Holidays for the Carbon Aware Traveler
Dozens snowboarders will presently be dusting down their skiing gear and darting forth looking for the largest snow conditions.
And doubtless the results from our carbon footprint will be close to as far down the list of vacation musts as a xmas cracker after xmas.
Only last Christmas, a late snow hit the headlines and holidaymakers panicked about the smattering of snow dissolving nearly as soon as they put down.
Ski holiday organisation Chalet1802, placed at the foot of Monte Bianco in Chamonix in the French Alps, is one of the first independent firms to go carbon neutral and afford snowboarders an environmentally friendly option whilst organising their ski vacations.
Chalet1802 founder Zene said: Last winter was a bit of a shock with the warmest wintertime in fifty years in Europe. French skiing areas like Avoriaz, Chamonix and Les Arcs suffered.It was mild and the snowfall did not last so a lot of the early snowboarding season in the Alps was uneven. We decided to become carbon neutral to assist in the preservation the ski resort.
Zene said: We’re not assaying to prescribe to guests only I feel it is all important to grant the clients the option without raising the cost of the ski holiday. If they book with us and goes to our Chamonix chalet they can further off set their carbon footprint and we soak up the added costs. Naturally we still have a sauna and a hot tub - people wish for luxuriousness but not at the expense of the surroundings, so we looked at ways of diminishing the impact of a client driving over here for a snowboarding holiday.”
Thai Cuisine and Incredible Culture in Bangkok
Asia in general and Thailand, in particular, has always been known as very cheap destination, ideal for those on a budget and always a stop for those going on a round the world trip. It’s obvious that such an affirmation is backed up by very good hotels and plane tickets deals. And that’s true, since there are plenty of cheap hotels in Bangkok to choose from. If the capital is the place you want to visit, then you can easily find out which hotels offer the best rates . You can plan to stay in a hotel close to the attractions you plan to visit, since the city is really big and can easily overwhelm the traveler. But, on the plus side, it’s one of the most traveler-friendly cities in Asia. Thailand is not exactly located close to North America or Europe so those who plan to fly into Bangkok would probably think that the airfare is quite high. Thankfully, it’s quite easy to find cheap air tickets into Bangkok, mostly because the city’s airport is hub for five airlines. Any Bangkok travel guide will tell you that there plenty of hot spots where the tourists flock. One of the most important of them is The Grand Palace, which used to serve as a residence of the King of Thailand. Another place worth checking out is Wat Pho (or The Temple of the Reclining Buddha), which is recognized as the birth place of Thai massage. Don’t forget to check out the street markets and make sure to sample some of the local dishes. As for the weather, the coldest month- as in average high temperature being 89 F / 31 C - is January, while the hottest (94 F / 34 C) is April.
Suggestions for Sorting Ski Transfers Geneva for Your Snowboarding Holiday
Geneva Ski Transfers offer comfortable, guaranteed and custom door to door Chamonix transfers from the plane quickly to your luxury chalet in Chatel, Araches-la-Frasse, the Chamonix valley and the nearby Mont Blanc region.
Our Geneva Chamonix transfers service covers snowboarding transfers to Courchevel, Alpe d’Huez, Les Gets, Grand Massif, La Chavanette, La Clusaz and including La Rosiere and La Grave and can offer one off skiing transfers to various snowboarding resorts as ordered.
With the latest air conditioned eleven men fleet of minibuses and Honda, Saturn, VAZ, or Daewoo cars we can transfer up to 16, or twenty + should you and your friends request this. Indeed our chauffeurs are extremely experienced in adverse snowy conditions for your groups safety. Naturally the vehicles are fully covered and licensed.
The company also do provide mountain bike Geneva transfers from May - Sept and go to places like the top ten: Bessans, Val-d’sere, Samoens, Montroc, Le Grand-Bornand, La Tania, Les Menuires, Les Arcs, Les Trois Vallees, Verchaix, La Plagne, Serre Chevalier.
Traveling to Chamonix France, Flaine or Les Houches from Geneva has never been easier. For bespoke snowboard transfers from your flight to your groups luxury catered chalet in Chamonix France phone Ski Bus Transfers right now, afterwards relax and delight in your ski holidays.
Residence Michelangiolo in Florence
Residence Michelangiolo welcomes its guests in a Liberty villa dating back to 1917 that has been totally and tastefully renovated while maintaining its original charm and elegance.
This Florence Residence - situated in one of the most exclusive and peaceful areas in Florence, along Viale Michelangelo, the avenue that runs from Piazza Ferrucci on the river bank to Piazzale Michelangelo - is within walking distance from the historical center of Florence and from monuments like Ponte Vecchio, the church of Santa Croce and the Uffizi Gallery
The eleven rooms of Residence Michelangelo, which is surrounded by a large and relaxing garden, are arranged on three floors served by a spacious elevator, are tastefully furnished and offer all the comforts and amenities needed to ensure an unforgettable stay.
En-suite facilities include:
Air conditioning
In-room safe
Desk
Internet connection
Satellite TV
Direct dial telefone
Mini bar
Electronic door lock
Wake-up service
Hairdryer
Telephone in bathroom
The Superior rooms have a kitchenette with cooking facilities and all the necessary accessories.
Connecting rooms for families and groups traveling together are also available.
The pleasant blend of elegance, charm, history and art with nature and the closeness to the historical center are the unique characteristics of Residence Michelangiolo.
An excellent choice for anyone who wishes to spend a comfortable and suggestive stay in Florence.
It is also the ideal place for those who partecipate to a wedding and desire to spend the night in an elegant place.
Reservable and Customized Room Service
The residence doesn’t have a bar and restaurant because all rooms have private cooking facilities. However, guests can order room service.
To have breakfast or dinner served in your room, you can simply call the staff at the reception.
Parking
A free private parking space is available within the premises of the residence.
Concierge Service
The staff of Residence Michelangelo will be more than happy to assist guests with: tickets for museums, exhibitions, trains and flights; tourist itineraries of Florence and maps; car rentals with or without private driver; guided tours; mailing; printing and photocopying; baggage deposit; and currency exchange.
Cleaning Service
The price includes room-cleaning three times a week, and fresh linen and towels, on arrival and midweek.Daily cleaning of the room is extra, at an extra charge of Eur 20,00.
Dry Cleaning and Laundry
One-day dry cleaning and laundry services are available on request.
Facilities for Disabled
The Residence has rooms with facilities for disabled guests and all areas are accessible to wheelchairs.
Reception Hours
From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Why Bulgaria
Because no other European country offers better value for your money!
Located in South Eastern Europe, Bulgaria is bordered by Greece and Turkey to the South, Romania to the North and Macedonia and Serbia to the West. Its Eastern Border is formed by the beautiful Black Sea Coast. A country of outstanding natural beauty the environment remains unspoilt and is incredibly varied. A relatively small country, a few hours drive will take you from the snow covered central Pirin mountain Ranges to the long sandy beaches of the Black Sea coast.
Forming the heart of several of ancient histories greatest civilizations Bulgaria’s rich culture is reflected in a vast number of architectural treasures. Only Greece and Italy have a greater number of historical monuments. Throughout the country you will find ancient Greek sites, Roman amphitheatres and Byzantine churches. The country is home to 160 monasteries, 36 cultural centres and 40,000 listed archaeological monuments. Seven sites have achieved a coveted place on the UNESCO world heritage list.
What is the cost of living in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is said to have one of the lowest costs of living in Europe. A wonderful meal for 2 including wine will rarely exceed around £7.00 GBP. The cost of a 10 minute journey in a taxi will only be about £1.00 GBP. Cigarettes cost just 40p per packet and a day out in a museum or the theatre will cost just a couple of pounds. A quality beer will cost 25p!
Quality of life
First time visitors to Bulgaria are surprised by its diversity and its stunning natural beauty. For years a real effort has been made to preserve the country’s rich and unspoilt flora and fauna. As a result, Bulgaria is ecologically one of the purest countries in Europe, with exceptionally clear air and water resources. There are 7 national parks, more than 3000 protected natural sites and 17 bio-spherical reserves (the greatest recorded number in Europe). There are also 419 protected animal species and 63 protected types of plant.
Not only is the quality of life in Bulgaria good, but the cost of living is one of the lowest in Europe. A meal for two, made from locally grown and organically pure products and including a bottle of nice wine will rarely cost you more than six or so pounds. A quality beer will cost 40 pence!
The Black Sea Coast of Bulgaria (Map)
The 380 kilometres of beaches are amongst some of Europe’s cleanest and safest. Many of them have been awarded prestigious “Blue Flag” status. The region enjoys average summer temperatures of between 25-30 degrees. The season extends from April to October. Coupled with the renowned low cost of living it is easy to see why the Black Sea coast provides and an ideal summer destination - and is surprisingly easy to access from an ever increasing number of European Airports.
Even though the Black Sea coast is an established tourist area, with resorts such as Sunny Beach attracting tourists since the late 1950’s, it has recently become one of the fastest growing summer tourist destinations in Europe. So fast growing in fact that last year demands for tourist beds outstripped supply by 20%!
Bulgaria is said to be the fastest growing holiday destination for 2004 and at least 200,000 Britons were likely to visit the summer resorts this year - nearly double last year’s total. Next year three new major UK tour operators will also be offering summer holidays in Bulgaria.
The Bulgarian winter resorts (Map)
Modern Borovets is one of the largest and increasingly popular winter resorts in the Balkan region. It is situated on scenic northern slopes of the Mousala Ridge in the east of the panoramic Rila Mountains. The resort lies huddled in thick pine forests some 1390 meters above sea level. The area has a long history - attracting people to ski here since as early as 1896 - taking advantage of the many pistes which rise to a staggering 2,600m!
The resort is a perfect place to enjoy excellent facilities off pist as well as on the snow. Many restaurants are clustered around the well appointed and superbly equipped major hotels, making dining a real pleasure with an endless array of contemporary and traditional eating places available. Borovets is the perfect place to relax and provides many other recreational opportunities throughout the year. The climate is considered to be healthy, enjoying beautifully clean air, mild winter temperatures and of course mountains of snow! Usually the slopes at Borovets are covered in snow from mid December through to April.
Borovets is also easy accessible- 12 minutes of first class road connects it with Samokov, the most sizeable town in the area. Sofia is just 45 minutes away. There is a regular bus transport into Samokov every 30 minutes and excellent links from there to the capital.
Bansko is considered by many to be Bulgaria’s number one ski resort. It has the most modern ski facilities in the country and is a well-established destination for winter sport enthusiasts from all around the world. The town of Bansko is located 925 m. above sea level, and its ski slopes vary in altitude from 2000 m - 2600 m above sea level. It is some one hour from Sofia, but only 10 minutes from the bustling town of Razlog. Bansko has developed into a favorite ski & snowboard destination, but also boasts unique architecture, has many historically significant sites nearby, as well as beautiful scenery and countryside for miles around.
During the recent years a multi-million Euro investment in a brand new state of the art skiing area has been made by Yulen, the company that is the licensed to provide the facilities within the Bansko skiing resort area. Furthermore, Bansko enjoys plentiful snow and therefore the season stretches from early December through to May! The longest season of any Bulgarian resort! During the last couple of years the resort has seen a massive investment in new prestigious hotels and recreational facilities .A brand new extension to the resort area also includes holiday apartments adjacent to the central hub of the Gondola and ski lift system.
Both Bansko and Borovets have bided for 2014 Olympic.
http://www.britishdevelopments.com
Insightful Information About the Brilliant Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is believed to be the biggest inhabited castles around at this time and the eldest in continuous inhabitation (more than nine hundred years). It’s 1 of Queen Elizabeth’s 3 key homes, & is over and over again commented to be easily her most treasured home. The Royal colours soars over the Round Tower of Windsor Castle at whatever time Queen Elizabeth 2nd is at the palace - however, at other periods, the Union Jack flag flutters in its position.
Samuel Pepys proclaimed Windsor Castle to be “the single most passionate castle in the world.” That was in sixteen sixty six & the same can be said today.
Windsor Castle Rich History:
The assembly of Windsor can be found lying in the early 7th century Saxon village of Windlesora, where the current day dwellings of Old Windsor can be located. The settlement of Windsor is more correctly well-known as the “New Windsor” - the word “new” being taken in a relative way! Enjoy an amazing day out in London by visiting Windsor Castle with Enjoy England.
Windsor Castle was initially erected by William the Conqueror, on account of his assault of England in ten sixty-six. The original frame was constructed from timber with sol ramparts. Windsor Castle held an understandable strategic location on a big hill just above the River Thames, & was a division of a group of palaces surrounding the Capital, with the Tower of London, one day’s march away, at its middle.
The Palace was reassembled in stone, & rose in magnitude over the centuries. Later on Henry II assembled the Round Tower and the original stone outer wall. After the English Civil War, the structure’s principal function became that of a royal palace. The Castle has remained for the most part untouched ever since the early 19th century, apart from the restoration effort that followed the terrible fire.
What You Need to Know About Hawaii Islands
Tired visiting the conventional holiday destinations? Want some escapades? Want to electrify yourself? Then budge to holiday at Hawaii and unravel the inscrutable anonymity of nature.
A Short March in the Past
Hawaii Islands were born thousands of years ago from the underwater volcanic action. The oceanic water nurtured the islands, which developed huge ecosystems. The islands are whispered to be older than America and first colonized by Polynesian migrants who had rolled up from Marquesas Islands and were a bunch of superstitious and God fearing people. However, Hawaii was christened as the 50th state of USA on 21st August 1959.
An Expedition to Hawaii
A glance at the mesmerizing red-hot lava making its passage to the oceans lays bare the fact that the Hawaiian Islands are still intensifying. There is a concealed volcano beneath the Hawaii Island in the offing to be a part of the Hawaiian family. However, at present the Hawaii Islands are network of world’s six great and exotic islands namely:
1. Hawaii Island or the Big Island that is the largest amongst the constituent islands.
2. Maui Island or Valley Isle that was baptized after a legendary demigod Maui. The area of the island is next to the Hawaii Island.
3. Lanai or the Pineapple Island known for its delectable pineapples, is the smallest of all islands.
4. Molokai or the Friendly Isle that cocoons some of the breath taking and marvelous beaches of the world.
5. Oahu or the Gathering Place that grounds the capital city of Honolulu is a thickly populated island.
6. Kaui or the Garden Isle has out of the ordinary flora and the bewitching Waimea Canyon.
The Hawaiian Islands are a perfect destination for both the nature lovers as well the beach aficionados. The former can take delight in hiking, sightseeing, horse riding etc. in the enigmatic evergreen forests at Hawaii, while there are inexhaustible and exclusive beach activities like underwater tours, submarine drives and scuba diving and so forth for the beach enthusiasts to have a ball. The wonderful Garden Island of Kauai crams you with the feel that nature has preeminently unveiled itself in the form of these gardens. The Molokai Island magnetizes with its fishing and underwater activities and a feather is added to the enticement of this place by the incredible golf proceedings and events all round the year. Hawaii has nestled some of the glorious golf courses like Mauna Kea Golf Course, Challenge at Manele, Ko Olina and the like. On the whole there are more than 80 golf clubs to bathe in the splendor of golf. Not to overlook are some of the eminent museums, the nerve wrecking night life and matchless cultural events like Hula dance, Hawaiian chants etc. on the land of Islands. You also have the opportunity to gain knowledge of some of these activities by participating in the respective events.
What the Weather Conspires
Hawaii is a place of all seasons. The weather is stable all round the year with temperature fluctuating from 80 to 60 Fahrenheit. The months of June to November are a host to the hurricanes and the ones from November to March are cherished and acknowledged for the gigantic waves that whack the north shores of the all the islands. During winters the breakers can be surfed at the Oahu’s north shore as well as the Hoopika beach at the Maui’s north shore. The north shore is hushed during the summers or the months of June to October when the south shores particularly the Waikki and Poipu beach are enlivened and perked up by the waves that are tossed from the tropical storms in South Pacific.
Since the place is teeming with tourists all the year round, its better to get your reservations done. Hawaii has legroom for the luxury as well as the budget travelers.
The complete information can be accumulated either from your travel agency or the Internet that has a catalog of all the hotels along with their rents and amenities.
So hanging on for what… gear up to bask in the grandeur of Hawaii!
Mansi aggarwal writes about hawaii islands topics. Learn more at http://www.discoverhawaiianbeauty.com
What you need to know about - canada travel
Canada is one of the celebrated countries of the world. The
second largest country in the world has unique blend of
French-English culture. With plenty of worth watching cities,
the country is not densely populated. The cities of Canada have
their own magnificence and grandeur that magnetizes people round
the globe.
The Land of Provinces
The vast area of the country along with variation in flora and
fauna varies in other attractions too. The different provinces
have the aura that leaves no visitor from getting beguiled. They
vary in not just flora and fauna but also the culture and other
temptations.
The capital city of Canada -Toronto has any and everything.
Where on one hand the city is the home for the longest street in
the world- the Yonge Street, on the other hand it has the 1815
foot tall CN tower that is well known to be the tallest free
standing structure in the world. This isn’t all. The visitors
also take delight in the ravishing and enticing antiques
displayed at the Sigmund Samuel Canadian Gallery and the eternal
tourist destination-the Royal Canadian Museum.
The Prince Edward Island, the smallest province enthralls the
visitors with its scenic splendor. The place is blessed not just
with beautiful landscapes, sandstone cliffs on its southern
coast but also sparkling green fields in the interior, crystal
blue beach water of the sandy beaches around the coastline.
New Brunswick that is rooted in the French tradition s rich in
seafood and fishing. The place has nestled the largest and busy
town of Saint John that reminds of the history of the province.
Fishing and hunting are adored in the Newfoundland region too.
It is the largest of the Atlantic Province that has the eleventh
century Viking outpost as its outstanding attraction.
The New Scotland or Nova Scotia smells of Scotland as well as
French fragrance. The amalgamation is also of the contemporary
and the archaic structures like from the nineteenth century
historic buildings there are exclusive latest shopping malls,
apartments, hotels etc.
The British Columbia province is distinctively bifurcated into
the lush green forests and the dry and arid region.
The Quebec province and the Quebec City have a lot to treat the
visitors. The Montreal region of the Quebec province has special
seasonal festivals. The winter season is a host to the La Fete
des Neiges festival; the summers welcome all the Jazz and opera
lovers with its Montreal International Music Competition and the
International Opera Festival respectively. The Festival
Internationale de Nouvelle Danse and the International film
festival add to the beauty of autumn season. The Quebec City
that is the capital of the Quebec Province is quite significant
from the perspective of trade and commerce and its noteworthy
historical buildings.
To hail all the golf, tennis, baseball and soccer lovers, the
third largest city of Canada - Vancouver has more than numerous
golf courses, tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields. The
city has an exotic forty storey Harbor Center climbing up at
which one can gaze at the Gastown (a renowned tourist spot) and
Chinatown (the blooming Chinese community of Vancouver). For the
children as well as the adults there is Stanley Park Zoo that is
nestled in a thousand acre Stanley Park.
If Canada happens to be your holiday destination in the first
two weeks of July, not to miss is the Calgary Stampede i.e. the
Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. This show has worldwide
popularity that fetches innumerable tourists to Calgary.
Last but not the least are the Canadian Rockies- the Rocky
Mountains on the edge between Alberta and British Columbia, the
4200 square mile Jasper National Park and the first national
park of Canada i.e. the Banff National Park.
Canada is the place where sports never say die. The country is
known for its water sports like canoeing, sailing and so forth.
Apart from these there is the national game of Canada- Lacrosse,
the Canadians adorable game of Hockey, Basket ball and the like.
The moment Canada ranks first on your dream destinations, just
collect little information about the weather of the place that
varies with the provinces there. For instance, the Quebec and
provinces adjacent to it have hot and humid summers with cold
winters. But the Northwest Canadian Territories are different
with short cool summers and long cool winters. However, the
concoction or fusion of diverse cultures and climate,
picturesque attractions, cuisine, language, people etc. make
Canada what it is- a place worth loving and visiting.
Botswana Emerges as an Up Market Safari Destination
Botswana is a country of seemingly endless open spaces. Though it occupies an area the size of France, the human population is only 1.6 million. This is one country where wildlife does not face stiff competition for land resources from man. As a result the animals have multiplied with a flourish. Botswana can justifiably claim to host some of the finest game sanctuaries in Africa. The worlds’ largest exporter of diamonds by value, the country is not under pressure to get in more tourists. And the government has adopted a deliberate policy of keeping visitor numbers low. The hidden hand of the market has responded by adjusting the price to reflect this reality. Botswana has therefore emerged as an exclusive up market safari destination.
Bill Clinton, together with his wife went on safari in Botswana in 1998. The power couple was greatly fascinated by the wildlife, and the serious games of life and death they play. Affirming his position on top of the food chain, the president ate for dinner some of the animal species he had watched earlier. His evening buffet included zebra, crocodile, impala in monkey sauce, and giraffe. “I tried it all”, he declared with satisfaction. But the former American president is only one in a long line of heavy hitters to enjoy the wildlife havens of Botswana. Hollywood legends, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor chose to remarry here, for example.
Botswana is dominated by the Kalahari Desert. It occupies 84% of the land area, mostly in the west, central and north of the country. But the Kalahari is not a desert in the Sahara sense. You find the occasional sand dune, but also substantial vegetation in the form of short thorn and scrub bush, trees and grasslands. Very little water though, and hence the desert tag. To the northwest, you find Okavango, the world’s largest inland delta. The northeast is a land of gently rolling tablelands interrupted by granite hills and rock formations. The east and southeast, where 80% of the people live has more varied relief. And the rain clouds linger more and unburden themselves more freely, relative to the rest of the country.
Today Botswana is a peaceful, well-managed and relatively prosperous country. The country wealth per man indicator places among middle-income nations alongside Mexico and Russia and ahead of Brazil. But it has not always been so and the country has come along way. The San people (otherwise known bushmen) are believed to be the original inhabitants of Botswana. Their descendants survive to this day, some living as their forefathers did for most of the 30,000 years historians guess they have been around. Later -much later, Bantu groups, prominent of which were the Tswana, became the masters of these realms.
The modern Botswana nation has been shaped by the alliances made in response to historical currents swirling in southern Africa in the eighteenth century. The rulers at the time aligned their interests with those of the British against the Boers who were approaching from the south and the Germans from the west. For the British, the value of the alliance was strategic and not much was expected in terms of economic advantage. And that is how the relationship resulted in the Bechuanaland Protectorate - the precursor of modern Botswana. The British remained in charge until independence in 1966.
The visitor to Botswana is drawn by the credible intelligence that abounds about the quality of its pristine wildlife sanctuaries. Chobe National Park, one of the finest game parks in Africa is located to the north east of the country. The park has the greatest variety of game anywhere in the country. That is why the busy Bill Clinton found himself at Chobe for his short safari. Wildlife thrives among the swamps and grasslands that stretch along the flood plains of the Chobe River. Occupying 10,560 square kilometers, it is particularly renowned for the great concentration and sheer abundance of its elephants, estimated to number 80,000.
The Chobe elephants are migratory and move along the Chobe River, their reliable redoubt in the dry season. African elephants are the largest among elephant species -and those at Chobe are the largest of them all. The population has gradually built up since the 1930’s when wildlife in the area began to enjoy some sort of protection. The infamous trade in ivory, particularly in the 1970’s and 80’s encouraged the decimation of elephant populations in other parts of Africa. But the elephants of Chobe - thank God - were spared contact with the dirty hands of poachers. Other animals to see here include some of the usual suspects on an African safari - lion, cheetah, hippo buffalo, giraffe, antelope, jackal, warthog, hyena, crocodile, zebra. The birdlife is also diverse. Cruising or driving along the Chobe River, you get the best view of the animals.
The Savuti Marshes of Chobe are reputed to have the largest predator population density in southern Africa. The marshes have the textbook features that draw predators. In a flat and hostile environment, they provide a place where wildebeest, buffalo, zebra and many species of antelope congregate for a drink. The predators - cheetahs, leopards, lions, wild dogs, hyenas, wild dogs, and jackals - naturally follow. Some predators such as lion tend to be rather lazy and the setting here is a gift. The usual entry point for Chobe is Kasane, which is located about 800km north of Gaborone. You get here by flying from Gaborone, Maun or Victoria Falls in neighbouring Zimbabwe. Camps and lodges can be found throughout the park.
The Okavango Delta, in the north west of Botswana is the largest inland delta in the world. Spreading over 15,000 square kilometers, it is formed as the flow of the Okavango River slows down and soaks into the sands. That is why it is referred to as ‘the river which never finds the sea’. The network of channels, ox bow lakes, lagoons, swamps and islands that arise is very pleasing to the eye. But that is not all of Okavangos’ bounty. The delta is filled with wildlife - wildebeest, giraffe, hippo, elephant, zebra and buffalo have all found a home here. The birds too are plenty, more than 550 types, some of which live on the trees and others on the water.
The best place to see wildlife in Okavango is within the spectacular Moremi Wildlife Reserve. The reserve lies in the centre of the delta and occupies 3,000 square kilometres. In Moremi you view game aboard a vehicle or by gliding on a makoro (dugout canoe) or other type of canoe. Accommodation is available in camps and lodges within the delta area. In Moremi itself, you can stay in tented campsites but no permanent camps or lodges are allowed.
If you are interested culture, take a break at Chief’s Island, the largest in the delta, and see ancient rock paintings. The painting were presumably executed by the artistically inclined fore bearers on the San people. The Okavango Delta should be avoided in summer, especially December to March, when most of the camps are closed down. At that time, it is very hot and humid- temperatures rise above 38C, and thunderstorms unleash daily. You enter Okavango through Maun - the deltas’ principal town, by flying or taking a bus from Gaborone, 600 km away.
Visitors to either Chobe or Okavango may wish to add on a visit to Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is actually in Zimbabwe but is easily accessible from the northern part of Botswana. Victoria Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world and one of Africa’s prime attractions. Situated on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, the falls occur where the steadily flowing Zambezi River, unwarned, casually approaches and then suddenly plunges down a series of basalt gorges in a breathtaking display of several waterfalls. Mist and thunder emanating from the falls can be witnessed from far off.
The spray from the falls sustains the rain forest on the opposite wall of basalt and creates an almost constant rainbow visible even by the light of the moon. The falls are best seen from the air, thus activities such as helicopter flights, balloon rides and micro-lighting over the falls are a must do. Other exciting activities available are bungee jumping off the bridge - which also gives a spectacular view down the gorge, canoeing, white water rafting, river safaris, elephant back safaris and many more. Be sure to review our offers for a Botswana safari and Victoria Falls tour.
Adventure seekers, who travel not merely to convenient places, may wish to check out the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. The shallow saltpans cover about 6,500 square kilometres and rank among the largest in the world. The atmosphere here is admittedly surreal, with shimmering mirages in a vast open terrain broken only by a few baobab trees. Bird watchers in particular will be intrigued at the unusual environment as they watch numerous flamingos and pelicans. The pans occupy the area between Francistown (410 km north east of Gaborone) and the Okavango Delta. There is plenty of wildlife, in the Makgadikgadi National Park, but not as much as Chobe- so this will not be your only reason for coming here.
Botswana is the site of a unique wildlife conservation initiative in Southern Africa- the concept of cross border parks. The initiative is anchored on the common sense observation that wildlife does not recognise international borders. Successful conservation efforts in an area bordering another country can be reduced to naught if the neighbouring countries do not collaborate. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a combination of two parks -the former Gemsbok National Park in Botswana and Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa.
Covering over 36,000 sq km, Kgalagadi is one of the biggest wildlife conservation areas anywhere in the world. Botswana contributes about 75% of the park in the southern Kalahari Desert. The park is a unique conservation area for it allows the large-scale wildlife migratory movements that were once common in the savanna grasslands of Africa, but are sadly not possible any more. The appeal of the harsh beauty of the Kalahari aside, scientists are extremely curious to find out the secret story of the flora and fauna that has adapted to what appears to be a very difficult environment.
For ordinary folks, the park is host to the famous black-maned Kalahari lions. You will also see gemsbok, springbok, eland, blue wildebeest, cheetahs, wild dogs, jackals, bat-eared foxes and leopards. Birding is also excellent and of 297 species recorded, 96 are resident. It is difficult to get to Kgalagadi. From Gaborone, you drive for 860 km, of which 550 km is tarred and the rest gravel. Being a cross border park, you can also access it through South Africa. The park has no permanent tented campsites and on safari you must bring in everything you need.
The dry season, especially between April and October, is the best time to visit Botswana on safari. It is then easy to spot wildlife gathered near water sources. The rains come over the southern summer months of November to March. The roads are then difficult to use and with the abundance of water and pasture, the animals tend to scatter. Early morning and night temperatures in winter (May to August) can drop below freezing, especially in the southwest. But the days are then cool to warm. The summer experiences high daytime temperatures of up to 38C. The cloud cover, though, and the rains tend to cool things a little bit. Beware that August is very dry and dust and sand storms tends to rise from the west.
Remember to pack a pair of binoculars- they bring the animals closer without the usual risks. A pair of decent sunglasses is a good idea, especially if you travel to the Kalahari, where the glare can be somewhat unsettling. Also pack photographic and video equipment to record your safari for the sake of those of your unlucky friends who may not have been to Botswana. On safari, you are advised not to wear white or bright clothing to avoid exciting the animals. Light cottons and linens are adequate for summer. To survive winter mornings and evenings, you need warmer wraps and sweaters. Women should avoid wearing scanty beachwear in rural areas away from hotels and campsites to avoid offending locals.
Andrew Muigai is editor of AfricaPoint Insider online newsletter. It is part of Africapoint.com - the Africa travel website that has helped thousands of travelers discover Africa. You can view more info on Botswana Safaris at the website. www.africapoint.com/tours1/botswana.htm
Wekiwa Springs: Orlando’s Secret State Park
What piece of natural Florida is within shouting distance of Disneyworld, yet worlds away from the ordinary? Where you can travel back in time to the Florida that once was?
Welcome to Wekiwa Springs State Park, near Orlando, Florida.
Springs of Delight
Wekiwa Springs State Park is well-known by the Orlando residents, but it’s a secret to most visitors. Hidden away in Apopka, the Springs are a wilderness wonderland.
The most obvious thing about the park is its main spring and swimming area. The water is crystal clear and makes for some great snorkeling! But it’s a bit on the chilly side, at a cool 70 degrees Fahrenheit year around.
Back in Time
If you want to see what Florida used to look like, before houses and stores and theme parks took over, take a walk on the trails at Wekiwa Springs State Park. There are about 17 miles of trails in the park, so there is plenty of room to roam. You’ll share many of the trails with people on bicycles and horses, but you may find yourself alone much of the time because…
…of the canoes!
Winding Rivers
Canoeing is the biggest draw at Wekiwa Springs State Park. There are miles of river to paddle or to simply float down. The water is clear, the trees make a cool canopy and the sky is blue. You can start at the head of the springs, paddle down the river and then take a shuttle back up to “Canoe Beach” - your starting point.
Campground Tales
There is also camping at Wekiwa Springs State Park, and it’s one of the few Florida State Parks that actually allows pet camping! Not to worry, there is a campground for people without pets, too.
Want to know More?
If you’re planning a Central Florida vacation, consider a side trip to Wekiwa Springs State Park. Get to know the park the locals talk about!
Gail Nettles is a Florida native who enjoys showing the Sunshine State to
visitors. She also publishes
http://www.great-florida-vacations.com