Last year was not a good year for most investments except for US Treasury Bonds. For retirement-oriented investors, the question remains as to what to do next. Many people wonder where decent rates of return can be found with minimal risk.

It seems the popular place to look for answers in 2009 is in Treasury products. However, experts such as Mohamed El-Erian, Pimco Chief Investment Officer, and Andrew Bary, popular finance author, recommend staying away from those instruments as the price-yield equation is not that attractive. See the Barrons article (search for http://online.barrons.com/article of January 5, 2009) entitled Get Out Now.

With Treasuries out of the picture, what other asset classes offer any hope for this year? Our research, and others commenting on this situation, point to four investment classes. We have already published an article on the fourth one, so we will concentrate on the first three. Here are all four classes we have examined.

* Securities backed by Mortgages * TIPS: Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities * Municipal Bonds * Investment-Grade Corporate Bonds: refer to the AboutETFs.info article at http://www.aboutetfs.info/Monthly-Income-Strategies.php

Yields on mortgage backed securities have been declining ever since the Federal government announced its intent to buy more than $500 billion in bonds from Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae. Despite recent Treasury purchases in January, 2009, current yields still compare well to past yields. Remember that mortgage securities offer the equivalent protection of U.S. Treasuries, but they produce higher yields. Attractive opportunities include (MBB) iShares Barclays MBS Bond Fund, (MBG) SPDR Barclays Capital Mortgage Backed Bond ETF and (AGZ) iShares Barclays Agency Bond Fund.

The TIPS products, Treasury Inflation Protected Securities, are impacted by inflationary or deflationary trends. Recent fears about deflation have negatively impacted TIPS prices, but this may present a good time to buy TIPS. Looking forward, with many believing our Federal stimulus packages will result in substantially higher inflation, TIPS may appreciate. TIPS really shine during inflationary periods. Advisors currently are suggesting (TIP) iShares Barclays TIPS Bond Fund and (IPE) SPDR Barclays Capital TIPS.

As for tax free municipal bonds, they are yielding higher levels than usual. Although they hit low prices in November of 2008, they are still showing strong value when compared to U.S. Treasuries. When you consider that investment grade municipal bonds produce tax fee distributions of 4-5%, they equate to taxable Treasury bonds distributing 7.4% in a 35% tax bracket. With that in mind, here are a few ETFs to consider: (MUB) iShares S&P National Municipal Bond Index Fund, (PZA) PowerShares Insured National Municipal Bond Portfolio and (TFI) SPDR Lehman Municipal Bond ETF.

Investors also may look to regional choices. California is arguably one of the prominent arenas for political and economic opportunity. With the advent of stimulus packages earmarked for infrastructure, one could anticipate more Federal assistance for California. One offering to investigate is Barclays (CMF) iShares S&P California Municipal Bond Fund.

What about safety of principal? For investors wanting more assurance, (PRB) Market Vectors Pre-Refunded Municipal Index ETF may be the hot item. This ground-breaking ETF invests only in pre-refunded municipal bonds. The collateral for these bonds are U.S. Treasury securities which means they are the only municipal bonds fully backed by the U.S. Government.

4. Investment Grade Corporate Bonds offer great value at current prices. Many investment fund managers are buying up corporate bonds on the assumption that bailout and stimulus programs will lead to fewer corporate defaults. For a more complete picture, read The 15 Best Asset Classes in 2009 for High Yielding, Secure Retirement Income in the strategy section of http://www.AboutETFs.info.

In summary, the four classes we mentioned here may suit your style for retirement-oriented, safer investments for 2009. We are presently researching preferred stocks and senior loans as other options for retired investors. Stay tuned to our websites for those articles and reports.

Investors are reminded that our commentary does not guarantee results. Choices mentioned in this article do not imply specific investment advice for an individual and they may not suit your objectives. Alpine Strategies and its officers and staff are not soliciting the sale or purchase of any securities in this article. Our comments are based on opinions which may change at any time. You should perform due diligence and consultation with a professional prior to the sale or purchase of any investment security.

In the past the norm used to be that for you to compare hotels you had to have access to the particular hotel brochures and leaflets. And if you wanted to compare hotel rates you may have had to visit the offices of a travel agent or an information office where you could be served to this effect. In some cases one had to rely on the recommendations of work colleagues and friends to be able to compare hotels and make that all-important decision. All these options were inconvenient in more ways than one especially since the information may be gold and outdated – but that was in the past.

The modern day way to compare hotels and the prices that they are charging is by using the internet. The best part of this type of search is that it does not even require you to leave the house and go to various travel agencies. You can conduct your own search and compare hotels as well as compare hotel rates all at your convenience.

Through the internet you are able to compare hotel rates and book them at the click of a mouse. What’s more you can visit the websites of a good number of hotels in a few minutes and then make an informed decision based on the wealth of information that you have just accessed. The information will give you an idea of the exact location of the establishment and the amenities and facilities that you are going to meet when you settle for that choice. A hotel website is normally furnished with exquisite photographs of the hotel’s restaurant(s), grounds, and rooms – a very easy way indeed to be able to compare hotels and to compare hotel rates.

Apart from the hotel websites one can also make use of various other websites that are specifically meant to enable you to compare hotel rates -they are a comparison service. These websites have lots of helpful statistical information that will help you to compare hotels in a given region against each other. To use such comparison sites you simply have to indicate both your requirements and preferences in the tabs provided and click to allow the website to match these qualities to a hotel that meets your criteria.

Using these websites it is possible to compare hotels on the basis of the very qualities that you personally desire in a hotel. In the event that the preference you have in mind is the price limit you can key in this information and the resultant data will help you compare hotel rates. This information may be enough to convince you that booking a room in that very hotel is the best decision to make. If you are not convinced you can go a step further and check that hotel’s website to see if it has what you need for your stay.

Most people are not aware of the fact that there is a way to get very good rates if they ask for them. This is one of the downsides of using the internet to compare hotel rates – the personal touch is not possible to include in a website. As you compare hotels try to find the direct number to that hotel and speak to the concerned.

Well there are hotels that are walking distance to Disney Theme parks and then there are hotels that are 15 to 30min car drive away. So you have no idea where you want to stay? Well let’s put it in simple language the closer you stay the more expensive it is. Obviously the cost and time of driving have to be calculated, but it normally is a lot cheaper to stay a bit further from Disneyworld. So where would be the right place to stay and how far exactly is it? Well I have narrowed down a list for you and giving you the benefits of staying there.

Econo Lodge Maingate Central Hotel;

This site is about 5.7miles from Disney Theme Parks. This is a real sweet deal it has Air-conditioned rooms, Breakfast continental is included with your stay. They have an outdoor pool situated close to Florida Mall and loads of restaurants. There is free coffee and juice in the lobby; you can even bring your pets with. The only thing you will have to organise is your own transport to the different theme parks.

Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel;

This hotel is about 4.9 miles from all the Theme Parks. They offer all guest of the hotel, free transport to all four Disney theme parks and downtown Disney. They have outdoor heated swimming pools and children’s pool. State of the art fitness room, children’s playground, free internet available and electronic games room. Check in time is 16h00 and checkout is 11h00 so be aware of that when you book. They have privately furnished balconies. They have a Disney gift shop where you can buy multi day tickets.

Now the differences between these two hotels are not much. But my money would be the Disney gift shop in the hotel and free transport to Disney theme parks. That alone could be a huge saving to you as a family. Then again it also depends on what your budget is, I mean you do not want to overspend and be left with a huge bill for the next 6 months. That is why I recommend these two hotels since they offer great value for money. If that is what you want then you have found your match.

What makes a perfect wedding? A gorgeous cake, a designer wedding gown and the best reception are probably a few would answer. But actually, there isnt a perfect wedding! Any wedding has its own flaws, a shared bit of disaster and stress that comes along with it. Even a top Hollywood couple would not be spared from such problems that could arise in preparation of a wedding and the wedding ceremonies itself.

To be able to achieve a less-stress and confusing wedding event a timely preparation and thorough knowledge of your chosen theme should be organized. Some couples resort to wedding organizers and some who are tight in a budget decide to do the planning themselves. This would make the wedding more personalized and the expenses well accounted. Knowing your local wedding suppliers beforehand should leave you with a general view of how much you will be spending.

Wedding Fairs are events usually held before the month of June or the bridal month. In here, wedding suppliers showcase their stuffs: from wedding designers, cakes, venues, photography and video, flowers, wedding accessories, invites, souvenirs, etc. A Bridal or Wedding Fair has all this suppliers under one roof. If youre a bride looking for ways to save time and money from going to different suppliers then surely this place is for you.

A wedding fair usually houses suppliers, enthusiasts, spectators and brides to be that come looking for ideas for her wedding. Suppliers usually show off their stuffs on booths or exhibit stalls to create a perfect view by the buyers. A wedding fair is really a brides secret paradise and gateway in fulfilling her dream wedding.

Wedding suppliers dont just do weddings exclusively but other party events as well. If staying in Missouri, please do catch a glimpse of their Wedding Fair and see more of their stuffs for you.

North Cyprus is located in the East of the Mediterranean sea. The locals consist mainly of Greeks, but thousands of tourists visit North Cyprus every year. Cyprus is one of the most relaxing holiday spots in the world. Due to its mild weather Cyprus has become an extremely popular European holiday destination due to the beautiful surroundings and the sea views. A lot of Europeans have purchased land and property in North Cyprus as private holiday homes. The cost of land in North Cyprus has increase dramatically so finding accommodation in North Cyprus is a lot more difficult.

Someone interested in visiting Cyprus should be aware of its popularity. Since the island is so small, and so many people want to visit there, it can be hard to find a place to stay. Reservations should be made well in advance of taking the trip out there. There are a few hotels in Cyprus that a tourist can stay in. The Internet is a great place to find the cheapest hotels available in the Cyprus area. Many people who wish to purchase land in Cyprus must stay in a hotel while they look for houses and properties for sale. Hotel prices are generally high, and finding a place that has extended stay options can be difficult. A lot of hotels are located near the airport.

There’s always the option of staying in a hostel, which will allow you to get closer to the local community and to learn about their traditions and customs, as most of the local population speak English and they are a very open society. Many historical buildings have survived many centuries of violence in the region of the Northern Cyprus, so you be able some real biblical scenes in the rural country surroundings.

One way that many Europeans do while on holiday in North Cyprus is to rent a private property for either a weekend, week, month, or sometimes even all summer or winter. Such holiday rentals are normally situated on or close to the beach, which has it’s advantages. These rental properties are also available on the Internet and there are a wide range of holiday homes to chose from at very reasonable rates.

Many first time visitors just fall in love with Cyprus immediately and sooner or late will end up looking at possible property investments. Due to a steady property appreciation and the abundance of excellent holiday home opportunities, people are still having the confidence to purchase a home in Cyprus.

Whatever you intentions are after falling in love with Cyprus, whether it be more regular holidays or even investing in a buy to let property, you will find a lot of excellent advice on the Internet regards Cyprus, Cyprus rental properties and a guide to safe property purchase. The great thing about Cyprus of course, is that everybody speaks English, so you will be able to follow the story line every step of the way and will not have to rely on other people to protect your interests.

The wonderful experience of Summer Camp has been a way of life for generations of Americans. For many it is a time of increased independence. Sleeping away from home and making new friends. Others who did not get the opportunity to go to Outdoor Camp just don’t understand what it is all about.

In many books and movies summer camp has been the scene. To name a few, “The Parent Trap” and “Indian Summer”. Yet, the majority of these movies and books are not realistic. Either they sugar coat the camp experience or they make it just horrible. “Summercamp!” , the documentary is one of the most realistic true stories about kids at summer camp. Filmed at Swift Nature Camp in Wisconsin, it truely shows how the kids interact and what makes camp so special. During the filming over 300 hours of film was shot to make this charming 90 minute feature. This documentry shows camp like it really is, this is no glossy brochure or promotional DVD, it just shows kids living life with new friends and in new siuations.

Unfortunately less and less kids are getting the opporunity to go to a traditional camp. These days parents want results, so children are more heavily scheduled making it more difficult to plan for Summer Camp. Plus, many would rather be connected to the world of technology than the world of Nature. It is estimated that a kid today has nearly 5.5 hours of screen time a day.

Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods: finds this untouching of nature a sad situation in child development. Nature-deficit disorder, he feels, is linked to some of the most alarming trends for our children. Including rises in obesity, attention disorders, and depression.

Summer Camp is just one place that can help children learn to appreciate nature as well as teach children independence and friendship. Connection with nature and other children are important in raising a generation that sees the importance in protecting this planet. Most camps today are specialized in sports, acting or math. So, how do we find a traditional camp that encourages good values and a focus for nature?

Ask yourself these questions before selecting your child’s summer Camp: What about technology? All electronics can take away from the true camp experience. Ipods and cell phones allow children to hide in their electronics rather than participate with the cabin. Louv says that tent mates with video games or text messaging can easily distract your child. At first most campers are not so keen on this idea but after a few days at camp they see a reson to take a break.

Does the camp have an Outdoor Focus? Louv suggests some camps are trying to be all things to all people. No longer are camps seen as a traditional time in the woods. Historically, summer camps used their natural settings, and encouraged chidren to to play in a outdoor environment. Today this is no longer true, many camps take place on college campuses.

Can the children play independently in nature? Louv points out that nature-deficit disorder is almost always due to the aggressive overscheduling of children. Thus giving them less time or energy to explore their world on their own. Quality camps have figured out their programing needs scheduled and nonscheduled times.

Is there a nature program? Is there a class time where nature can be explored and discovered? Classes should be hands on and not classroom activities. Does this Nature theme run throughout all the programs? Does all the staff work on creating “WOW” nature moments? Is the camp aware of its environmental footprint and does it teach this to the children? Does it Recycle?

Camp Food? For years camps have had a less than steller reputation for its food. Lately this has changed. With more vegetarians, camps have had to adapt. Be sure to ask about fried foods. How about a salad bar with fruits and yogurt? Don’t forget about catering to food allergies as well. Within all this, the meals must taste good and be kid friendly.

In Wisconsin there is a special palce, Swift Nature Camp. A coed camp for children 6-15 that places a very strong emphasis not only on developing a desire to know more about nature but also on acquiring a deep respect for it. The philosophy is to engage kids in fun-filled learning through hands on participation. It is natural curiosity and self-discovery that make this program work. This Environmental Camp is Not School.

Swift Nature Camp promotes hands on, experiential learning in our Nature Center. This combined with being in nature via canoe and backpack trips fosters an appreciation for the nature around us.

When a bunch of kids who all have a desire to learn more and enjoy nature come together, it builds a wonderful community. A community that enhances a child’s development by providing support and encouragement. Swift Nature Camp encourages kids to become more self reliant while being more in-tune to the needs of others, more sensitive and understanding. If you feel the world might just need a little more understanding of others while needing to respect nature look into Swift Nature Camp.

If you are just starting to look at summer camps and would like more information, please see Summer Camp Advice Camp Guide.

Summer camp is a very special experience that 12 million children participate in each and every summer. Yet, finding that perfect Children’s Summer Camp can be a daunting task.

However, parents and campers alike can go to a special camp rating page. http://www.campratingz.com/ShowRatings.jsp?tcvid=21233 Rate Camps That will help you by letting you read about past campers time at a particular camp. Remember, this is no substitute for doing proper background work. Yet, it can help.

Swift Nature Camp is a Non-competitive, Traditional coed http://www.swiftnaturecamp.com Summer Camp for Kids in Wisconsin. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15. enjoy Nature, Animals & Science along with Traditional camping activities.

Session length is 2, 3 and 6 weeks. Plus they specialize in knowing the needs of the first time camper. They even have a special program only for children that have never gone to camp before.

To learn more about what campers are saying about this summer camp here are a few camper and parents quotes.

Swift was the BEST camp i have ever attended! the staff was carring, the whole camp was maintained perfectly and every cabin participated in frequent and awesome activities. They pay attention to table manners and make them fun. SNC has changed me as a person inside and out. with a limit of around 2 or 3 candies a week, it was a very healthe 2 weeks. I wait eagerly for the summer so that I can attend once again.

The Swift Nature Camp offers kids an opportunity to mature and be on their own while having the support and help from the staff. The kids can bring their pet to the camp and get in touch with the nature. After 6 weeks at the camp, my 13 years old son became more responsible and thankful person. He is better organized at home and in school. He is going to the Swift Nature Camp this summer again. http://www.swiftnaturecamp.com/science-atcamp.htm Animal Camp

Since it was going to be the first time my daughter was away from home, I did alot of research on away camps. I did not know anyone who had sent their son/daughter to away camp, so I had to rely solely on my research, visit to the facilities, and gut instinct. At the end of camp, after I picked my daughter up, I knew I had made the right decision with Swift Nature Camp. She had nothing but memorable experiences to share on the way home; I knew the camp had made a positive impact on her life. This is a great experience for those who love the outdoors, or for those who have not had enough exposure to the outdoors and need more.

In addition you can find more about great summer camps at Summer Camp Advice http://www.summercampadvice.com Summer Camp Information

Greece is certainly one of the most amazing places in the world to have a great holiday tour. It is full of excitement, adventure and infinite things to do and see. Typically known as a historical town, Greece will certainly give you the experiences of a life time. All about this wonderful place is thrilling be it the monuments, climate, hotels or food.

You can find some cheap holiday deals in Greece. There are lots of quality hotels that proffer reasonable packages which make visiting this place much more simple and exciting. Greece proffers some great time at is beaches where you can unwind and take pleasure in the weather. There are a lot of stunning natural scenes to delight in. Because of its geographical location, there are three distinct weather systems present in Greece.

Those people who wish to take pleasure in the sun, the Mediterranean climate is perfect for them. The Alpine climate and the Pindus mountain range are also much amusing for the travellers. There are many primordial and historical places in this great city to see. It is bursting with great buildings and some brilliant architecture telling the story of its rich olden times. You will also be able to see several marble temples here.

In addition to the historical places for which Greece is popular for, there is much more to discover in this great place. Beaches and some awesome luxury hotels are not the only things to enjoy here. There is an entire world of things to see here.

Greece is not only one of the finest places for holiday in Europe but it is one of the most excellent holiday destinations around the globe. As there are several things to see and do here, you should make a ‘to do list’ prior to leaving for this places. This pre planning will allow you to make the most of your excursion and enjoy it to the maximum.

Greece is also well regarded as dreamy destinations where couple loves to come. It is all about rocky coasts, stunning beaches, waterfalls, caves, rivers, besides a number of the most excellent and unusual birds which will astonish you here. On the top of your list, do not disregard to write the name of Rhodes, Athens, Santorini, and Mikonos which are the hallmarks of Greece. The Acropolis of Athens, Medieval city of Rhodes, and the Monasteries of Dephni are some of the most excellent examples of the architectural fineness.

This is not all; there are scores of other places to go. Monastery complex of Aghio Oros, monastery of Aghios Ioannis Theologos, the Cave of the Apocalypse, Pythagoreio and Heraion, Monastery complex of Meteora, The Temple of Epicurean Apollo, Mystras all these places are a must see during your trip to Greece.

The list is inexhaustible. As it may not be possible for you to visit all these places during your trip in case it is short, you can do some more research and short list the places that you would like to see. Bonjour!

Nairobi hotels have been in demand over the years for offering first class room service, great hospitality and always maintaining the same international standards in everything that they do.

I should say that in most cases visitors bypass Nairobi’s attraction by going straight to the beaches and other destinations as soon as they enter the country thereby missing out on very cool attractions that can be easily accessed. They should join in the fun and spend a few days in a Nairobi hotel and enjoy hospitality at it’s best.

Nairobi Hotels: The Village Market Hotel In Gigiri

Tribe is the name to the new hotel and is adjacent to the village market shopping, recreation and entertainment mall. Located on the leafy suburb of Gigiri, the hotel blends perfectly with the environment which is a quiet and peaceful surrounding away from the noise and hustle of the city center. The architectural design of the hotel makes it clear that it’s very unique whereby the interiors portray culture mixed with elegance.

The luxurious 142 suite hotel offers LCD televisions, open-plan bathrooms with showers, traditional African art work, internet connectivity and mood lighting. Modern amenities include a wireless internet access, meeting and conference rooms, a spa and all the catchings that come with five star Nairobi hotels.

One thing about Tribe hotel is that you can involve yourself in recreational and entertainment at the Village Market activities like gymnasium, bowling, mini-golf course, movie theater, water slides, dine and wine food court and do your shopping in Nairobi without the hustle of the city center.

As the name suggests, “Tribe” is a name that symbolizes togetherness and unity recognizing that we all belong to the same tribe of a universal village, thus bringing people of all cultures together.

The Tribe has done a good thing to the tourism industry and in particular to the Nairobi hotels. Book your stay today and enjoy the unmatched hospitality.

The Pocono are such a great place to visit. With so much to do, it makes a perfect place for a family vacation or a romantic getaway for couples. Many people think of skiing when they think of the Poconos with good reason, since it’s a top ski area on the northeast, but there’s so much more that the Pocono mountains offer, it’s hard to list everything!

The Poconos offer year round fun, with so much to do, it’s hard to fit it all in. Not only is there skiing, there’s snowboarding and snowtubing, water parks (both indoor and out), biking, hiking, boating, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, shopping, spas and so much more.

If you’re looking for a romantic area, look no further than the Poconos. With couples-only resorts available, you can find your own private oasis with heart shaped tubs, and special honeymoon suites that are amazing. Some include in-room private pools, saunas, and even champagne glass shaped bubble baths!

If you’re a family looking for a playground, the Poconos are the perfect getaway. Whether you’re looking for a long weekend getaway, or want a full week of playing, this is the right choice for your family! There are so many family activities, you’ll be trying to decide what to do first.

With both indoor and outdoor water parks, you’ll be able to splash and have fun all year round. I love that I can go to the Poconos in the winter and enjoy climate controlled 80 degree weather and play in the water. With resorts like Great Wolf Lodge and Split Rock Resort, water fun is available even in the colder months!

No matter what you choose to do, and with so much to do- it never feels like a big crowded city. It always keeps it’s small town charm. It’s really a unique area, and being surrounded by acres and acres of nature at it’s best, you’re always in the middle of a treasured scene.

A Pocono Mountain vacation can be anything you want it to be. If you prefer indulgent spas that let you feel pampered, or you’re more of a camper who likes roughing it, the Poconos offers you exactly what you’re looking for.

There are also not to be missed festivals and fairs happening all year round. Don’t miss out on any of these great family events! The Poconos truly does offer something for everyone!