Posted by admin on February 24th, 2010

A well fact amongst the trading community is that 90 percent of investors lose money in futures and Forex tradin! This leaves 10%, which is then broken down to 4-6 percent break even and only 4-6 percent make money.

What Group Are YOU in?

 Given the high numbers of clients that are unsuccessful, it is all the more important for investors to approach futures and forex trading in the right manner. So we have put together some rules that hopefully help you become a more successful trader.

Secret 1: Trade with Money you can afford to Lose

Now that you have decided to get involved in trading, sit down and asses how much money am I going to trade, investor, speculate on the market with. I understand that this is trading and therefore there is the chance that I can lose my money.  

Secret 2: It’s Not how many trades: Do not OVERTRADE  

So many new traders come to the market thinking, I am going to pick 8 winners out of 10 and make all of this money. Well it is possible to pick more winners but still lose on the market. Why because of risk and money management, so always put in equal amounts per trade. Eg: if you have $20,000 to trade, break it up into $2,000 trades, this will help with you staying in much longer and increasing your success to become a successful or a full time trader.

Secret 3: Run with the profits, and cut those losers.  

If a trade goes against you, remember to cut it. No one can pick the market 100% of the time, so don’t think you are different. If the trade is going the wrong way cut it. Re look at the trade, there is going to be plenty more. Once they start going up, let them go, who knows how high they go. Remember always use trailing stop losses.

Secret 4: Feel Like you can’t pick your nose- Have a Break

It can be possible that you are just not picking the market right or there are strange market conditions if this is the case take a break. Walk away and then come back and look again.

Secret 5: Work like an Egyptian build pyramids

As the market moves up and you are long much earlier, you must learn not to double up your positions. Instead, reduce your positions each time you add to a position. If at first you had 10 contracts, the second should not be more than 5-6 contracts and the third should be 50% of your second (i.e. 3 contracts). An upside down pyramid will be top heavy and could wipe out all your hard-earned profits should the market reverse.

Secret 6 : Don’t Double Down- It just compounds losses

If  start to add to a losing position by averaging down this is going to be very dangerous. Remember you are investing with “margin”. The contract is not yours; you merely paid a percentage of the total value. Averaging a losing position is equivalent to not admitting your mistakes, that you were wrong in the first place. Successful traders cut their losses short and realize that you can’t get 100% of winning trades. We all try, but we can’t. So cut losses.

Secret 7: WHO wants to be a millionaire? Don’t Put it all in One Trade

Use risk and money management to protect your capital, divide your trading capital into 10 equal parts and never lose more than 10 percent on one trade. If you lost the first trade, you still have nine more opportunities to be right. Putting all your capital on one trade is suicidal and you will go down.

Secret 8: NEVER MEET MARGIN CALLS – CUT THE $hit- Saves you Money

When you are wrong about the market, get out, admit it and move on. Once you start thinking, very often prices will go against your position, further triggering a margin call from your broker. A margin call simply means that you are wrong in the market and your position should be closed out. Margin calls are made because people do not want to admit being wrong and take a loss; they hope the market will eventually go in their direction and that they will get there money back. It will come back, I am not wrong. Yes you are.. Get out.  To avoid this mistake, you should never meet margin calls. Just cut your losses and “get the hell out”.

Secret 9: Transfer Profits

Probably no more than 1% of traders have a rule to take profits out of their trading account. The few wise investors I know have bought their house, a car or simply put part of their winnings into a fixed deposit account, or into some long term shares, otherwise the chances are high that they may lose them all back.

Secret 10: James Blunt knows- Baby because I’ve got a plan… Make a Plan

Lack of planning can only result in no plan, and without a plan you are gambling.  Look at getting advice, from stock market reports, www.cfdfxreport.com  look finding a great stock broker, use this site to see who they recommend.  

HELP HINTS:
Most traders should listen to the Kenny Rogers song The Gambler, there are aspects of that song that can learn from, mainly, know when to hold them, know when to fold them, and know when to ‘cut’ RUN

1. Know when and at what price you are going to enter the market.
2. Know how much money you are going to risk on each and every trade.
3. Know when and at what price you are going to get out when you are wrong.
4. Know when and at what price you are going to take your profits if you are right.
5. Know how much money you are going to make if you are right.
6. Have a safety stop in case the market does the unexpected.
7. Have an approximate idea of when the market should meet your objectives or when it should begin to make a move; and if it has not done so, get out.

FINAL WRAP UP

One of the most important things to take away are set a plan, has your risk and money management plan in front of you and stick to it. If you have that plan and it doesn’t work, re plan, that’s why if you start small you can soon build up to be whatever trader you want to be.

Happy Trading

About the Author

CFD FX Report is a real time tool for clients with an interest in the trading of stocks, indices and commodities globally.CFDs (Contracts For Differences) are one of the worlds’ fastest growing trading instruments that allows clients to profit from a rising and falling market. The CFD FX Report is a company comprising of expert traders that analyse the market daily and are able to make recommendations for the following day trades based on this analysis. The CFD FX Report is released everyday at 6.30 p.m. (Singapore time) for review by the clients for the next trading day.
We provide sms and email service for our trade ideas as well as full member support. The trading tool that traders needs. Free 1 week trial

singapore trader
http://www.articlesbase.com/currency-trading-articles/i-have-a-secret-read-these-ten-secrets-685402.html

Posted by admin on February 22nd, 2010

A well fact amongst the trading community is that 90 percent of investors lose money in futures and Forex tradin! This leaves 10%, which is then broken down to 4-6 percent break even and only 4-6 percent make money.

What Group Are YOU in?

 Given the high numbers of clients that are unsuccessful, it is all the more important for investors to approach futures and forex trading in the right manner. So we have put together some rules that hopefully help you become a more successful trader.

Secret 1: Trade with Money you can afford to Lose

Now that you have decided to get involved in trading, sit down and asses how much money am I going to trade, investor, speculate on the market with. I understand that this is trading and therefore there is the chance that I can lose my money.  

Secret 2: It’s Not how many trades: Do not OVERTRADE  

So many new traders come to the market thinking, I am going to pick 8 winners out of 10 and make all of this money. Well it is possible to pick more winners but still lose on the market. Why because of risk and money management, so always put in equal amounts per trade. Eg: if you have $20,000 to trade, break it up into $2,000 trades, this will help with you staying in much longer and increasing your success to become a successful or a full time trader.

Secret 3: Run with the profits, and cut those losers.  

If a trade goes against you, remember to cut it. No one can pick the market 100% of the time, so don’t think you are different. If the trade is going the wrong way cut it. Re look at the trade, there is going to be plenty more. Once they start going up, let them go, who knows how high they go. Remember always use trailing stop losses.

Secret 4: Feel Like you can’t pick your nose- Have a Break

It can be possible that you are just not picking the market right or there are strange market conditions if this is the case take a break. Walk away and then come back and look again.

Secret 5: Work like an Egyptian build pyramids

As the market moves up and you are long much earlier, you must learn not to double up your positions. Instead, reduce your positions each time you add to a position. If at first you had 10 contracts, the second should not be more than 5-6 contracts and the third should be 50% of your second (i.e. 3 contracts). An upside down pyramid will be top heavy and could wipe out all your hard-earned profits should the market reverse.

Secret 6 : Don’t Double Down- It just compounds losses

If  start to add to a losing position by averaging down this is going to be very dangerous. Remember you are investing with “margin”. The contract is not yours; you merely paid a percentage of the total value. Averaging a losing position is equivalent to not admitting your mistakes, that you were wrong in the first place. Successful traders cut their losses short and realize that you can’t get 100% of winning trades. We all try, but we can’t. So cut losses.

Secret 7: WHO wants to be a millionaire? Don’t Put it all in One Trade

Use risk and money management to protect your capital, divide your trading capital into 10 equal parts and never lose more than 10 percent on one trade. If you lost the first trade, you still have nine more opportunities to be right. Putting all your capital on one trade is suicidal and you will go down.

Secret 8: NEVER MEET MARGIN CALLS – CUT THE $hit- Saves you Money

When you are wrong about the market, get out, admit it and move on. Once you start thinking, very often prices will go against your position, further triggering a margin call from your broker. A margin call simply means that you are wrong in the market and your position should be closed out. Margin calls are made because people do not want to admit being wrong and take a loss; they hope the market will eventually go in their direction and that they will get there money back. It will come back, I am not wrong. Yes you are.. Get out.  To avoid this mistake, you should never meet margin calls. Just cut your losses and “get the hell out”.

Secret 9: Transfer Profits

Probably no more than 1% of traders have a rule to take profits out of their trading account. The few wise investors I know have bought their house, a car or simply put part of their winnings into a fixed deposit account, or into some long term shares, otherwise the chances are high that they may lose them all back.

Secret 10: James Blunt knows- Baby because I’ve got a plan… Make a Plan

Lack of planning can only result in no plan, and without a plan you are gambling.  Look at getting advice, from stock market reports, www.cfdfxreport.com  look finding a great stock broker, use this site to see who they recommend.  

HELP HINTS:
Most traders should listen to the Kenny Rogers song The Gambler, there are aspects of that song that can learn from, mainly, know when to hold them, know when to fold them, and know when to ‘cut’ RUN

1. Know when and at what price you are going to enter the market.
2. Know how much money you are going to risk on each and every trade.
3. Know when and at what price you are going to get out when you are wrong.
4. Know when and at what price you are going to take your profits if you are right.
5. Know how much money you are going to make if you are right.
6. Have a safety stop in case the market does the unexpected.
7. Have an approximate idea of when the market should meet your objectives or when it should begin to make a move; and if it has not done so, get out.

FINAL WRAP UP

One of the most important things to take away are set a plan, has your risk and money management plan in front of you and stick to it. If you have that plan and it doesn’t work, re plan, that’s why if you start small you can soon build up to be whatever trader you want to be.

Happy Trading

About the Author

CFD FX Report is a real time tool for clients with an interest in the trading of stocks, indices and commodities globally.CFDs (Contracts For Differences) are one of the worlds’ fastest growing trading instruments that allows clients to profit from a rising and falling market. The CFD FX Report is a company comprising of expert traders that analyse the market daily and are able to make recommendations for the following day trades based on this analysis. The CFD FX Report is released everyday at 6.30 p.m. (Singapore time) for review by the clients for the next trading day.
We provide sms and email service for our trade ideas as well as full member support. The trading tool that traders needs. Free 1 week trial

singapore trader
http://www.articlesbase.com/day-trading-articles/victoria-has-nice-secrets-what-are-the-day-trading-secrets-685404.html

Posted by admin on February 20th, 2010

There are many reasons why people need self storage. They range from creating more space for living to temporarily having no home at all. The reasons also vary from country to country. Let’s examine some of the main reasons why people need and use self storage.

Selling a home:

Self storage can be of great use when selling your home. It is not a well kept secret that the less cluttered your home is the more spacious it appears. This appearance of extra living space in your home can translate into more interested buyers and a significantly higher sale price. This is why one of the first recommendations you will receive from your real estate agent prior to putting your home on the market is to “de clutter” your home.

This often involves packing away unnecessary ornamentals, old lounges and furniture that are really not needed in the home. Some home owners even go the extreme of storing everything they own and renting newer more modern furniture and plants just for the sale period. Some self storage facilities offer a free no obligation quote at your home to accurately assess the storage space you will need and can even provide a removal solution.

People who hoard:

The desire to “hold on to things” goes back many centuries and in extreme cases can be referred to as hoarding. Hoarding is about the fear of throwing something away that you might need someday or that if thrown away will cause a problem. More recently our grand parents and great grand parents who experienced the great depression of the 1930’s have passed down the need to protect and acquire possessions that they themselves once lost. There are many examples in the self storage industry of people renting a storage space so they can continue to collect items that they can no longer store in their home.

Hoarding can cause problems in the family home due to a reduction in the actual living space. Self storage offers these customers an opportunity to clear some space at home and still fulfill their need for retaining and gathering items. Because self storage can be rented on a month by month basis it is easy for customers to increase or decrease the amount of storage space they need. It is not uncommon for individuals to have 2 or more storage units which they often visit to look through their “stuff”. Extended hours access at most storage facilities gives customers the flexibility to visit their storage units when it is convenient for them.

Building a new home:

Most people who have built a new home have done it, yes move in with in laws for a period of time while the new home is being built. However, it is quite rare that our accommodating family will have the space needed to store all our prized possessions. People using secure self storage to store all of their belongings while they build a new home is very common.

Most customers who use self storage during this period like the flexibility of month to month renting due to the uncertainty of when their new home will be completed. Customers also like the fact that they can increase their storage space at any time allowing them extra room to purchase and store new furniture for their home. Some self storage facilities will even receive deliveries of new furniture directly into your storage space on your behalf.

Due to the nature of building a home, storage for this purpose is often at least 3 to 6 months or more. Some storage facilities offer prepayment discount solutions for 3, 6, 9 and 12 months payments in advance. Alternatively you can arrange to have your payment automatically deducted each month from your credit card.

Divorce:

It is unfortunate but marriage breakdowns and high divorce rates are becoming more prevalent in today’s society. It is often the case where one person is forced to leave the family home and needs to store the items that were solely theirs. This can often include a car and the contents of the garage. Most storage facilities deal with these situations regularly with discretion and privacy. Should you need to store a car you should check with the storage facility to see if this type of space is available. Most times cars are stored in a lock up garage space but alternatively there may be opportunities to store it in a secured outside space.

Most customers in this situation have a tough emotional time and the need for storage can be sudden. A good self storage company will have trained team members who will have an empathetic and caring approach and provide a complete storage solution including quote, move and store at very short notice.

Traveling:

People often choose to travel for either work or pleasure for up to twelve months or more. With their house often unoccupied during this period they feel more secure placing their treasured possessions into a secure self storage facility. If the move overseas is work related often the company pays the bills and will require quotes. A good self storage company will be able to visit your home, provide a free quote and submit it professionally to the company responsible for making the payments.

Because 12 months is a long time you need to ensure that you save money where possible while also storing at a safe and secure location. The best way to secure the right size and price is to have an experienced self storage consultant come to your home to provide a free no obligation quote. This ensures that you will only get the space you need and will not be paying for additional unused space. Your storage consultant will be able to advise you on the best way to store your belongings for the long term and how to box and wrap them for maximum protection. Click here for information on boxes and wrapping materials. Ask your storage consultant to bring along some samples of boxes, tapes and wrapping materials to show you.

Death in the family:

It is a sad fact of life that at some stage we will all experience the death of a loved one. Many a storage consultant have had the melancholy task of assisting family members store the belongings of a deceased relative when no other options were available. Often time is needed to sort through their affairs and belongings and so a month or two of storage can relieve additional pressures during this difficult time. Storage consultants can help make this difficult task as hassle free as possible by organising everything including removal and packing with just one call.

Moving back into the family home:

So the kids leave the nest and you have all this spare room to do with what ever you want. And you do by creating a study and an entertainment area, not to mention your own in house storage area. Then 12 months later you get the phone call “Mum it has not worked out and I need to come home”. You can rustle up a bed but where is your son or daughter going to put all of their recently acquired possessions?

Self storage is the perfect solution. Because siblings often move in and out of home a few times before settling down, self storage allows them the flexibility to store their belongings just for the period required and when needed they can get it all out and move again. Some storage facilities have a free move in trailer and driver service which is very popular among young people who can’t afford removalists and have not got too much furniture to move. Big Box Free Truck and Trailer Photo

Lifestyle and hobbies:

Some people decide to use storage to improve their way of life. This is particularly the case in Asian countries where living space is at a premium and having a storage unit is just like having a garden shed. It is merely an extension of their home. While this form of storage is not as prevalent in Australia it still exists in the more densely populated cities where apartments and living space in general are smaller and more expensive.

Self storage can also provide those with elaborate hobbies the space to indulge in their favourite past times away from the mischievous hands of children or unsympathetic partners. This may include building trains and tracks, collecting and reading comics or simply storing your valuable coin or stamp collections. With extended access hours to visit your storage space, excellent security and a variety of different sized units to choose from at reasonable rates, self storage can provide that extra space you have always wanted.

So there you have it. These are some of the main reasons why people need to use self storage. The benefits of taking advantage of self storage are more than just peace of mind but often a sense of relief that your affairs are sorted and you are free to get on with living without your possessions tying you down.

For all your storage needs please contact Big Box Self Storage as we would love to help.

If you have a specific reason why you need personal storage that is different from those listed above we would like to hear about it or if you would like to provide feedback on the article then please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Big Box Self Storage
http://www.articlesbase.com/moving-and-relocating-articles/storage-ideas-700369.html

Posted by admin on February 18th, 2010

Barbados Naked

Welcome to my Barbados naked series. Here I will provide you with details of things to see and do on the island and recommend restaurants, bars and excursions that I have either experienced myself or had guests tell me just how good they really are. I hope that you find the information useful for your trip or research of the island and would be very pleased if you feel you could add anything to my information. If you do please do drop me a line at Admin@VIPvillas.com and we’ll look to add it to our ‘Barbados Naked’ feature for future readers. Please enjoy reading the articles which I will be posting weekly. The series starts this week with an introduction to Barbados, the main tourist knowledge points, some history and facts and figures.

Next week we’ll find out about restaurants and food on the island. I’ll be supplying details of the best restaurants in each town and district and giving you a flavour (if you’ll pardon the pun!) of what they offer. I’ll also detail some of the local dishes that you should try and while there.

Then comes activites. Barbados really does make the most of it’s weather. There are lots of activities to get engaged in from relaxing on the beach to the more energetic pursuits such as diving, watersports and or course golf.

Excursions follows that with a guide on what to do and when. This guide gives you all you need to know to actually ‘do it yourself’, so standby for a full breakdown of the island with contact details for excursion providers and tour operators.

You really can’t go all the way to Barbados and not sample the nightlife now can you!! Well click through during week 5 of my Naked Barbados series to find out which are hot and which are not. From beach bars to the high life of the West Coast this instalment has it all. Barbados naked it most certainly is!!

I have previously completed the top ten beaches in Barbados. Tune in to week six for an indepth look at the best beaches. I’ll be reviewing nearly all of them on the island so you can feast your eyes on those that the tourists don’t know about.

Week seven provides a calendar of events for 2009. Make sure you don’t miss a thning with an indepth study of all that there is going on in 2009.

And we finish in week eight. A whistlestop tour of all that is Naked Barbados!! I’ll round off my series for those specialist trips, getting married? Then tune in, fancy a nature trail? Then click through… it’s all here in this last ‘round up’ week.

So with no time to waste here is my opening piece. Please enjoy!!

FLIGHTS/GETTING THERE

Barbados is well connected to Britain and North America, and currently has a limited service from Continental Europe. With so many incoming flights it acts as a hub to other islands within the South Eastern Caribbean. This makes the island an excellent island hopping base if you intend on visiting other islands. VIPvillas.com can organise separate stays in luxury villas on more than one Caribbean island for you.

The following airlines serve Barbados:

UK:

British Airways from Gatwick

Virgin Atlantic from Gatwick and Manchester

Caribbean Airlines (former BWIA) from Gatwick using British Airways codeshare

BMI from Manchester.

Europe:

Martinair from Amsterdam

Condor from Frankfurt

USA:

US Airways from Philadelphia

American Airlines from New York & Miami

Air Jamaica from New York (JFK)

Delta Air Lines from Atlanta.

Canada:

Air Canada from Toronto

Regional:

Caribbean Airlines (former BWIA), Air Jamaica, LIAT, and American Eagle, which have flights across the Caribbean. Flights to the Grenadines are served by SVG air, TIA 2000 and Mustique Airways – the three airlines also operate together as Grenadines Airways.

ISLAND HOPPING

One very useful fact to know is that there are a number of flights from Barbados to the Grenadines, both as day tours and as transfers, that are known as ‘shared charters’. Practically speaking they run every day, but because they are run by charter airlines, rather than scheduled companies, they are not listed on the international computer systems. See below for the airlines that offer shared charter to the Grenadines.

REGIONAL AIRLINES

LIAT

Caribbean Airlines (former BWIA)

Air Jamaica

SVG Air

Mustique Airways

Trans Island Air/TIA 2000

Day trips to other islands:

Grenadines Discoveries

Fly to Union Island and join a Catamaran for a day sail, with snorkelling and swimming stops in Mayreau, Tobago Keys and Palm Island. $640 including lunch and drinks.

One day air tours to the Grenadines, St Lucia, St Vincent and Young Island, and Grenada.

If you would like to charter a plane, then they are available through:

St Barth Commuter

A local airline based in St Barths, which offers scheduled flights from there to St Martin/St Maarten and Caribbean private aircraft charters to islands all over the Eastern Caribbean. They have a fleet of five twin-engine planes and five specially trained (STOL) pilots with permission to land in St Barths.

SVG Air

A local Caribbean airline that offers charters to the Grenadines from around the region, often from Barbados, but also from St Lucia and Grenada, even from as far as Puerto Rico. SVG Air has around a dozen 5-19-seater planes and also offers island hopping and air ambulance services.

AIRPORT

Grantley Adams International Airport (airport code BGI, after Bridgetown, the island’s capital) is located approximately 10 miles/16km south east of Bridgetown city centre. VIPvillas.com have luxury portfolio of West Coast Villas in Barbados for you to choose from; they really are sheer luxury!

The airport has recently undergone a multi-million dollar expansion with the major phase completed in 2007. This included the construction of a new, much larger arrivals terminal which now houses 22 immigration work stations, five large luggage carousels and two duty free shops. The old arrivals hall has become part of an extended departure lounge and houses a new airside food court and retail concourse. Other facilities include a bank and postal services. Approximately four air bridges are part of the next set of improvements and there has been talk of enclosing the check-in area and installing air-conditioning.

PASSPORTS & VISAS

As a visitor to Barbados you will require a passport which is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry, along with a valid return airline ticket. This now applies to all American and Canadian citizens, whilst British citizens are required to hold a full 10-year passport. American, Canadian, British and EU citizens do not require a visa for short stays. Other nationalities please check with the Barbados High Commission or with your travel organiser for entry requirements

LOCAL TRANSPORT

The bus system in Barbados is a good one and the fleet of blue and yellow buses (BM licence plate) reaches every corner throughout the island on a regular basis. You will need exact change for the buses and they stop only at official bus stops, which are marked either ‘To City’ or ‘Out of City’ in a red and white circle. The destination is displayed over the front windscreen.

The Government service is supplemented by privately operated mini-buses (B licence plate) that are painted yellow with a blue stripe down the side, and route taxis (ZR licence) which are white with a burgundy stripe. These buses do give change, and they also play local music (somewhat loud at times) and can be hailed down anywhere on route. Destinations are usually on a sign placed in the bottom left-hand corner of the windscreen, and routes normally painted on the sides of the buses. It should be noted that ZR vans are an adventure as well as a mode of transport. They tend to stop at the drop of a hat and travel at speeds which are not for the faint hearted. But then they’ll go out of their way to drop a granny with her shopping outside her house. Avoid travelling at peak times when buses are packed to the limit. The fare to any destination is Bds$1.50 one-way. Depending on the routes, during the week buses can operate from as early as 5.30am to as late as 12.30pm.

For more information on the Government Transport Service, telephone Barbados 436 6820

CAR HIRE

Hiring a car is an excellent addition to a visit to the Caribbean, but particularly so in Barbados because there is plenty to do and because the island is surprisingly good to explore. There are some delightful beaches cut into the cliffs of the south east, which make for an excellent day out and picnic, and the Atlantic coast is wonderfully dramatic. Getting lost in the canefields is almost par for the course, so don’t worry when you do. Just stop and ask and someone is bound to help. Finally, there are all the restaurants to visit in the evening. From an island perspective, cars are a vital aspect of local life. The Bajans would prefer to drive a few hundred yards to work than to walk and so there is actually a rush hour each morning and evening. There are a staggering 1719 kms of paved road network on the island.

A local driving permit is required to drive in Barbados. This costs Bds$10 and can be obtained from the car hire company when you hire the car, or at any police station. If you are visiting during the winter season and know that you will want a car then it is advisable to book it well in advance otherwise, due to demand, it will be impossible to get hold of one. VIP villas can secure excellent car hire rates for you; better than the main car hire companies. You must have held a licence for at least two years to hire a car in Barbados, and be at least 21 years of age and under 75 years of age.

Indicative prices can be found below.

2007-08 Stoutes Car Rentals Rate Guide in US$ per day/week:

Mini Moke Auto (4str) – 61/265

Jimny Jeep (Soft top) Auto (4str) – 69/320

Terios Jeep 1500cc (Hard top) A/C Auto (5str) – 85/420

Vitara Jeep 2000cc (Hard top) A/C Auto (5str) – 95/490

Rates are in US$, subject to 15% VAT and are valid 16 Dec 2007 to 15 December 2008.

Comprehensive insurance is included in the rental rate except for a deductible of US$1,500 in case of loss, accident or damage to the vehicles – regardless of fault.

A collision damage waiver (CDW) is offered to cover this deductible at a cost of US$49/week or US$10/day. Clients are charged for the petrol in the vehicles at the time of hire, and should return the vehicles empty. Child seats and booster seats are available for hire on request. Car hire rates, CDW, petrol, and extras such as child and booster seats are subject to 15% VAT. Payment is made for the hire at the time of delivery.

DRIVING & PARKING

Driving is on the left on Barbados, don’t forget your driving licence!

Generally speaking drivers are fairly courteous and, being quite conservative, they tend to abide by the Highway Code. However do be cautious going around roundabouts, as not all drivers know which lane they ought to be in. You will also need to keep an eye out for Z vans and minibuses which stop in the middle of the road at the drop of a hat. Try to avoid going anywhere during the rush hour, when all of the major roads heading into Bridgetown, Holetown and the South Coast tend to be back-to-back with traffic (the local radio stations have traffic reports during both the morning and evening rush hours). Almost every household on the island seems to own a car, and for those that do not there are plenty of families who have more than one. Some children still walk to school, so as there are very few pavements (sidewalks) you should drive with caution during the start/finish of the school day. Take special care when going around blind corners in rural areas.

Drink driving laws are being introduced so check for new regulations.

Seat belts are compulsory and failure to wear one attracts a fine of Bds$500. The speed limit in Barbados is 37 mph/60 kph except on the highways (55 mph/80 kph) and in Bridgetown (20 mph/32 kph).

PARKING

The parking fee for official car parks in Bridgetown, and at the airport, is currently Bds$1 per hour or part thereof, and $6 for the whole day. Tickets are issued on entering and payment is made on exit.

TAXIS

Taxis are widely available around Barbados (if you can’t find one just walk into the nearest hotel and they’ll find one for you), with taxi stands located at the airport, Bridgetown Harbour, and Bridgetown at Independence Square Lower, Broad Street and Heroes Square, South Coast at Accra Beach – Hastings Rocks, West Coast at Sunset Crest Shopping Centres 1 and 2.

Taxis are not metered. Instead the fares are fixed. However it is always a good idea to confirm the cost of your journey before setting off.

Rates by distance should not exceed Bds$2.50 per mile or Bds$1.50 per kilometre. The flat rate per hour is Bds$32, with waiting time Bds$7 per hour between 6am to 10pm, and Bds$8 per hour between 10pm and 6am.

MEDICAL

Generally the climate in Barbados is pretty benign and there are only a couple of issues that you can encounter here that are not in Europe or the States. Check that your coverage for polio and tetanus is up to date. There is no malaria in Barbados, but there are very occasional outbreaks of dengue fever – another mosquito-borne disease which happens after considerable rain. You should take normal precautions against mosquito bites. If you are susceptible then make sure to use insect repellent during daylight hours and after sunset.

Visitors’ prescriptions can be fulfilled by local pharmacies, following consultation with a local physician.

HOSPITALS

The medical facilities in Barbados are among the best in the Caribbean. There are eight polyclinics throughout the island and two hospitals.

The general hospital is Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Bridgetown which has 600 beds and operates a 24 hour A&E department.

There is also a modern private facility at the Bay View Hospital in St Michael which does not have an A&E Dept., however there is the FMH Emergency Medical Clinic in St Michael.

VACCINATIONS

Vaccinations are not required for entry into Barbados, though you may with to check with your GP prior to travelling. There is one exception, for travellers who have come from areas infected with of Yellow Fever, where a vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one (1) year of age.

ELECTRICITY

Domestic current will operate appliances designated for 115/230 volts AC, 50 Cycles, with 2-pin US style plugs and sockets.

TELEPHONE

Barbados has a pretty good telecommunications system and it has recently been deregulated so that mobile phones from abroad will work (though calls can still be pretty expensive). The networks are Cable & Wireless, Digicel and AT&T Wireless.

The international dialling code for Barbados is +1 246 followed by seven digits. When on-island simply dial the seven digits. If you are staying in a villa do check to see if the phone allows international calls, as some have debars, which will need to be lifted, and for which there is a deposit.

Internet services are available at most hotels, and some villas, plus a number of internet cafes have now opened. Cellular phones can be rented or a roaming feature can be added to your own mobile

Overseas phone calls can be made from any phone booth around the island, payment for which is by credit card or a local pre-paid calling card.

TIME ZONE

Barbados is 4 hours behind GMT and so during the winter it is four hours behind Britain and five behind the rest of Europe, and an hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the States. Barbados has no daylight saving time in the summer so the island is then five hours behind British Summer Time (six behind the rest of Europe) and on the same time as the eastern seaboard of the United States.

TOURIST INFORMATION

There are Barbados Tourism Authority information offices at the airport, between the arrivals hall before Immigration and the Departure Lounge, t 428 0937; at the Deep Water Harbour (where the cruise ships come in), t 426 1718; and at the BTA’s main office on Harbour Road, Bridgetown, t 427 2623.

Outside Barbados you will find BTA offices in the following places:

Britain: 263 Tottenham Court Road, London W1 P 7LA, t 020 7636 9448, btauk@barbados.org

Canada: 105 Adelaide St West, Suite 1010, Toronto, Ontario M5H 1P9, t (416) 214 9880, toll free 1800 268 9122, btapublic@globalserve.net

USA: 800 Second Ave, New York NY 10017, t (212) 986 6516, btany@worldnet.att.net; 3440 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1215, Los Angeles, CA 90010, t (213) 380 2198, btala@worldnet.att.net; 150 Alhambra Circle Suite 1000, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, t (305) 442 7471, btamiami@barbados.org

DEPARTURE TAX & TAXES

Departure tax is no longer payable at the airline check-in desk as it should be included in the cost of your airline ticket – please check your ticket to confirm this. This tax (passenger service charge) is payable by all passengers leaving the island (exempt for stays under 24 hours) and over the age of 12 years. The amount increased to Bds$55/US$27.50 on 1st February 2007.

Hotel and villa accommodation incurs a 7.5% government room tax and a service charge in Barbados, which is normally added to your bill (unless you are staying in an all-inclusive hotel). It can make quite a difference to the eventual price of your holiday, so if you are booking direct make sure you calculate it in when pricing up your trip.

A 15% VAT applies to most services including car hire, tourist attractions, restaurants, retail (apart from Duty Free items), excursions etc, but this is usually included in the published price, except for car hire rates, which are usually quoted excluding VAT so you’ll need to add it.

WEATHER

Barbados boasts that it has 3000 hours of sunshine each year. Certainly even within the Caribbean it has an excellent climate. Temperatures vary by just a few degrees across the year and because it is surrounded by sea the island rarely gets too hot, except occasionally in summer, particularly if it is still. Generally though, there is a breeze to take the edge off the heat. The best time to visit is in the winter, when the northern hemisphere is at its coldest in February, though this is of course the high season and the most expensive time.

The rainiest time of year is over the late summer months between August and late October. Often the sun comes back out after a shower, but occasionally a blanket of cloud will spin off a weather system in the northern hemisphere and may cover the island with cloud for a few days.

Barbados lies just on the edge of the hurricane belt, but has not been seriously affected in recent years.

WATER

Most of the water in Barbados is artesian water, rainwater that has soaked into the limestone structure of the land. Generally it is drinkable from the tap and tastes good, but in restaurants you will be offered a choice of bottled or local water. However, with so much pressure on existing groundwater supplies in recent years, a desalination (the largest in the Caribbean) facility is now in operation, which provides water for 20% of the island’s population, currently within the Spring Garden Highway area where the plant is located. Sandy Lane Hotel also has a desalination system.

Piped water was introduced to Bridgetown in 1861, and to commemorate the event an ornamental fountain, made in Britain, was erected in 1865 in what is now Heroes Square.

CHILDREN

In general children are well received in Barbados, but some of the smarter hotels have an age restriction policy at certain times of year, especially during February and March. Others offer special children’s programmes. Most villas are well geared up for children too. It is easy to find babysitters and they cost approximately Bds$20 per hour, plus transport home.

There is not an abundance of playgrounds in Barbados at the moment, however six of the Chefette fast food outlets now have Kids Zones (air-conditioned at Rockley) and each playground has slides, cars and rides and other activities and also cater for parties. Pizzaz pizza restaurant in Sunset Crest in Holetown on the West Coast also has its own playground.

Apart from frolicking in the sea and building sand castles, there are a number of child friendly activities available on island: the Barbados Museum has a dedicated children’s gallery with an exhibition called ‘yesterdays children’ in the Kidd Gallery, Folkstone Marine Park near Holetown is a recreational underwater park with a snorkelling trail, an interpretive centre and museum with marine displays and a saltwater aquarium, there is also a picnic area, tennis and basketball courts and a playground. The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is popular with children for the animals on view, as is Atlantis Submarine and Harrison’s Cave. The Barbados Golf Academy has an 18 hole mini course with special rates for 14yrs and under. There is a Drive-in Cinema near the Sheraton Centre, which also has an indoor cinema. Farley Hill National Park has a picnic and play area. See later instalments of Naked Barbados for further Child friendly activities in Barbados.

Adventure Beach at The Boatyard has kayaks, pedal boats, glass bottom boats, ocean trampolines, a floating rock climbing ice-berg, beach volley ball and snorkelling. Accra Beach in the Rockley area is another popular beach spot and is good for boogie boarding with boards for hire. Batts Rock on the West Coast (close to Calabaza Restaurant) has good swimming and snorkeling, plus a small children’s playground with slides, swings and see-saws. There is a parking area, picnic benches, shower and changing facilities, and drinks machine.

CORPORATE/INCENTIVES

Barbados has excellent facilities for corporate clients in all types of group, incentive and corporate travel and events. The island has good international and regional air links, making it easy to get to. Where accommodation is concerned, some of the VIPvillas larger villas can make ideal settings for smaller groups. Especially those that come staffed with chefs.

For meeting facilities outside of the featured properties note:

Sherbourne Conference Centre, St Michael, t 467 8200

www.bcslbarbados.com

Multi-level conference and event facility with 164,000sq ft of meeting and exhibition space, for trade shows, conferences and special events of up to 1200 persons, seated theatre style in the largest room. Eleven meeting rooms, five break-out rooms, two foyers and two dining rooms, mass media facilities and state of the art telecommunications equipment, infrared Simultaneous Interpretation System

Frank Collymore Hall, Central Bank Building, Bridgetown

The Grande Salle, at 61’x 29’, can be used for exhibitions, art showings and meetings, with five large & eleven small screens. The Meeting Room seats 70 and is equipped with presentation and projection equipment.

WHAT TO PACK

Consider the following items when packing for a trip to Barbados:

Adequate sun protection, high factor sun cream, sunglasses, hat/cap and a lightweight beach-shirt/blouse/t-shirt; suitable beach and walking shoes; mosquito repellent containing DEET suitable for use all day; cream for insect bites. Also consider and adapter plug, film and batteries for camera; toiletries; beach mat/towel; preferred brand of coffee/tea; small torch.

Clothes – lightweight cotton clothing, with elegant/casual attire for evenings. Note that most good restaurants and top hotels require that men wear long trousers and shirts in the evenings, not shorts, flip-flops or t-shirts. During the festive season people tend to dress up and a few of the more exclusive establishments may request jacket and tie. Women may wish to pack a lightweight wrap or jacket during the winter months, as the evenings (Jan/Feb) sometimes feel cool after the heat of the day.

You should be aware that it is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing in Barbados. It is also an offence to bring in meat products from the UK.

BANKS

International and local commercial banks operating in Barbados include the Bank of Nova Scotia/Scotia Bank, Barbados National Bank, First Caribbean Bank, Caribbean Commercial Bank, Royal Bank of Canada and The Mutual Bank. The Central Bank of Barbados has been in operation since 1973. The island also offers offshore banking and insurance services.

Bank opening hours are Mon-Thurs 8am to 3pm and Fri 8am to 5pm. Most banks are closed on the weekend, but the Mutual Bank has two branches that open until 7pm on Fridays and until 2pm on Saturdays, and the Caribbean Commercial Bank opens from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. ATMs are located across the island, including the airport, harbour, some petrol stations and shopping malls. Note that ATMs will only give out Barbados Dollars (not US Dollars) and some charge for overseas cash transactions.

Banks require customers to show their passports when cashing traveller’s cheques. You will need to show a transaction slip as well if you wish to convert Barbadian dollars back to your home currency.

CURRENCY/CREDIT CARDS

The currency of Barbados is the Barbados dollar (Bds), which is fixed to the US dollar at a rate of US$1.00 = Bds$1.98 (some street/beach vendors may do a straight 2 for 1). All prices on island are quoted in Barbados dollars, with the exception of hotel rates which are in US only, and duty free items where the local Bds$ price is shown alongside US dollar price. US dollars (notes only) are accepted throughout the island, however you will often find that the rate of exchange will not be as favourable in hotels, supermarkets and large stores as that in the bank.

CREDIT CARDS

Most of the major credit cards (including debit cards) are accepted anywhere that deals with tourists on a regular basis. Do not expect local bars or small local restaurants to accept them (if in doubt double check in advance), but you will find that the larger supermarkets often do. It is worth noting that certain credit cards may attract an additional charge.

Next week I’m covering restaurants and food on the island so make sure you click through to read it. I will detail specific restaurants and include contact details for them so put that together with the taxi numbers and you’re on your way!!

 

 

 

Mark Craven
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/barbados-naked-573058.html

Posted by admin on February 16th, 2010

Shrink wrap can be considered as the most inexpensive packing material in the present day market scenario. This polymer film is used to wrap supplies that include bags, film, and other shrink systems. This is very effective and convenient. It lends complete protection to the products from being damaged. It’s most popular forms are PVC, polyolefin, and polyethylene. As far as PVC films are concerned, they are extremely trendy and economical. On the other hand, polyolefin films are not only durable, but also stretchable. Polyethylene films are the best boat and car covers because they can easily withstand high cold. They are available in all types and in wider range lengths. Their price range may vary from product to product.

They are the best packing alternatives and are available in the market in a variety of sizes. They can be used for shipping jewelry boxes, CDs, DVDs, photographs, videocassettes, and lots more. Apart from that, if you need to keep the fruits fresh, you can use it for lasting effects. In the present world where plastic has made its remarkable presence, it is considered as the ideal and economical packaging material. This material is highly versatile and unfolds multiple uses. It can actually be used to wrap everything, be it a simple box or a medicine. The main reason why people prefer this packing film is it is very economical.

Further, you may come across many things that can well determine your requirements and at times it is a question of wrapping sheet.  Now, once you have made up your mind to buy a wrapping sheet, the only need is to make a comparative shopping in order to know the prevailing difference in its price range and in its functionality. Once you are done with this, you will be able to crack the best deal. Undoubtedly, when you need to pack the goods, what you actually look for is the quality and the durability. So, the most important aspect to make your own choice is to make sure its exact size and style.

This makes the easiest option to wrap the things in a cost effective way, be at your home or any other place. This multipurpose shrink wrap sheet follows a simple wrapping method to meet all your packing needs. This wrapping sheet can be used easily and is considered as an unparalleled packaging material by the people in the world.

But, you should search the web before making a purchase of it to avail the right benefits at the right time. Even in the earlier times shrink wrap machines were used by the people for the similar purposes, but they were only found in the factories. But, in the present times more cheap alternatives are being made available to the people in the form of these multi utility wrapping sheets. So, if you are looking for the cost effective packaging deals; then these wrapping sheets can offer you best packing techniques that are readily available in the market.

Terro White
http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/shrink-wrapeffective-packing-wraps-722692.html

Posted by admin on February 13th, 2010

Covercraft Car Cover - NOAH size T3

NOAH barrier fabric actually stops water, yet it “”breathes”" to allow any trapped moisture, seam seepage or condensation to easily evaporate. The unique construction process (patent pending) results in a cover with maximum all-weather protection…highly water resistant, dust resistant, UV resistant and breathable to make sure moisture and/or heat don’t stay under the cover. Made in the U.S. by Kimberly-Clark, the fabric weighs only 4.45 oz./sq. yd., so it’s easy to handle and fold. Protective Outer Layers – A bi-component spunbond, using sheath-core technology. The inner core is polypropylene for strength, with a polyethylene wrap for softness. A silver-gray color was selected because of its heat-resistant properties. The fabric is also treated with UV inhibitors for extended outdoor use.Micro-Porous Middle Layer – The barrier layer is breathable film, a proprietary stretch-film technology developed exclusively for Kimberly-Clark. The film is stretched and subjected to a chemical process that creates microscopic holes smaller than droplets of water or dust, yet large enough to allow moisture vapor to escape.Soft, Paint-Protecting Inner Layer – A bi-component fabric made with polyethylene and nylon. This combination results in an exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio, with the “”soft touch”" necessary for today’s water-based paint finishes.Material color available – Silver-GrayClick here to compare prices and select the cover that is perfect for your vehicle. DO NOT use the Add to Cart button below.

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Posted by admin on February 10th, 2010

Covercraft Car Cover - NOAH size T5

NOAH barrier fabric actually stops water, yet it “”breathes”" to allow any trapped moisture, seam seepage or condensation to easily evaporate. The unique construction process (patent pending) results in a cover with maximum all-weather protection…highly water resistant, dust resistant, UV resistant and breathable to make sure moisture and/or heat don’t stay under the cover. Made in the U.S. by Kimberly-Clark, the fabric weighs only 4.45 oz./sq. yd., so it’s easy to handle and fold. Protective Outer Layers – A bi-component spunbond, using sheath-core technology. The inner core is polypropylene for strength, with a polyethylene wrap for softness. A silver-gray color was selected because of its heat-resistant properties. The fabric is also treated with UV inhibitors for extended outdoor use.Micro-Porous Middle Layer – The barrier layer is breathable film, a proprietary stretch-film technology developed exclusively for Kimberly-Clark. The film is stretched and subjected to a chemical process that creates microscopic holes smaller than droplets of water or dust, yet large enough to allow moisture vapor to escape.Soft, Paint-Protecting Inner Layer – A bi-component fabric made with polyethylene and nylon. This combination results in an exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio, with the “”soft touch”" necessary for today’s water-based paint finishes.Material color available – Silver-GrayClick here to compare prices and select the cover that is perfect for your vehicle. DO NOT use the Add to Cart button below.

(more…)

Posted by admin on February 6th, 2010

Which statement is true about a go/no-go gauge?

a. It is a traffic point in a factory that can stop the line if something is wrong
b. It determines either of two states: too big/too small.
c. It can detect extremely small variations among parts.
d. It determines either of two states: it fits/it does not fit.

Shop floor control is

a. a term to describe janitorial activities in a factory.
b. a system for controlling worker behavior in a factory.
c. a system to keep track of production work that has been done.
d. the engineered pattern of workflow for a production run.

Which product is likely to undergo burn in before being approved for sale and packaged?

a. cotton shirt
b. palm pilot
c. spicy corn chips snack
d. pair of garden pruners

Which statement is true about acceptance sampling?

a. Every item coming off the assembly line is inspected.
b. It is a marketing technique to determine what shortcuts consumers will accept.
c. The ISO 9001 standards do not allow it.
d. It is a statistical method for checking production lots of large quantities.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO)

a. lobbies to convert all nations to the metric system.
b. tries to standardize pricing in the global economy.
c. promotes and coordinates global standards.
d. urges manufacturers to pay high wages and offer generous benefits.

Which is not a function of product packaging?

a. participating in Gauge R & R.
b. attracting customers’ attention
c. protecting products from damage during distribution.
d. keeping food products safe and fresh.

Which statement is true about quality assurance?

a. Mistakes can be detected, but they cannot be prevented.
b. It is more costly to prevent than to detect mistakes.
c. It is more costly to detect than to prevent mistakes.
d. Prevention is rarely empahasized, because it is difficult and tedious.

The role of purchasing agent in a manufacturing firm is to:

a. sell as many of the company’s products as possible.
b. buy supplies at any price and keep them stocked in large quantities.
c. seek large government contracts.
d. buy well-priced, quality supplies and have them delivered in a timely fashion.

Which item could be described as a subassembly?

a. a multi-pack of gum, packaged and shrink-wrapped
b. the wheel-and-axle system of a toy car
c. a manufactured pencil
d. a machined screw

Definitely strange. Not creepy, but strange. :S

Posted by admin on February 3rd, 2010

Streetglow XtraSlim FLEXIBLE LED Strip 19

Have you been looking for the right product to get light into that tight area? Look no further! The Streetglow XtraSlim Flexible LED Strip is less than 1/16th of an inch thick and so flexible that you could wrap it around your finger over and over. They have a 3M adhesive backing on them, making installation simple and fast. Don’t be mistaken by their small size, the XtraSlim Flexible LED Strip is brighter than most neon and LED tubes available for sale! The XtraSlim Flexible LED Strip is 19″ long and can be cut to any length you require . These are perfect for tight areas, and they’re not bulky like traditional light tubes are. Streetglow XtraSlim Flexible LED Strips also waterproof, so they can be put on the outside of the car! Many of our customers use them to give their headlights the “new Audi look” (see our additional photos for an example). The Streetglow XtraSlim FLEXIBLE LED Strips won’t let you down! Price is PER Strip . If you buy one strip, a 2nd strip is available at a discounted price! Simply select “YES” on the “2nd strip at a discount” above!

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Posted by admin on February 2nd, 2010

Tampa Vehicle Wrap Company – This Tampa Vehicle Wrap Company can design & install your Tampa Vehicle Wrap, go to http://www.SignParrot.com/tampa-vehicle-wraps.html or call 813-612-9200 decals, signs and vehicle wraps and graphics, awesome vehicle wrap designs and fast print and installation times, "tampa vehicle wrap company"

Duration : 36 sec

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