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Boycott Bingo
Boycott Bingo: a handy guide to cricket-based bingo games during the ICC Champions Trophy.
The ICC Champions Trophy is well and truly upon us. Often referred to as cricket’s mini world cup, the one-day international tournament has been played almost every two years since 1998, originally as the ICC Knockout Tournament. The competition is hugely popular amongst fans of cricket all over the world, and is always hotly contested amongst the cricket-playing nations of the world. This year the tournament is being held in England and Wales, giving cricket fans of the UK an opportunity to see some of the finest sportsmanship in the world on home soil. This needn’t be bad news for cricket haters though – why not liven up proceedings by putting together your very own bingo games based on the outcomes of the cricketing events of the day!
The game is loaded with sporting clichés, and nobody delivers them better than cricketing stalwart turned commentator Geoffrey Boycott. Even avid haters of the sport can find some respite and comic relief by drawing up some Boycott Bingo cards – in fact, there are even resources online to generate cards, allowing bingo fans to tune in and listen out for phrases such as “my gran could’ve hit that with a broom handle”, “should book in for bed and breakfast on this wicket” and “it’s not how good you look, it’s how many you get”, all delivered with trademark curmudgeonly aplomb.
For those who prefer their bingo games to be number-based, it’s possible to take a guess at how many runs each team will complete, how many sixes and fours each country will bat over the course of the day, or even how many players will be out on a duck. Granted, it may not be quite as humorous as listening to one of the greats of sporting commentary as he dishes out remarks in an inimitable style, although it’s a great way to add an extra edge of excitement to the proceedings – particularly if you aren’t fond of cricket and a spouse, friend or family member insists on remaining tuned in!
Of course, those who wish to escape the ICC Champions Trophy completely could do worse than to get down to their local bingo hall, where the only fours and sixes to worry about are “knock on the door” and “half a dozen” – you’ll no doubt find better prizes on offer too!
NYC’s Greenest Space.
We all associate holidays to New York City with towering sky scrapers and manic roads buzzing with hyperactive yellow taxis. There’s no denying New York is a busy place, but there is a place to escape it all. It’s a place where greenery sprouts from the concrete jungle and animals from the other side of the world live happily.
Central Park is the heart on New York. Just take a look at an aerial image of New York, and it’s not difficult to see where Central Park is. The giant green blob in the centre of the cold grey mass looks like a heavenly oasis to the weary New Yorker. Aside from the occasional office pot plant, nature is difficult to come across in New York, apart from when Central Park is within range.
Central Park Is A Must See Whilst On Your Holidays In ‘The Big Apple’
It’s no exaggeration, Central Park really is huge! Everything you would expect from your average park can be found there, but that’s hardly a place to draw the line. Being the only decent park for miles, Central Park has a huge role to play in many people’s lives, so it’s far from your average park.
How many parks have you been to where there is a zoo? A vast majority of people would say none, however most New Yorkers can say that they have visited at least one. Central park is the home to an amazing zoo, with animals no one would expect to see in the middle of New York. All kinds of animals can be found at the zoo, ranging from penguins to tortoises. 
A regular favourite at the zoo is the polar bear enclosure, which fascinates adults and children all year round. The polar bears are only one of 130 species of animal that can be found at the Central Park zoo.
Nature Walk in the City?
There’s no better way to relax in the Big Apple than a leisurely sightseeing stroll around the park. Some decide to wander off alone and see where the day takes them, but many others arrange guided tours to ensure they make the very most of their visit. A small fee entitles you to a three hour guided walk, with the chance to stop for lunch, or if you’d rather, you can take the tour by bicycle. Understandably, cycling and walking can be a little strenuous, especially for the elderly. Luckily you can also choose to have a horse drawn carriage to take you around the park!
Do party holidays make or break a relationship?
The term ‘party holidays’ is one that strikes fear in the hearts of all who love someone. Even the best of couples face the unavoidable trust issues that come hand in hand with the wild antics of these young holidays. Are they all really that doom and gloom, or is there nothing at all to worry about?
The last decade has seen a constant increase in the amount of party holidays taken, which is fine for those who like to live life as free as the wind, but for others can be more trouble than it’s worth. Places like Ibiza, Zante, Magaluf, Malia and Faliraki or even Vegas are popular choices for weeks of tanning, drinking and regrettable promiscuity. But not everyone goes on a party holiday for steamy drunken nights with strangers.
It may come as a surprise to many, but it is possible to have a good time abroad without sleeping with the first ‘hottie’ you come across. The main attraction with these kinds of holidays is definitely the drinking side of things, and once in that environment, pulling is the last thing on your mind. As stressful as it can be, most couples survive party holidays.
Party Holidays… Make Or Breaking up Couples?
The couples that survive such holidays are ones with trust. If you are the sort of person who can’t bear to see you’re other half out with their friends in the local clubs, that’s probably something that needs working on before hitting the clubs of Ibiza. 
All in all, Party holidays can be truly memorable experiences. A great selection of friends is all you need to make such a holiday perfect in every way. Once you step off that plane, and the foreign sun kisses your skin, you won’t care much for anything other than enjoying yourself with your mates.
If you are the unfortunate one that happens to be stuck at home worrying about your partner, there are many ways you can deal with the worry and stress that may arise. Here are just a few examples of ways you can take your mind off things:
- Go and visit some friends. (Try and meet up with old friends so you have more to talk about)
- Hit the clubs with your own friends.
- Spoil yourself with some retail therapy.
- Lose yourself in a nice long book. (If you don’t have many books, that’s a great reason to go shopping!
- Set yourself a creative project, and put your all into it.
Those are just a few examples of how you can cope with being away from your loved one whilst they are having the time of their life. If they are yet to go away, and it is still in the planning stages, why not go on a party holiday of your own at the same time, and take all your own friends. That way everyone’s happy!
Get A Beach Body In Time For All Inclusive Holidays
Lose weight for all inclusive holidays.
It’s fair to say that yet again, Christmas has taken its toll on the waists of us festive folk. Only last summer you were boasting your perfectly toned body, yet that feels like years ago. But you don’t have to be a pudding! There is hope yet, and many ways you can rebuild that friendship you once had with the mirror.
You don’t have to be a dietician to know how to shed those winter pounds, and with constant new and controversial diets popping up all over the show, its best to keep things good and simple. Before you start your long and winding path to recovery, head on down to your nearest travel agent and check out some all inclusive holidays. Pick somewhere you have no choice but to show a little flesh and book a getaway for the upcoming summer. By doing this you are setting yourself a deadline, because who doesn’t want to look great on a beach?
Goodbye Junk Food!
Many have fallen into the routine of snacking on what can only be described as rubbish this winter. As heart breaking as it may be, you’re going to have to say goodbye to those fast food companies, as they are never going to help you lose that weight. Eat healthy meals, a good mixture of all the right stuff, not deep fried garbage and ice cream. Here are a few do’s and don’ts:
Do
- Eat lots of fresh vegetables and fruit.
- Eat some protein, like fish, meat and eggs.
- Eat appropriate sized portions.
- Enjoy your meals at set times.
- Drink lots of water, the more the better!
- Always eat breakfast.
- Exercise, lots!
- Snack between meals.
- Be a slob!
- Eat takeaways on a regular basis.
- Drive if you could walk.
- Expect quick results, these things take time.
- Give in to temptation!
Don’t
Following simple steps can have you in ship shape for the summer. Dedicate at least 20 minutes every night/morning to some light exercise and even assign yourself a rest day, where once a week you don’t have to worry about it.
Sit ups and Crunches are a great way to work out those well hidden abs (or flabs). Set yourself a reasonable target each night, and gradually increase that as it becomes easier. This is a sure way to make a difference on your appearance. For arms, I recommend investing in some dumbbells to lift, or simply do sets of press-ups as part of your routine. Swimming is definitely a great way to work out the whole body, and is highly recommended. A regular swimming session along with the previous steps and you’ll be looking great in no time.
Fall in love with the Cook Islands.
What else makes for better package holidays, than ones where you can discover what feels like your very own island? Miles out into the South Pacific Ocean you will find the Cook Islands, waiting for you peacefully, like a little bit of heaven sprinkled on earth.
The Cook Islands are made up of fifteen islands in total, each one unique in many ways, but each also maintaining a high level of beauty and magic. Intense blue waters caress the white beaches on each of the wonderful masses of land, these being only one of the reasons you should pay them a visit.
Rarotonga is the most highly populated island of the group, and homes a huge percentage of the people of the Cook Islands. Due to the size of the island, it is home to an airport, parliamentary buildings and the capital of the Cook Islands, Avarua. Rarotonga is the ideal destination for all those who prefer to not stray too far away from civilization, and enjoy a fair share of holiday shopping. While Rarotonga may be the most populated and built up of the islands, please don’t be under the impression it is lacking in nature and soul.
Package Holidays in the Cook Islands
As well as the resources in the centre of the island, Rarotonga is blessed with the most beautiful of beaches, on which tourists happily take in the Pacific sun. When the sun finally falls gently into the enchanting horizon, the islands come to life. Down at Te Vara Nui Village night time entertainment is a must see.
Sit back and enjoy a cocktail and a meal whilst dancers shake their hips, and brave performers juggle fire over the sparkling water below. Get involved and sing along as the locals serenade you and drums rhythmically pound into the night.
Everything you want and need can be found on Rarotonga, but for those of you who have an uncontrollable sense of adventure, it would be wrong not to pay even just a few of the other islands a visit.
Aitutaki Island is only a short trip from Rarotonga, and offers the finest entertainment and activities. Book a trip to the beautiful lagoon, where you can snorkel or even scuba dive and come face to face with exotic fish. If you have a passion for fish and marine life, you can also arrange a fishing trip, where you will be taken out into the sea, and be shown all the best spots for a great catch! Follow that nice relaxing trip up with some kite surfing or wake boarding and you’ll be set for the evening.
Another island worth a visit is Avarua. Again only a short boat trip away, Avarua has plenty to offer and shouldn’t go unseen. Purchase treasures you wouldn’t find anywhere else at the pearl shop, or set sail out into the Pacific Ocean and discover colourful fish, wise looking turtles and humpback whales.
All inclusive holidays to Dubai
If like myself you need somewhere nice and warm, and somewhere the horrible weather can’t reach you this winter, then I may have the place for your next all inclusive holidays.
Located in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is rapidly becoming one of the most popular holiday destinations for all those seeking only the highest standards. Dubai has a wide variety of hotels, some more glamorous than others, but all maintaining extremely high reputations. Dubai is also home to a record breaking skyscraper. The Burj Khalifa stands two thousand, seven hundred and twenty two feet above the Dubai floor, this making it the tallest building in the world. Head to Dubai to conquer the amazing Burj Khalifa and stand higher than you ever possibly could anywhere in the world. From the top of this colossal building you will be able to glance over the whole city, and not too far in the distance the Burj al Arab (also known as the Tower of Arabs), a highly recognisable hotel.
Seven star hotel
The Tower of Arabs likes to call itself a seven star hotel, and if there were seven stars in the grading system, I’m sure it would get them all. The Tower of Arabs is built on an artificial island, and is surrounded by crystal clear waters. As you may of realised, Dubai is the sort of place where you can easily spend way too much money, but if you’re willing to accept that, then hold on tight, there’s more!
Dubai is also home to the world’s largest shopping mall! The Dubai Mall is home to 1200 shops and is larger than 50 football pitches. While you will definitely still have to face 
paying the price for all the amazing things you see, fear not, as you may be able to barter your way to a better deal. Tens of thousands of colourful sea creatures await discovery in the Dubai Mall. The Dubai Aquarium offers an underwater view like no aquarium in the world. To date, Dubai Aquarium has the largest acrylic panel in the world, meaning you won’t just be looking at a few fishes; an awful lot of fishes will be looking at you!
Water blasts high into the sky like some sort of man-made geyser at the Dubai Fountains. Tourists and locals alike gather round on a daily basis to admire the fountain in all its beauty as ice blue water sprays up to five hundred feet into the air. And the best thing is, you don’t need money to admire this beautiful attraction.
Get Festive This Christmas In Manchester
Not everyone can afford holidays with Christmas being just around the corner, but luckily the UK isn’t too boring this time of year. One city in particular knows how to satisfy its residents needs for excitement in the festive season. Home of world famous football teams, birthplace of some of the most successful musical artists and filled with some of the friendliest people you could possibly meet, Manchester also boasts night-life like no other city. So if a holiday in the sun is out of the window this Christmas then don’t worry, Manchester has a great festive entertainment during the X-Mas period that you don’t want to be missing out on.
Have a Holiday in the U.K this Christmas!
The weeks leading up to Christmas really are when this amazing city comes to life. Thousands of people gather around the historical town hall in suspense as they count down to the illumination of the city. Giant snowflakes, Christmas trees and other Christmas related shapes line the streets and sparkle elegantly through the night. People travel far and wide to visit the annual Christmas German market, and the aroma of hogs roasting and mulled wine brewing creep through the decorative huts and onto the street. A giant statue of Father Christmas takes rest as we approach the eve when he will be needed. All seems nice, and Manchester seems like a quiet and peaceful city, but that’s not entirely true.
As the Markets close, and all the families head home to prepare for the long day that awaits tomorrow, Manchester prepares for a night just as long, as not everyone sleeps when the sun goes down.
On every back street, and every main road, there is always that one place that keeps the lights on that extra few hours. Night clubs and bars own the night throughout the year in Manchester, with a great selection of drinks and all types of music, there’s somewhere to meet anyone’s needs. But winter in particular holds one night time event to rule them all. A place where people from all over the country buy tickets to see some of the best DJ’s around perform at a hidden location.
For twelve weeks, The Warehouse Project claims Manchester’s night-life. It’s where world famous musical artists travel across the world to make each night something to remember. Thousands of people make their way to a secret location that changes annually, usually in a warehouse of some sort. Multiple spaces, each with different artists /DJ’s ready to fill the crowd with music so they can dance the night away. Strobe lights beam through the crowds as bass strikes the chests of all that are in range. The night never seems to end, and no one wishes it to.
Although we are rapidly approaching the end of this year’s instalment of The Warehouse Project on January 1st, there are still so many special guests to expect. Fatboy Slim, Annie Mac, Pete Tong, Magnetic Man, Skream, Netsky and Danny Byrd are just a few names Manchester can expect to see before the end of The Warehouse Project. One name in particular which is sure to bring in an incredible crowd though… Skrillex. On the 6th of December 2012, the king of Dubstep himself is gracing The Warehouse Project with his presence. Not only will he be performing on the night, but he will also be choosing the entire line up for that night. I don’t know about you, but that’s something I’m not prepared to miss…
Set memories in stone with holidays to Petra!
Breathtaking Jordan holidays
Few places in the world are as fascinating as the stone city of Petra. Carved into the mountains of Jordan, Petra is a magnificent display of craftsmanship and architecture, and has been for thousands of years. Petra shows signs of being around as early as 312BC and was not discovered by westerners until 1812, but it is not the history of Petra that interests me.
The location of Petra is awe inspiring on its own. Carved into the slope of mount Hor, Petra has been a gateway between cities and a centre for traders for as long as people remember. Petra has been successful strongpoint in Jordan due to its abilities to utilise water from a stream, for domestic purposes and to make profit. Petra also has built in facilities to utilise water from flash floods, and store it for the droughts in the summer months.
I truly believe Petra to be one of the most amazing places in the world. I would quite happily take a holiday to live in a cave like habitat for a week in Petra if I could, and feel that life would be stripped back to its bare essentials. I find it admirable that people still take residence in Petra and envy the men who were talented enough to build such amazing structures. In the current day, Tourists are led to Petra from the East. Heading to Petra from the east involves walking through an incredibly narrow gorge, known as ‘al-siq’ or ‘The Shaft’. The walls of The Shaft are no more than 3 meters apart at some points and reach up to 182 meters in height. At the end of this dark and intimidating gorge, tourists are rewarded with the magnificent sight of Al Khazneh, also known as The Treasury, one of Petra’s most outstanding pieces of architecture. Carved by hand, thousands of years ago into a sandstone cliff face, The Treasury tells stories of the afterlife in its intricate façade. The Treasury found its name in the legend that bandits once hid their loot in a stone urn on the second floor.While no treasure has ever been discovered in this legendary temple, The Treasury was shown as the resting place for the ‘Holy Grail’ in the 1989 film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Petra is also home to Ad Deir (The Monastery), an Amphitheatre and many other habitable carved structures.
Home Of Gaudi’s Unfinished Masterpiece
People often take cheap holidays to Barcelona, completely unaware of the wonders they are about to discover. And once in Barcelona they do discover them.
Standing in its magnificent shadow, it’s hard to pull yourself together with the Sagrada Familia. Which is the best sight in Barcelona by far, or quite possibly in the world. Even though it’s not yet complete, and shan’t be till 2026. You don’t have to be a holy person to appreciate this Roman Catholic Church; you just need an eye for beauty. While the streets are splashed with vibrant bars and cafés, and the Fundacio Joan Miro, which is one of the greatest museums in the world welcomes sightseers from around the world. It’s clear to me that the true energy of this city resides around one piece of architecture. Tours are available of the Sagrada Familia all year round of both the basilica and the towers. Where you can witness the spectacular interior Gothic décor for all it’s glory, and venture up to the top of the tower to gaze across Portugal.
Eight spires reach high into the Barcelona sky, waiting for another ten to join them as they watch the city forever. Once all spires are built, each will be a specific height, in relation to what it represents; one of twelve apostles, four evangelists, the Virgin Mary or the tallest of all, Jesus Christ. Once complete I believe that this will surely be one of the greatest works of art of all time, and in my eyes already is.For this reason, I would definitely consider a trip to Barcelona. A city to visit with the best camera you can have on hand, with the biggest memory card available and plenty of time to appreciate all it has to offer. 
There are very few sights like it in the world, and this is one destination I wouldn’t mind having on my doorstep. Only the Sagrada Familia or many refer to as the Holy Family could render me frozen in awe, an effect Antoni Gaudi no doubt intended to create.
Orlando; Bringing out your inner child!
If you can bare the 8-9 hour flight towards Florida then make sure you head towards the “Sunshine State”.
The most popular city visited in Florida is, Orlando. Which is mainly known for having lots of different, theme parks. The most popular theme park being, ‘Magic Kingdom’. With the huge castle and many of the Disney characters that are around the theme park greeting you and signing there autograph.
Magic Kingdom has lots of things on offer. Not only is there many of fantastic rides, there are street parades which includes the Disney characters .There are also many musical stage shows, for you to attend and watch. Later on at night, before the park closes there are scheduled firework displays. Which are all for your entertainment and included in the price. There is also the opportunity, to have your breakfast with some of the characters. Which you should book in advance, as it is separate.
Within any of the theme parks, there are many shops, and restaurants for you to dine in. And lots of transportation so you can get around. As the theme parks are very big! The best trick is to get there around dinner time, as you miss the mad rush in the mornings to get into the theme park. Which by that time, the queues have died down. And because you started your day later on, means you stay later. Which in Magic Kingdom means, you get to watch the firework work display. Which you definitely should not miss!!
Another popular place to visit is SeaWorld. Which has a ride called Manta, and if you’re over the minimum height restrictions make sure you go on it. Keeping your eyes open on the lift hill. At 140ft high, you get to see such a serial view of the park! There is also the Whale & Dolphin theatre where you can go and discover these amazing animals in their own habitats. And if you’re lucky you may even get close enough to shake fins with one of the dolphins. There is also a dolphin and whale show, (separate). Which you may want to take your camera too. With many animals and rides to attend you’ll definitely be busy for the day.
If you’re after seeing more of the animals whilst in Orlando, take a trip to Disney’s Animal kingdom. Where there are many, safari – animal themed rides. With many expeditions and experiences, to get you close to the animals. You may even get the chance to see some of the animals being fed. There are many souvenir shops which carry on the Disney animal kingdom theme. Even the restaurants do too!
Orlando has many theme parks and waterparks with some of the biggest, rides or slides in the world. Which I can insure will bring out the inner child in you! Whether you’re going with friends or with family there literally is something for everyone. Even the younger children. You won’t be the first to enjoy Orlando, and feel like a big kid.
Also make sure you try the all you can eat buffets, but prepare to have your stomach completely filled, because for as little as $6 each and it takes all you can eat to a whole new level.
If you do get time make sure you visit the Old town, it’s got bumper cars, a big wheel and a few other activities but has the hold ‘Old town’ theme threw out and there’s a place where you can dress up and have a fun photo-shoot which is incredibly fun. They also do an old classic car parade which is something you wouldn’t want to miss so have a look and find out when next one will be.
All in all florida is full of amazing hotels, restaurants and theme parks. Each one is different but perfect in their own way. Whether you visit every theme park of pic a few and spend other day shopping or relaxing at the pool. There’s definitely something for everyones taste. From a game of golf to holding aligators and feeding them! Orlando is named The City Beautiful, which it sure lives up to. With such a wide variety of things to do in one city you’ll be extremely busy making the most of your time in Florida.
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