Have you ever wondered why, with all the scientific and technological advances of the modern world, there still seems to be no replacement for the use of timber acquired from logging as a raw material for various uses such as building construction? You may be very surprised to find out that there is a truly sustainable solution that has already been used for a very long time in certain areas of the world and something you have likely even used yourself in some form or another. You may even have some in your home already and may not even realize that you do. So what is this mysterious and eco-friendly solution to the world’s timber needs? The answer is Bamboo.
Bamboo is a wonderfully sustainable grass that has long been a common building material in various Asian countries. It has also been used for many centuries for a wide variety of purposes far beyond the realm of architectural structures. It has been used for everything from writing utensils to flutes, tableware to farming tools, and even occasionally armor due to its strength and lightness. It is a truly spectacular plant that has long been a major blessing to Asian culture and is finally being recognized by Western society as a truly sustainable means of literally growing a treasure trove of raw materials quickly on the same piece of land.
Let’s take a look at some of the strong points that make the Bamboo plant so wonderful and such a good choice for a sustainable material for products and construction.
1. Speed
Bamboo is considered to be the world’s fastest growing plant. In fact, it has been observed and measured to grow 47.6 inches (121 cm) in 24 hours. That is truly astounding! It also has a maximal growth rate which is able to reach further than 39 inches (more than one meter) per hour. This is not a continuous rate throughout a day, but simply imagine literally watching a plant grow more than a meter in one hour. This is truly an amazing plant.
2. Strength
Bamboo is one of the strongest plant materials of its kind and it is beginning to be used to make skis, snowboards, skateboards, and surfboards. Its durability is evident in many ancient bamboo artifacts still around today.
3. Weight
Bamboo is incredibly light and its light weight is part of the reason for its popular use. Many modern manufacturers are actually making lighter products by switching to Bamboo rather than other woods.
4. Sustainability
The most important aspect of Bamboo for the modern world is, of course, its sustainability! The simple fact that it can be grown and harvested again and again in a fast growth cycle, and can be harvested without environmentally irresponsible methods such as clear cutting in forests, makes this truly a wonderful solution to the issues presented by the timber industry.
Now you know how wonderful Bamboo really is. The next time you have a choice between wood from trees or Bamboo, you know what to do!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
Snorkeling Essentials
Snorkeling can be a truly fascinating way to get outside and enjoy nature in addition to being a really wonderful way to motivate you to get some really healthy exercise.
Let’s look at some of the basic gear you will want to pick up to get started exploring the vast and beautiful world located right below the surface of the water.
Snorkel
Snorkeling without a snorkel just isn’t snorkeling at all, now is it? So what kind of snorkel do you want to get? You may be surprised to hear that there are actually many different kinds of snorkels available on the market today. While some are still using the basic and simple tube with no extra valves involved, there are many more options available and it is highly recommended to go with a more advanced model. A “Dry Snorkel” is the best option as it is designed to protect its wearer from inhaling water should the snorkeler accidentally submerge the top end of the snorkel below the water. As you can imagine, it is rather easy for a beginning snorkeler to accidentally look a little too deep in the water and inhale some water as their basic snorkel dips below the surface. Thankfully a Dry Snorkel has a safety valve which blocks water while allowing the free flow of air. Good snorkels are really affordable these days and a Dry Snorkel is worth the tiny bit extra to better ensure you will have a nice and enjoyable snorkeling experience.
Mask
The diving mask is essentially your window to the underwater world. The more area you can see through it, the more you can see in the aquatic adventure you are planning. Its fit is of primary importance as it has to be air-tight to make sure that you don’t have to come up and clear the water from your mask every few minutes. You should buy your mask at a dive shop if at all possible as then you can get advice from professionals and also try on the masks to see which one is a good fit for your physical attributes and your budget.
Fins
Fins are another area where there is a lot of diversity to choose from and choosing the right fins is really more about the fit. You will likely want to start by choosing a pair of neoprene socks or boots. They best insulate your precious skin to protect from the fins. Make sure you have socks or boots that fit well to make sure your fins will fit as properly as possible. I hope you remember to bring them when you shop for your fins as this is important. You can choose from an array of sizes and flexibility variations when choosing a pair of fins. The harder ones will give you more speed, but may require more effort. The same goes for the length. The longer fins are more cumbersome, and require more effort, but you can really fly through the water with them quickly!
Now you know what gear is best for a nice snorkeling experience. All you need to do is get in the water and enjoy!
Let’s look at some of the basic gear you will want to pick up to get started exploring the vast and beautiful world located right below the surface of the water.
Snorkel
Snorkeling without a snorkel just isn’t snorkeling at all, now is it? So what kind of snorkel do you want to get? You may be surprised to hear that there are actually many different kinds of snorkels available on the market today. While some are still using the basic and simple tube with no extra valves involved, there are many more options available and it is highly recommended to go with a more advanced model. A “Dry Snorkel” is the best option as it is designed to protect its wearer from inhaling water should the snorkeler accidentally submerge the top end of the snorkel below the water. As you can imagine, it is rather easy for a beginning snorkeler to accidentally look a little too deep in the water and inhale some water as their basic snorkel dips below the surface. Thankfully a Dry Snorkel has a safety valve which blocks water while allowing the free flow of air. Good snorkels are really affordable these days and a Dry Snorkel is worth the tiny bit extra to better ensure you will have a nice and enjoyable snorkeling experience.
Mask
The diving mask is essentially your window to the underwater world. The more area you can see through it, the more you can see in the aquatic adventure you are planning. Its fit is of primary importance as it has to be air-tight to make sure that you don’t have to come up and clear the water from your mask every few minutes. You should buy your mask at a dive shop if at all possible as then you can get advice from professionals and also try on the masks to see which one is a good fit for your physical attributes and your budget.
Fins
Fins are another area where there is a lot of diversity to choose from and choosing the right fins is really more about the fit. You will likely want to start by choosing a pair of neoprene socks or boots. They best insulate your precious skin to protect from the fins. Make sure you have socks or boots that fit well to make sure your fins will fit as properly as possible. I hope you remember to bring them when you shop for your fins as this is important. You can choose from an array of sizes and flexibility variations when choosing a pair of fins. The harder ones will give you more speed, but may require more effort. The same goes for the length. The longer fins are more cumbersome, and require more effort, but you can really fly through the water with them quickly!
Now you know what gear is best for a nice snorkeling experience. All you need to do is get in the water and enjoy!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
International Shopping Paradise of Shibuya 109
The area of Tokyo known as Shibuya is considered by many to be the most progressive center of young fashion around the world. It is definitely the center of the young Japanese fashion world and Japan is likely the most progressive culture in the world. Young women from Paris even come here just to explore the cutting edge of many variations of style. A shopping paradise which may easily win the title of the heart of Shibuya’s shopping district is a building known as “Shibuya 109” or in Japanese “Ichii Maro Kyu” which essentially just means 109 as basically everyone in Japan will know you are talking about the building in Shibuya.
If you can imagine a literally monolithic silver temple of fashionable and fun shopping ecstasy then you are likely approaching the concept of the legendary 109. For fashion enthusiasts it is likely worth the trip to Japan in and of itself. There is nothing quite like it. It literally emanates beauty from its doors. It is so iconic that even Japanese tourists from other areas of the country will sometimes stop for a photo op in front of its entrance.
There are 9 floors of shopping in all and one could easily spend the day exploring its treasures. There are surprisingly bargains galore as the focus is on fashion rather than on pushing overpriced luxury brand names. There is a wide selection available and some really eclectic finds await the truly adventurous. There are fashion lines from around the world and from Japan itself. Many young women in Tokyo have started their own clothing and accessory lines as have some enterprising young men. Each floor has its own offering and, while some floors are more specialized than others, there is generally a wide variety awaiting shoppers on every floor. The third floor, for example, has a mix of shopping choices yet has a strong focus on hats and any hat lover will likely have a shopping field day trying on whatever they find to their liking.
To get to the 109 after you have arrived in Tokyo, you will want to first head to Shibuya station either by taxi, bus, or train. The trains in Japan are wonderful and are also wonderfully convenient in Tokyo, while the taxis are generally considered to be a bit overpriced, so the train is certainly the best option in this situation if your schedule can allow it. From Shibuya station go out the Hachiko exit to the famous intersection known as Hachiko Square and head to the corner where everyone gathers to cross. Look up the hill to your left and you should see a large silver tower with red letters that says “Shibuya 109”.
Have fun in shopping paradise!
If you can imagine a literally monolithic silver temple of fashionable and fun shopping ecstasy then you are likely approaching the concept of the legendary 109. For fashion enthusiasts it is likely worth the trip to Japan in and of itself. There is nothing quite like it. It literally emanates beauty from its doors. It is so iconic that even Japanese tourists from other areas of the country will sometimes stop for a photo op in front of its entrance.
There are 9 floors of shopping in all and one could easily spend the day exploring its treasures. There are surprisingly bargains galore as the focus is on fashion rather than on pushing overpriced luxury brand names. There is a wide selection available and some really eclectic finds await the truly adventurous. There are fashion lines from around the world and from Japan itself. Many young women in Tokyo have started their own clothing and accessory lines as have some enterprising young men. Each floor has its own offering and, while some floors are more specialized than others, there is generally a wide variety awaiting shoppers on every floor. The third floor, for example, has a mix of shopping choices yet has a strong focus on hats and any hat lover will likely have a shopping field day trying on whatever they find to their liking.
To get to the 109 after you have arrived in Tokyo, you will want to first head to Shibuya station either by taxi, bus, or train. The trains in Japan are wonderful and are also wonderfully convenient in Tokyo, while the taxis are generally considered to be a bit overpriced, so the train is certainly the best option in this situation if your schedule can allow it. From Shibuya station go out the Hachiko exit to the famous intersection known as Hachiko Square and head to the corner where everyone gathers to cross. Look up the hill to your left and you should see a large silver tower with red letters that says “Shibuya 109”.
Have fun in shopping paradise!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Traveling the Falklands
The Falklands are better known as the Falkland Islands. This broad collection of over 740 islands is one of the great natural wonders of the world. The Falklands are a special refuge for rare wildlife. This treasure trove of islands is ruled by horizon stretching as far as the eye can see, folding miles of coastline, and refreshing wildlife.
The capital of the Falklands is Stanley. This exquisite, colorful seaside town is drawn close around Stanley Harbour. With a strong pride in their heritage, the Stanley natives exercise their pride of a British past. They lie amidst the worlds Eden and they are knowingly blessed. To Stanley natives everything outside of the capital is known as Camp. Stanley is home to the Falkland Island Museum. The museum is so much more than that; it is a well kept display that delves into the social and historical backgrounds of the Falklands. You will cease to be amazed by the stories you will unearth during your visit.
When visiting the Falklands you must go a step beyond to visit more remote destinations the islands have to offer. The more desolate islands enable you to completely appreciate this exciting and unique environment. Since the islands are located in the South Atlantic waters this is the perfect environment for an array of some of the rarest creatures to roam the world. This awe inspiring display of is “unspoilt” wildlife at its peak. There are few places left in this vast world that offer security to so many species. This is a quickly changing planet and amidst the islands of Falkland you are guaranteed to find an inspired story of survival to tell.
This is the place where wild creatures feel free to come to you. To walk up with curious eyes and investigate you while you investigate back. Some of the animals here have traveled and navigated the globe to find this paradise that they will treasure and continue to call home. For it is within these islands that they can feel safe, protected, and live the lives that they were meant to have.
The Falklands are said to have more than thirty accommodating locations. From simple bed and breakfast lodges, to self-catering cottages, and full-board lodges and hotels. Whether you stay in a local B&B or a hotel, once you step out into the land of the Falklands you will find yourself in another world altogether. This is a paradise devised into 750 singularly amazing spectacles. Travel the Falklands to grasp nature and experience a blissful solitude. You may want to stay longer than you planned when you realize the level of tranquility.
The capital of the Falklands is Stanley. This exquisite, colorful seaside town is drawn close around Stanley Harbour. With a strong pride in their heritage, the Stanley natives exercise their pride of a British past. They lie amidst the worlds Eden and they are knowingly blessed. To Stanley natives everything outside of the capital is known as Camp. Stanley is home to the Falkland Island Museum. The museum is so much more than that; it is a well kept display that delves into the social and historical backgrounds of the Falklands. You will cease to be amazed by the stories you will unearth during your visit.
When visiting the Falklands you must go a step beyond to visit more remote destinations the islands have to offer. The more desolate islands enable you to completely appreciate this exciting and unique environment. Since the islands are located in the South Atlantic waters this is the perfect environment for an array of some of the rarest creatures to roam the world. This awe inspiring display of is “unspoilt” wildlife at its peak. There are few places left in this vast world that offer security to so many species. This is a quickly changing planet and amidst the islands of Falkland you are guaranteed to find an inspired story of survival to tell.
This is the place where wild creatures feel free to come to you. To walk up with curious eyes and investigate you while you investigate back. Some of the animals here have traveled and navigated the globe to find this paradise that they will treasure and continue to call home. For it is within these islands that they can feel safe, protected, and live the lives that they were meant to have.
The Falklands are said to have more than thirty accommodating locations. From simple bed and breakfast lodges, to self-catering cottages, and full-board lodges and hotels. Whether you stay in a local B&B or a hotel, once you step out into the land of the Falklands you will find yourself in another world altogether. This is a paradise devised into 750 singularly amazing spectacles. Travel the Falklands to grasp nature and experience a blissful solitude. You may want to stay longer than you planned when you realize the level of tranquility.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Wonderful Tokyo
Japan is a truly spectacular country, rich in natural beauty and traditional culture while simultaneously at the forefront of modern society. The grace and harmony of the society’s operational efficiency is potentially unrivaled in technologically advanced countries. Its ancient traditions are often as alive today as hundreds of years ago, even when amid the hustle and bustle of a 21st century metropolis. Tokyo is, in many ways, the hub of modern Japan. While some of the more competitive residents of other cities in the country may not completely agree, it is rather evident that it is essentially the “New York” of Japan.
While many cities in other parts of the world may seem to be more like an extended neighborhood sprawl, Tokyo somehow manages to feel like a city for the majority of its immense area. The architecture is often dazzling, and even many of the smaller buildings have gorgeous and creatively designed facades to enjoy as one walks along the city streets. The old often meets the new in really unique ways as sometimes an apparently ancient temple will be nestled in the base of a huge skyscraper, truly showing the loving commitment to preservation and appreciation of traditional arts and culture. The attention to the precision and care for both modern and ancient facets of such spaces is truly amazing.
The city is composed of 23 wards or “ku” that all have their own unique attributes, while still maintaining complete cohesiveness. Each one has something special to offer and one could possibly spend a lifetime exploring every small street. For example, Shinjuku is a business hub with lots of spectacular buildings reaching into the sky and the busiest train station in the world, while Shibuya is a popular area for progressive culture like music and fashion
There are numerous parks, some of which are quite large, and also rivers running through the city. Nature, while not continually prominent, still maintains its presence enough to not ever feel too distant. There are trees along many streets and sometimes even garden pathways in certain areas. Yoyogi Koen is a popular park which provides space for all kinds of outdoor activities and is also a popular place for musicians to practice and play. There are many gorgeous trees and grassy areas appropriate for a picnic or star gazing, and just about every Sunday there is a festival atmosphere. On the eastern side of Tokyo there is a nice bay to enjoy, and there are amazing mountains nearby for daytrips.
If temples and traditional culture is your interest, then the Asakusa area is a great spot to visit. It is home to Sensoji, which is possibly the most famous temple in Tokyo. Kamakura is also a somewhat short train ride away and is a spectacular blend of ancient temples and nature in a mountainous setting.
All in all, Tokyo seems to have just about everything one could be looking for in a modern city and possibly even more. It’s a truly wonderful city that deserves to be visited and appreciated. To know it is generally to love it.
While many cities in other parts of the world may seem to be more like an extended neighborhood sprawl, Tokyo somehow manages to feel like a city for the majority of its immense area. The architecture is often dazzling, and even many of the smaller buildings have gorgeous and creatively designed facades to enjoy as one walks along the city streets. The old often meets the new in really unique ways as sometimes an apparently ancient temple will be nestled in the base of a huge skyscraper, truly showing the loving commitment to preservation and appreciation of traditional arts and culture. The attention to the precision and care for both modern and ancient facets of such spaces is truly amazing.
The city is composed of 23 wards or “ku” that all have their own unique attributes, while still maintaining complete cohesiveness. Each one has something special to offer and one could possibly spend a lifetime exploring every small street. For example, Shinjuku is a business hub with lots of spectacular buildings reaching into the sky and the busiest train station in the world, while Shibuya is a popular area for progressive culture like music and fashion
There are numerous parks, some of which are quite large, and also rivers running through the city. Nature, while not continually prominent, still maintains its presence enough to not ever feel too distant. There are trees along many streets and sometimes even garden pathways in certain areas. Yoyogi Koen is a popular park which provides space for all kinds of outdoor activities and is also a popular place for musicians to practice and play. There are many gorgeous trees and grassy areas appropriate for a picnic or star gazing, and just about every Sunday there is a festival atmosphere. On the eastern side of Tokyo there is a nice bay to enjoy, and there are amazing mountains nearby for daytrips.
If temples and traditional culture is your interest, then the Asakusa area is a great spot to visit. It is home to Sensoji, which is possibly the most famous temple in Tokyo. Kamakura is also a somewhat short train ride away and is a spectacular blend of ancient temples and nature in a mountainous setting.
All in all, Tokyo seems to have just about everything one could be looking for in a modern city and possibly even more. It’s a truly wonderful city that deserves to be visited and appreciated. To know it is generally to love it.
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