NFL Preseason Handicapping: Pros and Cons
February 22, 2010 by Ross Everett
Filed under Travel Tips
Betting preseason NFL games never fails to elicit an irreconcilable difference of opinion among sports betting enthusiasts. Some consider it a very poor wagering opportunity, while others maintain that there’s no better moneymaking opportunity in sports than pro football’s preseason. The truth is probably somewhere between the two extremes–NFL preseason betting must be approached with caution and discipline, but offers the potential to make a tidy profit before the regular season kicks off.
The most compelling argument against preseason wagering is simply that the games don’t count. While there are often spots during the regular season where teams may seem more or less motivated, in theory they all want to win. That’s not something that can be taken as a ‘given’ during the preseason, however, as the individual agendas of NFL coaching staffs can very widely. Some might want to win games to establish a winning attitude, others might put a greater focus on working in a new offensive or defensive scheme. Others may prioritize evaluating talent at key positions, while others may simply want to make it through to the regular season without any significant injuries. With all of the uncertainty swirling around preseason football, handicapping wins and losses against the pointspread can be exceedingly difficult.
The proponent of preseason wagering would argue that this is the very reason that good opportunities frequently arise during preseason. First, additional value is frequently found with the underdog in preseason games by their very nature. To explain, in a hypothetical matchup between a Superbowl champion and an also-ran the “better” team by regular season standards would invariably be favored. However, by virtue of their success the “better” teams have not only more ‘marquee names’ to protect, but also valued guys in the trenches who could cause big problems if injured. Frequently, they’ll have more depth and thus fewer personnel evaluation decisions to deal with. They’ll have no need to “create a winning attitude”, nor will they usually have wholesale changes in team composition, offensive or defensive strategy, or coaching philosophies to deal with. In short, the “better” teams often go into preseason situations with little to accomplish other than to get the games over with and stay healthy.
NFL ‘doormats’, meanwhile, have a markedly different agenda to their more successful counterparts. They’ve often got heated competition for starting positions or key back up roles. They’ve often got new coaching staffs that players want to impress. Most significantly, they’re in great need of establishing a winning attitude. A win against an elite team in a ‘meaningless’ preseason game often has a much greater value to this type of team than to a playoff contender.
While some teams could care less about the result of preseason games, few want to enter the regular season having lost them all. In light of this fact, a successful preseason situation that has stood the test of time is to bet on teams that lost their first two exhibition games outright. This situation has produced a winning percentage right around 60%.
The philosophy of a NFL head coach is arguably the single most important factor contributing to preseason success. Some coaches always want to win, even if the games don’t count in the standings. Other coaches place a much greater importance on evaluating personnel and giving backups playing time they won’t have the opportunity to get during the regular season. The coaches that have a strong desire to win in the preseason often result in their team’s pointspreads being inflated somewhat, but a motivated team is always worth consideration for a wager.
The Internet has become a very valuable weapon in the NFL preseason handicapper’s arsenal. Simply following the local media reports of NFL teams can often produce a wealth of ‘mission critical’ betting information. The combination of anxious beat writers, little in the way of ‘real’ news, and a less guarded approach by coaches to games that ‘don’t count’ can often reveal game strategies, playing time for key personnel, or even a team’s specific agenda for a particular game. Sometime coaches will come right out and say that evaluating a certain position, or working on a specific offensive scheme is their top priority for a game. It’s a great way to find not only good teams to bet on, but strong situations to go against teams that are focused on something other than outscoring their opponent.
The bottom line is that while the NFL preseason does offer some solid moneymaking opportunities, its not a ‘free cash grab’. It’s best viewed as an opportunity to grind out a small profit, but as always its essential to maintain the same degree of discipline in handicapping and money management as at any other time during the pro football season.
Ross Everett is a respected freelance writer specializing in travel, casino gambling and sports handicapping. He is a consulting handicapper for Anatta Sports where he is responsible for providing daily free sports picks. In his spare time he enjoys fine dining, fencing and scuba diving. He lives in Las Vegas with four dogs and a pet coyote.
How High Class Private Jet Bookings Can Enhance Your Travel
February 17, 2010 by Chris Channing
Filed under Travel Tips
If you have ever considered a private jet flight, but felt you weren’t suited for that kind of travel, think again. Technology and modern times have made even something luxurious like a private jet flight, available to almost anyone. They are an easy and fun way to enjoy your travels, even if you are headed somewhere boring and dull.
If you want to travel in style, then consider a private jet experience. These flights are lush and comfortable, with plenty of leg room and space for your belongings. That’s why so many travelers choose these when taking families on trips! There is never a lack of good quality space, and the meals are delicious too.
While they may seem expensive, there are private jet flights available for all budgets. They can easily cost the same or less as a regular flight, but they can also cost much more. Depending on how many people are in your group or what your preferences are, the price will vary based on that.
The main difference between a private jet flight and a regular flight would be the booking and registration process. It is hard to explain how it works since most companies are different. The main thing to remember is that prices and travel times must be quoted and arranged. Since these flights are private, they run on a very different schedule than regular airlines that take masses of people each day to their destinations.
Some airlines only require a short notice. Many allow you to book as late as four hours in advanced, but some require a 24 hour notice. There are plenty of private jet flights that also land in major airports around the world. Most of these have special accommodation areas for first class private jet fliers, so you will never deal with the crowds and hassle.
All types of travelers can benefit from using a top quality private jet service. Whether you are an executive traveling across the world for a business meeting, or an enthusiastic traveler, you can find the best flight for your needs. Many families book private flights to take their children around the world, which is much more preferable than using a regular airline. The options are really endless, and no matter what your reasons for traveling are, you can get to your destination with a private flight.
Closing Comments
If you want a high class flight then a private jet has all you need. They are safer, more enjoyable, and certainly more relaxing than regular airlines of comparable cost. Many are equipped with everything you need for showers, sleeping, and simply kicking back and relaxing.
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Trains In Seattle And The Inner Child
January 9, 2010 by Owen Jones
Filed under Destinations
Boys and girls of all ages like trains and train sets. They have played a very important role in the history of this country and Seattle, Washington and the Northwest in specific. In fact, the roles of trains in this part of the country have in the past been so vital that there are a few museums dedicated to them. Trains were essential lifelines for the people here for many years. While their importance seems to be dwindling in today’s society, their significance throughout the history of our country remains.
If you truly are a train enthusiast, then it should not be difficult to talk you into stopping by Seattle’s Train Center before and after touring the museums devoted to trains and their vital role in history. The Train Center offers a wide selection of model train parts and pieces that would make excellent additions to your train set or a great beginning for a train set for you or your kids.
After you’ve whetted your enthusiasm for trains and gotten your child all excited about them, it is time to take a walk back in time to the Northwest Railway Museum. There you can learn about railway history or even choose to take a ride on one of the trains that departs on several tours throughout the day. Most of the excursions are 65-75 minutes long and are a great extravagance for young and old alike. Perhaps the best thing about this museum is that its main objective is to educate the public about the important role that railroads had in the growth of this part of the country.
If you’re really interested in sharing your affection for trains with the ones you love, you may consider taking a spin on the Spirit of Washington Dinner Train. This is a great way to not only get the experience of travelling the rails but to take in some of the beautiful Washington scenery and have a gourmet meal in the process. During the months of November through to April up to two children may ride free with a paying adult.
There are certain limitations on the type of seating, but it is a great way to enjoy the experience at a greatly reduced price. There are also exclusive events such as Murder Mystery Trains and Magic and Illusion shows in addition to certain holiday events as well. Be sure to check out what is going on while you are visiting Seattle and see if this is something that might interest you and your family.
If you are up for a not so short drive to Pasco (about three and a half hours from Seattle), you might find the Washington State Railroads Historical Society Museum well worth the journey. Be sure to remember that the museum is only open on Saturday and that the hours are restricted so this is a journey you need to plan in advance. The greatest thing about this museum to me is the fact that there are lovely little stories, like the blackboard that recorded the first snowfall at the depot each year and others such as this.
It is the short stories that do not necessarily make history that do make lasting impressions and I am happy to see this particular story is being shared. Just bear in mind, when visiting any of these depots, museums, and train excursions that you definitely must bring your inner child with you in order to enjoy them as you should.
Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on a lot of topics, but is presently involved with train sets for kids. If you would like to know more about train sets for kids, please go over to our website for some great offers.
The Best Gay Beaches in Mexico: Cancun, Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta
September 23, 2009 by Ricardo daryans
Filed under Destinations
So enough of the congratulations because, with the spring season on the rise and the summer sun just around the corner, I know you are dying to know where you will be going for your next vacation.
One gay destination that is growing in popularity that you will be thrilled to visit is Puerto Vallarta. Exactly what makes this destination so special? To begin with it is awesome. When you combine the wonderful climate, a captivating ocean bay, a lush jungle, excellent beaches and rugged mountains you get the ideal destination for a weekend getaway.
Puerto Vallarta itself is not large, but be careful not to judge it on its size alone. Even though the city is small, it is a delightful city that is devoted to serving its visitors. This little city is somehow able to retain the old school Mexican charm that it is famous for in the midst of a modern resort infrastructure.
Cancun is the home of an abundance of charming restaurants, modern medical facilities, excellent airports and a safe water supply. It is also a very safe environment which makes this spot a perfect paradise. If you are a person that is looking for quaintness but will not sacrifice the modern conveniences, then your search is over.
If those few things about Puerto Vallarta did not quite get your attention, then may be Acapulco is the one for you. Acapulco is all about sunny Pacific beaches, clean waters, and rugged mountains. It is also about cruise ships, an up-and-coming spring break destination and an ideal hot spot for both gay singles and couples.
Opposite to Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco is famous for its flamboyant gay bars and clubs. Its gay bars may not be that refined or upscale as most big city clubs, but that is what makes Acapulco a unique experience.
The last, but definitely not least, gay destination that you should consider is Cancun. Many travelers agree that nothing compares to Cancun in regards to being one of the best gay travel destinations ever. Cancun is known as a haven for tourists, especially gay tourists.
The main attraction of this island paradise is the fun nightlife. Visiting the funky and upbeat clubs such as the Picante bar and the Karamba will surely light up the nights you spend in Cancun.
Karamba bar is the largest gay disco in Cancun while Picante bar is their oldest gay club. Party under the night sky in Karamba’s open air disco to the tunes of both local and international djs. There are also nightly stage performances with drag queens lip-synching to Broadway tunes and impersonators dancing to the latest tunes. Parties start at the stroke of 10:30 pm and stretches well out into the wee hours of the morning.
Picante, on the other hand, is still bumping and grinding after 14 years in the business. Visit Picante for their Vegas showgirls-style dances, strippers, singers, and the bar’s owner and resident emcee Mother Picante. And if you’re lucky, you might catch the annual beauty pageant during the Carnival and get to see who gets crowned as “The Queen.”
When you travel to Cancun you will never be hungry. The city is filled with wonderful restaurants that serve cuisines of international and local flavors.
If this isnt enough to convince you that your gay vacation will be unforgettable, you will love the gay friendly resorts. One of the best places to stay is the lavish Hyatt Cancun Caribe. Other top hotels include the Presidente Intercontinental, the Melia Cancun or the Villas Boutique Hotel. Whatever you are looking for you will find that these resorts are perfect.
So pack those bags and get yourself a ticket to paradise. Whether the destination is Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, or Cancun, you’re sure to have a grand, gay time! Bon Voyage!
Gay Hot Spots to Travel, Tulum
September 17, 2009 by Ricardo d Argence
Filed under Destinations
There’s no question why Mexico is such a popular vacation destination. This place is much more than just sunny beaches, it’s incredible. Tulum is one of the hot spots that lets you see history as well as nice beaches on your vacation.
Tulum has both a historical spin and a beautiful beach coast. It is located just south of Playa del Carmen and Akumai. Perched on the breathtaking limestone cliffs that overlook the Caribbean ocean you’ll find Tulum.
There is a nice mix of history and the beaches (which Mexico is well known for) in Tulum. You will have the chance to see both in the same vicinity so you are able to stay in one area and relax while travelling.
History is important in Tulum. The archeological site here was built between 1200 and 1450. It is clouded in mystery, as are all Mayan ruins.
Tulum was very active from the 13th to the 15th century. The tallest building of the city is El Castillo, which served as a lighthouse that guided travelers through the reefs.
The city which was surrounded by walls in its three sides is its distinct feature. This wall is seven meters thick and up to five meters tall. Warriors could defend against attack from a walkway on the city wall. The remaining side of the city is protected by the sea.
Now, sixty buildings are still at the scene, those are all open for visitors. There are information panels on the walls to help visitors on their self-guided tour of the site.
Tulum also features amazing beaches, like those you expect from Mexico’s coastline. They are considered some of the world’s top scenic beaches, attracting visitors from around the globe.
The beaches contain a gorgeous shade of white sand and the water is a perfect blue. The waters welcome kayakers, divers, and fishers.
Tulum’s reef is part of the Great Mayan Reef which spreads from Cancun, Mexico, to Roatan, Honduras, and which is the second biggest in the world. It is 1000 kilometers with 120 kilometers at the Tulum beach.
The waters off the beach offer a chance to see 84 different types of coral and over 450 types of fish and other sea creatures. It is a true adventure.
I can guarantee you that Tulum is one of the most special places on earth. This area is unforgettable since there are so many nice things to do when you visit.
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Gay Hot Spots to Travel in Mexico, Ruinas del Rey
September 16, 2009 by Ricardo d Argence
Filed under Destinations
Cancun is already known as one of the most popular destination for gay and lesbian vacationers. The weather and the beaches are beautiful year round, the people are friendly and of course, there’s great food here too! It’s also a great place to vacation surrounded by other gay and lesbian tourists ” this is the number one gay vacation spot in all of Mexico.
Las Ruinas Del Rey is one place you absolutely have to pay a visit to while you’re in Cancun. This is the most popular gay beach in a city with many great beaches.
Cancun is already a gay friendly place and all of its beaches welcome sun worshippers and vacationers of all walks of life; but if you’re vacationing by your lonesome and hoping to meet someone on your trip, Las Ruinas Del Rey is a great place to go.
Whether you are one of those travelers who prefer to lie out or do things and stay busy, Las Ruinas del Rey is an interesting spot to consider, one where many people prefer to spend their days.
Cancun has no shortage of sunshine, so the beach is always a good place to go. You can make new friends, socialize or of course, just lay back and enjoy the sun. This beach is always full of locals and tourists alike, so its a great place to pick up some tips on places to visit while you’re in Cancun.
Las Ruinas Del Rey also has a lot of fascinating and beautiful marine life just off of the beach. This makes this a popular place to snorkel and there is certainly a lot to see ” it’s well worth setting aside some time to check out what’s under the surface of its beautiful blue waters.
If you’ve always wanted to scuba dive, you can take classes here and try this fascinating pastime. Even if you’ve never tried it before, there’s plenty of experienced instructors here who can show you how.
Maybe you rather stay above the surface of the water. If so, Cancun is a beautiful place for a sail. There’s nothing like winding down by getting out on the water and relaxing with friends old or new before heading out to enjoy Cancun’s active nightlife.
For gay and lesbian vacationers, there’s no beach more popular than Las Ruinas Del Rey. All of Cancun’s beaches are gay friendly, but this beach is always packed with gay and lesbian travelers, adding to the already relaxed and friendly atmosphere of Cancun. If Cancun is in the cards for your next vacation, Las Ruinas Del Rey is one place you wont want to miss.
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Great Places for Gay Vacations, Playa Delfines
April 22, 2009 by Ricardo d Argence
Filed under Destinations
If you really think about it, I think Mexico is the best and the most famous destination for gay vacationers. And a big reason why Mexico is the undoubtedly best destination for gay travelers is Cancun. And a big reason why it’s Cancun, is because of the beaches. Why the beaches? Two words: Playa Delfines, Why so? Well, let this little gay travel guide article tell you exactly why.
Cancun exudes a special warmth towards the gay and lesbian travelers who are always welcome. The residents of Cancun have been able to retain the friendly atmosphere and are a very liberal populace. Combine this with an excellent public transportation system and grandiose resorts and you have the ideal destination vacation.
Moreover, Cancun also has a great nightlife with gay bars like Karamba Bar and Picante Bar proving this. Karamba bar is no less the biggest gay disco in Cancun while Picante Bar is the oldest.
Cancun also has great restaurants. Let me recommend to you Perico, Labna, La Pasteleteria-Creperia and La Parilla. In Perico, it is always a party night there. While in Labna, you will get a taste of the traditional gourmet cuisine and La Pasteleteria-Creperia is a small and intimate downtown cafe whose creamy and tasty crepes will make your mouth water.
Then, of course, there’s La parilla where, you enter a non-believer in Cancun food and will leave a fervent devotee to it. I kid you not, you will get hooked to its delectable Cancun food and to its pleasant and earthy ambiance.
Cancun is able to provide the best accommodations thanks to the many lavish hotels that are the Ritz-Carlton, springing up all over the place. You can book reservations at the Villas Tacul Boutique Hotel, Hyatt Cancun Caribe or the Melia Cancun. These lavish hotels will quickly become your temporary heavenly abode. There will be no need to worry about reaching your hotel once your plane lands at the airport.
Cab drivers in Cancun know most of these places by name and are very well-informed of the ins and outs of the city. So you are guaranteed to reach your hotel destination with no fuss at all. Didn’t I tell you this place was very friendly?
Cancun is rich in history too. You may enjoy a visit to the nearby Mayan ruins at Yamil Luum or Ruinas del Ray that are located in the Zone Hotelera. Even though the ruins are spectacular, nothing will beat the Cancun beaches. The beautiful white sand beaches of the Yucatan coast are unbelievable and must be seen to be appreciated.
One of the favorites swimming beaches is Playa Chac Mool. It is an ideal spot for families by day, but once the sun goes down the rocky areas can become a little wild. If you are looking for a beach with calm waves and gentle waters, you will enjoy Playa Langosta. This beach is perfect for swimming and tanning and is enjoyed by families as well as partiers. While these beaches are wonderful, nothing compares with Playa Delfines.
Playa Delfines is popular for single and gay couples, in fact it is known as the unofficial gay beach in Cancun. Just look for that grassy slope down to the beach and you’ll understand what I am saying. Not just that it is a great place for sunning, surfing, and everything in between. Plus, this is one place where the sun is not the only thing that is burning hot.
You will quickly spot some hotties that will preoccupy you during your stay. If you are interested in visiting Playa Delfines, and who wouldnt be, then you should know where its at. You will find this perfect beach just south of the Hilton at the southern end of the Hotel Zone. You wont have any trouble finding it.
So hope this article has become a little gay travel guide for you. Catch some sun, sand, and sultry hotties at Cancun, Playa Delfines. Have a happy trip!
Cancun is Mexico’s Most Popular Gay Friendly Beach
April 9, 2009 by Ricardo daryans
Filed under Destinations
If you travel to the Yucatan Peninsula, you will find the beautiful paradise known as Cancun. You will see that the older part of the city is joined by bridges to the newest part of Cancun.
The city has expanded greatly since the tourism industry got going here in the early 70′s. Today Cancun has more than 600,000 residents and attracts millions of visitors each year, drawn by its beautiful beaches and its reputation as one of the worlds top vacation spots.
The stunning turquoise waters and soft white sand beaches are among Cancun’s features which keep tourists returning to the city time and time again.
Mexico is a popular destination for gay tourists, but no city in the country is more popular than Cancun. Its a friendly place which invites guests from all walks of life to get away from it all and relax. No matter who you are or where youre from, Cancun welcomes you with open arms to partake of its beaches and its nightlife.
Other than Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco are also popular gay friendly tourist destinations, but neither can match the popularity of Cancun. This is largely due to the natural beauty of the city, but it bears mentioning that Cancun offers many more gay friendly spots than do any of the other popular destinations in Mexico; there are beaches and resorts and some of the most lively clubs in the country to be found here.
Cancun’s Zona Hotelera is where you’ll find the most popular hotels and resorts for tourists gay and straight alike. A short drive from this hotel strip, you can enjoy Cancuns active nightlife, with a large number of clubs to choose from.
It is said that the hottest spot where gay clubs are concerned is the Karamba Bar. This is one club that has been around since the 1980s and is still going strong. They offer nightly shows and they have an extra large dance floor that is always packed with people dancing the night away.
If you’d like to get away from the crowds and end your evening on a quieter note, then youll want to pay a visit to Picante. It’s much smaller than the Karamba, but this club still draws a diverse and friendly late night crowd and is not to be missed.
If you are looking for some fun and exciting events to attend then you may want to visit in the month of May as Cancun hosts quite the shindig. This shindig is known as the Cancun International Gay Festival. This has been going strong for 5 years.
If you prefer the wintertime for traveling then you may want to visit during the month of November when the annual Cancun Riviera Maya Gay Fall Festival takes place. Keep in mind that no matter what time of year you visit, there is always plenty of things to do and plenty of places to see.
Make time for a visit to the nearby Mayan ruins ” no visit to Cancun is truly complete without taking in this awe-inspiring sight. With its beaches, exciting nightlife and many cultural events and sightseeing opportunities, its no wonder that Cancun is Mexico’s most popular gay friendly destination.
Gay Friendly Beaches, Cancun
March 27, 2009 by Ricardo d Argence
Filed under Destinations
Who wouldn’t like Cancun’s lovely white beaches, historical sites, and a nightlife that can’t be beat? This is a great city for gays to visit and provides a lot of places for a gay tourist to go that are in operation solely to entertain gay visitors. No one should go to Cancun without sampling a bit of everything from the rich tradition of the Mayans.
Cancun offers both modern day fun in the busy city and historical, educational benefits in the ancient ruins nearby. Make sure you plan for at least a day to tour the Temple of Kukulcan. The place of prayer is worth seeing, however there is a valid excuse to come soon when one travels when it is Spring or Autumn Equinox.
While the sun moves slowly across the sky, the corner of the pyramid casts a shadow of the great plumed serpent Kukulcan. As day wears on and the sun moves, the shadow does also and the serpent begins to slither slowly down the pyramid side.
The wonderful city located on the Yucatan Peninsula in a place known as the Mexican Caribbean was built in 1970 and till then it had only three living people who were the caretakers for a coconut plantation. Until then, it contained the remnants of the Mayans, natural beauty and of course, coconut trees. Today, you will discover the magic of the ancient integrated with a contemporary city whose oldest building was built after 1970.
Cancun is appropiate place for those who like water and sun. While all the beaches in Cancun are beautiful, the white sand beaches across from Ruinas del Rey is a mainstay for the gay scene. A gay friendly location, Cancun offers fantastic places to meet a special someone, especially on the sandy, sunny beaches.
Not only you can simply lay out in the daytime or wander around the beach but also there are plenty of places to snorkel, scuba dive, sail or fish. With regard to post sunset amusement have a repast while sailing.
With all the activities of the day, take a nap after dinner to prepare for the nightlife. Nightlife doesn’t begin until 10:30 and then goes through the night to 5:00 in the morning.
Though recreation and drinking joints are plenty for normal as well as gay persons , the Karamba is exclusively gay. There’s entertainment to suite every taste in popular music. The organization attracts persons globally and accommodates 450, however by late night people from nearby areas start coming hence it would good if you can look for sitting place soon enough.
The oldest gay bar in Cancun is Picante. There’s a party every night there, but on holidays, the party includes costumes and great performances. Go on Thursday for Tequila night and free shots.
You can find a lot of gay friendly hotels and resorts like Hyatt Regency Cancun, Gran Melia Cancun, Presidente InterContinental and The Ritz-Carlton.







