http://video.afprelaxnews.com/incomings/afp/videos/2013/02/12/flv/PMV8059_EN.480×360.f4v
Author: Martin D'Anjou
http://video.afprelaxnews.com/incomings/afp/videos/2013/02/12/flv/PMV8059_EN.480×360.f4v
Categories
Celebrity Pets: George Gosling
Beige shaggy mongrel George Gosling, 11, is the best friend of famous Canadian actor and musician Ryan Gosling, 31.
The extra-large Benji lookalike and The Notebook star have been pretty much inseparable over the last ten years. The duo has been seen everywhere together: on the street, in the park, attending yoga class, and at the airport.
They even appeared together on NBC TV talk show Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.
“He’s more interesting than I am, so I thought it would be helpful,” Gosling told host Jimmy Fallon.
When Fallon asked what kind of dog George was, Gosling said, “He’s some kind of Muppet.” So, if you’re looking for a dog like George, your best bet might be to adopt from the humane society.
It turns out celebrity pets suffer also from typical doggie problems. Gosling explained the fact that George was attired in one red sock because, “He’s got a hot spot. You know, they chew on their feet.”
Emulating the Drive star’s unique sense of style, George also marches to his own fashion drummer by sporting an unusual Mohawk-style for a decade now.
"Ten years ago I shaved a Mohawk just for the summer," Gosling said. "And then, every time it started to grow out, he turned into a total jerk. And then, I’d shave it back and he’d turn into a nice guy again."
Last October, Gosling brought George to his yoga class, but apparently the dog could do with some additional training as he was banished from the gym after he peed in the corner (George that is, not Ryan).
Although his dog might need some help from the dog whisperer, Gosling’s heart is in the right place. The actor uses his star power to support People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, and raise awareness for better treatment of animals.
Most recently, Gosling and his four-legged friend were noticeably absent from the Golden Globes ceremony this month.
This was unfortunate, since George missed the opportunity to schmooze with another high-powered dog, silent film star Uggie, a Jack Russell terrier who appeared onstage as his silent film The Artist took home the Golden Globe for best comedy/musical.
A dog star in his own right, Uggie was adopted and saved from being sent to a dog pound by animal trainer Omar Von Muller. Famous for his roles in Mr. Fix It and Water for Elephants, Uggie could have taught George the ropes.
Gosling was nominated for two Golden Globe for his performances in The Ides of March and Crazy, Stupid, Love, but was unable to attend as he was reportedly out of the country working on a film.
“He’s working, I think, in Thailand,” his friend actor George Clooney told the press. “He wrote me a nice letter, an e-mail, this morning. You know, he’s gotta work, he’s gotta earn a living, he’s a struggling actor.”
Gosling is reportedly filming Only God Forgives, a mixed martial arts movie set in Bangkok. Maybe George is alongside his guardian learning jiu-jitsu and muay Thai, and feasting on yummy Thai food.
Categories
Celebrity Pets: George Gosling
Beige shaggy mongrel George Gosling, 11, is the best friend of famous Canadian actor and musician Ryan Gosling, 31.
The extra-large Benji lookalike and The Notebook star have been pretty much inseparable over the last ten years. The duo has been seen everywhere together: on the street, in the park, attending yoga class, and at the airport.
They even appeared together on NBC TV talk show Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.
“He’s more interesting than I am, so I thought it would be helpful,” Gosling told host Jimmy Fallon.
When Fallon asked what kind of dog George was, Gosling said, “He’s some kind of Muppet.” So, if you’re looking for a dog like George, your best bet might be to adopt from the humane society.
It turns out celebrity pets suffer also from typical doggie problems. Gosling explained the fact that George was attired in one red sock because, “He’s got a hot spot. You know, they chew on their feet.”
Emulating the Drive star’s unique sense of style, George also marches to his own fashion drummer by sporting an unusual Mohawk-style for a decade now.
"Ten years ago I shaved a Mohawk just for the summer," Gosling said. "And then, every time it started to grow out, he turned into a total jerk. And then, I’d shave it back and he’d turn into a nice guy again."
Last October, Gosling brought George to his yoga class, but apparently the dog could do with some additional training as he was banished from the gym after he peed in the corner (George that is, not Ryan).
Although his dog might need some help from the dog whisperer, Gosling’s heart is in the right place. The actor uses his star power to support People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, and raise awareness for better treatment of animals.
Most recently, Gosling and his four-legged friend were noticeably absent from the Golden Globes ceremony this month.
This was unfortunate, since George missed the opportunity to schmooze with another high-powered dog, silent film star Uggie, a Jack Russell terrier who appeared onstage as his silent film The Artist took home the Golden Globe for best comedy/musical.
A dog star in his own right, Uggie was adopted and saved from being sent to a dog pound by animal trainer Omar Von Muller. Famous for his roles in Mr. Fix It and Water for Elephants, Uggie could have taught George the ropes.
Gosling was nominated for two Golden Globe for his performances in The Ides of March and Crazy, Stupid, Love, but was unable to attend as he was reportedly out of the country working on a film.
“He’s working, I think, in Thailand,” his friend actor George Clooney told the press. “He wrote me a nice letter, an e-mail, this morning. You know, he’s gotta work, he’s gotta earn a living, he’s a struggling actor.”
Gosling is reportedly filming Only God Forgives, a mixed martial arts movie set in Bangkok. Maybe George is alongside his guardian learning jiu-jitsu and muay Thai, and feasting on yummy Thai food.
Los Roques archipelago
Los Roques is a federal dependency of 350 islands and cays (or small islands) on the Caribbean Sea, 160 km off the coast of Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. Protected by a barrier reef, this archipelago – also a national park – forms a lagoon, a warm, translucent invitation to explore underwater. Just a fifteen minute to one-hour boat trip from shore, divers will enjoy a visibility of up to 35 meters! Cayo Sal perforated with caves, Boca de Cote’s spectacular drop offs, the pinnacles of Guasa, Solapa Rabusqui caves, shipwrecks of Nordisqui, Boca de Sebastopol and hammerhead sharks, Mosquises and turtles – all of them small island paradises unlike anywhere else in the world!
Isla Margarita – pearl of the Caribbean
Nestled in the Lesser Antilles north-east of Caracas, Margarita together with her two sister islands, Coche and Cubagua, is one of the wonders of Venezuela. Isla Margarita is the largest, and most populated of the cays. All around the island, beaches stretch out endlessly. Chic tourist and sporting beaches adjoin deserted, secret beaches, a wonderful invitation to peaceful serenity. El Yaque hosts windsurfers from around the world, while Parguito entices surfers with forceful waves. With a seabed populated by rich and varied fauna, the archipelago of Los Frailes is a huge diving attraction, along with the island of El Farallon and the wreckage of Cubagua. The only village of on Isla Margarita is accessible by a ferry that sails from Punta de Piedra in San Pedro.
Aves de Barlovento’s magnificent marine parks
The islands of Barlovento and Sotavento are two pristine atoll-like reef complexes home to many species of birds, swallows, pelicans, a variety of wading birds, not to mention sea turtles and dolphins … a must-see!
Los Testigos– a haven for birds
Northeast of Isla Margarita, seven semi-deserted islands of Los Testigos archipelago form a refuge for many birds… The beautiful white sandy beaches and teaming seabed make it a wonderful place to visit, with unforgettable diving. There, the cold currents of the Atlantic Ocean mix with warm waters of the Amazon, with abundant plankton and marine life.
The Blanquilla – peaceful haven
Named for its white sand made of powdered coral, the island of Blanquilla, northwest of Isla Margarita, is a peaceful haven inhabited by a few fishing families. The beaches and calm, crystal clear warm waters provide amazing underwater dives and just a few meters out a limestone cliff plunges 3,000 meters! Amid the rocky outcrops, you can spot profusions of rare black coral.
Sales
The two best times to shop: January winter sales and July summer sales. Prices are often cut in half, sometimes from day one. All stores, from the most stylish to the most basic, are transformed into joyful bazaars with a wonderful ambience. If you miss these annual events, keep a stiff upper lip, since year-round promotions and other discounts are still available throughout the capital.
Department Stores
An institution as much as a store, Harrods in Knightsbridge is definitely worth a visit. Prices are up to its luxurious reputation! Several departments, including the seasonal Christmas department and the Food Hall, are world famous. As you’re leaving the store, at the base of the staircase, a monument has been erected by the owner in memory of his son Dodi El Fayed and Diana Spencer.
More middle class, less touristy, and especially popular with Londoners, Harvey Nichols, its close neighbor, is home to many designers. Selfridges on Oxford Street is the ultimate fashion store. Liberty on Regent Street has an impressive Tudor facade and inimitable floral prints. Peter Jones of Sloane Square has the discreet charm of upscale stores with irresistible kitchen linens and housewares. And the affordable Marks & Spencer chain offers good deals on kids’ clothes and woolens.
Stroll down King’s Road
Less touristy than Oxford Street, less snobby than Bond Street, less ostentatious than South Kensington, and less crowded than Sloane Square neighborhood, Knightsbridge, King’s Road in Chelsea is perfect for family shopping. Some good finds: Hackett’s striped polo shirts for men, Hobb’s, Jigsaw, and LK Bennett’s clothing (larger sizes available) for fashion mavens, Trotters and Petit Bateau for children. Brora for cashmere at competitive prices; Joseph Bamford for its refined collections; Penhaligon’s incredible colognes offer good value; Body Shop and Boots for skin care, Peter Jones, Heal’s and Habitat for the home.
Brit must-haves
Although it’s tough to choose, certain stores have a worldwide reputation for particular products. For tea: Fortnum & Mason (SW1). Century-old style temple umbrellas: James Smith and Sons (WC1). Made-to- measure shirts: Turnbull & Asser (SW1). Daunt Books (W1U) is a vast Edwardian library. Hamleys (W1) is a unique toy store. Conran Shop (SW3) for the design guru. Smythson (W1) is the king of stationery. Church’s is a must for shoes, Burberry for trench coats, and Paul Smith for costumes.
Flea markets and charity shops
Open weekends in London’s, flea markets offer the best and worst. There are lots of finds from the 1970s including dishes, silverware, jewelry, carvings and a multitude of miscellaneous vintage and ‘antique’ finds. Portobello (W11) is one of the better-known markets. You can also discover Camden (NW5) and Brick Lane (E1). Charity’s shops are numerous and sometimes yield a surprise designer bargain.
Categories
Spain: Catalonia
Main attractions
Barcelona
With fine, sandy beaches bordered by the hills, the capital of Catalonia offers a pulsing city life throughout the Ramblas, parks, monuments and original authentic neighborhoods. Lined with large deciduous plane trees, the Ramblas is a favorite place for a stroll in Barcelona, offering picturesque vistas of bird merchants, lottery kiosks, and flower stalls.
In the heart of the Gothic Quarter stands Sainte-Eulalie cathedral surrounded by a maze of narrow medieval streets. The Boqueira market is the place for delicious tapas washed down with Moscatel. At the Sagrada Familia, the unfinished cathedral by architect Antoni Gaudi, you’ll be fascinated by the minute decorations and sculptures that adorn this monumental work. In the hills, Güell Park is a testament to the inexhaustible imagination of Gaudi, master of his craft.
Costa Brava
At the foot of the Pyrenees, the ‘wild coast’ twists along 200 km of coastline connecting villages and natural parks, fishing ports, coves and wide beaches. Figueres is home to a special museum designed and dedicated to the surrealist painter Salvador Dali, who was born there, and later lived in the charming little fishing port of Cadaques.
Sant Pere de Rodes, former Benedictine monastery, is a jewel of Romanesque art atop the Cap de Creus peninsula, offering exceptional views of the sea and the mountains dotted with olive trees.
In Girona, you’ll discover a city with a rich history, most notably a hotbed of Jewish spirituality from the ninth to fifteenth century. The Greco-Roman ruins of Empuries Escala rise among the scent of tall pines. And you’ll succumb to the heady scents of the botanical gardens of Blanes and Lloret de Mar.
The Costa Daurada
An ideal destination to discover with family or friends, the southern coast of Catalonia features beautiful sandy beaches, shallow clear waters, and many preserved natural coves.
The heart of the Costa Daurada, Salou is a charming seaside resort that boasts a rich, long history dating back to the Bronze Age. Eight great beaches stretch across 9 km of fine, golden sand. Bordered by delightful clear waters, the area offers a range of beach activities, along with water and land sports. Sunbathing or volleyball, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, quadding, golfing and tennis … along with windsurfing, regular surfing, scuba diving, catamaran …
Salou and Sitges are famous seaside resorts, Tarragona has important medieval heritage, and the mountain wilderness of Serra del Montsec is well worth a visit.
Did you know?
The Ebro Delta is one of the largest wetland areas in the Mediterranean region and a Natural Park helps protect an ecosystem of dense vegetation populated by thousands of birds, including storks and a large colony of flamingos.
Sant Ferran Castle
Located in Figueres, at 320,000 square meters, it’s the largest monument in Catalonia. The huge fortress was built of stone and brick by military engineers in the 18th century.
Favorites
The Sardana dance performed in a medieval village. Bird-watching in Aiguamolls de l’Emporda Natural Park. Port Aventura theme park. A cruise in the Medes Islands. A hike through Cap de Creus National Park.
Before you go
The best time to visit: year-round. Caution: beware of pickpockets and scam artists. Remember to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
An unforgettable emotional experience
No matter where you go in South Africa, you’ll experience unique, breathtaking moments as you discover the extraordinary non-stop evolution of extraordinary landscapes. The famous inhabitants of the South African “bush” can be viewed throughout the year. The best time to observe is early morning and dusk during one of your memorable day or night safaris.
Diversity of fauna
In many of the country’s national parks and nature reserves, the famous ‘Big Five’ (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) get special attention as the kings of a preserved natural environment. But you can still view an impressive number of cheetahs, antelopes, hyenas, hippos, baboons, zebras, warthogs and other crocodiles. South Africa is also home to an astounding variety of birds, with more than 900 different species. For a change of scenery, Walker Bay in the Cape Town region, between Hermanus and Gansbaal, is also home to colonies of penguins and whales between June and December.
The famous Kruger National Park
Larger than Belgium, Kruger National Park is the largest in Africa, and famous for its 8,000 elephants, 20,000 buffalo, 140,000 impala, 30,000 zebras … and for its birdlife (500 species of birds). You can also admire the San rock paintings and archaeological sites such as Thulamela and Masorini. The best way to explore the Kruger National Park is to stay a few days in a ‘Restcamp’ like Olifants, Lower Sabie and Berg-en-Dal. Important: remember to book your accommodation a few days before your arrival, and you’ll be given all necessary contacts at the park entrance.
Exciting sites
If you’re really passionate about observing wild animals, other national parks like Hluhluwe-Umfolozi, Khahlamba-Drakensberg – a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Pilanesberg, or the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park – an amazing ecosystem that surrounds Lake St Lucia, all provide unforgettable moments.
Private nature reserves
Private reserves have two notable features. On the one hand, they’re known for upscale service and infrastructure; on the other, you’ll find at the heart, natural settings – whether savannah or rocky cliffs – possessing an undeniable beauty. They typically offer a chance to see the "big five" on a guided safari in a 4 x 4. Among those best known for their hospitality and ‘Out of Africa’ ambience: Madikwe, Mala Mala, Pongola, Singita, Sabi-Sabi (near the famous Kruger Park), and Londolozi, which Nelson Mandela declared: "This is a great place to safeguard the nature of our country."
Amazing flora
In South Africa, flora is no exception, since there are more than 22,000 different species of plants. The Cape region is home to more than 8,000 species not found anywhere else in the world. In the spring, the region of Namaqualand blooms with thousands of colorful flowers, each more beautiful than the next. A sight you don’t want to miss!
The first puff
Legend has it that the Spanish conquerors of the fifteenth century, in their search for the New World, landed in the Caribbean and found the Taino Indians smoking rolled tobacco leaves. Quickly seduced by the smoke, they built on the formula, and the cigar was born.
Inimitable Habanos
Cuban cigars are specially designated ‘Habanos,’ not ‘Havanas’ as they used to be known. They must be rolled with Cuban tobacco, cultivated in one of five production regions. The best cigars are produced by Vuelta Abajo and Partido.
Hand-rolled
Be sure to visit a Cuban cigar factory. The Partagas brand in Havana has opened their warehouses and workshops to tourists. Balls of pungent tobacco are transformed into sheets, sorted, weighed, measured, and transformed into a silky textured cylinder. Indifferent to visitors and listening to their radio drama, the cigar makers roll the leaves with incredible dexterity, creating a Lusitania or Petit Corona.
Knock-offs and scams
There are more than forty brands of cigars. The Cohiba is a featured favorite of Fidel Castro, who no longer smokes! Other brands include: Bolivar, El Rey del Mondo, Montecristo, Punch, Partagas, Quai d’Orsay, Romeo and Juliet and Upman. The ‘puro’ is a small black cigarillo which Cubans smoke. Beware of scams: do not buy cigars at bargain prices on the street, buy in specialty stores only.
Rum producer for more than 500 years
Plain rum has been produced at Caribbean sugar plantations since the sixteenth century. The number of distilleries has grown to become one of the most profitable industries in Cuba. Made from sugarcane by-products like molasses or juice, it is fermented and distilled. Dark rum gets its amber color from being aged in wooden barrels.
Havana Club
The most prized rum is Havana Club. Most of its production is exported. White or gold, it’s an indispensable component of Cuban cocktails. Cheap rums of uneven quality can be found everywhere. A favorite drink of Cubans, the ‘ron’ can be found at all parties.
Cocktails made in Cuba
Made fashionable by Americans on holiday in Cuba in the first half of the twentieth century and during Prohibition (1919-1933), rum-based cocktails flourished. The most famous is the daiquiri, a mixture of rum, lime and sugar, created at the Floridita bar. Mary Pickford, silent film actress and Seville hotel guest, gave her name to a mixture of rum, pineapple juice and maraschino. The always popular mojito is made with rum, fresh mint, lime, sugar and soda water.
The Cuba Libre
Known and imbibed around the world, the Cuba Libre (Spanish for ‘Free Cuba’) has nothing to do with Fidel Castro, and actually dates back to the first Cuban revolution in 1902. The cocktail contains dark rum, cola, and lime juice, or a wedge of lime.
An increasing number of travelers want to stay connected while traveling, and airports are realizing the importance of this technological shift. The best-connected U.S. airport is Dallas-Fort Worth in Texas, according to PCWorld magazine.
The magazine conducted a survey of 40 major U.S. airports, visiting 3,300 gates, checking 17,000 electrical outlets, 5,000 USB ports, 1,350 charging stations, and the speed and power of Wi-Fi and cellular service.
The results are fairly important given that 94 percent of travelers have mobile phones, according to a study last October by Atmosphere Research Group. Also, 74 percent of passengers carry a laptop, and 19 percent have a digital tablet.
The top-10 tech-savvy U.S. airports:
1. Dallas-Fort Worth
2. New York (JFK)
3. Atlanta
4. Detroit
5. Sacramento
6. Oakland
7. New York (LaGuardia)
8. Salt Lake City
9. Baltimore
10. San Francisco