All Adventure Travel

Shark Cage Diving - the Heart of the Cape Town Adventure Tourism Industry by Sarah Manners

2006-02-11T18:27:00.000-08:00

Over the past 350 million years sharks have dominated the oceans of the world. The fiercest predators in their domain, sharks have earned their reputation as the hunters of the sea. Humans have become fascinated by them and have a healthy combination of fear and respect for these beautiful creatures.

The Adventure of a Lifetime

Shark cage diving and surface viewing has become increasingly popular within the adventure tourism industry over the past decade. It is the experience of a lifetime being able to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

Swim with the Sharks

Shark cage diving is a strictly regulated industry, with only a few operators having been granted a license to engage in this activity. Great care is taken not to interfere too much with the natural behaviour patterns of the sharks. The feeding of sharks is also strictly prohibited, to prevent them from associating boats with an easy meal.

Passengers on the shark cage trips are most likely to experience Great Whites as other sharks tend to keep a low profile in their territories. The Cape Coast is one of the most famous Great White territories world wide.

On boarding the boat for the trip out to sea, the passenger's anticipation is overwhelming. It can take up to an hour of chumming before the first shark appears. Once the sharks have settled down, the first group of cagers prepare to enter their cage while the rest retreat to the back of the boat or viewing platform to witness the spectacular proceedings, eagerly awaiting their turn in the cage.

The bait line is slowly drawn towards the cage. As the bait line approaches so too does the Great White. The cage experience has been described by some as an emotional, heart-stopping and truly thrilling experience.

Shark Cage Diving Locations

There are two areas where Great White diving is done, Gans Bay and Mossel Bay. Both these destinations are easily reached by land or air from Cape Town International Airport. Both destinations are also major tourist hot spots and accommodation and restaurants are of an excellent standard.

The best time of year for Great White viewing is between April and November mainly due to the mass-pupping of seals. Sharks are a little less active between December and March but are not completely absent from the areas. During caging and viewing trips Great White sharks are encountered 95% of the time, on a good day upwards of a dozen Great White sharks ranging between 2, 5 and 4, 5 meters may be encountered.

There are a multitude of companies operating shark tours in and around Cape Town many specialising in specific sightings because of where they are based. On most of the tours you will be able to experience many other aspects of marine life apart from the sharks: schools of dolphins; seals; penguins; bird life and occasionally whales

Experience the Thrill

Whether sharks intrigue, fascinate or frighten you, it is the experience of a life time being so close to them and observing them in their natural habitat. Being with these mighty kings of the deep is one of the most popular activities in adventure tourism at the moment. Whether you wish to dive with Great Whites or simply view them from afar, Cape Town is the perfect location for you.

About the Author

Shark cage diving is once in a lifetime opportunity for shark lovers and adventure junkies alike. Experience the ultimate thrill whilst diving with ragged-tooth sharks, a turtle, rays and game fishes in the I&J predator exhibit at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town.

Shark Cage Diving - The Heart of the Cape Town Adventure Tourism Industry by Sarah Manners

2006-01-26T08:34:00.000-08:00

South Africa, more specifically Cape Town, is without a shadow of a doubt, one of the best destinations worldwide for experiencing sharks, especially Great White sharks, at close proximity. The population of sharks is unparalleled elsewhere, and the locations are so accessible and in close proximity to land, that you are virtually guaranteed to witness numerous animals engaging in what they were born to do.

The Adventure of a Lifetime

Shark cage diving and surface viewing has become increasingly popular within the adventure tourism industry over the past decade. It is the experience of a lifetime being able to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

Each year thousands of people travel the globe to see and dive with the 400 species of shark in our oceans. Each year they undertake this adventure with apprehension and excitement and each time return with a passion and deep seated respect for these fascinating creatures.

Swim with the Sharks

Shark cage diving is a strictly regulated industry, with only a few operators having been granted a license to engage in this activity. Great care is taken not to interfere too much with the natural behaviour patterns of the sharks. The feeding of sharks is also strictly prohibited, to prevent them from associating boats with an easy meal.

The experience is not only thrilling for those in the cage. The passengers on the boat are able to enjoy the surface viewing from an unparalleled viewpoint and to observe and photograph the Great White sharks from only a few feet away. Surface viewing here is amazing as passengers get an all-round view of the sharks attacking, circling and descending.

Shark Cage Diving Locations

There are two areas where Great White diving is done, Gans Bay and Mossel Bay. Both these destinations are easily reached by land or air from Cape Town International Airport. Both destinations are also major tourist hot spots and accommodation and restaurants are of an excellent standard.

Understanding Adventure Travel by M. Ellis

2005-12-23T10:54:00.000-08:00

What, exactly, is Adventure Travel?"

In many ways, coming up with an adequate answer to that question is like trying to explain the concept of infinity. But I have reached several conclusions that should lead you down the right track even though you may find the answer rather elementary.

If we follow the dictionary, the two keywords involved - adventure and travel - are easily defined. The term travel is a concept that needs no introduction to anyone, but adventure, alas, is not as straight forward and hence involves some cognitive elements of perception.

In other words, the term adventure can mean different things to different people depending on their very own perceptions and taste. A trek in the country side might be a form of adventure travel to some, but to a mountain climber, it is nothing more than a walk in the country side!

As poet Ralph Waldo Emerson put it, "It is not length of life, but depth of life (that counts)...". So life is as you make it and see it really. You can choose to keep is simple, or become repetitive, boring and common, or you can make life and see it as a grand adventure in itself.

Applying this same concept to travel, we can keep it simple, repetitive and common, by following the masses and going to the usual big cities such as London, Paris or New York - or we can make something which for us is extra ordinary, and have an Adventure Travel. The choice, as always, is ours to make.

Are we getting anywhere?

For some, Adventure Travel equates to grabbing the whitewater kayak and heading down to the river, or securing a bungee cord to your ankle and jumping off the bridge. To others, mixing with the local culture up the amazon river in the tiny villages there.

If you ask a punter at the Rio Carnival why they are there, chances are they will tell you, for the Adventure of it. Ask a diver why they choose to dive and you will get a similar answer. Ask someone following the Inca Trail and again they will most likely tell you for the Adventure or it. If you asked me when I was about 10 why I climbed the hill and climbed over the fields, knowing I shouldn't have, while my mum sunbathed unknowingly at the beach, I would have told you "for the adventure"

Floating in the clouds in a hot air balloon is an adventure. So is a cruise to the exotic Galapagos. But even whisking the family away to a nearby theme park can be an Adventure to some. To some, a truly grand adventure involves viewing wildlife or spending time camping under the stars. To others, an escape to gambling world Las Vegas makes their adrenaline flow, and brings the Adventure demon inside them to life.

Adventures come in all shapes and sizes. Big and small. Soft or hard. There is no limit, no rule.

Hopefully by now you are getting it. An adventure, whether passive or active, is the difference between common and uncommon; between normal and beyond normal. Try camping out in a spooky cemetery at night and tell me afterwards that, that was not an adventure! Or go visit the Pyramids of Giza, and tell me you havn't been fantasizing about our ancient past.

Simply put, an Adventure Travel is really discovering what turns you on the most far within your soal. Adventure Travel is only limited to your very own imagination and physical constraints. It doesn't matter if your sense of adventure is walking through an unexplored path between the fields behind your house, or if you climb Mount Everest. Adventure travel is what you make it - nothing more and nothing less.

WishToTravel.com - Experience the Adventure!
http://www.wishtotravel.com
About the Author

Articles provided by http://www.wishtotravel.com - an Adventure Travel Resource providing articles, destination guides & hundreds of tours for people wanting an adventure holiday.

Visit Adventure Travel for more information

Adventure Travel in Nepal by John Riggin

2005-12-20T09:24:00.000-08:00

With its majestic Himalayan Mountains and fascinating local culture, Nepal is a favorite destination for adventurous travelers. Each year thousands embark upon the experience of a lifetime to spend days or weeks in the breathtakingly beautiful country of Nepal.

Most adventure travelers in Nepal will be treated to magnificent views from high in the mountains. They will wander through pure forests and past clear mountain lakes, rivers and waterfalls. They'll visit remote Buddhist monasteries and shrines and see tiny mountain villages, full of friendly locals.

Trekking expeditions in Nepal are quite popular. They typically involve a small group of people who have been given a list of equipment, such as hiking boots, to bring with them to Nepal. Once they arrive in the country they set off together to explore. There is usually a trekking staff that comes along on the trip and carries most of the camping equipment and even the travelers' bags. They set up the camp, cook meals and break camp, leaving the traveler to enjoy the trek without the physical hardship of toting heavy packs.

Treks are available for people with various abilities. While a person should be in good shape for these treks, one does not need to be a tri-athlete to take part. There are more strenuous treks for those in great physical condition, as well as easier treks. Many of the easier treks are appropriate for families and allow children to participate. Some companies rate the treks they offer by level of difficulty, to help travelers judge which trek would be best for them.

While trekking is one of the most popular forms of adventure travel in Nepal, it is by no means the only one. There are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors in beautiful and mysterious Nepal.

- The Himalayas make Nepal a favorite destination for mountain climbers. There are well over 100 peaks open to mountain climbers in Nepal, including the famed Mount Everest.

- The mountains of Nepal also have trails for mountain bikers of varying skills.

- Nepal offers challenging climbing cliffs for avid rock climbers.

- While rafting and kayaking in Nepal, adventurers can float along picturesque mountain rivers enjoying tranquil views, far from the well-traveled paths.

- Finally, adventure travelers in Nepal can choose to experience a jungle safari from a jeep or the back of an elephant.

Nepal's wildlife reserves and conservation areas boast a variety of unique animals, including the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Greater One Horned Rhinoceros.
About the Author

John Riggin is Executive Editor for http://www.SeeYouInAsia.com the largest travel to Nepal website. Delivering a comprehensive range of vacation packages, travel information and more, tailored for the American travel consumer.

The Cobra Tandem Kayak - A Review by Niall Barco

2005-12-20T09:18:00.000-08:00

The Cobra tandem kayak offers unmatched flexibility. It allows you to use it with another person for whatever your adventure is.

Tandem has built various kayak models but none of them can compete with the Cobra Tandem kayak. This kayak is one of the best currently on the market, certainly one of the most stable! Whatever the reason is that you are buying a kayak, the Cobra Tandem will be perfect for you. It is suitable for all your recreational adventures.

The Cobra Tandem is among the lightest kayaks available. It is lighter that any other in the tandem collection, weighing a mere 57 pounds. Weight is an important factor in selecting a kayak. Heavier kayaks are often harder to maneuver than lighter ones. Also, a lightweight kayak is easier to transport and load onto the roof of your vehicle. Easier travel makes it more likely that you will want to go places with your kayak.

The Cobra is made with a front and a rear seat, with room in the middle for another seat. You might find it useful to invest proper seating rather than the seating supplied as it is a bit basic. It is designed to let you socialize while you paddle. This aspect makes your kayak experience so much more enjoyable and comfortable.

With plenty of underdeck storage room for cargo and accessories, your kayak can give you an enjoyable day trip! The Cobra tandem is among the few kayaks that can go on flat water, on the ocean and can be used for surf kayaking. You can have a large amount of fun time in the Cobra tandem. It is perfect for anybody!

If you have been looking for the best kayak, look no more. The Cobra tandem is absolutely perfect regardless of what your plans for it are. The Cobra is not expensive. Even though it seats three people, it is lightweight! You won't find a better kayak. With a name like tandem on to it, it must be good! You will risk nothing with this kayak; you will fall in love with it at first sight!

About the Author

Canoes and Kayaks Information will help you with great deals, tips and news, information and reviews about all aspects of boating.
Copyright http://www.canoesandkayaks.info

Ethiopia Tour by Andrew Muigai

2005-11-28T00:35:00.000-08:00

Ethiopia is an enchanting country whose delights are unknown to most travelers. And yet this is a truly unique destination with such attractions as can be found nowhere else in the world. The biggest draw is the rich Orthodox Christian heritage. Ethiopia was one of the very first nations to embrace Christianity, way back in the 4th century AD. The wonderful churches, monasteries, icons and relics to be found here is a reminder of the central role the Church has played in the history of the country. The painstaking effort summoned to produce some of these tokens of mans faith in God is very impressive, especially for non-believers.

Ethiopia is a very worthy destination and many connoisseurs consider it to be Africa's best-kept secret. Since so few outsiders come here, the tourist infrastructure is not well developed. But on the plus side, there are no crowds of visitors, unlike at other historical destinations such as Egypt. The Christian heritage aside, Ethiopia is blessed with an astonishing contrast of nature's gifts. This ranges from the heights of the jagged peaks of the Simien mountains- a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bird filled rift valley lakes, to the under sea level lunarscape of the Danakil Depression.

Travelers have plenty of opportunities to enjoy mountain treks, caving, camping, sailing and white water rafting adventures. Though not as abundant as elsewhere in east Africa, there is plenty of wildlife, and 31 rare species are only found in Ethiopia. This is also one of Africa's great birding destinations and 861 species have been recorded of which 16 are endemic. Due to the relatively undeveloped tourist infrastructure, the best way to see the country is by buying a packaged Ethiopia tour.

Most overseas visitors will start off from Addis Ababa. Addis, as the city is popularly known is the capital city and home to Bole International Airport. The city rests at the foot of the Entoto Mountains. By Ethiopian standards, it is a new settlement and came into being in 1887. Addis Ababa means New Flower and its foundation is credited to Queen Taitu - consort to Menelik II. In Addis, make sure to visit the Ethnographic Museum and the National Museum. The Giorgis Cathedral, which was built in 1896 to commemorate victory over Italian invaders,
is also worth a visit.

The Simien Mountains National Park is much favored by trekkers. The park has some of the scenic sights in the country. The mastiff reaches to 4620m, the highest point in the country. The park was created to protect the Walia Ibex, which is found only in Ethiopia. Other endemic animal species in the park are
Gelada Baboon and Simen Fox. Bale Mountains in the southeast, though less accessible, has trekking opportunities and some wildlife including a few endemic species.

Awash National park is one of the finest and most accessible reserves in the country. The Awash River strides the park before heading to the Dankil depression where it vanishes, never to reach the sea. Some special attractions in the park
include the Awash Falls, the dormant Fantale volcano and some thermal springs. Forty-six species of wildlife have been identified here and the bird life is prolific. The park is located just 211 km to the east of Addis.

You will obtain best value for your Ethiopia trip if you have at least an interest in the unique history of the country. The country claims a history going back 5,000 years, and there are Bible episodes mentioning Ethiopia that are dated at least 3,000 years ago. The colorful history is a blend of fact, legend, and tradition. Some incidents dearest to Ethiopians and which they use to affirm unique their place in the world, on close examination appear to be apocryphal. The legend that the Ark of the Covenant is housed in Axum is certainly controversial. But most of the history is almost certainly correct and remains unchallenged.

Despite earlier contact with the outside world, Ethiopia developed in relative isolation and was actually once known as the "Hidden Empire". As a result, some of the living culture is unique to the country and has origins dating back hundreds of years. The Ge'ez language used in most modern day church
services derives from the Kingdom of Axum. Ge'ez alphabet has an amazing 231 letters. The country still uses the Julian calendar, which has 12 months of 30 days each and an additional month of 5 days, with 6 days in a leap year. Relative to the Gregorian calendar used in the west, Ethiopia is 7 years behind
between 11th September and 8th January and 8 years for the rest of the year.

Festivals of the Orthodox Church are an ingrained part of popular culture. Timket, feast of Epiphany, is a colorful 3-day festival commemorating the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. Meskal, celebrates the "finding of the true cross" upon which Jesus was crucified, by Empress Helana -mother to Constantine the Great. It is believed that a fragment of the True Cross is to be found in a monastery in Gishen Mariam. Meskal has been celebrated in the country for over 1600 years. Other Orthodox festivals include the Ethiopian
New Year (Enkutatash) and Christmas (Lidet).

Though a friendly people, Ethiopians are fiercely independent and even today appear to distrust outsiders a little bit. This may appear justified when you consider that foreigners such as the British and Italians are guilty of looting historical relics. The Italians carried off to Rome a 150-tonne granite obelisk from Axum, when they occupied the country between 1936-41. Mussolini had sought a rematch of the 1896 defeat by Ethiopia that had greatly humiliated Italian patriots. The British had earlier in 1868 stolen priceless illuminated manuscripts, crowns, crosses, and other treasure. Ethiopia has been waging a campaign to have the artifacts returned.

Most of the historical treasures date from time King Azena of Axum converted to Christianity in the 4th century AD. The highlights of the "Historic Route" are Debre Libanos, Debre Markos, Bahar Dar, Gondar, Axum, Lalibela and Harar. You can reach these sites by air or car, or a combination of both. The route starts at Debre Libanos, 110 km from Addis Ababa. Here in the 13th century, Saint Tekle Haymanot performed a fantastic feat- he stood on one leg for 7 years! A cathedral marks the spot where this happened.

In 1937, during the Italian occupation, the monks of Debre Libanos annoyed the Fascist overlord who ordered the execution of 297 of them. If you are traveling by road, you can pause at Debre Markos, 305 km north of Addis to see the church of Markos with its beautiful paintings of Biblical scenes.

Bahar Dar is located on the shores of Lake Tana and is 560 km from Addis Ababa. The 3,000 sq km Lake Tana is Ethiopia's biggest and is the source of the Blue Nile. Just 30 km after leaving Lake Tana, over a maximum width of 400m, the Blue Nile drops over 45 m. The result is the phenomenon of the Blue Nile Falls, otherwise known to locals as Tississat or "Smoke of Fire". The falls are a spectacular sight and the spray mist produces rainbows and rainforest vegetation that forms a habitat to monkeys and many colourful birds.

Lake Tana has 37 islands, some of which harbor churches and monasteries. These buildings carry beautiful murals and paintings, remains of emperors, church crosses, icons, manuscripts, crowns and other articles of historical and cultural significance. Some of the monasteries such as Kebrane Gabriel preserve ancient customs and do not allow entry for women. You can break your historical tour by sailing on the Tana. Boats are available for hire at Bahar Dar. The lake
is also a delight for bird watchers. Flights are available to Bahar Dar, and some reasonable quality hotels too.

Gondar is 748 km to the northwest of Addis and rests on the foothills of the majestic Simien Mountains. Founded by Emperor Fasilidas, it was the 17th century capital of Ethiopia. Noteworthy attractions here are the cathedrals, castles, and other imperial buildings that were built by Fasilidas and his succcessors. The architectural style combines Axumite, medieval European and Arabian influences. An Indian architect designed the most magnificent of them. For Cathedrals, the most impressive is the hilltop positioned Debre Berhan Selassie (Trinity Church of the Mountain of Light). The city declined after 1855 when Tewodros II removed his capital to Debre Tabor and was subsequently looted in the 1880's.

Axum, one of the key stops on the historical routes, dates back at least 2,000 years. The ancient city is particularly important in the history of the Orthodox Church, as it was the seat of King Azena when he converted to Christianity in the 4th century AD. Every year, the site known as Queen Sheba's bath is the focal point of the ceremony of Epiphany. Archeologist's think that the site and others such as Queen of Sheba Palace were merely named after the famous queen for the city had not been founded in her lifetime.

In its heyday, Axum was a vital and sophisticated kingdom that produced the written language that survives to this day known as Ge'ez. Though Axum is mostly identified with its trademark monolithic stelae, it has other important ruins such palaces and imperial tombs. The stelae were carved from single blocks of stone as markers of the burial places of kings. These were the biggest monolith structures ever made anywhere in the world. Out of the 11 identifiable large stelae, only one stands today at 24 m. In 1937, the Italian dictator Mussolini ordered one of the structures to be dismantled and raised again in Rome.

Axum is also known for the 17th century Cathedral of St Mary of Zion. Legend has it that the original Ark of the Covenant is housed here. The monks jealously guard this treasure and do not allow anybody to view it. This stand has led to much speculation that this object of immeasurable historical and religious value may not actually be in the hands of the monks of St Mary of Zion.

Lalibela is renowned for its marvelous 11 rock hewn churches built in the 12th century AD. The very devout King Lalibela commissioned them, not as monuments, but really as an act of worship. The churches were each carved from a single block of stone. Some are in trenches below ground; while others are built in open quarry caves. Legend has it that the churches were built with great speed because angels continued working the night shift while mortals slept. The result was truly magnificent and the very learned people at UNESCO have declared Lalibela a World Heritage Site. The churches are living monuments and are still in use today. Of all the historic attractions, Lalibela is the one you should not miss.

Harar, unlike other centres on the historic route is associated with Islam. The town with its city wall, towers and narrow streets has the feel of Arabian Nights about it. Founded in 1520, the city is 523 km to the east of Addis. It is an important centre of Islamic learning and has all of 99 mosques. Indeed it is believed to rank fourth in the ranking of holy cities of Islam after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. The first Muslims are said to have reached Ethiopia in the lifetime of prophet Mohamed. The city is also famous for its handicrafts,
colorful woven baskets, and silverware. It was also once the home of the French poet Rimbaud.

If the evening finds you in Harar, you may witness a most bizarre spectacle courtesy of the so-called Hyena Men. With wild howls, these fearless men summon hyenas from the hills. They then get the ruthless scavengers to snatch pieces of meat from their hands or even their mouths!

In the east of the country towards the Dankil Depression and to the west near Sudan, the climate is very hot and dry. The central highland region is temperate, and nights can get chilly. Rains come twice a year- the rather irregular short
rains from January to March and the long rains from June to September. The best time to visit Addis and the highlands region is the dry October - June period. The traveler is advised to dress very light in the lowlands and desert country.
In the highland region, temperatures average 16°C and warmer clothing comes in handy at night and early morning.

Some Addis Ababa hotels are of international standard. A few other towns and locations on the Historical Route and other tourist attractions also offer reasonable accommodation. Unlike in other countries that receive many tourists, the budget traveler will find accommodation rates to be very reasonable.

Copyright © Africa Point

About the Author

Andrew Muigai is editor of AfricaPoint Insider online newsletter. It is part of AfricaPoint.com- the Africa travel website that has helped thousands of travelers discover Africa. You can view more info on Tanzania safari and tours at the website.

Africa Adventure Travel Info

Ten Best Backpacking Foods by Steve Gillman

2005-09-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

Maybe your favorite backpacking food is a freeze-dried turkey dinner. There really is no "best" backpacking food. There are reasons to bring certain foods, though. Here are ten foods, and the reasons you might want to consider them.

1. Nuts. This is one of the most calorie-packed foods you can take. That means less weight to carry. With lots of protein and other nutritonal benefits, nuts are one of the best backpacking foods.

2. Olive oil. Add a little to your soups or dip bread in it. The best of the oils health-wise, you can eat it before sleeping, to stay warm, because fats generate heat when digested.

3. Trail mixes. Any mix with raisins and nuts is great for backpacking. Vitamins, minerals, protein, and the best reason - convenience.

4. Corn products. Tortilla chips or corn nuts are convenient, and they don't seem to cause the tiredness that potato chips and other simple carbohydrates can cause.

5. Ramen noodles. When you need a hot meal fast, there isn't much that's better.

6. Instant coffee. A necessity for caffeine addicts, and it's good to have a stimulant available for emergencies.

7. Wild edible berries. Learn to identify a few, and you'll have a nutricious excuse for a break along the trail.

8. Instant sports drinks. Pour a little in your water bottle and shake. Replacing electrolytes doesn't get more convenient.

9. Instant refried beans. When you want sustained energy, eat beans.

10. Your favorites. Having your favorite foods can help salvage a rainy backpacking trip spent in the tent.

Always consider the nature of the trip when you choose your backpacking food. Hot meals are much more important in cold climates, and convenience is king, if you want to make miles. A bottle of rum might even be appropriate, if it's a trip wih friends.

About the Author

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

Click here for Cheap Adventure Travel Links

What Should You Know About Hiking Boots? by Diana Claire

2005-08-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

What is essential equipment for you when going on a hiking? Beside, your backpack, you also have to consider about your footwear. You will be suffering when you are not using your footwear properly. It seems all physical activity, especially hiking need good footwear.

Physical Activity Need Good Boots

Ask your friends to hike with you! Hiking is one of the way to know more about your friends and also a good way to make your body and your spirit healthy. There are more you get though; but all of that will fade away if you don't wear good hiking boots. Understand that all outdoor physical activity will be enjoyable if you wear good boots. As people said, if you're nice to your feet, the rest of your body will feel good--especially during a hike.

What ever your outdoor physical activity, either a light day hike to a three-pack or four-day pack trip, your hiking boots makes the difference. Hiking boots is one of the most important pieces of gear when hiking. To keep your feet comfortable, you must wear a boot that fit with your feet boot to avoid blister and foot-injury.

Choosing Your Boots

How to find a good hiking boots for your feet to make you comfortable. Well, here are some check lists you might want to know about hiking boots:

- Decide what type of hiking boot you want to choose. You can find two types of boots on the market, leather boots and lightweight hiking boots. Leather boots are more expensive, but they are tend to be more durable and last longer, and can be waterproofed. Lightweight boots tend to be more breathable, more comfortable, cheaper, and require a shorter break-in time. Even though, most important for both types of boots should have good ankle support.

- Don't choose the hiking boots of your normal size. You have to go up a 2 size with your normal shoe size. When you put on your hiking boot, you should be able to put a finger between your foot and the heel of the boot since your feet swell as they warm up.

- If you want to try hiking boots, do it when you have warm feet. Walk at least half mile before you try it on. That way your foot will be more the size it will be when you are actually hiking.

- Don't forget to wear two hiking socks. It's the best way to prevent blisters and an uncomfortable foot while hiking. Two pairs of socks will not only give you good padding, but will also wick the moisture away from your foot as well.

- Once you have the shoe on, lace the boot up. Don't lace it too tightly, but just snugly. Walk around the store and see how they feel. In particular, make sure that your heel can slide around slightly. The boot should be comfortable but stiff.

- Your toes should not hit the front of the boot too much. To simulate walking down a hill bang the toe of the boot on the ground or against a wall. Your toe shouldn't hit the front of the boot too easily. If it does, either your boot is too small or your laces aren't snug enough. Your boots should feel a little big.

Get Your Boots through Internet

Okay...now you know some information about this hiking boots. You can find various kind of hiking boots in retailer shop. But the easiest ways to find your hiking boots are buying over the Internet. You will be comfortable choosing the right boots for your right. Different kind of boots will be displayed in different Website, and you can find what boots best for your interest. You are going to get more boots which you can compare.

About the Author

Diana Claire lifelong for footwear led her became footwear reviewer. She has tried different kind of footwear, and she put her review at MyShoesGuide.com. Visit her Website http://www.myshoesguide.com. You can also visit her http://www.mybootsguide.com

Student Adventure Travel Links

Spice up Your Life with an Adventure Holiday! by Loreal Oliver

2005-08-18T12:01:00.000-07:00

Are you bored with the routine of city life? Do you yearn for a getaway from the hustle and bustle and put some excitement into your life? Do you hope to visit the places that have been aired over National Geographic Explorer and experience it for yourself? If your answer is yes to these questions, then adventure travel is just the thing for you!

Defining an Adventure Holiday

Ok, so you’ve decided that you want an adventure holiday. This leads you to the next question – what type of adventure holiday do you want? There is just so much variety and different perceptions of the word “Adventure” that people have come up with all sorts of activities to define this word. For example, there’s the nerve-wrenching bungee jumping sport with locations available to do this all over the world. If you are into water adventures, then white-water rafting may just be right for you. For mountain climbers, they can scale any mountain in the world, each providing the mountain climber distinctive challenges and excitement.

On the other hand, some people may consider watching a cultural parade in an exotic country as an adventure. For example, the annual carnival at Tobago offers an opportunity for visitors to join into their celebrations of street parties and multi-colored parades. Perhaps a cruise to Alaska to watch seals and whales is an adventure to some, while others may prefer a hot air balloon ride amongst the clouds. Those with an archeological spirit within them, may desire to visit the ruins of Anchor Wat or the Pyramids of Kulkulcan and call that an adventure.

Well, the possibilities are just endless. And the definitions are wider. In the end, as long as you had a good time, experienced a great getaway and have opened your eyes to new sights and sounds, your objectives would then have already been met.

Preparing for your Adventure
Once you have made your decision on your destination and activity, the next step that you need to take is to gather as much information as you can on your destination. Things like health warnings, local hazards, visas and weather conditions are just some of the few things that you need to take note of. It would be advisable to join a forum to get to know others who have gone to the same location and have done the same thing, in order to get advice beforehand on things that you need to watch out for.

If your trip requires physical exertion, for example activities like mountain climbing, trekking, whitewater rafting or even bungee jumping; you will need to get yourself physically ready.
Cross-training and focused exercise is advisable so that you don’t break down or sustain
unnecessary injury during the course of your trip. Also, get a medical check-up before you go, to ensure a clean bill of health and fitness before you embark.

Finally, adventure travel is no doubt a great deal of fun and also a necessary ingredient to add variety to your daily routine. Once you have had a taste of a great adventure, you will no doubt look forward to your next adventure holiday! For more information and bookings on adventure
travel america and overseas please visit www.adventuretraveltips.com

About the Author:
Loreal Oliver is an adventurous traveller and pretty crazy too. He travelled extensively around the world since the age of 17 years and never gets tired. There are few places unexplored by him and he is always ready for another adventure. He loves Photography and reading.
www.adventuretraveltips.com

Mountain Biking in Bali's Mount Batur by Monique Cordeiro

2005-08-15T12:44:00.000-07:00

There is no better way than to enjoy the sights and sounds of Bali than on a mountain bike. You not only get to cover areas where motor vehicles will not go, but get a good workout as well.

Instead of viewing Mt Batur from where the masses gather at Penelokan, a day trip bike ride would be ideal for the more sporty and adventurous traveler. You get a good close up of the Crater Lake within Mt Batur which makes the ride there highly rewarding. So leave your 4 wheel drive behind, mount your 2 wheeler and head down to Mt Batur. Ask for

directions to the old road down the volcano from the friendly locals. The old road can be a
little tricky getting down, but well worth the challenge. Once there, take your time to
meander through the lava fields around the volcano. It's a little warm and barren at the
start of the trip down, but as you get closer to the water, shady tree lined roads and
ancient villages will cool you down.

The ride around the volcano is fairly tiring and not for the faint hearted, but once you get to the lake, you'll be able to enjoy a picturesque ride along the shores of Lake Batur . Be sure to pack a sandwich lunch, but if you've got an iron gut, be adventurous and get a taste of the local favourites found at the little coffee shops that dot the shores of Lake Batur .

Alright, maybe a ride all the way from Penelokan to Batur might be a little much, so you might want to drive down the main road to the lake and do the ride along the shores and explore other trails. Or, you might want to hop in a boat from Lake Batur Jetty and cross the lake to the ancient village of Trunyan . It'll be a good day trip, so leave enough time. Head back in the afternoon to your hotel for a good rest and a well earned massage!

About the Author
Monique Cordeiro is a freelance webmaster and internet marketer for Villa Semana Hotel in Bali. Copyright 2005 - http://www.villasemana.com- All rights reserved.
info@villasemana.com

Adventure Travel

Pick 'n Mix Your South African Adventures by Marvic

2005-08-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

The internet has changed the way people travel, and most travellers now book their flights online. As a result many travel agents have cut-back or even closed down some of their branches or offices.

Independent travellers like to plot their own course, and combined with the online phenomenon this has naturally led to an abundance of websites in the tourism industry. Some websites offer all-in group packages, some only offer international or local flights, some offer fly/drive packages, and other sites are great for booking international accommodation or car rentals.

The Marvic Tours and Tales website (http://www.marvic.biz) focuses on the nitty gritty of an exotic destination ... the local experience.

Marvic (husband and wife team, Marcel and Victoria Koning) has teamed up with responsible tour operator partners in South Africa, who share Marvic’s vision and follow the principles of fair trade in tourism. They believe in providing their guests with
authentic experiences that also benefit the local communities.

Marvic’s website offers a variety of one-day excursions in and around the magnificent Cape Town region, including Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, the penguin colony at Boulder's Beach, Simonstown, Cape Peninsular, Cape Point, West Coast and of course the fertile Winelands. Guests can simply pick 'n mix the experiences they wish to partake in.

Special interests are also catered for in daily activities such as cage diving with Great White Sharks, whale watching, spring wildflower spectacles, birding and extreme activities like bungy jumping, quad biking, surfing, hiking, sea-kayaking and lots more.

Travellers wishing to fill a couple of days in their itinerary can also choose one of the extended adventures that comprise of a few
days / nights, which include accommodation and transport. These adventures extend a little further down the track ... some head east along the breathtaking Garden Route towards the Addo Elephant Park and others head north towards the spectacular Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

Marvic’s tour operator partners in South Africa are also very helpful in offering local advice and recommending the best options for the time of year that intrepid travellers would like to visit the rainbow nation. Marvic Tours and Tales further enhance online booking experiences by offering lots of information about South Africa, as well as handy links to affiliate websites on the relevant pages e.g. accommodation / flights.

Guests booking their holiday adventures in South Africa via the Marvic Tours and Tales’ website have the utmost flexibility in planning their South African vacation itinerary. Marvic Tours and Tales welcomes all travellers, "Come to South Africa, and meet the friendly locals!"

About the Author

Marvic Tours and Tales promotes authentic eco-cultural safari adventures in South Africa and offers free online infotainment at http://www.marvic.biz.

Smokey Mountain Cabins - There Is Only One! by David Buster

2005-08-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Did you know there are no Smokey Mountain cabins for vacation rentals inside the Great Smokey Mountains National Park - except one! It is called Leconte Lodge.

Even though the National Park Service Leconte Lodge is called a lodge, it also includes rental log cabins. These are the only cabins for vacation rentals inside the national park.

To get there, do you just hop in your car and drive up to the front door? No way! There is no road to these Smokey Mountain rental cabins. If you want to stay there, the only way in is by hiking! Talk about Smokey Mountain secluded cabins - it is a hike of over 5 miles if you are up to it. Lots of folks do just that, as this Smokey Mountain cabins facility fills up fast during the summer. Not only does it fill up fast, you may have to wait months to get a cabin reservation.

Located at more than 6,500 feet elevation, these
Smokies rental cabins are very popular. Prepare for a sponge bath. While there is running water for the toilets, there is no electricity. Kerosene lanterns will provide you with light. You will not be blow-drying your hair or watching reruns while here. It is life somewhat like it used to be many generations ago.

These Smokey Mountain cabins only have a capacity of up to fifty guests per night housed in either handcrafted log cabins or group sleeping lodges. The cabins have upper and lower double bunk beds, which are great for two couples or a family of four or five persons. Each of the larger cabin lodges can sleep from ten to thirteen persons.

For your Leconte stay, make sure you bring sturdy shoes
that you have already broken in. Include more than one change of socks in case your feet get wet. Layered, lightweight clothing will give you the flexibility to add more or take it off as temperatures change. A warm sweater or jacket is advisable and a lightweight raincoat or poncho is absolutely essential. Nature shows no mercy for those unprepared for the sudden changes in weather. Summer nights can dip to 40 degrees or lower, while in spring and fall, night temperatures can drop into the teens with snowfall.

No need to bring suitcases and other cumbersome luggage. A light backpack should be what you use for your necessities since personal clothing and toiletries are all you really need. Remember, it is a 5-mile hike
to enjoy these very special Smokey Mountain cabins.

The Great Smokey Mountain National Park is about half in North Carolina and half in Tennessee. Leconte Lodge is located on Leconte Mountain which is on the Tennessee side in the national park. But you will not know which state you are in. Does it really matter? You WILL know that you are away from civilization in a beautiful unspoiled mountain retreat. Whether you stay in Leconte Lodge or other Smokey Mountain log cabins outside the park, once you have been there, it is easy to see why the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the #1 visited national park in the

USA.

Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing

About the Author

David Buster is Vice-President of InfoSearch Publishing and webmaster of

http://www.bestvacationrentalsonline.com - visit the website to read more about finding log cabin rentals, vacation home rentals, condos and chalets, pet friendly lodging, discount hotel rooms and other vacation fun.

Adventure Travel

Argentina Travel - Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata, Iguazú Falls, Tierra del Fuego and Patagonia by Rick Chapo

2005-08-05T10:11:00.000-07:00

Argentina is on the way back from the economic crisis of the last few years. If you are looking for a travel destination, Argentina is amazing and cheap.

Economic Woes

While Argentina has unlimited beauty, it also has unlimited corruption. The massive corruption finally lead to an economic crisis at the turn of the century. With the currency devalued and jobs hard to find, Argentina was a decidedly dangerous place for travelers. At one point, the country was going through Presidents faster than I go through coffee. At one point, the country went through five of them in a month! Wait, that might not be such a bad idea. Regardless, things appear to have stabilized and the country is back on the travel map. So, what’s to see?

Buenos Aires

Prior to landing in Buenos Aires, you are strongly encouraged to glue your jaw shut. Buenos Aires is a city of jaw-dropping beauty. In many ways, you will feel as though you have magically been transported to Vienna. The European impression is overwhelming. The city is elegance itself. If you’re a meat eater, make sure you experience one of the steak houses. You won’t be disappointed.

Mar del Plata

You’ve been doing sit ups, right? The Mar de Plata is the hot beach area. Literally. Damn hot, sometimes. If you wish to pursue a little melanoma research, this is the place. If you prefer to pass on the cancer research, you can hit the Mar de Plata Aquarium, play golf on five different courses. The area is also rife with discos. Try the ones on the “Noisy Avenue”, but don’t mention my name. There were…problems last time I was there.

Iguazú Falls

If you like waterfalls, this is the place for you. The Iquaza Falls are twice as wide and taller than Niagara Falls. The Falls actually consist of over 250 cascades that came into existence due to a volcanic eruption. If you can, try to visit the falls in the spring or fall as it is ungodly hot and humid in the summer.

Tierra del Fuego

Welcome to the end of the world. At least, that’s the hook for Tierra del Fuego. Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego, is the southernmost city in the world. From the city, you can take the “end of the world” train to see incredible snow covered mountain ranges in the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Words fail me, but the area is definitely worth visiting. Come on, you rode the elephants in Thailand, didn’t you?
Patagonia

No, we are not talking about the clothing line. Patagonia is located in a vast area below Buenos Aires and is famous for uncompromised beauty. Greater Patagonia is actually split between Chile and Argentina. The section in Argentina is filled with glaciers, national parks and so on. I can’t possibly describe it, so I’m not even going to try. Just know that you will not be disappointed.

Argentina

From glaciers to beaches, from elegant cities to friendly little towns, Argentina is a top travel destination. With the economy stabilizing, now is the time to go.

About the Author

Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - Preserve the experience with travel journals. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read travelogues and articles.

Also See Brazil Adventure Travel

The Nile Cruise by Andrew Muigai

2005-08-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

Egypt is where history first emerged. It is here that we have the first pictographic record of events and persons. hieroglyphics, the system of writing used by ancient Egyptians can be traced back to about 3200 BC. At about 3180 BC the nations of Upper and Lower Egypt were brought under the rule of a single king titled Pharaoh. The first Pharaoh is thought to have been Menes, who set his capital at Memphis, 22 km south of Giza in today's Cairo. The Pharaohs established the systems that brought forth the highly successful Egyptian civilization.

The history of Ancient Egypt lasted for about 3,000 years. Ancient Egypt declined, was overrun and thereafter ruled by foreign powers. The Greeks and Romans who ruled after the decline were aware of the great similarity between their own
gods and those of the Egyptians. They not only tolerated Egyptian religion, but also expanded existing temples and dedicated new ones to existing cults. Some of the new overlords, Alexander the Great for example, styled themselves
as divine priest-kings in imitation of the Pharaohs.

Emperor Theodosius, who reigned after Christianity became the state religion in Rome, extinguished the last remnants of the living culture. The Egyptians worshipped hundreds of gods - a great offense against the monotheistic religions; whose first article of faith is that there is only one God. Theodosius decreed in AD 391that all pagan temples in the Roman Empire be closed. The Arabs, who brought Islam to Egypt in 640 AD, also had no time for deities such as Anubis the jackal, Horus the falcon god or even Amon the king of the gods.

Ancient Egypt was dead for one thousand five hundred years, until the French came across the Rosetta Stone in the nineteenth century invasion of Egypt by Napoleon. This priceless discovery was inscribed in both Greek and Egyptian,
and it was the key that allowed the deciphering of Hieroglyphics by Jean-Francois Champollion in 1822. The voluminous literature produced by Ancient Egyptians was now accessible to curious scholars. This rekindled great interest in Ancient Egypt in the West that remains undiminished to this day.

Religion is the common theme running through the attractions of ancient Egypt. The diversity of gods found worthy of worship is astounding. There were over 2,000 of them of either sex and they supposedly manifested themselves to earthlings as animals. There were overlaps and the same gods could be known with different names in various parts of the country. There was hardly any part of the life experience that was not assigned a deity- digestion, mummification, sexuality, feasting, childbirth, writing - you name it. Some gods came and went out of fashion, but those connected with basic aspects of life were enduring. Such deities had cults and temples dedicated to them.

The afterlife was taken very seriously, and a lot of the monuments relate to preparation for that glorious time. Mortuary and burial preparation was so elaborate as to ensure a painless and enjoyable afterlife. The custom of mummification,
for example, was seen as necessary for the soul needed a physical body to occupy in the other world. There was however great inequality in preparation for eternal life. The Pharaohs and other royals, nobles and key officials were mummified and accompanied by grave goods and great treasure. The common folk who could not afford the full treatment had to do with statuettes of mummies.

The main draw to Egypt is the legacy of the Pharaohs and the Greeks and Romans who ruled after them. Basically this legacy is associated with temples, tombs and burial places. People in Egypt from the earliest times to present have always lived along the River Nile and this is where you find the richest harvest of ancient monuments. As many travelers will testify, the best way to experience classical Egypt is by taking a Nile cruise. The cruise is a very pleasant and relaxing way to get close to the attractions of antiquity, most of which are not far off from the banks of the river. You also get a glimpse of rural Egypt where many eke out a living just as their forbearers did thousands of years ago.

The typical Nile cruiser is really a floating hotel. Amenities on board will include lounges, restaurants, bars, swimming pool, discotheque and shops. The rooms are rather smaller than those of a land based hotels but will have air conditioning, TV and enough room for twin beds, private shower, nightstand and
dresser. The quality of cruisers varies and they are graded with stars just like hotels. Top end cruisers have spacious suites and amenities almost equal to those of ocean cruisers. Generally, the quality and romance of Nile cruisers surpasses other riverboats anywhere else in the world.

Nile cruises normally take three, four or seven nights. You will be able to see the most important and interesting monuments on the shorter and more popular cruises that ply between Luxor and Aswan. The longer sail takes you up to Dendera. The boats sail both downstream and upstream and on the shorter cruises, you can embark at either Aswan or Luxor. The more adventurous travelers or those on a tight budget avoid the luxury cruisers in favour of fellucas- the traditional Nile sailboats. Though amenities onboard fellucas are very basic, those who can survive them, visit all the attractions along the Nile at a fraction of the cost of the cruisers.

At Aswan, the Nile is deep, calm and is at its most glorious. It is a good place to embark on your Nile cruise. Aswan was for long Egypt's southern frontier city and its gateway to Africa. This was the region known as Upper Egypt, being upstream of the Nile. After Aswan, the Nile passes through a section of hard
rock, resulting in rapids or cataracts. Thus by nature did Aswan attain its strategic position and it has served as a garrison town for those who have ruled Egypt over the centuries. And for this reason, there are monuments here associated with the Pharaohs, Greeks, Romans, Christian Copts and Islam.

At Aswan, make sure to visit the Philae Temple. Ptolemy II started the temple when the Greeks ruled, and the Romans completed it. It was dedicated to the goddess Isis, an important figure in Egyptian mythology that was worshipped across the Roman Empire. Even after Emperor Theodosius ordered all pagan temples to cease operations, Isis was still being glorified at Philae, until about AD 550 when Emperor Justinian finally shut down the temple. The early Christians converted the temple's hypostyle hall into a chapel. For good measure, they defaced some of the pagan reliefs adorning its walls.

The temple forms an excellent backdrop for the nightly sound-and-light show. The temple was nearly lost after the Aswan High Dam was commissioned in the 1960's. It took UNESCO and the Egyptian government ten years to move it, one stone at a time, to higher ground on Agilka Island. Most people also visit Elephantine Island, which has temples and a museum. The Island has been inhabited since about 3000 BC and was an important trading and cultural centre.

Aswan is home of the Nubians, a dark skinned people, related to the people of the north of the Sudan. You can see some Nubian villages at Elephantine Island. The Nubian museum celebrates Nubian culture right from prehistoric times. Aswan was once an important centre for Christian Copts. You can see the ruins of the once majestic Monastery of St Simeon, which was destroyed by the conqueror Saladin (Salah ad-Din) in 1173 AD.

Aswan was the source of the granite stone that the Pharaohs favoured for building temples and other monuments. The Northern Quarries are the site of the giant Unfinished Obelisk. Had the obelisk been successfully completed, it would be the single heaviest piece of monolithic stonework -reaching about 42 m and weiging over 1168 tonnes. It must have broken the hearts of the builders, who supposedly abandoned it, after coming across defects in the rock formation.

The next stop on the cruise is Kom Ombo, 48 km to the north of Aswan. The main attraction here is the Graeco-Roman temple. Work on the temple was started by Ptolemy VII in early second century BC and continued by some of his successors. The Romans Emperor Augustus built part of the temple at around 30 BC. The Temple of Kom Ombo actually consists of two separate temples, each with its own entrance, colonnades, hypostyle hall and sanctuary. The southern temple is dedicated to Sobek -the crocodile god, while the northern one honours Horus -the falcon god.

Though the two gods shared the same grounds, in mythology, Sobek was associated with the god Seth, an enemy of Horus. At Kom Ombo, the gods took the liberty to bring along family - Sobek sneaked in his consort Hathor and son Khonsu, while Horus had his wife Tesentnefert and son, Panebtawy. If you have not seen mummies before, be sure to see the mummified crocodiles in the Sobek part of the temple.

At Edfu, you disembark to see the Temple of Horus. Edfu was the cult centre of Horus the falcon god. It is perhaps the best preserved of ancient temples of Egypt. The temple standing today was started by Ptolemy III at about 237 BC on the site of an earlier Pharaonic structure. Work continued under some of the Ptolemies that followed. Appropriately, the entrance adorned by two majestic granite falcons. The walls bear reliefs depicting Horus. One scene would please any tyrant -it shows Ptolemy XII dealing mercilessly with his enemies.

You next stop and highlight of the cruise is Luxor. The range, magnificence and diversity of the monuments in the Luxor area is unsurpassed in all of Egypt. Known to the Greeks as Thebes, Luxor became the capital of Egypt at around 2040 BC. The city survived the sacking by the Assyrians in the 7th century BC, but steadily declined, and was finally destroyed by the Romans in the first century BC. Among the celebrated monuments dating from Luxor's heydays are the necropolis complexes at the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens and Tombs of the Nobles. You will also come across some outstanding temples scattered in the
region.

The Egyptians buried their dead in the direction of the setting sun and the west bank at Luxor was the final resting place of royalty and high officials. The Valley of Kings is where the rulers of the period historians refer to as the New Kingdom period (BC 1550-1070) awaited the afterlife. The Pharaoh normally picked the spot for his tomb and had it built in his lifetime. Tomb building for royalty and high officials was very serious business and it supported a battery of architects and craftsmen, who had a settlement in the valley. The valley contains over 60 tombs that have so far been excavated.

The tombs have suffered in recent years due to increased number of visitors, pollution and the rising ground water that has come with the Aswan High Dam. For this reason, not all of them are open to the public at any one time. Unless you are a scholar, visiting three or four tombs should be sufficient. Among the best tombs are those of Ramses I, Tuthmosis III and Ramses VI. Tutankhamun's is today the most famous - though he is not considered a significant Pharaoh and he died at only nineteen.

Treasure hunters had over the years looted most tombs in the valley. But Howard Carter, the British archeologist, discovered Tutankhamun's tomb almost intact in 1922. The treasure that was found here is truly amazing- statues, chests, chariots, beds, weapons, and many items he needed for the afterlife. The main
item today at Tutankhamun's tomb is his mummy. About 1700 items recovered at the tomb are now at display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The most outstanding of the collection is the 11 kg solid gold death mask. Imagine then, what the looters carried off from the bigger tombs of the more illustrious Pharaohs!

On the other side of the Valley of Kings is the Temple of Deir el-Bahri, built by Queen Hatshepsut. Hatseput. The temple is very impressive from a distance and is a great place to take photos. The name Valley of the Queens is misleading, as both male and female royals and some high officials were interred here. About 80 tombs have been identified, of which the most famous is that of Queen Nefertari. Take more photos at the Colossi of Memnon -two huge statues that are the sole legacy of the temple of Amenhotep III.

Amenhotep III also built the Temple of Luxor on the east bank. The temple was dedicated to the god Amon, though inside you also find a shrine dedicated to Alexander the Great. The temple's entrance is lined with Sphinxes, and inside you find colonnades, courts, obelisks and wall murals. The mosque of Shaykh Yusuf Abu al-Hajjaj was built on top of part of the temple. You can also visit the Luxor Museum, which has interesting exhibits from the area.

The incredibly impressive Temple of Karnak is a huge complex that was dedicated to the god Amon. In the New Kingdom period, this was the most important temple is Egypt. It is probably the largest religious building ever and it can carry no less than 10 average Christian cathedrals. Some of the interesting structures within the complex are the gigantic hypostyle hall, the Kiosk of Tarhaka, statue of Ramses II, temple of Ramses III and the sacred lake.

The best time to take a Nile cruise is over the cooler months of November - March. These are also the peak months and to avoid crowds, always start out early each day. October, at the end the hot season is tolerable, especially when you factor in that it falls with off-season period: it is cheaper ad less
crowded. When visiting the monuments, you are advised to hire a guide who will explain the historical context at each site. If you are on a Nile Cruise package,
the services of a guide will usually be included.

You do a lot of walking, and you need to bring along suitable shoes. Other items you ware encouraged to pack are: sunglasses and sun screen lotion. Remember also to carry bottled water and photographic film, which you can buy at the cruiser or at a bazaar. Light clothing is generally recommended though you may
need a sweater and jacket for winter evenings.

Copyright © Africa Point

About the Author

Africa Adventure Travel Info

The Dazzling Beauty of the Shwedagon Paya by David Barry

2005-08-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

The Shwedagon Paya is much more than just another temple. It is the cultural and religious heart of Myamar. Built on a small hill in central Yangon (Rangoon) the great golden dome rises almost 100m and dominates the city skyline. Rudyard Kipling was moved to call it “a golden mystery”.

By day, the dome glitters like golden fire. Sunset plays a melody of shades with the monument that never fails enchant. At night, the complex is illuminated by thousands of strategically-placed spotlights. All Burmese are rightly proud of their national monument, and try to visit the site at least once in their lives.

Legend has it the main stupa (Buddhist monument in the shape of a dome) is 2,500 years old and is home to eight hairs of Buddha, although archaeological evidence suggests it was built by Mon rulers of the area around 1,000 – 1,400 years ago. Wars, earthquakes and other calamities have taken their toll on the Shwedagon and most of the present structure dates back to 1769.

The sacred dome is an enduring symbol of the resilience of Burmese – or Bamah – culture. After each setback, Shwedagon is rebuilt and restored to its former glory.

Getting there is easy, as the Shwedagon is just north of central Yangon and is easily the most popular tourist attraction in the city. Every taxi and motor rickshaw driver knows the way. The $5 entrance fee includes the use of a lift to the main floor of the complex, but there’s nothing to stop you following the footsteps of Buddhist worshippers and climbing the steps up Singuuttara Hill to the summit. You have four covered walkways to choose from in addition to lifts at the northern and southern entrances.

Visitors are allowed from dawn until early evening. English speaking monks often offer themselves as tour guides in return for a $5 donation.

Be advised that all visitors must remove shoes and socks while in the main complex. Marble flooring is very hot around noon and slippery after rainfall, but a mat pathway is provided around the main stupa.

As with all Buddhist monuments, visitors are expected to walk clockwise around the complex. While the golden stupa is the central feature of Shwedagon, it is not the only attraction. In the north-western corner is the 23 tonne Maha Ganda bell which dates back to the 1770s. After the first Anglo-Burmese War in 1825, the bell was seized by the British who intended to ship it to their homeland. The bell was dropped in the Yangon River and the British were unable to raise it. The Burmese were allowed to try their luck, and they placed logs and bamboo under the bell until it floated to the surface and was restored to its rightful place.

Just beside the Maha Ganda pavilion is a small stupa with a golden spire. Between the eight niches around its base are figures of animals and birds representing the directions of the compass and the associated sign and planet for each day of the week (Wednesday is divided into morning and afternoon.

This theme is also displayed on the main stupa. North is represented by Friday, the planet Venus and a guinea pig or mole. North-west is Wednesday afternoon, Yahu and a tuskless elephant. West is Thursday, Jupiter and a rat. South-west is Saturday, Saturn and a naga (dragon-like serpent). South is Wednesday morning, Mercury and a tusked elephant. South-east is Tuesday, Mars and a lion. East is Monday, the Moon and a tiger. North-east is Sunday, the Sun and a garuda (mythical winged beast like a dragon). Worshippers are supposed to pray at the site which represents the day on which they were born.

To the North-east is one of the largest bells in the world, King Tharwaddy’s Min bell. Cast in 1841, the Maha Titthaganda (three-toned bell) weighs 42 tonnes and is housed in an elegant pavilion with a lacquer ceiling.

The eastern shrine hall is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the complex and is dedicated to Kakusandha, the first Buddha. It was renovated in 1869 but almost totally destroyed by the great fire of 1931 and had to be completely rebuilt. Nearby is the U Nyo pavilion, which houses a series of carved wooden panels depicting the life of Gautama Buddha.

In the south-eastern corner is a banyan tree, reputed to have grown from a branch of the original tree under which Gautama Buddha gained enlightenment.

There is a small museum of curios beside the southern entrance. The south-western corner has a prayer pavilion with 28 images representing the 28 previous incarnations of the Buddha.

By the western entrance is the prayer hall guarded by the figures of Mai Lamu and the King of the Nats. Legend has it this pair were the parents of King Ukkalapa who brought the hairs of the Buddha to Shwedagon.

In all, there are over 50 glittering zedis (stupas) and pavilions in the Shwedagon complex. The main stupa is the world’s largest building covered with gold. In 1900, the Shwedagon trustees decided to renovate the main spire, and used 9,272 gold plates measuring one foot square (30.5 cm by 30.5 cm) for a total of 5,004 ounces of gold. King George V (then Prince of Wales) and Queen Mary donated four plates upon their state visit in 1906. A total of 4,350 diamonds were also used in the construction.

There are four sealed entrances to the main stupa, but no one knows what is inside. Legend has it flying swords protect the interior from unwelcome intruders. Others say there are tunnels leading all the way to Pagan and even Thailand.

Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit Shwedagon, but any time you go, a visit is sure to leave memories which last a lifetime. As English visitor Ralph Fitch wrote in 1586:

“It is called Dogonne, and is of a wonderful bignesse, and all gilded from the foot to the toppe….it is the fairest place, as I suppose, that is in the world.”

Note: Burmese not changed to Myanmar national to keep the original context

About the AuthorDavid McGarry
For more interesting articles on Myanmar. Please see our web site www.explore-myanmar.com

Asia Adventure Travel Links

Arrowheads and Rock Hunting In Arizona by Steve Gillman

2005-07-31T08:06:00.000-07:00

We weren't planning to go rock and arrowhead hunting in Arizona. My wife and I just liked that hotspring in the desert. It was agood place to escape the Michigan winter for a while.

Then we met Felix, an old Mayan Indian living in an old RV. After sharing meals and campfires for a week, he took us into the desert to show us ancient metates (grain-grinding stones) and arrowheads. We also found hundreds of beautiful rocks of every type, including Apache Tears, Fire Agate, and various quartzes.

Irina, a nineteen-year-old "rainbow kid," who had been living in her van for months, rode with Felix in his old pickup. We took our van. We spent two hours at the first stop. The recent rain had made the rocks and artifacts stand out, washing them clean. We were mostly just rock collecting.

Irina and my wife Ana found odd pieces that may have been arrowheads. We found old pottery pieces too, and Felix came back with half of a pot painted with an intricate design. It was probably hundreds of years old. Felix had been in the desert for years, and kept seeing things we missed.

Pony Express Ruins

At our second stop, Felix showed us ruins of an old Pony Express station. Unmarked and forgotten, the grass-and-mud-block walls were still partially standing. I realized we still hadn't seen a single other car. There are some isolated areas in Arizona, and this is one of them. We started arrowhead hunting around the ruins, because Felix insisted the building would have been fired upon by arrows.

Up the hill behind the ruins, Felix showed us rocks with six-inch wide holes a foot deep or more, and perfectly round. They were filled with water - their purpose, according to Felix.

We like water with fewer bugs, but he and Irina drank the water collected in them. It was a peaceful spot, overlooking the valley below.

Arrowhead Hunting
Success

Over the hill, we had some luck searching for rocks and arrowheads, but not like Felix. We saw hundreds of pieces of pottery, but all very plain looking. He found pottery that had beautiful designs on it, and metates. He found a tiny clear quartz arrowhead, perfectly made, that had probably been used to hunt small birds two hundred years earlier.

Each of us wandered a bit. Ana and I made it back to the van first, and when Irina and Felix returned, we cooked beans with instant rice on our camp stove. After the meal, we said goodbyes, and traded addresses. They went back to the hotsprings, while we headed the other way with bags of rocks, an antelope antler, and two broken arrowheads.

Notes:

For interesting rocks, go out after a rain and you
can see Fire-agate and Apache Teardrops laying on the sand. For the best rock collecting, visit the designated rockhound areas in southeastern Arizona. As for arrowhead hunting, and ancient pottery, enjoy yourself, but it may be illegal to keep any artifacts now. The BLM office in Safford can give you directions and more information.

About the Author

Steve Gillman hit the road at sixteen, and traveled the United States and Mexico alone at 17. Now 40, he travels with his wife Ana, whom he met in Ecuador. Read more stories, tips and travel information at: http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com

href="http://www.travelclubadventures.com">For More Adventure Travel Info, click here

Drakensberg Diaries. Chute and Shoot to Thrill. Canoe in the Drakensberg Foothills through the Weenen Game Reserve in South Africa by Brian Kemp

2005-07-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

Planning a holiday in the Drakensberg Mountains in the South African winter? This little gem is a “something completely different” day-trip. So your Drakensberg
holiday doesn’t have to be all walking.

There are other ways of getting around. Like bobbing through the Weenen Game Reserve in an inflatable canoe. I hear you say “Hold it”. Relax, no lions. But that’s about all it’s short of. This day-trip is only available in the winter months (June – September) when the river is at it’s lowest. It’ll be warm in the sun but cool in the shade. You’ll need a hat, sunscreen, binoculars and a camera with a longish lens.

The Bushman’s River sources in the high Drakensberg of Giant’s Castle. At altitude, its crystal-clear rock pools refresh overheated hikers. Lower down it feeds the Weenan Canal - built 100 years ago to provide irrigation for the farmlands. While the river rushes and tumbles over rocks, the canal is much less imposing. Only a metre deep and no more
than a few metres wide. But it’s 12 kilometres long, traversing rough and hilly terrain. Don’t be too quick to jump in though – its cold, winter-green color tells you it hasn’t been in liquid form for long.

Your river guides will have everything ready for you. So you can lie back in your little boat. And bob. In the sunshine. It’s got paddles but you don’t need them. Claustrophobia sufferers, beware. En route there are three not-so-large steel pipes through which the water has been channeled. You either stop, pick up your boat and portage. Or you lie back with the steel tunnel only inches from your face. It’s dark and you can feel the heat radiating from the surface. Grit your teeth. Go with the flow. Breath
relief when you suddenly pop out into the sunshine again.

There’s a driverless boat behind you. This is the drinks trolley. And very welcome it is too. At around lunchtime you’ll come upon a feast spread out on a group of rocks next to the canal. Scotch eggs, asparagus wrapped in ham, chicken wings, quiche, salad, fruit, and cheese. The lunch fairy’s been and gone.

After lunch you move into the Weenen Game Reserve. The sharp, mountainous Drakensberg terrain has given way to undulating thornveld valleys. The canal rejoins a now fairly sluggish and narrow Bushman’s River. You need to paddle a little, and duck under the odd tree as you drift through a spectacular gorge. There’s a huge diversity of bird life and antelope. Buffalo and black and white rhino. Being on the water means you’re less noticeable, and less of a threat to the bird-life and the animals. So you can get close without startling them. And you don’t need a $10000 lens.

Once through the Game Reserve, you disembark just before the main road into Weenen with the tall thatching grass glowing orange in the fading light. Your river guides have arranged transport back to your starting point.

This is different.

Zingela Safari and River Company (+27363541962) organize this day-trip. And it’s only available in the winter months. During the summer they use the rising levels of the mighty Tugela River (which also has its source in the high Drakensberg) to operate white-water rafting adventures.

About the Author

Brian & Janette Kemp own and run an award winning Drakensberg
accommodation establishment. Halls Country House is a 4-star country retreat in the foothills of the href="http://www.hallscountryhouse.com/drakensberg.html">Drakensberg in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.

Africa Adventure Travel

Travel Cambodia – Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat, Sihanoukville by Rick Chapo

2005-07-29T10:38:00.000-07:00

Cambodia is a land on the mend. From 1977 through 1980, the Khmer Rouge ruled the country, fanatics bent on genocide. Millions were killed and the period was put to film in the movie, “The Killing Fields.” Fortunately, those days are over and the country is becoming a tourist destination.

Cambodia is a land of incredible contrast. Thick forest, mountains and pristine rivers compliment amazing white beaches. When you get down to it, however, travelers know Cambodia for two things, Angkor Wat and the nastiest roads around. But, let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia. The city is a combination of old French beauty and modern condominiums. The city is full of amazing Wats [Buddist monasteries], including Wat Ounalom, Wat Phnom and Wat Moha Montrei. Modern buildings surround these monasteries and it’s difficult to avoid a feeling that the old ways are being lost.

Still, the vibrancy of the city is impressive considering the fact that it was completely abandoned for three years in the last 70s. During this period, the Khmer Rouge tried to return the Cambodian people to their agricultural heritage and evacuated all cities. The only exception, of course, is Tuol Sleng, a high school used to torture and kill “enemies of the state.” Just beyond the city, one will also find the infamous killing fields where thousands upon thousands were put to death.

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is a small, sleepy village on the Southwest edge of Cambodia. Fairly undeveloped, the area is an oasis similar to the beaches of Thailand. The difference, however, is the lack of tourists. Depending on the time of year, the beaches can be more or less empty and privacy assured. Rooms run between $5 and $15 a night and come with private bathrooms. If you are looking to lounge professionally, Sihanoukville is a very good place to do it.

Angkor Wat

Stunning. There is no other word for the temples of Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is a temple surrounded by hundreds of others. Each is unique and worth a look. The most famous are Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Phrom. Angkor Wat is in the best shape as well as the most known. The Bayon is impressive, but the constant mob of tourist makes it a pain to visit. Ta Phrom is amazing because it has been left to the jungle, which is to say trees and the structure have become one in many areas. If you have seen Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie, you have seen Ta Phrom. Personally, I prefer Angkor Wat to the Pyramids in Egypt.

Roads From Hell

Cambodian roads are evil. There is simply no other way to put it. The country is hit by monsoons every year and is still recovering from the Khmer Rouge. This combination has resulted in roads with huge potholes, missing bridges and pretty much the worst elements of Dante’s Hell. Avoid them if at all possible!

About the Author

Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - Preserve the experience with writing journals for traveling and outdoor experiences. Read more articles and travelogues on NomadJournalTrips.com.

Click here for World Adventure Travel Links

KwaZulu-Natal- Shaka's Heaven on Earth by Andrew Muigai

2005-07-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

The remarkable diversity of attractions of the KwaZulu-Natal region is unsurpassed in South Africa. It encompasses the splendid Drakensburg Mountains, sublime subtropical beaches, top rated nature and game reserves, historic battlefields, rolling green hills of the Natal Midlands and the city of Durban. The range of activities possible is a challenge even for those with the most eclectic of tastes: swimming, fishing,
boating, scuba diving, hiking, abseiling, game viewing, cultural and historical touring, whale and bird watching and golfing.

Warmer and more authentic South Africa than the Cape Region, KwaZulu-Natal is the favourite holiday destination for locals. The region lies between the Drakensberg Mountains and Swaziland to the west; the Indian Ocean to the east stretching from Port Edward in the south to the Mozambique border in the north.
As you transition from a subtropical to tropical environment, you encounter cool mountain ranges, savannah grassland, coral reefs, indigenous coastal forest and dunes, lakes and lagoons and papyrus wetlands. Here 9 million people occupy 92,000 sq km of some the fairest and best-watered lands in South Africa.

Little wonder that the Zulu, or "people of heaven" considered the area a heaven on earth indeed, and were extremely jealous of late comers who sought a share of it. And yet the Zulu people themselves had arrived only in the 16th century. Their ancestors, the Nguni, had been pushing southwards from the Great Lakes region for at least three thousand years. The land was inhabited- if you could use the term- by San Bushmen. This hunter-gatherer society was very sparing in its demands on the land. The arrival of the Nguni, a people with numerous cattle herds and great thirst for land, put the Bushman under great stress and severe disadvantage.

The Zulu derive directly from a clan head of the Nguni named "Heaven" or Zulu, who established a territory bearing his own name or KwaZulu in the Umfolozi valley. The Zulu was a fairly insignificant power, even among the Nguni, until the arrival of Shaka Zulu. Shaka, born in 1787, was first-born son to Chief Senzangakhona, but was considered illegitimate on account of a technicality. Shaka eventually corrected this injustice by plotting the death of his younger brother - the legitimate heir. He thus rose to be chief of his people when his father died in 1816.

Shaka was a man gifted with great daring, cunning and imagination. He repulsed numerous attacks by the Ndwandwe- a rival and more militarily superior Nguni people, eventually forcing the enemy to flee northwards. Shaka appreciated that
the Ndwandwe would be back unless he created conditions to make it impossible. Above all else a military leader, he devised such weaponry, battle tactics and training methods that resulted in an unbeatable army among known enemies of the day. By numerous treacherous devices -war, assassination, deceit and intimidation - he subdued smaller and larger clans, and gathered all to his realm.

Within three years to 1819, the Zulu nation emerged as the largest and most feared in the whole of southeastern Africa. And Shaka, now King Shaka, was sitting pretty as its head. His success had however caused unprecedented mayhem in the region, and aroused bitter jealousy amongst his ambitious compatriots. He also ruled with an iron fist and was such a tyrant as had never risen before among the Zulu. Shaka was speared to death by Dingane -his half brother, in 1824. The Zulu kingdom survived him, but his legacy was to be severely tested, later
n the century in conflicts with new rivals - the British and Boers.

The British had approached Shaka, shortly before his death, for trading rights in ivory and animal skins. Shaka signed a document granting them the chieftaincy of Port Natal, their small base on the east coast. In a very liberal and rather
dishonest interpretation of Shaka's intentions, they claimed the Port Natal area in the name of the King of England. Port Natal is today known to most as Durban -and to locals as "Durbs". The city is the gateway and business hub of KwaZulu-Natal, and the logical starting point for exploring the region.Its port ranks among the world's top 10, and is the busiest on the African continent. To discover KwaZulu-Natal, rent a car at Durban or take a South Africa tour or safari that covers the region.

Durban's weather is mild and pleasant - temperatures average 17 degrees C in winter (June-August) and 27 degrees C in summer (December to February). Holidaymakers are favoured with sea temperatures averaging 24 degrees C in summer rarely falling
below 19 degrees C in winter. This coastal playground enjoys at least a good 320 days of sunshine every year. The rains come over the summer months, when it can get quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching for 33 degrees C. Long before everybody else, the San Bushmen wintered in Durban, taking advantage of the excellent climate relative to their inland domains.

"The Golden Mile" is a 6 km long waterfront lined with some of Durban's top rated hotels. The city has some of the finest beaches in the country. Good beaches for swimming and surfing can be found to the south of the city- Ansteys, Brighton, Cave Rock, and Garvies. To the north- Country Club, Tekwini, and Laguna beaches are more exclusive and less crowded. Within the city, you can visit museums and art galleries and shop for crafts. The Kwa-Muhle museum will educate you about Apartheid, which is important if you want to understand South African society.

There are numerous restaurants- Indian, African and Western - in this cosmopolitan city. The Indians started coming here in 1860 as indentured labour for the sugar plantations. Today, the Durban metro area has the largest Indian population outside India. Durban stands between the North and South Coast of South Africa's eastern seaboard. The North Coast beaches include Umhlanga Rocks, Ballito, Shaka's Rock and Shelley Beach. Here you find good accommodation and myriad opportunities for swimming and surfing. Around Ballito is great for watching the ever-fascinating dolphins.

The South Coast stretches from Durban to Port Edward and covers Hibberdene, Port Shepstone, Margate and Southbroom. The region has fantastic beaches and matching amenities. Between Port Edward and Hibberdene is the scene of the sardine run. This most spectacular display of the natural world occurs around June and July. It is triggered by a 4-5 degrees C drop in sea temperature that prompts millions of sardines in great shoals to head northwards. On this dash, game fish, dolphins, sharks, whales and others of their mortal enemies follow. This
unforgettable experience appears to be the marine world's answer to the annual wildebeest migration on the Kenya-Tanzania border.

To see wildlife you can travel to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park, 175 km to the northeast of Durban. This combination of the game reserves of Hluhluwe and Umfolozi occupies 960 sq km. The park is mostly savannah grasslands and low acacia bush, but has a forested mountainous section. You will see the famed "big five"- lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino. The park is well known for its very successful black and white rhino conservation efforts. Other animal species to look out for include impala, blue wildebeest, waterbuck, zebra, nyala, kudu,
bushbuck, warthog, cheetah, hyena, jackal and giraffe. Birding is great and over 300 species are on record.

You can see game on guided walks, but for obvious reasons, an armed ranger must accompany you. The less adventurous will have an equally satisfying game viewing experience aboard a vehicle. Accommodation in the Umfolozi reserve is available at various bush camps at Sontuli, Nselweni and Mndindini and at the self-catering cottages and tented camp at Mpila. At Hluhluwe, the well-positioned Hilltop Camp offers accommodation ranging from a luxury lodge to self-catering chalets and rondavels. The dry season in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi area falls between May and August, while most off the rains fall within the rest of the year.

To the northeast of KwaZulu Natal is the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, which stretches along a 280 km coastline from Cape St Lucia to Kozi Bay near the Mozambique border. This first rate eco-tourism paradise, is an amalgamation of a number
of protected areas including - Lake St Lucia, St Lucia and Maputaland Marine Reserves, Coastal Forest Reserve and the Kosi Bay Natural Reserve. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1999, the official bulletin justifying this distinction highlighted the existence of 5 ecosystems resulting in an exceptional diversity of species and actual ongoing speciation.

The park is a tropical and subtropical interface and has landforms that include coral reefs, sandy beaches, coastal dunes, lakes, swamps, and reed and papyrus wetlands. It occupies more than 3200 sq km, but supports more animal species
than larger parks. Here you can find hippos, turtles, crocodiles, rhino, leopard and sharks. The birding is unsurpassed and more than 530 species are on record. The numerous activities possible include- fishing, hiking, boating, diving, game viewing and whale and bird watching. You can seek accommodation within the park or nearby towns in the range of basic camps and luxury game lodges to hotels and self-catering chalets.

Sodwana Bay Nature Reserve, which falls within the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park is a haven for sport fishing, boating, snorkeling and scuba diving. The underwater world, and the coral reefs in particular are outstanding, and the marine life plenty. This is one of the world's top diving destinations. You
can visit year round, but conditions for diving are best April to September. Water temperatures vary from about 20 degrees C and can reach 29 degrees C in summer. Take time off from water sports for a guided to see loggerhead and leatherback turtles. There is good accommodation for most budgets nearby.

The Drakenberg Mountains on KwaZulu-Natal's western border are one of South Africa's most outstanding attractions. Rising 3282 m above sea level, the spectacular 200 km long mountain ranges were named by the martial minded Zulu as uKhahlamba or "Barrier of Spears". The thoroughly photogenic "Amphitheatre"
is very impressive and is popular with visitors. This is a rock wall with a height of 500m and stretching for 5 km. Many adventure activities are available here in the most scenic of surroundings, including- hiking, rock climbing, mountain
biking, paragliding, white-water rafting, birding, and fly and trout fishing.

There are several parks and game reserves around the Drakensberg Mountains, the most prominent of which is the 2430 sq km uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000 mainly for two reasons; first for its remarkable physical charm and biological diversity, and second to highlight the outstanding collection of San rock art. Scattered over 600 sites; there are more than 35,000 well-preserved artworks, with scenes depicting hunting,
dancing, fighting and food gathering. The oldest paintings are estimated to date back 2400 years, with more recent ones less than 200 years old.

Scholars have in recent years studied San rock art closely and the consensus now is that this is not merely representation art but it has some spiritual content. At the Kamberg Rock Art Centre, you can learn more about the San people, and how to interpret the symbolic and spiritual content of their art. In the Drakensberg region, there is a very wide range of accommodation including - basic bed & breakfasts, guesthouses, camps, hotels, and luxury resorts. The rains come in summer between October and April, with the rest of the year being mostly dry. Beware that winter nights can get extremely chilly and of sudden thunderstorms in summer.

Descending from the Drakensberg, you can visit the battlefield sites, where some of South Africa's most vicious battles were fought. The protagonists were Zulu, Boer and British who engaged one another in the nineteenth and early twentieth
century. The hottest battles were fought in areas around Colenso, Weenen, Dundee, Estcourt, Glencoe, Ladysmith,Newcastle, Utrecht, Volksrust, Vryheid and Winterton.

The Voortrekkers had headed north away from the Cape Colony to escape British control. After crossing the Drakensberg, just like the Zulu people earlier, they believed they had reached "Heaven on Earth". Conflicts over land and other resources were inevitable and in several episodes between 1836-1852, the two parties sought a resolution through arms. Next came the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879. The British eventually won, but they met a number of disasters as they had initially underestimated the Zulu army. This is the war that broke the hearts of Bonaparte royalists after Prince Louis Napoleon - an observer with the British party- succumbed to multiple assegai thrusts.

The British were busy making war again, this time on the Boers between 1880-81. They lost the war, made peace but sought a rematch in the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902. This second engagement attracted worldwide attention, and it was the first war ever recorded on film. Two of the giants of the twentieth century were witnesses - Churchill as a reporter, and Gandhi as a stretcher-bearer. It is advisable to tour with an accredited battlefield guide, who will retell the story of the battles at various sites. While in the area, there are opportunities to learn about Zulu history and culture, and also to buy local arts and crafts.

Copyright © Africa Point

About the Author

Adventure Travel

Traveling By Motorcycle by Fred Ost

2005-07-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

One of the best ways to truly see the United States is from the saddle of a
motorcycle. I have ridden through many states with trips over six thousand miles in length including two solo trips from New Jersey to the Sturgis Rally in South Dakota, and to Pike's Peak in Colorado. I have found some tips and techniques that have worked well for me and I'd like to share them with you.

There are basically two ways to travel by motorcycle, probably one of the more popular but less spiritual is what some call "credit card camping"
which is basically rolling from hotel to motel for your sleeping accommodations
and buying all your meals on the road. I look forward to trying this method
someday when my writing starts raking in the big bucks. About the only supplies
you'd need for a trip like this (if your definition of comfort is not too demanding)would be:

Rain Gear

Camera/Film/Batteries

First Aid Kit

Change of Clothes

Sun block (for those of us not clad in our riding jump suits)

Sunglasses

Personally I look forward to trying a trip in this fashion with only my jeans, T-shirt, and boots. I've been wet before and most motels and hotels have some kind of laundry area and plenty of towels to wrap up in. I might bring an extra pair of sock in a zip lock bag though, dry feet are happy feet.

The other way to travel and personally my favorite is to camp out between destinations, this is the cheapest and most immersing way to travel. Like they say it's the
journey not the destination. All the equipment you would need can be found at
your local or online backpacking equipment supplier. In addition to the above listed equipment, here is a list of what I usually bring for a typical solo long distance, or overnight trip:

One person backpacking tent

Ground pad for sleeping bag

Sleeping bag

Single burner multi-fuel backpacking stove

Fuel bottle with extra fuel (can also be used for bike)

Cooking kit (stove usually fits inside pot with lid)

Cup for tea or coffee

One meal for each days dinner and one energy or protein meal replacement
bar for breakfast (grab lunch on the road)

Two water bottles one with measuring increments on it for cooking.

Candle lantern with one candle for each day of the trip

Small LED headlamp for walking around the site and digging through saddle
bags

I chose backpacking/mountaineering equipment for two reasons, A: I already
owned a bunch of it since that's my other favorite way to find inner peace,
and B: backpacking/mountaineering equipment packs down small withstands tremendous abuse and is usually multi-use equipment ex: pot is used for bowl etc. Using a multi-fuel stove has several advantages, you will never be unable to prepare a hot meal because these stoves will burn just about any liquid fuel like gas, kersosene, jet fuel, and even dry cleaning fluid (if you can find that I don't think your far from fast food:) If you run your stove on regular gas or stove fuel you are in luck because your extra fuel bottle can also be used to feed your bike in case your in a jam. E don't mean enough my fellow travelers.

This may seem like roughing it to some people but it's luxury travel for others. Starting out with a light breakfast like an energy bar with some coffee or tea gives you a quick start on the day and speaking for myself I generally don't like to have a big breakfast before heading out for a days worth of riding, I'd rather be looking for fun side destinations than a bathroom. Stopping for lunch on the road allows you the luxury of not having to unpack your stove, food etc. just to make one meal (trust me if you do it, you'll only do it once) it's worth parting with a few bucks just to not have to repack your bike.

Sleeping under the stars is not only relaxing but it can save you a bunch of
cash as well. The average motel or hotel near an interstate, at least in the
middle of the US averages about sixty-five dollars a night whereas the average campground is about ten dollars a night, on a week long trip that adds up to quite a bit of souvenir money. If you are traveling in the northeast US those same rooms can run your a hundred plus per night the closer you get to New York City. Since I mentioned it, in case you are wondering how to deal with souvenirs on the road, just stop by your local post office or UPS store and ship them to your home or to a friends house, so they can hold them for you till you return. This is also a good way to deal with exposed film from your camera and the not so rare event when you find out you over packed again. The post office or other shippers usually have everything you need to package your stuff boxes, padding, tape etc. keeping those saddle bags light make for a happy rider and better gas mileage too.

It does not matter what style or make of bike you ride as long as you watch
your weight distribution, the only major difference you will experience between
bikes will be in the way that you pack for the trip. I have gone on trips on
dual sport (on and off road bikes) which are the equivalent of a giant dirt bike, sport bikes, and full dress touring bikes. I have no trouble packing all
that gear into my Harley Electra Glide Classic these days, but I also have some
great memories of strapping firewood to my Kawasaki KLR 650 and having kids and their parents chuckling watching me try to get back on the bike with my backpack on, so never let the style of bike you enjoy mess up your travel plans. Planning the trip is sometimes just as much fun as the trip itself, and it always make your travels go smoother.

About the Author

Fred Ost is a writer, web designer and aspiring indie movie maker. He is a
founder of, and staff writer at the free independent artits community at http://www.scptv.net/index.php

Adventure Travel

Travel Tips For Getting Through the Airport Easier and Quicker by Sherry Otto

2005-07-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

Traveling is different now than it was before 9/11. Arriving at the airport even earlier than before, standing in line longer while waiting to pass through security, having luggage x-rayed, and being pulled aside for random security checks make the time it takes to travel more lengthy than it used to be. Planning ahead can shave off a few minutes here and there and hopefully make your travels less frustrating. Here are some things I have found to be helpful when traveling:

* Make a list. Other than clothes, write down everything you need to take with you (camera, film, sun screen, hand sanitizer, book, etc.) and pack it ahead of time. This will avoid taking extra time to put it in your suitcase or bag at the last minute since you have to arrive at the airport earlier now.

* Before you leave home, put your jewelry and watch in a little cosmetic bag down inside the bag you carry on the plane and put your jewelry on once you’ve passed through security. Since security has been tightened there is a good chance that you will beep and have to take it off anyway.

* Remember to pack things such as fingernail kits (that include nail files, clippers, etc.) in the suitcase you will be checking and not in your carry-on bag. You are no longer allowed to carry these items on the plane.

* Purchase a zippered pouch (I got mine at AAA) to keep your ID, boarding passes, e-ticket, and travel itinerary in. Then put the pouch in a side pocket of the bag you carry on the plane. Keeping this information together will keep you from digging for it each time you need it.

* Try not to wear clothing that requires a belt (with buckle) or clothing that has any metal, metal buttons, or anything on it that would cause you to beep when you go through security. This will just slow down the process and you want to keep moving as quickly as possible.

* If the airport you are departing from has curbside check-in, take advantage of it. It is often quicker than standing in line once you are inside the airport.

Sometimes just remembering the little things will help you get through the airport smoothly and avoid those little delays that give you a big headache.

About the Author

http://www.great-caribbean-vacations.com
Specializing in fun Caribbean vacations! Also offering travel tips, hot spots, and information about romantic vacations, beach vacations, sailing vacations, golf vacations, shopping vacations, and Caribbean cruises.

Adventure Travel Guide

Mount Kenya - Up High at God's Mountain by Andrew Muigai

2005-06-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest mountain, after Kilimanjaro. It is estimated to be 2.5 million years old, and Kilimanjaro at 750,00 years of age is really an upstart. Time has really taken its toll, and the peak is thought to have dropped from 6,500 m those millions of years ago to 5,199 m today. The mountain is an extinct volcano, whose plug forms what is today the peak area. The crater was long ago, done to death, by nature's untiring erosion agents.

Mount Kenya is an awe-inspiring spectacle that dominates the central Kenyan highlands. It is perhaps understandable that the Kikuyu people who reside on its lower slopes thought it fit for Gods' abode. And it inspires people in strange ways. In 1943, Felice Benuzzi, an Italian prisoner of war held at Nanyuki at the base of the mountain, and two companions, escaped and attempted to scale the summit. With just a few handmade climbing tools, he managed reach Point Lenana, the mountain's third highest peak.

But Benuzzi was at least an accomplished mountaineer. In 1988, the Mount Kenya Rescue Team discovered and retrieved an elder of the Meru people way up at the chilly heights of Peak Nelion (5,188 m). Only experts, with proper equipment and guides reach Nelion. He appeared unaware of the feat he had accomplished and was perturbed by the fuss his rescuers raised. He explained his mission was "going to God". He was kitted in a manner you will not see recommended in any guide book- in a single blanket and open sandals. The animals do weird things too: a few years ago, the frozen bodies of a leopard and colobus monkey were discovered at Nelion.

Mount Kenya is located 180 km to the north of Nairobi. The mountain falls within Mount Kenya National Park. The park is made up of a protected area above 3,200m altitude, together with two small salients reaching to 2,450 m along the Naro Moru and Sirimon trails. It was set up in 1949 and covers an area of 715 sq km. It is further surrounded by the Mount Kenya National Reserve, which extends over 2,075 sq km. The park has the distinction of being simultaneously a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve.

The mountain is made up of three main zones: the rocky peak region, the afro-alpine moorland with its scattering of giant vegetation, and the extensive lower slopes covered in mountain forest and bamboo. The astonishing ecological diversity is one of the attractions of this giant. The ecological processes that have brought about the afro-alpine flora in particular intrigue scientists. There are 81 species of plants here that are found nowhere else in the world.

In the lower forest zone, there is plenty of wildlife including buffalo, elephant, sykes monkey and bushbuck. The animals are however generally difficult to see. Further up, the animals are even scarcer though hyena, leopard, buffalo and civet cats have been sighted. The only animal you are likely to see in the upper alpine zones is the rock hyrax. Though it is the size of a domestic cat, it resembles a rat more. The seemingly humble rock hyrax has some powerful relatives in the animal kingdom and it counts the elephant as its biological kin.

The mountain attracts over 30,000 enthusiasts every year. Point Lenana (4,985 m), the so-called trekkers peak, can be reached by any reasonably fit and suitably prepared person. The summit has the twin peaks of Batian (5,199 m) and Nelion (5,188 m), and is accessible to only those with technical mountaineering and rock climbing experience. This mountain is not an easy one to conquer and each year not more than 100 climbers make it to the twin summit peaks. Mount Kenya is in fact considered to be more technically challenging than the higher Kilimanjaro (5,894 m). But those who make it to the top experience some of Africa's finest rock and ice climbing.

The mountain has very many fans and especially fascinates technical climbers. The author and mountaineer, Rick Ridgeway - author of the Seven Summits, declares that of all the worlds' mountains this is his favourite. Halford Mackinder planned and led the first expedition on record to reach the summit in 1899. But if the Meru elder mentioned above is anything to go by, the locals must have long ago been to the mountaintop. The Mackinder trip was a great success and his party discovered many species of animal and plant life then unknown in Europe. A new species of eagle owl, for example, was first recorded by this expedition and subsequently named after Mackinder.

Though Mount Kenya is practically on the equator, you will find snow and ice and even glaciers. However, in the one hundred years since Mackinder conquered the mountain, the number of glaciers has dropped from 18 to only 7 that remain today. The culprit for this is the global climate change that has accelerated in recent years. Scientists tell us that during the ice ages large glaciers reached below 3,000 m. Today the largest glacier is the Lewis Glacier at 4,600 m. The continuing retreat of glaciers is expected to have a negative impact on downstream eco-systems, not to mention the scenic appeal of the mountain.

Mount Kenya is the source of Tana River- Kenya's biggest river- and was for many years seen as an inexhaustible water fountain. Not any more- the loss of glaciers and forest cover has brought this assumption into disrepute. The loss of forest cover is particularly worrying, because it is avoidable. How to save the forests of Mount Kenya has long engaged environmentalist Wangari Maathai-the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize winner. She was born on the lower slopes of the mountain and has in her lifetime witnessed the changes up at the mountain.

You can reach the peak area by taking one of three routes: Naro Moru, Sirimon and Chogoria. Good roads will get you form Nairobi to Naro Moru, Nanyuki and Chogoria - the base towns for each of the trails. There are alternative routes but most have fallen into disuse and you need superior navigation skills and stamina to attempt them. This includes: Burguret, Meru, Kamweti, and Timau. It is highly recommended that you stick to the three popular routes. But if you have a good reason for doing otherwise, or indeed for pioneering your own route, you are required to register with the park authorities.

The Naro Moru route approaches the mountain from the west and is easily the most popular. The trail is well serviced with rest huts and is the fastest way to the peaks. It is however the steepest and climbers vulnerable to AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) may experience difficulties. The hike will take 4 days, though you may opt for an additional day at the summit. You start with a fairly steep 5-hour walk from Park Gate to Met Station (3,050 m). This is where you spend the first night and acclimatize to the thinning mountain air.

The next day is the longest and you will walk, under varying terrain, for anywhere between 8 and 10 hours. You spend the night at Mackinders Camp (4,200 m), in the vicinity of the peak area. You really should have an early night on this day. Very early the next morning -2.00 a.m is the usual time- you set out to attempt Point Lenana. The mountain is generally clear in the morning and stormy in the afternoon- so, the idea is for you to ascend and descend the peak when you have good traction. This is the part of the hike where some experience symptoms of altitude related ailments.

It will take you about 5 hours to reach Lenana. Here you must take some photos, to show the folks back home how you fared at the top of God's Mountain. Afterwards, you descend in 3 hours to Mackinders Camp for breakfast. Then ascending back to Teleki Valley via Camel Rocks, you reach Met Station in about 4 hours. The night rest is at Met Station, before the final descent to Park Gate.

The Sirimon route has its base at Nanyuki to the north of the mountain. The route offers easier climbing than the Naro Moru trail and is also more scenic. It normally takes 5 days up and down the mountain. You start with a 3-4 hours walk through rain forest to overnight at Old Moses camp (3,300 m). Next day after breakfast you hike through the moorland and the Liki and Mackinder valleys. You reach Shipton's camp (4,200 m) after a 6-7 hour hike. You spend the night here before setting out very early the next morning to attempt Point Lenana.

The Chogoria route begins at the town of the same name to the west of the mountain. This is the by far most beautiful and scenic of the popular routes. You will enjoy dramatic views of waterfalls, valleys, tarns and rugged rock formations. But the trail is not so popular because it is also the longest and therefore toughest. It will take you 6 days to ascend and descend the mountain. There are no usable service huts along the route and you must carry a tent along. Whichever route you use, you can prolong your enjoyment of these heights by taking a day to do the Summit Circuit Path.

It is important that you take enough water - about 4 to 6 litres daily- to keep dehydration at bay. Dehydration makes you more vulnerable to altitude sickness and hypothermia. Hypothermia is lowering of body temperature and symptoms include clumsiness and disorientation. Victims of the condition need to be quickly provided with a warm and dry environment. At heights above 3,000 m, oxygen levels reduce and altitude sickness stalks the trekker. That is why a fast climb is not advised, as you have no opportunity to acclimatize. The symptoms for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) are nausea, headache, fatigue and general malaise. You should always descend to lower altitude with the onset of symptoms.

Other more severe medical conditions that can arise are High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). The coming of HAPE is betrayed by a dry cough and difficulty in breathing. HACE is marked by slurred speech, severe headache and disoriented behaviour. HACE and HAPE are both potentially fatal and you should always descend to lower altitude and seek treatment. To reduce chances of mountain sickness, it is advisable to acclimatize by spending an extra night near Park Gate or at the mountain huts above 4,000 m. If you temper your zeal for the peaks and take a slow sensible hike you will enjoy the adventure and will be all right.

You will generally need a guide and porters so that you can concentrate on the hike. Always go for those who have high altitude experience and are accredited by the park authorities. They will know the routes, and a good one is worth his weight in gold, in event of sickness and other contingencies. The porters shoulder the heavy stuff while you carry a daypack with essentials such warm clothing, fire making capability, some food and drinks, a flashlight and first aid kit.

The stuff you must bring along includes: warm clothing, waterproof hiking boots, rain suit, sleeping bags, flashlights, sunglasses and hand gloves. Many climbers find it expedient to buy a Mount Kenya climbing package in order to take advantage of those with local knowledge. Such a package will include transport, accommodation in the mountain huts, meals while on the climb, park entry fees, services of an experienced mountain guide and porters and cooks.

The main rainy season in the Mount Kenya region falls from late March to June, with secondary rains appearing from late October to December. You can climb the mountain at any time of year but the most comfortable climb is achieved in the dry months of January and February and from July to October.After your climb, you can relax at some of the excellent hotels and resorts in the Mount Kenya area. Before you leave the country, take to heart the sentiments of the Italian climber Carlo Spinelli, who said: "I consider myself a nature lover more than a mountaineer, and for this reason Kenya has the best of both mountain and wilderness". Take time to see wildlife on a Kenya safari in this region or in other parts of the country. Copyright © Africa Point

About the Author
Andrew Muigai is the editor of AfricaPoint Insider online newsletter. It is part of AfricaPoint.com - the Africa travel website that has helped thousands of travelers discover Africa. You can view more info on Kenya safari and tours at the website.

A Trip To Iqaluit In Nunavut, A Canadian Arctic City by Clint Leung

2005-06-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

In 2004, I completed two Inuit art buying trips to Iqaluit (formerly Frobisher Bay), the capital of Nunavut, Canada's newest territory. For both trips, I flew out of Ottawa on Canadian North airlines. The other airline that services Nunavut is First Air. Only the last half of the jets was allocated for passengers as the entire first half was for cargo. Being so remote, Canadian Arctic Inuit communities pretty well have to have everything shipped up there by plane or by boat during the summers since there are no roads connecting to the rest of Canada or even between each Nunavut community.

The Arctic landscape from the air was desolate, hilly and barren. As the plane got closer to Iqaluit, the airport's small terminal building stood out with its bright yellow color. The airport itself is within walking distance to the rest of the town. There are taxis that charge a flat rate of $5 per trip anywhere in Iqaluit. Interestingly enough, these taxis also pick up and drop off other passengers along the way so shared rides with others are common here. There are several hotels in Iqaluit and rooms are generally clean, comfortable but quite basic. Accommodations and dining up north in Nunavut are both expensive. All food items with the exception of local Inuit fare must be flown up from the Canadian south. A carton of milk will cost about $10 in Iqaluit. Most Inuit locals cannot afford to buy overpriced fruits, vegetables and meat from the south. Many local families still rely on Inuit hunters who bring caribou, seal and whale to the table.

There is only one high rise building in Iqaluit and it is used mainly for local Nunavut government offices. All other buildings are low rise, including the hospital. The vast majority of the residential housing is similar to cabins that are raised off the ground because of the harsh Canadian Arctic winters. Many look a bit run down with junk and disposed items piled outside. With the fact that there are no lawns or trees possible this far north, the neighborhoods are certainly not the prettiest sights around. But one Inuit art carver told me that his government subsidized rent is only $36 per month.

There are some small clusters of nice homes on the outskirts of town. Some houses have husky dogs tied up outside and many have snowmobiles. In fact, the roads, most of them unpaved, are shared by cars, trucks, snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles and people. During the summers, Iqaluit can get quite dusty with all the vehicles turning up the dirt on the roads. As a result, Iqaluit did look a bit nicer during my first trip which was during the winter when the city was in white snow rather than brown dirt. There is new construction going on since with the creation of the Nunavut territory, Iqaluit is growing as more Inuit from other Arctic communities are migrating to the city.

One thing that was very noticeable in Iqaluit was the large numbers of children everywhere. Nunavut has a very young population with 56% under the age of 25. I saw many Inuit mothers wearing traditional Inuit parkas with large hoods in the back where their babies are carried. The Inuit youth is one of the Canadian Arctic's untapped resources and its future. They have access to satellite television and dress just like their counterparts in the south. However, at present only about 25% of high school students graduate so a big challenge for the Nunavut government is to encourage the Inuit kids to stay in school.

During my second trip, there was darkness for only a few hours each day so it was very strange to be walking around town at 10 pm in the evening with daylight still present. Even at this hour, there were still quite a few young Inuit children playing outside. The locals, Inuit and non-Inuit alike were very friendly. I got the impression of a tight community perhaps because of the isolation of the Canadian Arctic. However, the local Inuit were also very open to visitors and willing to share a bit of their lives. During the daytime, I went up to a few Inuit art carvers who were working outside their houses. Each turned off their power saws when I approached them and seemed happy to talk to me. I met most of them later during the evenings when they showed me their finished works of Inuit art.

I had the opportunity to walk about 30 minutes to the outskirts of town past the airport one day. I climbed up a hilltop with a satellite dish facility overlooking an expansive valley. There was nobody else around and it was incredible how silent the area was. It was like a vacuum where I could hear only my own breathing. It was a very peaceful and even spiritual moment there. While sitting on this Arctic hilltop, I was suddenly startled at one point by a noise and it turned out to be the flapping wings of a large raven flying by.

There are tours offered by local outfitters to see the northern wildlife and experience some of the Arctic tundra further out. I hope to take one of these tours on a future visit. A trip to Nunavut is not cheap since everything, including flights are so expensive. However, I will definitely return not only for more Inuit art, but also to experience more of the local Inuit culture and the Arctic land.

About The Author

Clint Leung is owner of Free Spirit Gallery http://www.FreeSpiritGallery.ca, an online gallery specializing in Inuit Eskimo and Northwest Native American art including carvings, sculpture and prints. Free Spirit Gallery has numerous information resource articles with photos of authentic Inuit and Native Indian art as well as free eCards.

info@FreeSpiritGallery.ca

Adventure Travel in Canada

Bryce Canyon National Park by Gregg Strand

2005-06-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

Bryce Canyon is a small national park in southwestern Utah. Named after the Mormon Pioneer Ebenezer Bryce, Bryce Canyon became a national park in 1924.

Bryce is famous for its worldly unique geology, consisting of a series of horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in southern Utah. The erosional force of frost-wedging and the dissolving power of rainwater has shaped the colorful limestone rock of the Claron Formation into bizarre shapes including slot canyons, windows, fins, and spires called "hoodoos." Tinted with colors too numerous and subtle to name, these whimsically arranged rocks create a wondrous landscape of mazes, offering some of the most exciting and memorable walks and hikes imaginable.

It is the uniqueness of the rocks that caused Bryce Canyon to be designated as a national park. The hoodoos are formed when ice and rainwater wear away the weak limestone that makes up the Claron Formation. However the hoodoos geologic story is also closely tied to the rest of the Grand Staircase region and the Cedar and Black Mountains volcanic complex. In short, Bryce has enough fascinating geology to fill a textbook.

Ponderosa pines, high elevation meadows, and fir-spruce forests border the rim of the plateau and abound with wildlife. This area boasts some of the world's best air quality, offering panoramic views of three states and approaching 200 miles of visibility. This, coupled with the lack of nearby large light sources, creates unparalleled opportunities for stargazing.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a scientist's laboratory and a child's playground. Because Bryce transcends 2000 ft. (650 m) of elevation, the park exists in three distinct climatic zones: spruce/fir forest, Ponderosa Pine forest, and Pinyon Pine/juniper forest. This diversity of habitat provides for high biodiversity. Here at Bryce, you can enjoy over 100 species of birds, dozens of mammals, and more than a thousand plant species.

Entrance fees:
Private Vehicle = $20
Commercial Vehicle = $150 - $30 (depending on # of seats)
Individual Pass = $10(The information in this article was obtained from the National Park Service and is in the public domain.)

About the Author
Author owns a time-saving national park and general travel website that finds many hotel and lodging search results with only one search. Visit http://www.national-parks-hotels-lodging.com/ for more information.

Adventure Travel

Hiking Sock Guide: Say Goodbye to Blisters? by Marc W.

2005-06-19T05:58:00.000-07:00

More Details at: http://www.hiking-gear-and-equipment-used-for-camping.com/hiking-socks.html

Great hiking socks are critical. Do yours deliver in all these important areas?

Learn how to pick the hiking sock that is smart for your trip.
Your hiking socks are probably like you at work... they do a lot more than they're given credit for. They must be comfortable, wick moisture, protect against shear, support your natural posture, keep your feet at a good temperature, distribute pressure, promote circulation, absorb shock, and be tough. That's no small order.

They are almost as important as your boots and shoes when it comes to your comfort. Here are some things to consider.

Blood Flow- This is the circulation of blood through the foot. A decrease or cut-off in blood flow can be caused by unyielding fabrics in hiking socks. Acrylics in combination with other fibers and a terry weave can help with this and shear.

Moisture- With exertion one foot can sweat 1-2 pints of vapor/fluid per day. That's why wicking technology in hiking socks is so important. Without it bacteria and fungus can become a problem. Hungry yet? ;-)

Position- If your hiking socks don't help to maintain correct anatomical alignment this can cause premature fatigue. Correct posture also helps to correctly position your foot in your boot or shoe to make it feel like it's an extension of your body.

Pressure Areas- Pressure can cause discomfort and lead to damage if it's not addressed. A good example of this is a bedsore. Most people hopefully won't experience pressure to this degree, but it's something you want to keep in mind when looking at hiking socks. Padding is especially important around bony areas like the heal and ball of the foot.

Shearing Force- This happens when your tissue is moving in opposite directions, like when jumping over a stream, or descending a steep slope. Part of your skin is moving one way and the tissue under it another, this causes a tearing action just under the surface of the skin. This is the most common way of getting blisters.

Temperature- Good hiking socks need to be appropriate for their intended use, from a warm weather day hike to a week-long mountaineering trip. Once in their appropriate environment they should maintain a consistent comfortable temperature.

Like a shoe or boot your hiking socks should be matched to the type of hiking you'll be doing.

Liners- Thin socks called liners are made to be worn under your hiking socks next to your skin so they can wick the moisture away and keep your feet dry...

If you'd like more information on hiking socks please click here for the entire article. Also you may want to take a look at this related article on hiking boots and what's important regarding fit and construction.

Marc Wiltse learned how important good quality hiking equipment and camping gear were after his pup tent flooded with over 3 inches of water forcing him to sleep in the front seat of his 2-seat Honda CRX (translation: research is a good thing). His hiking equipment & camping gear guides & reviews save you time & money. Subscribe to his camping & hiking newsletter & get the most usable information FREE! © Marc Wiltse. Reprint permission if author, copyright, links & this notice are intact.

About the Author
Marc W., http://www.hiking-gear-and-equipment-used-for-camping.com/
Marc Wiltse learned how important good quality hiking equipment and camping gear are after his pup tent flooded with over 3 inches of water and forced him to sleep in the front seat of his 2-seat Honda CRX (translation: no sleep and plenty stiff). His hiking equipment & camping gear guides & reviews save you time & money. Subscribe to his camping & hiking newsletter & get the most usable information FREE! © Marc Wiltse. Reprint permission if author, copyright, links & this notice are intact.

Camping Stove Performance, Ease of Use & What to Avoid.
by Marc W.

More Details at: http://www.hiking-gear-and-equipment-used-for-camping.com/

Adventure Travel

Whale Watching – The Biggest Show on Earth by Cliff Calderwood

2005-06-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

Whale watching is a spellbinding, entertaining, and thought-provoking adventure trip. It’s a show with the largest mammals on earth as the star performers. Whales are majestic and graceful giants, who’s every move seems effortless, choreographed, and yet playful. In this article discover how to get the most out of your trip.

Imagine a lazy summer’s afternoon on a boat in a gentle rolling ocean. A good breeze softly massages your face where you sit, and you begin to close your eyes and drift away… the sound of the boat’s engine begins to fade and finally stops. The boat, like you, is drifting over the waves and following the breeze. It’s very peaceful and calm and after a stressful week you feel in harmony with the world.

Then something explodes… out of the water… and only a few feet from your nose! A 30-ton humpback… the length of a large house... it breaches… and in another second is gone. And you’re left in disbelief and wonder.

And it’s just the start of your whale watching!

While whales are scattered throughout the world there’s only a handful of accessible locations to view them in their natural environment. The coastal waters of New England and the west coast of North America are prime locations for whale watching. Hawaii and South Africa are also superb locations to spot whales, as are the ocean waters around New Zealand.

So if a vacation or trip takes you to any of these areas make sure you book a cruise and take in the largest show on earth.

Here’s some pointers to make sure you have an enjoyable whale watch.

PLAN YOUR WHALE WATCHING TRIP

In the summer months whale watching is popular and so book early – many tours suggest one week to avoid disappointment.

Whale watching cruises can last anywhere from 3 hours to 41/2 hours. If whales are just playing hard to find, then the captain will make every effort to stay out as long as they can to get a sighting.

While most boats are equipped with a place to buy food and drink they don’t usually mind you taking your own pack lunch or snacks. Because it can be a long ride until they find the whales and then back to port take a novel or your walkman and listen to your favorite music, or even whale song CD. If you’ve got young children take something to keep them entertained as well.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A WHALE WATCH CRUISE

Before you book on a whale watching cruise check into the cruise company. Check out their web site, you’ll usually find information about the fleet’s experience and staff.

Today most whale watch boats have sophisticated equipment and communications that help the captain find the whales. But if a company has been organizing whale watch trips for many years it’s a sign they’re doing something right and a safe bet for you.

My most rewarding trips have been when a naturalist or whale expert has been on board to provide information and narrate the tour.

CHECK FOR A WHALE SIGHTING GUARANTEE

Because of the very unpredictable nature of the whales, they’ll be rare occasions when you just don’t see any. So make sure you book on a cruise that offers a guarantee sighting or you get to cruise again for free.

Offering a guarantee is another good sign of a confident and experienced whale watch company. But remember if they spot one whale and you weren’t watching or somewhere else on the boat when they did – tough!

WHALE WATCHING IS DONE ON THE OPEN OCEAN

Whale watching on the open ocean means if you suffer with motion sickness at all then take something about an hour before you board the cruise.

Experienced whale watch cruise captains do not go out in rough seas, but it’s not a harbor cruise and the whale feeding grounds are usually miles from land. The open sea can be a little choppy even in the summer months.

QUICK CHECK OF WHALE WATCHING EQUIPMENT

Recommended things to bring on your whale watch are a camera and plenty of film or memory cards (if you’re digital). If you’ve got binoculars take them as whales sometimes surface yards from the boat, and having binoculars will give you spectacular views and close ups others without them just won’t get.

Wear sneakers or something rubber-soled for good traction on a wet and slippery deck. And take sunscreen, sunglasses, and if it’s got a tie strap – a hat.

Because of the breeze and open water there’s usually a 15-degree difference from land out in the ocean. So take a sweatshirt or windbreaker just in case, and especially for a late afternoon trip. Also the boats will go out in the rain and if you’ve got a poncho take it.

The whales are waiting for you. These mesmerizing animals have traveled thousands of miles so you can view them playing and feeding. It’s really the biggest show on earth. So go ahead and take the adventure - they don’t stay for long.

About the Author
Cliff Calderwood is the owner and contributing writer of www.new-england-vacations-guide.com . You can read other vacation articles and get a free travel report at his New England vacations online guide site.

Adventure Travel

Kayaking in Alaska

2005-06-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

Power and Majesty of Glaciers, Experienced from the Waters They&#0146;re In more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/9/2005 10:18:22
AMContent source: abcnews.go.com

The Lighthouse of Alexandria by Steven N. Ng

2005-06-09T00:39:00.000-07:00

The Lighthouse of Alexandria is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It is the most recent Wonder to be built, having been built during the reign of Ptolemy I of Egypt, a commander under Alexander the Great who took over control of Egypt after Alexander's death.

Historical records indicate that the Lighthouse was commissioned in 290 B.C. and completed some 2 decades later.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria is also the most well-recorded of the six destroyed members of the Seven Wonders of The Ancient World (the Pyramids of Giza being the only Wonder still standing), since it was still in operation until a serious of earthquakes demolished the structure over a few decades in the early 14th century.

Since it survived until so recently, the writings of many of the travelers who visited the Lighthouse of Alexandria also survived till this day, vividly describing what the Lighthouse looked like and what it was used for.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria was built on the island of Pharos just off the coast of Alexandria, Egypt. As such, it was also commonly known as the Pharos Lighthouse. The Lighthouse was designed by the famed architect Sostratus, and was so complicated that it took 2 decades to be completed. The best description came from the writings of Arab traveler Abou-Haggag Al-Andaloussi when he visited the Pharos Lighthouse in 1166.

The writings indicated that the structure consisted of 4 main sections. At the bottom was a platform filled with statues that are still being discovered by present-day divers off the coast of Alexandria. Some researchers believe that ships docked just off this platform as well.
On top of this platform stood a square structure measuring 18 m (60 ft) on each side and roughly 56 m (184 ft) tall. In the middle of this section is a shaft and stairwell used for transporting material and fuel up the Pharos Lighthouse, and for visitors as well. The third section was an eight-sided structure measuring roughly 27 m (90 ft) high. It also contained a similar transportation shaft in the middle.

On top of this was a circular tower that housed the fire (for use to alert ships during the night) and the great mirror (for use during the day). A statue of Poseidon stood on top this tower.
The Pharos Lighthouse was a true wonder in architecture and engineering, bearing similarities to modern skyscrapers. It measured up to a modern 40-story building. The Greeks were so impressed with it that they included it as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The mirror of the Pharos Lighthouse appeared to be quite famous in ancient times. Many people believed that the mirror was so smooth and powerful that it could be used to reflect the sun's rays onto invading ships and burn them. Another belief was that the mirror was so strong it could be used to observe and spy on competing city-states across the Mediterranean Sea, more than 100 miles away. However, it is highly unlikely that either of these stories are true.

From historical evidence, it appears that the Pharos Lighthouse was also a tourist attraction. Hundreds of visitors climbed the Lighthouse everyday to enjoy the fantastic view around Alexandria. Food vendors also sold their goods at the top of each section of the Pharos.
However, the Pharos Lighthouse was damaged by earthquakes, becoming totally demolished in the early 14th century. Its ruins and location were subsequently used by the Egyptian Sultan Qaitbay to build a fort in 1480, thus ending the story for this Wonder of the World.

For more information on the Lighthouse of Alexandria, visit http://www.nekhebet.com/w_lighthouse.html

About the Author

Steven N. Ng, webmaster@nekhebet.com http://www.nekhebet.com
Steven maintains the informational website Wonders of Ancient Egypt at http://www.nekhebet.com/ Do visit if you want to find out more about the wonders of Egypt such as the Pyramids and the Lighthouse; or mysteries such as mummifcation and conspiracy theories; or its religion and history.
more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/9/2005 2:39:19 AM

Jet Lag - You can Suffer From It...Or You Can Do What This International Airline Captain Does by Pilot Paul

2005-06-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

Whatever the reason for your travel, you have made a considerable investment. It costs you time and money. If you're stuck in a hotel room suffering from jet lag symptoms, you're missing out.

Obviously, you'd like to make the most of your trip. You will get the greatest return on your investment if you're out of your hotel room enjoying your destination. I can help you achieve this.

"What Is Jet Lag?"

In simple terms, jet lag is the disruption of your body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm. This clock sets your sleeping and waking times. It is complex and sensitive. Flying east or west messes it up. That's because you cross time zones much faster than your body can adjust.
What are common jet lag symptoms? They include:

* Headache
* Disorientation
* Anxiety
* Exhaustion
* Indigestion
* Dehydration
* Impaired Coordination

Obviously, these things could ruin your trip. Following these guidelines will reduce your jet lag symptoms and let you enjoy your trip even more.

I'll break this discussion into three sections:

* Before Your Trip* During Your Flight* At Your Destination

A. Help Prevent Jet Lag Before You Leave Home
1. Get Plenty Of Sleep. NASA found that getting as much sleep as possible beginning two days before your trip is significant in minimizing jet lag symptoms.
2. Reduce Your Stress. All that running around can make you more stressed.
3. Exercise. If you exercise regularly, make it a priority to keep that routine just before you travel. Also, continue it at your destination.

B. Things You Can Do During Your Flight To Reduce Jet Lag
1. Arrive Early At The Airport. Not rushing to make your flight will help reduce stress and make you more relaxed. That way you'll rest better on the plane.
2. Begin Adjusting To The New Time Zone And Schedule. When you get on the plane, set your watch to your destination's time. Then think about when you'll eat and sleep there. Try to begin eating and sleeping at those times.
3. Sleep As Much As You Can On the Plane. This is a key factor in reducing jet lag.
4. Wear Comfortable clothing. Comfortable clothes, warm socks and a sweater will enable you to sleep better.
5. Drink Plenty of Water. Not soda, not alcohol, not caffeine, but water.
6. Get Up and Stretch Frequently.
7. Use a Footrest. The first and business class seats have these, but even in coach, you can benefit from using a footrest. Use a carry-on bag or travel foot rest.
8. Loosen Your Shoes.
9. Pills and Supplements. In a word... Don't.

My complete jet lag article at http://www.pilot-pauls-travel-accessories.com/jet-lag.html has a detailed discussion about the dangers of pills and supplements for jet lag.

C. Adjusting At Your Destination
1. Try To Eat On The New Schedule. This helps your body clock adjust to minimize your jet lag symptoms.
2. Try To Sleep On The New Schedule. This is often easier said than done. There is a full discussion about sleep adjustment and napping at www.pilot-pauls-travel-accessories.com/jet-lag.html I have also written extensively about how to sleep better in any hotel room.You can learn all those sleep tips by visiting: www.pilot-pauls-travel-accessories.com/sleep-tips.html
3.Exercise. This is also among the important jet lag remedies. If you have a regular exercise routine, you'll want to continue it now.
4. Get out in the Sunlight. This is simple to accomplish as long as you have a sunny day.
Studies have shown that exposure to bright light helps shift the circadian rhythms (body clock), and therefore reduce the jet lag symptoms.

That's just a brief overview. I highly recommend that you read my complete jet lag article before you go on your next long trip. You can find it at:
http://www.pilot-pauls-travel-accessories.com/jet-lag.html

Copyright 2005 by Ph.Developments USA, Inc. All rights reserved.

About the AuthorPilot Paul is a captain at a major U.S. airline. He also hosts http://www.pilot-pauls-travel-accessories.com/ where an airline captain helps you with your travel needs.
If you would like to learn more travel tips, see travel accessory reviews and recommendations, learn insider's secrets, find travel discounts, or receive our FREE newsletter, please visit us at
http://www.Pilot-Pauls-Travel-Accessories.com

Visit Adventure Travel for more information

Great Wall of China by Jeff Anderson

2005-06-06T00:06:00.000-07:00

The Great Wall of China as some believed originated as a military fortification against intrusion by tribes on the borders during the earlier Zhou Dynasty. In 770-BC-476BC, the ducal states extended the defense work, and built large structures to prevent the attacks from other states. The Great Wall of China was eventually separated during the Qin Dynasty, which preceded the Zhou Dynasty. The Zhao, Qin, and Yan kingdoms were connected to form a defensive system on the northern border of the country of Emperor, Qin Shi Huang. In 214 BC the building of the Great Wall of China was on its way. The Great Wall of China took as long as ten years to build.

The Great Wall of China took hundreds of thousands of laborers working daily beyond human limitations to construct and build. Many persons that did not work were thrown into the foundation trenches starving from hunger and exposure of the earths changing weathers. The Great Wall of China was then called The Longest Cemetery on Earth. Buried beneath its structure were more than 400,000 persons.

The Great Wall was stretched from Linzhao (eastern part of Gansu Province), in the west to Liaodong (Jilin Province) in the east. The Great Wall of China served as both a defense and symbolized the power of the emperor. The Great Wall of China was partly successful in repelling invading Mongol forces more than a century ago.

The Great Wall of China has more than 300 million trees, and its purpose was to serve as a barrier from the dust storms that swept into China from the Gobi Desert and other low-rainfall areas. The Great Wall of China was dubbed This Great Green Wall. During the 50's, the city of Beijing was beset by 10 to 20 dust storms every spring. Visibility was only half a mile for 30 to 90 hours each month. By the 1970's the storms had reduced resulting in greater visibility at less than ten hours per month. The reduction made work easier for the many laborers.

The Great Wall of China towered China's mountains, plunging to the lower valleys, and marching across burning desert plains. Very cold winds coupled with snowstorms, made it very difficult for workers. At the same time raging desert sun and stinging sandstorms oppressed the workers, making their jobs difficult, and often risky.

Today the Great Wall of China is a captivation for tourists around the world.

About The Author Jeff Anderson knows about China. He knows what to look for and what pitfalls to avoid. Let him guide you to finding out more about China. Contact him at Jeff@culchina.com or visit the blog at his site www.culchina.com. more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/6/2005 2:06:29 AM

Travel Asia: Festivities and Fun by Jean Sutherland

2005-06-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

Are you planning to travel to Asia within the next year, and are looking for some fun festivities to attend? Well, look no further – we’ve researched some of the more incredible Asian festivals for you to check out during your travels.

Travel Asia: Pulilan Carabao Festival

You’ll probably never see a water buffalo adorned quite like this! If you travel to Pulilan in the second week of May, you’ll witness the homage to the patron saint of farmers, San Isidro Labrador. Families take their prized water buffalos, scrape away the dirt, shave them, anoint them in oils, and then parade them around the city square dressed as kings. The priests of the Asian city then kneel and ask the buffalos to bless them, promising health and good wishes for the upcoming year to all, including visiting travelers.

Travel Asia: Parade of the God of Medicine

On the 15th day of the third lunar month, the city of Taiwan is taken over by this world-renowned Asian festivity – a must for travelers in the area because of its spectacular parade. At the nucleus of the 160 temple celebration are Pao Sheng in Taipei and the Temple of Ching Tzu in Hseuhchia. Spearheaded by a group called the Centipedes, worshippers attending the city-wide parade throw themselves on the ground to be stepped upon, as a symbolic exorcising of their demons.

Travel Asia: Yasothon Rocket Festival

In the middle of May, things get very noisy for Asian travelers to the Phaya Thaen Park in Thailand. Historically, the festival started as an offering to the gods of the sky, exploding beautiful rockets to encourage rainfall for rice crop growth. Nowadays, event has become something more of a sport, with competitions to see whose rocket can fly the farthest, and whose explodes the most.

Travel Asia: Asakusa Samba

Toyko’s version of the Rio Carnaval happens every August, in the Asakusa district. Travelers to Asia and natives alike are amazed by the colorful sequined costumes and feathers of the dancing Samba girls, along with their full bands marching down the street alongside them.

Travel Asia: The Festival of the Hungry Ghosts

Hong Kong hosts this unusual yearly event, held on the 14th day of the seventh moon (sometime in August, during a full moon). Legend says that the gates of Hades were opened on this day, and the dead who cannot rest were left to run the streets mischievously. The Yue Lan Festival, as it is known in Chinese, has natives of the city putting up odd paper monuments all over the streets, which are then ceremoniously burned on the last day.

Travel Asia: The Monkey God Festival

The Monkey God first appeared in Chinese literature during the Ming Dynasty in the book, “Pilgrims to the West”. Since then, this deity has been celebrated during the month of September at Kowloon’s Sau Mau Ping Temple, by recreating a bizarre attempted execution by other the other gods – which includes such things as a ladder of knives, and charcoal set on fire. Travelers to this strange Asian celebration need not be concerned, though – the Monkey God lived, and so do the participants in this celebration.

About the Author:Jean Sutherland has worked in the travel industry for over 10 years and has a website dedicated to resort spas and day spas.http://www.spasoftheworld.com / http://www.dayspalady.com

Adventure Travel

A Dirtbagging Trip by Steve Gillman

2005-06-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

Dirtbagging is stripping camping or backpacking down to the essentials: fun and adventure. Just throw a few things in any old pack, and get out there. You don't need all that expensive camping and backpacking gear. Leave the extra clothes behind, sleep in a pile of leaves or next to a fire. Dirtbagging is keeping it simple and using your wits instead of your wallet.

Recipe For A Dirtbagging Trip
Take an old inflated rubber tube, a bivy sack made from garbage bags, and some snacks. Put them in an beat-up daypack, add a bus ride, a river, wild strawberries and a thunderstorm or two. Mix well and enjoy.

This particular dirtbagging trip was a float down the Boardman River in Michigan. I took the bus out of town, and had the driver drop me off on the side of the road, where the river passed under. The water is shallow, but fast here. The sun was shining when stepped into the cold current.

I had brought a few warm things to wear to bed instead of using a sleeping bag. I carried a small umbrella to use on the river and over my head at night. Altogether, I had maybe 10 pounds in the bundle on my lap as I floated down the river sitting in the tube, with my butt and my feet in the cold water. I had to navigate usking my hands as paddles.

The trout were surfacing everywhere and the deer were stepping back from the riverbank at the sight of me. Blue heron were hunting for fish in the shallows. A beaver slapped his tail against the water when he saw me. I floated for hours, the view alternaing between wilderness areas and small collections of nice homes.

I was just going with the flow. It was very relaxing, and yet still had the element of unpredictability, and thus adventure.

There were wild strawberries at every stop, and when I stopped for the night I feasted on them until the rain came. It rained all night, but I stayed dry in my garbage bag bivy sack (my dirtbagging shelter), with a small umbrella over my head. A large white-tail deer almost stepped on me in the middle of the night, and scared me half to death with his snorting. In the morning it was still raining.

It wasn't just raining, it was a wicked thunderstorm. One thing about a bivy sack is that you don't have enough space to keep yourself entertained. So, storm or not, it was time to get moving. I bundled up my few things, stepped into the cold river, and sat in the tube.

I drifted by beautiful houses, sitting there in a heavy sweater, with my umbrella over my head. The morning light was late because of the storm. People looked up from their coffee to see me in a flash of lightning. I waved and floated on.

Closer to home, I had a great time slogging through knee-deep mud in a portage around a dam. It was almost like quicksand. I worked my way free, and took a trail through the rainy woods along the river. By noon I was safely home and wondering if it was too early for a beer. That's dirtbagging.

About the Author
Steve Gillman has been hiking, biking, floating and adventuring in general for decades. For more of his stories and outdoor advice, you can visit http://www.TheMountainHikingSite.com

Adventure Travel

Sketchy Descent from Annapurna (MountainZone.com)

2005-06-02T11:47:00.001-07:00

Once Ed Viesturs made his historic ascent of Annapurna, he faced a difficult descent... more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/2/2005 1:47:20 PMContent source: Outdoor Newswire

New Vid: Brent Floyd (MountainZone.com)

2005-06-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

Sit back and watch Brent Floyd tackle log rides, skinnies, teeter roll-downs, and huge gap jumps... more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/2/2005 12:24:15 PMContent source: http://mtbike.mountainzone.com/html/broadband.html

PowerShield Hoodie (MountainZone.com)

2005-06-02T05:40:00.001-07:00

A soft-shell jacket with a fleece layer perfect for spring mountain biking... more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/2/2005 7:40:11 AMContent source: http://www.mountainzone.com/gear/hoodie.html

Salida: A Mountain Biker's Mecca (MountainZone.com)

2005-06-02T01:40:00.000-07:00

This bike-crazy town on the Arkansas River offers three mountain ranges of epic single-track to burn your quads on... more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/2/2005 3:40:08 AMContent source: http://mtbike.mountainzone.com/2005/salida/index.html

24 Hours of Adrenalin (MountainZone.com)

2005-06-01T20:08:00.000-07:00

Marla Streb and her Lunda Chix team get down and dirty at the 24-hours of Adrenalin, beating out 27 male teams... more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/1/2005 10:08:04 PMContent source: http://mtbike.mountainzone.com/blogs/marla_streb/

Idaho’s Majestic Landscape, Find Adventure Around Every Bend by Melody Schubert

2005-06-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

Travelers visiting Idaho's majestic landscape find plenty of Historic sites and Cultural events to explore. Idaho is a haven for those who love the outdoors.

From Hell's Canyon and Heaven's Gate, to thousands of natural springs, rapid white waters, and a city of rocks; you'll find adventure around every bend in Idaho.

"The Gem Of The Mountains"

Idaho's name is thanks to George M. Willing, who urged congress to adopt the name, which he said meant the "gem of the mountains." Those who love the outdoors would agree. Idaho's landscape is filled with breathing-taking rivers, perfect for white water rafting, and lakes set within lush woodlands. Travel on the path Lewis & Clark trekked or take off on your own adventure. Wherever you go in Idaho it's sure to be a memorable trip.

Artists Capture Idaho's Beauty With Water Colors

Pack your palate and water colors for a trip to Idaho to join Professional artist, Erica Craig, and other aspiring painters in the wilderness. While a snapshot is a memorable token of a vacation, imagine bringing home a painting that captures the scenic beauty of Idaho. Erica helps inspire artists to do just this on wilderness river trips on the Main Salmon River in Idaho. The six day, 80 mile trip takes artist to scenic locations and sandy beaches where "You capture things with watercolors that you just can't capture on film," said Erica. To explore your creative side in Idaho with Erica call 208-756-6356.

A Fantastic Experience Awaits On The White Waters In Idaho

Our journey through Idaho took us through stunning landscapes and along crystal clear lakes. We discovered paradise, and continued our search for the wild side of Idaho, and then our adventure along Idaho's Main Salmon and Middle Fork of the Salmon river began.

With Warren River Expeditions, Inc. we have the choice of 5, 6, and 10 day white water rafting trips on Idaho's Main Salmon and Middle Fork of the Main Salmon rivers. It's said that both of these rivers are arguably two of the finest white water experiences in the world. We found out there's nothing like the rush of heading down the river and finding ancient rock drawings around the bend. To imagine we traveled along the same path as Lewis & Clark adds a special touch to the experience.

In addition to Warren River Expeditions, Inc. standard river trips they also offer specialty trips like Seniors only lodge stay trips, family rafting trips, Intergenerational trips, fly fishing trips, kayak workshops, and popular women's only trips. The best part of the trip is the "Great food, Great friends, and Great fun" we enjoyed with our fellow rafters. The guides also kept us entertained with the historical background of the area, and pointed natural sites along the way.

To plan you own white water rafting trip with Warren River Expeditions, Inc. visit http://www.RaftIdaho.com . Warren River Expeditions, Inc. can be reached at 1-800-765-0421, or by email at: SalmonRiver@RaftIdaho.com. Visit www.usatravelmagazine.com to discover more adventures across the nation.

About the Author
Melody Schubert is a travel writer who looks for the intriguing & often overlooked destinations that express the heart of a region. She writes for print & online media, and may be contacted through the Editor at www.usatravelmagazine.com .

Adventure Travel

The Top 100 Travel Products That You Can’t Live Without by Kriss Hammond

2005-06-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

ConairPro Plug Adapters & Voltage Converter Kit

Perfect for the world traveler! The kit includes 4 different plug adapters used for most foreign wall outlet and voltage converter which converts 220/240V to 110/120V. Works with European and Asian electrical outlets.

The Jet Lag Bag Anti-Stress Travel Pack
For the inveterate globe-trotter or armchair adventurer - the Jet Lag Bag is an exquisite selection of our most popular Anti-Stress accoutrements packed in a cute, compact and eminently convenient travel pack. Whether on land, sea, sky or just in the clouds, create your own peaceful, pretty-scented ambience with a few spritzes of the Anti-Stress Pillow Mist. Soothe away the eye-baggage that forms during long, sleepless flights with the chillable/heatable Anti-Stress Peace Mask. And remain master of your own mood with the lavender, chamomile and citrus scents of the Anti-Stress Massage Soap and Anti-Stress Massage Lotion. Mind and body will hardly lag behind. An ideal bon voyage gift and auspicious starter kit for those who have yet to try our rave-worthy Anti-Stress Collection.

Badger Sleep Balm
It can sometimes be hard to fall asleep at night when we travel. That's why we carry a tin of Badger Sleep Balm on every trip. It contains a relaxing blend of balsam fir extracts with essential oils of bergamot, ginger, rosemary and lavender, as well as organic extra-virgin olive oil. Just rub a little onto your temples, chin or pulse points and its gentle fragrance will help you slip off to dreamland. It really works! 2 oz. tin. Made in the USA.

Plane Quiet Active Noise Reduction Headset
The revolutionary Plane Quiet Active Noise Reduction Headset eliminates up to 15 decibels across the sound spectrum, so you can relax and enjoy your favourite movie, music or pristine silence on your next flight -- or anytime you need to block out unpleasant noise! Foldable design. Comes with leatherette pouch and one AAA battery. Dual plug adapter. 1.6m cord.

Natural Linen Shades™ w/ Earplugs
Washable,100% light blocking blackout cloth creates complete darkness,Super soft padding cradles your eyes without pressure,Velcro straps secure shades easily and comfortably, Super-soft padding makes these a shade above other sleep masks, Bucky Shades™ cushion your eyes in complete darkness, stimulating your body s own natural melatonin production. This hormone called the all natural nightcap is the body's sleep/wake regulator and plays a part in protecting cells, strengthening the immune system, anti-aging, and alleviating depression. Bucky Shadesä won t leave you with the hangover effect you may experience with sleeping pills. Wake up refreshed, re-energized, and ready to enjoy work or play,Earplugs (included) store in handy pocket

To read this entire feature FREE with photos cut and paste this link: Jet Setters Magazine

Hammond, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent. Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com

About the Author
Kriss Hammond, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent. Join the Travel Writers Network in the logo at www.jetsettersmagazine.com

Adventure Travel

Murder on the American Orient Express

2005-05-29T06:09:00.000-07:00

The glamorous American Orient Express dining car is hardly the place for poor table manners. Yet, the gentleman seated at the next table has just splashed face down into his vichyssoise. And there's a rather nasty dagger protruding from his...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/23/2005 8:09:28 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/170648.htm

Gear Junkie: Bike Lights (MountainZone.com)

2005-05-28T22:47:00.000-07:00

"There exists a group of bike heads and gear junkies who will not think twice about putting down $500 on a high-power bike light system..." more...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 6/2/2005 12:47:05 AMContent source: http://www.mountainzone.com/gear/blogs/gear_junkie/

The Real Star Wars: The Race for Discovery

2005-05-26T02:31:00.000-07:00

With heightened interest in the Star Wars movie series, more and more adventure travelers are turning to the night skies to 'get away' from the rigors and routine of work. From setting up home telescopes to visiting planetariums and...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/23/2005 4:31:25 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/170156.htm

Looking Inside the Mind of a Skydiver

2005-05-24T19:58:00.000-07:00

Skydivers - Most people say they're crazy. Some say they have a death wish. But psychologists say people with an inclination to take high risks are a necessary part of the continuation of our species. Whether for sport or by...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 9:58:19 PM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/169859.htm

Mount St. Helens Anniversary Rebound

2005-05-23T00:47:00.000-07:00

When Mount St. Helens erupted 25 years ago, the north face of the volcano collapsed in a massive rock-debris avalanche. The landslide and the accompanying flow of searing gases instantly obliterated the surrounding landscape. But scientists today are stunned.

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/23/2005 2:47:23 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/170022.htm

Adventuring "The Shire" of Texas

2005-05-22T21:28:00.000-07:00

When you think of Texas, you often think of dust storms on the vast rolling plains. But there's a place in Texas full of beauty, of rolling rivers and streams that flow past hills and rush through canyons. In the...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 11:28:22 PM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/169857.htm

Adventure Racing: An Introduction to the Sport

2005-05-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

Adventure racing is a new extreme sport that is sweeping across the globe and becoming popular especially among the young and fit who are always looking for new, creative, and competitive ways to express their love of testing human endurance...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 6:31:16 PM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/168867.htm

First American To Reach Summit of Annapurna

2005-05-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

American Ed Viesturs has reached the summit of Nepal's Annapurna, making him the first American to reach the top of all 14 8,000 meter peaks. According to MSN.com, a sponsor of Viesturs' expedition, the 45-year-old Seattle-based mountaineer reached the summit

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 2:37:13 PM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/169473.htm

Australian Wildlife Demands Respect

2005-05-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

Wildlife photographers and naturalists will tell you to be wary of those charming, innocent looking animals when you're in the wild. They may not be as friendly as you think. Take, for example, recent problems in Australia where kangaroos...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 12:33:12 PM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/169228.htm

Where the Atlantic Meets the Caribbean

2005-05-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

The Atlantic and the Caribbean meet at various places but perhaps none more beautiful than the Domincan Republic's Punta Cana region, 40 miles of unspoiled beaches that offer the best of the ocean and the sea. Pearl white sands, over...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 10:46:09 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/168191.htm

Trail Ride the "Land of the Sleeping Rainbows"

2005-05-22T07:01:00.000-07:00

The weather is warmer and it's high time to hit the high trail - this time on horseback! Imagine six days on the trail in the canyon and plateau country of the Colorado River drainage, with life zones ranging from...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 9:01:06 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/168580.htm

Culebra - Jewel of the Spanish Virgin Islands

2005-05-22T05:58:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a remote islands with world-class beaches, unique cuisine, out-of-the-way private resorts, clean beach cabanas, award-winning dive and snorkel areas -- all without the normal hassles of an overflowing supply of visitors and a tourist-drive

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 7:58:03 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/168037.htm

Big Bend's Mysterious Chisos Mountains

2005-05-22T03:24:00.000-07:00

Adventure writers have called the region one of the most remote locations in North America. One look and you'll agree. Desolation is a word often used to describe its boundaries, isolation its middle name; loneliness its coat of honor....

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 5:23:59 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/169696.htm

Adventuring Ireland's Secret Gardens

2005-05-22T01:54:00.000-07:00

Yes, there are certainly plenty of adventure activities in Ireland, from world class biking to cross-country hiking, rafting to paragliding. But between all the action you can find food for the spirit and inspirational moments of peace in the little...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 3:53:56 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/167711.htm

Surfer Nets $68,000 for Riding the Year's Biggest Wave

2005-05-21T22:15:00.000-07:00

On Friday, April 22, stars of the surf world, along with an online audience tuning in via webcast, joined a panel of judges at Anaheim's Grove Theater for the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards. Dan Moore, a 48-year-old surf...

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/22/2005 12:14:53 AM
Content source: http://adventuretravel.about.com/b/a/167416.htm

Magma Photography

2005-05-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

Well, I was hoping for the chance in Hawaii last year, but the volcaoes just wern't playing ball, so got little more than steam shots where the lava entered the sea. Still, got some fun stuff of cold lava formations though. May even get round to putting them

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 11:01:50 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=34714#34714

carnets?

2005-05-21T19:27:00.000-07:00

I think we're gonna need a little more info here. What exactly are you trying to do and where? In London you can buy a carnet of tube tickets to use the underground in zone 1. This means buying a job lot of 10 tickets at a discount, though is now being overta

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 9:26:47 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=34686#34686

How adventurous are you?

2005-05-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

Woo hoo I got 70 %!!"Is your skin orange and are you called Judith Chalmers? The amount you've travelled is quite impressive indeed, however there are still one or two places in the world you haven't been. Surely it's time to cross the remaining few off the

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 6:51:44 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=34192#34192

Travel to Costa Rica

2005-05-21T13:53:00.000-07:00

Travel to Costa Rica
This is your fourth attempt at spam in as many posts. Now banned.Paul.

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 3:53:41 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=34053#34053

Most favourable things to do in Scandinavia

2005-05-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

Didn't go see Norway yet. But i have to say the city's are nice to. I will be of in a couple of days to spend some days in Stockholm and i really like this city. Copenhagen is real nice to and don't forget other city's in Sweden like Malmo and Lund..

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 1:06:38 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=33633#33633

Mountain Biking Question

2005-05-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

Don't forget Sedona too. Also, you're not limited to Moab in Utah. There' s some great slickrock in the Bryce Canyon area that's just primitive trails right off the side of the road. Once you got there, locals would point you in the right direction..

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 11:40:37 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=33297#33297

Canoe Trip, New Zealand

2005-05-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

Me and a friend are off to NZ in September on a 2 year WHV. We would like to spend most of the time walking, camping and climbing. While we're there, we thought about doing a river trip (in a Canadian Canoe) for a week or two. I imagine it would be brillian

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 8:39:33 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=32958#32958

Weather around the world.... good site for it?

2005-05-21T04:32:00.000-07:00

Weather around the world.... good site for it?
[quote="trixiebee"]We're traveling around the world, starting next Feb. Since the climates varying all over, I'm wondering if anyone's found a website that gives general patterns, wet seasons, etc. for all over. I find weather.com to be a bit tedious for thi

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 6:32:33 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=32950#32950

OuterQuest.com Adventure Travel

2005-05-21T02:26:00.000-07:00

OuterQuest.com Adventure Travel
[url=http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?t=9]Please read the guidelines on advertising[/url].Paul.

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 4:26:31 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=32913#32913

Med Sailing Adventure

2005-05-21T00:28:00.000-07:00

Med Sailing Adventure
Thank you for the "heads up". captaincrunch, consider this a warning. Please now go and read the advertising rules posted at the top of each and every forum before posting here again.Paul.

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 2:28:28 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=32533#32533

General questions, not about a specific area - is this here?

2005-05-20T22:34:00.000-07:00

General questions, not about a specific area - is this here?
Correct... or - put more simply - http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewforum.php?f=24 ;)Paul.

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/21/2005 12:34:26 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=32525#32525

Horseback Riding in Ireland

2005-05-20T21:06:00.000-07:00

Horseback Riding in Ireland
I was just wondering, has anyone out there done one of those week long riding tours in Ireland? My friend and I are going to the Ring of Kerry at the end of May. We both ride regularly (I am a professional trainer, she is a student) so I'm not so concerned

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/20/2005 11:06:25 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=32277#32277

adventure travel groups

2005-05-20T17:09:00.000-07:00

adventure travel groups
Perhaps a way to market your idea is to offer packages to existing clubs in your area. For example, ski clubs organize several trips each year. I suspect that whaite water clubs do the same. Another thought is to work the fitness club businesses to market

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/20/2005 7:09:22 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=31975#31975

Rock climbing - "moderate" routes

2005-05-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

Rock climbing - "moderate" routes
:D Great commentary and connection of climbing with life issues. I really only read the post today. But I am such a strong procrastinator (analysis paralysis), that I have to agree with your point.Good Luck and Good Selling!.

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/20/2005 4:07:19 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=31974#31974

A bit of adventure in Hungary

2005-05-20T10:11:00.000-07:00

A bit of adventure in Hungary
Hey all, finally planned a week of holiday in Hungary. A good friend of mine is working in Budapest and she invited me over for a sporty week. We are planning to go for mountainbiking and rockclimbing. Sadly, all the websites about rockclimbing I found we

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/20/2005 12:11:15 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=31436#31436

Alpine skiing

2005-05-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

Alpine skiing
I don't think you can read too much into the short-term implications of something like this. Regardless of what's going on up there, climate is very variable and you can get high levels of snowfall even when global temperatures are on a rising trend. It's t

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/20/2005 9:05:12 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=31414#31414

SCUBA Dive In Resort Bali Indonesia

2005-05-20T03:50:00.000-07:00

SCUBA Dive In Resort Bali Indonesia
Please see the advertising rules, yadidoo.Paul.

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/20/2005 5:50:07 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=29901#29901

Rollercoaster travel

2005-05-20T00:26:00.000-07:00

For a while I was going to correct you because I was sure that the Liseberg Park in Gothenburg had the biggest and bravest of them all. Then I realized they only feature Europe's best Roller Coaster ( at least so they brag on their website) I am not too much

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/20/2005 2:26:02 AM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=29118#29118

Has anyone been back to Krabi since tsunami

2005-05-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

Has anyone been back to Krabi since tsunami
According to a friend of mine Hat Rai Leh was not hit as badly by the tsunami as Ko Phi Phi or Phuket. Most of the hotels/bungalows are open again. Can't speak of own experience, it's just what I heard from a friend..

Adventure Travel
Originally Posted on 5/19/2005 7:35:02 PM
Content source: http://www.aardvarktravel.net/chat/viewtopic.php?p=27600#27600

All Adventure Travel Blog is here!

2005-05-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by! Why take a lazy, relaxing (read boring) vacation when you can have a trip of a lifetime? Ben Franklin said,

There will be sleeping enough in the grave.

Get your heart racing, feel the rush of adrenaline! Do something different! Have stories to tell your grandchildren.

Stay tuned for articles and resources for adventure travelers!