A Great Mexico Beach Vacation

We all love the beach; we all love soaking up the sun in the middle of summer and taking in the cool breeze while tanning on the white sandy beaches and listening to the waves clash a few feet away.

We also all love having a really good time and having that good time in a really great place. Every American in the United States of America has experienced almost all of the American beaches available, so why not pay a visit to our neighbors?

You will be glad to know that you can get a Mexico beach vacation that will just simply knock your socks right off, and the great thing about tit is that it will suit your budget.

Affordable Mexico Beach Vacations

All the Mexico beach vacations available are really affordable, and what's more is that it is all tailor made to suit what you and your family like. So you will not go to a place filled with spiders if you do not like spiders.

You will be glad to know that there a load of things to see and places to go to, and what is more is that you do not need to stay at one place for your whole vacation if you want to see the rest of Mexico, and most importantly, the rest of Mexico's beaches.

There are plenty of destinations to choose from, including Acapulco, where you can choose any one of the 20 hotels that are situated virtually right on the beach front.

Many, if not all of the beach resorts and hotels have their own swimming pools, which you will probably never use, because of the big beach just across the way. There is also Cancun, Cozumel, Huatulco, Isla Mujeres, Ixtapa and many others you can choose from.

You will be guaranteed to have a great time on your Mexico beach vacation. Think of the sandy white beaches, the hot sun, everyone enjoying themselves, playing beach volley ball, and you and your family soaking up all the excitement.

If you are planning to take a trip just with you partner / loved one, then you are in for the time of you life. This is because many, in not all of these places have a nightly that is not scared for anything.

If you are an old party animal you will really enjoy the Mexican night life and if you are a bit new to the scene you are guaranteed to learn a thing or two.

Take you family on a Mexico beach vacation and you will not be sorry, you will want to go again and again, and will are rest assured that you will never get sick of the beaches hot spots, and rest assured that Mexico will never get sick of seeing you around.

So make the first move and take you family on a beautiful Mexico beach vacation for you next holiday season, and soak up the sun with the rest of the country – in style.

Maldives - Floating on Cloud Nine

It's the stuff dreams are made of. The deep blue of the sea punctuated with green and white islands in the sun, each surrounded by a ring of crystal clear water of an unbelievable turquoise hue. Each island can be circumvented in a few minutes, so while you're there, you feel you're a Robinson Crusoe lost in some wonderful dream you don't ever want to wake up from. That's the magic the Maldives spins on you.

A cluster of 2000 islands in the Indian Ocean, only 200 islands are occupied – so we were told – 20 of them by locals and a staggering 180 by resorts. A trip there and you won't wonder why. It's the perfect holiday getaway, whether you're on your honeymoon, just getting away for a long-deserved break or, like us, setting off on the annual summer holiday with friends. If you're the kind that firmly believes that going 'abroad' must be a place where you can shop till you drop, this isn't the place for you. This is strictly for the lotus-eater, the pleasure-seeker, the beach-bum who wants to do nothing more tiring than eat, float on a calm sea and sleep.

How do you get to Paradise? You can fly from Trivandrum like we did – it's a one-hour flight – or you could fly from Bombay or Delhi via Colombo. Make sure you get a window seat so you can gasp at your first sight of the islands. You land on an island near the capital, Male. (Just remember, the Maldives is a Muslim country so make sure you don't carry any liquor or pork products. This rule of course does not apply to what is served at the resorts.) From there, the resort takes over. We had booked with the Taj Coral Reef. Their staff led us to a speedboat that looked like something out of a James Bond movie and that's exactly how we felt a few minutes later as we were skimming over the sea, the wind in our hair, passing an island here and there on our way. It took us 50 minutes to get to the resort. A wonderful welcome drink later (an exotic combination of passion fruit and mango), we were led to our rooms. Beach villas they called them. You walked out your door and your feet crunched on the white sand with the water lapping at your feet. We couldn't wait so it was on with our swimsuits and into the water, which was so clear you could see your toes! And, believe it or not, there's a host of fish to welcome you in all shapes, sizes and colors. (Another piece of advice – take a pair of light canvas shoes along as you could get your feet cut by the bits of coral lying around.)

As always, the Taj chefs outdid themselves with the buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners. There was a gentle reminder that if we didn't like the food we could ask for Indian fare. What was there not to like? And every meal ended with desserts fit for a king.
This feeling of being on Cloud Nine went on for the next six days. The kids always found plenty to do, the adults lazed in the sun, ate, drank and were merry. A one-day trip to Male was the only alteration in the routine. A city of cobble-stoned roads, fancy cars that drove carefully along the narrow streets never blowing their horns, friendly people and a fish market that was neat and tidy!
If you are a good swimmer, there's a lot you can do at the resort. You can hire equipment and go snorkeling, hire canoes, go deep sea diving or wind surfing. Part of the package was a night fishing expedition. The coral around the island was interesting and we watched footage shot by the resort's diving instructor that was equal to anything you would watch on the Discovery or National Geographic channels.

One interesting diversion every evening was the feeding of the stingray by the hotel staff. Without fail, these beautiful creatures would come an hour ahead of time to wait for their meal – black, gray, white, golden, speckled – gliding like angels in the shallow water, graceful as dancers.

The weather, like in all perfect holidays, was magical. A light drizzle now and then, but otherwise a perfectly blue sky to complement the wonderful color of the sea. As we sped back on the speedboat, our cheeks were wet with more than just the salty sea spray. It's so hard to wave goodbye to something perfect. One could almost echo the sentiments of yore and say, 'If ever there was a Paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this.'

Northern Kenya Overland Safari - Top Kenya Northern Overland Trips

Northern Kenya tourism circuit and attractions

Northern Kenya is more an experience than a series of destinations. There's constantly something catching your eye, whether its Gabbra tribespeople walking the shattered lava fields, extinct volcanoes rising from deserts seas, or the road tracking across the plains. All who visit this wild, diverse region leave cherishing something different, that they'll never forget.

That said, some things will be ingrained in every visitor's psyche. The complete and utter beauty of the 'jade sea' (Lake Turkana), whose baking, barren shores stretch over the horizon to a distant Ethiopia some 250 km away, cant be overstated.

The many tribes of northern Kenya are some of the most fascinating people on earth- a glimpse into their world is priceless. Unique wildlife, like the reticulated giraffe and endangered Grevy's Zebra, also call northern Kenya home, mixing with lions, elephants and Oryxes in the varied landscapes of Samburu, buffalo springs and Shaba National Reserves.

For those with energy to burn, there's great hiking around Marich, Mararal, Marsabit and Ndoto Mountains. If walking isn't your thing, it's also perfect for a camel safari.

Where there's reward, there's usually risk and northern Kenya is no exception. Don't expect it to be easy-the roads will batter your behind and your 4WD. But you'll love every minute of it.

Geography of northern Kenya

Northern Kenya's diverse landscapes are truly amazing. Deserts range from large tracts of scrub, dissected by luggas (dry river beds that burst into violent life after heavy rains)-and peppered with acacia trees, to Chalbi's inhospitable black stones and Karoli's soft sands.

Massive yet gently sloping, the dormant shield volcanoes of Mt. Kulal and Mt. Marsabit climb from barren plains to provide forested havens for humans and animals, while countless steep, Martian-like stratovolcanos burst from lava fields and Lake Turkana's waters. In other areas such as North Horr, craggy peaks shelter clear streams that flow through valley oases of lush vegetation.

Lake Turkana is the North's most renowned geographic feature and covers an amazing 6405 sqkm, making it earth's largest permanent desert lake.

Climate

The climate here reflects the landscape's incredible contrasts. Temperatures on the plains can reach 50o C, without a breath of wind, only for the desert's dead calm to be shattered by sudden violent thunderstorms that drench everything and disappear as quickly as they came. It's not uncommon to experience several weather systems during the day and still sleep under clear, star studded skies.

The lone constant is the stiffing heat and strong winds around Lake Turkana.

Highlights of Northern Kenya

The most exciting highlights of Northern Kenya include a variety of experiences depending on where is being visited in the region. The attractions are as diverse as can be including mountains, desert lands, lakes and wildlife. Some of the most captivating highlights of Northern Kenya include

Thanking the heavens for the sight of Lake Turkana and thanking your lucky stars that your tires survived to get you there.

Witnessing the temperature dropping and volcanic cinder cones climbing on Mt Marsabit, a forested island in a sea of desert.

Sharing a smile and some shade with Kenya's most captivating tribes in South Horr, Loiyangalani or Lodwar

Experiencing the spectacular scenery and wildlife while staying at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and learning about their community and conservation programs.

Realizing Zebras do change their stripes in Samburu National Reserve, home to the rare Grevy's Zebra species.

Searching for words atop Mt Poi in the remote Ndoto Mountains

Drooling uncontrollably at Lesiolo

A Brief History of GPS in Aviation

GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a system that helps an individual determine where he is located as well as where other things are located. GPS has become incredibly popular over the years with even more mobile devices available. However, GPS in aviation has been around longer. As long ago as 1978 GPS was being experimented with and a satellite was sent into space to test the technology. That has been almost 30 years ago and today GPS is in many people's cars! Nevertheless, aviation was one of the first industries to become involved with GPS because location and speed are very important in the field of aviation.

The United States Department of Defense handles GPS, but allows the public to use it for free. The GPS in an airplane basically has a map of the route from the original location to the destination. Information is programmed into the GPS and it helps for autopilot and things of that nature. It also tells the pilot where they are headed, how far away they are from the destination, as well as the height of the plane. GPS is invaluable to pilots and it is very helpful.

One popular option is the Garmin aviation GPS. This GPS system is designed specifically for the use in aircraft. Not all GPS systems will work in an aircraft like they would in a car, so buying a specialized aircraft GPS is important. An aviation headset is still important even with the use of the GPS because you will need to communicate with the tower not to mention you will need to protect your hearing.

Of course, GPS has been around since the '70s, but it has not been fully operational in aircrafts that long. It was not until the mid 1990s that GPS became fully functional with 24 satellites and aviation accepted the new technology and put it to work. Since the mid 1990s the GPS system has become incredibly important for pilots and all airplanes are now outfitted with this device. It helps pilots stay on course and if something happens the system lets them know how to get back on the right path. GPS isn't just important for pilots, but also for every day drivers. And, although GPS has been around for quite some time it is just gaining popularity and understanding with the general public.

The Flight Instructor Who Gave Selflessly

Today I was going to write about the success of the "Flight to Hartford" project with my church (you can find it listed under my name) and tie it into the universal laws of attraction and giving. But something else came up, taking priority.

I just learned that a man who helped me make my dreams of becoming a pilot seven years ago recently passed away. While I understand most of you didn't know him, I want to share the story of how we met and the incredible impact he had on my life. I believe and hope you'll be touched even if you're not a pilot yourself.

We could all learn how to give selflessly like he did. I don't know whether or not he was aware of the universal laws of attraction and giving but he was sure a good model for someone who did.

Here's the story.

Right around the turn of the 21st century, I was still in the process of building my speaking and writing career so I was looking for a part-time job to pay the bills in between professional speaking engagements.

It was also at this time when I was already a month or two into flight training but my original instructor was offered a new job in Colorado so I was forced to find a replacement elsewhere.

One day, I had an inspiration to visit other airports to see if I could get a job at a place where they taught people how to fly. I thought, "Why not? Might as well shoot two birds with one stone."

After visiting one or two and being told nothing was available, I decided to venture a little further out and try Oakland Troy airport, a 30 minute drive from my home.

It was nestled among a fast growing metropolitan area (Troy, Michigan, USA) complete with a new strip mall, new apartments, a giant Wal-Mart and an assortment of other industrial buildings. The only area with open space was a small golf course nearby. The airport was big enough to accommodate corporate jets yet small enough not to require an air traffic control tower.

Pulling onto the newly repaved airport parking lot, I noticed a small circular white terminal building up ahead.

"That must be where I can find the personnel department," I thought.

Upon setting foot inside, I was surprised to see only a couple of people milling about, drinking coffee and reading the paper. A jovial looking man with rosy cheeks was pouring himself a steaming hot cup of coffee.

Seeing that I was a new face in the place, he set his coffee down and came barreling toward me at 800 mph with an outstretched hand. It startled the heck out of me.

After regaining my composure, I made the mistake of accepting his bone-crushing handshake, causing me to wince in pain.

Trying to hide my pained expression, I said, "Hi, my name is Stephen Hopson and I'm looking for the personnel department."

"And I'm Don Solms," he boomed. He was still pumping my now lifeless hand.

Finally releasing his grip, he said, "Oh, you want a job here?" His face brightened even more, if that were possible.

"Yes, do you know of any openings?" I was massaging my fatally injured hand, opening and closing it repeatedly.

"I think they might be looking for someone. HEY, let me take you over to the other building to Susan's office. She's the personnel director. COME ON!"

Just before going in her office, Don thrust his business card in my hand and said cheerfully, "Good luck. Shoot me an email later. You'll have to come over to my hangar where I keep my plane. Okay?"

Keeping both hands within the safety confines of my pockets, I said, "Thanks Don." I could tell he wanted another hand shake. Fat chance buddy!

Susan then introduced me to two guys named Carl Barnes and Jason Zimmerman. They were both young men who were in charge running flight services. The interview went well and I ended up being hired. As a line service rep, I would be responsible for fueling and towing airplanes, among other things. It marked the beginning of an incredible 4 years at that airport.

One day, Don was hanging out at his hangar where he kept his prized Skylane. It was sunny and breezy. His hangar door was wide open, allowing cool air to swirl around inside. It was an open invitation to anyone who happened to come by. Spotting me in the fuel truck (I was motoring my way back to the terminal after fueling a customer's plane), he waved me in and offered me a cold soda.

Ten minutes into the conversation, my dreams of becoming a pilot somehow surfaced. I told him that I was actually looking for a new instructor and was trying to save up some money to resume flight training.

Before he could respond, my vibrating pager distracted me with a new text message. There was another fuel order and I had to get going.

"Don, I've gotta go - they are telling me to fuel another airplane. See ya later!"

As I got up to leave, he grabbed my arm and gave it a powerful squeeze. My mind did a quick flashback to that day in the terminal. This time his eyes were sparkling like stars. And he was grinning stupidly.

I was in no way prepared for what he was about to say next.

"I would be honored to be your flight instructor and I won't charge you for my time. All you'd be responsible for is the cost of renting an airplane."

My God, an angel was in my midst and I knew it.

Absentmindedly rubbing my arms to stem the tide of goose bumps that was spreading like wildfire all over my body, I said, "Wow, really? Thanks man!"

Then he turned serious for a moment and said, "When are you free for your first lesson?"

Thrown off balance since I didn't expect it to happen so soon, I said, "Well, how about tomorrow?"

"Okay, you got it! " he thundered. Then he winked as if he were saying, "our secret."

The rest was history. He was true to his word. Months of flight training with this man proved to be quite an adventure.

He was best known as a jokester, even in the cockpit. Now you have to picture this in your mind. There we were, me, a deaf student pilot and him, a 250 pound flight instructor with a large football frame who liked to poke his elbow at me every time he made a joke. And get this...he thought everything he said was funny!

Ouch!

Aside from his wry sense humor, he was one of the most patient flight instructors I would ever have. Every time we got ready for a lesson, he'd explain in the classroom what we were going to do and then we'd go up and fly.

If he wanted to explain something while we were flying, he'd take control of the airplane while I read his lips and then we'd resume the lesson. Don was one of those rare flight instructors who did not care about building flight time for a future career with the airlines. He was in it for the long haul. In fact, it wasn't until after 50 plus years of flying and instructing that he finally hung up his wings last year.

He truly enjoyed the fine art of teaching and it showed. He never yelled at his students like some flight instructors who think they are drill sergeants with big egos. His students were his prized possessions and he treated all of them with the respect they deserved.

On December 3, 2000 Don had one big surprise up his sleeve. It was a calm, sunny day. We were scheduled to do some practice takeoffs and landings. After doing three of them, he instructed me to taxi over to the ramp by the white terminal building where I first met him months earlier.

Trying to hide his delight, he said, "Let me see your logbook for a sec."

Arching my right arm as far back as I could behind the front seats, I snatched the logbook out of my bulging black flight bag and gave it to him.

Suddenly it dawned on me that today was "the day." He was going to sign me off for my first solo flight!

I felt an involuntary shudder.

After scribbling his signature, he turned and looked at me. His brown eyes were sparkling again. The smile was even bigger than before. He was absolutely giddy, like a child on Christmas morning.

"So Mr. Hopson, are you ready?" he thundered.

"Yes, Don, get the hell out!" I thundered back, half joking.

Roaring like a lion, Don heaved his 250 pound football frame out of the airplane, closed and locked the door with a loud click. Then he did something that forever burned in my mind.

Like a five-star general sending his young fighter pilots off to war, he gave me a smart salute!

I almost burst to tears. It was deeply touching. No one ever did that to me before. Despite being more than ready to solo, I still felt a touch of trepidation so I returned the favor with a slightly shaky hand. Thank God he was too far away to see that.

Taxiing into position on the runway, I took a deep breath and firewalled the throttle causing the airplane to literally leap into the air. I remember thinking, "so this is what everyone means when they say the plane will bounce into the air without your instructor!"

Within seconds after takeoff, all the training kicked in and it was just another exercise around the airport pattern. The only difference was...well, I was alone.

After three takeoffs and landings, the venerable flight instructor waved me over and gave the signal to cut the engine. He stood there like a proud papa and motioned for me to go over to where he was standing. Instead of shaking my hand, he wrapped his huge arms around me and gave me a bone crushing hug. But, hey, I didn't mind.

Five months later, one day short of my birthday, he finally signed me off to take my pilot certification flight test (i.e. "checkride") with Mary Carpenter, one of the toughest but fairest FAA examiners from the area. He and Terry Ryan (his airplane co-owner at the time), both accompanied me on the flight to Pontiac airport, a mere 10 minutes away where the examiner's office was located. He wanted to be there when Mrs. Carpenter and I were done with the checkride.

Two hours later, the examiner walked briskly into the waiting area, smiled and said, "Congratulations, Stephen passed with flying colors!"

Don roared his approval.

We all went out to have our pictures taken by the airplane and that's when he said to me, "I'll sit in the back seat on the return flight. Congratulations Mr. Pilot in Command!"

It was the greatest, grandest gesture another human being could ever have bestowed upon me. I'll never forget it. He was that kind of man. Don believed in me so much that he was literally the only person at that airport who believed I would one day become the world's first deaf instrument rated pilot.

Six years later, I did it, defying every naysayer in the aviation business. In February 06, I became the world's first deaf instrument rated pilot. For that I salute Don Solms for believing in me.

Here's to you Don!

Food for thought: Have you considered the power of the law of giving and helped make someone else's dream come true this week?

Kayaking in Karnataka

Kayaking is a powerful means of giving access to wildlife which would otherwise be difficult to see, due to the density of the forestation by the riverside. For maximum opportunities to report wild life and for an extended family adventure tour on the water, kayaking trip is a viable option.

You can try out kayaking in an area with minimal current. This is ideal for beginners trying to come to terms with the techniques of paddling. Indeed, kayaking can be more of a calming tour into nature than a sortie into the exciting world of a stunt performer. The Kayaking tour offered in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka state is something one cannot miss. A rich variety of bird life can be seen along the water bodies of Uttara Kannada. Dandeli is another kayaking destination for you and your family. It is a short trip from Goa and within overnight striking distance of Bangalore city. Here, a number of water and adventure sports are offered. It is one of the top locations in the land of kayaking, canoeing and rafting.

To every kayakers, the rapids which violently shake the inflatable rafts on their descent of the Kali River in Karnataka, present a white water sporting challenge. Beginners receive basic training and close supervision, in addition to all of the necessary equipment. Two kayaking trips are run each day, and a two-our paddle training session costs Rs 650 per person.

Majali Beach Village located at Karwar is a small coastal town lies on the northern tip of coastal Karnataka. The village is having a small lake in the backyard which is suited for family adventure sports like Kayaking, rowing and fishing.

Best season for kayaking in this river starts from November to June. Therefore, if you are a beginner, staying upright in the kayak was more of a challenge. Flat water is a difficult thing to manage. Once you control it, it is all fun for you!

Sailing Cruises in the Caribbean - Experience a Fun-Filled Vacation

These days, cruising is one of the most popular vacation options among avid travelers. For some, the more opulent the cruise ship, the better. Others are hoping for an experience where they can party the night away without a care in the world! But for many real boat lovers, the only choice is a sailing cruise in the Caribbean.

Sailing cruises are quite different to a trip on an enormous ocean liner. These cruises allow you to get up-close-and-personal with the true sailing experience and to travel to places where large cruise ships cannot navigate. They give you hands-on opportunities to learn about the intricacies of sailing and allow more interaction with ship mates and crew.

Overall, sailing cruises mean adventure, excitement, and romance, all rolled into one fun package.

What's a Sailing Cruise?

Though cruise lines talk about "sailing the seven seas", passengers onboard these huge ships are not really "sailing." On a sailing cruise in the Caribbean, you will find yourself on an authentic old-fashioned sailing ship with large, white sails, a ship's wheel, teakwood floors, and everything else you would expect to find on such a vessel. While onboard, you'll enjoy some of the same amenities as you'd find on a cruise ship, such as activities, shore excursions, and good food…but with a bit of a twist.

First of all, these ships are much more intimate than a cruise liner, usually carrying 100 – 150 passengers and crew instead of a few thousand travelers. That means you get to know the people with whom you're traveling.

Sailing cruises are less structured than a regular cruise. You'll find, for example, that you don't have an assigned seat for meals and that you're free to sit with different friends at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. As a matter of fact, on some sailing cruises, you don't even need to sleep in your berth. Guests are free to carry their bedding out to the deck and sleep under the stars!

Rather than watching a Las Vegas-style show in a 500-seat opulent theater, you may just find yourself belting out sea shanties while hoisting a glass of rum to toast your captain. When it's time to go ashore, you can still enjoy a variety of excursions; from shopping to hiking and mountain biking to exploring the history of your destination island.

Selecting a Sailing Cruise in the Caribbean

If you've decided that this kind of cruise is for you, you'll find that there are a wide variety of these so-called "barefoot cruises" from which to select. The most popular company appeared on the scene about 30 years ago –- Windjammer Cruises. Their sailing cruises in the Caribbean have been enjoyed by millions of travelers who enjoy a little adventure in their lives. Windjammer boasts excellent ships, exciting itineraries, and a friendly crew who are eager to interact with passengers. However, many of the lesser known sailing cruise companies provide an equally rewarding experience but on a somewhat smaller scale, which some travelers prefer. Some are even dubbed "luxury" cruises, featuring upscale amenities, food, and drink.

Itineraries

Travelers will find that there are quite a few options to choose from as far as sailing itineraries are concerned. A sailing cruise in the Caribbean may take you to exotic locations -– like the tiny islands of the Grenadines -– or to more familiar destinations, such as Antigua or St. Martin, and even to places that you'd be hard-pressed to find on a map!

The beauty of traveling on a small ship is that you can visit small islands that can't accommodate a cruise ship, allowing you to explore nearly-deserted locales, dive in some of the world's clearest waters, and investigate nature's bounty, without having to contend with crowds and chaotic tourist traps.

Abaco Bahamas Boat Rental

For a great time on the water, rent a boat on Abaco Island in the Bahamas. Take command of your own power or sailboat in Marsh Harbour Abaco, Bahamas and cruise Abaco sound which stretches 20 miles north and 20 miles south making this one of the few places where the average person can get a taste of salt water in a safe and friendly location.

Many rental companies operate out of Marsh Harbour, which has a beautiful natural harbor where all the rental companies are located. The waters are calm and safe as Abaco sound is protected by a long string of barrier islands which make the inside calm and peaceful most of the time.
The closest and easiest is a short cruise from Marsh Harbour to Elbow Cay where Hopetown is located. Hopetown is a perfect natural harbor with a very small entrance that opens up into a large anchorage that is usually full of boats riding on their moorings. The shore in the harbor is lined with dock after dock belonging to the local houses and business. Upon entering just keep to the left and you will come to the government dock where you may dock for free while visiting the delightful village of Hopetown. If you chose, you many dock at one of the several restaurants that are on the water while you are dining. You can usually leave your boat there while you take a walk around the town. Remember to take a few photos of the famous Hopetown Lighthouse or if you have time, climb to the top for a fantastic 360 degree view of the Abaco sound, the harbour and Atlantic Ocean in the distance.

After leaving Hopetown Harbour entrance just keep left and follow the coastline south to Tahiti Beach for a swim on one of the most photographed beaches in all the Bahamas. The beach here is lined with extremely tall coconut palms reminiscent of the south pacific islands of Tahiti.

From here it is a short ride back to Marsh Harbour where your hotel room will be waiting. You will have the satisfaction of completing a day on the water as Captain.

Adventures in Peru - Discovering an Old Trail

I have a beautiful view looking out the windows of my house here in Cotahuasi. Looking to the right I can see Huiñao, the first peak that I hiked here. I don't remember exactly how high it is but it is just less than 12,000 feet, the trail starts about 120 feet from my door. Looking off to the left I can see the rim of the canyon where I biked to on my 14er and the peak I hiked to (14,200 feet). Beyond that is the mountain above Pampamarca, which is supposed to have some very interesting rock formations on top, which of course is on my "to do" list.

However, in the front, sitting in the "Y" between Cotahuasi Canyon and Mungi Canyon is the start of long mountain range that is very steep and keeps getting higher as it goes away from me. This is where I have tried twice, and failed both times, to find a trail to the top, including a foolish attempt just over a week ago. Both times I tried going up the backside because I was told there was a trail there. However someone told me recently that there is a trail on my side and I remember seeing a faint trail going part way up when I hiked up Huiñao. The Incas populated this whole area and before that the Wari (or Huari) culture and they both liked to build on the tops of the mountains. There are ancient ruins on most of the peaks, and also anywhere high where there is a flat place.

There are also trails going up to most of these ruins, some of these trails are still in use, others are long ago abandoned and difficult to see and follow. Mondays are my day off, which means they are hiking and exploring days. This particular morning started out cloudy but was clearing, so after a leisurely breakfast and a little shopping I started for the base of the hill at 9:45. It is across the Cotahuasi River from me so I went down to the bridge and hiked back up to the other side. In about 30 minutes I was at the spot where I had seen a faint trail and after one attempt on the wrong side of a small gully, I found an old trail. It did not look like it was being used nowadays but you could see that it was at one time a well built trail with stone steps, and was cut into the side of the hill, not just worn from use like the animal trails. I was encouraged because this looked like the real thing, compared to the paths I had tried on the other side, which were more like currently used animal trails. It was an easy hike, a fairly gradual climb with the trail meandering up a draw, sometimes faint but always clear enough to follow. It appeared to be going up to a saddle, just past the first peak, where I had been told there are some ruins.

Unfortunately, about half way up the trail disappeared; I soon found it again, only to lose it completely shortly afterwards. However it was still very easy to continue, not heavy brush and many zigzagging animal paths to follow up, even though it was steeper by then. I was soon at my goal at the top of the ridge, looking down the other side at where I had tried to come up before. I went to the left, up towards the first peak looking for the ruins but only saw one, a larger than normal stone building with the walls still standing about 4 to 6 feet high. I don't think it was an old ruin though because it had mud mortar in between the rocks, and the old ruins I have seen here don't have mortar. Farther on up, and on the flat plain on top, were what looked like outlines of rock walls in the dirt but there weren't even two rocks on top of each other. There were a couple of places that looked like someone had been digging fairly recently but to my untrained eye there was no obvious reason for it. At many of the ruins there are piles of stones, some covering obvious holes, which are graves. With the "ruins" being disappointing, I went back the other way looking at the ridge of the mountain, which was going up to the peak.

From my window it looks like it is about 30 degrees to start, reaches a short lesser slope about half way up and then turns into a 45 degree climb to the top. Of course those are averages, there were short steeper sections mixed in there. I decided to climb up a ways and see what it was like, thinking I would go until it became risky, and then stop for lunch and head back down. I set a goal of reaching each minor peak, expecting that would be where I should stop. The whole time I was thinking that I should wait and have someone with me to attempt the summit (after the previous weeks try!) but it was so easy and no real danger so I kept going up. By this time it had become lightly overcast but was nice and warm with no rain in sight.

I was surprised once by seeing what appeared to be a faint shadow overhead, out of the corner of my eye, but didn't see anything at first. Then over the ridge came two condors, soaring on the updrafts. Colca Canyon, southeast of here, is famous for lots of condors but there are a number of them here in Cotahuasi Canyon as well. There was a strong cool wind blowing up on the steep Mungi side of the mountain, so I was climbing up the ridge on the Cotahuasi side whenever possible, which was much warmer. At this point I was on the steeper part of the ridge, scrambling up 4th class rocks, having to look around at times to find a safe and easier route up. For about half an hour I played leapfrog with the condors, they would be circling over my head, then I would climb above them and then they would go above me again. It was like they were waiting for me to fall so they could dive in for an easy meal! They were getting very close, 50 feet or less, so I got a very good look at them, they are big and ugly! I estimated that one had a wingspan of about six feet and the other one about seven feet. (I later checked on the Andean Condor on the web and it says they have an average wingspan of 10.5 feet so maybe they were bigger than I thought!) It was really fun watching them, as I had never been that close to a condor before, or near them for such an extended period of time. Unfortunately, I still didn't have my camera so no pictures (I saw them up close, honest!) but I will have it in about a month so will have to go back and try to get some pictures of them then. I often see condors and eagles on my hikes; they are about the only wildlife I have seen here. There are supposed to be some pumas (mtn. lions) around but I have not talked to anyone who has actually seen one.

At about 1:30 I reached an almost vertical section (at 10,550'), about 15 to 20 feet high and looked for an easy way around it but did not see one. I decided to stop for lunch and then head down afterwards. As I studied the rock wall, I saw four or five easy climbing routes, maybe 5.6 to 5.7 at the most, but no other way up. I didn't explore up close on the Cotahuasi side, there might be a possible traverse there somewhere. On the Mungi side was a very shear wall, no chance there. Anyway, as many of my friends have been telling me to be more careful, I was very good; I didn't consider doing the climb alone, or even trying a few feet to see what it was like! There is one problem with a lot of the rock here, the mountains have a lot of places where the rock is mixed with dirt, it is not solid rock, especially on the canyon walls. Here it looked better but there had been numerous places on the way up where the rock was not solid as well. Fortunately it was just in scrambling areas and not rock climbing areas.

By 2:15 I had finished lunch and was on was on my way down and at 4:30 was exploring an old trail that goes down to the Cotahuasi River (the suspension bridge is about 100 feet above the river). Some very wild rapids down there, not being a river runner I have no idea what they are rated at but it seems like I have heard that most of the river is class 4 or 5. With the exception of Sipia Falls of course, this has a drop of about 490 feet in three tiers.

I plan on doing the climb again soon, with friends, one of whom has a digital camera, so hopefully will get some pictures then, as well as finding a way to climb up higher.

Cruise Line Magic

For the longest time, the first image that came into people's minds when they heard the term "cruise line" was either the Titanic or the Love Boat. That is no longer the case. Today, a cruise line is one of the best ways for vacationers to experience old-fashioned travel with modern amenities at an affordable price.

Cruise lines have been around since the early 1900's as far as the travel industry is concerned, and while the advent of air travel temporarily pushed ship travel into the background, more and more people today are opting to take cruise lines to their ultimate destinations, rather than land or air transportation. Why? Because cruise lines have become much more affordable in recent years.

A cruise line operates a fleet of ships that sail to various destinations and ports of call around the globe. Some cater to local interests while others regularly set sail on cross-Atlantic or trans-Pacific journeys. No matter how long the duration or where they go, there is always a cruise available to suit any budget. If you want to take a quick vacation up to Alaska or Canada, a cruise line will cater to your needs. If you are looking for a multi-week or even a journey of several months, a cruise line is out there that will offer you everything you want in service and luxury.

Passenger ships have experienced a complete makeover since the days of the Love Boat when the popular activities were shuffleboard and chess with fellow passengers. Today, activities abound to please any lifestyle and age group. Each cruise line offers nightclubs and dancing for adults and special entertainment for the kids. Do you want a spa treatment and a massage? Cruise lines offer those too. How about movies, theatre and other nightly entertainment? Cruise lines offer multiple theatres on board, and live stage shows and productions as well.

Entertainment is the name of the game on a cruise line of today. Most of the major players compete with each other to provide the most and the best entertainment available while on the high seas. This is a high selling point for many people choosing a cruise line, as are dining options and onshore arrangements in the various ports of call around the world. The more a cruise line offers potential passengers, the more guests they book and that becomes a win-win for the cruise line and the passenger as well.

These days, many older folks actually live on cruise ships. Apparently this can be a more affordable alternative to most long-term-care facilities. So it is not surprising to find an extensive medical team on board each ship. Major cruise lines now days are fully equipped to deal with most medical emergencies including providing for oxygen and dialysis needs of patients as well.

There has never been a better time than now to take a cruise. Deals and specials can be discovered on the cruise lines' websites, and on travel websites like Travelocity and others. Planning ahead can save hundreds of dollars, so get out your day planner and clear your schedule. Take advantage of the stiff competition between cruise lines to give yourself the gift of a lifetime. You will savor every magical moment!

Adverse Credit Debt Consolidation - Facilitates Financial Rebirth by Clearing Bad Credit

Credit cards singly have got done enough damage to the credit history of borrowers. Like a coddled child, people began misusing the convenience offered through credit cards. Within a very short clip span, there was a large grouping of people who underwent bad credit proceedings. Defaults on credit cards along with the other defaults and arrears led borrowers from county tribunal judgements to bankruptcy.

The state of affairs of people with bad credit is similar to people walking a tight rope. Proper AIDS in the word form of adverse credit debt consolidation loans can lead them safely to the other end, i.e. tip clear off the winds of bankruptcy with ease. By denying opportunities of adverse credit debt consolidation opportunities, lenders are only increasing their chances of autumn into the throes of bankruptcy.

While most lenders in the pasts would have got loved to play a inactive function by denying debt consolidation loans to borrowers with bad credit; the new generation lending agencies are more than unfastened to the suggestion of giving borrowers with bad credit a second chance.

Adverse credit debt consolidation loans are similar to regular debt consolidation loans, except for the ground that the terms may be a small strict. The stringency in terms is influenced by the increased hazard that these debt consolidation loans present for lending agency. The stringency of terms will normally be seeable on two grounds. Firstly, rate of interest will be raised. Secondly, the borrowable amount will be lowered. The differences in terms mean to cover loan supplier against any hereafter hazard arising out of non-payment of the loan.

Interest rate is one of the most controversial issues in adverse credit debt consolidation loans. Some borrowers experience that they are at the clemency of the loan supplier since they have got opted for this type of loan. However, things are not as blue as one may perceive. As in every regular loan, APR on adverse credit debt consolidation loans is well defined. Borrowers just have got to travel through the rate listing of outstanding banks and the exact rate of interest is immediately visible. Online comparison through loan calculators will salvage on the clip of borrowers. Loan calculator, that is available on principal websites, shows APR charged by principal banks and financial establishments at one place.

Adverse credit debt consolidation loans too have got the option of expert counsel by loan providers. Guidance and assist of loan supplier in the debt settlement procedure is the principal attraction of debt consolidation loans. Having earned bad credit once through bad debt management, bad credit borrowers will not set about the undertaking of debt settlement once again. Thus, a bulk of them will seek to profit from the expertness of loan providers.

Loan supplier return in a mode similar to the regular debt consolidation loans. Once the borrower have presented to the lender the complete listing of debts on his account, he analyzes the debts in detail. This survey will be helpful in designing an effectual debt solution. Borrowers can lend towards a proper survey of debts by including every debt and by categorising them according to their form. Therefore, credit card debts will constitute a separate category; so will secured and unsecured debts. The lender can, at a glance, cognize what type of debts throw prominence in the borrowers finances.

Borrowings on adverse credit debt consolidation loans, as mentioned before, will be less as compared to the regular debt consolidation loans. Thus, adverse credit debt consolidation loans may not be appropriate for large sized debts. A method to pull more than on adverse credit debt consolidation loans is by offering loan suppliers lien on certain assets, particularly home. These are known as secured adverse credit debt consolidation loans. The clause of collateral have the consequence of lowering the degree of hazard in the venture. The rate of interest charged on adverse credit debt consolidation loan also betters as a consequence of collateral.

Adverse credit debt consolidation loans may not be completely clean on the drawback front. Borrowers must understand that these are costly and bad management of the adverse credit debt consolidation loans will add to the debts instead of eliminating them. Consequently, proper planning must back adverse credit debt consolidation loans.

Seven Steps to Total Debt Elimination

Debt looks to have got go the bombilation word in today’s world. We can’t incrimination it on people. After all it’s human to fall for it. However, it surely isn’t good for you. If you have got fallen into a debt trap, you can take comfortableness from the fact that you are not the lone one. Getting out of debt trap is not impossible either. You just need to have got got some forbearance and exercising restraint on the bad disbursement wonts that you have developed over a clip period of time (assuming that the debt have not resulted owed to some hard circumstances).

Analyze the state of affairs properly and set up a strategy for debt elimination. Here is a listing which you could mention to pave the way to debt elimination:

1. Controlled spending: The first thing to make is forestall the state of affairs from getting worse i.e. halt the debt from growing further. So exercising control and seek and stay within 70% of your credit limit. You might also vacation spot to disbursement cash instead of plastic, just as a control mechanism.

2. Consolidation: Debt consolidation is another instrument which is very much in usage as an of import measure towards debt elimination. This affects switching over to a new credit card which have a lower APR. However, if you mean to maintain disbursement like mad, this volition consequence in a debt trap and will not assist you at all.

3. Negotiate: You might as well speak to your existent credit card company about the state of affairs and check if they are able to assist by reducing the APR for a clip period of time. This makes work sometimes because these companies too desire to reserve their customers.

4. Wage off some debt: If you have got some cash handy, you might as well pay off some debt, especially the 1 that is on higher APR credit cards.

5. Seek professional advice: If you are not able to happen the manner out by yourself, you should take professional advice. There are advisers who would not only give advice but also item you about what offers are available in the market and which lawsuit you the best.

6. Defy offers: Credit card companies maintain putting up new offers to entice more than customers. These could range from getting a price reduction if you store with them, a free gift etc. Make not fall for such as offers. Just handle them as ‘Not for me’, because these are really not for you until you come up out of your current debt. These are more than to bring on disbursement than anything else. Moreover, this volition just add to the annual fees that you pay on your credit cards.

7. Reduce the number of credit cards: If you have got a large number of credit cards, you will always be tempted to using one or the other till the credit bounds is reached on them. This makes a debt trap. So, if you can, then fold off some of your credit card accounts.

The cardinal to debt elimination, however, lies in ‘Restraint’. If you are able to command your disbursement then you are already moving in the right direction.

Debt Problems? You Can Negotiate With Your Creditors

It is always possible to negociate with creditors – even if they have got already taken you to tribunal to get a judgement or to garnish your wages.

Getting a creditor to reduce your monthly payment assists and makes supply short-term relief. However, this is only a impermanent measurement and you need to retrieve that the interest on your debt will go on to stack up.

You need to negociate settlements with your creditors to get existent debt relief and hole your credit.

Let’s take credit card debt first. Suppose you owe $4,000 but that the original amount was only $2500 and the remainder is interest. Let’s also presume you have got been behind in your payments for six moths. Call the company and explicate the ground why you have got fallen behind. You will need to have got a existent ground such as as unwellness or the loss of a job. Agree to pay $2500 as a settlement in full. In turn, have got the company hold to report your account as current to the credit reporting agencies.

Most creditors will purchase off on this sort of settlement because they’d rather get the money now vs. having to wait many calendar months or pay a aggregation agency. So you should be able to negociate this sort of settlement with many, if not all, of your creditors.

However, some creditors will elect to take you to tribunal to get a judgment. A judgement is a tribunal order stating that you must pay the amount owed. It gives the creditor the right to garnish your wages or prehend your assets, including your bank accounts.

Even if a judgement legal proceeding have begun, there is still clip to negociate a settlement. You can near the creditor’s attorney (or have got your attorney attack the other attorney) and do an initial offer of 40 percent to settle down the case. You will probably have got to travel up from the 40 percent. However, a settlement may be attractive to the creditor because it salvages the company attorney’s fees and the cost of seizing your assets or garnishing your salary.

If you make range a settlement with a creditor, be certain to have cogent evidence of payment. Also, don’t direct any finances until you have got a legal written document that enchantments out the terms of the settlement. Keep a transcript of this document. Brand the payment as agreed and then petition that the creditor supply you with a reception or some other cogent evidence of payment.

Some creditors, especially contractors and subcontractors and the IRS, can register a lien on your property. A lien is a tribunal order that gives the creditor an interest in a piece of some existent property you have such as as your home. When you sell the property, the creditor will be paid what he or she is owed out of the return of the sale. Once a lien have been placed against your property, the lone manner to eliminate it is to pay or attain a settlement with the creditor. If it is the Internal Revenue Service that filed the lien, be certain to get a Certificate of Release of Federal Soldier Tax Lien when you make wage it off.

Negotiating with creditors may not be much fun, but it can assist you get out of debt and repair your credit.

Free Credit Reports - How to Maintain Your Credit Profile

Maintaining your Credit Profile

Every consumer should be maintaining their credit profiles to guarantee the highest scores possible. To make so, you must first order your credit reports from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Trans Union, and Experian. The federal Carnival Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) entitles you to a transcript of your credit
Report for free, provided you ran into the following criteria:

• You have got been denied credit because of information in your credit report within the last 60 days.

• You are currently unemployed and are seeking employment.

• You have public assistance.

• You believe that your credit data file incorporates mistakes owed to fraud or identity theft.

Additionally, you also may be able to get your credit report and credit score from other business or companies. For example, if you dwell in California and are shopping for a home loan, the lender must supply you with your credit score by law. Respective other states necessitate that credit scores be disclosed to consumers.

It’s possible to have a free transcript of your credit reports annually if you dwell in Colorado, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Green Mountain State and Maryland. Recently United States Congress passed a law which affords each of us the right to a free credit report annually. Below is a listing of the start days of the month for this peculiar program:

Consumers in the Western states — Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Equality State — tin tell their free reports beginning December 1, 2004.

Consumers in the Midwestern states — Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin River — tin order their free reports beginning March 1, 2005.

Consumers in the Southern states — Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas — tin order their free reports beginning June 1, 2005.

Consumers in the Eastern states — Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Occident Virginia — the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and all U.S. districts can order their free reports beginning September 1, 2005.

To take advantage of the free annual credit report, delight visit: www.annualcreditreport.com.

Why is it of import to "maintain our credit profile"? You have got got to have good credit, or at least nice credit, for a lender to see you as a worthy credit risk. With our credit score being used in everything from insurance to interest rates on loans, we need to guarantee that we manage our credit properly.

There is also the an epedimic going on called Identity Theft. The Federal Bureau of Investigation released a survey in May 2005 which stated that Identity Theft have caused over $52.6 billion dollars in entire losings for 2004. With over 4.6% of the population being effected by Identity Theft, you can never be too careful. Identity Theft is simply an individual assuming another identity, and often modern times leads to other financial law-breakings such as as credit card fraud, mortgage fraud, and check fraud.

By monitoring our credit reports frequently and utilizing our credit responsibily, we can take control of our financial hereafters to guarantee that our profiles are accurate.

Figuring Out the Ever Nebulous Numbers Called "Credit Scores"

Credit Score Factors

The information contained on our credit reports impact every facet of our lives; including employment, insurance, and even interest rates (mortgage, credit cards, automobiles, etc.). There is specific information captured on our report which is used to constitute our credit score:

• Payment History (accounts for approximately 35%)

• Outstanding Debt (accounts for approximately 30%)

• Length of Credit History (accounts for approximately 15%)

• Types of Credit Currently in Use (accounts for approximately 10%)

• Recent Inquiries (accounts for approximately 10%)

Payment History – Your payment history includes the following types of specific
Information:

• Account payment information on specific types of accounts (credit cards, retail accounts, installment loans, finance company accounts, mortgage, etc.)

• Adverse populace records (bankruptcy, judgments, suits, liens, wage attachments, etc.), aggregation items, and/or delinquency (past owed items)

• Badness of delinquency. The more than recent the problem, the larger the impact on your credit score.

• Amount past times owed on delinquent accounts or aggregation items

• Time since and frequence of past owed points (delinquency), adverse populace records, or aggregation items

• Number of past owed points on file

• Number of accounts paid as agreed

Outstanding Debt – Your credit score is adversely affected if you owe amounts at or near your credit limit, so if possible, split the balance and transfer some of the debt to a second card. A low balance on two cards is better than a high balance on one. (Credit card companies usually charge a ‘transfer’ fee, but ‘reward’ you for switching you debt by offering a low interest rate. Sometimes the interest rate offered is for an introductory time period only, so do certain you read the mulct black and white before transferring your debts.)

• Amount owing on accounts

• Amount owing on specific types of accounts

• Lack of a specific type of balance, in some cases number of accounts with balances

• Proportion of credit lines used (proportion of balances to number credit limits on certain types of rotating accounts)

• Proportion of installment loan amounts still owing (proportion of balance to original loan amount on certain types of installment loans)

Length of Credit History – The longer you have got maintained your accounts, the better it reflects on your credit report.

• Time since accounts opened

• Time since accounts opened, by specific type of account

• Time since account activity

Types of Credit in Use – Loans from finance companies generally lower your credit score. According to FICO, this is heavily relied upon when there is small other credit history upon which to alkali a score.

• Number (or amount) of different types of accounts (i.e. installment loans, credit cards, retail accounts, mortgage, consumer finance accounts, etc.)

Recent Inquiries on Your Report – Recent applications for respective new accounts may negatively impact your score. If you inquire about particular publicities it makes not impact your credit report.

Now that we cognize what factors the credit bureaus see when calculating your credit scores, you might be saying to yourself... yeah, yeah, I've heard all that before. State me something I don't already know, like how I can raise my score!

With that idea in mind, wage your measures on time. If you have got recent late payments on your credit report, lenders position this as you larger credit risk. When you get your bills, don't allow this sit down on your kitchen tabular array collection dust. Keep a log of your current measures by owed day of the month and the sum amount due. Having a late payment look on your credit report today can have got a larger impact on your credit score than filing bankruptcy five old age ago!

Manage your credit effective, and don't say... "Duh, that one is obvious". I am definitely stating the obvious here. However, one of the most common ways for consumers to get into a downward spiral credit wise is the poor picks we all have got made using the unsecured part of our credit; CREDIT CARDS. Credit cards make offer contiguous relief (or often time’s instant gratification) to our needs (or wants). Don't travel out purchasing extravagance points if you don't have got cash readily available to pay for those points when the measure come ups due. That agency saying "NO" to plasma silver screen TV’s, new furniture, Gucci watches, and all the points that we "simply can't dwell without".

Anytime you run a balance on an unsecured credit card or line of credit, it have an impact upon your credit score. By focusing on keeping the balance you carry on your credit cards / lines of credit to less than 25% of your sum line of credit, you will be in better form regarding your credit score.

Credit Counseling - Expect More Out of Credit Counseling

Credit counseling is more than than just an agency taking a monthly payment from you and sending it to your creditors. If that were the lawsuit there wouldn’t be a need for the word counseling in credit counseling.

It is your agencies duty and duty as a credit counseling organisation to make everything that tin be done to forestall additional credit and debt problems for you and your household in the future.

If you are currently working with a credit counseling agency inquire yourself these questions:

•Did they force me into their credit counseling program without reviewing all options?

•Do they offer free educational services and social classes to their clients? Or make they educate the public at no cost.

•Did they make a sound credit counseling program for me? Did they assist me work out a budget I can lodge to?

•Are they there for me with aid when I have got questions?

With respective different credit counseling organisations out there it can be hard to cognize who have you, the consumer, at the top of their mind. Determination a credit counseling organisation that is in that have the methodological analysis and patterns in topographic point that benefit you the most tin be difficult. It is of import to thoroughly research any company you are currently working with or may work with in the future.

Written by Crick Munster

Credit Counseling - Signs That You May Need Help

Credit counseling is a feasible option for those who are feeling the emphasis of being flooded by debt. Credit counseling primarily offers aid with working out a credit and debt repayment program for an individual to derive control of their finances by creating a structured budget for an individual to follow. Credit counseling offers an individual the option to refund their debts, if needed, through a credit counseling debt repayment program. This is where the credit counseling organisation goes in contact with an people creditor to inquire for lowered interest rates and for the credit supplier to halt any late and over the bounds fees that may be attached to a peculiar credit card. Credit counseling organisations that supply a no charge credit and money management instruction programme for an individual typically have got the individual consumer’s best interest on their mind.

Credit counseling may be needed if the following marks are present:

1. Are you using more than than and more of your income to pay your debts?
This goes a problem if you are at the point where the money going out is less than or nearly less than the money coming in. Credit counseling would be a wise choice. Speaking to a credit counseling organisation at this point can assist because in a counseling session you may happen that by sticking to a sound budget you may be able to avoid further help. The best portion is the counseling Sessions should be at no charge, do certain of that before speech production to an agency.

2. Bash you do only the minimum payments owed on your loans and credit cards each month?
Look at your budget, that is reappraisal what dollars are coming in and how those dollars are going out. You may happen that by tweaking your budget you may be able to avoid credit counseling by implementing a program of nest egg through following your ain plan. This should allow you to free up more than than money to be more aggressive in repaying your debt. Credit counseling may be needed if you have got reviewed your budget and can’t happen further finances to pay more than than the minimum amounts to your credit cards. Paying only the minimum to your credit cards will only protract the length of clip needed to refund your debt. Some credit cards may charge such as a high interest rate that it could take old age upon old age to pay off with minimum payments.

3. Are you near, at, or over the credit bounds on your credit cards?
Once a credit card is nearing it’s available balance or even worse if the credit card is over it’s credit bounds it is clip to take aggressive action to pay down the balance. If this is a state of affairs you are determination yourself in attempt finding further dollars to convey your balances down. It is recommended that when doping this you make not unfastened another credit account or take a consolidation loan to refund these accounts as more than than often than not taking a loan to pay a loan will ensue in more debt being owed. If you can’t happen the dollars to apply towards the credit cards seek speaking to a credit counseling organization. They may be able to put out a program for you to refund the debt on your own, or through their ain credit counseling services.

4. Are you paying your measures with money intended for other things?
If you happen yourself “robbing Simon Peter to pay Paul” with your credit cards it may be acceptable if you are replacing the dollars that are going to unneeded points such as as cablegram TV., cell phone payments…etc. Just as long as those accounts have got been paid and you are not accruing any more than fees from them. However if you happen yourself using dollars that are intended for necessary points such as as a car payment, a house loan, food, etc. then you are most likely in a state of affairs where credit counseling is an option you may need to look into. Look at speech production to a certified credit counsellor that volition offer a solution to your financial needs. Getting out of the reddish is very important, the sooner you take action the better.

5. Are you borrowing money or using credit cards to pay for things you used to purchase with cash?
This tin be very problematic when you are utilizing your credit to purchase things like groceries, combustible or other disposable goods. If you are currently in the enactment of doing this reappraisal your finances to determine if you can avoid making these purchases with your credit. If this can’t be avoided attempt speech production to a credit counseling organization. They should be able to give you the tools needed to avoid this costly practice.

6. Bash you often pay your measures late?
There are a few grounds on why an individual may frequently pay their measures after the owed date. One of the chief grounds is that there isn’t somes budget in topographic point to follow, therefore rendering the payments of the debt to the case of when a individual gets paid. If a payment is owed on the 25th and a individual is paid on the 30th this typically develops into a past owed payment. This is owed to the fact that the bulk of people dwell from one paycheck to the next. Creating a nest egg account and a budget program will decide this issue for the most part. Paying measures late on a regular footing may also be attributed to an individual beingness top down with their debts, meaning that there is more than money going out regularly than coming in. Once this point is reached it may be clip to talk to a credit counseling organization. It is urgent to seek aid at this point in tell to order to avoid long permanent damage to your credit.

Regardless of your state of affairs it is of import to seek aid when feeling the pinch of being top down or behind with your finances. Taking measurements early volition consequence in less dollars that spell out in the long run. Taking action early volition also ensue in a lesser need of bankruptcy which have long permanent negative impact on your credit worthiness.

Choosing the Right Credit Counseling Agency for You - Some Tips

Credit counseling companies come up in all forms and sizes. Whether you are looking at working with a local credit counseling organisation or a national credit counseling organisation there are some very of import factors to cipher before choosing the right credit counseling option for you. Here is a listing of inquiries for you to inquire a credit counseling company before determining whether or not you should take part with their organization.

Educational Services-

One of the most of import facets of a credit counseling organisation is what types of money management services make they provide? Ask the credit counseling company if they have got an instruction programme in place. Ask the credit counseling organisation if they offer this service free to any individual that is interested in getting aid with their finances. It is very of import that the credit counseling organisation that you take to work with offers this service at no cost. It is also very of import to do certain that the credit counseling organisation doesn’t necessitate your engagement inch their credit counseling services or otherwise known as a “Debt Management Plan” in order to have their educational services at no cost.

Fees-

Credit counseling fees change from one agency to another. Brand certain to inquire the credit counseling organisation for a dislocation of their fees. Some credit counseling organisation necessitate large up presence sedimentations or payments to inscribe you on their plan. Credit counseling organisations are regulated by many states as far as what they can charge as a “start up” fee. Some credit counseling organisations necessitate that the first payment that you direct to your creditors actually travels to them. This is an partial pattern that some credit counseling organisations have got abused in the past. For example, if your monthly payment is $500 to your creditors through the credit counseling organisation they would maintain the first $500 as their “Start Up” fee. This is partial because the adjacent consumer of the same credit counseling organisation might only have got a 100$ monthly fee. Therefore that individual have the same benefit as you from the credit counseling organisation for $400 less than what you paid to begin the plan. Ask the credit counseling organisation if they follow the state regulated fee construction for your area. Credit counseling organisations should accede to all state laws. It’s best to inquire this right away.

Customer Service-

Credit counseling is all about you and your financial situation. When it’s your dollars at interest do certain to inquire the credit counseling organisation about what type of client service they provide. Credit counseling organisations should have got person available for you to speak to during all business hours of the day. Be mistrustful of a credit counseling organisation that necessitates you to go forth a message in order to talk to client service. This tin be a mark that the credit counseling organisation is shorthanded and having trouble keeping up with their clients needs.