Most people come to Bali to experience the marvelously rich culture heritage; some come for the beaches and the waves; some come for meeting and convention; others for pure relaxation. But if you are a nature lover don’t miss Jatiluwih, is a breathtaking panorama of genuine and fertile rice fields stretch from the foothills of Batukaru volcano to the south coast.
It is located at the western district of Tabanan. This western uplands of Batukaru are famed for magnificent landscapes. The view from the mountain village, Jatiluwih, takes in the whole of South Bali. Perched on a high terraced slope, Jatiluwih deserves its name, which means “Truly Marvelous”. A wonder of the world. It’s worth a venture.
You can initiate your trip in the morning leaving the hotel at 09.00. A.M. There are many ways to see Bali and each serves its own purpose well. Motorcycles are a pleasant (but extremely risky) way to see the countryside and cooler than ride in a car. Jeep and minivans are also available for hire – with or without a driver. It is advisable to settle the price with the driver before starting on a journey.
After passing the town of Tabanan the road takes you to the north through the villages of Wanasari, Jegu, Buruan and Wangaya Gede. On the route you will be amazed by the wonderful rural ambience; farmhouses, characteristically, a little shrine to place offerings dedicated to Dewi Sri the Goddess of rice, plowing, flocks of ducks that are brought to bathe and feed all day in the flooded paddies, and harvesting, that one pictures when remembering Bali. The cascading terraces of rice fields are the most striking features of the landscape.
If you see farmers are working the rice, planting or harvesting, and if you are interested in experience it, you can stop and joint them, you will be welcomed gladly. “Alo turis, alo turis!” followed by giggles is the standard greeting from children everywhere on Bali. Older people will be more sedate but their curious eyes will follow you, as will their more modest greeting of “mau kemana” (where are you going). Traveling in Bali can be exhilarating and getting off the beaten track can take you right to the heart of Balinese life, although you don’t have to stray far to feel it.
On the route at the village of Wanasari there is a butterflies park, you can stop and watch various kinds of colorful tropical butterflies. And then nearby the temple Pura Luhur is the holy spring of Air Panas, where hot water surges from the river bank. All strange, natural phenomena are believed to be frequented by spirits. Thus, Air Panas is graced by a small temple where people make their prayers with offerings.
The journey continues up the road until it dead ends at Pura Luhur Batukaru (2,278 m / 7,474 ft). Being one of Bali’s most venerated temples, every West Balinese temple has a shrine dedicated to it; it is isolated within its solitary clearing far above the populated farmlands. The dense rainforest of this upland would invite every adventurer to explore it. Wild orchids, healing herbs, fragrant spices and exotic trees could be discovered in this mystical heart and soul of this amazing island.
Then, the last destination (the goal of the journey) is the mountain village Jatiluwih, a breathtaking panorama of genuine and the most fertile terraces rice fields on the island. It is said as the granary of the whole Bali. Perched on a high terraced slope, Jatiluwih deserves its name, which means “Truly Marvelous”. The cascading terraces of rice fields are the most striking features of the landscape. Stretch from the foothill of Batukaru volcano to the south coast. The cool western uplands, overlooking half the island, offer magnificent views.
On the route to Jatiluwih you can observe many kinds of tropical vegetation; coffee, coconuts, cacaos, cloves, jack fruits, bananas, papayas, sirsaks, an extremely juicy fruit, rambutans, mangoes, durians the smelly fruit, etc. The western upland is the most interesting area to hike. If you love hiking (don’t forget your picnic basket). A true journey to the secret soul of Bali. But if you want to have your meals at a restaurant, continue your travel to the east till you arrive at Pacung, there is a good restaurant offers delicious buffet lunch – with its wonderful sight of terraces rice field and the sacred volcano Batukaru in the distance.
Waka Land Cruise a reputable company has been organizing a sacred adventure to the secret soul of Bali. Travel by legendary luxury Land Rover, on tiny country roads and tracks, through terraced rice fields and untouched rainforest to the real heart of Bali.
So keep in mind the beautiful Bali for your holiday, because it would be worth to venture there.
Thank you readers and have a nice day.
We set out with a group of 38 singles and as usual they were initially timid but quickly bonded in friendship. On arrival in Lima we check into a lovely hotel located in trendy Miraflores district. There was a guided city tour, leisure time to explore and a delicious dinner of sea bass ceviche at a restaurant built on an ocean pier.
Next day we flew Lan to Iquitos where we were greeted by 3 top guides who remain with us for our 6 days in the jungle. They are truly pro's on flora, fauna and having fun! All transport is by boat. 90 miles down river we arrive to Explonapo Lodge in the heart of Amazonia. No plumbing or electricity, feels like an episode out of "Survivor." Rustic to the extreme yet therein lies the unique charm. I fell in love with the resident "pets". There was Adrian the toucan who would poke his long beak into the dining room door for a treat, along with several tame parrots and scarlet macaws. Charlie was a Capybara that looked like a mutant 100lb. guinea pig. When I'd scratch under his chin he'd close his eyes and make cooing sounds.
The pitch black nights were spooky with a symphony of wild noises. Our rooms were connected with a privacy wall and an open thatched roof. Like a giant slumber party, we all shouted "goodnight Johnboy" from our mosquito netted beds. Suddenly Sharon screamed and the guys run to her room. She found a giant lizard tucked in with her in her bed. At 3am I head to the latrine with flashlight in hand. Inside a bat flutters near my head as I repeatedly whisper "bat's are good."
Enough roughing it. We board our boats for "luxury in the Amazon" at Ceiba Tops. With air conditioning, tropical gardens and a pool, it feels like the Ritz to us. I take the world's longest shower as others enjoy Pisco Sours by the pool. We all gain weight with fresh food throughout that is both delicious and plentiful.
On daily boat tours we saw giant water lilies, sloths, countless birds and the elusive pink dolphins. We fished by cane poles for piranha to fry up for dinner. We visited a family with a pet anaconda snake. My brave clients drape it around themselves for a photo op. We delivered medical supplies to a remote clinic serving the poor river people. Here a tooth extraction costs $2 if they can afford it.
There were many highlights! We hiked the world's longest canopy walk 100' high in the trees. We visited Monkey Island, a research station for 8 species that room free. For one photo I held 3 at a time. There was a lecture by two resident shamans who taught us about medicinal plants and then blessed us individually as they removed our bad spirits. At the Yagua Indian Village we traded our western goods for masks and blowguns (several of these were later were confiscated by TSA.)
The best part of the trip for me was a surprise visit to a rural school. Inside were 50+ children barefoot and wide-eyed who never see tourists. Tears filled my eyes as they sang their national anthem to us. We sang our anthem to them and deposited a ton of school supplies to the two teachers. It was a glorious sight.
Back to Lima, we all scatter to shop the Indian markets. The dollar is so strong here that several in the group bought another suitcase to fill. I did my Xmas shopping in May. Our fabulous dinner was at a restaurant set in pre-Incan ruins. We toast each other goodbye with many hugs as I remiss a journey well done. This group was so prefect I'd like to clone them all for future AFS trips. I couldn't hand pick better travelers for this adventure.
I have always loved the land of Peru. I am now designing a unique future trip to include Machu Piccu, boating Lake Titicaca, visits to natives on floating reed islands and crossing to La Paz Bolivia. For the moment, I have tired of Europe. There is a spirit of humility found in the hearts of these people that I am unable to adequately describe here. Nor can my photos justly convey Peru. It truly must be experienced.
Malaga
Malaga is the capital city of the Costa del Sol, it is also one of the provinces of Andalusia, a port city and also the location for the international airport which is the largest airport in Spain.
The population of Malaga and the surrounding area is estimated at over 1,000,000 and this number swells in the summer with the influx of visitors. Malaga is surrounded by mountains and there are two rivers, the Guadalhorce and the Guadalmedina which flow past the city into the Mediterranean.
Malaga has a wealth of history going back over 3,000 years. It was founded by the Phoenicians and named ‘Malaka’, meaning salt, probably because of the fish which was salted by the harbour. In the 8th century it was inhabited by the Moors and became an important trading city. In more recent times, tourism has naturally boosted the economy.
Malaga is a very popular tourist destination, made more so in recent years, because of the number of cheap charter flights which now operate in and out of the international airport. But it is also from here that people can reach a large part of Andalucia and may choose to stay in the famous ‘white villages’ or the historic cities of Sevilla or Granada.
There is plenty to do and see in Malaga – the Arabic Fortress, the Gibralfaro Castle from where there is a beautiful view over the city, the harbour which is one of the most important in Spain and various museums, cathedrals and churches as well as, of course, the bullring and it can also be known as the birthplace of the actor, Antonio Banderas!
Nerja
Nerja is found at the eastern tip of the Costa del Sol, approximately 50 km from Malaga, 1 hour and 15 minutes from Granada and the infamous Alhambra Palace and from there just another half an hour to reach the skiing regions of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Nerja is steeped in history and is well known for the primitive paintings in the Nerja Caves, which were discovered in the late 1950’s and which have now become one of the most visited tourist attractions in Spain. The caves are also home to the world’s longest stalactite. Nerja is also famous for the Balcon de Europa, ‘the balcony of Europe’. A wonderful promenade which sits between two small coves on the edge of a towering cliff which was once the sight of a great Moorish castle. It offers magnificent views across the Mediterranean as well as numerous bars and cafes where one can sit sipping refreshments while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Nerja has some lovely beaches which are mostly rocky coves with sharp sand and there are some good restaurants along the beaches which specialise in local fish dishes. The old town of Nerja has small, narrow streets which are busy in the summer and the weekly market is held on a Tuesday.
Nerja is also becoming a popular destination for walkers exploring the mountainous areas of the Sierra Almijar and the Sierra Tejeda.
Nerja has a wide range of good hotels as well as many private apartments and villas to choose from where you can enjoy your holiday and the surrounding area.
Ronda
Ronda is one of the most beautiful historic towns in Andalucia and is part of the province of Malaga. Ronda can be found approximately 50 kilometres from the coastal town of San Pedro de Alcantara along a very winding road through the mountains, the Serrania de Ronda and it is 113km from Malaga. Ronda has a population of approximately 35,000 people and it is 739m above sea level. The average year round temperature is 15C and has around 2700 hours of sunshine per year.
There is lots to do and see in Ronda. It is famous for having the oldest bullring in Spain and together with the New Bridge, the Puente Nuevo, these are two of the symbols of Ronda. The New Bridge is, in fact, over 200 years old and took more than 40 year to complete. The masonry stones were brought up from the depths of the Tajo gorge. The Bullring, The Plaza de Toros, is recognized as one of the oldest in Spain and one of the most monumental in design. It took 6 years to build and opened in 1785. The City Museum and the Bullfighting Museum are also very popular sights to visit. The Sierra de las Nieves natural park is within the province and has the most important forest of Spanish firs.
The fair and festival of Pedro Romero is usally held at the beginning of September and is a good time of year for tourists to visit.
Ronda is a wonderful place to visit, but an even better place to stay. There are many lovely villas, apartments or townhouses available to rent or maybe choose to stay in one of the picturesque surrounding villages such as Montejaque or Gaucin.
We arrive to the land of 1000 languages and 1000 gods. At the Intercontinental, the women in my group are welcomed with marigolds and branded with the typical red dot on our foreheads. This hotel is an oasis of luxury in a polluted city of 14 million people. Two days are spent touring Delhi. The obligatory sites include Gandhi’s Tomb and many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. No where else have ancient traditions blended with the modern on a scale so evident as in Delhi. Fat sacred Brahma bulls block traffic creating delays. In this Hindu land, cows rule. Dogs, monkeys and children cross at their own risk.
I love spiced food and begin each day with a 3 alarm-curry breakfast. We head by coach for Rajasthan, the beautiful desert state where cows are replaced by camels. The air is sweeter and everything more colorful. Here is a microcosm of all that India is. The people are genteel with a humility if spirit and still light up at the sight of foreigners. We continually wave through our windows to those who stare with curiosity and seem to say, “why have you come here?” As a fan of the third world, this place has been on my dream list for years. I now vividly enter that element of travel that provides me astonishment.
We’ve come to attend the annual Camel Fair in Pushkar that has taken place for a thousand years. As the world’s largest, it has at its peak attracted 50,000 camels with 200,000 traders. We unpack at our camp called Exotic Adventures. Our spartan tents did have ensuite toilets but toilet paper was at a premium. There was a 24 hour guard outside who stingily rationed our quota. In the desert, nights are frigid and afternoons sweltering. I confided to a guest there from the American Embassy that I felt like I was in an episode of “Survivor.” She laughed assuring me that it was all worth it. Soon my shock turns to awe as I enter the fairgrounds.
Set on miles of shifting sand dunes with festooned camels and a flood of pilgrims, the scene looks totally surreal. Its like a State Fair on steroids. There is a flurry of horse, bullock and camel races, contests for milking, animal decorating, turban tying, tattooing as well as snake charmers, free carnival rides, mystics, astrologers and dazzling stalls of handicrafts at giveaway prices. The ground reverberates with activities. Thousands of Rajasthani woman have arrived dressed in their finest clothes in near neon colors. I watch trained monkeys, painted cows and cobra’s dance. No words can adequately describe how this helter skelter overwhelms my 5 senses. Others can have Europe with its cathedrals and museums. For me, this exotic exposure and cultural immersion is the ultimate travel!
Covered in dust, we return to camp. Each night there is entertainment under the stars with musicians, folk dancers, puppet show or fire eaters. No alcohol is allowed here and all meals are vegetarian buffets. An Ayurveda Center offers us treatments to cleanse body toxins. We decline them: induced vomiting, enemas, nasal drainage and blood letting.
We tour the holy city of Pushkar with its sacred lake created by Lord Brahma. Pilgrims come from afar to bathe in the ghats and worship round the clock. We learn about religions here: Zorastrism, Sihkism, the mystic Sufi’s, Jainists who won’t kill a mosquito, Hinduism that claims no absolute truth and the caste system. We tour temples at the lake; some are “blessed” by priests. Later, a highlight for me was a one hour Camel Cart Safari behind the scenes of the fair. Children line our route shouting to us “hi, hello, one pen please!” We see a camel slaughtered and half naked people washing. Back inside the grounds, we visit an orphanage and scatter individually to get lost in the feverish revelry. We ride huge spitting camels that provide us a heightened perspective of it all. I purchase a dozen garnet necklaces and silver ankle bracelets. Teenage boys approach Terry to photograph him. He’s 6’5’’. One politely as him, “Sir, what do you eat?”
Our group was wonderful!
There are endless food courts however we must pass all enticements to prevent “Delhi Belly.” I find the cacophony of chaos delightful. Pushkar is truly a party affair for the locals and we are just observant guests. I’m so grateful to experience such but time to proceed on with our busy itinerary.
We arrive to the famed “Pink City” of Jaipur, now more deep maroon from pollution. In touring its palaces, fort and architectural marvels, we learn of the great Amber rulers and maharajahs of the Moghul empire. History comes alive and I find myself so interested in that which I never cared about. And here is a shopper’s paradise for silk sarees, gems, jewelry and marble crafts. I visited an animal sanctuary called “Help In Suffering.” The worst cases of various species are treated here by volunteer veterinarians. Forty five stray dogs are sterilized daily and I witness a surgery. (See www.HIS-INDIA.com ) You can simply mail them a check to help.
At 'Help In Suffering' a dog spaying Making a donation Volunteer vets talk to Suzy
On to see the grand Fatehpur Sikri, “Ghost City of Akbar” that was abandoned due to scarcity of water. We finally reach Agra, a broken city of 2.5 million. Hawkers harass us. Chained bears dance for rupees in the street. Hungry children beg. We are thankful to lodge at the deluxe Sheraton here with its western cuisine and affordable massages at $20. It was like a galaxy change from the downtown.
After witnessing an eyeful of wonders along the way, we have saved the best for last at the world’s greatest tribute to love. Goosebumps rise as I enter the majestic gate to the Taj Mahal. Morning sunlight illuminates it like a flawless pearl…22 years to build by 200,000 men with 2 million pieces of inlaid semi-precious stones. After a lecture on why this perfect symmetry was created for Queen Mumtaz, we disperse to photograph what looks to be a mirage. It is poetry in architecture and as magnificent as can be imagined.
Back in Delhi, we all enjoy a free day of leisure to explore as we choose! Most go shopping as prices are extravagantly low but how many Pashmina shawls does one need? For our final evening we enjoy a show called “Dances of India” followed by a farewell feast of our Last (Indian) Supper.
I remises another journey well done with excellent guides, drivers, assistance and accommodations. I recall my favorite moment which took place at the fair when I hired two “body guides” to assist me through the crowds, Jamal and Ranshi. These two 11 year old boys bonded to me like barnacles and their beaming smiling faces will forever remain etched in my memory of India. This trip has renewed my curiosity of the world reminding me again that my love of travel proliferates itself. The more I see, the more I want to see.
This country is for the seasoned traveler. I am extremely impressed with the fortitude and patience of my group of 60 people in a land of erratic infrastructure. For some it was their first visit to the third world but they all persevered like pros. To witness suffering first hand is the fullest way to appreciate home. We saw things both appalling and joyful. The word “fascinating” however would sum up the entire trip. I must return again.
Undoubtedly, backpack is an essential gear for every outdoor event to carry your world along with you. Experts believe that when it comes to choosing a right backpack a good rule of thumb is, "Buy right and pack light." There is a large variety available in the market ranging from expensive to cheap, lightweight to ultra-lightweight and highly fashionable to real basic. So it may turn out to be a real daunting and challenging task when it comes to choosing a right backpack for your outdoor activity. Most of us don’t know what exactly a right backpack is.
Well, a right backpack is the one that sits comfortably on your shoulders and back and make you comfortable to carry your load during long and short trips alike. To select a right backpack you need to consider many things, such as comfort, load distribution on your spine, important features and functionalities you required in your back pack and finally the budget. Among other things, comfort should be on your first priority, because you are buying backpack for comfortable journey. Therefore, to make a good selection decide which feature is important for you, how long is your journey, what is the actual weight you wish to carry etc.
Literally, there is a large variety available in the market to choose from, such as crush resistance, frameless backpack, internal & external backpack, lumbar & torso packs, lightweight, single strap & double strap backpacks, infant & child backpacks, hydration etc. Remember, they are all different so try them actually to see which ones suit you better. Before answering these questions, some important elements should be considered, such as purpose of your trip, duration of your trip along with the capacity you'll need and the features you demand in a backpack.
First of all, remember the golden rule of backpacking “buy right and pack light”. That means you should buy the right backpack according to your needs and pack it light with essential things only. A right backpack is the one with the right size to fit your torso. It is the first and most important step to safe backpack use. If you can bring one of your friends with you while buying any backpack then it is ok, otherwise ask the salesperson to help you measure your backpack properly.
Next important point can be to purchase adjustable backpacks. Nowadays market is full of good quality adjustable backpacks. No doubt, adjustable back systems are great, but will cost you a bit extra than your bulk standard pack. Actually, adjustable backpacks will allow you to set the height and weight of the pack in the perfect position on your back. Either you can set it yourself or ask your friend or salesperson to adjust and fit your pack on your back by sliding it up and down until you are comfortable. So, when you feel it is right, you lock it off.
Next is to choose the correct frame size. Remember every backpack is useless (regardless of your good height and top quality of backpack) unless it has a correct frame size according to your body and shape. Gone were the days when people think ‘one-size-fits-all’—it far from the truth. Experts strongly believe that your torso size and your overall height are two completely separate measurements when it comes to backpacks. Actually Wayne Gregory was the first backpack designer who thought seriously about the importance of correct frame size to fit your torso.
According to him, your correct frame size can be found by measuring your torso from the seventh vertebra down the spine to the point in the small of your back which is horizontally level with the top of your hip bones. To find this point, use your fingers to trace the hip bone upwards till you feel the point where the top edge of your hip bones curve inwards, on the side of the hip, creating something of a shelf. This measurement is the torso length, especially useful to consider those packs with non-adjustable back system. In fact this system that is used throughout the outdoor industry today to measure the exact body size and to determine the correct frame’s size.
Similarly, another important consideration is proper fit of waist belt by knowing its correct size. In simpler words, the hip belt is meant for hips and not for your waist. Therefore hip belt should rest on your hipbone, not on your waist, because if it is on your waist then you will carry too much weight on your shoulder. In the same way if it is too low, it is bound to interfere with your walking. Quite frankly, both are undesirable. Ideally with a full pack on, the top edge of the waist belt should ride one inch above the top of the hip bone. Lastly, you should also pay attention to shoulder straps. These days many good quality backpacks are available in the market with adjustable shoulder straps. Backpacks with self-adjustable shoulder are regarded as top backpacks, because in these backpacks the shoulder straps can be rotated to accommodate individual neck and shoulder shapes.
Well folks, these were just few considerations for choosing a right backpack for your hiking or trekking. Your backpack contains all of your surviving things in a wilderness so you always try to select a good and comfortable backpack. The only cause behind the selection of an expensive backpack is comfort, so while purchasing any backpack, do some research to find the pack that's right for you.
Fall foliage in New England provides a showcase for Mother Nature. Perhaps nowhere else in America, and maybe even the world, are the fall colors as stunning and spectacular as October in New England.
Fall foliage in New England really begins in August. The shortening daylight hours trigger the deciduous trees to begin the process of shedding their leaves. It happens all around North America, and all around the world. But in New England it results in a display of special landscapes painted with fiery autumn colors.
Why is fall foliage in New England so different and special?
It’s a factor of many things but mostly an abundance of different types of deciduous trees, warm autumn days, and cool - but not freezing - nights. When these and a few other conditions are all mixed in the right proportions, then you get the world famous stunning shades of reds, yellows, oranges, and browns on the hills and mountain sides of New England.
Between mid-September to late-October, visitors flock to New England to see the fall foliage. Many take special bus tours or even train rides. But most take to the road and these six scenic drives offer some of the best autumn views available from anywhere on the planet.
FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE - MOHAWK TRAIL MASSACHUSETTS
In Massachusetts the most popular fall foliage scenic drives are along the famous Mohawk Trail, and the area known as The Berkshires. The Mohawk trail rolls out through the northwestern part of the state on route 2, and winds through the hills and mountains of the Berkshires, touching picturesque towns like Williamstown, Deerfield, Shelbourne, Colrain, Charlemont, and Shelburne Falls. The road follows an ancient foot path used to move between Massachusetts and New York by Native Americans.
Mount Greylock, the highest point in The Berkshires and Massachusetts, offers stunning views of the surrounding area and Mohawk Trail.
FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE - KANCAMAGUS HIGHWAY NEW HAMPSHIRE
The White Mountain National Forest is home to many wonderful scenic drives but the most popular - and rightly so - has to be the 34-mile Kancamagus Scenic Highway that runs along route 112 from Conway to White Mountains Visitor Center in Lincoln. This drive is considered by many to be the top fall foliage New England scenic drive. You’ll see beautiful forests ablaze with autumn colors and plenty of photo opportunities with walks along gorges and streams, and with breathtaking views of the highest mountains in the Presidential Range.
FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE - CENTRAL VERMONT AREA
Vermont is a popular destination state in the fall. With many fall foliage scenic drives to choose from, the Central Vermont area, around Killington, and the towns and highways of Woodstock, Rutland and Ludlow, offer up some of the most dazzling. This area is deep in The Green Mountain National Forest area, and not surprisingly offers dramatic fall foliage color and scenery.
FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE - LAKES AND LEAVES MAINE
Maine is a vast wilderness and given its proximity is the first New England state to display peak fall foliage color. Maine has many unparalleled scenic drives to choose from, and it’s difficult to single out one. But the Lakes and Leaves drive that skirts the shores of Moosehead Lake on Route 15 and then heads south on route 201 provides an amazing view of this empty, but beautiful backcountry. You’ll see incomparable fall foliage views of the tree-lined banks of the Kennebec River, and the surrounding mountains on this Maine Scenic Highway.
FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE - RHODE ISLAND COAST
Rhode Island provides open roads and coastal drives for fall vacationers and leaf peeping.
The 61-mile Rhode Island Coast Scenic Drive follows the coastline east from Westerly towards Point Judith passing nature reserves and secluded beaches, until turning north along Narragansett Bay, and eventually over Newport Bridge on route 138. The drive finishes over the breathtaking Ocean Drive in historic Newport.
Always close to a picnic stop along this short drive it begs to be taken slowly and to stop occasionally and breathe in the crisp fall salt air.
FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE - CONNECTICUT ROUTE 169
Far from being the forgotten step child of the other fall foliage scenic drives in New England, Connecticut is full of its own collection of scenic drives. One noteworthy trip to take in autumn is Route 169 in the eastern "Quiet Corner" region. Here the backdrop is rolling farmland, stone walls, and picturesque towns and villages that line the route.
New England is littered with fall foliage scenic drives, and look at those mentioned here as springboards to visiting other country roads that lead to surprises and discovery at every turn. The backroads of New England are where the gems are located, so don't be afraid to explore.
Have you ever had a backpacking trip that was a disaster - even though you brought everything you needed? Maybe you had matches, but couldn't get that fire going. You need more than good gear to assure a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience. You need to know how to do a few things, and the following list will get you started.
1. Learn firemaking. Practice in your yard if you have to, but try to start that fire with one match. Try it the next time it's raining too.
2. Learn to pitch a tent. Do it wrong and the rain will come in, or the the wind will tear the seams. Tents should be pitched tight, and you should be able to set your tent up in a few minutes.
3. Learn how to stay warm. Practice camping in the yard, to see how blocking the wind, wearing a hat, and eating fatty foods before sleeping can keep you warmer.
4. Learn to cook over a fire. It's not as easy as it seems. Block the wind, cover the pan, keep the fire small and concentrated. Practice, and time yourself. Faster is better in a jam, and it's always possible your stove will break.
5. Learn about edible plants. Knowing how to identify cattails and three or four wild edible berries can make a trip more enjoyable, especially if you ever lose your food to a bear.
6. Learn how to walk. Learning how to pace yourself and how to move comfortably over rocky terrain means you'll be less tired, and less likely to twist an ankle.
7. Learn about animals. Can you tell if a bear is "bluff charging" or stalking you? If it's the latter, playing dead will make you a bear's supper. Hint: lots of noise usually means he just wants to frighten you, but you need to read up on this one.
8. Learn to watch the sky. Is that a lightning storm coming or not? It might be useful to know when you're on that ridge. Learn the basics of predicting weather, and you'll be a lot safer.
9. Learn basic first aid. Can you recognize the symptoms of hypothermia? Do you know how to properly treat blisters? Good things to know.
10. Learn navigation. Maps don't help if you don't know how to use them. The same is true for compasses
You don't need to be an expert in wilderness survival to enjoy a safe hiking trip. It can help to know a little more though. Use the backpacking skills list above, and learn something new.
The true reason behind any adventure summer camps is to send the children somewhere where they will not only have a great time but will learn and grow as a person. The adventure summer camp programs that you are searching, should offer a wide range of adventurous activities to choose from. If the summer camp is a special type camp, then their summer camp programs must focus on the specialty areas. An example is that an adventure summer camp programs especially for a ‘baseball camp’ should include things like batting, catching, defense, running bases, etc. Make sure that the programs offered by the camp organizer will make the child have a good and challenging time.
Why You May Ask?
Well! Students will benefit from a broad ranging and ‘all-inclusive’ summer camp activities program. You may start with an exhilarating selection of outdoor activities, day trips, evening entertainments and the exclusive Highland Adventure, that guarantees the summer of a lifetime, not to be missed. On the other hand, teen’s summer camps focus on things that are important to teens like growing up and learning about real life and gaining a sense of independence. The key to any adventure summer camp grilling is to be safe. Do not attempt to grill indoors under any circumstances.
Programs without clear features, meanings or definitions use phrases like outdoor behavior programs, boot camps, wilderness camps, wilderness programs or ‘wilderness boot camps’. ‘Behavior Outdoor Intervention’ curricula have been mounting in ‘popularity and variety’ enormously for the past few years. Programs are essentially free to call themselves whatever they want. Parents’ understanding of these programs is becoming imprecise and uncertain. So don’t go with these catchy words, know in detail what they actually offer before you make any payment.
Parents searching for an ‘unrealistic quick fix’ to their youngsters behaviors, particularly over the ‘summer months’, generally prefer and hunt for what are known as troubled kid’s summer camps. Whether you go for boot camps or wilderness camps, make sure that the summer camp activities are clearly displayed and you understand them properly to choose the best one form the options.
I have good news and bad news. Let’s start with the bad news, so this article can proceed in the positive manner readers will have become accustomed to: Travel bookings are down in the USA, both online and offline for 2007. Now, the flip side: travel expenditure is on the up. Usually one would expect these two figures to move in largely the same direction, but as there is a drop in the number of people buying, the larger revenues can only mean that people are willing to spend more for a holiday. This is good news but what does it mean?
In a recent article, Forrester analyst Henry Hartveldt states that “Customers are tired of spending two or three hours trying to find the airline or hotel or vacation package that meets their needs.” In the same article, Jeffery Grau, Emarketer’s senior analyst, states that “Online travel distributors’ booking tools were made for mass consumption of uniform goods. They have yet to switch to an era of individual consumption of unique goods.” Jeffrey goes on to say that holidays should not be designed through some kind of one-size-fits-all brief. Increasingly people want the personalisation that offline travel agencies are often better at providing.
To me, from an online marketing point of view, this is a huge opportunity for niche operators. Not only are people prepared to spend more on their holidays but they are increasing looking for more individual holidays. These niche holiday makers lean towards those experts who have the knowledge to create interesting holiday experiences for them. Often the brick and mortar holiday providers offer customers a better experience in this regard – they can talk to a sales rep, who will be able to understand their experiences and help them to make their ideal holiday.
We carried out some of our own keyword research on a variety of phrases related to tailor made holidays and found that there are a nice selection of these being used on UK search engines with fairly good numbers.
So, we know the market is there, but how can niche operators capitalise on the demand? The answer is, of course, by providing everything that can be found in the high street online. You need to allow customers to mix and match hotels, flights and itineraries to create their own unique experience. By all means offer itinerary suggestions, but always remember that your customers are unique and will like certain bits while disliking others, so give them the option to make the changes THEY want. You will likely find a large proportion of your visitors will consider paying just a little more for their own holiday experience, rather than having to make do with an inflexible package that is sold to the mass market.
Of course this could create a dilemma in the programming of your site – as Jeffery Grau said earlier – most websites are designed for the old world where consumer choice meant selecting the country, city and hotel. If you have the time and resources to make your site offer the functionality, then excellent, but it isn’t always necessary: You can create a similar effect by listing a few sample itineraries online, and then offering your customers a chance to have their dream package made for them in person: Provide phone numbers, with calls to action, letting the customer know that they can have their dream vacation tailored to their needs, and that your staff are prepared to bend over backwards to structure a package just for them.
It may seem that changing the way your company offers holidays is excessive for the niche market which is, by definition, limited, but the trends in the US (which Europe usually catches up with sooner or later) suggest to us that the market is going to exert greater influence in the future. 2008 could well be the year of niche travel, and if you get the groundwork right, you may find a nice increase in traffic from those disillusioned by the paint-by-numbers nature of the UK package holiday market.
The skies of Malta will welcome the Malta Air Show 2007 later this year, with display teams from across Europe, the US and possibly Canada participating.
The air show traditionally comes late in the Malta holidays season, and is a welcome late boost for the island's tourist industry with aviation enthusiasts descending for the weekend.
Despite some complaints from residents about noise and safety levels, the air show does produce publicity and income for the holiday and Malta hotels industry, which in previous years has been a welcome addition to the island's fortunes as visitor numbers have slipped away.
The 2006 event was a truly international one, as well as the Armed Forces of Malta participating, the French, Italian, Dutch Swiss and Spanish all had planes and crew in attendance, plus the British Royal Air Force and US Air Force.
Among the planes taking part were two Alpha jets from France, one of which performed an aerial display, six F-16's with two Dutch F-16's flying, and from the RAF two Harriers and two Tornados, with one of the Harriers undertaking an aerial demonstration.
Pick up points from around the island are available for spectators wishing to attend the show, and on previous occasions this has led to heavy traffic in and around the event, again making some local residents none too happy about the event.
While the organisers might have been able to justifiably claim in the past that the air show formed an important event in the calendar of tourist events drawing extra visitors to the Malta hotels, more conventional aircraft have reduced the value of this for 2007.
Malta Flight
After some years of a declining tourist market, Malta has been boosted by the arrival of low cost flights from London and Dublin, traditionally important markets for the island.
Before the new cheap Malta flight passengers started arriving in November from London Luton, and in February from Dublin, the depressed Malta holidays market was in danger of being relegated from a mainstream travel destination to niche status, but the Ryanair flights have helped to start a turnaround.
Estimates suggest that an extra 80,000 visitors could visit Malta in 2007, bringing a real boost to the hotels in Malta and the island's economy overall.
'When Malta is accessible,' comment local destination guide YourMalta.com, 'Then holidaymakers will come. It's not just the Malta weather, but the history and a friendly people that draws people.'
The increase in visitor numbers could see property price rises, with two international estate agents who deal with Malta properties predicting a ten per cent rise in property values for 2007.
As with most popular holiday destinations, a percentage of tourists decide to buy a property in an area they like, and Malta is no exception.
The advantage Malta has for UK and Irish visitors is that they drive on the same side of the road and English is spoken, and for non British Isles visitors Malta has well known language schools where they can learn English.
A 2 bedroom apartment in the popular Malta holiday resort of Qawra is currently on the market for LM 72,000, and a three bedroom two bathroom apartment in equally popular Mellieha for LM 138,000.
With over 30 million visitors a year, Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world. From the gorgeous mega-luxury hotels to the exclusive Vegas shows to the unbeatable buffets to the 24 hour casinos, Las Vegas has something for everyone.
More and more travellers are booking their Las Vegas trips online. So should you book your next Las Vegas vacation online? Here are the top 5 reasons to consider booking your Vegas vacation online:
1) Save Money
You don't have to pay travel agent commissions which can amount to significant savings of hundred of dollars. Plus there are direct-to-customer online travel services that give you special discounts just for booking online.
2) Convenience
Book your Vegas vacation from the comfort of your own home. You don't have to go out to pick up the tickets or haggle with travel agencies. You simply shop, click, book and print - easy as that. (and if you have questions, there's usually a toll free number you can call for 24 hour support)
3) Larger Selection of Las Vegas Packages:
Instead of just choosing from the latest travel agent specials you can choose from EVERYTHING that's available. You know what you want in a Las Vegas vacation better than anyone else - and you can easily browse everything that's available to you online.
Many online travel agents upload new vacation packages weekly so you can monitor the new packages being offered and find an amazing deal.
4) Easy To Search & Book
With easy search functions and large travel package databases, you simply plug in your search parameters and get a listing of possible trips, prices and descriptions. The easy search functions make it simple and fun to find the Las Vegas vacation of your dreams
5) Research Hotels and Find Out What Other Travellers Think - BEFORE You Get There
Ever travelled some place, got there and thought - 'I wish someone had told me what this place was really like before I spent all this money!'?
Now you can know what your Vegas hotel is like before you stay there. Many online travel agents have pictures, detailed descriptions and even downloadable brochures on each Las Vegas resort.
And some online travel agents are also introducing a Travellers' Opinions section where people can leave feedback and rate their hotel vacation experience. They rate hotels and also leave comments on their experience. This is a great tool for you to not only find out which hotels are popular with other travellers but you can usually also pick up other Vegas travel tips that can save you money.
Considering all this, it's no wonder that more and more people are booking their Las Vegas trip online, it's easier, cheaper and you end up making a better choice (and thus having a more enjoyable vacation).
