Vision of the Day

Lake

2010-05-12T11:28:00.000-04:00

Beautiful JCP Campus

Spacco

2010-05-09T15:25:00.000-04:00

Night out at spacco !! Decent joint for hanging out !

Stormy night

2010-05-09T13:56:00.000-04:00

Apartment porche

Grocery

2010-05-01T19:35:00.000-04:00

Shopping in St. Catherine

Unpacking !

2010-05-01T01:03:00.001-04:00

After energizing and emptying the food we got back and started to
unpack her stuff.

Treating ourself - Spicy Thai !

2010-05-01T00:56:00.001-04:00

After a long day of helping my gf move, me and her decided to
celebrate by going to Spicy Thai !

Leaving memories.... Moving day !

2010-05-01T00:52:00.001-04:00

Airport limo

2010-04-30T01:21:00.001-04:00

Reached Toronto ....heading home ! Taxi at terminal 3 at 11:15 pm

Leaving Dallas....

2010-04-30T01:18:00.001-04:00

It has been an exciting week. I learnt new things about the business
and am looking forward to next week.

I caught severe cold and feverp on Tuesday which made the trip not soo
much fun but hopefully will recover next week.

I am grateful for the current role at work, to the the awesome weather
in Dallas and to Rogers us/canada Data plan :)

Hampton Inn - Frisco, TX

2010-04-26T21:26:00.001-04:00

8:22 pm checkin @ Hampton inn
Had dinner at Fadi's - great Mediterranean food.

My room this week

Setting up - Day 1 at JCP !!

2010-04-26T19:02:00.002-04:00

MDM Business Analyst, J.C. Penney

Frisco, TX

Waiting to take-off for Dallas...

2010-04-26T18:55:00.001-04:00

In the plane waiting it's abt 6:38 am....excited about Dallas but also
have the insurance thing on my head I hope there is a deeper
lesson ...just gonna let go and be now here

9:43am just landed ....I realized the lesson learned...be grateful and
face your problems even though you created them. Do not run away from
them

Rio

2008-06-18T00:03:00.000-04:00

Clouds over Rio, Brazil

Temple of Hephaestus or Thesion

2008-06-04T19:00:00.001-04:00

Athen, Greece on May 11th at 1:00 PM - over Athen and the Temple of Hephaestus

Blackfriars Skyline

2008-06-04T16:00:00.003-04:00

London, England May 9th - 11: 56 AM - The emerging skyline of Blackfriars

Blackfrairs Bridge Emblem

2008-06-04T13:00:00.001-04:00

Blackfrairs, London - May 10th - 11:00 AM Blackfriars Bridge Emblem

Billboard

2008-06-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

London, May 9th 10:34 AM - A billboard strategically positioning Budweiser and MasterCard

Urban Railtracks !

2008-06-03T20:38:00.002-04:00

London, England May 9th, 2008 11:24 AM on Luton Express from Gatwick.

Banyan Tree - Seychelles

2007-07-26T15:36:00.000-04:00

In 1502 the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama discovered the Amirantes islands. In 1609 John Jourdain was the first British to set foot on the Seychelles. Mistaken for the original 'Garden of Eden' by General Gordon over 100 years ago, these 115 islands in the Indian Ocean have retained their charm and mystique as one of the last paradises on earth. Spread over one million square kilometers of tranquil waters just south of the Equator, some 43 granite islands are clustered around Mahé, while 73 coral islands extend towards the East African coast.

Banyan Tree Seychelles is nestled in the Intendance Bay on Mahé Island, 30 minutes by car from Mahé International Airport and 45 minutes from the capital, Victoria. Mahé offers the perfect introduction to the Seychelles with its steep mountain backbone, slopes carpeted with lush tropical vegetation and sweeping coastline fringed by palm trees. The resort covers an area of approximately 117 hectares on the island's southwestern coastline with a fabulous beach frontage of 800 meters overlooking what has been described as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.

No visit to Banyan Tree is complete without a visit to the spa, housed in between granite boulders, on a vantage point with magnificent views. On arrival, your masseuse greets you and takes you to a room with a glorious sea view where you find yourself instantly calmed.

The exceptional menu of treatments includes 'his and hers' massages and scrubs so neither of you need feel left out. All the ingredients used in the spa's luxurious products are grown in the spa garden - including the zingy lemongrass used in the wonderful massage oils. After the treatment you are offered crudité³ and fruit with a refreshing tea drink, and asked to put your feet up and simply relax ' bliss!

All 37 stunning villas are either set in a beachside or a rainforest environment, with wooden decks offering glorious views. But for the ultimate in seclusion and exclusivity choose the two bedroom, Presidential Villa that sits in its own private cove on the water's edge, enjoying a breathtaking panorama. Above the bed in the master bedroom you will find images of the mystical coco de mer, adding to the romantic feeling of the room - as do the sofas and beds, piled high with mountains of soft cushions. Each villa has its own garden with a pool, dining and sleeping area, so you'll have the perfect excuse for lounging around all day. The bathroom is like your own personal spa, boasting outrageous glass walls overlooking the sea so you can shower whilst taking in the ocean views.

Spa

Set against a stunning backdrop of majestic granite mountains facing the deep azure Indian Ocean, The Banyan Tree Spa is a haven for your senses. Here, the therapists pamper you with treatments that draw on Asian traditions dating back centuries, including a menu of massages, exotic body scrubs, wraps and facials. The Banyan Tree Day is the ultimate in indulgence and aims to relax and revive your mind body and spirit.

Accomodation

5 Beachfront Spa Pool Villas, 14 Hillside Pool Villas, 4 Pool Villas By-The-Rocks, 3 Intendance Pool Villas, all with air conditioning, private pool, Thai-style sala pavilion, mini-bar, tea/coffee making facilities, in-villa safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, telephone, TV and ceiling fan. Beachfront Spa Pool Villas also have an outdoor Jacuzzi, sunken bath, outdoor shower and steam room. The Presidential Villa offers 2 en suite bedrooms, 2 swimming pools and deck, Jacuzzi, outdoor shower, steam room and additional free-form pool and deck.

Facilities

2 restaurants, bar, in-villa dining, beach picnic, 8 Spa Pavilions with a full range of treatments and massages, herbal wraps and beauty therapies, beauty salon, gym, pool, windsurfing and snorkelling, are available subject to sea conditions.

Prices

Low season price '2477 per person Breakfast for 7 nights incl flights & transfers.
High season price '2786 Breakfast for 7 nights incl flights & transfers.

Please visit http://www.banyantree.com/seychelles/ for more information

2008 Porsche 911 GT2

2007-07-18T23:59:00.000-04:00

Of all the variations of the current 911—Carrera, Carrera S, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Cabriolet, Targa, GT3, and Turbo—nothing quickens the pulse and spins the tires so readily as the GT2, the upcoming version of which is seen here. To create the GT2, Porsche starts with a 911 Turbo, adds power, reduces weight, and removes the all-wheel drive, creating a much more demanding vehicle to quiet all those complaints that the 911 Turbo is just a soulless high-speed appliance.

The previous-generation GT2 boosted engine output 51 horsepower and 52 lb-ft over the Turbo, so expect this new car to boast around 525 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque. Without the traction benefit of all-wheel drive, the GT2 will probably have a difficult time besting the Turbo’s 3.4 second 0-to-60-mph blast, but with the extra power and a weight reduction of about 220 pounds from shedding the all-wheel drive, all of the 911 Turbo’s higher acceleration benchmarks—including the 185-mph top speed—will be packing their bags and heading for second place.

* 3.6-liter twin turbo flat six
* 530 horsepower at 5,600 rpm
* 505 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,200 to 4,500 rpm
* 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds
* 0-100 mph in 7.1 seconds
* Top speed of 204 mph
* Curb weight: 3,175 lbs
* Titanium exhaust
* 6-speed manual gearbox
* Launch control system

Expect to pay $150,000 to $180,000 for this engineering masterpiece.

Alphonse Island, Seychelles

2007-07-17T16:54:00.000-04:00

Alphonse Island lies in the heart of the Indian Ocean, 7 degrees south of the Equator and 450 kilometres south west of MahÃ©. She is a part of the Alphonse Group that extends 16 kilometres from north to south and comprises three islands.

The hotel is located on the east side of the island and features 25 individual chalets and 5 executive villas, all built alongside the lagoon and the beach. The design offers a superb combination of luxury and originality to create a unique ambiance.

Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, conference room and a swimming pool.

Accommodations

The 25 Individual Chalets rest on pillars, each with a thatched roof and a private veranda (60mÂ² including the veranda). All are air-conditioned, elegantly furnished and have international direct access telephone, TV, mini-bar, ceiling fan, individual safe, queen-size bed (or twin beds on request), en suite bathroom with bath and African-style outside shower.

The 5 individual Executive Villas are more spacious and modern. The centrepiece of each villa is a large terrace (50mÂ²) with private Jacuzzi. The main room with the bedroom and lounge (60mÂ²) provides facilities for the discerning guest; international direct access telephone, TV, mini-bar, ceiling fan, individual safe, queen-size bed, air-conditioning and luxury en suite with multifunction shower cabin (cascading shower, Turkish bath and turbo massage).

Dining

The restaurant Bijoutier opens onto the lagoon and the swimming pool. It offers a refined cuisine that combines the best of local Creole flavours with a strong international influence. Our highly flexible menu options make provisions for any special dietary requirements. The service is attentive, yet unobtrusive.

The bar Le Lys, located in the heart of the hotel, is the right place to meet fellow guests and discuss the catch or the dive of the day, while trying one of the cocktails prepared by our barmen.

Adventures

There are numerous activities available for guests to enjoy, sensitively located to avoid compromising the tranquil atmosphere of the hotel. These include a range of water sports, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and fly fishing.

Alphonse Dive Sites

Alice In Wonderland
Doile
Napoleon Point
Abyss

Activities

Canoes - The best way to discover the Alphonse lagoon. Indoor Games - Scrabble, Chess, Ludo, Cards
Pedalos - 2 Pedalos each holding 4 persons
Sailing - 2 Lasers
Snorkeling - Free equipment for snorkeling
Tennis Court
Windsurfing - 4 Boards and 4 Wind Gliders.

Boat Trips

Excursions to the nearly island Bijoutiers
Round Trip; Alphonse
Sunset Cruise
Snorkeling Trip: 1 Hour
Bottom Fishing (Max 4 Persons)

Deep Sea Fishing

The resort is well positioned for excellent deep sea fishing.
All the fishing sites can be reached in under thirty minutes and teem with fish: Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Barracuda, Dorados and Wahoos will be a typical days catch.
The boat is a SR29 equipped with 2 Yanmar 183HP engines. It carries 5 x 30 lbs rods and 5 x 50 lbs rods. Maximum of 4 fishermen (or women). The season is best from October to April.

Scuba Diving

Excellent for certified divers. The diving facilities of the centre are staffed by PADI qualified professional instructors and dive masters. The Diving Club is equipped to welcome up to 15 divers with new Scubapro equipment. Diving for beginners as well as for certified divers is provided on Alphonse.

World's Premier Fly Fishing Location

St Francois Lagoon is a thirty-minute boat trip from Alphonse. The lagoon is one of the worlds premier fly-fishing locations.

Find out more at http://www.alphonse-resort.com/

Cayo Espanto - Belize

2007-07-15T16:31:00.000-04:00

Discover your own private island at Cayo Espanto, where paradise and luxury come together as one. This new, five star, world class resort is for the discriminating few who demand the best life has to offer. We invite you to spend enchanting evenings and unforgettable days overlooking the Caribbean while our staff overlooks nothing. Located three miles from San Pedro in the calm waters of the Western Caribbean, off the coast of Belize, Cayo Espanto is truly a spectacular and private retreat. Although Belize is less than two hours from Miami and Houston, it remains virtually undiscovered.

Cuisine

Once you arrive at Cayo Espanto, the award winning chefs leave no decisions for you to make. A new menu is created daily to perfectly suit your tastes, based on a survey you are asked to fill out before you even arrive on the island. Winners of awards from all over the globe, Cayo Espanto's master culinary artists prepare the most succulent dishes with the freshest tropical ingredients in the world. Whether it is breakfast in bed or a candle lit dinner on your personal veranda, the epicurean cuisine at Cayo Espanto is nothing short of tantalizing. The personalized creations are an awakening to the palate.

Things to Bring

* Sunscreen (oil free works the best)
* Swim Suit
* Sandals
* Tevas (river sandals)
* House Shoes
* Sunglasses
* Mask, Snorkel & Fins (can be rented)
* Camera
* Slacks
* Shorts
* Dramamine
* CD's
* DVD’s
* Books and Magazines

7 night stay in luxury villa
Personal houseman, three tailored meals per day,
all snacks and all drinks (Excluding champagne, wine and cordials)
Full usage of non-motorized water sports equipment
1 Mayan Ruin excursion to Lamanai by plane
1 massage per person
1 private snorkel or SCUBA trip
1 private picnic

Package Price starting at $15,697.96, based on double occupancy.

5 night stay in luxury villa
Personal houseman, three tailored meals per day, all snacks and all drinks
(Excluding champagne, wine and cordials)
Full usage of non-motorized water sports equipment
Complimentary bottle of champagne
1 massage per person
1 private snorkel or SCUBA trip
1 private picnic

Package Price starting at $11,124.85, based on double occupancy.

5 night stay in luxury villa
Personal houseman, three tailored meals per day, all snacks and all drinks
(Excluding champagne, wine and cordials)
Full usage of non-motorized water sports equipment
1 Mayan Ruin excursion to Altun Ha
1 massage per person
2 private snorkel or SCUBA trip

Package Price starting at $11,283.99, based on double occupancy.

7 night stay in luxury villa
Personal houseman, three tailored meals per day, all snacks and all drinks
(Excluding champagne, wine and cordials)
Full usage of non-motorized water sports equipment
1 day of guided reef or fly fishing
1 cave tubing & zip line excursion by plane
1 day of golf at nearby Caye Chapel by plane
1 day at sea with a little luxury (spear fishing, snorkeling and a private picnic)

Package Price starting at $16,121.43, based on double occupancy.

Package Disclaimer- Please Read
- Packages valid through December 15, 2007
- Package rates are inclusive of a 9% tax and a 15% resort fee
- For new reservations only
- Packages are subject to change and are based on availability.
- For availability or additional guest pricing, please email Elizabeth at elizabeth@aprivateisland.com or call 1-888-666-4282. Restrictions Apply.

For more information visit http://www.aprivateisland.com/

Boca Raton Resort and Club

2007-07-14T07:10:00.000-04:00

Tracing its origins to the vision of legendary architect Addison Mizner, the Boca Raton Resort & Club is one of the world’s great resorts – an homage to classic elegance infused with a modern sense of ease and style.

Redefining The Vision Of An American Icon

Born anew with innovative design concepts and a streamlined approach to service, the Boca Raton Resort & Club is one of the world's great resorts - where every imaginable amenity awaits, and each moment is yours to enjoy.

An unmatched level of luxury, comfort and style in South Florida With five unique styles of guestrooms and suites, the Boca Raton Resort & Club offers luxurious and sophisticated accommodations to match every lifestyle and personal preference. Best described as a collection of five distinct boutique hotels situated on one expansive property, the Resort's accommodations deliver a level of elegance, comfort and design sensibility unrivaled among Boca Raton hotels.

A single vision has shaped this resort since the days of Mizner, and it is this vision – one that embraces bold gestures and innovative thinking – that will guide the resort for decades to come. Discover the extensive array of features that distinguish this freshly redesigned Boca Raton beach resort, including:

Find out more at http://www.bocaresort.com

Las Casitas Village & Golden Door Spa

2007-07-13T19:30:00.000-04:00

A Brilliant, enchanting choice among Puerto Rico Resorts

Escape to your own private Caribbean hideaway at Las Casitas Village & Golden Door Spa. We deliver an unrivaled guest experience among Las Croabas Puerto Rico hotels and resorts. Enjoy the comforts of home in one of our 155 spacious casitas ("cottages" in Spanish), complete with personal 24-hour butler service. Get your adrenaline pumping with phenomenal wave running, horseback riding, wind surfing, diving, and fishing. Test your swing on our majestic Arthur Hills Caribbean golf course. As part of the elegant El Conquistador Resort & Golden Door Spa this Las Croabas Puerto Rico resort offers incredible accommodations in a dazzling setting:

Located on the northeastern tip of Puerto Rico, near El Yunque Rain Forest
Four miles from the stores and attractions of downtown Fajardo and Las Croabas
Easy access to world-class golf, wind surfing, scuba diving, and fishing
Minutes from Las Cabezas Lighthouse
31 miles from San Juan and Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU)

Click here for Activities & Attractions near our Puerto Rico Vacation Rentals.

Shining Service And Amenities At Our Las Croabas Puerto Rico Hotel And Resort

Choose from 90 one- to three-bedroom casitas, each with a soft, tropical décor and elegant furnishings. Marvel at breathtaking ocean views from your secluded balcony. Rejuvenate with a stimulating spa treatment in the renowned Golden Door Spa or take a sunset dinner cruise before visiting our world-class casino. Savor the delectable cuisine in 22 award-winning onsite restaurants and lounges. Choose the elite Las Casitas Village ··· and discover why we soar above traditional Las Croabas Puerto Rico hotels and resorts. Our superb amenities include:

155 spacious and elegant guest rooms, composed of one- to three-bedroom casitas
High-speed Internet access, in all guest rooms and meeting areas
70,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, accommodating from 10 to 2,300 people
37 meeting rooms, with versatile floor plans
26,000-square-foot Golden Door Spa, specializing in body and facial treatments, using local herbs and plants grown and blended exclusively for the Spa
Arthur Hills Golf Course, featuring a challenging 18-hole course studded with palm trees
Casino at El Conquistador Resort, offering 171 exciting table games and 221 slot machines
Eight outdoor pools, with swim-up bars and poolside dining
Whirlpool, sauna, and Jacuzzi, offering supreme relaxation
22 restaurants and lounges, serving tantalizing steak and seafood, as well as colorful international cuisine
Butler service, available 24 hours

Click here for more Features & Services at our Caribbean Villas

Retreat to spacious casitas and a sparkling Caribbean location. Treat yourself to a true tropical paradise at Las Casitas Village & Golden Door Spa, and leave the world behind.

For more information visit: http://www.lascasitasvillage.com/index.cfm

Bugatti Veyron - $1.6 million

2007-07-11T21:32:00.000-04:00

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is currently the fastest, most powerful, and most expensive street-legal full production car in the world, with a proven top speed of 407.5 km/h (253 mph), though several faster or more expensive vehicles have been produced on a limited basis.[1] It reached full production in September 2005. The car is built by Volkswagen AG subsidiary Bugatti Automobiles SAS in its Molsheim (Alsace, France) factory and is sold under the legendary Italian/French Bugatti marque. It is named after French racing driver Pierre Veyron, who won the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1939 while racing for the original Bugatti firm.
Development of the vehicle began with the 1999 EB 18/4 "Veyron" concept car. Introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show, it was similar in design and appearance to the final Veyron production car. One major difference was the EB 18/4's use of a W18 engine with three banks of six cylinders. The Veyron's head designer was Hartmut Warkuss with exterior designed by Jozef Kabaň of Volkswagen rather than Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign who had handled the three prior Bugatti concepts.

VW chairman Ferdinand Piëch announced the production Veyron at the 2000 Geneva Motor Show. It was promised to be the fastest, most powerful, and most expensive car in history. Instead of the W18, the production model would use a VR6/WR8-style W16 engine. First seen in the 1999 Bentley Hunaudieres concept car, the W16 would get four turbochargers, producing a quoted 1001 horsepower (see engine section for details on the power output). Top speed was promised at 407 km/h (253 mph), and pricing was announced at €1 million (US$1.3 million at the time).

Development continued throughout 2001 and the EB 16/4 Veyron was promoted to "advanced concept" status. In late 2001, Bugatti announced that the car, officially called the Bugatti Veyron 16.4, would go into production in 2003. However, the car experienced significant problems during development. Achieving the required high-speed stability was difficult - one prototype was destroyed in a crash and another spun out during a public demonstration at the Monterey Historics event in Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. Production of the Veyron was delayed pending resolution of these and other issues.

Piëch retired that year as chairman of the Volkswagen Group and was replaced by Bernd Pischetsrieder. The new chairman promptly sent the Veyron back to the drawing board for major revisions. Neumann was replaced as Bugatti president by Thomas Bscher in December 2003, and substantial modifications were made to the Veyron under the guidance of former VW engineer, Bugatti Engineering head Wolfgang Schreiber.
A silver and black Veyron on display at the 2004 Paris Motor Show.
A silver and black Veyron on display at the 2004 Paris Motor Show.

After the release of the car, it has been reported that while each Veyron is being sold for £840,000, the production costs of the car are approximately £5 million per vehicle. This is not the price to produce one vehicle, but rather the cost of the entire Veyron project divided by the number of vehicles produced at that time. As Bugatti, and therefore Volkswagen, are making such a loss, it has been likened by automotive journalist Jeremy Clarkson and his Top Gear programme team in their story on it to the Concorde, in that both were huge achievements, but the car will probably, like the plane before it, be discontinued after proving to be an economic failure.

In the case of the Veyron, it will be several years before Volkswagen will be able to see if their investment in developing ground-breaking technology has paid off. One key measure is how much (if any) of the technology developed for the Veyron finds use in mass-produced cars.

Read more about the veyron at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bugatti_Veyron or download car games for your PSP.

The video below shows the top-speed of the veyron 407 km/hr

Real people do own this car, checkout the video below of an owner in London. The insurance on this thing is around $100,000/year.

Enchantment Resort

2007-07-10T19:03:00.000-04:00

Surrounded by the majestic red rock formations of Northern Arizona's Boynton Canyon, Enchantment Resort combines luxury with rugged grandeur inspired by Native American culture which is honored every day through the resort's Native American Program. The resort's adobe casita-style accommodations offer world-class comforts amid its pristine 70-acre setting.

Enchantment Resort, in Sedona, is 110 miles north of Phoenix. At the heart of Arizona's 'Red Rock Country,' the Coconino National Forest, replete with archaeological rarities and rich Southwestern history, borders the property. An altitude of 4,600 feet ensures that even the hottest Arizona weather is within the comfort zone.

Luxury suites and bedrooms at Enchantment Resort offer casual sophistication with southwest interiors in rich earth colors. Every room has an outdoor deck for viewing the serenity and beauty of Boynton Canyon. For guest convenience, every room has a mini-bar, coffee maker, safe, complimentary high speed internet, in-room movies/Nintendo, iron with full size ironing board, hair dryer and bathrobes. Service is provided twice daily by our Executive Housekeeping Staff.

Find out more and book at http://www.enchantmentresort.com/

Shahrukh Khan's House

2007-07-01T15:50:00.000-04:00

Dream Big: Michael Jordon's House

2007-04-14T03:58:00.000-04:00

Castle in the Sky: Schloss Neuschwanstein

2007-03-20T13:55:00.000-04:00

Schloss Neuschwanstein

Seven weeks after the death of King Ludwig II in 1886, Neuschwanstein was opened to the public. The shy king had built the castle in order to withdraw from public life – now vast numbers of people came to view his private refuge.

Today Neuschwanstein is one of the most popular of all the palaces and castles in Europe. Every year 1.3 million people visit "the castle of the fairy-tale king". In the summer around 6,000 visitors a day stream through rooms that were intended for a single inhabitant.

The setting of Neuschwanstein could not be more idyllic. However, movement in the foundation area has to be continuously monitored, and the sheer rock walls must be repeatedly secured. The harsh climate also has a detrimental effect on the limestone façades, which will have to be renovated section by section over the next few years.

Since 1990 the Free State of Bavaria has spent around 11.2 million euros on the renovation and maintenance of the castle and improvement of the visitor service.

The World's Most Expensive House - 70 million pound

2007-03-19T15:14:00.000-04:00

The 70-MILLION pound mansion belongs to Lakshmi N Mittal, Chairman and CEO, of the LNM Group. He has bought a central London house for a stunning price of 70 million pound($128.25 million).

The 12-bedroom mansion located at the prestigious Kensington Palace Gardens has garage space for 20 cars. Bernie Ecclestone, the Formula One racing boss, who sold the house to Mittal, had bought it for his wife three years ago.

The Kensington Palace Garden houses are dubbed as Billionaires' Row and houses Sultan of Brunei and J.K Rowling(Author of the Harry Potter book series) among other famous people. It is also close to Kensington Palace where Princess Diana lived.

Photo: Odd Andersen / AFP / Getty Images

$500,000 - Rolls Royce Phantom

2007-01-23T23:06:00.000-05:00

$294,000/week - NECKER ISLAND VILLA, Carribean

2007-01-20T17:25:00.000-05:00

From the air Necker Island Villa is a raw emerald anchored in a pool of turquoise.

The verdant peak slopes gently downward to the azure and sapphire hues of the Caribbean Sea. Tapering sandbars and shallow coves punctuate the shoreline, and flat planes of sugar white sand form an almost unbroken garland of pristine beaches.

Like a vision of Eden, this island juts up from the ocean a mile north of Virgin Gorda in the celebrated British Virgin Islands. Totally private, the island has only one residence, a magnificent villa of breathtaking Balinese design.

Beneath huge peaked roofs, this unique structure houses ten bedrooms, all with en suite bathrooms and private balconies that offer sweeping vistas of the sea and neighboring islands. The living and dining areas are cavernous. Tropical sunlight streams through vast skylights in the vaulted ceiling. Wide louvered windows open to the exhilarating ocean breezes. A raised gallery overlooks an interior garden of lush palms and ferns.

Much of the furniture was specially commissioned. The designs are exquisite, the coverings handmade. The decor is inspired: Balinese fabrics, Haitian paintings, and Mexican pottery. On this island, the pace is tropical, the ambience exotic.

Outside, the villa is encircled by broad, galleried terraces of York stone. A patio is set for dining al fresco. All about, comfortable lounge furniture invites languid relaxation or quiet reading. From this upper terrace, fresh water cascades into a whirlpool on the terrace below and flows into the enormous swimming pool, its water as clear as Baccarat crystal.

A short stroll from the villa, on a dazzling cape of silver sand, sits a Balinese gazebo and beside it a flood lit tennis court. Two traditional Balinese guest houses, one with its own swimming pool, sit nestled in exquisite surroundings with romantic views.

Recreational facilities abound; sailing, water skiing, wind surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing. And on the villa's main level, there is even a full sized English snooker table.

This Island has the best of both worlds: an exciting choice of recreational pursuits for the athletically inclined, or the privacy and privilege to do nothing but bask in the glow of this perfect tropical idyll.

Helicopter transfers from and to nearby airports for groups staying five nights or more, launch transfers for groups staying less than five nights, all meals and drinks (including alcoholic beverages), staff of eighteen, two freshwater pools and two Jacuzzis, flood lit tennis court and equipment, twelve luxurious bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, wind surfers, laser sailing dinghies, water skiing, snorkeling equipment, fishing equipment (not deep-sea), two underwater Sea Sprints, launch trips to other islands in BVI (excluding Anegada), one-day yacht charter for groups staying five nights or more, video, book and music libraries, full-sized snooker table, board games (children's books and games), and work-out equipment.

Seventy-four acres of private nature trails linking a selection of sandy beaches; a magnificent house, crafted with open-plan Balinese architecture to incorporate a wooden canopied living and lounging area with ten double bedrooms which open out on to private balconies; unobtrusive but attentive staff to prepare meals of your choice, serve drinks and provide water-skiing as and when required.

The spacious Balinese studios, each with one double bedroom and full facilities, have been built about 500 metres from the House. These studios can be rented individually by couples or alternatively they allow for an extra six people to join a party of up to twenty people in the House.

More Info....

1 million euros - Dream Villa on Mediterranean

2007-01-17T21:20:00.000-05:00

Stately luxury villa, superbly located and with grand views to the town of Dénia, its castle and the Mediterranean Sea. Large terrassed plot bordering directly with Montgó National Park affords utmost privacy and tranquility. Beautifully landscaped garden with impressive drystone walls, big palm trees, extensive lawn zones and ample terraces. Large heated pool.

As stunning as its location is the villa itself. Maintained by the builder and in immaculate condition, this property affords a maximum degree of comfort and luxury. You name it this villa has it: a cozy bodega and a large wellness area in the basement, several studies on the first floor, a huge living room and a fantastic fitted kitchen on the main floor and a snug tower room on the top floor. An elevator is installed for easy access to all levels. A lot of time has been dedicated to the interior decoration of this fine property. A rare gem on the real estate market for affluent buyers.

$10000/night - Rania Resort, Maldives

2007-01-17T01:25:00.000-05:00

The Rania Experience, an exclusive-use resort in the Maldives, is located on a seven-acre island in the Indian Ocean. The island's entertainment pavilion features a home theater and programmed Apple iPods. Use of an 86-foot yacht is included in the room rate, as are a private chef, unlimited spa treatments, diving courses, big game fishing and local island cruises. Rania accommodates nine; room rates start at $9,500 per night for the first couple and $500 per night for each additional guest. Groups of up to nine get a private chef, unlimited spa treatments and use of an 86-foot yacht, all for $13,000 per night. Just $13,000 ...now that is luxury....you stay a week and you blow away more than what an average person in a developed country makes in a year that also before takes.

$2700/day - Sandy Lane Resort, Barbados

2007-01-16T17:15:00.000-05:00

Luxurious golf and spa resort in St. James, Barbados has long been the place to stay for discriminating celebrities, businessmen and dignitaries visiting the island. Rooms, which average 900 square feet each and have their own private verandas, feature wide-screen plasma TVs and bathrooms with multi-spray showers and heated mirrors. Four restaurants and five bars on the property ensure that even on a longer visit your palette will never get bored; and the Romanesque spa and 18-hole golf course provide a venue for burning off calories between meals and sunbathing. Nightly room rates start at $2,700 from Dec. 18 through Jan. 6

$185,000 membership/year - PELICAN HEAVEN

2007-01-15T01:47:00.000-05:00

Starting at $185,000 you can enjoy membership to an exclusive community called Quintess

They have destinations all over the word which you could book. I happen to stumble on this beautiful villa in St. Thomas.

Step onto your private terrace and enjoy the incredible views of the neighboring Tobago Islands, St. John and Virgin Gorda. Look below and see the same waters that Sir Francis Drake made famous in the 1500s - his namesake channel initiates at the footsteps of your Pelican Heaven home. The five bedroom, six bath retreat is the perfect place to bring your family or entertain your friends. Take an early morning swim in your private pool, enjoy a champagne toast after dark in your whirlpool spa, or simply enjoy the amazing views from your patio.

Checkout the website, there is a beautiful world in there :)

$1.3 million Cell Phone

2007-01-13T16:51:00.000-05:00

The Diamond Crypto Smartphone, which has 29 preset melodies and tones, took over eight months to develop. Like any piece of art, it takes time and care and the price might be worth it for those who spend millions like hundreds.

935,000 euros - Mansion on Mediterranean Sea

2007-01-11T01:06:00.000-05:00

Rent a Private Villa in Costa Rica - just $5000/week

2007-01-08T16:21:00.000-05:00

Life cannot get any better, just a week in this beachside mansion for $5000 and you will come back ready to take on the world.

Casa De Frutas is a privately owned luxury villa located in the gated resort of Tulemar Gardens in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Built in 2005, this "Bali Modern" style villa totals 4000 square feet of tropical, open-air living with three private, air conditioned suites. Amenities include panoramic, sunset ocean views from all rooms, an infinity edge plunge pool with a Balinese pavilion and an outdoor waterfall shower.

The house sits on a hillside overlooking the ocean and is bordered by jungle filled with monkeys, sloths and iguanas.

If you are looking for a very special villa that has it all... luxury, design, sunset oceanviews, location, wildlife, private pool, private beach and the amenities and services of a resort... Casa de Frutas is the villa for you!

Amenities

The facilities include a restaurant, bar, pool and a beautiful tropical beach with additional bar and food service. Room service is available, as well as the services of a personal chef (extra fee) for private dinners and parties. Tulemar Gardens is centrally located in the best section of Manuel Antonio.

Casa de Frutas has a full time housekeeper and gardner plus a concierge, who can handle all of your travel arrangements and plan for tours and activities in Manuel Antonio.

Attractions & Activities

Enjoy Tulemar's private beach, just down the hill from Casa de Frutas. The beach has sea kayaks available as well as food and beverage service; just charge it to your villa!

More Info:Manuel Antonio Vacation Rental

Rent a Private Island: Turtle Island - Fiji US$275,000/week

2007-01-07T01:16:00.000-05:00

Wanna see how a private island with crystal clear water and some exotic music sound like...get ready to feel good ...:)

The Turtle Island - Fiji is all yours for 1 week for US$275,000. This is the same island on which the movie The Blue Lagoon was shot;)

It looks nice...I might just take a vacation here someday :)

Dream Home: Villa Serena, Lake Butler, Florida

2007-01-05T17:10:00.000-05:00

Nestled behind pines and oak trees on a secluded road and sited on a gradually sloped crest with a spectacular view to pristine Lake Butler, lies a magnificent estate designed along Renaissance sensibilities but containing all of the latest contemporary amenities.Villa Serena was designed to offer privacy, security, and a sublime spirit. A decorative gate yields to a winding road that passes a tennis court with viewing gazebo and small playhouse.
The magnificent classical elevation of the main house is hidden from view until you break from the trees. There you are greeted by a turnabout drive and double elliptical stone stairways ascending to the main entrance door under a Baroque covered porch. You can feel the warmth of the cream colored hand-wrought natural stone columns and stone window and door surrounds. The house is sited on the cardinal compass points. The long axis faces east-west. Pella windows and doors can be opened during the cooler months to allow free-flowing breezes to waft through the house from the lake. The sun permeates the elevated entry on the south year round. One arrives on the mid-level, which is most apparent when walking through the highly decorative double height sky-lit Foyer with twin curving stairways, through the formal Ball Room and onto the breathtaking 29 foot high north porch overlooking the green lawn, which drops gracefully towards the blue waters of Pocket Lake.

Formal Living and Dining Rooms through framed doorways from the Foyer face the South. The cool north side has rooms on three levels. Master Suite and Children’s Bedrooms; Family Room (at Pool level), Guest Suites; Library, BallRoom, Kitchen and Breakfast with Verandah and Balconies face the lake view.

Villa Serena is one of acclaimed Architect John C. Henry’s treasures imaginatively conceived after Italianate precedent and Old World charm. Greco-Roman detail abounds and Renaissance proportion is evident. Originally inspired by Palm Beach mansions, this jewel of stucco and stone detail and ceramic tile roof (not concrete) satisfied the many activities and interests of the Owner and became an investment prized for its beauty and grandeur. Source:http://www.dreamhomedesignusa.com

Johannesburg, South Africa - $1 million

2007-01-05T03:32:00.000-05:00

Not bad for a million dollars :) It has four bedrooms and three-and-one-half bathrooms as well as a massive chef’s kitchen and expansive, covered patio for outdoor entertaining. Health nuts will find much to keep them occupied in the gym room while the busy executive can hunker down in the home office. Source:forbes.com

San Jose de Pinilla, Costa Rica - $1 million

2007-01-04T15:13:00.000-05:00

This is a million dollar home in Costa Rica. This Spanish Colonial-inspired home sits on a half-acre within the Reserva de Golf beach community in the Guanacaste region of the country. It has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a solarium and spacious kitchen as well as maid’s and guest rooms and an outdoor pool. For more information, contact Nicholas P. Viale at Century 21 Coastal Estates.Source:forbes.com

Vacation like a King: Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England

2007-01-04T02:05:00.000-05:00

2.5 hours from London by car
75 minutes from Kings Cross by train

Belvoir Castle is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Belvoir is groaning with history and around every corner you encounter wonderful portraits, flags, armour & weapons and fabulous furniture.

The Castle is now available for houseparties and guests can take over the private wing of the Castle and some of the state rooms for their exclusive use.

A full staff awaits and are there to greet you on arrival lined up along the hallway.

Live like a king for a week or month. See what it feels like to live in gradeur and stately charm.

Click here for more information

Disclaimer: This is not an endorsement and this blog is not being paid to showcase the castle.

Dream House, Red Sea, Egypt

2007-01-03T10:28:00.000-05:00

Hamilton, Bermuda - $1.1million

2007-01-03T06:20:00.000-05:00

This three-bedroom, two-bathroom, three-level Somers Garden townhome offers views of the North Shore, has terra cotta flooring throughout, an ensuite master bedroom and a family room with a separate entrance. There is also an inground pool and a half bathroom for guests. For more information, please contact Chrissy Frith at Rego Sotheby’s International Realty. Source: forbes.com

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - $975,000

2007-01-02T20:19:00.001-05:00

Located just a few minutes from Georgetown in the South Sound area, this punchy, 3,500-square-foot property offers four bedrooms and bathrooms, hard-wood floors, custom cabinetry, and a separate, two-car garage with guest room. There is also a deck for entertaining guests and an in-ground, stone-walled pool for staying cool. Source:forbes.com

Heaven on Earth - Angsana Resort, Maldives

2007-01-02T17:42:00.000-05:00

Don't know what to do with your money :) Visit Maldives with your family and give them the gift of nature. Be it under the water

or over the water, you will fall in love with it.

Surrounded by the unspoiled natural beauty of the Maldives, Angsana Resort & Spa Maldives Ihuru seduces with the hedonistic pleasures of a spa retreat and the promise of halcyon days in the sumptuous comfort of your own villa. Encircled by a shallow lagoon, Ihuru, with its pristine reef teeming with technicolor corals and diverse marine life, palm-fringed beach and crystalline waters, is one of the most photographed Maldivian islands. Wow, I hope to stay here in the coming years :)

Disclaimer: This is not an endorsement and this blog is not being paid to showcase the resort.

Sheldon Adelson

2007-01-01T15:00:00.000-05:00

Net Worth $20.5 billion
Source Las Vegas Sands (quote: LVS), Gambling /Leisure, Self made
Age 73
Hometown Las Vegas
Education City College of New York, Drop Out

Son of a Boston cabdriver borrowed $200 from his uncle to sell newspapers at age 12. Made first fortune in trade shows. Created computer industry's premier show, Comdex, mid-1980s; ran 70% profit margin renting space for 15 cents a square foot and leasing it to exhibitors for up to $40 a square foot. Sold show to Japan's Softbank for $862 million in 1995. Then Las Vegas: bought old Sands casino for $128 million, demolished it to build the $1.5 billion all-suites Venetian casino resort and the 1.2-million-square foot Sands Convention Center. Changed the way Vegas does business by enticing conventioneers to Sin City midweek, taking emphasis off gambling. Sold suites for $250 a night, added high-end retailers, celebrity-chef restaurants. Took Las Vegas Sands public December 2004; stock up 135% since. Big bet on Asia: opened $265 million Sands Macau casino May 2004, recouped entire investment in one year. His home is pictured below:

Harrington, New York - USD $9.5 million

2006-12-31T18:04:00.000-05:00

2007 BMW 328i - Approx. CDN$52000

2006-12-29T02:12:00.000-05:00

2006 Porsche Carrera GT - Approx. $484,000 / 450,000 €

2006-12-27T17:28:00.000-05:00