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Take a beach-by-beach tour of Mexico's Riviera Maya (Dallas Morning News)

In the early 1980s, the pristine, beach-girdled Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatán peninsula was marked by little more than a few fishing villages. There was a hotel here and a hammock there, but not much of an effort to identify their position, nor much infrastructure to support them.

8 Nov 2009, 2:57 pm | click here to view more

Beautiful Belize

If you are ready for the ultimate tropical getaway then pack your bags and head to Belize. Belize is home to everything from beautiful beaches to ancient ruins and is steeped in cultural history that everyone can like. Next time you are ready to escape winter or when you are simply ready for a change of scene Belize can offer you a wide range of activities for those who desire to relax and like the atmosphere as well as for those who are ready to go out and look what the area has to offer.

Most of us dream of spending our vacation days lounging upon a warm beach or snorkeling and enjoying the ocean with its underwater inhabitants. Belize is home to a massive barrier reef which has caused most of the country’s coast to be bordered by mangrove swamps, but you can find great ocean adventures on Ambergris Caye.

Belize beaches are also thought to be among the safest since the barrier reef protects them. The barrier reef is also home to countless ocean inhabitants while representing the second largest in the world. While you may not find endless stretches of white, sandy beaches in Belize you will find amazing snorkeling and diving which definitely makes up for the lack of sand.

The most famous Mayan ruins in Belize are found in Altun Ha, a site that has significant local history. The Altun Ha ruins date back to 250 A.D. and are even featured prominently upon the national currency of Belize. If you are going to Belize just to look the ruins you may like going on one of the tours that visit several ruin locations within the country.

If you are more adventurous, you may want to go on a guided tour of the forests of Belize. It is still common for new ruins to be found in the deep jungles but don’t attempt to go out into the rainforest alone. Getting lost in the jungle is easy especially if you haven’t had extensive experience traveling through the jungle.

Another great adventure that Belize is famous for is hiking. You can hike to one of the many caves located deep in the mountains of which Actun Tunichil Muknal cave is one of Belize’s’ best. You can hike to the cave and explore the inside. Inside the cave there are magnificent limestone formations and even opportunities for swimming in the mineral spring. There have been over fourteen skeletons found in the Actun Tunichil Muknal caves along with ancient pottery and artifacts.

You can add your travel related link at linkroo.com.

This article is sponsored by our home for rent in Akumal, Mexico, just a couple of hours north of Belize.

8 Jul 2009, 11:20 am | click here to view more

Beautiful Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

After leaving the Spokane airport we motored down Interstate 90 to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. We had decided to spend the night there after the long flight and to split up the 5 hour steer to Kootnay Lake. After checking in at the Hampton Inn we drove around town. The town is surrounded by forests and mountains and sits in a spectacular setting on the north shore of one of America's most beautiful lakes, Lake Coeur d'Alene. It is no wonder that Coeur d'Alene has been called the "Playground of the Northwest". It seemed like everyone was sailing, boating, skiing or swimming, trying to take advantage of the beautiful summer day. And there are two major ski resorts in the nearby mountains for winter fun.

We had an early dinner at Beverly's on the 7th floor of the huge Coeur d'Alene Resort. As you can look the view was fantastic. We sat at one of the tables by the window and enjoyed watching the boaters arrive in to the dock and the kids jumping off the 20' rock cliffs into the lake. There were also several double decker boats offering dinner cruises for the tourists.

Although Beverly's is a five star restaurant their food was well over our expectations. The desk clerk at the Hampton had given us a couple of free Beverly drink tickets and while we were enjoying our before dinner drinks the cook sent out a couple of lobster corndogs. They were a tiny piece of lobster on a stick, dipped in corndog batter and fried just like corndogs at the carnival. Never seen anything like them but the were delicious!

Beverly's has a several thousand bottle floor-to-ceiling wine display with a two million dollar wine inventory, so needless to say we ordered a bottle of our favorite Ken Wright Abbott Claim Vineyard pinot noir for dinner. They had three different vintages on the wine list!

I started out with their Sweet Onion Soup which was the best, richest French Onion Soup I have ever tasted and Susan had the Caesar Salad with shaved Parmesan-Reggiano cheese. For the main course Susan had the rack of lamb and I ordered the Muscovy Duck prepared three ways- Chinese five-spice roasted breast, caramelized leg and seared foie gras on jasmine rice.

We thought we were through but then out came a complimentary dessert. It was absolutely unique. Continuing with the carnival theme they made a hollow tower of cotton candy and inside the tower was a scoop of homemade blueberry ice cream with a birthday candle on it. By then it was dark and the candle flickered through the cotton candy in a charming way. We had to eat our way through the cotton candy to receive to the ice cream. Tough job but we did it!

Coeur d'Alene is a fascinating place to visit and Beverly's a delightful dining experience. Highly recommended.

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8 Aug 2009, 3:24 pm | click here to view more

Scuba Diving in Akumal Mexico

Whether you’re an experienced diver or wanting to learn the art, Akumal provides the perfect ecological setting to view amazing specimens of natural beauty underwater.  Akumal is a tourist resort community located 62 miles south of Cancun, between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, with a tiny local population of 1,198.

The name “Akumal” means “place of the turtles” in Mayan language.  Surrounding bodies of water and fine, white sandy beaches provide the perfect setting for many sea turtles’ breeding grounds.

Akumal was founded in 1958 specifically as a community for scuba divers to experience the many species and types of turtles which call the area “home”.  Akumal Bay and Half Moon Bay provide optimal opportunities to survey the land and underwater life via diving tours and expeditions.

For experienced divers, local dive shops offer a variety of exciting diving trips to the 30 reef sites which include shipwrecks, cenotes and caverns and a breathtaking amount of marine life that you can look. The dive store makes every the arrangements and you can rent a tank, mask, flippers and anything else you need. You can book an every day diving excursion or if you are more adventurous, you can dive the caves, caverns and cenotes that make Akumal famous. People from every over the world arrive to explore the cenotes and caves of Akumal and this tiny village is truly a diver’s paradise.

Dive shops also tutor courses so you can receive certified to dive in open water. They tutor at every levels from resort course to advanced cave diving.  And what better place to learn to dive than Akumal, one of the best places in the world to go diving? These PADI Certified Instructors will guide you through the process of certification so you can like exploring the wonders of the reef that awaits you in Akumal.

Cavern and cave diving is a popular activity for tourists.  These caves are called “cenote”, which means “sacred well” in Mayan.  Dive packages offer several destinations and different depths of diving, group packages, equipment rental and instruction to fit varying diver needs.

One of the shallow diving sites which are very popular is Cuevas de Tiburones.  This site features reef overhangs which provide an optimum sleeping spot for nurse sharks.  Las Redes offers an abundance of marine life, schools of fish, barracudas, stingrays, lobsters and sea turtles.  Yal-ku is a popular feeding site chock full of Elkhorn coral structures, tunnels and lobster.

Other shallow dives are found at Dick’s Reef and Motorcycle Reef.  Motorcycle Reef is named so for the 15-year-old motorcycle which is now covered with live coral and plankton that nourishes local ocean life.

Deep divers like an afternoon at Tzimin-Ha, which features ruins from a 20-foot fishing boat wreck.  Dives up to 100’ deep are found at Trigger Fish, which is a favorite deep dive spot for locals.  Here, widespread patches of coral contrast with the sandy white beaches among various forms of tropical fish for a colorful array of rare surroundings.

Xaar Beach and Gonzalo’s Reef offer various types of feeding grounds for several different species of sea turtles for a once-in-a-lifetime diving experience.  Xaar features reef fingers reaching 30’ up from the ocean floor, as well as turtles, nurse sharks and stingrays.  Gonzalo’s Reef is famous for its big and vivid reef fingers; visitors are virtually guaranteed a view of Hawksbill, Green, or Loggerhead turtles which use the area for feeding and play time.

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Akumal Villa Rental

7 Mar 2009, 2:56 pm | click here to view more

Spend a Day at Mexico’s Xel-Ha

Xel-Ha is known as a unique eco-park located south of Playa del Carmen, about 15 minutes from our villa in Akumal. It lies on the eastern coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, the archaeological site of the Mayans in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.

Multiple leisure, ecological and natural attractions offer activities for the entire family to like themselves. The unique open-sea aquarium allows visitors to view ocean life in their natural habitats unaltered and not disturbed.

Swimming with trained dolphins is also a popular activity for tourists, which is not found easily in surrounding areas. Animal and nature lovers like spending time in the water with these gentle creatures, and have a wonderful story to bring home to their family and friends!

Snorkeling is also ideal in the local lagoon. The coral is dead there, but regular feeding keeps the many types of colorful fish returning for more. Some snorkelers will have another party feed the fish while they view the swimming visitors from below.

There is a river which starts in a natural spring, and inner tubes are available to float to the end. This provides a relaxing complement to an afternoon nap in a hammock on one of the local beaches as well.

More adventurous spirits like climbing and diving from the local cliffs in Xel-Ha, exploring the Mayan cave, and touring the local Xel-Ha ruins. These ruins are largely untouched and totally original, with a unique look into past centuries and architectural contributions.

Hammock Island, Xpa, Bay of Caprices and The Beach are popular hotspots for those who wish to lounge and experience the leisurely activities at Xel-Ha. Chacah Garden, the Mayan Wall, the Apiary and Plant Nursery provide unique ecological attractions for plant life lovers. Natural wonders are also seen at the Inlet, El Dorado Cavern, Ixchel’s Gulf, the Mayan Cave, Chaac Mangal, and many Cenotes.

When visiting Akumal, Xen-Ha is an easy day trip that will please the entire family and offer plenty of varying activities. Reasonably priced and unique to the area, activities middle around relaxation, fun and exploring historical and natural wonders.

Water sport lovers will like the inner tube ride, cliff diving and snorkeling in the lagoon. Nature lovers like swimming with the dolphins and exploring the multiple forms of plant and animal life in the area, and those curious of the historical roots of the Peninsula have plenty of opportunity to explore Mayan ruins and advanced architectural influences for that era.

Our kids and grandchildren always plan spending the whole day at Xel-Ha every time they visit Akumal. There is so much to do they never receive sleepy of returning year after year. They like riding a bicycle through a path in the jungle, jumping off cliffs into the limpid blue sea, swimming with the dolphins, and walking through stingrays on the bottom of the sea.

This year for the first time they signed up for the Sea Trek. They wore a technologically advanced helmet that looks like deep-sea diving equipment. Sea trek required no previous training, diving or otherwise. Experts will be close at hand at every times during the walk, aiding them in every way and satisfying every curiosity concerning the aquatic walk of a lifetime. They every said it was a walk they would never forget!

We highly recommend you visit Xel-Ha on your next trip to the Yucatan.

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7 Apr 2009, 10:46 am | click here to view more

Private Villa for Rent in Akumal, Mexico

You can like a memorable vacation in our private villa located directly on a white sandy beach in South Akumal, Mexico. Villa Paraiso is truly a “home in paradise” set in a lush tropical paradise usually associated with the South Pacific! The blend of brilliant sunlight, emerald and turqouis water, chilly ocean breezes and lush tropical vegetation is breath taking.  You walk through the garden filled with hibiscus, orchids and bougainvillea and into an authentic Mexican villa!

Our four-bedroom luxury home is decorated with wealthy red, green and white colors of Mexico and filled with local art. The ground floor has an open plan living and dining room area with a splendid view of the Caribbean Sea. Our colorful Mexican hand carved wooden dining table seats eight and the big fully equipped gourmet kitchen is a cook’s delight.  Why not have the staff cook for you?  They prepare wonderful Yucatan style food as well as Mexican and American delights!

The four bedrooms every have comfortable king size beds.  There are two identical master bedroom suites with sitting areas.  One of the other bedrooms has a ocean view and the fourth bedroom has a garden view. The villa is complete with a computer with a DSL connection, WiFi Hotspot, satellite TV, VCR, stereo system, a pair of two person kayaks and a big selection of books to read. The entire home is fully air conditioned.

Step out of the living room or downstairs master bedroom onto the marble terrace surrounding the swimming pool with it’s Jacuzzi and waterfall. This is the perfect place to swim, sun and relax!  The sandy beach in front of the pool is a perfect place to nap or read a book in the shade of a palm tree and hear to the ocean.

Mix yourself a cocktail at the wet bar and sip it in one of the double hammocks on the upstairs terrace while listening to the waves lap on the white sand beach.

In front of the villa is a spectacular reef that runs from Belize to Cancun. This world-famous barrier reef protects the lagoon and keeps the warm crystal clear water calm and safe for swimming, snorkeling, diving and leisurely cruising around in one of our two person kayaks.  The roof-top patio is a perfect place to watch the sun rise over the Caribbean or set over the jungle while listening to the tropical birds sing.  The area around Akumal is home to many spectacular Mayan ruins, golf courses and world class diving and snorkeling.

You can rent Villa Paraiso in Akumal, Mexico… a tropical paradise!

6 Jan 2009, 12:11 pm | click here to view more

4 Oct 2009, 3:48 pm | click here to view more

4th of July

4 Jul 2009, 10:39 am | click here to view more

Thank you, Hertz!

After arriving in Spokane, WA we picked up our luggage and headed to the Hertz car rental counter. We had a free upgrade deal so we decided on a Cadillac DTS. The Manager was nice enough to walk us out to our car and along the way we passed this fly yellow Corvette. We both said at the same time, "How about swapping for this car?". And believe it or not, she said "OK". So we receive this fun convertible at a great price! And then it hit us. We've got enough luggage to fill up a pickup truck. After much repacking, stuffing things in every nook, filling up behind the seats, putting a suitcase on the console between us and putting the relax below our feet we got it every in somehow. You should have seen the look on the customs officer at the Canadian border! We looked just like the Clampetts.

Driving the crooked roads in the Canadian Rockies is fantastic! The car corners and accelerates like a dream. It almost makes us feel young again. And if anybody from Hertz is reading this, I really didn't go as quick as your GPS says I did.

Seriously, if you ever need a car rental, check out Hertz. There's a reason they are #1.

4 Aug 2009, 7:17 pm | click here to view more

Aruba is One Happy Island

Although many of us have heard songs which relate to Aruba many of us have never actually traveled to this Caribbean island. If you have never been to Aruba then you should plan a trip in the close future.

Aruba is a tiny island found in the heart of the Caribbean Sea only 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela. It's one of the ABC islands with neighboring Bonaire, and Curaçao being the other two. Known by many as “one glad island”, Aruba is a genuinely glad place and the local citizens are truly glad that you are there. It's our favorite Caribbean island destination! Countless individuals from around the world venture to Aruba in order to receive away from their normal hectic life style for a short period of time.

Apart from the beauty often associated with the island of Aruba you will quickly discover an abundance of gambling casinos. In Aruba there are many tournament style games which are popular with not only the locals but the tourists as well. If your form of entertainment lies in Casinos then you will find that Casinos in Aruba are open both day and night and a few are actually in operation 24 hours per day. Some of the casinos open their doors at 11:00 am in the morning providing slot fun for many visitors and later in the day around 1 PM they start the other gambling games.

When you are gambling in Aruba you will be gambling using U.S. currency. You will find a big number of different casinos located inside the various hotels within the capital of Oranjestad. Most hotel casinos provide slots as well as table games for their customers. They have table games which include blackjack, Roulette, craps and baccarat. Most also have live bingo. Many have regularly scheduled tournaments, so if you like to gamble contact them for the tournament dates.

Should you be involved with live music you can readily find live bands performing at the major hotels in Aruba. During specific times they will host slot tournaments and provide weekly blackjack challenges. The Seaport Casino along with The Renaissance Crystal are casinos which remain open both day and night. These never closing game houses provide 780 always occupied slot machines for the gaming public to like.

Throughout Aruba you will discover many additional types of casinos which provide groups of fun and excitement. There are other casinos which are located in the hotels of the island such as the Radisson Resort.

When you are visiting Aruba you should not focus strictly upon the casinos as there are other exciting places in and around Aruba such as their beautiful sandy beaches or perhaps the various shops located on the island. If you like the experience of shopping then you will find some unique and fascinating shops in Aruba. Many visitors never leave their hotels along the western shores where the white beaches slope gently toward the calm transparent turquoise of the Caribbean, but the desert like interior and rugged northeastern coast has their possess beauty.

In the end when it is every over and your vacation has ended when you return home you will be able to relate many interesting tales to your family and friends. This can truly be a vacation of a life time.

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Villa for Rent in the Caribbean.

31 May 2009, 10:51 am | click here to view more

30 Jun 2009, 9:29 am | click here to view more

The Internet @ 36,000 feet

Well, this is a first for me. We're flying to Spokane, WA today where we are going to rent a car and steer to Canada to visit friends at their mountain cabin on beautiful Kootenay Lake in British Columbia. We're Delta Frequent Fliers and they sent me a free pass to try their GoGo system which provides DSL in-flight. So here I am 7 miles over the earth posting to this blog. It works quite well.

I'll try to post a couple of times while on the trip so you can like what we are seeing. We are taking it easy and spending tonight in Coeur d' Alene, ID. wish I can pronounce Coeur d' Alene correctly if I have to ask directions!

30 Jul 2009, 10:19 am | click here to view more

Kayacking the Colorado

No trip to Colorado would be complete without doing a little bit of Kayaking on the famous Colorado River. The only problem in my case was that we had never done such a thing before and had no idea how to even go about doing it.

After setting up our camp for the next couple of evenings we proceeded to check out the other camps that we saw around the area. The people were friendly and a few of them were even planning to do a little kayaking themselves. When they saw that we expressed an interest in the activity as well, the conversations began to flow even easier.

I explained to them that we were basically a kayaking greenhorns and after the laughter cleared they explained that many of the people who arrive in the area had never before been in a kayak so the idea was not foreign to the class instructors. They explained where we could go to receive beginner instructions and even to rent the necessary equipment for the trip.

That afternoon we followed their instructions and approached one of the many kayak training centers around the river. The owner understood completely what my predicament was and offered many valuable suggestions. Within his store were a vast array of gear designed specifically for kayaking and upon leaving every we had to do was bring a swim suit and a towel.

The lessons were scheduled to start the following morning and we arrived bright and early waiting patiently for our instructor to receive to work. The kayaking lessons covered safety on the water, paddle skills that are required as well as the necessary outfitting techniques for this water sport.

My classes were conducted with what is generally referred to as a “duckie”. These are nothing more then inflatable kayaks which are used exclusively for the training classes. we must admit that we often times felt a slight bit silly taking the same classes that several 11 year olds were completing but at least we were learning the fundamentals properly.

In case you are wondering about the location of the classes. We were not actually taking our classes on the river but rather in a very big pool. Colorado offers kayak classes year round and uses common swimming pools as a place of instruction. According to when and where you sign up you can perhaps find classes that are developed for group instruction, a one on one tutoring or like we did in the open pool session which was available for everyone.

The instructors were well certified in whitewater kayaking and the program was more then adequate for our needs. If we had been more experienced we would have signed up for the more advanced courses. Who knows maybe the next trip we will further develop our kayaking skills.

Akumal, Mexico Villa for Rent

3 Sep 2009, 1:45 pm | click here to view more

New Orleans, Louisiana

Of every the cities in Louisiana there can be no doubt that the most popular one of every has to be New Orleans. The city is prominently known worldwide for its historic architecture, fantastic food and its Bourbon road nightlife. And over the years I have enjoyed them every numerous times.

However, recently we are every familiar with the devastating effects that Hurricane Katrina has had on the city and the people themselves. When visiting New Orleans you can look how these proud people are slowly putting their life back together again in an effort to normalize their day to day activities.

It is difficult for us to imagine the emotional upset that these people have gone through. I can not even start to think of sitting on the roof to my home waiting for someone to possibly rescue me as the water levels continue to rise. It was devastating enough for me to watch the situations unfold on the television let alone to be there in person. However, they are proud and strong people and are making a great comeback.

Don’t just make a quick glance at the devastation but take one of the Hurricane Katrina Tours. Here you can be presented with an opportunity to experience firsthand what this horrid weather phenomenon has done to this city. This demoralizing natural disaster can be followed from its entry into the city to its hasty leave as well. You will be afforded the opportunity to follow the New Orleans timeline of events as your knowledgeable tour guide explains each location to you.

The Katrina tour begins with a normal New Orleans where you learn about it wealthy history and receive to sample some of its excellent culture. You will visit the colorful French quarter which is located along the banks of the mighty Mississippi river. Your tour guide will take you past the actual levy that drowned the city in water during the hurricane and resulted in the devastation which displaced thousands of New Orleans residents to areas across the country.

Your guide will recount the chronology of events which led up to the actual hurricane as well as the days after. The tour will take you for a view of every the major areas that were damaged as a result of the hurricane such as Lakeview, New Orleans East, Genrilly and St. Bernard.

This particular tour will instill a new found perspective on the events which occurred as a result of the hurricane several years ago. The complete tour will last for approximately 3 hours and is well worth the time to travel around the city. This is a popular attraction to the city and when planning your visit you may wish to confirm reservations for the tour prior to arrival.

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29 Oct 2009, 12:34 pm | click here to view more

May's Top Entrecard Droppers

29 May 2009, 7:17 am | click here to view more

29 Jul 2009, 8:01 am | click here to view more

Crococun Zoo Cancun Mexico

No trip to the Cancun area of Mexico can be complete unless you make a side trip to the famous Crococun zoo. This is especially true if you happen to be traveling with tiny kids.

The park was primarily established as a crocodile farm 20 years previously. Its specific purpose was to farm bred crocodiles for commercial purposes. During the 1988 hurricane Gilbert which struck the area Crococun was practically destroyed however as they rebuilt the reserve it started to take more of a nature preserve shape then that of a farm. Noticing this ex-farm slowly drifted from a commercial venture to that of a conservationist project the owners decided that this was a good thing and changed the complete concept of the organization. It was no longer a commercial venture but rather more of a conservation preserve. Today the zoo acts as a means of promoting and protecting many of Mexico’s endangered species. Some of the species of crocs which are raised here are eventually released back to the wild as part of the zoos conservation project. Not only does the location foster area animals but it presents a vast selection of marine and plant conservation as well.

The zoo’s mission is to inspire and to educate people towards making intelligent choices when it comes to the environment and conservation of the various animals, the habitat and the creature’s natural environment. Their major goal is to increase the dwindling croc population while at the same time teaching the next generation of citizens why this
Species is important for our way of life. Instructions are provided so that people can look how these animals should be properly cared for. The zoo desires to eventually become the areas leader in the conservation and protection of the various local wild species found in the region.

A visit to this zoo will likely provide some very lasting impressions for you and your family. These memories will become treasured moments fro your kids as well as for you. This animal sanctuary has established several excellent tours that provide some great insights into the life and actions of the animals which they care for. In some cases, it is even possible for the kids to actually touch and hold some of the smaller zoo creatures.

The zoo has been credited with saving many of the countries crocodile population that would normally have been killed as a result of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Some of their croc residents have been transferred from the Sian Kaan Reserve as well as those that have been discovered and caught wondering around in residential areas.

As one rides the bus on route 307 towards the zoo a watchful eye can readily catch one or two of the big Yucatan Howler Monkeys gracefully playing at the top of the trees along the highway. These big animals jump from tree to tree as if they had wings. It is interesting to think about these wild creatures being a mere 50 from a major highway.

The monkeys found in the zoo represent those species that have been rescued by the authorities from private homes or those that were captured illegally. One can not merely place wild animals back into the wild after being taken as babies into ones home. The zoo serves as a half way home where these monkeys can be protected and nurtured until such time as they can return to their natural habitat.

So if you are interested in the wonders of nature then a visit to the Crococum Zoo is just what you need.

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Akumal Villa for Rent

28 Jun 2009, 5:28 pm | click here to view more

Take a Day Trip to Aktun Chen

Aktun Chen, located along the Mayan Riviera, is just 4 kilometers south of Akumal. This provides a perfect opportunity to take a day tour of the location most known for its many explored caves.

The name “Aktun Chen” means “cave with an underground river inside” in ancient Mayan language. Nearly 988 acres of unexplored rainforests surround the town, aside from the harvesting of a gum from a local tree called “chicozapote”.

Three caves call Aktun Chen “home”, and rivers flow underground in these caves. The main cave offers an easy walking tour that may even be an option if you require the aid of a walking cane. Most who are able to walk on their possess, even with manual assistance, are able to navigate the cave paths.

Indirect lighting from several openings in the cave prevents an uncomfortable experience for those who suffer from claustrophobia. Water and calcium carbonate formed the stalactites, stalagmites and natural sculptures seen there over the past five million years.

Regional and local wildlife is also easily seen in Aktun Chen. This includes white tail deer, spider monkeys, badgers, wild boars, wild turkey, iguanas and multiple species of birds.

When arriving at Aktun Chen’s main cave, a specially-trained guide will greet you in the reception area. The guide will then take you and your traveling companions on an hour and fifteen minute tour of the friendly cave system over 600 meters long.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to view a beautiful cenote with crisp, clear water that is 12 meters deep. Local flora and fauna abound at this cenote, and offer an ideal photo opportunity for future memoirs.

At the end of the cave tour, a tiny restaurant is available for a quick bite to eat or a relaxing drink. This establishment offers local cuisine, tropical fruit and Mexican beer for a unique taste of Aktun Chen.

When arriving at and leaving the cave, you will notice the reception area which is surrounded and decorated with local tropical flora. This will also offer an ideal opportunity for you to snap a picture of the pretty scenery or a memorable moment with your travel mates!

Eco tours are also available at Aktun Chen, offering several opportunities to hike and climb cliffs, as well as explore the local rainforests. The largely untouched environment in which Aktun Chen resides allows visitors to truly experience the local wildlife and plant life in its raw and natural form.

Our villa is 3 miles from the entrance to Aktun Chen.  Why not rent our villa in Akumal.

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27 Jan 2009, 12:24 pm | click here to view more

Arkansas' Mount Magazine State Park

One of the more interesting places to visit within the state of Arkansas is the Mount Magazine State Park. Located in the beautiful Ozark National Forest, Mount Magazine is Arkansas' highest mountain. Last April my wife and I decided it was time for a mini-vacation. This was not unusual as we continuously indulged ourselves with mini-vacations every around the United States.

For this escape we decided that we would like to visit the state of Arkansas since the last time we had been there was in 1989 and that was merely passing through. When we arrived in the state our first choice of sights to look was at the beautiful Magazine State park. Every thing about this location and the trip was simply beautiful. The ride was extremely pleasant, the weather held out and proved to be a blessing, and the people were exceptionally friendly and helpful.

We decided that instead of staying in the park's first class lodge we would simply pitch our tent and like the abundance sights and sounds of the wild open air. The tent tended to flap in the howling April winds but fortunately it remained firmly in place.

The following day the weather was still a bit windy and rained on and off however it soon cleared away and we decided to take a short hike into the North Rim Trail. Since we had totally lost track of time until it was too tardy we finally realized we had ventured onto a two mile trail. During our stroll back to camp we chanced upon some of the areas wildlife. We viewed several lizards crossing our path as well as three snakes that slowly watched us as we past by them. Upon noticing the snakes my wife let out a screech and yelled.

"My God there are three snakes!"

The snakes paid no attention to her but went right on sunning themselves on the moss-covered rock where they laid. They were a beautiful green shade and from what I would guess they were harmless Green Snakes.

Further along the pathway we encountered numerous native violets and an occasional bloodroot on each side of us. It was the attractiveness of the plant life that made our trip back to camp worthwhile as it revealed an abundance of wildflowers along the banks of the tiny gorgeous streams that passing slowly by us. We would occasionally cease and admire the many flowers which grew along the paths we were taking. It may have been a long venture but as long as we followed the signs with the red hiking man clearly on them we were well on our way back to camp. During this extended walk back to the camp we both visualized the inviting campfire with a Rib eye steak sizzling in the pan.

every in every the entire trip was enjoyable and we look forward to another exciting visit to the park in the years to arrive.

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Akumal Pueblo

25 Jul 2009, 3:02 pm | click here to view more

Exploring the Mayan Ruins in Tulum Mexico

Tulum, located 15 miles south of Akumal, was once called “Zama”, meaning “place of the dawning”.  This breathtaking location which sits on a cliff facing the east Caribbean shoreline offers many Mayan ruins and ocean views for a day or short visit.

It is generally accepted that Tulum was an important city in Mayan culture between 1000 A.D. and 1600 A.D.  Only the elite Mayans lived there, where the vast views of the ocean suggest the remains of an ancient country club.  However, a 20-foot wall surrounds the site to prevent invaders from both land and sea from entering Tulum.

This location was one of the first Mexican cities discovered by the Spanish Conquistadors, though the high walls dissuaded them from exploring it.  At that time, Tulum was the only city still thriving when it was found.

It was the major middle of resistance during the 19th century War of the Castes, though later succumbed and signed a treaty with the Mexican government in 1935.  In recent years, Tulum has become a major tourist attraction in the Mayan Riviera for those who appreciate ancient architecture and craftsmanship.

Structures throughout Tulum boast several columns and intricate carvings.  The most famous building ruins in the city include the Temple of the Frescoes, Castillo Pyramid, and the Temple of the Diving God.

The Temple of the Frescoes is well-known for housing multiple 13th century murals which picture ancient ceremonies highly regarded by the Mayans.  One such mural depicts the Mayan goddess of fertility and medicine, Ixchel, which is extremely rare.  Outside, pieces of the stucco are still painted red; it is believed that at one time the entire city was encompassed in this same paint.

The Castillo Pyramid is known as a scenic location offering multiple breathtaking photo opportunities and climbing options.  tiny windows in the structure were perhaps once used to view the ocean and secure the city against incoming sea invaders.

The Temple of the Diving God boasts a figure over the entrance doorway which depicts a man diving headfirst toward the earth.  Two similar carvings are found at Coba in the Grand Pyramid, and are believed to reference the planet Venus.  The figure may also be called “the bee god” or “the god descending”.

Tulum offers a unique insight into the lifestyles and living spaces of the elite Mayan civilization members.  Contrasted with the intricate carvings and superb architecture, the surrounding walls talk to the city’s resistance to influence from outsiders over several thousand years.

It is only about a 15 minute steer from our villa in Akumal to the Tulum, Mexico ruins.

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25 Jan 2009, 11:36 am | click here to view more

Driving to South Akumal from the Cancun Airport

When vacationing in Akumal, you will find that rental cars provide an economical form of transportation in and around the town.  You can take the direct route and steer from the Cancun airport to Akumal via Highway #307.

Akumal is an easy steer on a well-maintained four lane divided roadway from the Cancun airport.  We are located 100 kilometers south of the airport, which translates to a 1 to 1½ hour steer.

From the airport, take the first right leave road, Highway 307.  just follow the Playa del Carmen leave signs south onto the highway.  There is a gas station and McDonalds on the right just after getting on 307 if you need gas or a snack.  After 20 minutes, you can cease at Puerto Morelos for gas or a convenience store.  Although many gas stations are available in Mexico, it’s always a good idea to cease if you have less than a quarter of a tank of fuel left.

Further along highway 307, you will pass through Playa del Carmen.  There are numerous eateries here as well as mega superstores.  Don’t go over 80kph as they use radar extensively.

After you pass Puerto Aventuras, you are only 10 minutes from the Akumal leave.

To receive to South Akumal check your odometer at the overpass in Akumal and go exactly 4 kilometers past Akumal to the returno at Bahia Pricipe and then go back towards Akumal exactly 2 kilometers where you will look the steer for South Akumal  (Akumal Sur).

If you want to go to North Akumal just make a U-turn at the first returno after the overpass and then turn right at the overpass.  When entering the town of Akumal, you will pass an information stand.  This stand is an ideal place to pick up a local map of the area for current and future reference during your trip!

Just before the Arch, you will look the Super Chomack on your right, and Mulgren’s Lavenderia, Oshun Boutique, and Minisuper Las Palmas on your left.  The outdoor market may be open, and is a great area to buy some fresh produce for a taste of the local fare.  If you failed to make reservations before arriving in Akumal, the information stand will also be able to refer you to a reputable local establishment.

Something to note about local drivers in Mexico is that observing cease signs is considered optional.  Taxicabs have the right of way, and it is best to simply stay patient and allow the other drivers to do what they wish.

Defensive driving is the most important skill when operating a vehicle in and around Akumal.  Study the local driving laws prior to getting behind the wheel.  If you feel uncomfortable with driving in a foreign land, the task is best left to local professionals, and perhaps you should hire a cab driver.

You can rent our villa in South Akumal.

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25 Feb 2009, 4:26 pm | click here to view more

Tips for Traveling with Children

I have personally made many trips both across the great American continent as well as to Europe, Asia and the Caribbean with kids. Each trip was really an enjoyable adventure but if not planned properly it can become a living nightmare. The key is basically how well you as the adult can prepare before hand for the upcoming trip.

Being a lifelong traveler gave my family a rare opportunity to tour extensively. We have traveled by just about every conceivable way possible. car, motor home, airplane and boat. Initially we made many mistakes and we naturally learned from those mistakes to prevent them from reoccurring. I would now like to tell to you a few of the tips that we picked up over the years.

If you plan to be traveling any long distances by car you may wish to keep the following information clearly in mind... receive as organized as you possibly can. If your travel itinerary calls for motel stops overnight you may wish to provide each child with a separate overnight bag of their possess. This simple act encourages the child to develop a little responsibility for their possess possessions as well as making them think they are grown up. My wife keeps a heavy duty plastic bag specifically for the dirty laundry. You don’t want to place the dirty clothes on top of the clean ones.

The amount of time you will be traveling will actually determine the number of clothing outfits that you should take with you. Sitting in a car for any length of time is certainly a reason to have a daily change of clothing. You should ensure that each member of your party has plenty of extra clothing in the event of accidents.

I have a 12 volt cooler that we always take some snacks, sandwiches and drinks with us. This keeps us from having to eat the quick foods along the way. In addition, we can eat smaller quantities and not feel as bloated as we travel. You keep money and eat healthier. If we are traveling for an extra long distance we will try to have a good, balanced meal at the end of the days travel.

Our Garmin GPS is programmed to tell us when to take a relax break and believe me there are many times that we look forward to those breaks. When traveling with kids you must plan for relax stops every couple hours so that they can visit the bathrooms and also to allow them and the driver to receive out and stretch their legs a bit.

When we came back from California several years ago we drove our motor home every the way. It was a real enjoyable trip since we made sure to plan our evening stops before dark. This provided us with ample time to receive the RV setup and to actually like the areas where we stopped. A swimming pool and play ground are essential if you are traveling with kids. The average driving time for long trips should not exceed 8 to 10 hours.

Keep plenty of games, books and movies in the car for the kids to like. We always take the laptop or GameBoy for the kids to play with as we travel. If the battery gets low we merely plug it into one of the inexpensive power converters that converts the 12 volt car battery to 110 volts AC. It doesn’t take long for the laptop battery to receive recharged.

So as you can tell with the proper planning you can like traveling with kids and have a pleasant vacation yourself to boot.

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22 Jun 2009, 8:01 am | click here to view more

Luxury Accommodations in Akumal Mexico

Experience the trip of a lifetime in our private home that’s right on the beach in South Akumal, Mexico. Our villa is truly a “home in paradise”. The dazzling sun, blue ocean, chilly wind and verdant jungle foliage is a perfect setting for your next holiday. Walk through the bamboo and bougainvillea filled main garden into a genuine Mexican home!

Villa Paraiso, a luxurious villa located directly on the Akumal coast only 62 miles south of the Cancun airport, is the ideal location to relax with family and friends. Villa Paraiso is a dream vacation rental, located inside a secure gated community.

The home is surrounded by jungle foliage and beautiful beaches, with the emerald crystal waters of the ocean. The villa offers spectacular sea panoramas and natural lighting from virtually anywhere in and around the villa.

Villa Paraiso is the ideal place to relax after a fun day of shopping, diving, and touring. These are every popular tourist activities in the area, however just relaxing on the beachfront might be preferable!

There is a new Robert Trent Jones 27 hole championship golf course, opening in the Summer of 2009 directly across the highway from the villa. This beautiful golf course is open to the public, so bring your best game! There is also a 9 hole Par 3 course and a practice course if you don’t have time for a full game. A 12 mile steer will bring you to Puertos Aventuras, where another professional golf course awaits you.

Archaeological buffs can like a trip to look the Mayan ruins of Tulum only 6 miles south of the villa. Tulum offers a unique view into the lives and living spaces of the elite Mayan civilization members. Contrasted with the intricate carvings and superb architecture, the thick surrounding walls enabled the city’s resistance to influence from outsiders over several thousand years.

The home is equipped with central air conditioning, which is unusual in the area of Akumal. An onsite swimming pool and Jacuzzi allow you to relax and sun on the deck.

Upstairs, a wet bar is available to fix a delicious drink made with fresh tropical fruits. Downstairs, the breakfast bar, dining room and fully-stocked kitchen allow for an intimate first meal of the day. You can use the fully equipped gourmet kitchen to prepare your meals or have our cook cook for you.

If you want to stay connected with the outside world, satellite television and unlimited free long distance phone calls are furnished. A stereo, DVR player, CD player and high speed Wi-Fi service also allows you to entertain and work if necessary.

Two flame proof safes allow for safekeeping of your valuables while away from the villa, though a private security service goes a long way in preventing unwanted events. A daily maid service ensures you are never required to exert yourself while visiting Akumal.

Linens and towels are provided for every everyone up to a maximum of 8 guests. Ceiling fans are also installed to help circulate the chilly air from the central service for a relaxing effect after a day in the hot sun.

A charcoal grill allows you to cook for every and invite guests to like a silent evening at “home”! An outdoor shower also enables you to rinse off salt and sand or simply experience the beautiful surroundings in your daily grooming activities.

Two complimentary massages, hammocks and kayaks are every available to guests of Villa Paraiso to create the ultimate dream vacation package!

Akumal information.

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22 Apr 2009, 5:07 pm | click here to view more

Florida Alligator Hunt!

Wanna go alligator hunting? Then head for the Florida Everglades. If you are an outdoors type person and you like the sport of hunting as I do, you should sign up for one of the alligator hunts that are available.

These hunts will provide you with a full time, very experienced guide that has accumulated many years of familiarity in this type of work. Often times the guides that you receive have been active hunters and fishermen in the state of Florida for several decades and have handled many alligator hunts over the years.

Usually the programs are conducted on private land such as cattle ranches, sugar cane and farm operations as well as around the citrus groves. Many of the guides have access to leased wetlands which are the preferred habitat of alligators. In addition you can find several that offer legal hunts conducted on either private or public waters located on federal or state owned land.

If you should elect to participate in one of the public water hunts that are conducted through out the state on a variety of public rivers, lakes or wetlands you will find that these hunts are encouraged by the Florida conservation commission. This commission designates what areas the hunting can be conducted on. Naturally state permits are required and the state provides over four-thousand Alligator permits annually. Keep in mind that these permits are generally issued on a first arrive - first serve basis.

The hunts are usually conducted around the Southern Florida area close Lake Okeechobee or in the Florida Everglades depending upon the allow obtained. The only time that these public hunts are conducted is during the months of August to November of each year.

In order to add to the excitement of the hunt they are usually conducted in the evening and by airboat. The guide will arrange every the necessary paperwork such as the permits, licenses and tags while every that is required from you is to be there. The legal weapons that can be used for these hunts are bows and crossbow, harpoons and a bang stick.

Depending upon the type of weather for the evening of the hunt the client should look several hundred different alligators on their airboat trip. Since most of these hunts are close up you are certain to experience a thrilling adventure that will last you a lifetime.

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20 Nov 2009, 9:00 am | click here to view more

Want to Know About Akumal Mexico?

The more you know about Akumal, Mexico, the more excited you will be when you visit this paradise. Therefore, in the months or weeks leading up to your trip you should spend a litle time doing research so that you can learn more about Akumal.

To discover more about Akumal, Mexico, you can easily turn to the Internet. The Internet has a wealth of information, providing historical and straight information as well as tips and reviews from other vacationers who have been to the area. The site, AkumalVacation.com, has many interesting stories about the Akumal Mexico area. This type of information can provide everything you need to know about many parts of your vacation, including the good places to eat, stay, store, and explore. We will tell you what we have enjoyed and what to watch out for, while the other sites will tell you every about other areas that you plan to visit.

In addition to this type of information, you can also learn more through Akumal hotel, resort, and tourism websites. Each site will provide you with pictures of their accommodations, a list of local attractions and activities, and typically, a short history of the area. They may also give information about things that they provide, which will not only help you learn more about Akumal, but also help you organize your daily agenda while on vacation.

Although their objective is to talk you to visit Akumal, the information that they provide about their property and the area needs to be correct or they will start to lose business. So, you can usually believe the information from a website, especially the information that they portray about local actitivies and the history of Akumal.

Alternatively you can learn more about Akumal is through a travel agent. It is the responsibility of a travel agent to know a wealth of information about their main destinations or at least be able to give you the information. Even if you do not expect to use a travel agent, you can still receive some information through them.

A trip to Akumal and the Mayan Riviera area of Mexico would not be complete without a visit to one of the many Mayan ruins in the area. This area is in the heart of this ancient civilization that still influences the art, food and culture of the Yucatan today. Akumal and its surrounding area were major trade routes for the Mayans and historians are continuing to uncoverstill uncovering many ruins of this once mighty civilization.

One of the nicest ruins to visit not only close Akumal but in every of the country is Tulum. There are also the Coba and Xel-Ha which are every conveniently located not far from Akumal and other areas in the Mayan Riveria region. They are an easy steer by automobile or if you prefer, you can arrange to take a tour bus.

A trip to Akumal, Mexico can be a learning and bonding experience for the whole family. Discover the history and the culture of the land. Learn about the sea and what activities you can like in the water. Plan your trip based on the subject that interests you most. The more you learn about Akumal, the more interesting it will be once you finally arrive.

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2 Apr 2009, 12:30 pm | click here to view more

Atomic, Idaho

Our recent trip through Idaho took us into some very interesting areas. Along the way we chanced upon the Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot, an actual steer in movie theater that features the world’s largest potato in the city of Driggs but the most impressive item that we encountered on our trip was the tiny former nuclear town located at Atomic, Idaho. This town was directly on US 26 as we headed west out of Idaho Falls.

I had to search my memory high and low trying to determine when and where the government conducted any of its earlier nuclear experiment in Idaho. Previously Atomic City was known as Midway more then likely due to its location between the towns of Arco and Blackfoot. Initially the town was home for the government’s experimental breeder reactor and it is the site of the first nuclear reactor to ever generate electricity. The nearby Pickle's Place cafe is the home of the "Atomic Burger".

Atomic City was once the most impressive city actively promoting a nuclear future however today it is nearly a ghost town and the only remains of its past glory lies in its name. There are currently only about 25 people that still reside in the town for most of the population has long ago moved elsewhere or past away. Those families that remain are retired and therefore do not need to actively work. The main road of town remains unpaved since there are not enough citizens to actually accumulate the necessary funds to repair public roads and streets. Since the median income of the town is less then $10,000 dollars it certainly doesn’t have any extra money to go around.

This isolated ghost town has an old gas station which no longer is permitted to sell gas due to the underground tank regulations established by the government. It also has a post office as well a local bar. The old abandoned Atomic City Raceway is now nothing more then weeds although occasionally in the summer you may find a few stock car races taking place. If you are a photo nut then you will certainly like the many opportunities to take pictures of the past age signs that are abound as you enter the town.

As we entered the ghost town we saw several of the locals that were casually sitting on their porch and they waved to us in a friendly manner from their double wide trailer. We stopped to talk to several of the locals and they certainly seemed friendly enough in fact they even offered us a chilly beer from their nearby cooler which we graciously accepted.

Although there really is nothing of value to look here it is well worth the steer merely to talk to some of the local citizens and receive a different view on the area.

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19 Oct 2009, 1:35 pm | click here to view more

Last Day in the Kootenays

We had a busy last day in the Kootenays. After a hardy breakfast we cranked up the SeaDoos and headed across the lake. It was fun riding along the shore and seeing the cliffs and giant boulders. There were no houses on that side of the lake. When we came to a big stream that emptied into the lake the temperature dropped 20 degrees. The crystal clear stream was runoff from a nearby glacier.

On returning to the home we packed the Jeep with a picnic lunch and headed into the mountains. The logging road followed a mountain stream for a while before turning up the mountain. There were many switchback and hairpin turns as we climbed and passing other cars was difficult on the narrow road. Fortunately, there were very few cars and no logging trucks. The wild flowers were in full bloom and gorgeous. We looked for bears and elk but only caught a glimpse of a few deer. As we neared the summit there was a tiny flat area with a picnic table. Perfect! The dogs enjoyed the trip up the mountain and had a great time exploring while we ate. After a lunch we headed back down the mountain. It's amazing how much steeper the road looks going down rather than up.

For dinner we drove down to Gray Creek where their friends owned a bed and breakfast with a charming restaurant and 10 cabins on the lake. The sun was just setting behind the mountain as we began dinner on the deck overlooking the lake. Susan had rack of lamb, our friends had the grilled prawn and I had a steak. The wife had baked each individual's bread in a 4" terracotta blossom pot. It was unique, beautiful and delicious. It was a pretty amazing operation with the man and his wife as the only employees and they have done this for the last ten years. He was the cook and she was the waitress. He doubles as the handyman and she is also the maid. She gets up every morning and bakes fresh muffins for the guests and leaves the hot muffins hanging on each door. With hot coffee and muffins I might not receive up for breakfast. They then cook each guest a full breakfast in the restaurant. Breakfast and dinner are included in the rate and the food is fabulous. They are booked solid and are only are open the 5 summer months so they have the relax of the year to relax. They are quite environmentally conscious and this is a picture of their home with a dirt roof. That is one of their pet goats 'mowing' the roof!


We have had a wonderful time in the Kootenays and hate to leave but it's up early tomorrow to catch the 7:10am ferry. Thanks to our friends for inviting us up!

19 Aug 2009, 7:42 am | click here to view more

Learn More about Akumal Mexico

The more you know about Akumal, Mexico, the more exciting you will be to vacation in this land of paradise. Therefore, the months or weeks leading up to your trip should be spent doing research so that you can learn more about Akumal.

To learn more about Akumal, Mexico, you can easily turn the Internet. The Internet is a wealth of information, providing historical and accurate information as well as tips and reviews from other travelers who have taken a trip to the area. This site, AkumalVacation.com, has many interesting articles about the Akumal Mexico area.  This type of information can provide every you need to know about many parts of your vacation, including the best places to eat, stay, store, and explore. We will tell you what we have enjoyed and what to watch out for, while the other sites will tell you every about other areas that you plan to visit.

In addition to this type of information, you can also learn more through Akumal hotel, resort, and tourism websites. Each hotel will provide you with pictures of their accommodations, a list of local attractions and activities, and typically, a brief history of the area. They may also provide information about items that they provide, which will not only help you learn more about Akumal, but also help you plan your daily activities while on vacation.

Although their objective is to tug you into the area, the information that they provide about their hotel and the area needs to be accurate or they will start to lose business. Therefore, you can typically trust the information from a website, including the information that they provide about local attractions and the history of the area.

Another way that you can learn more about Akumal is through a travel agent. It is the job of a travel agent to know a wealth of information about their top destinations or at least be able to provide that information to customers. Even if you do not plan to book your trip through a travel agent, you can still find a lot of information through them.

A trip to Akumal, Mexico can be a learning and bonding experience for the whole family. Discover the history and culture of the land. Learn about the sea and what activities you can like in the water. Plan your days based on the information that interests you most. The more you learn about Akumal, the more fascinating it will be once you finally arrive.

Browse the Travel Links at http://linkroo.com/Travel/.

Akumal Traveler

18 Mar 2009, 7:32 am | click here to view more

Explore Alaska

When planning a trip to the state of Alaska there is many ways that you can go about it. You can visit this state by way of car, boat or plane. In the event that you want to gain as much time on your vacation as you possibly can you may wish to consider traveling by plane.

The country is still a mystery to the majority of Americans who have never been there however, when the subject is mentioned to those people who have traveled to Americans last frontier they will readily relate to you how beautiful the landscape is, the abundance of wildlife and the more simplistic manner of living that exists there. I'll never forget the moose, bears and bald eagles. The scenery is fantastic and the fishing great! What more can I say?

Flying has an added benefit as well since you will be traveling over the landscape and not merely on it. Most visitors to this state will tell you that the best way to really look Alaska is from the air. Aboard a prop-plane you are afforded unequaled views of many remote villages located along your route, the abundance of fishing locations as well as the wondrous terrain of the area.

Flying into the area is generally very easy as you merely have to book a flight to Anchorage with one of the major airlines. From here you can venture out to various parts of the state and embrace its sheer beauty.

If you are not the adventurous type of individual you can still like your vacation in the wilds of Alaska. However, you will find that if you are the outdoor nice of person this is certainly a great area of the nation to like your activities in. In order to fully appreciate the Alaskan areas you have to actually visit them. Words alone can not explain every that the state has to offer in the way of tourist activities.

Its vastness alone is beyond ones imagination. Just imagine a state that could place 425 plots the size of Rhode Island into its interior. The weather in this state can vary greatly due to its vast size. You may encounter some areas with 80 degree temperatures while at the same time find others that are experiencing -50 degree. Some areas of the state have a well defined four season year while further north you find only a winter and summer season.

The best times of the year to visit Alaska are during the June to August time frame. Although you will generally find that the prices during this time are rather high it offers the best opportunities that the state has to provide. Less expensive rates are available during the wintertime if you happen to like the associated winter like sports.

Generally autos have no problems getting around the towns of Alaska however some people prefer to travel by way of water or air. As a matter of fact there are actually locations in the state where it is impossible to receive to other then by air. The state capital of Juneau is accessible only by air or by water. There are several major cruise lines which offer Alaskan tours while pointing out the major attractions along the way.

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Akumal, Mexico

18 Jul 2009, 11:42 am | click here to view more

The Lighthouses of Delaware

Since the state of Delaware is located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean one can discover a vast assortment of lighthouses if you look closely. In the Lewes, Delaware area you can find boat tours that have been put together with the specific purpose of visiting the many lighthouses that have been protecting ships for over 100 years. The tour around the Cape May lighthouse area generally lasts for 7 hours. It is in every reality a multi-lighthouse tour of the area as you receive to visit nine of the most popular lighthouses between New Jersey and Delaware. Those lighthouses include the Cape May lighthouse, the inner and outer breakwater lighthouses, Brandywine lighthouse, Miah Maul lighthouse, Fourteen Foot lighthouse, Elbow of Crossedge, boat John Shoal and the Crossledge lighthouse. In total there are nine lighthouses that you will receive to look on the grand tour.

The tours are generally conducted aboard very luxurious ships with cushioned seating and plenty of air conditioning or heated cabin space. The upper decks are usually partially covered as well and gift a wondrous view of the surrounding ocean.

What could be better then to like your breakfast on one of these cruise ships as you slowly pass one of the lighthouses that is on your itinerary? You and your family can sit and like a delightful meal of Danish, Bagels, Donuts, Toast, Tea, Coffee, and Hot Chocolate and of course Juice. According to the time of your tours departure it is possible that you will be able to like a lunch consisting of a Cheese or Veggie Tray as well as a selection of fresh local fruit and a variety of sandwiches. At certain times of the day hot menus are readily available for those who so desire then and are composed of Spiced Pork Tenderloin or Stuffed Tilapia. Eating on your lighthouse cruise is a culinary delight.

The series of lighthouses that you will look during the cruise were constructed between the 19th and the 20th Century. every the lighthouses are still intact and fully operational although they are unmanned and completely automated at this time. Many of them are constructed on pedestals and the nearest land can not be seen from the lighthouses.

every the trips include the necessary narratives to further explain the area and the lighthouses. Here is your opportunity to like a visit to the first state and indulge in some great photos to enhance your album when you receive home.

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16 Sep 2009, 2:33 pm | click here to view more

Mamaroneck fashion club sewing aprons for children in Mexico (The Journal News)

MAMARONECK — Jessica Cardenas and her fellow members of the fashion club at the high school are making a difference one thread at a time. This fall, around a dozen students in the club are sewing aprons that will be delivered in December to a kids’s art program in Mexico.

15 Nov 2009, 2:38 am | click here to view more

The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico

Yucatan Peninsula has become the newest and the most famous tourist destination in Mexico. Not only does its popularity stem from its excellent tropical location and the fact that it has many new and exciting options to offer the tourist but also due to the vast amount of activities that are provided to the visitors to this area. Every tourist or visitor which arrives in the Peninsula regardless of their lifestyle surely discovers that he or she is looking for an interesting and different vacation then what they normally engage in. Here in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico they can readily find this escape.

There are a lot of Maya archaeological sites throughout the Yucatan. The best known are Chichen Itza, Tulum and Uxmal. Indigenous Maya and Mestizos of partial Maya descent still make up a sizable portion of the peninsula’s population and Mayan language is still widely spoken although it is slowly dying out.

The Yucatán Peninsula once was a cattle ranching, logging, chicle and henequen production area. But recently it has turned its economy towards tourism, especially in the state of Quintana Roo. Cancún, Once a tiny fishing village, has grown into a thriving city. The Riviera Maya, which stretches along the east coast of the peninsula between Cancún and Tulum, currently has more than 50,000 beds including world class resorts and charming beach side villas and has become a major tourist destination. The best-known locations are the former fishing village of Akumal, Playa del Carmen, the ecological parks Xcaret and Xel-Há and the Mayan ruins of Tulum.

As an example if you happen to be one of the many eco-tourists which arrive daily you will find that the snorkeling or scuba diving in one of the countries many coral reefs can be a very exciting pastime. For the amateur or professional archeologist or even the curious visitor who likes to traces the various roots of the past with such artifacts as antiques or visits to historical ruins then you would certainly like the Coba Great Pyramid or the Chichen Itza’s El Castillo.

The Mexican traditional market is full of antique items which you can purchase as souvenirs for friends, family or simply to place in your office as conversation pieces. Yucatan is also famous as a destination where those tense feelings just disappear and you can unwind and relax. The calm beaches coupled with many of the comfortable places for the visitor to stay in make this paradise a great means of relaxation. kids on the other hand will surely like the themed ecological parks in the area such as Xel Ha or Xcaret. They will willingly receive in touch with mom Nature as they take some of the exciting tours offered within the parks.

Finally, for the mom and dad shopping and dining represent one of the essential elements for a great vacation in this area of Mexico. Hospitable Mexican people are every smiles as they show you their best buys or offer you some of their specialty cuisines. There are many activities that you can receive involved with such as playing golf, swimming or even a romantic candle light dinner with the ocean as your backdrop.

Here in one package you have wonderful people, great weather, excellent cuisine and romantic surroundings. These are only a few of the important and reassuring reasons to pick the Yucatan when planning your next vacation.

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15 Mar 2009, 1:50 pm | click here to view more

Time to Visit Jolly Ole London England

As my aircraft completed its final approach to Heathrow Airport, I glanced out of the porthole to scrutinize this area of London prior to making our landing. The grass below was a very green shade such as I no longer visualized in America. It tended to endow a calming impact as we descended the cloud cover of the airport.

If you have never traveled to England and London in particular you are in for a pleasurable surprise. Not only are the people exceptionally friendly and cordial but the city itself presents a majestic attitude. Whether you are married with a family or a single young person there are always many events to keep you occupied.

If you happen to be married and bringing your family to London for the first time there are several family orientated areas that are always at the top of the kids’s list of “To Do’s”.

The first item is the London Zoo. This biological collection has over 12000 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, insects and fish. Here at the zoo you can witness the world’s largest lizard in existence, the Komodo dragon. During their feeding time you will be amazed at how they rip their food apart in an effort to eat it as quick as they can. When you visit the zoo at feeding time the keepers will enlighten you many interesting facts concerning the various animals on display. It tends to keep kids occupied for hours at a time.

Within the city of London you can visit the Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood. This home maintains a collection of various toys, a big collection of dolls plus the dolls' houses, many kids's dress-up costumes and a vast selection of antique nursery items. On the weekend they host a selection of programs specifically geared to young people. It is well worth a visit with your kids.

The Science Museum located in London proper holds one of the world's most comprehensive collections of science, medicine and technology memorabilia. The major features include the Space Gallery where future astronauts can witness the US Apollo 10 command module. Nearby in the Welcome Wing you can like “Digitopolis”, an interesting and entertaining glance at the state of modern technology with the IMAX cinema. The interactive Launch Pad is always popular with kids of every ages.

The various activities and events could go on endlessly for London as this is truly a city of activity and enjoyable activities at that. Don’t pass up the opportunity to take your kids to London with you on a vacation as there are plenty of things for them to do.

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15 Jun 2009, 11:41 am | click here to view more

Nelson, British Columbia, Canada

We awoke to a beautiful clear morning. A perfect day for a 30 minute boat trip to Nelson, a town of about 10,000 located at the end of the west arm of Kootenay Lake. After breakfast we boarded our friends 28' Bennington pontoon deck boat. The boat rode like a dream even when crossing other boat wakes. We were cruising along at 25 mph when a bunch of kids in a ski boat came upon us going full speed at about 40 mph. When they were just about even with us our pal eased his throttle up a little to match their speed. After a few seconds he pushed it full forward and it felt like we were shot out of a gun. The look on the kids faces was priceless! Turns out he had replaced the factory engine with a big block V-8 and added a turbocharger and some racing mods. It topped out at 63mph on the GPS. His neighbors call the boat 'The Flying Bedstead".

When we arrived at Nelson we walked around town and had a great lunch at a cafe overlooking the lake. Nelson is known as a cultural centre. The town has many good restaurants, cafes, coffee houses, shops, art galleries and the restored Capitol Theatre, a hub for the performing arts. Nelson, the "Number One tiny Town Arts Community in Canada" is home to a big and diverse artisan community. During the summer art exhibits are held throughout the downtown area with refreshments, musicians and artwork. Nelson also has regular farmer's markets where local artisans can be found selling a unique and diverse variety of fruits, vegetables, arts, crafts and imports. Nelson is a well-known for it's alternative lifestyles. Many American draft dodgers settled in Nelson during the Vietnam War era and became permanent residents. Hemp clothes and cannabis-related products are readily available in local stores.

After lunch I drove the boat back home, arriving just in time for an afternoon nap.

Tomorrow we go on a picnic in the mountains...

15 Aug 2009, 11:09 am | click here to view more

Kootenay Lake, British Columbia, Canada

After leaving Coeur d'Alene we enjoyed the scenic 4 hour steer up to Kootenay Lake to spend a few days with our friends. The Corvette got another fun workout with the winding mountain roads.

Kootenay is one of the largest natural lakes in British Columbia, about 100 km in length and varying from 3 to 5 km in wide. The water is crystal clear and over 400' deep at some points. In 1947 the free car ferry terminal moved from Gray Creek to Kootenay Bay and soon the highway, which was part of the Trans Canada Highway, was paved through to the ferry landing.With the new upgraded highway and with increased traffic along came cabins, restaurants and a gas station and garage. Today, Kootenay Bay continues to offer hospitality to the traveling public, and is home to about 100 people.

After spending a few days in July visiting Dallas, TX and staying with our son in his new home in University Park and then with friends in their beautiful new home on Lake Ray Hubbard we continue with our Grand Tour of Spectacular Homes. This luxurious log style home has a huge great room complete with a giant rock fireplace, bar, two sitting areas, a 70" flat screen TV, a projection TV and regulation pool table. It has 5 bedrooms, 6 baths and a gourmet kitchen plus a full basement. Not bad for a lake home! And did I mention the view? Wow!

Another couple joined us for dinner that night. Our hostess prepared Coquilles St. Jacques and followed up with a beef tenderloin. For dessert we had a homemade brownie with ice cream and fresh berries. We enjoyed a nightcap and headed to bed.

Tomorrow we take the deckboat to Nelson...

14 Aug 2009, 2:24 pm | click here to view more

Snorkeling in Akumal, Mexico

Akumal Bay is known for its various species of sea turtles which use the grounds for breeding, feeding and rearing their young.  This provides an optimal opportunity to experience the animals in their natural habitat, including the many colorful species of fish and plant life.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are perhaps the most popular activities to pursue during a visit to Akumal, but snorkeling offers a less physical demanding and technical option.  With a short instruction course and the ideal site choice, snorkeling is quite easy for even first-time novices.

One popular area for snorkeling in Akumal is the Yal-ku lagoon.  This area is an extremely rare environment where fresh water coincides with salt water from the ocean.  The combination of the two types of water is called a “halocline” effect.

Only very specific species can survive and prosper in this halocline lagoon, and the mixture of salt and fresh water supplies creates an altered appearance of the water itself.  Many species found in this area are not found anywhere else in the world, and have been featured on many travel channel specials in recent years.

Casa Cenote is a lagoon featuring mangroves and colorful fish displays.  Interested snorkelers find the fossils in Cenote at Dosojos quite interesting for a day of exploration.  Many of the fossils seen at Dosojos date back to Mayan civilizations that once inhabited the area.

Snorkel lessons are always a good idea for first-timers prior to traveling to one of these sites.  Although the activity is not difficult, some find that they are uncomfortable with the equipment or unsure how to best view the underwater life while safely using it.

A popular activity for locals and tourists same is night snorkeling.  Typically, a flashlight is used in conjunction with traditional snorkeling equipment for this activity.

Many species which are not seen during daylight hours can be viewed when snorkeling at night.  This is typically because they are night-feeders or resting during the day.

The octopus is a perfect example of this phenomenon.  Octopuses only arrive out to feed at nighttime, and change color when a flashlight beam is focused on them.  Virtually every of the life seen at night is safe for swimmers, so night snorkeling is a family-friendly activity as well.

Plant life and some types of fish are also luminescent at night.  This creates greenish lights shining either continuously or flashing after daylight hours – quite a show for someone who is only accustomed to snorkeling during the day!

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13 Jan 2009, 6:03 am | click here to view more

Activities for Kids in Akumal Mexico

If you bring the kids to Akumal on vacation, there are many activities available which are perfect for the younger members of the group.  It’s important to keep the kids busy and entertained in every of the exciting activities available in Akumal.

Aside from touring the local Mayan ruins, snorkeling is perhaps the most popular activity for every travelers to Akumal, and some of the locations are especially perfect for the kids.  With a few safety precautions, the kids can partake in this fun with little possibility of injury or accident.

Well fitted life vests should be worn by each child. Most houses provide these life vests free of charge.  These will not only cease deadly accidents in the water, but will help to cover their body and cease sunburn in this area.  It should also be applied frequently to avoid major skin damage from the tropical Caribbean sun!

Yal-Ku Lagoon offers an optimum site for young snorkelers.  The calm waters of the area are free of choppy waters and multiple waves, allowing them to look the bright sea life easily.  The bay in front of the villas in South Akumal also is excellent because of the reef blocking the waves.

A day at the beach is loved by every, and the kids can busy themselves with the pliable sand every day long.  Buckets and shovels provide the chance to make sand castles while you relax and watch the kids play.  A sandy beach in front of your rental is a huge plus.  Most rental houses also have a fresh water pool with a deck for the family to like.  Many also have kyacks for you to paddle.

Always discuss with the kids the importance of being aware of your surroundings before a day at the beach.  They should not walk on turtle nests or dig around in them for fear of destroying eggs buried beneath the sand.

The Jungle Place is a great place to take the animal-loving kids in the group.  It is a sanctuary for spider monkeys situated four miles south of Akumal neat the town of Chemuyil.  Here, they can look many of the local wild animals which are caged or chained for safety.  They may also play with the monkeys and talk to the many colorful parrots located here.

Places like Xel Ha, Hidden Worlds, Dolphin Adventures and Actun Chen offer something for everyone in the family, and are good for even the tiny kids.  Hike the jungle to cenotes, visit a cavern, ride the zip-line in the jungle, swim with the dolphins, tube down a river, jump from a cliff, or eat homemade ice cream available at many of the local eateries.  They are every within a few minute steer of Akumal.

Determining whether your kids are adventurous, interested in animals and nature, or simplyenjoy to play in the water every day will help you to pick the best for them to partake in.  Discuss with your kids about what they would prefer to look and do while in Akumal, and try to do at least one thing that even the kids want to experience.

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Akumal Dream Vacation

13 Feb 2009, 10:23 am | click here to view more

15th Annual Auction for the Rivers (Boise Weekly)

Hop into those waders and lift your bidding hand for the rivers. by Jeff Lake Idaho Rivers United invites every river rooters and fish fanatics to the 15th annual Auction for the Rivers. Dedicated to protecting and restoring Idaho's rivers, IRU wages a continuing campaign to protect wild rivers, keep drinking water clean, defend at-risk populations of fish and more. The annual Auction for the ...

11 Nov 2009, 3:42 am | click here to view more

Australia Visit the Zoo Down Under

If you have never traveled to Australia then I would like to recommend that you visit this wonderful and exciting country. Australia happens to be a country of contrasts. The scenery in Australia is completely different then what one finds elsewhere around the globe. Once you landing Australia you will quickly discover that there exists and endless supply of exciting places for you to visit. One particularly popular attraction is the Australian Zoo.

If you have never heard of the Australian Zoo then you should really research it as this is one of the finest zoological attractions in the world. The Australia Zoo is located in Queensland close Australia’s Glass home Mountains. This is actually a private zoo owned by Terri Irwin. Terri Irwin is the widow of the tardy Steve Irwin better known as the Crocodile hunter.

You would be difficult pressed to locate anyone who has not heard of the Crocodile Hunter television series. Steve Irwin was commonly known as the crocodile hunter on this popular television series which appeared not only in Australia but was a popular series here in America as well. The Crocodile Hunter is what made the Australian Zoo so popular. The Zoo was first opened in the year 1970 by Lyn and Bob Irwin when at the time it was commonly refered to as the Beerwah Reptile Park.

In 1991 Steve Irwin took on the management responsibility for the zoo and in 1992 the zoo was renamed Australia Zoo. If you are an animal lover then you are certain to like this beautiful collection of Australia animals and reptiles. Amongst the collection of reptiles in captivity at the Australia Zoo you will discover iguanas, bearded dragons and different types of monitors, snakes and a vast assortment of other reptiles. In addition you will find the zoo is home to Kangaroos, monkeys and other native Australian animals. Nor can we forget to include the crocodiles which make their home on the grounds of the Australia Zoo.

At one time the Australia Zoo was the home to a Galapagos Tortoise who’s named was Harriet. Harriet was claim to fame was that she was known for being the oldest chelonian in existence. Harriet died on June 23 of 2006 and at the time of her death she was 176 years old.

We firmly believe that one of the reasons that Australia is such a great place to visit is because of the famous Australia Zoo. However, don’t expect to spend every your time at the zoo since after your visit there you are certain to want to like the additional attractions found around the country of Australia. You and your family can readily count on your visit to Australia as being fun and exciting.

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