tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74897695005837131102024-03-04T20:21:45.344-08:00Creative travelHolidays are special, and with so many places to choose from we thought we would combine our favourite things, creativity and travel. So, here you will find a list of destinations that may be a little off the beaten path, or just plain wonderful. Everything here is written from experience, by creative travellers, for creative travellers, by members of the pinkfrog team or our extended network... so go on get creative with your next holiday.Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-7394373369521539782018-03-13T11:07:00.001-07:002018-03-13T11:07:11.483-07:00African Paradise - Selous, TanzaniaA wild and remote paradise for nature lovers...<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Location:</span></b> Southern Tanzania, Africa<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Good for: </b></span>Wildlife flora and Fauna, luxury lakeside tented safari with game drives and boat safari. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b></span> There are spectacular viewing opportunities here, year round, However this camp is closed in April and May at the height of the rains.<br />
<a name='more'></a>June
through October are the drier drier and cooler months. Later in the season it gets warmer and wetter. Due to the low altitude here<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost:</b></span>
This is not a budget trip, but it is exceptionally good value for
money. The food is marvelous and plentiful, prepared daily by the chefs
and served to a standard that you could expect is any good hotel. While
you are at the camp all of your food is included, as is water, tea and
coffee. There are plenty of other drinks available but these are
excluded and are payable. There is also an invaluable laundry service,
which will get your clothes back to you the same day or next day, which
is alos included. You get two game drives per day of your stay with a
highly qualified guide/driver. If you want a private drive then an
additional fee applies but there are only four seats in the vehicles, so
even when shared, the game drives are still intimate. The cost varies
depending on the season, but a rough guide could be £1,000 - £1,500 for a
4 night stay. This would include your internal transfers to and from
the local airstrip and again, depending on the time of year, you may
also be able to get the cost of the air transfer from Dar es Salaam.
Private game drives are an added cost of approximately $250 dollars (for
two in a day). If you are booking this camp as part of a pre-planned
itinerary you may find costs will be reduced.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Flights and travel:</b></span>
Flights by small, light aircraft will fly you in from: Dar es Salaam,
Arusha, Zanzibar, Selous or Mafia, to the very local (5 mins by car)
Jongomero airstrip. at a transfer time of between 1.5 and 2.5 hours -
which is actually a very pleasant part of the journey.You may find that
the aircraft you board will have stops along the way which might
increase your travel time a little.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference:</b></span> 2 hours ahead of the UK.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Jongomero Camp:</b></span>
The camp itself is set along the banks of the Ruaha River, which is a
wide, although rarely full river. In September the river was dry,
although due to the water table, the water was still there 1m below the
earth enabling the animals with the know-how, to dig and drink as
required.<br />
<br />
It is a particularly picturesque camp, with 8
superbly private, riverside tented lodges and a central lounge, bar and
restaurant area. All of the tented lodges have a thatched over
structure which means they blend seamlessly into their surroundings.
There is also a small pool area with shade and sunbeds.<br />
<br />
The
camp is compact and you will find everything you need, close at hand.
The central areas are spacious and sumptuous, with rich fabrics and
chunky wooden furniture to sink into after a full day of wildlife
spotting. Tall ceilings and open spaes make you feel like you are really
living outdoors, but with all the comforts you would want around you.<br />
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The
raised tents are just as gorgeous, with huge wooden beds, large
verandahs, kitted out with seating and daybeds and a large open plan
bathroom. There is no shortage of Space here. All of the tents come
equipped with toiletries, moisturiser, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel
and soap. You are also provided with robes, towels and drinking water in
a cool, insulated flask.<br />
<br />
Even eating here feels like a
special event, with every meal unique, from the location it's served
in, to the menu itself. You may eat at the riverside or in the roofed
restaurant area, or if the river bed is dry, you may find your table set
in the riverbed, lit by lanterns and a bonfire.<br />
<br />
But,
regardless of all of the above comforts and of course the idyllic
location, it is the team that truly makes this place special. From the
guards that escort you to and from your tent at night, to the chefs and
waiters who cook and serve your food, all are welcoming and friendly,
ensuring that you immediately feel right at home. The managers during
our visit were Chris and Sam, who made a great team. They were always on
hand to help and organise and really dis go out of their way to make
sure you were happy - as did all of the team there. There is a very
'family like' atmosphere here and it really does make this place
special.<br />
<br />
The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic,
passionate about what they do and keen to make every drive you take, a
special one. Our guide Kim, spent extra time with us explaining the
local birdlife and was happy to do so - something we really appreciated.<br />
<br />
An
added bonus is that Jongomero is so beautifully isolated that you are
extremely unlikely to see another vehicle in the park and if you do, the
chances are that is is from jongomero! I have never experienced such
peaceful game drives. There are several tented camps in Ruaha, but most
are in the north of the park and Jongomero sits alone in the south.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Wildlife:</b></span> Well,
where to start: of the big five we saw: Elephant (lots), Lion
(several), Leopard (one) and buffalo (masses). There are no rhino here
sadly, but there are both greater and lesser Kudu, Genet (cats) zebra,
giraffe, water buck, bush buck, mongoose (dwarf, banded and slender),
Yellow baboons, vervet monkeys, jackals, bat eared fox... seriously I
could go on. Trust me, there is a huge amount of wildlife to see and the
terrain is breathtakingly beautiful. The birds here are spectacular and
it becomes a real challenge to tick them all off the spotting list
which is provided in your room.<br />
<br />
The only negative and
it really is the only negative I can think of is the number of Tsetse
fly in Ruaha National Park. They are a bit of a pain, but the vehicles
do burn elephant dung (the smoke deters the fly), which is actually not
an unpleasant smell and they provide you with a fly 'whisk' to swat away
the invaders. Deet doesn't seem to do much to the tsetse appetitie, but
apparently Dettol (so I hear after the event!) can be quite effective -
not sure if you apply a diluted solution to skin or just have a stinky
Dettol soaked hanky...<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to take:</span></b> Take earthy and neutral colours (Tsetse are attracted to blue, black and other dark colours).Other vital accessories include:<br />
<br />
• A good torch, powerful but lightweight.<br />
• Zip off trousers (mornings start cool but it can get very hot).<br />
• Binoculars.<br />
• Camera and plenty of memory cards!<br />
• A fleece (the mornings and evenings can be quite cool here).<br />
• Mossie repellent (Avon Skin So Soft is what I use).<br />
• After bite cream (one with a numbing agent is quite good to stop bites itching).<br />
• Hand sanitising lotion is handy for when you are out and about.<br />
• If you are going in the wet season, a light waterproof and a dry sack for your equip is useful.<br />
• Take a strip of antihistamine tablets, they are good if you get insect bites.<br />
• Sun protection, despite being under cover you will be in the sun a fair bit.<br />
• D<br />
ollars for tipping (only take dollars minted after 2006)<br />
<br />
The vehicles are covered so hats aren't really needed unless you do a walking safari.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect:</b></span> Expect to be blown away by the wilderness and enchanted by this wonderful gem of a camp. <br />
<br />
Expect
visitations in the night, the elephants are frequent night time
visitors and can often be right by your tent, as well as other nocturnal
creatures, so expect to have broken sleep, but trust me it is worth it
when you see a bull elephant munching the undergrowth by your bathroom
window!<br />
<br />
You won't get that much down time between game
drives and meal times, although the pool area is lovely for a dip and a
spot of camp wildlife watching (you will see lots in and around the camp
itself). Don't expect to have the time to read much you will be way too
distracted by the wildlife all around you to concentrate on a book for
long.<br />
<br />
This camp runs a communal tipping system, which
enables you to tip everyone at the same time, even the people you won't
necessarily see. Your travel agent may offer you some guidance on this,
but if not, the camp information in your room provides a rough rule of
thumb. Your game drives guides are excluded form this, so remember to
tip them separately.<br />
<br />
<i>Any costs detailed here are based on information at the time of writing - and are purely for guidance. </i><br />
<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-72386470816524787232016-09-22T09:29:00.000-07:002018-03-13T11:06:54.687-07:00Bear Necessities - Great Bear Rainforest - Canada BC <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A truly magical and humbling experience<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Location: </span>Western Canada, British Columbia<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Good for: </span>Astounding scenery, Grizzly Bears, Spirit Bears, Black Bears, Whales, Orca, Wolves and more.<br />
<br />
When to go: Given the location, I would suggest that spring, summer and autumn are the best times to visit as many areas would become impossible in the harsh winter, if you can even arrange it! Spring and summer is good for bear viewing with cubs, whereas Autumn, is a great time to see the Salmon run and watch the bears fishing and eating on the riverbanks. <br />
<a name='more'></a>If its the whales and the scenery you are going for then its more about what temperature is comfortable for you, as the scenery is beautiful in any season and the whales are always here, but there are specific seasons for better whale watching depending on which coast you are traveling on and which species you want to see. Summer and Autumn seem to be best.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Cost: </span>The trip you take will vary in cost and it will depend on whether you are taking a land based trip or a water based (live aboard) trip. Just as a rule of thumb, a shared (up to 16 people) 9 day trip on a boat to explore some areas of the Great Bear Rainforest costs somewhere between £5,000 and £9,000 per person or thereabouts. The cost varies depending on the type of boat the number of guests sharing with you and of course the season you go in. This is not a cheap trip, but it does cover all costs, such as food and drink, flights and transfers. There are also options to arrange your own trip, which may reduce costs and also the numbers of passengers you share with, but beware, as missed flights and connections can end up costing you more than you save…<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Flights and travel:</span> London to Vancouver will take under 10 hours and once there, you will then need to take an internal flight to the Great Bear Rainforest region, which will take around 2 hours or less on a much smaller plane. There are numerous start points to explore this area and there are small airports close to start points, such as Bella Bella or Kitimat. Remember to watch the luggage weight allowance on the smaller flights.<br />
<span style="background-color: #c27ba0;"><br /></span><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Time difference: </span>7 hours behind the UK.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Great Bear Rainforest:</span> It is a truly unique area of the world, with a changing scenery that will take your breath away at every turn. There are so many areas to explore and discover, that I will try to keep this as a generic overview rather than stick to a specific. The area is truly vast and made up of a collection of estuaries and Fjords that weave their way through a perfect wilderness of islands and mainland cliff faces. Both austere and majestic, this region allows you to truly wonder at the artistry of nature.<br />
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It’s difficult to describe the scale, but just being in this landscape will humble you. The wildlife you will see here does the same, from the huge humpback whale that cruise just metres from the cliff faces to the bears and wolves that walk the land and the eagles that patrol the sky. It should be a haven for the wild but despite its size, it still needs our protection from those who would hunt its inhabitants and cut down the forest that they call home. Most of the trips you will find encourage conservation and environmental awareness - and you will certainly come across a number of first nations guides and rangers who will be keen to show you just why this place is so special.<br />
<br />
Great care is taken to ensure that you experience all you can here, without having a negative impact on your surroundings and as such, you should be prepared to compromise things such as Wifi and mobile coverage - something that I for one find liberating and relaxing, enabling me to just enjoy whats going on around me.<br />
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*If you are a smoker, it is vital that you take a portable ashtray with you as you are responsible for making sure you leave nothing but footprints behind.<br />
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The landscape is lush and green, with a dominance of spruce sporting almost magical mossy ornaments on every limb. The waterways are crisp and clear, sometimes coloured by the glaciers that feed them as an aquamarine and sometime stained red with the tannins of the redwood trees further inland. The air is fresh and almost heady and each turn of the head makes you fall more in love with this wonderful place. At times it can look and feel spectacularly otherworldly, like something out of Lord of the Rings, but without the monsters!<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Wildlife: </span>There is so much to see here, it’s difficult to know where to start, so I’ll start with the obvious, bears: White Spirit Bear - found nowhere else on earth, Black bears and Grizzly Bears, Wolves, Otters (both river and sea), Beavers, Bald Eagles, Gulls too numerous to list as well as many other small forest birds, Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Orca, Right Whale, porpoise and many, many more.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;">What to take: </span>This is a rain forest, so above all else, make sure you are well prepared for the rain, even when it’s not raining it can be very misty (which is magical) and this too can penetrate your clothes:<br />
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• Waterproof trousers or over-trousers<br />
• Waterproof jacket<br />
• Wellingtons or waterproof tall boots (you may have to do some wading<br />
• Camera and plenty of memory cards!<br />
• Binoculars<br />
• Mossie repellent (Avon Skin So Soft is what I use).<br />
• After bite cream (one with a numbing agent is quite good to stop bites itching).<br />
• Hand sanitising lotion is handy for when you are out and about.<br />
• Waterproof rucksack cover or dry bag are essential to keep your kit dry<br />
• Take a strip of antihistamine tablets, they are good if you get insect bites.<br />
• Sun protection, because when the sun does come out, it is powerful<br />
• Warm clothing, layers are best and are also more versatile to pack as you will need to keep your luggage reasonably lean.<br />
• Hats and gloves if you are going back end of summer or autumn<br />
• Sunglasses, an essential when you are on the water!<br />
• Swimming costume if you are going in the warmer seasons.<br />
• if you are going on a boat (live aboard) some comfy rubber soles shoes for milling around <br />
• Canadian dollars for tipping - whether you are on a boat or on dry land<br />
• As with all wildlife trips, make sure you ave a good dollop of patience packed somewhere in reserve.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;">What to expect:</span> It’s a rainforest - the clue is in the name, so don’t be surprised to see rain and boy when it rains it really does rain (so make sure your waterproofs are good ones), expect to be awestruck by the scenery and its inhabitants, it will literally blow you away. Expect peace and tranquility because this really is a wilderness and there is no sound other that the sound of nature, when you are out and about.<br />
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If trekking is a part of your plan, then don’t expect nice neat paths - remember this is mother nature we are taking about and although you may follow old logging roads, much used tracks or animal tracks, the terrain is likely to be uneven and muddy so make sure you are prepared for that. <br />
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If you are staying on a boat, expect to have to be careful with your water use - after all they can only carry so much and don’t expect to have a spacious cabin, the cabins may be small and cramped, but you are one in them to sleep - the rest of the time you will be out spotting wildlife and having the experience of a lifetime.<br />
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Keep your ears open at night as, if you are lucky and you are in the right area, you may hear the wolves howl… above all else expect the sheer scale and majesty of this part of the world to leave you feeling humble and fiercely protective of it. <br />
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We traveled by boat and on board there was a communal tipping scheme, which makes it much easier for you - your booking agent may advise you on what to tip, but of course the amount is up to you. <br />
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<i>Any costs detailed here are based on information at the time of writing - and are purely for guidance only. </i>Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-66895755592413955902016-06-24T02:58:00.000-07:002016-06-24T02:58:13.444-07:00SA Adventure - GarongaStunning African safari set in a private reserve<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Location:</span></b> South Africa. A 22,000 hectare area in the greater
Makalali Conservancy - west of the Kruger National Park.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Good for: </b></span>The traditional big 5, among other wildlife flora and Fauna. Luxury riverside tented accommodation or bungalow lodges with game drives and walking safaris. <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b></span> This camp is open all year, but going in the dry season (UK Summer) is often more rewarding as the game congregates around the watering holes and can be easier to find and see. That said, I can't imagine there is a bad time to visit here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4AzNbuxMEs-Xsu2TCC-C0DaERNZDweMvRVT_y9kMCSaKwDWwSlp4ZM_2ewNymMbJKLbC_4iXTJqg9wRpNMakS0oltVHKnbh1ZeULbE5q-1o-urgUP3fVj-vfVfCeghktPhaVPaREaYE/s1600/P1130228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4AzNbuxMEs-Xsu2TCC-C0DaERNZDweMvRVT_y9kMCSaKwDWwSlp4ZM_2ewNymMbJKLbC_4iXTJqg9wRpNMakS0oltVHKnbh1ZeULbE5q-1o-urgUP3fVj-vfVfCeghktPhaVPaREaYE/s320/P1130228.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost:</b></span> This is not a cheap camp, but you will be rewarding in spades when it comes to the experience you get. As ever there are optional extras to consider, such as a small aircraft transfer from Hoedspruit <i>(pronounced Hoodspite) </i>to the Garonga airstrip, versus the car transfer. Private safaris vs shared safari (no more than 6 people per jeep). There are also various activities available on the site itself that could add to the bill, such as spa facilities, and microlight trips over the reserve. A rough guide would be R7,000 - R9.500 (that's Rand not £) per night. This excludes international flights and connection flights. Once at the camp, shared game drives are included (2 per day) as are the walking safaris. Of course if you are booking this camp as part of a pre-planned
itinerary cost will fluctuate accordingly. <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Flights and travel:</b></span> You will fly into Johannesburg from London (approx 10.5hrs) and then catch a smaller flight, with SA Express to Hoedspruit (approx 1 hour). At Hoedspruit you will be met by a driver from Garonga and transferred by car to the camp (unless you have chosen to fly directly to the Garonga air strip, depending on the road conditions this will take from 1hr 20 to 1hr 45. You are even likely to see some small game on the way (in daylight)!<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference:</b></span> 1 hours behind the UK.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Garonga Camp:</b></span>
The camp itself is set, in an arc, along a dry riverbed, opposite a small watering hole, which is visible from all tents. A larger watering hole lies beyond this, which is visible from the main gathering and eating area. We were able to watch elephants at the watering hole daily, as well as Giraffe and Zebra.<br />
The camp itself, consists of 6 gorgeous and recently refurbished tented lodges, with an inside and outside shower, toilet and sink area, a large decked area to the front (complete with lazy hammock and seating) and a gloriously large, netted bed.<br />
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Each tent is very private and yet doesn't feel scarily isolated and raised paths lead you to the communal eating and relaxing area, where you find a roaring open fire (on cold nights) with library, a self service bar area and a generous decked platform where you can sit, eat, read or relax. There are plenty of seating options and with such a small camp, you can always find privacy. there is even a small infinity pool which is a great spot to watch the resident birds. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGxPLk4GbVJ8oNDokTZPoM2IiyQ6p9tQHtRxgWJjdDPDp7AAOWSPiGUVJm2GGjf24tFTOcn2l3JS1q07WfCDJU_WFFsFiR53Lx2mbWA76x1JtB7Tm6pNKhmM6e6XchwGgGgacqvgoVRc/s1600/P1050260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGxPLk4GbVJ8oNDokTZPoM2IiyQ6p9tQHtRxgWJjdDPDp7AAOWSPiGUVJm2GGjf24tFTOcn2l3JS1q07WfCDJU_WFFsFiR53Lx2mbWA76x1JtB7Tm6pNKhmM6e6XchwGgGgacqvgoVRc/s200/P1050260.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Little Garonga Lodges:</b></span> Set away from the main Garonga area, are three luxury lodges, with not a hint of canvas in sight. These lodges do vary, but the most luxurious is a large 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom lodge with a spectacular outside shower area and a good size sep lounge area inside. It also has an expansive deck, complete with tables and seating, sun loungers and a private infinity pool. The best feature of this lodge for me though is the humongous copper ball and claw bath, which was much appreciated on the first night that we stayed here (a wee bit chilly!) - bliss.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6m9BGT3Jwmi794nHzOkGYA80UKIjLdJ1Vz4_P95vMxzxDHbVWuSR0HpPQQnyfk2WW5jlcAEFPpsq84WLeVI5yCEkIOK-aFlejntCoHPbS4omV6kb5-WIRpdalThcTnYWCq9mg3OaFxj0/s1600/P1050259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6m9BGT3Jwmi794nHzOkGYA80UKIjLdJ1Vz4_P95vMxzxDHbVWuSR0HpPQQnyfk2WW5jlcAEFPpsq84WLeVI5yCEkIOK-aFlejntCoHPbS4omV6kb5-WIRpdalThcTnYWCq9mg3OaFxj0/s200/P1050259.jpg" width="200" /></a>Little Garonga has its own sep. lounge, bar, eating area and deck - again with pool. This area automatically feels more intimate due to the lack of lodges, even if they are all full, you still only have 6 other people to share it with!<br />
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In my opinion, the raised tented lodges are by far the best of the two (1) for a feeling of being closer to the bush and more 'involved' in the overall experience and (2) for the overall design, situation and comfort of the tents themselves. That said, the night we had in Little Garonga was very lovely and it is beautifully done, so if canvas isn't your bag, then the lodges are the way forward.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Wildlife:</b></span> A spotting list is provided in your room, and you are likely to be crossing off a lot. They have it all here in abundance, Black and white Rhino, Elephant, big cats, small cats, Bufalo, Wilderbeast, Buck and Gazelle of all shapes and sizes and so on, there really is too much to list here, but rest assured that the big five and more are here (remember this is a private fenced reserve and some of the animals have been shipped here from other locations, either for their own protection or to enhance the gene pool - however many also come and go as they please, such as Wild Dogs and Leopard).<br />
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Birdlife is just as varied and interesting and they seem to have a high population of raptors - we saw Snake Eagles, Tawny Eagles, Fish Eagles, Bateleur Eagles, Goshawk, lizard buzzards and Owls and then of course there were the other birds, Bee Eaters, Rollers, Mousebirds, Woodpeckers, kingfishers, finches, phew - way to many to list!<br />
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There really is so much to see here, and there is a varied terrain, which is beautiful to drive and walk through.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to take:</span></b> Take earthy and neutral colours where possible<br />
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• A good torch, powerful but lightweight.<br />
• Zip off trousers (mornings start quite cool in winter but it does get very hot).<br />
• Binoculars.<br />
• Camera and plenty of memory cards!<br />
• A fleece/jacket (but take something that you don't mind getting scuffed and well worn).<br />
• Mossie repellent (Avon Skin So Soft is what I use).<br />
• After bite cream (one with a numbing agent is quite good to stop bites itching).<br />
• Hand sanitising lotion is handy for when you are out and about.<br />
• If you are going in a wet season, a light waterproof and a dry sack for your equip is useful.<br />
• Take a strip of antihistamine tablets, they are good if you get insect bites.<br />
• Sun protection - essential<br />
• Plenty of Rand currency for tipping<br />
• A hat - the vehicles are open topped and a hat will be the only protection you get from the sun. <br />
• Walking shoes/sandals, a good stable sole is paramount for walking and for climbing up into the jeeps.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What NOT to take:</span></b><br />
• No need to take a plug adapter as a UK plug fitting is provided<br />
• No need to take a sarong as it is provided, as are slippers and a robe <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect:</b></span> Expect everything and you won't be disappointed. If you keep your ears open as well as your eyes, you will learn much from the experienced team of guides and rangers who seem to get as much pleasure from showing you as you do seeing...<br />
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You will be accompanied on your drives and walks by a ranger and a tracker - both are experts in what they do and the tracker will often hop off the jeep to follow tracks - staying in radio contact with your ranger who will do his best to get you to a good wildlife viewpoint. This can involve going over some heavy terrain and through some particularly unforgiving foliage, so make sure the clothes you wear are durable and there are plenty of opportunities to snag and tear... <br />
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Expect rustlings in the night, the elephants are frequent night time
visitors into the camp, which is why you are escorted after dark, as are many other things, even the occasional Leopard! Sometimes you will hear things right by your tent, so you are unlikely to sleep right through, but the thrill of being there in the thick of it makes it well worth it.<br />
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There are Vervet Monkeys here, who will do their very best to steal your breakfast, but are not aggressive and when not causing trouble, a pleasure to watch. There are also a number of animals that take advantage of the camp's safe haven, such as Bush Buck, Warthog, Mongoose, Squirrel, Zebra and Kudu, so keep your eyes peeled even when you are chilling on your deck - you never know what you might see. <br />
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One of the most interesting things about the way this camp works, is the timings. In most places that we have been, you have a morning and afternoon drive, but they often don't give you much downtime in-between. This camp is a little different: you have an early drive (6.30am) with breakfast when you get back (around 10.30am or so). Then, the rest of the day is yours until 3pm, when you gather for afternoon tea followed by a second game drive that goes on until well after dark. Then, by the time you get back your supper is usually pretty much ready. This timing system works really well as you actually get a large chunk of the day to enjoy the camp and the environment. Plus you have the added bonus of having a short night drive when you make your way back to camp, giving the opportunity to see those more elusive, nocturnal animals. Blankets are provided on the jeeps for potential chilly mornings and evenings.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBDvGvegoP8UEAg7QVsvTy2vNA61vvT8K0yOkmWQCk0qxxVaWd35LWG9sPsZzU3fY2hEeol8MG7AGBg2sif8Q0PlM-gW_32Wzjz8bnC_klC4o05Y80EQs9nqnApfa6VG11upa1TLFnh0/s1600/P1050350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBDvGvegoP8UEAg7QVsvTy2vNA61vvT8K0yOkmWQCk0qxxVaWd35LWG9sPsZzU3fY2hEeol8MG7AGBg2sif8Q0PlM-gW_32Wzjz8bnC_klC4o05Y80EQs9nqnApfa6VG11upa1TLFnh0/s320/P1050350.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSO12fRP8xB1reexTUzxmnsUc7QCZwkZnsXRSimqErJTyvb_2ri_7tvLps0pQo6mraMm3YIPm7un_fsMKWdU2KvRLeYdNcUU1ltZviU_W4NSfm-eu5-2YG6lqc3FqndJ72kVFb99ReEA/s1600/P1050353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSO12fRP8xB1reexTUzxmnsUc7QCZwkZnsXRSimqErJTyvb_2ri_7tvLps0pQo6mraMm3YIPm7un_fsMKWdU2KvRLeYdNcUU1ltZviU_W4NSfm-eu5-2YG6lqc3FqndJ72kVFb99ReEA/s200/P1050353.jpg" width="200" /></a>If you decide to do the sleep-out (which is an overnight stay in the bush on a raised platform), don't expect to sleep! Its a great experience, but being left out there can be quite nerve wracking and the noises you hear will keep you awake all night, but the view is fantastic (overlooking a watering hole) and the chance to really experience the bush without the safety net of your guide and tracker is an opportunity not to be missed. Everything you need, such as food and drink will be provided, all you need to do is pack a bit of courage in your pocket!<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Tipping: </b></span>Bernie, the owner (a British ex pat), will provide you with some guidance on tipping the team, which you can do either on an individual basis or as a group pot and of course the amount you tip is ultimately your decision, but it is helpful to have an idea.<br />
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All in all the experience we had here was amazing, and although the idea of a private and fenced reserve is not something we have ever experienced before, I understand the reason for it. Do I like the fences? No, but they are necessary and this reserve in particular are doing some great work to preserve the flora and fauna of the SA bush. I applaud the owner and the team who have created this magnificent camp and care for it and its wild inhabitants so well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFb2ozfO4UgMIguMXVVHu9t4_rD6iXUBAQPpKzc99yqmI6OvkKClW_q7qFxC18ylZxScn8X_K2HIDOXFf6EC0D10FixugkcFMWoDJnTS15YdSsbeNJiCdCM9ogtglLAVYx1N0cLQZqp0/s1600/P1130567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFb2ozfO4UgMIguMXVVHu9t4_rD6iXUBAQPpKzc99yqmI6OvkKClW_q7qFxC18ylZxScn8X_K2HIDOXFf6EC0D10FixugkcFMWoDJnTS15YdSsbeNJiCdCM9ogtglLAVYx1N0cLQZqp0/s320/P1130567.jpg" width="320" /></a>From what our experience, all of the team were wonderful: Rena the manager of Garonga and Robert the manager of Little Garonga, were amazing and couldn't do enough for us, likewise for all the other members of the team who made our trip special (too many to list here). However, Phineas and Ceejay, our tracker and guide, really were the icing on the cake: extremely knowledgeable, great company and great fun - they went the extra mile for us on every drive - thank you so much.<br />
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The Garonga website can be found here, with all the information you could ever need: <a href="http://www.garonga.com/" target="_blank">Garonga Safari</a><br />
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<i>Any costs detailed here are based on information at the time of writing - and are purely for guidance only. </i><br />
<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-62011779374310562752015-09-24T04:32:00.003-07:002015-09-28T07:28:34.087-07:00Ras Kutani - the perfect balance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view over the lagoon and sea from your huge, super super king size bed!</td></tr>
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I have been to many beach resorts, lay on many a sunbed and, in fairness, loved most of them. It wasn't until I went to <a href="http://www.selous.com/ras-kutani/camp" target="_blank">Ras Kutani </a>that I realised the just what I had been missing. <br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Location:</span></b> Southern Tanzania, Africa<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Good for: </b></span>Relaxation, wildlife and luxury waterside lodges, providing a stunning view over a freshwater lagoon and the crashing waves of a spectacular coast.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b></span> It's cooler here May - through to August and then warms up as you progress into the rainy season. <br />
<a name='more'></a>Ras Kutani is closed during April and May when the rains are heaviest.
In September we experienced daytime temperatures of around 30º - 35º C.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sykes monkeys wander freely around the camp</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost:</b></span>
Roughly £1,000 - £1,500 for a
4 night stay depending on the season and the transportation chosen. If you are booking this camp as part of a pre-planned
itinerary including other camps from the <a href="http://www.selous.com/" target="_blank">Selous Safari Company</a> portfolio, you may find costs will be reduced. As a part of the Selous Safari Company group, the food is routinely exceptional in every way. I commend the chefs who seem to work tirelessly to create new things for you to try at every meal... While
you are here, all food is included, as is water, tea and
coffee. There are plenty of other drinks/cocktails available but these are
excluded and are payable. Also included is a full laundry service,
which will get your clothes back to you the next day (weather permitting). Whilst staying here you have use of Kayaks, boogie boards (more about those later!) snorkelling equipment and so on, as well as rowboat trips out to explore the freshwater lagoon and it's wildlife. There are trips available to see the local villages and experience their culture first hand as well and once you have done all that - you may want to take advantage of the spa treatments on offer (payable).<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Flights and travel:</b></span> A mere 10 minute flight from Dar es Salaam, by light aircraft to the Ras Kutani airstrip (5 mins by car). Or, as a slightly cheaper option, you may prefer to get a taxi which will take around 2 - 3 hours (traffic depending). I personally think that the 10 minute flight is a no brainer and is actually a great way to get an idea of the sheer scale of Dar.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference:</b></span> 2 hours ahead of the UK.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The glorious standard rooms, with plenty of relaxation space inside and out</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Ras Kutani:</b></span> Don't be fooled by the fact that this place carries the label 'camp', there are no tents here. Each room (9 in total) is in fact a luxuriously furnished detached wood built cottage overlooking the lagoon and the sea beyond, built from sustainable materials (sourced locally). Both the room and balcony have a sand floor, covered with a locally made palm matting carpet - which is just glorious to walk on, and no sand comes through! The beds are super comfy and seriously large, my 'guestimate' is around 10ft wide! And if that's not enough, each room comes with two hammocks on the balcony and heavily cushioned seating - I could so live in one of these rooms.<br />
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This place is all about the Al Fresco experience and it is reflected everywhere - nowhere is truly enclosed - it makes you feel as if you really are living in a Robinson Crusoe created paradise. Bare feet are the order of the day, wherever you are, which I always find strangely liberating - go figure.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabulous quirky handmade sun-loungers and tent-like shade</td></tr>
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The really nice thing about the layout of the rooms and grounds is that you have areas to walk and explore, but nothing is too far away. A series of beautiful paths wind their way around the whole area, from the gorgeous pool and it's adjacent lounge, to the restaurant, bar and rooms, all the way to the beach - giving you the chance to wander freely. If that's not enough, there is also a self guided walk in the forest
that borders the lagoon - full of birds, monkeys and reptiles to see. <br />
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Your hosts here are a lovely couple Leo and Frankie and their love for this beautiful country, its people and its delicate ecosystems is truly <span data-dobid="hdw">contagious</span>. They are eager to chat and spend time with the guests, as are all of the team, the balance of social and private time here really is perfect. They have an amazing team who are keen to cater for your every need (they create the most sublime and refreshing lime juice!) and make every moment spent here feel like a special occasion.<br />
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Although you are situated only a short distance from Dar, you do feel like are away from it all here. It's the only place I have found that seems to slow time down, giving you a relaxed feeling that I have honestly felt no-where else on earth. The pace is slow and relaxed - a great place to recharge.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful Monitor lizard checking the pool temperature...</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Wildlife:</span></b> You won't find any of the big five here, but there are plenty of things to see. The monkeys and monitor lizards wander into the camp freely and are no
trouble - in fact they are a constant source of entertainment, Colobus
monkeys are a little shy and stay in the forest but the Vervets and
Sykes monkeys are constantly playing in the trees above your rooms and
sometimes on your balcony. There are some snakes around, but they are also shy. You will see a lot of the very tiny Yellow headed dwarf gecko - who are very cute! Bush babies are around at night but you are more likely to hear them rather than see them. From your breakfast table you will see pied kingfishers hunting in the lagoon and we even saw a Giant kingfisher!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adorable turtle hatching, making its way to the sea.</td></tr>
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A massive plus here is that the camp helps support a charity called <a href="http://www.seasense.org/" target="_blank">Sea Sense</a>, who among other things, are committed to protecting the 5 species of turtle they are lucky enough to have here. They gather the eggs from the nests and re-locate them to a special netted are of the beach where predators can't dig them up and then when they are due to hatch, they invite the guests from the camp to come, watch and help escort the hatchlings from the nest site to the see (no touching) but you can clear the path for them and your presence deters any predators. We were lucky enough to see three separate nests hatch while we were there. It is an experience not to be missed.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to take:</span></b><br />
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• Insect repellent (Avon Skin So Soft is something I swear by). The lagoon means there are plenty of mossies around.<br />
• Long trousers and tops for the evening (the sea breeze can be chilly early am and late pm).<br />
• Binoculars to look for Whales on the horizon.<br />
• Camera and plenty of memory cards!<br />
• After bite cream (one with a numbing agent is quite good to stop any bites itching).<br />
• Sun protection, There is a great breeze here but it means you can burn without realising it.<br />
• At least one good book - there is a library here, but you will have to return or swap any books you borrow.<br />
• A one piece swimsuit (women) or sports swim-shorts (Men) - if you plan to boogie board! See below notes)<br />
• Dollars for tipping (only take dollars minted after 2006)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow headed dwarf gecko found everywhere</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect:</b></span> The sea here is strong and the waves can take you by surprise. I wore a bikini to boogie board and spent most of my time trying to keep it on! So if you are keen to partake of the boogie boards at the camp then it might be wise to take sports swimwear that is going to actually stay on you...<br />
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Expect to have your every need catered for, because it really is. You are even provided with broad rimmed hats for walking in the sun and umbrellas if its raining (His and hers) and if you fall in love with them you can buy your own to take home (all locally hand crafted). Don't expect to wear a lot of shoes here, in fact one pair to arrive in and one pair to leave in should be fine.<br />
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There is wifi here for those tech-addicts among you - I personally avoided logging on so that I could truly forget about the outside world for a while.<br />
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This camp runs a communal tipping system, which
enables you to tip everyone at the same time, even the people you won't
necessarily see. Your travel agent may offer you some guidance on this,
but if not, the camp information in your room provides a rough rule of
thumb.<br />
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Expect the ultimate relaxation, a very warm reception and the desire to stay here a little longer than you actually are - it is wonderful. <br />
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<i>Any costs detailed here are based on information at the time of writing - and are purely for guidance. </i><br />
<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-72884071860896862062015-09-15T09:00:00.001-07:002015-09-28T07:33:02.925-07:00African paradise - Ruaha, TanzaniaA wild and remote paradise for nature lovers...<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Location:</span></b> Southern Tanzania, Africa<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Good for: </b></span>Wildlife, flora and Fauna, an intimate safari in luxury surroundings.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b></span> This tented camp is closed in April and May at the height of the rain cycle. Anytime of year has its benefits here as <a href="http://www.selous.com/jongomero/camp" target="_blank">Jongomero</a> camp is located on the banks of the Ruaha River which provides plenty of viewing opportunities whether it is in full flow or not. <br />
<a name='more'></a>June through November are drier and cooler although the later in the season the warmer it gets, you will also find there are potentially fewer insects at this time of year. The wildlife in the drier season could also be easier to see as there is less foliage and a higher concentration of animals around water sources. Benefits of the wet season are the abundance of insects, which in turn means more birdlife and reptile activity as well as the delights of a lush and green surroundings. we visited in September, which was lovely and warm through the day (a little cooler in the evening due to the position West of the Southern Highlands).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family group of Elephant in the Ruaha reserve, by the road</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost:</b></span> This is not a budget trip, but it is exceptionally good value for money. The food is marvelous and plentiful, prepared daily by the chefs and served to a standard that you could expect is any good hotel. While you are at the camp all of your food is included, as is water, tea and coffee. There are plenty of other drinks available but these are excluded and are payable. There is also an invaluable laundry service, which will get your clothes back to you the same day or next day, which is also included. You get two game drives per day of your stay with a highly qualified guide/driver. If you want a private drive then an additional fee applies but there are only four seats in the vehicles, so even when shared, the game drives are still intimate. The cost varies depending on the season, but a rough guide could be £1,000 - £1,500 for a 4 night stay. This would include your internal transfers to and from the local airstrip and again, depending on the time of year, you may also be able to get the cost of the air transfer from Dar es Salaam. Private game drives are an added cost of approximately $250 dollars (for two in a day). If you are booking this camp as part of a pre-planned itinerary you may find costs will be reduced.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Flights and travel:</b></span> Flights by small, light aircraft will fly you in from: Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar, Selous or Mafia, to the very local (5 mins by car) Jongomero airstrip. at a transfer time of between 1.5 and 2.5 hours - which is actually a very pleasant part of the journey.You may find that the aircraft you board will have stops along the way which might increase your travel time a little.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeTxQaaPKj0mL_uATWoNJdEQk6OeH3YOcH6p0a_r4-MPqy5tAJ2by5l0ayzbkQodvnDoxBQCPwPdck-Wtg7mduVQrAyNlMwCFrGh20gpG6ui2BM4r8VMRLp53G6HLGabJQJIi4U32T-Y/s1600/P1120502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeTxQaaPKj0mL_uATWoNJdEQk6OeH3YOcH6p0a_r4-MPqy5tAJ2by5l0ayzbkQodvnDoxBQCPwPdck-Wtg7mduVQrAyNlMwCFrGh20gpG6ui2BM4r8VMRLp53G6HLGabJQJIi4U32T-Y/s320/P1120502.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vervet monkeys catching the last of the rays in Ruaha reserve</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference:</b></span> 2 hours ahead of the UK.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Jongomero Camp:</b></span> The camp itself is set along the banks of the Ruaha River, which is a wide, although rarely full river. In September the river was dry, although due to the water table, the water was still there 1m below the earth enabling the animals with the know-how, to dig and drink as required.<br />
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It is a particularly picturesque camp, with 8 superbly private, riverside tented lodges and a central lounge, bar and restaurant area. All of the tented lodges have a thatched over structure which means they blend seamlessly into their surroundings. There is also a small pool area with shade and sunbeds.<br />
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The camp is compact and you will find everything you need, close at hand. The central areas are spacious and sumptuous, with rich fabrics and chunky wooden furniture to sink into after a full day of wildlife spotting. Tall ceilings and open spaes make you feel like you are really living outdoors, but with all the comforts you would want around you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iDqfzp8tC9weOXWfOf8BcHXMmcBdGGjd4P3U8Ai4M_B7t2-Mk8zVU5DKoaEVVopUBuyy6oEo9Rmy9XtsLywBoWNYG3XJg24R2de2de1SS-D7dnVSc_-w3QuBjhT5N6jZBPl-ZuEtgpA/s1600/P1040714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7iDqfzp8tC9weOXWfOf8BcHXMmcBdGGjd4P3U8Ai4M_B7t2-Mk8zVU5DKoaEVVopUBuyy6oEo9Rmy9XtsLywBoWNYG3XJg24R2de2de1SS-D7dnVSc_-w3QuBjhT5N6jZBPl-ZuEtgpA/s320/P1040714.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fantastic tented rooms at Jongomero camp - really lovely</td></tr>
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The raised tents are just as gorgeous, with huge wooden beds, large verandas, kitted out with seating and daybeds and a large open plan bathroom. There is no shortage of Space here. All of the tents come equipped with toiletries, moisturiser, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and soap. You are also provided with robes, towels and drinking water in a cool, insulated flask.<br />
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Even eating here feels like a special event, with every meal unique, from the location it's served in, to the menu itself. You may eat at the riverside or in the roofed restaurant area, or if the river bed is dry, you may find your table set in the riverbed, lit by lanterns and a bonfire.<br />
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But, regardless of all of the above comforts and of course the idyllic location, it is the team that truly makes this place special. From the guards that escort you to and from your tent at night, to the chefs and waiters who cook and serve your food, all are welcoming and friendly, ensuring that you immediately feel right at home. The managers during our visit were Chris and Sam, who made a great team. They were always on hand to help and organise and really dis go out of their way to make sure you were happy - as did all of the team there. There is a very 'family like' atmosphere here and it really does make this place special.<br />
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The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, passionate about what they do and keen to make every drive you take, a special one. Our guide Kim, spent extra time with us explaining the local birdlife and was happy to do so - something we really appreciated.<br />
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An added bonus is that Jongomero is so beautifully isolated that you are extremely unlikely to see another vehicle in the park and if you do, the chances are that is is from jongomero! I have never experienced such peaceful game drives. There are several tented camps in Ruaha, but most are in the north of the park and Jongomero sits alone in the south.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjK444-00W6eMOHETTQ5RXM3t1zykYrbORyBnKaDtdmE1fji6IWFegzJpH7Yelm57O4knUkd3lbWpZvP7xlN7JomvRBqIGi62oTiptnUjAAlPtnG65qQBCzqntkN_dQPtiNdVucwDAz4/s1600/P1120564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjK444-00W6eMOHETTQ5RXM3t1zykYrbORyBnKaDtdmE1fji6IWFegzJpH7Yelm57O4knUkd3lbWpZvP7xlN7JomvRBqIGi62oTiptnUjAAlPtnG65qQBCzqntkN_dQPtiNdVucwDAz4/s320/P1120564.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River, teeming with animals and birds </td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Wildlife:</span></b> Well, where to start: of the big five we saw: Elephant (lots), Lion (several), Leopard (one) and buffalo (masses). There are no rhino here sadly, but there are both greater and lesser Kudu, Genet (cats) Zebra, Giraffe, Water buck, Bush buck, Mongoose (dwarf, banded and slender), Yellow baboons, Vervet monkeys, Jackals, Bat eared fox... seriously I could go on. Trust me, there is a huge amount of wildlife to see and the terrain is breathtakingly beautiful. The birds here are spectacular and it becomes a real challenge to tick them all off the spotting list which is provided in your room.<br />
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The only negative and it really is the only negative I can think of is the number of Tsetse fly in Ruaha National Park. They are a bit of a pain, but the vehicles do burn elephant dung (the smoke deters the fly), which is actually not an unpleasant smell and they provide you with a fly 'whisk' to swat away the invaders. Deet doesn't seem to do much to the tsetse appetite, but apparently Dettol (so I hear after the event!) can be quite effective - not sure if you apply a diluted solution to skin or just have a stinky Dettol soaked hanky...<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to take:</span></b> Take earthy and neutral colours (Tsetse are attracted to blue, black and other dark colours).Other vital accessories include:<br />
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• A good torch, powerful but lightweight.<br />
• Zip off trousers (mornings start cool but it can get very hot).<br />
• Binoculars.<br />
• Camera and plenty of memory cards!<br />
• A fleece (the mornings and evenings can be quite cool here).<br />
• Mossie repellent (Avon Skin So Soft is what I use).<br />
• After bite cream (one with a numbing agent is quite good to stop bites itching).<br />
• Hand sanitising lotion is handy for when you are out and about.<br />
• If you are going in the wet season, a light waterproof and a dry sack for your equip is useful.<br />
• Take a strip of antihistamine tablets, they are good if you get insect bites.<br />
• Sun protection, despite being under cover you will be in the sun a fair bit.<br />
• D<br />
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ollars for tipping (only take dollars minted after 2006)<br />
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The vehicles are covered so hats aren't really needed unless you do a walking safari.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgI5ShlAPO8wZNwA3caxwrPscooyE0Bo0S88uMOa6qICCt71X84P-CvD1f2QzubKBEFemhFCjMJdo9bSaw4XXrfBywnZHrv4MtA-3OH5GteMBua7PY9ycEvPvqlCgiZy8eNR2Uf_X2FI/s1600/P1120551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgI5ShlAPO8wZNwA3caxwrPscooyE0Bo0S88uMOa6qICCt71X84P-CvD1f2QzubKBEFemhFCjMJdo9bSaw4XXrfBywnZHrv4MtA-3OH5GteMBua7PY9ycEvPvqlCgiZy8eNR2Uf_X2FI/s320/P1120551.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The adorable Dikdik in the Ruha reserve bush</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect:</b></span> Expect to be blown away by the wilderness and enchanted by this wonderful gem of a camp. <br />
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Expect visitations in the night, the elephants are frequent night time visitors and can often be right by your tent, as well as other nocturnal creatures, so expect to have broken sleep, but trust me it is worth it when you see a bull elephant munching the undergrowth by your bathroom window!<br />
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You won't get that much down time between game drives and meal times, although the pool area is lovely for a dip and a spot of camp wildlife watching (you will see lots in and around the camp itself). Don't expect to have the time to read much you will be way too distracted by the wildlife all around you to concentrate on a book for long.<br />
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This camp runs a communal tipping system, which enables you to tip everyone at the same time, even the people you won't necessarily see. Your travel agent may offer you some guidance on this, but if not, the camp information in your room provides a rough rule of thumb. Your game drives guides are excluded form this, so remember to tip them separately.<br />
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<i>Any costs detailed here are based on information at the time of writing - and are purely for guidance. </i><br />
<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-181303274603122462015-02-04T14:21:00.001-08:002015-02-04T14:21:14.590-08:00Snowlife - La Clusaz<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Location:</b></span> The French Alps, close to Annecy -Aravis Region</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Good for: </span></b>Great skiing with a picturesque village atmosphere</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">When to go: </span></b>We went in January, which is a nice quite time, but I can't imagine that any time in ski season would be bad - plus as they are now opening the chalet we stayed in for summer rental, I think it would be a great choice for a summer break too.<a name='more'></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Cost: </span></b>the prices vary depending on the time of year but for 1 week (adult only week) of January skiing, fully catered, we payed 940 Euros, per person (including the private transfer). Flights are not included so you will have to check at the time of flying. Lift passes are an addition cost, although organised for you by the snow life team on our trip, and current prices are around 188 Euros per adult for 6 days and 136 Euros per junior for the main Manigo ski area.If you want experience a different area, the the Grand Bornand is a great range, easily accessed via free shuttle bus, you will have to pay extra for this ski pass, but it's worth it even for a day. Ski hire is also in addition if required and varies depending on ski level and equipment needed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Flights / Travel:</span></b> Flights come into Geneva and the private transfer is around an hour - so very easy to get to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Time difference:</span></b> A mere 1 hour ahead</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Chalet Panoramic:</span></b> We have been to a fair few ski resorts and chalets over the years, but this one really does top the charts. Located in the French Alps, 1 hour away from Geneva Airport and close to Annecy, the small and perfectly formed resort of La Clusaz is nestled in a truly spectacular region of skiing (Aravis region) - with a great range of slopes for all abilities and picture postcard scenery that leaves Austria wanting! </span><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">
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We had never heard of this gem, but were lucky enough to be invited along with some friends who have been returning to the same place, and chalet, time and time again and boy are we glad we joined them...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5iCPBS60Gveu5wHWP1DXduNYNI7gpYVjDkM6k2eFtsdOkFR8Zm39JxKp_SviwUQ0T32QVCh5IQ3oK_SwYk_SpxWLGhVox8NG8k0QmRtOiDlJkJnNd_O2dBhXRSrwlA0sFIYTciuKXorE/s1600/Room3481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5iCPBS60Gveu5wHWP1DXduNYNI7gpYVjDkM6k2eFtsdOkFR8Zm39JxKp_SviwUQ0T32QVCh5IQ3oK_SwYk_SpxWLGhVox8NG8k0QmRtOiDlJkJnNd_O2dBhXRSrwlA0sFIYTciuKXorE/s1600/Room3481.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a>Hugging the side of the piste and overlooking the village below, is the gorgeous <a href="http://snowlife-laclusaz.com/" target="_blank">Chalet Panoramic.</a> The minute we entered we were greeted by Simon and Lisa, were made to feel like old friends and instantly at home. The huge woody lounge, with glass on three sides - hence the chalet name, was both cosy and spacious and just invited you to relax into the super-comfy sofas, which I have to say, we did, a lot!</div>
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In the dining area, possibly the biggest dining table I have ever seen runs the full width giving you a great view, wherever you sit and makes sure that every meal is a social occasion.</div>
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And the rooms - well, where to start, our room was fabby! Cosy but not too small, with a very swish bathroom and walk in shower, luxury toiletries, bath robes (which are yours to take home!) and even a pouch of yummy chocolates hanging from a hook - the quickest way to my heart...</div>
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Now I have to be honest and say that we have always gone to smaller catered chalets, filling it with friends (unsociable? Moi?), so we were a little nervous of going to this chalet with a capacity of 30, although as we were going in a kid free week, there were only 20 guests. We needn't have worried though, we already knew four others going and the rest of the group, largely made up of returning guests were great fun and welcomed us with open arms. It felt like a chalet full of friends.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgydM69yureyIdAeQVZNCY3M5z-SMCOEBp_z3F8yRva-EgCtZOsYpl7BUx6T_k02hVV538PHhTmOZSMmuSPb0IOcA2skparzIrm_3lSwxJqe841nJn3VhJQoW9CT1KrT1E6qQ69ViXsi6s/s1600/mmmm-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgydM69yureyIdAeQVZNCY3M5z-SMCOEBp_z3F8yRva-EgCtZOsYpl7BUx6T_k02hVV538PHhTmOZSMmuSPb0IOcA2skparzIrm_3lSwxJqe841nJn3VhJQoW9CT1KrT1E6qQ69ViXsi6s/s1600/mmmm-.jpg" /></a>The team themselves were just awesome, friendly, fun and soooo helpful, they really did make our trip extra special. Dani and Andrew, Dave and Sharnelle and of course Simon and Lisa - all of them were exceptional in creating and serving the most delicious food (and plenty of it) and special mention for Dani, who's cakes are worth taking up skiing for! </div>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to expect:</span></b> What, all of the above isn't enough? Well, for those of you who ski regularly, you know that there are some necessary evils: monotonous transfers, lift passes to get, ski equipment hire and not to mention the walk home after a hard days skiing! Well, forget all the above here - Private transfers are included (unless you are travelling at random-o'clock) the passes are waiting for you, equipment (if needed) is delivered to you, and you can ski back literally, 'to the door' I kid you not. It's all so easy - I almost feel guilty (almost!). You can rely on being pampered here.</div>
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Expect the most glorious skiing on your doorstep. We were lucky enough to have over a metre of snow during our stay, which meant we had great powder for three days of our trip. Expect Well groomed slopes, with little or no lift queues during the week (despite ranking No: 5 in France). Weekends are busier, but if you are used to the madness that is The Three Valleys or Val d'is, then this is a walk in the park. </div>
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You can also buy a ski pass for Le Grand Bornand, which is a short hop away by bus (free bus pass comes with the ski pass) at a cost of around 33 Euros, per adult, per day (less if you book it in advance with the main area pass). Grand Bornand is a good sized area with broad sweeping runs which are great for advanced and beginners alike and well worth a day of your time.</div>
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At the time of writing this review, a massive bonus is also that this resort is radically cheaper than we have experienced elsewhere in France, especially if you go to the smaller restaurants on the outer reaches of the piste area. Some food and drink prices were less than half of that currently charged in the three valleys for instance!</div>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to take / not to take to Chalet Panoramic: </span></b></div>
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• Remember suncream / block</div>
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• Handwarmers - useful if you suffer, especially on lifts exposed to the wind</div>
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• Slippers - outdoor shoes are not allowed indoors</div>
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• No need for towels and bathrobes - they are already there</div>
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• No need for hairdryers, they too are provided</div>
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• L'occitane toiletries are also provided, so no need to take shampoo, conditioner, shower gel or moisturiser.</div>
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• If you are 'of a certain age' I know I am, fear not, they have magnifying mirrors!</div>
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• Make sure you take your appetite - there is plenty of tasty food on offer</div>
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All in all, this place rocks! and we will go back, but <b>sshhhh</b>... don't tell too many people - we want it to stay just as it is.</div>
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You can find out more about La Clusaz, the resort, <a href="http://en.laclusaz.com/" target="_blank">here ></a> </div>
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To find out more about Chalet Panormic, you can check out their website <a href="http://snowlife-laclusaz.com/" target="_blank">here ></a></div>
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Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-48056890401523054562014-10-08T03:59:00.003-07:002014-10-08T04:01:34.135-07:00Madagascar – Mandrare river camp<b>Simply the best camping experience you can have...</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verreaux's Sifaka in the nearby Spiny Forest</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>location:</b></span> South Madagascar<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Good for:</b></span> Tribal culture, Varied wildlife; Lemurs, Chameleons, birds, Baobabs and of course the amazing Spiny Forest. <br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">When to go:</span></b> Honestly, I think any time of year would be good here! There are only 2 seasons: Hot, rainy season is November to April, Cooler dry season, May to October. Although the camp is closed from January through to the end of March, when it can be really rainy.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Cost:</span></b> For 3 nights, you would be looking to pay between £1,000 to £1,200, which includes 4x4 transportation (transfer by small plane is optional and additional), full board, all drinks, meals and guided excursions (including national park entrance fees) and a donation towards local community and environmental projects.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Flights/Travel:</span></b> You can transfer from Fort Dauphin by car or by private plane, which can be organised at the time of booking. The trip to the camp itself is on a very rugged road and can take a long time, but it is interesting and not unbearable - just a little uncomfortable at times. The private plane takes you to just a few minutes away from the camp itself.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Time difference:</span></b> 2 hours ahead of UK<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdW6kWS4WA-uwxbbXVwEmqOxkchm2gtju5w_LOyBV5QgsmPsLt9coz-_CbYse28FSrNDphS5WQ3iCtosdHKPDA43SL4hZ5LAhtUEaVPUVdhRkOqv72rqkafxnIku6Kp1tBDj59jjWwHc/s1600/P1040434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdW6kWS4WA-uwxbbXVwEmqOxkchm2gtju5w_LOyBV5QgsmPsLt9coz-_CbYse28FSrNDphS5WQ3iCtosdHKPDA43SL4hZ5LAhtUEaVPUVdhRkOqv72rqkafxnIku6Kp1tBDj59jjWwHc/s1600/P1040434.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A glorious double tent, complete with 4 poster bed</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Mandare River Camp: </span></b>Well, where to start? This gorgeous camp is tucked away in the South of Madagascar, well away from anywhere and nestled in the heart of the Antandroy tribal area. As the name suggests, the camp is situated on the banks of the river, a perfectly tranquil place which allows you a glimpse into the lives of the people who live here.<br />
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Firstly, this river camp is an environmental concern, which is always a major consideration when we travel, and they do very well at it: providing organic toiletries (which are gorgeous!) to use during your stay (and organic insect repellent), minimising their environmental footprint and investing back into the local community, actively promoting conservation and protection of local forests. Really, the people here at the camp, the whole team - do an admirable job and seem to be achieving great things.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAYlOz8epxLsXjsvX0B_ydkNPk2rGR_GDvRXKUqIskafIqalVtv56yVSJcuJZHpha7Aq8UrqBhWwsf0o8rb3CpE7s1a9hFHbttOPQD1ntD0lgjsOiST7nKd-sDyqZn4__qhk1GPUI70TY/s1600/P1110173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAYlOz8epxLsXjsvX0B_ydkNPk2rGR_GDvRXKUqIskafIqalVtv56yVSJcuJZHpha7Aq8UrqBhWwsf0o8rb3CpE7s1a9hFHbttOPQD1ntD0lgjsOiST7nKd-sDyqZn4__qhk1GPUI70TY/s1600/P1110173.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view of the river from Mandrare River Camp</td></tr>
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Whilst we were there (4 of us in 2 tents) Tom and Danielle were the resident managers and they were awesome at it. They are clearly driven by their interest in the wildlife, its preservation and the local Antandroy culture and after only a short time here, I challenge anyone not to feel the same way.<br />
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This magical place seems to have everything: The tents are immaculate and have a great, stone built bathroom to the rear and a river view to the front. There are even hammocks to relax in as you take in the view. As camping goes this is glamping, eco-style!<br />
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As there are only 6 tents here, it really is an escape from everything. The food here is seriously high quality and you feel completely spoiled at every meal.<br />
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The team here are excellent at making you feel like you are a part of one big family and they all work hard to make sure you get the best out of your stay. Hats off the the owners, for their vision and their dedication to making this camp work so well.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male Madagascan fly catcher in the Camp</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Wildlife: </span></b>Not only are you on the banks of the river, which is a lifeline for the local tribes, you are also close to forests (Dry, deciduous), Sacred forests, the amazing Spiny forests and tribal burial areas. The wildlife we saw here was truly amazing, not just for it's range of species, but also for the intimacy. The creatures here are so well protected in places, that they are just plain curious. Lemurs bound to see who you are and what you are doing. They stay a safe distance from you but are seemingly unafraid, making this a perfect place to take great shots of these beautiful and graceful creatures. We saw Sifakas, ring tailed, sportive and mouse lemurs in abundance here although thee are more species to see. We were even lucky enough to see one Sifaka dance.<br />
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We saw scorpions (don't panic they are small, reclusive and not deadly), chameleons and a plethora of birdlife, both during the day and at night. There were several Owls around the camp and one in particular, the white browed owl, was a regular attendee after dinner.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-LBQiDnMWRCHWez__dvcWvoCwI4OT50rcNU42flX_oQ67qRvhD8nCc98IIeH5bqseIpogGI0p9g_wGofHmsrLL1zqlQ2Huvfw3O9plwpAQcfVDIuZ0YIAlVxTngl3T5GEbazQJ7nX_U/s1600/P1110039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-LBQiDnMWRCHWez__dvcWvoCwI4OT50rcNU42flX_oQ67qRvhD8nCc98IIeH5bqseIpogGI0p9g_wGofHmsrLL1zqlQ2Huvfw3O9plwpAQcfVDIuZ0YIAlVxTngl3T5GEbazQJ7nX_U/s1600/P1110039.JPG" height="320" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verreaux's Sifaka & baby in the Spiny Forest</td></tr>
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There are no major dangers in Madagascar, their largest predator is the Fossa, which is in decline and rarely seen and there are no deadly snakes to worry about. Even the huge Golden Orb spiders are friendly! No the most dangerous thing about the Madagascan wildlife is tearing yourself away from it.<br />
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You can do day and night walks here, both are equally rewarding as there are plenty of nocturnal and diurnal animals here, some you even get the chance to see in both scenarios (sleeping birds and huddled up lemurs). <br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to take: </span></b><br />
• Torches and plenty of spare batteries<br />
• Cool, quick drying clothes<br />
• A fleece (you will be up before the sun sometimes)<br />
• Mossie repellent, although there aren't many around here<br />
• Binoculars - you will need them for the birds<br />
• Waterproofs and a dry sack to keep your gear safe<br />
• A hat, it can get very hot here<br />
• Basic medi-kit (plasters and the like) you are out in the sticks here<br />
• Comfy walking shoes<br />
• Sun cream <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ringtail lemur in the Antandroy Gallery Forest</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to expect: </span></b>This area is generally hot and dry, so expect to have to protect yourself from that and keep drinking those fluids. Expect to be amazed, captivated and surprised. I guarantee that every day you will learn something new.<br />
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The food really is exceptional, and you will be astounded at just what these guys produce for you from what seems like a fairly basic location.<br />
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In the morning you will hear the local tribe singing on their way down to the river, distant and melodious, it is the perfect wake up call. <br />
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Expect the ultimate in warm hospitality from Tom and Danielle and the rest of their local team who are knowledgeable and sociable and, of course, expect to be thinking about your return, before you have even left!<br />
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You can find the <a href="http://manafiafy.com/mandrare/home.htm#" target="_blank">Mandrare River Camp website here ></a><br />
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<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-74961548757339761912014-08-18T01:23:00.000-07:002014-08-18T01:23:01.479-07:00Messing about on the river<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00RMTiqR8dzsV6HGiz_d_09ZjKS8QhHSB_CN70S42a-IlugVO5QPEZIBD-pceneSOd52Th_Lpez7vTrDgCOa7-T0pIfMq6hk5MK7h55a68WIbVL1qByOgVIVDw4kZui1lY_L1hIlxexs/s1600/basingstoke-canal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00RMTiqR8dzsV6HGiz_d_09ZjKS8QhHSB_CN70S42a-IlugVO5QPEZIBD-pceneSOd52Th_Lpez7vTrDgCOa7-T0pIfMq6hk5MK7h55a68WIbVL1qByOgVIVDw4kZui1lY_L1hIlxexs/s1600/basingstoke-canal.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
What better way to spend an English summer (or at least a small part of it...) than messing about on the glorious river/canal networks that we are lucky enough to have in this country? We decided to explore the beautiful Basingstoke canal network for a weekend of camping on the water - yes you guessed it Narrowboat living.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Location:</span></b> Basingstoke, UK<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1cw81ALJ9KkIYx_QAAx9_PAQGH1Xw0OVx6RKSRBJMNYJPtpJFHWns1Ij-smoEAyMz_GJYNLsKjdlo3MVzeO6q0fdXn7hjd_ubVTJfiy2yWC5L2Qa2rE1ovrdBuAntpzQlV2i94WcKDI/s1600/IMG_0583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1cw81ALJ9KkIYx_QAAx9_PAQGH1Xw0OVx6RKSRBJMNYJPtpJFHWns1Ij-smoEAyMz_GJYNLsKjdlo3MVzeO6q0fdXn7hjd_ubVTJfiy2yWC5L2Qa2rE1ovrdBuAntpzQlV2i94WcKDI/s1600/IMG_0583.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Famous for:</b> </span>32 miles of some of the most beautiful canal stretches in the country. Designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Rich Wildlife, 25 species of Dragonfly and protected bats.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b> </span>Spring, through summer to Autumn - essentially when the weather is warm enough for comfort.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Narrowboat hire:</span></b> We used a company called Galleon Marine, based in Odiham, although there are many you can choose from. Galleon Maine has a range of boats, sleeping from 2, up to 8 people, and are found in a particularly quiet and picturesque spot on the canal, giving you access to some wonderful scenery and nature, whilst also taking you past some good pubs where you can stop and eat if cooking on board isn't your thing. You can check out the Galleon Marine website <a href="http://www.galleonmarineboatyard.co.uk/" target="_blank">here > </a><br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost:</b></span> Again this will vary depending on the company you use, but you should be anticipating somewhere between £900 and £1,500 for a two night break for up to 8 people in peak times. Your fuel and gas will be included in this. Smaller capacity boats will be cheaper and the price may reflect the facilities in some cases. It's not a budget trip, but it can be quite economical for adult groups.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlkhoEzDcCyIxO6tLcgt0HADwObw8-hTD2gd9vNWGpoYxnrl0qE1uW0uHgPXt-ed2AU5VJ_EYssKRUD_MPa03Exs24LkLSQuLZK1hheN2t-f-TR4tINNGGOukMMLQG8R8RXpLYq2h7fI/s1600/421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlkhoEzDcCyIxO6tLcgt0HADwObw8-hTD2gd9vNWGpoYxnrl0qE1uW0uHgPXt-ed2AU5VJ_EYssKRUD_MPa03Exs24LkLSQuLZK1hheN2t-f-TR4tINNGGOukMMLQG8R8RXpLYq2h7fI/s1600/421.jpg" height="166" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to see:</span></b> Apart from the stunning surroundings, there is a plethera of wildlife to spot, you just have to keep your eyes open, but to be honest even the worst nature spotter in the world will see something of note here - you simply can't miss it. On our 2 day trip we saw: Kingfishers, almost constantly. Buzzards, kestrels, Red Kites, Grass snakes, Water rats (not to be confused with sewer rats) water voles, pike, trout, tench and carp, there were alsoo Woodpeckers, finches and simply too many small birds to list. We also saw a vast number of huge, beautiful dragonflies, of various kinds, some so big you could be forgiven for confusing them as small birds. There are also a number of walks, and sites along the canals. Specifically on our route, we were able to visit a ruined 12 century castle built by King John, about 100 yds from the canal <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vAN2g1LWaXGhtAgifDvLDhfkeYNm18SvmsNNHCcIDAJh7BVPlr5Zc-MDOMSrOGTlU7SK4HgDy-rUJ6mjzvJNuZOhZQyB_U0PWB3EIWk52OGcc-2dsWWOwpyjXrdqgf_Yiy0EDkBics4/s1600/dragonfly_1447186c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vAN2g1LWaXGhtAgifDvLDhfkeYNm18SvmsNNHCcIDAJh7BVPlr5Zc-MDOMSrOGTlU7SK4HgDy-rUJ6mjzvJNuZOhZQyB_U0PWB3EIWk52OGcc-2dsWWOwpyjXrdqgf_Yiy0EDkBics4/s1600/dragonfly_1447186c.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a>bank where we moored up and the largest known bat roost in Britain (Greywell tunnel), housing upwards of 12,000 bats of all native species - yet another SSSI. You can't enter the tunnel, but a short walk from the last mooring point (10 mins walk or so) will take ou along a beautifully clear stretch of unused canal to the closed tunnel entrance, where you can find further information on the bats and, although we weren't able to wait until dusk, we assume that being here at dusk would enable you to see bats emerging from the tunnel.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to take:</b></span> Ok, it pays to be prepared on this trip, as you won't find any sort of convenience store just off the canal, and the boats can be fairly basic. We only have the Galleon Marine boat as an example, so we will use that as a basic guide: Most importantly, make sure you take plenty of good mossie repellent, as you are on the water, and cover up in the evenings – especially if you are prone to being supper for critters! The following is a guide list:<br />
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• Insect repellent.<br />• Hand towels and bath towels.<br />
• Toiletreis, unless your boat hire company specify the supply of these.<br />
• Sunglasses, even on a cool day, the reflections on the water can be troublesome.<br />
• Binoculars - if you are remotely interested in getting a good look at the bird life, these are a must.<br />
• Camera - some great photo opportunities.<br />
• Basic food and drinks as there are no areas to easily stock up on route.<br />
• A sense of humour - the boats are narrow (clue's in the name and space is limited).<br />
• Patience - nothing moves fast here and the slower you go, the more you will notice.<br />
• Warm clothes - when the sun sets it can get chilly outside (and inside).<br />
• Waterproofs, essential as to drive and steer you will need to be outside in the elements.<br />
• secure, grippy shoes. Slip on flip flops are not ideal as they are prone to slipping off and have little or no grip – strapped sandals are better.<br />
• If your boat, like ours is not equipped with working sockets for charging your devices (phone etc), then you might want to take an 'in-car' charger as this may well be the only option available (check with your hirer first). <br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to expect: </b></span>Well you can expect a sedate pace and a relaxing journey. The number of other boats you will meet on the water really depends on the time of year, but be prepared to have to make some interesting <span data-dobid="hdw">manoeuvres</span> to get past each other. <br />
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You will see lots of wildlife, but the slower and quieter you go and the more alert you are then logically, the more you will see. No need for absolute silence, but screaming and shouting won't do much good.<br />
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Expect basic accommodation and if you are fussy, check out the boats in person before you go. At the end of the day, this is glamping, but it's not 5 star glamping. Some of the photos you see on websites may be misleading, so make sure you are happy with the facilities and the space you have as you may want to upgrade to a larger boat. Our boat was lovely, but a little tired and could do with some TLC to make it more comfortable, but the facilities worked. One spot of advice would be to take notes when you get 'shown the ropes' or even record the instruction on your phone.<br />
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This really is a 'get away from it all' break and if you are a nature lover, it's a bucket list 'must do'. We had a great time, we laughed (thankfully we didn't cry) and we relaxed, which is worth it's weight in gold. All of us were relieved to go home to a good bed and a proper shower, but it was a great experience. <br />
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<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-60135352866395326152014-07-01T07:06:00.002-07:002014-08-18T00:22:28.100-07:00Myconian bliss<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttxL9tmov8k5qoUx-G0tqdVYCFS_VLxhV8hnFS3hHVZT49LU3Orh5OrYBAEzfzCJg7Ru6H7lTF1Iv6xOjy6x6pdtygjQrvooZ_IwmvxgvwHKUnHHyv3Jd5fHL3sV06TeifqW8D1Jec2o/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgttxL9tmov8k5qoUx-G0tqdVYCFS_VLxhV8hnFS3hHVZT49LU3Orh5OrYBAEzfzCJg7Ru6H7lTF1Iv6xOjy6x6pdtygjQrvooZ_IwmvxgvwHKUnHHyv3Jd5fHL3sV06TeifqW8D1Jec2o/s1600/images.jpg" height="221" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>One of the famous Mykonos windmills</b></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Location: </b></span>Greece<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><span style="background-color: black;"><b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Famous for:</span> </b></span></span>windmills, pelicans, beautiful sandy beaches, trendy bars, gay nightlife and a constant sea breeze.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>When to go:</b></span> The Island opens in May and closes in October, and you will find it quiter at either nd of the season, whilst still glorious weather-wise (just take a light sweater for the evening at these times). Any other part of the season is very warm and gets increasingly busy as the months progress.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Time difference:</span></b> + 2hrs<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4Rt_fiILmSmhkeUpD-GFplj3ftt1zJWOsTsNXLz9LWucfWGDZgqDkVp-HLbLHPNJCrXybeKJ_jYxL857qMBLD5uaM_WcJMN8aiAPkHCtT9_RqEeriZFIN5sz_qlFp7MLifkJ3r0nErA/s1600/17607527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4Rt_fiILmSmhkeUpD-GFplj3ftt1zJWOsTsNXLz9LWucfWGDZgqDkVp-HLbLHPNJCrXybeKJ_jYxL857qMBLD5uaM_WcJMN8aiAPkHCtT9_RqEeriZFIN5sz_qlFp7MLifkJ3r0nErA/s1600/17607527.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>The pool at Casa Bianca hotel in Ornos Bay</b></td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Where to stay:</span></b> If you are after a quite break, then you are best to stay away from the town centre, there are places such as Ornos bay, only 2.5k from Myknons town, which offer plenty of bars and eateries, without the crowds and there are lovely beaches here too. But you will also find smaller hotels outside of the town with their own, small, private beaches.<br />
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If it's the buzz that you are after, then you are best to stay in the thick of it, right in the heart of Myknos town, or as close as you can get and then you only have a short stroll to the action.<br />
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My personal favourite is a place in Ornos called Casa Bianca, which is a family run hotel with simple, modern rooms and a great personality. Andreas and Eleni make sure that everyone who stays with them is well cared for and they could certainly teach a few things about customer care to big hotel chains around the world. Casa Bianca have a private pool overlooking the bay and a jacuzzi alongside. They provide fabulous fresh cooked breakfasts and you can choose to self caer in one of their lovely private apartments, or just to chill in a gorgeous sea view room. Whatever you want, this place can provide it. <a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/gr/casa-bianca-188.en-gb.html?aid=311076;label=casa-bianca-188-kltNAaAgxyJa2A*04mF9YQS11114114100%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg;sid=a4395aa23a260aec2113be01bc0eaa1e;dcid=4;ucfs=1;srfid=546b398d339d438d3b170eaf04c0a22e9d094825X1" target="_blank">You can check them out here ></a><br />
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvF2SYaP7BYVXDlZPL6j9uI2gScDJ9msEXzoi15czrsSpopQiqpw8MDMLWLCrh_GIw1tXkKajx-OimCdkYTBC_POEMaYLxleYZiHiAcKzI8GoB09vroH1DoCIvuf0gB-yKh98xhgGG94/s1600/images-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvF2SYaP7BYVXDlZPL6j9uI2gScDJ9msEXzoi15czrsSpopQiqpw8MDMLWLCrh_GIw1tXkKajx-OimCdkYTBC_POEMaYLxleYZiHiAcKzI8GoB09vroH1DoCIvuf0gB-yKh98xhgGG94/s1600/images-1.jpg" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to see: </b></span>Well there are, of course, the windmills in Mykonos town, which are conveniently located next to 'Little Venice' which is another place you really have to sit and have a drink in. Of course sampling the nightlife, from jazz clubs to pianos bars and trendy clubs is optional, but should be done at least for one night of your trip.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Pelicans: </b></span>If you can find them, there are some pelicans on the island and those are worth tracking down, just to hear the story...<br />
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<b>The lanes:</b> Shopping in Mykonos town is a fab experience, best done at night in the maze-like lanes. If your looking for the unusual, you will find plenty of independent shops selling wonderful artistic creations as well as a large range of design houses and designer outlets. <br />
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<b>There are a plethora of sandy beaches</b> to explore, whether you want to walk to them or take advantage of the many water taxis daily from pretty much every beach, to take you there and back. Some of the beaches have a definite vibe, so it's advisable to research which ones you want to visit (see below for just a few):<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvEYOltoMfN8k8RqGqMTV2MI5qqWqOoSiTIRqzEF4BBHNqj5jZ0hfeRX5JRaVi1c1tchUF5vnMWTv3Xchewh0Btp5fK1Laj5iYnoVvDk9zZpke-9uP0qCAR_QqCAPxtREwaM2VIS7_xio/s1600/shopping-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvEYOltoMfN8k8RqGqMTV2MI5qqWqOoSiTIRqzEF4BBHNqj5jZ0hfeRX5JRaVi1c1tchUF5vnMWTv3Xchewh0Btp5fK1Laj5iYnoVvDk9zZpke-9uP0qCAR_QqCAPxtREwaM2VIS7_xio/s1600/shopping-02.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>The buzzing and ecclectic Myknonos town lanes</b></td></tr>
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<b>Elia Beach</b> – very long and sandy, Partly nudist, quite isolated but with refreshments and food on the beach (beware, food and drink on the beaches tends to be expensive due to the captive audience - go prepared).<br />
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<b>Ftelia Beach </b>– North facing with a good strong wind, best suited to wind surfing and the like - not really a sunbathing beach!<br />
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<b>Kalo Livadi Beach – </b>Extremely isolated with minimum amenities - make sure you take what you need with you.<br />
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<b>Panormos Beach</b> – Long and beautiful, partly nudist, can be windy here, so choose your days to visit wisely.<br />
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<b>Paradise Beach –</b> Generally considered to be the party beach and certainly the busiest on the island. Nude sunbathing is allowed here and isn't confined to a single area. If thumping music isn't your thing, you won't like this one at all, but if you are into your club-life, then this is the beach for you, day and night!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQw9CXOMh1WR5gasP4-_FQFQV5Ez9K1cGh8Pnz8AsY8tk62qd2z9dT-XAZDf5dWlvnetYupz-PLu2D7-DamtD-pQkIxWKVFEh4hSixXhs4ZTxhmLvWRoPHgtZHxjkUDIFe-6jjsRT8oM/s1600/mykonos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQw9CXOMh1WR5gasP4-_FQFQV5Ez9K1cGh8Pnz8AsY8tk62qd2z9dT-XAZDf5dWlvnetYupz-PLu2D7-DamtD-pQkIxWKVFEh4hSixXhs4ZTxhmLvWRoPHgtZHxjkUDIFe-6jjsRT8oM/s1600/mykonos.jpg" height="198" width="320" /></a><b>Super Paradise Beach –</b> Virtually no hotels and no bus service, this beach is laregly gay orientated and is nude tolerant. There are a good range of bars, eateries and clubs here though, so there is plently to do.<br />
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There are many other beaches too, but do your research before you head out.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Essentials to take:</b></span> Due to the constant breeze, you may find that mossie repellent is not needed here, but if you are prone to bites - better to be safe than sorry (I recommend Avon Skin So Soft - it's brilliant and actually is a light body oil , so only wear in the evenings!)<br />
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Pack plenty of sun lotion, it's easy to burn here without realising, due to the cooling breeze.<br />
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Take your own beach towels, not all hotels provide them.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to expect:</b></span> <b>Expense –</b> Mykonos is one of the most expensive Greek islands to visit, so especially in the town centre and trendier parts of the island, expect to pay London prices for meals and alcohol. That said, there are a great number of very reasonably priced restaurants and bars, you just have to look around.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6xpArCHdvM4N6eSWEwyi8RfvP5xVeNdGpyDM8-9yi7iUW_GXL8li3smnurfm2OgT0TIjt-hP4U-aCkaVeKrddoQ5NJfMRQAUW7929ROykaHwCpnlQXv-X27tPsz6Xx-twsNVp5GzunQ/s1600/AA2505-001-three-cats-sleeping-on-stairs-mykonos-gettyimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6xpArCHdvM4N6eSWEwyi8RfvP5xVeNdGpyDM8-9yi7iUW_GXL8li3smnurfm2OgT0TIjt-hP4U-aCkaVeKrddoQ5NJfMRQAUW7929ROykaHwCpnlQXv-X27tPsz6Xx-twsNVp5GzunQ/s1600/AA2505-001-three-cats-sleeping-on-stairs-mykonos-gettyimages.jpg" height="215" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Livin' the dream - Mykonos free range cats</b></td></tr>
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<b>Cats</b> – Expect a lot of cats! The Greeks don't keep them as pets as a rule, although you will see the odd pampered puss with a collar on, especially in the town. But they won't harm them and so they just breed. If you want to give something to the animal protection group, who catch and spay/neuter them to try and keep the numbers down and the ones that remain, healthy, then you can do so at the airport via collection boxes.<br />
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<b>A Rainbow –</b> This is a gay friendly and quite bohemian island so you can expect a relaxed and welcoming attitude pretty much everywhere.<br />
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<b>Breeze</b> – If a constant sea breeze is going to get you down, then Mykonos isn't for you. There is always a breeze, especially in the narrow lanes of the town, and that's part of the island's charm.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Overall:</b></span> Mykonos is a welcoming and relaxing place, which is why, since discovering it's charms, I have been back 4 times! It's easy to get to with direct flights from Thomson, BA and Easy Jet and less than half an hour after you touch down on this small island you will probably already be in your room and digging out the beach towels. Nothing is far away here and I do believe its the perfect tonic for a busy life.<br />
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<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-14702850849705561312014-04-24T10:55:00.000-07:002014-04-24T10:58:10.049-07:00Prague City break<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXLKSSSoFmyZNhCwayy9NEcBJ9zln35FESKfECyxcoq_zG-lXW1h20ABTcoysuJzxzRX-XuHM4IU_2Oi0xVSBVWobZuUNjE1aT_hcOQOAS7xp2ov2t-gFfb1SlRoxTqrPNCf_2qkZZS8/s1600/P1090178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXLKSSSoFmyZNhCwayy9NEcBJ9zln35FESKfECyxcoq_zG-lXW1h20ABTcoysuJzxzRX-XuHM4IU_2Oi0xVSBVWobZuUNjE1aT_hcOQOAS7xp2ov2t-gFfb1SlRoxTqrPNCf_2qkZZS8/s1600/P1090178.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Astronomical Clock – The Old Town Square</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Location: </b></span>Czech Republic<br />
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Famous for: </span></b>Beautiful Architecture, Jewish Heritage, fences full of padlocks (to name but a few things).<br />
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">When to go: </span></b>Anytime, but Winter is picture postcard stuff. I think November to February is best if you want to try to experience snow on the ground.<br />
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Cost: Relative, but reasonably cheap to get there, especially if you book a last minute break, but the cost can quickly mount when you are eating out and about. My recommendation is to make sure you include breakfast in your package and eat away from the main square, where prices seem to be double that of elsewhere. Just as a heads up a mug of warming Gluhwein could cost you upwards of £7 in the square, but only £2 on the outskirts.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Time difference:</span></b> +1hr<br />
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Places to stay: </span></b>I can highly recommend the 'Art Deco Imperial' which is only a short walk from the Old Town Square and all of the wonderful alleyways that surround it. You can find <a href="http://www.hotel-imperial.cz/" target="_blank">their website here ></a> . The Hotel itself is large and very grand, with plenty of space for you to relax into. There rooms are light and sumptuous, with an excellent sized bath (and shower), which is just what you need after walking all day. The breakfast is truly amazing, with everything and anything you could want and if it's not already waiting for you then I am sure all you have to do is ask. If you are a smoker, please be aware that this is a non-smoking hotel and they do not have a smoking area, so it will be standing on the street or nothing at all. Beware of local taxes and make sure that wherever you go you know what the taxes will be.<br />
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There are many options for accommodation, and as long as you are reasonably central you will find it's easy to get everywhere, without resorting to taxis and so on. But Prague can also be a lively city and as such, you may be well advised to check your hotel isn't right on top of the action – unless of course, that is what you want.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">What to see:</span></b> There is so much in Prague that you might find that your legs give up before you do. It's a good idea to research everything you want to see before you go and have a rough plan in place. But make sure you leave some free tine for a spot of people watching coffee drinking and basically giving your feet a rest - trust me, you will need it. I would advise that you add the following to your list though:<br />
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<b>The clock:</b> No visit to Prague is complete without spending some time watching the astronomical clock and waiting for the chimes (midday is obviously the most popular time to go). Where? The Old Town Square. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prague_astronomical_clock" target="_blank">Find out more here ></a><br />
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<b>St. Nicholas Church:</b> Small but absolutely beautifully decorated with ornate columns and incredible murals on the ceilings. Plus it's in the Old Town Square, which you will walk around regularly... <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g274707-d275229-Reviews-Church_of_St_Nicholas_Chram_svateho_Mikulase-Prague_Bohemia.html" target="_blank">see reviews here ></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brightly coloured alleys full of unique shops</td></tr>
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<b>Old Town Hall Tower: </b>This is definitely worth a few moments of anyone's time, and there is a lift if you don't fancy all the stairs. The views from the top are amazing and give you a panoramic architectural feast for the eyes. Again, found in the Old Town Square<br />
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<b>Town Hall dungeons:</b> While I did take the tour of the Town hall itself, I have to say its the labrynth like dungeons that captured my imagination. Dating back to Roman times, these dungeons are very atmospheric and you can even experience a ghost tour down here if you like. Location: why of course, The Old Town Square! <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g274707-d1868267-r135560775-McGee_s_Ghost_Tours_of_Prague-Prague_Bohemia.html" target="_blank">See reviews of ghost tour here ></a><br />
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<b>The Jewish quarter:</b> Where you can walk around the old jewish cemetery which is 14th century and houses 12,000 tombstones, although there are many more than that actually buried here. You will also find the Jewish holocaust memorial & Museum, an absolute must to visit. Inside you will experience the most moving memorial I have ever seen - painstakingly created by hand along with an insight into the lives of those that lived and died at the hands of Hitler in the Museum itself. Words can't quite describe this place, but it really should be experienced. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_Museum_in_Prague" target="_blank">Find out more here ></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovelocked railings – Charles Bridge</td></tr>
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<b>Charles Bridge:</b> The bridge is full of unique stalls and lined with 30 baroque figures, it is in itself a beautiful place to visit. There are also a series of historical landmarks on the bridge itself that you will find listed in most guidebooks. Moving away from the Old Town Square, towards the palace, you will see the railings below the bridge on both sides that are which are almost entirely obscured by padlocks of lovers past and present. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Bridge" target="_blank">Read more here ></a><br />
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Tip: If you venture down to the railings on the right hand side you will also find a glorious cafe where you can enjoy possibly the cheapest and nicest Gluhwein and have a view of the river!<br />
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<b>Prague Castle:</b> Not really a castle at all, but it dominates the skyline and is definately a place to add to the list with the spectacular St Vitus Cathedral sitting inside the walls of the castle itself. I would allow at least half a day to do this section of Prague justice. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prague_Castle" target="_blank">Read more here ></a><br />
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<b>Don't miss the Prague Chocolate shop:</b> which will reward every sense and you will certainly lose pounds before you leave (££) whilst gaining them back in weight when you eat your purchases! <br />
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Essentials to take: </span></b>Comfy walking shoes and warm clothes if you are visiting in Winter - the biting wind can be incredibly harsh. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Intricate murals decorate building and shops</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to expect: </b></span>Well if the list above hasn't given you a clue, expect lots and lots of walking. Even though you can travel around Prague by horse and carriage, taxi, cycle or even Segway, you will find that Prague is most rewarding when you travel on foot - and don't forget to look up. You will be surrounded by baroque, medieval, and renaissance architecture that is so stunning it's difficult to take it all in. Many brightly coloured murals decorate the buildings from all eras and are beautiful to marvel and wonder at.<br />
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There are Free guided tours, yes free, that start in the Old town Square - just look for the guide's umbrellas! Take advantage of them as the guides' knowledge is exceptional and you can dip in and out of them as you wish - just remember that these guides survive on their tips, so tip what you can at the end – they are well worth it.<br />
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Prague will exhaust you, you will come home tired, but it's worth it!<br />
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For more information on Prague, travel guides etc, <a href="http://www.timeout.com/prague/features/333/20-great-things-to-do-in-prague" target="_blank">this site has some great information > </a><br />
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<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-55634573171492702222013-06-10T03:32:00.001-07:002013-06-10T03:32:23.327-07:00Devon - avoiding the crowds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Location:</b></span> North Devon UK.<br />
<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Famous for:</span> </b>Surfing, the moors and a beautiful coastline.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b></span> Summer is always busy, but still the best time to go.<br />
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Devon is a gorgeous location, no doubt abut it, but it can often be busy on the roads and when you get there it can be busy in the towns and on the beaches as well - so I decided to help you out by sharing a couple of tips on how to enjoy Devon, in relative privacy.<br />
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Sadly, the roads are what they are, and you will have to pick your travel time accordingly, but, once you have reached North Devon, you can escape the madding crowd if you want to...<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Where to stay:</span> </b>There's a tiny little place called South Molton, just shy of Barnstaple, but with enough life of its own to make it worth a stay. Plus, it is ideally located to allow you to explore the moors or the coast as you prefer. If you stay here you will get away from the surf tourists and discover that rural Englad does still exist, with local traders, markets and more local grown produce than you can shake a reasonably sharp stick at!<br />
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We stayed in a gorgeous little boutique B&B 'Ashley House' which is owned and expertly run by Nicky and Jamie who make you feel welcome and pampered from the moment you walk in through the door. Nicky does the cooking for breakfast and creates a fabulous start to the day with a huge range of goodies to choose from, all locally sourced (they have their own free range chickens, so the eggs are fresh and yummy!).<br />
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The B&B itself is lovely, a stunning period house, complete with period features like gorgeous little cast iron fireplaces and lovely high ceilings. The light and airy rooms have been decorated in simple modern colours that compliment the house and furnished with everything you could need and want and a range of toiletries is provided for your use during your stay. There is a garden to relax in and secure off road parking if you arrive by car. <a href="http://ashleyhousebedandbreakfast.com/">You can take a look at Ashley House website for yourselves here...></a><br />
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Nicky and Jamie are on hand to help advise you on where to visit and where to eat, they will even book restaurants for you if you like - their local knowledge is invaluable if you are new to the area, and maybe even if you aren't.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Where to eat:</b> </span>Well we took some advice from tripadvisor and from Nicky our hostess and booked a meal at the Grove Inn at nearby Kings Nympton and it was worth it. The village of Kings Nympton is steeped in history and is very cute, but the food at the grove was outstanding and could set many London restaurants a fine example. They have individual beef Wellington, which was divine and the menu is full of locally caught fish and locally sourced produce - it's fresh and tasty and very reasonably priced. Plus, the owner/landlord is extremely welcoming - perfect. <a href="http://www.thegroveinn.co.uk/home.asp">You can view the Grove Inn website here...></a><br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Where to visit:</span> </b>So now you have found a peaceful haven to base yourselves at, where do you go to get away from the crowds? Thanks to Nicky, we went in search of Braunton Burrows and crow point and discovered a ridiculously deserted beach, with soft sand that stretched for miles and backed by large sand dunes that inspire you to walk the coast line. Once you have found this hidden paradise, you will want to go back again and again, just don't spread the word too much (we like it just the way it is). <a href="http://www.brauntonburrows.org/">Find out more about this historic and biodiverse area here...></a><br />
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To find this gem, you will need to head through Barnstaple itself and out the other side towards Braunton. On the way you will see a sign, (on the left) to Braunton Burrows, but keep your eyes peeled - you could miss it. Turn left onto more of a country lane and you will eventually come to a sign to 'Crow Point' on your left. This road is a toll road, which will cost £1.50 for a car and pushbikes are 20p, but it is well worth the small toll. Following the road, you will pass through stunning farm land (mind the sheep)and arrive at a broad parking area next to the beach. From here you can explore the dunes (larks, finches and plenty of other wildlife to see) that go on for miles or you can get straight onto sand and walk round the headland. The first sand you reach is more of an estuary beach, so the best bet is to head right, towards the open sea and the wide stretches of soft sandy beach. It's a great beach to just chill out on, or simply walk on and will lead you round the coast to Saunton Sands and eventually Croyde.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Things to remember:</span> </b><br />
BEACH: The price you pay for this glorious unspoilt beach is that there are no facilities, so make sure you take your own water and food if you are planning a day out, as there will be nothing on route, including bins, so make sure to remove any rubbish you create. Saunton Sands and Croyde may be able to offer refreshments and facilities, but certainly in the burrows you are on your own, which is exactly how we like it.<br />
THE GROVE INN: Book in advance, this place is so good, it fills up rapidly and you don't want to miss your chance to eat here...<br />
DRIVING: There is only one way into North Devon, the A361, and depending on the time of day and the day of the week you travel, it can be very busy, so when you are driving try to let the stunning views distract you from the traffic.<br />
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<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-11238324537490589472013-05-28T10:28:00.002-07:002013-05-28T10:28:31.517-07:00Manatus Lodge, tortuguero, <div style="text-align: left;">
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<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Large Male, green iguana basking on the riverside</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Location:</b></span> <a href="http://www.manatuscostarica.com/">Manatus Lodge, Tortuguero, </a>Costa Rica, <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Famous for:</b></span> Toucans, iguanas, Caiman and manatees among other fabulous wildlife.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go: </b></span>There is no right or wrong really, the dry season:
Late November to late April. Rainy or 'tropical' season: May through to
November. The wildlife varies depending on the season you choose, but ultimately there is no bad time to go!<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost: </b></span>The cost for Mantaus lodge can be found on their <a href="http://www.manatuscostarica.com/rates.html">website here...></a> <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Flights/travel: </b></span>The road to Manatus from San Jose is excellent and at the end you will be treated to your transfer by boat, which is more like a mini expedition and will give you a taster of what you will experience during your stay. All in all about 4 hours by road.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference: </b></span>7 hours behind UK<br />
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<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Two toed sloth...sleeping</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Manatus Lodge: </b></span>Perfectly situated on the banks of one of Tortuguero's many waterways and next to Tortuguero's National Park make this an ideal base for exploration. It is a small family run lodge with a good sized restaurant and a laid back attitude - just perfect for relaxing into.<br />
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As you are on the water, you are able to head out in Kayaks on your own (with safety jackets) or take one of the many guided tours along the national park canals (my advice would be to book private tours which will allow you to tailor the tours to your requirements/interests.<br />
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The waterways here are unusual as you have brackish water to the front of the lodge and through the forests behind, a freshwater canal - a combination which makes for an interesting mix of bird and wild life from seafaring frigate birds to toucans and trogons (that's another bird). Guests have access to the trails through the forest and although fairly short, the treks are interesting and packed with poison dart frogs, toucans, howler monkeys, spider monkeys and various unidentified rustlings...<br />
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<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Male green basilisk (Jesus Lizard)</td></tr>
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The lodge grounds also provide a well manicured garden area to walk and watch the birds, if you are a bit nervous of the jungle and a nice pool if it gets too hot and you want something other than brackish or fresh water to throw yourself into.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Wildlife: </b></span>There is as much to see on the water here as you will see elsewhere on land and the water safaris are particularly relaxing as you gently chug along and just watch the world go by. The guides, like guides everywhere know exactly where to look and can spot things that you often can't see even when you are on top of it - but trying to beat them in spotting the next thing is a good job creation scheme.<br />
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You will see Caiman and turtles in the water possibly even a manatee and a huge number of kingfishers (much braver and easier to see that the UK variety) as well as tiger herons, boat bills and spoon bills and fly catchers too numerous to mention.<br />
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Monkeys will peer down at you from the trees and occasionally you may spot a sloth - doing what sloths do best and staying very still. If you are really ucky you may catch a glimpse of the wild pecaries (boar) from the safety of the boat. There are a huge number of raptors in this area: vultures (turkey, king and black headed) red tails, roadside hawks and cara cara can also be seen, waiting to attack the sunbathing iguanas. The green basilisk (Jesus Lizard) can also be seen here and if you are lucky enough to see one running over the water (hence the name) don't try to get a photograph, just enjoy the moment.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to take: </b></span><br />
• Waterproof and breathable jackets<br />
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• Quick drying walking trousers ('zip off' are always handy) and tops<br />
• refreshing wet wipes or a bandanna to dip in the water and cool your neck <br />
• Walking sandals for walking and stability on the boats<br />
• Insect repellent<br />
• Binoculars or monoculars - invaluable when you are out walking<br />
• Waterproof rucksack or rucksack liner, rain can fall without little warning and be very heavy<br />
• A refillable drinks bottle<br />
• Some Spanish language basics...<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect: </b></span>This area is prone to rainfall as is all of Costa Rica,but at least it's warm rain and things dry out quickly! Just be prepared. Umbrellas are provided by the rooms should you need to take cover on the way to dinner, but all the walkways are reasonably sheltered<br />
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The fish is fresh and copious, so you can expect a good number of fishy options on the menu, every one of them truly delicious.<br />
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Expect to be surprised by the plethora of rich wildlife you will find on what looks like a quiet stretch of the river.<br />
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Remember, you are on a river and therefore there will be mossies, and they love nothing more than a bit of tourist! <br />
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You can find the <a href="http://www.manatuscostarica.com/index.html">Manatus website here...></a> <br />
<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-40398405546514999582013-05-28T08:34:00.000-07:002013-05-28T08:34:16.515-07:00Bosque De Paz, Costa Rica<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB1pAUO567TWGodG2W6xEzF2TV_CR8I-6CKqyaPBrZCaPWRKoQQ9Dqak_F_Rld6NX2QeU8G1sW1eBr0b1j9vzTrCzqm_EMFHRzhbYq4x7a2OU4q8pQ09Q11lxOpOb0RZjijC0IRJ4LdX8/s1600/P1070801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB1pAUO567TWGodG2W6xEzF2TV_CR8I-6CKqyaPBrZCaPWRKoQQ9Dqak_F_Rld6NX2QeU8G1sW1eBr0b1j9vzTrCzqm_EMFHRzhbYq4x7a2OU4q8pQ09Q11lxOpOb0RZjijC0IRJ4LdX8/s400/P1070801.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Steely vented hummingbird</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Location:</b></span> <a href="http://www.bosquedepaz.com/">Bosque De Paz, Valle del Rio Toro,</a> (Cloud forest) Costa Rica<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Famous for:</b></span> The Respendent Quetzal, rainforest birds and spectacular orchids<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go: </b></span>Dry season:
Late November to late April. Rainy or 'tropical' season: May through to
November. But whichever season you prefer - if you like birds you will love this place.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost: </b></span>The cost for Bosque de Paz can be found on their <a href="http://www.bosquedepaz.com/lodge.htm">website here...></a> <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Flights/travel: </b></span>The roads to Bosque de Paz are fairly good and transfer from the Capital San Jose will take under 2 hours. <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference: </b></span>7 hours behind UK<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Bosque de Paz: </b></span>This is a private reserve which was originally set up purely to preserve this strip of cloudy rainforest but which has since grown to a birdwatching paradise and is run as a non profit eco-lodge by the owner Federico Gonzales Pinto.<br />
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The lodge itself is set by the side of a small river in the most picturesque surroundings, with the rainforest providing a colourful and musical backdrop to your arrival.<br /><br />
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Set
within 3,000 acres of private reserve open only to the guests, and with only 12 rooms available, you can rest assured that you will not bump into another soul while you are out exploring - and there is plenty to explore.<br />
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All of the paths and trails are clearly marked and it is easy enough to find your way around. Hikes vat from a short 2o minutes, to longer 3+ hours if you are feeling energetic. Just be aware that the more you see the longer each hike will take, so allow more tie than you need when exploring.<br />
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<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Green crowned brilliant hummingbird</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Wildlife: </b></span>the first thing you will notice about this stunning lodge is the humming birds. Like many lodges in Costa Rica, Bosque de Paz put out hummingbird feeders to encourage these graceful visitors and as a result, you can see up to 24 different species, including a number of rare species...<br />
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As you approach the feeders and the seating area, you could be forgiven for confusing the humming birds with butterflies, in fact the butterflies here are much bigger and slower. The air is thick with the gentle hum of wing beats and they fly close to your face,seemingly with no concern at all. I can only describe the experience as magical and somehow otherworldly - but whatever your interpretation, it is an amazing experience.<br />
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There are a great many species of bird found in this area and as its a private reserve you avoid the madding crowd in the more touristy areas of the cloud forest. There are guides on hand and their expertise is second to none, but if you have a sharp eye you will be able to see plenty on your own, including, if you are lucky, the resplendent quetzal, which is frequently observed here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtVnRA92TzWU8RjUgx2qSrNJ9D9NdhuRUDW7aH7VvUcCiA5Pr0ayaAF5L54AtxMRovpN5bmukECFYbETAzDTqYrNOyUU6y6EffGCxMk_-FfkhRgBcQ6fV8Ub8gzRSeA3jBp3HWMf2Uww/s1600/P1030846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtVnRA92TzWU8RjUgx2qSrNJ9D9NdhuRUDW7aH7VvUcCiA5Pr0ayaAF5L54AtxMRovpN5bmukECFYbETAzDTqYrNOyUU6y6EffGCxMk_-FfkhRgBcQ6fV8Ub8gzRSeA3jBp3HWMf2Uww/s320/P1030846.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Agouti feeding on the lawn outside the lodge</td></tr>
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But there are not only birds here, you will also see agouti and coati in the grounds, although you may have to wait until dusk or dark before seeing the coati, which can be a little tricky.<br />
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If you can keep your eyes open after dark (it's a struggle believe me...) them look out for the fireflies, there is a huge abundance of them here and they are better to watch than any TV show and a lot more unpredictable. I slept with the curtains open just to watch them for as long as I could.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to take: </b></span><br />
• Waterproof and breathable jackets<br />
• A lightweight sweater or two <br />
• Quick drying walking trousers ('zip off' are always handy) and tops<br />
• Lightwight walking shoes (its warm here so boots can get a little hot)<br />
• A camera and plenty of memory cards<br />
• Binoculars or monoculars - invaluable when you are out walking<br />
• Waterproof rucksack or rucksack liner, rain can fall without little warning and be very heavy<br />
• A refillable drinks bottle<br />
• Some Spanish language basics...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNS60MxxNMLqXzkhxGbwfQLq4YzN9DT58DTA5uZo26WgKR0eMpBX2PQb-L0rk6VJ8SUshsu5BLMQNKdkGzbzjhyfmBJc4DxkAHvAAbVqMBk4JSqHqvu2sxc-Uz89fzHuFRVX8FkgrNTpo/s1600/P1080005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNS60MxxNMLqXzkhxGbwfQLq4YzN9DT58DTA5uZo26WgKR0eMpBX2PQb-L0rk6VJ8SUshsu5BLMQNKdkGzbzjhyfmBJc4DxkAHvAAbVqMBk4JSqHqvu2sxc-Uz89fzHuFRVX8FkgrNTpo/s320/P1080005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Hummingbird caught in flight</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect: </b></span>There is a fair amount of rain here and the climate can be little chilly when the sun goes in, but it is worth the slight chill in the air to experience the peace and tranquility of this location. <br />
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Great food, great warmth and a hearty welcome from the people who work at the lodge and of course, this is Cost Rica - amazing coffee available for most of the day and night.<br />
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The orchid gardens are also open to the guest and if you are lucky enough to find yourself here at the same time as one of the many orchid specialists then you can always ask for a short guided tour.<br />
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The best thing abut this location is undoubtedly the peace and quiet and of course the knowledge that everything you have spent to be there is going back into the upkeep and preservation of the reserve itself.<br />
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You can find the <a href="http://www.bosquedepaz.com/">Bosque de Paz website here...></a> <br />
<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-7182362175657582392013-05-28T06:18:00.001-07:002013-05-28T06:48:00.289-07:00El Remanso, Costa Rica<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yQXIjXO6SV6eWfOBpJfarMMDX31J2Eq75V6puwXr_iL8hKYG3OlNPPkVq7jlLexPDJ14IGm00kSL1QotFJSFt06kQ7rnoin_ge0VaZZ4wtmIt5kc5CNP12qEv494H_KuoyxELck9mFs/s1600/P1080376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yQXIjXO6SV6eWfOBpJfarMMDX31J2Eq75V6puwXr_iL8hKYG3OlNPPkVq7jlLexPDJ14IGm00kSL1QotFJSFt06kQ7rnoin_ge0VaZZ4wtmIt5kc5CNP12qEv494H_KuoyxELck9mFs/s400/P1080376.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">A lucky sighting of a rare, breeding, gliding tree frog.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Location:</b></span> <a href="http://www.elremanso.com/">El Remanso,</a> Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Famous for:</b></span> Toucans, sloth, red eyed tree frogs and an abundance of other rainforest wildlife, including the elusive Puma.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go: </b></span>As always with these places, it really depends on what you want to experience and how you want to experience it. Wildlife is abundant in the rainy season, but the bad weather than often be obstructive to both vision and travel. Dry season is easier to get around, but not all of the wildlife will be visible. So if it's a wildlife experience you are after, go at the end of the dry season, beginning of the wet season (it's quieter too) and just be prepared for the rainfall. Dry season: Late November to late April. Rainy or 'tropical' season: May through to November. But whichever season you prefer - you will be in for the experience of a lifetime.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost: </b></span>The cost for this particular Lodge can be found on their <a href="http://www.elremanso.com/rates">website here...></a> and again you have a choice of garden or ocean view rooms, suites, or cabins. In my opinion the views are equally as gorgeous whether its garden or sea aspect, but if you want to experience this place at it's best, go for a cabin - nestled into the rainforest foliage, they are truly worth it. <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Flights/travel: </b></span>You will need to get a lengthy transfer via road or a small flight to get back to the capital from here, so make sure you factor that cost in. The small local airport is easily accessible and the flight provides beautiful scenery for the 45minute transfer. If you choose to drive, you will be looking at a 5 hour trip (ish), but with scenery equally as beautiful. El Remanso will organise transfers for you to and from the lodge to the airport.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference: </b></span>7 hours behind UK<br />
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<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">White faced Capuchin monkeys joining us for breakfast</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>El Remanso: </b></span>Where to start... well, arriving in El Remanso is something that is both exhilarating and incredibly calming. With the glorious rainforest backdrop and accompanying orchestra of birds, mammals and insects, it is difficult to focus, but the team here are adept at making you feel instantly at home and truly relaxed.<br />
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This family owned and run lodge is small (only 13 rooms) and specialises in the personal touches that make it a place you will be reluctant to leave, like calling you by your first name from the moment you arrive, remembering your likes and dislikes and tracking you down if something interesting is spotted on site.<br />
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The wooden construction cabins (made from naturally fallen timber and locally grown bamboo) are set on the valleys edge looking down through the jungle to the sea, with a private decked area in front so you can really take in the view. The rainforest is all around you, growing up around the cabins and the cabins themselves are spacious, stylish and open plan, giving you a real sense of space. A ridiculously comfy hammock is strung across it (did I mention how relaxing this place is?) and with the view down to the sea there is no better place to be than on the hammock at dawn or dusk.<br />
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Set within 185 acres of private reserve, the lodge itself makes little or no impact on its surrounding environment. Using fresh mountain spring water, solar electricity, providing eco friendly toiletries to the guests (which are lovely) and even recycling their own waste this place is not only a natural paradise, but a proactive conservation dream come true. Everyone here works hard to protect the environment and educate their visitors with a passion that is infectious. The guides share their knowledge willingly and I can honestly say that the guiding we experienced here is the best we have experienced anywhere. I was humbled by how much they do to protect the jungle and the wildlife within it and all with no loss of comfort, in fact the luxurious feel was enhanced by the truly natural surroundings.<br />
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There is a bar and restaurant, where a wonderful selection of food is produced. Meals are at set times through the day and each one provides three delicious courses, so you will not go hungry here. Hot, fresh Cost Rican coffee is available in immense flasks throughout the day something which is a real treat (the coffee is the best I have tasted) and of course the fresh spring water is deliciously cool and on tap!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXLMaVke19k88b7HhwwG7wf_smToMQ6Cwa_2gvPACvJuUssAftA5vZEAeWu1MrQNAbmrDlrOao_hL9-qc-311Xj9UvRfcSreKKdYLjLqOY04JDsxpmW3vM4H9oZGVVFx19of3qCJEBnYE/s1600/P1080799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXLMaVke19k88b7HhwwG7wf_smToMQ6Cwa_2gvPACvJuUssAftA5vZEAeWu1MrQNAbmrDlrOao_hL9-qc-311Xj9UvRfcSreKKdYLjLqOY04JDsxpmW3vM4H9oZGVVFx19of3qCJEBnYE/s320/P1080799.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tamandua (ant eater) spotted outside the man lodge reception.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Wildlife: </b></span>There is no shortage of it and you will get used to the fact that your day will start early and end early. The Howler Monkeys and the Scarlet Macaws will wake you at first light quickly followed by everything else. There are troops of Spider Monkeys, Squirrel Monkeys and Capuchin Monkeys moving through the trees with regularity, but you may have to look harder to find the sloth, Coati and Puma... You have expert guides at the lodge who can take you out for any number of hikes (how far you go is up to you) but if you want to explore on your own, you can - the lodge provides guests with a map of the trails and a description of what you can find on each. <br />
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There are more than 463 species of bird and 140 different types of mammal here, so just keep your camera handy.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to take: </b></span><br />
• Waterproof and breathable jackets <br />
• Quick drying walking trousers ('zip off' are always handy) and tops<br />
• Lightwight walking shoes (its warm here so boots can get a little hot)<br />
• A camera and plenty of memory cards<br />
• Good quality torches/flashlights<br />
• Binoculars or monoculars - invaluable when you are out walking<br />
• Waterproof rucksack or rucksack liner, rain can fall without little warning and be very heavy<br />
• A refillable drinks bottle<br />
• Some Spanish language basics...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6PtVtvvkVxcygjxWMe1rE0d6eMOZPjeG3XFc_U2ETTSW1CTMCCdJoOgKSoi2b42kAKmc9jCHwiFgjWQeyCZq8cn5NpTd-KJ9idEfjmGS1Mdy6HmY0Z5kC94m2VuDnPfUPYtP-EyOW3cU/s1600/P1080829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6PtVtvvkVxcygjxWMe1rE0d6eMOZPjeG3XFc_U2ETTSW1CTMCCdJoOgKSoi2b42kAKmc9jCHwiFgjWQeyCZq8cn5NpTd-KJ9idEfjmGS1Mdy6HmY0Z5kC94m2VuDnPfUPYtP-EyOW3cU/s320/P1080829.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">Beautiful beetles and insects if you look closely...</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect: </b></span>Rain, after all this is a rainforest, although the amount of rain will depend on the time of year you visit. Expect friendly locals and a welcoming team to help make your visit extra special. Expert guiding, if required, after all you are allowed to walk these trails unescorted (just follow the safety rules). Expect to share this paradise with the inhabitants and yes that does mean bugs, but they are an affable lot and most of them are stunning to look at, so don't get nervous just get a good look - you may be surprised. There are not a lot of mosquito here, due to a lack of still water and the fact that the larvae are eaten by other bugs, so don't expect have to cover yourself with deet (a huge plus!). However, there are some about and as always I relied on my trusty Skin So Soft (from Avon) which seemed to work here.<br />
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Don't expect to be disturbed here - there is no TV, no mobile phone signal, nor is there any internet access, expect to be completely unreachable and enjoy every minute of it in a technology free environment. <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"></span>I have to say of all my wildlife trips and the jungles/rainforests I have visited, this has been the most magical and felt like the biggest adventure. Plus, and it's a big plus, it's nice to know that you aren't harming the the habitat. To experience this reserve, this lodge and spend time with the people who work there was a privilege and an education in effective sustainable tourism, so go on dig out your passports and take yourself off to another world, it really is worth it.<br />
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You can find the <a href="http://www.elremanso.com/">El Remanso web page here...></a> and they have a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/El-Remanso-Lodge/21502324994">facebook page where you can keep up to date with their news here...> </a><br />
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<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-91478182485407055432013-05-07T04:54:00.000-07:002013-05-07T04:54:35.308-07:00Escape to a simpler life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Corfe Mullen, Dorset, UK: </b></span>What do you do if you want a break in the UK that isn't going to cost the earth and gives you peace and relaxation away from the daily grind - I'll tell you what you do, dip a toe in the world of Glamping that's what. Take for example this wonderfully romantic shepherds hut, set in a secluded 27 acre plot with only a couple of yurts and one other shepherds hut for company - this is escapism at its best... <br />
<a name='more'></a>So, you find camping too much of a hassle, the weather is largely guesswork guarantee and there's all that 'stuff' to carry... But with a roof over your head, the weather doesn't seem to be much of an issue (especially when the roof is as pretty as this...) and here, pretty much everything you will need is laid on, so no hassle involved.<br /><br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Area famous for: </b></span>Gorgeous coastlines, sandy beaches and chalky cliffs, Dorset Knobs (sourdough biscuits!) and of course the New Forest.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>The Site:</b></span> Run by Gwen and Martin, <a href="http://www.worldofwillow.co.uk/stock_shepherds_hut_breaks-159_18.aspx?cp=">this Eco friendly escape</a>, grants you peace, tranquility and a little piece of English heaven all to yourself. Just off the A31 and close enough to both the sea and the New Forest, the location is perfect. You will find an escape from the tourist crowds here, but if you want to join them you are close enough to do so.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>The Shepherds Hut:</b></span> The one pictured here has been recently rebuilt on an original Victorian shassy and features the modern and perfect addition of a teeny veranda & roof.<br />
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Tucked away in a shady area, the hut is set within a small clearing containing seats and a brazier (to get you in the glamping mood). A small camp stove, with kettle and crockery (this can be used on your veranda, so no need to cook on the brazier...) and a water carrier. Inside the surprisingly roomy hut you will find a comfy double bed with all linen and some lovely fluffy towels, a folding table and two chairs, hidden storage for clothes and of course a fully functioning wood burning stove. On top of all this, Gwen and Martin provide you with a small hamper of goodies/breakfast essentials to get you started (Tea, coffee, sugar, fresh milk, fruit juice, fruit selection, cereal and some yummy biscuits), they really do think of everything, plus a cool box and ice packs to keep it all fresh. So all you have to do is sit back and relax. There are solar lights both inside and out so that you can find your way in the dark and a brolly (just in case). <br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Conveniences: </b></span>There is a fully equipped cabin, with showers, toilets and electricity points. A little closer to your hut, you will have sole use of a porta loo, so that you don't have to go far from your door at night. They also have the most fabulous eco friendly outside showers (which I thoroughly enjoyed using). The water is lovely and warm and all shower gels are provided as they are eco friendly ones. These showers have been specially designed and built to shield you from sight and any breeze, they really are great. But if the idea of showering outside freaks you out, there is always the cabin to fall back upon.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to take:</b></span> To be honest there's not a lot of equipment you will need, but if you plan to cook, bring your own camp pans and cooking utensils. A couple of pocket torches are also a good idea as the terrain can be uneven underfoot. Apart from those few items, I have to say that my carefully packed camping kit was pretty much surplus to requirements.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Things to note: </span></b>All fuel is provided for your brazier and your wood burning stove, and both are really effective. I would only light the stove for a short time before you retire, otherwise you will just be too hot (for such a small thing it mightily powerful). You are encouraged to forage for your own wood, as there is plenty lying around the woodland - but just remember that both the stove and the brazier can only take small pieces. Yes, I made that mistake a few times.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Wildlife:</b></span> As you may or may not know by now, I love a bit of wildlife and so I was thrilled when I was told that at least one badger wanders the area, along with a few proper foxes (healthy country ones rather than the urban scroungers we are used to) and the occasional deer. You will also be given a dusk concert of tawny and little owls as they become more active. There are plenty of daytime birds loitering in the area if you like bird watching. so binoculars might be on your list of things to take as well.<br />
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I for one can't wait to go back and enjoy this little gem again so that should tell you all you need know. You can check out their <a href="http://www.worldofwillow.co.uk/shop_shepherds_hut___yurt_breaks-18.aspx">website here...></a> and book direct with <a href="mailto:gwen@worldofwillow.co.uk">Gwen here...></a> A lovelier couple you couldn't hope to meet and they will do everything they can to make your stay a pleasant and memorable one. Enjoy!<br />
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Random facts: Glow worms (which are in fact beetles - go figure!)<br />
• Only the females glow - to attract males.<br />
• They glow by creating a bioluminescence, caused by chemical reaction in their bodies.<br />
• Unlike fire flies, they can't simply turn off the glow, it can minutes for them to fade.<br />
• They are in decline, so don't remove them from a site if you see one (they need specialist habitats) but <a href="http://www.glowworms.org.uk/#About%20glow%20worms">report the sighting here...></a><br />
<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-18410227376328617192012-12-17T08:12:00.001-08:002013-03-20T07:33:43.554-07:00Riverside Escape<h2>
<b>The lake District - Broadoaks Country House</b></h2>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">The lake District - Toutbeck, UK:</span> </b>A short drive from junction 36 of the M6, UK.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Area famous for:</b></span> Romantic escapes, walking, fishing, lush green landscapes and of course the lakes themselves.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Broadoaks Country House:</span> </b>Circa 1830, A stunning stone built country house, steeped in history and set in the most stunning of countryside.<br />
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The hotel itself sits above the river affording breathtaking views of both the river and the lakes beyond and the minute you enter the hotel itself - it feels like home. Warm and woody, the interior of the hotel is instantly welcoming as are the team who welcome you. Wood paneling and open fires are everywhere you look with plenty of super comfy couches and chairs to sink into. This gorgeous venue makes you want to take time out to relax in every room. Check out the music room with it's unique William Morris features...<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Bedrooms: </b></span>Each room is individually styled and each holds a charm and distinctive personality of its very own. The owners, Tracy and Jo have managed to perfectly combine traditional charm with modern comfort without compromising the heritage of the building. Four poster beds rub shoulders with wrought Iron bedsteads all with sumptuous fabrics and furnishings - our advice <br />
is to take your time and choose your room carefully.<br />
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If its peace and quite you crave, there are a number of detached rooms set in the grounds of the house, that offer complete privacy but within easy reach of the hotel (we bet you won't be able to resist a return trip just to see what the rest are like...).<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Restaurant:</b> </span>The food here is glorious, tasty and well presented, with something on the menu for everyone and whatever you do, don't miss breakfast, anything you could want is cooked to perfection and sets you up for a wonderful day of exploring the surrounding areas, or not after all the house is so lovely, you could be forgiven for just staying put!<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>The Broadoaks team:</b></span> I can honestly say that the team are possibly the friendliest and most helpful team I have every met. They are consistently attentive but unobtrusive and nothing seems to be too much trouble for them. Our stay here was definitely enhanced by the team who looked after us.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What to do:</span> </b>Well, the world it would seem, is your sandy bottomed molusc! Go walking in the surrounding areas, simply chill out, explore the beck below the hotel or wander a little further to walk the lakes. There is plenty to do here and if you want to do more, the hotel can organise fishing and clay pigeon shooting for you and your party if that's your bag. You won't be bored, but you will be relaxed, whatever you choose to do.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b></span> There doesn't seem to be a 'season' as such here, walkers arrive all year round and I am sure the scenery is as beautiful in the Spring and Summer as it is in the Autumn and winter. Of course, be prepared for rain, you don't get countryside this green without a healthy dose of the wet stuff.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">How to get there:</span> </b>The local train station is Windermere which is only a short distance from Broadoaks, alternatively the distance from the M6 makes it easy to find and drive to. However, if you really want to go all out, then they do have a helipad, so maybe it's a good excuse to dust off the chopper and fly direct?<br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">What can you expect:</span> </b>Expect a real treat and a true escape from the rat race. Broadoaks is a haven which I could certainly do with on a weekly basis. They provide broadband for the technology addicted, but to be honest it was nice not to have the distraction. You can expect to be thoroughly pampered, plus, if you have a four legged friend, they will be welcomed and spoilt as much as you (they even have a doggy menu!). All in all you can expect the best treatment in the most gorgeous surroundings and you won't be disappointed.<br />
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<a href="http://www.broadoakscountryhouse.co.uk/">Check out the website here...></a> and whatever you do, make sure you book yourself a little Broadoaks luxury as soon as you can. I can't wait to go back!<br />
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<a href="http://www.broadoakscountryhouse.co.uk/gift-vouchers"><b>And if you are still looking for the perfect Christmas present for someone special, why not indulge them with a Broadoaks voucher...</b> </a><br />
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<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-58736113912479180382012-10-08T18:13:00.000-07:002012-10-09T04:54:55.599-07:00Madagascar – The Litchi Tree, Joffreyville <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: The smallest chameleon in the world...leaf chameleon</span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Madagascar, location: </b></span></span>Indian ocean, approx. 250 miles from East Africa. (Worlds 4th largest Island).<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Joffreyville location: </b></span>Found at the Northern tip of Madagascar, close to Amber Mountain rainforest reserve.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Famous for: </b></span>Lemurs, Chameleons, Mongoose and Tenrecs, as well as a range of other endemic flora and fauna).<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b></span> It really depends on what you would like to see. There are two distinct seasons in Madagascar, wet (November – April) and dry (May – October). The temperatures soar in the wet season and a lot of the roads, especially in the northern rainforest regions, become impassible. So for this particular area you would be wise to travel in the dry season. There is always plenty to see, but if you are keen to see more reptiles and exotic bugs, the closer you get to the wet season the better. However, the trade off is that there is more rain and potentially leeches. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: Sportive Lemur, more 'sportive' at night - very cute </span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost:</b></span> Cost varies, depending on the accommodation chosen, the agent used and of course the duration of your visit. Suffice it to say that if you visit Madagascar for 2 weeks you will be looking at from £3,500 upwards, per person. Costs will usually include a guide and a driver throughout your visit. <br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Flights/travel:</span></b> You can fly to Paris, and then from Paris get a direct flight into Antananarivo (capital of Madagascar). The journey from Paris is approximately 10.5 hrs. Once in the captital, unless you are flying with hand luggage only, you will be advised to stay overnight, to allow for any luggage complications. The following morning you will take an internal flight to Diego Suarez (approximately 45 mins). There are many airports in Madagascar, but few good roads, so you will often find flying, quicker and more comfortable over long distances. From Diego, you will be driven in a 4 x 4 to your destination Joffreyville, less than 5k from the Amber mountain reserve.<br />
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference:</b></span> 2 hours behind GMT<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: The rooms at The Litchi Tree </span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>The Litchi tree itself:</b></span> The litchi tree is a lovingly restored French colonial estate committed to a sustainable development approach. The main building provides a lounge, bar, restaurant and terrace area and the rooms are located separately in the gorgeous grounds. The rooms will take your breath away! They are spacious and beautifully furnished using local craftsmanship and local materials (responsibly sourced). The decor is modern and welcoming – dark wood and sumptuous fabrics, a wonderfully comfortable, large four poster bed and a leather upholstered recliner chair. <a href="http://www.thelitchitree.com/">Take a look...></a><br />
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Herve, the owner really is an exceptional cook and will serve you a wonderful array of food during your stay. The breakfasts are truly amazing and Herve even bakes fresh breads and muffins for you daily. He is enthusiastic and passionate and makes every guest feel special.<br />
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The Electricity is only available from 5pm to 10pm, but there are candles supplied if you should need light outside off these times.<br />
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The water is solar powered and although warm, don't expect piping hot, mind you after a day in the rainforest, this is quite refreshing.<br />
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<b>Wildlife: </b>Just on the short drive from the village to the Litchi tree, we found many chameleons (during the day and at night), some spectacular spiders, and at night we were treated to seeing ring tailed mongoose and mouse lemurs jumping through the trees. Make sure you meet the resident radial tortoises that also live on the grounds. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: A crowned Lemur in the rainforest reserve </span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Amber mountain reserve: </b></span>Renowned for being one of the richest and most diverse reserves in Madagscar, this rainforest reserve is amazing. The scenery is stunning and so lush it is almost luminous in places. As for the wildlife, there is plenty, from beautiful birds and butterflies, to lemurs, chameleons, leaf tailed geckos and golden orb spiders (up in trees, before anyone panics). There are seven types of lemur found in this region, we saw two of them and quite frequently too. You will also find leeches, but they are small and easily flicked off.<br />
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The trails are many and varied. Most are level and relatively easy to navigate, but you will find that the ground can be uneven and slippery, especially in the rain, so good shoes are a must. If you climb up through to the higher trails you will be rewarded with amazing views over the canopy, and it's well worth the ascent, you will also be rewarded with some spectacular waterfalls. You can spend a good two or three days here at least, trekking for up to 8 hours per day.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Joffreyville:</span></b> The village is quiet, colourful and very picturesque. You will see a lot of french colonial houses that have been left to decay at their own pace, but are still beautiful nonetheless. The main attraction in the village would be the convent school, which is a small walk (10mins) from the Litchi tree, they have a small gift shop selling local crafts as well as some very pretty gardens that worthwhile seeing if you have the time. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to take: </b></span><br />
• It's a rainforest, take waterproofs if you have them. Ponchos will do.<br />
• Not a necessity, but leech socks during the wetter times if you have them (available online or at some airports).<br />
• waterproof bags to protect cameras and other items (waterproof rucksack covers/liners are good for this.<br />
• A small high powered torch and some replacement batteries.<br />
• A warm sweater, it can get cold here at night and you will want to do the night walks.<br />
• A hat, waterproof if possible.<br />
• Good quality insect repellent (I used Avon's skin so soft - which I find very sucessful).<br />
• Comfy walking shoes, waterproof if possible.<br />
• long hiking socks.<br />
• Lots of memory cards for your camera.<br />
• Binoculars<br />
• Antibacterial hand gel. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyek5dhAte504Wk7qXvtWjfGrmDdUPKu2MISoMI2WyXmzHgHl9U8302N2j9ay7M5hc54nWYAu9LPUxBIw7C8fEiZWDtsAlN4AzdP9geH8gFGn1gXL8bmtmoelm7xsTNyP9qSeB0d8PfA/s1600/P1060580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyek5dhAte504Wk7qXvtWjfGrmDdUPKu2MISoMI2WyXmzHgHl9U8302N2j9ay7M5hc54nWYAu9LPUxBIw7C8fEiZWDtsAlN4AzdP9geH8gFGn1gXL8bmtmoelm7xsTNyP9qSeB0d8PfA/s320/P1060580.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: Stunning adult chameleon </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect: </b></span>In the rainforest – An early start and an adventure! There won't be swarms of tourists although you may pass the odd couple on the trails. The jungle is not a quiet place, but it is tranquil and you will find that you will see more if you keep your voices low and avoid loud busts of noise. You can expect to be surprised, overwhelmed at times, startled at others. The rainforest is a rich and largely unspoilt area where you can just sit and watch, or walk and explore at your own pace - just make sure you keep your eyes and ears open or you might miss something spectacular. Sadly, expect a couple of leeches, they don't hurt and they are very small, honestly the idea of them is much worse than the reality.<br />
At the Litchi Tree – Pampering, relaxation, a laid back lifestyle with good food and great company and stunning views of the surrounding area. They even have some good wines here... thanks to Herve.<br />
<br />
A great destination all round.<br />
<br />
We arranged our trip with <a href="http://www.audleytravel.com/">Audley Travel</a>,
and I have to say I have never felt quite so well looked after. From
initial discussions and the tailoring of our trip (plus several changes
along the way!) they were patient, knowledgeable and kept us informed at
every step. We were looked after by Donna, who has extensive first hand
knowledge of Madagascar and who called us both before we left and after
we returned to make sure everything was OK. I really cannot fault this
company and we will be using them again.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.audleytravel.com/">You can check out their website here...></a> go on, you know you want to...<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thelitchitree.com/">You can check out The Litchi tree website here...></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-3900666640219129902012-10-08T17:35:00.003-07:002013-03-25T10:02:17.193-07:00Tsara Komba – Nosy Komba, Madagsacar<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgixRBRXQ6o7vbHAs8Bb8oIBhRHebLhCHgK_CyQcWqTJUSzXvttpx0C0iNZ-YbIdwzmcRwfYCzXaRzwyEEQrLnq-ZhlE7wyDgIYFWq2WLFQRyCHroecgrW56OQ91WJ7EbG0L0mT446HY/s1600/P1060879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgixRBRXQ6o7vbHAs8Bb8oIBhRHebLhCHgK_CyQcWqTJUSzXvttpx0C0iNZ-YbIdwzmcRwfYCzXaRzwyEEQrLnq-ZhlE7wyDgIYFWq2WLFQRyCHroecgrW56OQ91WJ7EbG0L0mT446HY/s320/P1060879.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: A female black lemur (the males are black - honest) </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Nosy Komba, location: </b></span></span><br />
Small island off the North West coast of Madagascar<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Famous for: </b><span style="color: white;">Black lemurs, chameleons, sea life and complete relaxation.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>When to go:</b></span>
It really depends on what you would like to see. There are two distinct
seasons in Madagascar, wet (November – April) and dry (May – October).<br />
<a name='more'></a>The temperatures soar in the wet season, but if you are keen to see more reptiles
and exotic bugs, the closer you get to the wet season the better. The local guides advise November as the best month to visit the island as the temperatures are very warm and the forests teeming with life, but any later in the season and it might be a little hot and sticky. We were here in September – no rain, just lots of glorious sunshine.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Cost:</b></span>
Cost varies, depending on the accommodation chosen (they have three room types), board basis and
of course the duration of your visit. prices start at roughly £1,000 per person per week, with periodical special offers available. You can check the website here...><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Flights/travel:</span></b> You can get a transfer from Nosy Be, or from the nearest mainland port Ankify, both transfers are by small speedboat. The speedboats are comfortable and you will be issued with life vests before you set out.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Time difference:</b></span> 2 hours behind GMT<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDva4hLdfFquG4M76lrg17mfL5pLd94mmyroccFmRy8Uyddq7mmKceaIg23LPAy7EbdNg04WagcZI_f8TCTua4Pp3Vv-5b1vseU9q9tXWbm7O_NYf91YFmWwP9pC-JpqMz0NR-JY-vHY/s1600/P1060811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDva4hLdfFquG4M76lrg17mfL5pLd94mmyroccFmRy8Uyddq7mmKceaIg23LPAy7EbdNg04WagcZI_f8TCTua4Pp3Vv-5b1vseU9q9tXWbm7O_NYf91YFmWwP9pC-JpqMz0NR-JY-vHY/s320/P1060811.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: Tsara Komba from the gorgeous beach</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Tsara Komba itself:</b></span> Well, wow!! Sometimes words are not enough to describe a place accurately. This one was like an untouched paradise. There are no cars on the island at all and so the first thing you get a sense of is the tranquility. The hotel has only 8 lodges and all of them are sympathetically built into the side of the forest, using environmentally methods, wooden structures and thatched roofs. The beach is soft powdery and immaculately maintained, fully equipped with canoes, beach ball games and of course, shady sunbeds with thick mattresses. It's so beautiful here and so relaxing the rooms are very spacious and airy, with generous terraces that contain table and chairs plus a rattan three piece suite for you to relax into. Trust me the rooms are just luxurious, welcoming and provide everything you need, from locally produced shower gel and shampoo to the vanilla pods on your bed... it is awesome.<br />
<br />
<br />
The terraces all look out over the bay and allow you privacy with a view, no one can look in due to the lush vegetation that surround all of the buildings here.<br />
<br />
This hotel provides all of the creature comforts you would expect from a boutique hotel in London, but with none of the pomp. The manageress, Maryse, is great company and is very generous with her time, making sure she talks to all of the guests, you are guaranteed to feel very special here. <br />
<br />
The team at the hotel made you feel like your enjoyment is the most important thing in the world to them, they are friendly, gracious and incredibly helpful, even down to the gardeners and cleaners who you may only see in passing, but they all go the extra mile to make your stay truly special.<br />
<br />
With a reputation of being the best retsaurant in Madagascar, the food here, as you can imagine really was amazing. With much of the fayre being grown in the hotel's kitchen garden (even pepper & coffee!), and the fish delivered by local fisherman daily, the flavours were exquisite and the menus diverse. For each meal there are three options per course and the menu is changed daily. The only difficulty here is what to choose. <br />
<br />
Everything about this place is idyllic, I didn't want to leave!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_opB3Edkx2vFzK3H4TEe8JMqCM1MOLMX1-Z_3_3qivPrT9Fc1HmKYiZMWYhLudIwt5hEoJpzLlsySSz-nzY-A7Z0fTbGSmGeI5-4VmzM5yXLLoYlgLJfAO5TdRpU3LEpe230DaOcQjoQ/s1600/P1060834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_opB3Edkx2vFzK3H4TEe8JMqCM1MOLMX1-Z_3_3qivPrT9Fc1HmKYiZMWYhLudIwt5hEoJpzLlsySSz-nzY-A7Z0fTbGSmGeI5-4VmzM5yXLLoYlgLJfAO5TdRpU3LEpe230DaOcQjoQ/s320/P1060834.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">picture: A green gecko joins us for breakfast on our balcony </span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Wildlife:</span> </b>Apparently during the Mango season, the black lemurs visit this area of the island, but the rest of the time you may need to travel to the local town to see them. However there are chameleons, sunbirds, drongo and friendly green geckos, keen to join you for breakfast, so there is no wildlife shortage here. Plus every day we saw dolphin passing the bay in front of the restaurant. There is also a whale watching hotspot nearby and for the the duration of our stay, humpback whales were seen every day on the boat trips. Manta ray and spotted whale sharks are also seen regularly here.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>Black Lemurs: </b><span style="color: black;">Y</span></span>ou can trek into the tropical forest from the hotel to see the broad range of flora and fauna here, including the black lemur, or you can take a boat trip to the local village where you will find a semi habituated group of black lemurs who will waste no time in getting to know you. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpLO6iJbqqNQXaKrbxHV1smC1yW5vzs9RcRM_tU0nQfvuQDey3p_DsSic3Ji4oOlW0GdsND379n2D4_X2zlg0pvT9pa88JlEMxRcv_Wo1w711DOYTmtm8HjG20yDLVC83gjdRu-TJkw0/s1600/P1060982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpLO6iJbqqNQXaKrbxHV1smC1yW5vzs9RcRM_tU0nQfvuQDey3p_DsSic3Ji4oOlW0GdsND379n2D4_X2zlg0pvT9pa88JlEMxRcv_Wo1w711DOYTmtm8HjG20yDLVC83gjdRu-TJkw0/s320/P1060982.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: View of bay from the restaurant area </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Activities:</span></b> A well as canoeing, snorkelling locally and of course walking along the beach or in the gardens, there are also a selection of boat trips available. Fishing, deep sea and traditional. Whale watching, snorkelling, village and plantation visits, deserted beach visits... the world really is your oyster here – do as little or as much as you want, be as energetic or relaxed as you want to be.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to take: </b></span><br />
• A good book.<br />
• waterproof bags to protect cameras when in the boat.<br />
• A healthy appetite! <br />
• Long trousers or skirts for evening mossie protection.<br />
• Insect repellent (Avon's skin so soft is what I use).<br />
• Lots of memory cards for your camera.<br />
• Binoculars<br />
• Antibacterial hand gel. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy15Gy0aJtGx5QrQJnbTOK8HlaAVTJPnICHAvWPsNFqOGr0rdpQ9i845zXRhMRAC2ShJaVUCW48BnHXPiqsG2t7lgvmFLjGNKF1eelxkMhEiCgMShSLDbh4Tag-N0UCtP5DUs7e444I48/s1600/P1060928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy15Gy0aJtGx5QrQJnbTOK8HlaAVTJPnICHAvWPsNFqOGr0rdpQ9i845zXRhMRAC2ShJaVUCW48BnHXPiqsG2t7lgvmFLjGNKF1eelxkMhEiCgMShSLDbh4Tag-N0UCtP5DUs7e444I48/s320/P1060928.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: At the local village, locally grown vanilla for sale </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>What to expect: </b></span>To spend a lot of time smiling! Expect peace and quiet, to be woken and fall asleep to the sound of the waves in the bay. Expect excellent food, you will get it. There are no early starts here unless you want them, breakfast can be served at whatever time you want and it can be taken in the privacy of your own terrace. The dress code is comfort based, so there is no need to feel pressure to dress up for dinner, unless you want to of course – casual and conservative is a good start and there's no need to wear shoes - fantastic! Even if they are full you will still find this a haven away from the tourist crowds - the largest crowds you will see are the locals in the villages when you visit. You will find lots of vanilla on sale in bundles and it's definitely worth buying some, just remember to keep it in a sealed bag as vanilla takes on strong smells, so if you buy black pepper (another popular choice) and put it next to the vanilla, you may end up with peppery vanilla! For breakfast you may want to keep your eyes open for the small, uninvited (but very appealing) guests - the green gecko, pictured further up the page, like to see if they can tempt any fresh fruit or marmalade away from you. They are charming and seem very tame - if you move slowly they will even eat banana from your hand! Dolphin and possibly even Whales are seen from the beach if you are lucky, but above all else, expect to be enchanted.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsjP_V7zayyZxc9ndZ4XC29bggjsFu9pMNAo4E_WwaIYE-8yPukHCdMrXS3YNO-Z_unkDYzjppqRKMrnh9lnJPwyHposRWlmAdanUkLlEz7CQOikjSSb22PNlt1UfvzrzBaXD6jxgMLLw/s1600/P1070020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsjP_V7zayyZxc9ndZ4XC29bggjsFu9pMNAo4E_WwaIYE-8yPukHCdMrXS3YNO-Z_unkDYzjppqRKMrnh9lnJPwyHposRWlmAdanUkLlEz7CQOikjSSb22PNlt1UfvzrzBaXD6jxgMLLw/s320/P1070020.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Picture: Dinner doesn't come fresher than that! </span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.tsarakomba.com/uk/">Tsara Komba - see it before the rest of the world finds out...! </a><br />
<br />
We arranged our trip with <a href="http://www.audleytravel.com/">Audley Travel</a>, and I have to say I have never felt quite so well looked after. From initial discussions and the tailoring of our trip (plus several changes along the way!) they were patient, knowledgeable and kept us informed at every step. We were looked after by Donna, who has extensive first hand knowledge of Madagascar and who called us both before we left and after we returned to make sure everything was OK. I really cannot fault this company and we will be using them again.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.audleytravel.com/">Y</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7489769500583713110">ou can check out their website here...></a> go on, you know you want to...Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-7229986330934259332012-06-06T06:54:00.003-07:002012-06-06T06:58:23.454-07:00Glamping in Poole<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-2SCmCqk6ZP8O0VtOf2ZyYIQDxPHWVneNyAsQEYkBWsxQ-GLEJcQS5yqi_69OafUI-Lydae1oisgW9uAPpXLT2jbGtFGnC3XE8TSNbs5neW39YW1CAx8p4IRGJqL1RsyWpN0JlTKIis/s1600/9958_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-2SCmCqk6ZP8O0VtOf2ZyYIQDxPHWVneNyAsQEYkBWsxQ-GLEJcQS5yqi_69OafUI-Lydae1oisgW9uAPpXLT2jbGtFGnC3XE8TSNbs5neW39YW1CAx8p4IRGJqL1RsyWpN0JlTKIis/s320/9958_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Or Corfe Mullen to be exact...<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Willow Farm Yurts, Location:</span></b> <br />
Near Poole, Dorset, UK.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Famous for: </b><br />
Sandbanks (a gorgeous and very long stretch of pristine beach) and Studland Beach and nature reserve.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">When to go: </b><br />
Well this is a UK break, so use your common sense weather-wise. I would say that a winter break is possible here for the more hardy and the provision of a wood burning stove means that you will stay warm whatever the weather.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Cost: </b><br />
Each Yurt sleeps up to 6 people and prices start from £295 for a 3night break (which i my book is excellent value for 6!)<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">What you will see: </b><br />
Well the site itself is set within 27 wooded acres and there is plenty of wildlife to be seen for those with the patience. We saw red deer on our first day alongside an impressive number of birds, including tree creepers, Buzzard, Woodpecker and various finches, we also heard an owl (although I am not sure that counts?!)There are also badger stoat and weasel although you may need to be quiet and patient in order to see these.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Detail: </b><br />
It's difficult to know where to start, there is so much to say about this wonderful find... Your home for the 3 or 4 night break is a 21ft Yurt, Set in gorgeous Dorset woodland (one of two) with all the luxury you would expect from a true Glamping experience, and more. The beds (configured as per your personal requirements, before you arrive) are proper beds with proper mattresses and duvets and are extremely comfortable. Alongside your beds there is also a sofa and two chairs meaning that whether sleeping or just sitting, everyone has enough space. You may think that having all of this in a Yurt would be cramped – think again, they are surprisingly spacious. Each yurt has a central wood burning stove which is easy to manage and very effective at keeping the yurt toasty warm right through the night. There is no other camping, so you really do feel like you have found your own private wilderness, albeit with all the mod cons you need!<br />
<br />
You are also treated to a fire pit outside your yurt, with benches around it, so that you can have a campfire experience (we cooked bananas stuffed with mars bars on ours!)<br />
<br />
As well as all of the above, you have a communal area (shared between your yurt and the other yurt on site)which is fully equipped with seating (inside and out)stoves, pans, crockery, lighting and a much appreciated welcome pack with the basics included (tea, coffee, milk etc.)to get you started. There is even a BBQ that you can use if the fire pit proves too tricky for you to cook on.<br />
<br />
There is a shower and toilet block a short stroll away from the yurts, but each yurt has its own private portaloo so that you don't have to traipse over to the block in the dark.<br />
<br />
The owners, Gwen and Martin have gone above and beyond to ensure that you have everything you need to make your stay a comfortable one. they are welcoming and friendly and available if you need anything that they haven't already thought of. <br />
<br />
The site is equipped with solar lights and eco-friendlydisposal systems. There are recycling bins that are emptied daily and although the solar lights are low wattage, there are enough of them to make sure you can find your way everywhere.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">What to take: </b><br />
As I previously mentioned, they really have thought of everything, but there a few essentials that I would advise you put in your rucksack or similar:<br />
<br />
• Insect repellent (I swear by Avon Skin So Soft, original formula dry oil spray)<br />
• A waterproof jacket (you never can predict the weather)<br />
• Golfing umbrellas if you have them (they covertwo people and if it's just spitting you can sit by the campfire and still enjoy the experience from undercover.<br />
• Tin foil : in the absence of tupperware, an essential bit of food wrapping kit.<br />
• Torches/headtorches: for when you need a light stronger than solar lights.<br />
• Hat: trust me you will have a bad hair day!<br />
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<b style="color: #c27ba0;">What to expect: </b><br />
Expect complete relaxation with no distractions. There are no plugs at the yurt,there is a charging point at the toilet block, but to be honest letting your phone/ipad etc die down is a pleasant relief and there are plenty of other things you can do to occupy yourself. It's nice to escape from TV as well. Expect tranquility and a feeling of escape. This really is a gem of a place and is a great location to recharge your batteries.<br />
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The yurts are ideally suited for families and if you go as a family you can expect plenty of quality time together. However, we went as a group of six adults and we had a great time, just dont expect much privacy.<br />
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If you don't camp, but love the outdoors, this is the perfect solution. If you do camp and just fancy a little luxury then again, this is the solution. If you are new to camping then what could be a more perfect way to ease yourself into it. Just don't tell too many people we want this to remain our little secret right?<br />
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<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Contact details: </b><br />
You can see the website here...<a href="http://www.worldofwillow.co.uk/shop_yurt_breaks-18.aspx">World of Willow Yurt</a>.<br />
<br />Telephone number to book is: <strong><strong>07810 515413</strong></strong><br />
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<br />Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-18863360334671420882012-05-04T06:13:00.000-07:002012-05-04T06:13:30.235-07:00The Maldives<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Maldives, Location:</b> </span>Situated off Sri Lanka, the worlds smallest Asian country and and the lowest, made up of <span class="st">1190 coral islands.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Famous for:</b> </span>White sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>When to go:</b> </span>The temperature is pretty consistent throughout the year, but there are two distinct seasons here, the dry season (January – March) and the rainy season (May – November) Having traveled in both seasons, I would have to say that the rainy season is probably my favourite, but to be honest the temperature is so good year round that it makes little difference. <br />
<a name='more'></a>During the rainy season, I have experienced regular rainfall in the evenings, but little during the day. The rain, when it comes, is heavy and storm like and very impressive to watch from a sheltered bar or room veranda. It has never had an adverse affect on any holiday I have taken there.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Cost:</b> </span>Well, this is a tricky one, with so many different islands (each island is generally owned by a single hotel)there is a vast choice, and it really does depend on when you go and what kind of a holiday you are looking for. Some islands specialise in luxurious pampering and indulgence holidays and these can be up to £10,000 per person per week in the high season. However it is possible to get last minute deals and special offers if you wait and are prepared to visit in the rainy season. The cheapest holiday I have had here was about £1,200 per person for 8 days, and honestly it was the best. When you bear in mind that your holiday cost includes, flights, transfers by seaplane or speedboat and all of your food and drink for the duration of your stay, it actually works out to be excellent value an the food is always exceptional.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Flight times from the UK:</b> <span style="color: white;">Flight time is around 10 hours, depending on the operator used. I have always used Sri Lankan airlines as they offer a direct flight and they have a bigger seat footprint than most airlines – making it a much more comfortable journey. There are cheaper flights that have a pause in Dubai, which tends to make the journey longer.</span></span><br />
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Once you arrive in Male (the main airport in the Maldives) you will then be transferred to your island and the length of travel tine really does depend on where you are. Some speedboat transfers are as little as 20 minutes away from Male, but most transfers are around about an hour, whether by plane or boat. But trust me, this part of your journey is amazing, enjoy every minute.</div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Time difference:</b> </span>5 hours ahead of the UK.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What you will see:</b> </span>The Maldives are renowned for being a honeymoon destination, with little to do but laze around the beaches and be pampered. And while this is true to a degree, the Maldives also offer the most amazing dive and snorkeling experiences as well as opportunities for wildlife and bird watching. There is much more to the Maldives than we are generally led to believe. Depending on your location within theMaldives and the season you choose, you may have the opportunity to see: Manta rays, spotted whale sharks, turtles, black and white tipped reef sharks, blue and yellow fin tuna, sting rays, eagle rays, spotted rays, dolphin, porpoise and even some passing whales, all of this of top of an amazing plethora of tropical fish on the reefs, from stunning trigger fish and guinea fowl puffas, to Nemo (clown fish) and moray eels. The sea life really is amazing and the majority of reefs are well protected as the Maldivians are becoming more active in their preservation. Some islands are even running new reef generation programs, cultivating coral and creating new areas for the marine life to flourish.<br />
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Meanwhile, on land you will sea, lizzards, the amazing tropic birds, finches and other birds, alongside Fruit bats in abundance. Unlike most bats the fruit bats look more like a flying fox and are pretty big. They have a curious nature and will often move along a branch to get a better look at what you are up to. The roost during the day and then become more active in the late afternoon when they take advantage of the drop in temperature. In flight they are easily confused with seabirds at a glance, purely due to their size. Watching them swoop in and out of the trees really is mesmerising.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Detail:</b> </span>You will be hard pressed to find a bad resort in the Maldives, there are all generally rated 3 star of above with the majority being 4 & 5 star. The star rating here, really reflects the amenities. You will find some of the larger island have gyms, tennis courts, sometimes even small golf courses etc, alongside several bars and restaurants. While some smaller islands may simply sport a single restaurant/bar and a boules area. This doesn't amke it a worse hotel, just a smaller more intimate one. My advice would be to decide what you want from you trip and choose your island carefully.<br />
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Generally the rooms are detached or semi-detached bungalows and are often in one of three categories: Garden villa, beach villa and water villa. The garden villas, don't tend to have a sea view, or if they do, it is a restricted one. But other than that they tend to be much the same as the beach villas inside. The beach villas often allow you to step out of your door and straight onto white sand, with the sea immediately in front of you. The water villas position you actually above the sea, with steps that allow you to get straight into the sea and bypass the beach entirely. Water villas also have the reputation of being more luxurious than the other villas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9TdkR2hWeLLlaHp9lcKCSb4YdAbuQ4gTsipSECtmg0gsEzjcYfs-3diYY3yBgyCX11DAx01eliiksaOniaOjiQxzTOx_WURS-cag8VTIsHuJPBlazMGaDLMMX32W2eJff2-HedLi7QI/s1600/IMG_3804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9TdkR2hWeLLlaHp9lcKCSb4YdAbuQ4gTsipSECtmg0gsEzjcYfs-3diYY3yBgyCX11DAx01eliiksaOniaOjiQxzTOx_WURS-cag8VTIsHuJPBlazMGaDLMMX32W2eJff2-HedLi7QI/s320/IMG_3804.JPG" width="320" /></a>Pro's and cons of each room type:<br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Garden villas</span> tend to offer privacy, more so than you would get being beach side, but due to their location, it's often difficult to find a sunny patch directly outside. Also, their location in the trees means that you may have a higher risk of mosquitoes and bugs.<br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Beach villas </span><span style="color: #c27ba0;"></span>tend are right on the beach, so access to sun, sea and sand is a given, however, the islands coastline is a regular route and you may find that when you sit outside, your privacy is an issue. But trust me, the ability to sit outside your villa and watch the sunset over a cocktail in the balmy evenings, make the water villas an unbeatable experience.<br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0;">Water villas </span><span style="color: #c27ba0;"></span>give you lots of privacy and the added bonus of a sand free room, but, and there's always a pay off right? The fact that you are at least a jetty away from the island means that the walk to any bar or restaurant is much further than from anywhere else. If there is a storm, you will be more battered in a water villa. The access to the sea can be deceptive, as the water villas are located in shallow water and you may not always have water to get into, depending on the tides. Again, depending on the island and the location of the water villas, this may leave you on dry land for some of the day and the general sea debris can gather under your villas, meaning that in the full heat of the day it can be a bit smelly.<br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to take:</b> </span><br />
• Bear in mind that you will travelling into a muslim area when you arrive at Male, so it's advisable to make sure you carry a shoulder covering top (lightweight and cool) in your hand luggage. It may not be your religion, but it pays to show respect to theirs and common courtesy costs you nothing.<br />
• You won't need much in the way of footwear once you arrive on your island, so just make sure you take some flip flops and comfy shoes for travelling in. If you plan on doing lots of boat trips, make sure you take some sandals that give grip and won't drop off into the water when you are embarking/disembarking.<br />
• If you have an underwater camera or underwater camera case, take it!<br />
• A lightweight raincoat or poncho if you are going in rainy season. You may not have far to go, but the downpours are heavy even if they are short lived.<br />
• Mossie repellent and bite cream (anything you buy on the island can be expensive).<br />
<b>• If you take cash (generally US$) make sure they are crisp new notes, with no tears or pen marks. Apparently the Sri Lankan banks won't accept any dog eared notes, which means that you could encounter problems when paying with cash – this has happened to me. Make sure when you get the money from the exchange, that you check each note to make sure you are happy - the newer the better.</b><br />
• A waterproof or at least shower proof bag or rucksack.<br />
• Snorkelling gear, if you have your own, then it will help you to have it. Some islands lend you the kit free of charge, but not always. Flipper will save you a lot of effort too and enable you to keep up with the more interesting things you may see.<br />
• Lots of books to read. <br />
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<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to expect:</b> </span>Expect paradise! You will get it. Don't expect cafe culture, if this is what you are looking for then the Maldives is not for you and you may end up being a little bored. Your entertainment will be largely self motivated. Once on the island you won't have night clubs or shops to visit (other than the odd couple owned by the hotel). Expect, peace and quiet, relaxation and a relaxed pace of life. If you are there for the marine life (scuba or snorkelling) expect an ocean adventure.<br />
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The food will be fresh and tasty and of very good quality. You will find that there is a lot of fresh fish on the menu and a lot of Asian, food. However, there is always a good selection catering for most tastes.<br />
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You will be expected to tip your waiter (generally the same for the duration of your stay) your cleaner and your porters, the tipping amount will be suggested by your travel agent and often depends on the prestige of the hotel you are staying in.<br />
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Expect slow internet, if you get any at all. Technology is refreshingly absent here – enjoy it while it lasts.<br />
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Expect a laid back approach. The staff are exceptionally friendly, helpful and will go out of their way to make your stay a good one, but reaction times can be slow and you may have to adjust your expectations accordingly.<br />
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Romance: if you are here on honeymoon, or just for a bit of time together, there is plenty of romance to be had here, from beach dining, castaway picnics on deserted islands to an ice cool cocktail on your veranda.<br />
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The islands are beautiful, which is why I keep going back, the relaxation is compulsory, and the romance is optional.<br />
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Enjoy.Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-44570658803622529272012-04-02T08:06:00.003-07:002012-04-05T01:59:53.640-07:00Beautiful Borneo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDi5uMfSL2BWjL1bw8Tj0r_ee0tmYPs8yjeOZgtsvU2YnE0iXpdIjE6me1KjaU6luk9Sgs0W-Sgqb3aH4StlAqwDpNE3sxH8AQ-r-Z03g1GE4g0pusAP2XL2x0E1EEmR7S6uPXNgHJ2w/s1600/borneo_orangutan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDi5uMfSL2BWjL1bw8Tj0r_ee0tmYPs8yjeOZgtsvU2YnE0iXpdIjE6me1KjaU6luk9Sgs0W-Sgqb3aH4StlAqwDpNE3sxH8AQ-r-Z03g1GE4g0pusAP2XL2x0E1EEmR7S6uPXNgHJ2w/s320/borneo_orangutan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><span style="color: #c27ba0;">Borneo, location:</span> </b>North of Java Island, Indonesia/Malaysia (depending on the region visited).<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Famous for:</b> Being home to one of the oldest rainforests in the World and of course to the critically endangered Orangutan as well as many other rare and endangered animal and reptile species and of course Turtles who nest there throughout the year. <br />
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<b><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">When to go:</span> </span></b>It is best to travel between March and October, as it is drier, but this is a rainforest area and you should expect rain at any time, although it is generally heavy and brief. Conditions are generally hot and humid all year round. There is a huge area to explore and depending on where you go, you might want to research if there is a particular month that you are more likely too see what you want to see.<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Cost:</b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>Always tricky as it really depends on what it is you want to see, where you want to go and how long for, but you can do a fairly comprehensive trip, including a few days at the beach for between £2,200 and £3,000 per person (based on 2 weeks, 2 people sharing). You can save a little money by spending less time in the five star beach resorts and enjoying more time in the jungle areas.<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Flight time from the UK:</b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>There are a number of flight options, but you should allow a full days travel based on a pause in KL airport (where you can leave and explore if the stop is long enough) as well as flight times of 12+ hours. But trust me the trip is well worth it and the flights are well serviced and very comfortable.<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Time difference:</b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>7 hours ahead of the UK.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJFmsSPI7Fc1QuS9MFM4bb4Zv9TBzt4bJ_WWt3BSMQBDtCFZfQTBqCfp_WhQOj9ta9paJ6QmFRU7FZZVuJLUyqvyNTDLE-oTU7IaS5kYio6rTRAECBIX7r_tJoolDn117-RR7KiXC5acA/s1600/borneo6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJFmsSPI7Fc1QuS9MFM4bb4Zv9TBzt4bJ_WWt3BSMQBDtCFZfQTBqCfp_WhQOj9ta9paJ6QmFRU7FZZVuJLUyqvyNTDLE-oTU7IaS5kYio6rTRAECBIX7r_tJoolDn117-RR7KiXC5acA/s320/borneo6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b style="color: #c27ba0;">What you will see: </b>This does depend very much on where you go, but if you head into the jungle in Sabah and Sarawak you are pretty much going to see: Proboscis Monkeys, Pygmy tree squirrels, Macaque monkeys, if you are lucky – Orangutan, Wrinkle lipped bats, fruit bats, Marroon Langur Monkeys, Hopefully Civets, and Bearded pigs. Possibly a Clouded Leopard, and even Sun bears. If you head into Danum Valley there is an altogether different and equally diverse wildlife, including: Mouse Deer, Slow Loris, Leaf Monkey, Flying squirrels and Pgymy Elephant. There are simply too many things to list and these are just on land!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcW_KAtN2IEX5Ce-ASG8akX_ien9_mWinAPVYVJUOAEZos7ZRQzJPxqq0LplZ4AkYfOXhQ6uPOZA8BJ9ytGybXTRw1VJl2088r0koObib5ZHFHVDPwu1BSh_DUvR_qim1HZv7FVUuCwEU/s1600/borneo2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcW_KAtN2IEX5Ce-ASG8akX_ien9_mWinAPVYVJUOAEZos7ZRQzJPxqq0LplZ4AkYfOXhQ6uPOZA8BJ9ytGybXTRw1VJl2088r0koObib5ZHFHVDPwu1BSh_DUvR_qim1HZv7FVUuCwEU/s320/borneo2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b style="color: #c27ba0;">Detail: </b>Well Borneo is a wannabe explorers dream, generally you get a dedicated guide who will travel with you as you move around the island, this was great as we didn't need to travel with a group and we were able to tailor our days depending on what we wanted to see rather than what the group was being taken to see. I would definitely recommend having a dedicated guide and if your trip doesn't provide one, ask.They are also a great way to learn about the various tribes and cultures on the island, their history and of course the slow eradication of the rainforest and what they are doing to protect it. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable and are keen to educate their guests as much as possible.<br />
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We started our trip in the mountains at Mt Kinabalu in Sabah, and then traveled through Sabah to Sarrawak. Our jungle time was 8 days in all and we both fell in love with it. The best location for wildlife, we found, was the Kinabatangan River. Here we stayed right on the rivers edge and were able to explore the jungle both on foot and by boat. We saw hornbills, and kingfishers, giant monitor Lizards and so many Monkeys, it was almost too much to take in. We also saw Orangutan nests, but were not fortunate enough to see them in the wild this time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5hGzMcVnsYCH7pN34gkYR2pMAgoEKPyvIpSwaJ0p0tuTx3RZOg8Nq2p73Z6khzLNhhTzJzW5XZMtukmcNIVN4yQwLysxJJJkXEmZrp2z5iKhY4bwcnC1oN166hbmj1H3jLms4uJmHbco/s1600/Photo+099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5hGzMcVnsYCH7pN34gkYR2pMAgoEKPyvIpSwaJ0p0tuTx3RZOg8Nq2p73Z6khzLNhhTzJzW5XZMtukmcNIVN4yQwLysxJJJkXEmZrp2z5iKhY4bwcnC1oN166hbmj1H3jLms4uJmHbco/s320/Photo+099.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We spent 2 days by the river and I felt we could have spent more time here, so if you can, then do. You will not regret it. We then moved to the coast where we left the jungle behind for a while and spent an afternoon on an uninhabited island, courtesy of out fabulous guide Harry, who arranged this for us. It was our first truly relaxing day and so we thoroughly enjoyed it. We then went on to Liberan Island which is The Place to go to see Turtles, laying their eggs, learn about the conservation projects and then to see the release of turtle hatchlings. We were disappointed at the lack of respect shown by many tourists at this amazing Island but despite the tourism, they do great work and the tourism pays for much of it, so it is well worth going. You will need patience as the Turtles that lay here are wild and they do not conform to our timetable. They come ashore when they come ashore. The rangers watch them until they go into a self induced laying trance and then you are called to watch the process, which is truly breath taking. But beware, this could be a 2am call.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHuz9w1HqdJO5j0jpQHltB_oNiHEHwxHouVnUDIUlivxGpVTvSxZwW30bTQ1bsv5DX6MkM-VCP-e3m5IXqAoaKEJ_bxJaN8_tUdopFhj9WozD0uDDOCEpdm3toiIUQ94s2g_7__CcaXkg/s1600/Diving-in-Sipadan-Borneo-Malaysia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHuz9w1HqdJO5j0jpQHltB_oNiHEHwxHouVnUDIUlivxGpVTvSxZwW30bTQ1bsv5DX6MkM-VCP-e3m5IXqAoaKEJ_bxJaN8_tUdopFhj9WozD0uDDOCEpdm3toiIUQ94s2g_7__CcaXkg/s320/Diving-in-Sipadan-Borneo-Malaysia.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The turtle is left alone to finish her laying, while the rangers carefully remove the eggs to an incubation area, where the eggs are protected from predators such as monitor lizards and birds and when hatched are released immediately. There is no captive breeding here, just a helping hand to nature.<br />
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All in all there was only 1 place I did not enjoy on this trip and that was the 'Poring Hot Springs'. It was very, very busy, with locals and tourists and far from the tranquility we had experienced elsewhere and there was litter all around, but if you can't get an itinerary without it, you can walk away into the jungle behind the springs, where a well trodden path will lead you to a gorgeous waterfall. The walk is lovely and it's a good excuse to get away from the crowds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg95vF3AWv2BvUXZIveX01ohgPcf7qYsZ9bcFUaPUN7EhDJrw-YC_x7gIkkox9KI7JTD5Qdc4dAVai9WYStaYOtWmzhiwqlhPGOGx5GgaxFSNSuuU8C4wbka5PDZG9l5IB6-icVUHfpba8/s1600/100_0228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg95vF3AWv2BvUXZIveX01ohgPcf7qYsZ9bcFUaPUN7EhDJrw-YC_x7gIkkox9KI7JTD5Qdc4dAVai9WYStaYOtWmzhiwqlhPGOGx5GgaxFSNSuuU8C4wbka5PDZG9l5IB6-icVUHfpba8/s320/100_0228.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful preying mantis that joined us for dinner one night.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to take:</b></div>• A lightweight waterproof coat<br />
• A torch (electricity can be unpredicatble)<br />
• Good lightweight walking shoes<br />
• Leech socks if you have them although the guides will buy some for you if you don't.<br />
• Mosquito repellent at least 50% deet and even 100% deet to put onto clothes.<br />
• A hat that can double as rainhat and sunhat.<br />
• A waterproof rucksack or similar.<br />
• Binoculars<br />
• Water bottle (portable and preferably insulated)<br />
• Lightweight clothing that dries easily<br />
• Long sleeved tops and long trousers for jungle walks.<br />
• Hand sanitising spray or wipes. <br />
• Snorkelling gear if you head anywhere near the coast.<br />
• A camera and plenty of memory cards<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to expect:</b></div>Don't expect luxury, you are living out of a suitcase most of the time with one or two places at each lodge, the accommodation is basic but clean and what you are paying for is to be there in the thick of it and experience life in the jungle – the five star resorts are mainly beach side. Its really humid, so you will feel clammy most of the time in the jungle, hence the need for wipes or spray. It can be muddy, but well worth the grime. There are plenty of bugs, so insect repellent is a must.<br />
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Expect amazing and breathtaking experiences that you will carry with you for the rest of your life. The food is generally a fusion of oriental and Indonesian traditional meals, very tasty and not too spicy. There is always plain food, for those who have a delicate palette, but it is well worth trying it out as it is of a good standard throughout. Packed lunches are generally provided when you are out and about.<br />
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If you love wildlife, then you will love this trip, I guarantee it will bring out the adventurer in you.Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7489769500583713110.post-56973515244720515562012-02-20T04:19:00.006-08:002012-04-02T08:21:37.448-07:00Galapagos Islands<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26KZe6B0EYhM86PYMNwlgH7ZqLWCXsoa_WYARRHGubUGJjuOFnvPKrSd_alAPW8ltiE0UDOoCcpej48bFf39VuiAUVhuzpy-gMgI03bY1-L5WGqeobDnZE3cOjSfIUdzRwqXZax0yqf8/s1600/P1000841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26KZe6B0EYhM86PYMNwlgH7ZqLWCXsoa_WYARRHGubUGJjuOFnvPKrSd_alAPW8ltiE0UDOoCcpej48bFf39VuiAUVhuzpy-gMgI03bY1-L5WGqeobDnZE3cOjSfIUdzRwqXZax0yqf8/s400/P1000841.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>The Galapagos Islands</b></div><b style="color: #c27ba0;">Location </b><b style="color: #c27ba0;">:</b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>off the coast of Equador<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Famous for:</b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>Wildlife & the inspiration for Darwin's evolutionary theory<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">When to go: </b>Any time of year, have a look at the wildlife you want to see most and check when they are most prevalent, for instance you may want to see the frigate birds in their breeding season, or like wise the blue footed boobies during their mating dance...<br />
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<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Cost: </b>between<b> </b>£2,000 and £6,000 per person although you could pay more for a more exclusive trip.<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Temperature:</b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>average around 30 degrees all year round<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Distance from the UK</b><span style="color: #ead1dc;">:</span> approximately 13 hours depending on carrier<br />
<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Time difference from UK: </b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>6 hours behind<br />
What you will see: Sea lions, fur seals, marine iguana, land iguana, blue footed boobies, frigate birds, albatross, turtles, rays, whales, giant tortoise, and many, many more rare/unique bird and animal species depending on the route you take around the islands.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWdlzFAMiQUywCyFNM7RqgXRBAZUTK3trHzjKkLva6M4s6lrYnVKwZ0Jutw-zF-SOOKF3knTN0TU0GfiL1UJwL29Ea3JLpaubjrXDd__6VAjPxIsvraW6vSvUMH5ewmBVew8j5BN2z0M/s1600/P1000635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWdlzFAMiQUywCyFNM7RqgXRBAZUTK3trHzjKkLva6M4s6lrYnVKwZ0Jutw-zF-SOOKF3knTN0TU0GfiL1UJwL29Ea3JLpaubjrXDd__6VAjPxIsvraW6vSvUMH5ewmBVew8j5BN2z0M/s320/P1000635.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>So, Galapagos is an explorers dream, great for birds and wildlife in equal measure and really is a place to see before you die. The Galapagos Islands are a protected group of islands off the coast of Equador, and have been protected for so long that the wildlife shows no fear of human presence. But don't worry, there are no dangerous species, so you are safe and will always be accompanied by a guide to ensure that you stay that way.<br />
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This is not a beach holiday, if that's what you are looking for, then this is not the place to go. You will see glorious beaches everyday, striking coastlines and cliffs, but you won't be lying around on them as many of them are protected nesting areas.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nmkiUbaHYepe47FtcEnkh71xfQrWWSGerVmIk7hg49_s5xCrxEZFV6vgFJxEq2h8OuOrBz5aOS5DWl0ia0vu0pQLHU7RqAn7EnMXfPc5aJcT4vnPfunmBxqU9LMYDxVe-KT4mOpcMJA/s1600/P1000756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nmkiUbaHYepe47FtcEnkh71xfQrWWSGerVmIk7hg49_s5xCrxEZFV6vgFJxEq2h8OuOrBz5aOS5DWl0ia0vu0pQLHU7RqAn7EnMXfPc5aJcT4vnPfunmBxqU9LMYDxVe-KT4mOpcMJA/s320/P1000756.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The Galapagos Islands are truly unique as each of the islands has it's own endemic flora and fauna. There are some species that are common to all of the islands, but many variations which is why this magical place was Charles Darwins' inspiration for the evolution theory. Some of the Islands are young in geographical terms and look relatively bleak, but trust me, the minute you step on land you will see that even the most volcanic islands are teeming with life.<br />
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There is only one island you can stay on, Santa Cruz, but the best way to see this glorious region is by boat or cruise ship. You get a lot of choice on the type and the size of the boat/ship and your choice will have a large impact on the cost of the holiday. The smallest boats have an occupancy of 14 people + crew and tend to be very pretty sail boats, whereas you can go for a larger cruise ship option with an occupancy of up to 100 people. To help you choose, the benefits for each are as follows: Large ships have more amenities, more luxuries and more space, but they are less manoeuvrable <span class="st"><i></i></span>and therefore they are restricted to a certain area of the islands due to their size. The smaller boats offer a more intimate experience, and a closer knit travel group, but space is sacrificed to achieve this. The smaller boats are more agile an can get into the less explored regions of the Galapagos Islands, but you won't find any pools on deck or sun loungers. As for cost, the smaller boats tend to be more expensive, but you can say the same for the larger ships if you choose to opt for a luxurious trip. We opted for the more intimate experience and traveled on a small sailboat boat called the 'Cachalote' with 15 passengers and about the same crew. Alternatively, if you are averse to boats, you can base yourself in one of the hotels on Santa Cruz and take smaller speed boat trips out to the islands on a daily basis. However your exploration area will be extremely limited if you choose this route.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #c27ba0; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIoSU9G966bwdTNku97lunzkBjR3W3Yl1OjaOjAvbwEml6ah2BVlEJFyJIWZ7fwDR7Y_4vnBvoypVsvdDZ5Pe3xpW-TWP67-l33qNdsVAIosGmpPOuAcrvjSlWG-nDLQ-c7QlGjcDjx2M/s1600/P1000746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIoSU9G966bwdTNku97lunzkBjR3W3Yl1OjaOjAvbwEml6ah2BVlEJFyJIWZ7fwDR7Y_4vnBvoypVsvdDZ5Pe3xpW-TWP67-l33qNdsVAIosGmpPOuAcrvjSlWG-nDLQ-c7QlGjcDjx2M/s320/P1000746.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b style="color: #c27ba0;">The holiday itinerary:</b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span>You will always be encouraged to stay a night in the capital of Equador (Quito) as, should your luggage be delayed for any reason, if you get onto a boat on the islands without it, they will have no way of reuniting you with it. But this is actually a good way to start the holiday as there are plenty of things to see in the capital and the hotels are generally lovely. You will find that Equador is a little cooler than the islands though, so be sure to take some long trousers and a sweater.<br />
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Once you have explored Equador, you will be taken to the airport for an internal flight to meet your boat or to be transferred to your Santa Cruz hotel. If you opt for the boat, then you are in for a real treat, generally there will be plenty of wildlife for you to see before you even get on the boat, sea lions, blue footed boobies, land and water iguanas, will all be milling around on the coast... If you have chosen the hotel option, your itinerary will be decided by you as you go. However, if you choose the boat, once aboard, this will be your home for the duration of your stay and you will have the pleasure of waking up to a new view every day.<br />
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<b style="color: #c27ba0;">Life on board: </b>The travel usually happens overnight, while you sleep, although depending on your route and the islands you are visiting, you may need to sail through the day on occasion.<br />
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Most boats require a barefoot policy on board and ask that your shoes are cleaned in disinfectant after you return form each island, to prevent cross contamination/pollenation from one island to another.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheSZ27XuTb_ka452iqcnC_78jMSaEgtFyvwmB0um3t4cNs8Kcnf2aa4Kiila44U0jHRA2vXRxN7RC0hEMyq7-b93BPH0AKXJgQtaSr-z6XnWNE-t_p0uA05oBgyNZoP9IqGJkgXiRHJ9s/s1600/P1000796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheSZ27XuTb_ka452iqcnC_78jMSaEgtFyvwmB0um3t4cNs8Kcnf2aa4Kiila44U0jHRA2vXRxN7RC0hEMyq7-b93BPH0AKXJgQtaSr-z6XnWNE-t_p0uA05oBgyNZoP9IqGJkgXiRHJ9s/s320/P1000796.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>You will generally be given an itinerary every evening, for the following day. It generally involves an early breakfast (to make sure you get the most out of the day) and a trip out to an island. Each island is incredibly different and you will see much varied wildlife on each. The trips are not compulsory, so if you want to lie in, no one is going to stop you, but I doubt you will the islands are just too addictive.<br />
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After a morning island excursion, you will be returned to the boat and given lunch, then have some relaxation time before you embark on the next trip. You will find that some of the trips are very water focused as the marine life is very rich here and you are given plenty of opportunities to dive and snorkel of the coast of the islands. Beware the water is freezing here, due to the unique currents, so make sure you bring or hire a wetsuit. Most boats carry a range of wetsuits for hire. I tried one trip without and ended up hyperventilating and missing all the fun... you will be swimming with seal ions, penguins (the only tropical penguins in the world) turtles and a plethora of other marine animals. There are some reef sharks here, and more adventurous divers can go out on hammerhead shark trips if they want to.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaaKxyH6TnU3AGLoiFn4IsOL8RiwNXaqYCwG83Dbedvw1w27_qyzjEb9kq0dCwv7T9N8caIuPQUK63VG9LqCejW3FDK4GYi7jjdUtNNxLlL4GyYZEVIfVkx1UNztVVc2D20OoLsV7fXE/s1600/P1000940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaaKxyH6TnU3AGLoiFn4IsOL8RiwNXaqYCwG83Dbedvw1w27_qyzjEb9kq0dCwv7T9N8caIuPQUK63VG9LqCejW3FDK4GYi7jjdUtNNxLlL4GyYZEVIfVkx1UNztVVc2D20OoLsV7fXE/s320/P1000940.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The food is fresh and tasty, at least it was on our boat and the atmosphere is always good after such an interesting day. Mind you, there were very few occasions when the guests were up past 10pm, as we were exhausted. The cabins were small but comfortable and I spent some nights falling asleep while watching the sea lions playing outside my porthole... truly amazing.<br />
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All of the photos shown here were taken on that trip, you really do get that close to the wildlife. <br />
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<div style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>What to take:</b></div>• Wetsuits if you have them, if not hire one, they are not expensive.<br />
• Sea sickness tablets (we took one every day just to make sure we didn't have a single day ruined and it worked like a dream)<br />
• Good walking sandals that you are happy to get wet.<br />
• Good walking shoes for any dry trekking.<br />
• A decent water bottle. You will be provided with water, sports bottles are portable, easy to carry and tend to stay cooler for longer.<br />
• Take way more memory cards for your camera than you think you will ever need.<br />
• Some warm clothing, the mornings/evenings can be deceptively cool<br />
• If you have some zip off trousers, take them, they are great to start the day in, and then convert to shorts when it gets warmer, which it will.<br />
• Sunscreen of course<br />
• Binoculars - mot of the birds and wildlife will remain close, but it is a great way to spot Whales as you travel around. We saw killer whales and humpbacks while we were here, as well as dolphins.<br />
• Snorkelling gear - although again, the boats will have some for you to hire.<br />
• A lightweight hat or cap, you could be walking around in the sun for a large chunk of the day.<br />
• Spare batteries and chargers, most of the boats, even the smaller ones, have a number of plug sockets you can use.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRwXf41npuOT7PViy9EWlLmzWz1bRSRv8btvs8RYIgLh1g5W-LLXwwAAHwptL1Nns6KyXceUXJ3or1RL88MCPtXqt1CbJkKKDNvxjrLGQ5RQZw4o2HbWgF8O0S7a21ZopzJ3TpBYsyPw/s1600/P1010177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRwXf41npuOT7PViy9EWlLmzWz1bRSRv8btvs8RYIgLh1g5W-LLXwwAAHwptL1Nns6KyXceUXJ3or1RL88MCPtXqt1CbJkKKDNvxjrLGQ5RQZw4o2HbWgF8O0S7a21ZopzJ3TpBYsyPw/s320/P1010177.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>With the Galapagos Islands, it really is a catch 22, they are so sensitive to change that tourism is having an impact on the delicate ecosystem, however the protection of these islands is extremely reliant on the income produced by tourism. So the way to do it it practice responsible travel, be environmentally aware and make sure you leave NOTHING behind when you return to your boat. They say that you should do the trip once in a lifetime and never return, so as to lessen the effect the tourism has on the area as a whole. So make sure you choose your boat and your route around the islands well, you won't regret it.Angiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00663868750929712534noreply@blogger.com0