Newsletter - October 2005

America wouldn't be the same without New Orleans

That is a statement that is so true, but never in a million years did I ever think I would agree with Bush. It is true though - New Orleans stands out. This city is rich in culture, diversity and character, and is fun to "go on down south" to mingle with the locals.

The Hurricane

I was deeply saddened a few weeks ago when Hurricane Katrina hit the city. What I saw on TV wasn't the city I know and love - It looked more like a third world country. That frightened me. I was in tears as, everyday, my city got worse and more and more people died. I could figure out where the reporters were, just from seeing a glimpse of the street. That is how well I know New Orleans. I have many friends who fled Katrina, but they will all make the move back when it is time to go back. You just don't leave this place. I have a feeling in a few months all will be back to normal. Men will be yelling, "Show me your tits!" and girls flashing for beads. You know the good old times!
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Travel Book

This is an exciting feature of the “Live Your Life Newsletter”! Every month we will be featuring an extract of a fantastic new book entitled, “Catalyst for Adventure: The true story of best friends travelling through Europe” by Crystal Stanczak.

Catalyst For Adventure: The True Story of Best Friends Travelling Through Europe

Among best friends, there is an invisible code of conduct. Rule number one: if a friend ever asks you, "Do I look fat?" you cannot, under any circumstance, tell her "Yes, you look like Mama Cass after thanksgiving turkey." In that situation, the best thing to do is merely pick out another outfit for her, offer a little self-deprecation (example: " I am so unhappy with my butt these days."), and suggest for the both of you to go on a run. As tender as the "fat" subject is, there is one even more delicate-one that can shatter the tightest bond between girlfriends-men. Rule number two: If best friends are interested in the same man, both should avoid being alone with him.
Read the rest of the extract

Hot Hostels

Awesome Amsterdam

From the neon lights of the Red Light District to the day-glo orange that is the Dutch national identity - the word colourful has nowhere seemed more appropriate than Amsterdam. It is a city whose reputation is legendary, and so it was with great anticipation that I volunteered to help out at the Winston Hotel for a few days. In between shifts I would be fortunate enough to have ample time to explore.
For those not familiar with the Winston Hotel, it is a wonderful building set on the outskirts of the Red Light District; a number of the rooms are themed and have been designed by various artists and companies. No two themed rooms are alike and so it is certainly the place to stay for a unique experience.
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Recommended European Hostels

The Pink Palace in Corfu, Greece

Escape to Corfu and the the Pink Palace; where fall and winter months are mellow and still filled with sunshine. Come and enjoy the beautiful beaches and beautiful, sunny weather all year long. Travel to the Pink Palace and experience all the history and culture of Greece while enjoying authentic Greek meals and homemade wine. Where else can you sunbathe and enjoy the outdoors during the winter months? Be part of one of our quad safari tours around the island, visit Corfu lakes and ride on the sand dunes, go kayaking explore secluded bays, visit bat caves, go snorkeling and swimming in the clear blue waters.
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Avalon House in Dublin, Ireland

Why do people seem to be coming here in droves? It could be because it's one of the few cities in the world that has more pubs than churches. Or perhaps because there are so many things to do in the city and all of them are within walking distance of each other.
Dublin is a city where you can experience the complete history of Ireland - from the Book of Kells, to the gold hordes found and kept in the country. You can visit castles, churches and beaches that have all been around for hundreds of years.
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Exclusive Backpacker Parties!

Every Wednesday, Belushi's London Bridge in association with Hostelworld, VIP Backpackers, Haggis Adventures, Busabout and Eastern Trekker present the biggest, wildest and craziest party night exclusively for backpackers! Starting from 8pm going through 'til 2am you can indulge in £1 drinks (including Vodka & Red Bull!) and win fantastic holidays and tours. It's a night not to be missed!

Belushi's London Bridge, 161-165 Borough High Street
Southwark, London, SE1 1HR
Tel: 0207 939 9700
Nearest Tube: London Bridge

What's on in our Beds & Bars

Sport, drinks specials and wicked parties!  Find out what’s going on in our hostels and bars!

Major League Baseball Night

Don't miss "MLB Nights" every Wednesday at Belushi’s!

Visit your local Belushi’s* every Wednesday from 6pm and be part of the Baseball experience with Major League Baseball and NASN! Enjoy a 10% discount off Belushis new and exclusive Ball Park Menu and a whopping £3 off designated pitchers! Plus, you can watch a Major League Baseball game live and exclusive only on NASN. Make sure you catch a piece of the action and experience the flavour of America's national pastime!

Check out www.mlb.com for all the baseball action

*Participating Venues: Covent Garden, London Bridge, Camden, Shepherd’s Bush and Edinburgh

Join a Rugby Club in London

Are you looking to play either social or high standard amateur rugby? Are you living or working in or around South London? Are you just plain bored by the playing standards or social side of your current club? Then why not join one of South London's fastest growing and most entertaining clubs?

Emanuel Rugby Club (Proudly sponsored by Belushi's Bars)

Every week Emanuel attracts new players from as far a field as Canada, South Africa & Australia to as close as New Malden & Clapham; some who have just moved to the area and are looking to play social rugby; some who are local students looking to start playing at a good amateur club and some who want to play fast, attractive rugby in London.
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Book your bed before you goEurope's Famous Hostel: The best hostels in EuropeThe best hostels in LondonBritish Educational Travel Association