Impressions of Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata(Silver Port) used to be a hush-hush paradise where Steven Speilberg shot his famous movie “Jurassic Park” because of its unspoiled scenery.It is the largest city on the north coat of the Dominican Republic founded by Christopher Culumbus’ brother, Bartholomew, in 1496. It’s also the only place in the Caribbean where you can ride a cable car to the summit of the Isabel de Torre (Tower of Isabel) Mountain Station which is much like a shangrila of different flower garden pathways where you can see the whole city from above and the crystal azure Atlantic Ocean.

To keep a paradise a secret is difficult. Thus, Puerta Plata today is a booming city that offers everything from the best Amber stones to Ocean World Park- a real rainforest where there’s the largest dolphin lagoon in the planet. As a testament to its rich history there’s the last colonial structure- Fort San Felipe which is still standing. The story of this fort is interesting because it was built by the Spaniards as a defense against pirate attacks.

There is nothing as breathtaking as the Playa Dorada called “the gem” of the Dominican Republic’s northern resorts. Located a few miles from Puerto Plata, it is an “all inclusive” tourist complex “with everything”- the white sand beach, 5000 cottages and villas, casinos, an 180hole golf course, five modern discos and some 35 restaurants. Plus there’s a shopping plaza where real amber jewelry, local crafts, semi-precious stones, souvenirs and even designer products are displayed. If there is only ONE reason for you to visit Ouerta Plata, it must be the Playa Dorada where you can also go windsurfing , pedal boating, kayaking, banana boating, water skiing, and snorkeling. You can even go schedule your business trips and meetings here because there are convention and meeting facilities within vast tourist complex.

Puerto Plata is the world’s best amber market. In fact, Amber Museum, located near the central park in is one of the city’s main attractions. Amber is tree sap hardened over thousands (or millions ) of years. Most gem experts rate the quality semiprecious stones in the Dominican Republic as the best. This museum offers guided tours in Spanish and English.

Aside from Amber, this place also offers you the “Bo-Derek” hairstyle. No kidding. For a dollar or two, there are women who are called “braiders” who offer sunbathers at the beach the Bo-Derek braided style. Hot spas, mud and Jasmine baths, soothing aromatic massage is marvelous at the Occidental Allegro Playa Dorada.

Though not meant to be a tourist spot, but a favorite place that tourist explore is the resort town of Sosua. This town was founded by 600 Austrian and German Jews who founded this town in 1940. These refugees started making the finest milk and cheese known as the Producto Sosua brand. A single synagogue stands as a reminder of that dark phase in history.

A Puerto Plata vacation is comparatively cheaper than other vacation tours. It is affordable to any average American or Canadian. Be good to yourself and remember : “Vacation used to be a luxury, however, in today’s world, it has become a necessity.”

Holidays at Whistler!

A famous author once said ” a vacation is what you take when you can’t take what you’ve been taking anymore.” Some people call it a break from being broken by the work and home stress syndrome.

Everyone needs a change of scenery once in a while. That’s why Whistler , BC is there for you anytime. It isn’t just the 2010 Winter Games but everything about it that makes it an ideal vacation site.

1.August1-4 If there is a festival that has everything, it must be the Squamish Loggers Sports Festival. This is something like a sports and “everything fest”. This festive event also offers a whole flea market display of local, food, crafts, music and kiddie activities but the main event is the 10 kilometer run contest.

2.If you aren’t too fond of doing a 10 kilometer run however, you can watch the Canadian National Barbecue Championship held August 2-3 at Dusty’s bar in Whistler. Canadians from all over their country take this food “championship” seriously. You get to watch the world’s biggest and most famous barbecue contest and even get the chance of tasting the best grilled meat in the planet!

3. Whistler Blackcomb’s Legendary Turkey sale which isn’t only about turkey. Whistler Blackcomb is North America’s top ski resort.As it opens October 5 it “welcomes” winter and the start an exciting Thankgiving and Christmas season.

Canada’s thankgiving day is celebrated on the second Monday of October and during this period, the best turkeys in the world are displayed for sale. There is also a ” Turkey swap or sale ” which happens days before thanksgiving.

4.After the skiing and sightseeing, do something unique and different like visiting the Whistler Bizarre Bazaar Festival . This is a festival held at the last week of November. Items for sale are unusual crafts, decors, functional novelty items. Attend a LIVE auction and browse the creations of the top 100 artisans in North America.

5. The Whistler Film Festival is scheduled December 4-7,2008. This event presents the 90 best films all over the world. This is where celebrities from all over the world gather during this time of the year. You don’t need to be a star however to join them. The Media Center of the Whistler Film Festival makes it clear that tourists are most welcome.

6.Visit the Whistler’s Farmers Market get real organic vegetable, local food or watch a glass blowing or cooking demo. The Whistlers Farmer’s Market is where one can find everything from organic vegetables to textiles

to the latest organic bath and beauty products. Recently it even offers “hands on healing services”. If there’s one place one shouldn’t miss it’s this market.

7. Visiting a brewery can be a real thrill when you’re in Whistler. The Beerhouse offers tourists a “brewery tour” plus your own “type” of brew to wash down your favorite pizza or ribs. Some visitors of this place have come back simply to “watch the brew and the the world go by”.

8.If you’re overwhelmed by the great outdoors but you want to do some climbing the place you can do it despite the season. Whistler Core Climbing and Fitness Centre offers you 7,000 square feet of rock climbing, cardio machines, weights located in the lower level of the Telus Whistler Conference Centre.

9. Want a Really White Christmas?- Meet Santa at the Pemberton Museum on Saturday, December 20 and have a memorable Christmas watching his reindeers while enjoying your hot chocolate (or hot tea) and your hot dogs or ribs. Get serenaded by different choirs while enjoying a Christmas museum tour.

10. Watch or take part in the Whistler’s Winter Pride in early February. This is the 16th year that Whistler celebrates hosting a gay ski week celebrating human diversity. Join by riding the snow mobile, snowshoeing and the MaqueRave dance party.

Fun at Whistler goes all year round. So when you get that nagging feeling that you need to recover zest for life, there’s only one place to go Whistler!

Sousa – Dominican Republic

Sousa is an inviting charming city on the north Coast of the Dominican Republic that has earned the repute of being “the Acapulco of the Caribbean”.It is an ideal spot for those who wish to have a gratifying vacation without having to spend too much.

Tourism in Sousa started sometime in the 1980s when foreigners who wanted a cost value vacation discovered this enchanting place.Sousa was a “sanctuary” city for some 600 Jewish refugees during World War 2.Then a remote town, it developed by these refugees. Though the main attraction of the city is THE beach, many of those who have visited Sousa say that they felt an intangible sense of inner peace when they visited the Sousa synagogue museum where old photos and memorabilia of the first Jewish refugees are displayed as a mute testament of the “good heart” of the city.

The same refugees started their own cheese and milk production and “Producto Sousa” was born. Today, visitors shop for one of the world’s finest cheese and tastiest meat products in this city.

The star of Sousa is still the beach which is known worldwide to be one of the bluest and most pristine in the world. Sosua Beach is a U-shaped coast in a covered cove. The waves are almost always calm and relaxing. Snorkeling and all types of water sports are available but most visitors choose to explore the magical coral reefs.

Sousa is close to the bigger city Puerto Plata where one can visit another type of museum-The Amber Museum- where the best amber stones and other precious and semi-precious gems are displayed and sold. The Amber Museum is where you can purchase A-1 jewelry at the most reasonable cost.

From the Amber Museum, you can take the only cable car in the Caribbean from the Botanical Gardens to reach the peak of the Isabela de Torres Mountain. This mountain top is a garden of different flower paths. Different pleasant scents permeate this tower garden but the most awesome sight to behold here is the view of the whole North Coast from above as it is gently kissed by the waves of the Atlantic.

One can later take a “novelty” tour to the near rum factory and take home free samples. Assortments of quality rums are sold. If you are not a drinker, see the wine glasses and the souvenir “glass crafts”.Or you can purchase miniature rums to take home to your friends.

Trek through the Columbus Water Park with its many slides and different “innovative” pools. Dare get wet and splash through the fun. After that visit the Go Kart/Bumper Car park that is open all night. Both these fun parks are only fifteen minutes from Sousa. Recapture the child in you again. Get excited. Learn how to play again!

Join the excursions riding safari-style jeep trips into the countryside and try the catamaran day trips off Sosua Beach. Go horseback riding or take trips to Cabarete and La Isabela Park of Lupern and see where the first European settlement in the New World was built in the 15th Century.

Make new memories out of the old by taking a vacation to Sousa. It’s one of those unique vacation spots where you can recapture history, recharge your energy and relax in tune with nature. Relearn to live life with joy and excitement. Sousa gives you the gift of “living in joy” again. The same gift it gave those 600 refugees not too long ago.

Sousa waits for you.

Kiawah Island -Charleston

Kiawah island is a magical beachfront community located a few miles from Charleston. It differs from its nearby environs because it has distinctively emerged as a tropical nirvana dotted by private homes, cottages and villas gracefully located in the edges of the ten mile beach coast.

Its not only the beach coast but the whole community design which is an idyllic place where visitors get a glimpse of the most glorious flora and fauna. It isn’t unusual for visitors of Kiawah to be amazed at being greeted by deers, peacocks, colorful birds and the great blue heron.

Aside from its being a nature paradise, it’s near the Freshfields Village and the Bohicket Marina and Yacht Club where boutiques, shopping centers, restaurants and diners abound.

Kiawah is also famous because of the Turtle Point, a top gold course in the world designed by Jack Nicklaus. There’s also the Ocean Course, another world class golf course designed by Pete Dye but the scenery may seem familiar to non golfers as one recalls the movie The Legend of Baggar Vance which was shot against the backdrop of the panoramic land and seascape.

The Night Heron Park embraces its visitors by offering it various nature activities combined with pure entertainment. Enjoy watching movies and listening to a night concert under the stars or join the discovery series and have a night safari or have fun spending one memorable Kiawah Karnival Night.

It isn’t everywhere that one can come close to dolphins and go kayaking or exploring the beauty of the rarest and most awesome flora and fauna. There’s the Bohicket Marina and Yacht club that offers Kiawah guests scenic land and sea tours, private expeditions and almost every kind of water sport.

The Kiawah Natural Habitat Conservancy welcomes all guests to participate in nature workshops and organized real tours. Viewing the Conservancy’s “natural video collection” is an awesome vicarious experience.

Kiawah guests can also visit Charleston which is only a few miles away. Things not to miss when you get there are a tour of the Charleston harbor and the Sandlapper “Ghost Tours by the moonlight”.Food anyone? Go to the Sanctuary and try the famous Charleston shrimp and taste Southern “comfort” washed by your favorite tropical cocktail.

Visit the Kiawah General Store and the Newton farms in Freshfields Village and enjoy the fresh fruits, vegetables, fine wines, gourmet food and other groceries.

Kiawah Island’s star is its natural beaches.It displays one of the most cleanest waters that extends to the blue Atlantic.Kiawah waters teem with the most unique type of sea plants and animals not found in most tropical beaches. Even the air one breathes at Kiawah is cleaner and less polluted than most vacation spots.

Explore by joining the Sea Island Excusion cruise. Enjoy safe cruising and seeing dolphins, old historic structures, shorebirds and vast salt marsh enroute to a secluded island. Delve into the intricacies of the island and collect your own seashells (for souvenirs).You can also try guided scuba diving while you’re on the island.

Kiawah is that magical eden that has everything from the best of beaches,awesome wildlife, elegant gold courses, magnificent parks, and a a cornucopia of different shopping nooks.

Those that say you can’t take a vacation along with you haven’t felt the enchantment that only Kiawa can give.

What? You’re in Love with an Ebony Princess??

The Ebony Princess doesn’t need The Bodyguard nor is she dazzled by gifts like designer clothes and bags but there is nothing she loves more than a decent self-respecting man who loves her.She values your showering her with RESPECT more than diamonds.

If you’re even thinking of saving the Ebony Princess from any peril – imagined or real – you’re far off the mark.She’d probably even think that you’re mocking her if you call her your Ebony Princess. Well, her “brothers” may call her that, but you’re not one of her “brothers” and that may be a complication if you’re in love with her. Accept that you’re different because you don’t belong to her sub-culture. Neither should you “act out” something like your idea of “it” or you could look absurd.Sure, it can be initially difficult but remember the cliche’ that true love knows no bounds? Or no guts no glory. Anyway, if you are lovesick over a black woman, it is better to take the plunge than forever live in tormenting angst.

Understand that she isn’t a damsel in distress and she doesn’t need a White Knight. Besides, if she has real troubles, she usually has enough pride NOT to let you know until you’ve won her heart. Most black women are capable of taking care of themselves and others too. They’ll figure out “any given situation” their way. After all, the black woman of today is the result of a grand line-up of feisty mothers and grandmothers who were “Jills-of-all-trades” and experts of any “given situation”.Never call yourself her White Knight because she’s not THAT juvenile. Most black women are realists and pragmatists when it comes to love and choosing that special man to spend forever with. They know that knights exist only in fairy tales and that life isn’t one.

Thus,if you’re a white man in love with a black woman, make sure that you are totally in love with her. Anything less than being totally in love, is unacceptable. Most white men are awed by black women because they are naturally exotic but there is a vast difference between fascination and love.Loving a black woman means commitment and accepting her sub-culture,family, friends and what you may term as “sub-cultural eccentricities”.Most of what you may think are “eccentricities” are a their flair of creativity and independence.

If you think you’re definitely in love, cut the obsequiousness during the courting phase. Remember that black women are highly intelligent creatures who are gifted with an internal radar-they can detect if you

are trying to manipulate their feelings and responses or if you’re being absolutely honest.

Being honest with them about yourself will save you from a lot of future issues.Love naturally demands complete honesty. So, if you really are in love with a black woman you should be courageous enough to be tell her only the truth.Be direct about your intentions and assure her that you’re giving her all the time to decide on it. Be open and express your feelings. If you feel intimidated because of “sub-cultural differences” ask her to help you understand the complexities.

Black women respect men who keep promises no matter how “small” the promises seem to be. If you say that you’re calling her on Saturday morning, make sure to give her a call. No, you won’t get away with : “Something came up and I just couldn’t get hold of a phone..” No matter how inconsequential your promise seems to have been, your word does matter. A man’s word of honor, may sound passe’ in today’s quick paced world but that is no excuse for black women.If you have a date and a real emergency arises ask someone to call her and inform her but never leave her waiting for no one. Never promise her gifts you can’t deliver even if it’s only a pizza. Establish your reliability from the start.

Truthfulness is a biggie. Most back women aren’t drama queens and may not say anything when they detect a “little lie” about a wee thing or two, but they aren’t forgetting it either. The only way to say something to a black woman is to tell it like it is. These women respect men who are truthful and secure enough to tell the women they love about their past indiscretions, their hang ups, and their families.Do not try and impress her by making-up tales like you’re a College graduate if you’re not. Neither should you tell her that you’ve never been married if you’re divorced. Be specific and truthful about your “facts”. Do not assume she won’t do a check on you.She may not check your story, but remember that a black woman recalls every story you tell her years later.You wouldn’t want to quarrel ten years later over the fact that “you said you had a College degree” a long time ago.

Family is a major for the black woman. Appreciate it when she tells you anecdotes from “Momma” or “Poppa”. Most black women treasure family ties and try and keep in touch with their parents and siblings no matter how independent they seem and how adult they are. There is no such thing as complete independence from their family.

Part of the virtues of a good black woman is recognizing her immediate roots and being part of her family’s support system. It isn’t unusual for a black woman to stay on the phone for hours to encourage a “sister”. Sister can mean any of her literal siblings of her closest circle of friends. Respect her uniqueness and admire the generosity of her soul instead of being annoyed.Calculate her feelings and if you feel that it would not make her feel awkward or uncomfortable, ask her if you can meet her immediate family. Show her that you are eager to be counted as part of her family and that you share her concerns about family and friends. On the other hand, do not be pushy and insist that you meet them unless she’s comfortable with the idea.

If you love her realize that some black women have deep Church roots. Despite their favorite red color manicure and pedicure and their stylish flair, most are attached to their Church and their “fellowship” friends. If you want her to fall in love with you, do something like taking her or fetching her from Church. Ask her questions about her faith and show that you are sincerely enthused by her spirituality.

Tell her about your work and job. There is nothing a black woman respects more than a man who can hold a great job and who makes it clear that he has big dreams and ambitions “for both of you and your future family”. On the other hand, share and clarify that you likewise respect women who are intelligent and steeped in their work or careers like her. If she is a career woman, make sure to complement her for every achievement she’s accomplished. Make it clear from the start that you admire career women. Somehow make her know that should you both decide to get married or live together you would consider a working or career woman as a partner rather than a competitor.

You do not have sex with a black woman, you make love with her. You gently touch her, hold her hand, hug her and show your affection by being touchy-feel and telling her that you love her. The wonderful thing about black women is that you can be mushy and vulnerable about telling her what you feel about her. Put on the dreamy music and open the wine.Don’t be timid.Be bold and ask her for a dance if she seems to be in the mood “for all the works”. You don’t have to call her Princess to treat her like one.Make her know that it is more of your desire to please her than to be pleased by her. When making love to her, give her the best foreplay before the “main event”.

Introduce her to your family and friends and show her that you mean business: that you are serious about her. Nothing touches the heart of a black woman more than being a real man who undoubtedly loves her.Do not brag about your family achievements or your family corporation. She may get the wrong impression that you’re showing her your family only to impress her.Instead make her feel like a special guest when she meets your family. Black women can be super-sensitive. Before you take her to your family, talk to your parents and siblings and ask them to help you make your girl feel part of the family even before you’re married.

Loving a black woman and being loved by her in return is rediscovering THE real life.Only this you have finally found your forever loyal friend, partner and lover to share it with.

Best of the Caribbean – Port Antonio

Flaunted by Errol Flynn as more beautiful that any woman he has ever seen is Port Antonio. It is that gorgeous Jamaican town surrounded by crystal waters, majestic mountains, the world’s deepest lagoons.

Port Antonio was a secret Caribbean hideaway first discovered in the 50’s by the Hollywood crowd and celebrities. Today, it is one of the most famous tourist spots in the world that also offers a flavor of history.

1.History Tours- One also gets a taste of history while visiting this port town. There are those romantic narrow streets and structures from another age such as the neo-Romanesque Anglican stone church (1840). The gingerbread DeMontevin Lodge (1881) has now been transformed into a famous visitor’s house at the Titchfield Peninsula. Fort George (1729) still stands guarding the harbors with its ancient canons. Visit the ruins of Mitchell’s Folly, a collapsed villa made of cement and seawater(1901).

2.Navy Island- Visit twin harbors and and take a ferry ride to a resort once owned by Errol Flynn Enjoy.Cruise through the whole panoramic view of the town, hills, foliage and mountains.

3.Nonsuch Caves- Take a drive from Port Antonio to the Village of Nonsuch, where you can visit one of the old Arawak civilization. Here you can hike the Athenry Gardens, a three-acre park of fertile vegetation and grand beautiful tropical foliage. Explore below the oldest caves in the planet believed to be more than a million years old.

4.Blue Lagoon- Remember Brook Shield’s movie?Tthis is where the scenes were filmed. The Blue Lagoon grants you a spectacular show of changing shades of aqua in the cleanest waters. There is also the 52 meters deep “Blue Hole” which seems like a narrow funnel opening to the seas.

5. Rafting at the Rio Grande – Take an excursion tour at the Rio Grande and go rafting.The Rio Grande excusion tours will take you through the waters amidst high bamboo arches and fern-covered groves. Taste the romantic water journey through the narrow moss rock formations called Lovers Rock. Rafting in this place was originally introduced by no other than Errol Flynn.

6.Somerset Falls – Ride the Gondola and see the tranquil lovely greenery as you go through the clear waters of the Daniels River leading to a secret waterfall within the rainforest. Have a relaxing nature trip.Enjoy sun bathing or go swimming in the deep rock pools. You can see the falls better though if you choose to stay at a place at the upper part of the river.

7. St George’s Village in Port Antonio looks more like an ancient town because of its Georgian architecture but it really is a modern shopping mall where you can buy crafts, souvenirs, clothing, bags, even jewelry. Don’t forget the local food section where you can buy the Jamaican jams, jellies, cakes and spices.

8.Crystal Speings Resortis one vast eco-park where you can trek or drive through 158 acres of tropical gardens. Observe more than thousands of bird species and and different wild orchids amidst the well-manicured gardens. See the different fish ponds, small rivers and marked pathways leading to the forest.Find the legendary for Jamaican Doctor’ birds (humming birds) popping out flower layers.

9. Boston Beach is a lovely place to visit for both water sports and THE delicious jerk chicken. It is a blue narrow inlet that leads to the sea but its scenic and picturesque view makes it an excellent place for surfing and snorkeling. This place is known to serve the best JERK CHICKEN which is one of the best Jamaican culinary delicacies.

10. Visit the Mockingbird Hill which is a premium eco-friendly hotel known for its elegance, gourmet cuisine and spa and massage. Try their Swedish massage, neuromuscular therapy, and reflexology. Try their aromatherapy, facials and scrubs. Feel the relaxing body massage oil from coconut oil, lavender, sunflower, almond oils and patchouli.

Those are only ten marvels waiting for you at Port Antonio but we’re sure there are more. This is one little spot in the world that has everything you want to see, feel and enjoy. So give yourself a that well-deserved break and visit this magnificent paradise.

Touring Jamaica

Jamaica is more than an Eden of white sand beaches, mirror clear waters and alluring foliage. It is an ideal vacation spot because everything delightful is in Jamaica from nature to the all year round temperate weather. It is also steeped in history where one can still witness ruins of its fascinating past.Jamaica is also the only English speaking island in the Caribbean despite the diversity of its culture and the popular delicacy of its local cuisine, particularly called JERK CHICKEN.

Only in Jamaica can you visit a 19th century model town called Falmouth,capital of the Parish of Trelawny.Here visitors witness the old Georgian architecture and restored buildings with well laid out cobblestone streets. Jamaica lays claim to the only living museum like the The Falmouth founded by Thomas Reid in 1769 and visited by Prince Charles and his wife Camilla.

Add the novelty of of walking up a crystal water stairway of the Dunn Falls which leads to the awesome botanical gardens.Then there’s the Doctor’s Cave Beach at Montego Bay where even “incurable” diseases have allegedly been healed by the mineral baths and hot springs.

And where in this planet can you find a place that Errol Flynn called, “More beautiful than any woman in the world”? Flynn was referring to Port Antonio, that gorgeous Jamaican port town surrounded by crystal waters, majestic mountains, the world’s deepest lagoons called the “Blue Hole” which seems like a narrow funnel opening to the seas.The same Blue Lagoon is where the famous Brook Shield’s film of the same title was filmed during the 1980’s.

Also in Jamaica can you find James Bond’s beach and Ian Fleming’s the Goldeneye which today is one of the most popular family-oriented resort that offers all types of water sports and children’s pools.

Talking of watersports, the best scuba diving experience can only be found in Negril.

Jamaica is also known to be the home of the only elfin forest of stunted soapwood and redwood trees. It is the only natural “bonsai jungle” in the planet found at the Blue Mountains of Port Jamaica.Thus said Christopher Columbus:

” It is the fairest island eyes have beheld; mountainous and the land seems to touch the sky.”

Where can one find Bob Marley’s birthplace? It’s at Nine Mile, a small town in the lovely mountains of St. Anne where the legendary “King of Raggae” was born was laid to rest. A visit to his home may even give you the chance to talk to his mother and brother and members of his family.

Have you ever heard of something ironically called Nonsuch Caves where you can witness different rock formations and caves believed to be more than a million years old? Imagine caves and rock formations that existed even before the whole island existed.

Jamaica also offers the most thrilling eco-tours where tourists are expected to see over a hundred species of birds in the Black River morass. Black River Safari takes you through Jamaica’s largest river, wetland area and lower morass. The most thrilling part is the exploration of the whole swamp forest.

Only in Jamaica can you ride the gondola, aside from Venice. Tourists at the Somerset Falls west of Port Antonio enjoy cruising the waters on gondolas going through the sparkling waters of the Daniels River leading to a secret waterfall hidden by the rain forest.

Where can you go shopping at a mall that appears like an 18th century an ancient town because of its Georgian architecture? Where else but at St George’s Village where visitors can buy crafts, souvenirs, clothing, bags, even jewelry. Plus Jamaican jams, jellies, cakes and spices.

Where can you find a vacation spot where hurricane season means having lots of rain and just a little wind and where the waves in the beaches are almost always calm? Where can you find a paradise so fortunate that the last major earthquake ever recorded was in 1906?

The answer is Jamaica and all these intriguing details about it surely MUST be true considering the millions of tourists who visit it annually.Isn’t a visit to this mysterious wonderland a tantalizing idea? Time to pack your bags!

Seeasonal Weather in Jamaica

Jamaica, one of the most gorgeous places to visit in the Caribbean is where you find lovely islands with white beaches, grand gardens and the deepest lagoons and the friendliest people despite a diverse culture.

Jamaica is where more than one million tourists go each year. A tourist can do anything from rafting at the Rio Grande to bird watching at the Crystal Springs Garden. Water sports abound because of the white beaches.

There are also those who prefer Jamaica as a vacation spot because of therapeutic reasons like bathing in the curative hot springs or feeling the benefits of the Swedish massage offered at the Mockingbird Hill Hotel.

Errol Flynn and Ian Fleming loved Jamaica because of its natural beauty and climate.

For instance, most beautiful coastal areas where the beaches and lagoons are located have 80-85 Fahrenheit from June to September. After September, the temperature may drop to 70-75 Fahrenheit in the coastal areas.

If you’re visiting in the summer months and you don’t like the heat however, you may prefer to go somewhere near the Blue Mountains or interior areas where there temperature can be about 50 -60 degrees Fahrenheit even during the summer months.

The mountains and the towns located near them have different temperatures. There is also a different pattern of rainfall even in the different mountain areas. For instance, there is very little rainfall in the southwestern coast of Jamaica.
It can be vastly different though should you be planning a trip to Port Antonio which is near most tourist spots like the Blue Lagoon and the Nonsuch caves because this is the part of Jamaica that has the most rain annually.

For instance, be ready for rain when you’re planning a summer trip to Cruise through the Rio Grande and bring your rain jacket or umbrella.

Summer however is a treat if you love the beach because the water is usually comfortable and even cold if you try a dip at the lagoon. Waves in the beaches at Jamaica are usually peaceful because there is not too much volcanic activity within the island. Thus, there have been only two major earthquakes that hit Jamaica, the latest one occurred in the year 1906.

Considering the earthquake statistics, you’d be INCREDIBLY UNLUCKY if you ever get hit by an earthquake while on one of the Jamaican beaches. History and weather patterns indicate that Jamaica has one of the safest beach fronts in comparison to other beaches in the world.

a hurricane season which starts from June and ends November. Yet the last major hurricane that hit Jamaica was five years ago. In fact, Jamaica is not known to experience the same type of major hurricanes that other parts of the world have to go through. Should you happen to visit Jamaica during its hurricane season, what you’d probably experience is a lot of rain and a light winds.

Anytime is an ideal time to visit Jamaica because of its temperate and gentle climate. Beach activities, water sports, excursions, hiking, and tours are available every day of the year.
Peak tourist season is during the winter season, where people who choose to have a “green Christmas” bring their family along to relax in one of the charming resorts or villas.

Temperature during the Christmas holidays is 50-65 Fahrenheit, the highest being in the beach or coastal areas. Thus, even if you’re planning a Christmas at the Blue Lagoon Resort, dipping in the waters during the evenings would still be cold. Beach activities during the Holidays are recommended in the morning and afternoons when the sun is up.

During March to September though, the tourist crowd isn’t as much as during the “Ber-months” and there may be rainy days in some areas but the cost of your vacation may be discounted by almost 40 percent. That certainly is a good vacation deal if you don’t mind some rain, the summer temperature (which isn’t as bad as most beaches in Asia) and calm warm relaxing waves.

But isn’t it just so comforting to get lazy in the beach in the summer and not worry about earthquakes and the rough waves?

Tamarindo, Costa Rica Christmas

Tamarindo is Costa Rica’s tourist gem that sparkles with inviting azure waters, gorgeous tropical parks and the most pleasant scenaries in the Pacific coast.

Peak tourist season in Tamarindo is during the holiday months as the winter sets in and our colorful gardens turn to white.Those who want the “green holiday experience” pick this tropical alternative dreamland to spend a relaxed holiday season.

Tamarindo’s main attraction is its clear blue beaches and scenic tropical landscape where one can see the biggest turtles, lovely colorful peacocks, and the most vibrant exotic flora and fauna life.

Start the holidays by joining excursions to the Guanacaste area at Tamarindo beach. See incredible diversity of scenic natural wonders as you go on a holiday nature safari. Or you can choose to try horse back riding, scuba diving, deep sea fishing. Treat yourself to the National Park Las Baulas and see something you’ve never seen before like a huge turtle egg about to hatch and newly born “turtle babies”.

Take a canopy tour through the tropical tree tops and slide down a huge water slide. Hike around the wildlife with your guided tour guide and see the Rincon de la Viejo volcano.

Remember that you’re on a Holiday and enjoy at your own pace. Tamarindo lets you choose if you want to go on excursions, or you simply want to spend a soothing holiday by trying the volcanic mud massage and the spa while looking at the calm waters on the beach. Join the Rincon de la Vieja tour and take the curative swim in the crystal clear hot and cold springs. Take a stroll to a majestic waterfall as you talk with the friendly locals.

Locals from Tamarindo are naturally friendly and spiritual. They are predominantly Roman Catholics who celebrate the holidays with the same joyous spirits. EVERYONE celebrates Christmas at Costa Rica with food, fiestas and fun.

From Tamarindo, you can rent a car or ride the bus to San Jose where one can join the week long “Festival de la Luz” which is a parade that marks the start of the Christmas season. This is a parade fest that includes 15 floats, 14 bads, and thousands of light held first week of December.

Most families of locals celebrate Christmas with a religious and western mix. Thus, it isn’t uncommon to find a plastic Christmas tree in homes and hotels with the traditional Nativity Scene called the “potals”.

The star of the Christmas celebration is the baby Jesus. Yet, there are hotels and malls that also have their Santa Claus giving kids candles and little gifts.

Christmas Eve is the biggest night of the year as the Church bells ring to invite everyone to the midnight mass(“Misa de Gallo”) declaring “peace on earth” and the birth of the Savior. Churches blaze with colorful lights as the choir sings. Though the popular local dish is the “tamale”. Tamarindo has several restaurants and resorts which can offer you the traditional western Christmas Turkey or the Spanish equivalent of Chicken Gallantine, roasted pork, Ham, pastiles for the “Noche Buena” celebration after the midnight mass.

Navidad, or Christmas day is celebrated just like any western country. Christmas dinners are offered in most resorts and restaurants at Tamarino. New Year’s Eve is celebrated at every resort and hotel all night long at Tamarindo. “Anioviejo”, is a grand celebration of the year’s end and a new beginning. Major event is midnight where there is feasting as everyone wishes each other good luck and most television and radio stations broadcast “El Brindis del Bohemio” which is a story of celebration of friends during the New Year.

A holiday at Tamarindo enriches the spirit, renews your energies and gives you back your zest for life. It is the perfect antidote for the winter blues and holiday annoyances.

Travel to San Marco,FL

There are several ways to spend a non-traditional New Year’s Eve that can leave lasting impression in your life and the lives of your loved ones.

There is nothing more that heralds optimism than the picturesque natural scenery, glorious tropical foliage and the clean azure waters that you can look forward to when you visit Marco Island in Florida.

Marco Island is where you can escape the winter blues and see nature in all its brightest colors during the winter holidays. There is also nothing as amazing as tasting the New Year experience at this place.

Temperature during the winter months is a comfortable 70-75 F which gives you the dandy feel of springtime. The temperature is ideal for having some beach fun doing snorkeling ,windsurfing, and enjoying one of those ecotours.

The main New Year’s event however is in Naples where the Naples Philharmonic Center hosts an annual New Year’s Eve party. This means fireworks display, the best food in the planet plus a whole night party of fun, concert and live music performed by top-artists.

If you happen to come earlier than the New Year’s Eve, for instance during the last week of December, you can spend the whole week in tune with the Christmas spirit by visiting 5th Avenue South where there is a grand display of Yuletide art, sculptures, crafts. The last week of December is when this place is busiest because it transforms into a model Christmas Village where local crafts are displayed and goods are sold. There also are different kind of sweet and gourmet food booths, souvenir and shellfish booths, aromatic candle crafts and an endless array of novelty items which you can purchase at the most reasonable prices. While doing your shopping, you are serenaded by Christmas carolers to make sure that you get that special feel of the holiday spirit.

Or you can join one of the Marco Island Sea Excursions which includes holiday beach parties, dinner cruises and even airboat tours. During this time of the year, you will never feel alone because most tourists like yourself are holiday revelers. They usually have Christmas and New Year cruises to show you their natural paradise which seems the same as when the Calusa Indians used to live in it some 5000 years ago.

Canoeing and Kayaking is also an activity that most tourists enjoy particularly in the area of Rookery Bay. Or if you wish to spend your holiday and New Year just relaxing, what better way to relax than visiting the National Parks and Sanctuaries.This area is  where you can see 150 species of birds including the American Bald eagle. Take the awesome hike within Rookery Bay and see the 16,000 square foot visitors center and marine reserves.

Join the Dawn Patrol and go chartered fishing. This activity offers not only fishing but also shelling, sightseeing and even kids are welcome to spend their day with Captain Bill Walsh who is known to be one of the most delightful hosts in the island. The Dawn Patrol is fun particularly during the months of December and January because the waters are calm though it can get a bit chilly as the sea air seems to blow you kisses.

You can also take your whole family on a holiday 1 hour private boat trip into a secret Everglades manatee hideout. What better gift is there to give than an extraordinary Christmas and New Year? Or perhaps, you can go Christmas camping with your family while waiting for the Naples New Year party.

As December sets in, the Holiday Pottery Sale begins at the Florida Gulf Coast University Arts Complex. This Holiday Pottery is like the start of a festival like no other because though its main display are pottery items, this festival offers everything from food to music.

Waiting for New Year’s Eve at San Marcos Island, Florida will give you and your family that optimism and joy that says a happier New Year is waiting for you. Grab it at San Marco!