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Zambia Safari Top Five National Parks

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:00:01 +0000

Zambia is Africas best kept secret as far as safaris go. The country is a virtual unknown in comparison to other more traditional destinations but a Zambia safari can be every bit as good and in some cases even better.

This top five list of the best national parks and game reserves in the country gives you a taste of what to expect. It has been compiled from zambia safari reviews at the African Safari Journals website, forums, travel magazines, industry expert opinions and my own twenty year plus African safari experience.

1. South and North Luangwa NP

Some experts have branded the Luangwa National Park as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world because the density of game you can find here mixed with the isolation and pure unadulterated wildness of it is almost without compare.

Because it is reasonably undiscovered except to the locals in the know and a select few foreign visitors, it hasnt been overrun by masses of tourists yet and you can experience a safari here as it should be and some say that is the best Africa has to offer.

There are over 60 species of animal here with the unfortunate exception of rhino because they were poached into extinction and over 400 different kinds of birds.

They all rely on and are drawn to the winding Luangwa river which is crowded with some of the biggest concentrations of hippo and crocodile you will find anywhere in Africa. it has been estimated that there are 50 hippos per kilometre of this congested river.

The South Luangwa was the birthplace of the walking safari and it is still a very popular way to explore the area from a quality collection of safari lodges and camps. Night drives are another excellent way to see leopard which are reputed to be more regularly seen in this park than anywhere else in Africa because of the high concentrations of the predator. Lions and even rare sightings like honey badger, civet and wild dog are likely to be seen.

To take the true zambia safari adventure a step farther, the northern luangwa area is even more remote, wild and isolated than the south and the wildlife and bird viewing experience is from the top draw. Definitely one for the safari cognoscenti.

2. Mosi-oa-Tunya NP

Despite its hard to pronounce name this park has something very special up its sleeve. That awe inspiring wonder of the world: The Victoria Falls. As far as natural spectacles go, this is one of the best in Africa. Mosi-oa-tunya can be literally translated as “the smoke that thunders”.

And thunder it does, so much so that the spray from the water crashing over the edge into the gorge below is enough to drench you to the bone as you go closer. The water travels onwards into a frothing maelstrom known aptly as the “boiling pot” before breaking into numerous rapids as it makes it way underneath the Victoria falls bridge which connects Zimbabwe and Zambia and then farther along into Batoka Gorge.

The park comprises the falls

and a small strip of land 66 kilometres long on the North bank of the Zambesi which is worth a short visit to see what are probably Zambias only remaining rhino (the rest have been poached into extinction). You might also see a small scattering of baboon, elephant, sable, giraffe, eland buffalo and impala.

3. Kafue NP

This is the largest national park in Zambia and is situated in the western part of the country.

The Kafue river provides the life-giving sustenance to a vast number of antelope species like the red lechwe in their thousands, hartebeest, oribi, duker, sable, roan, puka and waterbuck to name a few and the whole rouges gallery of predators are accounted for here too. The only animal that you wont find on a Zambia safari here is the giraffe.

It is advisable to go further north to the Basenga floodplain because game spotting is much better there due to thick woodlands obscuring views in the south. This floodplain sometimes retreats in the dry season trapping hapless hippo and crocodile in an ever shrinking mudbath.

Some of the roads in the park are not in good condition and are only drivable using a 4×4 vehicle and most of the safari lodges and accommodation is in the North.

With over 400 bird species recorded such as the wattled crane, goliath herons and purple crested lourie birders will have a ball here and budding fisherman can get tackle and rods from the lodges to land fresh water pike, barbel and bream.

4. Lochinvar NP

Another national park situated on the Kafue river floodplain, this wetland and savannah dominated national park has fewer mammals but is a bird paradise.

There are a large amount of Kafue lechwe (about 30 000) living here and some wildebeest and zebra herds but the only big game you will find is restricted to hippo, buffalo, leopard and spotted hyena but if you are a birder the over 420 species of bird will more than make up for that.

5. Lower Zambezi NP

One of Zambias newest parks and it is still reasonably undeveloped but the beauty of this park lies in the ability to get close to animals on both sides of the river like elephant, buffalo, hippo and crocodile using canoe or motor boats which they seem to ignore until you are virtually right on top of them.

And being predominantly a water park there are an amazing amount of bird species here like the fish eagle, kingfishers, parrots, hornbills and lovebirds and for the anglers there are tiger fish, bream and vundu (a sort of catfish that can weigh op to 50kg) inhibiting these waters just waiting to be pulled out on a Zambia safari.
About the Author

These are the Top Three Zambia Safari companies that you can use to organise a safari trip for you to the national parks there.

Pick up tips, advice and reccomendations from these Zambia safari trip reports written and photographed by previous travellers themselves.

Zambia African Safari

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:00:00 +0000

You are on the highway traveling as usual and thinking you
are enjoying yourself. But it occurs to you that in fact you
are a tepid tired, actually really tired and that you have just
realized that you have been tired for such a long time! Why?
Because you realize that you have had no break in a long,
long time! Voila! You realize that you know the solution.
A break! To recharge your natural rhythms, to recharge
your natural “batteries”. In your mind you see a banner, an
advert you recently saw.

**SAFARI HOLIDAYS!**

That really already makes you feel like you are relaxing
already, seeing yourself almost getting to feel like enjoying
life again? And indeed WHY?

… sometimes she is referred to as ‘Zambia.the Real
Africa’. Zambia is sandwiched between 8 countries. From Zambia you can get practically anywhere
in Southern Africa and even far beyond. Zambia continues
to be a haven of peace. With 73 ethnic groups Zambia is
an example of African unity in diversity. Zambia is a nation
teeming with wildlife in its 19 national parks and private
game reserves. It is a land of unspoiled nature with many
wetlands and unblemished forests.

Once there you will get close to nature. You will get the
feeling, the rhythm of pulsating nature, the soothing feel of
close proximity to nature. The friendly people with their
warmest of warm African welcomes will embrace you.
Awaiting you is the embracing unspoiled nature that will
give you the soothing you yearn. Get the healing, recharge
the natural batteries. That is what Zambia Safari Holidays
will do for you!

Zambia is home away from home, where nature and life
slows down to let your natural rhythms refresh you. Allow
the untamed natural elements of the beautiful weather per
excellence soothe you, cares you, recharge you, and make
you feel life anew!

You will enjoy nature. By watching, feeling and being part
of nature. Allowing the healing of mother nature, just like
nature intended it to be. That is what Zambia – the land of
glorious sunsets, friendly people, ancient traditions and
mystic legends, of nature at its wildest and most exquisite
will do for you!

Zambia is a land of the legendary African walking safari and
they did originate here. Zambia has earths biggest waterfall,
the wild Zambezi River, breath-taking lakes and wetlands,
a profusion of birds, abundant wildlife, and raw, pulsating
wilderness, …….all in one friendly country!

What constitutes Zambias Safaris is its 19 national parks
and private game reserves covering a total of 47,662 square
kilometres. Most popular of
these are South Luangwa, Mosi-oa-Tunya, Kafue, Lochinvar,
Lower Zambezi, Kasanka, North Luangwa and Nsumbu.
And so also are the best accommodation found there.

Zambias natural parks are strategically positioned and
cover every part of the country. The largest, Kafue National
Park is centrally positioned but to the west of Lusaka,
accessible by an all weather road. Then there is the unique
dual of North and South Luangwa in the east. Others are in
the north, in the west and in the south of Zambia.

Zambia’s astonishing wildlife includes the graceful lechwe
antelope filling the vast plains of Busanga and Bangweulu
in their tens of thousands; the annual wildebeest migration
of the Liuwa Plains which rivals the Serengeti. See the
elephant, hippo, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, warthog, primates,
antelope and various reptiles and rodents and

are common
sightings in the game reserves.

And there are large carnivores too! The common ones seen
in the Zambian game parks are the cheetah, leopard, lion
(the legendary king of the jungle), spotted hyena (‘wild’
strongest teeth) and the wild dog. Smaller carnivores such
as honey badger, African wildcat, mongoose jackal, etc.,
are common sights too.

Zambia has three natural lakes. In the north are the
Bangweulu, Mweru and the southern tip of Lake Tanganyika,
the world’s second deepest lake. Along the southern border
is the exciting mighty Lake Kariba, one of the world’s
largest man-made lakes. It measures 280 kilometres long
and 40 kilometres at its widest.

Of the 73 tribes of Zambia, 20 practise annual traditional
ceremonies. These manifest customs, social life, rituals,
oral history, material and spiritual culture. When these
ceremonies are in session visitors are welcome to watch.
Catch one and you will enjoy it.

Apart from its abundant wildlife, rivers, and lakes, Zambia
holds 6% of the worlds copper reserves and is the fourth
largest copper producing nation in the world. Zambia is
internationally recognised as a major producer of emeralds,
aquamarines, amethyst and tourmalines. The qualities of
the gems are highly competitive on the world markets.

Zambia’s vegetation is savanna type with lots of trees
varying in density. The climate makes Zambia suitable for
a wide range of farming crops. All vegetables and fruits
such as citrus, bananas, pineapples, mangoes, avocadoes,
etc., grow. The weather is fine just about the whole year
round; a bit sun shine now and a bit of rain another season.

While on holiday in Zambia you can choose to enjoy
adventures of your choice. In Livingstone town, the Adventure
Centre is a must visit. You will be able to choose the
adventure of your liking and they’re a myriad. The adventure
tours can also be arranged from the comfort of your hotel
lobby or lodge. These adventures include;

White water rafting on 23 wild Zambezi river rapids below
Victoria Falls

Canoeing safaris along the Zambezi River

River-boarding by surfing the Zambezi below Victoria Falls

Houseboating on Lake Kariba

Bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge

Walking safaris are the best on the continent

Abseiling the gorges of Victoria Falls

Horse riding safaris, a unique way to view game

Tandem kayaking with an experienced kayaker who will
take you through the raging rapids of the Zambezi – great
fun and quite safe.

Fishing such as fly fishing, tiger fishing, are some of the
best fresh water fishing

Elephant back safaris; tame elephants give the best view
for game viewing in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

One guarantee! The contagious “Simply-Love-Zambia-
Safari-Bug” will affect you. Once “infected” you will
always remember Zambia, the warmest of warm African
welcomes, Africa’s best-kept secret. The superb enjoyment
cure of exhaustion!!

Contact mailto:enestle.zimba@kcm.co.zm

About the Author

Enestle Zimba is the founding editor of Africa’s Best Kept
Secret Ezine. Enestle is geologist of over twenty years and
manages Zambia African Safari (ZAS) part time. He is
dedicated to the promotion of safaris and tourism in Zambia
and the conservation of wildlife and the environment.

Do You Know What is Africa’s Best Secret?
http://www.zambia-the-african-safari.com/subscription.html

Yucatan Adventure – It’s Chichen Itza Near Cancun

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:30:00 +0000

Yucatan Adventure – It’s Chichen Itza Near Cancun

Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com
Read this entire feature FREE with photos at
http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/adventure/mexico/mayaland/mayaland.html

We sip slushy lime Margaritas on a windy afternoon on the Mayan Riviera while sitting on the beach and doing what all tourists do when they visit Mexico – I lie there on my lawn chair covered in Banana Boat coconut sunscreen contemplating a dip in the ocean.

The Tulum Temple on the Mayan Riviera.

I couldn’t help but overhear a young couple under the umbrella beside me discussing their day trip out to the historical site of Chichen Itza, the inland site of the great pyramids. They playfully bet on who will climb to the top of the steep pyramid the fastest during their tour the next day.

Tourists from all over the world visit Mexico every year to get away from the harsh cold reality of winter, and in some cases, life. When Mexico comes to mind for most we think of sun, surf, and the hangover followed after too much tequila. Many, but not all, take it upon themselves to venture out to the jungle pyramids during their once-a-year weeklong duration in the country.

El Castillo (great pyramid) foreground,
and the Temple of 1000 Columns.

I couldn’t get the thought of Chichen Itza out of my mind the rest of that afternoon. I want to climb to the top of the pyramid as well! It is settled, I grab my boyfriend Marcus and drag him to a tour operator to arrange “the climb” for the very next morning.

Samuel, our private driver arranges the tour through MayaLand Tours, and he picks us up right on time outside our five star hotel, The Bahia Principe Tulum.

Mayaland Tours operates fully-guided tours, self-guided tours, as well as custom private tours that are in length from day trips to overnight excursions. The trips vary from snorkel tours at Xel-ha, full tours of Chichen Itza, to private excursions to the temple of Tulum! www.mayaland.com/sites.html

The more than helpful staff arranges a private tour to the Chichen Itza pyramids and a one night stay at the beautiful resort, Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows, right in the Chichen Itza archaeological zone.

Samuel turns up his Mexican tunes, rolls down the windows, and the three of us ride the “highway of death” (according to Samuel) for three hours all the way to Chichen Itza. The experience of self-driving in Mexico is not one I recommend to those who are interested in death while on vacation. With that being said we have a fantastic time taking in the countryside, and listening to Samuel tell us stories about growing up in Mexico.

The Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows is in the heart of the Chichen Itza Archaeological Zone.

The closer we get to the archaeological site the more excited Marcus and I grow at the thought of climbing the amazing pyramid. What an accomplishment this is going to be! We arrive a little windblown but eager and ready to climb. Quickly calmed by the hypnotic buzz of the lobby ceiling fan, I sit down and read about the Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows as Marcus checks us in.

The hotel was founded in the 1930s by Fernando Barbachano, who successfully convinced the first tourists to venture out with him to Chichen Itza from their ships on the gulf coast. Today, the Barbachano family continues to operate, build, and contribute to organized tourism and hospitality in Mexico. Local tours from the hotel include organized trips to Chichen Itza for 480 pesos or U.S. $42.00 and horseback riding to old Chichen Itza for 400 pesos or U.S. $35.00. Pavarotti once stayed in the hotel in a custom-built suite during his performance at the ruins in ‘97, and one of the hotel restaurants is now named after him.

The Mayanland Hotel and Bungalows Accommodations -

All 93 rooms and suites at the Mayaland Hotel and Bungalows have air-conditioning, ceiling fans, Servibars and satellite color TV. The hotel is three storied, and it is the first hotel built at Chichen Itza, and the worlds first within an archaeological site. Mayaland is a landmark, reminiscent of the hacienda nobility of a century ago. The Main House is beautifully appointed with rooms and suites looking across manicured gardens to the pyramids. The Bungalows were built in the 1990s and they are clustered around a secluding pool and were created for guests wishing to commune with nature, but with all the amenities of a

first class hotel.

The hotel has several rooming optons, including:

Your Hawaii Vacation – Five Islands, Infinite Variety

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:45:01 +0000

Your Hawaii Vacation – Five Islands, Infinite Variety

Hawaiian vacation packages give you more flexibility than any other type of tropical beach vacation around. With five islands to choose from, each with its own distinct personality and amenities, you can plan a Hawaiian vacation that suits you perfectly no matter what you’re looking for.

And with no worries about passports, exchange rates or import taxes on souvenirs, it’s a surprisingly cheap way to get to experience the tropics without ever leaving the country.

There are several ways to afford Hawaii on a budget so that you can enjoy anything from a few days to a month or two in paradise. If you’re looking for the ease of staying in a hotel, look into several levels of accommodations. Hawaii has everything from the most luxurious five-star resorts to relatively cheap hotels that offer the basics of a good, clean, air conditioned room and adjacent restaurant and everything in between.

It’s entirely up to you how you want to travel – if you’re only interested in using your hotel as a base for sleeping, you can find some great deals on chain hotels that are safe and consistent that offer great packages. If you prefer a bit of pampering, look into some of the finer resorts’ special deals for couples, families and themed trips that can save you money, especially when bundled with activities like day sailing excursions and fishing trips.

For beach vacations in Hawaii, you should also consider condo rentals. For families traveling together, these are a great money-saving option, especially if you have a large family. You can get great deals on condos when you rent with an eye toward using roll-away beds or fold-out couches for the kids and prepare some of your meals yourself. If you plan on spending a lot of time soaking up the sun, a beach-front condo is an excellent choice.

Hawaii is considered by many people to be one of the most beautiful places on earth. This cluster of islands is completely surrounded by turquoise waters and has islands ranging in size from only a few miles across to over 250 miles wide, each with beaches from rocky coral coves to soft, white sand beaches depending upon location. There are sheer mountain cliffs with roaring waterfalls and undulating, semitropical rainforests. The difficult part of planning a Hawaiian vacation isn’t finding cheap deals – there are plenty of great packages out there – it’s deciding which package to go with!

Maui – Paradise on the Beach

The second largest island in the chain, Maui is also home to the most fabulous beaches in the world. If your Hawaii vacation includes lounging surf-side or walking on powdery sand with salt-water tickling your toes, then Maui is the best choice for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

It’s also home to Napili Bay and Big Beach, both wide swathes of family-friendly beaches with plenty of opportunities for boogie-boarding and body surfing.

Snorkeling opportunities abound for visitors at Molokini, a tiny island off the coast that’s surrounded by tropical fish and fascinating sea creatures. You can also go dolphin spotting and whale watching on one of the many chartered catamarans or glass bottom boats.

Kauai – The Emerald Isle of the Pacific

Kauai is often referred to as the Garden Isle or the Green Island because of the incredibly lush flora on this small

island. The North Shore in particular is a fabulous wealth of natural beauty, with incredible waterfalls and tropical foliage everywhere.

Kauai is an island suited to those looking for kicking back in natural surroundings. The accommodations are pleasing and casual, but there are no casinos and little night life here. If you want to go horseback riding, hiking or follow some of the most beautiful nature trails you’ll ever see, though, this is the island you’ll want to stay on. Waimea Canyon is a hiker’s dream, with incredible views and challenging climbs leading to a curve of gorgeous beach.

Oahu – History’s Home

Oahu is home of the largest cities in Hawaii, including Waikiki and Honolulu, so if you’d enjoy some nightlife and culture, don’t miss this island. Museums, theaters and plenty of restaurants and clubs. The shopping is great and you’ll find the latest fashions next to local arts and crafts in boutiques around the island.

Oahu’s also awash in history, home to Pearl Harbor and the site of the U.S.S. Arizona as well as a variety of other historical sites, including the Missouri and Diamond Head Crater. Want to learn more about Polynesian customs? Attend one of the many luaus and experience Samoan dancers, the hula (traditional dance of Hawaii), a re-enactment of a royal Hawaiian procession and a pig roast.

Molokai – The Forbidden Island

The story behind Molokai is a grim one, but the island itself is an unspoiled gem. Called the forbidden island by natives because of Father Damien’s leper colony in the previous century, Molokai has few hotels and fewer residents. In fact, it’s so small there isn’t a street light anywhere on the island!

Molokai is a plaice to go fishing, take long walks on seclude beaches and relax.It’s the closest thing you can get to your own deserted island, but with all the amenities still in place.

The Big Island

The big island of Hawaii has just about everything imaginable you could ask for in a vacation. In fact, depending on the time of year your vacation could encompass a visit to the beach on one end of the island and, if you trek of one of the dormant volcanic mountains at the other end, an invigorating afternoon of snowboarding on snow-dusted slopes!

Volcanoes National Park has one of the world’s largest rings of natural volcanoes both dormant and active and you will often see spectacular lava flows that demonstrate the full power of nature’s potentially destructive forces.

On the Kona side of the island, visit Hawaii’s famous coffee plantations and horse and cattle ranches. On the Hilo side, take in the beauty of orchid-filled rainforests and majestic waterfalls. And of course, the big island has plenty of nightlife and shopping!

With so many great Hawaii vacation package deals to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect trip to paradise!

About the Author

Lori Wilkerson is a full-time freelance writer who loves her job because it gives her the opportunity to learn more about the world every day. Right now, she knows a little bit about almost everything, and a lot about Hawaii Vacations, Beach Vacation Deals, and Cheap Beach Vacations. Lori once led a Conga line to the tune, “Hot, Hot, Hot,” throughout an entire cruise ship sailing to Nassau. beach-vacations-4u.com
(True story!)

Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 09:15:00 +0000

Yellowstone National Park is simply massive. Encompassing 2.2 million acres, the park has grizzly bears, wolves, bison, elk and two-thirds of the worlds geysers. Top on the list of attractions is Old Faithful Geyser. With stunning views, one can truly enjoy the work of mother nature.

Of course, there is one unsettling thing about Yellowstone National Park. Literally. In recent years, scientist and park rangers have notice fairly massive movements in the park. The first discovery was the fact one of the lakes was “slipping” sideways at a rather dramatic rate. After extensive investigations, it was discovered that the Park sits on a massive magma vent. The vent is so massive that should it blow. Well, lets just say it would be a good year to travel abroad. Despite rumors to the contrary, the park is safe and a super volcanic event is extremely unlikely.

Yellowstone Trivia

1. Yellowstone National Park, the worlds first, was authorized by an act of Congress in 1872.

2. Yellowstone lies within one of the worlds largest volcanic calderas, and is comprised primarily of a high, forested, volcanic plateau that is traversed by the Continental Divide.

3. The park receives 3 million total recreation visits annually.

4. The largest concentration of geysers in the world is in the Upper Geyser Basin in the Old Faithful area.

Yellowstone Attractions

1. Yellowstones unparalleled array of hydrothermal features–geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and steam vents–provide evidence of the active

volcano beneath our feet. In the 40 miles between Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful, youll see travertine terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs, acidic features at Norris Geyser Basin, mud pots and geysers at Fountain Paint Pot, giant hot springs at Midway Geyser Basin, plus Biscuit and Black Sand basins near Old Faithful. West Thumb Geyser Basin is 17 miles east of Old Faithful; Mud Volcano is north of Yellowstone Lake.

2. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River extends from just south of Canyon Village north to Tower Junction. The most famous and spectacular section, including the Upper and Lower Falls, is seen from overlooks along the North and South Rim roads near the Canyon Village area. The northernmost extent of the canyon is visible from Tower Fall and Calcite Springs overlooks, south of Tower Junction.

3. Yellowstone Lake is the largest high elevation lake (above 7,000 feet) in the Western Hemisphere. It has 110 miles of shoreline and is approximately 400 feet deep at its deepest spot. With the Absaroka Mountains as a stunning backdrop, this area offers boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, and hydrothermal features.

The best thing about Yellowstone is simply the opportunity to truly be in nature. I’ve only been once, and was ill, but a return is definitely on the “to do” list.

About the Author

Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals – makers of outdoor writing journals. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more.

Yacht Charters Provide a Luxurious Escape

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:30:01 +0000

Ernest Hemingway, the Nobel laureate author of “Old Man And The Sea,” loved to go on fishing expeditions off the Cuban coast in a sailboat that was well stocked with rum.

James Bond, the legendary British spy, loved to spend intimate moments with his newfound female companion on a yacht near a remote island in the Caribbean.

Away from the maddening crowd, in complete isolation, is what the fictional celebrity, and the celebrated fiction-writer, sought after every hectic assignment – Bond chasing enemies and Hemmingway chasing real-life action.

In real life, the rich and famous all over the world often spend their dream vacations in a boat they own, in faraway seas beyond the prying eyes of the paparazzi and the scandal-mongering newshounds.

Honeymooners, famous or not, also love being alone.

And then, there are the CEOs of mega corporations that hold business-cum-fun excursions on the high seas in luxury motor yachts to strike deals and seal takeovers. Or, just to enjoy their earned holidays.

Dream holidays on a well-equipped, well-stocked yacht are not just for the rich and mighty; they are within

your reach, too. Just charter a yacht and sail off to your dream destination.

You can pick your own route, set your own pace, chose your own cuisines, chalk out your own itinerary, make stopovers whenever you feel like, and be the master of the yacht until you return to the shore.

A crew yacht charter vacation is like staying in a villa where you are pampered by a staff, but is unlike a hotel where you are stuck in the same location for the entire week. Your yacht moves on to a new location at your whim and fancy.

A charter yacht comes with a captain and cook. The price, which ranges from $8,000 to $250,000 per week, is linked to the size and type of the yacht and the services they provide. The price is inclusive of the charter meals and wines.

About the Author

Yacht Charters Info provides detailed information about yacht charters, including Caribbean and Mediterranean yacht charters, as well as luxury, crewed, motor, private, and corporate yacht charters. Yacht Charters Info is affiliated with Business Plans by Growthink.

Yacht Chartering in Greece – A Few Things to Consider

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 06:15:08 +0000

When to Go

The sailing season in Greece lasts from March to early November. During the Spring months, the weather during the day varies from cool to warm and is usually cool at night. The sea temperature is not usually suitable for swimming until the middle of May and then you can swim right through to the middle of October. The months of May, June, September and October usually have warm to hot daytime temperatures and pleasant temperatures at night. There are good winds at this time, but they are often variable. In July and August there are stronger winds, particularly in the Cyclades islands. Spring and Autumn are the most popular seasons for yacht chartering in Greece because this is when the climate is most suitable and there are far fewer tourists on the mainland and on the islands, than in high Summer.

Deciding on the Type of Charter

There are many options to choose from and when planning your trip you should consider the following questions. How many people will be in your party and will they require single or double berths aboard? Do you require a sailing yacht, a motor yacht or a motorsailer? What level of comfort do you want aboard? Will you require a skipper? If you require a bareboat (i.e. you intend to do the sailing yourself, without a skipper or other professional crew aboard), what size of yacht are you experienced in

handling? Remember that European regulations, require that two qualified people be aboard. Another option is to sail in a group or flotilla of other boats. These can be a combination of bareboat and skippered yachts, and can provide you with the right balance of educational support and local knowledge.

Length of Trip

In order to get the most out of a yacht charter, the minimum length of trip should be about 7 days. As for the maximum amount of time, that is up to you. Many companies will offer discounts for longer charters. Good charter companies will have lots of local knowledge on the best routes and places to visit, and will work with you to agree an itinerary, which suits your needs. Remember that you do not have to spend your entire holiday aboard the boat. You could arrange a couple of days at the beginning or end of your charter to explore the mainland. It is well worth spending at least two or three days in Athens – a wonderful city, which unfortunately is often side-stepped by people who head straight for the islands.

About the Author

Emmanuel Mendonca is the webmaster of a web site called Athens Room at http://www.athensroom.com which is a free service for finding and advertising property for rent in Athens, Greece. Athens Room also contains a wealth of useful information about visiting, living and working in Greece.

Wisconsin Dells Is A Fun Family Vacation Destination

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:30:17 +0000

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin is a fun destination for a familyvacation, and with a little research and advance planning thetrip doesnt have to make your wallet cry out in pain.

Wisconsin Dells (and the area is really two towns: WisconsinDells and Lake Delton) has been a popular summer vacationdestination for people who live in the Midwest since the late1800s. In recent years, several indoor water parks have beenbuilt making Wisconsin Dells a popular year around vacationdestination, not only for people who live in the Midwest but forpeople from around the world.

What first drew tourists to the Wisconsin Dells area? It was thescenery. The Wisconsin River meanders through the WisconsinDells area and has beautiful sandstone rock formations. A tripto Wisconsin Dells wouldnt be complete without a boat tour ofthose rock formations.

There are two basic choices of tours; either boat tour or a”duck” tour which also includes some sightseeing on the land. Ifyou have small children, theyll enjoy the “duck” tour the most.

If you take a boat tour, youll have a couple of options. Youllbe able to take an “upper Dells” tour, a “lower Dells” tour, orboth. The upper Dells boat tour lasts about 2 hours and thelower Dells boat tour lasts about 1 hour. The upper Dells tourincludes a few shore stops to look at some outstanding landmarks(http://www.wisconsindellstoday.com/dells/wisconsindellsboattours).

The “duck” tour is a combination land and water tour. Its areally fun way to see some of the beautiful scenery on the landand water. And the tour is a big hit with kids of all ages! Myfamily takes a trip to Wisconsin Dells nearly every year and wego on the Duck tour almost every trip because we find it so muchfun. The “duck” vehicles used for the tours are amphibiousvehicles used in WWII that have been revamped. The tour startsout on dry land. During the tour youll be taken down streets ofWisconsin Dells; through lovely wooded areas where wildlife isoften seen (we usually see white-tail deer) and then its on tothe really fun part of the trip.

The duck driver drives into the water with a big splash – well;usually with a big splash. The driver will ask the customers ifthey want to go into the water slow or fast because fast getssome of the people wet. On every tour Ive been on the fast tripinto the water has won the vote and it is fun! After the twistsand turns of the wooded trails (some of them steep and narrow,but always safe) the water part of the trip is a nice change ofpace. After being in the water for a while and seeing some ofthe breathtaking sandstone rock formations, your driver takesyou back onto dry land and your fun tour is complete. During theentire tour your driver entertains you with a funny andinformative narrative.

Even though our family loves going on the Duck tour when we goto Wisconsin Dells, if they have a choice of only one activityto do, going to a water park wins hands down. There are over 20water parks in Wisconsin Dells. There are outdoor water parks;indoor water parks; and combination indoor/outdoor water parks.So no matter what time of the year you want to splash in thewater and have fun you can do it in Wisconsin Dells.

Our family usually takes a summer trip to Wisconsin Dells. Andwith mid-summer temperatures in the 90s, and even occasionallyin the 100s, splashing in the water is very refreshing. Ourfamilys favorite outdoor water park is Noahs Ark. Itscurrently the largest outdoor water park in Wisconsin Dells. Youcan easily spend an entire day there and not get bored. I have afew tips for you though if you do go to Noahs Ark (or any ofthe water parks in Wisconsin Dells) to help keep your costs downand to make the trip as enjoyable as possible.

1) If at all possible, dont buy your admission tickets at thefront gate the day you want to go to the park. Youll pay fullprice and there are lots of ways to find discounted tickets. Ifyou live in the Midwest check with your local Parks andRecreation Department to see if they have discounted ticketsavailable. Also check with your place of employment to see ifthey offer discounted tickets. An Internet search may also giveyou sources for discounted tickets. Another option is to go intodowntown Wisconsin Dells or Lake Delton before you go to NoahsArk and stop at one of the ticket booths there. You can almostalways purchase discounted tickets there,

especially if you areplanning to do more than one activity while you are in WisconsinDells. For example if you are planning to go to a water park,take a duck tour, go to a water show, and go to one of theamusement parks to ride on the roller coasters and go-karts youcan get some pretty good discounts by buying all your tickets atthe same time.

2) Take waterproof sunscreen. Youre going to be in and out ofthe water all day so make sure you have waterproof sunscreen inorder to avoid having to constantly reapply your sunscreenthroughout the day.

3) Take towels. It may seem like a silly item to list but itssurprising how many people forget to take a towel. You canpurchase beach towels inside the water parks but they areexpensive.

3) Consider renting a locker in the park. There are lockerrentals available in the park for a nominal fee. I always rent alocker and put dry clothes for my family in the locker alongwith the things I dont want to carry around all day, such as mysunscreen. At the end of the day we retrieve those dry clothesand change into

4) Take plastic bags for your wet swimsuits and towels.

5) Take a small waterproof container for extra money. Get onethat attaches to your wrist or hangs around your neck. If youdont have one or dont know where to buy one, you can purchaseone inexpensively at one of the stores inside the water park.

6) Bring your own lunch. There are several covered picnic areasinside the water park available free of charge for your usealthough its likely some of them will be unavailable on anygiven day because they will be reserved for groups who are atthe park. Even if you dont want to pack a cooler at home, bringalong the empty cooler and pick up your lunch items from a storethe day before. Although there is good food available inside thewater park, it is expensive and will quickly put a big dent inyour pocketbook.

7) Bring water shoes. Sandals are okay too but you want onesthat are water friendly which typically means flip-flops andthose can easily fall off your feet when youre on some of therides. I dont advise going barefoot. The park is paved and ifits a sunny day the pavement gets very hot.

Go on rides early in the day and late in the day. Thats whenthe lines are the shortest. The lines are really long in themiddle of the day. Have your picnic lunch at that time, do alittle browsing in the water park stores, and take a short restbefore heading back on the rides.

Going on the ducks or a boat tour and going to a water parkarent the only activities to do in the Wisconsin Dells area.You could stay busy for weeks (if your pocketbook could handleit) doing all the activities available to you. You could gohorseback riding; go-carting; riding on roller coasters;shopping; take in the Tommy Bartlet water show; play miniaturegolf; play regular golf on one of the golf courses; rent a boatand go fishing (youll need to purchase a Wisconsin fishinglicense); rent a canoe and go canoeing; enjoy a movie at thedrive-in movie theater; rent a jet-ski; visit the railwaymuseum; visit the history center; play paintball; or do any ofthe dozens of other available activities. You could even take ashort drive to Baraboo and watch the Al Ringling circus. Thereare literally hundreds of things to do in the Wisconsin Dellsarea.

I have one more thing to keep in mind as you are planning yourtrip to Wisconsin Dells. August is the busiest month inWisconsin Dells. How busy? Consider this: Lake Delton andWisconsin Dells have a combined year-round population of around5,000 people. During the weekends in August, the population inthe Lake Delton/Wisconsin Dells area can swell to more than200,000 people. Lines at the attractions will be the longest inAugust and the hotels will be booked solid (I dont mean toscare you though. Our family usually goes in August even thoughwe know its going to be busy and we have a great time). Bookyour hotel early or consider going there at another time duringthe summer. June isnt as busy but the weather may not be aswarm either which means it could be a little chilly if youregoing to be visiting one of the outdoor water parks.

About the author:

Dorrie Ruplinger is a featured writer for http://www.wisconsindellstoday.com. Visit the web site for more information on Wisconsin Dells attractions.

Why You Should Travel To Hong Kong For The New Years Parade

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 04:15:14 +0000

The New Years parade in Hong Kong is an event not to be missed!The city is dressed up with bright decorations and colorfullights for its biggest celebration of the year, and thousandspour into Hong Kong to take part in the festivities.

Winding along Hong Kongs picturesque waterfront, the New Yearsparade is filled with colorful, lavishly decorated floats.Representatives from Hong Kong and countries all over the worldsing, dance and play music. The songs of marching bands fill theair along the parades route as performers in bright costumesprance along the streets.

The forthcoming year (2006) is the Year of the Dog. No matterwhich zodiac animal is being celebrated for the coming year,there are always plenty of lions and dragons in the parade.Energetic dancers wearing giant lion heads leap in the air aslong dragons held aloft by more than twenty people snake pastthe enthralled parade watchers.

The New Years parade is the biggest event of Hong Kongs LunarNew Year celebration. Close to 300,000 people attend the paradeand millions more watch it on television. In recent years theparade has taken place in the evening, featuring vivid, dazzlinglight displays.

The Lunar New Year is one of Hong Kongs most important andwell-loved holidays. Each year one of twelve different animalsis celebrated, according to the Chinese zodiac. Many of thecitys towering skyscrapers are decked out in glittering lightsfor the holiday. Throughout the three-day celebration, dancersin colorful costumes perform lion

and dragon dances in thestreets, malls and hotel lobbies. Traditionally, people exchangesmall, red envelopes filled with money as gifts. Flower marketsshow up all over the city during the holiday, selling plants andflowers with special significance, and stores and restaurantsdisplay flowers meant to bring immortality and good luck.

The New Year celebration usually begins anywhere from January 21to February 19, depending on the year. While the holidayofficially lasts fifteen days, in Hong Kong it is celebrated forthree days, with the New Years parade taking place on the firstday. January 29, 2006 is the first day of the forthcoming newyear.

The day after the New Years parade a brilliant display offireworks lights up Hong Kongs famous Victoria Harbour. Thefireworks can be viewed from the waterfront or from boatscruising the harbour. On the third day of the celebration alarge horse race takes place at the Sha Tin racetrack. Thislively race is a favorite for gamblers and horseracingenthusiasts.

Its no wonder why so many travel to discover all that Hong Konghas to offer, with the vibrant fusion of ancient customs andmodern day fun at one of the worlds biggest Chinese New Yearcelebrations.

About the author:

John Riggin is Executive Editor for www.SeeYouInAsia.com, thelargest and most comprehensive US to Asia travel website.Where youll discover the best deals on flights, tours, hotels,cruises and more to welcome in the Chinese New Year.

Why Visit Magical Cape Town?

admin — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 03:00:15 +0000

People often ask me why we keep returning year after year to Cape Town and my answer is always the same, because we’ve not seen everything yet!

“A world in one country” is the way South Africa is often described, but this statement can so easily be attributed to Cape Town alone.

Cape Town is one of the top destinations world-wide for vacations these days and now that South Africa has managed 10 years with relative stability and economic growth, people are rushing to take a look at this magnificent city.

Based in the Southern Hemisphere, its summer months are those of December, January and February; the winter months, June, July and August. For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, the destination for winter warmth is second to none.

What can you expect to see and do?

Mountains and sea dominate the landscape and shape Cape Town’s character.

One of the first ports of call is Table Mountain, which fills the skyline with its impressive edifice and flat-topped surface. Everywhere you go in Cape Town is in the shadow of the Mountain, whose face changes as the sun moves around – it’s something you never get bored of.

In the Waterfront, life teems with award winning restaurants, shops, entertainment, education and accommodation, all amongst a working harbour and docks. Brightly coloured fishing boats, jostle with cruise ships, such as The World.

Life on the ocean wave means boating, surfing, kite

surfing, water-skiing, rock pools or just paddling. The sandy, white beaches stretch all the way along two coasts, one on the Indian Ocean, one on the Atlantic Ocean, with something to occupy everyone.

Animal life abounds, both in the wild and in more structured environments. The Two Oceans Aquarium in the Waterfront offers glimpses of the diverse life found off the South African coastline.

Down in the harbour, the seals lounge around in the sun, entertaining the visitors. Bird life is spectacular, from Egrets, Pelicans, Terns, Oyster Catchers, through to Flamingo’s and birds of prey.

Away from the coast, wonderful inland towns such as Stellenbosch support a unique wine route, with hundreds of different wine estates. The Cape Dutch houses, with beautiful furniture and an insight into a life no longer with us, bring a whole new meaning to the word museum, whilst tasting of the wines produced on these estates bring us firmly back into the modern day.

Busy holidays, lazy holidays, a combination of the two – all are on offer in this magical place, whilst the sun shines down with benevolence on a world in one country.

About the Author

Helen Palmer is the author of the website
www.magical-cape-town-vacations.com, whose family’s love of Cape Town was
spawned some 30 years ago, when her aunt moved there to live. Regular
visits and a genuine love of travel persuaded Helen to share her passion.