Top 5 Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Top 5 Caribbean Cruise Destinations

By Thom Sanders

Cruising the Caribbean, surely one of the most relaxing holidays you can think of. A cruise to this beautiful destination is bound to surprise, intrigue and delight; with its picture postcard perfect beaches, white sands, azure seas and swaying palm trees. This unique ambiance has helped the Caribbean become one of the worlds top travel destinations. There is one sticking point for many though, and that's the choice of Caribbean cruise destination, this article takes a look at some of the best Caribbean areas.

The Dominican Republic

First up, and possibly the most popular Caribbean destination, is the Dominican Republic. This impressive cruise destination draws crowds from all over the world and with good reason. Located on the island of La Hispaniola, this mainly Spanish speaking country is well known for its colonial capital, Santa Domingo. The island features some of the highest peaks in the Caribbean, with its mountainous landscape, and is home to several national parks.

Barbados

Another Caribbean location that's well known is the island of Barbados, one of the worlds top surfing destinations. It's not only the sport that attracts visitors though; the island also boasts a rich history, with many of the towns on the island featuring fascinating museums. The island also packs the traditional blend of white beaches and lush landscape as well as the comforts of the modern day life; in towns such as the island capital, Bridgetown.

Jamaica

If you're looking for the traditional 'laid back' Caribbean experience, then you should take a visit to Jamaica; the very epitome of laid back Caribbean life. Jamaica is often seen as one of the ultimate Caribbean destination to kick back and relax during the day, then head out and party the night away. This dual lifestyle is also reflected in the islands two main towns, with the relaxed Montego Bay offset by the modern and lively historic capital of Kingston.

The Bahamas

Another world famous Caribbean cruise destination; the Bahamas is an archipelago of around 700 islands and acts as a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Famous for its crystal clear waters, pristine white sands and beautiful landscapes; the Bahamas have long been seen as one of the Caribbean's top destinations.

St. Lucia

Finally we end up with something a little more active, the island of St. Lucia; know world wide as one of the best destinations for diving and snorkelling. The island is surrounded by rich coral reefs, teeming with sea life and thus makes for a fascinating place to explore the underwater world.

This article was written by Thom Sanders on behalf of NCL. They offer fantastic Caribbean cruises, as well as other great cruise deals.

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Sit Down To a Hot Bowl of Soup, Stew, or Bisque From These Yummy Recipes

Sit Down To a Hot Bowl of Soup, Stew, or Bisque From These Yummy Recipes

By Linda Carol Wilson

Anyone who follows my blogs or articles knows I love soup! Soups are the best food in the world in my opinion. So bear with me as I share more soup recipes for your pleasure. Try this Basic Chicken Noodle Soup that cooks in your crockpot or slowcooker while you are busy or away. Oyster Stew is not for everyone but if you are fond of oysters, give this simple stew a try. The Mushroom Bisque is from my diabetic blog but is not a "diabetic" recipe.

BASIC CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP

2 bone-in chicken breasts, skinned

1 onion, chopped

3 celery stalks, sliced

2 carrots, sliced

6 sprigs fresh parsley

2 garlic cloves, peeled

1 bay leaf

1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 cartons (32-oz each) low-sodium chicken broth

1 1/2 cups egg noodles

1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, optional

In a 5 or 6 -quart slow cooker or crockpot combine the chicken, onion, celery, carrots, parsley, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt and pepper. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture. Cover and cook on high for 4 to 5 hours or low for 8 to 10 hours.

Remove the parsley, garlic, and bay leaf using a slotted spoon; discard. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board; let stand for 10 minutes or until cool enough to handle. Remove the bones and discard. Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces.

While chicken cools, cook the noodles according to the package directions. Stir the chicken back into the cooker along with the prepared noodles. Replace lid and cook on high until the chicken is hot, approximately 5 minutes.

To serve, sprinkle with the dill if desired.

OYSTER STEW

1/4 cup butter

1 pint fresh oysters

2 cups milk

1/2 cup light cream

1 tsp salt

dash of freshly ground black pepper

Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add the oysters including the liquor and cook while stirring over low heat just until edges start to boil.

In another saucepan, heat the milk and cream. Stir in the salt, pepper, and oysters.

Yield: 4 cups

MUSHROOM BISQUE

3/4 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced

1 garlic clove, minced

1/3 cup onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup butter

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

4 tbsp flour

2 tsp salt

4 cups chicken broth

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 cups low-fat cream

fresh chopped parsley

In a 2-quart saucepan, melt the butter; add the mushrooms, garlic, and onion sauteeing 5 minutes. Add the lemon juice. Blend in the flour then gradually stir in the broth. Add the salt and pepper. Cook soup, stirring constantly, until the soup is slightly thickened. Stir in the cream, heat thoroughly, but do not boil. Garnish with the chopped parsley.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings.

Enjoy!

For more of Linda's slowcooker or crockpot recipes visit her blog at http://grandmasslowcookerrecipes.blogspot.com
For her quick and easy recipes go to http://grandmasquickfixrecipes.blogspot.com

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Function Vs Flair - How to Choose the Right Handbag For You

Function Vs Flair - How to Choose the Right Handbag For You

By Nadine Bergeron

You may be torn because you want a handbag with style but also one that is durable and well made. It must also combine functionality matching your lifestyle.

The first thing you need to do is determine which category the handbag that you are looking to purchase fits into.

Is this something that you are going to use every day, once a week or maybe only a couple times a month?

The next thing that you need to determine is what you will be carrying in your handbag. If you are going to use the handbag everyday, then most likely you will have your wallet, your keys, cell phone, makeup and some misc items. The amount of space that these items take can really add up not to mention how heavy these items can be once they are all packed into your handbag.

So you may want to consider looking for a more durable handbag for every day use. In the same token, us women are often guilty of storing more and more items in our handbags. So if you are looking to eliminate clutter from your handbag you may want to consider going with a mid-size to a smaller handbag. Obviously, the less room you have in your handbag the less likelihood that you will store more and more stuff in there.

Other things to consider when choosing the right handbag, is your style. Think about your wardrobe. Do you tend to wear clothing that is trendy, very casual or classic?

You may also want to determine if you are looking for a handbag that has zippered compartments, pockets or compartments at all. You may be looking for something very simple that only has one compartment.

Colour is another factor. Darker colors would be more durable and show less wear. Brighter colors make a statement and attract more attention. Lighter colors could show wear more quickly.

Believe it or not, you should also consider your body type when purchasing a handbag. Oversize bags are not complimentary to short women. Your best bet is a medium sized bag or smaller bags like a clutch. While bigger handbags compliment the more plus size body type versus a medium handbag as it will make them look disproportionate. If you are a tall woman, go for a rounder bigger bag. It will make you look slimmer and not as tall.

Designer or imitation? Your bank account will probably be the one to decide on this one.

And not to leave the men out. The "messenger" style bag is used by a lot of men. This is a medium size bag that has a flap in the front. This type of bag is great for holding laptops. Most of these bags have a long strap that makes it more comfortable.

For more helpful tips, visit http://bestshoppingdiscountdeals.info

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How to Shine in Red Carpet Dresses

How to Shine in Red Carpet Dresses

By Jeremy P Stanfords

Choosing the ideal red carpet dress is exciting, time consuming and takes some research of current fashion trends. Not only do women need to choose the right dress, but hair, makeup, shoes, and accessories come into play when creating an entire look. With proper planning, any woman can find a dress that makes her shine on the red carpet.

The ideal red carpet dress relates to the season and time of the event, as well as the venue itself. Typically longer dresses are chosen for fall and winter while short, bright dresses are worn during spring and summer. However, some celebrities are daring enough to switch it up and go against the norm.

Dress color helps enhance elegance as well. Although there are some wild colors that can be pulled off in a glamorous way, it is wise to stay away from tacky colors that do not complement the style of the dress. Popular spring and summer colors include light pinks, bright blues and greens, soft or pale yellow, and white. Some of the popular fall and winter color choices include black, brown, grey, wine, gold, and dark and navy blue.

Now, red carpet events do encompass a level of elegance, glamor, and sophistication. To follow this level of elegance, women should choose gowns that flatter their body type. Many designers create remarkable dresses for sleek and slender women along with those who are curvaceous. Choosing a sophisticated outfit does not mean the comfort needs to be sacrificed. Typically, these events are lengthy and incorporate an after party. It is important that women choose flattering, yet comfortable, dresses.

Some of the most popular choices include gowns that are flowing, strapless, form-fitting, long, sexy and jaw-dropping. There are other ways to make a statement on the red carpet other than an unorganized style. Many celebrities choose gowns that are unique and new to the scene. Other ways to create a unique or fresh look is to find dresses with embellishments. Popular red carpet gown embellishments include jewel accents, sparkle fabrics and ruffles.

After the right dress has been chosen, a proper hairstyle and accessories are necessary. Just as there are many components in choosing a gown, there are just as many components in choosing accessories and a hairstyle. Jewelry should accompany the dress well, and also portray luxury. Altogether, choosing glamorous clothing should be a fun and exciting experience. By paying attention to certain aspects of location, time and style, a woman will be able to find her ideal outfit.

Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information about red carpet dresses, please visit http://www.macduggal.com

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Fifth Avenue - New York

Fifth Avenue - New York

By Cris Zafar

Fifth Avenue is renowned as being one of the most prestigious and expensive streets in the world. It is located in central Manhattan and stretches from 143rd street in Harlem all the way to Washington Square. Fifth Avenue is known primarily as a shopping district. Many of the most famous and fashionable companies have locations located along Fifth Avenue, and it is frequented by both tourists and famous individuals alike. But Fifth Avenue is not merely a shopping district. Most of the retail establishments are located between 49th and 59th street, but as you travel along Fifth Avenue you will come across many beautiful residential condos and apartments as well as numerous museums and other tourist attractions. It is definitely one of the most highly trafficked tourist centers in New York City.

Many different brand-name stores have locations on Fifth Avenue. Most are located closely together and include well known and highly fashionable brands such as Lous Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Bergdorf-Goodman, Ferragamo, and Versace. Though many of these stores target women, men can still find a few that cater to their needs such as the NBA store and Brooks Brothers. In addition to fashionable clothing and accessory establishments, there are a number of jewelry stores as well such as Bulgari, Cartier, Fortunoff and Tiffany and Company. There are also quit e a few boutiques of well known jewelers such as Harry Winston. Fifth Avenue isn't just for adults, there are plenty of shops for children as well. That makes this an excellent place to browse for the whole family (just don't let the kids beg you to buy everything or you will be broke in no-time-flat!). One place you will definitely want to stop with the kids is FAO Schwartz, the worlds most famous toy company. Other great places of interest to bring the kids are the St. Patrick's Cathedral, Rockefeller Center (which is conveniently located right across the street), the New York Public Library and the Empire State Building.

Not up for shopping? You can find wonderful places to visit far from the hustle-bustle of the main commercial centers. The area between 82nd and 104th street is affectionately referred to as the "Museum Mile". Here you can find many wonderful museums, you could literally spend weeks browsing through all of the interesting exhibits. There is the national Academy museum, The Museum of the City of NY, The Frick Collections, the Jewish Museum, the Cooper-Hewitt national Design Museum, and perhaps two of the most widely known museums; The Metropolitan museum (affectionately referred to as "The Met" and the Guggenheim Museum. Whether you like shopping, enjoying the wonderful architectural feats, or browsing interesting exhibits Fifth Avenue has something for everyone and should be added on to any tourist itinerary.

Find out more about New York and New York Attractions

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Quick and Easy Steak Recipes

Quick and Easy Steak Recipes

By Ashley Alysse Walker

Whether you go with a classic take on steak or try something a little more avant-garde, the right recipe will enhance any cut of steak. Grilling and broiling are just a couple of possibilities for preparing steak. These quick, simple steak recipes will broaden your repertoire beyond the usual meat-and-potatoes basics. The right steak recipes will take your steak from good to great!

Steak au Poivre

Poivre is French for pepper, and that's the main flavoring of the creamy sauce at the heart of this elegant steak dish. Prepare your steaks as usual; covering the meat with foil after it's cooked so it rests as you prepare the pepper sauce. Crush two tablespoons of whole black peppercorns and a tablespoon of green peppercorns in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Dice a whole shallot and saut� it in butter, then add the crushed spices to the mixture. Cook it over medium heat until the shallots become tender, about four or five minutes, then add a cup of heavy cream and salt to taste. Reduce the sauce until it browns and thickens enough to coat the spoon. Serve the sauce over or alongside the steak.

Cajun Steak

New Orleans is rightly famous for its food, and while the port city serves up plenty of seafood, it also knows how to handle a great steak. Make a marinade of enough vegetable oil to coat the steaks, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, a dash of allspice, diced onions and diced green peppers. Soak the steaks overnight in the mixture, then cook the steaks as desired. Top the steaks with a dab of butter before serving.

Herbed Butter Steak

One of the easiest steak recipes is also one of the best. Chefs rely on compound butter to make their recipes sing, and you can do the same. Cook your steak however you like, then add herbed butter just before you serve it. Make your own butter a day in advance by mixing a stick of room-temperature butter with chopped parsley, chives, finely minced garlic, dill, smoked paprika or any other flavors you enjoy.

Korean Bulgogi Steak

Traditionally, Korean bulgogi is thinly sliced and served with rice, but you can use this magnificently flavorful marinade for whole, uncut steaks as well. Combine half a cup of soy sauce, a tablespoon of dark sesame oil, three cloves of minced garlic, half a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger and chopped green onions to taste. Add red pepper flakes and a tablespoon or two of toasted sesame seeds. Let the steaks marinate in the mixture for four to six hours or overnight before cooking. This recipe works especially well with the smokiness of grilling over charcoal.

Whichever steak recipe you choose, make it your own by tweaking the spices and herbs. Add a little tarragon here or some cumin there. You can't go wrong with a great steak.

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Interior Design Trends for Every Room in 2012

Interior Design Trends for Every Room in 2012

By Mob Jarrock

If you've recently bought your first home, you've moved into your first apartment, you've moved into a new space or you simply just want to update a room in your home, you're probably wondering what the current different interior design trends are. Here's a basic guide to the trendiest decor styles of 2012 for every room in your home, from the bedroom to the bathroom, the kitchen to the living room and everything in between.

Bedroom Designs

Bedroom designs in 2012 will be returning to clean, crisp lines and details. The style will be purely contemporary, as people are looking to de-stress from the recent economy issues and thus, they'll want to create bedroom designs that are spa-like. Spaces that you can retreat into after a long, hard day.

Be on the look out for clean, soft hues including cool blues, soft grays and creamy ivory whites, giving a soft and comfortable look with clean lines that compliment a comfortable, restful space.

Bathroom Designs

There are actually a number of different bathroom designs that are growing in popularity in 2012. This includes Moroccan inspired tile, natural or reclaimed materials, clean colors and unusual but organic looking fixtures. Of course, it doesn't end there. With bathroom designs, the opportunities are endless as more and more people are breaking away from the "what if I sell the house" mentality and looking more toward the "I want to enjoy my home" mentality.

For 2012, the best thing you can do for your bathroom space is to create a space that you love, rather than what might sell the best.

Living Room Designs

The living room is all about comfort and style blended together for a unique look. People are learning that they don't have to settle on a single interior design style, but that they can mix and match a number of styles and accept that no space is ever "perfect," despite what they may have been told previously.

For living room designs, don't be surprised to see a large surge of Moroccan inspired looks, global inspired looks, mid century modern, eclectic looks, vintage pieces, Americana and more.

Kitchen Designs

The kitchen is now the hub of the home, so it's no surprise that most people will be putting the majority of their focus into this space. When looking to create an updated kitchen design, you'll notice that much like with the bathroom and other spaces in the home, people are starting to become more comfortable with the "here and now" and less focused on the "what happens when I sell my home?"

Kitchen designs will include rustic and industrial touches, as well as clean, contemporary touches for a blend of updated and vintage styling. For materials, look for a lot of clean, contemporary materials over traditional and natural finishes. For example, stainless steel countertops are being preferred over natural stone countertops.

Other kitchen interior design trends include open shelving, stylish and colorful tile backsplashes such as mosaic tiles or Moroccan inspired tiles, dark warm cabinetry and of course, plenty of proper lighting.

Mob Jarrock invites you to find more decorating ideas and bedroom design inspirations from around the world on Design Shuffle!

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Trendy 2012 Fashion Tips For Your Office Wardrobe

Trendy 2012 Fashion Tips For Your Office Wardrobe

By Reena Mariel

It's already 2012 and we have been seeing a lot of upcoming trends that will keep our fashionable hearts thumping. However, since not all of us are blessed with a ginormous closet filled with beautiful garments, we can still be fashion forward with just a few items that are in this year. You can update your office wardrobe without having to bust your budget. Wanna know how? Here are some tips.

TRENDY 2012 FASHION TIPS FOR YOUR OFFICE WARDROBE

1. Go For Pastels

Spring 2012 is all about pastel shades, and so why not update your look with these? Pick items that are fit for your age and work area. Use crisp and streamlined designs. If you are in for an office casual look, you can choose a pastel colored blazer such as bubblegum pink and then put it over a neutral colored top and a pair of sleek jeans. Accessories will help pull the look together.

2. Orange Burst

Be a head turner with this year's official color:orange. From tops to bags, this color evokes a really energetic vibe that will definitely be hard to miss at work. If you think that the color is too loud, opt for subtle shades. Try wearing an orange polkadot top and pair it with your favorite pants. Make it look more retro glam with accessories.

3. Nautical Beauty

This trend, which is popular during the summer time, can add a unique edge to your work wardrobe. A red top paired with white pants can make a lot of hearts flutter. Gold accessories like statement necklaces and bracelets will complete the look. You can also dress up a neutral top with a navy blue brass buttoned shirt for that sleek and crisp vibe.

4. Awesome Bold Prints

Bring this trend into the workplace by wearing items that give a not so loud statement. Tone down a loud printed top with a neutral colored bottom and blazer. Accentuate it with the use of simple accessories. You wouldn't want to use equally loud statement pieces since your top is already a statement itself. If prints are not your thing, use statement accessories that have loud designs. It will spice up a boring outfit instantly!

As you can see, you can definitely pull off these trends by just looking around for whatever pieces you have in your closet. You don't need to spend a lot of money on a new wardrobe. Being creative with your current wardrobe will surely help you transition into this years trends.

Reena Mariel, author of Beauty Is My Duty, your online resource for beauty tips and tricks for the average girl.

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