" " " World Happy Travel and Tourism: 08/2010

8/29/2010

Dream Island Moorea: Private Bungalow Rentals in Paradise

Have you ever dreamed of being on your own secluded, exotic private island? Each of the two island style homes available are personally decorated by the family who owns them and feature full kitchens (stocked upon request), separate living areas, private bath and terrace. The bungalows are spacious, well ventilated and made from all local materials set amongst lush gardens which shelter a variety of exotic island wildlife. Enjoy white sandy beaches, panoramic views, spectacular sunsets and amazing star-studded skies with your loved one for a private exotic vacation you will never forget! 7-Nights Dates: Year Round (best time to visit is April - November) Rates: Depend on dates of travel. Each bungalow has the ability to accommodate four people at a discount. Contact our Exotic Island Vacation Consultants for Additional Information!

Caribbean Beachfront Vacations

Our impressive collection of unique beachfront resorts provides the best variety in Caribbean vacations. From the islands of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, Antigua, steeped in history, seductive Nevis, lush and tropical St. Lucia, seductive Barbados or Palm Island; our private island paradise in the Grenadines, or our newest addition Grenada, the spice island, we have the perfect escape you are looking for.

If you are a couple seeking a Caribbean wedding, honeymoon or just a romantic getaway, planning family Caribbean vacations, have a group corporate function or bringing family and friends together for a reunion, or are single and simply want to get away from it all, we’ve got a Caribbean beach resort vacation just for you!

Our range of spectacular Caribbean beach resorts has everything you desire, from superior luxury to comfortable budget options. Contact us today to check availability and pricing or to learn more about our Caribbean beach resort vacations with NO obligation.

8/26/2010

Main Beach Resort Guide


Introduction

Prestigious Main Beach is the sophisticated, elite end of the Gold Coast, with million-dollar homes on tree-lined streets, luxury high-rise apartments and condos, designer boutiques and speciality stores. Trendy Tedder Avenue is lined with dozens of restaurants, wine bars and cafés, and is the place to be seen.

Queensland's Gold Coast stretches 40km (24 miles) southwards from Main Beach (just south of Brisbane) to Coolangatta, on the Queensland/New South Wales border. The sunny, subtropical climate, superb beaches, hinterland rainforests and mountain peaks draw tourists year-round to this tropical playground.

Main Beach is just a short walk or bike ride to neighbouring Surfers Paradise.

Who goes there?

A year-round playground for the wealthy, Main Beach is both sophisticated and casual, drawing tourists and sun lovers of all ages from around the world.

Where in the world?

Basking under a subtropical sun 76km (46 miles) south of Brisbane, Queensland's capital, Main Beach marks the beginning of the sparkling Gold Coast.

Positioned between the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Nerang River estuary known as the Broadwater, Main Beach is bounded to the north by a long sandbar called the Spit, home to the Gold Coast's two most exclusive resort hotels. A narrow isthmus extends south to Surfers Paradise and the 70km (43 mile) stretch of surf beaches that make up the Gold Coast.

When to go?

In the heart of Queensland's Gold Coast, Main Beach is popular year-round, basking in 300 days of sunshine a year. Winters are mild and warm, and temperatures in the sub-tropical summers average 19-29ºC (66-83°F).

Beach

Wide, golden sand beaches are popular for body- and board-surfing, with warm temperatures for swimming year-round. Surf fishing can haul in that fresh catch for dinner. Lifeguards patrol the beach from the surf lifesaving club. Take a break from the beach for an afternoon barbecue or game of Frisbee on the beachfront park.

Beyond the beach

Only a block away from the beach is the best people-watching spot in town in the alfresco restaurants and cafés lining the street. Luxury cars cruise past umbrellas shading the mix of tourists and sophisticated diners.

The wreck of The Scottish Prince is a great dive spot, or take a scenic flight along the surf-fringed coastline. Go for a 350hp adrenaline rush one-on-one with a professional rally driver instructor on the WRX Off Road Rally Circuit at Pimpana, five minutes from Dreamworld. Speed thrills are not just for kids!

The northern Gold Coast is a theme park mecca, with something for every taste. Dreamworld (Pacific Highway, Coomera) is a theme park ride extravaganza, with enough rollercoasters, waterslides and gravity-defying rides to suit any adrenaline-seekers. WhiteWater World (Pacific Highway, Coomera, 17km/10 miles north of Surfers Paradise) is a new theme park, boasting extreme waterslides and attractions for the whole family. Step back into the 1800s at Beenleigh Historical Village (Main Street, Beenleigh), where life is re-enacted in the 22 historical buildings complete with antiques, working blacksmiths, artists, residents and farm animals. At famous Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin) nurse a koala or feed brilliantly coloured rosellas and lorikeets.

Family fun

Try your skill at kite-surfing, or paddle an outrigger canoe through the surf. Breathe in the fresh sea air on a coastal walk or enjoy the calmer waters of Broadwater for various boating activities.

Learn more about life in the ocean at Sea World (Sea World Drive, The Spit), a 25-hectare (62-acre) marine park with exciting rides, and fascinating and interactive exhibits for the whole family. Gasp at the unbelievable at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum (Raptis Plaza, Cavis Mall), just down the beach in Surfers Paradise. Take a wild and fast spin on a Paradise Jet Boat (Mariner's Cove Marina, Sea World Drive, The Spit) up the Broadwater, past millionaires' yachts and cruisers, helicopters and float planes, and the opulent Palazzo Versace Hotel.

Retail therapy

Renowned for its cafe-lined boulevards and exclusive shops, the Main Beach shopping area abounds in designer boutiques, high-end fashion, jewellery, furniture and speciality stores. North of town, at the Spit, the Marina Mirage shopping complex showcases all the top fashion labels in its elegant designer boutiques. Visit the Sheraton Mirage (Sea World Drive) and Palazzo Versace (Sea World Drive) resorts for those exclusive gifts. Find the best bargains at Marina Mirage's Farmers Market the first and third and fifth Saturday of the month, or slip down the beach to Surfers Paradise on a Friday night for their famous outdoor evening market. More bargains abound at Harbourtown Factory Outlets at nearby Biggera Waters.

A night on the town

The Gold Coast is known for its wild and crazy nightlife, Surfers Paradise being the biggest hotspot. It is the place to go to party all night long, with an abundance of bars, clubs and adult entertainment. Join one of the many organised nightclub crawls to experience a sampling of tropical nightlife and entertainment.

Eating out

The chic and relaxed atmosphere of Tedder Avenue is adorned with the best strip of restaurants on the Gold Coast. Trendy wine bars, casual lunch spots and elegant alfresco restaurants provide menus with mouth-watering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and a combination of Mediterranean, Australian and Asian fare. Shuck Restaurant (20 Tedder Avenue), famous for its Sand Crab Lasagne and Peking Duck Salad, reputedly serves the best seafood in southeastern Queensland. Thanks to a large Japanese population, excellent sushi abounds. North of Main Beach, on the Spit, the exclusive Marina Mirage boasts an uptown shopping complex with good waterfront dining.



Surf clubs in every Gold Coast oceanside suburb provide quality food at reasonable prices in their bistros. The most popular inexpensive meal in Australia is paper-wrapped fish and chips.

Getting around

Regular bus services link all Gold Coast towns with most area attractions and Brisbane to the north. Many tour companies offer hotel pickups. Except for a car to explore further afield, most dining and beach activities are within walking distance. Parking is cheap and plentiful for those with a car.

Exploring further afield

You can sample award-winning wines in the Gold Coast Hinterland Wine Country. Extending from the beautiful rainforests of Mount Tamborine to Canungra Valley's emerald countryside, this rapidly growing boutique wine region produces Queensland's best wines. Cellar doors and restaurants are often housed in historic homesteads, adding to the wine tasting experience. While in the region, visit Mount Tamborine's Gallery Walk for antiques, paintings and pottery.

8/23/2010

Family Beach Vacation at Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort

Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort is a perfect family beach vacation destination since the resort is set on a 1,000-foot white-sand beach in the Bahamas.

You will be able to choose from activities for all ages, including playing in the pools, snorkeling in the ocean, sailing and other water sports.

Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort is set on 7 acres with three freshwater pools, waterfalls, whirlpools, and a swim-up bar. The kids' pool has a waterfall for playing in the water.

Each of the hotel's 694 guest rooms and suites has a private balcony or patio with views of the Atlantic Ocean or the gardens.

Bahamas Vacation at Pink Sands Resort

Pink Sands Resort is located on Harbour Island in the Bahamas, 50 miles east of Nassau. The resort is 20 minutes away from the North Eleuthera International Airport by car and water taxi. North Eleuthera International Airport is serviced from Nassau and other gateways by both scheduled and charter service.

Pink Sands Resort on Harbour Island is a Bahamas vacation getaway, 50 miles east of Nassau. This 18-acre celebrity hideaway offers a combination of luxury, privacy and natural beauty. Harbour Island's sandy beach, sheltered by a barrier reef, is made up of red coral mixed with white sand, giving it a pink tone.

The island is only 3.5 miles long and half a mile wide with a resident population of just 2,000. Many of the buildings on the island date from the early 19th century. The best way to get around the island is by bicycle or golf cart.

Pink Sands offers 25 secluded cottages decorated with sensual Moroccan, Indian and Balinese influences. This luxury Caribbean resort is surrounded with blue waters and the sound of birds, making it a perfect romantic getaway.

The 21 one-bedroom cottages measure 1,000 square feet is size, while the 4 two-bedroom cottages offer 2,000 square feet of space. Guest rooms have central air-conditioning, full bathrooms with Aveda products and private outdoor patios with teak furniture.

The hotel has a freshwater pool, three tennis courts, an exercise studio and a beach restaurant and bar. Snorkeling equipment and boogie boards are made available to guests.

The two restaurants at the resort serve Caribbean-International cuisine. Breakfast and dinner are served at the the Garden Terrace Restaurant, a romantic open-air restaurant with teak furniture and private candlelit corners. The Blue Bar is located on the beach and is open daily for lunch and cool drinks.

8/22/2010

Olympic National Park - Olympic Peninsula

Olympic National ParkOlympic National ParkOlympic National Park
Olympic National Park - Olympic Peninsula
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is located in the U.S. state of Washington, in the Olympic Peninsula.
Olympic National ParkOlympic National Park
Olympic National Park is located in the U.S. state of Washington, in the Olympic Peninsula. The park can be divided into three basic regions: the Pacific coastline, the Olympic Mountains, and the temperate rainforest. U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt originally created Mount Olympus National Monument in 1909 and after Congress voted to authorize a re-designation to National Park status, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the legislation in 1938. In 1976, Olympic National Park became an International Biosphere Reserve, and in 1981 it was designated a World Heritage Site. In 1988, Congress designated 95 percent of the park as the Olympic Wilderness.

Source : Wikipedia.com

8/17/2010

Bali Nusa Penida Dive Site, Dive spots In Bali Indonesia, Best Diving Vacation

Bali Nusa Penida Dive SiteBali Nusa Penida Dive SiteNusa Penida is the largest of 3 islands (the others being Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan). The water here is fairly cold (because of the ocean currents) but often startlingly clear, with gorgeous corals and prolific fish, with some turtle, shark (including grey reefs and silver-tips) and – Aug-Sep – Mola-Mola (the weird and wonderful Sunfish).

Bali Nusa Penida Dive Site
Dive Site in Nusa Penida Bali

SD Point
With a strong current flow in the area, generally there are many Anthias around, sometimes big fishes like Giant Trevally, Sharks and if you are lucky, the Sun Fish (the season for sun fish is between July to September). The dive site is stretched over kilometers, along the north coast of Penida Island .

Sampalan Point
The site is located on the north side of Lembongan, the marine life is similar to SD Point with some high lights of underwater structure that is quite different. Some sloping is full of soft coral with reef fish hover to get some nutrient from the rich water.

Bali Nusa Penida Dive Site
Blue Corner Point

The site offers a sloping reef with terrace at 20 to 30m. The current here is usually stronger than at other places (it may reach 3 to 4 knots). Consider it as one of the best places to see Sun Fish. The marine life is similar to SD Point but not as rich.

Toyapakeh Point
This is a very nice spot as it is protected from swell and current. Although the current is sometimes strong, usually it is negotiable. Many Blue trigger fishes at some point and near the Pontoon, there are usually many Giant Trevally. The shallow area is excellent for snorkeling. Some encounters with big pelagic is common.

Lembongan Bay point

The site is located in a protected area with water sports and pontoons. The site is shallow, 5 to 10m deep and offers it some varieties of soft and hard corals. The coral is rich and healthy with many varieties of reef fish.

Malibu Point
Malibu Point is considered one of the nicest sites in the island (besides SD and Toyapakeh). It’s slightly wilder than Toyapakeh with great schools of Jacks and Rainbow Runner, and Dog Tooth Tuna. The underwater structure is very interesting.

Gamat Bay Point

The water is always clear, and the reef, a steep, rugged slope leading into the bay. You need your observation skill to see the macro things which lay beneath the surface. It is full of small caves and crevices and number of reef fish and invertebrates here are exceptional.

Crystal Bay Point
The location is situated in a very nice white sandy beach lagoon. The underwater structure is excellent with some variation of coral and alley. When the current is not strong, snorkellers can enjoy the underwater scenery from the bay. Fish life is very rich and occasionally Sun Fish , and Nurse Sharks hide under the corals.

Manta Point
Usually there are 3 to 4 Mantas cruising the site. The profile is slope down to 50m, there are not many corals, just limestone rocks. Other than Manta, there are also Tunas, Mackerels and other pelagic.


Bali Nusa Penida Dive Site, Dive spots In Bali Indonesia, Best Diving Vacation

Nusa Penida is the largest of 3 islands (the others being Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan). The water here is fairly cold (because of the ocean currents) but often startlingly clear, with gorgeous corals and prolific fish, with some turtle, shark (including grey reefs and silver-tips) and – Aug-Sep – Mola-Mola (the weird and wonderful Sunfish).


Dive Site in Nusa Penida Bali

SD Point
With a strong current flow in the area, generally there are many Anthias around, sometimes big fishes like Giant Trevally, Sharks and if you are lucky, the Sun Fish (the season for sun fish is between July to September). The dive site is stretched over kilometers, along the north coast of Penida Island .

Sampalan Point
The site is located on the north side of Lembongan, the marine life is similar to SD Point with some high lights of underwater structure that is quite different. Some sloping is full of soft coral with reef fish hover to get some nutrient from the rich water.


Blue Corner Point

The site offers a sloping reef with terrace at 20 to 30m. The current here is usually stronger than at other places (it may reach 3 to 4 knots). Consider it as one of the best places to see Sun Fish. The marine life is similar to SD Point but not as rich.

Toyapakeh Point
This is a very nice spot as it is protected from swell and current. Although the current is sometimes strong, usually it is negotiable. Many Blue trigger fishes at some point and near the Pontoon, there are usually many Giant Trevally. The shallow area is excellent for snorkeling. Some encounters with big pelagic is common.

Lembongan Bay point

The site is located in a protected area with water sports and pontoons. The site is shallow, 5 to 10m deep and offers it some varieties of soft and hard corals. The coral is rich and healthy with many varieties of reef fish.

Malibu Point
Malibu Point is considered one of the nicest sites in the island (besides SD and Toyapakeh). It’s slightly wilder than Toyapakeh with great schools of Jacks and Rainbow Runner, and Dog Tooth Tuna. The underwater structure is very interesting.

Gamat Bay Point

The water is always clear, and the reef, a steep, rugged slope leading into the bay. You need your observation skill to see the macro things which lay beneath the surface. It is full of small caves and crevices and number of reef fish and invertebrates here are exceptional.

Crystal Bay Point
The location is situated in a very nice white sandy beach lagoon. The underwater structure is excellent with some variation of coral and alley. When the current is not strong, snorkellers can enjoy the underwater scenery from the bay. Fish life is very rich and occasionally Sun Fish , and Nurse Sharks hide under the corals.

Manta Point
Usually there are 3 to 4 Mantas cruising the site. The profile is slope down to 50m, there are not many corals, just limestone rocks. Other than Manta, there are also Tunas, Mackerels and other pelagic.


The Ultimate Bass Fishing Spots at Thousand Island, US

Thousand Island


Bass Fishing Spots

Bass fishing is a famous sport that is a phenomenon in the United States of America, which has hooked several people in the country. Bass fishing is usually a sport that is found on rivers, lakes and on other aquatic formations of United States. Thousand islands is a popular venue for bass fishing where approximately one thousand islands which are small existing in their lake of Ontario towards the east of St.Lawrence and in east central north America. Estimation shows that there are nearly 1,700 islands where a precise count is impossible as enumerable number of tiny islands is in existence.

Thousand Island

Wolfe Island (127sq km/49sqm) is the largest in Ontario. Ontario’s’ recreational and scenic attraction is the waters. Lake of superior, Lake of Huron, Lake Eric, Lake Ontario is the four great lakes. Lakes like simcoc, muskoka are accessible from the North of Toronto which is famous centers for vacation. The Niagara falls, a greatest scenic attraction in New York, North America is shared by Ontario .Lake Ontario is left with patch of rivers by the thousand islands. Large rocks, cottages, hold farms and estates worth million dollars are catered by the island.

Bass Fishing Spots at Thousand Island 3

The game became extremely popular in a very short time, after its popularity as a famous vacation spot several lodges and resorts for accommodation are constructed for enthusiasts of bass fishing and other tourists. The activity of fishing in Ontario is bifurcated into report or recreational fishing and commercial fishing.

Bass Fishing Spots at Thousand Island

Small mouth bass species love to survive as the island is rocky. Large catch of freshwater to Canada comes from Ontario. Smelt, smallmouth and walleye are the species of fishes caught. The anglers are attracted by the fabulous bass fishng. Small and large mouths are existent, which are found in st.lawrence which includes the isles lakes, goose bay, Chippewa bay, circling the Admiralty Islands. Fox and grenadier islands, chamount bay are the key spots intake Ontario.

 Thousand Island

The island offers other vibrant experiences in the form of island of Ontario with its rich heritage and its characteristic features of bass fishing which is recognized to be the best sport makes this island a an edifice, welcoming tourists and enthusiasts around the world to this wonderful holiday spot.

The Ultimate Bass Fishing Spots at Thousand Island, US

Bass Fishing Spots

Bass fishing is a famous sport that is a phenomenon in the United States of America, which has hooked several people in the country. Bass fishing is usually a sport that is found on rivers, lakes and on other aquatic formations of United States. Thousand islands is a popular venue for bass fishing where approximately one thousand islands which are small existing in their lake of Ontario towards the east of St.Lawrence and in east central north America. Estimation shows that there are nearly 1,700 islands where a precise count is impossible as enumerable number of tiny islands is in existence.

Thousand Island

Wolfe Island (127sq km/49sqm) is the largest in Ontario. Ontario’s’ recreational and scenic attraction is the waters. Lake of superior, Lake of Huron, Lake Eric, Lake Ontario is the four great lakes. Lakes like simcoc, muskoka are accessible from the North of Toronto which is famous centers for vacation. The Niagara falls, a greatest scenic attraction in New York, North America is shared by Ontario .Lake Ontario is left with patch of rivers by the thousand islands. Large rocks, cottages, hold farms and estates worth million dollars are catered by the island.

Bass Fishing Spots at Thousand Island 3

The game became extremely popular in a very short time, after its popularity as a famous vacation spot several lodges and resorts for accommodation are constructed for enthusiasts of bass fishing and other tourists. The activity of fishing in Ontario is bifurcated into report or recreational fishing and commercial fishing.

Bass Fishing Spots at Thousand Island

Small mouth bass species love to survive as the island is rocky. Large catch of freshwater to Canada comes from Ontario. Smelt, smallmouth and walleye are the species of fishes caught. The anglers are attracted by the fabulous bass fishng. Small and large mouths are existent, which are found in st.lawrence which includes the isles lakes, goose bay, Chippewa bay, circling the Admiralty Islands. Fox and grenadier islands, chamount bay are the key spots intake Ontario.

 Thousand Island

The island offers other vibrant experiences in the form of island of Ontario with its rich heritage and its characteristic features of bass fishing which is recognized to be the best sport makes this island a an edifice, welcoming tourists and enthusiasts around the world to this wonderful holiday spot.

8/16/2010

Fishermen in Vernazza Harbor, Cinque Terre

Fishermen in Vernazza Harbor, Cinque Terre
Over a month home now, the place that sticks with me is the Cinque Terre on the Northern Italian Mediterranean Coast. Brimming with charm and beauty, this area is one of the most enjoyable places I’ve been and I can’t wait to return there in the future. Here, in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Italian National Park, five cities (“Cinque Terre”) cling to the cliffs near the coastline, each offering it’s own blend of charming beauty.

We stayed in Vernazza with a beautiful tiny harbor that is still home to fisherman who I think are usually catching anchovies which are then served up both in the salty way that is not very popular in the USA but also in a light lemon oil which for me was a very tasty treat along with the rest of our meal at Il Pirata Cafe in Vernazza, one of the Cinque Terre’s best restaurants.
Fishermen in Vernazza Harbor, Cinque Terre

8/07/2010

Cayo Espanto Belize - Private Island Resorts

Cayo Espanto BelizeLocated in a tropical island in Belize, Cayo Espanto is a cool vacation with just six guest accommodations. Guests are provided even with walkie-talkies so that staff need not be disturbed unless they are contacted. With only six villas, it's easy to feel like you have a place (like you do 'for a few nights, at least). Accommodation Every house inhabited at least 1,500 square meters and has his own name as Casa Brisa Spanish, or Casa Estrella, having chosen the island even more attractive and comfortable. Decorative fine villa, but all include a private pool, walled garden and a bath in the open.

Cayo Espanto BelizeBed linens Yves Delorme is equipped with king-size and can easily cost twice the price of staying the night. Nearest snorkeling and diving tours to one of the world's hot sites.

Cayo Espanto BelizeCayo Espanto BelizeCayo Espanto BelizeAs the second largest coral reef in the world lies off the coast of Belize, those who enjoy diving or snorkeling must be missing an opportunity to take a private charter Cayo Espanto.

Cayo Espanto BelizePrivate guided reef diving and snorkeling tours and fishing charters and deep sea are available and tours to the mainland for a picnic, golf and Mayan ruin tours can be arranged. private boat, plane and helicopter charter services available.

Cayo Espanto Belize - Private Island Resorts

Located in a tropical island in Belize, Cayo Espanto is a cool vacation with just six guest accommodations. Guests are provided even with walkie-talkies so that staff need not be disturbed unless they are contacted. With only six villas, it's easy to feel like you have a place (like you do 'for a few nights, at least). Accommodation Every house inhabited at least 1,500 square meters and has his own name as Casa Brisa Spanish, or Casa Estrella, having chosen the island even more attractive and comfortable. Decorative fine villa, but all include a private pool, walled garden and a bath in the open.

Bed linens Yves Delorme is equipped with king-size and can easily cost twice the price of staying the night. Nearest snorkeling and diving tours to one of the world's hot sites.

As the second largest coral reef in the world lies off the coast of Belize, those who enjoy diving or snorkeling must be missing an opportunity to take a private charter Cayo Espanto.

Private guided reef diving and snorkeling tours and fishing charters and deep sea are available and tours to the mainland for a picnic, golf and Mayan ruin tours can be arranged. private boat, plane and helicopter charter services available.