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Ancient Persia was home to one of the human race's greatest artistic flowerings. The scale and beauty of Persian architecture, painting, sculpture, pottery and poetry and sculpture will astound you. Step into our Persian Dreams and be bewitched!
Together we'll spend 22 days travelling through this fascinating land to discover refined Islamic cities, colourful bazaars, ancient Persian ruins, glorious gardens and shimmering deserts. AUS Travel and Tour guarantees an authentic experience. We take care of every detail of your journey, leaving you free to relax and enjoy Iran's beautiful culture and diverse scenery.
Our expert guides will take your Persian experience to the next level. Whether you're relaxing in a tea-house in Tehran, exploring ancient cultural sites or breaking bread with nomads on the harsh Iranian plateau, you'll be charmed by the warmth and hospitality of the Iranian people.
We believe Iran is a safe Middle Eastern country to travel in and we are proud of the part we play in helping our guests create memories that will last a lifetime. We'll work hard to ensure your smooth travel through one of the world's oldest (and yet little-known to Westerners) cultures.
See below for your Persian Dreams itinerary.
|Shiraz, Iran
|Mashhad, Iran
|Private Mini Bus, Train, Public Transport
|ACCOMMODATION (double/twin)
|Hotel 3&4 star, Boutique Home Stay, Traditional Home Stay, Village Stay
- Iranian visa invitation letter with reference number issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Inbound and outbound airport transfers
- Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle
- Professional English-speaking tour guide for the duration of the tour
- Entrance fees to various sites as per itinerary
- Daily breakfast, 30 lunches and/or dinners
- 19 nights at 3&4-star accommodation & Boutique Hotel, 2 nights at Traditional Home Stay, 1 night at Farm Stay
- Tehran – Shiraz flight ticket if you arrive in Tehran
- Tips – driver and guide
- Meals where not mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance fees for sites not mentioned in the itinerary
Our first day in Iran is in Shiraz, the beautiful city in South of Iran known as the Pearl of Persia. The very name evokes images of ancient times: exotic, tranquil gardens, lavish mansions, colourful woollen rugs, art, philosophy, poetry and of course, the famous Shiraz wine (although it is no longer found here). Shiraz is also a renowned centre of learning and boasts many of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country. Shiraz is known as Iran's cultural capital, home to two of Persia's most famous poets in the 13th and 14th centuries, Hafez and Sa'adi, whose mausoleums are found here. People of Shiraz are famous for being laid back and relax, growing up surrounded by gardens and poetry.
- At Shiraz International Airport, your tour guide meets and accompanies you to Khaneh Bagh- Irani (http://khanebagheirani.com), or a similar class hotel, to check in and relax. Then we gather for refreshments and a brief welcome meeting at noon in the Hotel.
- We enjoy a delicious homemade meal for lunch at Khaneh Bagh Restaurant.
- We start the afternoon walking though the holiest site of Shiraz, Shah-e-cheragh, a beautiful mausoleum. Shah-e-Cheragh (King of the light) is of two of Imam Reza's brothers; Ahmad and Mohammad that took refuge in the city during the Abbasid persecution of Shia Muslims at the beginning of the third Islamic century (approximately 900 AD) . The forecourt is usually busy with pilgrims coming from different cities of Iran.
- We enjoy our traditional Iranian dinner in the evening and relax in the evening.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- From Shiraz will drive to one of Iran's premier attractions, Persepolis (trip approximately 1 hour). Persepolis was once the centre of the Persian Empire and one of the great cities of the ancient world, constructed in the reign of Darius I and taking 150 years to complete. The imposing gateways, exquisite relief carvings and towering columns will leave everyone in no doubt that this was once the centre of the known world. In 330 BC, Alexander the Great destroyed the city, and while today only the smaller ruins remain, the grandeur is still impressive. Today, we'll have a local tour guide, specialised for this World Heritage Site, to fascinate you with Persepolis.
- For lunch, we head to a local restaurant.
- We continue to visit Naqsh-e-Rostam (10km, 15min away), a cave-tomb containing the bodies of several Achaemenid kings, including Darius the Great.
- It's been a long day so far, so we head to our accommodation to take some rest. In the afternoon, we visit Naranjestan or Qavam House, which is one of the most beautiful traditional houses in Shiraz and it's famous for its citrus trees.
- There's a nice café here and we stop to enjoy the atmosphere and have some snacks/drinks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening snack
- In the morning, we visit the incredibly colourfully decorated Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque – also called Pink Mosque, to see sunlight streaming through stain glass windows fills the interior with kaleidoscopic colours, or the theological college of Khan Madraseh.
- We continue our tour to see one of the oldest mosques in the county, Jame Atiq Mosque. It is uniquely designed to take your breath away with its beautifully written verses from the Qur'an and arabesque designs with flower-and-bird motifs, with its ceilings decorated with stalactites in an appealing way and ornamented with Qur'anic verses on all four sides.
We visit a mud-brick citadel – Arg-e karimkhan – from the 18th century, a time when the whole of Persia was ruled by Karim Khan from Shiraz and we enjoy the display of historic photos from the 19th and 20th centuries, and the legendary tales depicted on the tiles at the entrance gate.
- We head into Vakil Bazaar for shopping, the main bazaar of Shiraz located in the historical centre of the city. It is thought that the market originally was established by the Buwayhids in the 11th century AD, and was completed mainly by the Atabaks of Fars, and was renamed after Karim Khan Zand in the 18th century. The bazaar of Shiraz has beautiful courtyards, caravansarais, bath houses, and old shops which are deemed among the best places in Shiraz to buy all kinds of Persian rugs, spices, copper handicrafts and antiques. Like other Middle Eastern bazaars, there are a few mosques and Imam-zadehs constructed beside or behind the bazaar.
- We have dinner in bazaar and you will have time to enjoy the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
- Today we start with visiting the lovely, vast garden complex known as the 'Garden of Paradise' (Bagh-e Eram). We take our time to wander the grounds, filled with local visitors, where artificial rivers run through an impressive collection of cypress trees and a pool in front of a colourful palace.
- After the garden, we go to the most famous ice cream shop in Shiraz, known as Baba Bastani (father of the ice cream) to try the most famous ice cream in shiraz and compare it with Kiwi ice cream!
- For lunch we go to Brentin restaurant to explore some special dishes from Shiraz.
- In the evening, we visit the tombs of Hafez, known as Hafezieh. Hafez was a Persian poet who is regarded as a literary giant and folk hero. His collected works are regarded as a pinnacle of Persian literature and are to be found in the homes of most people in Iran, who learn his poems by heart and still use them as proverbs and sayings. His life and poems have been the subject of much analysis, commentary and interpretation, influencing post-14th century Persian writing more than any other author.
- We visit the tomb of Sa'di known as Sa'dieh. Sa'di, another great poet and writer from Shiraz, was more of a scholar. As visitors of Hafezieh and Sa'dieh we appreciate the intricate artwork of their tombs and understand their continued relevance and importance in Iranian society, and perhaps listen to some poetry being recited.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
Today, we leave Shiraz to experience a unique stay at the organic eco-village of Bavanat in Bazm village.
On our way to Bavanat, we will stop at Pasargadae, an ancient city in old Persia. It was the first dynastic capital of the Achaemenid Empire, founded by Cyrus II the Great, in the homeland of the Persians, in the 6th century BC. Its palaces, gardens and the mausoleum of Cyrus are outstanding examples of the first phase of royal Achaemenid art and architecture, and exceptional testimonies of Persian civilization. We take our time to explore this UNESCO world heritage site.
The story of this modest Bavanat farmer is an extraordinary one. It began nearly 20 years ago when two German cyclists, lost in the rain, were welcomed in by Abbas Barzegar and given traditional Persian hospitality. Uneducated and poor, the father of three never expected that this simple act of kindness would lead to a profound change, not just in his own fortunes, but in the life of the community of Bavanat. The Germans, wanting to send thanks to their welcoming host, requested friends to call in on the family while visiting Iran. The story goes on, and we hear the rest from our host in the village.
Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Dinner
- We wake up early to enjoy the organic farm and will have one of our tastiest breakfasts here with our host and his family.
- We leave the village towards Yazd – the ancient desert city.
- We continue on your journey (160 km, approximately 2hrs trip), arriving at the historical town of Abarqu, located in the desert valley beneath the Zagros Mountains. We visit the town's main sights, an ice house (a specially constructed house that acted like a fridge), the 11th century Gonbad Ali Dome, the Khan-e Aghazadeh Qajar-era mansion, and a 4,000-year-old cypress tree.
- We have our lunch in a traditional restaurant and experience old local recipes of Abarkouh before we reach Yazd (another 165Km, 2 hrs trip).
- Upon arrival in Yazd, we go to our accommodation, Naranjestan, and we rest for the rest of the evening.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Snack
Yazd, this historic desert city was the major stop on the caravan routes to Central Asia and India during the Silk Road period – Marco Polo visited the city on his way to China – and it retains a rustic feel. Yazd is the heart of the Zoroastrian religion.
- We start our tour in the fascinating city of Yazd with a walking tour to visit the Jameh Mosque, notable for its fine mosaics and beautiful exterior designed to draw people inside.
- We explore the old part of the city, one of the oldest on earth according to UNESCO. A walk in the narrow kuches (lanes) is the best treat, passing simple courtyards and the ornate doors of the mud brick buildings.
- We enjoy one of the most distinctive features of Yazd – the wind towers ('badgirs') – that capture even the softest of breezes and direct them to the buildings below in a forerunner of modern air-con.
- After lunch, we visit the water museum that shows how the quants (underground water channels) brought water to the city from the mountains for thousands of years.
- We have time to visit local shops and enjoy our afternoon in Yazd before dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
Day 8. Yazd – B, L/ D
- On this day we enjoy an excursion outside of Yazd, to see the impressive Kharanak mud brick village, Chak Chak fire temple, and last but not least the Meybod citadel.
- We explore the abandoned structures of Kharanak – a striking town believed to be 1,000 years old. We enjoy this hillside settlement, peering into the houses of wealthy merchants and "hamams" (bathhouses), the valley and nearby mountains. Here, we find the aqueducts that formed part of the underground water system that is still used to irrigate the fields here – with shocks of green against the brown desert.
- After a climb up the mountainside, we reach the fire temple of Chak Chak– one of the most important Zoroastrian pilgrimage sites in Iran. Chak Chak means 'drip, drip', named for a trickle of holy water that drips inside the temple.
- After lunch, we will visit Narin Castle, one of the oldest mudbrick structures in Iran, to explore the still growing town of Meybod before returning to Yazd.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
- In the morning, we explore the Fire Temple and Towers of Silence, both vestiges of the city's Zoroastrian heritage. In the Zoroastrian religion, fire and water are elements of ritual purity, and the fire in the Atashkadeh Fire Temple is said to have been continuously burning since 470 AD.
- Then we head to a traditional restaurant to have our lunch. Later this evening, we'll go to the countryside of Yazd to see how the tradition goes back for centuries and to experience a night at this village. We have our local guide lead us through this old village. He will introduce us to the villagers and we will listen to the villagers' stories about their life before heading to Hossein's house to experience one of the most traditional meals in Iran – Dizi. Here we learn how to bake Iranian bread and you are welcome to participate in making your own bread. This promises to be an unforgettable night!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
- We head to visit Garmeh that is a small village in the middle of central desert of Iran, with 260 people, three camels, a few goats and 3 dogs resting in shades of palm trees – the source of unlimited fresh dates.
- On our way to Garmeh we stop in Bayazieh – an ancient castle with 700 rooms near Khor-Bianak located 400km from Isfahan. Bayazeh Castle, also registered on National Heritage List, will capture you with its antiquity of thousands of years. It is designed in several stories, protected by the high walls from the attacks of thieves and plunderers.
- We enjoy staying at the guesthouse in the village, Ateshooni the traditional Homestay where you can enjoy traditional Iranian meals and at night you will sleep on mattresses on the floor, and enjoy the peace and privacy of your desert stay. This guesthouse and a charming coffee place are family-owned business. They have improved the life of locals of this oasis.
- After lunch, we leave to catch the sunset by the Salt Lake with an enchanting ambience in the evening. After a beautiful afternoon, we can enjoy the hospitality of oasis people before we return to the hotel to rest in our traditional bed-settings.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Traditional homestay in a beautiful Oasis in the middle of the central desert of Iran.
- In the morning, after a light breakfast, we start our day walking through Palm Orchards to reach the village's only water source, the spring of Garmeh. The life of this oasis depends on this spring that flows out of the foothills of the aforementioned mountains, quite close to the heart of the village. This is the only source of life for the gardens and Date Palm orchards that make this oasis such a special place.
Many travellers have passed through the area for many years. A good example is a famous Persian poet, philosopher and adventurer by the name of Nasser Khosro who passed through the area about 950 years ago and mentioned this area in his famous travel writings – very well known to literate Persian readers. As an example of the more well-known European travellers of the last few centuries; one can note the names of Seven Hedin and Alfonse Gabriel who visited Garmeh about a century ago. But why did these famous people noted Garmeh specifically? Well, this day is your chance to find the answer.
- From Garmeh, we will arrive in Mesr, a village in the heart of desert. We come here to listen to the incredible silence of desert. Mesr – an oasis located in the central desert of Iran – is known as Dashte-Kavir in Persian. As far as we know, it has been there for several thousand years.
The documented history of human settlement in the area is as far back as 4,000 years ago but there exists some relatively reliable evidence that suggests human habitation as far back as 7,000 years ago. The main activity for the natives during this incredibly long period had been some form of agriculture and wresting sustenance out of the harsh and unforgiving conditions that are the reality of this land.
During more recent historical times (from about 2,000 years ago), the oasis was placed on the main route of the famous Silk Road and therefore the main trading route between China and Europe. We will have lunch before a desert safari to the heart of the sand dunes. We will catch the sunset as we enjoy a traditional drink around a bonfire.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Traditional Homestay in desert
- We depart Garmeh to the city known as Iran's jewel, Isfahan. But before Isfahan, we will stop to visit a few oases and enjoy the scenery.
Isfahan is simply one of the finest places in the Islamic world with tranquil gardens, picturesque bridges and superb palaces. Isfahan offers an abundance of fine Islamic buildings, most of which are covered with the blue mosaic tiles Iran is famous for, and an enormous bazaar, perfect for shopping for exquisite Persian carpets and unique silver handcrafts. A 16th-century rhyme called Isfahan 'half the world' and after this trip, you might agree.
- We will arrive into Esfahan late afternoon and first we stroll to the 'Zayandeh-Rood' river to enjoy the historic bridges, which seem to have come straight from a fairytale. At several of the bridges locals gather to talk, drink tea and sing beautiful folk songs. This is truly a magical place to while away some time, and an atmospheric place to enjoy our evening before we arrive at your hotel. In Isfahan, we stay at the 'Boutique Sunrise Hotel' (http://sunrisehotel.ir), one of the most beautiful hotels in Isfahan.
Meals: Breakfast, Snack, Dinner
- On this day you will soak up the atmosphere of Isfahan, beginning with a half-day tour of the city. Your guide will provide insights into life under Persia's greatest ruler, Shah Abbas, with the city reaching its peak during his 16th century reign, when it became the capital of Persia. Even though the capital moved from Isfahan to Shiraz before Tehran, Isfahan retains much of its past glory and you will have the chance to see this through this tour.
- We explore the immense Imam Square (formerly Naqsh-e Jahan Square); covering an area of 82,500 square meters. It's the second largest in the world. The square is surrounded by many grand buildings, such as the Ali Qapu Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Qeysarieh Portal and the majestic Imam Mosque. It's truly a remarkable sight. In the Safavid era, this square was a place for parades, military reviews, polo games and festivals; and once home to entertainers, storytellers, preachers and Silk Road caravans.
- This is also a good opportunity for travellers to mix with locals as "Naqshe-e Jahan Square", which is popular for local families to meander around and picnic at in the early evenings. Located in the west of Imam Square, the Ali Qapu Palace covers six floors and was originally built as the main palace of Shah Abbas, who used it to receive guests and foreign ambassadors.
- We visit the colourful bazaar of Isfahan with its wonderful scents and spices, musical merchants' cries and, of course, thousands of locals bargaining for their most desired items. You will walk the covered lanes of this sprawling marketplace, where shafts of light filter through ceilings and lattice, and browse for fabrics, spices, jewellery and other treasures. This will be your golden opportunity to collect a few unique items either to pass as gifts or to keep as memoirs of this day. Also, you will enjoy the most delicious traditional cuisines specific to Isfahan that are famous for being so good that their taste will never leave your memory.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
- After two weeks traveling and visiting so many sites, today we rest.
- There are many activities you can do on this day. You may enjoy the morning by walking through spacious gardens, go back to the bazaar, wander around Isfahan's historical bridges or just stay at your hotel and relax.
- We visit the Jameh Mosque (Friday Mosque), the biggest in Iran and full of lovely designed stuccos, and the fresco-filled Chehel Sotun Palace, a relaxed complex with a water pool surrounded by shady trees. Following that we arrive in the bizarre Manar Jomban (shaking minarets) before heading to the Armenian quarter of the city and the Church of St. Joseph of Arimathea.
- The Church of St. Joseph of Arimathea has a striking interior of gilded ceilings, walls and paintings. The stunning, delicate artwork of the dome depicts the Biblical story of Genesis, from the Creation to man's expulsion from the Garden of Eden. We also take time to see the museum inside the church that contains some very historic manuscripts, before we leave to have lunch and enjoy some traditional cuisine of Isfahan.
- Now, it's shopping time. We head back into the bazaar for some shopping and to find one of the teahouses tucked away here – the perfect place to rest tired feet and refresh your spirit.
- We take a stroll by the Zayandeh Rood, the largest river of the Iranian Plateau in central Iran and stop for a well-deserved chai (tea) at one of the stunning bridges, Si-o-Se-pol (thirty three bridges) that gives this part of the city a relaxing, but colourful ambience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
- We leave Isfahan to travel on to our next stop – the charming mountain village of Abyaneh (approximately 2.5 hours). Set at an altitude of 2,500 metres and nestled at the foot of Mt Karkus, Abyaneh features mudbrick houses that are arranged in a stair-step shape.
- We take a walking tour to inspect the interesting architecture of this ancient red-rock town. The wooden doors – most of which have two knockers (one for men, one for women) – are built in the traditional style, with beautiful patterns and poems carved on them (often the names of the owner and mason). These etchings offer a good picture of ancient Iranian culture. The layout of the houses also hints at the country's occasionally tumultuous history – the buildings were huddled together to protect them from frequent raids by passing armies.
- We pass through the local shops and mosque, and enjoy great views of the valley below.
- We then head to Kashan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch/ Dinner
- We continue on by private van down the mountains, into the desert through Qamsar and back to Kashan.
- We will stop in Qamsar which is famous for its rose gardens and rose water. The people of Qamsar collect roses, boil them in special pots and collect their water in beautiful containers. It is a proud tradition for the city that each year, the most sacred Muslim place on earth, Ka'aba (Mecca), is washed with rose water from Qamsar.
- In the afternoon, we visit the rest of Kashan – a beautiful oasis city with a very long history. Human settlement in the area dates back to the 4th millennium BC. It's also a merchant town know for its high quality ceramics, silks, carpets, and some of the finest traditional houses in Iran.
- We explore these houses with visits to the Khan-e Borujerdi and Khan-e Tabatabei.
These 19th-century khans were funded by wealthy merchants and feature lovely courtyards, lush gardens and fine intricate relief designs carved into stone and stucco work. Khan-e Borujerdi was built in the 1840s for the affluent Tabatabaei family because a father set one condition of marriage – that his daughter must live in a home at least as lovely as his own.
18 years later, this exquisite Persian residential home, full of minute architectural details, was completed (though she did marry in the interim). Khan-e Tabatabei is known for its intricate stone reliefs, stucco and great mirror and stained-glass work.
- We visit the most impressive Islamic complex in Kashan – the Agha Bozorg Mosque and Madraseh, famous for its symmetrical design.
- Later, in the evening, we explore the town's other sights such as the Fin Gardens, a classical Persian vision of paradise and one of the most beautiful gardens in the Middle East.
Meals: Breakfast, Meals (lunches and/or dinners)
- This morning, we make our way from Kashan to Tehran (approximately 4 hours).
- We head to the capital through Qom, Iran's second-holiest city after Mashhad. Qom is famous for a brittle toffee called "Sohan" sweets considered a souvenir of the city and sold by 2,000 to 2,500 "Sohan" shops. We will stop here for some refreshments, and to shop and taste some "Sohan" (1.5 hrs).
- On our way from Qom to Tehran (approximately 2hrs), we stop along the way to visit the still under construction holy shrine of Imam Khomeni, the leader of the Islamic Revolution.
When completed, the Iranian's believe the shrine will be one of the greatest buildings in the Islamic world. Revered as the father of the 1979 revolution, Imam Khomeni was buried here in 1989. His funeral was attended by an incredible 10 million people, making it the world's biggest. People from all around Iran come here to pay their respects.
- We will then arrive at Tehran in the afternoon and we head directly to the Imperial crown jewels of Iran. The National Jewellery Treasury is a stunning place. Iranian people see their country's glory, power, wealth and art here. From Queen Farrah's coronation, to an all-diamond Naderi throne reminds us how magnificent and rich our kings were.
- After the National Jewellery Treasury, we explore Golestan Palace which is an UNESCO world heritage site. The lavish Golestan Palace is a masterpiece of the Qajar era, embodying the successful integration of earlier Persian crafts and architecture with Western influences. The walled Palace, one of the oldest groups of buildings in Teheran, became the seat of government of the Qajar family, which came into power in 1779 and made Teheran the capital of the country. Built around a garden featuring pools as well as planted areas, the Palace's most characteristic features and rich ornaments date from the 19th century. It became a centre of Qajari arts and architecture, of which it is an outstanding example and has remained a source of inspiration for Iranian artists and architects to this day. It represents a new style incorporating traditional Persian arts and crafts and elements of 18th century architecture and technology.
- Then we go to our hotel to have dinner and a rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Snack, Dinner
- After breakfast, we pack our bags and we meet at the lobby of our hotel to start our culinary day. We check out of the hotel and leave our luggage with the reception of the hotel to pick them up on our way to the train station. We meet our culinary expert guide, Matin at Tajrish bazaar starting with a walking tour of Tajrish Bazar where we are introduced to exotic spices and Persian ingredients only to be found in this part of the world. This is your unique chance to experience shopping for fresh ingredients like locals in Tajrish Bazar.
- We then will be heading over to the kitchen where our host chef, Shirin from Tehran will show us her magic to create the most delicious Persian dishes. After a brief introduction, we enjoy a 3–5 course meal adjusted to the season. Once the wafting aroma of the delicious meal dissipates the kitchen, the table will be set and gather for a huge Persian feast as you chat and exchange experiences.
- After our late lunch, we first pick up our luggage from the hotel and then we head to the train station to take the overnight train to Mashhad. This train takes us through the desert to Mashhad, the holiest city and second biggest city in Iran.
Meals: Breakfast, Snack, Dinner
Upon our arrival, we go to the shrine of Imam Reza.
Mashhad is Iran's holiest and second-biggest city with a shrine of Imam Reza in its soil. Its raison d'être and main attraction is the beautiful, massive and ever-growing Haram (shrine complex) commemorating the AD 817 martyrdom of Shia Islam's eighth Imam, Imam Reza by the Abbasid caliph al-Ma'mun (ruled 813–833).
The pain of Imam Reza's martyrdom is still felt over a millennium later and around 20 million pilgrims converge here annually to pay their respects (and no small amount of money) to the shrine. Witnessing the tears and prayers of the believers can be a moving experience, even if you're not a believer yourself.
Many come here with their problems from a sick or dying family member to those who lost hope in all other ways, holding this belief that Imam Reza can hear and respond to their prayers. Here, we may experience the sound of Naqare-Khane which is the sound of a sort of trumpet and drums played in Imam Reza's shrine in special occasions. The instrument has a very specific sound that represents a nostalgic role and all the interviewees mentioned that they'd like to be at the shrine in those specific hours to hear that sound.
- After the shrine we go to the hotel, former Hyatt, to check in and relax. In the afternoon we go to the Ferowsi tomb and later visit Mehdi's mother's apartment to mix with his friends and family, and we'll have dinner there.
Meals: Breakfast, Meals (lunches and/or dinners)
- In the morning we explore the countryside of Mashhad famous for its vibrant atmosphere with lots of traditional restaurants. Here you will experience one of the most traditional Iranian meals called Dizi.
- We continue to the beautiful village of Kang. The old stepped village of Kang is about 30km from Mashhad, climbing above a scenic river valley. It is very quiet and not yet discovered by many tourists.
Here, the weather rapidly changes from cold winds and light rain to sunshine every hour. We go to Kang Valley to enjoy a two-to-three hours return walk through the orchards. We'll see apricots, walnuts and other fruit trees on our way.
- After lunch we visit the village of Jaghargh. Jaghargh is famous for its handcraft and dried fruits where you can taste and collect souvenirs from the locals.
- During the evening you will have time to wander around the city, and take time to walk and enjoy the rest of evening. After enjoying Dizi for lunch, many feel full for the rest of the day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- After breakfast, we head south towards Neyshabour, city of Khayyam.
- We visit the city of Neyshabour to explore Khayyam and Attar's tombs. Neyshabur or Nishapur occupies an important strategic position astride the old Silk Road that linked Anatolia and the Mediterranean Sea with China. On the Silk Road, Nishapur has often defined the flexible frontier between the Iranian plateau and Central Asia. Little archaeology has been done on this vast and complicated site. George Curzon remarked that Nishapur had been destroyed and rebuilt more times than any other city in history.
Neyshabur is located in 115km south west of Mashhad in the province of Khorasan. This ancient city has been the home of the great poet and mathematician Hakim Omar-e-Khayyam and the great mystical poet Attar-e Neyshaburi.
In addition, Neyshabur has been a major source of Firouz-e (Turquoise) for thousands of years and still a major centre of Turquoise trade.
We return to Mashhad and you will be transferred to your hotel to have dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we will check out from the hotel and leave our luggage with the hotel reception. Then we then go to the saffron factory to see and hear the story of the world's most expensive spice. We'll have lunch in the village called Shandiz that is famous all around Iran for its specialty dish called 'Shishlik', lamb rib kebab.
- You will be transferred to Mashhad international airport after having your lunch to catch your flight back home.
- If your flight is from Tehran, you'll be transferred to the domestic airport to catch your flight to Tehran Mehrabad airport (1hr flight). You will then take an airport taxi to the International Imam Khomeyni Airport (taxi trip between the two airports is 57km, 1hr).
Tour Reviews
To anyone contemplating a visit to Iran I would say GO! Unlike the experience of travel in many parts of the world, especially those that are highly frequented by tourists, you will have the opportunity to really experience the culture and way of life and to interact with local people in a way that is not possible in many places. You will also be exposed to centuries of history, a wonderful literary tradition, some of the best cuisine in the world, fantastic and contrasting landscapes and most of all as a traveller you will feel welcomed and very safe.
I felt my tour with AUS Travel and Tour to Iran was very thorough. I felt that I was exposed to a wide range of activities and different aspects of the country and the culture.
It is difficult to pick just a few highlights of my trip as each day was a highlight. No one could fail to be impressed by the outstanding hospitality and friendliness of the people throughout the country and this was an overarching highlight and a major factor in making the trip such an enjoyable experience.
The visit to Persepolis. For anyone interested in history this is a must visit. Having an excellent guide really added to the experience. She was able to make the history come alive.
Cooking class (food tour): This was a wonderful opportunity not only to have a go at cooking a few Persian dishes but also to visit the local market and learn about some of the unique ingredients used in Persian cooking. It was a very fun experience with an experienced and totally unflappable chef who was able to multi task and keep everyone involved and engaged.
The visit to the Shrine of Iman Reza in Mashhad. I include this as a highlight for several reasons. The buildings themselves are magnificent, it was very moving to see the devotion of the pilgrims and it was a privilege as a non-Muslim to be in such a holy place. But most of all it was the communication with the young woman who was our guide and who was very open and sharing about her life and hopes and dreams that made this visit so memorable for me.
Meeting Iranians in their own country; visiting mosques and monuments; the food. We had great guides, and a fantastic driver. The pleasures of a trip to Iran will stay with visitors for a long, long time. The tour met and even exceeded my expectations. I certainly recommend this tour of Iran by AUS Travel and Tour.
I wanted to do something out of the ordinary, to celebrate my 70th birthday. I enjoy "adventure travel" that goes beyond the must-see destinations and takes a group to lesser known places as well, off the beaten track. When I looked at AUS Travel and Tour proposed itinerary, it looked such an exciting tour, to a country I never dreamt I'd have the chance to visit. So, I went ahead and booked, after talking with friends who'd been to Iran, and who each strongly encouraged me to go.
I can only give Mehdi the highest praise for his care and thoroughness of his approach to every aspect of our tour. Being Iranian himself it was a real advantage to have a tour manager who could talk to local guides or hosts in Farsi, especially in situations where their English wasn't confident. I felt Mehdi went above and beyond on our behalf. Apart from creating a flexible itinerary, he took us on a number of off-the-beaten-track experiences that added so much to the richness of the tour. In some cases, eg the tour of the turquoise mine, it was not something even the local people had done. A real authentic experience. That's an example of the 'adventure travel' side of the tour, which I really enjoyed – although I certainly relished the guided tours of the cities we visited, as there were so many magnificent mosques and other buildings that we explored.
The tour met exceeded my expectations! It's a tour I shall remember for years to come. I enjoyed it immensely.
IRAN proved to be fascinating, friendly and colourful within both its borders and its beautiful peoples.
Having travelled from SHIRAZ in the south thru to the magnificent MASHAD in the north the history, the scenery, the culture and the sights to me proved to be a wonderful experience.
Most notable highlights (although too many to list here) were the historical site PERSEPOLIS outside Shiraz, viewing the salt lakes at sunset and staying in the central desert before venturing on to Isfahan and Kashan.
Equally Yazd and Isfahan show the diversity of each area. Tehran with its bazaars, cooking class and traffic chaos was an interesting few days.
Mashhad: My favourite must see area with its shrines, minarets, museums and bazaars was MASHHAD!
Mashhad: A day trip to the KANG mountain Village my most precious memory of the trip.
Organised thru NZ TRAVEL & TOUR, operator Mehdi Shariati provided us with a unique experience not available with large travel groups. He gave us an inside into an IRAN that I would love to visit again. He provided professional guides throughout and his local knowledge proved to be invaluable.
I thoroughly recommend Iran as wonderful place to visit especially thru Mehdi and his travel group at AUS Travel and Tour.
I felt incredibly safe in Iran. As I was easily identifiable as a foreigner, locals would just come up and talked to me. At first, I thought this was some sort of scam – then I realised that people just wanted to practice their English and genuinely wanted to help you. Iranians are the friendliest people and because they don't have a large tourism industry they are so interested to ask you about why you are in Iran and what you think about their country. If people can't speak English – they will phone a friend or relative that does, or in one case we had a driver who was using google translate!


text:
Homepage | (Static sitemap) | ? Help | Links | Contact us
Headings on this page :
Much of the CharityBags website focuses on a single issue - misleading and bogus charity clothing collections (see Our aims page). However, to understand the problem (and to find solutions), it helps to see the issues in context - in other words, look at the broader picture.
So, on the website we've included a number of pages on related, but more-general topics - such as law, government, regulation, licensing, re-use and recycling, charities, charity shops :
There are many organisations which mention the problems of charity clothing collections on their websites - such as Citizens Advice consumer service , the Charity Commission and local councils. However, all these organisations have a broad remit. They don't look at collection issues in detail. CharityBags is the only organisation dedicated to the issue.
Bogus clothing collections are often featured in the media (broadcast and print). These are valuable in publicising the issues - but alas they're usually one-off efforts, without any
A crucial general topic is scams. Misleading and bogus charity clothing collections are a type of scam. We readily accept that the issue is small compared to many scams, but it's still a matter for concern. We've added a page to the website on Scams, cons etc - this deals with scams in general.
Most websites on scams have a section on 'charity' clothing collections - for example Citizens Advice consumer service and www.SafeFromScams.co.uk
Scams in turn are one of many 'consumer issues'. We've produced an annotated list of links to useful sources of information on consumer issues - this forms the Useful links section at the bottom of this page.
The list of links below includes :
Note: There are no red double-arrow symbols next to the external links below.
Related pages on the CharityBags website :
Consumer issues
Scams, cons etc
Campaigns and campaigning
Plain English
Advertising Standards Authority (ASA)
Advertising - regulation section of the Useful links page
Information section of the Useful links page
Consumer advice and information :
a) Consumer Direct. This service provided advice up to 31 March 2012.
b) Citizens Advice consumer service
This took over from Consumer Direct on 1 April 2012 :
Help and advice for British consumers.
- website www.adviceguide.org.uk
- 'Citizens Advice consumer helpline' - tel: 08454 04 05 06
Their remit includes scams. The service is funded by government (BIS)
Consumer Focus`
Launched 1 October 2008.
Formed from the merger of the National Consumer Council (NCC), energywatch and Postwatch
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
In June 2007, DTI became: Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR)
In June 2009, BERR became: Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS)
National Consumer Council (NCC)
Independent public body. Most of its funding came from the DTI.
Now part of Consumer Focus (Oct 2008+)
Office of Fair Trading (OFT) [part of BIS]
Trading standards departments (local councils) (TSDs) - see the Government - local section
Government A-Z above
Non-Government A-Z below
BBC - Watchdog
BBC1 TV weekly consumer programme
See also:
Watchdog - BBC1 TV - Feature on bogus charity collections
BBC - You and Yours
BBC Radio 4 consumer programme (weekdays 12:04-12:57pm).
Money Saving Expert (MSE)
By Martin Lewis (journalist/broadcaster/financial advisor)
Independent website and free email newsletter. High quality, website updated daily.
Martin also presents "It pays to watch" on Channel 5
Plain English Campaign (PEC)
Plain Language Commission (PLC)
Rip-Off Britain
Trading Standards Central
"A one-stop shop for consumer protection information in the UK. The site is supported and maintained by TSI, the Trading Standards Institute."
The website includes a good 'useful links' page
Trading Standards Institute (TSI)
Professional body for trading standards officers
Which? (formerly called the Consumers' Association until 2004)
A charity. Researches, campaigns etc on consumer matters, including scams.
Publishes Which? magazine monthly (available in larger public libraries).
Also publishes other magazines and a wide range of books.

subset: commoncrawl


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Cost Of Living In Medellin, Colombia "El Poblado"
Cost Of Living In Medellin Colombia still very reasonable. Read more: http://wanderingtrader.com/cost-living-medellin-in-colombia/
The cost of living in Medellin, Colombia is still quite low and many times one can find a very affordable stay. Anything from affordable accommodation, food, and even nightlife. Medellin, Colombia is one of the best places to live in the world.
Take it from me I have been traveling around the world now for roughly 6 years. I have lived in 12 countries across 5 continents as well. Living in Medellin, Colombia is one of the best places to live year round. There are a few places that are better at certain times of the year but you simply cannot find a city like Medellin, Colombia throughout the entire year.
When considering the cost of living in Medellin, Colombia the accommodation will be cheap especially if you are on a backpacker budget: You can also look to rent an entire apt with friends or colleagues. It will be much cheaper than staying at a hotel.
Between $300-$1500 for housing.
Food is also very cheap. You can have a chef come to the house and cook you very good food including Salmon, Shrimp, and Steak and you will spend between $200-$300 per month. This includes fresh veggies from the market as well that she picks up fresh every day. If you are going to eat out then obviously it will cost a bit more
Food: Between $200-$300 With eating out: $400-$600
If you are going to be doing little things like going to the gym, taking Spanish classes, and taking salsa classes then that would cost a bit more as well.
Gym: $30-$100
Spanish Classes: $10-$20 an hour
Salsa Classes: $10-$20 (private sessions)
My cost of living in Medellin, Colombia is very cheap. I purchased a 7 bedroom penthouse and my total expenses for the month are roughly $748. This includes all utilities, internet, and even the chef and maid monthly.
Would definitely recommend coming to Medellin, Colombia and experiencing the city. It is one of the best cities to both live in the world and also to visit.
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Also learn how we are able to day trade and travel the world with our day trading program. Learn more at http://thedaytradingacademy.com
Related Articles
- project10bball 11 May, 2016, 15:46
you won't be able to find a city anywhere in the world like Medellin year round, just curious, what about Lima, Buenos Aires, and Rio?
- Chrisi77 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Thanks for the nice overview! Most likely I will visit Medellin at the end of this year. Hope so 🙂 .
But my spanish is not very good.
- cabala7 11 May, 2016, 15:46
don't come to Colombia ,we don't need anger gringos here! or people that want to take advantage of our bad situation
- TomnCosta Rica 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Subway in León GTO Mexico, is very cheap and very fresh. I was astonished how good they were since I swore them off in Portland, Oregon a couple of years before I retired in 2013. Here in Costa Rica where I know live now I was in McDonald's recently where the Tico family in front of me had three meals and it was nearly $18 USD. I was treating two Ticos and mine was $22.
- Samuel McElvenny 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Last question: What areas in Medellin are areas I should stay away from?
- Samuel McElvenny 11 May, 2016, 15:46
And what is the weather like? Does it get really cold? Will I need to pack a huge parka or it warm throughout the year?
- Samuel McElvenny 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Hey Marcelo, I messaged you before. Your info was good. I am now on my way to Medellin to study Spanish at EAFIT university for at least a year in less than 10 days. I am a little nervous but excited. I have a few questions: 1. Where should I take up salsa and bachata group classes? I am not a beginner as I have been taking classes in these styles for over 2 years.
2. What is the public transportation like? Is it easy to get around? For example, I want to live in Laureles but need to get to EAFIT everyday
3. What vaccinations do I need to take before coming to Colombia? I know I have to take the yellow fever vaccination.
- Sean Jones 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Great Vid…What do you do for a living? How do you afford all that travel?
- Brus Sprinsti 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Just remember something: Colombia is not an easy place to live for too long. Let me explain. The authorities just let you stay there as a tourist for three months. Then you will have to go to the DAS, Departmento Administrativo de Seguridad, in order to ask for the salvoconducto, that is, an allowance to stay there for 1 month longer. At the end of the fourth month you ask for another month. At the end or before the fifth you can ask for one another… the last. Depending on the chief that sign this allowances, they can deny it or shorten the period. The DAS, something to have into account. The will investigate what you do or what you did, where you have been to, if they want. You cannot work as a tourist. If you work in Colombia you'll have to inform them if you change the job. Perhaps people think that is quite easy, but it's not.
- rowchdi 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Hey man. You used the word "cheap" talking about the cost of everything you mentioned, and compared to my state "Alaska" I really don't see anything cheap, knowing I live in the most expensive state.
– 5 Star Hotels, you said $85 to $150. I don't know about 5 star here, but I stayed in hotels that are super nice with less than $150.
– Room $300 to $800. I am renting a 1 bedroom with $875 in Alaska.
– House $1500. I've rented a 3 bedroom house in an upscale neighborhood with $1700.
– Food $200 to $600. I spend $300 to $400 a month.
– Gym $30 to $100. I pay Planet Fitness $29. And the most expensive gym in my city is $100.
– Drinks $3 to $10. I don't drink but I have seen my friends all the times paying less than $10.
– Bottles $50 to $70. I have seen bottles at the stores mostly ranging between $19 to $40.
– House $200.000. My friend just bought one with $250.000. However, it is only 3 bedrooms in an upscale neighborhood.
Compared to Medellin, my state is way cheaper. You know why? because I am positive the individual income in Medellin is way lower than here.
Sorry, based on what you stated in the video, life is very expensive in that city.
- Samuel McElvenny 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Hi Marcelo, Sam from Australia here. I am travelling to Medellin at the start of next year to study Spanish at EAFIT university. As I don't know anyone there, how will I go about renting whilst I am over there? I don't need to live in luxury. I'm cool as long as there is a bed, kitchen and bathroom. Is there a site to go to for expats to give info about renting there, because I don't want to spend all my savings on rent or get ripped off! What would you do?
- Tony Angelino 11 May, 2016, 15:46
WanderingTrader, how's the situation there for English teaching? Is it fairly easy to land a job as an English teacher? Are salaries decent?
- Constance Mote 11 May, 2016, 15:46
I want to visit Medellin so much! I'm working on learning Spanish and I love the Paisa dialect:) I just like them so much because they are so affectionate and warm, just so friendly:) Also, the cost of living seems very reasonable!
- StormRider 11 May, 2016, 15:46
I currently live in Medellin. This is one of the most overrated cities I've ever came across.
- Antony Stagg 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Hi man, great video, how did you the background to display the text on your videos? To make it look like a presentation.
- evert coca 11 May, 2016, 15:46
- sbb85 11 May, 2016, 15:46
medillin when i went there a few years ago was quite expensive…i did not find it cheap at all…nice place though,,,,
- Jaime Jaramillo 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Hey marchello hey what's up, I'm going to Medellin Colombia August 6th to the 9th in your opinion what is the best hotel to stay at location wise. I'm going with a few friends and we looking to party. Would love to stay somewhere close to the night life. . Look foward to hearing from u..
- vol jack 11 May, 2016, 15:46
I love Medellin and tell all my friends about it. I have visited a few times but if I were to move there fresh as a green gringo here is what I would do. Rent a place in Poblado for 3 months. Take an immersion spanish class and commit to learning the language and culture. After 4-6 weeks you can branch out. I agree to learn to dance – salsa and other dances are integral to the culture. Also learn the music. If you work hard you can be fairly integrated in 2-3 months. During that time you will get to know the city and can look to move to a more local type neighborhood and really get the flavor of "La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera."
- TheBeachboy1107 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Where would I find a chef Im moving out there what the best city
- Athena Anderson 11 May, 2016, 15:46
hey i am thinking about coming to medellin to see my best friends i was wondering what is the best hotels to go to
- WanderingTrader 11 May, 2016, 15:46
+Diana Mcgovern Many cities in Colombia are quiet cheap (except Bogota). I would recommend Medellin it is still very cheap compared to international standards. It is one of the best places to live in the world.
- lukez874 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Which neighborhoods/areas of Medellin would you recommend living in for expats that are looking for decent/affordable housing?
- Jared Jorgensen 11 May, 2016, 15:46
how to you afford to travel for 6 months straight? Im new to your channel. What do you do for a living
- justin connor 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Do you have an instagram or any form of social media besides youtube where you post pictures of your travel?
- Athena Anderson 11 May, 2016, 15:46
my best friend lives in medellin wish i could go over there for a week or two to see what it was like
- WanderingTrader 11 May, 2016, 15:46
+worldstarnekkas I know many people that do not speak Spanish that actually prefer to live in Laureles. Most people in Colombia don't speak English as it is so its irrelevant what part of the city you ar eliving in.
- worldstarnekkas 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Yes, but you are talking pricing in non-gringo areas. Most of the people watching this WILL be staying in Poblado. Laureles is cheaper, YES, but far harder for gringos to navigate. I personally like Laureles, but I put in the work to learn spanish and Paisa culture, but your average gringo will not put that kind of work in to survive in Laureles. It should also be noted that you CAN NOT get into clubs WITHOUT girls entering with you. In other words, you and 3 of your boys CAN NOT walk into a club without chicks. Period. So that is where the prepagos come in, best 'wingmen' eva! Just know this: being alone is the kiss of death….wingmen and friends at any cost, or you'll die on the vine, kids. also, LEARN SOME SPANISH BEFORE GOING!!!!
- HARRY S 11 May, 2016, 15:46
be there in two months, ive shopped around and it seems your prices are on point.. Medellin seems to be much cheaper then Bogota, and I mean north bogota and some parts of el centro. Spend alot of time in Bogota but this will be my first time medellin. Thanks for the info
- mega0876 11 May, 2016, 15:46
Not bad 200k for a 7 bedrooms Penthouse , But still is Colombia come on now is not like is Hawaii
- Jimmy Lee 11 May, 2016, 15:46
When you say dollars, do you mean american dollars? Or colombian dollars? What ever those are.


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The White House mindset
The risk of an all-out US-China trade war has risen substantially following a statement by President Trump that he has ordered the US Trade Representative to find an additional US$100bn worth of tariffs on Chinese imports. While this may not be official policy just yet, it is the clearest insight so far into the mindset of a White House that is seemingly adamant to secure a flagship trade policy win.
Equally, we do not see this US administration easing up on their protectionist rampage until one of three things occur:
- An instantaneous narrowing of the US trade deficit (in particular the bilateral trade deficit with China); or
- China taking the imposition of additional US tariffs on the chin or making large enough trade concessions to ease Washington's concerns (or at least give President Trump the feeling of a win); or
- Signs that the GOP are heading for a solid win at the November US Congressional elections (we note that Trump's trade rampage is partly a political show).
The second seems highly unlikely given the economic and political costs attached – and one should expect Beijing's 'it's only polite to reciprocate' stance to be applied again should the US escalate the current trade conflict. Moreover, the first is near-on impossible in the absence of any physical trade restrictions (quotas or import restrictions); as we've argued before, the US trade deficit is a structural by-product of the savings-investment imbalances in the US economy (with the Trump tax bill merely fuelling these imbalances).
Therefore we remain of the view that a weaker US dollar (and firmer Asia FX – see below) is a necessary interim equilibrium to counterbalance the risks of President Trump's mercantilist 'America First' policy agenda. In the immediate future, while global stocks look set to fall sharply again today – the spillover effects to currency and bond markets from rising trade war hype has once again been limited. We suspect investors here will be looking to trade the facts, while a busy US calendar also lies ahead – with the US jobs report and a speech by Fed Chair Powell (1830 GMT) on the agenda. The best hope for global risk sentiment is a 'Goldilocks' jobs report – that is limited signs of wage inflation and resilient jobs activity – and a fairly neutral Powell. Both would provide a backstop to any trade war-led decline in risky assets (and EM FX).
EUR & JPY: Caught between diminishing risk appetite and a short $ squeeze
The US dollar's short squeeze higher against the EUR and JPY will be tested by the US jobs data today. In the absence of a positive wage inflation surprise, we think there will be little appetite for any Fed-related move higher in the USD. Look for EUR/USD to stay supported above 1.22, with USD/JPY topside limited to 107.90.
Asia FX: Bias to the upside as policymakers seek to defuse US trade tensions
While Asia FX will continue to be pinned down by the uncertainty of Trumpian trade policy, the week ahead also sees two key central bank meetings in the region in Singapore and South Korea, which our economists preview here. One of the themes we may see emerge over the coming month is Asian central banks allowing the required tightening of monetary conditions to come through via the channel of a stronger FX – as opposed to higher policy rates.


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Please take a look around our website to learn more about what is going on in Region IV. There is a link to the Regional Leadership Team on the left-hand menu. Feel free to reach out to any team members for more information regarding our region and its work. And if you are ever interested in becoming involved on the regional or international level, I encourage you to discover available opportunities on the "Get Involved" page.
Mark your calendars for the 2017 regional conference, Sept. 27–29 at the University of Utah at Salt Lake.
Feel free to contact me anytime with questions or concerns about the region.
Kristen email@example.com


text:
National BuildMasters is always on the lookout for great, talented, motivated Associates or Panelists to assist it in serving an ever-increasing caseload. The "we are hiring" sign is always on the door. Here is what we offer:
EMPLOYMENT OR INDEPENDENT ASSOCIATION: We are truly flexible in how we engage our Associate team. We can direct-hire the Associate as an employee or, if the Associate elects and the position applied for is amenable to such an arrangement, we can engage the member as an independent contractor. When independent, of course, there is greater time and location flexibility for the Associate, but certain revenue and legal rules apply to those independently contracting , most particularly, that the independent Associate (in that case what we call a Panelist) is subject to deposit and pay the Associate's own income or payroll taxes and related insurance and employment costs (the employer does not do that unless the Associate is a direct employee of the Firm). Most Associates with our Firm are direct-hires, but some opt for the independency due to their desired life style, personal economics, or work-control preferences
BENEFITS FOR EMPLOYEES: All Associates engaged by the Firm as employees are paid a starting salary and have a six-month starting probationary period during which the Firm and the Associate can "get to know each other better" and assure that the association match will be a good and highly productive one. Following the employee's successful probationary period, the employee is given an automatic raise based upon demonstrated probationary period conduct and productivity. In addition, after the probationary period, other Firm benefits start accrual such as paid education, dues, one of the most liberal paid vacation plans in the profession, a cafeteria medical benefits plan and the like and other perks. There are also discretionary bonuses and special perks paid for extraordinary accomplishment. Employees are paid twice per month.
SPECIFIC TERMS: All terms for employment or Panel membership are particular to the employee and they are all laid out in the written Employment Agreement and Employee or Panelist Manual that is executed on any hire. These documents set out the final and precise definitions and terms of employment or panel membership and supersede all else.
BENEFITS FOR INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS: Obviously, Associates engaged on an independent contract basis (Panelists) and not as direct employees of the Firm (see above) do not receive employee-type benefits, but they can receive other valuable perks as negotiated. Independent contractors are paid once per month on their invoice to the Firm.
EXPERTS: National BuildMasters provides expert forensic research, investigation, valuation and analyses, inclusive of court testimony, arbitration, mediation,. special mastership, or negotiation where needed, in the areas of product and construction failure, construction and design defect and casualty. We will engage experts in the area of engineering, inspection, architecture, environmental assessment, and construction, both general and the trades. Employees and Panelists have access to competent on-staff construction law lawyers (trained in the trades) for additional input and review, something no other forensic firm offers.
LITERACY: Thorough computer-use literacy for daily production and research is required of all professional positions.
OUR IMAGE OF THE "DREAM ASSOCIATE": We want aggressive, competent, productive Associates, loyal to the causes of our Firm, it's other Associates and especially its clientele, interested in earning more income through extended effective personal effort and who have no personal doubt that they want to be the professional they are and the best one they can possibly be. If you match this criterion, your place is here.
Here are the available positions for Associates at our Firm:
1. ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS, CONTRACTORS, INSPECTORS: Whether you have junior skills (50 forensic or remediation projects or trials,) and especially senior skills (51 or more) in cases involving construction defect or casualty technology (plaintiff or defendant or neutral), you should apply with us. We are blessed with a great amount of projects and can pay better than market rate for talent and experience. There are three programs available for licensed professional staff: (1) a straight salary with raises as negotiated; or, if the Associate opts and it is agreeable to the Firm, (2) a fixed base draw which, when met by collected billings, entitles the Associate to participate in his own earnings "overage" above and beyond draw. The percentage of participation in earnings is negotiable and will be based upon trial experience and track record. Though always acceptable, it is not required that any Associate bring a clientele with him or her. We have lots of work! (3) We will consider independent association, of course. See the Special Affiliation Program for registered Home Inspectors, below.
2. HOME INSPECTORS: If you are a registered home inspector and wish o be an independent or yourself or your firm, you need to check into the prestigious National BuildMasters Home Inspector Affiliation Program. Write us at firstname.lastname@example.com for more information. After review, we suspect you will want to sign up while affiliations are still available for your locale.
3. TECHNICAL ASSISTANTS: We need skilled Technical Assistants to support our expert staff. Pay is always equal to or in excess of that paid by any comparable Firm or qualified individuals.
4.ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS: We always need polished "front office." accounting and promotional staff. These are always direct employees.
5. INFORMATION CONSULTANTS: We need field people for sales and promotions. Have he "gift for gab" and know your technology or are you willing to learn? Can you compose, program and effectively use a power point? Contact us!
6.OTHERS: We always need staff pro-efficient in IT, video production, power points, Internet research and website maintenance. We are highly technical in our daily work and anyone having a higher-level understanding of these processes and technologies and how to do the periodic systemic "tweaking and debugging" that e-systems always need will have a degree of support staff hiring preference. If you have something unique to add to our mission and how to accomplish it which does not appear as a position anywhere above, you are still encouraged to tell us about it. Maybe there can be a fit!
If you would like National BuildMasters to consider you or your firm for either direct or independent engagement, full time or part time, send your name, photo, resume, a description of the association you seek and when you would be available to email@example.com. If you are applying for a licensed or technical position, also send us a writing sample. Please no phone calls or visits until we arrange them with you. All applications are considered confidential. We will not make the application known to anyone other than the applicant and us and we will make no contact with past or present employers unless you separately authorize it in writing. National BuildMasters is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
So! If you are a talented, productive professional who would like to be better rewarded: WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? That's email@example.com. Your office is waiting….
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Unsweetened applesauce
If you live in the UK, you probably can gain access to a lot of brands of applesauce in jars… except pretty much all of them have added sugar. So if you are in the market for some unsweetened applesauce (healthier, and also a common ingredient in a lot of low-cal baking recipes), why not make your own?
I'm a strong supporter of knowing how to make things just for the sake of knowing, even if you can get them readily from a shop. And it's pretty easy to make applesauce. Basically, peel, core, chop, boil, blend. That's it!
Oh, you want to know the recipe? It's all to your own liking, really, but here's a rough guide:
Unsweetened ApplesauceMakes: variable, depending on size of apples and amount of liquid addedIngredients:6 apples, various varieties if possible*
1 cup water (decrease this if you want a thicker sauce)
1 tablespoon lemon juiceMethod:
- Peel, core, and chop the apples. Discard peel and core. If step 2 is going to take a while, mix the lemon juice with your chopped apples to keep them from browning.
- Get the water in a saucepan deep enough to contain the water and the chopped apples, and get the water simmering.
- Put all the chopped apple flesh into the simmering water. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the apples are soft.
- Mash or blend everything until you achieve the pureed applesauce consistency you can use for pretty much any recipe. Feel free to add more water if you want a runnier sauce.* There's no one apple that makes a fabulous applesauce, some apples are too grainy, some are too watery, some are too tart… so a mix gives the sauce more depth of flavour. Usually a mix of cooking and eating apples are the way to go, but beware – apples that taste terrible when you eat them will probably taste terrible as a sauce!
After cooling, you can keep the applesauce in a fridge for up to a week in a tightly-sealed container. I occasionally use applesauce as a topping on plain yogurt, or as a healthier alternative to sugar-laden jam on toast. You can also turn applesauce into apple butter (also not available in the UK, but it's basically applesauce mixed with spices and sugar, reduced in a slow cooker until a thick, buttery-but-still-spreadable consistency), which is a favourite of mine to use on toast.
If you have made too much to use up in a week, feel free to freeze applesauce in a sealed container or leak-proof freezer bags – applesauce defrost nicely.
If you want to know how I seal the sauces in jars that are clearly recycled from previously used jars of sauces and jams, I have to tell you the general advisory is to not reuse the jars and buy special jars you can use for homemade preserves. The reasoning behind this is due to possible faulty seals in used jars. Used jars/lids/seals also can carry old smells that you don't want in your homemade produce.
Me, I always take chances where there is money to be saved, especially when the chances are slim.
If you still really want to know, this is how I have done it in the past:
Hot Water Bath Method
- Clean and sterilise all jars and lids. You can sterilise with either boiling them in water for 10 minutes or soaking them in Milton fluid prepared as per instructions. It is a better practice to boil, just because Milton fluid and metal jar lids don't always play nice together.
- Arrange the empty, sterilised jars sitting up in a saucepan, making sure the fit is as tight as possible, otherwise the empty jars will float on water and you will never manage to fill it properly.
- Pour some water into the saucepan, making sure not to get any into the jars. Bring to a simmer.
- Pour the hot applesauce (or jam, or whatever you want to jar) into the prepared jars, making sure you give a slight amount of space at the top.
- Screw on the matching lids tightly, take off heat and dry off the jars. Be careful because the jars are very hot! I have suffered burns from this before.
- Leave to cool to room temperature on the counter. If the jar lids have a central indentation, if the seal is tight, it will depress as it cools. If it is not depressed after cooling, then chances are the seal is not tight and you will have to keep the jar in a fridge and eat the contents within a week.
Preserving with the hot water bath method has kept my apple butter for over 2 years with no mould growth. I've used it for my cherry plum jam as well with good results.
Now, this hot water method can be quite dangerous. Like I said, you can easily burn yourself. There is another method though!
Oven Method
- Preheat the oven to 100 degrees Celcius.
- Clean and boil all jars and lids as before.
- Pour hot applesauce (or whatever) into the empty, sterilised, hot jars, making sure to leave a slight amount of space at the top.
- Screw on the matching lids tightly.
- Put all your tightly-lidded filled jars onto a baking tray lid-side up, and put into the oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature on the countertop. When cool, check seal as before.
This second method is also pretty dangerous but in another way, because you are trusting the jars not to break on you when you pour hot filling into it, which is why I recommend you boil the jars first and fill when they are still hot. The main reason why glass shatters is when two vastly different temperature meet, like cold glass and hot filling.
There is some concern about the jars shattering in the oven as the glass are not made to withstand the temperatures, but I've accidentally left the jars in there at 200 degrees Celcius for 30 minutes (I was preheating the oven for something and have forgotten I left the jars of applesauce in there) and still no breakages.
There is also a concern about the heat of the oven not penetrating into the contents of the jar. On the other hand, if the filling was already hot through when it first went into the sterilised jar, I don't think it would matter much.
So far, I've not been poisoned yet using either method, but if in doubt, chuck it out!


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Information and discussion on all aspects of British photographic history
In 1886, some forty-seven years after Daguerre and Talbot announced their respective photographic processes, a group of enthusiasts met to form a Photographic Society with the aim of improving photography amongst it's members. The Society was called The Warrington Amateur Photographic Society and…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 28, 2011 at 9:30 — No Comments
Added by Michael Wong on February 28, 2011 at 7:30 — No Comments
Just in case some BPH members are unaware, the Perth Museum & Art Gallery's photographic collections contain examples of many photographic processes from the earliest daguerreotypes and calotypes, right through to the digital photography of today.
One of the earliest photographs of Perth and Perthshire can be…
Added by Michael Wong on February 26, 2011 at 17:30 — No Comments
With the increasing cold winters we seem to be experiencing each year in the UK, I thought the following lecture and exhibit might be of interest to fellow BPH members wishing to pursue this area of photography.
Jim Simard, Head of the Alaska State Library Historical Collections, and Ron Klein, photographer…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 25, 2011 at 20:12 — No Comments
Great in Britain is a unique photographic archive of the British people at work. Photographers are invited to submit photographs that celebrate the understated pride and passion of the often unsung working heroes that form the bedrock of this great nation. This…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 25, 2011 at 7:19 — 5 Comments
Eye Wonder: Photography From the Bank of America Collection is an ambitious collection of more than 100 works of contemporary photography by female artists from 1865 to 2004. Though Social Realist photographers such as Dorothea Lange and Margaret Bourke-White are well-represented, more avant-garde examples get prime…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 24, 2011 at 20:56 — No Comments
Moderna Museet's collection of photography, ranging from 1840 to the present day, is one of the finest in Europe, featuring many of the most prominent names in photo history and comprising more than 100,000 photographs, including pictures produced with older methods – daguerreotypes, calotypes and albumin silver…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 24, 2011 at 12:56 — No Comments
Vanessa Fleet was a student pursuing a master's degree in museum studies at the University of Toronto. Last summer when completing her internship at the Art Gallery of Ontario, she discovered that a series of 1,702 photographs auctioned at Christie's in 1997 and acquired by the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in 2005 were…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 24, 2011 at 7:37 — No Comments
Animation artist Koji Yamamura ("Mt. Head" and "Franz Kafka's A Country Doctor") has completed his long-awaited animated short, "Muybridge's Strings," in a coproduction with the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) and others.
Yamamura took seven years to finish the 12-minute short, slated for release this…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 23, 2011 at 10:00 — No Comments
Lying almost undisturbed since 1877 and gathering dust in a pile of boxes and files, a monocle was recently found in Lacock Abbey. Now in pride of place at the museum it was shown to a group of photographers who gathered in Lacock for a special dinner to mark the annual Talbot Day…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 22, 2011 at 17:30 — No Comments
The National Technical museum at Letna Park in Prague, which is one of the oldest in Europe, reopens to the public after a four-year reconstruction. It is a collection of the Museum of Technology and the Military History Institute in Prague, through which visitors can explore more than 40 weapons and vehicles, the…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 22, 2011 at 10:55 — No Comments
The Port Arthur convict photographs are a truly remarkable survival from Australia's colonial past. Taken shortly before the infamous Tsmanian penal settlement closed for good, these images record the faces of men sent to Australia on convict ships between the 1820s and the 1850s, and were…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 22, 2011 at 9:46 — No Comments
With the announcement in 2008 of the creation of the Ryerson Photography Gallery and Research Centre (RGRC), Ryerson University took its place amongst the top international centres for photography and related disciplines. The Gallery is home to the world-renowned Black Star Historical Black & White…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 21, 2011 at 21:12 — No Comments
Collections Manager (Projects)
Bradford and York
£20,717 p.a.
Fixed term until October 2011
NMSI is undertaking a major review and relocation of its reserve collections currently stored at the National Media Museum (NMeM) in Bradford and the National Railway Museum (NRM) in York.…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 21, 2011 at 18:30 — No Comments
iMuseum is Isle of Man's new digital museum which provides unprecedented access to the Manx National Heritage collections. This exciting new facility brings together a selection of archives into one digital resource. This includes over 150 years of newsprint, advertisements, announcements, news reports, and…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 20, 2011 at 7:18 — No Comments
I've been duly informed that for the Hampton Court episode, Fiona Bruce and her team will be showing treasures from the public which include a record of early photography!
The programme will be screened on BBC1 this Sunday (20th Feb) at 8:00pm, or you can catch it on…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 19, 2011 at 12:07 — No Comments
Last Friday night (11th Feb), a group of photographers gathered together to celebrate the anniversary of William Henry Fox Talbot's birthday (210th!), in the Barn Restaurant at the George Inn Lacock which was the carpenters shop where his first camera was…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 19, 2011 at 12:00 — No Comments
Stereographic photography was all the rage during the 19th century. Its transportive quality was enjoyed in parlors across the country, its immersive imagery replicating life both mundane and fantastic. It was, in its way, an inexpensive way to "see the world" in realistic depth and dimension. Stereo images…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 19, 2011 at 12:00 — No Comments
We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic learning professional to develop new and exciting education and outreach programmes. The successful…Continue
Added by Michael Wong on February 18, 2011 at 18:30 — No Comments
Added by Michael Wong on February 18, 2011 at 18:30 — No Comments
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This week, over at The Sweet Stop Challenge Blog, we have another fabulous sketch for you to play with. If you love sketch challenges as much as I do, you'll want to check these out every Saturday because they are some of the best.
My card today used a great Digi Stamp called "Let it Snow", from Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps.
The papers are from Close to my Heart.
The Hand Stitching was done with matching Embroidery floss. I couldn't make up my mind if I wanted to use red or green, so I used a combination of them both. I thought it turned out pretty cool.
Other Challenge Blogs for this card:
All Sorts - Spots and Stripes
Totally Gorjuss - Sparkle
April Paper Pumpkin
1 week ago


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"I don't remember the USSR it collapsed when I was a toddler. Thank goodness."
"I am Thrall, a yeti," Thrall rumble when his laughter subsided. Sean smiled at Susan and told her he would be here.
Three days later we arrived at the studio for our first class. " I smiled and laughed a little, acting like I hadn't heard her say dad' and changing the subject. Krissy got up after she was done cleaneer my cock and left over cum and said i don't want to be late for work.
"No. "Yasmine, get your ass up and get cleaned up, you little nitrimin. Chloe was able to get 34 of the way down my shaft surprisingly, but she does have a nice big mouth. The movie ended after two hours and his erection had gone down.
Then Steve was on his knees behind me sliding his cock into my dripping snatch. Jill laughed and said, wouldn't mind seeing them out of a speedo either, causing all three cacial them to crack up laughing.


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DCEO grant will help library with renovations
Thursday, January 30, 2014
On Jan. 15, the Forsyth Public Library received a contract for a Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant agreement.
The grant was applied for in December of 2012, according to Library Director Rachel Miller. Miller said the $200,000 grant application was written to finance the reinforcement of the library's floor structure, to replace windows and to replace carpeting.
The grant carries a stipulated time frame dating back to Nov. 1, 2012 and ending Oct. 31, 2014. The grant applies only to projects started and completed within that range of time.
According to Miller's report to the board the grant "allows for expenses from the beginning of the floor project to be included in the grant. Two years is the maximum time the grant agreement can cover, but extensions may be requested if needed to allow for completion of the project."
On the agenda at the Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Board of Trustees on Jan. 20 was an item sponsored by Miller under "New Business" that read: "Approval of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Grant (DCEO) and authorization for the Mayor, Library Director and Treasurer to execute agreement."
Miller told the board that she plans to use the grant so that the library can finance or be reimbursed for such projects as: the reinforcement of the library's floor structure, replacement of windows and the replacement of carpeting.
Miller said the earlier mold remediation project will be covered by the grant because it is part of the overall window project.
Trustee Bob Gruenewald asked Miller if there was any risk of not finishing the projects in the required timeline and not making the deadline.
"Is Oct. 31, 2014 not adequate enough time?" Gruenewald asked.
"It will depend on mold," Miller said, referring to the mold problem that hindered the window project previously. "With that many windows, that may delay it."
Miller went on to say that there is a sequence that must be followed in such a project. She pointed out that carpeting can't be put in until the windows are done. So a date can't be set for installing carpeting until it's known "how the window portion goes."
Miller said that the state's grant adviser had told her it's not unusual for changes to crop up and that every grant needs modifications.
Trustee Bob Rasho asked about the process and if the grant would pay as the bills were sent in.
"Yes, they will reimburse us for what we've done," Miller said.
Mayor Marilyn Johnson offered "a special thank you to Bill Mitchell for helping us with this grant."
Trustee Kerstin Trachtenberg made the motion, which was seconded by Trustee Dave Wendt. All votes were yea, and the motion carried.
History of DCEO grant application
- At Nov. 5, 2012 board meeting: trustees direct staff to pursue a $200,000 DCEO grant facilitated by State Rep. Bill Mitchell, R-Forsyth. DCEO grants are designed to improve quality of life in communities across the state and often include community infrastructure projects.
- At Dec. 3, 2012 board meeting: Trustees are presented with completed grant application and discuss scope of project. Repairs to library's floor structure are initially the focus of the grant, but upcoming repairs to windows and carpet are included in the project. Project estimates are $245,000, with costs over $200,000 to be paid by the village. Trustees approve new scope of project and $45,000 in additional expenditures.
- On Dec. 5, 2012: Grant application for "Forsyth Public Library Building Upgrade" is submitted to DCEO.
- During 2013: Floor structure project is completed in January under budget; a "sample" window is replaced in summer to determine level of work needed for remaining leaky windows; in December, trustees award a contract for replacement of remaining library windows, but mold remediation if needed is not included.
- On Jan. 15, 2014: Library receives contract for DCEO grant agreement.
- At Jan. 20, 2014 board meeting: Agenda item is for acceptance of the grant and authorization to execute the agreement. Motion is carried by board.


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Blueberry Noel Cookies
Blueberry Noel Cookies
2- 4oz Salted Butter at room temp.
1/2 Cup Sugar
2 TBSP Milk or Cream
1/2 TSP Vanilla
1/2 TSP Salt
2 1/2 Cup Flour
1/2 Cup chopped Walnuts
3/4 Cup chopped dried SVO blueberries
1/4 Cup extra sugar
Squeeze of Lemon
Red or Green Food Coloring
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. In a medium size bowl mix butter and sugar and mix together until the mixture has a fluffy consistency.
OPTIONAL: Add red or green food coloring to the batter to make it more festive. Add food coloring to your liking of desired color.
3. In a separate bowl, Combine milk, vanilla, flour, and salt. Then add the the dry ingredients to the wet, and mix until combined.
4. Mix in blueberries and nuts into the rest of the mixture.
5. Take the mixture and roll out into two logs, wrap them in saran wrap, then place in the freezer for 30-60 minutes or until firm.
6. Remove from freezer and unwrap. Place cookie rolls on parchment paper, and cut cookies rounds about 1/4" thick.
7. Place cookies on a lightly greased cookie sheet (or lay parchment paper down) and bake for 10 to 15 minutes.
8. Remove from oven and cool on racks, then serve and enjoy!
Labels: 2015, a healthy living choice, blueberry recipes, christmas season, december, dried blueberry recipe, happy holidays, holiday season, theme for the month


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We've found 849404 deals for the search spider man. Try looking at these other search terms for more ideas: Super Hero, amazing man spider, comic marvel, amazing spider man and super heros and also look at Spider-Man to browse for more great Superhero bargains on Collectibles items from Byzantina.com.
If you're looking for spider man you might also try searching for: spider, man, comic, book, white and page.


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Once a passion, and now just a companion. I'm not sure whether the best camera is the one you have with you, but one thing is for certain: I do always have one with me, thanks to my phone. That has certainly subdued the need to carry around my chunky DSLR, extra lenses, battery pack, flash gun, reflector and so on. But they are not forgotten, and I would never turn down an offer of a photography expedition to some city, park, or whatever you fancy.
Some of my favourite subjects are animals. I am neither a wildlife expert looking to document every subspecies, nor an artistic genius who will spend days setting up the perfect shot. I just like cute things. I like seeing them with my eyes, and then if the opportunity presents itself, I like trying to capture what I see with the camera. Hence my phone is full of hundreds of photos of other people's dogs.
I'll try any sort of photography, with various levels of success. Landscapes are one of the trickiest to get looking interesting, but it doesn't stop me trying from time to time. I've even dabbled with using a film SLR for a few rolls. I really like the way that the scarcity of shots and manual controls force you to take more time over each decision. I would do a lot more if it weren't for the high cost of getting film processed. I've thought about trying to do black and white film myself; who knows, one day I might even have time.
Luckily I am always surrounded by interesting subjects, such as people playing with fire. Which gives me a good opportunity to play with Photoshop as well! If you need a shark inserted into a photo or someone's head inserted on someone else's shoulders, you know who to come to.


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Mechanical & Electrical Associates (UK) Limited (MEA) is approaching 30 years of continuous project design and management operations both in the UK and internationally.
Since registering as a limited company in 1988, MEA has developed a significant knowledge base in designing and implementing MEICA services for:
Highway Tunnels (including tunnel services building design)
Cable Tunnels (including head-house building design)
Major highway & general road lighting systems
Decorative lighting systems
Pumping stations for clean and waste water
Renewable energy projects for wind and PV (including control building design)
General building services
UK experience as well as international experience throughout the Middle East and Europe, enables a quality design service consistent with the requirements demanded by today's standards and regulations, ensuring application of the appropriate knowledge and management skills.
MEA's list of clients and project design portfolio provides an insight into the quality of the work that is provided.
MEA also specialise in the CDM Regulations and Duty Holder Activities and assist in developing and managing company systems to ISO standards.


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New Music Theatre Intensives is committed to training young and emerging artists in new methods and styles to prepare them for professional opportunities.
Bravo Academy's New Music Theatre Intensives premiered in 2013 with the production of Make Me a Song by William Finn, produced in the immersive setting of the Norman Felix Art Gallery. The program was created to provide INNOVATIVE music theatre training, specializing in CONTEMPORARY musicals for our next generation of performers. Giving them the EXPERIENCE and opportunity to be led by a team of respected industry professionals. Since its inaugural performance, the program has produced eight inventive productions including a WORLD PREMIERE. It has grown from one intensive to five intensives per year. Each one comprised of a small group of talented and skilled performers admitted via audition.
New Music Theatre Intensives provide innovative, modern, advanced and highly specialized music theatre training for both young and emerging artists. Through producing contemporary music theatre, our intensive programs assist and advance artists as they work towards professional careers. We strive to challenge and educate artists to reach their potential. We aim to develop and produce new Canadian musicals and work with leading Canadian professionals and artists.
NMTI gives opportunities for all Music Theatre Actors, Directors, Music Directors, Writers, Composers, Choreographers, Stage Managers, as well as Set, Costume, Lighting and Projection Designers. As a member of the Emerging Artist Professional Program, you will be given rehearsal and performance space, as well as advertising through our New Music Theatre Intensives newsletters and social media.
Acceptance by submission or audition only.
Interested in auditioning? Contact us to set up an audition date!
Having the opportunity to create and develop a brand new musical takes time, resources, willing talented people, and most importantly, faith. Bravo Academy gave Steven Gallagher and I all of these things in abundance on our show Drama 101. We are so grateful to have had this opportunity, and are so proud of what the Emerging Artist Ensemble accomplished thanks to the facilitation and support of Bravo.Kevin WongMusic Director, Composer/Lyricist
Being part of Bravo Academy's NMTI was an incredible experience. Melissa and her team were so supportive, helpful and encouraging of our creative process. The space is beautiful and the young performers are exceptional.Matt MurrayDirector, Writer
Bravo Academy's New Music Theatre Intensives was instrumental in the development of our musical, Drama 101. From the initial idea leading up to a workshop production, Bravo provided the resources and support to help us realize the potential of our new show. Bravo will offer dramaturgical support, directors, musical directors and wonderful young actors to make sure that your musical gets the first production it deserves. It was an incredible experience that helped us to hone our skills as music theatre writers and I would recommend to anyone interested in developing their new piece.Steven GallagherDirector, Writer
Being a part of both Going Under and Drama 101 in the New Music Theatre Intensive program was a dream come true. This program served as an amazing transition for me from music theatre education to employment. I grew as an artist while also developing connections within the community and gaining firsthand experience working on brand new material.Meredith SheddenEmerging Artist
The Intensive programs gave me the opportunity to not only increase my network of connections in the Toronto theatre community and build my skills, but to do so while engaging in the fantastically enjoyable process of workshopping a new musical under the guidance and leadership of some truly noteworthy and inspirational individuals from the professional world.Emma SpitzEmerging Artist
The opportunity to be a part of a new work is not something I thought I would be able to experience so young.To be able to have a personal and special relationship with people who are as creative and caring is something that I will continue to cherish. In such an intense environment your skills are honed to a new edge.Ben PageEmerging Artist
The Intensive programs gave me the opportunity to not only increase my network of connections in the Toronto theatre community and build my skills, but to do so while engaging in the fantastically enjoyable process of workshopping a new musical under the guidance and leadership of some truly noteworthy and inspirational individuals from the professional world.Blake CrawfordEmerging Artist, Student
Scholarships/Financial Aid
Once accepted into the program, artists have the opportunity to apply for scholarship funding through Arts Access Fund. Artists interested in a scholarship must complete a scholarship application form when they audition. Our goal is to assist as many artists as possible, however we cannot guarantee financial aid.
Founding Sponsors
Bravo Academy proudly acknowledges our Founding Sponsors who play an integral role in supporting arts education and have helped us to create a home where we can inspire and educate artists. We deeply appreciate their support.
Evelyn Aimis
Bauer-Robinson Family
John & Liliana Bencic
Blake Family
Jeff & Violet Borg
Steve & Kay Chanasyk
David Chanasyk
In Honour of May Chew
Cohen Family
Derrick & Jill Denwood
Driver Family
Robbie Dryer & Family
Eckler Family
Matthew Frattin
Goldenberg Family
Goldman Family
Graham Family
Marcia & Stephen Herbert
Hess Family
Sohaileh Hussein
Jacoby-Gilbert Family
Jamie Graham
Johnston Family
Librach Family
Markel & Freedman Family
Morrow Family
Agoston & Lidija Morvay
Nathanson Family
Nathens-Taub Family
Nemiroff Roitman Family
Patrick & Doreen Nichols
Olive Family
Polisuk Family
Ripstein Family
James & Sara Sugarman
Tremblay Woodman Family
Venexo Capitol
Carlotte Warke & Family
Weintraub Family


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Only God Forgives (2013)
Only God Forgives is an apt title for a movie that is replete with such suffering and brutality. Here is a movie that thinks wanton bloodshed and depravity is the same as character depth, and the fact that it's from Nicolas Winding Refn, the writer/director of Drive might not be as surprising as you'd believe. I enjoyed 2011's Drive but I wasn't as taken with it as other critics, my chief complaint being a groping pretentiousness that confused emptiness as contemplation. I see the same issue with Only God Forgives, a grisly morality play that's simplistic and overwrought at the same time. Once again Ryan Gosling plays a man of few words, so few that I counted he only says eight by the 28-minute mark (at this pace, he'll dissolve into the background by 2015). Gosling's brother was killed after the creep raped and murdered a 16-year-old prostitute in Thailand. Gosling's ferocious mother (Kristin Scott Thomas) demands retribution on the Thai police, but Gosling has his reservations. What ensues is a string of glossy gore, tedious reprisals, and nonsensical plotting, including numerous karaoke sequences with the Thai cops. The movie's emphasis is almost entirely on a hellish atmosphere, lots of lurid reds and harsh lighting, providing style but minimal substance. The characters are all detestable and unengaging, the story is awash in dreary and ponderous plotting, and the movie just reeks of pretension, every frame oozing with Important Symbolism (catch the emphasis on hands and wombs yet?). Only God Forgives would be forgivable if all of its admirable style and mood had some greater purpose. It's a grueling movie to endure but the hardest part is getting through all the tedium thanks to the near-mute characters and a script overdosing on torture. At this rate, Refn's next film will just be 90 minutes of Gosling punching a baby. Silently, of course.
Nate's Grade: C
Posted on August 6, 2013, in 2013 Movies and tagged crime, drama, gory, nicolas winding refn, pretentious, ryan gosling, thriller. Bookmark the permalink. 2 Comments.


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Sunday, September 21, 2008
Dane Cook airbrushed within an inch of his life
I found this a while back, on PhotoshopDisasters. It's a hilarious rant by Dane Cook, about the poster for his movie "My Best Friend's Girl". Just one look at this poster, and you can tell there are so many things wrong with it. I went for a double feature yesterday, and this movie was one of them. I still laugh every time I see the poster. Seriously, read the rant, it's funny. On a side note, Kate Hudson is always a sure bet to cast in Girly Movies. I loved her in "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days". It might be time to watch that movie again.
Labels: dane cook, jason biggs, kate hudson, movie
1 comment:
- Amber said...
Oh boy - this movie just looks like a little too much for me. I'll go see the new Clooney/Pitt one instead :) hehehe
- September 23, 2008 at 3:01 PM
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"Come and unfold the most intricate and traditional Indian flavors. At 8 elements we serve food that not only pleases your taste buds but also soothes your soul. All the elements of tradition Indian food are blended together in an ambience that will enlighten your meal and brighten the occasion"
For years, India is known for its culture, tradition and rich history. It is magical, how people from such varied philosophies stay together!
The same togetherness is reflected in Indian food. It is believed to be the best in terms of taste and health. The varieties of spices we use at 8 elements make the food beneficial for health too! Indian food has the Midas touch when it comes to taste.
We at 8 elements imbibe all those mouth-watering and splendid flavors. 8 elements is a perfect place for those who are looking for real, tasty authentic Indian food. Generous use of spices by our chefs gives the food a traditional touch. We specialize in all kinds of food.
8Elements Restaurant has garnered best name over the years and understands the importance of gathering together and eating well. The freshness, taste, and overall quality of our food has won the acceptance of all those who love to eat and know what flavor means. If enjoying food is on the agenda then 8Elements is the place! You will find not just one delectable dish but many equally fantastic dishes to entice your palate. Our menu and services have greatly expanded to reflect the wishes of our growing clientele and the environment around us. Explore our exciting menu that offers the variety that fine cooking will give in both traditional and business settings!
At 8Elements, we prepare our food with different Indian Spices and Herbs, meticulously cooked to create mouth lingering dishes. Each dish has its own distinctive flavor & aromas, which cannot come from any curry powder in the world. Our food is not just 'Spicy' or 'Curry'. It all depends what you wish to eat! We prepare great tasting authentic Indian food with all exquisite Kebabs, North Indian delights, best of South Indian cuisine and a large range of Indian sweets and Indian Ice cream (Kulfi).
Our food is sourced from top quality seasonal ingredients, featuring a high percentage of local and organic products. Our menu changes every six to eight weeks, offering a mix of new and signature dishes.