Slurred Speech

In the small town of Miyanoshita in the Hakone Area (close to Mount Fuji) there are limited eating options. Many people come here to stay at the Fujiya Hotel, enjoy the surrounding nature and relax from the city life. Mount Fuji is right at the doorstep here and if you are lucky and the weather is clear, you can see this mountain in all its glory. We stayed at the Fujiya Hotel but were not in the mood to pay for the pricey meals here. Hotel staff recommended several options around the hotel. The tempura restaurant was the only one open on this evening so we went there …

It is located just ’round the corner and uphill from the Fujiya Hotel (to be exact). The sign says “Tenpura” and it is lit up at night luckily. You have to walk up a flight of stairs before you enter the small restaurant. It was obviously a family run operation. The mother took orders, the father prepared the tempura and the daughter worked in the kitchen … well … maybe they were not related at all … It was close to closing time and we needed to order quickly. As with any place in Japan, we were thankful for picture menus. We selected several shrimp tempura entrees which were around fifteen dollars each. We sat at a table close to the counter. Behind the counter we saw a very intense chef preparing the batter, selecting the shrimp carefully, dropping it in the hot oil afterwards … Rarely have we seen this kind of focus in a tempura restaurant. Shrimp was served in a sweet sauce over rice. It was sooooo gooood. We immediately proclaimed this restaurant as having the best tempura in the world. The batter was just right, it was hot, the shrimp was large and fresh, the atmosphere genuine Japanese. We have tried tempura in many other places but this was just the best …

So, if you ever find yourself in Miyanoshita, ask where the Tempura place is with the “Tenpura” sign. Go in there for some really good tempura. Enjoy yourself and relax. Very authentic, very good and very recommended.

Tenpura
Turn left from reception and go uphill from the Fujiya Hotel
Miyanoshita, Japan

Michael Philip is one of the editors and contributors for the SeeTheGlobe.com web site. SeeTheGlobe.com is a travel information web site and community. Reviews of restaurants, hotels, airlines and other travel resources are provided from first hand accounts.

Children love playing the happy tunes of the Christmas season. This is the time of the year to let your children play the songs they love to hear, and they will love music even more.

I know you have probably heard that Christmas song so many times before. But it’s new to your young child in piano! So let him or her play the Twelve Days of Christmas one more time. Believe it or not, this is part of the learning process for kids. My son was about 8 years old when the movie Home Alone came out, and he really enjoyed it. He must have played “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” on the piano about a gazillion times. We loved hearing it every time…well almost every time.

Here’s how you can take advantage of your child’s holiday-music exuberance. Introduce your child to more brand new holiday experiences. Take them to see a Christmas Musical or Ballet. Then continue to expose your child to valuable musical experiences throughout the year. This will broaden their appreciation for music and the study of music. In this way when their piano teacher introduces them to another great piece of music, instead of saying, “I’ve never heard that before. I’m not sure if I like it.” They’ll say, “Oh wow! I’ve heard that song before when my family went to see……”

Children love to play the tunes they have already heard and can associate positive experiences with. Familiarity is comforting to children. It makes learning a new piece of music easier for them. The best way to broaden your child’s musical repertoire is to expand their musical experience. The more exposure they have to music, the more comfortable they will be with learning new pieces.

Here’s a great way to get the most out of your child’s enthusiasm for music this holiday season and throughout the year. Put season tickets to the Performing Arts such as the Symphony, the Ballet, or your local Children’s Theatre in their Christmas stocking! You’ll be giving them a gift that will keep on giving through the year - and for a lifetime.

For great home piano activities parents can use to help children ages 5 to 11 develop their musical talent, visit Piano Adventure Bears Music Education Resources You’ll find a treasure box filled with piano resources to create an exciting musical adventure for your child - right in your own home! Visit their website and subscribe to their f’ree internet newsletter so you can download f’ree piano sheet music and mp3s of original piano compositions.

These exciting stories, games, piano lessons, and inspirational gifts feature the Piano Adventure Bears, Mrs. Treble Beary and her new piano student, Albeart Littlebud. Young students follow along with Albeart to learn what piano lessons are all about in a fun way that kids readily understand appreciate. Click here to visit PianoAdventureBears.com For a wealth of information about piano lessons, visit tallypiano.com

Renaissance costumes will easily take you back in time, where the costumes and accessories allow you to feel that the medieval era is alive once again!

Finding some of the greatest renaissance century costume clothing available to you online will easily accentuate the historical period of your chosen century for your next Halloween or renaissance themed party.

The era of new beginning and the medieval century has fashioned some of the most unique and exciting costumes that can easily motivate the women to use their imagination!

They can truly enjoy the experience of playing the role of a romantic queen of her kingdom, or feel elegant in a princess period costume as she searches for her prince charming.

Women will look stunning in their flowing velvet renaissance gowns, with the costume accessories of lace, corsets, jewelry, and of course, their choice of Elizabethan wigs!

For the noble men, the party empire is ready to be conquered; by wearing their period costume armour and their choice of masculine long flowing robes, all the lords great renaissance men will look dashing while celebrating at their local Halloween tavern!

Renaissance History Also Holds Gothic Tales Of Witches & Vampires!

Even though many of the renaissance century costumes may focus more on the Robin Hoods and the good over evil Wizards, for the individuals that enjoy having an evil side don’t you worry, because there is a great selection of renaissance pirate, witch, and sexy wench outfits available online!

This season, many of the online costume suppliers have introduced some brand new lines of renaissance halloween costumes with a wide variety of medieval accessories that will complement your choice of character.

You will find brand new this season: The attractive Regal Princess costume, which is a beautiful blue maiden dress, Merlin the Court Magician outfit, and last but not least, the new Regal King collection, the perfect costume for Halloween Royalty!

About the author: William is the owner and the author of “1st In Halloween Costumes” available at
www.1st-in-halloween-costumes.com A great source for Adult Halloween Costumes online! You can easily find and compare halloween sites offering quality adult renaissance costumes, sexy adult wench costumes, medieval costumes in many styles, and great renaissance accessories to go with your selected outfit.

The Swiss Riviera is located on the shores of Lake Leman stretching from Geneva
which is 99 km to the south and Montreux to the north east. With an abundance of
sailboats dotting its shores, Lake Leman is the biggest fresh water lake in Western
Europe and a pearl for travelers visiting Switzerland.

Most of French-speaking Switzerland is so appealing because it barely registers on
the package tour circuit. You can swap a bus full of Japanese tourists shopping for
cuckoo clocks in Lucern for a hillside of blooming narcissi or a wine village with
spell-binding views and a deep blue-green gleam along Lake Leman.

Make your first glimpse of the Swiss Riviera, a playground for the rich and famous,
from the window of a Panoramic train as it descends the snow-capped Alps upon
French-style farmhouses adorned with terraced vineyards just beside you and Lake
Leman.

Lake Leman possesses such grace with its calm azure waters and graceful swans
patrolling underneath the medieval Chillon Castle. However, Chillon’s history is no
fairytale. During Switzerland’s witchcraft purges, dozens of women were tortured
here while many others were incarcerated. Lord Bryon, who visited in 1816, wrote an
epic poem about Francois Bonivard, the prisoner chained in the dungeons of
Chillon.

Steep mountains and vineyards terraces mirror in the crystal clear waters of the
lake, providing a feeling of complete harmony and relaxation. Discover the unique
terraced vineyards of the wine growing village of Lavaux which represents the
culture of the region. Why not take a stroll along exceptional landscape away from
the road traffic and into ever changing colors of the over 50 vineyards alongside
Lake Leman.

Montreux is one of those places that seem to hold a certain tantalizing magic. With
a sought after and mild microclimate, Montreux is spectacularly located at the
shores of Lake Leman with the afternoon sunshine streaming across the lake.
Visitors can marvel at a wide variety of well kept tropical plants lining the scenic ten
km lakeside walk.

Lake Leman’s summers are definitely Riviera-like, reaching a sweltering 95 F in mid
July. Be sure to cool off at one of the many beaches and regattas in the summer
months, surrounded on all sides by the Swiss and French Alps. Relatively speaking,
winters can be quite mild, which explains the terraced vineyards and infamous
banana and palm trees along the lakeshore.

Take a day trip on a classic Pullman rail car to the medieval village of Gruyere where
you will witness cheese making demonstrations the traditional way. In the
afternoon, enjoy Nestle’s Callier chocolate factory located in Broc where you can
indulge in the taste of pure chocolate heaven.

In high summer, ferries ply between the lakeside villages, spending much of your
time afloat on the lake. Ferries also go to such areas as Geneva bound for Yvoire
and Lausanne bound for Evian (source of the famous bottled water) in France. Such
cultural attractions as the Nestle food museum and farmers markets open along the
shores every Saturday to shoppers.

Ernest Hemingway, Charlie Chaplin, Noel Coward, Shania Twain and Freddy Mercury
all owned homes in Montreux and neighboring Vevey. Charlie Chaplin spent the last
25 years of his life in Vevey, with a statue of him along the lakefront. One can only
bask on a terrace at sunset and marvel at the huge expanse of green land and
presence of mountains beyond.

While the Swiss Riviera is in some ways passe these days, new luxurious wellness
centers have sprung along its shores to entice visitors to come rest and play. Come
relax at such wellness centers as the Amrita Wellness Center at Le Montreux Palace,
the Givenchy Spa at Le Mirador, the Puressens Spat at Hotel Trois Couronnes in
Vevey and La Reserve Hotel and Spa in Geneva. Switzerland is renewing its spa
reputation and millions have been spent to create everything you could possibly
need to de-stress, detox, lose weight, tone up and bring mind and body back to
optimal health.

It’s quite easy to understand why once you catch a glimpse of the ambling quai des
fleurs among the neighboring towns and villages you will never want to leave its
beauty. You’d never tire of the ever changing panorama of lakes, alpine pinnacles,
and twinkling villages. Best of all, within a half-an-hour you can be high in the
mountainous Alps enjoy various winter sports.

The people of the Swiss Riviera are very International. Don’t worry if your French is a
little rusty, as they are English friendly (among Switzerland’s four national
languages) and are happy to answer your questions. Make the Swiss Riviera your
ideal spot for your next vacation at any time of the year.

Jennifer Schilling has lived abroad in Switzerland and traveled Europe extensively.

Come check out here traveling tips at http://www.expatraveler.com/.

Yesterday I had a chance to meet Bruce Poon Tip, owner and CEO of G.A.P Adventures, one of Canada’s most successful travel entrepreneurs. You may wonder, what is he like? Bruce is the owner of Canada’s largest adventure travel company, an attractive man of about 37 years of age, dressed in casual attire and not afraid to speak off the cuff. Certainly a charismatic personality who was able to captivate last night’s capacity crowd at the G.A.P. concept store in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood.

In 1990 Bruce went on an organized backpacking trip to Thailand where he had a chance to explore the people and the country on $10.00 a day. This experience gave him the idea to create G.A.P Adventures, today Canada’s largest adventure travel company that now sells thousands of different trips and annually sends 40,000 passengers on their own small-group adventures. G.A.P has about 300 employees today, headquartered in Toronto, with operational offices in various countries of Latin America. It’s most recent endeavours are the G.A.P concept stores which have recently been opened in high-traffic areas in Toronto and Vancouver, places where travellers can research their adventure trip, get more information about their desired destination and book their once-in-a-lifetime experience supported by good advice with no sales pressure.

For his entrepreneurial savvy Bruce has won numerous awards, besides receiving an award as one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40, Bruce has been also been honoured as one of Canada’s top 5 entrepreneurs by Canadian Business as well as Canada’s 100 leaders of tomorrow. Profit Magazine named him in their 20th anniversary issue cover story as one of Canada’s Top 10 Entrepreneurs of the last 20 years. Bruce also received the Global Traders Leadership award from the government for his ground breaking ideas in exporting services.

Recently Bruce was asked by the World Bank and UNESCO to represent a team to visit the Peoples Republic Of China to lecture on Sustainable Development. In January of 2002 Bruce was the only Canadian operator invited to speak at the United Nations Launch of the Year Of Eco Tourism in New York. Bruce defied the odds once again last year by winning Canada’s prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year, as well as the National Citation for Entrepreneurship.

G.A.P’s additional awards include having two trips chosen among the TOP 25 Adventures in the World by National Geographic Adventure magazine, the Ethics in Action Award, the Global Traders Award and the Clean Air Commute Award for five straight years.

Although a consummate business man, Bruce Poon Tip has a conscience and he has founded his entire entreprise on the concept of sustainability and established travel practices that show consideration of natural surroundings and local cultures. By limiting the travel group size to 12 people, by taking local transportation and staying in small, locally owned hotels and guesthouses, G.A.P travellers are able to minimize their footprint in foreign communities and get maximum exposure to local culture.

Planeterra is a non-profit organization founded by G.A.P to give back. Today Planeterra raises funds for a number of community projects, international charities and an endowment fund to ensure long-term support of community development and conservation projects for years to come. Some of the community projects that G.A.P sponsors through donations include a community school in Ecuador, a foundation in Honduras to help women start their own businesses, an NGO in Costa Rica for environmental and wildlife conservation projects, a local battery recycling project in Chile, a drop-in center for street children in Cuczo, Peru, and many more. G.A.P Adventures itself also initiated a Women’s Weaving Project in Peru that taught local women ancient weaving techniques as well as natural fabric dye processes. Today all G.A.P travel groups visiting the Sacred Valley in Peru have a chance to see and purchase high quality textiles produced by these weavers, all sold at fair trade prices.

As another example of the innovativeness of his company, Bruce shared with us the story of how he went out to purchase the “Explorer”, the world’s first purpose-built expedition cruise ship. In March of 2004 Bruce went on an expedition cruise through the Antarctic and fell in love with the experience. He figured he need to buy his own expedition cruise ship and started looking for suitable vessels. In April of 2004 he found the “Explorer”, a historic expedition ship with a capacity of 112 passengers and a crew of 60 people. The ship had been docked in Genoa, Italy, for many months due to the financial problems of its owners. Just another 2 months later, but after many complications, G.A.P took possession of the ship. Only another 4 months later, after extensive restorations, the Explorer went on its inaugural journey and today offers expedition cruises to such unique places as Antarctica, the Amazon, Spitzbergen, and Greenland. (Incidentally, G.A.P. has agreed to sponsor our first Travel Story Contest and the grand prize winner of our contest will win an exciting adventure cruise on the Amazon in the Explorer - all thanks to G.A.P. Adventures.)

G.A.P’s innovative business ideas don’t end here. G.A.P also has a travel TV Show: Great Adventure People TV shows viewers the world - G.A.P Adventures style. The camera accompanies small groups of G.A.P Adventure travellers and follows them on unique G.A.P. adventure trips- cycling through the fascinating country of Vietnam, exploring exotic Morocco, and hiking, biking and rafting through captivating Spain and Italy. New episodes can be seen in Canada on CTV and will soon also be available in Great Britain on the UK Travel Channel.

G.A.P is a unique company, with a unique philosophy and a unique way of operating. I am looking forward to interviewing Bruce personally and to finding out how he is able to combine a successful high-growth adventure travel business with his dedication to social causes and sustainable travel. Stay tuned for some interesting insights into a brilliant entrepreneurial mind….

Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions(http://www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the transitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest(http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

“Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons”.

The article with photos is published at Travel and Transitions - Interviews

Landlords and rehabbers take notice - you may soon be focused on the new concepts of “Virtual Real Estate Investing“. There are many variations on what this term means, encompassing everything from using the internet to aid in real estate investing efforts to participating in online games such as SecondLife.

In order to figure out the truth of the matter, I sought out Bryan Ellis, whose experience in the fledgling industry is truly impressive.

When I began using the term virtual real estate investing in the late 1990s, I did so because I saw clear parallels between the strategies used for profiting from physical real estate and those that would create income in the online world, said Ellis.

An example of the similar nature of “virtual” and “physical” real estate Bryan Ellis likes to point out is the methods of making a profit from domain names compared to physical real estate. He points out that control of a domain name or even a specific web page is much like controlling a real estate property ” those assets can be monetized in similar ways: By selling them for a profit, by leasing them, by offering advertising, etc.

I must admit: Its easy to see the parallels. For example, if you’re the owner of a desirable property, its desirability is (in a business context) largely due to its being in a location that is of interest to others. Similarly, ownership of a desirable domain name is valuable for the same reasons. In either case, you could sell or lease the asset and turn it into cash.

In our next installment of this series on virtual real estate investing, Bryan Ellis will share the internet analogies to the physical concept of real estate development.

When you look at the Mayan Temples and cliff Dwellings and the incredible artifacts and ruins at Machu Picchu, you have to ask yourself a few questions. Number one in the case of the high altitude of the Machu Picchu deal and the Cliff Dwellings in the mountain away from all predators, etc. A fortress so to speak. You have to come away with the question why. What were they hiding from? Hostile members of their own species, other tribes. Some have talked about aliens. Others about wild animals, some about plagues. Having watched the weather for some time and realizing the incredible droughts and fires that exist in some of these places, caused generally from lightening. Perhaps some of this is weather related. Where did they go? Well perhaps they went to where the water was, since we know from looking at present times that water does not always flow in the areas of the cliff dwellings in NM and CO.

http://www.nps.gov/cach/

This whole area built up from 350 AD to about 1330 AD. Why did they leave? Some 50,000 sites in all times the number of people per area, which had to be a huge population of people. If you have a flourishing culture and all of a sudden in 1150 most all left. Some 100,000 sites are expected to be under the ground and around Four Corners. Were the Indians hiding from warring tribes in defense? Look at Keitsu (Sp?)in AZ, you cannot even get there and the place is literally in brand new condition still to this day. These people built this in 1270 approximately and then they too left. WHY? Attackers? I say it was drought, worse even than we are having throughout NM, CO, AZ, and Western NE, KA, OK, SD, ND and TX. And also in MT, WY. They needed food too; with that population they had to have a problem with growing and hunting food. They must have migrated. BY 1300s the entire civilization gone. Then of course the high plains of Indians in South America, who made pictures in the dirt. And for those who claim it could not be aliens, then why would a tribe, the Nausca move thousands of tons of dirt around where the weather gets above 120 degrees. Now they also used a canal system and a makeshift ditches, aqueducts and wells so they could farm.

Many of the subterranean water supply had lines pointing towards them, could they be trying to alert the water gods as to where the water was at so they would let it rain and the Nausca could use it for agriculture? The lines being made with groves, forming line art and pictures which can be seen even in the upper atmosphere and a trained eye can see them from orbit if you know where to look. Some started in 100 BC when they were drawn and did it for 1000 years. But the Paracas did this too and they started 400 years before about 500 BC. Now mind you in times of 500 BC in Europe no such encounters were written about in the history of what we know, but it appears from the multiple gods of the day and most modernized cultures and societies of the time did participate in tributes to the gods of what we might call Mother Nature. Similar to the gods of wind and fire and water of the Native Indians of these various regions.

In the US and I recommend a visit to Mesa Verde, Canyon de Chelly to see what I mean about the cliff dwellings and lightening, fires and water supply. As well as the great fortress like setting. These dwellings built out of sand stone are still very strong and magnificent and only a few have been covered by landslides. One can only imagine the empire of the Anastasa Indian Civilization. One of the exhibits called “the great house” some 400 rooms, Chaco center.

Think about it 1 million lbs. of dirt were moved. Some 2500 trees used, without being dragged, perhaps from 80 miles away. There were actually roads leading into Chaco Canyon. All this in 850 AD. Let us look at other cultures such as in Afghanistan and the underground tunnels and aqueducts and rivers. These types of issues are global. A period of no water, supreme droughts, over taxed and depleted soil, over population for hunting the number of migratory and year round domestic animals. Lack of water, fires, and food and when territorial issues happen from lack of supplies, you have the strong surviving over the weak. The warriors take over and the civilization collapses.

“Lance Winslow” - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

There are so many vacations you can take within the world today but there are some places more suited for couples who want to not only explore their attraction for each other but explore an island founded on love itself.

Cyprus is not only the third largest island in the Mediterranean it is also the fabled birthplace of Aphrodite the goddess of love. Throughout the ages travelers have stopped in Cyprus to experience the awe and wonder of its timeless beauty and mystique. It offers ancient castle ruins and many other archeological wonders as well as the enchantment of its hot springs and coves. The beauty is unspeakable and the intrigue will remain within you for a lifetime.

As a perfect spot for honeymoons, the island of Cyprus offers couples many alone and group activities. Stay in your luxurious hotel room the whole time and take advantage of the island’s great hospitality. You can also just admire the view from your window or go out and see the sites. Cyprus is sure to please.

The recent Cyprus island tourist initiative has been improving the island of Cyprus to accommodate travelers from all over the world. They have been building more hotels and attractions for families. There are many different aspects of Cyprus that you can enjoy like a ride through the countryside on bikes or mopeds. You can also spend your time hiking, sailing, snorkeling or swimming. The locals are very friendly and accepting to tourists as well.

Let the crystal clear waters of Cyprus be your next vacation destination and remember to bring your camera. There are breathtaking pictures that will become a priceless part of your collection as you look back on the best time you have ever had in the Mediterranean.

Not only is Cyprus great for couples, but for the singles as well. Singles also visit the island of Cyprus in towns where bars are the main attraction. Once occupied by troops, these singles spots are great for drinking, partying and carousing with locals and of course your travel mates.

As a great vacation spot all year round, people flock to this island for the sites, people and atmosphere. It seems that there is much to discover in Cyprus whether you are single or spoken for, so book a trip to the island and you may become like so many others who choose to visit again and again.

As a frequent traveler, Ruben Soliman is experienced in various vacation sites. For further information on Cyprus hotel accommodations, check out http://www.bookcyprus.com You can also rent a car all in one place.

The province of New Brunswick is located on the east coast of Canada. There are about 757,100 people living in the province of New Brunswick. They have the 8th most people in Canada by province. The people of New Brunswick speak mostly English, but a lot of people are bilingual, this province is the only officially bilingual province in Canada. Most of the people living here are either French or English descend.

This province offers so much to do, the ocean I my favorite. I just enjoy sitting on the beach taking in the sights and sounds in. It’s a big break from the sounds of cars from city life that I am used to. There is a lot of fishing tours that you can do and also site see tours that you can enjoy. I have to say this is nature at its best. There is a lot of history out here, buildings, historic parks, all of which reflect Canada’s past. The seafood food is unbelievable, so fresh and there is so much of it. Here are some neat restaurants to try, Stage Left, Soho, Makeda’s, and The Frog and The Peach.

Quick facts -Largest city Saint John -Population 757 100 8th in Canada -4th Province Admittance into Confederation on Date July 1, 1867 -Only officially bilingual province in Canada

So get out and take a vacation to one of Canada’s beautiful east coast province, and enjoy the food, the people, and the sites.

Whether you’re leaving the city heading to the Mammoth Mountain/Lake Tahoe High Sierra country for its beauty and relaxation, or planning that ski trip from Scottsdale to Snowbowl, here are some tips for a safe and pleasant journey. Be sure to see also Part 2: “Don’t get in Trouble, but if you do –.”

Driving in winter conditions tests your car to the limit. If something isn’t working properly under the best conditions it certainly isn’t going to work when it’s cold and stormy.

Check weather and travel conditions before heading out. Don’t take chances if the weather is bad. Don’t drive when there are whiteouts, freezing rain or blizzards. Leave early to allow extra time to get to your destination. Buckle up; always use your belt. This means all passengers and children, too.

Whenever starting your car, make sure that there is nothing obstructing the tailpipe, and never warm up your car in a closed garage.

If you feel tired, pull off the road and rest!

Check engine oil, especially before long trips. Use winter weight (5W-30) or all-season oil.

Check tire pressure, tire condition, and spare tire pressure regularly. Tires lose on the average 1 pound per month through normal leakage.

Inspect the belts and hoses to be sure they are free from frays, cracks, leaks or rotted rubber. Make sure that radiator hose clamps are tight in order to prevent leaks at the connections.

Be sure all lights are in good working order, and that your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition.

Have a mechanic check the battery and charging system. Keep battery terminals clean, tight, free of corrosion, and dry. If you find that you need a new battery, get the biggest that will fit in your car.

Keep the windshield and windows clear. Change to winter wiper blades, which are made for driving in snow. Check windshield washer fluid level. It’s a good idea to keep some extra fluid in the trunk in case you run out. Make sure you get fluid appropriate for the lowest temperature you will experience.

Check coolant level and mixture. Make certain the antifreeze will protect your car to the lowest winter temperature you’ll be exposed to where you will be driving.

Keep the gas tank as full as possible. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm, or you may be caught in a traffic delay. If you get stranded, the engine will be your only source of heat. (Make sure you keep a window open a crack if you’re sitting there with the engine running.)

Always keep an updated map of your route, an extra car key in your pocket, and a cell phone and small change or a calling card for a payphone.

It’s a good idea to keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle: blanket, hats, boots, gloves, change of clothing, small broom, ice scraper, small snow shovel, towel, flashlight, batteries, kitty litter or burlap for traction, jumper cables, a tool kit, tire chains, a properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod-type jack. Additional items for the trunk include a Help sign to put in your window, brightly-colored cloth, a compass, first aid kit, wooden matches in a waterproof container, scissors, string, and canned food along with a can opener.

Always carry chains. Sandbags in the trunk over the rear axle will provide better traction in rear wheel vehicles. Use winter tires. They improve driving safety by providing better traction and handling through snow, slush, and on ice, but never mix tires of different tread, size and construction. Because of winter’s lower temperatures, the air pressure in tires will drop. Check tires after driving a short distance to warm them up for an accurate reading. Adding air to cold tires can result in over-inflated tires when they warm up.

It can take ten times longer to stop in icy conditions than on a dry road. Don’t get overconfident with four-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive helps you get going quicker but it won’t help you stop any faster. Drive slowly, allowing extra room to slow down and stop. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Maneuver gently, avoiding harsh braking and acceleration.

If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes, do not pump them. To avoid skids, brake carefully and gently on snow or ice. “Squeeze” your brakes in slow, steady strokes. Allow the wheels to keep rolling. If they start to lock up, ease off the brake pedal. As you slow down, you may also want to shift gently into a lower gear.

Be careful when approaching shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses, as these sections of road freeze much sooner in cold weather and stay frozen long after the sun has risen. Don’t use your cruise control or overdrive when it’s freezing (or colder). Even roads that appear clear can have isolated slippery spots and the quick touch of your brakes to deactivate cruise control can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. With overdrive, as you encounter a hill your vehicle automatically accelerates or downshifts, which can cause loss of traction.

So, whether you’re to stay at Scot tsdale, an Aspen resort and spa, or a luxury Vail hotel, there’s much more involved than just finding discounted hotel accommodations; be sure to plan a safe and pleasant trip!

(See also Part 2: “Don’t get in Trouble, but if you do –.”)