Travel Ideas - Guides for Travel and Vacations

Even During the Dog Days of Summer, It is Possible to Stay Cool in Texas

by: Casey Coke

While Glen Rose, Texas may be best known as America’s Dream Town 2004 and the Dinosaur Capitol of Texas, it is also an excellent place to visit to beat the Texas heat. This time of year vacationers are looking for the best ways to enjoy the summer, while staying cool at the same time. A combination of water fun, nighttime entertainment and luxurious accommodations is an excellent way see Glen Rose and to beat the Texas heat.
Spending time in the two beautiful rivers in Glen Rose, the Brazos and Paluxy, can mean hours of cool enjoyment. The Brazos River is one of the most popular canoeing and tubing rivers in Texas and offers miles of cool water relaxation. The folks at Low Water Bridge Canoe Rentals offers guests float trips of 3, 7, 10, 14, 24 and 31 miles. The Brazos also has many sand bars and sandy beaches that make for great picnic spots or swim areas. While drifting down the river, it is not uncommon to see all types of wildlife like goats, deer, armadillos, foxes and even a rare glimpse of a Bald Eagle.
For travelers looking for something a little less exerting than canoeing and tubing, a visit down to the Paluxy River may be in order. A local hotspot, but not widely known by travelers, is Big Rock Park. The park derives its name from the multitude of large rocks and boulders that have been cut out by years of flowing water from the river. These rocks provide excellent sunbathing opportunities and access to the crystal clear water of the Paluxy for swimming and wading. Big Rock Park is located just outside of downtown Glen Rose. The Paluxy River also runs through Dinosaur Valley State Park and is home to some of the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in the world, not to mention clear blue swimming holes and tall rock bluffs. Dinosaur Valley State Park is located just south of Glen Rose off Hwy 67.
Another outstanding way to relax and stay cool is by taking in a performance by Warm Country Heart at the Warm Country Heart Theatre (www.warmcountryhearttheatre.com) on the historic square in downtown Glen Rose. This is a band of highly trained musicians who perform Branson-style music. Warm Country Heart produces a show that pays tribute to the Masters Festival of Music Greats: Floyd Cramer, Chet Atkins, and Boots Randolph. They perform the instrumental magic of the legendary “Masters Three” vocal arrangements of Classic Country Hits of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s and a little bit of humor. The shows run every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 PM and Saturday afternoons at 1:00 PM.
After playing in the rivers and experiencing first class music, its time to check in at the Best Western Dinosaur Valley Inn and Suites (www.dinosaurvalleyinn.com) for top-notch accommodations. Guests at this nationally recognized hotel will enjoy the outdoor amenities such as the large swimming pool, 15-person spa, kiddie pool with waterfall covered by a pergola (to keep the kids protected from the sun), cool misters that drop the temperature up to 20 degrees and the exotic fish pond stocked with Japanese koi fish.
If the heat outside becomes too much, then Best Western Dinosaur Valley Inn and Suites guests will enjoy taking advantage of the indoor amenities such as the exercise room, game room, dinosaur artifacts display and gallery, large comfortable sitting area and coloring books for the children.
As always, guests are welcome to help themselves to the Texas-sized deluxe continental breakfast each morning, 24-hour beverage service and the evening snacks, which consists of popcorn, nachos and the summer time special navy beans and rice.
For more information on the locations mentioned visit www.glenrosearea.com.

About The Author

Casey writes feature articles for Glenrosearea.com and the Dinosaur Valley Inn and Suites located in Glen Rose, TX

Tags: casinos, cool, dinosaur, dinosaur valley, glen, glen rose, inclusive resorts, mag, valley

by: Ryan Larson

Fishing in Jamaica is part of a dream vacation for many. There are many excellent fishing spots, as is evidenced by Jamaica?s international popularity as a fishing destination and tournament site. Deep-sea fishing trips are easily chartered, as are fishing tours of the region. As an island nation, fishing is important to the local economy, a part of the local culture. Thus, the savvy visitor may be able to arrange to do his fishing outside of the usual tourist spots, and instead enjoy a few of the places known and loved by local fishers.
Suzie-Q Deep Sea Fishing Charters operates out of Falmouth, which is close to Montego Bay, offers both 8-hour and 4-hour charters for up to 12 people. There are a wide variety of fish available in the fishing region, including blue marlin, white marlin, mahi mahi, wahoo, black-finned tuna, yellow-finned tuna, skipjack, kingfish, mackerel, and sailfish. Reservation must be made 48 hours in advance, and rates are $500 for 4 hours with up to 8 people, $900 for 8 hours. $30 per extra person, up to a total of 14, will be charged.
Jamaica Deep Sea Adventures, found at the Port Antonio marina, prides itself on the fine equipment it provides for its fishers. One of the special items is a chair designed specifically for supporting the fisher while he is struggling with large fish. Fishers can expect to be dropping their lines up to 6,000 feet into the beautiful salt waters that are home to numerous species of fish, including barracuda, tuna, and marlin.
Montego Bay is home to No Problem Fishing Charters. They offer half day charters for $360 and full day charters for $690. Also in Montego Bay are Pier One Marina, where chartered fishing excursions can be arranged, and North Coast Marine Charters, which operates out of Half Moon Hotel and Wynham Rose Hall Hotel.
Families will enjoy using Salty Angler Fishing Charters of Montego Bay, because children are welcomed and beginner?s lessons are readily available. It should be noted, however, that this is catch and release fishing only. They have a variety of fishing experiences available, including open water fishing, coastal fishing, night fishing, fly fishing and light tackle fishing.
At the Lost Beach Resort, located in Negril, a different sort of fishing trip can be arranged. For a fee, a trip with a local fisherman can be set up. Fishers will accompany the local fisherman in his wooden skiff and fish by line or by pot. It is a fascinating experience and a wonderful way to learn a bit about the local culture.
Near Treasure Beach and also around Port Antonio, small wooden boats can be chartered or rented for hand-line fishing. As with most fishing expeditions in Jamaica, the local hotels can help to locate and arrange the most suitable fishing experience.
Jamaica has a broad range of fishing opportunities, from adventurous and exciting to relaxing and peaceful. Tours and charters are not only for the sports fisherman, but also can be enjoyed safely by families. Jamaican waters draw fishers from all over the world, and for good reason. Each fishing day has the potential to be a one-of-a-kind experience.

About The Author

Ryan Larson
This article provided courtesy of http://www.fishing-vacation-guide.com
support@arundel.net

Tags: bible, brush, capital, charters, fishers, includi, montego, tuna, western australia

by: Ryan Larson

Good food is an essential ingredient in the making of a truly great vacation, and with the broad array of quality eateries for you to choose from on New Providence Island in the Bahamas, you?ll be sure to make your vacation a memorable culinary experience.
The Bahamian Kitchen, in Nassau, right next to the Trinity Church on Trinity Place, offers authentic Bahamian cuisine. It is the place to go if you?re interested in experiencing ?real? Bahamian food. Specialties include such dishes as stewed fish, curried chicken, fried red snapper, okra soup, corned beef and grits, pea soup with dumplings, all served with the traditional johnnycake. Food is also available for take-out. The restaurant is open daily from 11am to 10pm.
For luxury dining at its Bahama best, Chez Willie is the place to be. At these coveted tables ? and reservations are definitely required ? fine French and Bahamian cuisine are served. The seafood is divine, prepared careful and delicately seasoned with fresh herbs. Other superb dishes include lobster thermidor, beef Wellington, and grouper in puff pastry with crabmeat, served with a coconut cream sauce. This establishment strives for and easily achieves elegance. It is suggested that gentlemen dress for the occasion, jackets are considered a must at this West Bay Street restaurant. One of the best dining places in Nassau, the hours are from 6:30pm to 10pm daily.
Excellent North Indian cuisine is available at Gaylord?s on Dowdeswell Street at Bay Street, in Nassau. Offering a full array of traditional Indian favorites, including Punjabi dishes, tandoori dishes, kormas, and ? of course?curries, as well as fine vegetarian options, this restaurant will satisfy Indian food lovers and convert the uninitiated. Open Monday through Friday, from 12pm to 3pm and every day from 6:30pm to 11pm.
The Double Dragon Restaurant, located on Mackey Street in Nassau, presents Cantonese and Szechwan cuisines at reasonable prices. The best dishes are those of seafood, and the orange flavored shrimp are a local favorite. The hours are 12pm to 10pm on Monday through Friday. On Saturdays, the hours are from 4pm to 11pm and on Sundays, the hours are from 5pm to 10pm.
The Europe, located in the Ocean Spray Hotel on South Bay Street in Nassau, serves surprisingly good German food, and also has a variety of international selections. A host of traditional German foods, of excellent quality and reasonable price, are made available. Among these are pepper steak cognac, bratwurst, sauerbraten, and Wiener schnitzel. And, of course, the dessert menu includes a fabulous, classic German chocolate cake. Open Monday through Friday, from 8:30am to 11pm, this is definitely a culinary experience to try.
Capriccio offers fine Italian and international cuisine, at West bay Street, in Nassau. They serve an excellent pesto sauce, fragrant and rich, over perfect pasta. Other entrees include a delicious chicken breast creation, served with a sage and wine sauce and an array of fresh seafood. Reservations are strongly suggested, the eatery is open Monday through Saturday from 11am to 10pm and Sundays from 5pm to 10pm.
New Providence Island is a place where you can experience the cuisines of the world under a big Bahamian sky. Dining on this island is a true culinary adventure.

About The Author

Ryan Larson
This article provided courtesy of http://www.aruba-vacation-guide.com
support@arundel.net

Tags: 10pm, bahamian, bay stre, dishes, flamenco, nassau, photographer, roozbeh gazdar, street nassau

by: R. Richmond

For many the end of the summer period and beginning of autumn is the perfect time to start thinking of a short break before the long winter months settle in. With the main summer holidays of June and July seeming like a distant memory the need to recharge the batteries can lead to many of us exploring the various short vacation options available to them. To many the term ?short break? is synonymous with ?city break?. Be it going to a show in London or sampling the nightlife in European cities such as Prague, Amsterdam and Barcelona ? the options with city breaks are almost endless. However, perhaps the one downside is that short holidays in a city can often lead to you being more exhausted than when you set out for your break in the first place…
During the summer months one of the main problems with city breaks can be the fact that all the local attractions can be packed to the rafters with tourists. Literally, bus loads of people descend on small areas like plagues of locust ? meaning queuing becomes the order of the day. Another downside is undoubtedly the fact that major cities are expensive, which can leave you paying over the odds for inferior goods and services. Combining these problems with the organisation of flights, getting to and from airports, battling through traffic and navigating the local public transport ? it quickly becomes easy to see why a city break can leave you somewhat less than refreshed.
It is perhaps due to these tiring schedules that more and more Briton?s are exploring the joys of a quiet rural retreat. Providing a wonderful contrast to the hustle of the city, country breaks allow you to set your own pace enjoying the stunning landscapes, quaint villages and excellent hotels that the UK has to offer. Whether you fancy a visit to historic buildings, walking in glorious gardens or perhaps a winding cycle through the countryside, one thing you are always guaranteed is to return back to work well rested and full of vigour.
One of the advantages of living in a relatively small country such as the UK is that you are never too far away from the countryside. Even residents in major cities such as Manchester and Glasgow can find themselves in fantastic locations such as Loch Lomand or The Peak District in under an hour. Despite the UK being such an urbanised nation there is an abundance of top quality and unspoilt rural areas that provide excellent destinations for country breaks.
One such area is the Lake District, which is located in the North West of England and is officially the countries largest national park. Seen by many as the quintessential country retreat, the area gets its name from the large amount of stunning lakes that fill the area and provide a stunning foreground to the majestic mountain landscape. Perhaps as a result of the national park status the area was granted in 1951, the Lake District has maintained much of its traditional charm of small towns, welcoming inns, sumptuous bakeries and quaint craft shops. It is this preservation of times gone past that has ensure that the pace of life is slow ? making it an ideal getaway for those looking to unwind. For further details on the area and the multitude of activities that it has to offer try visiting http://www.lakedistrictoutdoors.co.uk.
On the eastern side of northern England, rural Yorkshire has always been a popular retreat for those looking to escape to the solitude of the rolling hills and moors. Television shows such as ?Heartbeat? and ?All Creatures Great and Small? have ensured the area has grown in popularity with those seeking the quiet life. The Yorkshire Dales ? a national park since 1954 ? is famous for it lush green valleys and limestone rock formations, which provide excellent backdrops for relaxing country walks. The area really is a haven of unspoilt beauty and a visit can almost feel like a step back in time. The informative website http://www.yorkshire-dales.com has an array of information regarding things to do and see in the area and the Yorkshire based short break specialist http://www.superbreak.com has various hotel deals in the area.
Finally, the Scottish Highlands is renowned the world over for its breathtaking scenery. This is perhaps most evident in the North West Highland region of Assynt which boasts some of the most rugged and dramatic landscapes in the British Isles. The unique combination of ancient mountain landscape, vast moorlands, spectacular cliffs and utter solitude proves a powerful magnet to many seeking the ultimate in rural escape. Unfortunately, the remoteness of Assynt make it perhaps not ideal for 2-3 day breaks but areas such as Aviemore in the Southern Highlands offer a more practical solution to those wanting to venture into the highlands for a country break.
At the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, Aviemore is a mecca for hill walkers as well as being a truly beautiful place that is fully accessible by road or rail. With an abundance of quality hotel accommodation the area can be visited at any time of the year ? indeed the winter is usually the most busy time to visit due to the flourishing ski industry in the Cairngorm Mountain Range. For further, details on short breaks in the area http://www.visitaviemore.com has all the information you will require.
Overall, a quiet break in the country can be an excellent, cost effective way to relax for 2-3 days. The UK is spoilt for choice in terms of possible destinations ? maybe its time you woke up and smelt the fresh air?

About The Author

Robin Richmond is a freelance travel writer and webmaster of http://www.travel-tips.co.uk
rachel@bigmouthmedia.com

Tags: america, break, breaks, excellent, holiday, information overload, made, mag, nati

by: Marcus Hochstadt

Munich Germany is a city in the state Bavaria. Would you like to know what the real interesting sights in Munich Germany are? I will tell you 12 of my good ones.
If you would like to know something about the city and its history, visit my website for information about that. In this article I will let you know of 12 insider tips of this German city -? short and sweet ?- so that you can print them out and easily scour the sights.
First, once you arrive in the city, go to the tourist information office. It is located at Munich Germany main station (outside) or at Marienplatz (downtown).
Also, since you already know that this city is venue of the well-known Oktoberfest, there is actually no need for me to tell you anything about that, right?
Now, shall we get started? Great!
TOP 10 Bars and Restaurants
1. An absolute must-see and must-experience is the “Hundskugel” (Dogs Ball) located in Hotterstrasse in old town. This is Munich’s oldest house which has the perfect ambience for original Bavarian food (e.g. “Schweinshaxe” — knuckle of pork). Quite frankly, once you were here, your friends will become envious you were there without them.
2. The “Schuhbecks in den Suedtiroler Stuben” (Schubecks in the South Tyrol Rooms) is a tavern with notable factor. They serve original Bavarian cuisine in high quality. It is located at “Platzl” in old town.
3. Another excellent restaurant with original Bavarian cuisine is “Gasthaus Beim Sedlmayr” (Tavern by Sedlmayr). The funny and happy waiters make your time even more glamorous and jollier. Their menu has “all you ever need” once you are in Munich.
4. The “Haxnbauer im Scholastikahaus” (sorry, I’m not able to translate that yet…;-), located next to Marienplatz in Sparkassenstrasse, inspires visitors to stay longer than they might want once they enter. It’s just amazing, old woody walls and tables, smelling beer and meat, just unforgettable.
5. If you are looking for a chance to see famous football stars and actors, you have to go to the noble P1. I must admit it is not easy to enter this exceptional bar, but definitely worth more than one try. You will find it in Prinzregentenstrasse. The location is, however, quite hidden. Only a small sign beside stairs refers to the legendary club discotheque. Tip: It might be a bit easier if you go in as a couple.
Sightseeing and culture
6. Stroll along Ludwigstrasse. Ludwig I. underlined the royal Munich with this classicistic boulevard. As a road of sciences, the Ludwigstrasse (Ludwigstreet) is one of the most monumental and most generous roads created in the 19th century. The monument of king Ludwig I on Odeonsplatz, created by Max Widmann, reminds of the owners and name giver who had to withdraw in 1848 after the Lola Montez affair.
7. The Maximilianstrasse (Maximilian Street) spreads still old flair while strolling through this historical street. With museums and theatres, galleries and numerous exclusive shops, this splendour road certainly belongs to the most distinguished addresses of Munich Germany.
8. Are you art and historical interested? Then walk along the Prinzregentenstrasse (Prince Regent Road). It is considered as museum mile. Prince Regent Luitpold let put on this avenue road at the end of the 19th century.
9. The Englischer Garten (English Gardens) is Munich Germany’s famous 900-acre park. It is actually starting in the heart of the city and transitioning into the countryside. The park offers shaded paths for walking and cycling in summer and picturesque frozen lakes in winter. In addition, it contains four beer gardens (Chinesischer Turm, Seehaus, Hirschau, Aumeister), whose invite to stay long after sunset.
10. Marienplatz is world-wide well-known with the “new” Neo-Gothic City Hall and its “Gingle Bells” sounds. Acutally a huge square with some interesting taverns. Visit http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/munich.html for additional information and images.
By the way, from Munich Germany’s main station, it is a quite short way to downtown and old town — just a few minutes walk.
Enjoy your trip!
All the best,
Marcus Hochstadt
© Copyright http://www.smart-travel-germany.com All Rights Reserved

About The Author

Marcus Hochstadt has a high interest in helping you gain the delightful form of a smart travel to and through Germany. On http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/german-cities-and-towns.html he covers many other German cities and towns and gives you additional insider tips.

Tags: america, b&w film, d, low season, munich, munich germany, old town, original ba, outer, trips

A Quick Guide To Climbing Mount Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

by: E-borneo.com

The majestic and awe-inspiring Mount Kinabalu is one of the premier destinations for thousands of visitors to Sabah, Malaysian Borneo each year. Kinabalu National Park, a designated World Heritage Site, boasts an estimated 4,500 species of plants which includes 1,500 species of orchids, 77 of which are endemic to Kinabalu, Nepenthes pitcher plants, and the Rafflesia, the largest flower in the world. The Park also supports 289 species of birds and 290 different types of butterflies.
Besides being the highest peak in Borneo and the whole of South East Asia (between Irian Jaya and the Himalayas to be exact), and the youngest non-volcanic mountain in the world, Mount Kinabalu is extremely climber-friendly and compared to other much lower mountains around the world, Mount Kinabalu is an ideal first mountain for novice mountain trekkers to conquer.
The standard climb up Mount Kinabalu is via the Kinabalu Summit Trail at Kinabalu National Park (~1,560m above sea level). The first ascent is from the starting point at Timpohon Gate, about 4km or 30 minutes drive from the Kinabalu National Park Headquarter.
If you prefer to start the ascent on Day 1, it is advisable to arrive at the Park late morning the latest or else, depending on the weather, the Park may not allow you to do the first ascent due to hazardous condition (i.e., the fog may be too thick by late evening causing visibility problems and/or the trail may be extremely slippery).
Most climbers prefer to stay overnight at Kinabalu National Park upon arrival to not only acclimatize to the altitude but also to enjoy the magnificent flora and fauna at the Park before the ?assault? on the next day/morning.
The first ascent is from Timpohon Gate just after the Power Station up to the mid-summit Laban Rata Resthouse (or more popularly known as the 11,000 ft or ~3,873m). You will first follow the crest of a narrow ridge that dips down onto the main slopes of Mount Kinabalu itself. A little further on, you will reach a scenic waterfall known as Carson’s Falls, named after the first Warden of the Park. Don’t forget to take a sip and fill your water bottles with the fresh natural mountain water.
Conservatively, it should take a normal fit person an average 5-6 hours to reach Laban Rata. Participants at the annual Mount Kinabalu Climbathon competition went all the way up to 13,400ft (4092.5m above sea level) and back in 2 hours. But it is not really about how fast you can reach the top. It is about the experience of trekking pass different vegetation zones from Oak and Chestnut to mossy and eventually to alpine type of vegetations, and observing the rare and exotic flora and fauna on the way up.
Besides the heated Laban Rata Resthouse, the other option for climbers is to stay at the unheated mountain huts. There is actually another accommodation option at the so-called VIP Lodge, which is more expensive compared to the others and also, more difficult to secure (i.e., only two such units available).
After a short night rest to recharge your battery, the second and more grueling phase will commence early morning on Day 2, at about 2 am to 3 am. The second ascent will be from the mid-summit all the way to the summit, which is called Low’s Peak, named after the British colonial officer Sir Hugh Low, supposedly, the first person to conquer Mt. Kinabalu.
The ascent should normally take a few hours but it is much more challenging than the initial ascent due to the thinner air near the summit. But near the peak on the granite portion of the ascent, there will be a thick nylon rope laid down to mark the route so that climbers will not get lost in the fog. You can use this rope to pull your tired body up.
Although, to reach the summit is already an achievement, it is best to target, if possible, to reach the summit just before sunrise to catch the awesome sight. If you reached too early, it will be too freezing cold to wait too long for the sunrise. On a good clear weather, the sky seemingly turns from black to red then orange and finally gold as the sun appears. When daylight breaks, you will truly feel that you are standing on top of the world. You can see as far as Kudat and even Sandakan if the weather permits.
One important tip is to make reservation early. Given the popularity of the Mount Kinabalu climb nowadays, it is advisable to book at least 3-4 months in advance (or even much earlier during the peak season usually around mid-year) to avoid any disappointment.
This is mainly due to the limited accommodation at the mid-summit (i.e., Laban Rata Resthouse, Mountain Huts or the VIP Lodge). In the event that there is no accommodation at the mid-summit, the climb will not be possible as strictly stipulated in the National Park’s rules and regulations. Additionally, a mountain guide is compulsory.
In essence, Mount Kinabalu is relatively an easy mountain to climb. There is not much risk of acute mountain sickness at the first phase of climbing. Given climber-friendliness of the mountain, conquering the mountain must be high in your list of “activities to do” if you were to visit Sabah. For the average fit person, a visit to Borneo will not be complete without conquering Mount Kinabalu.

About The Author

e-borneo.com is a Borneo travel gateway, trip advisor, and tour intermediary for the best and cost-effective custom/full-package Borneo holiday deals to Malaysia Borneo and Brunei. Check out one of the Mount Kinabalu tour itineraries at http://www.e-borneo.com/travel/tours/eb-kk14.html or visit http://www.e-borneo.com/ for more tour options.
rich_adz@yahoo.com

Tags: ascent, club, fr, kinabalu, mag, mount kinabalu, northwest coast, price, reach, site

by: Steve Gillman

On Lake Michigan, at the end of the Stonington Peninsula, there’s a stretch of empty beach. Part of the Hiawatha National Forest, it’s framed on either side by private property, with no easy access. To walk on the beach, however, is legal. Past the last cabin, the public land starts, and goes for six or seven miles. This is where I would test my ultralight backpacking skills and gear.
I hiked a few miles the first day and explored the woods, where I ate wild blueberries for an hour. Then I set up camp behind a small ridge on the beach. I collected dry grass along the edge of the forest, which made a nice mattress. I pitched my backpacking tarp fairly high, so the breeze would keep out the mosquitos. When camp was set, I went for a swim.
This area has many crayfish, which look and taste just like miniature lobsters. After swimming I caught a dozen under the rocks in shallow water, and carried them back to camp in a whipped-cream container I found. You never know what will wash up on a beach.
I boiled them with some cattail hearts and evening primrose roots, in my cheap three ounce pan. It made a good meal with the crackers I brought. (You remove the meat from the tail of the crayfish, after cooking.)
It was summer, so I hadn’t brought a sleeping bag. At seventeen ounces, my bag wouldn’t have added much to my packweight of eight pounds. I just wanted to try using a nylon sleeping bag liner I had recently sewn (5 ounces). I wore my clothes to bed, including a hat I made from the sleeve of an old thermal shirt (1 ounce). I slept well, and ate granola bars for breakfast.
Water was all around, so I only had a 16-ounce plastic pop bottle (1 ounce) and a few iodine tablets for purification. I took a good drink before I packed up.
I found fresh bear tracks on the beach. The bear had walked within 60 yards of where I slept. I had a freon horn (2 ounces) that I’d bought after reading that people have used it’s high-decible shriek to scare off bears. I pulled it out. I followed the tracks for an hour, but only because I was going in that direction.
I had two old cabins to explore, another patch of berries I knew about, and a beach full things to check out. The strangest item that regularly washes up is light bulbs. I take them home to use them. After years of finding these, a sailor finally told me that they throw them off the ships to shoot at them in the water. I was finding the ones they missed.
The next day I headed back. The rain I expected never came, so I didn’t get to test my garbage bag rainsuit (2 ounces), but I had used a similar one with success before. Overall, I was happy with my ultralight backpacking “test.” Of course, you can get by with fragile clothing and gear when you’re hiking an open beach. Oh, and I never did see the bear.

About The Author

Steve Gillman is a long-time backpacker, and advocate of lightweight backpacking. His advice and stories can be found at http://www.The-Ultralight-Site.com.

Tags: ahu, areas, harbour, inclusive resorts, mamma, murder mystery, ultralight backpacking, where

Travel Connections - Stay in Touch

by: Steve Gillman

Travel connections with home are easier than ever. New calling cards, cell-phones, e-mail, satelite phones, and better phone lines everywhere are making it a smaller world. Here are some suggestions on how you can stay in touch - when you want to.
E-Mail: The Travel Connections Champ
Most libraries in the United States now have internet access. When traveling the country, we often stop in small towns to use this free service. We check e-mail and even check our bank accounts. In other countries, finding internet accesss is even easier. When computers are too expensive for most people, there’s demand for cheap internet access. The result is that, in places like Quito, Ecuador, there’s an internet cafe on almost every corner.
Hotmail and Yahoo still offer free e-mail accounts. Sign up now, if you haven’t already. Then, wherever you are in the world, your friends and family have a way to contact you and you have a way to contact them. For some reason, even though the internet largely operates by way of the same phone lines, it’s more reliable than phone service in many countries.
Snail Mail
You’ll may still use the Post Office when you travel. Pre-address and stamp your envelopes if you’ll be writing family, friends, or whoever. Usually, it’s easy to find a mail box, but a hassle to find stamps and envelopes. When you need something sent to you while on a trip (in the U.S.) have it addressed to your name, then “general delivery,” and the city and zip code where you’ll be in a few days. The package should be waiting at the post office when you arrive.
Phone Cards
Phone cards are a great help when traveling in the United States. The best are not even cards, but accounts that you recharge on the internet. The one we use costs just 2.9 cents per minute to call anywhere in the U.S., with no connection charge. It’s only 15 cents to call my wife’s family in Ecuador (It cost me over $2 per minute just 4 years ago). The only extra charge is 50 cents for pay phone use, which is mandated by law for all cards now.
You use these accounts by funding them on the internet, using any credit card. With most, you can open an account for $20. You get a toll-free number to call, an account number (usually your home phone number), and a 4-digit PIN. To place a call, you dial the toll free number, then enter your account number, PIN, and number you’re calling. Many buttons to push, but then you can call Paris, France for 3 cents per minute. That’s cheap! Recharge your account from anywhere there is internet access, and you’ll never have a phone bill, since you pay in advance.
Other Travel Connections Tips
E-mail a list of important information and numbers to yourself, like the one to call if your credit card is stolen, or the number of the U.S. Embassy where you’re going. E-mail yourself a copy of your passport, and other important documents. When you need these things, they’ll be available in any internet cafe in the world.
Staying in touch is a mixed blessing. I find it less than comforting to have the protection of a cell phone when my brothers and I go into the Canadian wilderness. It means constant calls, and worries that could have been forgotten until the trip was over. My final tip then, is to call friends and family when they’re not home, and leave nice messages on their machines. Then they’ll know you’re okay, and if they need to contact you, they can e-mail you.

About The Author

Steve Gillman hit the road at sixteen, and traveled the U.S. and Mexico alone at 17. Now 40, he travels with his wife Ana, whom he met in Ecuador. To read their stories, tips and travel information, visit: http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com.

Tags: cents, departments, e-mail, get, house, inclus, news canada, teens, travel connectio

Stirring Up Cape Town’s City Bowl

by: Gregory Hudson

For the discerning traveller to the Cape who would like to explore Cape Town’s City Bowl, here are a few suggestions. Remember, Cape Town bears two distinct faces, a mask worn by day and a mask worn by night. Whichever one you choose, this article will provide you with a few hints on how, when and where to explore the city bowl, whether by day or by night.
The City Bowl by Day:
Pan African Market
Now that the subject of masks has been broached, the discerning traveller to the Cape may want to experience the full range of African facades. If this is the case, you need go no further than the Pan African Market. Located in a national monument on historic Long Street, one could easily walk to this destination and most rented taxis know exactly where Long Street is situated. Drop by the market on any day of the week and they should be open, although there are certain occasions when they may be closed due to certain religious observances.
Well worth a visit, it literally looks as though the contents of this shop sprang straight out of the pages of ?King Solomons Mines?. Although the motifs behind the masks and other goodies have often been lost in time, just looking at them should provide you with enough of an explanation!
Green Market Square
A large cobbled area known as Greenmarket Square can be found in the centre of the city bowl. It is a busy place, a place to barter and haggle, providing a pleasant, corner caf? atmosphere good for just sitting peacefully and watching the goings on.
There is perhaps no other place where paths cross as they do at this hub of city life. A traveller to the Cape is able to gain an insight into the African culture with only an hour’s observation, as Greenmarket Square provides a varied cultural sampling of the cities folk.
The Cape Town Gardens
This historic parkland in the heart of Cape Town is simply about birds, tea, roses, Koi Fish and history, hopefully mixed with a bit of sunshine.
The best place to start your leisurely walkabout would be just outside the Slave Lodge on the Corner of Adderley and Wale Streets. To avoid disappointing the areas inhabitants, bring peanuts. Oh, and lookout for the Albino Squirrel.
The Bokaap
The architecturally and socially unique Bokaap, otherwise known as the Malay Quarter, rests on the slopes of Signal Hill. This quiet niche on the fringe of the City Bowl is a newly proclaimed national monument. With its quaint, cobbled streets and renovated slave quarters it, till this day, houses the original descendants for whom the quarters were built. If you have never heard of a ?Roti? ask for one at a Bokaap caf?, they are delicious.
The City Bowl by Night:
The sunset in Cape town is quite remarkable. With the waning of the daylight hours, the soft hues cast themselves across the clouds welcoming the coming of the night. Cape Town transforms, donning another mask as the city?s landscape begins to twinkle.
The Cable Car Road
A drive along the Cable Car Road is a little daring for some, particularly at this hour, but it is well worth it! It is possible to see from this vantage point why Cape Town’s CBD is known as the City Bowl. As your gaze moves from left to right, Lion?s Head contrasts sharply with the backdrop of a golden sunset, as you pan further to the right; the torso of this giant beast becomes apparent. From the Cable Car Road, you can literally see the complete outline of a resting lion guarding his concrete jungle; a good time to take a snap!
The nightlife in Cape Town comes in many shapes and sizes, here are a few possibilities:
Mama Africa
There is warmth and feeling to Mama Africa. This authentic African restaurant, dressed in traditional African d?cor and serving the continents cultural cuisine, is always a lively place. You can often catch Marimba music and live African bands and the bar is not your average elbow parking lot either; it has been customised in rather a reptilian fashion. But you need to see that for yourself!
The Crypt
Situated at the beginning of the afore-mentioned garden walk, at the same intersection of Adderley and Wale Streets, lies the Crypt. Under St George’s Cathedral, the Crypt, which was built in 1898, is now the haunt of Jazz enthusiasts and the playground of dining room damsels from the Cape Town city bowl.
After being closed for years, the Crypt’s curved arches, leaded window panes and plaques commemorating the dearly departed have been revealed for your eyes to behold. Actually used for choir practice and as a clergy vestry, the Crypt provides big breakfasts, cosy couches and a surprisingly warm atmosphere. Do make a calling!
If you decide to pay Cape Town a visit, remember Cape Town bears two distinct faces; a mask worn by day and a mask worn by night. Whichever one you choose, it is all up to you.

About The Author

Gregory Hudson
Icon Villas & Vistas (http://www.icape.co.za/Content/capetown.asp) provide a discerning range of self catering vacation rentals in Cape Town. Whether you are in the Cape Town city bowl for business or pleasure, Icon Villas & Vistas will ensure you have a wide range of Cape Town luxury accommodation to choose from.

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by: Robert Caleo

British Airways is United Kingdom?s largest international airline, with routes to over 550 destinations the world over. This airline is world renowned for their high standards and international recognitions, having been featured in many reviews by airline critics as well as passengers. Apart from just offering flights, British Airways sustains its status within the airline industry through a workforce that offers exceptional work commitment and excellent service levels.
Throughout its long history, British Airways has evolved almost a century within the airline industry. Currently owned by Comair Limited since 1992, this airline started off with humble beginnings as Aircraft Transport and Travel in 1919, with its maiden flight from Le Bourget to Honslow in August 1919. Later, with the merger of a few other airlines due to the decline of the industry, this British airline was named Imperial Airways and was the first major British carrier. At that time, they operated with only 18 aircraft and 250 employees.
Soon after their collaboration with Qantas to launch the first flight to Australia and with the acquiring of more aircraft, British Airways Limited was created which was a merger between Imperial Airways and the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC). After World War II, with more transatlantic flights added, another sister airline was also created just to handle these flights. It was known as the British European Airways (BEA). Through the years, British Airways has continued steady growth, incorporating newer and more sophisticated aircraft and as well as running the Concorde since 1979.
The success of British Airways could mostly be attributed to its continuous addition of more long-haul international flights as well as the expansion of their fleet. Apart from that, the entire airline boasts of features that provide their passengers with the best comfort through value added services such as extended leg room for travelers within their economy class cabins, special lounges of British Airways and onboard catering with exclusive wine served.
Additionally, other conveniences provided for ease of check in including telephone check -ins, valet services and also an online portal at http://www.britishairways.com/ that consists of many features allowing passengers to check flight schedules, check personal bookings, travel advice, information on British Airways destinations and even perform online flight bookings. In fact, they have even implemented an e-ticketing system which provides passengers with the flexibility of checking in without the need of a physical ticket. Only passenger details including proof of identification are required to be produced during check-ins, as all booking information has already been stored in their computer systems. In fact, through this system, flights can be changed even up to 30 minutes before departure time.
Finally, the British Airways portal also provides many other travel services such as hotel bookings, travel insurance purchase, car rentals as well as holiday purchases. This way, these products from British Airways comes in competition with travel sites such as Lastminute.com (http://www.adventuretraveltips.com/tips/Lastminute.html) and Ratestogo.com (http://www.adventuretraveltips.com/tips/RatesToGo.html). However, as all of these are not core businesses of an airline, they merely exist to complement the flight services. Thus, all of these value-added services work together with great customer support services in order to produce success for this famous airline.

About The Author

Robert Caleo is an editor of AdventureTravel Tips. He travels extensively for work and family vacations and regularly writes about travel and related companies. This article is courtesy of http://www.adventuretraveltips.com, you may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.
adventuretraveltips@yahoo.co.uk

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