Caribbean Cave Tubing in Belize: A Serious Family Adventure

On February 3, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Your entire family will relish floating down this legendary subterranean waterway on your Caribbean cave tubing excursion.

What does the family that wants a little history and archeology mixed in with their adventure, relaxation, and water, do when they’re on holiday in the Caribbean? They go Caribbean cave tubing through the underground Sibun Reserve in Belize!

On the Way to Cave Tubing

 

The perfect combination of history and excitement

This is a unique opportunity to go on a guided tour through some of the areas impressive caves – where you’ll see ancient Mayan artifacts that date as far back as 400 AD as well as the amazing cave formations and crystals that adorn the ceilings and walls of these alien-looking caves – all from the comfort of an intertube floating down a brisk subterranean river.

In and Out of the Caves

There are several companies that offer guided cave tubing in Belize. Most of them include additional options to add to your tubing escapade. These additional adventures can include, driving ATVs through the jungle, zip-lining through the rain forest, or exploring dry caves and cave waterfalls. If you choose to add another adventure onto your tubing voyage, you’ll soon be ready to hit the water!

Zip Lining is Part of the Adventure!

...And So Are the Mayan Ruins!

 

Get going on your Caribbean cave tubing day

 The Caves Branch Archeological Reserve is just a brief drive from the main tourist area of Belize. Once you arrive, you’ll enjoy a quick 30 minute hike through the rain forest to the underground Sibun Reserve (most tour guides will show their courtesy right away and help carry intertubes for the women in the group that wish it), which is where you’ll hop on your tube equipped with your life vest, head lamp, and water bottle, and head down the Cave Branch River.

Preparing the Kids for cave Tubing

Throughout this 4 hour Caribbean cave tubing journey, the guides will give you floating commentary on the importance of each area as well as an overall history of Belize and the river cave system. For the ancient Maya, caves were a significant location for ceremonial centers. Because of this, you can still see many of their markings and artifacts throughout the caves. The crystals you’ll see hanging down from the caves’ ceilings are over 5 million years old and are a seriously astonishing site to marvel at as you drift down the river.

Entering the Caves

 

Experience the Caribbean like you never expected

Your Caribbean cave tubing experience will cost anywhere from $45 to $95, depending on which company you choose, as well as various other factors. Remember to bring your waterproof cameras and sunblock (you’re not in the caves the entire time) and this adventure will be something your family reminisces about for a while. You’ll receive a great education on one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated islands and have a remarkable journey whizzing down one of the world’s most renowned underground river systems!

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7 Unforgettable Kid-Friendly Adventures in Italy

On December 24, 2011, In Archeology & Culture, City Breaks, From Rails to Sails: Europe Go Travel Direct with Kids, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Kid-Friendly Adventures at Marmara Falls 

After city sightseeing, Marmara Falls provides great adventure outdoors for the kids.  Located in Umbria about 100 km. from Rome, the falls consist of 3 major cascades dropping 165m.  Stroll down the paths which closely skirt the falls where at times, you’ll be sprayed by the falls’ natural mist.  Climb to the top where the lovely manicured gardens with stunning cupolas  await you or take the kids on a leisurly rafting expedition in the Nera River below the falls.  Tubing, donkey rides, biking and climbing are among the other activities offered in this area.

Marmara Falls in Umbria

 

Chocolate, Truffles and  More – Always an Unfogettable Adventure

Kids will love a day in Perugina’s school of chocolate learning to make delectable chocolates and desserts.  And even the youngest family members will thrill to the idea of preparing their own pizza or ravioli with a local chef.  Or, head to the woods with a guide and dog to sniff out truffles.  Any or all of these adventures are experiences no youngster will forget!

Chocolate Workshop at Perugina

 

Bring that Creative Side into Play for the Kids

Deruta, the capital of Italian ceramics since the Renaissance, is the place to bring out the artist in your child.  A ceramics workshop is a great activity for the entire family and a time to “chill out” between heavy adventure.  The many ceramics on display here will only enhance the adventure!

Deruta Ceramics

 

 

Explore Lucca Atop the Walls – One of the Best Kid-Friendly Adventures in Italy

Lucca, enclosed by ramparts, is a magical place for youngsters and teens.  The town’s encompassing walls are wide enough for biking and strolling atop.  Exploring this historical center with its visual treats from a position above is what it’s all about for kids.  Small bikes and wagons can easily be rented here to enhance the adventure.

Atop Lucca's Ramparts

 

Kid-Friendly Adventures in Tuscany- Take the Nature Train

A great id-friendly adventure is the Treno Natura, Tuscany’s Nature Train.  This is one of the best ways to see Tuscany without the hassle of driving the regions winding hill roads.  A relic of times gone by, the Nature Train takes you back to a time of steam locomotives and carriage cars.

The Treno Natura in Monte Antico

Riding the train is a relaxing experience, with ample opportunities to sit back and watch Tuscany’s natural beauty glide by.  Crossing Siena, Asciano, and Monte Antico, the train runs several times a day on a once- abandoned  circuit.  Stopping frequently at small towns and hamlets along the way, passengers have the option of hopping off and later back on to the train.  Walking and biking along the same route will lead to natural wooded  areas and even to local homes where home-cooked dishes and local specialties such as sheep’s cheese can be had.

 

Climb the Duomo in Florence – Unforgettable for Kids!

The highlight of a trip to Florence for youngsters will undoubtedly be  the climb to the top of the Duomo in the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. The challenge of climbing the over 460 steps up to the top in thecurcular, dark and narrow stairway will appeal to youngsters, making it quite an adventure.  The view of Florence and the surrounding environs is spectacular.  An added delight is the sight up-close of the dome’s frescoed ceiling  above.

Climbing the Duomo

 

Kid-Friendly Adventures Off-the-Beaten-Path in Rome

Ostia Antica, Rome’s ancient port, an easy 30 minute ride from the city, is a great alternative to Pompeii, especially with kids.  Here you’ll find amphitheaters, bath houses, apartment   complexes and even Europe’s oldest synagogue.  The open-air atmosphere in a contained area gives kids the opportunity to wander around without limits.  On your return, stop to take a dip in the sea or enjoy a snack at one of many eatieries on the shore.

Entering Ostia Antica

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Unique Vacations at Lake Trasimeno

On November 15, 2011, In Biking & Hiking, From Rails to Sails: Europe Go Travel Direct with Kids, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Nothing quite compares to sitting at a lakeside café on Lake Como or taking in Italy’s alpine lakes; yet Lake Trasimeno, set in Italy’s green heart, will not disappoint. Nestled amidst Umbria’s verdant rolling hills and bordering Tuscany, the clear blue waters of Lake Trasimeno reflect the dark green slopes, vineyards and olive groves of its surroundings.

Picture of Castiglione del Lago  thanks to Parpan05 from Wikimedia Commons and Ookaboo!

The largest lake in central and southern Italy, Lake Trasimeno is a perfect base for  adventure travel in Umbria and nearby Tuscany, where some great family holidays begin.  Though it never gets very deep, with no more than 20 ft. at its deepest spot, the lake provides ample opportunities for water sports, hiking or just relaxing along its lovely beaches.  Swimming, sailing, kayaking and surfing are among the water sports on offer in a lake whose shallow waters make it an ideal spot for adventure with children.  The unspoilt countryside surrounding the lake features lovely hidden biking trails where wooded hills are home to wild boar, deer, porcupines, hares, toads and owls.  Leisurely hiking on the hills that line the lake open to nature at its best, with the myriad of colors of heather and rock roses in bloom and the intense fragrance of broom throughout.

Boating on the Lake - Just One of Many Activities

Ducal Palace

The picturesque towns which dot the hills bordering the lake provide breathtaking panoramic views, as well as a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.  Castiglione del Lago, surrounded by towering fortified walls, is dominated by its medieval fortress and its 15th century Ducal Palace, housing original frescoes.  A walk on the walls offers striking panoramic views of the lake.  Panicale strategically perched on a hilltop and a fortified castle originally, was especially important to Perugia in the13th and 14th century as it controlled the valleys of Lake Trasimeno and the Nestore River.  In Panicale, art is everywhere.  Among the most famous works is a fresco painted by Perugino in 1505.  It adorns the back wall of the Oratory of San Sebastiano.  Piegaro houses a beautiful glass museum, originally a 13th century glass factory.

Castiglione del Lago by Eulenjager from Wikimedia Commons

Piegaro Photos
Piegaro Glass Museum. This photo of Piegaro is courtesy of TripAdvisor  

Just across the border in Tuscany, the pretty town of Chiusi features an interesting and not too large Etruscan Museum as well as an underground system of former water channels.  Lake Trasimeno’s north shore is home to 2 charming villages – Tuoro and Passignano, both featuring historic buildings as well as offering spectacular lake views.

View of the Lake from Castiglione by by Schwarzer Kater from Wikimedia Commons

Set in Umbria, a region of unspoiled farmland country and half-hidden retreats as yet protected from the havoc of tourism, Lake Trasimeno provides the perfect base for adventure outdoors, splendid panoramic views and the opportunity of discovering the rich history and culture of its surroundings.

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Untouched Splendor: The Osa Peninsula Unveiled

On October 7, 2011, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Rainforests & Jungles, Water Adventures, Wildlife, By Sylvia Arad
The Osa Peninsula, a secluded nature wonderland, stretches throughout most of Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coastline.  To the backdrop of verdant mountains, the tropical rainforests here merge with isolated pristine beaches to form one of the county’s most beautiful regions.  The area is one of diverse biological intensity rarely seen in one of the world’s tallest rainforests.   As well, the Osa Peninsula embraces the largest expanse of lowland rainforest in Central America.

 

Osa Peninsula - Coastal View

 

Corcovado National Park 

Scarlet Macaw

 Nearly 80% of the peninsula is protected by Corcovado National Park, where many of the country’s rare and endangered animals and birds reside.  Sprawling along the west coast, Corcovado is a Garden of Eden.  The last region of the world’s tropical humid forest, the park’s myriad species of trees are overhung with bromeliads, orchids and other wild flora.   Cool clear streams meander through the forest to spill into the warm Pacific waters.  This microcosm of bio-diversity houses thousands of species of flora and fauna, where wildlife watching is unmatched – by simply stepping outdoors, you cross paths with various types of monkeys, coatamunds, caiman and ocelots, while endangered scarlet macaws, toucans and 400 other species of birds roam above. While the desert beaches beckon invitingly, the real attraction of Corcovado is its wildlife and plants.

Encounter with a Coatimundi

A Toucan Above

Drake Bay  and Puerto Jimenez, the 2 main gateways into the region, lie on the northern and southern edges of the peninsula.  Puerto Jimenez, the region’s largest town, lies on the Golfo Dulce on the peninsula’s southernmost tip.  Here calm, isolated beaches encompass one of the most secluded corners of Costa Rica, where adventurers come to experience nature in the raw – lush vegetation, mangrove swamps with abundant mammals and birds, and a trio of unparalleled beaches.

Sunset on Drake Bay

Beach on Isla del Cano

Nestled in the hills above the lush coastline on the peninsula’s northern tip, remote Drake Bay is one of Costa Rica’s most peaceful destinations.  It offers easy access to Corcovado, as well as nearby Cano Island, a marine life treasure trove.  Here, snorkelers and divers come for the chance to swim with sea turtles, marlins, rainbow fish and dolphins.

 

Whale and Dolphin Watching

The Osa Peninsula is not only appealing for its wildlife and jungle trekking.  This is a region where marine life abounds. Costa Rica’s southern coast is the favorite playground for dolphins and whales.  Five kinds of dolphins and 3 species of whales inhabit the region’s coast at Playa Dominical.  Dolphin and whale watching adventures provide an excellent opportunity to see humpback whales lunging out of the ocean, then back-flipping into the waves.  To the backdrop of Drake Bay and the beautiful surrounding beaches, these expeditions take you into the protected waters of the Marina Ballena National Park where whales, dolphins, tropical fish and sea turtles abound.

Picture of Whale surfacing  thanks to Zorankovacevic from English Wikipedia and Ookaboo!

While some whales inhabit these waters throughout the year, most migrate here from November to March and from July to December, when they give birth to their young.  These temperate Pacific waters, however, are the year-round habitat of dolphins and sea turtles, where adults and children alike will thrill to the opportunity of swimming with these playful creatures.

Frolicking Dolphins

The remoteness and untouched beauty of the Osa Peninsula make this an adventurer’s paradise and a region well worth visiting for its untainted natural beauty and its wildlife and marine life excitement.

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Irresistible Family Adventure Travel Holidays in Manuel Antonio National Park

On September 30, 2011, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, Wildlife, By Sylvia Arad

Just south of the small coastal town of Quepos along the Pacific Ocean lies Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park.  The smallest of Costa Rica’s national parks, stretching over 1700 acres of land and nearly 136, 00 acres of marine reserve, it is nevertheless one of the most stunningly beautiful parks with a diversity of wildlife that is unmatched.

Manuel Antonio's Beautiful Coastline

Tiny it may be, but Manuel Antonio embodies the very best Costa Rica has to offer:  A breathtaking setting with offshore islands, pristine sand beaches, close up encounters with wildlife galore and a network of wide welcoming trails leading into a swathe of tropical rainforests where you may see marmosets, ocelots, river otters, sloths and rare monkeys.  Howler monkeys  languidly  clamber from tree to tree while iguanas scramble up trunks.  Wild parrots ablaze with red and yellow feathers and toucans and scarlet macaws screech loudly as they flap by. 

Picture of  Sloth  Manuel Antonio National Park
thanks to Rlendog from Wikimedia Commons and Ookaboo!

Howler Monkeys

The lush forest cliffs rise sharply from the shoreline where capuchin monkeys abound and even rare squirrel monkeys can be seen.  Butterflies, as well as wild flowers and plants intensify the forest’s colorful setting, offering spectacular scenery unique to Costa Rica.

Picture of   Squireel Monkey Manuel Antonio National Park
thanks to Rlendog from Wikimedia Commons and Ookaboo!

To the backdrop of the lush mountainous tropical forest reaching to the water’s edge, the park features idyllic white beaches.  Gazing down from the quickly rising hillsides, you’ll gasp in awe at the breathtaking vistas expanding beneath you.   Connected by trails meandering through the rainforest, the near perfect beaches of Espadilla Sur, Playita, Escondido and Playa Manuel Antonio pave the setting for snorkeling, water board surfing and great swimming.   A small coral reef and 12 offshore islets add to the beauty, where dolphins and whales can sometimes be spotted.

Idyllic White Sand Beaches

Whitewater rafting, kayaking and fishing are also core water activities in the park.  Hiking and nature walks through the jungle abound and horseback riding and mountain biking trips provide unparalleled excitement.  The latter take travelers on day-long expeditions to the mangroves, and shorter explorations through the forests and along the coastline.

Awe-Inspiring Vistas

Bringing together the charming combination of a rainforest crawling with exotic wildlife, pristine beaches, coral reefs and awe-inspiring vistas, Manuel Antonio National Park is a fabulous adventure destination with a wealth of activities and attractions for all types and all ages.

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The Most Rewarding Family Adventure Travel Experience in Costa Rica

On September 16, 2011, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, Wildlife, By Sylvia Arad

Getting to Tortuguero National Park is quite an adventure!  Tortuguero National Park lies on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, and though we had heard that it features an incredible variety of wildlife in a near-jungle setting, we were going for the main attraction – to see turtles nesting their eggs along the coastline.

To this end, we headed south.  We began our trip to Tortuguero with an incredible drive through the mountains and farm lands replete with banana fields.  Our real adventure began shortly after reaching Puerto Limon, the capital town of Limon Province.  Little did we know that from here on, a spectacular trip awaited us!

Getting to Tortuguero

There are no roads to Tortuguero, so we took the only possible route – boating through the lush canals.  This was part of the adventure.  A near 2 hour boat trip lead us through the Canal de Tortuguero and through some stunning rainforests at the banks of the swamps.  Shortly after pushing off the dock, a crocodile caught our attention.  The kids were especially excited as he was just a bit too close for comfort.  Competing with the crocodile, Howler and Spider monkeys were staging a noisy show in the treetops.  A sloth flaunted his cuddly koala-like side.   There were turtles and birds of every variety – egrets, herons and toucans flying overhead.  At every bend in the river, a surprise awaited us.  As there is no human settlement, nature truly dominates here.

A Croc Just a Little Too Close for Comfort!

As we neared Tortuguero town, the rainforest gave way to expansive beaches, the perfect nesting ground for the sea turtles.   Tortuguero National Park was created to protect and preserve its turtle residents – Green Sea Turtles, Hawksbill, Leatherback and Loggerheads.   On our own in the afternoon, we explored tiny Tortuguero town, a truly magical little village.  There are no cars here, only bikes and boats.  Walking paths extend through the village and into the National Park.  We started out on a self-guided walk through the Los Raudales Nature Trail to reach a scenic point of magnificent vistas – the azure ocean, the near-blinding white beaches and the sight of waves crashing against the rocks.

Tortuguero's Pristine Beaches

Los Raudales Nature Trail

The next morning we chose to take a guided ecotour through the park’s canals.  Tortuguero National Park hosts a network of stunning black water canals where we spotted all kinds of monkeys and other birds, as well as an abundance of marine life.  Our guide pointed out the sloths, spider and capuchin monkeys which would have been lost to us among the thick foliage.  We spotted a large iguana nearly dropping from a tree precariously, and a Jesus lizard, famous for its ability to run on the water.  Cruising through the canals covered completely by the canopy of the rainforest, the plant and animal life found here is unimaginable.

Iguana in the Trees

In the evening, we were all especially excited, anticipating our turtle nesting walk.  To the waning moon and in complete darkness, we made our way, single file, to the beach.  The sounds of crashing waves and the smell of salt in the humid air gave evidence to our direction in the black night.  The dimmed red light of our guide led the way, as the sand gave way under us. 

Suddenly a huge Green Sea Turtle loomed ahead, its sheer size impressive.  Unaware of our presence, the turtle inhaled and with every exhale, it laid between 2-4 bluish eggs.  It seems these turtles lay between 200-300 eggs at a time, but very few survive.  After dropping the eggs, the turtles hide the eggs in the sand.  The sight of this natural process which has been going on for thousands of years was incredible to witness.  For the kids especially it was an experience which left them with their mouths agape.

Green Sea Turtles Nesting and Hiding the Eggs

On our final morning, we clambered up Tortuguero Island Mountain with our guide, where we saw rubber trees, strangler trees, bright red poison dart frogs, a cave of vampire bats and termite labyrinth.  We learned about natural rainforest healing plants and took in the whole of this magnificent island.

View from Tortuguero Mountain Peak

 Tortuguero is Costa Rica’s breathtaking jungle.  A trip here is a not-too-be-missed adventure into a min-Amazon.

 
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Amazing Water Adventures Await You in Costa Rica

On September 9, 2011, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Costa Rica offers a wide array of water adventures and water-related sports.  The country’s 1200 km coastline affords some of the best water sports beaches offering surfing, snorkeling, board surfing and scuba diving, while inland rivers and rainforests are packed with boating, kayaking and white water rafting adventures.

Surfing, Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Some of the world’s best year-round surfing lures water enthusiasts to Costa Rica.  From mid-December to April, during the country’s summer, the most popular surfing location is on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast.  Tamarindo, a small beach community, boasts beach surfing, river mouth surfing and some challenging surfing opportunities around the area’s well-known reefs.

Surfing on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast

On the Caribbean coast, Play Cocles is a favorite with surfers and in a remote and peaceful setting on the southern Pacific coast, Matapalo on the Osa Peninsula proffers world class surfing.  This is also the best region for scuba diving and snorkeling.  Drake Bay, on the northern tip of the Osa Peninsula, features crystalline clear blue waters where corals, several species of crustaceans and three species of dolphins reside.  Octal, on the Gulf of Papagayo, offers diving courses as well as great snorkeling and fishing adventures.  Water activities like the above range from relaxing getaways to high adventures in the depths of the Costa Rican underwater world.

Snorkeling in Calm Blue Waers

Rafting and Kayaking

From low impact, pleasant gliding and kayaking across calm, tropical waters to tackling with water challenges on class III and IV river rapids, Costa Rica has it all.  The Pacuare, Sarapiqui and Corobici Rivers are great destinations for unforgettable water adventures. 

The Pacuare River is divided into 3 sections, from easy gliding to high adventure rapids.  Surrounded by dense, tropical rainforest in the Guanacaste region, the Tenorio River offers high adventure with some of the most exhilarating white water rafting challenges.  Advanced rafters have the opportunity to tackle class III and IV river conditions in a 15 mile fast flowing wild and untamed white water adventure.

Pacuare River Rafting

If the thought of rafting down fierce white water rapids while holding on for dear life is not for you, then a pleasant glide down the Corobici River may be your style.  Situated in the lush rain and mangrove forests, the Corobici River provides on of the calmest rafting adventures through stunning scenery and fascinating wildlife viewing opportunities.  With flora including ceiba and mahogany trees, wild birds of paradise and over 300 species of birds, howler and white faced monkeys, iguanas and lizards, Rio corobici in Guanacaste features one of Costa Rica’s most picturesque riverscapes and offers a memorable adventure for the entire family.

The Calm Waters of the Corobici River

Wild Bird of Paradise - Gorgeous!

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Thrill to the Wonders of Nepal’s Exhilarating Rafting Vacations

On June 28, 2011, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Originating from the high Himalaya glaciers and plunging through gorges and forested foothills, Nepal’s rivers, considered sacred goddesses, provide some of the best rafting vacations and kayaking adventures available.    The most popular of the rafting rivers, The Trisuli River, offers a fascinating experience for both first –time and veteran rafters.  Easily accessible from both Kathmandu and Pokhara, it makes for a perfect Nepal rafting trip geared to the entire family.

Following the course of the national Prithivi Highway, which links Kathmandu to India, the Trisuli River embodies a blend of divine vistas – impressive gorges, scenic valleys, and varied wildlife with a combination of exhilarating and easy white water rapids including big, bouncy waves, hefty holes and tricky chutes.   Carving its way through some very impressive gorges down the 2000m high Mahabharat Range, the wild, uninhabited scenery gives way to a profusion of wildlife and colorful birds, including eagles and vultures.  Continuing down towards Chitwan National Park,   crocodiles and rhinos line the riverside. 

Trisuli River View

The river’s rapids are easily negotiated and straightforward for most of the year, and provide an excellent short river rafting experience with beautiful scenery, a tranquil and peaceful environment and overnight camping on offer to boot. The river spans a distance of some 140 km. and is also popular with skilled kayakers.  Trip lengths range form relaxed one-week excursions, starting at Trisuli Bazaar and ending in Chitwan, to local one-day rafting adventures along the river’s course.

Rafting on the Tirsuli River

Wildlife Along the Way

For experienced white water rafters, the Bhote Kosi River provides non-stop, heart pounding action.  The steepest river in Nepal, the Bhote Kosi is spectacular in its overwhelming drop of several thousand meters as it cuts its course from Tibet to Nepal through tremendous gorges with cascading waterfalls and thundering rapids.  This certainly isn’t a rafting adventure for the faint of heart!

Bhote Kosi River Rafting

Be it the Trisuli or the Bhote Kosi, Nepal’s rivers offer whitewater fun in  unforgettable rafting vacations  to be shard by the entire family.

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Explore the Riveting Beauty of Nepal’s Heart of Adventure

On June 24, 2011, In Biking & Hiking, Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Nestled at the foot of the awe-inspiring Annapurna mountain range in a valley floor, scenic Pokhara is an area of tranquil lakes and ancient caves.  The city’s eponymous name, derived from the Nepalese “Pokhari” – pond- reflects its status as the center of 5 rivers and 8 lovely surrounding lakes.  Situated about 200 km from Kathmandu, Pokhara is one of the most picturesque spots in Nepal, offering magnificent views of the Annapurna and other Himalayan peaks.

Pokhara as Seen from the Peace Pagoda

Pokhara serves as the starting point for most treks in the Annapurna range.  Beyond trekking, it is a base for a myriad of activities, including kayaking, paragliding, mountain biking and ultra-light flying.  Its numerous, lovely lakes offer opportunities for fishing, boating and swimming, and its scenic environs are home to short treks and walks with stunning vistas. Mountain flights offer aerial views of the dazzling  Annapurna Range.

Lake Phewa to the Backdrop of Annapurna Range

To the backdrop of high glacial peaks, Lake Phewa, enshrouded in thick forests, is home to numerous monkeys and other wildlife,  and features serene, mirror-like waters reflecting Annapurna and Mount Machhapuchhre.   Boating in the lake, you will come upon an island housing the Barahi Temple; a two-storied pagoda dedicated the Ajima, the protectress deity representing the female force Shakti.

The Barahi Temple

Short treks take you to Sarangkot and the Shanti Stupa (temple) for awe-inspiring scenery.  One of the highest viewpoints in Pokhara, Sarangkot   features magnificent sights, the crowning glory at its summit being the ruins of a stone fortress built by the Kashi Kingdom.  From here, splendid panoramas of the valley, Lake Phewa and the Himalayan peaks can be observed.

Lake Phewa from Sarangot Viewpoint

Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda)

At dawn and sunset, the view from Sarangkot is striking, yet it is even better from the Shanti Stupa, the World Peace Pagoda.  Nestled atop a hill overlooking Lake Phewa, the stupa was built about 20 years ago and offers the same sweeping scenery found at Sarangkot, with the additional beauty of Pokhara and the sapphire blue lake cradled in the valley below.  On the way, stop at Devi’s Fall, a unique waterfall plunging into a deep, narrow endless canal.

Devi's Fall

Among the caves, Mahendra Cave, in the northern Pokhara valley, is one of the few stalactite-stalagmite caves in Nepal.  Along with the Chamare Gufa, the Bat Cave, both are home to rare species of bats.

Hustle Bustle of Old Bazaar

Pokhara’s colorful Old Bazaar provides an up-close encounter with local life and is an experience not to be missed.  Bustling with ethnically diverse stalls from places as far as Kashmir, Tibet and China, the market abounds with monuments depicting Newari culture and tradition.  Additionally, it is home to the Shrine of Bindyabasini Mandir, dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, another manifestation of Shakti.

Bindyabasini Temple

Kathmandu may be the cultural hub of Nepal, but Pokhara is considered the country’s center of adventure.  This enchanting city exudes a sense of vitality and excitement and affords a great base for family adventure travel.

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The Irresistible Lure of the Great Barrier Reef

On April 22, 2011, In Active Australia & New Zealand Kid-Friendly Vacations, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Spanning nearly 3000 km (1800 mi) of Australia’s northeastern coast, the Great Barrier Reef reveals the world’s largest collection of coral and marine life.  An impressive garden of coral systems and cays with over 400 coral varieties, and a plethora of marine life of some 1500 species of tropical fish, sponges, mollusks, rays, dolphins and sea turtles make this amazing marine park a snorkeling and diving paradise.

Diverse Marine Life in the Reef

We made our base on Heron Island, a coral cay at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef and an excellent family location to discover the wonders of this amazing place.  Here the kids loved the endless coral garden in the waters right off the beach, and the vibrant kaleidoscope of marine life.  Heron is a haven for nature lovers with a rich variety of bird life, including herons, mutton birds and terns flocking the island.  It is also one of the few places you can take guided reef walks and learn about the ecology unique to the Great Barrier Reef.  For us, it was the perfect destination to start our adventure.

Marine Life while Snorkeling

We chose to venture out onto the outer reef for a day of snorkeling.  Once in the water, the rewards are immediate and we spent our first hour paddling around the surface, just in awe of the amazing reef below.  The reef was shallow and breathtaking, with the brilliant colors of the coral everywhere, touched only by a slight tinge of the blue ocean.  Hundreds of vibrantly colored fish crossed below and around us.  Certainly used to the humans around them, these fish are not shy!  Some of the larger ones even let us touch them.

Sea Turtle

We spotted anemones with clownfish in their  clutches and parrotfish chasing each other through and around  the corals.  With every turn, a new wonder appeared – a sea turtle here, a giant clam on the sand below, a spotted cod, a giant batfish, a school of neon fish – we were up close and personal with marine life!

Anemone with Clownfish

Having had our fill of snorkeling for the day, we made our way back towards Heron Island, stopping along the way at a lovely sandy cay, one of the many which run along the surface of the waters here.  On our own private little isle, we enjoyed our picnic.  After a day packed with adventure, we headed back to our lush paradise.

Stopping to Snorkel and Swim

The Great Barrier Reef holds an irresistible draw for snorkelers, scuba divers and just anyone curious about the wonders of marine life.  There is no end to what this marine park holds in store!

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