Stunning Daytrips From Phuket

Nicknamed 'Jewel of the Andaman', Phuket is one of Thailand's most popular tourist attractions and all year round the island welcomes huge crowds of visitors coming from every part of the world. Phuket is like a vast beautiful playground. And even if you think you've found the perfect beach to sunbath and chill out on, there still a lot to see. Therefore Phuket sightseeing trips are simply a must.

Joining day trips from Phuket is an unforgettable and rewarding travel experience. Within a few hours drive or navigating by boat are some mind-boggling landscapes such as the famed Phi Phi islands, the pretty Khao Lak coast, the breathtaking Pha Nga Bay, great scuba diving options off the Similan islands, and Krabi's stunningly beautiful karst-scapes. There are national parks which feature lush forests, idyllic fishing villages, dramatic waterfalls, blue crystal clear waters, tiny private islands, secluded mangroves and fabulous beaches to seek out.

Phuket is definitely the most visited and best developed island you can find in Thailand. During the last 20 years Phuket has transformed into an upmarket and jet-set travel destination. If you're decided to visit Phuket for your next vacation you'll find yourself located at one of the several wonderful bays dotted along the West Coast. From this spot you can both hire a private vehicle or use the opportunity taking one of the various day trip tours to your chosen destination. A daytrip is really a great idea and there are numerous options as well as travel agents.

If you come here for the first time it is absolutely wise to explore the island itself. There are plenty of lively and wonderful beaches. Located south from Kamala you'll find some of the best beaches, past the crowded and always popular Patong, and onwards to the sweeping Karon and trendier Kata. You should make a stop at each beach and sunbath for a few hours while enjoying some barbecued freshly caught seafood. Keep going south and you'll finally arrive at the unspoiled Nai Harn beach, an excellent spot for enjoying the serene atmosphere and get away from the crowds. Phuket beaches all have their own special atmosphere.

To reach the northern part of Phuket will take a drive lasting about one hour. This non-developed area is not crowded with tourists while the mangroves on the eastern shore provide different scenery of the island. While you find yourself in this region you might want to cool off in the Bang Phrae Waterfall situated in Khao Phra Thaeo National Park's or visit the Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre where you can observe these fascinating and clever animals. Touring this area is extremely rewarding!

Some of the most beautiful panoramas can be found offshore, on top of your itineraries list should be travelling to the Phi Phi Islands. This distinctive craggy island has the form of a butterfly. The island was the main location for the Hollywood feature The Beach and Phi Phi was world news when the Tsunami struck. Actually there are more than two islands, and usually all of the trips stop off giving you the option to snorkel en-route. Your lunch is served once you access Phi Phi Ley's heavenly Maya bay. The only souls which are allowed to spend the night here are campers and park rangers so you'll have the unspoilt beach all to yourself. Phi Phi Don features more dramatic scenery and unfortunately the island started to overdeveloped before the powerful Tsunami washed everything away. On a little sandwich of coconut trees the resorts are positioned between two lovely bays, with sky karst cliffs, rising up to the blue sky, all around. Once you've arrived here you may find it a drag going back to Phuket!

Similarly astonishing and popular is Pha Nga Bay's distinctive karst seascape, which enjoyed a lot of free promotion in the Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. Now the island is even renamed as the James Bond Island, on all trips from Phuket this is a must-see but its all part of an enormous theatre of pillars, positioned along this extensive bay and it is probably one of the world's most photogenic spots. Koh Phan Yee is a picturesque fishing village which is situated in the sea on stilts and it is here where lunch will be served. Buying some souvenirs is something that you should not forget and also walking around this peaceful community. Particularly popular is kayaking among the impressive karst cliffs and wonderful caves.

If you are a diving enthusiast and there is only one chance to see the finest sites, then you might want to take a diving trip to the gorgeous Similan islands. These islands are situated West of Phuket and the trip lasts a few days. Also located here is a protected marine reserve and boat tyrips are the only means of reaching the area's untouched reefs, or enjoy swimming in the clear soothing waters. You don't have a dive certificate? No worries, there are many courses offering dive lessons. Hong Island makes a great daytrip as well. This remarkable island lies between Phuket and Krabi and features a hidden lagoon which is only accessible via a cave tunnel during low tide.

Drive into the hinterland by rented car is also a rewarding option. Phuket is connected by a short causeway and after you reach the mainland you are free to explore the beautiful Southern Thai provinces. Driving north to Khao Lak, you have the option to explore a wilder and unspoiled coastline, and some impressing coastal parks. The Khao Sok National Park is just a bit beyond this with its enormous lake, lush rainforests and idyllic landscapes. The park's chalets offer overnight accommodation. The tropical national parks in Thailand boast fabulous ecosystems full of birdlife, waterfalls, streams, nature trails, and a few animals.

If you're driving out of Phuket it is a great idea to explore the region for a couple of days, with its rubber plantations, and weird landscapes. Visiting the majestic and less visited parks such as Than Bokkharani National Park and Sa Nang Manora Forest Park as you travel en-route through Pha Nga onwards to Krabi town, is especially a great experience.

Fantasy Hockey Rising Stars For 2010-11

As for the stock market when it comes to winning hockey fantasy, is of crucial importance for players who are on the increase identified. These players are all guaranteed, but their numbers compared to last season to improve. This means that the average of the opponents tend to underestimate these options.

Crime

Niclas Bergfors ATL

Bergfors, the price was back to Atlanta for Kovalchuk trade. He showed in his first few weeks, because the Thrashers with some of the targeted sectorstrong emphasis on offense. He finished his rookie year scored 20 goals in and it is certainly better than its second season. It will be a significant factor imagination until the end of the season.

Dustin Byfuglien ATL

The big man has had a career at the peak of 36 points last season. If you watched the playoffs, he knows he can hit the mark by Christmas. Expect a big jump for Byfuglien in his first year as a Thrasher.

Matt Duchene COL

Duchesne was a favorite to advance tothe Calder Trophy last season. He slowed down a notch in the second half, but still exceeded expectations for his rookie year. Expect him to be better in his second season and challenge Stastny as the team's top point producer. 70 points are not out of the question for Duchesne.

Loui Eriksson DAL

Eriksson is quickly becoming the top offensive threat in Dallas. His points have steadily climbed over his first four NHL campaigns. He has the talent to score 30-35 goals a season. Look for another small step forward from Eriksson in 2010-11.

Nathan Horton BOS

Horton has a new home and new life in Boston. If he can stay healthy, he should be a 40 goal threat.

Bryan Little ATL

After pounding home 31 goals in 2009-10, Little took a big step back last season, putting in a measly 13 goals and 21 assists. He's a gifted player who has bounced between center and wing. He'll be better in 2010, but it's tough to say if he can get back to 30 goals this year. Count on at least a 20 point improvement this season.

Kyle Okposo NYI

Okposo has progressed nicely in his first two seasons on the Island. He plays a solid game and is emerging as a real offensive threat. He's guaranteed to set another career best in goals and assists, we just need to figure out how high he will go next season. Set your sights on a 60+ point season with the potential for 25 goals.

Joe Pavelski SAN

Pavelski's totals dropped from 59 to 51 points last season, but that was due to the 15 games he missed last fall with a foot injury. By the time the playoffs rolled around, he emerged as one of the most dominant players in the postseason. He overshadowed the likes of Thornton, Marleau and Heatley with his production and all around play. That momentum should carry into next season, where he should reach new career highs in both goals and assists.

Mason Raymond VAN

Raymond has found a home on the Canucks 2nd line. He made some good strides in his 3rd NHL season, recording 25 goals and 53 points. He should top those numbers in 2010-11.

Bobby Ryan ANA

Bobby Ryan (aka the Crosby Sweeps Consolation prize) has steadily risen to be a valuable fantasy forward. He joins Getzlaf and Perry to form a big three punch in Anaheim, with Ryan potentially being the best goal-scorer of the three. He reached 31 and 35 goals in his past two seasons and is quickly tracking towards being a 40 goal guy. Only warning is that at this point, he is still unsigned.

Jordan Staal PIT

In his first 4 seasons, Staal has been held back in the fantasy world by his excellent defensive skills. He plays a good chunk of his time short handed, despite having the size and skills to produce up front as well. There are rumblings that he may be used more often on the top 2 lines by shifting either he or Malkin to the wing. If that happens, expect a big time boost in his stats. Don't forget, he'll be just 22 years old when the season kicks off. He'll top his career best of 49 points for sure.

Chris Stewart COL

Stewart surprised many fans with his outstanding 2nd season stats. He's got the talent and strength to score goals in bunches. Last season he pounded home 28 for the Avalanche and will probably be in that vicinity again in 2010-11.

James van Riemsdyk PHI

Drafted 2nd overall in 2007, van Riemsdyk showed considerable promise in his rookie season with Philly. He may be one more year away from becoming a significant fantasy forward, but he's a player on the rise and should contribute more in 2010-11.

Defense

Zach Bogosian ATL

Bogosian is entering his third NHL season and is still on track to be a star in this league. He's registered 9 and 10 goals in his first two tries and should approach the 15 goal range this season as he earns more playing time with the Thrashers.

Alexander Edler VAN

Edler ended last season with an ankle injury, but should be fine and/or dandy for the start of this year. He's gradually become the go-to guy in Vancouver on defense and his fantasy totals are starting to get him some attention. There's a good chance he'll hit the 40 point mark this season, but don't expect a ton of goals from Edler, which may limit his value in certain leagues.

Tobias Enstrom ATL

After 3 seasons in the NHL, Enstrom has established himself as a solid fantasy defenseman. If nothing else, he's durable. He hasn't missed a game yet in his career. He took a big leap in points last season to 50, putting him among the elite. The only drawback at this point is his low goal totals, having peaked last season at 6. Plan on a 55 point season in 2010-11.

Cody Franson NAS

At age 22, the huge Nashville defenseman is just starting to show the world what he can do. If he can wrestle some power play minutes away from Weber and Suter, his value could go way up. As it stands, look for a 30+ point season in his second year.

Alex Goligoski PIT

Goligoski and fantasy role-playing numbers have increased steadily over the last few seasons. With the departure of Gonchar, the ballpoint pen to Gogo us to bring the disc more. He should have no problem at the top mark of 40 points this season and has reached 15 goals in 2010-11 approach.

Erik Karlsson October

Karlsson began his rookie season slowly, but ended with a huge bang. He recorded 12 points in their last 10 matchesseason, leaving us wandering what's in store in his sophomore year. Karlsson should enter into the 40 point territory in 2010-11 and may get as high as 10 goals.

Alex Pietrangelo STL

Pietrangelo has a fair shot at making the Blues club this fall, and if he does, look for him to quickly put the puts on the board. He was drafted 4th overall in 2008, mostly for his offensive potential. Now at age 20, he's ready to start showing he was worth it.

Ian White CGY

White came over to Calgary as the key piece in the Phaneuf deal. His numbers have risen steadily in his first few NHL seasons, and he's established himself as a goal scoring threat from the point. His 13 tallies last season rank among the best at that position. Unless the Flames move somebody, he'll have to fight for playing time, with the likes of Regehr, Bouwmeester, and Giordano in the lineup. He should repeat in the double-digits for goals, which makes him a decent mid-round option.

Goalies

Jonathan Bernier LOS

Despite the unexpected emergence of Jonathan Quick last season, the Kings still have future plans for Bernier. Don't be surprised to see him steal some starts from Quick and start to get some recognition as the season progresses. Not quite worthy of a starting role on your fantasy squad just yet, but keep him in mind as the season wears on.

Michal Neuvirth WAS

Why is Neuvirth even on this list? Mostly because Theodore is gone, the Caps haven't landed another goalie (nor do they have much cap space to do so), and mostly because I'm not sold on Varlamov as the long-term #1 option in Washington. Neuvirth has as much upside as Varlamov, so don't be surprised to see a battle in camp for the #1 job. Sit on him as a possible late round sleeper option, or keep an eye on him as the season goes on. At some point, he'll get a good run going this year in D.C.

Top 5 Asian Honeymoon Destinations

Every newlywed couple dreams of spending a few weeks doing new things and visiting unfamiliar places. While most couples are eyeing a honeymoon in Hawaii and the Caribbean, why not choose a place that is entirely new to you and your spouse?

A honeymoon in Europe can cost a lot and after an expensive wedding, spending a lot of Euros just to visit places commonly visited by other honeymooners as well seems to be impractical. If you are looking for unique destinations that do not cost much but can equal if not rival the pleasure of a European getaway then why not take a look at what the Asian region has to offer?

India

India is an enchanting place not only for the country's philosophy but also for the exotic places you can easily visit like the Taj Mahal. Of course, you can have your fill of swimming and other water-based activities in Puri and Kerala but an experience at the Palace on Wheels will definitely be unforgettable. The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train ride that will take you Taj Mahal, Lake Palace in Udaipur and other exotic destinations.

Philippines

Next to India, the Philippines is where you can get more value for your dollars. You can choose a honeymoon package that will take you to the world-famous Boracay, Palawan and Samal Island. Boracay is famous for its white sand beaches that stretch over nine kilometers long. This place is definitely for honeymooners who only have eyes only for each other. A visit to Palawan will take you to the last frontier of the Philippines. It is the location of two World Heritage Sites: the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park. Would it be more exciting to visit the place where the biggest pearl (9.45 inches) in the world was found? And speaking of pearls, your honeymoon wouldn't be complete without a visit to Pearl Farm in Samal Island in Davao City. The city has been named one of the most livable cities in Asia. Pearl Farm has been identified as a protected fish sanctuary and it is one of the best places to go snorkeling.

China

Why not take advantage of your honeymoon and discover historical places that no one in your social milieu may have discovered yet? China is the best place to go for a discovery honeymoon. The famous Great Wall of China, which spans over 4,000 miles, is full of history by itself and has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Make sure you include the Forbidden City (known for being the seat of the Emperor's power) and the Tiananmen Square in your itinerary.

Thailand

Exotic Bangkok is a shopping haven so make sure you drop by before leaving Thailand. However, if you have a weakness for beautiful beaches then a honeymoon in Phuket and Phi Phi Island should be on top of your list. Bangkok is the city of temples and one of the most famous temples here is the Temple of the Golden Buddha which houses the solid gold Buddha statue. Take your spouse to a dinner cruise along the Choaphaya River.

Vietnam

Vietnam's Red River Delta and the Mekong Delta have captured the heart of many honeymooners. The raw beauty of this rustic place is an ideal location for couples who want to see what's on away from the hustle and bustle of cities like New York and Los Angeles. Country life has never been so beautiful. Among the popular honeymoon places here are Dalat, the Valley of Love and the Lake of Sighs.

Discover the many secrets of Asia and make this a honeymoon secret between you and your spouse. Why not make you honeymoon a unique event by choosing the unexplored destinations of Asia as your honeymoon destination?

Travel Thailand: 5 Top Destinations

With several sights to see and surprises to offer, Thailand could be one of the best locations you should not miss to visit. Culture, beaches, people, and heritage sites are some of the things you can expect when you travel to Thailand.

Bangkok - Traveling Thailand wound not be complete without visiting Bangkok. As the nation's capital with an estimated population of over 10 million (including the neighboring provinces), this city is by far the largest in the country. The city is divided into 50 districts or khet but for tourists and those who are new in the place, 6 divisions would be more useful. These are Ratchadaphisek in the northeast section of the city, Sukhamvit in the southeast, Silom in the south, Thonburi in the west, Rattanakosin in the central north, and Phahanyothin in the north. The whole Bangkok district would give you a diverse taste of culture, history, religion, modernity, and fast-phase life. You can actually witness how all these blend together to comprise the whole Bangkok package. Buddhist temples, historical museums, towering buildings, contemporary restaurants and hotels, shopping centers, canals and rivers, and food make Bangkok a one of a kind city in Southeast Asia.

Phuket - Down south, Phuket features magnificent beaches, tropical sunsets, white sands, blue seas, and breathtaking sceneries. No wonder it is the most popular vacation destination in Asia beating every beaches of the neighboring countries. It has several beaches like Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Patong Beach, Kamala Beach, and Surin Beach. The island showcases several water sports and activities including parasailing, jet-skiing, and scuba diving. By day, Phuket is alive with beachgoers and shoppers and by night, lights, sounds, and party people dominate the whole island.

Chiang Mai - The second largest city in Thailand with an estimated population of more than 200,000. This city located in the northern part of the country offers greener and quieter city. Chiang Mai's tourism is becoming more and more popular and permanently settling at this city is very common. When you travel Thailand and visit Chiang Mai, you surely would want to see museums such as Hilltribe Research Institute Museum and the Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Center. With religion and history enriching the city, you can see several Buddhist temples such as Wat Chiang Mun, Wat Chiang Mun, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Oo-Mong, Wat Phra Jao Mengrai, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, and Wat Chedi Luang. The oldest temple dates back in the 11th century. Chiang Mai features attractions such as Chiang Mai Flower Festival in February, Bo Sang Umbrella & Sankampang Handicrafts Festival in January, The 2nd Orchid Fair also in January, and the Loi Krathong Festival usually falls in November.

Pattaya - Located 150 km. north of Bangkok, Pattaya is one of the most popular tourist destinations, which offers great beaches, beer and go-go bars, and a wide array of sport activities. Visit Pattaya when you travel Thailand is a must. Although it is the most overdeveloped part of the country in terms of tourism, prices in Pattaya still remains with reach. In fact, prices of foods, accommodation, and transportations are very affordable.

Krabi - In a small province of Krabi lies a small town with the same name. Paying a visit Krabi town when you travel Thailand is worth the time. Located south of Bangkok near Phuket and Phi Phi island, the town features great beaches along with high end hotels and not so expensive hotel that cater tourists of different classes.

3 Places You Must Go in Thailand

For people seeking sun, sand and plenty of adventure, Thailand is amongst the top places in the world to visit. The beautiful scenery of the coastal islands compliments the rich culture and mountainous regions to the north, not to mention Bangkok, one of South East Asia's most intriguing cities. There's a multitude of places to visit and things to do in Thailand, and whether you're a tourist or a backpacker, you're almost sure to never get bored by the country's rich offerings. Indeed, you could choose to spend a week bronzing yourself on a beach in the south, or spend months exploring the highlands to the north and the borders with Laos and Cambodia. If you've got a trip to Thailand in store for this year, then take a read of this article to find out about some of the top destinations.

Phuket
Located to the west of the country, Phuket is the largest and most popular island in Thailand. The island was hit hard by the 2004 Tsunami, but recovery has surged through tourism in the time since. With miles and miles of idyllic beaches and a collection of hotel resorts that wouldn't look out of place in a list of the world's best, tourists pour here by the bucket load. Some of the top resorts lie in the northern town of Ao Bang, where serious pampering comes at a serious price. This is home to a 7km long white beach and the Laguna Phuket golf club. Further south is Patong, a popular resort that lights up with neon during the night while providing home to the island's most popular beach - Hat Patong.

Ko Chang
An island for those who want a little more than the offerings of the more tourist centric islands, Ko Chang is a rock that soars out of the sea, complete with jungle, rugged terrain and of course, many of its very own beaches. Located to the East of the Gulf Thailand near Cambodia, you won't find the regular sellers of knock off Ray-Bans and DVDs in a hurry, and the tourist hubbub is replaced by a more natural tranquillity. The island is home to an array of stunning wildlife that inhabits the scenery. Sea eagles, Andaman kites and hornbills all nest here, while you may even see a reticulated python if you venture inland! When visiting make sure you take on of the dirt pathways for a nature adventure.

Krabi Province
Most travellers choose to breeze through Krabi town, as people are keen to move on to the paradises of Ko Phi Phi and Railay. These two gems of the Andaman Sea boast some of the most stunning scenery in the whole of Thailand, which is a spectacular feat if you consider the extent of beautiful coastland and mountains in the country. Railay is located behind a layer of impenetrable cliffs, and it is only possible to get there by boat. Surreal limestone formations make it a fantastic place for rock climbing, while the beach is possibly the revered in the country. Ko Phi Phi don, meanwhile, is an island 30km to the South West of the mainland of Krabi. As the backlot for The Beach, staring Leonardo Di Caprio, it's not difficult to see why the place is thought of as one of the world's top island paradises.

Fishing in Thailand

Phuket - The Andaman Sea's Premier Fishing Destination

Thailand's island of Phuket occupies a strategically located site from which to reach all the best fishing grounds off the northwest coast of Thailand, plus is a convenient starting-point for fishing trips to India's Andaman Islands, where gigantic marlin can still be found.

Fish Phuket, Thailand - Seasons

As with virtually every game-fishing venue there are specific seasons when the pelagic visitors are more prolific. The most productive seasons also depend on weather and sea conditions. Although black marlin may well be present over Phuket's continental shelf for most of the year, there are periods when targeting them may be prevented due to adverse sea conditions. Compared with many established game-fishing venues, Phuket is fortunate as extreme weather and sea conditions are uncommon. Very few fishing days are lost due to heavy seas or tropical storms.

Phuket has two major weather patterns. During the dry season, which generally lasts from mid-October to mid-May, the prevailing winds are from the north-east and on occasions sea conditions may get a little choppy. During the rainy season of June to October the prevailing winds are from the south-west and sometimes result in long waves and gentle swells. As with anywhere in the tropics, it can rain at any time, but prolonged periods of heavy rain occur only occasionally, even in the rainy season.

The peak season for fishing off Phuket generally coincides with the peak period for tourists visiting the island. October, November and December usually represent the most productive months for marlin and sailfish action. During the rainy season, Phuket often enjoys a good run of sailfish. July and August regularly provide anglers with 'hot-bites' from sailfish, wahoo and dorado.

Phuket, Thailand - Fishing Grounds

There are three major fishing areas off Phuket: Racha Yai, Racha Noi and the Continental Shelf. In addition the Andaman Islands are 450 km away and are reachable by charter or by boarding in Port Blair, India. The most frequented of Phuket's fishing grounds are the waters surrounding the island of Racha Yai, especially off its northeast corner. This is a sensational sailfish hot-spot and can often produce outstanding action. Wahoo, dorado, barracuda and multitudes of skipjack, kawa kawa and longtail-tuna are regularly caught off this island.

Racha Noi and the rocky pinnacles to the south of the island can offer sizzling sport with black marlin, sailfish, wahoo and several other desirable game-fish. When the vast schools of giant trevally embark on their feeding frenzies, popper-casting can result in a memorable fishing session. Jigging over the pinnacles can also produce exciting action with giant trevallies, rainbow-runners and even the occasional dogtooth-tuna.

The drop-off, on Phuket's continental shelf, offers anglers their best chance of black marlin action relatively near to Phuket. The drop-off near the Similan Islands is also one of the haunts of yellowfin-tuna, although they are rarely caught in trophy size. Big wahoo often cruise the shelf, as do barracuda and impressive dorado. The skipjacks are generally much bigger than their cousins caught in shallower water. Sailfish do show up occasionally but seldom in great numbers.

The Andaman Islands archipelago, which belongs to India and is situated in the Bay of Bengal, is approximately 450km west of Phuket and is closer to Thailand than it is to India. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands group consists of 572 rain-forest-covered islands, of which only 36 are inhabited. This area is an exciting new destination for big-game fishing where the fishing action, including major battles with massive specimens of the mighty black marlin, is outstanding, mainly due to the virtual absence of commercial fishing vessels.

Greek Life on College Campuses is Flourishing

New college freshmen are often somewhat confused and surprised once they land on a college campus by all of the Greek sorority and fraternity signs, frat and sorority houses and 'Rush' parties. Greek life is a integral part of any college campus and the traditions run deep.

There are two basic types of sororities and fraternities. The honor fraternities allow both men and women to join because they are based on academic excellence. Most universities have a good deal of honor fraternities that are each based on a particular major or field of study. A student may be accepted into the music fraternity for example. All fraternities and sororities have Greek names. Sororities are traditionally for women while most fraternities are for men, with the exception of the academic fraternities which allow both sexes to become members.

Social fraternities and sororities abound on college campuses all across the United States. Some of the most common and largest groups include the Alpha Phi and the Chi Omega. Alpha Phi is a women's social fraternity that is based on sisterly unity. This fraternity was founded back in 1872 by women at Syracuse University and it is one of the oldest fraternities in North America.

Chi Omega is also a women's social fraternity and is the largest member of the National Panhellenic Conference. Chi Omega has its headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee and has over 170 chapters across North America.

Most college communities have several fraternities and sororities for students to join. Most have study programs, do charity work and hold social events. At the beginning of a school year, campus chapters hold what is called 'Rush Week' wherein interested students can visit the clubs. The 'pledges' or students who are interested in joining a particular fraternity or sorority, do all sorts of crazy activities in order to be inducted. It is customary for sorority and fraternity members to give a custom gift to the new members. The most traditional gifts that are given are Greek paddles. These are wooden paddles that can be personalized with the organization's crest, Greek letters, the recipient's name as well as a message and date.

Today, there are more cultural-interest sororities and fraternities being formed on a growing number of college campuses. These organizations cater to a specific cultural interests such as Asian American women or Latino men. Multicultural sororities and fraternities do not encourage a particular cultural interest but rather recruit multiple cultures. Generally speaking, the larger the university the greater the number of fraternities and sororities there are on campus.