7th of July, 2009

Posted by Doug in Outdoor, Sports, Travel at 1:33 pm

The country of Singapore is made up of the main land, and also more than fifty surrounding smaller islands.  Most of these smaller retreats offer vacation spots that are set away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, with incredibly peaceful beaches, great expanses of blue waters in which to swim or scuba dive, and laid back, and easy going charm.  One of these spots is Sentosa Island just a few miles off the shore of mainland Singapore.  Sentosa hotels range from the quiet and quaint beach side accommodations, to resorts filled with the amenities one finds in resort locations, access to golf,  spas and massage therapists, and five star restaurants.

Even if ones main vacation is on the mainland, one would be refreshed and forever satisfied with a day trip to the smaller island.  There are options for those interested in all of the water sports, as well as hiking trails through beautiful landscapes, sites of historical significance, museums and a very happening night life filled with entertainers and performers from around the world.  Singapore’s Oceanarium is located on Sentosa as well as the Lagoon of Dolphins where even those not certified, have the opportunity to swim with, feed, and even training the pink dolphins indigenous to the area.

Sentosa was once a military head-quarters for the British, but during the early 1970′s the island was transformed into a paradise, that provided not only enjoyment for many, but employment as well.  It is quite difficult to categorize the island, as it provides everything for all types of personalities.  While the island is peaceful, the hot night life of the mainland is just minutes away, via a ferry boat, a car or the spectacular views offered by taking the cable cars.  Millions of tourists travel each year to Sentosa, to find that peace, that nature that is set amongst culture and history, manicured gardens and even some fountains that do dance.  Many will find exactly what they are looking for on the island, and will have memories that bring back specific moments, that will linger and continue to enrich their lives.

24th of June, 2009

Posted by Doug in Business, Society, Sports at 1:22 pm

Starting a business is no easy feat. It takes time, money and a lot of hard work. But most of American workers are either small business owners or employed by a small business. So needless to say, success can be had in the small business arena. You just have to find your market niche. And with the job market the way it is currently, now just might be the perfect time to start that business that you have always dreamed of.

First off, think about something that makes you passionate. We all know that when we have no passion for our jobs, you just get bored and unmotivated. A job should be something you look forward to doing. Think about what you would do if you were to retire right now, and think about how you could make that into a business. If you have always wanted to own a boutique or love to play golf, think about how you could corner that market to make it some niche that consumers would enjoy and want to be a part of.

Think about times where you wished there was a service or product that you were hoping for. That’s what Steve Barbarich did.  He was in the market for a Jacuzzi hot tub and went about finding one online. When he bought one and it was delivered to his home, he was less than satisfied. When he attempted to get any kind of customer service from the retailer, they simply were totally unhelpful.  This experience prompted him to start his own luxury direct Jacuzzi hot tub company called choosehottubsdirect.com. Now he sells luxury Jacuzzi hot tubs for wholesale prices and excellent customer service. He went ahead and filled a void in the market.

If a small business is something you think you want to do, go ahead and go for it!