1time was born out of a unique opportunity to launch South Africa's first genuine low-fare airline. At that time, it appeared on the surface as if there were already an airline operating in this market but, in order to qualify as an authentic and sustainable low-fare airline, a company should be set up from scratch as a low-fare model.

1time offers consumers a guarantee that its advertised airfares will be offered on every seat, every flight, and every day - irrespective of when the reservation is made.

1Time Travel Routes Include:

Cape Town to Jhb Cape Town to Durban Cape Town to East London Cape Town to Port Elizabeth Jhb - George Jhb to Cape Town Jhb to Durban Jhb to East London Jhb to Port Elizabeth

1time is extremely proud of its fleet of aircraft. They currently operate a single type of aircraft to ensure their pilots, cabin attendants and maintenance crews are specialist on their family of aircraft. They operate six MD80 and four DC9 jet aircraft and they fly up to eight hours a day. The first of six MD80 series 157-seater jet aircraft arrived in mid November 2004 and went into service in December 2004. The MD80 is a newer generation craft within the family of DC9 aircraft. Their high utilisation is one of the secrets to consistently offering the lowest fares.

The passenger cabins of their aircraft are designed for optimum passenger comfort and convenience. Economy class seating is five across - an arrangement consistently preferred in passenger surveys to the six across seating in other single-aisle airliners. The DC9, with 110 economy class seats, and the MD82 & MD83, with 157 seats - in both cases all leather - provide what they believe to be the best legroom on the South African domestic market for an economy class product.

1time Holdings - a diversified aviation group - was listed on the Johannesburg Altex Stock Exchangeon the--th of August 2007. The company has evolved in leaps and bounds since it's inception in 2004 and is the 100% shareholder in 1time Airline, 1time Charters, Aeronexus Technical and Aeronexus Corporate. For more information on the holding company and how it is structured, please visit www.1timeholdings.co.za 1time's story is a story of courage of 4 men and then a 5th who believed in them, and all this started with a dream which realised into a reality.

Once in a while the time is just right for a good idea to manifest as a reality. The environment is ripe for a new venture to seed, take root and grow. Enterprising people of vision, if they are alert and hungry, see this potential. They act with courage and ingenuity, plant the seed, nurture it and grow it into an enterprise over which other people exclaim: "Why didn't I think of that first?" This is what it was like for Gavin Harrison, Glenn Orsmond, Rodney James, Sven Petersen and Michael Kaminski - five entrepreneurial men with a wealth of experience in the aviation industry and a hunger to do things their way: with no nonsense integrity.

In 2003, the South African Rand was stronger than it had been for a long time; aircraft acquisition costs were still low in the aftermath of the 9/11 terror attacks; and research proved that low fare, no frills, short haul airlines had been the only successful business model for a number of years, while premium class short haul and domestic airlines were fighting for survival.

South Africa's domestic airline market carried 7.5 million passengers each year. This market was clearly over-traded with high cost seats and therefore, high airfares. The time for a sustainable, real low fare airline could not have been better. In short, South Africa's first real domestic low fare airline was beckoning to be born.

The perfect foundation was already in place. Through their aviation holding company, Afrisource Holdings, the four entrepreneurs owned Aeronexus - an aviation company that offers aircraft management, crewing and aircraft maintenance services. They realised that this would be an ideal launch pad for setting up an airline.

The team got to work and produced a business plan, that critical document necessary to raise the balance of the funding required to realise their dream. Businessmen were approached and the 50% balance of funding was very quickly taken up. Once again, perfection struck as Mogwele Investments, a black empowerment partner, took 20%, and an IT group the remaining 30%. Afrisource Holdings retained 50%. The business model was thus strengthened by diversity and IT skills - aspects without which it is virtually impossible for a modern business to succeed. The availability of key airline executives and managers, with relevant experience, to set up and run the airline, was a huge bonus.

On Thursday, 22 January 2004, 1time Airline opened for ticket sales through the Internet, its service centre, and its ticket sales counters at Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airports. 1time proudly commenced operations on Wednesday, 25 February 2004, with three return flights a day on the Johannesburg / Cape Town route. In the time since, the airline has grown from strength to strength, expanding on their initial frequency and incorporating more and more destinations.

The name 1time, is a reflection of the South African soul of the company. In South Africa, the phrase "one time!" is a colloquialism meaning "for real!


Susan is the marketing director for Saflights.co.za. South Arica's leading Flight comparison portal which includes all major airlines including 1Time

If you're considering Spain as a holiday destination, you have a wealth of options in destinations and airlines to get you there.

Aena, Spain's airport management company, operates 47 full service airports in the country. With such a large number of airports, travelers can usually make arrangements to land at an airport that is within 50 km of their holiday destinations.

You'll find that Spain's airports offer the same services and conveniences of your home airport.

Here is a list of the airlines that fly into Spain:

Aer Lingus Air Canada Air France American Airlines BMI British Midland British Airways Iberia KLM Qantus SN Brussels Swiss United Airlines Virgin Atlantic

In addition to these larger, full-service carriers, you can choose from these low-fare airlines:

Air 2000 BMI Baby Britannia Easyjet Excel Airways Go JMC Monarch My Travel Ryanair Virgin Express

Now that you know you can get there, check out some of the top coastal holiday destinations in Spain.

The busiest holiday island is Mallorca (Majorca, if you prefer) Island is the largest of the Balearic Islands. It is a perennial top pick thanks to its versatility. You can find Spanish history and culture, night life as well as fish and chips. The climate is typical Mediterranean with warm, sunny summers and cold, wet winters. Recommended attractions are Palma de Mallorca offering stunning beaches, history and night life; and Alcudia, a Medieval port town with great beaches. Mallorca Airport is located on the island.

Ibiza Island reportedly offers more than 300 days of sunshine every year. All the better to take advantage of its 210 km of coastline and 50 beaches. If you tire of sunning, you can tour its historical and cultural landmarks before heading to Ibiza to experience the night life. This sunny locale is serviced by Ibiza Airport.

Girona Costa Brava offers many destinations of interest, making it an important tourist destination. Offering history, nature, sports and exceptional cuisine, Girona Costa Brava is a land of contrasts. Girona, home of the Girona Airport, also offers history and art. Visit the beaches and historical attractions at Blanes. Cadaques is another ancient town, home to artist Salvador Dali. The village of L'Escala - Empuries is right next to the archeological site of the Empuries. Palamos offers luxury lodging and restaurants.

No trip to Spain can be considered complete without a trip to Barcelona and the Barcelona Coast. Widely known as one of the most beautiful European cities, Barcelona is a rich blend of the ancient and modern. Calella and Sitges, two other recommended destinations, offer the best of Spanish coast travel: Spanish charm, beautiful beaches, cultural experiences, first rate hotels and restaurants.

Tarrogona and Costa Dorada, the golden coast, offer all you would expect in a costal Spanish destination. Beaches sport golden sand (hence the name) and clear waters. Visit Tarragona, the capital, to see Roman ruins, Calafell, a laid back village where you can visit and old fishing neighborhood, and Salou, offering beaches and great night life.

Valencia and Costa de Valencia are growing in popularity thanks to its beaches as well as the city of Valencia. With long, dry summers and mild winters, you can consider this destination year-round. Gandia, also located in this region, is another highly recommended destination offering historical buildings, museums, and shops, along with pubs, discos and restaurants.


Susan is the marketing director for the UK's leading Flight comparison portal, which includes detailed information on Flights to Spain

I have just returned from a vacation visiting the British town of Winchester-Hampshire County. Winchester is one of the most beautiful towns I have ever frequented. I would recommend that anyone take the time to visit if he or she possibly can. I do not believe you will be disappointed.

Well, it ended up with me going to Winchester. The inhabitants there were so kind and entirely entertaining. Many locals enjoyed sharing the antiquity of their metropolis. I did not mind this because I have always loved learning. With a population of over forty thousand individuals, I could be told all kinds of lore. The older folks were especially engaging.

The landscape in this town is so lovely that I did not want to leave. The churches caught my eye because it seemed as if God was holding Winchester in His safe hands. Winchester Cathedral is so huge it boggled my mind! It is supposed to be one of the most monumental chapels in England. It is more beautiful than I can describe in words.

I have a big fascination with castles. I do not know why but, they intrigue me. Well, Winchester Castle is in the town of Winchester. Apparently, it was built several hundred years ago. There is a menagerie inside the Great Hall which carries the history of Winchester.

Flint, which is a type of rock, was used to make the castle. This always catches my attention. I think of the amount of time a man had to put into carving out this construction. It had to be overwhelming to see his finished work! I ponder whether people from every where simply came to see his accomplishment (when he first built it).

This fantastic town of Winchester in the county of Hampshire is a place to behold. I usually do not get attached to places I have visited. But, I have to agree with others who feel the same way I do, this is a definite haven for those who love building structure.

Winchester (in Hampshire county) is certainly a village with welcoming appeal. I will probably go there again, when time permits. If you can, go and see what you are missing. You will be glad you did.


Check here for a wide selection of Winchester hotels.

The Welsh city of Swansea Neath - Port Talbot exists as part of the historic and ancient Welsh Vale of Glamorgan. Also, Swansea more properly refers to the city and the county, with Neath Port Talbot being somewhat of a county borough. At any rate, most modern population estimates -- which add in parts of Swansea -- show that around 270,000 people live in the area.

When it comes to this particular Welsh city, it can be easy to become a bit confused about what constitutes Swansea, Swansea Neath or Swansea Neath-Port Talbot or several other variations that describe the Welsh county, wider urban area and county borough in addition to a unitary authority. What's not difficult to appreciate is that there is much to see and do around the area.

The city itself lies along Wales' southwestern coast along a stretch of fairly sandy coastline. It is also ranks behind Cardiff in Wales in terms of cities with the most population. In the 19th century, the town was known as 'Copperopolis' for the metalworking industries that held sway in the area and which made it a worldwide player in copper at one time.

There is evidence of human settlement in and around the city that can be found in all three of the major historical ages, including the Stone and Iron Ages. Also, the Romans themselves visited the region as well as the Vikings, who actually gave the town its name (Swansea is derived from the Old Norse language). It was once a thriving Viking port, as a matter of fact.

As a port, Swansea dealt greatly in various goods that reflected the eras in which it existed, including wines, wool and -- later -- coal. In the 19th century, the city was world-famous for its copper works although it processed many other metal and metal alloys than just copper itself.

Swansea made sure that it was fully involved in the progress gained during the Industrial Revolution, not only from coal mining but several other heavy industries and the work done around its port. The 20th century hit Swansea hard on several occasions and it was in a period of general decline throughout the entire time, it seems. Nowadays, the city is undergoing an extensive renaissance, though.

Port Talbot -- which is sometimes more properly known as Neath Port Talbot -- has played a close role with Swansea over the centuries. Both are part of the Vale of Glamorgan and though Swansea itself is also classed as a county, Port Talbot probably considers itself closer to Swansea in outlook than it does as its own county. Both are certainly excellent examples of Wales in all of its facets.


For accommodation in Swansea check this list of Swansea hotels.

The West country of England has some beautiful areas for any local or foreign visitor to see. Weston-Super-Mare is one such town on the sea that offers a wonderful collection of attractions for any holidaymaker. In the 19th century the town started to look to attract interest away from the local city of Bristol and used its lovely beach-front to build a budding tourist industry.

This beach is most certainly the most prominent attraction in the area and comes to life throughout the summer months, short as they may be within England. The beach is lined by a wonderful promenade with glorious views over the sea. Typically for an English sea-side resort, there are associated sights and sounds of seagulls calling and fish and chip shops teasing their appealing scent. There are also piers stretching into the water as well as small amusement areas with rides and gift shops for the kids.

The beach is not littered with pebbles as with many beaches in the UK, but by beautiful soft sand, and the weather during the summer can get surprisingly warm for the English climate down in the West, perhaps even warming the water to an acceptable temperature for a good days swimming or surfing. Along the beach also run donkey and train rides, whilst an aquarium offer=s the nature lovers a chance to see some gloriously exotic alternatives to the mundane aquatic species seen in native English waters.

The grand pier that stretches far out into the sea is also one of the more prominent attractions for any tourist in the area. This features an array of fun games and little shops along with a fun-fare and a large pavilion at the end.

Furthermore on the pier there is a playhouse theatre that puts on various productions all year round for its 700 person capacity. For other musical attractions the beach plays host to various concerts during the summer, the primary one being the large concert run by the entertainment channel T4 that brings in musical acts from all over the world for a nationally televised event.

Beyond any glitz and glamour the town also features a number of places of cultural interest. One of the most interesting is the helicopter museum which houses one of the largest collections of helicopters in the world. There are also art galleries and local history museums.

The area is also home to some wonderful treks and walks along the sea front and into the beautiful surrounding countryside. There is therefore something for everyone in this lovely town and area.


Find your next Weston-super-Mare hotel here.

Flying to Tenerife is easy any time of year with wide a selection of low-fare airlines and UK and Ireland airports.

Airports:

Aberdeen Belfast Birmingham Blackpool Bournemouth Bristol Cardiff Cork Doncaster Dublin Durham Tees Edinburgh Exeter Gatwick Glascow Leeds Liverpool Luton Manchester Newcastle Norwich Nottingham Shannon Stansted

Airlines:

British Airways Jet2 Monarch Scheduled Aerlingus Ryanair Thomsonfly Flyglobespan

Flights to Tenerife are very reasonable, currently staring at around-8. The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a popular destination among UK travelers. Tenerife generally has two busy seasons. The first is during the winter when it experiences an influx of older tourists escaping winter's chill. The second extends from May to October, with families and college students on holiday.

The world-famous Tenerife Carnival is held in February in Santa Cruz. Held in the two weeks before Lent, Tenerife Carnival rivals Rio for size and grandeur. The party culminates with a parade and the Burial of the Sardine, in which a huge model sardine is carried through the streets, followed by mourners, and eventually burned.

You will likely find the best deals in the off-season. The climate is fairly constant, so you'll still be able to enjoy the beaches and attractions in less-crowded conditions.

There are two airports on Tenerife. Most traffic comes into Tenerife South Reina Sofia Airport (TFS), which also offers more than 100 connecting flights to additional destinations. Tenerife North handles inter-island flights for island hoppers. You can also take the ferry to explore the other Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands are known as the Islands of Eternal Springtime for a reason. There is little difference between summer and winter temperatures with winter temperatures bottoming out at-C. Summer months are balmy but comfortable. But, as an illustration of this island's contrasts, the average annual temperature at the inland the Teide National Park is only 9C.

As you would expect, Tenerife offers white, sandy beaches and a lively night life. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, visitors find vast natural beauty and splendid landscapes. The snow-capped Mount Teide rises from the center of the island, providing its breathtaking backdrop. In the north, you'll find a variety of wildlife and their habitats, ranging form rugged rocky coves to lush greenery. Farther south, the beaches stretch in the sun - home to resorts like Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos.

Tenerife's capital city, Santa Cruz, offers tax-free shopping for bargain hunters. The Mercado de Nuestra Senora de Africa, an Artistic Historical Monument, has galleries of merchants of all varieties surrounding a central courtyard and clock tower. One of Spain's largest ports, this cosmopolitan city also offers parks and historical theaters.

Cable rides to the top of Mount Tiede, one of the world's largest volcanoes, will offer spectacular views from the highest point in the Atlantic Ocean.

For children of all ages, the Monkey Zoo is a must. Located in Los Cristianos, most of the animal cages are open for visitors to walk into. You can buy food for the animals at the entrance, so you are guaranteed an up-close experience with a variety of animals including ring-tailed lemurs and iguanas.


Susan is the marketing director for the UK's leading Flight comparison portal, which includes detailed information on Flights To Tenerife

Known as the "gateway of Africa", Tangier is believed to be the most dynamic city in Morocco. This mythical city is located 60km from Gibraltar and 14km from Spain. Its strong international mix of European, Moroccan and African culture makes the city a perfect destination to visit. With its beaches, museums and gardens, it is a great place for a getaway.

If you are planning to have your vacation in Tangier, you may want to stay to its unique guesthouses known as riad. A riad may be a traditional Moroccan house or a palace with indoor garden. Staying in a riad enables you to feel and experience its dynamic Moroccan culture.

Riad Dar Sultan is a 300 year old riad that was once the house of a former Sultan. The Sultan lived in Dar El Mahkzen which is now a museum. Located at the center of Tangier's Kasbah District, Riad Dar Sultan is equipped with various ancient ornaments and a spectacular view of the sea and the old district. It has 6 spacious rooms, elegantly designed with the local Moroccan culture. The riad has its lobby, fireplaces and library.

Riad Dar Jameel, known as the "sanctuary of peace and tranquility," is a place where a visitor can experience the twist of a rich past and the beauty and elegancy of the present. Being the most intimate place in Tangier, Riad Dar Jameel allows its guests to enjoy the peacefulness and mysteriousness of the city. The riad's interior and outer design is influenced by both Moroccan and European cultures. The rooms and suites have stucco ceilings, traditional Moroccan couch and a bed with baldachin.

Riad Tanja. Riad Tanja is the first and therefore the oldest guest house in Tangier. This riad offers a high quality and luxurious accommodation. Rian Tanja is purely Moroccan designed with elegant, old pieces of furniture and ornaments, giving its guest the comfort and sleekness of a Tangier riad. It has 6 exquisite, spacious and well furnished double suites. Its terrace has lavishing, expensive flora overhanging the remarkable view of the bay.

Riad Dar Nour, known to its unique beauty has 7 cozy rooms and suites. Each room has its own shower room, air conditioning and heating. Meaning the "house of lights", the riad is further adorned by its collection of carpets, old ceramics and other ornaments from the 15 year period of the Arabs in Tangier. The guesthouse has also its own library with books from various parts of the world.

Riad Dar Nilam is an exquisite place with magnificent works of art which are expressed in every little detail. It is greatly influenced by both the African culture and the east of the Orient. One can appreciate the Riad Dar Nilam's smooth architecture and the awe-inspiring of its garden. There are uniquely polished rooms and suites equipped with own shower room, air conditioning, Internet access, mini bar and satellite TV. If you love to read, you may want to spend time with the riad's reading place and fireplace while admiring the great view of the city. Riad Dar Nilam is also equipped with several places where you can soothe your nerves and unwind in its massage rooms, swimming pools and hamman.


Morocco is a nice, peace and quiet area where you long to relax and soothe yourself; places like tanger riad is the answer. The tanger immobilier that surrounds the area perfectly suits your way of spending a relaxing vacation. You will certainly have no regrets visiting this place.

There is an enormous amount to see and to do when visiting Liverpool. The city was the European capital of culture in 2008 and is shows. From football to festivals and museums to beautiful architecture and fantastic nightlife, Liverpool has it all.

The city has a wonderful maritime history. It is again a wealthy international city, but this is not the first time is has reached that status. At the start of the 19th century, up to 40% of the worlds trade was passing through the cities docklands. This added massively to the influx of wealth there as having one of the busiest ports in the worlds was a great contribution.

The profits made from this were able to be put into building a city worthy of the majesty of the great British Empire that was building at the time. So much beautiful architecture was created that can still be seen today. The city, as a result, is home to he largest collection of listed buildings, even more so than London. Additionally, the city has the greatest collective display of art, specimens and artifact's on display anywhere in the UK. These are all housed within the eight galleries and museums all around the city.

St George's Plateau is the cultural hub of the city and is home to the greatest gallery within it. The Walker gallery has one of the finest collections of art outside of the galleries of London, with art spanning six centuries to explore.

The cobbles of the street run between Anglican Liverpool Cathedral to the Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral. The Liverpool Cathedral is the largest in the UK and the fifth largest in the entire world and sports a massive exterior of red sandstone brick.

In terms of museums, look no further for modern art housed at the Tate Liverpool, sister museum to the Tate Modern in London. Also to find out about a part of our history that is surrounded by controversy pop over to the slavery museum that will help you to discover the darker side of the history of the great trading exploits of the city. For fans of the Beatles, there are different tours that offer people the chance to find out where the fab four kicked off their careers and began to make a name for themselves.

Aside from the cultural side of the city, there are other attractions to enjoy. The nightlife within the city is fantastic and boasts some of the most popular spots in the country. Sport also, and in particular football with the rival factions of Liverpool FC and Everton is hugely popular here. The local football derby's that occur twice yearly between the two teams bring in interest from all over. Moreover, the city has a wonderful range of diverse food outlets to suit all tastes.


For accommodation in Liverpool check this list of Liverpool hotels.

The use of opera glasses is something that is helpful for any performing arts event. You can use these glasses with ease and can see things clearly through them. They are also items that can look impressive. If you are looking for opera glasses you should be taking a few things into consideration.

First you should check out the general physical construction of your glasses. This construction should be one that is very luxurious in appearance. It is something that will need to fit in with your surroundings at a performing arts venue. A wooden panel is a necessity for the casing for your glasses. Brass that is noticeable and cannot scratch with ease should be used as well.

Magnification is something that is important to see in your opera glasses. In most cases you can magnify items to three times their size. Some of the most powerful glasses work at five times magnification levels. Regardless of where you are sitting you can use these glasses for your benefit. This includes when you are very far out of the stage.

A good field of vision is important for you to have with your glasses. A typical pair of glasses can give you a twenty-five millimeter field of vision in terms of its diameter. This diameter size is important for being able to focus on things. This includes being able to see individual things with clarity.

When you are done using your glasses you will need to be sure that they are stored properly. Some of these glasses are ones that can fold up in the center. Whether the glasses fold up or not you should have a convenient storage item for it to be in. Some glasses can work with pouches while others can work with durable cases. This is so that your glasses will be protected.

Finally you should look into the way that you are going to be holding onto your glasses. In most cases your glasses can be held by their sides like with binoculars. In other cases you can hold them with a small handle that is attached to the glasses. Glasses of this type are commonly known as Lorgnette glasses. These options are helpful to see when you are looking for glasses.

Opera glasses are useful materials to use for your vision needs at any performing arts event. These glasses work as materials that are used to help with getting you to see things at performance events. You will need to watch for many things when finding these glasses. These include not only the magnification and vision provided but also how they can be handled.


Jeff B. has always loved the theater and opera, he currently helps run an opera glasses retail site where they sell opera glasses. Including Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!

If you are planning on seeing the comedy play Shear Madness make sure you bring your Opera Glasses. In reviewing this wonderful performance I must first make sure that you are prepared for aching cheeks, and stomach muscles that will be sore for a week. I loved Shear Madness, Never have I laughed so hard in my life!

The play begins in a unisex hair salon; there are many types of people at coming in and out of the salon. We see many stereotypes, we see the dumb blond, homosexual hair dresser (played by John McGivern in the performance I attended.), the police officers, a high class woman, and of course the traditional red hot hunk of a man, which makes John McGivern's character giggle with delight. In this scene we get the first bits of comedy. All of the characters seem to be sharing the most well guarded secrets with the hairdressers; much like as is found in the real world.

This play is ever changing as the topics of interest revolve around current events going on around the city Shear Madness is open in and the United States hot topics. The current events are twisted into a funny light. The characters use a lot of improvisation and sometimes the actors cannot contain their own laughter which only makes you laugh even harder. To make sure you see each actor slip up trying hard not to giggle, bring your Opera glasses.

Unexpectedly during the play one of the actors will speak directly to a person or people in the audience to ask for opinions. You may even find yourself yelling out the answers. You must understand that you answer may vary from your neighbors, which adds an exciting new element to this wonderful performance. I do advise you to be careful if you find yourself in the first two or three rows, as you may become the topic of one of the jokes, remember though this is all in good humor.

The hair salon is really just a front for the real story, for not too far into the play we find that owner of the hair salon has been murdered. The owner lived in an apartment above the salon before she was murdered, and the plot rapidly develops into a murder mystery. As you are in attendance undoubtedly you will find yourself trying to unravel the mystery behind the murder to see if you are the first to discover the true killer. Make sure that you bring your opera glasses along, to ensure that you don't miss a single beat in this thriller.

What makes this comedy play different than any other play is that the guilty murderer is different each time. The characters in the play will talk to the audience and ask them questions. The audience actually votes and chooses who the murderer is. As odd as this may sound, it is really a very clever concept. Some people even see this play more than once and usually see a different ending.

This play is often called the longest running, or second longest running non musical performances. Many critics have given this play wonderful reviews, because of the witty comedy and wonderful performances, which is why of course; this play has been around for so long.

Opera glasses are always a crucial element in attending any performance, but especially this one. If you don't bring your opera glasses, you are sure to miss moments, clues and laughs. Make sure you have a pair in hand before you walk out the door to go.


Before you attend any performance make sure that you have a good pair of opera glasses. Here you can check out Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!

Brilliance is the only work to describe th musical, Wicked. Growing up I remember watching the classical rendition of The Wizard of Oz, which was originally made in 1939. I am sure, that all of you remember it as an integral part of your youth. Wicked, is the story behind the Wizard of Oz, and how the Wicked with of the West, got so wicked.

As I sat attended this performance, my thoughts were continually drawn back to the opera glasses I was using for the performance. The costumes through the glasses were delightful, the singing amazing, the characters entrancing, and stage props amazing. Without opera glasses I am sure that I would have missed out on much of the performance, so to full enjoy the experience when you attend, make sure you remember to bring them.

As you begin the story, you start to learn the origin of The Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda the Good Witch Really was. You will learn about the childhoods' of each of these women, this is a story that is sure to surprise.

In the performance of Wicked you find the story going to many twists and turns. As the play begins we begin to see the childhoods' of both the Good Witch, and Wicked Witch. We see that Elphaba (the Wicked Witch) had a terrible upbringing, you find out that she was born with green skin, for which she was tormented constantly by those around her, you find that she was raised by her father, and had no mother to take care of her. Also you find that Glinda (the Good Witch) was born to a rich family, and as it turns out, was nothing more than a spoiled brat. At the end of the performance you attend, you are sure to be bombarded with opportunities to buy merchandise from the show, of all the things you are sure to be offered, I do recommend purchasing a CD of the music, as you will want to listen to it over and over again.

If you would like to see one of the most popular musicals in years, Wicked is the performance to see, it has won many national and international awards including a Tony! If you don't believe me, simply find a friend or relative who has seen it, and listen to them rave. When you finally go, make sure you bring your opera glasses to make the show as wonderful as possible.

Of the calendar year of 2009, wicked has been hailed as the top production of this year. Many, many records have been set by this wicked musical, and as this is written, Wicked is on its second national tour, remember to buy tickets fast, when Wicked played in our town, tickets went on sale in late December and were sold out within 3 days, despite the fact that the play was not till May! This is a performance that will be around for years to come, as such, do not fret it you are not able to get tickets this time around, there will be many opportunities to come, and as we always always recommend, don't forget the opera glasses.


Jeff Bridges has always loved the theater and opera, he currently helps run an opera glasses retail site where they sell opera glasses. Including Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!

The musical Hairspray is set in June in the year 1962 in Baltimore, Maryland. The main character, Tracy, is an overweight young girl. The young girl dreams of becoming famous. If you do not have front row seats, you will want to bring your opera glasses so as not to miss a heartbeat of this fast-paced musical.

As Tracy is watching television one day, she hears that a popular show is going to sponsor a dance contest. Tracy knows that is is her long dreamed of shot at fame. When her overweight mother finds out about her plans, she discourages the idea for two reasons, one is that she worries that people will make fun of her sweet but overweight daughter, and the other is that she thinks the show plays racist music.

Tracy does make it to the audition with permission from her father, Wilbur. While she is auditioning she meets the popular hunk Link Larkin. Get ready to put on your opera glasses as you will want to catch Tracy's eyes light up just as yours may have back in high school. Tracy daydreams that she and Link Larkin will end up together one day. She sings absolutely beautiful songs about her love sick dream. Tracy is awakened from her sweet dream as she does not make the cut to be on the show due to her weight, just as her mother suspected would happen.

After the audition, Tracy returns to school down trodden, but as luck would have it, her troubles do not end just yet. Tracy is given detention simply due to the fact that her hair is just so big, her big hair causes such a problem, because those that sit behind her in class are not even able to see the chalkboard. For this reason, the musical Hairspray, is named Hairspray.

As Tracy sits in detention feeling sorry for herself she meets a nice black boy named Seaweed, Seaweed is a great dancer, and teaches Tracy some amazing dance moves. A dance party is scheduled for the school, and Tracy decides to attend despite her recent run of very bad luck. This time Tracy's luck is about to change, attending the dance, is the owner of the Corny Collins Show, the show that is to feature the dance contest, as he watches the dancers he notices the moves that Tracy puts on, he falls in love with her dance style, and chooses Tracy to dance on his show. Tracy is ecstatic to find out that at long last she will be on the show! Make sure you are using your opera glasses at this point.

Again after all this Tracy finds more good news, Link Larkin, the love of her life is to sing a romantic song to her on the show! Amber, who is another girl that attends Tracy's school is also in love with Link, finds out, and decides to take her rage out on on Tracy, cruelty ensues, including knocking Tracy out with a volleyball.

More things ensue. Tracy and others are invited to Seaweed's mother's record shop. A party is planned for all to attend. The group goes to Seaweed's mother's record shop as blacks cannot go to The Corny Collins Show since blacks are only allowed on the show once a month on a specific day; that day being Negro Day. Tracy gets into fighting for blacks rights. For these intense acts you will want to wear your opera glasses.

Hairspray is a delight to attend, and a bigger delight to hear, it is no wonder it made such a run on Broadway, Remember to bring your opera glasses to catch every last expression, and the wonderful costumes. This is truly a performance to cherish.


Before you attend any performance make sure that you have a good pair of opera glasses. Here you can check out Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!

Kulula Air, the recently re-branded kulula.com, is a highly popular low-fare domestic air travel provider in South Africa thanks, in part, to its edgy and humorous marketing message.

In business since 2001, Kulula is owned by Conair Limited. It was named the best domestic airline by the Airport Company of South Africa in 2003 and operates a fleet of Boeing 737s with the following routes: Johannesburg to:

Cape Town Durbs George PE Lusaka Harare Windhoek Ndola Cape Town to: Johannesburg Durbs PE Lanseria Durbs to: Johannesburg Cape Town PE George to Johannesburg PE to: Johannesburg Cape Town Durbs Lusaka to Johannesburg Harare to Johannesburg Windhoek to Johannesburg Lanseria to Cape Town Ndola to Johannesburg.

Travelers receive seat assignments at check-in.

They began by offering flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town. Over the next few years, its route map incorporated destinations in Durban and Port Elizabeth while its number of flights in operation increased. International destinations now include, Blomfontein, Windhoek, Harare, Ndlola, Lusaka and Mauritius.

Recently, South African online shoppers bought some 55,000 airline tickets for R27 million as part of Kulula's 'garage sale." Kulula's mega-website (kulula.com is the country's largest online retailer, handling more than R1.6 billion annually) processed up to 150 flight quotes per second during the shopping frenzy's peak hours. Nearly--5,000 visitors viewed more than one million web pages, shopping for travel specials from October 2008 through January 2009.

Even though they takes a laid back approach, the company has a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. It has imposed a 90% on-time take-off rate goal. According to the company's own records, it has not reached that 90% goal, but is making every effort to eliminate "avoidable delays," those which the company has control over. They do often manage an on-time take-off rate in the high 80s.

With an eye toward simplification and living up to its name (Kulula comes from the Zulu word for "easy"), Kulula Air also offers services to hire a car, book a room or cab easily and affordably. It's website offers even more options, as the brand has branched out into other lines such as cell phones and internet access.

In an effort to provide a full travel experience, they offers easy self-booking on its website. Purchases on a its credit card earns "Kulula Moola" which can be redeemed to purchase flights, and they also offers a Jetsetter rewards program for frequent flyers.

They strives to set itself apart from other airlines. It's unlikely you will forget the Kulula flight during which you heard the flight attendant say, "There may be 50 ways to leave your lover, but there are only 4 ways off this airplane." Or, how about your captain saying "Whoa, boy!" as the plane comes in for a landing? Kulula's planes also sport unique paint schemes such as "cow" and "camo." This airline also promotes environmental issues. One reason it changed its fleet to Boeing 737s is that they consume less fuel than their original fleet of MD82s.


Susan is the marketing director for Saflights.co.za. South Arica's leading Flight comparison portal which includes all major airlines including Kulula

You may not want to bring binoculars to catch all the action of a performance on stage so Opera Glasses would be the next best thing. Opera houses built many years ago have balconies that are very far from the stage with cheaper seats. Often times they were such a distance that you could only see figures moving across the stage and forget about seeing faces that is part of the acting processes. Opera glasses would enable those people in the gallery to see much better almost to the point of seeing the facial expressions of the performers. Opera Glasses are not a new item on the market because they have been available since the 50's.

Binoculars and Opera Glasses have several major differences including the fact that opera glasses are smaller and made to be unnoticed or be tucked away where no one could see them until the performance started. Today there are several types that look like a flat case easily carried in a women's bag or in a suit pocket, but touch a button and they pop up. There are some that fold up on each other and hard to notice unless they are fully pulled out and ready to use. Some manufactures make reproductions of older models that have a rod from which to hold them called lorgnettes enabling the view to hold with one hand. This rod folds and practically disappears when not in use.

Opera glasses can be found for purchase today. There are inexpensive ones that cost about $50 to $100 but there are others that can be more expensive. These kind are equipped with better optics and larger magnifications and may be unique in the way they look. You can also get vintage opera glasses that may cost much more merely because they are antique. Always try them out to make sure they are still in working order.

Many opera houses and theaters have opera glasses for rent and the price for renting is generally inexpensive. If you frequent the opera or the theater often it may be better to own a pair, but if you only go every so often renting may be the thing for you. It is also suggested if thinking about purchasing a pair to rent different types to see which will be more favorable to your liking. Some people like the ones better that are on the long rod and employ the use of only one hand better, while others don't mind using both hands. Some people find they don't even like using them at all.

Opera glasses are different in another way from binoculars. The optical system used is much simpler than that used in binoculars. It is known as the Galilean optical system and based on the system that was invented by Galileo. The view is not as sharp with opera glasses as it is with binoculars but it still enables you to see what is happening on the stage.

China is the major producer of opera glasses today. They usually have a 3 X magnification that is good for a concert hall or big auditorium. Some go up to 5 X but they tend to cost more. Some come equipped with a center focus and others don't focus at all. The ones that do not focus usually have a small LED light that is placed between the barrels for the eyes. It helps you to read the program in dim lights without bothering the person in the seat next to you. People with good vision have no problem with these but if you do wear glasses or contacts you might want to look into the focusing type. There is a mechanism for the focus in the focusing opera glasses that takes the place of the light. You can use them with corrective lenses or without.

Cases usually come with new opera glasses and the vintage type will also have them. Soft cases are available as well as the hard type with a velvet lining. Antique glasses can be made of ivory or cloisonne enamel or they may have jewels attached or be decorated with gold or silver. These opera glasses were made to be elegant although you were not supposed to notice them. Either type make a great gift for those who frequent the opera, ballet or theater.


Before you attend any performance make sure that you have a good pair of opera glasses. Here you can check out Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!

Opera glasses was one of the byproducts of a long line of inventions. It started during 1608 with the Dutch optician Hans Lipperhey manufacturing binoculars comprising of two twin telescopes connected by a centerpiece. They had an impressive magnification ability of x3. Not to be left behind the Italian inventor Galileo Galilee within a year dramatically improved the design of telescopes, allowing a magnification of x30.

Initially binoculars had one major drawback: Although they allowed for a much wider field of view, they used two convex lenses, which inverted the image! It took more than 100 years for the next major step forward: in 1617 Anton Schyrle constructed binoculars with an additional lens that re-inverted the image. More than--0 years later a certain John Dollond of England started manufacturing achromatic (color-free) lenses and with that solve another problem bugging binoculars - that of color distortion.

One of the final important developments in binocular technology happened when the Italian gunnery officer Ignazio Porro invented prismatic binoculars, thereby once again increasing the field of vision dramatically and making much larger magnification possible.

Opera glasses are mentioned for the first time in London newspaper advertisements dating back to 1730. These were not binoculars, but small Galilean telescopes. They were both used decoratively and to watch opera with. The bodies were often inlaid with gems, mother of pearl, ivory, enamel and other types of decorations.

Binocular-type opera glasses made their appearance for the first time during the '20s in Vienna. These early types were basically still only two small telescopes with a connecting bridge. The individual telescopes had to be focused by pulling out the tubes.

They proved to be very popular, however, and quickly became items of high fashion. The designs were so elaborate that one often would find both a painter and a goldsmith working on the end product. They were used as much to impress people as to watch opera - not to mention scrutinizing other opera goers to see if their opera glasses were perhaps more fashionable than yours!

Within a few years the design was improved to make it possible to simultaneously adjust both lenses. This led to an immediate increase in the popularity of this type of glasses. They also turned into much appreciated gifts - as is apparent when looking at the inscriptions encountered on many opera glasses dating from that period.

The variety of opera glasses available at present is very large. You still get monoculars, which are considered to be very stylish. You also get glasses with built-in reading lights and others with handles. You can even get one with a built-in jealousy glass - enabling you to discreetly watch someone in the audience without being noticed.!


Jeff B. has always loved the theater and opera, he currently helps run an opera glasses retail site where they sell opera glasses. Including Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!