In complete but complimentary contrast to wild and natural beauty of Picos de Europa is city of Santiago de Comostela. This UNESCO world heritage site with its impressive and world famous cathedral is actually one of Spain’s most incredible cities. It is also a site of pilgrimage and a centre so rich in art and history that it draws thousands of visitors every year. The city is known as religious and cultural heart of Celtic Galicia region and it has added attraction of a micro-climate which affords it beautifully warm summers. Of course with all these features, attractions and benefits city is not only a Spanish property hotspot it is actually an expensive hotspot and property prices in city have been significantly increasing with 10 – 11% increases across Northern Galicia last year alone. But don’t despair; prices in city are still far more affordable in comparison to properties in southern Spain, city is directly accessible from UK and it offers impressive property investment potential and real estate rental return potential.

The lively and affluent coastal town of Vigo is a popular resort and is proving a consistently attractive prospect for foreign real estate buyers. Formerly famous for having Europe’s biggest fishing fleet area is now as famous for its tourism and all it offers its visitors and residents – from its incredible Atlantic swept beaches to its funky and cosmopolitan café culture and nightlife. If you’re attracted by all Vigo has to offer - and who would blame you – and you’re looking for real estate in area you’re probably assured good investment potential as property is still very affordable but more and more massively in demand.

Finally, Mino Valley region of Northern Spain which is located on Portuguese/Spanish border is an incredibly lush and beautifully unspoilt area of Spain. It follows Mino river, is about 35km from great beaches and is as yet a relatively unknown tourist or expatriate area. That is all about to change however and area is gearing up for an influx of both tourists in search of an active but peaceful destination and those expatriates seeking a brand new Spanish world. The region has so much to offer, it is incredibly lush as mentioned which makes for breathtaking natural scenery, it enjoys a healthy and warm climate and offers property hunter everything from rural rundown renovation treats from around EUR 70,000 to luxury and expansive chalet developments reaching prices in region of EUR 750,000.

When it comes to bargains, real estate investment potential and a diverse and rich mix of property available for those in search of a second home in Spain, a Spanish home from home or a buy to let or investment opportunity, Northern Spain has it all in abundance.

As Indians were exposed to traders and settlers, they gradually adopted many of white man’s habits, among them, soap. In mid 1800s, among West Coast Indians, a piece of soap of a finger’s thickness was worth four marten pelts. Translated, this was a high price, since a blanket could be had for ten. A sliver of soap was often coveted prize for schoolyard games in mission settlements.

History of Soap Making & Soap Factory:
In biography of William Duncan, a lay preacher, soap was an accessory to convert natives of Fort Simpson on Northwest Pacific Coast. This zealous Christian persuaded Indians to renounce their rich heritage and relocate in a European style village.

Gone were medicine men, moccasins, potlatches and totems. The members of village had to vow to be clean. The Indians renounced their spirit-gods and eagerly embraced European way of life. Duncan encouraged his charges to plant garden plots and build frame houses. In late 1800s, together with a forge, carpentry shop, sawmill, and brick kiln, he started a soap factory.

Christians and History of Soap Making:
Christians viewed body as a temporary vessel for soul. Concerning oneself with bodily functions was considered bad for spirit. As time went on, fundamentalist sects warned body was a source of evil. This caused an over concern with modesty. Even disrobing in private was sinful. Bathing was discouraged.

Romans and History of Soap Making:
Romans, along with Jews and Greeks, were opposite. They held body in great regard, a gift from gods. Cleanliness and sanitation began outgrowth of public toilets and baths.

Archaeologists believe that Egypt’s Queen Nefertiti used facial masks of honey, milk, and flower pollen to cleanse her pores while in her bath went 80 herbs and fruits.

© Copyright Rachael Wilson, All Rights Reserved.