The Brandery is focused on bringing together the clothing designers, their work and public interaction in the city with such appeal, Barcelona, Spain. Fashion shows, contemporary and urban, will take place twice a year, with premier show happening later this summer in July, 2009. The event will take place at the Muntjuic site, which is home to the Magic Fountain. Built in 1929, the fountain itself brings many spectators and is a beautiful backdrop to fashion. The project was an ambitious one taken by Carles Buigas that year, and with just the year to complete it, many doubted the capabilities of the designer and his crew. But with the help of 3,000 construction workers and artisans, the fountain was opened on schedule and remains to be a spectacular vision. Displays of water dancing, colors, lights and motion provide a show from a fountain like not seen before. The Brandery has gained the support of the City Council in Barcelona, as more than 250 exhibitors and fashion designers, those from Barcelona as well as international companies, will come together with a new vision. This is based on interaction with the public, fashion and brand identity, described as a circus of fashion, wherein the clothing is not the only participant. The people living day to day, in the ‘circus’ of life have influenced this idea, and the designers are hoping that the concept will give their creations personality. A personality all their own, and that the public will take notice.

The area of exhibition is the Fira, which will house not only the various stores and studios, but many cafes, 5 star Barcelona hotels, restaurants and theaters. There are four components to the Fira, The Cathedral which will house the most exclusive brand names and designers. The Loft, which will carry the most trendy and ground-breaking fashions, the Warehouse with everything denim, and the Outerspace, which is dedicated to tennis shoes, and funky street wear. Barcelona has long been known as a city famous for innovation. The goal is create a platform in Europe for contemporary designers from around the world. The Mayor of Barcelona stated at a press conference earlier this year, that he hopes the project will close a gap in the clothing industry and market. He stated as well, that other European and American designs have come into Barcelona over the years, and that the Brandery will give them the opportunity not only for trade in Spain, but on the international market as well. Open week, which runs the first week of July, will consist of parties, fashion shows and conferences that are open to all who attend.

The economic crisis has hit Singapore. On many streets, the affluent city-state of South East Asia, has cranes left hanging in mid-air, mid-construction. For the last three years, the construction business was booming, with commercial and residential real estate prices increasing by over sixty percent in 2005. And by 2008, companies from around the world including the United States, were relocating to this growing and thriving business and entertainment capital of Asia. The business hotels in Singapore, the restaurants and cafes were thriving in a metropolis that enjoyed big business, and big profits. But now, the global recession has temporarily shattered that affluent existence. Foreign lawyers, doctors and bankers are returning to their homelands, leaving new properties not yet completed, with no owners. Experts predict that prices on real estate will fall to what they were in the early years of the decade. High-end brokers and agents admit that they have not seen anything quite like this, in the last fifty years. Along with the housing collapse, decreasing foreign investments and a decline in the export business is expected. A few years ago plans were drawn up and initiated to build a sector full of casinos, high end residential properties, theaters and restaurants. While some of the plans are moving forward, most are suspended mid-construction and completion remains in jeopardy.

In the affluent, Sentosa Cove, million dollar luxury apartment buildings sit empty. A company from Malaysia, will not give up on the area and continues, despite financial woes, to plan and to build the resorts and casinos and even a new Universal Studios theme park. Many other projects in Sentosa have come to a halt however. Singapore’s, City Developments, Limited….the 2nd largest development firm on the island, has postponed plans for a 400 million dollar arena. Hoping that they can re-start development by 2011. The marina project would include numerous shops,exclusive residential condominiums and an exclusive Westin hotel. The government of Sentosa is remaining helpful, as the existence of half finished buildings in a resort town is not a good thing, for business, or for morale. Deadlines are being extended, for the obtaining of permits and licensing, and the financial district is offering programs that assist the builders in accomplishing their goals.

The most popular destination in the Middle East is unquestionably Dubai City in the United Arab Emirates. With miles of beautiful beaches bordering the Persian Gulf, an inviting tropical climate, and all the convenience and comfort of a modern urban metropolis, the city entices millions of tourists every year.

The city itself is divided into two sections by Dubai Creek. Tours on the creek are a great way to explore the many beautiful historic structures and ships of Old Dubai. The coastal area is where most of the city’s new development has occured. Anxious to take advantage of the stunning ocean views and sandy beaches, resorts, shops, and restaurants as well as recreational and entertainment venues have sprouted throughout the area. If you want to find a magnificent luxury hotel Dubai, try looking here first.

The beaches themselves attract not only tourists, but many residents. Sailing, deep sea fishing and swimming are popular activities. The rich coral reefs. and mysterious shipwrecks make Dubai a popular destination for divers from all over the world.

Some “must see” items to add to a Dubai trip include the Al Fahidi Fort, Jumeirah Mosque, and Bastakiya District. The Dubai Museum, Burj Dubai, and the Dubai Zoo are also popular destinations. Be sure to check a calendar ahead of time as the city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year and is fast becoming a leading center for a variety of professional sports. There’s usually a match, race or tournament as well as a concert, festival, or performance of some kind going on in Dubai.

While most visitors to Phuket head straight for the world-famous beaches, those who venture into the island’s cities will find a wide-range of attractions to enjoy. This is most obvious in Phuket City, the administrative center of the islands of Phuket.

Phuket city is a perfect blend of traditional and modern, of sophisticated venues and simple pleasures. It is at once pulsating with the vibrancy of the urban environment and quiet with the charm of traditional Thai life. Find a five star hotel Phuket to enjoy every possible luxury or choose a quaint guest house for a more secluded stay.

Old Town is considered by many to be the best part of the city. Here you’ll find shops housed in buildings over a century old and a number of restaurants, coffee houses, and art galleries to while away the hours. The character of the area is the real attraction, providing visitors ample opportunity to soak up the “real” Phuket far from the crowded tourist beaches.

Restaurants, shopping, and nightclubs are the real draw of the city. Some of the best food on the entire island is here. Restaurants feature local dishes such as mii pat, khao mun kai, and kanon jiin. There are also global restaurants featuring cuisines from the rest of the world. Phuket’s nightlife isn’t just beach raves. Some of the hottest clubs and discos are located in Phuket City. Shopping in the city ranges from night markets to shopping malls. Many bargains can be had on clothing and local handicrafts.

And for those who must have their beach experience, it’s readily available. The city isn’t that far from several of the more popular beaches on the island, and all the sun, fun, and activities that come with them.

While politically controversial, the upcoming general assembly of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) is welcomed by many businesses in Kuala Lumpur which are struggling with the impact of the global economic crisis. The assembly, which is held in the Putra World Trade Centre from March 24 – 28, 2009, brings in 5,000 attendees, including media, exhibitors, and politicos.

The city’s hospitality industry is braced for the influx of delegates from all across the country. Kuala Lumpur Malayasia hotels are booked well in advance and restaurants in the area are modifying their menus and operating hours to accommodate conventioneers. Many restaurants, including those at hotels, will extend their hours will offer dishes from different regions and cuisines popular in far-reaching areas of Malaysia.

Flooding is an issue in the area, so most hotels have worked with local officials to develop evacuation plans. The manager of the Best Western Premier Seri Pacific hotel is fully prepared. “We had a meeting with the police, fire and rescue department and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall on this matter.”

Delegates from remote regions of Malaysia are extending their trips to the city beyond the dates of the assembly. Some have already arrived in KL and are taking advantage of the extra time to enjoy the sights and conveniences of this bustling metropolis. The Petronas Twin Towers, the Istana Negara, as well as the city’s zoo and aquarium are likely to see increases in attendance this week.

The UMNO is the largest political party in Malaysia and a founding member of the Barisan National coalition. Its philosophy centers on nationalism, capitalism, and secularism. The party also believes that the Malay people deserve special privileges as the “definitive” people of Malaysia.

New York is abuzz regarding the announcement that Liza Minelli will be performing a one-time show on April 7th at Roy Thomson Hall. Twenty-six years ago the performing legend did a four-night run at the Hall during it’s opening season.

The daughter of actress-singer Judy Garland and director Vincent Minnelli, Liza’s first professional gig was at the age of three. she appeared in the musical “In the Good Old Summertime” in which her mother starred and her father directed. Her premiere television appearance was at the age of ten when 45 million tuned in to see her host the premiere broadcast of “The Wizard of Oz.”

At the age of 19, Liza was already starring on Broadway. Her performance in “Flora, the Red Menance” earned her a Tony for Best Actress in a musical. Various movie and Broadway roles followed. In 1972 the role of Sally Bowles in the film version of “Cabaret” earned her an Oscar, a Golden Globe and a BAFTA (British Academy Award).

Liza’s illustrious career has included two additional Tonys, another Golden Globe, a Grammay Legend Award and an Emmy. She is one of the few artists in history to win the Grand Slam of Oscar, Emmy, Tony, and Grammy.

As a singer, Liza has sold millions of records across the globe and has earned three Gold albums and one Gold video. Her show “Liza with a Z” was the first concert to be filmed live for television and earned her the above-mentioned Emmy.

Having starred in several movies that prominently featured New York City, including the 1977 “New York, New York,” it’s no wonder the actress-singer has become inseparable from the Big Apple. Fans hoping to attend the concert will find a number of five star hotels in New York City to choose from.

In 2000, Liza was stricken with encephalitis. Despite a negative prognosis, she worked her way back and launched a major comeback in 2002. Her newest CD, “Liza’s At The Palace” debuted last month on Hybrid Recordings.

The government of Singapore is going green. The Committee for Sustainable Development releases its report this month and is projected to request a one billion dollar budget for research into the methods of the sustainable living and alternative forms of energy. Climate change has been studied on the island for the past two years. Various companies have already begun to use various implementations to their methods, as in the growing use of solar energy throughout the businesses in the city. Although it is still more expensive than fossil fuel based energy resources, technology will catch up and the costs will eventually come down. Along with the solar energy, research is being done at desalination plants, thus one day being able to use the water surrounding the island. All households and businesses are now currently required to continue their water conservation practices, using items such as low capacity tanks for their toilets and at least one tap that is fitted with low capacity water flow. Aside from the benefits to the environment, private citizens and companies such as Singapore fine dining establishments and hotels have noticed a decrease in their water bills. Quite a perk. Also a perk, the Water Efficiency fund has increased its participation as well, reimbursing the cost of refitting and renovation for the water saving devices to eighty percent of covering the cost, up from the previous 50 percent reimbursement. The government is also taking notice of the larger businesses using air conditioning, and requiring them to be using only the most efficient and new models.

And it doesn’t stop there, as far as reimbursement by the government is concerned. Consumers choosing to buy hybrid cars has increased over the years and the government also picks up part of the tab. The program offering the rebates will do so throughout the end of 2011. Giving consumers time to buy the green cars. Landfills all over Singapore are being turned into eco-parks, where scientists are conducting research to further the sustainability and the conservation of energy. And by the end of 2009, all of the apartment and condominium complexes will have mandatory recycling programs. The people of Singapore believe that all the world shares responsibility for cleaning up the mess we’ve created. And that with research and development, technologies are becoming available for a greener way of life that will insure the beauty and livability of the world for generations to come.

The granddaddy of St. Patrick’s Day parades is set to kick off at 11am (EDT) on Tuesday in New York City. 2009 marks the 248th consecutive year for the parade in New York. The first parade was held sixteen years before the Declaration of Independence. This year’s Grand Marshall will be Michael J. Gibbons.

The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade follows 5th Avenue, starting at 44th Street and going to 86th Street. The official Reviewing Stand will be located at 5th Avenue and 64th Street. Cardinal Edward Eagan will review the parade from the steps of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral.

The first official parade was organized by Irishmen serving in a colonial military unit. Until 1812 the parade was led by the military. Following the war of 1812, organization was assumed by Irish fraternal and beneficial societies. However, the military continues to march at the head of the parade. For 157 the Army National Guard has led the parade. The “Fighting 69th” will once again lead this year’s event.

In addition to the traditional military escort, the parade will feature high school bands, bagpipers, politicians, thirty Irish county societies, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, as well as the various NYC Irish societies. The parade will also include Irish-language, Irish nationalist, and Emerald societies. The largest parade in recent history boasted nearly 150,000 participants.

Visitors staying in 4 star hotels New York in anticipation of the event will find the best viewing spots on the north end of the parade route. Below 59th Street the crowds are congested with normal work crowds and shoppers. Some preferred spots include the upper steps of the Met.

Bangalore is a city of contradictions. It is known as both the “Garden City of India” and the “Silicon Valley of India.” This contrast of technology and parks, of software and gardens gives the city a unique energy and culture. As a center for the rapidly expanding IT and related industries in India, Bangalore or Bengaluru has become a mecca for young tech workers. However, the rich traditions and culture of Karnataka remain strong as does the desire to preserve the city’s beautiful parks and gardens.

With industry comes modern architecture. Bangalore is expanding with new office complexes, opulent five star Bangalore hotels edgy nightclubs, and great restaurants. The live music scene in Bangalore is one of the best in India, with many of the pubs and bars providing live bands. The city also has the reputation as the best venue for rock concerts, attracting many international stars each year.

However modern things get, Bangalore maintains a host of traditions and celebrations of its rich heritage. As the capital of Karnataka, it is home to Kannada theater, classical Indian music, as well as dance and art. There are numerous historic palaces and temples throughout the city as well forts and museums. The city also hosts a number of cultural and arts festivals throughout the year as well as observing traditiona Hindu festivals.

Visitors will want to make sure they take time to explore the city’s famous parks, gardens, and pastoral regions. The most famous are Lal Bagh and Cubbon Park, but the Lumbinin Gardens, Bannerghatta National Park, and the Bangalore Rural District are also beautiful examples of India’s natural beauty.

The smallest of the Balearic Islands just off the coast of Spain is Formentera. Formentera is south of Ibiza, about three miles, in the Mediterranean Sea. While all the islands in the chain have become quite popular over the last one hundred years due to tourism, and all have the reputation of pristine beauty and tranquility, Formentera is most definitely the most tranquil. The island is too small for an airport which leaves it reachable by boat only. This keeps the island less traveled and a much more relaxing and quiet vacation destination. And it is one of the least disturbed and altered coasts in the Mediterranean, making it one the best and most favored spots for scuba diving. The variety of underwater sites has provided many divers the opportunity to see a variety of memorable things from the large quantity of marine life to ship wrecks. There are valley and mountains, in fact the underwater landscape off this island is said to one of the most diverse and one of the most intense experiences one can witness. The water remains clear and visibility remains high just about all year long. The temperature also remains mild and consistent, providing one the opportunity for dives just about 365 days a year.

Because of these characteristics the Freus Marine Reserve is located here. And tops the World Heritage Sites list. This seclusion which proves so perfect for a reserve, is also quite conducive to humans as well. And while the parties are not the focus here as they are on many of the other islands, one can find sweet seclusion either in the water scuba diving or hiking through the mountains. There are sites and locations on land as well, the hotels Formentera support are quaint and lovely. There are lighthouses to explore on the coast at La Mola or Es Cap de Barberia. And there is no shortage of beautiful souvenirs to bring home as the island has become a haven for artists over the years. The seclusion and lack of outside influence has resulted in an interesting and uncontaminated style of work. Many artists have come here seeking seclusion and a sense of well being that brings. The beaches are beautiful, and due to the seclusion, most of the beaches are nude beaches. All in all, this is the gem of the islands and perfect for the most relaxing type of getaway.

There have been many books written about how to overcome addiction.  Many individuals have become pseudo celebrities based on the books or programs they’ve developed which tell people how to successfully overcome their addictions and go on to achieve successful lives.  It is difficult to believe that people can fully rehabilitate themselves simply by reading about how to do it.  Many of these destructive behaviors that are displayed by those with addiction problems can’t be unlearned overnight and need many months; if not years of constant work to claim that they’ve been overcome.

Whether an addict attempts to overcome their addiction issues through a book, movie, or traditional drug rehabilitation program, it will not be successful unless that person is really ready and willing to change their lives.  This usually begins with them admitting they have a problem in the first place, and then taking the necessary actions and steps to deal with the issue.  If the person is not willing to accept that there is an issue to begin with, they are not going to be willing to invest the time or effort that is required to see a full recovery, and when they do leave treatment the likelihood of relapse is very strong.  If somebody doesn’t believe there previous behaviors were damaging or impacting their lives negatively in any way they will see no reason to stop those behaviors upon leaving the drug or alcohol rehab they were attending.  It is important to make sure that before admitting a loved one or friend to rehab, that they are willing to go and are actively looking to change their lives.  If not, it’s not worth spending the time and effort asking them to change.