The 65-mpg car Ford won't sell in US

The Fiesta ECOnetic could compete with hybrids and help remake Ford's image. But big obstacles are keeping the vehicle out of the US market. By BusinessWeek

If ever there was a car made for the times, this would seem to be it: a sporty subcompact that seats five, offers a navigation system and gets a whopping 65 miles to the gallon. Oh, yes, and the car is made by Ford Motor (F, news,msgs), known widely for lumbering gas hogs.

Ford's 2009 Fiesta ECOnetic goes on sale in November. But here's the catch: Despite the car's potential to transform Ford's image and help it compete with Toyota Motor (TM, news,msgs) and Honda Motor (HMC, news, msgs) in its home market, the company will sell the little fuel sipper only in Europe.

"We know it's an awesome vehicle," says Ford America President Mark Fields. "But there are business reasons why we can't sell it in the U.S." The main one: The Fiesta ECOnetic runs on diesel.

• Talk back: Should we bail out the automakers next?

Automakers such as Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz have predicted for years that a technology called "clean diesel" would overcome many Americans' antipathy toward a fuel still often thought of as the smelly stuff that powers tractor-trailers.

Diesel vehicles now hitting the market with pollution-fighting technology are as clean as, or even cleaner than, gasoline-powered cars, and they are at least 30% more fuel-efficient.

Yet while half of all cars sold in Europe last year ran on diesel, the U.S. market remains relatively unfriendly to the fuel.

Taxes aimed at commercial trucks mean diesel costs anywhere from 40 cents to $1 more per gallon than gasoline. Add to this the success of the Toyota Prius, and you can see why only 3% of cars in the U.S. use diesel.

"Americans see hybrids as the darling," says Global Insight auto analyst Philip Gott, "and diesel as old tech."

Best Steak in United States

Land Of Magic Dinner Club 11060 Front St, Manhattan, MT Tel: (406) 284-3794

Best Steak you will eat anywhere in the United States! No kidding!

Dunn's River Falls Jamaica

Dunn's River Falls & Park

Dunn's River Falls is one of Jamaica's
national treasures. Globally, it is as well
known as reggae and equally stimulating.
There are few places where the Arawak
name "Xayamaca" - land of rivers and 
springs - is more apt. The Spaniards called 
the area "Las Chorreras", the waterfalls or 
springs and it is truly one of the most beautiful spots on the island.

A stone's throw from Ocho Rios, one of Jamaica's fastest growing resort centres, Dunn's River Falls is unique. Described as a living and growing phenomenon, it continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock, the result of precipitation of calcium carbonate from the river, as it flows over the falls. The small dome-shaped cataracts are usually associated with thermal spring activity found in limestone caves. This, combined with its location near to the sea, gives Dunn's River the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the Caribbean, if not the world.

The name "Las Chorreras" has degenerated over the years to "Ocho Rios" (meaning eight rivers), although there are actually only four rivers in the area - Cave River, Roaring River, Turtle River and Dunns River. These "Chorreras" are characterized by clarity, unending flow and swift descent, punctuated by rapid cascades and waterfalls which pour directly into the Caribbean Sea. Dunn's River Falls has an interesting history. It is believed to be the site of the famous battle of "Las Chorreras", fought in 1657 between the Spanish and the English for possession of the island. The English won, and under British rule "Las Chorreras" was first owned by Charles Pryce. It later became part of the 276 acre Belmont property, which was acquired by Government in 1972, to provide for future development of recreational and park facilities.

The Belmont property was entrusted to the Urban Development Corporation(UDC) for the people of Jamaica. It is managed by the St. Ann Development Company (SADCo), a regional subsidiary of the UDC.

Together they have embarked on phased upgrading and development of the Dunn's River Falls Park, to the standard befitting a premier national attraction. Today, the new Dunn's River Falls Park is a mix of modern facilities with the rustic charm of a natural setting. New roads have been built for easier access to the upper reaches of the falls, increased parking and picnic facilities provided, as well as terracing and decks, which allow scenic views of the falls and the distant horizon.

Dunn's River Falls Park is the perfect environment for fun and relaxation for the entire family. There is a delightful new discovery around every corner.

Climb the falls in a human chain led by experienced Falls Guides. Pause at the 'massage parlour' and experience the soothing effects of the water as it cascades to the sea. For the less brave - live vicariously. View the activities of the more intrepid from the "safe" vantage point of the terrace or deck.

Sun lovers can renew their pact with the Sun Goddess at the beach, on the golden sands lapped by the aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Exercise buffs may jog on the beach or walk the property as part of theirroutine. And for those who enjoy mother nature's gifts, lose yourself in lush tropical foliage - ferns, bamboos, ginger lillies, crotons, orchids, a variety of palms and breadfruit trees. If you are a souvenir hunter with a genuine love for wood carvings, straw craft and intuitive art, browse through the shops in the craft park. Or, commission your own piece, climb the falls and collect it on your return.

The Cafeteria has savoury delights to please any palate - from spicy jerked chicken, pork or fish and curried goat to… delectable snacks. Or, bring your own vittles and take advantage of the several barbecue pits around the park. Spend a day and do it all.

Dunn's River Falls offers the chance for renewal. It's an unforgettable experience and a must for your holiday itinerary. Visit the falls once, and we offer a gilt edged guarantee… you will return.

The new DUNN'S RIVER FALLS & PARK … pure pleasure …

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Stingray City

Throughout the ins and outs and ups and downs of island life, this company has managed to excel for the last 50 years. Started by the man who "discovered" Stingray City, the company is still family owned, and although the founder is now retired, he often will board the boat and regale his guests with tales of life in Cayman's earlier days.

You'll board a cabin cruiser for the trip to three perfect snorkel sites: The famous Stingray City sandbar for interacting with the stingrays in waist-deep water, the Barrier Reef, and Coral Gardens. 

At Stingray City, you can enjoy having the stingrays swim around you or you can don your snorkel and get a little more up close and personal. Food for the stringrays is provided so you can experience the feeling of them grabbing the goodies with their mouths on the underside of their body as they swim over your hand. 

Your second snorkeling stop is the gorgeous Barrier Reef. Here you will snorkel in waters 8-10ft. deep inhabited by nurse sharks and moray eels as well as beautiful coral and thousands of fish.

Your final snorkel destination is Coral Gardens, a cluster of coral formations which is home to thousands of fish and a few stingrays. 

You'll take a break at the beach of the lovely Kaibo Yacht Club, where lunch is served. In season, from November 1- March 31, you will also have the opportunity to participate in a "conch dive". The conch will be served marinated as an appetizer with a full lunch to follow (we promise everything else will be cooked!). The mahi-mahi, steamed plantain, coconut bread, rice, potato and tossed salad lunch is said to be worth the price of admission alone!

Chankanaab National Park

Chankanaab National Park

Chankanaab National Park Beach Front

Why do a completely separate review of Chankanaab National Park? Its easy, Chankanaab is a destination in itself and is worthy of many Cozumel visitor's complete attention. Chankanaab National Park is a great choice for a do-it-yourself shore excursion, as it is close to the cruise terminals, easy to get to, reasonably affordable, completely safe, and really caters to families and those wanting to experience more than just a day at the beach.

Chankanaab became a National Park in 1980 to portect its unique eco systems and ocean environment, flora and fauna. While Chankanaab National Park only resides on about 40 to 60 acres (my guess) it offers something for everyone. Here is a breakdown of what you will find.

The Entrance to Chankanaab National Park

Getting to Chankanaab National Park:
Getting to Chankanaab is quite easy. It is a short taxi ride from the International pier (about $5.00 each way) and a bit longer from the downtown piers (about $10.00 each way) There are always ample taxis waiting at Chankanaab to take you back to the pier or into town for shopping. The entrance fee for adults is currently $12 (as of April, 2004) The park opens at 8 am in the morning and closes at 5 pm. The entrance fee is collected at the tick windows at the entrance and you are given a temporary bracelet that must be worn the entire time you are visiting the park.

The Children's Beach at Chankanaab National Park

The Beach
Chankanaab National Park's beaches are typical for Cozumel with one exception. On the north side of the park (near the dolphin pens) there is a protected cove that is perfect for young children. HINT: If you have young children, don't think of going anywhere else on Cozumel! Other than this prize, the beach is imported sand held behind a rock wall built to retain the sand.

Typical Chankanaab Beach Front

You can lie in the sand (bring towels from the ship) but the palapas and beach lounges are for rent only. However, they are reasonable and do make the day much nicer if you have some comfort. To get the best spots, be sure to arrive at the park early and stake your claim.

The Float in the Center of the Snorkeling Area

The Snorkeling and Diving
Chankanaab is known to be an excellent snorkeling spot, however I have never seen the area they must have been talking about. In my opinion, the snorkeling here is only mediocre at best. There are a few rock outcroppings in the primarily sand bottom and the shoreline reef (rock) is barren of much life one would expect to see. The fish are friendly (especially if you have some fish food) but you will not see anything extraordinary here. There are some sunken statues and artifacts that are fun to find (one of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, a cannon, an anchor and a sea maiden)

Chankanaab's Dive and Snorkel Shops

Snorkel gear is rented at one of the sports shacks on the beach for a nominal amount of money, but I would always suggest that you visit a dive shop before you leave home and get fitted for your own personal mask and snorkel, as this will make every minute in the water so much more enjoyable for you. You can arrange for dives at Chankanaab's dive shops and I understand there are some excellent dives that are made from this location as the coastline is riddled with caves and tubes to explore.

Chankanaab's Swim with the Dolphins

Swim with the Dolphins
Swim with the dolphins has been a phenomenal success wherever it is offered. Chankanaab National Park has been offering its dolphin encounter for a couple of years now and it has met with huge success. For about $120 you get 30 to 45 minutes with two dolphins in their natural environment (of course, you and they are in a cage) Folks with you, but not participating in the swim can also join you at the tank while you swim to photograph you. Of course the park also takes a video of your experience and makes it available for a charge. Everyone that does it seems to walk away pleased with the experience.

Chakanaab's Sea Lion Show Arena

The Sea Lion Show
While I didn't see the show, or talk with anyone that did, I would suspect this would be a great choice for those with children. The current charge is $10 per person to enjoy the show and there seems to be a lot of takers for it.

Entrance to Chankanaab National Park

The Botanical and Archaeological Park
Now this is a cool reason to visit Chankanaab National Park. After clearing the entrance gates, you are presented with a pathway that leads into the park. Shops and dolphins, to the right; beach, straight ahead; if you want to visit the botanical and archaeological gardens, then take the left fork.

Chankanaab National Park Botanical Gardens Pathway

Exploring the trails and walkways that meander throughout a huge area is a wonderful way to enjoy the botanical and archaeological gardens. The diversity in vegetation is amazing.

Chankanaab Replica Mayan Village

All of a sudden, you stumble upon a complete replica of an ancient Mayan Village to explore. Inside the huts are artifacts from the era and the hanging planters used to grow vegetables was ingenious.

Leaving the village one enters an area where well over 50 replicas of famous statues and artifacts are located throughout the vegetation. It is very stunning to see.

Everywhere you look, there are more visual treats from the Maya, Aztec and other ancient cultures from the area.

The enormity of some of the artifacts is quite impressive. Without question, this is one area of the park everyone will enjoy.

Jungle Pond

Leaving the archaeological section of the park, one hears the sound of water falling into a stream and then follows the stream until it becomes a pond. The vegetation surrounding the pond is simply breathtaking. You could spend hours wondering around this section of the park.

The Saltwater Lagoon

The Lagoon
One of the main attractions of the park is the saltwater lagoon that is connected to the ocean by underwater limestone tubes. I could not get a picture that would do this lagoon justice, as the water color and intensity was almost unbelievable. There is a trail that surrounds the entire lagoon well worth walking, as you will see many fish you would normally only see in the surf zone swimming freely in the calm water.

Chankanaab Lagoon Inlet

The water in the lagoon is crystal clear as you can see here and the reef is absolutely gorgeous. This is one of the inlets where the ocean water transfers from the lagoon.

El Bucanero Restaurant

The Restaurants
As one might imagine, Chankanaab has several restaurants to select from. There is one (El Bucanero Restaurant) that is located back from the beach in a secluded location. Also, the beachfront restaurant is excellent

Chankanaab Oceanfront Restaurant

The Shopping
Of course, no national park would be complete without world class shopping opportunities. Chankanaab is no exception! Adjacent to the dolphin pens lies a complete Mexican shopping village that offers souvenirs for everyone.

Chankanaab Shopping Village

Here you can find all of the souvenirs that you might need and avoid having to go into town shopping. There are also shops outside of the entrance to Chankanaab National Park that sell souvenirs and other products.

Check out over 25 different shore excursions in Cozumel!
Cozumel Shore Excursions

Google snags 63 percent of searches in August

Google snags 63 percent of searches in August
 Email this Story

Sep 18, 5:13 PM (ET)

NEW YORK (AP) - Google Inc. (GOOG) (GOOG) further extended its dominance in the search engine market in August, according to figures comScore Inc. released Thursday.

Google accounted for 63 percent of searches by U.S. surfers in August, up from 61.9 percent in July and 56.5 percent in August last year.

The increase came at the expense of the second- and third-largest players in the market, Yahoo Inc. (YHOO) (YHOO) and Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) (MSFT)

Yahoo's share fell to 19.6 percent from 20.5 percent in July and 23.3 percent a year ago.

Microsoft's share was 8.3 percent, down from 8.9 percent in July and 11.3 percent a year ago.

ComScore's report excludes searches for mapping, local directory and user-generated video sites.

The measures rely heavily on online recruitment techniques dismissed by more traditional pollsters, and the company was criticized several months ago for a separate report on paid search clicks, which relies on a similar panel as the data on search market share.

Lehman Brothers analyst Douglas Anmuth said the report suggested that Google's strength in search is intact, and the company remains a top pick.

Google shares rose $24.59, or 5.9 percent, to close Thursday at $439.08.