Adventure and History - A Desert Jeep Safari to Saint Catherine Monastery

A great one-day (or more) adventure excursion from Egypt's Sharm-el-Sheikh coast is a jeep desert safari to Saint Catherine Monastery (Santa Caterina). This is a great adventure outdoors for the entire family and one that kids will especially enjoy and learn from, to boot!

Located at the foot of Jabel Musa (Mount Moses) in a spectacular natural setting on Mt. Sinai, Saint Catherine Monastery is a historic landmark not to be missed during an adventure travel holiday in Egypt. It was erected by the Emperor Justinian between 525-565 AD as a point of the defensive structure of the Byzantine Empire.

Saint Catherine has a rich history indeed. It was built in honor of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr who was beheaded. Traditionally, her body was carried away by angels to Mt. Sinai, where 500 years later, her remains were discovered on the peak that now bears her name. The monastery has been a center for religious pilgrimages for over 1500 years.

Built to protect the monks in the region, Saint Catherine is a formidable fortification with granite walls up to 35 m. in height, and is surrounded by gardens and cypresses. Up to the twentieth century, the only entrance to the monastery was a small door 30 ft. high, which lifted supplies by a system of pulleys.

Over its 14 hundred years, it has withstood numerous attacks and is to this day a working monastery. It is considered the oldest working Christian monastery and the smallest diocese in the world.

The monastery sits at the foot of the mount considered to be the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments and a chapel is built on what is traditionally considered the site of the Burning Bush.

Within its impregnable walls, rests a sanctuary like no other, incredibly rich in important religious and historical compositions. Second only to the Vatican, the monastery houses over 4500 manuscripts in several languages including Greek, Coptic, Arabic, Armenian and Hebrew - one of the largest and most important volumes in the world.

Beyond the manuscripts, it is also the setting for priceless works of art, including, among others, a wonderful Byzantine mosaic dating back to the 6th century, Russian and Greek icons, and western oil paintings, including one donated by Catherine of Russia in the 17th century and another by Czar Alexander in the 19th century.

What makes Saint Catherine so special however, is its natural setting. The awesome work of nature on Mt. Sinai is without equal. Reaching a height of nearly 7500 ft, nothing beats watching the breathtakingly majestic sunsets and sunrises here, befitting the work of an Almighty power. The monastery, in its entire splendor and its glorious setting is a sparkling example of a precious gem yet to be discovered by visitors.

By : Sylvia_Arad

How to Have a Fun Summer

Reading this post will allow you to see how much fun summer can truly be.

Step 1

First, you will need to be open to new experiences. What is it that you always wanted to do? Go to the beach? Travel to a different country? Hang out at the park? Wherever you decide to go this summer carry that positive fun attitude with you. The summer season will take care of the rest. The one thing I love about summer is that people in general seem more relaxed and wanting to have fun, this makes it a lot easier to enjoy your time.

Step 2

Second, take kids along. Whether it's your own kids or someone else's (lol). Summer seems to be a lot more fun with there is children around. They bring the lighthearted energy to where they go. The kids are the best to be around during summer. Summer time is such a wonderful time for children and for you. Take the kids out in nature to the park and just have a relaxed and playful time with the kids.

Step 3

Third, be open to new experiences. Allow the summer season energy time for you to expand your horizons. Be open to new place and new people. Travel more this summer, and see new places. Learn about new cultures and have a fun time. Always be open to new experiences, summer is the time for this experience. Be open to these experiences and you will see how much fun summer can really be for yourself.

By : Kevin_Baker_Jacinto

Top 5 Things to Try on Activity Holidays

The summertime is upon us, and with it comes fun in the sun. Whether you are a white collar office worker or a blue collar man, you are bound to love spending a bit of time in the great outdoors with the summer sun warming your face.

Talk of vacations have probably been circulating the office or your work area, and these talks have probably come into your home too. It starts with the age old question - what to do? And where to do it?

How about this year, instead of the typical vacation of laying on the beach for days on end twirling that cool umbrella pick in your fruity cocktail, you try activity holidays on for size?

There are many fun things you can try during your activity holidays, such as:

1 - Kitesurfing: Also known as kiteboarding, this is the newest (and coolest:) - of the extreme sports. Basically, you stand on a form of a surf board, and a high performance kite glides you over the surface of the ocean, bouncing along the waves as you go on the ride of your life!

2 - Windsurfing: Much like kitesurfing, windsurfing involves using the power of the wind and the waves to move along the surface of the ocean on a board. With windsurfing though, the wind powers a sail that is actually attached to the board as a rig of sorts.

3 - Diving: If you enjoy swimming, maybe going a bit deeper into the water would suit you. Strap on some diving gear, get some scuba lessons, and head deep down into the darker depths, where you will be greeted by beauty and creatures that many will never see with their own eyes. What stories you could tell!

4 - Parasailing: Not afraid of heights? Strap on in! Be whisked way up into the sky, held only by a line attached to a boat that pulls you on from far below. If you have ever looked up at a seagull and daydreamed what it would be like to fly, this is about as close as you can get.

5 - Trekking: Got your landlubber legs on? No problem! The shores offer many enjoyments too. Put on your favorite hiking boots, gear up, and head out to explore the rugged terrain this beautiful world has to offer. While you may not find roses to stop and smell, trekking will give you a chance to stop and admire the nature that surrounds you, from plant life to animals and even rock formations that will have you being amazed at the intricacies of the life that encircles us all.

So what do you think? Can't narrow it down to just one? Well, do them all! With activity holidays, that's the point! You are only limited by your imagination, and of course, the fact that there are only 24 hours in the day. Other than that, you can fit as much, or as little in as you choose.

By : Anna_Cross

Peru Tour - A Mesmerizing Stint

Peru holds a significant and diverse prospective for vacations, with great informative and archaeological legacy, monuments and natural confined regions. The magnetism, possessions and tourist products helps placing Peru in a privileged position.

Peru is mainly perceived as a historic-archaeological place, with Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and the Nazca Lines as major tourist attractions. The other Areas of interest for tourists are ecotourism, adventure travel and spiritual tours.

With Peru tour, you can discover the first Pan-Andean civilization that of Chavín, which features stone temples puzzled with intricate galleries at the height of over 3,100ms.

You can also find out the anonymity of mud-brick castles and pyramids built near the sea by the Mochica dynasty and their majestic mausoleums such as the Lord of Sipan, one of the most chief archaeological discoveries of the twentieth century.

One can wander around Cuzco, the capital of the Inca Empire, the supreme pre-Colombian civilization in South America. Cusco and its surroundings feature colossal constructions such as the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, summoned as the eighth wonder of the world.

Nature lovers will find Peru to be a preferred destination. There are more than 50 confined natural areas along the coastline, Andean foothills, wetlands, Amazon forest and tropical highlands, including Paracas, Manu, Tambopata-Candamo, Pacaya-Samiria, Pampa Galeras and Huascaran. These eco-systems are exclusive and are a sanctuary for dozens of species on the brink of disappearance.

Peru tour also features one of the world's richest fishing grounds; credit goes to its exceptional climactic conditions and a wealth of nutrients that have given increase to an astounding number of fish species.

In addition to historic, archaeological and architectural legacies, folk art is another tourist attraction of Peru tour. It also possesses one of the most fine and assorted cuisine which is as authentic as it is prehistoric.

Peru travel is also an ecstasy for adventure activities. A Peru tour is best for the Adventure-lovers as they will find the Andes to be a perfect place for trekking, camping and mountain climbing.

The highlands are enigmatic with more than 15,000 lakes, snow-capped mountains towering over 6,000 meters, the world's deepest canyons, pastoral valleys and pictorial villages. The entire Andean chain offers incomparable prospects for white-water rafting, terrific trails for mountain biking and bursting winds for fans of hang- gliding and parapente.

The beaches of Paracas (south of Lima) and along the north coast are best for sports such as surfing, windsurfing, sandboard, fishing and scuba diving. There is also good fishing in the Amazon jungle, where birdwatchers can also have a field day.

By : Amit_Verma

My Favorite Places to Go in the US Virgin Islands

The islands of the Caribbean are amongst the most beautiful places to visit in the world. Amongst the Caribbean islands are the United States Virgin Islands. These groups of islands are comprised mainly of St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. This article will focus on St. Thomas and some of its great activities.

If you are looking to golf while visiting St Thomas, then you should book a time at Mahogany Run Golf Course. This golf course is located on the north side of the island in an area called Mahogany Run and books up fast. So make sure you call ahead.

The best beach on St. Thomas is Magen's Bay. Peaceful with crystal clear water, this beach is where the locals go and with good reason. It is synonymous with relaxation.

If you leave Magens' Bay and find yourself with a sweet tooth, look no further than Udder Delight. This world famous milk shake shop is located at the top of the hill right outside of Magen's Bay.

There are several great restaurants on the St. Thomas, but the award for best restaurant belongs to Thirteen. The almond crusted filet of fish I had here was exceptional. Indigo is another great restaurant on the island.

To truly experience the Virgin Islands, plan to leave the island for a day to visit St. John.

St. John is about a 20 minute ferry ride from St. Thomas and is well worth it. The beaches on St. John are even more beautiful. Go to Cinnamon Bay or Trunk Bay and check out the amazing coral reef as you go snorkeling.

Another great way to leave the island is to rent a boat for the day. You can go sailing around the islands and stop at islands like Tortolla and Jost Van Dyke.

By : Kenneth_Selig

Alaska Fishing Lodges - Exquisite Amenities and Comfort in the Wilderness

Are you planning a trip to Alaska? What is the main attraction that draws you to this particular location? For many people, it is the wildlife and sense of open air that can be found in very limited places around the world today.

For others, while the open space is a plus, fishing is the main reason that brings them this far north. There are specific accommodations called Alaska fishing lodges that house traveling fishermen with exquisite amenities and comfort.

At the end of a busy and tiring day of fishing and reeling in impressive catches, you will want a place to unwind and relax for the night. This is the important role that Alaska fishing lodges play in your vacation in the rugged north.

Salmon and halibut are the most plentiful varieties of fish in Alaska. Many people choose Alaska as their salmon fishing destination because new fish-catching records are made there regularly. This means you can expect to reel in huge specimens during your travels to the state.

If you are no expert fisherman but want to give it a try during your travels, Alaska fishing lodges could still be the right choice for you. In fact, most locations offer guides to their guests to help explain where the best places to fish are and techniques for reeling in the big ones.

The rooms of Alaska fishing lodges are furnished very comfortably to provide you with all you need to relax on your vacation. Some locations offer private cabins as their primary accommodations, providing you with even more privacy and comfort during your stay.

Every amenity you would expect in your room or cabin will certainly be found there. Private bathrooms, television and free internet to stay connected with friends and family are all at your disposal.

If you want to do more than just fish on your Alaska vacation, there are plenty of other tourist destinations you could explore as well. For more information, ask the guides at Alaska fishing lodges to help you decide what is most worthwhile during your stay. Sightseeing, shopping, dining and other activities await you and your family on your travels.

Choosing to stay in an Alaska fishing lodge will help you make the most of your vacation as you will have the opportunity to enjoy world-class comfort and relaxation in the privacy of your very own cabin after a fruitful day of fishing.

By : George_DeFilippo

Famous Wildlife in Central India

Central India is home to many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks of India. So the region offers a great opportunity for exciting wildlife tours, tourism and expedition. Know about some of famous wildlife destination of central India.

Indravati National Park, Chattisgarh - Major wildlife attractions found in this park are wild buffalos, swamp deer, barking deer, spotted deer, nilgai, tigers, leopards, Indian bisons, sambars, four-horned antelopes, sloth beer, wild dogs, striped hyenas, flying squirrels, fresh water crocodiles, monitor lizards, rock pythons, common kraits, etc.

Sanjay National Park, Madhya Pradesh (MP) - Major wildlife attractions found in this park are tigers, leopards, spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer, wild boar, etc. The park is composed of sal forests creating great haven for wild animals and birds. Guru Ghasidas National Park in Chattisgarh is a part of Sanjay wildlife Park of Madhya Pradesh.

Van Vihar National Park, MP - It is located in the heart of Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. It has the status of national park but it is developed and managed as a modern zoological park. Major animals in this zoological park are tigers, lions, panthers, bears, hyenas, crocodiles, alligators, pythons, spotted deer, sambar deer, blackbucks, blue bulls, etc.

Pench, MP - Major wildlife found in this park are tigers, chitals, sambars, nilgai, wild boar, jackals, foxes, leopards, sloth bear, wild dogs, jungle cats, striped hyenas, four-horned antelopes, barking deer, etc.

Panna, MP - It is popular with big population of tigers. Other animals found in this park are chitals, chinkara, jackals, sloth bear, deer, sambars, barking deer, antelopes, etc. It is also home to more than 200 species of birds.

Kanha Tiger Reserve, MP - It is one of the most famous wildlife parks of India. It can be one of most exciting destinations for enjoying Wildlife in India. It is home to significant population of royal Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bear, barahsingha, and Indian wild dogs (called Dhole). Jeep safaris or elephant safaris are excellent ways to explore the forest.

Bandhavgarh, MP - It is one of the most famous national parks in India. It attracts a big number of wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world for exciting Wildlife India tours and travels. Major animals found this park are tigers, leopards, panthers, jungle cats, antelopes, buffalos, spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer, nilgai, four-horned antelopes (chousingha), chinkara, blackbucks, jackals, langur, etc. Once, Bandhavgarh was the home to white tigers in India.

By : Titu_Singh_Chauhan

Travel For Living - Is it For You?

Being able to travel extensively is a dream for many people, and it seems all the more appealing if your life is determined more by factors you can't really control. Your boss is in a foul mood most mornings when you get in to work?

Your neighbours whisper behind your back because your lawn doesn't meet the standards of the neighbourhood? All your friends talk about is who will get a divorce next and who just bought a bigger car although he can't really afford it?

The idea to get away from it all and to be able to set your own time tables and priorities just seems the more appealing, the less control about the factors that determine your life you have. But few of us can afford to travel for months or years...

And if you make money writing to live off while you are traveling? The solution to your dilemma, a dream come true? Yes and no.

I have been traveling South America for some years, researching and writing travel guides. It was without any doubt the most exciting time of my life. Since I was traveling by myself it as easy to get to know new people and I am still in contact with some travelers from all over the world.

I even met my husband on this trip and consequently came to live with him in Spain. I learned a lot of useful things, like not letting myself getting impressed by South American Machismo, standing up for myself, overcoming fears - in short: this trip changed my life in more than one way.

But there were downsides as well. You have to be able to motivate yourself, if you really want to make a living while you travel. There won't be a boss to tell you every minute of the day what you have to do. That is nice, of course, but you will still have to get things done, so you better get yourself organized.

And you have to be prepared to put in more than the eight hours daily you would do at your job at home. As with anything you'll do freelancing you have to be willing to work hard - that's not really a problem though, because you will be doing something you love! At least, that's how it was for me.

I was traveling South America when using the Internet for most people meant writing emails. So every once in a while, when I was in a bigger city I found a place where you could use the Internet (for an exorbitant price usually) and wrote some emails to my family and friends. I didn't even know how to send an attachment, I mailed the discs with my texts via air mail to my publisher...

Since then things have changed a bit and the Internet has made the life of a travel writer a lot easier You don't have to have an editorial anymore, you can just publish your travel diary as a blog or at your website.

If you want to make money with your texts though they have to stand out from the thousands of thousands of "have been there, have seen this, the weather is awesome, people are really nice" kind of travel blogs.

You have to find your unique voice and you have to see the story behind the sight. " It was so wonderful that I can't really describe it" won't do. You have to be funny, or philosophical, or a great story teller, or best of all, a little bit of all.

It is your very personal voice and your outlook on the things you encounter, that will motivate readers to come back for more. In short: you have to find your audience. Don't get me wrong: you don't have to be a Bruce Chatwin or a Bill Bryson to be successful as a travel blogger, but you have to find you voice.

And how do I make money from this? There are different possibilities to earn money form a travel blog: Affiliate programs, AdSense and the likes, advertising... In order to make money from your travel blog you have to treat it like a business.

If you are new to blogging for money it won't hurt if you learn the basics. As in any business there are things you should know, technical stuff like setting up your blog, things like how to get the traffic, and, very important of course, how to make money with your blog.

This is where Travel Blog Success from David Lee comes in. It explains the basics, but it also helps the more experienced blogger to get things right and rolling.

By : Chris_Lexau

Big Island - Ironman and Other Adventures

You may well know the islands of Hawaii as beach havens and surfers paradise, as well as the place to go to hula, but if something more active is what you're looking for, why not head to the western coast of Big Island to see the world renowned Ironman World Championships on Hawaii?

If you are a triathlete, or a fan of serious sport and stamina, there is no bigger day in this sport than this Championship.

Tens-of-thousands of triathletes try to make it to the starting line in Kona; only the fittest 1,800 succeed and get to compete in the Ironman World Championships on Hawaii and test themselves on one of the biggest challenges the sports world has to offer: 2.4-miles of swimming, 112-miles of biking, and a 26.2-mile marathon run through tough ocean waves, and challenging lava-covered terrain.

The idea of the Ironman World Championships on Hawaii is to combine three athletic disciplines (swimming, cycling and running) was one born out of a debate, amongst competitors, for a running race in Hawaii in 1978.

After discussing who was the fittest of them all, they decided to combine all three disciplines to find the answer, with the winner to be referred to as the Ironman.

The Ironman concept has since spread all over the world but the Ironman World Championships on Hawaii is the oldest, most renowned and also most spectacular Ironman race in the world. It has been held on Hawaii's Big Island since 1981, with the first Ironman to complete the course in 11 hours, 46 minutes and 58 seconds.

For those of you not ready (yet) for the Ironman World Championships on Hawaii but interested in active holidays, why not try the Big Island marathon course? This certified course is one of the most scenic marathons in the world and provides lasting memories.

Run the stunningly beautiful coast of old Hawaii, along the Pacific Ocean, through tropical rainforests, quaint villages, past exotic waterfalls, and over one-lane bridges with rushing rivers below you finishing at historic Hilo Bay Front. Finish line activities include: complimentary massages, entertainment and great food!

Due to the Ironman World Championships, and its other running courses, Big Island has gained its reputation as the Island of Adventure.

If you have come to watch the Ironman World Championships on Hawaii and want to make the most of your time there, taking a helicopter tour, for a birds-eye view of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and the rest of the islands hidden waterfalls, lush valleys and vast beaches, is just the beginning of an exhilarating Big Island expedition.

With surroundings ranging from lava-strewn deserts to tropical plantations and gardens, Hawaii's Big Island offers you the opportunity to engage in every imaginable outdoor activity.

Snorkel or scuba with manta rays off the Kona Coast; horseback ride in the grassy plains of paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country in Waimea; discover the 442-foot Akaka Falls and the 80-foot Rainbow Falls in Wailuku River State Park; and hike along the 150 miles of volcanic desert and tropical trails at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

By : Derek_Steneslow

Adventure Travel - Washington

Adventure Washington

Adventure travel into Washington state and you will be surprised at what you will find. Travel along on roads where the forest is so thick you can't see the mountain losing your sense of direction and discovering the secrets the forest has hidden within. Enjoy the crystal clear waters and friendly locals and some of the most scenic landscape of any US tour.

Traveling along the southern border of Washington along the border of Oregon you will find the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway for eighty miles you can discover scenic views, cascading waterfalls and a replica of Stonehedge.

Horsethief State Park is where you will find Stonehedge and ancient Indian writings on the rock. You will see the paragliders above you feel the power of the river around you and be filled with adventure within.

Interior Washington adventures are not hard to find when you travel the one hundred twenty mile White Pass Scenic Byway by car. Here you will find virgin forests, meadows full of wildflowers, salmon fishing and enjoy views of wildlife while passing through two National Forests.

Hiking in Mount Ranier National Park if the weather permits is a heart stopping experience. The largest glacier in the lower forty eight states sits on the top of the mountain along the rocky top. You should take a hike here and travel as far as you feel your endurance will hold out.

The weather on the mountain can be dangerous so keep your safety in mind. You can hike for a while and head back to the bar with beautiful views of the mountain and just kick back and just enjoy nature.

While visiting the Cascade Range you will want to stop and view the devastation and the quick recovery of the mountain by visiting Mount St Helen's while your in the area. You will realize the power of nature both to devastate and heal it will put your ability to control nature into perspective.

Vacationing in Washington would not be complete without a visit to the Pacific Ocean. Here you will find the cold waters of the Pacific Ocean you can travel along the coast by car and see wild orchids, lupine, ferns and many other beautiful plants.

The blue waters of the Ocean are home to gray whales and other sea mammals seeing these enormous creatures in nature is not a sight you will soon forget. Visit Ocean Beach State Park and spend the night. At low tide you can visit tide pools that are full of life and wonder. This area gets over one hundred inches of rain per year so have your rain gear handy.

A visit to Washington will have you seeing green for the entire adventure vacation. Keeping your eyes seeing green, your mind filled with wonder and you will know before you go home that you will be back.

By : Lanette_Higham

Must See Mountains to Visit in New Zealand

New Zealand is an area that is full of mountains. The surface area is consisted of over 75% of the land being mountains. The beauty of mountains cannot be ignored so many people wish to travel in order to see all of the ones the landscape has to offer.

Tectonic plates cause the mountains to exist from the plates sliding under each other and pushing land up. In the case of New Zealand the two major plates are the Pacific Plate and the Australian Indian Plate. Mountains can also be formed by two plates that smash directly into each other in the South Island. The Southern Alps were formed by this geographical occurrence.

The Southern Alps are an astounding mountain range. They are found on the coast of South Island and stretch to a distance of 650 kilometers. Kaikoura's eastern coast is also touched by the Alps.

The highest peak in the Southern Alps is Mount Cook with a height of 12,283 feet or 3,684 meters. This mountain has been climbed at one point by Sir Edmund Hillary. This was his very first climb on the mountain but he later on climbed Mount Everest. Fjords, combined with the numerous mountain peaks, add to the overall gorgeous scenery.

Glaciers can be found all over the southern portion of the island as well with the largest one being the Tasman glacier. They are within reach of hikers and individuals who prefer to reach the mountains as well.

The North Island is not immune to the beauty of the area either. The highest peak on this island reaches a height not quite as high as Mount Cook. It is Mount Rauphehu and is 9,175 feet tall which equals out to 2,797 meters high. This also has the fact of being a volcano.

It is not dormant and has erupted within the last 15 years since there were notable eruptions in both 1995 and 1996 as well. Skiing is very popular on this mountain as well and is the most popular location on the entire island for the recreational activity. Skiing is more preferred on the slopes that can be found on the South Island though since they are more suitable for the activity.

The mountains aren't the only things that make up the beauty in New Zealand. The natural processes of the Earth have also created the Milford Sound which is found in Fiordland. Subduction has actually pulled some of the landscape under water.

The ranges have fallen into the sea, in basic terms. The subduction is how the fjords and sounds were created. The hills created and the bays give individuals the ability to see natural beauty in the country. The popular recreational activities that people engage in while here include kayaking and boating among a few others.

Since there are so many mountains in New Zealand one of the more popular recreational activities that visitors and individuals who live here wish to engage in is mountain biking. It allows people to have fun, exercise, and see beautiful sites while doing so.

By : Jake_Conte

Adventure - New Zealand - Walking a Volcano

When most people think of New Zealand, walking through lush, green forested hills and alongside crystal glacial lakes comes to mind. But there is a very different side to this fascinating island nation and one which is surprisingly accessible considering its nature.

White Island, or Te Puia o Whakaari as it is traditionally known, is New Zealand's only active marine volcano and a visit to the incredible lunar-like landscape of the island is most definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Getting There

At less than 50km from the coast of Whakatane on the North Island of New Zealand, walking on the active volcano of White Island is well within everyone's reach. The boat trip over is the beginning of your adventure and the comfortable launch takes just over 80 minutes.

During this time you will be treated to morning tea and a running commentary on the history of the island and surrounding region.

You will also be issued with a gas-mask, hard-hat and safety gear for your walk on the volcano. On the way over, if you are lucky, you will be treated to an entourage of dolphins and at times hundreds surround the boat and escort you on your journey to White Island.

Your Volcanic Adventure

Once you reach the island, the launch moors and you are ferried by an inflatable boat the rest of the way to the jetty. There is an iron ladder and some boulders to navigate, so you do need to have a reasonable level of fitness. Once you land on the beach, you are ready to begin what will surely be your most memorable expedition in New Zealand.

Walking along the beach you will immediately be hit by the smell of sulphur and you will be required to don your gas-mask and hard-hat before setting off up the path which leads to the main crater's edge.

Your guide will lead you on a fascinating walk through the old disused sulphur mine and then up the rocky, screed path lined along the way with steaming, yellow plumes of sulphur which emanates from deep beneath the volcanic surface. It can get very hot as you get closer to the crater and the steam at times surrounds you - hissing an eerie sound.

Once you arrive at the craters edge, you will understand why this has become one of the most coveted attractions in New Zealand. Walking up to the rim of the crater, the lake within begins to become visible and the sight is nothing short of spectacular.

The icy blue-green of the lake is unlike any colour you have ever seen before. With the swirling sulphuric steam rising ethereally from the surface of the water, it is as if you have been transported to another planet.

The Maori name Te Puia o Whakaari translates as "Dramatic Volcano" and the island certainly lives up to its name. To visit White Island is indeed to experience the very best of New Zealand. Walking on an active volcano is not for the faint-hearted and, although completely safe, does require a certain amount of physical exertion.

However, if you don't think you're quite up to it, there is still a way to experience this spectacular location, with short but thrilling helicopter flights which leave from the mainland and take you right over, and part way into, the crater itself.

By : Tony_Maniscalco

Adventure Tour in India

According to the U.S. based Adventure Travel Trade Association, adventure travel may be any tourist activity, including two of the following three components:

1. Physical activity
2. Cultural exchange or interaction
3. Engagement with nature.

The marvelous India has the snow crowned mountain, Crystal Looks Glaciers, enchanting waterfalls and roaring rivers with mysterious jungles provide scopes of every kinds of adventures in the India for every adventure lover tourists. There are adventures for everybody for every age.

Starting from Mountaineering in The Himalayas, the highest mountain in world, complemented by trekking and rock climbing, paragliding, river rafting, there are several scopes of adventure tourism in India.

The adventure sports like mountain biking, mountain rally, skiing is being popular day by day in India among all ages of travelers around the world and especially among the young.

Tourists who love different kinds of adventures can experience Camel Safaris, Jeep Safaris, Elephant Safaris and Horse Safaris.

Traveler looking for thrilling adventure sports will love India. Fishing, white water rafting, paragliding, skiing, mountaineering, and hiking are all on offer in or around North India Himalayan Range.

You'll find many companies that organize and run adventure tours in almost all the tourist places in India. Some reputable ones with high safety standards are Himalayan Journeys, North Face Adventure Tours, and the government operated Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied Sports.

Many people head off on a road trip to Leh from Manali which is a lifetime journey in the lap of The Himalaya. For something different, Trans Himalayan Adventures organize tailored healing holidays (including Yoga, Ayurveda, and Reiki) and monastery tours are also great memorizing events.

By : Smith_Hopes

Fact Filled Safari Holiday

In the past we have looked at the Order, Perisodactyls.

You will now have a look at the other Order, Artiodactyls, and learn a few field characteristics that will enrich your Safari once you are ready.This is where we meet the swines and the hippopotamus.

In Kenya, the warthog is one of the very common animals of this order. Others include the bush pig, giant forest hogs found in the woodlands of Kenya and other African countries.

On many outings on your safari, it is the warthog that you will meet mostly in the open savannahs. It is one of the amazing creatures especially when you look at their faces. The warts give them an exaggerated appearance of 'tough' animals.

These warts are very prominent on the males. It is the only pig adapted for savannah habitats and as such it is the commonly spotted hog. You will see them on hot days wallowing in the shallow waters giving them that muddy look.

When feeding, the warthog rests and walks on its calloused carpal joints (wrists or knees). This is a behavior seen only with the warthog that makes the skin tough around the knees. This is the reason why in some old animals this skin has flaking looks due to use with time. Where there are seasonal climatic changes, they are seasonal breeders rutting at the end of the rains.

Usually they give birth to several piglets in a burrow under the ground. Unfortunately (or fortunately) they are preyed upon by a couple of predators including big birds of prey.(one time a martial eagle came down like lightning and grabbed a piglet just next to our van as we watched them and the helpless mother had nothing she could do).

When threatened by the predators, they seek their underground refuge and usually put up a defense especially for the piglets. On a couple of times you will see that when surprised or scared they run for their burrows backwards first. This is a defensive move whereby they usually attack with their teeth with the rest of the body protected in the hole.

The hippopotamus is one of the most interesting creatures. An enigma in itself. One of the most noticeable characteristic is the physical resemblance to the pigs.

There are two species of hippos in the world, but while on your safari in Kenya you will see one of them, the common hippopotamus. The dwarf hippopotamus is found in the lowland forests of West Africa from Guinea to Ivory Coast.

Hippos feed at night on land and during the day they rest in the water. This is the time to digest what they have been eating during the night. Their 'familiar' honking enriches the day with the sounds of the African wilds. All this in their age-old natural habitats that man has not yet managed to destroy, but unfortunately on the way.

The hippo's jaws are often displayed as a ready protection or as a threat to intruders. You must look out for the famous "hippo yawn" during your trip and this calls for some patience when you visit the hippo pools.

Usually during the night when feeding, lions and hyenas try their luck on the young calves and this is usually fierce asking for a lot of trouble from the mother. In some cases they succeed but after some fights that can vary from mild to fierce.

At times, the display of the huge canines is enough to ward of intruders especially during the day when they rest in shallow waters. The fact that they are most of the times in a group also helps a lot to protect their young ones.

On your Safari with the help of the guide you will be able to interpret more of the behaviors around the hippos and the warthogs as they appear.

By : Peter_K_Philip

Adventure Travel Virginia

Adventures in Virginia

Virginia has everything an Adventure Traveler desires. This place has the Atlantic Ocean where you can watch the dolphins play. When you are ready for some dry land you can hike the gorgeous woods with stands of hardwood trees and beautiful flowering wild flowers.

You can visit historic places, relax and enjoy a ride on one of the many scenic roads that will restore your spirit and will make your vacation go by in a heartbeat.

Want to walk along the ocean and hike along the dunes and view wildlife in the ocean and on land visit First Landing State Park. This place will have looking at bald eagles, sea turtles, dolphins and you will know your in the south with moss hanging from the trees.

The wild roses and the sea breeze is a smell that will imprint on your memory and have you coming back for more.

Virginia Beach is famous for relaxing in the sun and enjoying the ocean. Adventure Travel in a Kayak into one of the largest salt water marshes on the east coast.

Your reward will be getting away from the crowds, closer to the wildlife and making yourself one with nature. You can rent a kayak in the area and enjoy a different perspective from many who visit this area.

When you ready to take a scenic drive adventure in Virginia you will want to travel along on the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. The road will take along the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains and give you access along the way to over five hundred miles of hiking trails.

You will find that one third of these will take you into wilderness areas, some of the trails are handicapped accessible. Hiking on any of the trails you will be exposed to the wilds of Virginia. The wildlife, the hardwood trees, wildflowers and the babbling of many a stream.

When your ready to enjoy some history with scenic stops along the way travel along the George Washington Parkway. It will take you all along the Potomac River.

You can stop at Mount Vernon and see where Washington made his home for over forty five years. Take a look at the gardens and wetlands that will inspire you to plant some heritage seeds in your garden next year.

While on the parkway you will want to stop at Great Falls State Park enjoy the falls and hike into the woods.

Virginia is a place that Washington held dear to his heart. Adventure Travel in the area and it will remain in yours, hopefully for the rest of your life.

By : Lanette_Higham

Adventure Travel - Rhode Island

Adventures Rhode Island

Traveling to Rhode Island adventure is waiting for you around every turn. Offering pristine beaches, historic landmarks, century old gardens, scenic drives, hiking and biking trails that will leave you remembering the views and peace you felt and have you coming back for more.

If you are looking for a place to enjoy some fun in the sun full of relaxation you will find it Misquamicut State Beach. You can wiggle your toes in the sand sit back and relax and play in the surf to your hearts content. Stop by one of the local markets and enjoy a picnic with the sound of the surf soothing your body and restoring your youthful spirit.

Adventure back into time and enjoy looking back enjoy a day of going back into history 1651 with a visit to Fort Adams the French established a fort here way back then, we of course took it with a bit of a struggle.

The scenic view of the ocean the history of the place is amazing. American history can be found at Slater Mill the industrialization of America started here, changing us forever. The learning museum here will give you a understanding of how people lived in 1793.

Before the industrial age there were the plantation houses and Smith Castle is an excellent example of the times. Smith Castle is surrounded by eighteenth century herb and flower gardens. Smith Castle was declared a National Landmark recently for it archeological significance built in 1678.

For a scenic adventure travel the Old Kings Highway the indian trail will take you past hundreds of historical sites, scenic coastal towns,swamp lands and through forests of trees both deciduous and evergreen.

This is a really good place to have a cycling adventure and stop and smell the roses along the way. The road travels along the coast for the most part and will have you smiling as you take it all in.

Stop off in the Arcadia Wildlife Management area an hike through the wetlands and check out the wildlife. Wood River is one of the best trout fishing streams in the state if fish is what your looking for cast your line in Wood River.

Taking a short scenic drive inland on Breakneck hill road will give you a view of the beautiful an awe inspiring Moshassuck River Valley. The road is a bit challenging with its winding curves but, the views are worth the negotiating just take your time and enjoy.

Travel to the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge and you might see pregrine falcon, northern farrier or a snowy owl. You will experience strands of beach and marshlands with really good saltwater fishing in the area.

Hike around on the two and a half mile hiking trail and view Sachuest Point. When you travel to Rhode Island you will find a small area packed with adventure and your travels rewarded with lasting memories.

By : Lanette_Higham

Kashmir Tourism Offers Kashmir Adventure Tour

Kashmir and adventure are simply inseparable. Go on a Kashmir Tour and explore the most celestial destination of India which is tantamount to heaven. Its incredible beauty and amazing adventure sports facilities make it a big hit with both national and international tourists.

Truly, if you have not seen Kashmir, you have not seen India. Although there are several enchanting destinations in Kashmir but the most famous ones for beauty and adventure are Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg and Drass.

Indulge in the various adventure sports in Kashmir:

Mountaineering in Kashmir
Mountaineering is a challenging and thrilling adventure activity which can be enjoy fully in Kashmir. Before embarking for mountaineering tourists need to obtain permit from the Government of India through the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. The best time for indulging in this sport is from May to October.

Fishing in Kashmir
Kashmir is endowed with wonderful lakes, rivers and streams which are homes to a variety of fishes. You can enjoy fishing here during the months from April to October. Rivers like Jhelum, Liddar, Sindh and lakes such as Dal, Vishanshar, Nunkhol and Gangabal are the famous destinations for fishing.

Trekking in Kashmir
Kashmir Tourism offers amazing trekking routes such as Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Amarnath Yatra.

Skiing in Kashmir
This is a famous adventure sport which is favored by most of the tourists who come to Kashmir. Offering a great deal of fun and thrill, this sport can be best experienced in Gulmarg. The most propitious period for indulging in this sport in Kashmir is from December to April.

Golfing in Kashmir
You can also enjoy the royal game golf in Kashmir. And the best time is from April to November.

River Rafting in Kashmir
The beautiful rivers in Kashmir offer great opportunities for river rafting sport. The favorable time for this is from August to September.

By : Sanjog_KR