Don’t Waste Money on Inefficient Use of Energy Resources – Part 1

Author: Curtis Strandfeld
Source: ezinearticles.com

Heating and Cooling

Almost half of the money you spend on combined gas and electric energy goes to heating and cooling your home. Reducing your requirements in this area can have a big payback. Here are a few easy things you can do along these lines.

Don’t leave the fireplace damper open. Don’t let your heat escape out the chimney. In the winter, make sure the damper is shut when there isn’t a fire. Doing this can save you around 5% on the cost of your heat.

Ventilation fans should be used only when necessary. In about one hour a ventilation fan can go through all of the air in your house. Don’t replace your heated or air conditioned air with air from outside by letting exhaust fans run unnecessarily.

Use a thermostat that can be set to control the temperature on a schedule. If you have a programmable thermostat, learn how to set it to control your home’s temperature based on your daily routine. If you don’t use one, get one. During the winter, turn the heat down when you’re out during the day as well as during the night. In the summer, do the opposite. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, you can purchase one for as little as $20 or so at your local home improvement center. They are a cinch to install and can save you a lot of money on the cost of heating and cooling your home.

Provide some shade for your air conditioner’s condenser unit. Keep your air conditioner’s condenser unit out of the hot sun and it will be more efficient. It operates more efficiently when it’s not baking in the summer sun. You can reduce the cost of cooling by up to 3% depending on the temperature difference.

Your Appliances

Your electrical and gas appliances, including your water heater, can account for as big a portion as 29% of your energy bill. By setting these devices to run at their best, you can literally save money by pressing a few buttons or turning some dials. By being aware of your usage habits you can save even more money.

If you have the water heater above 120 degrees you are wasting energy and unknowingly creating a safety hazard at the same time. Having water heated any higher can hurt you by scalding and it is not even useful since you have to mix overly hot water with cold for bathing anyway. Save extra money by turning the water heater to its “vacation” or “away” setting when you go away for a while.

Properly adjust your refrigerator. Your refrigerator should be set to 34 to 38 degrees. Set your freezer to 5 degrees. Your appliance will run most efficiently at these temperatures and you will keep your food safe from spoiling.

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Affordable Hotels in Boise, Idaho

Author: David H. Urmann
Source: isnare.com

A trip to Boise, Idaho will be perfect if you stay in a hotel with affordable rates. It will be one of your most memorable vacations.

When looking for a lowest rate hotels and accommodation or even cheap flights with discounted car rentals and cruises all around the world, Boise Hotels helps you to find some suppliers and best deals for everyone. They give out packaged discounts to accommodate more visitors in Boise, Idaho.

Doubletree Club Boise Hotel

One of the most popular hotels in Idaho is this Doubletree Club Boise located near the Boise River. It is just a minute drive away from the Idaho State Capitol and Boise State University. Adjacent to Bogus Basin Ski area and other popular places like the Morrison Center of the Performing Arts, the Zoo Boise and the historical Museum of Boise Art. Doubletree Club Boise has a lot to offer from shuttle bus services to a prominent and elegant hotel accommodation.

Doubletree Club Boise hotel guest rooms features double queen size bed, high count thread beddings and pillows, down comforter, mattresses, dual telephone lines, working desk and chair with ready outlets and data port, coffeemaker, iron and board, climate control, hairdryer, in room safes, cabled television, Nintendo games cubes, complimentary news paper, and complimentary high speed internet connection in every room.

They also have the facilities for special events like meetings, reunion, weddings and business gatherings. Guest will have their easy access to the hotels fitness and health center, salon and beauty shops, indoor restaurants and bars, nearby golf courses, indoor ice skating area and their indoor swimming pool.

The Doubletree Club Boise hotel also features some suites and accessible rooms for special guests with disabilities. All suites are located on the 6th floor looking the whole city and the magnificent mountainous view of Idaho. Each rooms has its own personal refrigerator, coffeemaker, iron and iron board, double king size bed, pillows and mattresses, hairdryer, microwave, cable channel with flat screen television and complimentary high speed internet connection.

Other amenities include an air conditioning, clock radio w/ MP3 connection, complimentary remote printing, handheld shower, Neutrogena, complete set of branded bathroom toiletries, and smoke free facilities.

Residence Inn Boise Central

Located at the capital boulevard Residence Inn Boise Central is peacefully built in front of Ann Morrison Park, adjacent to the downtown of Boise and Bodo where shopping malls and high class restaurants can be seen. The busy downtown is nearby the Boise State University and the Boise River Greenbelt.

This hotel brings out the newly and modern architectural design for business and leisure accommodation, for busy guest and working individuals. Residence Inn guests will have easy access to the hotel’s premium facilities like open air workout center for fitness and health enthusiasts, a beauty salon and spa, a heated pool, and jetted hot tubs.

Rooms and suites are well decorated and accentuated with fully furnished furniture, complete beddings and mattresses with high count threading, down comforter, plush pillows, sofa bed, sliding door bathroom with hot tub, branded set of toiletries, make up mirror, hairdryer, coffeemaker, safes, working tables and chair, complimentary uninterrupted internet connection and dual telephone lines.

Other hotel amenities include 24 hours concierge staff, spacious suites, complimentary buffet breakfast, air conditioning, individual climate control in rooms, coffee maker, baby cribs, rollaway beds, radio/alarm clock, iron and ironing board, 24 hour security service, valet/parking service, 24 hours room service, smoke free rooms and facilities, cable TV, hot tub/Jacuzzi, and a fireplace.

The kitchens are complete with an oven, dishwasher, microwave oven, pots, pans, serving dishes, refrigerator, and toaster.

For more information on Boise Hotels and Boise Hotels Flightsplease visit our website.

Window Coverings – Three Inexpensive Approaches to Reducing Your Energy Cost

Author: Curtis Strandfeld
Source: ezinearticles.com

If you are in a warm climate, even if only just during part of the year, you can increase your comfort level and, if you have to pay for air conditioning, decrease your air conditioning bills, not only will your home be more comfortable but you will also use less energy.

There are many different approaches that you can take to improve the solar performance on your windows including . We will cover just these three. When you are shopping for various products check to see if they indicate the shading coefficient (SC) of the product. The shading coefficient is proportional to of the percentage of solar energy which is admitted with the item versus a glass pane of standard thickness. SC is a rating between 0 and 1. The lower the SC rating of the product the better it is.

Solar screens are an inexpensive and very effective way to cut down the amount of solar heat entering through your windows. Solar screens consist of an aluminum frame with fabric stretched over it. You can buy them ready made or make them yourself. If you buy them they should cost under $75 for each one. Or you can buy the components, and assemble and install the screens yourself for under $20 for each unit. Solar screens are installed on the outside. They are effective at blocking the sun but they also interfere with the view. If you want to keep an obstructed view, you might consider another window treatment option.

Similar to the familiar heat blocking films sometimes installed in cars, reflective films can block up to 70% of incoming solar heat while only reducing light infiltration by around 30%. They have the additional benefit of retaining heat inside your house during the winter. Reflective films are not easy to apply, so you will most likely want a professional to do this for you. Like with any work around the home, make sure that you get a contractor you can trust.

The use of roller shades are another good way to block the solar heat is the use of roller shades. They are easy to install and they roll up when not in use. Modern roller shades are designed to preserve views while deflecting heat. They can be installed on the interior or exterior of your home, but if installed on the exterior, they need protection from the elements. Windows that have large overhangs such as wide eaves are good windows for exterior roller shades. If your south facing windows have large overhangs, consider putting the roller shades on the bottom part. Large overhangs are good at protecting the upper section of the windows so you’ll need the most shading at the lower part. By putting the roller shades at the bottom and having them roll up instead of down, you can extend them to the height needed to shade the lower part, leaving a clear view from the top.

Through the use of these simple, inexpensive techniques, you can dramatically cool down your hottest parts of the home, which will take some of the strain off of your air conditioner. When you combine that with a the use of a digital programmable thermostat, window treatments can make a favorable impact on your cooling costs. If you are a do-it-yourself kind of person, the payback on these investments can be quite fast.

The opinion expressed in this article is the opinion of the writer. For another view on real estate topics, you might find this interesting

Properties of Cedar Wood in Cedar Dog Houses

Author: Rachel Dawson
Source: isnare.com

If you are shopping for dog houses, you will find numerous options and styles from which to choose. Dog houses come in a variety of materials, too. One of these is cedar, a type of stable softwood. Cedar dog houses work well outdoors because of the properties of cedar wood. It resists rot, bacteria, and fungus. Cedar also repels insects that normally destroy wood. Cedar wood naturally resists splintering and cracking. The internal structure of the wood increases its insulation value. As added bonuses, it usually offers beautiful coloring—particular red cedar, and its signature smell covers less pleasant odors that pets sometimes give off.

Cedar dog houses resist rot because cedar doesn’t hold moisture as long as many other woods do. Particularly in more humid climates, cedar dog houses make excellent choices because they do not decay like other wood structures do. Since cedar also resists bacteria and fungus, it can enjoy a long life of usefulness. Cedar wood has been used as external siding for houses, and after 100 years, has needed little maintenance or replacement.

Cedar wood produces a natural oil that gives off its signature smell. This oil is also responsible for repelling insects that often destroy wood. This quality is another reason that cedar can easily last for over 100 years with little or no maintenance.

The wood resists splintering and cracking that so often degrades other types of wood in outdoor structures. Although its initial cost can be high, its durability is also high. Cedar dog houses are solid investments for pets.

Cedar dog houses usually make a comfortable shelter for pets, as well. Cedar wood’s internal structure traps little pockets of air. These air pockets increase the insulation of the structure. This is the same way that a raised floor or platform under the dog house increases insulation. It traps air underneath the floor. This air, both under the floor and in the cedar wood, helps to keep the dog house warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer—just as insulation in your house works. If you plan to use a heating and air conditioning unit, cedar will help you to use less energy to maintain the temperature inside your pet’s home.

Finally, cedar smells pleasant and fresh to humans. The natural oils give cedar a fragrance that covers other unpleasant smells that dogs can emit. Dog beds are sometimes filled with cedar chips for this reason.

Cedar dog houses may outlast other wooden shelters. Because of their resistance to moisture, insects, weathering, and warping, they are quite durable. The wood increases the insulation of the structure and, therefore, the comfort of your pet. In addition, cedar’s aesthetic qualities add to the value of your investment. Some woods can resist rot, but must first be treated with chemicals. Plastics may come with insulation, but cedar does all these things naturally. You’ll find a number of plastic, wood, and even metal options, but what other material can do all the other things cedar can do?

Rachel Dawson is a freelance writer who has known several special dogs. She writes about pet houses and accessories.

Away For A Golf Vacation

Author: Dharma Putra
Source: articlesbase.com

Villa Arjuna is an exclusive private villa, exquisitely designed & decorated situated on the 100 hectare Nirwana Bali. This Bali villa overlooks the Indian Ocean & the famous Greg Norman designed golf coursework. Enter the villa through traditional Balinese gates where you will find tranquil water features & manicured gardens the interior design has a nice retro flare where items have been carefully picked from all over the world. This luxury villa has a spacious air-conditioned living area with comfortable sofa’s, coffee table, plasma television with satellite connection, DVD player, surround sound system & iPod speaker. The dining table seats 8 people comfortably along with one individual leather seats positioned in the center of the room with glass top table ideal for relaxation. The living area has doors which open out to the patio & swimming pool area allowing its guests to enjoy the nice ocean breeze. There are one bedrooms in total located on the second floor. The air-conditioned Master bedroom features a king size two poster bed with mosquito net, scattered cushions, a leather stool which is at the foot of the bed, one reading lamps, high quality bed linen, artifacts & furnishings. The kitchen is large & fully equipped including a double-door refrigerator, microwave, oven, cook-top & more. The laundry is handled by the service staff & included in the rental rate. Upstairs you will discover an open-air living & dining pavilion which is fan-cooled, with large sofa’s, another dining area which seats 8 people, & one large day loungers which are on the balcony. Views to the Indian Ocean are spectacular, the sunsets are breathtaking. Bedroom one has a queen sized bed & bedroom one has large single beds with a shared bathroom. The one bedrooms have wooden blinds, spacious arm-chairs, perfectly designed with lamps, artwork & direct access to the outdoor balcony. The bathroom offers a spacious double shower vanity perfect for couples or kids. Villa Arjuna has a private 7 x 3.5 meter swimming pool, day loungers & umbrella, a bale bengong with thatched roof for outdoor dining, a lazy stool for relaxation, & a large stone budha which has been built into the wall making this a spectacular feature. This Bali luxury villa has fully trained staff, including housekeepers, cook, gardener, pool attendant & gardener. 24 hour security is provided by Nirwana Bali. There are access doors to the balcony. The marble master bathroom en-suite has a large terrazzo bath tub, double vanity unit, standing shower with glass screen, large mirrors, storage space & a separate toilet area. Venture out in the four-seat golf buggy which can be used around the resort complex. Use of the Le Meridien swimming pool, children slide, fitness center, squash & tennis courts also children club can be used at no additional charge. Golf discounts are also extended to guests staying at Villa Arjuna. Spa treatments can also be arranged in the villa on request. The maximum occupancy in Villa Arjuna is four (6) people.

Dharma serves as online marketing consultant of Canggu villas and Bali Villas

The Climate Registry, The EPA, and Your Carbon Emission Reporting Requirements

Author: Daniel Stouffer
Source: articlesbase.com

The question most often asked by organizations trying to figure out carbon emissions reporting is related to The Climate Registry. Explained here are further details about the registry and why your organization should care about it.The Climate Registry was published in draft form as early as May, 2007. It documents and outlines the requirements for carbon (CO2) emissions reporting. Many organizations are wondering why it is so important. Its impact to your organization is the question continuing to be asked even today. It is an important part of carbon emission protocols established in the United States and internationally to combat air pollution and Global Warming.The Climate Registry is an agreement regarding emissions reporting protocols or a collaboration between 39 U.S. states (and growing), all Canadian provinces and territories, 6 states in Mexico and three native sovereign nations aimed at recording and tracking greenhouse gas emissions from businesses, municipalities, organizations, and other facilities.There are key components to The Climate Registry that all companies need to be aware of or they could face substantial disadvantages as it relates to the future carbon credit and trading schemes.What is the registry hoping to accomplish? Because different U.S. states, countries, and Canadian provinces have their own mandatory regulations for reducing greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions, The Climate Registry provides a standard measure for how carbon emissions are calculated and a streamlined approach for those who are required to report their carbon emissions output.The C02 data submitted by businesses, municipalities, and other organizations can be added to web-based, carbon management information system to support various initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions across an organization’s single facility or down to an individual asset level. As the World continues to collect more and more accurate carbon data, organizations will start to take part (either by choice or by regulations) in cap and trade programs that target the reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs).What are the registry’s goals?The Climate Registry is using the single reporting protocol to streamline efforts to reduce emissions that harm the environment and ensure consistent reporting of emissions across different organizations and industries. Through the registry’s requirements protocol, the risks of greenhouse gases can be easily identified and opportunities for programs and initiatives to address greenhouse gas emissions can be developed.This set of carbon emissions reporting requirements makes it politically and geographically easier for countries to come together to achieve positive effects on climate change. By using a common framework or set of reporting protocols, current and future carbon emissions management programs, perhaps adopted at a national level through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), can work together and be supported at a reduced cost across the economy.What is the registry expecting from businesses?The Climate Registry expects businesses to calculate, record, verify, and submit report the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) or their carbon equivalent on a yearly basis. Generally, a baseline carbon emissions report is generated from data collected across an organization for a representative year, such as emissions levels in your organization as of 1990.What is being required of businesses?Often refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) systems or heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC-R) systems, are include in carbon emissions requirements due to their high global warming potential. Organizations operating these systems must adhere to The Climate Registry requirements. Direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions need to be reported, which include hydrofluorocarbons, carbon dioxide, perfluorocarbons, methane, sulfur hexafluoride and nitrous oxide.This emissions protocol allows for consistency, streamlines program requirements and ensures integrity in accounting and reporting of carbon emissions across any reporting entity.What might the registry look for from my business?Simply, this protocol or set of requirements defines how to track and report greenhouse gas emissions. While it may take additional effort on your part to do this, there are management programs to ease the process and the burden of paperwork and to ensure accurate tracking and reporting of refrigerant use. Carbon information management systems help organization remain in compliance as it related to greenhouse gas reporting rules and regulations. These systems take the form of web-based applications that help collect, track, and report CO2 gases emitted from corporate assets.The Climate Registry is already having an impact on your organization or business, whether you know it or not. At it’s core these regulations are addressing climate change and are being adopted by more and more regulatory bodies everyday.Positive impacts and improvements to our climate change issues will only start improving when carbon emissions across the Globe are reduced. And that is something that The Climate Registry is aiming to help us all do.

Clean-Tech solutions provided by Verisae help to manage the emissions tracking and reporting requirements of The Climate Registry across an entire organization. Verisae makes it easier to report carbon emissions and track refrigerant gases. To learn about effective refrigerant gas management tactics, you can visit www.Refrigerant-Tracker.com

The Climate Registry Helps All Organizations Track, Report, and Verify Carbon Emissions

Author: Daniel Stouffer
Source: ezinearticles.com

Because different U.S. states, countries, and Canadian provinces have their own mandatory regulations for reducing greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions, The Climate Registry provides a standard measure for how carbon emissions are calculated and a streamlined approach for those who are required to report their carbon emissions output.

The Climate Registry first emerged on the carbon emissions management scene on May 8, 2007. Many organizations are wondering why it is so important. Its impact to your organization is the question continuing to be asked even today. It is an important part of carbon emission protocols established in the United States and internationally to combat air pollution and Global Warming.

The Climate Registry is an agreement regarding emissions reporting protocols or a collaboration between 39 U.S. states (and growing), all Canadian provinces and territories, 6 states in Mexico and three native sovereign nations aimed at recording and tracking greenhouse gas emissions from businesses, municipalities, organizations, and other facilities.

There are key components to The Climate Registry that all companies need to be aware of or they could face substantial disadvantages as it relates to the future carbon credit and trading schemes.

What are objectives The Climate Registry wished to fulfill? Because different U.S. states, countries, and Canadian provinces have their own mandatory regulations for reducing greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions, The Climate Registry provides a standard measure for how carbon emissions are calculated and a streamlined approach for those who are required to report their carbon emissions output.

The C02 data submitted by businesses, municipalities, and other organizations can be added to web-based, carbon management information system to support various initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions across an organization’s single facility or down to an individual asset level. As the World continues to collect more and more accurate carbon data, organizations will start to take part (either by choice or by regulations) in cap and trade programs that target the reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs).

What are the registry’s goals?

The Climate Registry is using the single reporting protocol to streamline efforts to reduce emissions that harm the environment and ensure consistent reporting of emissions across different organizations and industries. Through the registry’s requirements protocol, the risks of greenhouse gases can be easily identified and opportunities for programs and initiatives to address greenhouse gas emissions can be developed.

This set of carbon emissions reporting requirements makes it politically and geographically easier for countries to come together to achieve positive effects on climate change. By using a common framework or set of reporting protocols, current and future carbon emissions management programs, perhaps adopted at a national level through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), can work together and be supported at a reduced cost across the economy.

What is the registry expecting from businesses?

The Climate Registry expects businesses to calculate, record, verify, and submit report the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) or their carbon equivalent on a yearly basis. Generally, a baseline carbon emissions report is generated from data collected across an organization for a representative year, such as emissions levels in your organization as of 1990.

What is being required of businesses?

Businesses identified as contributing to the emission of greenhouse gases, such as those with refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) systems or heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, are required to report carbon emissions. Direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions need to be reported, which include hydrofluorocarbons, carbon dioxide, perfluorocarbons, methane, sulfur hexafluoride and nitrous oxide.

This emissions protocol allows for consistency, streamlines program requirements and ensures integrity in accounting and reporting of carbon emissions across any reporting entity.

What might the registry look for from my business?

Simply, this protocol or set of requirements defines how to track and report greenhouse gas emissions. While it may take additional effort on your part to do this, there are management programs to ease the process and the burden of paperwork and to ensure accurate tracking and reporting of refrigerant use. These applications ensure compliance with mandatory reporting regulations and generally take the form of maintenance or audit management solutions that track carbon emissions down the asset level.

The Climate Registry is already having an impact on your organization or business, whether you know it or not. At it’s core these regulations are addressing climate change and are being adopted by more and more regulatory bodies everyday.

Positive impacts and improvements to our climate change issues will only start improving when carbon emissions across the Globe are reduced. And that is something that The Climate Registry is aiming to help us all do.

Software provided by Verisae tracks carbon dioxide (CO2) gas emissions according to The Climate Registry protocols across all sites so companies can manage their carbon emissions and work towards reducing their carbon footprint. To learn more effective refrigerant management tactics and the tools, you can research http://www.Refrigerant-Tracker.com

The Amazing Array of Services Mobile Mechanics Provide Today

Author: Martin Mansour
Source: ezinearticles.com

When you say the word “mobile”, it brings to mind on-the-fly service that may or may not be thorough. In the mobile car industry though, the word “mobile” has been given new meaning, because it represents a lot more than a mechanic doing the quickest job possible so he or she can move on to the next customer. Mobile car care services are a means of providing convenient and thorough services for a whole range of auto problems.

In Australia, there were 1,012,164 new cars purchased making a total of 15,296,542 autos on the road. That’s a lot of cars and over time these cars are sold from person to person, driven from state to state, move with their owners, and many of them land right in Victoria and especially in the busy Melbourne area. All of these cars, probably without exception, are going to need servicing for one reason or another many times throughout their lifetimes.

Parked in the Driveway or on the Highway

Mobile car care assistance is for roadside assistance, but not necessarily just for those on the highways and byways of Australia. This kind of great service can be completed with your car parked in your driveway or in the parking lot at work. It can be the car refusing to start after enjoying a meal out at the local restaurant or the auto which seemed to be working just fine when you dropped your son off at school that morning.

In other words, mobile car services mean bringing a variety of repair services to the spot where your car sits whether it’s a highway, parking lot, front yard or at your friend’s house. And because mobile services emphasise service as much as concentrating on being mobile, there is a whole range of high quality car repair services which are now provided thanks to technology and extensive auto technician training.

More Than Batteries and Tires

A lot has changed since the days when mobile mechanics mostly replaced batteries and changed tires. The newest mobile diagnostic equipment which fits in a van enables mechanics to perform extensive evaluations on autos as if the car is in a shop. The repair services offered had to fit the new auto technology which has lead to a wealth of mobile services that can now be provided on the spot.

* Electrical repairs

* Air conditioning recharging and repairs

* Periodic maintenance

* Transmission repairs

* Engine repairs

Clunking, Squealing, and Knocking

Of course, this list still doesn’t give you a true idea of the many different kinds of services offered by mobile mechanics. Everything from simple horn repairs to complex engine replacements can be completed by mobile car services today. Following is a brief list just to give you a good picture of why you can rely on your mobile mechanic when the car refuses to act properly.

* Transmission oil leaks

* Misfires

* Air conditioning blows warm air

* Fluctuating idle

* Engine lights lit

* Squealing noises

* Won’t start

* Electrical shorts

* Alternator problems

* Fuel injection issues

* Brake problems

* Tune-ups

* Engine knocking

It’s amazing how many different sounds a car engine can make when something is going wrong. Your car often “talks” to you when it’s not working properly by making odd noises. The mobile mechanic speaks the language and can interpret those clunking, squealing, and knocking sounds.

Mobile car care services are extensive and thorough and able to provide both individual and fleet auto maintenance and repairs. So don’t think it’s only your tires and battery which can benefit from mobile car care services. It’s the whole car that benefits!

Mobile Car Care is a fully trained Mobile Mechanics and Auto Electricians servicing company. Our Mobile Mechanic Service Units are fully equipped to perform all car repairs, auto electrical repairs, and car, commercial and 4WD service. For more information, visit Car Repair.

Barbados Naked – Part 2 – Restaurants in Barbados

Author: Andy Parr
Source: ezinearticles.com

Food and Cooking Barbados style

You can eat well on the island – some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean are along the West Coast but you really should venture out from the tourist areas if you want to really ‘taste’ Barbados.

Local food also has its own strong tradition in Barbados, and this can be interesting to experience. Most hotels have a weekly buffet of local food, which gives a taster. Barbadian food is quite hearty, with stews accompanied by rice ‘n’ peas or hefty vegetables such as plantain or sweet potato.

Being an island there are of course plenty of fish dishes, but a favourite is flying fish, which is served steamed in a tasty but light onion and tomato based sauce on coo-coo (not unlike polenta, made from cornmeal and okra) or the fish is seasoned with Bajan Seasoning (a blend of spring onions, thyme, marjoram, onions, garlic, black pepper, spices and salt, which you can buy in any local supermarket) and then dipped in egg and breadcrumbs and pan fried. A flying fish cutter (local saltbread roll with salad) is very popular, and is usually enhanced by a dash of the local yellow pepper sauce.Black pudding and souse, a local delicacy, is very much a special treat in Barbados.

The black pudding is a blood sausage with sweet potato and herbs and the accompanying souse is pickled pig’s head and trotters (thankfully, many places substitute this with more traditional cuts of pork) with cucumber and breadfruit. Such local fare is most often found at street festivals, rum shops, and on occasions even at fresh food counters at supermarkets. A well-loved late evening out is Baxter’s Road in Bridgetown, where you can get a fish or seasoned chicken fried on a brazier served with macaroni pie, grilled corn or other vegetables, such as coleslaw. Over recent years, the spot for local food has become the Fish Fry at Oistins, a fishing village on the South Coast, which sees a nice mix of locals and visitors and makes a fun and cheap early evening out. In fact there are a number of places with a Friday night fish fry. At Six Men’s Bay in the north of the island you can go along to the fish fry with a bottle of wine and cutlery provided by the Fish Pot Restaurant.

RESTAURANTS

True to form, the restaurants along the West Coast of Barbados are smart, quality and expensive. You can eat well there, putting paid to the Caribbean’s traditional image of ‘burger-tory’. The West Coast restaurants also have excellent settings, either on the cliffs or directly onto the sand and the ocean. And finally they are pretty well organised. There are some good growers on the island, producing local salads and herbs as well as normal tropical produce.

Unfeasibly, chefs in Barbados can get fresh ingredients from the States and Europe, delivered on a weekly cargo plane. And the fishermen in Barbados actually carry mobile phones and phone back their catch, which enables the restaurateurs to plan their specials menus properly. The south coast also has some good places to eat, along with a whole string of less expensive bars where you can get a reasonable meal.

While VAT will be included in the price of your meal, restaurants have different policies about service charge. Sometime it is written on the menu, but you may want to check whether service has already been included in your bill.

WEST COAST

What follows is personal gastronomic trip. You can follow it or you can select your own places to visit, I know that selecting restaurants can be a personal issue but my recommendations are there for you to try.

Cafe Indigo, Holetown, t 432 0968

Located upstairs with traditional wooden floors and jalousie shutters. Relaxed atmosphere for breakfast or lunch.

Calabaza, Prospect, t 424 4557

Classic cliffside setting on the West Coast, top notch cuisine in an eclectic mix, run by the amiable Peter ‘Huggie’ Harris.

The Cliff, Derricks, t 432 1922

Ever-fashionable, exquisite setting on cliffs overlooking a tiny cove, consistently good, top quality cuisine, an excellent elegant evening out.

Cocomos, Holetown, t 432 0134

Popular beach front bistro and meeting place, simple fare, burgers, salads and fish platters. See a Review of visiting Cococmos with Children.

Daphne’s, PaynesBay, t 432 2731

Elegant wooden veranda looking over flaming torches to the beach, refined Italian cuisine adapted to the Caribbean.

The Fish Pot, Little GoodHarbour, t 439 2604

Charming setting in an old fort right and on a wooden deck right above the sand, excellent lunch or evening out, well worth the drive beyond Speightstown.

Fisherman’s Pub, Speightstown

Very local waterfront bar and restaurant in Speightstown, chicken and fish (it’s next to the fish market).

La Mer, Port St Charles, t 419 2000

Classic waterfront setting on the limpid waters of Port St Charles, elegant dining, refined continental cuisine, famous for its Sunday brunch in season.

Lone Star Restaurant, Mount Standfast, t 432 1099

Superb Caribbean setting, on a wooden deck just above the waves, tastes from around the world. See a Review of visiting the Lone Star with Children.

Mango’s by the Sea, Speightstown, t 422 0704 www.mangosbythesea.com

Intimate, atmospheric setting on a deck hung with palms above the beach. Good Caribbean and international fare of mostly fresh fish and seafood – their grilled lobster is a popular choice. Art gallery featuring the work of Michael Adams and Terence Piggot.

The Mews, Holetown, t 432 1122

Popular for dinner and for its bar, international menu with lots of fish. Live music every Friday.

Olives Bar & Bistro, Holetown, t 432 2112

Classic townhouse setting, bar upstairs, Mediterranean cuisine with spicy Caribbean flavours.

Patisserie Bistro Flindt, Holetown, t 432 2626

Excellent array of deserts and light fare for breakfast (full English breakfast Sat & Sun), lunch and dinner. Open for dinner Mon-Fri only.

Pizzaz, Holetown

For pizzas and simple meals, with kids play area. Will deliver. See a Review of visiting Pizzaz with Children.

Ragamuffins, Holetown, t 432 1295

Brightly painted local house, fun bar, trusty Caribbean fare.

Sassafras, Sugar Hill Resort, t 419 9100

Eclectic international fare, with great views from a gingerbread veranda with pool side setting.

The Tides, Holetown, t 432 8356

A recent success on the West Coast, superb setting right on the beach, high quality cuisine, Caribbean with an Asian touch. Art gallery.

It is also worth noting that most of the villas in Barbados have their own cooks and they are always delighted to introduce you to local food.

SOUTH COAST

Aqua Restaurant and Lounge, Hastings Main Road, ChristChurch t 420 2995 or 228 0891,

Stylish dining right on the south coast in a sleek-looking shorefront building of contemporary design. Upstairs is for pure dining, whilst downstairs the bar and lounge (open until late) is also a popular meeting spot where you can simply sit and enjoy a drink or a selection of starters. The service and food is top class, with an eclectic menu to cater to a variety of tastes which the chef calls “modern Caribbean food with International flavours”. Open for lunch (Sun-Fri) and dinner.

Bean n Bagel Internet Cafe, St Lawrence Gap

Popular for its all day breakfasts.

Bellini’s Trattoria, St Lawrence Gap, t 435 7246

Italian fare, fresh pasta made daily and a selection of seafood, overlooking the bay.

Brown Sugar, Aquatic Gap t 426 7684/436 7069

Traditional Bajan fare with popular lunch time buffet, famous for its pepperpot.

Bubba’s Sports Bar, Rockley, t 435 8731

Air-conditioned, serving American style food, at reasonable prices. Popular with families.

Cafe Sol, St Lawrence Gap, t 432 9531

Very lively early evening bar, then restaurant serving Mexican fare, burritos, taquitos with Latin music.

Champers Wine Bar & Restaurant, Skeetes Hill, Rockley, ChristChurch, t 434 3463.

An immensely popular restaurant, even more so in its new cliff-top setting with fabulous coastal views. The downstairs dining area extends out to open-air dining terraces and a large gazebo set along the seafront, whilst upstairs has covered dining gallery. International cuisine with Caribbean influence of a consistently good standard. Dedicated art gallery. WiFi available. Internet café. Open for lunch and dinner.

Carib Beach Bar, Worthing, t 435 8540

Simple but trusty fare, fritters, burgers and fish platters, on a deck right above the sand of Sandy Beach.

Josef’s, St Lawrence Gap, t 435 8245

Elegant dining in a former private home on the waterfront, tastes garnered from around the world.

Oistins Fish Market

Easy evening hangout for a fish platter, or fritters and a beer. See a Review of a visit to Oistins Fish Fry with Children.

Opa!, Hastings, t 435 1234

Traditional Greek cuisine in a relaxed ocean front setting.

Patisserie Bistro Flindt, Rockley, t 435 2600

Excellent array of deserts and light fare for breakfast (full English breakfast Tue-Fri), and lunch.

Pisces, St Lawrence Gap, t 435 6564

Ever-popular restaurant right on the waterfront in St Lawrence Gap, endless fish dishes.

Restaurant at Southsea, St Lawrence Gap, t 420 7423

Elegant dining on a veranda right above the sea, long, excellent menu.

BRIDGETOWN

Lobster Alive, Bay Street, t 435 0305

Fresh Grenadine spiny lobster and selection of seafood dishes. Beach front setting with umbrellas and lounges available.

The Waterfront Cafe, BridgetownMarina, t 427 0093

Popular café on the marina serving Caribbean cuisine. Live jazz every evening apart from Tues when it’s Steel Pan night.

Wispers on the Bay, Old Bayshore Complex, Bay Street, Bridgetown, t 435 9486.

A sophisticated beachfront restaurant overlooking a sweep of stunning white sand and Carlisle Bay in Bridgetown. There is an air-conditioned indoor dining area with walls of glass, white muslin drapes and table cloths, but you can also dine outside on the deck under canvas or one of their romantic cabanas tucked amongst the palms. First class international cuisine with some Caribbean influences, an a la carte menu for lunch and a fixed price menu for dinner. Open for lunch 11am-3pm and dinner 6pm-9.30pm. Reservations required.

EAST COAST

The Atlantis, St Joseph, t 433 9445

Opened in 1884, famous for its Sunday Bajan Buffet lunch.

So with that lot to keep you busy I’d expect you to come home a couple of pounds heavier! Well yo will be on holiday and if you can’t indulge while on holiday we might as well all give up now!

Go to VIPvillas.com for a free in-depth report on restaurants on the island along with excursions and things to see and do.

Andy Parr is a respected travel professional who specialises in internet marketing.

Your Energy Efficient Metal Roof

Author: Mat Fay
Source: articlerich.com

In these modern times we must all make an effort to reduce our energy consumption while making sure we are using environmentally responsible, sustainable resources. Using metal roofing is one of the ways we can achieve this goal but the best part is, it can save us money in the process.

Many advances have been made in recent years in the field of metal roofing material. Metal roofs are now recognized as one of the premier materials for cool roofing. Cool roofs provide the advantage of reducing the home’s energy consumption and lowers cooling loads during peak consumption hours.

Metal roofs that are lightly colored and more reflective can reduce cooling energy costs by up to 40%. Many metal roofing materials are now coated with an extra-reflective surface so that most colors of your roof can have these energy saving qualities. Available in many colors and textures there is a metal roof that can suit any type of house, from brand new to newly restored, and provide the added peace of mind of being non-combustible and resistant to high winds.

Since metal roofs absorb much less heat than other roofing materials there is less impact on the urban air temperature, making a metal roof better for all who live around you by keeping temperatures down. The reduction in air temperature also helps to improve air quality since less smog is formed and less fossil fuels are used to cool the home.

Cool metal roofing is the sustainable choice for those who are concerned about human population’s effect on our environment. Metal roofs are extremely weather resistant and will last up to 50 years or more, and contain 25% or more recycled content. Metal roofing materials that are no longer useable are 100% recyclable, so there is no need to worry about clogging up landfills when you replace your roof. And in the spirit of not filling up landfills, since metal roofing weighs much less than conventional shingles, you can install a metal roof right on top of your old roof without adding much load to the structure or you can remove your previous roof and improve the static and dynamic load on your home.

Metal roofs do not support growths of moss or lichens, and do not deteriorate over time like asphalt shingles. Your roof will remain looking beautiful as ever, even 20 or 30 years after it is installed. Inside your home you will find that in the height of summer the air is much cooler that when you had heat absorbing shingles.

Cool metal roofing may be a relatively new idea, but it is quickly gaining ground as the preferred roofing material for new or re-finished homes. By installing a metal roof you are reducing your energy consumption as you will require less air conditioning in the summer, which of course will save you hundreds of dollars in electric costs.

You are also making a conscious decision to use materials that are environmentally friendly and recyclable, and improving the air quality around your home. With all these advantages it is no surprise that metal roofing is becoming so popular with homeowners and contractors.

Visit http://www.metalroofingsource.com to learn more on the money-saving Benefits of Metal Roofing.