Top 10 Most Haunted Places

Everyone seems to know of at least one haunted house; as kids there was almost certainly one in our own neighbourhood. This list contains the most famous and most haunted places in the world. If you have had any experiences of a similar nature, feel free to tell us about it in the comments. I should add, before starting, that I am a skeptic; I have written this list for entertainment value.

1. Borley Rectory, Essex, England

The haunting of the Borley Rectory during the 1920s and 1930s, is undoubtedly one of the most famous in Britain, as well as being one of the most controversial. The wealth of sightings and experiences by independent witnesses, suggests that although much of the phenomena can be explained in rational terms, a percentage remains which can still be seen as inexplicable at the present time.

2. The Whaley House, California

Author deTraci Regula relates her experiences with the house: “Over the years, while dining across the street at the Old Town Mexican Cafe, I became accustomed to noticing that the shutters of the second-story windows [of the Whaley House] would sometimes open while we ate dinner, long after the house was closed for the day. On a recent visit, I could feel the energy in several spots in the house, particularly in the courtroom, where I also smelled the faint scent of a cigar, supposedly Whaley’s calling-card. In the hallway, I smelled perfume, initially attributing that to the young woman acting as docent, but some later surreptitious sniffing in her direction as I talked to her about the house revealed her to be scent-free.”

3. Raynham Hall, Norfolk, England

aynham Hall is a country house in Norfolk, England. For 300 years it has been the seat of the Townshend family. The hall gave its name to the area, known as East Raynham, and is reported to be haunted, providing the scene for possibly the most famous ghost photo of all time, the famous Brown Lady descending the staircase. However, the ghost has not been reported since the photo was taken. Its most famous resident was Charles Townshend, 2nd Viscount Townshend (1674-1738), leader in the House of Lords.

4. The Myrtles Plantation, Louisiana

The Myrtles Plantation was built in 1796 by General David Bradford and called Laurel Grove. Touted as “one of America’s most haunted homes”, the plantation is supposedly home of at least 12 ghosts.[9] It is often reported that 10 murders occurred in the house, but historical records only indicate the murder of William Winter. Possibly the most well known of the Myrtles supposed ghosts, Chloe (sometimes Cleo) was reportedly a slave owned by Clark and Sara Woodruff. According to one story, Clark Woodruff had pressured or forced Chloe into being his mistress. Chloe and Clark were caught by Sara Woodruff, and Chloe began to listen at keyholes, trying to learn what would happen to her.

5. Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia

Designed by John Haviland and opened in 1829, Eastern State is considered to be the world’s first true penitentiary. Its revolutionary system of incarceration, dubbed the Pennsylvania System, originated and encouraged solitary confinement as a form of rehabilitation. On June 1st, 2007 a television show called “Most Haunted” went live to the penitentiary. Part of the group went to Al Capones cell. Two people passed out while “investigating” the prison. One member of the team, Yvette, stated that “this is the most evil place I have ever been.” They claimed to have had contact with spirits but there was no hard evidence that their claims were legitimate.

6. The Tower of London, London

Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress The Tower of London, more commonly known as the Tower of London (and historically simply as The Tower), is an historic monument in central London, England on the north bank of the River Thames. Perhaps the most well-known ghostly resident of the Tower is the spirit of Ann Boleyn, one of the wives of Henry VIII, who was also beheaded in the Tower in 1536. Her ghost has been spotted on many occasions, sometimes carrying her head, on Tower Green and in the Tower Chapel Royal.

7. Waverly Hills Sanatorium, Kentucky

Waverly Hills Sanatorium, located in Louisville, Kentucky, opened in 1910 as a two-story hospital to accommodate 40 to 50 tuberculosis patients. It has been popularized on television as being one of the “most haunted” hospitals in the eastern United States, and was seen on ABC/FOX Family Channel’s Scariest Places On Earth as well as VH1′s Celebrity Paranormal Project. It was also seen on the Sci Fi Channel’s Ghost Hunters. Ghost investigators who have ventured into Waverly have reported a host of strange paranormal phenomena, including voices of unknown origin, isolated cold spots and unexplained shadows. Screams have been heard echoing in its now abandoned hallways, and fleeting apparitions have been encountered.

8. The Queen Mary, California

RMS Queen Mary is an ocean liner that sailed the North Atlantic Ocean from 1936 to 1967 for Cunard Line (then Cunard White Star Line). The Queen Mary was purchased by the city of Long Beach, California in 1967 and transformed into a hotel. The most haunted area of the ship is the engine room where a 17-year-old sailor was crushed to death trying to escape a fire. Knocking and banging on the pipes around the door has been heard and recorded by numerous people. In what is now the front desk area of the hotel, visitors have seen the ghost of a “lady in white.” Ghosts of children are said to haunt the ship’s pool.

9. The White House, Washington DC

The home of the presidents of the United States. President Harrison is said to be heard rummaging around in the attic of the White House, looking for who knows what. President Andrew Jackson is thought to haunt his White House bedroom. And the ghost of First Lady Abigail Adams was seen floating through one of the White House hallways, as if carrying something. The most frequently sighted presidential ghost has been that of Abraham Lincoln. Eleanor Roosevelt once stated she believed she felt the presence of Lincoln watching her as she worked in the Lincoln bedroom. Also during the Roosevelt administration, a young clerk claimed to have actually seen the ghost of Lincoln sitting on a bed pulling off his boots.

10. Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle is reputed to be one of the most haunted spots in Scotland. And Edinburgh itself has been called the most haunted city in all of Europe. On various occasions, visitors to the castle have reported a phantom piper, a headless drummer, the spirits of French prisoners from the Seven Years War and colonial prisoners from the American Revolutionary War – even the ghost of a dog wandering in the grounds’ dog cemetery.

Courtesy of listverse.com



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10 Tips for Travelling Solo

Holiday for One

You need not be an intrepid traveller to enjoy taking a vacation solo, nor do you need be part of a group tour to discover all the cool and exciting experiences that this great big planet has to offer. Regardless of gender, anyone can vacation alone and really enjoy it—in fact, sometimes even more so than when being tied to someone else’s agenda. You just need to follow some basic guidelines. So, gather your sense of adventure, and take that solo holiday!

1. Do Your Homework
Thanks to the Internet, it’s never been easier to preview a potential destination. But remember, official tourism websites have an objective to paint only the rosiest of pictures to attract visitors. If you want the real lowdown, a great source of information online is forums like Traveltalkonline. These are the best spots to receive in-depth information from locals about safety and culture, as well as to have your questions and concerns answered in an unbiased manner.

2. Stay Connected
Look for warnings about destinations you are about to visit by checking with the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada website. At this site, you can also officially register that you are travelling abroad so the government can contact you should alerts escalate or if a crisis arises at home. You should also research reliable hotspots like Internet cafés close to areas you will be staying to ensure you can regularly connect with loved ones about your whereabouts and ongoing itinerary.

3. Pack Smart
When travelling solo make sure all of your essentials are in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost. That means a complete change of clothes for hot, cold, and wet weather, walking shoes, medication, and all of your identification and important technology. Split up your cash and credit cards into different spots so if you lose one set you still have another. Dress for comfort and always have some emergency cash stashed on you.

4. Be Aware
Personal safety and protection of your valuables can be a big concern but needn’t be such a fear that you become paranoid. Don’t dress like an obvious “tourist” (fanny packs, cameras swinging, and home country flag patches) and don’t flash money, expensive technology or wear pricey jewellery. Be aware of your surroundings and stick to main roads and well-lit areas when possible, but walk with confidence and purpose if you end up in unsavoury locations.

5. Be Creative
It’s prudent not to let strangers know you are alone. Little white lies are perfectly acceptable such as letting people think you’re waiting to meet someone until you’re sure they are trustworthy. You can also be creative in finding spots to stash stuff like hotel keys and cash when you must leave them unattended like when swimming at a pool or beach. Travel gadgets designed for this purpose are easily obtainable.

6. Befriend Professionals
Discover secret spots by getting to know local service people such as store clerks, hotel staff, security guards, taxi drivers, and servers. Tip generously to make a lasting impression. Travel writer Marcia Frost, owner of WineAndSpiritsTravel.com says, “When I travel alone, I always eat at the hotel’s bar. Bartenders have the inside scoop on things to do, and you never really feel like you are dining solo when you have someone to talk to!

7. Meet People
Vacationing alone is a great way to enjoy doing your own thing without restrictions, but eventually you might get lonely. A good way to meet people is to be a real “tourist” and join a group tour outing. Or seek out like-minded groups of locals that share a hobby you enjoy and attend one of their functions or go to a local church service of your faith. Having something in common is a wonderful ice-breaker.

8. Be Adventurous
Try things that really push you outside of your comfort zone, after all, you’re on an adventure! It doesn’t have to be something extreme like bungee jumping or dangerous like hand-feeding sharks. It could be as tame as singing karaoke at a local bar or taking a windsurfing lesson, as long as it’s something you’d never consider doing at home. You might be surprised to discover what you’re capable of when no one is watching.

9. Be a Good Samaritan
No matter where in the world you go, helping hands are always needed. Whether it be opening a door, aiding the elderly, taking someone’s picture, or even going so far as volunteering at a soup kitchen, walking dogs at a local shelter or participating in a beach clean-up. Even the smallest kindnesses are appreciated and often lead to new friendships as well. So always be on the lookout for where you can help.

10. Avoid Unrealistic Expectations
If you’re not comfortable doing things on your own at home, then vacationing solo might not be for you. If you’re not sure, then you might first try being part of a group tour or cruise to see if you like it. Once you’ve tackled vacationing solo successfully, you’re sure to feel a renewed sense of confidence and pride you would never have had experienced had you not done it alone. Go for it!

And of course, have fun!

Written by Susan Campbell for readersdigest.ca



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Island Vacations

Two people enjoying the natural beauty that is Saint Lucia

Charles Airport for a coastline near Castries.

Island Activities

Saint Lucia Island cannot disappoint you. This island is known as a haven for fun lovers. Activities you can indulge in really are a legion.

Deep Ocean Fishing. This island is home to some of the best deep sea fishing anywhere. For big gameplay fishing enthusiasts Saint Lucia is usually a dream. King Mackerel, barracuda, kingfish, sailfish, and the popular white marlin are many of the species that can be your prized catch.

Yachting. You may earn yachting an wonderful experience in Saint Lucia. Charter yachts along with small sail watercraft at Rodney Fresh Marina and Marigot Fresh and navigate in the crystal clear waters. You have Caribbean Sea using one side and Atlantic Ocean around the other. No wonder thisserves in the form of hub to probably the greatest yachting experiences worldwide.

Trekking In Rainforests. Full interiors of St . Lucia, almost 1800 little feet above sea levels are home to help you nearly 19000 acres of rain natrual enviroment having 29 a long way of exciting paths. Indulge yourself at a tropical atmosphere you'll love. You could sight elusive parrots' squawking in between lovely orchids, be able to see hummingbirds near heliconia and wonder for the tall trees peculiar to this fact tropical island.

Experiencing Any Volcano. .
Planning the most suitable island getaway needs time and researching. Choosing what time of the yr to getaway is a whole lot a lot easier than exploring for the appropriate location. What are the most brain-blowing island vacations for your pleasure and delight?

Puerto Rico's Paradise

The scorching sun and warm waters of Puerto Rico will increase any vacationer's encounter. Tropical wildlife and tantalizing native dishes are popular attractions. The climate is in close proximity to great all 12 months round and paradise beckons with the lure of palm trees and tropical landscapes.

Abundant in history and tradition this providence of the U.S. provides accurate adventure. Actions incorporate snorkeling, exotic bird observing, festivals, and shopping along the waterfront vendors. Take pleasure in miles of sandy white seashores with the family members or with your vital other.

Make your accommodations at 1 of these amazing resorts, the Hotel El Convento and the Rio Mar Seashore Resort.

1. Hotel El Convento delivers room price ranges around $325-500. Facilities feature:

24-hour visitor expert services

Seaside club

Home business center

Fitness center

Four decadent eating places that serve Italian and Spanish cuisine

Library with The web

Masseuses

Pool and Jacuzzi

Will provide a friends and family atmosphere

Restored colonial Spanish and previous planet design

Place company

Little and personal

Elegant marble bathrooms

Views of both the city and bay

two. Rio Mar Seashore Resort is sizeable with above 670 spacious guestrooms and suites. Fees differ with luxury accommodations. Facilities include things like:

24-hour in-home dining providers

Avis rental car or truck solutions on premises

Home business Middle

Casino

Concierge

Furnished balconies

Golfing course

Hotel shuttle

Internet support

Luxurious marbled baths

On-internet site laundry and dry cleaning solutions

Scuba diving coaching

Spa

Tennis court

Valet parking

Bahamas

The Bahamas has consistently been a destination of entertaining and exhilaration. A culture of that loves the sun and festivals, this is a awesome put to unwind and devote your holiday time.

The Author owns and operates several internet sites for Island Vacations

Island Vacations, Island Vacations

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The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Canada

Intensity and pervasiveness of autumn color tends to be best in the eastern parts of Canada; so, although, the western provinces have something to offer, if the sole purpose of your visit is to see fall foliage, Ontario, Quebec or the Maritime provinces are probably your best bet.

Here are 10 of the best spots in Canada to take in the changing colors of autumn leaves, starting in the west of Canada and moving east.


1. The Rocky Mountains, Alberta

In September and October, the days are warmish and dry in Alberta's Rocky Mountains. The summer crowds have gone home, so you can actually find some solitude as you drink in the reds and yellows of the sub-alpine larch and aspen trees.

Try accessible spots like Johnston’s Canyon and Tunnel Mountain near Banff or hike up to Lake Agnes from Lake Louise. For more viewing spots, consult The Alberta Fall Colour Report. Also check out locations from Brokeback Mountain, which offer stunning vistas.

2. Algonquin Park, Ontario

The size, beauty and proximity to Toronto of this 7,725 square kilometre park make it one of the most popular parks in Ontario. The forests, lakes, and rivers that comprise Algonquin Park can only be explored by foot or canoe.

The maple trees are at their best at the end of September or early October. The aspens, tamaracks and red oaks reach their peak in the middle or end of October. Consult the Algonquin Fall Color Report for fall colour activity and specific viewing spots.


3. Agawa Canyon Trip, Ontario

The Algoma Central Railroad/Railway's Agawa Canyon trip, which runs north from Sault Ste Marie in northern Ontario, is another excellent way to see the colours at the end of September / beginning of October. Consult the Weather Network's Fall Colour Report for more information on fall foliage in Ontario.

4. Fall Foliage Romance by Rail, Toronto - Montreal - Quebec City - Halifax

There is nothing more spectacular or romantic than the dramatic changes autumn brings to the forests of Eastern Canada. Via Rail's special 6-night Fall Foliage vacation features some of Canada's most dramatic and interesting cities like Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, and Halifax.

5. Niagara Parkway, Ontario

The historic Niagara Parkway, or “River Road,” is the route that Winston Churchill called "the prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world," and follows the winding curves of the Niagara River, which divides Canada and the US. The loveliest stretch in autumn is between the small towns of Queenston and Niagara-on-the-Lake and reaches its pinnacle of color in early October. Finish your day by tilting back a glass of Niagara Wine.

6. The Bruce Peninsula, Ontario

The Bruce Peninsula features one of the best portions of the Bruce Trail - an 800 km (almost 500 mile) hiking trail - that features splendid Ontario flora, fauna and water vistas. Some of the trees are more than 1000 years old and in the autumn, especially the end of September to beginning of October, the colors are something to behold.

Check the Ontario Parks Fall Color Report for autumn color activity and great viewing spot suggestions.

7. The Laurentian Mountains, Quebec

Québec is famous for its autumn colours because of the sugar maple trees. Also prevalant are the provincial yellow birch and the American beech. Try the Laurentian Mountains for one of the most beautiful displays of fall foliage in North America. Colours begin their peak at the end of September and continue until mid- to late-October in lower elevations and more southern locations. Celebrate the season by visiting resort town Mont-Tremblant for its annual Symphony of Colours festival.

8. Prince Edward Island

PEI forests have an exceptional range of colours in autumn. The warm waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait give PEI a relatively moderate climate and help create one of the longest fall foliage periods in northeastern North America. In addition, PEI's forests are bear-free and there are no deer or moose, ensuring a safe, hunter-free environment. Consult the PEI Fall Foliage Website for details.

9. The Cabot Trail, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Hailed as one of the world's most beautiful drives, the Cabot Trail winds around Cape Breton's northern shore and rewards fall color seekers in a spectacular way. Fiery reds, oranges, crimsons and golds blanket the highlands and reach their peak the first or second week of October. Try visiting Cape Breton Highlands National Park or Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site. Consult the Nova Scotia Fall Foliage Report for detailed autumn color activity.


10. Fundy Coastal Drive, New Brunswick

Like the Cabot Trail, the Fundy Coastal Drive is another outstanding maritime journey. See some of the highest tides in the world and enjoy the vivacious reds and deep pumpkin oranges, which are at their best the first two weeks of October during Canada’s Thanksgiving Weekend. Tree variety and colors are similar to New England's, yet crowds are minimal in New Brunswick by comparison. See a map of New Brunswick. Find out more about New Brunswick in the fall.

Article courtesy of gocanada.about.com



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