Archive for May, 2009

Extreme Sport Info

Saturday, May 30th, 2009
XTRA INFO asked:


The Extreme Sport Info

Have you noticed that the people who are dedicated to extreme sports seem a little ‘different’ from most other people? Extreme sports enthusiasts seem to have that “darn the torpedoes, full speed ahead” attitude that runs counter to the thoughtful, considered way most people lead their lives. They can’t really help it when they are in the “zone”. When they are in the zone, all the matters is the mission . . . their whole life is no more significant than the moment of execution. Those who study such things as the psychology of athletes, call the “zone” that temporary state of mind where an adrenaline high, awakened by a high-risk endeavor, is (at least temporarily) the absolutely dominant influence in your life.

The zone, as described above, may seem to symbolize a period of extreme irresponsibility, but it is actually a period of extreme focus and near-maximum control – it is a mental state that is similar to, but more intense than, taking that first-ever dive off the high dive at the deep end of the pool. It is also called “the adrenaline effect.”

An important the body reaction

Adrenaline is an important key to the body’s reaction in times of stress, danger or anger. At those times, your brain increases the adrenaline, which increases your heart rate and blood flow. In addition, it increases glucose production (glucose is the “food” your body burns when you exercise) and increases physical stamina — in short, you feel invigorated. This process is called the “fight or flight response;” it gets your body “primed for action” . . . and its somewhat addictive!

These enthusiasts are called, somewhat facetiously, “adrenaline junkies,” and to these extreme sports devotees, it is a colloquialism that fits. They crave activities that require intense concentration and extreme performance, activities such as: bungee jumping, skydiving, hang gliding, mountain climbing and auto racing. Adrenaline junkies, however, are not just into extreme sports. You will find them living extreme lifestyles. These are the same people you will find making their living as SWAT team members, emergency response personnel and members of military Special Forces such as SEALS and Green Berets. Professional gamblers and stock market traders are also “addicted” to the possibility of an enormous win or an enormous loss — the possibilities of which will get anyone’s adrenaline flowing.

How do you find your “zone”?

So how do you find your “zone?” It is not as difficult, or as strenuous (or even as addictive) as it may sound. Those who go in for and, to some extent, become addicted to extreme sports and the adrenaline high, are extreme examples of those in the zone. In simpler and less extreme terms, the zone simply means determination and focus.

You “psych yourself up” for any particular activity (it might be an action sport or it might be passing a mid-term exam) by becoming determined to accomplish your task and by focusing on learning what you need to learn, and doing what you need to do. While you are in that mental state (that zone) you are so focused on your objective that what other people say, think or do is mere background noise. You picture the task and see yourself accomplishing it.

What’s really happening here?

What’s happening is that you are learning to harness the power of your mind. Your body — your muscles may be doing the work but your mind is making the work easier, making the task more comprehensible, making the task more doable. It is the extreme sports version of the “Power of Positive Thinking.” Wow! Deja Vu from 1952! That’s when Dr. Norman Vincent Peale’s self help book was first published and when the seeds were first planted that would grow into millions of success stories.

The power of the mind is an awesome thing! Your mind is like a super-computer that is programming itself every minute of your day with ideas, concepts, idle thoughts, feelings, wishes and desires. The key is staying positive! Staying with the computer analogy, there is a saying amongst computer programmers: “GIGO,” that means “Garbage In — Garbage Out;” in other words, the result of any effort will only be as good (successful) as the effort put into it.

Summary

Normally, so the experts say, humans use only a small fraction of their mind’s potential. The amount of additional potential that you might be using when in your zone has not been quantified and is not important — what is important is that, whether participating in an action sport or trying to learn a line of poetry, the focus and determination you use will make success more possible. The only limitations we have are self-imposed limitations — that’s the secret of the zone!

For more articles related to this subject and others please visit ExtremeSports.info



Action Movies- Thrill and Adventure Unlimited

Saturday, May 30th, 2009
Adam Jaylin asked:


Movies are one of the most invigorating and magnificent sources of entertainment. Cinema is a great means to experience the larger than life grandeur and unimaginable moments which we can seldom feel in our real lives. Whenever one gets bored then the movies are the best companion. It’s the finest method to amuse and entertain oneself with sheer delight. The young and the old, everybody is enticed by the movies. The films come in various genres catering to different tastes of the audiences. You would find mellowed and heart touching romantic stories, interesting science fiction, super natural fantasy movies and wonderful movies with social relevance. Everyone watches the movies that match their interest and preferences. While teenagers love romantic movies they also admire the high spirited and thriller packed action movies. The Action Movies are full of adventure and extravaganza. The best part of these movies is that they have wonderful & awe-inspiring moments that give spine-chilling experience to the users. There are various characters like Spiderman, Men-in-Black etc who have entertained the viewers with high adrenaline action.

The youths specially admire the thrilling movies with amazing stunts and thrilling actions. If you feel bored by watching the same run on the mill stories that are overloaded with melodrama and the voluptuous characters that seem to be weary and lackluster, then try watching the awesome action packed thriller movies. The adventurous young generation love to watch the movies that have high speed action with amazing stunts and fight sequences that have loads of action and thrill.

There have been a number of illustrative movies that have won great accolades and immense commends by both the critics and the viewers. The Matrix is one such movie that has depicted the wonderful fight sequences in an exceptionally unique manner. This movie has wonderful characters and amazing style which has been lately copied in a number of movies and tele-series later across the world. The movie has won many awards and recognitions world wide. It has also grabbed the prestigious Academy award for the best sound, best editing, and best visual effects. This movie showcased wonderful plots and awesome scenes that have become ageless marvels for the cinema.

Another action packed film that received more than ten academy award nominations and grabbed seven out of them is the Lawrence of Arabia. It got awards for the best film, best music and best director etc. David Leans directed this awesome movie that had superb drama sequences packed with action, scintillating cast and wonderful story line. The film had some of the finest performances of cinema with the breathtaking plots and mesmerizing scenes. The story of a British lieutenant really touched hearts of the viewers.

The Star Wars Trilogy is another magnificent film that has been immensely successful. It had some awe-inspiring moments filled with great special effects and wonderful graphics. The movie was extremely wonderful and won many recognitions and rewards worldwide. The movie has wonderful characters like Captain Han Solo, Luke Skywalker and princess Leia.

Another movie that is considered as one of the most popular action movies is The Lord of the Rings. This movie showcases the adventures and perils of the unrealistic world where amazing characters and dangerous situations create moments of awe and shock. The film has some of the best performances and astounding star cast. Created with a whopping $ 280 million budget, this movie is a fantastic work of art. The movie lovers consider this film as the most awe-inspiring and scintillating films of all times.

The films which are based on the backdrop of the New York City include Morning Glory, The French Connection, Falling in Love etc. These movies also depict great action sequences. The 300 is an impeccable piece of work in terms of wonderful action and astounding special effects. This film is really worth watching time and again. It is based in the much popular novel by Frank Miller.

Users can easily find the latest action movies on the various online portals at amazing costs.



Can Blockbuster Movie Gift Baskets Win You an Oscar?

Monday, May 25th, 2009
Brian Connors asked:


Everyone is on stage when it’s gift-giving time. Will the giver’s attempt to make someone’s life happier win acclaim after the show is over or will it bomb out? There is a way, however, to suit someone’s sweet-tooth and entertainment tastes perfectly that will lead you to become a star in someone’s eyes. What’s the secret?

Blockbuster Movie Gift Baskets is the answer and here’s why. These gifts have within them the exact ingredients needed to boost anybody’s enthusiasm. Imagine opening up a movie themed package that is full of treats such as popcorn, candy bars, cookies, peanuts and more. With this type of present, though, the sweets are just the teaser. What gives the full impact in your gift giving performance?

Blockbuster gift cards are the main attraction within Blockbuster Movie Gift Baskets! They are the gift recipient’s ticket to whatever entertains them whether it’s adventure, comedy, kid-stuff, romance or anything else. This brings the gift to a whole new level in which someone’s appetite for tasty snacks and for entertainment will be satisfied in one fell swoop.

Two occasions come to mind that would be perfect for the giving of this type of gift. The first is for the happy occasions of birthdays. Know anyone who doesn’t enjoy sitting back for a couple hours in a satisfying fantasy world? That’s what movies are all about! You would be giving someone all of the ingredients of what they want with snacks included as well.

The other occasion best suited for giving Blockbuster Movie Gift Baskets is when someone’s health is on the fritz. What’s the best thing to do when a person is under the weather? You’ve got to give them a boost and a change of thought. Wouldn’t a good movie custom chosen by them be a medicine to raise their spirits to a more healthy level? Of course it would! The snacks included would elevate their mood as well.

Will you symbolically win an Oscar in your gift giving performance? How can you not? Take the advice of aGiftBasketParadise.com and consider Blockbuster Movie Gift Baskets for birthdays, get-wells, and any other situation that needs your star presence.



Adventure Travel to Kenya: Discover Kenya’s Best Kept Secrets

Monday, May 25th, 2009
Michael Donner asked:


How would like adventure travel to Kenya, to learn some of Kenya’s best kept secrets? How about checking into Hemingway’s, a luxury hotel on the Indian Ocean, or spending some time in the same area that Elsa was released into the wild by Joy Adamson? You can enjoy these, and more, with luxury adventure travel to Kenya, land of the Luo, Kalenjin, Turkana and the famous Maasai warrior race, as the name is correctly spelled although we shall use the more popular western spelling of Masai.

The capital is Nairobi, and that would be a good place to start. There are many types of hotel in Nairobi, but if you can, try to book into one of the few boutique hotels that accommodate only a few guests, twelve being a good number. For that you will have to book yourself a luxury adventure vacation, with personal service offering vacation planning from just yourself and your partner.

That is a better way to enjoy Kenya’s secrets, rather than traveling in a large group of 40 or more as most people do. If you can find a tour company that offers this level of personal service, then your vacation can be tailored to suit your own timetable and needs, and not those of the majority, or even in some cases the minority!

Nairobi has a lot offer somebody seeking adventure travel to Kenya, and you don’t have to travel to unknown places to discover some of Kenya’s best kept secrets. Take Karen Blixen’s house, for example, the author of ‘Out of Africa’, made into an Oscar winning movie, or the Carnivore restaurant, where you can dine on some exotic game. You should also check out Masai crafts at the Utamanduni Craft center and visit the giraffes at the Giraffe Center.

However, it is the game reserves that most people visit Kenya to see, and that adventure travelers to Kenya are particularly interested in, so take a plane ride over the Meru National Park and land near Elsa’s Kopje – a rocky outcrop on Mughwangi Hill in the Meru Park, where Elsa was released by Joy and George Adamson back in 1958.

Why not spend some time in the park and check out the elephants, leopards and cheetahs, and of course the lions. Unfortunately the big game, the lions in particular, are in grave danger in Nairobi Park due to the action of humans, so take advantage of the opportunity to see them in the wild while you can. Although most people prefer to go on guided safaris, others prefer fishing and nature walks, or even just to lie by the pool. It’s your vacation so indulge yourself.

You must then visit the Masai Mara Nature Reserve, where the big game animals are less under threat from human activity. Try to head for the Cottar 1920 Mari Safari Camp, where the 22,000 acre private concession houses only 12 guests, but it’s well worth it, and no luxury adventure travel to Kenya should miss a visit to Cottars. Calvin Cottar is one of the best guides in the country, and will take you on a game drive in a 4WD or even a more traditional ox cart. It is an advantage that the camp is not part of the reserve, because you can go on night drives and guided walking tours, which would not otherwise be permitted.

Malinda is another part of Kenya you must not miss: situated on the Indian Ocean Malinda offers Hemingway’s a luxury hotel that offers the very best personal service. Use it as a base for a trip to Lamu Island, which used to be a base for the slave trade, and on which the only means of travel other than foot is by donkey. Try a dip in the ocean or simply relax by the pool, contemplating what you have seen

The type of luxury you can experience on these trips is unbelievably high, and adventure travel to Kenya is not all safaris and living rough. You can also do it in style, but make sure that your price is all-inclusive since the extras for the flights and safari trips can be high. A good luxury vacation company will offer you all-inclusive deals that will work out cheaper in the long run than trying to keep your initial costs low and pay your own way. You will either end up paying more, or missing out on a lot, which would be a shame after traveling so far.

Try to get a personal deal, with just the two of you traveling, rather than being part of a large group, and make sure that your travel is commensurate with the luxury you are seeking: a minimum of business class flights, and first class rail and road travel where it is involved. Your accommodation should be the best available, and the small personal hotels are often the best.

Achieve all that, and there are no reasons why your luxury adventure travel to Kenya should not provide you with the vacation of your dreams, the memories of which will last you a lifetime.



Man Boobs and Media

Sunday, May 24th, 2009
One of the most embarrassing things any man can suffer from is the occurrence of “man boobs.” Whether it is from obesity or actual victims of gynecomastia, “man boobs” have been a common occurrence in America today. Everyone can think of at least one person who has suffered from this embarrassing problem. The difference with men who suffer from gynecomastia and those who just develop man boobs from being obese is that the gynecomastia victims are innately born with this problem. Actual breast tissue that also occurs in women develop on the chest of these men. In worst cases, some actually develop breast milk.

Man boobs are one of those taboo topics that no man feels comfortable sharing. Guys are usually made fun of for their deformities. Take the famous movie: “Fight Club” for an example. One of the men that joined the secret organization known as the Fight Club suffered from this problem and was bashed on with humor and ridicule. In the new upcoming movie “Meet the Spartans,” there is one Spartan who covers his body with his shield before his introduction, later revealing his man boobs. Kevin Sorbo who plays the role of the captain mentions about his man boobs, and in an attempt for humor, the main character who parodies Leonidas grabs his chest.

There are many movies and objects that depict the very image of man boobs. Most people laugh it off because it is humorous. Men are not supposed to have boobs nor are they made to breast feed. It is a deformity that occurs more often than not. Here are some famous examples of man boobs: Golden statues of Buddha, sumo wrestlers, some roman statues, Samewise Gamgee from “Lord of the Rings,” Tom Cruise in his debut of the “The Last Samurai,” etc.

More and more men in America are becoming obese and these man boobs become a common occurrence. In the show, “The Biggest Loser” aired on NBC represents the majority of American men today. And yes, man boobs are commonly seen on this show. Men with man boobs are not alone, and this problem can be helped. So what can you do to get rid of man boobs? There are methods, ways, and products that really help. For starters just being more active, exercising or having a better diet helps.

You’ve seen man boobs in the movies and on TV. If you have them, learn how to get rid of man boobs. Man boobs are plaguing society and you may need to lose man boobs to uphold your reputation this summer.



By: Hugh Chaffer

About the Author:

You’ve seen man boobs in the movies and on TV. If you have them, learn how to get rid of man boobs. Man boobs are plaguing society and you may need to lose man boobs to uphold your reputation this summer.



get rid of man boobs

The Culture of Belarusian Brides

Sunday, May 24th, 2009

In Eastern Europe you’ll find the small country of Belarus, with roughly 10 million people, among them a bevy of beautiful Belarusian brides hoping to find a marriage minded man from the West. Even though the majority of the population lives in the large cities (a full fifth of the population lives in Minsk, the capital city), Belarus is mostly an agricultural country and is often known best for the radioactive fallout the Chernobyl disaster sent raining down on the small country.

Most of the people of Belarus speak Russian, although you will also hear Belarusian, which sounds very similar to Polish. Belarus has been greatly influenced by the countries it shares a border with, including Latvia, Poland, Lithuania, Ukraine and Russia. It was, in former days, a part of the USSR.

Many of the festivities and folk songs that Belarusians celebrate with have their history in the pagan Belarusians of centuries ago. Even today, the God of Sun, Yaryla is still celebrated in Belarus, although the main religions now are Orthodox and Catholic.

How does this affect you if all you want to do is marry a Belarusian bride? It affects you because it’s important to know as much as possible about a foreign bride’s country, her culture and beliefs, and anything else that may influence your relationship with her.

Each part of the world has a different belief system, with its own customs, traditions, and morals. You don’t have to agree with them, but you do need to respect the other person’s right to hold onto them, even if she moves to your country to become your wife.

In Belarus, for instance, there are distinct roles for men and women, such as preparing the table with food, which is considered the woman’s responsibility. A Belarusian man would not be expected to ever take part in that chore.

Like many countries, much of the Belarusian traditions revolve around food, and much of their food is served with vodka. They have an interesting tradition with food as it relates to matchmaking.

A matchmaker visits a hopeful Belarusian bride and brings gifts of food and drink. She suggests a potential husband for the woman, and if her recommendation is accepted, she returns to the house later with the potential groom, who brings a gift of vodka to the family. The young woman’s parents supply food for all.

When this ritual has been completed several times, the couple is considered to be engaged. If it doesn’t work out and one side decides to break the engagement, they’re expected to repay the other party for the food and drink expenses.

In contrast to old traditions, men and women in Belarus often hold the same jobs and receive comparable pay, but even in these modern times, gender specific roles are still recognized. The raising of children is the woman’s domain and with those younger than 14, the father seldom interferes with the mother’s decisions.

Years ago, when a young couple got married, they moved to their own little hut on family property owned by the groom’s parents. Celebrations of the marriage took place in the homes on both sides and everyone shared all the expenses.

Another cultural difference you may be unaware of is that young Belarusian brides who could work on the farm and keep house well were considered a better choice than one who was beautiful or wealthy and didn’t possess those skills.

Morals were strong in Belarus and a young woman was usually expected to still have her virginity when she married. In fact, sometimes it was also expected that the groom be a virgin as well.

When you decide you’d like to marry a Belarusian bride, take the time to learn about her culture. It will endear you to her, and will allow you to have a little more insight as to her beliefs and what she considers important.

Adventure Sports Fair 2003 (Depoimentos III)

Thursday, May 21st, 2009
adventurefair asked:


Video Adventure Sports Fair 2003_1

WoW Buy Gold – Read This Before You Buy WoW Gold

Wednesday, May 20th, 2009
World of warcraft has got much popularity from couple of years where people obtain the chance to buy gold and get the chance to become richest person of the world. Every person, who plays the game, wants to increase his/her gaming experience so that more chances can be availed and more gold can be bought. Daily several people seek out the internet in order to find those online games through which they can obtain gold. But there are some real facts which you should keep in mind before going to enter into any gold place so that you would be able to save chunks of money.

When people do search in order to find out the sellers of wow gold, they don’t consider that there are some sellers who don’t belong to the big companies and sell their gold in low price. Why not to avail this chance which is as good as you dream off. You also should know about the various effective tactics which can be helpful for you to earn more and more and for this, you don’t have to pay any extra money as well. When you will get to know that how to access the unknown companies of wow gold and how to get them by using some strategies, you can be able to avail a golden chance.

Several books and digital guides are available in the internet in which authors have shared some of their precious tips of earning money without spending a single penny. You can be able to earn high through these guidebooks and you will love to play game time and again. You should always purchase those guide books in which you find gold is free or earn the wow gold without paying any money. These guide books are the best support for you to fulfill your dreams and desires.

Make sure that these guidebooks are providing you opportunity to earn high within few hours. You can make yourself lucky enough when you have golden chance to earn the gold. Try to think something unique and different in order to buy more wow gold which will change your whole world in a beautiful manner. You can obtain the opportunity to be number1 richest person who can earn anything of this world freely. If you are one of those persons who want to buy wow gold within few hours then make your mind sharp and get ready for playing high.

You have the chance to buy more wow gold when you have good mind and when you have effective strategies to handle the game plan. Make the best game plan and wait for the higher results, you will see how rapidly you will enter into the world of gold, through which you are able to buy favorite thing of your own choice. If you have potential to buy the gold then immediately seek out the sellers of wow gold through which you have the option to earn high and to buy gold more in a superb manner.



By: gold-shop-test

About the Author:

HI I am Alisha, I have been working in Randyrun, I have been in this company for last 7 years. The company selles cheap WOW GOLD. So, if you are player of WOW gold you can see our website http://www.gold-shop-test.com



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The Unofficial Trucker Movie Top 10

Tuesday, May 19th, 2009
Andrea Rizzo asked:


By Andrea Rizzo

From “They Drive By Night” to “Black Dog”: The Unofficial Trucker Movie Top 10

In recent years, the art of customizing big rigs and maneuvering around dangerous trucking conditions have made reality television a far more interesting place with serials like “Trick My Truck” and “Ice Road Truckers.” Although truckers and the profession of truck driving seem like unlikely bedfellows with Hollywood, American cinema has attempted to capture the independent spirit of the profession within the last several decades through action sequences, adventurous cross-country hauls, and romance on the road. We have scoured countless film reels to create an unofficial trucker movie Top 10.

This listing follows on the heels of the last edition of CareersinGear.com Magazine, where we brought you the best trucker songs of all time with, “We Gonna Roll This Truckin’ Convoy: The Unofficial Trucker Top 10.” Chosen in the same format, the following 10 trucker movies somehow further the genre by way of truck stop brawls, romance on the road, and whole lots of kitsch. This is by no means an absolute list, and hopefully we will see some even newer trucking films crop up.

1. “They Drive by Night” (1940)

This classic piece of film noir stars Humphrey Bogart and George Raft as the Fabrini brothers, a truck driving team struggling to make it during the Great Depression. It is one of the first films to center on truck driving as an occupation, and Bogie and Raft, albeit with great theatrics, bring to light many of the troubles independent truck drivers face. Add in the brassy and bold Ann Sheridan as a truck stop girl who doesn’t hold back, and the conniving and cunning Ida Lupino as a murderous vixen, and there you have it: a love triangle that leads to bad things. As the movie trailer implies, this film is “the high-geared saga of reckless men who find romance by the side of the road,” and Bogie and Raft sure give the audience a wild ride.

2. “Truck Stop Women” (1974)

And what of love on the road? This seventies flick is the epitome of campy, drive-in fun that revolves around a mother and daughter run New Mexican brothel for traveling truckers. The mantra “no rig was too big for them to handle” not only implies the obvious sexual innuendos, but is also a battle cry for these early feminists that fought against the Mafia and won. From start to finish, there are plenty of big rig chases, extremely violent and inventive death scenes, and of course, seventies-style nudity. This is not a film for the faint of heart or those interested in an accurate portrayal of an honest profession.

3. “White Line Fever” (1975)

Remember when Jan Michael-Vincent was actually a normal actor and not the freak show he has become? He’s the star of this mid-seventies drama, playing Carroll Jo Hummer, an honest, hardworking truck driver that has finally had enough of the system. Hummer’s loyalty lies with his wife and his rig, lovingly called The Blue Mule. When Hummer gets too bogged down by his cheatin’ and schemin’ boss—played by the iconic Slim Pickens—he takes his anger out across the U.S.A. The Blue Mule has an amazing show stopper at the end, and has recently been made immortal with a reference in Quentin Tarantino’s campy on demand movie, “Death Proof,” released in 2007.

4. “Smokey and The Bandit” (1977)

It’s hard to not to think of this movie first when it comes to the truck driving genre, although there are more muscle car and police cruiser scenes than anything else. Played by a then-hunky Burt Reynolds, The Bandit is a legendary trucker reluctantly pulled out of retirement to once again show up his nemesis, Smokey—also known to us common folk as the police. This fun romp starts with the need to secure enough Coors beer to make an east coast party—a scheme that includes a hot rod decoy that in turn attracts a runaway bride—aptly performed by a young Sally Field. Even though The Bandit isn’t driving a big rig, there are some truly sweet scenes with his 1977 black Pontiac Trans Am that can’t be denied.

5. “Breaker! Breaker!” (1977)

There is no shortage of action within this slice of truck driving drama. The title alone is homage to the rise of the C.B. fad, the all-important form of communicating on the road at the time. Chuck Norris stars as former karate champion and current Alaskan trucker, returning from a Texan vacation only to find his brother has met with a grave injustice. Once again, Smokey comes into play, and this time the corrupt cops face the wrath and reemergence of a martial arts master out for revenge. Perhaps this is the very role that fueled Norris to become the powerhouse that we know today.

6. “Every Which Way But Loose” (1978)

This Clint Eastwood classic incorporates the character of Philo Beddoe, a semi-pro prize fighter and pipe supply company trucker, along with his endearing and awfully hairy sidekick, Clyde. Beddoe meets his romantic match with the country and western singer wannabe, Lynn Halsey-Taylor (played by Sondra Locke), and finds misadventures on the road while pursuing her. Although her love doesn’t prove to be worth the chase, enough kookiness transpired to make way for “Any Which Way You Can” two years later as another classic monkey and man adventure.

7. “Convoy” (1978)

Directed by Sam Peckinpah, “Convoy” was inspired by Bill Fries’ resplendent 1975 song of the same name. Just as the song relays, the movie is a rough ‘n’ tumble epic of truckers that break the law in a mile-long caravan traveling through the Southwest states to Mexico. Like all good, campy seventies flicks, this one is not devoid of sex appeal. The then-muscle bound Kris Kristofferson stars as the ringleader, named Rubber Duck after his C.B. handle, and an ever-lovely Ali McGraw plays his love interest. The soundtrack includes some great driving music, from an obvious inclusion of “Convoy” to Crystal Gayle’s hit “Don’t It Make Your Brown Eyes Blue” and “Okie from Muskogee” by Merle Haggard.

8. “Pee Wee’s Big Adventure” (1985)

Who could forget Large Marge from this Pee Wee saga? Even though she only had a two to three minute cameo, this hardened, truck-driving horror was no doubt a nod toward the storytelling song, “Phantom 309” by Red Sovine. Poor Pee Wee was just looking for a ride when he got more than he bargained for by this female trucker. After her spooky tale of the worst accident she had ever seen ten years ago that night, Large Marge lets him out at the Wheel Inn truck stop with an ominous, “be sure and tell ‘em Large Marge sent ya,” along with a cackle that can make your toes curl. Somehow, Sovine’s Big Joe seemed a more benign ghost of a fellow.

9. “Maximum Overdrive” (1986)

One of Stephen King’s goofier releases, “Maximum Overdrive” is a campy horror flick about a gaggle of trucks (and machines in general) that come alive, only to seek revenge on mankind. Although it was based on the well-written “Trucks” from his “Night Shift” collection, King’s directorial debut earned him the dishonor of the Golden Raspberry Awards’ “Worst Director” title in 1987. Sometimes prose doesn’t translate as well into film, but that’s what makes this particular offering classic. Emilio Estevez stars as the main man and the soundtrack is stellar—performed exclusively by metal mavens and King’s favorite band, AC/DC. Although most of the songs had already been released a few years earlier, “Chase The Ace,” “D.T.” and the underlying theme of the movie, “Who Made Who,” were written especially for this film.

10. “Black Dog” (1998)

Almost a decade after Swayze found his fame as a ne’er-do-well done good in “Dirty Dancing,” he continued to find roughened roles within the likes of “Point Break” and “Road House.” In “Black Dog,” Swayze stars as Jack Crews, another ex-con-turned-good driver that spans the U.S. with what he comes to understand is a dangerous haul. When it’s clear that his family and life are in danger, Swayze has more malevolence than customer service on his mind. Country crooner Randy Travis and operatic rock god Meat Loaf star in this offering as well.

Although most of the truck driving themed films are more of a fun romp across the U.S. than an accurate portrayal of the profession, that’s what makes these movies such an escape. The campiness factor only kicks the adventure up a notch or two and gives us unforgettable characters in the end. Heroes like Fabrini brothers, Philo Beddoe, Carroll Jo Hummer and Jack Crews manage to save the day, get the girl (or keep their family safe), and get paid in spite of easy-to-hate villains and the ever-present corrupt cops. Perhaps The Bandit said it best when describing his livelihood and why he does it: “For the good old American lifestyle: For the money, for the glory, and for the fun … mostly for the money.”



Papua New Guinea: Adventure Traveler Mecca With Butler And Health Club

Monday, May 18th, 2009
Julia Calliste asked:


One of the few still untamed, if not unspoiled destinations, Papua New Guinea is a raw land. Nearly 85% of the main island is carpeted with tropical rain forest.

With its international reputation for Scuba Diving thanks to spectacular coral reefs, Papua New Guinea is still a Mecca for the serious adventure traveler who will find swamp and jagged limestone; mud and moss forest; suffocating heat and Highland chill; plumed, pearl-shelled villagers and prosaic hill people; tiny tree kangaroos and enormous Queen Alexandra Birdwing butterflies. And fascination, unspoiled beauty, the exotic experience of a lifetime. But also personal butlers at hotels. Fine dining. And now even a stunningly designed Health and Racquet Club.

The new club is at the Airways Boutique Hotel in Port Moresby and covers 600 square meters fitted out in stylish décor, and includes state of the art “Wellness in Motion” Techno Gym cardio and strength equipment, a 20-metre infinity lap pool, air-conditioned squash courts, floodlit tennis court, aerobics and exercise room, massage rooms, separate male and female steam rooms and saunas, and a Zen garden with views over the valley, the sea, and the mountains, for winding down after a workout or massage treatment.

A full range of professionally organized classes and lessons offers Club members and hotel guests a variety of invigorating fitness and exercise programs and routines. There is also an outdoor exercise trail through the hotel’s lush botanical gardens.

The Airways Hotel, located at the Port Moresby airport, is anything but your typical airport hotel. Exquisite dining, the unique combination of the exotic and the modern in a luxurious tropical setting, and an excellent, friendly service provide for a matchless airport hotel experience.

The hotel is nestled into the mountainside in its own botanical gardens, with stunning views of the crystal clear waters of Bootless Bay to the majestic mountains of the Owen Stanley Ranges. The stylish rooms have a hint of designer decor with a simple elegance. For the ultimate luxury in service, book one of the Orchid Suites and Rooms that come with a 24-hour personal butler to cater to your every need. Art and artifacts of Papua New Guinea are on display throughout the hotel.

Four restaurants, four bars, boutique, chauffeured limousine service, swimming pools, tennis courts, yoga and aerobics, Chef’s Master cooking classes, diving, and spa complete a hotel offering that one does not expect at an airport hotel in an exotic destination.

The Airways Hotel is an Emerald Collection member of Boutique Hotels & Resorts International, a highly acclaimed alliance of genuine boutique hotels from around the world, and has been nominated for the World Travel Awards.

If your travels take you to the exotic islands of Papua New Guinea, be it for a longer stay or just for a day, the Airways is the place to be.