5 Tips for Finding Great Australian Car Loans

By : Chris Robertson
Shopping for a vehicle can be both exhilarating and anxiety-provoking. Whether you're in the market for a new or used car, the prospect of driving it off the lot and owning it is incredibly exciting. Still, buying a vehicle is accompanied by so many unknowns.... Am I getting a good deal? Will owning the car be hassle free, or will I experience the headaches of taking it in time and again for repair? And, most of all, where can I find low-cost car loans?

After all, next to buying a house, buying a vehicle is the biggest single expenditure you'll ever make. And, if you're like most people, you don't have the money to pay cash for your vehicle. Car financing is a godsend, but if you aren't careful, in the long run you could end up owing more than your car is worth. How do you find a car loan that will enable you to buy the car of your dreams without getting into financial hot water? Here are five tips to consider:

1. Find financing before you buy.

All too often, people go car shopping without enough information about car finance and car loan interest rates. It's in your best interest to find a financing package that will work for you before you take a test drive. That way, you'll know exactly what you can afford and won't make an impulsive decision that you may live to regret.

2. Understand your options.

When it comes to car loans, one size doesn't fit all. Your unique financial circumstances and your choice of vehicles determine which car loan is best for you. For example, car loan interest rates may be the most important factor for one person to consider, while another might be more concerned with the length of time that the loan approval process will take.

3. Use a car loan calculator.

Available online, a car loan calculator will give you a quick snapshot of what your potential payments are for different loan amounts and varying terms. Take advantage of these online services, which will typically allow you to enter the amount of the loan, interest rate you'd like, the term of the loan, and the final balloon payment you're willing to make. In a few seconds, you'll be able to see what your monthly payment will be.

4. Consider what will be covered.

When you are looking at car loans, consider whether or not you will need more than the purchase price of the vehicle. For example, some companies allow you to finance on-road costs and taxes, car insurance, extended warranties, and loan protection.

5. Get quick quotes from an online source.

An established company with a Web presence has access to many different financing companies, and is most likely to provide you with the loan terms you need and a speedy approval process. For example, you may need a delayed first payment, interest only payments, or extended finance terms. In the case of a used vehicle, they can also help ensure that the title is clear and that there are no outstanding loans from the prior owner.

The process of finding good car loans doesn't need to be a hassle. Indeed, when you work with the right company, you can soon own the car of your dreams.

Top 5 Paris Attractions

By : Matthew Marrone
There is an old saying which states that Paris is the place where all good people go to die. It is the combination of historical charm, modernism, and a heady underworld which makes Paris a fantasy tourist destination. It is the top 5 Paris attractions which draw people to this great city, again and again. Beyond the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre there are attractions which take visitors by surprise and in doing so create memories that last a life time. Below are a few of the hottest destinations in Paris. If you visit Europe, for work or pleasure, be sure to find the time to explore these attractions.

Paris is an old city and with history comes a great deal of memories. It is within France that these memories are replicated in stone. Paris is the capital of France and the city of monuments. This beautiful city is home to hundreds of monuments and intricately carved structures which dominate the cityscape. The Eiffel Tower embodies the essence of the city of lights. It is the most famous and visited of all the cities attractions. The tower was built in 1889, as a physical and tangible representation of all things French. It was created only to be a temporary structure and was to be taken down after the world's fair. It remains today as one of the most recognizable and most visited (6+ million visitors per year) monuments in the world.

One of the most photographed places in the top 5 Paris attractions is the Louvre. This small castle is now home to a number of paintings and sculptures by famous artists. Arguably the world's most famous art museum, the Louvre's most popular piece is Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa". It was established in 1793, and is one of the oldest museums in Europe. Its art collection spans from the birth of great civilizations up to the 19th century. An amazing 5,000,000+ million tourists visited the museum in 2002.

Another attraction is the Centre Pompidou. This is actually the museum which houses all of France's greatest masterpieces by modern artists. The Museum has large collections of paintings spanning the 20th century and including works by the most famous artists (Picasso, Braque, Max Ernst, Magritte, Chagall, Matisse, Delaunay, Kandinsky, Klee and many others). The Centre national d'art et de culture Georges Pompidou was the brainchild of French President Georges Pompidou who wanted to create an original cultural institution in the heart of Paris completely focused on modern and contemporary creation, where the visual arts would rub shoulders with theatre, music, cinema, literature and the spoken word. Some 6 million people pass through the Centre Pompidou's doors each year, a total of over 150 million visitors in its 25 years or so of existence.

The Notre Dame Cathedral is an attraction that can not be overlooked. This is the most breath taking and spiritual structure of Paris. It is here that the world's first true basilicas can be found. Some would assert that they are the best in the entire world. The Notre Dame Cathedral was built in the 12th century and has since remained a solid structure and representation of French gothic architecture.

In 1870, the Sacre Couer or Sacred Heart church started being built. The structure is preceded by an exerting 237 step stone staircase. Inside the church you will find one of the worlds largest mosaics "Christ in Majesty" that depicts Christ with outstretched arms. From the top of the dome, you have a stunning view of Paris extending over 30 kilometers. With a long tradition of culture and art, Paris should always be on your list of European destinations.

London on a Budget

By : Matthew Marrone
Visiting London on a budget may seem impossible but it can be done if you choose traveling options off the beaten path. High tourist season is typically early April through late September. If you can opt to vacation there from early October through late March, you are likely to find less expensive airline tickets to and from London.

Once you're in the Square Mile, you'll have unlimited options for having fun, sleeping cheap and eating well without spending a wallet full of Euros. Typically, the second most expensive aspect of traveling abroad is the hotel stay, second only to the airfare to get there. Depending on the time of year you travel and your comfort level, your options are wide open.

Consider a home exchange. There are many home exchange facilitators, you can run a web search to find one you like. Members will pay an annual fee, usually $50 to $100. Most house swaps are offered in 1 week increments with a minimum of 2 weeks and you don't necessarily swap your house with the same family whose house you will stay in. You might stay in a London flat while the family of Londoners stays in a home in Thailand while the Thai family stays in your home. Other than the annual fee and possibly a small swap fee, typically under $100, this is a free stay. Of course, you have to be comfortable with a group of strangers in your home while you're away.

Summer holidays in London, while airfare will be at its peak, can still be cost efficient if you don't mind staying in a university dormitory. Many universities throughout Europe, including in London, rent out their empty rooms for about $100 per night during summer and other school breaks. You won't find perks like room service or even a private bath, but the price is right if you just need a place to lay your head.

Religious or not, you can rent a basic, clean room at one of the many convents and monasteries in the London area. You aren't required to participate in any religious activities and nearly all convents and monasteries will rent to ye of little faith, no faith or a different faith.

As for fun and sightseeing, avoid the rental car and driving around town; strap on some comfy shoes or rent a bike instead. No need to search for a tiny parking spot or learning to drive on the opposite side of the street and you can stop to smell the roses whenever you like. Start each day in a different direction and go wherever the wind takes you.

Public transportation is an adventure on its own and can take you all over the city and even into the countryside. Take the London Underground rail system or a double decker bus for a few pounds. London is also working on an above ground rail system to help facilitate transportation.me great eating deals include take out (called "takeaway") meals. The Value Added Tax (VAT) can be 10% or more on dine in meals. VAT isn't charged on takeaway. The added bonus is you get to choose the view or find a great place to eat and people watch.

Eat un American. Try picking up a late afternoon lunch at an ethnic or vegetarian restaurant. You'll not only find some great deals but you'll enjoy a wonderful new dining experience.

Follow or ask the locals. Employees at petrol stations (gas stations), grocery stores and your hotel front desk will likely know some out of the way dining establishments that offer great food for the budget minded.

Understand that budgeted travelers should be flexible and consider their trip an adventure. You might find a hotel, with reliable quality, to be worth the extra money. Dining at a pub might be great for the locals but you may not have the tolerance for fish and chips. Get out there and have fun.

Favorite African Safari Destinations And Safari Preparation

By : Dean Caporella
Taking an African safari is an exciting holiday choice for many people however, given the nature of such an adventure, there is a required amount of due diligence to perform before you actually take off for the wilds of Africa.

I want to briefly highlight some areas of interest in this article which you will be able to expand on further by conducting more research or talking with your travel agent. So what part of Africa do you want to visit?

Botswana Safari

For sheer contrast in landscapes Botswana is the ideal candidate. From the dry arid lands of the Kalahari desert to the rich, life blooming Okavango Delta, Botswana offers many options. Because of it's tremendous contrast, Botswana is a perfect choice for first time safari seekers. It has a deep history and and the choice of safaris range from mobile to fly ins.

Kruger National Park

Undoubtedly Africa's best known safari destination, Kruger has been officially in existence since 1926. Set in South Africa and formerly known as Sabie Park before being expanded and re-named more than 80 years ago, Kruger has been a safe haven for many animal species due to the threat of over hunting. Since being opened to visitors, Kruger has drawn visitors to it like a magnet however, there are certain codes of etiquette you'll need to observe.

Kenya Safari

Kenya has been described as the "grand daddy" of African safari destinations because it is the birthplace of the traditional safari. Like Botswana, it offers plenty of diversity in both landscape and fauna. The Masai people are almost legendary around the world and the safari options are numerous. One of the favoured safari tours is the Gorilla tour. However, think of an animal in Africa and it's likely to be in Kenya... elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs... all you'll need is good working camera.

Tanzania Safari

Tanzania would just about be this author's favorite safari destination. Tanzania is East Africa's largest country and as a history student, it conjures up images of a rich, exciting and sometimes violent past. What it has to offer both in landscape and fauna is quite staggering... Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, wildlife and some amazing national parks. In fact, if it's wildlife you're interested in then Tanzania is pretty hard to beat.

These are just four areas on the African Safari trail well worth considering however, throw "into the mix" safari destinations in Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe plus consider short term safari options to major landmarks and areas and you begin to appreciate that vastness that is Africa.

Are there any dangers? Well sure, but tour operators are extremely over zealous about the safety of tourists that this almost doesn't become a concern. Preparation for an African Safari is of the utmost importance and not only will you need to do homework on the intended area of visit but there is a little matter of "housekeeping" to perform as well. What to take? Clothing;light or heavy, personal care items, passports, money, sunblock treatments: your tour operator will be able to give you a shortlist to consider before leaving the country. The latter just about becomes the most important part of the trip because if you get it right, then your African safari experience becomes a whole lot more attractive.

Author Resource:- Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. Plan your nextafrican safariby reading the latest news and reviews at:http://www.african-safaris-site.com

Road Trip - Barcelona to Milano by Car

By : Matthew Marrone
While a road trip from Barcelona, Spain to Milano, Italy can be made in under 10 hours, the adventure couldn't be complete without a few stops along the way. Driving along the Spanish coast through Marseille, Toulon, Nice and Monte Carlo almost begs of a two or three day journey to take it all in.

Out of Barcelona, you'll start on B-10 then take C-58 / C-17 as you head toward AP-7. Now would be a good time to fill up on petrol and pick up thirty Euro for the tolls you'll encounter.

Your next road change will be to C-33 with a toll of 1.25 EU. That will be followed by E-15/AP-7 and another toll of 10.50 EU. You will have traveled 160 km by this point and will be entering the country of France and the city of Girona. Take in a museum here. The Museu del Cinema offers an interactive journey into the history of the cinema, from Chinese shadows to the magic of television. Located at Sequia 1, Girona.

Coleccion de Automoviles de Salvador Claret offers a collection of more than 300 vehicles including cars, lorries, motorcycles, velocipedes, bicycles and engines in addition to an aviation collection. Located at Sils, Selva, Girona. There are many other museums as well, including Museu d'Historia de la Joquina (a toy museum.)

Continue on AP-7 through Capmany, stopping for a quick tour of the historic Capmany castle, dating back to the eleventh century. Stop in for some tapas and a sangria before driving on AP-7 for a while longer. Take A-9/E-15 at the exit.

You'll have to buy another toll ticket at Le Perthus and again at Montpellier 2 and 1. Beware, there are speed cameras at A9 km marker 102.3 and A9 km marker 59.7. Exit A-9 at exit number 25 onto A54 toward Nimes, Arles and Marseille.

Take N572 / E80 followed by N113 / E80. If you are getting tired, consider resting your head on a pillow in Saint-Martin-de-Crau, France. This small town is quaint and thick with history. They offer a charming Friday morning market you're sure to enjoy.

Out of Saint-Martin-de-Crau, take A7 / E714 / E80. You have many tolls to go, make sure you have plenty of Euro on hand. Close to Marseille, take A8 / E80. Be wary of speed cameras at A8 km marker 147.0, A8 km marker 148.0, A8 km marker 149.0, A8 km marker 151.4 and A8 km marker 196.8.

Stop in Cannes or Nice along your way for a bite to eat and a visit to any one of their dozens of museums. Don't forget to sample a few French pastries along the way as well.

About 40 km out of Nice you'll pass into Italy. Take A10 / E80 for about 50 km then head toward Milano. You can stop along the way at Genova, also called Genoa, and take in some sites there. Acquario di Genova is the largest marine park in Europe and is appropriately located on the waterfront at Ponte Spinola. A revolving view of the city is available at Bigo, located in the Porto Antico area.

Out of Genova, you'll take A26 to your final destination, Milano, Italy. Have a cookie on us!
Author Resource:- PLR Travel Articles provides travel related articles such as this one on a monthly basis. We have a team of writers with varied worldwide travel experiences ready to provide you with 30 quality travel articles a month. PLR Travel Articles

Fun Maui Activities on a Budget

By : Jeremy Thompson
When planning a family vacation to Maui, expenses can really start to add up. However if you know what you're looking for and plan wisely you can find inexpensive Maui activities that can prove to be just as much fun as the pricey ones.

There are a variety of fun, inexpensive Maui activities to suit the interests of any Maui vacationer. Among these activities are some of the most popular in Maui, including snorkeling, whale watching, and hiking. Although these activities can be costly in some locations, if you know where to look you're bound to find the perfect spots that won't cost half of your vacation budget.

One of the most popular activities to do on your Maui vacation is snorkeling. There are an endless number of beautiful beaches with crystal clear water and colorful coral that is perfect for viewing Maui's underwater life. Many dive shops rent out snorkeling gear at a reasonable cost, as little as $10 a week. And if you go with your own equipment it won't cost you a thing.

Another extremely popular inexpensive Maui activity is whale watching. The warm waters of Hawaii are perfect for huge humpback whales to raise their calves. You can view these magnificent creatures starting as low as $15 for a 2 hour tour.

If your preference is to stay on land and see some of the beautiful scenery that Maui has to offer than two inexpensive Maui activities for you might be hiking or going on a scenic drive. You can see mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, and gorgeous Maui plant life on a hike through places like Haleakala Crater National Park. Hike the over 27 miles of trails absolutely free. Your only cost will be for the film in your camera that you'll definitely want to bring. And for only the cost of gas you can experience much of Hawaii on a scenic drive. Winding roads such as the Road to Hana give you another perspective of Maui's landscape and culture.

Finally, one more inexpensive Maui activity you'll want to fit into your schedule is a day on the beach. With some of the best white sand beaches in the world your Maui vacation wouldn't be complete without a day at the beach. Pack a picnic lunch and your sunscreen and relax in the warm rays of the Maui sun.

There are so many things to see and do when you plan a trip to Maui. Don't break the bank by trying to do it all. You can experience the beauty of Maui on pennies a day when you include some inexpensive Maui activities in your itinerary.

American Landscapes from an Artist's Perspective

By : Renee Nemerov
"I see a wonderful mix of color and drama in a landscape while driving by, and I can't wait to translate my view of it into a painting. Or sometimes I see a photo that will do the same thing, although my view of it will not be literal, but impressionistic, or expressionistic. The variety of scenic wonders of America are endlessly inspiring."

In the East are the scenic green hills and distant blue and purple vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains which run through several states. Between these breathtaking mountains are many picturesque rivers, streams, waterfalls and whitewater rapids.

The winding Rio Grande river in Big Bend, Texas offers towering cliffs, massive canyons, and vast dessert expanses. There is an incredible variety of geologic activity from uplifted limestone in the Sierra del Carmen range, thick mud shales at Hot Springs, and volcanic craters of the Chisos Mountains.

Then, in Northern New Mexico, the mountain roads twist through time and terrain, contrasting vermilion desert cliffs and snowy alpine peaks, 13th century stone dwellings, and the birth of the Atomic Age at Los Alamos. The area around Abiquiu is often called "O'Keefe Country" in honor of Georgia O'Keefe. This area is the setting for many if not most of her paintings. It is a ruggedly beautiful Southwest landscape including Echo Canyon, Ghost Ranch, and countless other rock formations.

Surrounded by red-rock monoliths named Coffeepot, Cathedral and Bell, is Sedona, Arizona. Also near the city is a chasm cut through by Oak Creek, with wildly wonderful rapids, and towering high above them is the geologically dominating Mogollon Rim, formed from ancient deposits of limestone, mudstone and sandstone. This awesome rim constitutes the southwestern boundary of the vast Colorado Plateau which extends into parts of five other states.

And, of course, there is the famed Grand Canyon, a very colorful, steep-sided gorge carved by the Colorado River in northern Arizona. It is largely contained within the Grand Canyon National Park. The canyon is about 277 miles long, ranges in width from 0.25 to 15 miles and attains a depth of more than a mile. Nearly two billion years of the Earth 's history has been exposed as the Colorado River and its tributaries cut through layer after layer of varicolored rock.

Lake Powell, created by the Glen Canyon Dam, is 186 miles long with more than 1,986 miles of shoreline.
It wends its way through a desert paradise with excellent vistas of multi-colored, towering rocks, pinnacles, buttes, arches and amphitheaters. Blue water, clear skies, sandy beaches complete the picture.

Monument Valley in Utah is an area of free standing sandstone rock forms that rise majestically from the desert floor. Up to 1,000 feet tall, they create a truly magical desert landscape that looks surreal, like mountains on the moon. Also, in Utah, are many spectacular sights in various state and national parks.

A complete contrast to the desertscapes of the Southwest, California and the far west present fertile, lush green hillsides punctuated by briliantly colored flowering plants. Below the hillsides, on the coast, are the crashing and pounding surf, blue expanses, golden beaches, rocky coves, of the Pacific ocean.Big Bend, in Texas, is one of the largest national parks. From an elevation of less than 2000 feet along the winding Rio Grande river, to nearly 8000 feet of towering cliffs, it includes massive canyons, vast dessert expanses, and the entire Chisos Mountain range. There is an incredible variety of geologic activity from uplifted limestone in the Sierra del Carmen range, thick mud shales at Hot Springs, and volcanic craters of the Chisos Mountains, to dinosaur remains near the park's Maverick entrance.

Then, in Northern New Mexico, the mountain roads twist through time and terrain, contrasting vermilion desert cliffs and snowy alpine peaks, 13th century stone dwellings, and the birth of the Atomic Age at Los Alamos. The area around Abiquiu is often called "O'Keefe Country" in honor of Georgia O'Keefe. This area is the setting for many if not most of her paintings. It is a ruggedly beautiful Southwest landscape including Echo Canyon, Ghost Ranch, and countless other red rock formations.

Surrounded by red-rock monoliths named, among others, Coffeepot, Cathedral and Bell, is Sedona, Arizona. Also near the city is the mouth of Oak Creek Canyon, a chasm cut through by Oak Creek, with rapids that are wildly wonderful. Towering high above Sedona is the geologically dominating Mogollon Rim, formed from ancient deposits of limestone, mudstone and sandstone. This awesome rim constitutes the southwestern boundary of the vast Colorado Plateau which extends into parts of five other states.

And, of course, there is the famed Grand Canyon, a very colorful, steep-sided gorge carved by the Colorado River in northern Arizona. It is largely contained within the Grand Canyon National Park. The canyon is about 277 miles long, ranges in width from 0.25 to 15 miles and attains a depth of more than a mile. Nearly two billion years of the Earth 's history has been exposed as the Colorado River and its tributaries cut through layer after layer of varicolored rock.

Lake Powell, created by the Glen Canyon Dam, is 186 miles long with more than 1,986 miles of shoreline. It wends its way through a desert paradise with excellent vistas of multi-colored, towering rocks, pinnacles, buttes, arches and amphitheaters. Blue water, clear skies, sandy beaches complete the picture.

Monument Valley in Utah is an area of free standing sandstone rock forms that rise majestically from the desert floor. Up to 1,000 feet tall, they create a truly magical desert landscape that looks surreal, like mountains on the moon.

A complete contrast to the desertscapes of the Southwest, California and the far west present fertile, lush green hillsides punctuated by briliantly colored flowering plants. Below the hillsides, on the coast, are the crashing and pounding surf, blue expanses, golden beaches, rocky coves, of the Pacific ocean.

"I am currently painting various series of my interpretations of these contemporary American landscapes which may be seen on my internet website."

5 Great Honeymoon Destinations In The US

By : John Morris
Whether you are looking for a quiet, laid-back stay or an action-packed vacation, chances are you will find a destination that suits the desires of you and your partner for a romantic honeymoon in the United States.

1. Hawaii

With its pristine beaches, tropical scenery and wide variety of foods, activities and tourist spots to keep you busy, Hawaii is a popular choice for countless honeymooners from around the world. Hawaii offers a number of tourism options for the various types of guests it hosts each year. Some visitors might opt to rent a car or take a guided tour around the island they are staying on. By exploring the islands of Hawaii, guests will enjoy discovering serene waterfalls and spectacular views of the beautiful beaches that lace the outskirts of the islands. Perhaps one of the most romantic Hawaiian pastimes comes in the form of watching a sunset with your new spouse. For the active couple, Hawaii offers a number of top golf courses that honeymooners can enjoy. One of the more popular activities is to attend a Hawaiian luau.

2. Niagara Falls

Couples can register to get a guided boat cruise around the falls. For a fun night out, honeymooners can visit Casino Niagara, conveniently located right across from Niagara Falls. For honeymooners who enjoy day trips the scenic Catskill Mountains are not located far from the falls. There are two "sides" of the falls, the US side and the Canadian side. The Canadian site give you a much better view of the falls so don't forget your Passports!

3. Florida

Vacations in Florida are ideal for honeymooners. Disney World offers special honeymoon vacation packages to cater to those looking for a romantic getaway. There are even a number of Disney resorts that attract couples rather than families. If theme parks are not your cup of tea, consider a trip further south to Key West or Miami. These areas offer classy resorts, sprawling beaches, and plenty of attractions that will keep both you and your significant other happily busy.

4. Las Vegas

If you have money to blow and you're feeling lucky, Las Vegas is the place for you. In addition to gambling, you will find shopping, nightlife, and even a short drive to the Grand Canyon where you can sit in your car and look out over the moon.

5. California

California here I come! There is a reason the Beachboys wrote so many songs about the California coast. There are so many potential honeymoon destinations it's hard to name them all. If you want a more quiet honeymoon you can visit Carmel or Santa Barbra. If you want a more adventurous honey moon you can visit the L.A. area where you can visit Universal Studios, Disney Land, Knotts Berry Farm and Magic Mountain.

Author Resource:- For more great honeymoon related articles and resources check out http://123honeymoons.info