Living with Bill the Ant in Costa Rica is Pura Vida for a Photographer

Posted By Frank Scott
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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What is living in Costa Rica like? Outstanding and amazing in many ways and as a photographer I have seen the beautiful and incredible things right on my doorstep and this is an example of what I experienced.

As you know we have leaf cutter ants in the jungle and they are a very busy lot who work very hard all day long. This is a story about their strength and persistence that happened one day.

An ant we will call Bill, was travelling along with all of his buddies as they were devastating my favourite flowering tree near my driveway. Bill dropped his leaf to pick up something he thought might be more beneficial to the group, a matchstick, the strong wooden type. He began carrying it upright as if it were a leaf. I think he was a little confused but, of course, maybe I was the only one confused.

I wanted to lessen his load so I carefully picked up the matchstick. Astonishingly Bill would not let go and came with the match, his little feet trying to get traction in the open air.

I took the match, with ant, to the terrace of my house and put it down thinking that he would let go. Obviously Bill was looking for his marching band, because he began to march around with the matchstick held high weaving around chairs and tables but remaining on the terrace.

Without hesitation he marched around and around like a soldier carrying his flag. As a photographer I watched and photographed in amazement for over an hour and could not help but wonder when he would drop the match and go on his merry way as he must have been panting by now, not that you can see an ant pant, believe me!

Now I realize their stamina and persistence when they march like an army carrying their leaves back to their nest. As Bill became very tired I eventually was able to take away the matchstick and he was freed from his load to go back to, what else, carrying leaves.

I now have a great respect for their stamina and persistence when they are carrying their leaves back to help their community in building a nest. Eventually Bill became very tired and I took this opportunity to take away the matchstick

Sometimes when the ants become a problem and invade areas of my home as they do in a tropical country, I think of Bill. Then I step back and cannot help but admire what an incredible creature the little ant is.

Frank Scott writes from sunny Costa Rica where he is a professional Costa Rica Photographer offering lovely photography tours. Some of his work can be seen in Costa Rica Vacations, a very informative destination guide to this lovely country. This and other unique content ” articles are available with free reprint rights.

Looking For A Great Costa Rica Vacation, Try Jaco!

Posted By Victor Krumm
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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Jaco is a small, vibrant town in Costa Rica and a very popular place for students wanting some fun during spring break or summer vacation. But, not just students. Today, tourists from around the world visit Jaco year-round, though December to May are considered “high season” (the most people, the highest accommodation costs). Whatever month you want to visit, the Jaco area is the place to go for sun, great beaches and activities.

Jaco has long been popular because of its fun, casual and relaxed atmosphere, and many friendly people. More and more tourists from around the world have already learned of this fantastic place and travel to Jaco for its nearby tranquil, beautiful clean beaches and many things to do. And, it is easy to reach by car or comfortable, cheap, ubiquitous buses.

Only about half a dozen years ago, Jaco was still pretty laid back and quaint. Not so much anymore. With tourists came more bars, restaurants, and shopping centers. They were followed by developers: more hotels, more resorts, and now towering high rises. But, the beaches remain—and they are still spectacular.

The costs of vacationing in Jaco match any budget. Today, you’ll find accommodations catering to the most well-heeled all the way down to those economy budgets (think hostels with cold water—but cheap)! And, of course, there is no lack of choice for eating, partying, or sleeping. You’ll also find those ubiquitous tourist traps where you can shop for that special gift for your (jealous) friends and family who couldn’t make the trip.

Jaco Beach sits directly in front of Jaco and is very, very popular but , in my opinion, nearby beaches just a couple of miles or kilometers away, are much better. There are fewer people and the waters are some of the purest on earth. The best beaches are awarded Blue Flag ecological certifications for cleanliness. When you vacation in Jaco, I strongly recommend going to spectacular Hermosa Beach, a couple of miles south of Jaco. Though it is not good for safe swimming due to its currents, it is pristine and pure with some of the best surfing on the planet. How good is the surfing? Think world class. Indeed, this July professional surfers from more than 35 countries are descending upon Hermosa to participate in a week of world surfing championships. Watch them during the days or party with them at night in Jaco.

Costa Rica is one of the smallest countries in the world but it is world-famous for its many places to go and things to do. When you vacation at Jaco, youll be close to innumerable activities. Head over to one of the fabulous volcanoes. Go windsurfing at Lake Arenal. Learn to surf. Visit fabulous Corcovado National Park, described by National Geographic as the most biologically intense place on earth. Take your life in your hands and bungee jump into a deep gorge just outside Jaco. Zipline through tropical forests, whitewater raft, go sea kayaking. Or just lay back and enjoy the beach and romantic sunsets.

And, if you exhaust all the other activities (probably pretty difficult), don’t forget that you can also experience great off shore fishing. The warm, tropical waters are alive with marlin, tuna, sailfish, porpoises, dozens of other varieties, and often whales. But, whatever your tastes, Jaco is definitely a wonderful place to take your vacation.

First discovered by Christopher Columbus, today Costa Rica is discovered anew by folks from every place on the planet. Though it is only the size of West Virginia, one of every five species of plant and animal is found here. Travel Costa Rica when you visit Jaco. Bring a camera and your sense of adventure.

Victor Krumm lives in sunny Costa Rica and and has an informative and very popular website Costa Rica Vacations. Look here to see lots more Costa Rica Beaches Click here to get your own unique version of this article with free reprint rights.

How A Modern Gyroplane Has Improved Over The Past Ten Years

Posted By Raul P Peters
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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In the past gyrocopters often had a bit of a reputation as being a poor second cousin to the helicopter. They were generally quite a small aircraft that had often been home made by its owner, who was an aviation buff but not necessarily an aviation engineer of any qualification.

The limited ability of these aircraft to fly at great heights or over long distances was never a problem for their owners who weren’t interested in being able to do this.

They were more interested in having their own aircraft which they could take up in the air and fly close to where they lived or were visiting.

Unfortunately there tended to be accidents in these aircraft, and what made it worse was the only time the aircraft received any media coverage was when someone was killed.

This meant that in the minds of the public these aircraft (and any aircraft called a gyro) must have safety issues.

But all that is now changing.

Gyrocopters are finally moving into the 21st century using modern aviation designs and manufacturing processes.

The general public has not been educated on the fact that the principle of flight used by gyrocopters is sound and is not where the problem lies.

Gyrocopters operate on autorotation, meaning there is no power driving the top rotor. Instead the forward thrust coming from the rear propeller forces air through the blades which creates their rotational movement and generates lift.

The principle of autorotation was never the cause of any problems.

The problem was in the design and manufacture, the materials used and the experience of the builder.

By combining this sound principle of flight, with world class engineering, design and manufacturing techniques you are left with an extremely safe aircraft, that has exceptionally low operational and maintenance costs and makes owning your own certified aircraft a reality for a whole new section of the population.

These new type of gyro are ideal for pilots with zero experience, but are also capable of providing a thrill for the more advanced pilot.

This means that there are now experienced pilots and complete novices getting started with gyrocopters and experiencing for theselves what this new aircraft can do.

If you have been looking for a way to get into aviation, but had previously balked because of costs or some other reason, then maybe you should consider getting your gyroplane license.

You will be able to fly a fully certified aircraft at a much cheaper cost than you would have ever thought possible.

If you are an Aussie and you are keen to learn how to fly a ‘New Generation Gyroplane’, visit the website to find out how you can get started. Gyrocopters

Skiing And Snowboarding In Big Bear Lake California, USA Right Now

Posted By Nick Rands
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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What do you think of when you think about Southern California? I bet the word sunny comes to mind. How about the word sand or flip flop? Certainly those are images that come up as well. But, would you think of snow and winter sports? Not many people would. However, there is plenty of it in the second largest state. Northeast of San Bernardino, there is a place called Big bear Lake. And, there is plenty of skiing and snowboarding in Big Bear Lake California.

Nearly 7,000 feet above sea level sits mountainous beauty. It’s beauty is comparable to any place on earth. There are seven miles of lake bordered by highway 38 to the north, and highway 18 to the south, winding along 22 miles of shoreline. Corralling Big Bear Lake are 4 snow-covered mountain peaks. Where could a more beautiful sight be found for skiers, vacationers and admirers alike?

There is plenty of fun there for all levels of expertise. You can take it easy with some lessons or hit the professional slopes. There are plenty of trails, plenty of ski lifts and certainly plenty of height, 1700 vertical feet to be exact. But, don’t worry, getting to where you want to go it easy with high speed lifts.

Perfectly groomed or powder runs makes skiing and snowboarding in Big Bear Lake California an experience never to be forgotten. But, skiing and snowboarding are not the only snow sports available. You can sled, skate or just make snow angels. Or you can take long walks through the countryside since snow shoe tours to scenic areas are also available.

When you are done skiing or whatever you are doing in the snow, you can visit one of the many other attractions available. At your disposal are many fun things for adults and children. There is a zoo called Moon Ridge Zoo. But, unlike many zoos this is actually an animal rescue and hospital. If a wild animal is injured, it is brought here for treatment and recovery. If the animal cannot return to the wild, it lives out its days in the zoo. Everyone will love visiting this place.

As much as skiers and snowboards love a good challenge, at some point the skis and boards have to be given a rest. Adults and children alike can relax before fireplaces and create the kind of memories that will last a life time. Imagine a hot fireplace bathing the entire room in warmth after hours of being outside, and finally resting, relaxing and enjoying a respite from the cold. The enjoyment doesn’t stop there.

Some resorts offer babysitting and child care. In many cases, these services can be utilized on and off the slops, allowing for skiing and snowboarding without worrying if the kids are being properly cared for.

Spend your evenings and nights enjoying five star food and top notch theatrical productions. Your time at Big Bear Lake will be full of things to do and may well wear you down like no other vacation. However, the memories you create will be some of the best of your life.

The San Bernardino Mountains, Northeast of San Bernardino is a place made by Mother Nature for icy vacations, getaways and eating fantastic food at Big Bear Lake Restaurants. We’ve got the best scoop on the tastiest restaurant menu

Bicycle Touring with Children

Posted By Nancy Sathre-Vogel
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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Do you spend your days dreaming of taking off with your children to explore the world? You’ll ride camels around the Egyptian pyramids and gaze in wonder at the graceful domes of the Taj Majal - with your children by your side. You’ll take buses from town to town, fly from country to country, and explore back streets by donkey cart. But travel on bicycles? With children?

With our children, my husband and I have now traveled 21,000 miles through twelve countries with our 12-year-old twin boys. We’ve discovered that traveling on bikes with kids is the best way to see the world.

The bike allows you - indeed, it forces you - to get off the beaten track and see the tiny villages of the world. When one is traveling with a motor of whatever kind, you will skip over the small towns in order to reach the cities. But it’s the small villages in a country that can teach you about life in that country. Cities - for all their differences - are mostly the same. In today’s face-paced world, cities are becoming increasingly generic; it’s the villages that still retain the character of the country, and the bikes allow us to get to know them.

Another advantage of traveling on bike is that you are one with Mother Nature. As you travel without the protection of a vehicle around you, you’ll be more in touch with weather conditions and landscape. Our children have learned, first hand, the effect of altitude on temperature. They’ve cycled over mountains and now truly understand the effects of the movement of tectonic plates.

But perhaps the most important part of bicycle touring with children are the life lessons they learn from their bikes. They learn lessons that will carry them through life - through all the hardships and struggles they’ll face. They learn to persevere and know they can come out victorious in the end. There are times when only through teamwork can you reach your goal. And sometimes, all you can do is focus on getting through the next 60 seconds and forge ahead.

Yes, kids can learn these things in other ways, but traveling on bike is not only more effective, but more fun!

Nancy Sathre-Vogel has been bicycling with children for more years than she cares to think about. She is now touring on her bike from the Arctic to Patagoniawith her sons as they attempt to break the world youngest to cycle the Pan American Highway. This and other unique content ” articles are available with free reprint rights.

Corporate Boat Cruises Mix Business And Pleasure

Posted By Adriana Noton
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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Do you want to do something special for your next company picnic? Would you like to show your client list how much you really care? Do you want to give that fifty-year employee a send off he or she will never forget? Consider an up and coming idea that more companies are utilizing, corporate boat cruises.

If you research corporate boat cruises into any search engine and you will find dozens of companies vying for your business. Overall, they are pretty much the same with the exception of some pricing and a variation in the amenities offered. There are also companies who specialize in yacht rentals that may meet the same need. Most of the cruise and yacht companies are willing to negotiate a price should you have special needs or requests.

There are many reasons large corporations would book a cruise ship or yacht. Business meeting held on a ship or yacht are sure to impress any client. Many cruise ships have all the amenities of a hotel including a meeting room, telecommunications, fax and presentation equipment, and food service. These can be rented by the day, week, or leased into the companies fleet of transportation.

Reasons corporations book hotels or cruises vary from company to company. Whether your corporation is networking, making a presentation to clients, conducting training or brainstorming meetings, or enjoying some good old fashioned camaraderie and corporate/workforce bonding, corporate boat cruises have the facilities you need. Based on my research, they have a package for just about every type of corporate function. All of the packages are completely flexible and you can even create a package of your own.

Many cruise companies have a small fleet ranging in sizes so that they have a craft ready for any sized occasion. They usually start at 100 feet and get larger. Two or three cruise ships are the norm for most companies. Most of these ships have state-of-the-art equipment installed including radio, television, and global positioning equipment. Interior designs in many cruise ships are as elegant as most modern hotels. These ships have two full bathrooms to accommodate its minimum capacity.

The cost of a small cruise ship compared to hotel facilities is close. The cruise ship is a few hundred dollars more but many of the extras that you would pay a hotel are included in the cruise package making it the better value. Just like hotels, pricing ranges from cruise company to cruise company. On average, $1.000 to $4.000 is about standard depending on the length of the cruise and the entertainment or dining package included.

Virtually every corporate boat cruise business has an event manager that you will speak with when inquiring. This person will guide you through the entire process from your first contact to the actual experience. These professional salespersons are highly trained and very good at making sure you get the most bang for your buck. They specialize in hospitality and corporate events right down to the details of what food is served, staffing, and destination planning.

Finally, make sure you are prepared when you make your call. You will need to know how many employees and their families will be attending the event. The Events Manager will lead you through the process and help you decide on a package that best fits your particular company’s needs. This includes what type of food, beverages are served, and what kind of equipment will be needed to conduct whatever business you are planning. The most important thing to remember is that even though your trip might be business related, corporate boat cruises are going to combine your business with pleasure, so plan on having a great time.

If visiting the Toronto Harbour inspires your adventurous and fun loving side, then Toronto cruises are perfect for you! Tourists and vacationers can find plenty of excitement aboard Halloween cruises.

Family Travel Road Trips That Everyone Will Enjoy

Posted By Byron Jonas
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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There are tons of different types of travel road trips are the best of them all. They offer an awesome means of getting everyone together and spending the type of quality time that everyday life just does not allow. In a time when air fare is so expensive the car based vacation is the best way to go.

Planning ahead

The best way to ensure a perfect family holiday is to be properly prepared. From packing up the car to planning out the trip, making sure everything is together will save many hassles later on. There are a number of things that can be done to ensure a smooth ride.

The best way to organize the family for a long trip is to create some lists. It will likely take more than one and it is important to follow them precisely. This will alleviate all of the hassles that can come with a vacation and is a means of keeping everyone on track.

It will certainly not take long before the kids are fighting and saying they have nothing to do. This is an age old problem that travelers have endured for many years. It causes a lot of disorder and may even cause chaos if not taken care of.

The best way to keep those little ones occupied is to purchase some of the amazing games that are currently on the market. They cater to those who spend a lot of time on the road and will give the kids plenty of things to do. There are also many tips and tricks that are posted on many travel websites.

Make sure that there is a first aid kit packed in the car. Accidents can happen anywhere and it is good to be ready for them. Do not forget the aspirin for those aches and pains that may also occur.

In the case of travel road trips can offer any family a great time. There are plenty of places to go and lots to see and doing. The key to a successful adventure is just to be ready for everything. Then you can sit back and enjoy the ride.

When it comes to travel road trips are just the best. You will find it to be a more cost effective means of travel and a fantastic way to reconnect with loved ones. Roof racks specifically Rola roof racks are however a must!

Noosa Heads Night Life And Venues For Tourists To Meet The Locals

Posted By Matt Fuller
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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Noosa Heads is not really somewhere that is famed for an extravagant night life or a club scene brimming with dance clubs and famous DJ’s. The place is generally known as somewhere that families have their holidays and relax on all of the beautiful beaches on offer. However, that is not to say that there isn’t something there for someone who wants to embrace a good night out. The following is a little information on Noosa Heads night life bars and clubs.

Whilst traditional opinion has it that Noosa isn’t really famed for its great nightlife, over the last few years a big change has occurred giving the place a great atmosphere and vibe as the sun goes down. One of the top spots for anyone looking for a good night out is the Rollin Rock on Hastings Street.

This venue stands opposite the Flamingo Club on the other side of the road and both have been designed to create a more sophisticated environment for any night revelers around the area. With visually stunning fit outs inside, the clubs have transformed Noosa into a more hip and night-friendly locale.

If you are after a good night and have a bit of money to spend then a good plan would be to head down to the beach front for dinner at one of the restaurants there and then move onto Flamingo’s for a few cocktails followed by a dance at the Rolling Rock. This would surely be a night to remember.

This place is a hostel with a bar attached and is catered towards the traveller market. For any backpacker passing through this is the best destination and will allow you to meet up with travellers from all over the world. They offer cheap cocktails and jugs of beer, as well as cheaper meals than you will find at any of the local restaurants.

Noosa may not offer the biggest clubs and funkiest bars, but what it does offer is a chilled and laid back atmosphere for any travellers passing through or any family on their yearly vacation.

Get ready for a fabulous vacation filled with sun and fun today! When you make your Noosa holiday accommodation early, you will get the most luxurious rooms, in the best locations. Through Noosa holiday accommodaton, you can start packing for your trip today!

A Vacation Suitable For A Shopaholic

Posted By Cordelia Kennedy
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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If you decide to visit the Gold Coast, for your upcoming holiday, the one thing you will never have to worry about is what you will do. the fact of the matter is, if you really want to enjoy all that this region has to offer you may need to plan a return visit, more than once.

There are many wonderful adventures that await for you in the Gold Coast region of Australia. From adventurous under water and over water activities to the numerous amusement areas there is plenty to keep you occupied and happy. Then, of course, there are the many spectacular shopping areas that are suited to all types of shoppers. In fact, shopping is one of the most popular past times for the Gold Coast region.

Perhaps one of the most incredible shopping experiences in the Gold Coast region is the Pacific Fair complex. This indoor/outdoor shopping center is home to almost 300 retailers including many unique shops, banks, a post office, plus many unique dining experiences as well. Medical services are also available at this mall.

In addition to the major retailers like K Mart, Target, Lowes and Toys R Us, there are also many smaller retail shops that include jewelry and clothing shops, book stores and even a salon to get your hair and nails done. There is plenty of free parking as well as easy access to buses, taxis and water taxis. The natural beauty of this Pacific Fair complex is accentuated with parks and greenery, lakes and streams to provide shoppers with spectacular views to take in while making their way from retailer to retailer. There is even a child centered play park for the kids to play the afternoon away and there are plenty of services available for the disabled as well, so everyone can come and enjoy the scenery as well as take full advantage of this shopping area.

If shopping is your thing, then a visit to the Gold Coast region of Australia is just the trip for you. You can spend hours, if not days, going from retailer to retailer and just browsing the selection of items that they have to offer.

There are countless surfers paradise accommodation for you choose from for your upcoming trip. To find gold coast hotels that are suitable for your stay log onto www.goldcoastinformation.com.au.

The Fire of Arenal Volcano Hotel

Posted By Brendha Obregon
Categoirzed Under: Adventure Holidays
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Finding a place for the perfect getaway is filled with plenty of research and phone calls. Perhaps you are looking for the different and unusual that is filled with excitement all at the same time. This can be found at the Arenal Volcano Hotel.

This is the perfect spot for a wedding and romantic for a honeymoon. Here you are going to find a hotel that will offer you a spa where you can relax your way back to the peace and relaxation that you have been searching for.

Not only is the Arenal Volcano Hotel a hot spot for your special day but also the perfect spot for a business conference. The facilities hold up to 250 people and can provide you with internet and of course air condition.

The accommodations offer queen size and king size beds as well as mini-bar and hydro-massage. Of course, you don’t want to leave out the breathtaking view of the active volcano and mountains. The Arenal Volcano Hotel will leave you breathless with all that it has to offer.

For a relaxing soak, you can enjoy one of the hot springs that is available to you as well. The waters in the springs are great for your skin and also have a hydro-massage as well. You will be able to find one that has just the right temperature for you. Depending upon which spring you visit, there is a snack bar and a salon as well.

As you can see, the Arenal Volcano Hotel is able to offer you everything that you are looking for in a vacation and special getaway. You can lay all of your research to rest when you decide to make this special hotel your choice for a vacation. Visit http://www.hotelarenalkioro.com/ for more information and hotel reservations online.

if you want more information about Arenal volcano hotel, feel free to visit their website by clicking on the following link: Arenal volcano hotel