10/01/2007

Prince Edward Island Lighthouses



As a coastal community the lighthouses of Prince Edward Island not only served the practical purpose of lighting the way home before the era of GPS navigation, they now offer a unique opportunity to those who visit. Prince Edward Island offers a variety of lighthouse tours ranging from the scenic to the informative.

As most are aware, lighthouses served as a navigational aid for sailors and the ships they captained. Lighthouses are towers that are positioned on sea shores, or even sometimes in harbours. They use a series of lamps and lenses to help guide navigating vessels on the high seas. Lighthouses are used to mark dangerous coastlines, steer ships away from hazards, mark safe entry points into harbours and assist in aerial navigation. With that in mind it is important to note how important lighthouses were to trade and commerce throughout human history.

PEI has a rich history and is the birthplace of confederation in Canada. It also has many historic lighthouses that were used to guide the ships delivering goods to and from Canada. PEI’s lighthouses are classified in two ways “First Generation” (built before 1873) and “Second Generation” (those built following 1873). The difference between the two types is that first generation lighthouses have an octagonal shape and were constructed when timber was plentiful in the province. The second generation lighthouses are square shaped as by this point (post 1873) PEI’s timber supply had been scarce because of the shipbuilding industry.



Lighthouse technology, although used less in modern times, employs a series of lamps and lenses to project light over large distances. This technology utilizes concentrated light from a single continuous source and magnifies and reflects it so that it can be beamed across open water. The first lighthouses were lit by candles, later by whale oil, then by the 1870's kerosene was typically used.

As an island PEI boasts over 40 historic lighthouses. Surrounded by both scenic red sand beaches and rugged cliffs touring the lighthouses provides wonderful insight into maritime life and well as a rich Canadian history. Since Prince Edward Island is surrounded by water you are never to far from the breathtaking views of the gentle island.



9/27/2007

A Fun Vacation But Not An Expensive One

When you sit down to plan your vacation, you want a fun vacation but not an expensive one and that is where the Internet comes in handy. You can search different hotel sites, airlines sites and travel agent sites to find a cheap holiday vacation package that you can afford without going over your budget. You can plan a fun vacation to any location if you do a little searching and plan your vacation in advance. The idea of planning in advance usually offers you lower prices before the hotels and airlines book up for the holidays.

The first thing to do is look around at the different sites offering cheap holiday packages and compare the package deals to the individual deals. You will probably see that booking the entire vacation in one package will save you more money than if you were to purchase everything separate. You can visit sites like TripAdvisor to see what they have to offer as well as some of the other popular sites. You might even find some area hotels that you plan to travel to are offering accommodations and airfare for one low price. You can choose the type of room you need and for how many people as well connecting or direct flights.

By booking early, you will also save some money on your cheap holiday package. Hotels and airlines that are sure about occupancy will try to offer lower rates in anticipation that they will fill up early and allow them to have full planes when taking off for the destination. Buy checking the different sites you can compare and see where the biggest savings will be for you. You do not need to spend a big sum of money to have a fantastic trip to your favorite cheap holiday destination.

The best way to an affordable vacation is by searching around the Internet well in advance of your trip and finding the special that are offered for that particular area. You might even find something that is so affordable you can even afford to stay a few extra days without going over your budget that you have planned for the trip.

9/22/2007

Costa Rica Caribbean Travel

Wondering where to go? Why not try the world of great tropical adventure that Costa Rica offers?

A Costa Rica Caribbean travel offers you active volcano exploration, wild animals, lush rainforests, and great beaches. On one of the ultimate paradises left untouched on this planet, there are no military, no nuclear power plants, lots of culture to offer, and no winter. A democratic society, Costa Rica is known as one of the most peaceful in the world. The last civil war was in 1948, and since then, armed forces have been abolished and the country has been able to avoid such dangers as despotic dictatorships, military coups, terrorism, and all other forms of internal strife.

Not only that, a Costa Rica Caribbean travel guarantees you a friendly atmosphere wherever part of the country you choose to visit.

The name literally means “rich coast” but Costa Rica is rich for far more than its coast. The country is replete with incredible natural beauties and many species of animals, some of them extremely rare and can only be seen if you go on a Costa Rica Caribbean travel.

The flora biodiversity alone is made up of well over 10,000 species of vascular plants and beautiful flowers. And as for tree species, almost 2,000 have been recorded in this small country in Latin America. This makes a Costa Rica Caribbean travel even more exciting, with such fascinating and endless number of natural habitat for various flora and fauna.



Besides land mammals and birds that would make any sane eco-tourism enthusiast go ga-ga over, Costa Rica is also home to 835 species of fish, of which 700 are saltwater fish. Anglers and fishers are going to have an awesome time dipping their poles in Costa Rica’s clear, azure waters to hook any one of these tropical fish species.

But if we focus a minute on the northwest region of Costa Rica, called Guanacaste, where most of the Costa Rica Caribbean travelers go nowadays because of the wide variety of scenery and activities offered, you will realize that there are so many more types of tours you can take. If you want to get really close to Costa Rica and actually see all these wonderful trees, plants, flowers, animals, and fish, then a Costa Rica Caribbean travel is all you need.

There is a wide range of activities to choose from on your Costa Rica Caribbean travel. Most of these depend on the part of the country in which you are vacationing. In the rainforest and you like birds, then bird watching walks with well-informed English-speaking guides or horseback riding are the type of Costa Rica Caribbean travel tours you should take.

You can also take one of those canopy tours, which are popular all over Costa Rica. But if you want the richest and best experience in Costa Rica’s rainforests, then avoid those that go through areas which are north towards the west. Here, the climates are dryer so naturally the vegetation lacks some of its beautiful richness in both density and color.


9/19/2007

Vacation In Mexico

Mexico, USA's neighbour down south is the perfect place for your next vacation. With the Gulf Coast on one end and the Caribbean on another, it is a favorite for many tourists.

Mexico is a study of contrasts of ancient and modern, aside from the landscape, there is the blend of cultures from the indigenous peoples to the cosmopolitan cities and plenty of beaches choose from.

The country spans about 1964,375 square kilometers. It is divided in six regions each with their own attractions for the visitor.




Northern Mexico-Dunes, Desert and Sierra Madre

For those who want a little bit of nature and adventure you should head to northern Mexico. Northern Mexico is made of the states of Durango, Nuevo Leon, Sonora, Tamaulipas, Chihuahua, Coahuila and Zacatecas. There are the mountains of Sierra Madre that provide you with wonderful views of sun rising and setting.

If you like camping and would like to bring back a collection of beautiful pictures of nature you could go to the Cuatro Ciengas desert in Coahuila. There you would not be disappointed with the spectacular views and you must make time to enjoy the natural hot springs.

In Zacatecas, you can go through the streets and see a little bit of Mexico’s colonial past. There are many building that are still standing from the period of the very first Spanish settlers. One such landmark is Cerro de la Bufa. And Chihuahua is home to the ruins at Paquime and many collections of traditional art from the Raramuri Indians.

In Guayamas, Bahia de Kino, San Carlos and Puerto Penasco, you can find a lot more features, including zones of archeological interest and more beaches.

Central Mexico





Starting from the northern high plateau to the tip of Sierra Madre range down south, this region has plenty for a person to see in terms of culture and scenery. You have Mexico City, with amazing examples of architecture like the old buildings in the Historic Center and the old world style of Basilica of Guadalupe.

You can visit the many archeological sites open to tourists. There are a number of lakes, rivers, waterfalls, springs, forests and caverns to go to. And if you want to activities, plenty are offered. You can do cave exploring, rafting, scuba diving, nature observing, and rock climbing to name a few.


9/14/2007

Experience Macau


Macau, a city famous for its tourism for the past couple of years, is exerting effort to further improve the industry and become a tourist destination with something to offer to everyone.

To advocate tourism, Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) has employed “Macau: a World of Difference, the Difference is Macau” as the promotional slogan and “Experience Macau!” as the theme for a series of promotions around the world through its representatives.

Macau as a World Heritage Site

Macau was recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) two years ago as a world heritage site. Macau is the 31st site in China to be included on the list.

As a World Heritage Site, it sets Macau apart from the rest of the cities in the region. MGTO intends to use this recognition as an edge to encourage not just holidaymakers but also business travellers to visit the city through improving its cultural resort with state-of-the-art facilities that includes large-scale convention an exhibition spaces.

Local Attractions

The city of Macau is abundant in historical landmarks and cultural heritage. It offers just the right blend of Latin and Asian cultures, making it a popular destination for every tourist. Among the renowned places to visit are the Chinese Temples and Religious Spots, Chinese gardens and Portuguese forts. Aside from these, the presence of glazing Vegas-style casinos is what also drives travellers to visit the city.

Where to Stay

There are enough things to do in and around Macau that would surely keep anyone occupied for weeks. That’s why it is better to bunk down for a while at one of the finest hotels in the area.



Grandview Hotel is ideal for tourists, local and international alike, whether staying just for a night or a week-long vacation.

This four-star hotel offers pleasant guest rooms and stylish suites all in contemporary design. It also has executive floors located on the top floors for corporate-related functions.

It is strategically located in the heart of downtown Taipa, making tourist landmarks such as the famous 4-faced Buddha, the Macau Jockey Club, and the Macau Olympic Complex highly and easily accessible. Admired for its location, Grandview Hotel gives its guests a bit of everything they need for a truly delightful Macau experience.


9/11/2007

Canadian Rockies Golf Vacation



A Canadian Rockies golf vacation could very well be the most memorable holiday you’ll ever take! The Canadian Rockies truly are one of the top natural wonders of the world, internationally renowned for the stunning scenery, the sparklingly clean air, and the quiet of unspoiled wilderness. This is as close as it gets to paradise on earth.

Snow-gilded mountain peaks, gem-like lakes, lush green river valleys and wide blue western skies are almost scenery clichés, but on your Canadian Rockies golf vacation this is reality. Golfers from around the world come to just stand and stare at one of nature’s crowning achievements. The fact that you’ll be playing golf in such a fabulous setting is just the icing on the cake. Of course, the numerous world-class golf courses in the area take full advantage of their gorgeous settings.

Verdant fairways weave themselves around glacier-fed streams and towering stands of evergreens, and often the greens themselves are back-dropped by achingly beautiful vistas. If there is a heaven, surely it must look like this! In such circumstances, it can be very difficult to concentrate on your golf game.

There are a wide variety of golf courses to choose from, all of them fabulous in their own unique way. Stanley Thompson, Canada’s master golf architect, designed the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course in 1928. He sensitively incorporated the natural scenic splendour into his design. The course winds along beside the pristine wilderness of the Bow River overlooked by the snow-capped peaks of Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle. This amazing course will both challenge and delight you.



SCOREGolf Magazine rates the Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club as the #1 Best Golf Resort in Canada with good reason. Designed in the 1920’s by Stanley Thompson, few golf courses in the world can match the rugged majesty of this national treasure. The design features wide fairways carved through thick forest, dramatic bunkering and holes aligned with distant mountain vistas. It presents a cunning blend of beautiful landscapes and challenging terrain.

Of course, a Canadian Rockies golf vacation would be incomplete without luxurious accommodations, fine dining, unique shopping experiences and pampering spas. Fortunately, resorts like Banff and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies have been offering these amenities for well over a century, all in a unique manner. Hedonistic luxury in the heart of spectacular unspoiled wilderness is now a Canadian Rockies tradition.


9/09/2007

Croatia - the most beautiful country of the world


Croatia - hundreds of sparkling waterfalls and more than a thousand islands set amid the blue of the sea, green mountain rivers and streams, virgin canyons, wild karst and mellow plains. In a pleasant climate, with amiable people and experienced guides, you will travel under your own steam through a realm of unfettered nature by kayak, bicycle, raft, under sail; or slowly wend your way through mountain wilderness...

Nestling between the Alps, the Pannonian Plain and the Adriatic Sea, in the south-eastern part of the European continent, Croatia jealously protects eight national parks, ten nature parks and a whole range of special reserves, including plant life, animals, geological formations, hydrological phenomena, all within a small but rich area that can be travelled by car from one end to another in a single day.

Many paths run between rivers, mountain peaks, tiny island ports and beaches, leading to Illyrian hill forts, to Roman ruins, to towns and cities that are themselves monuments, to ethno-entities of popular architecture.



Rafting as a mode of transport up and down waterways also has a long tradition in Croatia. However, white-water rafting as a modern form of adventure began only in the late 1980s and served to attract notice to the amazing beauty of Croatian rivers which, up until that time, was known only to relatively few kayaking adventurers and fishermen. The founders of the Riverfree Club, pioneers of commercial trips through the rivers and experts on the waterways of Croatia, did not anticipate the Subsequent level of interest and the resulting popularity of rafting on rivers which do not abound with savage rapids and high waves. Nevertheless, thousands of people have since enjoyed their close encounters with the unforgettable magic of rivers, of green river banks, sheer canyons and crystal-clear depths. Rivers in the continental parts of the country are flanked by dense forests and by mountains, while those closer to the sea boost broad green banks and deep and shady mysterious canyons. What they all have in common are greenish clear waters that one can see through right down to the river bed. The grade of difficulty of Croatia's white waters is, on average, grade 3; only on the Rivers Dobra and Una can you encounter grade 4 waters.

Diving The Adriatic's submarine world is a veritable paradise for those who wish to observe o little of the teeming underwater life. Fish and crabs hiding beneath the varied plant world along the rocky shores; shells dug into a sand/ sea bed; a lively, colourful and ever changing world that invites you to dive again and again however long you moy be staying by the sec. With each new dive your eyes are sharper in discovering sea creatures so skilled in hiding themselves from others. Should you want to go deeper and venture further from the shore, an experienced guide will take you to underwater caves, beneath steep cliff faces, among the rocky habitats of fascinating species of fish, shellfish and corals. Sunken galleys, men of war as well as other archaeological finds are in an authentic submarine museum demonstrates the Adriatic's rich and turbulent post, This is the living proof of the wars, adversities, trade and culture of the lands of the Mediterranean. On the surface, the sea is warm and clear, while 30 metres below, the temperature is cooler. There are no large sharks or other predators which would pose a danger to divers, and venomous organisms are rare.


9/04/2007

Ailsa Craig, South West Scotland




What is Ailsa Craig? Ailsa Craig is a very well known landmark in Scotland and is a renowned bird sanctuary. The island is home to one of the largest gannet colonies on the world, with more than 70,000 birds, and is designated as a European Special Protection Area.
Ailsa Craig, in the Firth of Clyde, is an Island rising abruptly from the sea to an elevation of 1,110 feet. It is a volcanic plug which lies in the firth of Clyde, being active about 500 million years ago.
Who owns Ailsa Craig? Ailsa Craig is owned by the Kennedy family, whose title was taken from Marques of Ailsa. Ailsa Craig had been part of the lands of Crossraguel Abbey; the dispute of ownership of these lands had formed the background to the notorious "Roasting of the Abbot" in the 16th century. The Kennedy family were also the owners of Culzean Castle, who is now owned by the National Trust.
Where is Ailsa Craig? The distinctive dome-shaped island-rock lies approximately 8 miles from Girvan, and approximately 12 miles from Maidens on the coast of South Ayrshire. It rises sharply from the Firth of Clyde to a height of 340m (1114 feet). Its position is: Latitude 55° 15.1’N, Longitude 5° 06.4’W
It has a conical summit and is very precipitous except on the North East Side where it slopes more gently and is accessible. It can be seen from Girvan for miles in either direction along the Ayrshire coast. The shape appears to change as you move along the coast, viewing it from different angles.
The Background of Ailsa Craig. Ailsa Craig comes from the Gaelic for 'Fairy Rock', is 1200m (1300 yards) long and 800m (900 yards) wide, with an area of 100 Ha (245 acres). It is also known as Paddy's Milestone owing to its position as a landmark en route from Ireland.
What is Ailsa Craig made from? The island was the heart of an ancient volcano, its rock exhibiting fine columnar structure and was renowned as the source of a superior micro-granite used to fashion curling stones.
Indeed, most curling stones still in use today were made from Ailsa Craig granite. It was here that the curling stones used by the Scottish Women’s Curling Team, winter 2002 Olympic Gold medal winners, were made.



The Living History of Ailsa Craig. By the late 19th Century the island had a population of 29 people, working in the quarries or the lighthouse. In 1881, petitions were received by the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses from Lloyds and the Scottish Shipmasters Association requesting the erection of two fog signals and a lighthouse on Ailsa Craig. The Board of Trade and Trinity House both agreed to the proposal and work commenced the following year. The construction was supervised in 1883-6 by Thomas and his nephew David Stevenson, Engineers to the Board. (Thomas was the father of Robert Louis Stevenson). The light was first exhibited on the night of 15 June 1886, an oil burning light which remained in use until 24 January 1911, when it was converted to incandescent.
Siren fog signals were erected on the North and South ends of Ailsa Craig and were powered by gas engines until 1911, when they were replaced by oil driven engines.
These fog signals were permanently discontinued in November 1966, and replaced by a Tyfon fog signal, which had a character of 3 blasts, each of three seconds duration every 45 seconds. It was sounded from a position close to the South East of the Lighthouse tower and not at either of the previous siren signals sites.
This fog signal was discontinued in 1987. Until wireless telephone communications were established on Ailsa Craig in 1935, the light keepers and employees of Ailsa Craig Granites Ltd used to depend on pigeons for the conveyance of messages.
A pigeon house was established at Girvan Green, where the town council established a parking place for cars and buses in 1935.
The Upgraded Light House on Ailsa Craig. The lighthouse was automated in 1990 and is now remotely monitored from the Northern Lighthouse Board’s offices in Edinburgh. In 2001 as part of the refurbishment and de-gassing programme Alisa Craig Lighthouse was converted to solar-electric power.
Local sayings. "When Ailsa Craig has on its coat, The Weather will be very hot, (hoat). When Ailsa Craig has on its hat, You can be sure it will be wet, (wat). When Ailsa Craig has on its tie, That's a sign its going to be dry" The 'coat', 'hat' and 'tie' are the clouds or mist often seen at Ailsa Craig.
There is only one harbour to Ailsa Craig. It is adequate to land, but only just. The water here gets deep very quickly.
At one time, you were discouraged from landing on Ailsa Craig, but now the freedom of the country side act, allows you full access, as long as you act responsibly.



Canadian Fishing Trips



The time is now and you are getting ready for a fishing trip to Canada with your friends and coworkers. There are about 15 of you planning to head out and leave your jobs, wives and children behind for an opportunity to go fishing in Canada. Most people think that when men go off on a fishing trip to anywhere whether in Canada or the States, that they are going off to smoke their pipes and cigars, drink beer and tell tall tales to each other. In fact, a Canada fishing trip can be like that, but if you are true sportsman, you are going all that way to actually fish. The opportunity to be out in nature where you can relax and let go of the daily stress you endure with your jobs is just one of the many benefits you will derive. Ever since you were a small boy, you have been fishing in the local river or streams within in your State. Now, you want to have an opportunity to go on a real fishing trip and Canada is your choice for this adventure.
You have read that there are more than 100,000 lakes where you can fish for many different species. You can test your wits against salmon, muskie, trout or dozens of other species—all depending upon the location you choose for your Canadian fishing trip. Figure out which type of fish you are interested in catching and then determine which province in Canada can meet your needs. Remember that Canada is much bigger than most people think and your options on where and when to have your Canadian fishing trip are unlimited. Depending on how rugged you want to be, you can plan to camp out in the wilderness, you can rent a full-service recreational vehicle, stay at a lodge or outpost when you go to Canada. They are all geared to helping the sportsmen get the most out of their fishing trip. In fact, if you want to take your family along, many of these options will also work well with the wife and children. You might want to consider hiring an outfitter to help you coordinate the little details you may have not have considered. The outfitter should be able to help you through any bureaucratic rules of the region, obtain fishing licenses and take care of any other little problems that might come up. Remember that your Canadian fishing trip will only be as good as you make it. Be realistic and plan ahead for what you want to do, when you want to do it, and be ready to make adjustments to your plans. Uncooperative weather, fish not biting, or any other problems may pop up. Just try to relax and enjoy yourself and know that this Canadian fishing trip is just the first of many that you will take over the next few years.

9/02/2007

All About Visiting Belgium


Belgium is a country that is surrounded by France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. It has a compact size which makes it thperfect country to travel. The capital of Belgium is Brussels and is also known as the heart of the country.

Brussels, Belgium is also the headquarters for NATO. There are so many different cultural attractions for travels such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Ancient Art, the Comic Strip Museum, and one of the most popular, the Chocolate and Cocoa Museum. The Chocolate and Cocoa Museum features one of Belgium’s best known products.

The capital is not the only place to experience in Belgium. In fact there are many enchanting cities including Ghent, Liege, and Bruges which all have impressive architecture, top-rated cuisine, as well as the night life.



Bruges, Belgium has been known as the "Venice of the North" because it is one of Europe’s most magnificent and well-preserved medieval cities. One of the best parts about this amazing city is that getting to Bruges could not be any easier. You can get there by Eurostar, a ferry, or Eurotunnel, than take a drive to Bruges.

If you are into popular fashion and modern design then you will want to visit the newly reinvented Antwerp. This city in Belgium is known as being a new hotbed for fashion and design. Antwerp, Belgium has many other sights to offer visitors as well including the mountainous area of the Ardennes region all the way to the East. There are also gorgeous coastline resorts set on the Western seaboard.

Belgium is a country that is best known for its specialty products such as ubiquitous beers, delicious chocolates, beautiful lace, and of course Belgian waffles. If you visit Belgium you must stay at one of their comfortable and inviting bed and breakfast that they are so well known for.


8/31/2007

Backpacking in China


Travel through China as a backpacker is certainly not without its challenges though, and purchasing travel insurance before you set out will ensure you have peace of mind while making your way through the countryside. You’ll want to try and reach some out-of-the-way destinations and not just stick to the major cities, and guide books like Lonely Planet and Let’s Go make great travel resources.

Recommended routes though China include backpacker favourites such as Guilin, Yangshuo and Longshen. These are all must-see destinations that are slightly off the beaten track but well worth diverging towards.

Named after a karst rock formation near to it, Yangshuo is bordered by the Lijiang (Li) River and often visited in conjunction with nearby Guilin. It’s a sublime destination for relaxing away from the crowds and taking part in outdoor activities like cycling, rock climbing on over 200 routes and cave exploration. Yangshuo has good amenities for travellers located along West street and the pedestrian-only Xian Qian street.

The breathtaking landscape of Guilin is graced with enchanting karsts, mysterious caves and lush tropical growth. The intimate city is popular for its clear waters and natural wonders, some of which you will find on display in the Stone Museum. An ancient city dating back 2,000 years, Guilin also features many cultural highlights.




Also of interest are the many ethnic minorities, which are found in greater numbers here than anywhere else in China. Longshen is also home to a vibrant collection of Dong, Zhuang, Yao and Miao ethnic groups.

Regardless of where you go in China, most who have backpacked in the country agree that it’s a great destination. The country is so massive that it can take at least several months to see all the major sights. As well as offering great value for money, China’s sights are diverse and include exotic gardens, impressive monuments and museums, striking temples and plenty of amazing natural landscapes.

One of the best reasons for travelling in China is the food. Although at times it can be bizarre, it is generally tasty and offers enough variety so as to please almost every palate. Backpackers should be careful of eating raw or suspect foods as good medical care is not available in all locations.

This is another good reason to take out travel insurance before travelling. China is a developing country and the cleanliness is not as you would expect from a Western country. The country relies on coal for its energy and pollution is rife in the big cities.

Likewise, the infrastructure is only slowly improving and roads are not always safe, with the accident rate being extremely high. You should plan your travel route well and know what to expect ahead of time as much as possible.

China is a safe country to visit in terms of crime; however, backpackers should keep an eye on their bags and not be showy with valuable items. The Chinese are generally not physically aggressive. Regardless, it’s recommended that you have travel insurance while backpacking through China.


8/27/2007

3 Ways To See Africa On Safari



An African safari trip would be the ultimate vacation for most of us but for the inexperienced, it can be an overwhelming experience on the organization front.

How do you plan for African safari trips; where do you start; where do you go and what do you see? Beginning to see the picture. This article is not so much about how to prepare but what's available for those seeking to head to one of the world's most visited destinations.

The thing to keep in mind about a trip to Africa is it's such a large and diverse place that to see it all and experience everything it has to offer could literally take you years. With that in mind, consider choosing one destination and working your vacation around it.




The big attraction when heading on safari is the wildlife and scenery. There are several ways to experience both including via mobile, self-drive or fly-in safaris. Each has it's own unique characteristics and will differ in cost.

Self-Drive Safaris

These may not be suitable for complete novices to Africa. However, a well orgainized self-drive safari would be a good choice for people travelling in a group with an experienced guide.

A self-drive safari has the advantage of travelling at one's own pace rather than sticking to the strict schedule of an organized tour. You need to be aware though that some destinations may provide conditions which could be considered hazardous.
Understanding the lay of the land, road rules and each destinations political landscape is vital.




Mobile Safaris

These are well organized excursions and can range in length from a few days to weeks. With an experienced guide or guides, mobile safaris are a excellent way to see the landscape in relative safety.

The list of mobile safaris available are too numerous to mention within the scope of this article but they include many options including camping out or staying within the safe confines of motel accomodation.

Fly-In Safaris

For those with limited time, fly-in safaris get you in and out of a destination in good time. However, it doesn't mean you'll miss too much.

One of the advantages of fly-in safaris is seeing the landscape from a wide perspective. These can range in length from four to fourteen days and in many instances, you can spread the trip out over several destinations.

While each of the listed African safari trips offers different aspects, in the end, it is your decision on what to choose. For those who prefer to orgainize their own itinerary, then self-drive and fly-in safaris should be considered.


8/23/2007

Indianapolis travel



Indianapolis is the capital city of the State of Indiana. It lies on the White River, near the centre of the state. The city is built on a equal plain surrounded by low, hills. It has numerous monuments, fountains, museums, excellent shops, luxury hotels, its famous speedways, and its White River State Park, Indianapolis is endearing and refreshingly accessible. Come and see for yourself.It has evolved into a flourishing hub for industry, commerce, sports, and entertainment. The capital of Indiana is a city full of great attributes. It has been voted one of Americas Best Places to live and work. It has been ranked among the best cities for small business.It is a great place to be.Indianapolis has a humid continental climate. Here is a very detailed account of the weather in this area. I hope you will find it helpful. Summers are hot and humid, with average high temperatures approaching 90. Spring and autumn are usually pleasant, with temperatures reaching around 65.


Spring, however, is much less predictable than autumn midday temperature drops exceeding 30 are common during March and April, and instances of very warm days followed within 36 hours by snowfall are not unheard of during these months. Winters are cool to cold, with daily highs barely inching above freezing. Temperatures occasionally fall below 0. The rainiest months are in the spring and summer, with average rainfalls of over four inches per month, but these averages fluctuate only slightly throughout the year.There are not many beaches because it is located in the centre of Indiana. Some of the beaches in the city where you can relax in the Sun are Indiana Beach, Cecil M Harden Lake, Indiana Dunes, and Cagles Mills Lake. Indiana Beach is located on Lake Shafer in northwest Indiana. The families of Indiana have been coming to this beach in the summers for decades. The entertainment that is offered here during the summertime includes the boardwalk, amusement park rides and water games. The enjoyment that is in store for you when you visit this beach includes more than 20 adult thrill rides, a water park, a haunted castle, a mini golf course, and an aqua theatre with water stunt shows. It is the place to be and fun is spelt with a capital E.Enjoy your break and have a lot of fun as well. It is a place of the future with many things on offer. Tried it for yourself if you dont believe me. Come any time of year but summer is always great.

8/20/2007

Prague vacation



The holiday season - the best time for travelling - has already come and I am ready to invite you to one of the most beautiful cities in the whole world. Do you plan to spend this summer in Prague? Would you like to know how to enjoy your stay in the capital of Czech Republic? Or do you sill hesitate what to do in the late summer? I have some useful tips for you all. Prague is a city of many faces. It has its long and sometimes mysterious history, breathing from each building in the old centre. On the other hand, it is a modern city with a lot of new. The first thing you come across when browsing through any Prague's tour guides is surely Prague Castle, Charles Bridge or Old Town Square. These three places are undoubtedly the main points of Prague's history, connected with many important persons and occasions. They are really worth seeing.

Because of their popularity, they are almost anytime too crowded, therefore not so safe. If you are early bird, I do recommend you to come there in the early morning, when you can walk freely without any noise and people and feel and smell the magic of unforgettable city. For those, who like trips with tour guides, there are some agencies organising various tours through Prague. You can choose the right thematic walk just for you. My second tip is connected with typical Czech cuisine. Czech beer is almost world known, but what about Czech meals? Have you ever tried garlic soup, bouillon with vermicelli, roasted sirloin beef in sour cream sauce with dumplings, roast pork with sauerkraut and dumplings or dill sauce? If your answer is "no", you meet with a part of our culture in any Czech restaurants in Prague. There is a variety of typical Czech restaurants that offer Czech cuisine, Czech beer and Czech folklore as well. In this way you can enjoy your evening with very good meal and also get to know character of local people. Do you prefer night life to sightseeing? Prague is ready to meet your wishes too. You can make a choice for many music clubs in the whole city where you hear music of all genres - everything from jazz, pop & rock, oldies, ska or reggae to dance music, hip hop, house, metal or punk. Whatever you like. Most of them are situated in the centre - on Wenceslas Square or within a walking distance from there. Of course, there are a lot of other possibilities how to spend your night - sailing on the Vltava River, night Ghost tour through Prague or visiting theatre or multiplex cinema. My last tip is mainly for families with children. Small children don't want to sight-see the whole day that's why I recommend you a visit of following places. There is one place that is never failure for small travellers and it is a Zoo. Prague's Zoo belongs to the largest in Europe. It has a lot of programmes for visitors such as feeding of animals, their presentation or training. The popularity of Prague's Zoo still rises. The second possibility is the new aqua park with swimming pools, toboggans, whirlpools or river with back flow. In addition, there is a massage and wellness centre with sauna to your disposal. The new aqua park is very nice place for enjoying the day with the whole family. Prague is an amazing city with a lot of opportunities what to do and you can never be bored there. See you in Prague!


8/14/2007

Maldives holiday information and facts




Before booking a luxury holidays in the Maldives, or a cheap holiday in the Maldives, any hotel in the Maldives, or you might just be looking for any island hideaway in the Maldives, it is important that you know where you are going to, and what you will find when you get there. Too many people arrive at their holiday destination having chosen it only for the price, and a dubious guarantee of sunshine, and have never investigated their destination for its suitability for themselves and their family. A disastrous vacation can often be rescued by the surrounding countryside, but this won’t be possible in the Maldives, because you are probably going to be trapped on an island, and that hotel in the Maldives may be on an island you can walk round in a few minutes. So you need to know something about where you are going at the very outset. The Maldives are in fact an archipelago consisting of 1190 low lying coral islands scattered across the equator, in groups of 26 naturally occurring atolls. The Maldives is 45 minutes from Colombo, 3 hours from Dubai, 4 hours from Singapore, and 13 hours from London. On the map it is in the Indian Ocean just south west from Sri Lanka, and you don’t need a visa. The Maldives literally sits on top of the Equator so it is a year round 25-30 degrees Celsius, and has frequently been described as paradise on earth. If your idea of paradise is is a pristine tropical island with swaying palm trees with a pure white sand beach all the way round and then a limpid blue and turquoise sea, then the Maldives is just exactly that.







It is sunny, quite unique, and almost totally unspoiled. The hotels range from the top of the range giving you the perfect luxury holiday in the Maldives to the other end where there are plenty cheap Maldives Holidays, as well as the total hideaway Maldive islands. They all have one thing in common and that is they are perfect for people who are looking for peace and tranquillity, a chance to rejuvenate and relax. This is not the place to go if you have to spend your holiday visiting places. This is however the place to go if snorkelling or diving are your thing. It is little wonder that a huge proportion of tourists in the Maldives are returning for a second or third time, simply the place is addictive, with its sun kissed white sand beaches, crystal clear warm lagoons, and multi coloured coral and incredibly exotic marine life. When you consider out of all of the islands only about 200 are inhabited., and of the remaining islands around 100 have become island hotels, there will be more beautiful deserted atolls than you know what to do with.


8/08/2007

Panama Canal travel




This incredible piece of human engineering, dreamt up by the ambitious King Charles V of Spain, took around 75,000 workers over 10 long years to complete and throughout the construction was beleaguered by a range of problems, from financial bankruptcy, very poor project management and serious outbreaks of malaria that killed many of the workers. It was eventually finished however, to worldwide applause and with the enormous gratitude of the thousands of ships that still pass through in huge quantities - some paying up to 30,000 dollars for the privilege. The incredible network of dams and locks spans 50 miles at the shortest point between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, allowing ships to cut out an enormous and treacherous stretch of coastline around South America. The canal is located just 80kms north west of Panama City on the Pacific side and Colon on the Atlantic side. You could have the unique and once-in-a-lifetime chance to jump aboard one of the many fantastic cruise ships and set sail along the length of the canal, preferably between December and April. Lindblad Expeditions runs the 64 passenger MV Sea Voyager through the canal and then continues along the Pacific coast of stunning Costa Rica. An expedition on board the Sea Voyager around Panama is an adventure replete with rewards thanks to the biological diversity and unique opportunities it presents. Wildlife is plentiful and varied and thanks to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, it is are the only passenger ship permitted to overnight during the Panama Canal transit to explore Barro Colorado Nature Monument.



8/04/2007

Freeport, Bahamas

History

The Bahamas were discovered by Christopher Columbus during his first voyage. He called the area "baja mar", which means low or shallow sea, and the name stayed to this day. The British arrived in the 1600s after the Spaniards had left in search of gold, and many British fleeing the American Revolution settled there, along with southerners during the American Civil War. The Bahamas became an independent member of the British Commonwealth in 1973. Freeport, and the nearby resort area of Port Lucaya, are located on Grand Bahama Island, which is the fourth largest island of the Bahamas. They were developed over the past 50 years to be resort areas, as opposed to other Caribbean towns which grew out of a historic area.




Things to Do

While docked in Freeport/Port Lucaya, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including golf, shopping, snorkeling, boating, and visiting the beaches and casinos. There are also beautiful natural wonders to explore at the Lucayan National Park, the Rand Nature Center and the Garden of the Groves. UNEXSO - which stands for Underwater Exploration Society - offers some of the best snorkel, scuba and dolphin encounter experiences anywhere.





Getting Around

Both Freeport and Port Lucaya are a bit of a hike from the cruise terminal, so if you aren't part of a shore excursion - which includes transportation - you'll need to take a taxi or scooter rental to get around.



Weather

They say that it's 'better in the Bahamas', and concerning the weather - they are generally correct! Temperatures in this subtropical area range from about 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit, with warm ocean breezes.