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	<title>streetlights</title>
	<link>http://www.artwoo.com</link>
	<description>Returned search results for streetlights</description>
	<copyright>Copyright 2008</copyright>
	<pubDate>Fri, 21 Nov 2008 22:15:13 +0000</pubDate>
	<generator>http://www.artwoo.com/rss/streetlights</generator>

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				<title>The 3 Rules Of Night Fishing</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-3-rules-of-night-fishing</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-3-rules-of-night-fishing#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sat, 25 Nov 2006 08:27:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>carp lake</category><category>streetlights</category><category>strewn</category><category>fishing trip</category><category>pair of socks</category><category>pocket torch</category><category>warm clothes</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-3-rules-of-night-fishing</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[With a few simple additions to your gear and some careful planning, it's not as hard as many anglers think to enjoy fishing at night.  There are three key aspects to safe and successful night fishing:  1. Organisation -- During the course of a day's fishing, your equipment tends to get strewn around]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[With a few simple additions to your gear and some careful planning, it's not as hard as many anglers think to enjoy fishing at night. <br /><br /> There are three key aspects to safe and successful night fishing: <br /><br /> 1. Organisation -- During the course of a day's fishing, your equipment tends to get <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/strewn" rel="tag">strewn</a> around the place. At night, this simply won't work. You have to get organised and make sure that everything you may need to re-bait or re-tackle is kept tidily in the bivvy. <br /><br /> It can get very dark away from the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/streetlights" rel="tag">streetlights</a>, so you'll need to remember a small <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/pocket+torch" rel="tag">pocket torch</a>, but nothing so bright that it's going to put off other anglers. <br /><br /> 2. Safety -- When it's dark, you're tired and you're near deep water, it pays to be tidy. You should make sure there is nothing sticking out that you can trip over or get caught on. Make sure you can see the water's edge, or at least know just where it is. <br /><br /> Try to fish with a friend, or at least make sure someone knows where you are. It's a good idea to take a mobile phone with you, too, so that you can call for help should you need it. <br /><br /> 3. Comfort -- Being comfortable is the key to a successful trip. Wearing a T-shirt and shorts is fine in the day, but when you're sitting for hours at night when the temperature drops, you'll get extremely cold if you don't have <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/warm+clothes" rel="tag">warm clothes</a> on and a number of layers. <br /><br /> You need boots rather than trainers for night fishing and a spare <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/pair+of+socks" rel="tag">pair of socks</a> is a good idea. They don't take up much room and you will be glad of them if your feet get wet. It's always worth wearing a hat, too, since we lose a large amount of body heat through our head. Plenty of food and hot drinks are obviously essential items on a night <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fishing+trip" rel="tag">fishing trip</a>.   <bio>The Dog Lane Fishery in Warwickshire has a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/carp+lake" rel="tag">carp lake</a> with carp in excess of 25lb. They have caravans and camping facilities available, so there is everything you need for a great night of fishing. Visit their website now by clicking on <a href="http://doglanefishery.co.uk" >http://doglanefishery.co.uk</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>How To Avoid Outdoor Post Lighting Attracting Bugs</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-avoid-outdoor-post-lighting-attracting-bugs</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-avoid-outdoor-post-lighting-attracting-bugs#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 21 Dec 2007 14:20:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>outdoor areas</category><category>streetlights</category><category>harshness</category><category>bugs</category><category>lighting</category><category>harmony</category><category>happiness</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-avoid-outdoor-post-lighting-attracting-bugs</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Our outdoor areas are always areas that we want to have decorated and set up in a way that is pleasing to us, and a way that is going to create harmony and happiness in our lives. When you have outdoor post lighting, there are a few things that might arise, and a few things that you should do to]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ Our <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/outdoor+areas" rel="tag">outdoor areas</a> are always areas that we want to have decorated and set up in a way that is pleasing to us, and a way that is going to create <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/harmony" rel="tag">harmony</a> and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/happiness" rel="tag">happiness</a> in our lives. When you have outdoor post <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/lighting" rel="tag">lighting</a>, there are a few things that might arise, and a few things that you should do to make sure that you can make the most out of the areas that are lit at night. <br /><br /> Remember <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/bugs" rel="tag">Bugs</a> <br /><br /> The biggest problem that you might have to deal with when it comes to outdoor post lighting is the idea of bugs. No matter where you are, your outdoor post lighting is going to attract some bugs because it is going to be the only light in a big area, and this is something that bugs are very attracted to. However, no one likes to see bugs swarming around their outdoor post lighting, so you can do a few things to make sure that this is minimal. <br /><br /> First, you should have a screen on this outdoor post lighting that makes it only able to be seen from the ground. This is something that is very easy to do, and something that you can find at one of the many outdoor shops. When you put your screen on the outdoor post lighting you will find that the number of bugs is limited. <br /><br /> Next, you should make the outdoor post lighting a different tone than <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/streetlights" rel="tag">streetlights</a>. If you can make it a dimmer or a softer tone, the bugs are going to be less likely to come to it. <br /><br /> <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/harshness" rel="tag">Harshness</a> <br /><br /> Another problem that you might find with your outdoor post lighting is that it looks too harsh when you look at it. Again, this can easily be corrected by having a lower density bulb put into place. Another thing you can consider doing is changing the color of the bulb. This will make the light less harsh, and it will also give you more room to work with when it comes to landscaping and general decorations. <br /><br /> Remember that sometimes your outdoor post lighting is meant to serve a purpose, and not to be decorative. In these cases, you are going to want to enhance the light so that it is brighter and cleaner, which is going to make it more useful to you. <br /><br /> When it comes right down to it, how you set up your outdoor post lighting is going to be dependant on what you are using it for, so this is your first decision.   <bio>Ann Marier writes informative articles about many garden topics including gazebos,patios,landscaping,BarBqs and flowers at <a href="http://www.4houseandgarden.com" >http://www.4houseandgarden.com</a>. Her latest articles look at the different types and uses of outdoor lighting on <a href="http://outdoorlighting.4houseandgarden.com" >http://outdoorlighting.4houseandgarden.com</a>  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Lighting Efficiency: Improving Cities Using LED Lights</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/lighting-efficiency-improving-cities-using-led-lights</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/lighting-efficiency-improving-cities-using-led-lights#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:43:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>incandescent light bulbs</category><category>energy efficient lights</category><category>parking garages</category><category>city initiative</category><category>exhibition place</category><category>holiday lighting</category><category>incandescent lighting</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/lighting-efficiency-improving-cities-using-led-lights</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[LED cities are cropping up all over the globe as major metropolitan areas learn how effective LED light technology is in conserving energy, and in conserving taxpayers' dollars. In the past, most LED cities have functioned by making changes in parking garages, street lights, traffic lights, and]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[LED cities are cropping up all over the globe as major metropolitan areas learn how effective LED light technology is in conserving energy, and in conserving taxpayers' dollars. In the past, most LED cities have functioned by making changes in <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/parking+garages" rel="tag">parking garages</a>, street lights, traffic lights, and things of that nature in the switch from <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/incandescent+light+bulbs" rel="tag">incandescent light bulbs</a> to LED <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/energy+efficient+lights" rel="tag">energy efficient lights</a>. Today, those changes are still occurring in all LED cities, however there are many cities getting very creative with how they implement the technology. <br><br>Toronto, Ontario in Canada is one city that has illustrated just how creative a city can be when it comes to the use of LED energy efficient lights. In fact, Toronto, Ontario is the first Canadian city to be known as an LED city and is the first Canadian metropolitan to join the LED <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/city+initiative" rel="tag">City Initiative</a>. Other cities that can officially be called an "LED City" include Raleigh, NC; Ann Arbor, MI; Austin, TX; and Torraca, Italy. This initiative sets out to share the best practices in the evaluation, promotion, and deployment of the light technology through its municipal works.<br><br>LED light technology, particularly when used at the city-wide level, has been known to consume 90% less electrical energy and the lights last longer than <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/incandescent+lighting" rel="tag">incandescent lighting</a>. Toronto has capitalized on this savings by installing the energy efficient lights in street lights, parking garages, and in pedestrian lighted areas. Light emitting diode <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/holiday+lighting" rel="tag">holiday lighting</a> is also being utilized as all publicly controlled holiday lighting has now been switched over to LED light technology. <br><br>But Toronto has taken it even a step further than that. Perhaps the most famous public structure in Toronto is the CN Tower, a beacon of strength for many Torontonians, and the most famous landmark in the city. All lights within the CN Tower have been switched over to LED light technology, which in turn lights the public locale of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/exhibition+place" rel="tag">Exhibition Place</a>. This change alone has worked to save the city of Toronto 50% of their energy use and costs on an annual basis. When you add this major change, along with the addition of the change of over 160,000 Toronto streetlights, the city of Toronto does not just save in energy use. They also save a total of $6 million dollars annually in electricity costs. More importantly, the estimated reduction of greenhouse gas emissions with these changes is ball parked at around 18,000 tonnes.<br><br>Computer operated bill boards are another measure that Toronto has taken in the switch to LED energy efficient lighting. These billboards are billboards that function with LED light technology and are controlled by an operator. These signs posted along the highway and in the major city centers of Toronto are yet another example of the great lengths the city is taking to save on energy consumption.<br><br>The number of LED cities is growing though they are quite a ways off from becoming the norm. However, when major city centers such as Toronto, Ontario make changes as instrumental as the ones they have made, they serve as shining examples to other cities around the world that every step toward better energy conservation is a step toward environmental consciousness and cost savings. Changing a major public landmark such as the CN Tower is one way that LED cities can say, hey, it's time for a change. If we can do it, so can you.<br><br>~Ben Anton, 2008<bio>Ben Anton writes for Discount Lights and Knives from his home in Portland, Oregon.Want more information on <a href="http://www.lightsandknives.com/led_in_the_city.htm">efficient and long-lasting LED</a> light bulbs? Visit the DLK Web site to find out more about going green with <a href="http://www.lightsandknives.com/">LED Lenser light products</a>.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Discovering Venice, Italy!</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/discovering-venice-italy</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/discovering-venice-italy#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:22:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>visiting venice</category><category>fellow tourists</category><category>private taxi</category><category>enjoyable experiences</category><category>unbelievable trip</category><category>world cruises</category><category>sturdy shoes</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/discovering-venice-italy</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Transportation around Venice is simple due to the countless types of water transportation available. Depending on a traveler's budget, they can select a more upscale ride on a gondola or private taxi, or save money and take advantage of the "vaporetti" (public water buses). Many tourists in Venice]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Transportation around Venice is simple due to the countless types of water transportation available. Depending on a traveler's budget, they can select a more upscale ride on a gondola or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/private+taxi" rel="tag">private taxi</a>, or save money and take advantage of the "vaporetti" (public water buses). Many tourists in Venice prefer the vaporetti due to the culture they are exposed to by the other Italian passengers.<br><br>Although gondola rides can be very pricy, it is definitely worth it to spring for at least one ride. It is an experience most tourists dream about before <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/visiting+venice" rel="tag">visiting Venice</a>, and has been highly romanticized in many films. One way to avoid the high expense is to bargain with the gondola driver or to share a ride with other tourists.<br><br>One of the most <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/enjoyable+experiences" rel="tag">enjoyable experiences</a> in Venice is riding a vaporetti down the Grand Canal right before sunset. The trip is so inexpensive it's hard to believe the sights that can be seen in comparison; it seems unreal to pay so little for so much scenery. This <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/unbelievable+trip" rel="tag">unbelievable trip</a> might not actually take passengers anywhere, but they will end up understanding that the journey itself is the destination. Similarly, many vacationers are fond of upscale <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/world+cruises" rel="tag">world cruises</a> that take them to these beautiful destinations. They eliminate the long flights and add to the relaxing aspects of traveling. <br><br>Another interesting element of Venice is that it is one of the few municipal areas in the world where cars aren't allowed. Therefore, when armed with a map and comfy, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/sturdy+shoes" rel="tag">sturdy shoes</a>, one can set off on a journey to discover all Venice has to offer. The excursion to Venice via a five star world cruise also adds to the charm of the experience.<br> <br>Vacationers have the option of walking around Venice by themselves or of taking the conducted tour. The situation and experience all depends on how much time is at the tourist's disposal and exactly what kind of exploring they intend to do. If time is limited, it might make more sense to join a guided tour. Sharing the experience with some <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fellow+tourists" rel="tag">fellow tourists</a> is a simple way to bring down costs. The tour can be customized to specific wants and interests, not to mention to how much time is available and how much money the tourists wish to spend.<br> <br>Keep in mind that Venice demands a lot of foot time, so packing comfortable shoes is a must. Carrying a little torch or some sort of light is recommended as well, because the walkways sometimes end in water and the streetlights often do not suffice.<br><br>Another perk that many enjoy in Venice is that individuals are only considered to be an "adult" if they are over the age of thirty! However, bars and pubs serve anyone that is over eighteen years of age.<br><br>Really, when it comes to Venice, there is a plethora of options at hand. Each person has their own idea of fun, entertainment, relaxation, and what really makes a vacation. Five star around the world cruises give passengers access to the many wonders of traveling and sight seeing, and allow them to kick back and relax while getting there. Luckily for each individual, there is something for everyone in Venice. Strolls down by the water, entertainment and live music on the streets, fine wining and dining at countless locations, romantic sunsets, wild clubs and bars--there is really no limit to finding things to do. A vacation in Venice will definitely be something that can be cherished for years.<bio>Sarah Martin is a freelance marketing writer based out of San Diego, CA. She specializes in topics such as travel, leisure, and home improvement. For great deals on <a href="http://www.amttravel.com/cruise-lines/around-the-world-cruises.html">luxury cruises</a>, please visit http://www.amttravel.com.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Professional Landscape Lighting</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/professional-landscape-lighting</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/professional-landscape-lighting#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Thu, 07 Aug 2008 23:22:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>exterior lighting fixtures</category><category>residential landscape lighting</category><category>outdoor light fixtures</category><category>automation networks</category><category>eye lighting</category><category>sophisticated lighting</category><category>accent light</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/professional-landscape-lighting</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many homeowners often think that since any number of nationwide, branded retailers offer enormous selections of exterior lighting fixtures for houses, yard decorations, and landscaping fixtures that they can save on service costs by selectively purchasing attractive fixtures and positioning them in]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Many homeowners often think that since any number of nationwide, branded retailers offer enormous selections of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/exterior+lighting+fixtures" rel="tag">exterior lighting fixtures</a> for houses, yard decorations, and landscaping fixtures that they can save on service costs by selectively purchasing attractive fixtures and positioning them in key places that require functional lighting or decorative <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/accent+light" rel="tag">accent light</a>. This never pays off in the long run, however, because retail-grade <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/outdoor+light+fixtures" rel="tag">outdoor light fixtures</a> are not built to withstand the elements, and they are also more difficult to network into Lutron Grafik <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/eye+lighting" rel="tag">Eye lighting</a> controls, home <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/automation+networks" rel="tag">automation networks</a>, and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/sophisticated+lighting" rel="tag">sophisticated lighting</a> arrays.<br><br>A professional organization like Illuminations Lighting and Design carefully studies your home and surrounding property and spends extensive time in consultation with you to learn the many preferences and particulars of your individual lifestyle. Outdoor lights are selected to accent and magnify your home environment on an intensely personal level, and careful attention is paid to a number of very important factors that only a trained outdoor lighting contractor can properly assess to develop a system of outdoor lights and lighting controls.<br><br>Theme and Style<br><br>The theme and style of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/residential+landscape+lighting" rel="tag">residential landscape lighting</a> reflects your personality, the physical architecture of your house, the style of the homes in your neighborhood, and even the geography in which you are located.<br><br>Homes in River Oaks often look like stately Old World mansions and feature classical fountains and statuary in their yards that require art lighting. Houses along Memorial often reflect early American or colonial architecture, whereas many fine homes in Bellaire feature a blend of traditional architecture and eclectic customization.<br><br>These architectural styles have to be considered when choosing outdoor garden light fixtures in order to build a system with complimentary aesthetic. Landscape lighting professionals work to enhance the architecture and location of a home, never diminish it, with the physical style and size of the outdoor light fixtures we install.<br><br>Architecture and Whole House Lighting<br><br>Many outdoor architectural lights are specifically designed to easily mount to the exterior of the house itself. Knowing where to put them, however, represents the greatest challenge to the do it yourselfer. If the lighting angles are not correctly calculated, house lights will cause light pollution and glare that overwhelm the architecture and spill into neighboring yards and windows. Landscape lighting professionals are trained in special techniques that enable them to install outdoor lights from concealed positions that place just enough light on the house without casting shadows or shining light into the house next door.<br><br>These skills are especially valuable in Houston suburbs such as Pearland, The Woodlands, and Sugar Land where families often have early bed times due to the need to get up early for long commutes and getting young children to school on time.<br><br>Landscape Lights<br><br>Outdoor light systems can be installed in such a way as to unite Nature and human architecture into a balanced, aesthetic whole. Special tree, path, garden, and outdoor path lights can be configured into an illuminated network of natural vantage points serve as points of aesthetic definition and function as practical anchors for critical fixtures, transformers, and landscape lighting accessories necessary to linking system components together.<br><br>Some Houston companies, such as Illuminations Lighting and Design, are now beginning to use exclusively environmentally-friendly outdoor tree lights and install them using special techniques that protect trees from scarring and ensure their future growth.<br><br>In Royal Oaks, these techniques have worked hand in glove with unique deed restrictions landscape and whole house lights in lieu of prohibited streetlights.<br><br>Deck and Patio Outdoor Lights<br><br>As homeowners cut personal fuel budgets and increasingly entertain at home, deck lights and patio lights have risen in popularity throughout Houston neighborhoods such as Spring Valley, Hedwig Village, West University, and Rice Village.<br><br>Deck lighting can be done with minimal power costs by using a combination of led lights and lighting controls, making it possible to have cool-burning lights left on throughout the night into the wee hours of the morning.<br><br>Security Lights and Alarm System Integration<br><br>Residential lighting professionals can make even the most powerful, High Intensity Discharge outdoor security lights cost effective by linking them to lighting controls and motion sensors that only turn the main floodlights on if human body movements are detected.<br><br>Perimeter lighting can be handled with a variety of low voltage lighting fixtures that keep shadows away from the corners of the house and yard.<br><br>You can also have your security lights linked your existing alarm system, and we can install manual controls that will enable you to instantly turn on every indoor and outdoor light in the event of suspicious activity or impending home invasion.<br><br>Working with the professionals at Illuminations Lighting Design combines the value of commercial grade outdoor light fixtures and the advanced design and electrical skills of one of Houston's premier electrical and design service firms.<bio>illuminationslighting.com. For more information on <a href="http://www.illuminationslighting.com/professional-landscape-lighting-installation.htm">Professional Landscape Lighting Services</a> visit the <a href="http://www.illuminationslighting.com/landscape_lighting_design2.htm">Lanscape Lighting</a> section of our website.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Chinatowns</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/chinatowns</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/chinatowns#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 30 Apr 2006 07:50:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>chinese people</category><category>chinatown</category><category>tang dynasty</category><category>paper lanterns</category><category>racial segregation</category><category>asian restaurants</category><category>community support groups</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/chinatowns</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[China has a long and rich history of exploration and migration around the world. In fact, according to the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission, at the end of 2003, there were 36,116,521 Chinese people living in countries around the world and 35,485,946 at the end of 2004 (measured by the first 20]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[China has a long and rich history of exploration and migration around the world. In fact, according to the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission, at the end of 2003, there were 36,116,521 <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/chinese+people" rel="tag">Chinese people</a> living in countries around the world and 35,485,946 at the end of 2004 (measured by the first 20 ranked locations). <br /><br /> A <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/chinatown" rel="tag">Chinatown</a> is an urban region containing a large population of Chinese people within a non-Chinese society. The word "Chinatown" in Chinese means "The Street of the Tang People", with Tang referring to the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/tang+dynasty" rel="tag">Tang Dynasty</a>, a period of Chinese history regarded by many people as the pinnacle in the Chinese civilization. <br /><br /> For many Chinese people, the original Chinatowns around the world were not started out of choice, but because of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/racial+segregation" rel="tag">racial segregation</a>, and oppression. In other places, they were created to bring a sense of home and community to strangers in a new land. <br /><br /> The early Chinese immigrants created small Chinatowns in which they opened their own stores and restaurants, set up temples, and formed different <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/community+support+groups" rel="tag">community support groups</a>. <br /><br /> Whatever their origins, you can find a Chinatown in almost every major city in the world. They vary in size -- from a couple of streets to large, thriving cities within a city. <br /><br /> Visit any Chinatown in the world and you'll be treated to a banquet for your senses -- vibrant, shimmering silks that are sensuously soft against your skin, exotic spices and culinary delights to tempt your tongue along with a kaleidoscope of sounds, fireworks and music. Wander along the crowded streets and you'll find large pagoda-style arches, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/paper+lanterns" rel="tag">paper lanterns</a>, Chinese dragons, beautiful temples, ethnic Chinese and other <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/asian+restaurants" rel="tag">Asian restaurants</a> and small businesses. <br /><br /> Here is a list of some of the best Chinatowns in the world: <br /><br /> San Francisco, California: The largest Chinatown on the West Coast, Chinatown is one of San Francisco's biggest tourist attractions. It is world-renowned for its exotic ambience. The history of this Chinatown dates back to the gold rush days of the mid 1800s. Although they were not allowed in the mines, Chinese immigrants built laundries and restaurants to serve the growing city. Today, the area is about eight blocks long, and the best time to visit is usually mid-day. Don't miss the small exotic shops that you'll find on the narrow streets, to look for the best bargains. Here are some attractions of SF Chinatown : Bank of Canton, Cameron House, Canton Flower Shop, Chinatown Gateway, Churches, Great Star Theater, Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, Hotels, Library, Museums, Nam Kue Chinese School, Parking, Parks, Portsmouth Square, Restaurants, Streets, SW Hotel, YWCA. <br /><br /> New York City, New York: Found in lower Manhattan, Chinatown in New York takes up two square miles. It is the largest Chinatown in the U.S. Founded by Chinese sailors and traders in the mid 18th century; the population was small and transient. It wasn't until the Californian Gold Rush that large numbers of Chinese immigrants came to the U.S. After racial tension created problems in the West, immigrants moved back east for safety and employment. Today it's overcrowded and narrow streets are both a tourist attractions and home to the largest population of Chinese New Yorkers. <br /><br /> NY Chinatown has hundreds of restaurants (especially on Mott, Pell and Doyers streets), booming fruit and fish markets, and shops for knick-knacks and sweets on winding, crowded streets. <br /><br /> Singapore: In a city already predominated by Chinese people, an area named "Chinatown" may seem rather redundant. But Chinatown here is one of the most active and vibrant in the entire world. Here you'll enjoy a feast for your palate as well as your eyes. A common architectural feature you will find around Chinatown is the shophouse, which is done in a style peculiar to this region of the world and known as Chinese baroque. Enjoy exotic dining, brightly painted buildings, nightly cultural activities and shopping. <br /><br /> Melbourne, Australia: Chinatown Melbourne also dates back to the mid-19th century gold rush. It combines the best of Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Korean cultures in a busy, bustling environment full of history. The best time to visit Chinatown Melbourne is at night, when the decorative streetlights are ablaze, lanterns are lit in restaurant windows, and wind chimes and neon lights are dazzling. Another attraction of Chinatown is the Chinese Museum (Cohen Place), which has artifacts on display documenting Chinese history in Australia from the Gold Rush days. Your biggest problem will be deciding where to go first! <br /><br /> Toronto, Canada: Sam Ching's Chinese laundry, downtown, launched the oldest of the six Chinatowns in the metro area of Toronto. Begun in the 1870's, Chinatown Toronto is famous for over 500 Chinese restaurants, glazed porcelain tea sets, jade necklaces, pearls, and the latest in electronic gadgets. If you watch closely, you'll even see abacuses being used to figure totals and change. Packed tightly into a maze of narrow and busy streets are bins brimming with exotic foods and one-of-a-kind boutiques in Chinatown and nearby Kensington Market. <br /><br /> The Chinese Festivals occur throughout the Lunar year. As our calendar year and the Lunar year is different, the festivals fall on different dates each year. <br /><br /> Chinese festivals are celebrated in every Chinatown, and if you happen to find yourself in one of the world's Chinatowns during one, you can consider yourself lucky. Celebrations include lion dances, fireworks, parades, music and laughter. You'll enjoy seeing the true spirit of the Chinese people as they come together to celebrate and honor their history and culture.   <bio>I'm Charlie Karpowsky, I'm from San Francisco. I first came to the bay area with friends in 1971, shortly after my return from Vietnam. I enjoyed some of the best times the city had to offer then. <a href="http://www.THESANFRANCISCONEWSBLOG.COM">http://www.THESANFRANCISCONEWSBLOG.COM</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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