribe to her free newsletter.
Article source: Acne Myths Discover
October 29 2009 | Uncategorized | Comments Off
Acne is an annoying skin condition that affects people of every age, gender, and race. Few skin conditions are as bothersome and disturbing as acne. The scientific name for the condition is acne vulgaris because acne usually strikes in plainly visible locations such as the face, neck, chest and back. Acne is an age-old problem that has likely been plaguing people for centuries. But there are numerous treatment methods available for this bothersome condition. Read on to learn more about acne, and the herbal, homeopathic, and traditional medications used to treat it.
What is Acne?
Acne is an inflammation of the skin that can be caused by a number of factors. Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a common cause of acne, as is the use of certain medication, steroids, on the contraceptive pill. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Androgens are sex hormones that are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. They are male hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin’s oil glands. Acne occurs when these oil glands become overactive and the exit from the gland is blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.
Over ninety percent of acne patients respond to acne medication, although the treatment may need to be continued for months or even years. Here are a few of the common herbal, homeopathic, and traditional medications that can be used to treat acne.
read the rest of this article: Acne Medication
October 29 2009 | Health | Comments Off
Are you considering a vacation and confused about the type of holiday you want to avail? Consider cruise vacation, which is the ultimate retreat. Cruise vacations are suitable for people of all ages and there are number of benefits of also. There is no scope of getting bored, unlimited fun and reasonable price.
There are diverse options to cruise. Numerous itineraries such as the Dominican Republic, Europe, Australia, Hawaii, Mexico, etc are some of many destinations of cruise trips. Thus, a cruise around the world is a fabulous option.
There are quite a few benefits of cruising around the world. One of the major benefits is that you can tour several destinations on a single journey. There will be halts in different destinations at different time duration.
On a cruise trip you just relax and enjoy the never ending beauty of nature. It is amazing to wake up to a new city and watch the important attractions. The cruise trips takes you to such locations that you have never though to visit. You will absolutely admire each moment that you spend on cruise.
There is not a lack of anything on a cruise trip. While traveling in the voyage, you can take your drink at the bars, eat out at the restaurants, go for shopping, get entertainment at the nightclubs, etc. Entertainment and recreational aspects flourish in the cruise trips. There is fun and entertainment for all in a cruise trip around the world.
Also, there are cruise ships that feature competent employees to take care your children with one of its kind and exceptionally fun projects. Thus, people who are traveling with children get the much needed break to explore the varied offerings of a cruise trip without worrying about their kids on board. Even if a medical attention is required, best of the best medical personnel are there onboard or helping you out.
You can choose your voyage from different cruise lines. Some of the famous lines include Silversea, Radisson, Crystal, Disney and Princess. Different requirements of the travelers are satisfied by these cruise lines. The travelers without kids can board on the ships that are only for adult cruise.
Apart from special care for the kids and adults, there are special cruise for the single travelers also. In these cruise lines, people can make new friends and enjoy the vacation. There are some cruise lines like the Disney cruise that offer service for kids, adults and singles.
A cruise around the world gives great value of money. The price for these vacations is competitive and it is simply worth it considering the brilliant excursions in numerous destinations.
Cruising on some of the finest places of world gives you immense satisfaction. You get to know different culture, view diverse offerings of nature and acquire great knowledge. Thus, cruising around the world is a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Plan a vacation and go out on a cruise trip to enjoy the experience of a lifetime.
October 26 2009 | Uncategorized | Comments Off
Want to get rid of those zits in your face but you are currently low on budget? How about looking for acne control to avoid the sudden appearance of acne in your skin? So how do we do this?
First, what is acne? Acne is a skin disorder caused by the hormones action on the oil glands of the skin which is called the sebaceous glands. The excretion of oils from this glands can lead to congested skin pores. This is when acne occurs. The face, neck, chest, back and shoulders is where the glands are most profuse, that is why most acne are found on this locations. People who are with this kind of disorder often tends to be depressed, and humiliated.
There are a lot of factors that can generate acne to transpire. First is our Genes. Genetics can’t be changed but other factors like our daily routine and the way we take care of our skin can be improved to make acne control no problem at all. Don’t feel so sad about your acne because there’s lots of things you can do. This acne control tips will help you say bye-bye to those zits.
1. Include Fruits and Vegetables in your daily Diet. A healthy diet consists of at least four to five servings of fruits and vegetables. Acne control will be a lot easier if you start including this in your daily habit.
2. Rose water can be used as a facial cleanser. Dipped in a cotton, clean your face using this everyday for at least two to three times each day.
3. Don’t wait for your pimples to form. If you see a bit of it in your face, do something. Acne control is best done early. Pat some ice on the affected area for this will make it less swollen.
4. Acne control is easier when accompanied with multivitamins. Start taking vitamins that contains zinc supplement. Zinc helps in making your skin stronger and acne resistant.
5. Cucumber can help in acne control. Blend it with some water to form a mask. Put it in your face and leave it for about half an hour before rinsing it off. This is a good and affordable acne control remedy that can also refresh your skin.
6. Use only mild soaps and avoid soaps that contains petroleum based products and animal based ingredient for this causes your skin to get dry and irritated.
Read the rest of this article: Acne Control - Natural Way
October 23 2009 | Uncategorized | Comments Off
Acne is the bane of existence for nearly 17 million people who suffer from some form of acne.
Acne is not only embarrassing but also causes psychosocial effects such as: anxiety, depression, inferiority, insecurity, frustration and self-consciousness.
Acne can be in the form of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples or cysts. Can be on the face, neck, shoulders, upper back or chest.
The different definitions of acne are:
Acne blemish: A flaw in the skin
Acne pimple: A small, prominent, inflamed elevation of the skin
Blackhead: A condition of the skin characterized by a black tip.
Whitehead: A condition of the skin characterized by a small, firm, whitish elevation of the skin
Cysts: When the clogged pore is swollen, infected and forms a bump it’s called a "cyst"
Those most susceptible are teenagers and adolescents but it also affects many adults. Although the exact cause of acne is still unknown, there are certain triggers that might possibly contribute to it such as bacteria, blocked pores, hormonal changes, excess oil and also genetics may play a large part in it.
One thing you can be sure of contrary to popular belief, poor hygiene and food such as chocolate does not cause acne.
Severe cases of acne may cause pitted skin and scarring. If you have deep acne scars you may want to go for dermabrasion or dermaplaning to give your skin a smoother appearance. These can be used on small areas of the face.
There are a wide variety of products available for acne treatment anywhere from the mildest lotions to the severest prescriptive forms of treatment. A study comparing popular acne remedies recently discovered relatively inexpensive lotions are as effective as powerful prescription antibiotics.
You’ll find many pros and cons regarding all forms of treatment but few of the many treatments that have come about over the years have given any lasting effect. Some treatments have actually been very unhealthy and dangerous for the user.
Read the rest of this article - Acne treatment
October 23 2009 | Uncategorized | Comments Off
Next »