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Posts Tagged ‘Featured Writer’

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Beach Activities for Everyone ~ Even Non-Beach-Lovers (Seriously?!)

Posted by E.G.D. on April 25, 2013

Today’s Featured Guest Post Writer is Erica Kritt from The Cruise Web:

The ever-popular Seawall Beach at Galveston Island, Texas

The ever-popular Seawall Beach at Galveston Island, Texas

I confess, I used to hate the beach. I hated the sand getting in everything, I thought it was boring, and on top of that I don’t like my beach bod. However, now I love the beach. Working at a travel agency, destinations that are rich in beaches come up a lot, so I have a lot of knowledge about what to do on a beach. I’d like to share how the beach can be a fun place for everyone from grandpa to baby with a few activities that will be fun for all. Believe me, if I could get over my dislike of the beach, then you or your family members can too.

Looking to Relax
If you can find a quiet beach, you are set, and even if you are at a popular spot, put on your shades and some soothing music and focus in on the waves coming in and out. Lounging on the beach is a great chance to get out in nature, but you can surround yourself with creature comforts, like a pillow, your e-reader and some tropical smoothies.

Most relaxing activity: Many cruise lines have private islands in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, where you can even experience a massage in a cabana right on the beach.

Shelling with Family

Shelling with Family

Looking to Explore
A beach has a lot to offer for both kids and adults looking to discover creatures they’ve never seen, or to find those special shell treasures. In fact, finding a good beach could be an expedition in itself.

Best Exploration: Snorkeling excursions are a chance to see the creatures that lurk just underneath the water. In the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean, you’ll have a chance to see beautifully colored fish and interesting coral formations.

Looking to Play
Sand castles aren’t just for kids, on the shore you can try your hand at making sand sculptures. The beach is fun, but things can get really fun in the water. At many beaches you can rent wave runners, or fly high while parasailing over the ocean. Some cruise lines even offer passengers the chance to take a horse ride on the beach and even in the surf.

The Most Fun of All
Anytime you can learn a new skill, it makes your experience that much more rich. Beaches in Hawaii and other tropical destinations offer surf lessons where you can test your balance in the ocean.

As you can see, there really is an activity on the beach for everyone. All you have to do is make sure you visit a beach that offers what you are looking for, read reviews, speak with a travel agent, and get ready for some fun in the sun.

About the Author: Erica Kritt works at The Cruise Web, a travel agency that specializes in cruising. Her favorite beach has to be the one on Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas.
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Posted in Sand and Shoreline | Tagged: , , , | 7 Comments »

Get Away from the Crowds at Cocoa Beach, Florida

Posted by Jody on April 19, 2013

Today’s Featured Guest Post Writer is Bridget Sandorford:

Florida is known for its beautiful and diverse beaches, which offer a little bit of something for everyone, from families with small children to retirees to college students looking to have a fun vacation. Daytona Beach, Palm Beach and South Beach get some of the most attention with vacationers, but Cocoa Beach offers a much more relaxed experience for those interested in getting off the beaten path.

Empty Cocoa Beach on a cloudy day (Dennis Adams, Federal Highways Administration, via Wikimedia Commons)

Empty Cocoa Beach on a Cloudy Day (Dennis Adams, Federal Highways Administration, PD-USGov via Wikipedia)

Cocoa Beach is located about an hour-and-a-half south of its more popular cousin, Daytona Beach. But when you drive up to the soft, white sandy shore of Cocoa Beach, you won’t be inundated by droves of college students and other partygoers. The vibe at Cocoa Beach is much more relaxed and peaceful — which makes sense considering that it’s a mecca for retirees. According to the 2010 census, the median age in Cocoa Beach is 54, with 62 percent of the population being older than 45.

That doesn’t mean that there isn’t a lot for families to enjoy at Cocoa Beach! There are a number of attractions in the area, including the Cocoa Beach Pier and the Alan Shepard Beachfront Park. Of course, the two most notable landmarks are Ron Jon’s Surf Shop, which receives 2 million visitors a year, and the Kennedy Space Center. Though you can no longer watch the space shuttle launches from the shores of Cocoa Beach – - something I enjoyed doing as a child growing up in Florida — you can still take your children to the space center and learn a lot about our explorations into the final frontier.

Cocoa Beach Pier Cocoa Beach, Florida (Lane 4 Imaging via Flickr, CC BY 2.0)

Cocoa Beach Pier, Cocoa Beach, Florida (Lane 4 Imaging via Flickr, CC BY 2.0)

If all that’s not enough for you, you can also check out the Thousand Islands Conservation Area and the Cocoa Beach Aquatic Center and Pool Complex. Of course, a drive down the scenic A1A – and enjoy sharing your love of “Ice, Ice Baby” with your kids (who just won’t get it).

With the summer months approaching, the beaches are bound to start getting crowded. If you want to get off the beaten path and enjoy a little slower pace that will allow you to truly enjoy your vacation and spend some quality time with your family, consider Cocoa Beach.

 About the Author: Bridget Sandorford is a freelance food and culinary writer, where recently she’s been researching culinary school in Hawaii. In her spare time, she enjoys biking, painting and working on her first cookbook.

~~~

Even more helpful links: Visit Cocoa Beach.com

Visit Florida.com

Visit Space Coast Blog

*Bridget, you are so right! Cocoa Beach is a lovely place to visit. The girls and I once took a day trip to this area just because Major Nelson and Jeannie made their home in Cocoa Beach. It was a beautiful day on a very clean, uncrowded beach! Thanks so much for the wonderful post and for reminding me of a great day at the beach! ~Jody*

Posted in Atlantic Coast Beaches, Friday Finds | Tagged: , , , , | 13 Comments »

Australian Beach Holiday: 5 Must-Visit Beaches for an Enjoyable Vacation

Posted by Jody on March 26, 2013

Today’s Featured Guest Post Writer is Ella Rich.

Australian Beach Holiday: 5 Must-Visit Beaches for an Enjoyable Vacation

Bounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Australia is one of the best places to enjoy a perfect beach vacation. Whether you are visiting the East, South and West coasts of the country or looking forward to a great surfing vacation, Australia is one place that will make your beach vacation unique and memorable. Check out some of the best and must-visit beaches in this amazing country.

Bells Beach (Photo by Chensiyuan/Wikimedia Commons)

Bells Beach (Photo by Chensiyuan/Wikimedia Commons)

  • Bells Beach – Hot Spot for an Enjoyable Surfing Vacation

If you thoroughly enjoy surfing and are looking for such a hotspot in Australia, then you must head to the Bells Beach. Your beach vacation will remain incomplete without visiting this beach. Nestled on the coast of Victoria, you will get a chance to witness the world’s longest running surfing competition – Rip Curl Pro Surf & Music Festival when you are here.

Byron Bay (Used with permission: Shot at Byron/Wikimedia Commons)

Byron Bay (Used with permission: Shot at Byron/Wikimedia Commons)

  • Byron Bay – Must-Visit for an Ultimate Beach Holiday

Being among the most renowned seaside hotspots, Byron Bay guarantees its visitors the ultimate beach holiday experience. Over the past few years, this sandy beach has been attracting people looking to take pleasure in fun-filled activities like deep sea diving and kayaking in the company of dolphins. Byron Bay boasts of pristine sandy beaches dotted with lush green surroundings. The cool coastal winds and mesmerizing beauty of the entire area near Byron Bay is one of the major reasons you must come here to spend your beach vacation.

Whitehaven Beach (Photo by Isderion/Wikimedia Commons)
Whitehaven Beach (Photo by Isderion/Wikimedia Commons)
  • Have a Rejuvenating Vacation at Whitehaven Beach

Nestled on the Whitsunday Island, this pristine beach possesses the purest form of white silica sand in the world. Immerse your feet into the sand and make your way slowly into the warm waves that gently lap the shore. You will wonder why people from all over the world never miss out visiting this amazing beach.

If you want to have a day trip to Whitehaven Beach you can hire ferries, yachts and power boats from Airlie Beach. Besides, luxury cruising yachts are also available to make your beach vacation memorable.

Cable Beach (Photo by Zoharby/Wikimedia Commons)
Cable Beach Before Sunset (Photo by Zoharby/Wikimedia Commons)
  • Wade Through the Pristine Waters of Cable Beach

Popular for its crystal clear waters, the Cable Beach in Western Australia is one of the most magnificent beaches in the world. Being cleaned up by tides that gently lap the shore; Cable Beach offers the perfect environment, allowing you to wade through the pristine waters, making your beach vacation relaxing. Enjoy the innumerable water sports activities available here and the sunset.

Cottesloe Beach (Photo by Michael Spencer/Wikimedia Commons)
Cottesloe Beach (Photo by Michael Spencer/Wikimedia Commons)
  • Snorkel at Perth’s Stunning Cottesloe Beach

If you want to indulge in sports activities like swimming, surfing and snorkeling, then the Cottesloe Beach in Perth is just an ideal spot for your beach vacation. Apart from these adventure activities, you can also enjoy a glass of wine or some refreshing beer as the sun begins to set. This spot is also ideal for a relaxed dinner.

The alluring beauty of this beach makes it stand out from other beaches in the city. Shady pines, smooth terraced lawns and pristine sands make this beach an ideal destination to spend a lethargic afternoon with family. Pristine waters make Cottesloe Beach a regular must-visit spot for swimmers and surfers. Snorkelers too enjoy hitting the water because of the presence of rocks and reefs. You can explore the city better with the help of guided walking tours of Perth.

Make your beach holiday experience unique and unforgettable by visiting these beaches in Australia.

~~~

About the Author: Ella Rich is a travel blogger and trip organizer by profession. She has great experience in indigenous tours. She loves traveling to new places and discovering exotic cultures and cuisines. Sharing her travel experience through blogging is her real hobby. 

You can find Ella’s latest work at MyBusinessCentral.com.

 ~~~

Posted in A Treasure of a Beach (Best Beaches), Beaches of Australia and New Zealand, Tuesday Tallies & Tips | Tagged: , , , , | 8 Comments »

Beautiful Amalfi on the Italian Coast

Posted by Jody on March 20, 2013

Today’s Featured Guest Writer is Chloe Trogden.

My husband and I recently had the pleasure of visiting Italy, and we rented a car to drive from Venice on down the west coast to Sorrento. Along the way, we got a little lost — but it was the best detour of our whole trip.

After shooting past our exit for Sorrento, we drove to the other end of the small peninsula and had to drive in a loop all the way around back to Sorrento. On the way, we passed through Amalfi and many other mountain towns on the beautiful Italian coast.

Italy's Amalfi Coast (Photo by Chloe Trogden)

Beautiful Amalfi on the Italian Coast (Photo by Chloe Trogden)

Our drive through windy, coastal mountain roads gave us stunning views of the ocean and the beautiful beaches below.

Amalfi is a relatively small town, but it borders the coast entirely. However, much of that border is rocky cliff that drops straight down to the waters below. In a few places, there is a steep road that leads down to homes and businesses, as well as a beach or two.

Italy's Amalfi Coast (Photo by Chloe Trogden)

Beautiful Amalfi on the Italian Coast (Photo by Chloe Trogden)

The Spiaggia Grande is a lively beach with crystal-blue waters. Though it is a relatively small stretch of beach, it more than makes up for it with its white sandy shore and stunning views of the town on a mountainside behind it.

The beach has a few bathing establishments, or you can choose to relax on the small section of free beach. Since it is so small, the beach becomes packed pretty quickly. It’s better to visit on the off season before the crowds become too intense.

Italy's Amalfi Coast (Photo by Chloe Trogden)

Beautiful Amalfi on the Italian Coast (Photo by Chloe Trogden)

If the beach does get too full, take a stroll into town and explore the historic center or enjoy some local cuisine, including fresh seafood or citrus that is grown right on the mountainside.

If you are planning a longer trip and want to explore the area, nearby Atrani Beach is a family favorite, and you can drive to surrounding towns such as Sorrento and Positano. You can also take a ferry or a boat to the nearby island of Capri, which has many more stunning views and historical attractions.

About the Author: Chloe Trogden is seasoned financial aid writer who covers specific opportunities such as federal grants for students. Her leisure activities include camping, swimming and playing her guitar.

~~~

A very special “Grazie mille!” to you, Chloe, for taking us on a such a beautiful tour of  Amalfi, Italy! You’ve certainly shown us that sometimes the best finds in life are the wonderful and very unexpected detours! ~Jody

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Posted in Beaches of Europe | Tagged: , , , , | 9 Comments »

A Winter Beach Walk at Good Harbor, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Lake Michigan

Posted by Jody on March 6, 2013

Today’s Featured Guest Writer/Photographer is Beth Dole:

Sleeping Bear Dunes in Northern Michigan has wonderful beaches, and few ever get out to explore their winter beauty. This week Good Harbor beach made national news for a peculiar formation of ice balls on the beach (see last picture).  I couldn’t wait to get out there and check them out, but by the time the weekend rolled around the dynamic beach had of course changed. Now it was frozen sand and ice, with frozen ice balls. The beach was icy enough one could ice skate on it, the rocks were frozen solid with great ice formations to explore.

Winter Wonderland at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter Wonderland at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

My advice to all is to visit the beach all year round, winter can be delightful on the beach.

Winter in Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Beacr Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Beacr Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Beacr Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Beacr Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Beacr Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Beacr Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Winter at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Photo by Beth Dole)

Ice Balls (Photo by Leda Jo)

Ice Balls (Photo by Leda Jo)

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in Northwestern Lower Michigan along the shores of Lake Michigan. The Visitor Center is in Empire, MI about 25 miles from Traverse City. Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450’ above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. Sleeping Bear Dunes is as old as continental ice sheets and as young as the 1970 Establishment Act that set aside the Lakeshore for preservation of the natural resources and for public use. The most prominent features, and those for which the park is named, are the perched dunes above Lake Michigan. These immense sand dunes are “perched” atop the already towering headlands that are glacial moraines. The dune overlooks at the Sleeping Bear, Empire and Pyramid Point bluffs are about 400 feet above Lake Michigan. With 65 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and numerous inland lakes and streams, the park is wonderfully water oriented.

About the Author: Beth Dole is the mom of two teenagers, avid outdoors person, loves the beach, can be found hiking, biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, trail running, kayaking in the north country when not writing blogs about heart disease. 

A couple more helpful links:

The Official Website of the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau

Traverse City.com

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Please stop by and visit Beth at her very informative and helpful blog: Rehabilitate Your Heart.

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Just a note: Beth, you are so right! Any time of year is the perfect season for a trip to the beach. Your photos are absolutely wonderful! Many, many thanks for sharing your beautiful, beachy part of the world with us! ~Jody

Posted in Great Lakes Beaches, Sand and Shoreline | Tagged: , , , , , | 30 Comments »

Oreti Beach, New Zealand

Posted by Jody on March 4, 2013

Today’s Featured Guest Writer is Jo from Over the Edge of the Wild:

Oreti Beach (Photo by Brenda Cahill)

Oreti Beach (Photo by Brenda Cahill)

When people think of New Zealand, it’s often for the magnificent snow-capped mountains, the Lord of the Rings movies, the clean, green, nuclear-free image, or even the rugby. Given its proximity to Antarctica, however, it’s not necessarily the top of the list for a beach vacation.

Burt Munro Challenge (photo by Neil McKelvie)

Burt Munro Challenge (photo by Neil McKelvie)

Recently, however, TIME magazine named the Burt Munro Challenge one of its Five Festive Events You Won’t Want to Miss in 2013. The Challenge, a five day motorcycle rally, includes seven forms of motorsport racing, including beach racing along Oreti Beach, so it’s bound to see some more action this year.

Oreti Beach is a (roughly) 26km long stretch of sand, located around 10km from the city of Invercargill. Fringed with an endless expanse of sand dunes, the flat stretch of sand is solid enough to drive vehicles along (in most places, most of the time). This made it the perfect place for Burt Munro (eccentric local hero and holder of the 1000cc motorcycle land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats) to experiment with his hand-modified 1920 Indian Scout motorcycle and practice for racing in Bonneville. Even outside of Challenge week, visitors can walk, ride or drive along the beach.

The New Zealand Pacific Ocean (photo by Brenda Cahill)

The New Zealand Pacific Ocean (photo by Brenda Cahill)

As well as its real life role in Burt Munro’s story, Oreti Beach was also used as a set in the biographical New Zealand film The World’s Fastest Indian, which was based on his life.

Motorcycle enthusiasts are not the only ones to enjoy a visit to Oreti Beach, however. In the summer months of December to February (peaking in late January/early February), families head out for picnics and BBQs, to go for a swim, catch flounder, or soak up some vitamin D. The sun can be harsh in New Zealand, so remember your sunscreen, and the water is quite safe for swimming, but don’t expect it to be warm. Water temperatures in Southland peak at around 15°C in the summer months, and can dip below 10°C in the winter.

Burt Munro Beach Racing (photo by Neil McKelvie)

Burt Munro Beach Racing (photo by Neil McKelvie)

Kiwis (and Southlanders in particular) don’t like to let a little thing like the cold get in the way of enjoying themselves though, and Oreti Beach has been home to the Southland Mid-Winter Swim event for more than 20 years. This polar plunge takes place in June each year, when air temperatures rarely reach double figures. It’s cold, but it’s invigorating!

Aside from the cold, being at the bottom of the world does have its advantages. Only a few minutes drive from the city centre, after-work trips to the beach can last four or five hours before the sun goes down. The extended twilight hours stretch out into beautiful sunsets, and with only 50,000 residents in the city, you can be fairly certain of finding a quiet spot to yourself to enjoy those extra daylight hours on the sand.

Sunset (photo by Neil McKelvie)

Sunset (photo by Neil McKelvie)

About the author: Jo is one half of a Kiwi couple living in Darwin, Australia, saving money so they can see  more of the world. Jo and Aaron chronicle their travels on their blog, Over the Edge of the Wild, and have enjoyed taking the time to think about home and share this little piece of New Zealand with you all.

Special note: Jo, thanks so much for sharing such a wonderful place with us! I loved the movie and think it’s great to learn a bit more about the story and the area! Any reason is a good reason to visit the beach and the knowing something about history of the shoreline really adds to the experience for me. ~Jody

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Posted in Beaches of Australia and New Zealand, Monday Miscellaneous, Sand and Shoreline | Tagged: , , , , | 5 Comments »

The Islands of the Mo’o (Hawaiian Lizard)

Posted by E.G.D. on March 1, 2013

Today’s Featured Guest Writer is Walter Wong:

On La'ie Bay (Photo by Walter Wong)

On La’ie Bay (Photo by Walter Wong)

Aloha from the Islands of Hawaii.  As a son of a Fisherman, I grew up swimming along with my father as he would spear fish for family meals.  It was a very special place I felt as “La’ie Bay”, located on the Northeastern tip of the island of O’ahu,  contained several islands which if assembled, would depict a giant Lizard or Mo’o as we say in Hawaiian.

My two sons and a Mo'o head (photo by Walter Wong)

My two sons and a Mo’o head (photo by Walter Wong)

The picture of my two sons shows the head of the giant Mo’o in the back ground with the hole representing the eye.  It was special to share this with my sons as we live on the Big Island of Hawaii.  All they could ask was “are there sharks Dad?”.   Soon, it will be time for me to give them the knowledge of swimming to the different islands of the Mo’o so they will know where and how to care for their families when the time comes.  In the mean time, I will watch and observe the ocean for the right conditions, and their journey will begin.  Aloha!

About the Author: Walter Wong is a Native Hawaiian who grew up in Laie, Oahu, Hawaii, now residing on the Big Island of Hawaii. He is the father of 8 children and the Owner of HawaiianUp.  He enjoys sharing stories about Hawaii and helping people to make their own memories.

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For more of our posts about the island of Oahu, please visit:

The End of the Road, Oahu, Hawaii

Iconic Chinaman’s Hat, Windward Oahu

Snorkeling, Sunbathing, Swimming and… Homework? Hanauma Bay!

Mystery Beach (La’ie Beach), Oahu, Hawai’i

Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Lagoon (aka: The Hilton Lagoon), Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Beachcombing & Sea Turtles at Hale’iwa Beach Park, Oahu, Hawaii

Beachcombing on Waikiki Beach (Oahu, Hawaii)

And many more! -E.G.D.

Posted in Beaches of The Hawaiian Islands, Friday Finds | Tagged: , , , , | 4 Comments »

Curacao – Island of the Fortresses

Posted by E.G.D. on January 28, 2013

Today’s Featured Writer is Grace Bailey.

The Caribbean is one of the most attractive places on the planet for a beach vacation. The region consists of many vary-sized islands, each one unique and nice to visit. What makes the land interesting is the rich historical heritage.  The places of interest can not be seen anywhere else.

The Caribbean island of Curacao is amazing and truly unique.  Though it is far away from the European continent, it is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Handelskade, Willemstad, Curacao (photo by Rodry 1 at Wikimedia Commons)

Handelskade, Willemstad, Curacao (photo by Rodry 1 at Wikimedia Commons)

When a person decides to take a trip to this island, he can anticipate the many old and interesting fortresses he will find when he arrives. The general purpose of these forts was once to protect the island from all sides, though today they are no longer in use except as tourist attractions.  Eight of the forts have survived, in whole or part, into the modern day. Here are the five I found most interesting:

The first fort on the island was made in the 17th century. Though the Dutch of the time were mighty, they never felt safe on the island. Their enemies were surrounding them from all sides. Other countries with colonial ambitions, like England and France, were a real threat.  Venezuela and other local neighbors were hardly more friendly.  So, Fort Water was built in 1634. Unfortunately, visitors today will not be able to see the original structure. For many reasons it was replaced back in 1827, and in the modern day, the complex has been re-purposed.  It has many stores, medical service and even stables. It is actually the perfect place for lunch near the sea! From this fort-turned-mall, a visitor can take in an amazing view and remember its history, as well as shop and eat.

The next guard of the island was made just one year after the first fort. This was Fort Amsterdam. Named after the capital of the Netherlands, this fort protected the eastern part of the island.  This is actually the most notable and important of all the forts to visit on the island. That is why it is included in a UNESCO Heritage site (the Historic Area of Willemstad, Inner City and Harbour). Today the building hosts government offices and one not-to-be-missed museum.

Fort Beekenburg was made in the beginning of the 18th century and guarded the inner bay in the area. It is named after the person who made the defense plans for the city. The stories say that the fort was several times captured by pirates in the past. Today it is situated next to some of the best beaches in the area. Visitors can combine an afternoon of water sports at the beach with a visit to the complex.

Curacao's Caribbean Sea (photo from Shutter Stock)

Curacao’s Caribbean Sea (photo from Shutter Stock)

Fort Nassau is the one that has closest maintained its “original look.” It was once dedicated to protecting St. Anna Bay. Besides functioning as a fort, it was responsible for regulating the opening and closing the Pontoon Bridge. It now houses a restaurant.

Rif Fort was the last one made in the 19th century. It is today a shopping center with many restaurants, bars and coffee shops.

When you’ve finished fort hopping, there are more than 38 beaches to explore!  The official Curacao Travel Guide website recommends a list of 15 of them, and they all look spectacular and inviting.

About the Author: Grace is a passionate writer who enjoys sharing her traveling adventures. Visit her at HolidayArticles.com.

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Coming soon: The Best Beaches of Curacao!

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Posted in Beaches of the Caribbean, Monday Miscellaneous | Tagged: , , , , | 2 Comments »

Komodo Island – Discover the Wildlife

Posted by E.G.D. on December 19, 2012

Today’s Featured Writer is Grace Bailey

Komodo Island Waters (Photo from Shutterstock)

Komodo Island Waters (Photo from Shutterstock)

Are you yearning to experience a vacation filled with wild adventures and magnificent landscapes? Do you want to be close to nature and feel its powers and magnificence? Do you miss the green mountains and crystal clear waters? If the answer to these questions is yes, I have the ideal place for your unforgettable trip. Komodo Island, with all its beauty and magnificence, can be the perfect vacation destination.

Located at the center of the Indonesian archipelago, Komodo Island is one of the three largest of the magnificent islands within the Komodo National Park. If the gentle touch of nature and natural pure beauty are what you have been missing the most, this island is the ideal place for you. Here you will find yourself in a quiet and magical atmosphere and surrounded by gorgeous landscapes and unforgettable views.

(Photo from Shutterstock)

(Photo from Shutterstock)

More like a painting than a real place, the island displays magnificent and pure natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. One of the most beautiful and famous tourist destinations in Komodo National Park is definitely the Pink Beach. This symphony of soft light sand and stunning underwater flora and fauna will definitely make you feel like you are in paradise. The combination of numerous red corals and the white sand create the illusion of a unique pink beach called Pantai Merah by the locals. Here you can enjoy the endless beauty of nature and realize why Komodo National Park is among the finalists for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

You may have heard about that unique and special relationship between people and dragons and here you have the chance to see that. There is a tradition for locals to feed the Komodo dragons, which has created that special bond. In fact, the Komodo dragon is one of the greatest attractions for many tourists who have never had the chance to be so close to the wildlife. This is the only place which can take you so close to nature and unique magnificent creatures that you can actually feel their magic.

Komodo Dragon in the Komodo National Park (photo by by Thomas Hirsch from Wikimedia Commons)

Komodo Dragon in the Komodo National Park (photo by by Thomas Hirsch from Wikimedia Commons)

With several first class sites dispersed around the park, Komodo Island is the ideal place for scuba diving. Experienced divers will truly enjoy the incredible riot of bright color under the waters. Here you can also discover the glorious marine animals like sea cucumbers, snappers and the beautiful sea turtles. Some of the most famous sites include Cannibal Rock and Gili Lawa known for sharks, tuna and barracudas.

Filled with numerous adventures and fun family activities, the island can offer you an unforgettable and memorable vacation. Here you will never be bored, because entertainment is around every corner. Whether you decide to spend time exploring the magnificent nature by taking a nice long walks, or discover the island on a boat, you are always guaranteed to have a great time.

If the picture I have described here with words caught your attention, you may be now planning your trip to Komodo Island. You should bear in mind that the best time to visit the island is between November and April, so why not have a nice winter family trip exploring the wildlife?! So isolated from the real world and from everything that surrounds you in the big city, in Komodo Island you can really feel like you are on vacation. This is the best place where you can relax and feel the joy of being so close to nature. The wildlife of the island gives you the unique opportunity to get in touch with another, different world.

If you are longing to make your wildest dreams come true, if you are dreaming to see and explore a different world, Komodo Island is a place for you. Wild adventures, magnificent landscapes, and pure natural beauty are what you can expect to see and experience in the island.

About the author:  Grace is a passionate  writer, dreamer and adventurer. She enjoys writing of various interesting and exotic places and people. You can read more at http://www.vacation-rentals.com/.

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Posted in Beach and Coastal Wildlife, Beaches of Asia | Tagged: , , , , | 5 Comments »

Marina Del Rey – California´s Waterfront Playground

Posted by E.G.D. on November 26, 2012

Today’s Featured Writer is Grace Bailey 

Marina Del Rey (Photo from Shutterstock)

The town of Marina Del Rey is an oceanfront town located in the state of California. The town faces the ocean and at the mainland it is surrounded by the city of Los Angeles. This town is a famous tourist destination and one of the reasons for this is the local marina. The town holds the largest man-made harbor in the state where there are 19 distinct marinas. This makes the town a diverse oceanfront playground with countless offerings for the vacationers. The holidaymakers will have plenty of water-based activities to enjoy at this destination. Marina Del Rey also offers access to several beautiful beaches. The town is also famous for its numerous hiking paths, the scenic biking alleys and enjoyable boardwalks. There are plenty of shopping venues which you will be able to visit as well. Many entertainment options are offered at this destination and there are many interesting events, including a series of summer concerts. Near the marina, there is an abundance of high-rise condos, beach houses and vacation villas. Therefore you will easily find a suitable place to spend your vacation, with so many vacation rentals available this place is excellent for an extended vacation.

Areal view of Marina Del Rey (Photo by Albaum from Wikimedia Commons)

You should definitely not miss the beaches at this destination. You can start by visiting the marina beach. This beach is equipped with all sorts of facilities; there are even sheltered picnic tables available. Another beach nearby is Venice beach, this is perhaps the most lively and vibrant beach in the area and it is worth a visit. Yet another beautiful and sandy beach which you can visit is the Playa del Rey Beach. Located just a couple of miles from the marina, this is a stunningly beautiful stretch of coast ideal for sunbathing.

One of the most interesting spots at Marina Del Rey is the Fisherman´s Village. This spot is designed as a New England seaport and it is a very pleasant and relaxed place. There you can enjoy shopping, since there are numerous diverse shops around this waterfront and open air mall. A lot of fine restaurants are also located at this diverse and interesting place. The promenade at the village offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views over the bay; you should definitely take a stroll along this scenic lane. You can also visit the local lighthouse and the numerous New England style homes.

The site at Marina Del Rey which attracts most visitors is definitely the Burton W. Chace Park. This park attracts a crowd with its serene natural setting, you can enjoy hiking and walking along scenic trails, you can also enjoy cycling, roller skating and many other diverse activities there. The picnic areas at the park are also very pleasant and they offer barbecues as well as other facilities. This park is also famous for hosting the majority of the local events. The summer concert series are among the most popular events at this destination and they are held in the park. From the park you can also observe the annual boat parade which is a very impressive display.

The activities which are offered at Marina Del Rey are very impressive as well. For the nature lovers, a trip to Ballona Wetlands will provide them with the chance to observe many exotic trees and plants as well as the diverse local wildlife. For the boating lovers, there are numerous marinas available and there is also an aquatic center which offers rowing and sailing lessons. Regular fishing charters are also offered at this destination. And there are many water sports you can try, such as surfing and parasailing for example.

About the author: Grace is a passionate  writer, dreamer and adventurer. She enjoys writing of various interesting and exotic places and people. You can read more at http://www.vacationhomes.net/.

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Posted in Monday Miscellaneous, Southern California Beaches | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

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