Shark Cage Diving in Cape Town South Africa

South Africa is a country located in the southern tip of the continent of Africa, with over 1,700 miles of beaches along the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. It is a country uniquely popular among tourists for various activities such as wildlife safari and Shark Cage Diving Tours.

These diving tours typically begin in the morning after breakfast depending on the sea conditions and end around after 3 hours. During intermediate and high seasons, there are typically 2 tours a day, while during peak seasons (June to August), this can increase to 3 tours in a day. They typically start around 7 so as to catch the predation and breaching activities during the first light of the day. Sharks are very active around that time. During peak season, there is almost a 100% chance of viewing sharks, but that can go to about 80% during intermediate seasons. You can always get a voucher for non-sighting in case you were unlucky.

There are also Southern Right whales, schools of dolphins and penguins that can be seen on the trip. If you are able to visit Seal Island, be prepared for the spectacular viewing of over 64,000 seals in one place.

Trips typically leave from Simon's Town, which is only about half an hour from Cape Town, and from Kleinbaai Harbor in Gansbaai. Once the boat leaves the shore and goes to the areas where sharks are known to roam, the anchor is dropped and sharks are attracted using special food. Once the sharks start running alongside of the boat, you get a chance to get into the cage and get lowered into the water. It is an extremely thrilling, once in a lifetime experience to have a great white shark brush against you while you take close up pictures of the huge fish. Since it is so popular, most of the limited tours fill up a long time in advance and a lot of people without prior bookings are turned away. This is especially true during peak season, which runs until September. During the period of December to May, open ocean trips with Blue and Mako Shark viewings are also available, in case you are unable to get into the water.

Wildlife tours offer a similar story. They are very popular with families and sometimes booked weeks in advance. This is a seasonal tour and offered for limited periods at designated times only. As is apparent, unless you book in advance, there is a good chance that you may not experience all that South Africa has to offer.

While visiting a different country, it is very important to plan the trip so that you can capture the essence of the place and experience its beauty in the few short days you are there. It is crucial to book your trip before you get to South Africa. Visit us online so that you can skip the lines.

Book your trip to South Africa online for all your tours to secure your place and avoid disappointments.

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Nature Watching in Valdes Peninsular, Argentina
Awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valdes Peninsular in Argentina is a gamut of sea lions, seals, whales and seabirds. Being a natural reserve that is important to Argentina, Valdes Peninsular is an enchanting place for nature watchers. The canopy of wildlife and seabirds is spectacular and transports you to another world itself.

Situated just between Tierra del Fuego and Buenos Aires in the Chubut province the Valdez peninsular across the Atlantic coast is considered to be the world's biggest mating area. The magic of the wilderness that is all of 780,000 sq meters and the uniqueness of the animals along with the feeling of being uninhabited is sheer pleasure. The species of animals found here are so varied that it naturally takes you away from civilization. The serene beauty of the place with cliffs that are steep comprising of serrated rocks, the deep blue sea, shells, and multicolored pebbles adorning the shores is beautiful in itself.

Valdez Peninsula is filled with a canopy of animals that are water borne, land borne and air borne. October to December is the best time to visit the peninsular. This is when you will find the Southern Right Whales along with their calves, gigantic sea elephants that size upto 18 feet and weigh an astounding 4 tons. Another permanent resident at the peninsular is the southern sea lions along with the European Hare and the Guanacos.

A prominent sight is the frequent visits of the Orcas or the killer whale. This is nature at its best, especially if you are lucky to catch an Orca lunging near the shore in an attempt to devour a sea lion. Sights seen only on Animal Planet and The National Geographic. In reality this is even more spectacular and you might just catch yourself gaping at the event of two mammoths in their natural heinous environment.

Birds coming to the peninsular are plenty and most of them you wouldn't have probably seen. It is an absolutely rare sight to watch Guanay, Giant petrels, American oystercatchers, the white-headed flightless Steamer-duck, black-browed Albatross and many more. There are other land birds like the Elegant Crested Tinamou, Yellow-Finch, White-throated Cacholote etc. if you are out on boat you will find several water species gliding past and getting close to the boat. You may also catch a tail fin outside of the waters only to be surprised by the water that sprays on your face due to the splashing of the tail fin on the water. This makes a great picture.

Another interesting species to watch out for in the Valdes Peninsular is the Magellanic Penguin that has black-brown shading. You would be surprised with their friendliness as they walk past you in their herd. During September to February is the time that these penguins breed in the peninsular and in the near by Punta Tombo.

Fredrick recommends a blog https://travel-across-world.blogspot.com for some more travel related articles that you would surely find interesting and informative.

Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro

The ascent up Kilimanjaro is in no way easy you will need to be physically fit and be properly equipped. The high elevation, low temperatures and weather (wind, snow, and ice) make the trek difficult and potentially dangerous. Most of the routes will take around 7 days to hike and may require extra days to acclimatize, as altitude sickness is a really concern. All trekkers will suffer considerable discomfort, shortage of breath, headaches and hypothermia getting more severe the higher you ascend. You must also be physically prepared, as you have to walk uphill and downhill for long periods whilst breathing in less oxygen than normal. Most days require you walk for around 5 hours except on the day you attempt to reach the summit, it takes 11-14 hours to reach the summit and descend to the next camp.

When to go:

Tanzania's proximity to the equator means there is a dry season and a wet season. The wet season starts at the end of March to June, there is also a short wet season in November and December where it tends to rain in the afternoon. The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the warmest and driest months, usually January, February and September are the best and therefore busiest. June to August is also good but the temperature is colder.

Route:

There are 7 routes up Kilimanjaro: Lemosho, Machame, Marangu, Northern Circuit, Rongai, Shira, and Umbwe. The Rongai route scales the mountain from the North. The Machame, Marangu, and Umbwe from the South and Mweka for the decent. The Lemosho, Northern Circuit, and Shira from the West. The Machame route is the most popular and has the best scenery, the easiest route is Rongai, it is also the least scenic.

Kilimanjaro is separated into five zones each has its own characteristics, weather and ecology:

Bushland - lowest at 800-1,800m (2,600-6,000ft) has crops and grassland

Rain Forest - 1,800-2,800m (6,000-9,200ft) High rainfall that supports a wide variety of plants and animals

Heath - 2,800-4,000m (9,200-13,200ft) Vegetation is heath-like (low-shrubs) and there is abundant wild flowers.

Alpine Desert - 4,000-5,000m (13.200-16,500ft) receives little rainfall, around 250mm (10 in) annually, and extreme temperatures dropping below freezing at nights.

Arctic - +5,000m (+16,500ft) Named because of its ice and rock landscape, the levels of oxygen is half compared to sea level, there are almost no plants and animals, and nights are extremely cold

The Machame Route takes 6 or 7 days is fairly difficult and more suited to walkers with some experience hiking over multiple days as the path is steeper and days are longer. It starts in the south to Shira 2 camp, before heading east through the Lava Tower, Barranco and Barafu to Uhuru Peak. Then it takes the Mweka Route back down.

The Lemosho Route takes 6-8 days. It has some of the best views and has relatively low traffic. It begins in the west, crossing the Shira ridge to Shira camp. It then joins the Machame route through the Lava Tower, Barranco and Barafu to Uhuru peak.

The Northern Circuit Route takes 9 days and is the newest and longest route. It has great views and scenery and a low number of walkers. The route starts in the west following the Lemosho route to the Lava Tower then instead of taking the southern traverse it follows the northern slopes around to Uhuru Peak, before following the Mweka route back down.

The Rongai Route takes 6 or 7 days and is the only route to approach Kilimanjaro from the North. It's popular for hikers in the rainy season as it receives less rain then the southern side. It passes Rongai, Second and Kikelewa caves before turning west at Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Uhuru Peak. It then takes the Marangu Route back down.

Getting There:

The closest airport to Mount Kilimanjaro is the Kilimanjaro international airport (JRO) most major international airlines offer flights to JRO. From the airport either your tour operator will pick you up or you can catch a taxi to the town of Moshi, 50km from Kilimanjaro. When booking your climb check to see if the operator provides transport to and from the airport and the mountain

Accommodation:

Before and After- There are hotels in Moshi and a few in the Kilimanjaro National Park. Your tour operator may include accommodation in the tour or you may have to book a room in advance. Expect to pay around $100 for a room for 2 per night. During the trek you will be camping, unless you take the Marangu route which has huts. All the other routes have campsites with pit toilets and no showers, very basic conditions.

Equipment:

Most tour operators provide porters to carry your gear for you, so they require a duffel bag or something to make easy to carry. Check with your operator when booking. Here is a list of the sort of equipment you need to bring, you may want to bring more or less:

Duffel bag - for porters to carry / backpack
Daypack
Sleeping bag - four seasons
Sleeping bag liner
Trekking poles (optional)
Head lamp
Camera and extra batteries

Clothing:

Waterproof jacket and pants
Insulated jacket and a soft-shell jacket
Hiking pants 2x
Fleece pants
Long sleeve shirt 2x and Short sleeve shirt
Underwear 3x
Hiking Boots - waterproof
Socks - thick and wool 3x
Sock liners 3x
Shoes for the campsite
Hat and Beanie
Gloves - warm and waterproof

Other

Sunglasses or goggles - above 400ft dark sunglasses with side panels
Water bottle or bladder
Towel
Toiletries, toilet paper, Sunscreen, insect repellent
First aid kit, hand sanitizer,
Snacks

Paperwork:

Trip receipt, Passport, Visa, Immunization papers, Insurance documents etc.
Something waterproof to keep them in

Costs:

The cost of the tour package, can vary between operators, look around and pick the best one for you. It costs the operator around $200-$300 per climber per day (fees, guides, porters, food, transport) so beware of tours that charge excessively more. The Park fees should be covered by the operator. You are also expected to tip your guides, porters, cooks and assistants during the trek, around $200-300 per hiker for a 7 day trek is common.

Guided or Solo:

It's compulsory to trek Mount Kilimanjaro with a licensed guide. The easiest way to book it is through a tour operator because they work out all the logistics for you.

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Solo Travel Destinations - Fiji, Not Just for Honeymooners

If you think that Fiji is strictly for honeymooners, read on: Solo travelers are heading to Fiji for scuba diving and an array of options for an active vacation. If you survive "swimming with sharks", intrepid solo travelers can always rappel down thirty feet next to a waterfall and then swim in a completely dark cave!

Long before tourists discovered Fiji, local legend credits Chief Lutunasobasoba with bringing the first settlers to the islands, apparently coming from Melanesia and Polynesia.

The earliest known contact with Europeans was with the Dutch in 1643. They were followed by British explorer Captain James Cook a century later. He became a permanent part of Pacific Island history when his name was given to the "nearby" Cook Islands, a popular vacation spot in the 21st century especially for New Zealanders. (When I visited them some time ago, the planes used for inter-island flights were so small that each passenger had to be weighed before taking off from Rarotonga on a 6 seater flight to Aitutaki!)

Fiji's history includes a visit by the Mutiny on the Bounty's Captain Bligh in 1789 while the French Revolution was occupying much attention on the opposite side of the world. The next century saw the arrival of missionaries primarily from Europe as well as numerous new residents from India.

Fiji's diverse population has resulted in a warm and welcoming community that greets visitors with "Bula", wishing them health and happiness. If Fiji looks familiar to you upon arrival, you may have "seen" it through the eyes of Hollywood in films such as "Castaway" with Tom Hanks or older classics with leading stars like Douglas Fairbanks, Senior.

Although getting there requires a long flight unless you live in Australia or New Zealand, it is well worth it. Inbound formalities are minimal. Most countries' passport holders are automatically granted a four month visa upon arrival with proof of a passport valid for six months. Tourists can also obtain a refund of certain VAT taxes paid.

With the competing allure of so many other Pacific Island like Hawaii and Tahiti, what is special about Fiji, and why should single travelers go there?

Unlike the famed Hawaiian Islands, Fiji is comprised of an archipelago of more than 300 islands. Only about one-third are inhabited. This surely appeals to most travelers' curiosity or maybe even the secret desire to claim an uninhabited island as their own?

Fiji's sites for scuba diving and snorkeling are world-class with a reef only surpassed by Australia's and New Caledonia's barrier reefs. Known as Cakaulevu, it boasts at least one endangered species.

Beyond multiple world-class dive sites, rare Heliopora or blue corral can be found in Fiji at Rotuma.

Fiji has marine life such as species of turtles that date back more than 100 million years.

For fish aficionados, the islands can claim one fish that grows as tall as a man, the Napoleon Wrasse, which can reach 6 feet in length.

Colorful wildlife is abundant, including endangered species, like the curiously named "Monkey-faced Bat".

Tourists can visit certain of the uninhabited islands. However, some are less uninhabited than others. One such "uninhabited" island, Yanuca Lailai/Lost Island, does have at least one tourist resort.

Commuting between islands is via boat or small airplanes; however, international flights arrive in Suva, Fiji's capital, on the island of Viti Levu. Tourists quickly flock to its top beach at Natadola while white water enthusiasts can also find rafting nearby. Beyond pristine beaches, Beqa Island, just one hour away from Viti Levu, provides a chance to see traditional firewalking.

There are multiple other options for those traveling alone:

Yasawa Island's Sawa-I-lau Caves are a major tourist site. It is possible to swim in a sunlit cave one moment and the next to be swimming in a neighboring cave in complete darkness. While still in the Yasawa Islands, you can swim with sharks or manta rays depending upon your sense of adventure.

From there, it is time for even more adventures: parasailing on Denaura Island, rappelling 300 feet into the Tau Caves or ziplining high above the towering palm trees.

If you are still yearning for more, you can try a unique sport known as "Zorbing". If you have ever chased a ball downhill, you know it seems the faster you run, the faster it picks up speed. In Zorbing, you don't have to run after the ball because you are inside it racing down the hill!

Whether you are a beachcomber at heart or an insatiable adventurer, Fiji is a tropical paradise for everyone, including solo travelers. Dust off your passport, and get ready to travel!

5 Reasons To Travel To Spain

Spain has always been a top destination for tourism, travel and study abroad. With its rich culture and history that dates back centuries, Spain has something to offer to tourists of all kinds with various types of interests. From sports and culture to arts and history, Spain is in the leading leagues of all these categories and is, therefore, a great destination for you to use your Iberian miles to travel to.

1. THE MEDITERRANEAN COAST

Lazy summer days spent at the beach are only made all the better when those days are spent on the Atlantic's long, sandy beaches in Spain, with their Mediterranean coves that are fit for the adventurous. The beaches are praised all over Europe, and the world, and are considered some of the best globally. The beauty of these beaches is enough reason to pack up and go to Spain; kick back with a good book or join in on some beach volley.

2. THE MOUNTAINS

For those who don't like lazy days and like to spend their hours working a sweat, exploring new terrains, then Spain is the right destination for them. It is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe, second only to Switzerland. For those who like a taste of both can enjoy the waves at the beach and travel about an hour to reach these slopes. With the different terrains at such close distance, Spain is one of the most exquisite countries in the world.

3. HISTORICAL RUINS AND LANDMARKS

With various empires and civilizations ruling Europe over the centuries, it is no surprise that they have left their mark in several different places. While Italy is the ideal place to see Roman ruins, ancient Hispania is host to some of the most marvelous of those ruins. Some of those places are still used in present day for performances. The Moors have also left their mark, in language and on land, like Alhambra in Granada.

4. THE CATHEDRALS

The cathedrals of Spain are breathtakingly beautiful. Each is different, and there is no monotony. For those inclined towards architecture and find it fascinating will be pleased to know that Spain hosts cathedrals from various kinds of designers, eras and artists; from Gaudi's modern masterpiece to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, which is a place of international pilgrimage, and La Sagrada Familia. All these cathedrals are worth visiting and will leave you awe struck.

5. THE MOSQUES

Europe is famous worldwide for its numerous cathedrals, but the Muslims left their mark as well. Spain is home to 1000 year old mosques, beautiful in their architecture and design and serene as a place of visiting or worship. The Mezquita in Cordoba has been a World Heritage Site since 1984 and is an extremely unique and exquisite place to visit.

These are just the highlights. Spain offers wild water parks, hidden beaches, the best wine, delicious food and more! So buy your Iberian Miles and book yourself a trip to Spain to enjoy the various activities and landmarks it has to offer and make it a trip worth remembering.

You can buy and use your Iberian Miles to book a trip to Spain. The country is one of the best tourist and travel destinations in the world and offers activities for people with all sorts of interests. History, culture, food, adventure or hardcore partying, Spain has it all.

Top Most Things to See and Do in the United Kingdom

If you ever had the chance to visit the United Kingdom and felt that there was not much of a level of sight seeing that could fill up the storage space in your cameras and smart phones, then prepare to be completely surprised. United Kingdom holds a myriad of places that tourists will be inclined to visit. Our list has been compiled below for your perusal. If you find something that happens to entice you, then visit as soon as possible.

Buckingham Palace: When tourists go to visit the United Kingdom, one of the places that keep on resonating in their heads is the Buckingham Palace which is the home to the Queen of England. If you want to bear witness to a fascinating sight, then be sure to reach there at exactly11:30 A.M, when the changing of the guards takes place.

Stonehenge: Located in Salisbury, Stonehenge is home to one of the oldest man-made structures of our time. Dating back to the 2500 B.C, you do not want to miss this.

Museum Hop: The museums in England are free (all of them) and are considered to be the best in the world. If possible, take out the time to visit Tate Modern as well as the City Museum; both of them are situated in London.

The Tower of London: At the tower of London, you will be able to view the crown jewels of England, and of course the place where the most notorious of criminals were held captive. The visit will cost you quite a bit and the lines are extremely long, so if you have the patience and the luxury of time on your hands, then by all means visit.

Oxford University: There are several collages placed within the Oxford University and most of them will cost a few pounds for a tour. Harry Potter fans; do not miss your chance to bear witness to the sites where the J.K Rowling's critically acclaimed fictional series came to life.

The Lake District: The Lake District is presently in Northern England. If you possess a penchant for hiking, mountain passes and sailing across lakes, then this will be the perfect spot to experience exactly that.

Greenwich Park: Greenwich Park has been recommended by us because it happens to be London's largest park. It also happens to be one of the most beautiful locations in the city, and best of all, it is present away from the city, which is no doubt bombarded with bustle. At the Greenwich Park, you can find the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime museum, and even a deer park.

Chatsworth House: Chatsworth House is located in Derbyshire, and this house was constructed in 1549 for the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. While there may be a plethora of castles scattered across the United Kingdom, the Chatsworth House obscures all of them in terms scenic beauty.

Bath: This location has been named because of the famous mineral baths present in the city. This is home to an ancient Roman bath that is surprisingly well preserved and maintained.

Old Trafford: The stadium in Manchester houses a club, theatre and a sports bar and if you happen to love football, then you will love this location. You can also visit the museum, which will help you stroll down memory lane with the history of the transpired events.

Ely Cathedral: The Ely Cathedral is also called the 'Ship of the Fens'. The main thing about this cathedral is that it is visible everywhere in Ely and from miles around. The Cathedral was originally constructed in the 12th century. The Lady Chapel is the largest in all of England.

Cornwall: If you want to view a combination of rolling hills, beautiful lakes, tiny towns and hiking trails then Cornwall is the place for you.

Things To Do In Goa

Everyone loves Goa - there's something about the place, its vibe, the weather (irrespective of whether its hot and humid), the beaches, flea markets, firangs, seafood and so much more to do.

Normally a vacation in Goa with your friends or besties and even your buddies would involve beaches, shacks, parties, food, drinks and water sports to some extent. However, Goa has much more to do and there are some other different and unique things you can do in Goa to make this vacation to Goa slightly different. Check some of these out. We promise you won't be disappointed.

1. Go Crocodile watching in Cumbarjua Canal - You can even watch them at Chorao, Thivim or Quepem in their natural habitat of mangroves. Get a good guide to show you these reptiles in their natural habitat. You can watch them from a boat or canoe. The boats start in the morning at the Cortalim jetty. They are slightly difficult to spot as they look like rocks.

2. Go for a Heritage Tour - Old Goa is full of old buildings. This area slightly west of Panjim takes you back into the Portuguese days - Convents, museums, churches, old old bungalows and even bakeries are around. Check out the Basilica of Bom Jesus, The Archaeological Museum of Old Goa and the Naval Aviation Museum and prepare to be amazed.

3. Go for a casino cruise - Gambling is not that fancy when you're in India however Goa's got some famous Casino cruises. It's not what you see in movies and it's definitely not like Vegas but fun to go to, dress up and check out. Don't forget you need to be above 18 to go in here.

4. Check out the Caves - Rivona, Lamgau and Arvalem caves are worth a visit at least once as they also happen to overlook the sea. Go with a local who'll be able to give you some stories and legends that have been passed down the generations as to what happened in these caves. If you're a group of only girls - ensure that you inform people before going and move in a whole group to ensure safety.

5. Stay in a floating tent - Near Bicholim is the Mayem Lake and Champions Yacht club where they have floating tents available and even a floating restaurant. Worth a visit at least once just to do something different.

6. Watch a "Tiatr" - "Tiatr" is a form of theatre in the local dialect of Konkani. They'll give you a better insight into Goan society. Find a Konkan speaking goan to take along and help with translations. These "Tiatr's" are hilarious renditions and adaptations made using current socio-economic and political issues in Goa. They also include topics such as infidelity, love and sex.

7. Explore a shipwreck underwater - Goa has a number of ship wrecks and a lot of them are from the Portuguese Era. Scuba diving experts and operators in Goa around the Mormugao Harbor offer explorations of these wrecks. This area is also full of multi-colored fish, and has a saltwater lagoon. There's no treasure in the ship wrecks, so don't go looking for treasures.

8. Check out the Night Markets - Ingo's has a Saturday night market in Arpora where you'll get loads of things. And we cant even begin to define what all is available. It's totally worth it for the experience - there are live artists, fire eaters, musicians, jugglers and most of the stalls are run by the firangs.

9. Check out the flea market at Anjuna beach - This one's on Wednesday's so plan your trip accordingly.

10. Get a massage from the masseurs - They tend to walk on most beaches and you can haggle with them. Most of them give a super foot massage. If you're adventurous enough you can go for a back massage as well.

For more pocket friendly, budget, cheap, money saving ideas, holidays and vacations, things to do in the summer stay tuned to Earn and Spend at CollegeOKPlease.com.

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Roatan Island
Roatan is an island in the Caribbean Sea. It is a part of Honduras, lying about fifty miles from the northern coast of the Honduran mainland. Roatan has a colourful past that weaves in stories of Indians, invaders, pirates, buried gold, as well as a mix of races and languages.

When Columbus found a neighboring island named Guanaja in 1502, the islands were already populated. Artifacts and caves left by these earlier inhabitants remain today. Other Spanish explorers came after Columbus. The Spaniards started mining both gold and silver on the mainland of Honduras.

They enslaved native Indians and brought slaves from The african continent to work in the mines. The Spaniards established cattle ranches to produce food for the miners.

Both Spanish and English settlers came to Roatan. William Claibourne of Virginia was given a patent by the Providence Company authorizing him to establish a colony on the small island in 1638.

There was quite a lot of Spanish ships moving through the Bay of Honduras and there were Spanish settlements on Roatan. Pirates attacked the vessels and raided the settlements.

Van Horne, a Dutchman, raided Spanish-Indian settlements in 1639. English and French pirates also terrorized the area. In 1642, English raiders from modern day Belize had occupied old Port Royal in Roatan, which is a little bit to the east of modern-day Port Royal. Lots of white descendants with English names and heritage live on the small island in these days.

The Spanish, seeking to rid the area of pirates so that they could transport the New World gold to Spain in peace, attacked Port Royal with four war ships under the command of Francisco Villalva Toledo in 1650. The pirates successfully defended Port Royal, Roatan, forcing the Spaniards to return to the mainland for reinforcement. With the pirates completely outnumbered and with fierce fighting, the pirates were conquered. The Spaniards gathered the remaining Indians on the island and relocated them to Guatemala.

In 1742, the English once more settled on Roatan. Major Caulfield was in control of the island. His letter to Mr. Trelawry, Governor of Jamaica, documents Spanish efforts to take back Roatan. The English settlements that were drawn by the Geographer to His Majesty, Thomas Jeffreys, included settlements that still bear the same names in these days. Calkett's Hole was shown, but it is today called Coxen Hole. Coxen Hole is the largest village on Roatan. Falmouth Harbout is now called Oak Ridge.

The English lost Roatan in March of 1782. The Spanish positioned troops and cannons against the forts and defeated the English. The Spanish destroyed about 500 homes. The English left the island altogether in 1788. In 1797, the English forced about 5000 Black Caribs from the Windward Small island of St. Vincent, moving them from island to island, finally leaving them on Roatan. Black Caribs are a mix of people of African descent as well as Carib and Arawak Indians.

Europeans began settling on Roatan all over again with the return of English between 1827 and 1834. With slavery being banned in English colonies in 1833 and with the soil in the Grand Cayman Island being depleted by cotton farming, some English family left the grand Cayman and settled on Roatan and neighboring Utila. Many of descendants of Joseph Cooper, one of the settlers of Utila, still live on Utila.

The Jackson family, a rich and influential family on Roatan today, originated from the southern Usa in the 1800's, descending from confederate soldier who refused to surrender to the Union. A southern accent is still discernable in their vocabulary.

Somewhere around 2 hundred white people lived in "Coxen's old kay" in 1840. Ten years later, the population of the island had risen to 5 or 6 thousand people. In 1852, the British authority appealed to Her Majesty, Queen Victoria to establish Roatan along with other islands to become a British colony. The United States Of America objected, citing a treaty signed to create the Panama canal that forbade the United States Of America and Britain from establishing new colonies in the Western Hemisphere.

In 1859, England relinquished power over the Bay Islands. The Republic of Honduras accepted the Bay Islands as the "Departemente de las Islas de la Bahia", officially making the islands a part of Honduras. For several years after coming under Honduran rule, islanders of English descent continued to claim English citizenship, even though those born in Honduras after 1861 are by law Hondurans.

Although Spanish is the national language and is spoken on Roatan, the English language also lives on Roatan. Roatan is a colorful mix of people, languages, and culture. Today, tourism is the primary business on Roatan. Cruise ships and planes bring 1000s of visitor each year. Roatan is known worldwide for its scuba diving.

Legends continue of ghosts of a past era. Ghosts, or "duppees", reportedly have been sighted by many local people. They tell that men burying gold would kill a man, leaving his body with the gold to "watch" the gold. After generations, the ghost is reportedly tired of watching, and will give someone specific directions on how to find the gold. If those instructions are followed exactly, the seeker reportedly can locate the gold. One local tells of a ghost blowing in his ear when he was in a remote area of the wilderness hunting crabs after midnight.

Roatan's history is rich, spanning from the days of Indian inhabitants, to the days of piracy and looting, to fighting over which nation owns the island, to liberty and modern times.

Feel the Thrill in Singapore

Southeast Asia is known all over the world as an enchanting holiday destination. The surrounding Pacific and the Indian Ocean, tropical locales and its deep-rooted culture, this modern yet traditional region is a mosaic for tourists from across the globe.

To explore Southeast Asia, there is no better way to break the ice than starting your vacation from the magical land of Singapore.

The Sentosa island is a compelling enough reason to visit Singapore, as this popular island resort has activities and attractions for almost every age group. The island's vast size and the unlimited fun opportunities here are waiting to be explored. Just plan your stay for at least a couple of days to discover it all.

Immerse yourself in lifelike 4D adventure rides, which takes you into the world of fantasy and unreal visuals. Witness the famous Sentosa Merlion - a magnificent statue of a half-lion half-mermaid creature rising 37 meters. Legend has it that the Merlion is a symbol of prosperity of Singapore and is responsible for the island's welfare and economic growth.

The Sentosa Skyline Luge is an adventure ride you should not miss. Soar down the Dragon Trail or the Jungle Trail and witness the breathtaking skyline of Singapore - a transforming visual spectacle from day to night. The Skyride is the best way to get an aerial view of Sentosa, Singapore and the South China Sea. At night, the cityscape and harbour turns the city into a glittering sea of lights and sparkles.

Last but not the least, Sentosa is home to the Universal Studios Theme Park - the only such park in Southeast Asia. Experience 24 thrilling rides based on your favourite Hollywood blockbusters and TV shows, 18 of which are unique to Singapore. Do not miss out the crowd favourites like Revenge of the Mummy, Madagascar: A Crate Adventure, and Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure.

Singapore hosts the world's first night safari - an exhilarating ride through the secondary rainforest area adjacent to Singapore Zoo. The Night Safari serves habitat to over 2,500 animals covering 130 species. You also get a chance to witness the nocturnal behaviour of some of these exotic creatures. This multi-award winning spectacle is a must-visit for all ages.

Adventure enthusiasts too are in for a treat in Singapore. Get yourself drenched in exciting water sports like wakeboarding and cable-skiing or experience the immense gravitational pull of a rocket launch by having a seat in the G-Max Reverse Bungy - the very first of its kind. Feel the thrill of flying through the air in iFly Singapore, the world's largest vertical wind tunnel for indoor skydiving. If you want to get down and dirty with nature, go for a Forest Adventure trek where you can hike through open forests and vegetation in the verdant greenery of the Bedok Reservoir Park.

After sweating it out, you can relax and replenish yourself in the myriad of rejuvenating spots Singapore offers. Take a leisurely stroll amidst the uplifting environs of the Singapore Botanical Gardens or unwind yourself at Padang, enjoying a tranquil view of the city's skyline and the Singapore river. You can finish your eventful day by having a sumptuous meal at Clarke Quay and indulging in Singapore's effervescent nightlife.

Singapore Vacation Packages by DPauls will give you a chance to explore this striking realm and have a fun-filled experience. You can add bells and whistles to your holiday by going for cruise packages as well. With such exciting packages to a bustling holiday destination, it is difficult to resist the tempting land of Singapore. Pack your bags, bring out the sunscreen and experience Singapore like never before.

Author is an associate editor for Dpauls Get all possible information about Singapore Destination and Singapore Packages. We also provide Online Services of Flight Booking, Hotel Reservation, Domestic & International Holiday Packages, Cruises, Buses.

Popular Hill Stations in Kerala for Rejuvenating Energy

Popular Hill Stations in Kerala for Rejuvenating Energy
Kerala is a popular Indian state for spending some days, away from the commotion of the city life. It is famous for its amazing green nature. It has beautiful hill stations, tranquilized backwaters, forests, breathtaking waterfalls, beaches, and many more wonderful sightseeing spots. The geography of this state is distinct, making it one of the most favorite destinations in Asia. This state is bordered by the Western Ghats and has more than forty hill stations. There are trains and flights available to these places, but it is advised to go by road from the nearest railway station or airport to enjoy the charming nature. Travelers can visit these spots without any hassle by availing Kerala tour packages from the travel operators in India.

Here are some famous hill stations in Kerala.

Munnar:

Munnar is one of the most popular and frequently visited hill stations in India. Known for its scenic landscapes, it is located at the union of three rivers, Mudrapuzha, Mundane and Nallathanni. It is situated at 1600 meters above the sea level and a wonderful place for trekking. While visiting this place, folks can also travel to Chinnar wildlife Sanctuary Park, sandalwood forests, and Eravikulam national park. It is an ideal place for spending holidays with family.

Vagamon:

Situated at the height of 1100 meters from sea level, Vagamon is located about 65 km from Idukki district. Blessed with rich flora and waterfalls, this place is ideal for relaxing and bringing peace to the mind. Kurisumala (a Christian pilgrimage), Kurisumala dairy farm, and Thangal Para are the main tourist attractions of this hill station.

Wayanad:

This district has a series of hill stations with different altitudes. It gives an amazing view of mountains covered with water vapor. One can visit the Wayanad wildlife sanctuary, which is an inseparable part of the Nilgiri biosphere preserve. It has a wide range of animals and birds, making it one of the most popular parks of Kerala. This district still remains untouched from modernity.

Thekkady:

If you are exhausted from the city life, Thekkady is ideal for rejuvenating. It has lush green hills and diverse fauna. The major attractions of this spot are Periyar River and Periyar wildlife Sanctuary Park. One can enjoy elephant ride in this park and boat ride in the river. It is also an ideal place for jungle trekking.

Peerumedu:

Blessed with lush green slopes, this place was named after a Sufi Saint Peer Mohammed. Many newlywed couples find it attractive for spending honeymoon. It is an abode of tribal people, providing opportunities to get a glimpse of their lifestyle.

Well, these are some popular hill stations of Kerala. There are more of these, which can be explored by visiting this state. If you want to rejuvenate energy and spend time away from the huddle of the city, spend your holidays in these places.

Punit is director of India by Driver and Car, one of the leading tour operators in India. He loves writing articles about different topics related to travel. His company provides a wide range of Kerala tour package to facilitate wonderful trips. His company is also available over the web at http://www.indiabydriverandcar.com, where one can purchase tour packages easily. Travelers can also hire a car in India from his company to make trip more comfortable.

Enjoying Your All-Inclusive Holiday in Austria

Many tourists flock to Austria each year, and this just grows in number during the holidays. Austria is a beautiful country that is rich is history, sights to see, and it is home to exquisite traditions that many travelers dream to take part of. This, among many others, is also the reason why it is one of the most-booked all-inclusive holiday deals. If you are looking into traveling the country for the holidays, you might want to include the following spots in your itinerary.

Austria's skiing centers. Austria is considered the winter sports capital of Europe and it would be a shame not to get a taste of this while you are in the country. The skiing center in Seefeld, Tyrol is one of the most popular skiing spots not only because it hosted the Winter Olympics twice, but the beautiful landscape allows fun for beginner and intermediate skiers alike. If you are looking for a more difficult terrain, though, you should consider visiting the St Anton am skiing resort in Arlberg - it is a famous destination for daredevil skiers due to its testing landscape.

Austria's palaces and castles. No tour in Austria is complete without visiting at least two palaces. This is part of most holiday packages. Known to be the Austrian counterpart of the Versailles, the Schonbrunn Palace is definitely a must-see. The grand palace houses many attractions including the Privy Garden, a maze and labyrinth to complete the mystical feel of the palace, and the oldest zoo oldest zoo in the world. If you liked your tour of the Schonbrunn, you should also pay a visit to the Horfburg Imperial Palace and the Hohensalzburg Castle.

Austria's breath-taking views. The panoramic view that's abundant in Austria is also a sight that every tourist must bask on during their stay. The views in the country and the mountain side are popular spots for sightseeing. If you are up for a little road trip, drive along the Glosslockner Alpine road for a view of Austria's highest mountain. It is especially magnificent during the winter because of its pristine snow caps. A trip to Austria's quaint villages is also a popular tourist activity, and for this one, you should see the Hallstatt, a baroque village in Salzkammergut. The village's history is rooted to it being a famous salt producer, and through the years, it only produced a settlement that looks like it is taken out of a setting of a classic novel.

Bonus: If you are willing to go outside of Austria, you can very much do so. Austria is a landlocked country that is surrounded by the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia and other European countries. It is very easy to travel by land, and a lot of all-inclusive holiday deals could accommodate a side trip or two. So, if your time and budget allows you, then your wanderlust is definitely in for a treat.

Our vacation club membership lets you enjoy all-inclusive holidays and luxury travel without the price tag. The luxurious experience of being a member of our club is too good to be kept to yourself, that is why we are encouraging you to spread the word to your friends.

10 Things to Do Before Traveling to Nepal

Nepal is a traveler's country and a trekkers' paradise. People travel to Nepal from all corners of the world, whether to experience her rich cultural diversity and simple way of life or the abundance of natural beauty she is blessed with. It's only a matter of time that you would want to see the land in all its glory and what it has to offer for yourself.

Traveling to Nepal can be pretty exciting but nerve-wrecking at the same time. In all the excitement and flurry of preparations, here are the 10 things to do before traveling to Nepal:

1. Visa For Nepal -

A visa for Nepal can be issued either in the embassies and consulates of Nepal in a foreign country, or on arrival when entering the country either at Tribhuwan International Airport, or at the border of India and Tibet (China). However, it should be kept in mind there are certain nationalities that won't be issued a visa on arrival, so it is always wise to check first.

Your passport should be valid for six months as the Nepali visa usually allows you to enter the country for 3 to 6 months from the issued date.

Besides the Indian nationality, all foreigners must have visas to enter Nepal.

The nationals of China and South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries- Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Pakistan) aren't charged visa fees. Also, children under 10 are provided with a free visa for entering Nepal.

2. Inform Your Bank -

If you are planning to use your credit and debit cards while travelling (which would be very convenient), do inform your bank about your travel plans, so that, they know that all the expenses showing up in a foreign country is actually yours, and that you haven't fallen victim to a scam.

Also, in case of theft or if you lose your cards, it'll be easier for the bank to freeze those cards for preventing any misuse in the wrong hands, and issue another one for your convenience. You don't want to be out of cash while traveling!

3. Travel Insurance -

Life is full of uncertainties, especially during travels. You never know what the next moment will bring, which is also part of the excitement and adventure involved in traveling. Make sure you have travel insurance that will cover all the expenses incurred because of theft, accident injuries and evacuation charges if you plan on doing some extreme sports.

Don't forget to inform your travel insurance company about your travel plans to a foreign country.

4. Custom Rules And Regulations -

It's very important to know necessary information on airport customs - what you're allowed to bring into the country or take out of the country. It gets to be a hassle when you bring in or want to take something with you when you leave, only to find that it's illegal or you have to pay extra duty on said items at the airport. Knowing a little about the restrictions will save you from a whole lot of bureaucratic annoyance.

5. Book A Hotel -

For the first day or two, stay at a hotel that you can book before you arrive in the country. It isn't fun trudging along the roadside with a heavy luggage looking for a nice place to stay after a long and tiring flight. Before you book a hotel, don't just depend on the pictures and what it says on their website; check for reviews from previous guests, as it again is a hassle to change hotels after a long flight if the one you booked turns out to be crap.

Book hotels for only a day or two to the place you'll be visiting, so that if it's unacceptable, you can always change it after staying for a day or two, and if it's good, you can extend you stay there.

6. Festivals -

Like festivals and celebrations? Then, check for festivals and events of sorts when you are in the country. During most big festivals there is a public holiday which means it's a bit harder to get around town, as there will be very less transportation options available, which too, are majorly packed. Plus, the hotels will be fully booked and are expensive. To fully enjoy the festivities without getting a hard time, make sure you have a good hotel to stay and know where and how to go around the place. If you've a guide or a friend who knows the place, it's even better.

7. Flexible Trip -

It's better to keep a couple of days extra, just in case. There are high chances for delays due to poor weather, transportation delays or sheer bad luck. It can also be that you want to enjoy more of the trip and want to either switch or add an activity or a place on your itinerary in the middle of your travels. Having a rigid itinerary can backfire and is taxing.

When you are already coming with an open mind, try and keep your itinerary open for inevitable changes too!

8. Exchange Rate -

It's a good idea to have the knowledge about the current exchange rate of the country, if you plan to exchange the currency or are in a place where there are no ATMs.

9. Learn About Nepal -

Before landing directly here, read up a bit about Nepal and its people, culture, etiquette, food and what you can expect during your stay. Being clueless can send you in a culture shock and/or you can have unpleasant repercussions. To avoid this, learn at least how to greet in the local language; this can act as an ice-breaker while trying to interact with the locals.

10. Register With Your Embassy -

It's definitely a wise decision to register with your embassy back home and inform them about you travel plans to Nepal. Provide them with your personal information, next of kin, picture, date and time of your arrival and departure in Nepal, travel itinerary and so on. If you come across any problem or get into an accident then the embassy will be able to help you smooth out all the bureaucratic formalities.

With all your ducks in row, are you ready for a trip to Nepal?!
When traveling to a country where you have very little or nothing in common to things back home, experiencing culture shock is quite natural. Especially in Nepal, if you've come to trek the glorious mountains or experience Nepal's unique culture, some things are bound to shock you!

From the moment you land in Nepal's only international airport - Tribhuwan International Airport, you'll start wondering how it all works- from the immigration procedures, to the baggage handling and finally to the transportation system available to get you into the city, as everything is in utter disarray!

Finally when you've got your luggage and found your transportation and when you think the chaotic part is done with, you'll be out of the airport and into the chaos of the city!

TRAFFIC AND ROAD RULES

Since Kathmandu's narrow roads see five times more vehicles than their capacity, you're sure to get stuck in a few traffic jams.

The culture shock that started as soon as you landed will continue on the way from the airport to your hotel as you'll be witnessing sights you wouldn't find anywhere else in the world.

You will notice everyone and everything in the middle of the roads including cars, buses, bicycles, motorbikes, people, cows, dogs, garbage, and other oddities.

Seeing all this chaos unfold in front of your eyes, you might think that there are no rules at all, but there are - It just takes time to grasp them! The locals throwing these rules out the window doesn't help either, but you'll get used to it soon enough.

You'll see people crossing the streets in every possible direction, whenever and wherever they can, not even looking out for oncoming traffic and very few using the zebra- crossings!

For those wanting to drive on their own (although it is advisable not to if you're staying for a short period of time in Kathmandu's traffic), and for those who don't know, we drive on the left side of the road and not the right.

There are no checks on speeds within the city and so public transportation here are infamous either for their heart-stopping speed or for going at a snail's pace.

You will never know until you get on one, and usually they are fully packed! Also, get ready to listen to a LOT of Bollywood and local songs on full volume while traveling on buses and on mobile phones of fellow passengers.

Buses/micro-buses will stop at any given place, if there is no traffic cop nearby. All you need to do is wave your hand- as if you were hitchhiking but without the thumb, which indicates that you want to get on the bus.

Just watch out and maybe step back as the bus approaches you as you never know, they stop so close - they might just hit you!

POLLUTION

Thousands of vehicles in a small city means there's going to be pollution. An increasing number of people have started wearing masks to protect themselves from the thick black smoke of the vehicles or just from the dust in the air.

The constant loud honking sounds will not escape your notice either!

You will get another sense of shock after you see the number of cows and street dogs roaming around the streets and grazing, eating and sleeping on large heaps of garbage thrown on the side of the road.

You should also know that street dogs of Kathmandu are notorious for their relentless barking and howling in the nighttime.

Also, the locals wake up pretty early in the morning and there's bound to be a lot of racket from early mornings if you're staying in the heart of the city.

So get your earplugs ready!

And also, there are crows and pigeons EVERYWHERE so you may get some bird-poo on you. Carry some wet-wipes while you're traveling, just in case.

BLACKOUTS / LOAD SHEDDING

Load shedding schedule - everything you do here is going to depend on this!

This may be a new term for you, but in Nepal, there are blackouts that last for 16-18 hours each day during dry seasons. Load shedding is the term used for these blackouts.

Ironically, Nepal is the second richest country in the world for water resources!

If you're staying in a good hotel that has inverters or generators, there is nothing to worry about, but most of the smaller places don't have the backup power, which makes it hard for you to get your work done or to charge your electronics.

So be wary of the timings of the load shedding.

Also, you don't want to be stuck in the bathroom in the dark!

NO SHOES

When you visit any temples or holy places, you'll notice clear signs stating that you are not allowed to enter the premises or its inner sanctum wearing shoes or carrying leather items.

Also, the shoes have to remain outside the door before entering someone's home, as shoes are considered dirty which would make the home dirty as well. And this is 100% correct in Nepal's case- just look at the roads outside!

People here tend to get annoyed or even angry when they see shoes or sandals upturned, as they believe it brings in misfortune. Always keep them upright!

STRIKES / BANDHS

Strikes, bandhs or chakka jams (no transportation) used to be commonplace, although they haven't happened recently.

But when they do, everything comes to a standstill in the city; there is no transport, no schools or offices, the shops are closed, so chances are you're going to find yourself in a situation where you cannot do anything or go anywhere, unless you're staying in a place like Thamel, where the cafes and bars are always open.

If this happens, just go out and do what the locals are doing or see how they cope with these bandhs. You will see most of them walking to places. Get help from your guide or ask locals for help who will be more than happy to help you.

FOOD

As for the food, the locals have 'Dal Bhat'- which is lentils and steamed rice, almost every day- twice a day! Do not use your left hand which is used for cleaning up after defecation, and is considered dirty.

When eating out, ask for spoons, fork or chopsticks for your convenience. Please be patient; usually the restaurant's service can be awfully slow. Also, please don't yell and demand the food to be changed because it's not exactly how you thought it would be when you ordered it - it's considered rude, and almost all of them will say it cannot be done.

Be open to trying new things. After all, you're in a new country!

SMELLS

The aroma of incense, sweets, spices and other delicious food or the nasty smell of garbage around the city is sure to overwhelm your olfactory senses, so you need to be prepared and get a mask of your own before heading out to explore the city.

RESTROOMS

Besides the houses and hotels in the city, there are no showers in the rural areas. People wash themselves by pouring water over their bodies from a mug with water from a bucket. Also, in rural areas, you might need to wash and do your laundry in public.

Also, here you'll find more eastern style "squatting" toilets rather than the western style "sitting" toilets, and people use water to clean themselves rather than using toilet paper. You might particularly have a hard time with this one!

Toilets in Nepal are generally dirty and very smelly, even the ones in good cafes or restaurants. Keep your expectation low when going to one. Just because it's a good place doesn't mean the toilets will be clean or without any nasty odors.

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION

Public display of affection, specially hugging and kissing your partner, is frowned upon. However, it's okay to hold hands. Also, it's common to see same gender people holding hands walking down the street and it doesn't necessarily mean that they are in a same-sex relationship.

TOUGH LOVE

Don't be alarmed if you see some parents scolding and hitting their children with brooms or sticks or even their hands. It's an old way of disciplining children here and it's wise not to intervene.

ANIMAL SACRIFICES

In Nepal, animal sacrifices during festivals are very common. Some are even done publicly in courtyards of temples or homes, and many people come just to witness the sacrifices, and worship the gods afterwards. For example - Dashain!

PUNCTUALITY

The phrase "Nepali Time" is often sarcastically used here to mean that nothing ever gets done on time or no one ever reaches anywhere on time. So expect delays everywhere you go and with any of your meetings. Sometimes, it even takes 1 or 2 hours to get a simple task done.

HAWKERS, BEGGARS AND STREET CHILDREN

Hawkers surrounding you, asking you to buy their stuff, and beggars asking for money can be annoying. The thing to do is, politely and resolutely say 'No' and walk away, or just ignore their calls and keep walking straight ahead.

You'll find the sight of street children sleeping on pavements and sniffing glue (supposedly lessens hunger) a bit disturbing but you have to face the facts that Nepal is a developing country and there are many issues it's struggling to get control over; poverty being the topmost on the list.

CREMATION

Another sight that may shock you when you go to visit Pashupatinath Temple or near the banks of the holy river Bagmati, is that unlike in the west, we burn the bodies of the dead in our culture. It may be quite disturbing for some too.

Another thing is that the said holy river including others that flow through the cities and populated settlements are extremely polluted.

Also, most Sadhus (holy men) will charge you some fee for taking their pictures.

GET IN LINE

Due to the shortage of clean drinking water in Kathmandu, people can often be seen in a line with 2 or 3 buckets with them at public taps, or you'll see big water tankers that go to houses and fill their underground tanks.

The other line you'll see is for petrol. You'll find that there is often a shortage of petrol in Kathmandu and this can be very clear when you see long lines of motorbikes and cars at the gas stations. These can also be another reason for the traffic jams in Kathmandu.

CHAUPADI

When women have their periods (menstruation days), they are considered impure and are kept apart from the family members; this tradition is called 'Chaupadi' and is more prevalent in far and mid-western Nepal where women are kept alone in the sheds!

You may encounter its less strict forms all over Nepal. In the cities, it's getting more relaxed with time, but still many strictly follow the rules where they are not allowed to enter the kitchen, temples or even touch their elders.

Initially, this started so that women could get some rest during their periods, and avoid all the heavy lifting and house-hold chores which require a lot of hard work.

STRONG AND ACTIVE WOMEN

You'll be pleasantly surprised to see more women doing household chores, taking care of children, farm work and even their small businesses, whereas you'll find men just idly passing days just sitting around or playing cards and/or smoking all day especially in rural areas.

In construction sites, you'll come across many women toiling away with their male counterparts, carrying heavy bricks and cement on their heads while wearing colorful kurta-salwar and/or saris.