Top 10 Contenders for the 2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year

Motor Trend has just named the Tesla Model S as next year’s car of the year, which was a bit unexpected to most car fans out there as it is the first time that an electric car was given the recognition and the honor of attaining such an achievement. But since it was hailed at such a position, one may think of the others that have been shortlisted in coming up with the winner. In case you may be curious as to the contenders of the said award, here are the top 10 contenders for the 2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year.

10. Lexus GS

You just have to notice that this Lexus hybrid is so good that it lets you feel like you are driving a standard car when it comes to steering, handling, and even comfort. The interiors were also superior when it comes to style and functionality that it could have won an award if there is any. Fuel economy is also considerable as a great contender for bagging the 2013 title, but there have been some flaws on design that made GS lose the opportunity. Considering that Lexus models have attractive faces, this one’s just not right as testers saw something from an alien movie… nope, not that the car looks extraterrestrial in a positive sense, but it looked like a “Predator” with its mask on.

9. Honda Accord

Honda Accord has been in the market for so long, and many developments have been under way in order for it to become the high-performance sedan it’s supposed to be. For 2013, you may feel confused that the latest make is actually 3.5 inches shorter… Wait… SHORTER?! Yes, although fans have been used to seeing the Accord as a low-long-wide car, it has considered consumers that have difficult time in having it fit the garage. Also, performance is great with engines that are more efficient, with CVT employed better than other models. Sound is also considerable as you can barely feel any inconsistencies on function. It could have bagged this year’s award, if only there were features that have been revolutionary, rather than seeing a unit with gradual change.

8. Toyota Avalon

True to its Japanese culture, manners, and driver consideration, the Toyota Avalon is so great with interior space utilization that it could be attributed by judges as Zen and feng shui combined to provide that huge space inside the vehicle. You just have to be awed with a sport mode and paddle shifters that already broke the cycle of staying with the old and transitioning to the modern. Steering and handling brings you to where you want it, but with little feedback. Speed is also loved with this improved sedan. The only letdown it had was its hybrid type that’s just less than what you’d expect from its gas model.

7. Ford C-Max Hybrid

For a hybrid, the C-Max Hybrid can be considered one of the cheapest cars there is, which would be great once this baby launches for selling next year. Efficiency is also admirable with packaging that gives drivers and enthusiasts a buy for their money. Just how good is the package? According to one judge, it’s like having many car features, such as that of Prius’ efficiency, Focus’ feel of the drive, and Escape’s functionality and driver-friendliness. Nevertheless, the economical price has its setbacks, which can be found on some of the interiors of the vehicle. Aside from that, everything could have been close to perfect.

6. Cadillac ATS

As it was tested by drivers, one thing that can be noticed is that its performance, features, and other elements are comparable, if not close to that of the Series 3 from BMW. In fact, testers and judges alike never thought that the 3 Series can be overthrown or at least shaken from one competitor. What’s it got and how it got par with a great contender? Balance has been met at paramount, the body, along with the design is greater than second best, and steering was a lot better than most candidates. Some of the letdowns however, include cramped rear seats and difficult manual transmission transition.

5. BMW 3 Series

The BMW 3 Series is a great choice among drivers not just because of the name and the label that has created some of the best sedans in the market, but also due to its riding balance that drivers are always looking forward to experiencing. However, this baby was losing a bit when it comes to steering and turbo, something that have been flawless in other models. There has also been something noticed by testers that steering does not match with the actual power of the engine, causing lapse when it comes to the timing of the maneuverability.

4. Ford Fusion

At long last, you can now have a vehicle that’s close to an Aston Martin without the additional expense on the name. Ford Fusion has that kind of good looks that many would expect it as something else. Also, it could be noticed that ever since it was hailed as 2010’s Car of the Year, there have been modifications to space, wind noise handling, and even usability so that it could bag another COTY for 2013. After all, its steering was better than that of the BMW 328. Too bad though that it majorly flawed on handling as sudden stirs and direction change gives you that coily springy feeling, along with brakes that just feels forced when stepped in.

3. Porsche 911

The Porsche 911 has always been a crowd favorite, as it is considered to be one of the best everyday supercars that you could bring out almost so often. Without prejudice by the fact that it’s a fave, judges have commended on its new improvements on hydraulics, power assistance and output support, and other features that make the Carrera a stunning success. However, disappointments such as body dynamics and engine placement have been consistent year after year, making the 911 still not that close to having the 2013 COTY

2. Subaru BRZ

Have you imagined that a car priced at less than $30,000 could match and go at par with more expensive models like the McLaren MP4-12C and Chevrolet Camaro ZL1? If the Subaru BRZ is just like what you could imagine, then there is more to how its nifty sporty exterior look, which can mislead drivers and fans alike. Chassis, balance, and steering are three of the best features that judges have praised BRZ for, if only there was a variant that could provide more torque than what has been offered already. What if it looked like an Aston Martin? Maybe it had taken the title with little effort. In short, the BRZ was lacking at the looks department for not being able to look as rad as it runs.

1. Porsche Boxster

While the BMW 3 Series, the Cadillac ATS, and the Ford Fusion proved to have great handling improvements for this year’s title battle, Porsche Boxster, according to judges, has the best feel when it comes to bringing it on the road, testing its maneuverability, and abusing its limits. If it could have the chance of beating the 911 for engine, then it could have been the best car that Porsche could ever create in this classification. But being at its best, you just have to expect that the price tag over this performer is just beyond of what can be called as value.

Read More

Top 10 Best First Person Shooter Games in 2012

If you are an extreme gamer and you are looking for some action that will immerse you in a world that you can become a part of, then first person shooting video games is your kind of thing. Whether you want to be a part of a covert operation, or you are a bounty hunter that is out to seek to get some alien butt, these games will make you hold guns of different levels and can make you feel that adrenaline rush. Fight it out with AI controlled players or even with your friends and neighbors, but for this year, you can expect that new games in this genre could get you all feisty as you check the 10 Best First Person Shooter Games in 2012

Best First Person Shooter Games in 2012

10. Battlefield 3

As you are look for FPS games that displays full detailed and realistic destructibility, with all the modern military fun you can think of, Battlefield 3 is a great offer because of the huge and well-crafted maps, stunning sound, and powerful vehicles to use and deploy. Due to these features, the game is even better in multiplayer modes, giving your friends and enemies, sheer enjoyment in the war zone.


9. Call of Duty: Black Ops

What keeps you gripped in the action on Call of Duty: Black Ops is the thrill you can feel when being engaged in missions and campaigns that are simply creative, challenging, and even compelling in many points. Aside from the intriguing plot, you can also be immersed with the combat training, unique multiplayer currency systems, and an in-game theater that can make you view your highlights and failures.


8. Portal 2

Aside from being a promising FPS game due to its creative storyline, plot, and concept, Portal 2 is also a puzzle game that lets you think of overcoming walls and bounds with a portal system that can bend your mind. You can experience meeting different characters, while noticing that your adventure gets bigger and becoming more difficult.


7. F.E.A.R

They say that you have nothing to fear but Fear itself. If that is the case, then you might feel like shaking as you are immersed with the almost cinematic gameplay of F.E.A.R., while feeling the creepiness, the sudden surprise, the enigmatic music, and intense shooting that escalates your game in a whole new level. Oh, and just to warn you, AIs used in this game are actually smarter than you think, unlike zombies that become bullet magnets.


6. Far Cry

Just playing tag in the jungle does not work as simple, especially if you are searching for a girl that you are supposed to protect from mercenaries living in an island. Far Cry will take your shooting experience in a place full of trees, grasses, and animals of different sorts. This game is worth playing because of its detailed and greatly created graphics that seems to make you feel a real environment.


5. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3


You have to hand it that FPS games are best played in multiplayer modes, whether it may be LAN based or over the internet with other servers. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 sticks with the old formula it used since the days of Playstation One, which has attracted so many FPS fans due to its refined and modernized developments. You can still enjoy playing alone as Spec Ops profiles can make you addicted in leveling up.


4. Halo 3

As you continue your gameplay with Halo 2, you can expect the same kind of action, while experiencing different game modes and keeping yourself hooked with a plot that may end in this third release of the trilogy. Even though Halo 4 will be out this year, starting from game one to three will make you confirm the kind of game that you should never miss playing.


3. The Orange Box

You may be wondering why this game is on the third slot, despite that the title is not that familiar with some gamers. The package may not what it seem to be, but The Orange Box has five different games in it, that can provide a hell of a time in playing with the old and the new. The said release from Sierra and Valve will take you to Half-life 2, Episode One and Two, Team Fortress, and Portal as a fun bundle.


2. Crysis

Crysis is a few of those FPS games that can provide a riveting gameplay while getting yourself drowned with graphics that are beyond expectations. It will surprise you that the visuals go well with the details, which is usually not the case in most games of this genre. However, Crysis was able to pull it through, where you are expected to play it and even explore all possibilities of fun.


1. Halo: Reach

With every successful story comes a prequel that will give new life with existing titles. Halo: Reach is a prequel of the game, even before John-117 fought most battles by himself. Despite of being the first, you will still feel the thrill thanks to combat systems, impressive map and design, online integration, and amazing creation tools that still blows your mind away.

Read More

Top 10 Canada Halloween Party Destinations

In any part of the world, there are various ways that people commemorate and celebrate the Halloween season through parties where Halloween is known. In Canada, October 31^st marks the day when a long weeknight has come not just for children where trick-or-treating can fill the days while preparing the best dresses that run around on the street. For this year, Monday is the date when it will be celebrated. Aside from children activities, adults have house parties, spooky events, pumpkin carving, graveyard walks, and haunted houses. Let us see the best places where you can hold your Halloween parties especially if you are just new in Canada.




10. Dinosaur Provincial Park


You could find it in Alberta where you could see various fossils and discoveries of dinosaurs, which are totaled to 35 species, which were in the area for almost 75 years. This is one way of being scared by being tutored as to how dinosaur history begun.


9. Hunted Forest Scream Train


This is the best place for kids where they could really scream their heart as loud as they can, especially for adults who would want to experience it with their friends before 10pm closes. This is found at Beer Creek Park in Survey, BC. This is the spookiest and craziest ride that you could have ever.


8. ByTown Museum


Ghost hunting is one of the scariest yet most favorite activities of adults. They want to be horrified in this season and the ByTown Museum in Ottawa, Ontario satisfies this regard. The popular ghost of Duncan McNab is rumored to be in this location, which can be proven true or not, as he died 150 years ago.


7. Toronto Zoo


This is one of the kid’s favorite spot where children below 12 years of age could have a creepy walk, watch magical presentations, listens to stories, and visits the kids’ zoo. This is found           in Toronto, Ontario Canada.


6. Be Terrorized at Power House


If you are among the crowd of people who find fun in fears from zombies, darkness, freaks, claustrophobia, spiders, and other scary things, this is the best place to conquer them all in their amazing mazes. This is located in Etibicoke, at 65 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Ontario.


5. Better Dead Centre, Exhibition Place


Get frightened by their haunted features, horror-themed unlimited carnival rides that are best for kids and families, and theatre presentations that can pop your eyes out. This is situated at Better Dead Centre, Exhibition place, is found in Toronto and Hamilton.


4. Scariest Canada’s Wonderland


For you to witness the scariest and spooky rides, shows and mazes, this Canada’s Wonderland can be reached in 10 minutes whether you are coming from the north side or south part. It is located at 9740 Jane Street, Maple, ON L6A 1S6.


3. Riverdale Farm – The Heart of Toronto


This is built at the heart of Toronto in the old Cabbage town where 10 year old kids and below can enjoy the 7.5 acres of Greenland where varieties of animals can be seen, which gives the scare factor to kids because of the representation of Boo Barn.


2. Hunting the Haunted Mansion


This is a spooky mansion, which was developed for pumpkin carving, wandering ghouls and goblins, and scavenger hunt and other fun-filled activities scheduled and organized yearly at Casa Loma.
           

1. Scary Walking Tours


If you were really looking for a real hair-raising place, the muddy York walking tours would fill your heart with fear where you could have the haunted streets of downtown Toronto, Bloody York: crime and punishment, historic cemetery walk, the ghost of the University of Toronto and other scary explorations. You may want to know the secrets and discover them.

Read More

Top 10 Haunted Houses in the World

Everyone feels that All Souls Day is up because of the various preparations that people do like Halloween parties, varieties of foods that they are going to prepare and bring in cemeteries, and others are doing creepy things for them to feel to be part of the world of those people who have left the earth already. Of course we missed them so much, but a part of us must move on, and get going so we could face the future ahead of us. It is true that we remember them during their birthdays, but in one event in a year, we try to reminisce the time that we’ve spent with them by visiting their tombs, and spending hours staying in their grave to give respect and time for them. However, there are people who are more adventurous than our traditional gestures and customs whenever this day comes. They are up for something that would really chill their bones, and makes this day more exciting, and spooky. If you don’t feel the horrendous feeling of watching horror movies, then try imagining being in these top 10 haunted houses in the world, and I bet you that you would have  a spine-chilling clasp that will make you grab your sets of pillow and blanket, and sleep to death.

10. Berry Pomeroy Castle, Totness

This castle was built in 15^th century which is situated in South Devon, in England. The surrounding place of it is very cozy, and there are huge numbers of visitors here because of their curiosity to experience the scary feeling of being inside. It might be small, but it has lots of terrifying stories that might nimble your whole body. Nonetheless, you don’t just go there to get scared, but to learn more about the history of castles, but definitely, visit this place during the day because you won’t dare to have a second tour if you’ll try to make a frantic stop at night. This is maintained by English Heritage and you could also discover and see ruins of the past. It was built Ralph de Pomeroy who was a known Norman Knight which is hidden in very peaceful woodland.

9. Dominican Hill, Baguio City Philippines

It became the rest house in 1911 before the development was made, and establishing it as one of the grandest hotels before World War II. However, when the Second World War II exploded, it became a passageway for people who were beheaded in this place like priests and nuns. It’s the same reason why employees who were working here have seen and experience several headless apparitions, and hearing as well erratic sounds from nowhere. Most of the visitors and guests who had been in this place also shared their frightening experiences where some of them saw a headless priest walking in the corridor, and other nerve-wracking scenes inside. Some believe that its closure is connected to complain and comments given by their clients who stayed there, and never wished to come back again.

8. Pennhurst Asylum, Philadelphia

It was a former hospital for people who have mental illness and who are physically disabled. It had been rehabilitation for them which was founded in 1908, and closed in 1987 because of series of controversies that it underwent. For over 100 years, this place becomes a favorite area for people who would like to do paranormal activities, and other ghost investigating bodies go here to feature it on TV shows and experience the real ghost hunting adventures. It has been cited as one of the scariest hunted houses in the area.

7. Ancient Ram Inn, Gloucestershire, England

It has caught attention from different TV networks in England especially whenever this type of holiday is approaching because of the number of paranormal sightings and activities. In fact, it is known as the creepiest haunted house in England. From the look of the Inn itself, you would feel an uncomfortable feeling, which would make you feel leaving the place once you get there. To those who are curious and would want to experience a different kind of adventure, then having a tour in the house while walking with the unknown spirits, and beings might be a one of a kind of undertakings that you could do. When you go inside, you would feel odd and indescribable senses that will keep your body numb, forcing yourself to don’t continue moving around.

6. Raynham Hall, Norfolk, England

It was built 400 years ago, and it’s still standing as part of the priceless possessions of the Townsend Family which is situated in Norfolk, England. It became a known haunted house in the world because of the unexplained appearances of the brown lady. We are acquainted with mysterious beings like white and black lady, but brown lady brought popularity in this house which would allow us to trace back its history, and other assumptions why it’s wandering the hall until now. Some of the visitors, who have been there, have shared these stories and the scenes where they caught vividly of this unknown lady walking and creating fear to the people. Some share a scene that she was descending from the staircase especially when a photo of it was published. It was captured in 1936, and after that, there were infrequent manifestations, and it has been a belief that this lady was the wife of Charles Townsend who was locked up at Raynham Hall after he learned of her infidelity. She died there not seeing her kids, and members of the family. Centuries after, the appearance of this brown lady became talk of the visitors, and it brought a whole puzzle into their minds that it was the wife of the late Charles Townsend indeed.

5. The Whaley House, United States

It is considered and known as the top most haunted house in the United States.  This house was built in 1857, and it’s scary because it’s located in a cemetery. Who would love to live in the vicinity of burial places? It is true that if we could have a chance to be with our departed loved ones, we would wish to stay with them, but not in a fearful setting that will make you run like a speedy car because of a live nightmare. You could have an anxiety when you pass by on the street of this house because you would smell a strong kind of perfume although that comes inside the house although no one is inside. Even if you try to go there during the day, you would still feel a kind of apprehension to just observe it from afar, and don’t try to even open the door because it might  a doomsday for you.

4. Brissac Castle, Loire Valley

It’s another spookiest houses that you don’t dare to visit, and based on records, it was built around 11^th century as an original castle. In 15^th century, restoration was made by Pierre de Breze, and was bought by a governor in Maine and Anjou. There were series of transfer of ownership of this castle, until de Cosse Family finally acquired it, and maintained its 7-storey building that makes it one of the tallest chateaus that you can see in Loire Valley. No one inhabits this place anymore, and it is the favorite spots to all ghost hunters and even nearby residents are afraid going to this place because of rumors that there are ghost living inside.

3. Monte Cristo, New South Wales, Australia

It got the title as the most terrifying haunted house in Australia because of different horrifying stories and experiences that people have shared who have personally went in the place. It is true that it is open for tourist visits, and even young ones are invited to come and witness themselves how it’s like to be inside. Of course, there are several guidelines being provided to their guests especially those who have kids so they can make the visit memorable, and not really inculcating fear. In fact, it has been featured in some of the TV programs in Australia relating some of the nerve-wracking tales of peoples about deaths and other incidents that transpired in Monte Cristo. Some of the ghosts that have been seen roaming inside the edifice are black lady that carries large silver cross, an apparition of women found in veranda, and sounds of the footsteps in empty rooms. There are several experiences that have been shared, and if you want to know if they are true, then, try visiting the place, and find out for yourself.

2. Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan, India

You would see a warning sign once you arrive in this place stating “Staying after sunset is strictly prohibited in this area” which would give an uncomfortable feeling upon hearing that thought alone. Some who are curious would want to know and discover why its prohibited. If you feel that you have enough courage to go here while sunrays are bidding down to say goodbye, then, it’s a well thought of having courage to even stay outside the house. There were rumors that a black magic has enveloped this place and that there were souls who are still living inside who were centuries old already. Some have heard mysterious voices and other strangest happenings whenever dark gets to reign in this house.

1. Rolling Hills Asylum

When it was built in 1790s, the main purpose of it was to cater and offer assistance to those people who have no houses, who are abandoned, and others who are in need of a shelter where they can call home. Hence, after its abandonment, it was developed as a mall, but no one has expected that it could be a center of fear to shoppers, and those who are renting a space because of the screams that they are hearing, weird voices, shadows, and even locked door stories. In fact, the management of the mall even tried contacting experts who have the ability to communicate to ghosts, and made some experiments  in order to prove if it its true.

Read More

Top 10 Canada Day Popular Destinations

On July 01, 2012, citizens of Canada will celebrate Canada Day, which signifies freedom from England. It was made possible when the Constitution Act 1867 was granted. This was the time that Canada, New Brunswick and Nova have joined together forming one nation or one country. Nonetheless, the complete independence of Canada was fully enjoyed by its citizens in 1982. According to history, the first celebration was held on the 50^th birthday of Canada in 1917. In 1946, a bill was passed, renaming the original celebration as Dominion Day in changed it to Canada Day. It was a recognized event by the government going forward in 1958, but the official declaration of this holiday which was recognized as Canadian Act was approved on October 27, 1982 by unanimous vote. Whether you are citizens of Canada or have plans to visit Canada anytime next week or this week, here are the top pick popular destinations that you should not miss as you join this special event to celebrate freedom and life of Canada.

10. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is the capital province in Nova Scotia and its one of the best places where immigrants choose to stay permanently. Some of the favorite tourist places in this are the Maritime Museum, Spring Garden Road, Citadel Hill, Halifax Harbour Area, Peggy’s Cove, and other exquisite places in Halifax. You’ll enjoy sea kayaking, hiking, golf, beaches, hiking, boating, rafting, and other tours.

9. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is a city found in the south part of Canada under the province of Alberta. This place is known for its prairie and foothills. It is also the largest city that you could find in Alberta. You should visit and witness the Calgary Stampede, Calgary Flames and the Red Mile, Spruce Meadows, Devonian Garden, of course the Calgary Tower, the Canadian Olympic Park, best of the Calgary Parks, Museums and Cultural Centres, and National Parks.

8. Chicago, Illinois

It is also known as a Windy City, but it is rich in diversified culture, and art. This is the place for best edifices or architecture. You’ll love this place during the weekend where you could tour around on historical sites, Hyde Park, Gold Coast, Wrigley Field, and of course their cruises.

7. Seattle, Washington

It is also popularly known as Emerald City or Rain City which is also known for its coastal ports, and logging industry. You’ll be exhausted, but your day will be filled with interesting stories, and information about San Juan Islands, Mount Rainier National Park, Snoqualmie Falls, Victoria, British Columbia, and you could even do Whale Watching, dine at the SkyCity Restaurant, Seattle Aquarium, and Kerry Park.

6. Niagara Falls, Ontario

People consider it as the most powerful waterfall situated in the Northern part of America. In fact, it is one of the most popular tourist spots in the world. You could find on its surrounding fine, and excellent structure of hotels with complete amenities, restaurants where you could sup after a long day tour, and other theme parks nearby.

5. Vancouver, British Columbia

It is found on the western city of Canada. It is one of the youngest cities under the British Columbia. Some of the places that you should not miss as you get down on your list are the Harbour Cruises, Art Gallery, Capillano Suspension Bridge, Minter Gardens, Vancouver Lookout, Telus World of Science, and other activities being done during special season and events.

4. New York City, New York

This is the busiest city not just during regular business operation, but the best place to spend Canada Day with your family. You have to take a tour on places like Empire State Building, of course the popular Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Terminal, Rockefeller Center, Ellis Island Immigration Museum, Staten Island Ferry, Central Park, American Museum of Natural History, and enjoy popular spots like Time Square, and of course don’t forget to shop on the 5^th Avenue.

3. Montreal, Quebec

This is the biggest city which is situated in the whole province of Quebec, making it as the second largest city in the whole country of Canada. It is known as a triple-peaked hill where you could find the Canadian Railway Museum, Notre-Dame Basilica, L’Orchestre Symphonique de Montreal, amusement parks, science centres, art galleries, plazas, areanas and stadium.

2. Ottawa, Ontario

It is a world-class city because of the vibrancy, and other fun-filled activities and places that you could see and visit. It is also the capital city of Canada. This is the best place to celebrate Canada Day where you could join their parade, watch live performances, and witness fireworks in the evening, and other shows that would make your day truly exciting. You could tour around in the Canadian War Museum, Parliament buildings, National Gallery Canada, Rideau Canal, Peace Tower, MosAika, and other significant places of culture, livelihood, and industry in Ottawa.

1. Toronto, Ontario

This is the best place wherein you could witness and join the fun of the celebration because of the fireworks displays, live celebration through music which is being held regularly at Mel Lastman Square, and get to see the best places in Toronto like the Eaton Centre, the CN Tower, Casa Loma, Royal Ontario Museum, Centre Island, the Distillery District, Yorkville, Hockey Hall of Fame, Art Gallery of Ontario, and China Town. Don’t forget to fill your weekend by seeing the Toronto Zoo and Canada’s Wonderland.

Read More