New Orleans says census numbers too low (AP)

AP - This hurricane-ravaged city and neighboring St. Bernard Parish top a U.S. Census Bureau list of fast-growing counties released Thursday, but some local officials aren't happy that the agency estimated New Orleans' population to be less than 240,000.

When you go to French Polynesia you will find a lot of different types of accommodation from world class, world famous resorts to small comfortable inns, and plenty of Bed and Breakfast places.

A lot depends on how you want to experience French Polynesia, and you must decide this before booking anything.

You will also need to bear in mind that in the more remote outer islands your hotel is bound to be the main focus of your activities.

Your choices will include beautiful thatched roof bungalows on stilts over an incredible blue lagoon, or located in a tropical garden setting amongst hibiscus and bougainvillea, right next to a beautiful white sand palm fringed beach, on the edge of a crystal clear lagoon. If you want to experience genuine Tahitian accommodation, then this is what you need to choose.

Everyone is different, so you may just want to relax on a white sand beach, even swim in the incredible cleat turquoise blue waters of a lagoon, stretch out in a hammock gently swaying in the breeze, or hike up an ancient volcano, then all this is possible in French Polynesia.

Tahiti offers an incredible opportunity to just relax or explore

The choices open to you are vast. Everything from dolphin encounters, shark feeding, deep sea fishing, snorkelling, surfing, windsurfing, water skiing, outrigger canoing, para sailing. French Polynesia is a prime target for divers, so as you can imagine the snorkeling is pretty good too!!

In addition, hiking, golf, helicopter rides, horseback riding, and tennis are available to do. One of the great activities is walking and climbing the ancient mountain volcanic peaks. Many of the islands have hiring facilities for 4x4 wheel drive vehicles.

There is absolutely masses to do in French Polynesia apart from anything else you just need to sit and gaze in wonder at the sheer beauty of the place

Peter Stewart writes exclusively for http://www.in-kenyasafari.com as well as http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com and he has in depth knowledge of the places he writes about

Best Skiing Getaways

The holidays are a time for family and friends, a time to be surrounded by the ones you love. But, this abundance of love also brings about an abundance of chaos: the holidays are a time for screaming babies, sloppy kisses on the lips from your Aunt Shirley, endless requests from three year old nephews for shoulder rides, and accidentally walking in on your Grandpa George sitting on the toilet, a spot he has been for over three hours. Because of this, when someone is asked what they are doing for the holidays, they often reply, Ill be with family. So, in other words, Ill be drinking.

Nonetheless, the holidays are a time that come but once a year, and leave before you even know it. After they are over - the presents have been unwrapped, the VCR you received from your grandmother has been exchanged for an IPOD, and your in-laws have finally decided, three weeks later, that theyve worn out their welcome - you may find yourself desperately wanting to take a vacation.

For the person who loves to ski - who prefers to strap their children to the luggage rack of their SUV so that their new alpine skis can ride shotgun, where its nice and warm - a ski trip is an excellent vacation getaway. Even for those who dont particularly enjoy skiing, sitting inside a ski lodge, drinking peppermint schnapps and hot cocoa, can be a welcomed release to the hustle and bustle of the past few months.

There are a variety of places to take a ski trip. Some people prefer to go close to home, others prefer to travel abroad, and still others simply enjoy skiing through the forest behind their house, getting lost in the woods and their imagination. While people can ski in all sorts of places, a few resorts routinely remain a snow bunnys haven.

Aspen, Colorado

Hows your Aspen? may be a question asked any skier who routinely crashes, falling to the ground butt first. Known for its steep hills, there is rarely a better place to fall than Aspen, Colorado; falling here may even provide the rare opportunity to have celebrities laugh at you. While it can be a bit expensive, many skiers, particularly those who are well seasoned, find that the challenge of Aspen often warrants the price.

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the non-skiing life of Aspen is as magical as the slopes. With restaurants, five star lodging, and entertainment unlike most mountain towns, a ski trip to Aspen is really hard to surpass.

Whistler, British Columbia

Huge mountains make up the arguably best place to go for skiing in North America. With some of the biggest drops, this resort provides certain skiers with chills and others with thrills. Many skiers believe that they havent truly skied until they have conquered the slopes of Whistler. Soaring down the mountain with the wind in your face, and snow underfoot, the skiing at this location serves as the epitome of the sport.

The village surrounding the mountain adds to Whistlers charm. Well known for offering after skiing food and drink, it contains everything from Chinese food to French food, from Mexican food to the food of the Greeks. Very much a melting pot of interests, it is almost impossible to find something here that you wouldnt thoroughly enjoy.

Chamonix Mont-Blanc, France

Wee wee, is a term you will surely shout as you coast through the white powder of Chamonix Mont-Blanc. The location that hosted the first Winter Games in 1924, this resort has cemented itself in history, continually vying to be the most famous ski resort in the world. This resort includes the highest peak in the Alps and one of the longest runs in the world.

After skiing, theres nothing quite like unwinding with a nice bottle of wine, a product for which the French are famous. With an atmosphere unlike many most experience, this ski trip offers more than just fresh powder: it also offers those not from France a fresh outlook on a different culture.

Jacksons Hole, Wyoming

Wyoming isnt exactly known as a hot spot when it comes to vacation; its not its heat but its snow that lends itself to our list. Possessing the mantra, Like nothing you have seen before, Jacksons Hole is one of the most unique ski resorts in existence. From unparalleled back country to the potential for serious weather conditions, Jacksons Hole is a ski resort that can be dangerous for the person who doesnt take precautions. However, for those who ski safely, Jacksons Hole will prove to be a whole lot of fun.

For anyone who grows tired of skiing, Jacksons Hole offers experiences not likely to be found anywhere else. These include taking a sleigh ride through a National Elk Refuge, snowmobiling through Yellowstone National Park, and snowshoeing with the Wyoming wildlife.

Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont

Where New England skiing was born, the Stowe Mountain Resort captures the appeal of a small, northeastern town. Over 200 years old, this town possesses dining, lodging, pubs, and skiing unlike any other. Once known as the Ski capital of the East this resort is nothing if not varied: from slopes intended to serve the brave to those intended to serve the novices, this resort is sure to appeal to skiers from all over the world.

Stowe Mountain Resort makes itself known as a resort laden with originality, stating that no two trails at this resort are the same. There are trails specifically designed for cross country skiing, trails designed for snowshoeing, and even night skiing on Saturdays, an experience that allows skiers to ski down Mount Mansfield over the snow, and under the stars.

So, there you have it. Some of the best places to ski in the world. These resorts are just what you need to give your post-holidays recovery a real lift.

Jennifer Jordan is a senior editor for http://www.mirage-limo.com. Having been to five continents and over 40 countries, her travel column can be found at the Mirage limo website.

Official site for the Travel Channel television network. Includes trip planning and booking tips, forums, a TV schedule, and more.

What Worth Doing When You Travel To Singapore As A World War II Veteran

Well, what do World War II veterans have in common with Singapore? Very long lasting, unforgettable memories that you can share with fellow family members and friends. Especially those who had survived or had served in Singapore back in the year between 1942 to 1945.

So, if you travel to Singapore again with your family or friends or loved ones, would you like to walk down the memory lane? (Some memories are painful but some still brought back a smile. Do you agree?)

Well veterans, if you happen to travel back to Singapore in your next holiday, make your travel a memorable one. These are some places worth visiting to bring back those dark years.

The Battle Box

The Battle Box is the largest underground command center of the British Malaya Command Headquarters in Singapore during World War II and tucked into the hillside of Fort Canning.

This bombproof complex comprises of 22 rooms linked together by a corridor and capable of recycling its own air supply.

Today, the Battle Box has undergone extensive restoration. Visitors will be able to relive the morning of February 15, 1942 when Singapore fell to the Japanese.

Reflections of Bukit Chandu
http://www.s1942.org.sg/bukit_chandu/directory.htm

Back in 1942, 1400 soldiers of the Malay Regiment fought with courage against 13000 Japanese soldiers. They chose death over dishonour.

Peppers Ghost will bring you through the Battle of Pasir Panjang and you will be able to walk through the Galleries displaying maps, photographs and information regarding the Malay Regiment and the Defence of Malaya.

Fort Siloso
http://www.sentosa.com.sg/explore_sentosa/attractions/fort_siloso.html

The British built Fort Siloso in the 1880s to protect Singapore harbours western entrance. During the Japanese Occupation (1942-1945), it became concentration camp for POWs.
Fort Siloso serves as an important window to Singapores colonial past and as reminder of the war years.

Changi Chapel & Museum
http://www.changimuseum.com/

This place, called a beacon of hope for the hopeless. Built by Changi Prison inmates, the Changi Chapel stands as a monument to those who maintained their faith and dignity during the Japanese Occupation.

More than 50 000 civilians and soldiers were imprisoned during those days. Some exhibits that you can find and relate to their agony are letters, photographs, drawings and their personal effects. However, their main attraction is a replica of The Changi Murals, a series of wall painting recreated from the originals painted by Stanley Warren.

Old Ford Factory
http://www.s1942.org.sg/bukit_chandu/FordFactory.htm

On February 15, 1942, Lt Gen A.E.Percival then Commander of the British Forces in Singapore surrendered to the Japanese Army. The ceremony took place here, the Old Ford Factory.

On February 16, 2006, Singapore Minister for Defence Mr Teo Chee Hean officially opened Memories at Old Ford Factory. Here, you can find the exhibition Syonan Years: Singapore Under Japanese Rule, 1942-1945.

Kranji War Memorial

Kranji War Memorial honours the men from Britain, Australia, Canada, Sri Lanka, India, Malaya, the Netherlands and New Zealand who gave their lives for freedom in World War II.

Here you can find 4000 servicemens graves stand in neat rows. For about 24 000 soldiers and air force men, whose bodies were never recovered, their names were inscribed on 12 columns. Besides that, it is also a burial ground for Singapores first two presidents.

Civilian War Memorial

Located in the Padang, the Civilian War Memorial is dedicated to all those who perished during the Japanese Occupation of Singapore between February 15, 1942 to September 12, 1945. Every year on 15 February, a memorial service is held here to remember the victims of the war.

Here you can find four identical vertical pillars rise to a pinnacle of 92.5 metres, symbolising the shared experiences of the four major races of Singapore - Chinese, Malay, Indian and other races. The remains of the unidentified war victims are buried beneath the monument.

Copyright © 2006 Jaffa Matt

Jaffa Matt is a Freelance writer who was born and live in Singapore. His website http://mysingapore.jeeran.com provides ideas & informative articles about his country, Singapore.

Travel Clocks: A Small Piece Of Home On The Road

As the business world gets smaller due to the advance and connectivity of the internet, the modern business person finds themselves traveling greater distances to close deals. With more road warriors away from home more people are looking to bring a piece of home with them. So when youre packing for your next trip, remember to bring a travel clock along with your travel candles and photographs of family and friends.

By taking steps to make your journey less impersonal like packing items from home, the trip may seem shorter and youll be less likely to get homesick. A travel clock is a great way to bring a piece of home with you. Wake up calls in the morning are usually a loud reminder each morning that you are not in your own bed. By bringing your own travel clock, you get to ease into your day rather than pick up a receiver and hear a strange voice.

If you have children who may miss you while youre gone on business trips, involve them in your trip by taking them shopping for travel supplies with you. Your kids will appreciate being a part of the traveling process so much more than a quick hug and kiss on your way out the door. And if you have your child pick out a travel clock, you will think of them every time it goes off.

A travel clock can help you keep time from your trip from Los Angeles to Miami or on your commuter flight from Detroit to D.C. With new innovations in technology there are travel clocks available that will automatically update themselves through different time zones and sync up official government time, so you always know what time it is, no matter where you are.

So the next time your employer lets you know youll be traveling on an overnight trip, dont forget to pack a small piece of home by including a travel clock in your suitcase. Be sure to choose an alarm that will wake you up gently. The morning youre awakened by a piece of home, rather than a piercing jangle of a phone and a recording, youll be happy you brought along your travel clock.

John Gibb is the owner of Travel Clock sources, For more information on Travel Clocks check out http://www.Travel-Clocks2k.info.

Preventing Animal Abuse and Neglect - 3 Things That Work

Many of us feel overwhelmed by animal abuse, neglect and over population. The following methods have been helpful in the welfare of animals.

1.Leash Laws

Creating and enforcing leash laws is one of the easiest ways a city or township can begin reducing the number of unwanted animals. Many cities may have a leash law for dogs, but not one for cats, ferrets or domestic rabbits. In order to be successful, the leash law must be comprehensive and apply to all animals; dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits etc. There needs to be a stiff penalty for people who ignore the law. Having a leash law creates several benefits; its easy for animal rescue workers to determine which animals are strays, it prevents unplanned breeding, it keeps pets from roaming so they are not likely to be hit by cars, it prevents dogs from fighting, it reduces the number of cats killed by prey dogs or dog packs, it reduces the spread of disease such as Feline Aides and Leukemia, it helps keep public opinion favorable.

2. Humane Education

Humane Education is when caring individuals or groups talk to school age children and teenagers about animals and animal care. The ASPCA website has great information about how teachers can incorporate humane education into a classroom lesson. Ideally, humane education should start in early childhood and continue through adolescences. The Humane Association of Michigan website has information about their very active outreach program. If you dont have a humane education program, consider starting one at your childrens school. It takes very little time and can be great fun.

3. Zoning Laws

When cities and counties establish zoning laws that regulate how many animals a single person or household can have, it helps prevent overpopulation. Many cities have a rule that a person can only have 4 to 5 pets in a single family home. Condominium associations typically allow up to 2 pets. Since many dogs and cat produce litters of 6-8 offspring, the homeowner is violating zoning law by allowing their animal(s) to breed. Zoning laws help reduce the number of people who breed animals for profit.

Kate Garvey is the founder and director of http://www.PetCareRCA.com which provides free pet care and animal welfare tips. She is also a freelance writer http://www.kategarvey.net and the author of several non-fiction books. Areas of expertise include real estate, business, web content, newsletters, womens issues and self- esteem.