Posts Tagged ‘Adventure’

Travel to New Zealand for an Amazing Adventure

New Zealand is the perfect destination for those who enjoy travelling alone. The country is small enough to easily find your way around and lodging is affordable and the people welcoming and affable. Organizing your own itinerary and travel arrangements can be fun and liberating; you choose where to go, when and for how long! New Zealand is about free choice and independence with its spectacular mountains and when you see its mountains and landscape that is exactly what you will feel, free.

The main cities in New Zealand are Auckland and Christchurch, and Wellington the capital. Other cities of interest include Napier and Nelson, Tauranga and Rotorua. Queenstown should definitely be on your list as one of the top destinations to visit in this fascinating and unique country. The scenery in New Zealand is magnificent and as diverse as you can imagine. The North and South Islands are completely different to each other but both have rivers, fiords, glaciers, mountains and dramatic beaches.

People come to New Zealand for adventure; they are not looking for the norm but seeking something really unique. And that is exactly what they get. Water based activities can be experienced on one of the numerous lakes, in a swiftly-flowing river or in the seas, try anything from surfing and deep sea diving to kayaking, parasailing or fishing.

If it is the ultimate excitement you are after there are plenty of opportunities for white or black water rafting, jet boating or four wheel drive practice. The Bridge walk is one you will never forget as you climb the Auckland Harbour Bridge experiencing the best views of Auckland with fully trained bridge guides. If you have come to New Zealand for bungee jumping then head to the 192m Auckland Sky Tower and make a sky jump from the top, falling at 75kph to a target at the bottom. There’s no greater thrill. You can find cheap accommodation online. You can find cheap Auckland accommodation online.

For those who like to keep their feet on land then experience a bush walk or take off to the mountains for a hike, snowboarding or skiing. If you are interested in cheap hotels, online accommodation is easy to book.

Whale watching is possible in Kaikoura on the east coast of the South Island. This is the main centre for whale watching and one of the only places in the world where you can see sperm whales. These whales can grow to more than 15m long. Orca Whales are also spotted between December to March, and humpback whales in June and July.

Penguins are an amusing species as on land waddle along upright and in the water dive and swoop like other birds do in the air. Around New Zealand there are 3 three species of penguin, the Korora is the world’s smallest at only 25cm tall and can be seen at The Marlborough Sounds, Oamaru, Akaroa Harbour, and Stewart Island. The rare hoiho, has a striking yellow eye band sweeping back from each yellow eye and can be spotted at the Otago Peninsula, and along the South Otago Coast. And the Fiordland crested penguin is one of the worlds rarest found in Fiordland and Stewart Island. Book your cheap hotels online NZ before you travel to avoid disappointment as you don’t want to miss these beautiful creatures.

New Zealand’s bird population is pretty impressive and sure to keep you occupied for hours. There are over 80 types of seabird breed found on the country’s shoreline, some only found within New Zealand whilst others migrate here from thousands of miles away. Uncommon national species can be seen at various locations including Tiritiri Matangi Island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, Motuara Island in the Marlborough Sounds, and Kapiti Island.

There is a broad range of lodging choices to suit your price range, whether you can afford luxury or want to keep to a budget. Finding cheap hotels in New Zealand as you tour the country is an easy process and there are generous pickings for the free thinking traveller. Whether you need a Sydney hotel with all possible amenities, cheap accommodation in Rotorua or budget Taupo hotels, have a look online for affordable rates.

Bali Travel Offers Adventure, Wonder And History

The world is chockfull of destinations that are all worthy of consideration when itâ??s time to make holiday plans. There are not many places, however, that can compare to a particular island in the Indonesian archipelago. Bali travel melds adventure, history and wonder into a single experience that is virtually certain to create memories to last a lifetime.

Located only a few hours away from Australia by plane, this unusual destination packs a great deal of fun into 5,632 square kilometers. Here holidaymakers will find weather that is perfect practically year round. With warm tropical temperatures ranging between 20 and 33 degrees Celsius no matter the time of year, visitors to Bali are often surprised to find sunny days dominate even in the thick of the rainy season.

When Bali travel is under consideration, potential holidaymakers will find these reasons tend to draw travellers from all over the world like moths to a flame:

* The outdoor splendour â?? Bali is famous for its breathtaking geography. The island is surrounded by warm turquoise waters that lap at white sandy beaches. From quiet lagoons just right for swimming and snorkeling to more â??activeâ? beaches that call to surfers and adventure sports lovers, the waters here are ideal for year round fun. Whilst the beaches are certainly a draw, they are not the only outdoor wonder that awaits those planning Bali travel. This island is also famous for its lush tropical forests, active volcanoes, tiered rice paddies and incredible lakes and waterfalls.
* The history â?? Bali has a history that dates back thousands of years. Evidence of its most early inhabitants can be found in a variety of sites all over the island. From the temples in the Mount Agung complex to the wonderment of the Tanah Lot, visitors here will learn much about the peoples and cultures that have touched Bali throughout the ages. With its strong ties to the Hindu religion, holidaymakers will discover that many of the islandâ??s most splendid outdoor attractions have also served as places connected deeply to religion through the ages.
* The culture â?? Balinese culture is known for its distinct arts, form of dance and cuisine. Those who plan Bali travel will find themselves arriving on a island that is known the world over for its welcoming hospitality and unique traditions.
* The adventures â?? Bali is one of the few places in the world where people can get up close and personal with gray monkeys, elephants and a variety of other tropical creatures all on a single vacation. If fauna doesnâ??t appeal, those on Bali tours will find that plenty of other adventures await. Bali tours can unlock adventures that are found nowhere else in the world. From Odyssey Submarine trips that take holidaymakers into the depths that surround the island to a trip to the 11th century Elephant Cave, there is no shortage of opportunities to do and see things that cannot be experienced anywhere else.

When an experience like nothing else is desired, Bali travel will deliver. Combining adventure, wonder and history, this legendary island offers holidaymakers an opportunity to explore paradise on earth.

Motorhome Hire New Zealand – How To Be A Careful Camper & Have The Best Start Possible For Your NZ Holiday Adventure

10 helpful tips on how to be a careful camper while visiting NZ in your Motor home.
Knowledge provided from experts with many years of experience and also from valuable customer feedback.

1. Arrival and Pick Up After And Before Long Haul Flights
It is highly recommended that you stay in a NZ Hotel or Motel for your first and last night of your New Zealand visit to avoid being overtired and to start your NZ holiday relaxed and refreshed. Be sure to book into a Hotel or Motel near Auckland or Christchurch Airport in advance.

2. For Peak Travel Over Christmas and New Year – Pre Book Your Holiday Park In New Zealand
We strongly recommend that you pre-book your campsite in advance to avoid later disappointment. Most NZ Holiday parks are equipped to please a wide range of people for a minimal cost. Within an attractive landscaped setting (often beside a beach or lake) they provide sites for tents, caravans and campervans. If you’re setting up camp or parking a Motor Home, you can choose to stay on a powered or non-powered site.

3. Freedom Camping
Each district in New Zealand has different rules in regards to freedom camping (and parking of campervans). We suggest that you contact the nearest Visitor Centre in the region you visit, to find out about camping in a particular location. The impact of freedom camping on the environment can be a strain to the environment – New Zealand Tourism does not recommend freedom camping in New Zealand.

In certain Areas in New Zealand it is forbidden to free camp – for example National Parks etc. If you do freedom camp it is very important to remember to not to leave any rubbish behind or any traces of your stay. Please consider the environment when you do free camp and be a careful visitor – leave only footprints! When you hire a Motor home in NZ, most if not all NZ motor home companies provide you with a list of Holiday Parks containing the contact details and many more ideas on where to camp.

4. Battery Power of Your NZ Motorhome
It is not always necessary to go to a campground each night but it is recommended to do this every third or forth night to empty toilet and waste water tanks and to get plenty of fresh water. You can camp on the side of the road or anywhere else as long as there are no signs indicating NO CAMPING or PARKING overnight.

5. Toilets on board your NZ Motor home
On board toilets from Motor homes can only be legally emptied into so called Dump stations. These are normally found in holiday parks.

6. Ferry Crossing North to South or South to North Island, NZ
Many visitors ask if they can exchange their Motor home at the ferry terminals in Wellington (North Island) or in Picton on the South Island.
Most campervan companies do not have any facilities or depots in those areas and the vehicle has to go onto the Cook Strait Ferry with you.

7. Peak Season Travel on Interislander or Bluebridge Ferry NZ
During peak season travel (especially during the Christmas and New Year period and during School holidays – availability for motor vehicles can be restricted and it is highly recommended that you pre- book the passage in advance to avoid waiting in long queues at the respective terminals or have to wait for the next day to get on a ship.
A daytime sailing is highly recommended as the journey of about 3 hours is very scenic and often Dolphins swim alongside the ship and make this trip a memorable one.

8. Manual vs. Automatic Transmission
Why are most NZ Motor homes equipped with manual gear shift and not automatic transmission?
Many visitors ask for a campervan or motor home with automatic transmission.
The reason why bigger NZ motor homes are equipped with mainly manual transmission is due to the way roads are built in New Zealand – many hills and mountains which means a vehicle with manual gear shift drives much easier in such conditions.

9. NZ Road Restrictions
There are a handful of road restrictions in place from most if not all NZ motor home and campervan companies – if you drive on any of the following roads – all insurances in place will be voided and you will be in breach of the rental agreement.

North Island:
Ninety Mile Beach – Northland
North of Colville Township – Coromandel

South Island:
Skippers Canyon – Queenstown
Ball Hutt Road – Mt Cook

North and South Island:
Any roads closed by Traffic Police or other authority.

10. Fuel Costs in NZ
Because of constantly changing world oil prices, fuel costs in New Zealand are not easy to predict. Current information will be available upon request from vehicle providers.

There are 1000 or more ways to improve your planning for a successful camper van holiday in New Zealand – we hope that you have found these 9 hints for your campervan hire useful and informative.

Lakshadweep Adventure Guide

Lakshadweep means a hundred thousand islands in Malyalam. Lakshadweep in reality is a cluster of 36 islands spread in 32 square kilometers area. Located 220-240 km away from the Malabar Coast of Kerala, Lakshadweep has recently developed as a tourist spot.  The islands are linked to mainland ships and passengers and Agatti and Bangaram islands can be reached by Air. The temperatures here are quiet moderate with an average of 32 degrees in the months of April and May

Lakshadweep Adventure Destinations

Bangaram Island (change, yet to be rephrased)

Situated 10 km north of Agatti Bangaram Island can be reached by a boat ride from Agatti. The tear shape of the island gives it exclusivity and also makes it one of the most sorts after places in Lakshadweep. The white sands of this place transform you into a paradise and give you plenty of time to unwind and rejuvenate. Water sports and ayurvedic massages are available on the resort of Bangaram resorts.

Kalpeni

Kalpeni is the hottest water sports destinations because it has the largest lagoons compared to other Lakshadweep islands. It also boasts of a massive collection of Corals along the shoreline. Tourists can make use of bath huts and change rooms on the bay of Koomet. Kyaking, Sail boats and pedal boats are available here on hire.

Kadmat

Kadmat is today the most sort-after diving centers of India. 20-50 meter of visibility and an unmatched marine life with fishes like rays, sharks, and clear water make this a fantastic scuba diving destination. Water Sports Institute is located here. Also there is Laca Dives, the scuba diving centre which attracts adventure lovers from all over the world.

Agatti Island

Also known as the gateway to Lakshadweep islands, Agatti islands lies 320 km off the south west coast of India. This is where you can see raw nature; this is where you will find shimmering coral reefs, blue lagoons, white beaches and lush green coconut palms. This place is where you can indulge in scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, glass bottom boat rides, water skiing, deep sea fishing. And if this is not enough you can take a tour to one of the uninhabited islands; Thinnakara, Parali, Kalpitty make sure that you get to know the sea in and out.

Kavaratti

This is the administration headquarters and also has a marine aquarium which has some exquisite specimens. You can also indulge in glass bottom rides, kayak and go yatch sailing. The Dolphin Drive Centre is at Kavaratti which offers a wide range of water sports activities from kayaking, scuba diving to water scooter ride and speed boat rides.

Water Sports in Lakshadweep

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is a favourite sport of tourists here. Be it the pristine waters of Bangaram Island or the scuba diving centers of Kavaratti and Minicoy. The turtles, coral sharks, ray fishes and other interesting species make the marine life exotic. PADI trainers are available on Governor’s Reef located northwest of the island. The Laccadives Kadmat Island has the first laccadive Dive Center and School. Beginners to Instructors courses for divers are run here. Harbor mouth has sharks, barracudas, spotted eagle rays etc.  Minicoy too has a dive center making southern part of this island a favorite among many. Minicoy also boasts of being the only island with three ship wrecks. There is a lighthouse here and the underwater life here feeds on a lot of wreckage from the ship. Some more famous dive site here will be Ragganmathi, Mulimatti, Rabberufarai.

Snorkeling

Besides scuba diving, snorkeling is also a widely indulged diving. The crystal clear waters with corals underneath provide some amazing experiences of snorkeling. Bangaram Island and Kadamat Island are the best spots to for snorkeling. It is advised not to carry coral collected here back home with you as it is against law.

Kayaking

Kayaking at the Agatti islands is an amazing experience. It involves sitting with the legs and hips inside the kayak hull, and are usually driven by hand-held paddles. Minicoy, Chetlat, Androth, Agatti, Kavaratti, Kadmat, Amini, Bangaram, Kalpeni, Bitra and Kiltan island are a few kayaking destinations.

Surfing

Surfing is in its primitive stages in India but Lakshadweep has managed to gather enough equipment to sell it as a water sport on the island.  The geographical conditions of Lakshadweep are also in favors hence surfing can be pursued here. The blue lagoons around Kadmat Island are the most preferred. There are training institutes in Kadmat and Kavaratti islands which are promoting surfing as a watersports.

Life is an Adventure, “Live It”

Costa Rica is Central America’s jewel. It’s an oasis and an Ecotourism heaven, making it one of the best places to experience the tropics with minimal impact. It’s also mostly coastline, which means great surfing, activities and beaches galore with a climate built for laziness. Deep Sea Fishing

Would you like to hook a sailfish on a fly, catch and release a marlin, fight a giant tuna, reel in dolphin fish, take a swim with a porpoise, and catch a few snappers to take back for your dinner? The North Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is a World-Class sport fishing paradise. More than 40 world records have been registered within an 80-mile radius. Sailfish, black marlin, blue marlin, striped marlin (sails and marlin are catch and release), yellow fin tuna and Wahoo are found in abundance. Inshore species include large concentrations of roosterfish and snapper. Billfish are the favored target of most visiting anglers. There are many charter boats on the west coast of Costa Rica. They can accommodate an individual, a couple, a family or a group of any size.

Canopy Tours

Swing like a monkey thru the trees on a zip line canopy tour. Guides are professionals in the area of Canopying and most have years of previous experience. The canopy tour offers any adventurous tourist the opportunity to ascend into the forest canopy and see jungle life from a perspective available previously to only a select few researchers and photographers. This is an Adventure for all ages that should not be missed.

Sailing
Experience a day of sailing and exploring the impressive Costa Rican coast. While sailing you could encounter dolphins, whales, turtles, manta rays and bat rays. Anchored in a bay you can snorkel coral and rock formations, swim, or simply enjoy the secluded beaches. The best way of relaxing on your vacation is to enjoy a beautiful Guanacaste Sunset Cruise. Sit-back and watch the colorful sunset, while sipping a cold beer, rum punch or soft drinks and enjoying the light snacks.

Volcano’s, Hot Springs, Mud Baths and Waterfalls
Arenal volcano is well known for its exploding lava shows. Shop at the road side gallery’s and gift shops. Visit the rain forest. Lake Arenal, a beautiful 22-mile long lake is great for freshwater fishing. It’s home to the hard-hitting rainbow bass, or quapote: five to six pounders are common. Take your swimsuits to bathe in the pools of naturally warm thermal waters amid tropical gardens at Arenal Volcano National Park. For the sports enthusiast you can windsurf one of the premier windsurfing destinations in the world. Due to the area’s irregular topography the wind is constant, providing excellent windsurfing conditions, especially in the dry season between December and April.

Buena Vista Hot Springs
Canopy tour, hot springs, horses, water slide, waterfall and mud bath.
The thermal waters, steam bath, and natural spa are located at the foot of Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja. At the hot springs, you will relax unconditionally as you enjoy pleasurable and rejuvenating treatments with volcanic mud and warm spring waters. This “spoil me” atmosphere makes it easy to forget the hustle and bustle of modern life. By horseback you can visit three waterfalls. Each one has Natural swimming pools at the bottom of the falls.

Surfing

The Pacific Northwest Guanacaste Coast of Costa Rica has the most consistent swell activity anywhere in Costa Rica. The waves are perfect for beginners and experts alike, with daily offshore winds creating long rides with easy take offs and hollow barrel sections. Playa Tamarindo has a long beach break and welcomes surfers from around the world. Surfing is only a 25-minute boat ride from El Coco to Witches Rock where the experts surf.

Scuba diving and Snorkeling
Costa Rica’s North Pacific waters offer divers varied and plentiful marine life. Schools of small fish (often by the thousands), colorful tropical fish, Jacks, Barracudas, Eels, Eagle Rays, white-tip Reef Sharks, Manta Rays and Bull Sharks are commonly spotted. There is an incredible array of marine life of all varieties and colors awaiting you off of the nearby reefs and islands.  For the beginner, check out Playa Hermosa. There you can take classes in the pool, the day before you dive with a certified master diver. Instruction in the pool takes a couple hours and the student will be able to practice all the necessary safety and comfort skills before going out in the ocean for 2 dives. Diving can be great any month of the year. This is primarily due to the abundance of plankton and other marine organisms at the lower end of the food chain that thrive in the warm 75 to 85 degree tropical waters. Average visibility ranges from 30′ to 50′ with possibilities of up to 80′.

Golfing

Imagine a golf vacation at any popular golf destination before the golf traveler discovered them. You will re-discover “no-hassle” tee times and the enjoyment of playing unhurried rounds of golf on courses designed by well known golf architects George Fazio, Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Ted Robinson, Jr., Mike Young and Tracy May. Here you will find all the ingredients for a great golf vacation and the added bonus of experiencing the scenic beauty and natural attractions of Costa Rica.

White Water Rafting

Costa Rica offers some of the world’s finest whitewater rafting and kayaking rivers. These rivers plunge through spectacularly beautiful, largely unexplored tropical wilderness. Whether an expert or beginner, nature lover or thrill seeker, rafting enthusiast or active kayaker, there is an unforgettable experience awaiting you. If you are looking for an action-packed one-day or multi-day trip to complement your vacation, the rivers of this beautiful land are waiting for you. The wild and scenic Costa Rica Rivers offers some of the finest rapids in Latin America. Suitable even for first time rafters, this thrill-ride of churning water and breathtaking scenery will be the highlight of your trip.

Normal 0 false false false EN-PH X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Costa Rica is Central America’s jewel. It’s an oasis and an Ecotourism heaven, making it one of the best places to experience the tropics with minimal impact. It’s also mostly coastline, which means great surfing, activities and beaches galore with a climate built for laziness. Deep Sea Fishing

Would you like to hook a sailfish on a fly, catch and release a marlin, fight a giant tuna, reel in dolphin fish, take a swim with a porpoise, and catch a few snappers to take back for your dinner? The North Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is a World-Class sport fishing paradise. More than 40 world records have been registered within an 80-mile radius. Sailfish, black marlin, blue marlin, striped marlin (sails and marlin are catch and release), yellow fin tuna and Wahoo are found in abundance. Inshore species include large concentrations of roosterfish and snapper. Billfish are the favored target of most visiting anglers. There are many charter boats on the west coast of Costa Rica. They can accommodate an individual, a couple, a family or a group of any size.

Canopy Tours

Swing like a monkey thru the trees on a zip line canopy tour. Guides are professionals in the area of Canopying and most have years of previous experience. The canopy tour offers any adventurous tourist the opportunity to ascend into the forest canopy and see jungle life from a perspective available previously to only a select few researchers and photographers. This is an Adventure for all ages that should not be missed.

Sailing
Experience a day of sailing and exploring the impressive Costa Rican coast. While sailing you could encounter dolphins, whales, turtles, manta rays and bat rays. Anchored in a bay you can snorkel coral and rock formations, swim, or simply enjoy the secluded beaches. The best way of relaxing on your vacation is to enjoy a beautiful Guanacaste Sunset Cruise. Sit-back and watch the colorful sunset, while sipping a cold beer, rum punch or soft drinks and enjoying the light snacks.

Volcano’s, Hot Springs, Mud Baths and Waterfalls
Arenal volcano is well known for its exploding lava shows. Shop at the road side gallery’s and gift shops. Visit the rain forest. Lake Arenal, a beautiful 22-mile long lake is great for freshwater fishing. It’s home to the hard-hitting rainbow bass, or quapote: five to six pounders are common. Take your swimsuits to bathe in the pools of naturally warm thermal waters amid tropical gardens at Arenal Volcano National Park. For the sports enthusiast you can windsurf one of the premier windsurfing destinations in the world. Due to the area’s irregular topography the wind is constant, providing excellent windsurfing conditions, especially in the dry season between December and April.

Buena Vista Hot Springs
Canopy tour, hot springs, horses, water slide, waterfall and mud bath.
The thermal waters, steam bath, and natural spa are located at the foot of Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja. At the hot springs, you will relax unconditionally as you enjoy pleasurable and rejuvenating treatments with volcanic mud and warm spring waters. This “spoil me” atmosphere makes it easy to forget the hustle and bustle of modern life. By horseback you can visit three waterfalls. Each one has Natural swimming pools at the bottom of the falls.

Surfing

The Pacific Northwest Guanacaste Coast of Costa Rica has the most consistent swell activity anywhere in Costa Rica. The waves are perfect for beginners and experts alike, with daily offshore winds creating long rides with easy take offs and hollow barrel sections. Playa Tamarindo has a long beach break and welcomes surfers from around the world. Surfing is only a 25-minute boat ride from El Coco to Witches Rock where the experts surf.

Scuba diving and Snorkeling
Costa Rica’s North Pacific waters offer divers varied and plentiful marine life. Schools of small fish (often by the thousands), colorful tropical fish, Jacks, Barracudas, Eels, Eagle Rays, white-tip Reef Sharks, Manta Rays and Bull Sharks are commonly spotted. There is an incredible array of marine life of all varieties and colors awaiting you off of the nearby reefs and islands. For the beginner, check out Playa Hermosa. There you can take classes in the pool, the day before you dive with a certified master diver. Instruction in the pool takes a couple hours and the student will be able to practice all the necessary safety and comfort skills before going out in the ocean for 2 dives. Diving can be great any month of the year. This is primarily due to the abundance of plankton and other marine organisms at the lower end of the food chain that thrive in the warm 75 to 85 degree tropical waters. Average visibility ranges from 30′ to 50′ with possibilities of up to 80′.

Golfing

Imagine a golf vacation at any popular golf destination before the golf traveler discovered them. You will re-discover “no-hassle” tee times and the enjoyment of playing unhurried rounds of golf on courses designed by well known golf architects George Fazio, Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Ted Robinson, Jr., Mike Young and Tracy May. Here you will find all the ingredients for a great golf vacation and the added bonus of experiencing the scenic beauty and natural attractions of Costa Rica.

White Water Rafting

Costa Rica offers some of the world’s finest whitewater rafting and kayaking rivers. These rivers plunge through spectacularly beautiful, largely unexplored tropical wilderness. Whether an expert or beginner, nature lover or thrill seeker, rafting enthusiast or active kayaker, there is an unforgettable experience awaiting you. If you are looking for an action-packed one-day or multi-day trip to complement your vacation, the rivers of this beautiful land are waiting for you. The wild and scenic Costa Rica Rivers offers some of the finest rapids in Latin America. Suitable even for first time rafters, this thrill-ride of churning water and breathtaking scenery will be the highlight of your trip.