How to make your dream wedding in the exotics of Jamaica
by Groshan Fabiola


Jamaica lies south of Cuba in the western half of the Caribbean. Jamaica is the perfect place for a vacation wedding or a Jamaican honeymoon. It was for several centuries under British rule and has maintained close ties with the United Kingdom since independence in 1962. Jamaica is among the most distinctive of Caribbean isles, primarily as the birthplace of Rastafarianism, which suffuses the culture, as does the music of the island's most famous native son Bob Marley.

Jamaica prides itself on being a perfect wedding and honeymoon destination. Many resorts specialize in this market. Some, such as SuperClubs and Sandals (both known for their all-inclusive, couples-only resorts) even offer free wedding packages. The all-inclusive concept was born in Jamaica and no other destination has so successfully matured and marketed the concept.

There are many all-inclusive resorts, which are run to very high standards. However, my favourite romantic retreats lie at the other end of the spectrum, in small boutique hotels offering a combination of ultra-chic ambience and intimacy that is synonymous with romance. Again, Jamaica excels, with local entrepreneur Chris Blackwell's Island Outpost group having conceived some of the most welcoming and delightful boutique hotels in the world. They draw notables from Naomi Campbell to Pierce Brosnan, but fortunately most are surprisingly affordable.

Weather wise, there are only two seasons: wet (May-Nov) and dry (Dec-April). The best time to visit is during dry season, when rainfall is at a minimum and most of the island basks in sunshine.

In summer, prolonged afternoon showers or heavy downpours are typical island wide. Several days or even weeks of unbroken rain are also possible in summer, however, especially in the northeast, although this varies year to year. Summer and fall are also hurricane season, although the chance of a hurricane actually striking the island is relatively slim.

Though rimmed by coastal plains and fine sandy beaches, Jamaica is predominantly mountainous. In the east, the Blue Mountains (known for the world-famous coffee grown here) rise to 7,402 feet. Despite its relatively small size, the isle boasts several distinct climates: the mountainous northeast, centered on the old banana-shipping port of Port Antonio, receives copious rainfall and is exceedingly lush, whereas the relatively flat south-central coast, centered on Treasure Beach, lies in a rain shadow and the predominant vegetation is cactus and thorn scrub.

Jamaica is remarkably well developed in terms of activities. Visitors can choose from jet skiing, scuba diving, and sunset boat trips to mountain biking, crocodile safaris, and horseback rides.

Flight service to Jamaica which is well served by both scheduled and charter service varies according to season, although there is daily service from throughout Canada and the USA year-round. The best airfare deals are off-season, in summer.


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Universal Orlando from A to Z
by Ryan Wiseman


With two amazing theme parks - Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure - as well as the Universal CityWalk entertainment complex and three luxurious hotels - Hard Rock Hotel, Portofino Bay Hotel and Royal Pacific Resort - Universal Orlando definitely has something for everyone. Below are just a few of the Universal Orlando rides, attractions, restaurants, specialty shops and annual events that you can discover and explore during your vacation getaway to Universal Orlando . . .

Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man: A one-of-a-kind indoor thrill ride at Marvel Super Hero Island in Universal's Islands of Adventure that combines live action and state-of-the-art special effects.

Bob Marley Reggae Fest: A celebration of the music of legendary Reggae singer Bob Marley at Universal CityWalk that features lively performances from some of today's top Reggae superstars.

CityWalk: A 30-acre entertainment complex at the entrance to Universal's Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios that features a variety of themed restaurants such as Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville and Hard Rock Café, as well as specialty shops and Universal Cineplex.

Dueling Dragons: The world's first inverted, dueling roller coasters (Fire Dragon and Ice Dragon) at The Lost Continent in Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Earthquake - The Big One: An indoor thrill ride at San Franciso/Amity in Universal Studios that allows you to experience an earth-shattering quake that measures 8.3 on the Richter Scale!

Fievel's Playground: A themed play area at Woody Woodpecker's KidZone in Universal Studios that is based on the classic animated adventure, An American Tail.

Grinchmas at Universal Studios: An annual holiday celebration at Seuss Landing in Universal's Islands of Adventure that features a tree-lighting ceremony, Whoville Whobilation musical show and more.

Halloween Horror Nights: An immensely popular annual fright fest held at both Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Islands of Adventure: One of Universal Orlando's two world-class theme parks that features five uniquely themed islands - Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent, Marvel Super Hero Island, Seuss Landing and Toon Lagoon.

Jurassic Park River Adventure: A water-based ride at Jurassic Park in Universal's Islands of Adventure that features animatronic dinosaurs, a "Raptor Containment Area" and 85-foot plunge into a splash pool.

Kingpin's Arcade: An immense video-game arcade that lies next to Dr. Doom's Fearfall at Marvel Super Hero Island in Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Lost Continent: One of the five "islands" at Universal's Islands of Adventure that features such attractions as Dueling Dragons, Poseidon's Fury, The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad and The Flying Unicorn.

Mardi Gras at Universal Studios: The largest Mardi Gras celebration outside of New Orleans with live concerts, colorful parades, delicious cuisine, plenty of beads and much more.

New York: One of six themed areas at Universal Studios that features Twister . . . Ride It Out, Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride and The Blues Brothers.

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish: An aerial adventure that soars you high over Seuss Landing in Universal's Islands of Adventure aboard Dr. Seuss-inspired, fish-shaped vehicles.

Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges: A thrilling whitewater rafting adventure at Toon Lagoon in Universal's Islands of Adventure that winds its way around the Me Ship, The Olive play area.

Quint's Surf Shack: A themed specialty store located in the San Francisco/Amity area of Universal Studios.

Revenge of the Mummy - The Ride: An incredible, indoor "psychological" thrill ride that features an army of "warrior mummies" at the New York area of Universal Studios.

Shrek 4-D: A thrilling, state-of-the-art 4-D adventure that takes you along with Shrek, Donkey and Princess Fiona on a new adventure as they battle the evil ghost of Lord Farquaad.

Terminator 2: 3-D: An amazing indoor attraction at the Hollywood area of Universal Studios that combines live action, state-of-the-art 3-D technology and incredible special effects.

Universal Studios: One of Universal Orlando's two world-class theme parks and known as the "No. 1 movie studio theme park in the world."

Velvet Sessions: An award-winning rock 'n' roll cocktail party held at Velvet Bar in the Hard Rock Hotel that features live music from some of today's hottest bands.

Woody Woodpecker's KidZone: One of six themed areas at Universal Studios and home to E.T. Adventure, A Day in the Park with Barney, Fievel's Playland, Curious George Goes to Town, Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster and Animal Actors on Location.

X (a.k.a. Destination X): An annual pro wrestling pay-per-view event from Total Nonstop Wrestling (TNA) that is scheduled to be taped at the Universal Studios' IMPACT! Zone soundstage on March 11, 2007.

Yertle the Turtle: A character from one of Dr. Seuss' famous children's books and resident of Seuss Landing at Universal's Islands of Adventures.

Zydeco Hellraisers: One of the talented New Orleans bands scheduled to appear at Mardi Gras at Universal Studios, which takes place nearly every Saturday night until mid-April.


About the Author
Orlando, Florida Guide, the best guide to Orlando, offers discount Universal Orlando tickets, discount Disney World tickets and discount SeaWorld Orlando tickets, as well as discount Orlando hotels and individually tailored Orlando vacation packages.


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Let's Dread Together and Feel Alright
by Kristen Lem


Dreadlocks are a great way to completely change your look and make a statement with your hair. Its Rastafarian origins are linked as far back as the biblical Samson who wore his hair in dreadlocks and lost his unsurpassed strength when Delilah cut off his seven locks. Contrary to the belief that dreads are always tied to drugs, they are also a symbol of non-violence and non-conformity, and worn as a heavy spiritual statement.

If you've decided you want to try this bold and unique hair style, there are many ways to go about it. After much research and mellow conversation, I've found the most versatile and natural method is one called "backcombing." This technique is all natural and will work on virtually any hair type that is 3 inches or longer. Also, hair will look like dreads once completed, compared to the "neglect" method which takes at least 10" of hair and 3 years. Be warned, this is a labor intensive process and will take several hours - nothing a couple of good friends and a Bob Marley CD can't handle!

Backcombing

1. Start with hair that is clean and completely residue free. Use a purifying shampoo such as the Back to Basics Cleanse Clarifying Citrus Sage. Do not use a conditioner. Make sure hair is completely dry before starting the backcombing process.

2. Section the hair into 1"-2" squares - these will make round dreads. Temporarily secure the sections with a rubber band.

3. Start close to the scalp (not more than 1" away) and use a dread comb to comb the hair towards the scalp until the hair starts to pack up at the roots. Do not twist the hair, but rather roll the hair between your fingers as you are backcombing.

4. Continue working towards the end of the hair, keeping the dread as tight as possible. Secure the end with a rubber band.

5. Secure the dread at the scalp with another rubber band to keep it tight at its base. These rubber bands can be cut later once the dreads have matured.

6. When all the hair has been completed apply a petroleum-free dread wax to each dread.

Your dreadlocks should be in full affect once the process is done, however they will begin to tighten and smooth as they mature. With proper maintenance, full maturity can be reached in as little as 3-4 months. Be sure to continue using dread wax that does not contain petroleum and a purifying dread shampoo.

For difficult dreads, keep a rubber band on the scalp end. Also try rubbing the root of the dread in a clock wise direction against the scalp to help it lock up.


About the Author
Kristen is a Hair and Beauty Product Writer and Specialist for popular brands including FHI, Crede, Yuko System, Paul Mitchell, Redken, ISH Ionic Rescue, Alterna and more

The Sweet Sounds Of Kid Songs - A Complete Review.
by Glen B. Porter


Every child enjoys listening to music and at present there are so many kid songs created by wonderful talented artists, it can be difficult to choose a favorite. Music is not only a great way to help children learn and interact with one another but also a wonderful way to have some good fun. Kid songs differ by style and artist so your little tot has a wide selection of options for his musical tastes.

Among all the hottest bands that make up the wide collection of kids songs is the Laurie Berkner Band; a hot favorite among little ones across the United States. Laurie Berkner works jointly with her husband and her trusted friend to write and produce a huge number of kid songs for your little one to enjoy. For sure, this band offers a varied portfolio of musical styles to meet any music lover's tastes.

The kid songs are appealing to both kids and adults alike and the different kinds of musical styles the band makes use of are simply brilliant. This offers a unique opportunity for children to be introduced to a number of different types of music. Say for instance, the Laurie Berkner Band has created a few songs that appeal to the blues. Several of my daughter's favorite kid songs are written in the classic blues style. Of which, the band produced a lovely tune called "I know a Chicken" that helps children learn more about animals and its sounds. Besides, it also introduces them to the rhythmic blues tempo found in music from that genre. In fact the song almost reminds me of a song performed by the Muddy Waters Blues Band.

In addition, the Laurie Berkner Band also offers kid songs that have an island appeal to kids. Another song with a cool reggae beat is the song "Under a Shady Tree" that is easily recognized by any Bob Marley fan. This helps children gain a feeling for various types of music and it helps them understand that a place can be captured by a tune.

Though none can match up with the Laurie Berkner Band, there are lots of other bands that offer great kid sings. The popular kid's channel, Noggin features this band in a number of shows and specials. These specials and shows are on the top of our household's family viewing listing.

As for my daughter, she simply looks forward to seeing what this exciting children's band has to offer next. Yes, sometimes I have to admit I do, too. Who would ever think that kid sings could be so educational and entertaining.


About the Author
Glen B. Porter provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, articles, and reviews for entertainment, recreation as well as other related information.

The Origins of Reggae Music
by Morgan Hamilton


Caribbean music has entertained many music fans and has a great influence on the rest of the world. Music from the Caribbean islands such as Calypso, ska, rock steady and dancehall have evolved from each other and fused into what we know as reggae music. This music genre has also been influenced by elements of African rhythms and American blues. Strong bass lines and the bass drum beating characterize this music genre.

Reggae music originated from the island nation of Jamaica. This country is home to many homegrown musicians and record producers who have developed the distinctive style. Lee 'Scratch' Perry is the most famous Jamaican producer. He is responsible for launching the careers of many reggae musicians.

Artists such as Burning Spear and Horace Andy spread reggae music beyond the islands. However, none of them can match Bob Marley in terms of popularizing this music to the rest of world. No Woman, No Cry, Buffalo Soldier and Redemption Song are just some of Marley's hits. When he passed away, he enjoyed legendary status and was given a state funeral in Jamaica.

In addition to Bob Marley, Johnny Nash, Jimmy Cliff, Desmond Dekker, and other crossover singers also had success in the British pop charts. The Police, UB40, Selector, The Clash and The Specials fused reggae music with rock. In fact, one of the first multi racial groups in the UK was the British band UB40.

Social issues, such as poverty and political freedom are addressed in the lyrics of many reggae songs. These songs are the anthems of the poor who grow up in shanty towns and are still struggling to make ends meet. Some of the songs are about the beliefs of the Rastafarian religion, of which Marley was a practitioner. There are explorations of spirituality, invoking God, or Jah as he is called in some of the songs. However, some reggae songs are controversial because they defend the use of cannabis which Rastafarians advocate.

Reggae Music in all of its forms, have influenced and led on to other forms of music, namely drum and bass and hip hop. So far, nobody has taken over from Marley's mantle and rap and R & B dominate the charts at the moment. Music experts say that Reggae music needs another charismatic figure to spread the word.

This unique kind of music has achieved a lot considering that it came out of a small island with early recordings produced on basic equipment. People responded to the melodic simplicity of the music and the heartfelt lyrics. There was always a high standard of musicianship and a direct connection between the artists and the fans in reggae music. Since nobody can keep a good thing down, this Caribbean music will surely rise again.


About the Author
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Reggae Music. Visit our site for more helpful information about History of Reggae Music and other similar topics.

Rastalocks
by Kristy Pass


You've heard about dreadlocks, know they became popular as the fame of singer songwriter Bob Marley grew and have probably even read about their history. But do you know why you should get dreadlocks?

There are many reasons for wearing dreadlocks and looking like one of the stars is one of them. If that's your motivation, you can emulate Lenny Kravitz, Whoopie Goldberg, Rob Zombie, Ani DiFranco, or even the famous Rastafarian Bob Marley himself. There is no doubt that by sporting dreadlocks you'll be making a strong fashion statement. Like the actors, athletes and every day people that have come before you, you're dreadlocks will certainly draw attention.

Perhaps, though, your motivation for dreadlocks is of a spiritual nature. Rastafarians since the 1930's have been wearing dreadlocks to echo their belief system citing the Bible verse Leviticus 21:5: "They shall not make baldness upon their head, neither shall they shave off the corner of their beard, nor make any cuttings in their flesh." Even the term "dreadlocks" is a form of spirituality signifying the "a fear of the Lord". The Sadhus and Sadhvis or Indian holy men and women believed their dreadlocks were sacred and helped them remember that physical appearances were not important. In China, though, dreadlocks were thought to bring good health.

Another reason for wearing dreadlocks is as a form of self and group expression. The Cyber Goth movement in Europe and Ravers in the United States are wearing dreadlock wigs and extensions made with brightly colored fibers. Many people view it as a statement of ethnic pride including people who are honoring their Celtic and Viking ancestry. Dreadlocks have been called a symbol of black unity and power as well as the outward display for environmental activism. Even the rock scene is joining the creative expressionists as artists like Rob Zombie and Mike Borden choose dreadlocks over the former metal mania norm of long hair.

There's one last reason you should get dreadlocks; Freedom. Whether you want to wear your hair down and flowing, bound on the top of your head, pulled back in a rubber band, covered with a shroom hat or even going every which way in a dreadlock version of spikes, you can because with dreadlocks you are not tied to a comb and your style is only limited by your imagination.

So take the plunge and get your killer Rastalocks today.


About the Author
Kristy Pass is a stay at home mom, marketing mentor, and amatuer writer. If you've found her latest article helpful, you'll love what you find at http://gkpass.infopal.hop.clickbank.net

Bob Marley and His Music by Sharon White


Robert Nesta Marley was born in Nine Mile, St Annes, Jamaica, on February 6, 1945. He was the son of an English military officer and a Jamaican woman. He was moved to a pitiable district of Kingston Trenchtown. In the beginning of sixties Bob was akin to other ghetto kids and started playing music; it was a getaway from the cruel streets of Trenchtown. This obsession would soon twist into a hobby for Bob. In 1962 he made his first record, "Judge Not". Bob Marley's exposure to American music groups came first in his hometown of Trenchtown. Bob and many of his friends appreciated and welcomed the sounds of American musicians such as Ray Charles, Sam Cooke and the musical harmonizing of The Impressions. The Drifters, and their lead vocalist Ben E. King, also made a strong impression on Bob; as did some of the tougher sounds at the pop and of R&B, particularly those coming out of Berry Gordy's studio in Detroit. It was also in Trenchtown that young Bob was exposed to bebop and modern jazz for the first time. In Marley's younger years he first began to take part in the evening music sessions held by Joe Higgs in his Third Street yard. Higgs was one of the area's most famous residents, having been one of Jamaica's first popular recording artists. The musical seminars Higgs conducted often were rigorous affairs; emphasis would be placed on breath control and melody, and in addition to guitar lessons, he instructed Bob in the art of writing lyrics that could carry clear ideas to people. Higgs took particular care to play the part of both musical and moral tutor to Marley and many other children in the area. It was in Higgs' yard, on one of these occasions, that Bob had his first encounter with that natural resource with which he was to become associated in the public mind, and which allowed him to empathize with jazz. Numerous singles emerged from these sessions, and the songs were packaged by Higgs into Two LPs, Soul Rebel and Soul Rebellion. Classic singles emerged from the LPs that set the future course of reggae. The Jamaican Government found bands like Bob Marley and the Wailers offensive. They were referred to as rude boys. Bands like this emerged from the worst ghettos in Kingston. In 1965 living conditions in Western Kingston got progressively worse. In late August of that year an eruption of violence broke out in Trenchtown and many of the surrounding communities. This violence was blamed on the "Ruddies," which included the Wailers. Rude boys were youthful street anarchists who celebrated criminal life and hatred of authority as the only freedom that was left to them under the racist structures of the colonial system. The term "rudie" also referred to bands such as the wailers who expressed ideas that rejected traditional colonial religion and morality. "Rude Boy," recorded in late 1965, established Marley and the Wailers as the ultimate champion of the rude boys. "Rude Boy" was recorded as a fast moving Ska song. In this song Bob showed the prideful restlessness of the rudie. The bridge in this song consists of timeless Jamaican country aphorism. This is a classic song about deprived people lusting after they know the government will not let them have. "Rude boy" was a huge hit with the people of Jamaica. The government found not only this song extremely threatening, but also had fear that the band had too much political influence with the lower class people of Jamaica. "Rude boy" is a perfect example of how Bob's homeland and its political power influenced his musical style and messages he sent through the music he cultivated. Growing up in this environment transformed him into a revolutionary artist, who felt the need and passion to express the unjust he and many others faced as poor youths and adults who were just trying to get by in a country that didn't care for its lower class citizens. As times changed so did Bob's musical sound. Ska faded into "rock steady", ska's distinctive trombones, trumpets, and tenor saxes were blended into the background, the electric bass took on a down-stroking prominence, the guitar asserted itself to punctuate the hiccupping cadence and solo vocals were more frequent. Marley was on target when he linked James Brown with this transition, since R&B was to ska what soul was to rock steady. And when Jimmy Hendrix and Sly Stone arose to add their own style to soul, Bob and the Wailers were prepared to do as much for rock steady. In 1976 Bob agreed to perform at the Smile Jamaica concert. Bob was invited by the government to play; the last thing he wanted to do was play a show sponsored by the government in which he did not support. To some extent Bob had his arm twisted. He was repaying a debt to Tony Spaulding, the Minister of Housing, who had set Bob's family up in their new home in Bull Bay. Marley agreed to perform at the event if there would not be any political overtones. A week after press releases about the concert went out Prime Minister Michael Manley called an election. Marley was co-opted; there was no way that the JLP supporters would not now see this concert as a case of Bob performing for Manley. It was felt in Jamaica that the results of the election could be swayed by an endorsement from Bob. Soon after that Marley began to receive death threats. One night while rehearsing for the concert, Bob was standing in his kitchen when Don Taylor, his manager, came into the room. Bob's manager walked straight into the line of fire of a gunman who had appeared in the doorway, and was firing shots randomly in Bob's direction. Taylor took four shots in the groin; the gunman was firing from one of the lower steps in the doorway leading to the kitchen. A bullet that had missed Taylor ricocheted off the wall, grazed Bob's chest and lodged in to his left arm. Bob's wife Rita was sitting in her car, about to start it when shots were fired at her. Five shots were fired through her rear window. Another through her door, and a final bullet went through the front windshield. Although at least one bullet hit her in the head, the glass appeared to take the impact so that the bullet did not penetrate. Surprisingly, no one was killed in this raid. However, Don Taylor and Bob's friend, Lewis Griffith were critically injured. Rita underwent surgery to remove the bullet lodged in her scalp; Bob's wound was treated and he was released on his own recognizance. Bob was quickly driven up the treacherous roads to a secluded encampment high in the Blue Mountains above Kingston. This senseless act made an even stronger figure in his homeland. Now that Marley was physically stable, the question on his and everyone else's mind was if he would perform at the Smile Jamaica concert. If the gunmen had been trying to stop the music, they would still have accomplished what they set out to do if Bob did not play the next night. Marley decided he had to show the nation's people and the government that he had overcome this tragic event. Bob arrived at the venue to play for an audience of eighty thousand people. Once on stage Bob offered a different tribute to the sea of faces, «When me decided ta do dis yere concert two anna 'alf months ago, me was told dere was no politics. I jus' wanted ta play fe da love of da people.» Unable to play his guitar because of his arm injury, Marley said that he would sing «one song.» He there after played what would end up being a ninety-minute tour de force opening with «War.» By opening with the song «War» Bob took a song that was originally an anthem for non-violent protests against oppression, and used the song to exemplify the violence that was taken on him. A few weeks after the show Bob and the Wailers flew to London, where they took up residence for a short period of time. Marley's presence added the collective energy in a city which artistic life was undergoing a profound shift through the channel of punk. While staying in London Bob had changed his mind; after having heard the Clash for the first time, he saw the importance of the punk movement. He admired their spunky courage and anger in the face of England's social stratification and class-based economic oppression. He also admired the help that the Clash and other punk bands were giving to East and West Indians, who were being haunted in the streets by disciples of the neo-fascist National Front. After the social movements he experienced in London Bob went on to record «Punky Reggae Part», this becoming the definitive celebration of the punk-reggae fusion that was taking place in 1976. In this tiny eleven year period of time Bob proved to be a true rebel, a visionary, an uncompromising victor of human rights. Bob Marley rose from the slums of Trenchtown, Jamaica, to make reggae music and celebrate his own message of rebellion, self-determination, and the power of the individual, a spiritual and political force throughout the world.


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