The Concept Car: 5 Futuristic Sports Cars

The Concept Car: 5 Futuristic Sports Cars

Every December and January, auto exhibitions open up across North America. For the average man, these shows are met with excitement not for the new Ford minivans or Dodge pickups set for release, but for the latest innovations in auto-making.

These come in the way of concept cars: futuristic vehicles that highlight what car companies can create when not held back by any restrictions.
Either way, a concept cars can be a lot of fun to look at so without further ado, here are five of the most recent and interesting sports concept cars.

1- Ford Cobra

The same group of engineers and designers that created the Ford GT was assigned to a fun experiment, dictated by executives at the American company: come up with an edgy concept roadster, with both modern and retro touches.Ford Cobra to the world at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, in January 2004.

The Cobra concept car boasts both the sleek exterior and muscle under the hood that one would expect from Ford. The engine is a 6.4-litre V10 and, most impressively, is able to produce 605 horsepower and 501 pound-feet of torque. Unlike other concept cars, which are mostly attractive shells that can barely be driven off the lot, the two-seater Cobra is already capable of reaching 100 mph. Controlling this power is a six-speed manual transmission topped by a cool billet shifter.

Despite all this power, however, it's the body that's getting all the attention. The rounded headlights and hood, and short rear harkens back to Ford's old days, while the silver paint job and chrome rims represent a modern look. Designers did not only focus on the Cobra's outside, either. The interior features carbon-fiber sports seats, a clean, simple console and a Formula One-inspired steering wheel.

Ford is hoping the Cobra concept car will attract both nostalgic drivers who enjoyed the old GT models and new, young professionals looking for Dodge Viper-like performance and a new look. If the demand is there, it is reported that Ford will actually mass-produce the Cobra and put it in showrooms in the next five years.

Distinguishing Feature: The Cobra has no rearview mirrors; instead the driver uses small cameras mounted in the interior and a display screen on the interior mirror to check blind spots. This proves to be a very convenient and interesting change.

2- Chrysler ME Four-Twelve Prototype

More typically Lamborghini than Chrysler, the ME Four-Twelve is anything but conventional. With the news that close competitor Ford was releasing a revamped GT (the Cobra) at the NAIAS, DaimlerChrysler could not resist coming up with a concept car of its own. In many ways, the ME Four-Twelve trumps the Cobra and is a true supercar.

Check out the following specs for proof. The engine, a 6.0-liter 12-cylinder linked with 4 turbochargers, is a true monster, generating 850 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque. Chrysler boasts that the ME can go can go a quarter-mile in 10.6 seconds at a speed of 142 mph. Finally, the top speed of this aerodynamic brute is reported to be a mere 248 mph.

To control the ME, and its 20-inch rear wheels, Chrysler installed a seven-speed transmission and impressive Formula One shifting paddles on the steering wheel to change the gears. With all the speed this car is capable of, Chrysler has also insured safety. The body is built with carbon fibers and aluminum -- materials that protect well in accidents. And the suspension is double wishbone, like many of today's minivans.

Of course, none of these interesting facts would matter if the ME did not have a heart-stopping design. The car has a low, flat exterior, cool rear spoiler and crazy headlights. The intakes on the sides are nothing to sneeze at either. On the inside, the bright dials, rounded vents and high-quality upholstery make the ME quite luxurious.

Finally, I bring you great news. DaimlerChrysler has announced that the ME Four-Twelve is a true prototype , meaning the company plans to produce this road-worthy concept car as early as the summer of 2004.

Distinguishing Feature: The incredible ME can go from 0 to 60 mph in an infinitesimal 2.9 seconds.

3- Saturn Curve

Also released at the NAIAS, the Saturn Curve was a surprise to the thousands of people who patrolled the exhibition. Saturn is known (for the most part) as a family-friendly automaker that takes great pride in its safe, reliable cars and close relationships with customers. Thus, the Curve is a strong deviation from Saturn's roots but is in no way a chump car.

Naturally, you'll first notice this sports coupe's bold look. The two-seat cockpit is set toward the rear of the car, making for a stubby rear (a cool feature on cars but not on women) and longer front. The front fenders and rounded lines make the Curve look somewhat like a dog's muzzle and the small windows, front grille and sharp headlights add to this mean, powerful look.

Beneath the Curve's sculptured hood you'll find a 2.2-liter GM Ecotec four-cylinder engine, supercharged to meet the demands of a sports car driver. This set up is capable of producing 230 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque if you control the five-speed manual transmission properly.

Though the Curve shares the same patented Kappa platform as the Pontiac Solstice and Chevrolet Nomad (both concept cars as well), it has none of the same retro stylings of these two. Instead, Saturn pushes the envelope with its futuristic exterior and focus on handling: the 20-inch wheels and rear-wheel drive make for a curb-hugging, sporty ride.

Distinguishing Feature: The wood panel interior, which creates the illusion that the center console and door panels are floating in the car.

4- Audi Le Mans Quattro

Wishing to translate the years of success they have had on the rally car racing circuit to the highway, Audi came up with a concept car based on their successful R8, three-time winner of the Le Mans 24-hour race. The result is the very sexy Le Mans Quattro, first shown to the public at the 2003 Frankfurt Auto Show.

You'll notice that Audi's concept looks like a cross between a Porsche 911 Carrera and an Audi TT -- not a bad combination. The vent-like grilles adorning both the front and back are certainly unique additions, while the rear spoiler is both functional, claims Audi, and aesthetic.

When it comes to appearance, though, the award for creativity goes to the headlights and rear brake lights, which are made up of a matrix of LEDs (light-emitting diodes) and provide a very cool visual effect as well as pin-point illumination for night-driving. In a final flash of brilliance, the Audi designers added a tone-on-tone panel on both sides of the concept car, behind the doors. This eye-catcher means no one will forget what the Le Mans Quattro looks like.

Like a woman, a car is not all about looks, right? Under the hood of the Le Mans Quattro is a twin turbocharged 5.0-liter V10 engine, which can generate 610 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Drivers dictate the power with a six-speed transmission with sequential shifting.

Due to the presence of an electro-hydraulic system, you can take off in this baby without the use of a clutch and go from standstill to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Even with this speed, you'll be able to handle the car easily thanks to Audi's four wheel-drive system, indicated by the "Quattro" in the name.

Distinguishing Feature: The driver-centric interior design, which includes a digital display, so that drivers can switch from oil-temperature information to a speedometer reading or GPS-aided map.

5- Honda Sports Concept (HSC)

The slow sales and rising cost of the Acura NSX prompted Honda, of which Acura is a part, to come up with a revamped, high-end sports car as a potential replacement. At the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show, the Japanese automaker released its Honda Sports Concept (HSC); a concept car that sports car-lovers should hope reaches dealerships in the near future.

The HSC is not your average sports car. First, take a look at the exotic exterior. At first glance, most would label the car a Ferrari or other rich import because of its sharp lines, low skirt, oversized vents and circular lights. Finally, the nearly seamless bodywork and reflective aluminum paneling make the HSC look more like a spaceship than sports car.

Those impressed enough with the HSC's look to glance at its engine capabilities will be slightly disappointed, unfortunately. With a 3.5 liter, 24-valve V6 engine, this Honda is only able to generate around 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque.

These numbers are substandard compared with other exotic models in the HSC's class, but the drive is still fun thanks to a paddle-shifting six-speed transmission located on the steering wheel.

Distinguishing Feature: The HSC's aggressive body design, which proves that love between a man and a car is possible.

cars of the future

Thanks to incredible designs and technological innovations, these concept cars make us long for time to move faster. With the proper interest, investment and, alas, alterations to these near-perfect cars, they might actually make it to the market someday. Let's hope they do.

Best 5 cellphone

Best 5 cellphone

Apple iPhone 3G

Just over a year after Apple birthed the first iPhone, the long-awaited, next-generation iPhone 3G has arrived bearing a mildly tweaked design and a load of new features. With access to a faster 3G wireless network, Microsoft exchange server e-mail, and support for a staggering array of third-party software from the iPhone Apps store, the new handset is the iPhone we've been waiting for. It still lacks some basic features but when compared with what the original model was year ago, this device sets a new benchmark for the cell phone world.

Price: anounced about 199$

LG Decoy (Verizon Wireless)

The LG Decoy is the first ever cell phone to have a built-in stowaway Bluetooth headset. It's conveniently docked in the back, and you can pop out the headset when you need it, and just snap it back in when you don't. As gimmicky as it may seem, we absolutely love this idea of having two devices in one. With a megapixel camera, EV-DO, a music player, Bluetooth, and more, the LG Decoy is an excellent phone on its own, but the addition of a built-in Bluetooth headset puts it over the top.

Price: $179.99 - $179.99 (check prices)

RIM BlackBerry Curve 8320 - pale gold (T-Mobile)

T-Mobile's Curve has the same sleek design as the original Curve, but it offers a more spacious and easy-to-use keyboard. You also get a 2-megapixel camera, which will endear the 8320 to a wider audience, and we're thinking it'll be a hit. The Curve offers solid performance, a great design, excellent messaging features, and the addition of Wi-Fi is icing on the cake.

Price: $499.99 - $499.99 (check prices)

Nokia N95 - brown/silver (North American Edition, Unlocked)

When it comes to cool Nokia phones, the United States often is left out in the cold while our friends in Europe and Asia get all the goods. Well, it seems Nokia has heard our cries; the company has started selling more of its best handsets in North America. One model in particular has attracted a lot of attention, and that would be the Nokia N95. The demand for this smartphone has been so great that Nokia decided to release a North American Edition of the Nokia N95. For the most part, it's very similar to the original version, but there are some major additions that make it a better buy, namely 3G support, more memory, longer battery life, and faster performance.

Price: $449.99 - $481.00 (check prices)

Samsung Instinct

Though the Instinct and the iPhone look about the same, there are some important feature distinctions. The Instinct offers its own brand of visual voice mail and it bests the first incarnation of the iPhone by offering 3G network compatibility, integrated GPS, and work e-mail support, just to name a few. The new iPhone 3G will be more evenly matched, but even the Instinct gets points for its multimedia messaging, voice dialing and video recording. In the important areas of usability and performance, however, the Instinct struggled on a few fronts. The Web browser wasn't quite as easy to use as we had hoped, the camera lacked editing features, and the Instinct's call and video quality were variable. However, even with those caveats, the Instinct remains a powerful, innovative cell phone with a loaded feature set and an appealing design.

Price: $129.99 - $129.99 (check prices)

5 careers: Big demand, big pay

5 Sectors: Big demand, too-few workers

Best Jobs in America

Though the government's employment report for April released Friday showed a lower-than-expected gain of 88,000 jobs, the unemployment rate only ticked up to 4.5 percent, which is still low. In March, unemployment was 4.4 percent, matching a five-year low hit in October.

The United States is expected to create 1.6 million jobs this year, according to Moody's Economy.com. And the Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting that by 2010, there will be 10 million more jobs than skilled workers to fill them.

According to employment services firm Manpower, 41 percent of U.S. employers are having difficulty filling positions because of a lack of available talent.

So far this year, retailers, health care providers, educational services, accounting firms and leisure and hospitality companies have been among the industries consistently boosting their payrolls

Here's a look behind what's fueling demand in some of the hottest sectors:

Hospitality

A hotel building boom and strong volume from both business and leisure travelers is boosting hiring in the hotel industry. Hotels posted their highest occupancy rate in a decade last year, according to Smith Travel Research.

Construction activity is soaring, with the number of new hotel project starts up 64.2 percent last year from 2005, according to data from PriceWaterhouseCoopers.

"Hotels are busier with more guests and new hotels are being built to meet the increased demand," said Bjorn Hanson, hotel industry consultant at PriceWaterhouseCoopers.

The government reported that leisure and hospitality firms added 22,000 jobs in April, with lodging and food services firms accounting for the majority of the gains. Hanson says hotels are experiencing challenges in hiring at all levels. "They need general mangers and directors of sales and marketing, as well as hourly workers," he said.

Retail

For the second year in a row, sales representatives topped the list of hardest-to-fill jobs, according to a Manpower Talent Shortage survey of 37,000 employers released in March.

Many of those sales rep jobs are in retail. But not all jobs are lower paying hourly or part-time gigs. Positions such as assistant store manager average $39,100 a year and retail buyers average $47,900, according to Payscale.com. Though overall retail trade jobs were down 26,000 in April, according to the government report, clothing, furniture, electronics and sporting goods stores all added jobs.

Education

Teachers showed up as No. 2 on the Manpower Talent shortage survey. There's a huge demand for teachers, particularly in science and math, as public school teachers who entered the profession in the 1960s and 1970s retire and the new-teacher dropout rate hovers near 50 percent.

Alternative certification programs are helping to speed up the process of becoming a teacher but the supply isn't keeping up with demand. Salary.com projects a 14 percent growth in teaching jobs over the next 10 years.

Health Care

The graying of America and long life expectancies continue to spur growth in the healthcare sector. More than 37,000 healthcare jobs were added to the economy in April, according to the government. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is also projecting that demand for jobs in healthcare - from nurses and therapists to researchers and lab technicians - will be above average for all occupations through 2014.

About 3 out of every 10 new jobs created in the U.S. economy will be in either healthcare and social assistance or private educational services, according to the BLS.

Accounting

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 continues to boost the need for auditors and compliance experts to help companies with regulatory compliance and accounting transparency.

The growth in auditors and compliance experts has reduced the supply of experienced staff accountants and financial analysts who earn an average of $75,000 a year. In April, the government reported that 2,100 accounting and book keeping jobs were added to U.S. payrolls

Top five tourist attractions in the UK

Top five tourist attractions in the UK

It may not have the sunshine of Europe but Britain is chock full of world class tourist attractions, ranging from theme-parks, theatres, castles and monuments to just simple scenery.

The array can be quite bewildering, but luckily travelbite.co.uk is on-hand to help you choose how to spend a weekend, collecting the top tourist destinations for your travelling pleasure.

travel bite’s top five tourist attractions in the UK

The Eden Project, Cornwall

Initially designed to regenerate a post-industrial area of the British countryside, the Eden Project has grown to become the world's premier monument to ecology. Nestled in the heartlands of Cornwall its domes emulate specific natural environments and contain an incredible array of flora and fauna.

In this environment the project examines man's relationship with nature, and our dependence upon it for shelter, food and energy. Through examining this relationship the Eden project hopes to educate future generations about the major environmental issues of the day in a humorous, engaging way.

It is one of the best tourist attractions in the country and well worth a visit. Prices for entry range from £5 for children, £7 for students and £15 for adults, with discounts for advanced group bookings.

The Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye is the furthest north and largest of the Inner Hebrides islands and boasts breathtaking scenery along its coasts, including beautiful cliffs, caves and beaches.

And while its natural beauty has made it a tourist hotspot, visitors are also drawn by the array of wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles and the otter, which inhabit the island.

Local heritage is also examined through a variety of visitors' centres and castles,allowing tourists to get a sense of the tumultuous history of the Scottish highlands.

It is possible for tourists to reach the island from land, sea and air,with flights direct from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen.

Shakespeare's Globe, London

Before it burnt down in 1613 the original Globe was able to house 3,000 Elizabethan visitors, all of whom came to watch works by England's greatest writer, William Shakespeare.

Rebuilt to mirror the original the stage at the new Globe is open to the sky, projecting into three tiers of seating and a large area of stalls. And since reopening in 1997 the venue has become one most visited tourist destinations in London.

There are 700 tickets priced at £5 for every performance, making it accessible to all, and they can be bought at the Globe website.

Holkham Bay, Norfolk

Holkham is a picturesque nature reserve reaching to the shores of Norfolk, featuring a mix of sand dunes, grassy marshes, creeks and pinewoods.

The bay is situated at the edge of the reserve and stretches for several miles across the north coast of Norfolk. Its sandy beaches offer an exquisite chance to escape the bustle of the world and are so photogenic they were used as a backdrop in a number of films, including Shakespeare in Love.

The Backs, Cambridge

One of the most scenic areas of historic Cambridge is the Backs, where the colleges back onto the river Cam. The area captures both the natural beauty of the river and the timeless charm of the beautiful university buildings.

The ground along the banks of the river were formerly used
for growing fruit or grazing livestock but are now well maintained
and manicured to create a delightful environment.

The river flows under the nearby King's College Bridge which is also an ideal spot for punting.

Top 10: European Villas

Top 10: European Villas

Nothing says peace and luxury like a sweet European villa. These independently owned properties are located in the beautiful countryside and offer a number of lavish amenities. To spend a vacation at one of these spots is to experience "the good life" to the fullest -- imagine waking up in countries like Italy, France or Spain with a sprawling house at your disposal. Well, this is what you get when you stay at one of these top 10 villas.

Number 10

Tursac - Perigord, France

Tursac is managed like a hotel, but offers the privacy and amenities visitors have come to expect from a villa. Furnished with ornate antiques and decorated to the nines, it is truly a place to indulge in all sorts of delight. You can smoke a cigar and play snooker in the billiard room, swim in the heated pool or catch some rays on the terrace. A hammam (Arabic steam bath) also gives people the chance to relax on a whim.

Housing 13 people, Tursac's best feature is its spacious living room, where guests sink into comfortable couches with a book and a glass of wine. There are babysitting services available as well, for fathers who need a little time alone with their wives.

Must-do: Instead of going to town to dine, take advantage of a gourmet delivery service and have any of the local restaurants bring their French cuisine to your room.

Number 9

Sa Punta de S'Aguila - Mallorca, Spain

For a unique blend of modern day comforts and traditional Spanish touches, Sa Punta de S'Aguila has most other villas trumped. This establishment belongs to Virgin's Limited Edition vacation properties and sits right on Richard Branson's own estate. It boasts stonewalls, decorative wood beams and an excellent view of the sea.

In addition to a maid, cooking service and 50-foot pool, guests have full use of the neighboring La Residencia hotel. This means, that on a whim, you can visit the bar, restaurant, spa, and tennis courts. In all, this villa can accommodate 10 comfortably, with room to spare so that all can sit back on a number of terraces.

Must-do: Snorkel in a secluded cove five minutes from the villa.

Number 8

Chalet Fulsyl - Evolene, Switzerland

A perfect ski lodge, the Chalet Fulsyl keeps you warm and comfortable amid the snowy Swiss Alps. The country decor (fireplace and all) and wood furniture reflect typical Alpine hospitality, while the three bedrooms, living room area and kitchen all offer great views of the mountains as well.

With room for six, the Chalet Fulsyl provides a great launching pad for lots of Swiss adventure. Even those not into outdoor activities will enjoy their time here, as a satellite TV hookup and great local food means you can "veg out" as long as you want.

Must-do: Check out Evolene's two natural ice rinks and miles of cross-country and downhill skiing, only minutes away from the villa.

Number 7

Torres Do Colegio - The Algarve, Portugal

Want to live like a movie star in the beautiful surroundings of Portugal's Algarve? Look no further than Torres Do Colegio, which is as much mansion as it is villa. Designed like an English country house, guests will be blown away by Torres' immaculate interior design. Even the wing where the full-time chef, maintenance staff and two nannies live seems fit for a king.

Aside from being waited on hand and foot, visitors appreciate the gated swimming pool, croquet lawn (for the dignified athletes), tennis court, and most of all, nearby golf course. In all, this mansion can hold you and 11 of your friends very comfortably. Family men will also appreciate this place, as it features a playroom for the kids, and even a resident cat to keep the tikes busy.

Must-do: Sit back and relax on the huge arched patio, yet another great feature of this house.

Number 6

The Hidden Cottage - Alonissos, Greece

For a romantic getaway that offers seclusion, this small villa on the beach in Alonissos is your best bet. Imagine you, your favorite woman, sand and sun, and nothing else but sheer bliss. What the Hidden Cottage lacks in modern amenities (forget about a bar or spa room), it makes up for in simple elegance. The cottage is actually a stone building replete with Greek influences, giving it a warm atmosphere.

The Hidden Cottage, which accommodates just two guests and is ideal for honeymoons, is only five minutes away from a private cove. With no neighbors nearby, this may be the perfect opportunity to skinny-dip with your new wife.

Must-do: Take advantage of the free car to cruise up and down the beach and look for the best spot.

Number 5

Bubaqra Tower - Zurrieq, Malta

The island nation of Malta boasts more than a great collection of ancient architecture and medieval lore. It is here that you can find one of the most eye-catching villas in Europe. Originally built for the Knights of Malta, the Bubaqra Tower is a looming castle that combines mystical allure with a pampered lifestyle. And the fact that it once served as a brothel always intrigues would-be travelers.

Three floors house enough bedrooms (nine, to be exact) to sleep 14 people, and there are balconies and a rooftop gazing point where guests can enjoy the scenic Maltese landscape. Walk down the stone spiral staircases and out of the limestone castle, and you'll be led into five acres of gardens that even guys will appreciate. This land holds a Roman swimming pool and Moorish common area, perfect for relaxing on a hot day.

Must-see: The nearby beaches, just outside of Zurrieq. It is here that you'll find Maltese hotties who would love to see if you really are king of the castle.

Number 4

Villa Seccarille - Anghiari, Italy

Built in the 16th century, Villa Seccarille has been recently renovated to serve guests in only the most luxurious fashion. Still, it maintains a special Tuscan feel, reflected in its farmhouse-like exterior and classically designed rooms. As the villa sits on the slopes of the Apennine Mountains, visitors get an amazing view of the countryside, whether they're in the large pool or relaxing on the bedroom balconies.

The five-bedroom manor is designed to accommodate up to eight people but, with a full bar, sound system and built-in barbecue area, you might consider holding a party here. Also worthy of mention are the private tennis and basketball courts, as well as the table tennis facility.

Must-do: Stroll through the 57 hectares of land that Villa Seccarille sits upon; the gardens are really impressive and there are several private areas perfectly set up for some "romping."

Number 3

Laird - Stirling, Scotland

This expansive manor set in the glens of central Scotland may set you back a few thousand bucks, but the memories will last a lifetime. At Laird, you'll soon realize that a life of luxury awaits, as the house is truly fit for a king. The five sprawling bedrooms, entrance hall and dining room all reflect this regal air.

The 9,000-square-foot home boasts a drawing room with full bar, a bathroom in each bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and more living room space than you can shake a Scottish stick at. The surrounding grounds, which cover 1,000 acres, feature all sorts of outdoor sporting possibilities -- just don't get lost.

Must-do: A trip to the battle sites and historic castles in the area, followed by an afternoon of golf on one of 30 courses.

Number 2

Villa Floriana - Hvar, Croatia

You'll find this amazing Croatian villa on the island of Hvar, just off the Dalmatian coast. With the Adriatic Sea and a wildlife reserve as a backdrop, Floriana rivals any other villa on this list in terms of setting. What's more, the absolute pampering that you will receive here is unequaled: a chef, maid, gamekeeper, handyman, and resident manager are all at your beck and call.

The house itself is quite large, with four bedrooms capable of holding eight people. A large outdoor terrace can accommodate a dinner party of up to 40 people, and as an added bonus, the beach is less than a mile away. When you want to get out of the house, a jeep and driver are at your disposal.

Must-do: Take advantage of the private jetty and resident boat and go scuba diving, fishing and water-skiing.

Number 1

Torre Castelvetrano - Sicily, Italy

An hour outside of Palermo, this 200-year-old converted farmhouse is downright impressive. The villa, built around a preserved lookout tower, sits atop a hill, providing a great view of the cypress and olive tree-filled garden. At first one may think that Torre -- with its large stonewalls -- has a cold atmosphere, but it is in fact quite the opposite. The house seamlessly changes from an indoor haven to an outdoor summerhouse.

The main house contains, among other things, five bedrooms, a sitting room with a massive fireplace, and a kitchen, which leads to an outdoor dining area. The guesthouse adds two more bedrooms and two full bathrooms. A palm tree-lined path leads to the sea in front of the villa, while a terrace opens up to a large swimming pool out back.

Must-see: The ancient ruins of Selinus and the castles in Ericeare, which are within walking distance.

have a thrilla in a villa

Grand or quaint, modern or medieval, these European villas all impress with their unique style and luxurious features. For a week or two of relaxation and pampering, you can't do better than renting a room in one of these babies. Just don't get too sucked in to the easy life...

Top 10: Best-Selling Books Of All Time

Top 10: Best-Selling Books Of All Time

Say what you will about schools and firsthand experience, but books really do teach us much of what we learn. For millennia, knowledge has been passed on through the written word. Books, as we now know them, have been around for a little less than 600 years, but they have contributed not only to mass education, but mass entertainment. I don't know if Johann Gutenberg, a goldsmith from Germany, was aware of the impact he would have on the world by inventing the printing press.

Books stimulate the intellect and the imagination. They are an important part of life and so we've decided to look into the ten best-selling books of all time. You think you'll find classics from Charles Dickens or William Shakespeare? The latest Harry Potter book? Read on, you'll be surprised. Note that all sales figures are estimates and cumulated from year to year. Also, though some books appear as a new edition each year, they still count as the same and their numbers are tabulated accordingly.

Number 10

Valley of the Dolls - 30 million

Author: Jacqueline Susann

Not be confused with Russ Meyer's campy film Beyond the Valley of the Dolls , this novel, which was first published in 1966, was an instant hit. The plot centers around three women vying to make it in showbiz, who instead get plagued by sex, drugs and scandal. Pushing the boundaries of the '60s, it's undeniably a trashy melodrama but it is addictive and entertaining nonetheless.

Excerpt: "I don't need a woman on my arm every minute."

Number 9

In His Steps: What Would Jesus Do? - 30 million

Author: Rev. Charles Monroe Sheldon

Sheldon was an average American clergyman. However, it all changed when he published this tome in 1896, bringing him phenomenal fame and fortune. This discourse is about dilemmas and how we can use the Bible in everyday life, boiling Christianity down to its very essence. What Sheldon proposes is that we put ourselves in Jesus' shoes for every decision we make, that it's the only way to really exercise discipleship.

Excerpt: "I know that the hand of divine love in all this is leading me."

Number 8

A Message to Garcia - 40 million

Author: Elbert Hubbard

This 1899 short essay, clocking in at around 1,500 words, is about the real hero of the Cuban War. At its core, it is a dissertation on labor relations that still rings true today. It basically addresses workers and preaches initiative. It achieved these staggering sales figures mostly because companies would buy the book in bulk to distribute to their employees.
Excerpt: "My heart goes out to the man who does his work when the 'boss' is away, as well as when he is home."

Number 7

Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care - 50 million

Author: Dr. Benjamin Spock

No Vulcans or warp speed, but the same good sense though. In 1946, pediatrician Spock penned this classic on how to raise children. Not only was the book important in its own right, it was also somewhat controversial considering a man wrote about what was traditionally considered a woman's task. This is the source that generations of parents have relied on when dealing with newborns and toddlers. It covers a wide range of topics relating to childcare, from infancy to early education.

Excerpt: "The fact is that child rearing is a long, hard job, the rewards are not always immediately obvious, the work is often undervalued, and parents are just as human and almost as vulnerable as their children."

Number 6

The McGuffey Readers - 60 million

Author: William Holmes McGuffey

The numerous editions of this anthology of short stories for young readers were quite popular when first printed in 1836, though they were initially rather preachy. Not only were they a great learning tool but they also contained valuable moral lessons. During the 19th century, 80% of all American schoolchildren used them. Some sources claim that 120 million copies were sold but it is believed that these figures are bloated considering the U.S. population numbered around 10 million at the time.

Excerpt: "The first object of the intelligent teacher, is to awaken the attention of his pupil."

Number 5

The World Almanac and Book of Facts (2003) - 73.5 million

Author: World Almanac Books

The world saw the apparition of this work in 1868 and it's been published every year since, except for a hiatus between 1876 and 1886 when ownership was in limbo. A comprehensive reference manual encompassing information on just about every subject, from sports and economy to history and geography, the World Almanac is a favorite of many. In 1923, Calvin Coolidge was sworn in as U.S. President by his Justice father who read the oath from a copy of this book.

Excerpt: "At the site where the World Trade Center had stood, the task of removing 1.62 million tons of rubble while searching for human remains officially ended July 15, 2002."

Number 4

Guinness World Records (2003) - 94 million

Author: Various Before flooding the Web and network TV specials, world records have fascinated millions through the famous book in its yearly edition. First published in 1955, the book is a repository of world records of all sorts, from sports heroics and eccentric feats to freaky human deformities. It came to be when the big boss of the Guinness brewery wanted to know what the fastest game bird in Europe was; he figured a book containing such facts might prove lucrative. The fact that it contains lots of photographs deeply appeals to the human voyeuristic hunger.

Excerpt: "The world's longest kiss took place in New York City, lasting a Guinness World Record 30 hours, 59 minutes, and 27 seconds."

Number 3

The American Spelling Book - 100 million

Author: Noah Webster

It was in 1783 that this famous book was first published. It soon became the preferred English textbook in schools through 19th-century America. The Blue-Back Speller 's charm was that words were broken down into syllables, which made it easier for students to learn pronunciation. The book was often revised and reedited by its author.

Excerpt: "The design of this Grammatical institute is to furnish schools in this country with an easy, accurate and comprehensive system of rules and lessons for teaching the English language."

Number 2

Quotations From Chairman Mao Tse-Tung - 900 million

Author: Mao Tse-Tung

Most people are more familiar with the book under its nickname: The Little Red Book . First published in 1966, it sheds light on the Chinese dictator's views on life, economics, and politics. Fairly poetic in style, Mao's fervent beliefs of the Communist ideology shine through.

Excerpt: "We should support whatever the enemy opposes and oppose whatever the enemy supports."

Number 1

The Holy Bible - 6 billion

Author: Various

Does it really surprise anyone? The Good Book, which is the foundation of Christianity, aside from Christ himself of course, was the first volume to be printed around 1450. Until then, the book had been hand-copied by patient monks and was only available to clerics and scholars. Gutenberg's new printing technique allowed missionaries to bring copies of the bible with them in their religious conversion quests. It has been printed in more than 2,000 languages and dialects so far.

Excerpt: "Don't forget to be kind to strangers. For some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it."

Top Five Cruise Destinations for Teens

Top Five Cruise Destinations for Teens

When booking a cruise, one of the first things you think of is the destination. Whether it's somewhere tropical or somewhere historic, it's pretty important where you travel to on your cruise. To help you narrow down your selections, I have created a list of the Top Five Cruise Destinations for Teens.

5. The Mediterranean

In Italy, there are many well-known historic cities; the most famous of these being Rome. In Rome, you'll find the Colosseum (which is over 1,900 years old); the Vatican, which is the center of the Catholic Church; Trevi fountain; tons of cafés serving delectable Italian treats, and so much more. Also, in Pisa is the Leaning Tower of Pisa, another popular tourist attraction that I thought was pretty cool. Try taking a picture so that it looks like you or a family member is holding up the Leaning Tower!

Like Italy, there are many sites of ancient ruins in Greece, especially in some of its major cities like Athens, as well as some of its many islands. Greece is also known for its turquoise water, beautiful islands, and friendly people.

4. Hawaii

When people think of Hawaii, one of the first things they think of is volcanoes. On the Big Island (Hawaii) there is a national park called Volcanoes National Park. This may sound boring but it's definitely not! There are tons of steam vents, lava tubes, and craters.

Hawaii is also a terrific spot for snorkeling and spotting wildlife such as whales, dolphins, and colorful arrays of fish. Scuba diving is very popular there, as well as horseback riding, rainforest hiking, zip-lining, sea kayaking, and surfing.

If you really want to get into the Hawaiian culture, go to a luau. There's craft-making, tons of traditional Hawaiian food, and entertainment such as fire throwing, dancing, and contests.

3. Bermuda

Bermuda is known for its amazing beaches. Horseshoe Bay is my personal favorite, with its clear water, fine sand, and cool rock formations. Here's an important tip: If you're going to Horseshoe Bay, get there early. The beach tends to become really crowded around lunchtime. Another great beach is Elbow Bay.

At the West end of the Island is a popular attraction, Dolphin Quest. You can swim, feed, and play with the friendly bottlenose dolphins. Another attraction in Bermuda is the Crystal Caves. You can tour the awesome caves (named after the crystal clear water that fills them) located near the main city of Hamilton. There are boardwalks for you to walk on as you explore the caves.

2. Mexico

There is a lot to do on the Caribbean side of Mexico. There are tons of great places to go shopping; most of them are jewelry and leather shops. Another important tip is to make sure you bargain with the shop owners and don't pay the original price.

There are also lots of water sports at the beaches such as banana boats, jet-skis, small sailing boats, and more. Another attraction is the Mayan ruins including Tulum in Quintana Roo, Mexico. The ruins are thousands of years old and are very interesting, but keep in mind seeing them is a full day excursion.

1. The Caribbean

If you're a first-time cruiser, the best place to travel on a cruise is the Caribbean. It has great beaches such as: Trunk Bay in St. John's, Sapphire Beach in St. Thomas, Halycon Cove in Antigua, Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman, and many others. There are also many water sports offered on Caribbean beaches. Snorkeling or scuba diving is also the way to go while in the Caribbean.

Wherever you plan to travel to on your cruise, you're sure to have a great time. However, if one of the above-mentioned destinations sparks your interest, let your parents know when they are in the cruise selection process. The more input family members -- like us teens -- have beforehand, the happier everyone will be when it's bon voyage time!