Category Archives: Travel

World Renowned Hikes in Utah

Have you ever seen stunning pictures in National Geographic and wished you could visit those far away fairy tale lands? Well if you are anywhere in North America you need not to wish for some vacation that would cost you all of your life savings. Utah has some of the most stunning locations in the world and the hikes take you right into the heart of these incredible landscapes. Here are some of the most well known and worth while hikes.

Angels Landing

This incredible hike has stunning views, terrifying cliffs, and some of the most incredible hiking known to man. It is located in Zion National Park and is a short 5 miles. That isn’t to say that it isn’t rather difficult, as the vertical climb is about 1500 feet, but the overall distance keeps it from being overly strenuous. The Angels Landing hike starts at the Groto Picnic area. Hikers cross the Virgin River and follow the West Rim Trail towards and them up a rather large cliff face.

Once the switchbacks have been climbed there is a nice one mile stretch through Refrigerator Canyon. This tall and thin canyon stays in the shade all day except at noon, so temperatures are refreshing. To climb out of the canyon another set a switchbacks needs to be climbed, that then lead to Scout Lookout. The views are incredible and at this point hikers split away from the West Rim trail and traverse the narrow Angels Landing trail to the final point. This portion of the trail can be dangerous if one does not hold to the chains and follow safety precautions. Everyone who hikes it confirms that it looks far more dangerous and scary than it really is, and that the views at the end are totally worth the fear factor. These views and this portion of the trail are what makes it world renowned, and so highly recommended.

Delicate Arch

This hike leads to one of the most world famous arches in existence. Located in Arches National Park you can view the arch just 100 yards from the asphalt. Some people enjoy this view, as they have many other things planned and little time to complete their vacation to do list, but with the hike being just over 1 mile each way this is a hike that is a no brainer.

Photographers and artists love to visit this location as their perceptions and abilities to portray the arch can lead one to see many different angles and visions of its beauty. Keep in mind that spring and fall are the best times to make the trek due to the heat of summer and the chance of uncomfortably cold weather in the winter. Don’t forget to see the Native American rock art that is just to the side of the trail head.

Calf Creek Falls

Calf Creek Falls is the major feature of the BLM’s Calf Creek Recreation Area. The trail meanders through cliff faces streaked with color from run off rich with minerals. Beaver damns litter the creek and fill its winding bends with small ponds. Additional beauty is found throughout the canyon with many Native American rock art features.

The trial has a round-trip distance of 5 1/2 miles. This is an easy stroll as there is little elevation gain, but most of the trail is covered in sand. This makes it a little more difficult than your average walk in the park. Do keep in mind that the summer months can get especially hot, and if you decide to brave the weather keep lots of drinking water on hand. There is a pool at the base of the falls that many hikers take a dip in before their return hike, making it well worth the summer trip.

Visiting any of these three hikes is well worth the time and the trip. There are many more hikes and places to visit within Utah that hold a status of world fame, just take some time to research a few more activities to create the vacation of a life time.

Adventures in Queenstown, New Zealand

With a well earned reputation as the Adventure Capital of the World, Queenstown is the best place to satisfy your cravings for adventure. From bungee jumping to tandem skydiving and jet boating to white water rafting, Queenstown travel gives you the opportunity to experience a safe, invigorating and fun environment. The unique setting and special atmosphere created by the region’s spectacular geography made this town popular all over the world. It is referred to as a Natural Theme Park because of the endless array of options to choose from, for leisure and adventure activities.

The compactness and the shortness of the distances between mountains, forests, historical sites, rivers and lakes attracts and enables the visitors to do so much in a short period of time. The abundant adventure activities, working holiday employment, nightlife and budget accommodations makes Queenstown a great place for backpacking New Zealand. The great thing about this town is that everything and everywhere is just within your reach, an easy walking distance. Here are three adventurous activities that are popular in this town:

Bungee Jumping

Bungee jumping is probably the most famous activity in Queenstown, which is also the fourth most beautiful bungee jumping site all over the world. Visitors has a lot of options, such as cable swinging throwing themselves off a gondola or a bridge, or the Bungee Rocket where a person is strapped in a cage-like device connected to the bungee cord and the device will be thrown into the air. Best bungee jumping sites in Queenstown: 1) Kawarau Suspension Bridge is historically the worlds first commercial bungee jumping site. Its located at 137.5 feet above a river and it has a platform for spectators viewing; 2) Hacketts Ledge is an urban option for bungee jumping. It is situated on top of the gondola, being open until night time; 3) Pipeline Bungee is an engineering masterpiece of 1864 gold-sluicing pipeline makes it the highest bungee jumping site and it is the world’s first gondola bungee jump. It is operating from a suspension bridge which is terrifyingly 440 feet above the river.

Hiking

Hiking, which is also locally known as tramping, is one of the excellent offerings around the Queenstown area. The hiking trails usually start from places close to the city. Routebourne Track is among the best tracks in the whole country because of its various spectacular countryside sceneries. The Rees-Dart Track is for those who likes a more challenging option because of its rugged track. However, Greenstone Caples Track is for those who prefer an easier option. Anyway you like it, all these tramps has maintained pathways and mountain huts as a comfortable accommodation option.

Jet Boating

Jet boating is an exhilarating experience and another popular activity in Queenstown. Shotover and the Kawarau Rivers are the best places for jet boating.

Queenstown is one of my favorite cities in New Zealand and with so many things to do, a mountain setting, and great nightlife, it is one of the most popular travel destinations in the country for a reason.

Fun And Adventure At Their Best With The Branson Zipline

A zip line is a cable that is suspended on an incline. A rider is attached to a harness and using a pulley, the rider can move from one location to another. Built with one end or tower higher than the other, the line allows the rider to “zip” down assisted by gravity, while safely secured. The ride is enjoyable and is often part of adventure tours around the country. One such example is the Branson Zipline which has become popular with people of all ages who are able to enjoy amazing views even as they enjoy the ride.

While the Branson Zip line is designed for thrill seekers of all ages; it is important for the rider to go through the workings of the zipline in order to be able to feel comfortable with the ride. Most tour or adventure trips have zip lines as a simple or fast way to reach a destination. The mechanism is built with high safety standards, and is regularly tested to ensure it is in good condition. For the zip lines to function effectively, there has to be a slope as the slope allows the rider to slide down to the destination. A steep slope offers a more thrilling ride as the rider is propelled down faster.

The rope which runs from one end to the other is made of material that is strong enough to hold any human weight. Pulleys on the rope help to pull the rider down the slope. The pulleys are attached to a plastic case that has handles, where the rider holds onto during the ride. When people understand the mechanism and how it works, they are able to feel safe enough to try it. The adventure companies at Branson always use certified and experienced guides to help the riders to enjoy the experience and the guides ensure that the riders understand what to expect, and that they are secure before embarking on the ride.

Live the life: 10 best outdoor activities in Barcelona

The Catalonian capital of Barcelona has long been a sought-after tourist destination. With its sunny skies, rich history and cosmopolitan lifestyle, the city has something to offer everyone. The warm balmy weather calls to be explored with many activities to stimulate one’s interests. Check out 10 of the top outdoor activities you can indulge in on your visit to this beautiful city.

1. Urban safaris

Nature lovers will get a kick out of enrolling themselves for urban safaris. Sponsored by the Jane Goodall Institute, visitors can opt for the Marine Birds or Urban Birds tours, both designed to create awareness among the public about Barcelona’s fauna. Aside from this, there is also the historic Parc del Castell de l’Oreneta, a wooded area which also doubles up as a conservatory.

2. Boating

Charming boat rides are what you will find if you visit the Parc de la Ciutadella. Amidst the park with its green lawns, playgrounds and a waterfall, is a lake where you can hire rowing boats and settle down to marvel at the lush surroundings.

3. Skateboarding

Extreme sports junkies can get out their skateboards and get a thrill at the MACBA. Outside MACBA is a square that sees skateboarding aficionados showing off their skills as well as skate stores where you can purchase all your skating paraphernalia.

4. Climbing

While it may not be as thrilling as mountain climbing, you can still get your adrenaline pumping at Montjuïc’s Climbat, a climbing center with surfaces measuring 800m². There is equipment for hire as well as classes first timers can take.

5. Beach hopping

What’s the point in visiting Barcelona if you don’t go beach hopping? Get your beach gear together and head for Barceloneta Beach, Icaria Beach and Mar Bella Beach where you can do more than just swim. There are kite and wind surfing activities as well as exercise circuits and even libraries.

6. Outdoor cinema

More entertaining than a drive-in, Barcelona hosts a cinema and concert event at the moat of the historic Montjuïc castle. No matter your taste in movies, you’ll find everything from the classics to just-released flicks. Prior to the movie screening, visitors can enjoy live music as well as bring their own picnic baskets for an evening to remember.

7. Sardana

Put on your dancing shoes and head to the Plaça de St Jaume or the Santa Eulalia cathedral to take part in the Catalonian dance called sardana. A cobla band will get you dancing to the rhythms typical of Barcelona. And while it may look simple, know that sardana isn’t easy to master.

8. Windsurfing

Get more than just a swim at Base Nàutica with a course in windsurfing. If you’re not a beginner, you can hire equipment charged per hour and also take part in sailing as well as hire kayaks.

9. Table tennis

Table tennis lovers can visit almost any park or public garden to find table tennis tables. There are over 40 such tables located in these green spaces and paddles and balls can be bought at any one of the Chinese-run shops.

10. Música als Parcs

Thursdays to Saturdays should be reserved for Música als Parcs, outdoor concerts that are organized on these days. Jazz and classical are the orders of the day with about 30 groups in each category. The concerts are held in green spaces like Turó Park, Parc de la Ciutadella and Parc Central del Poblenou.

The city of Barcelona sees a mix of sporting activities, culture and a lot of music. Its diverse nature is one of the reasons why it draws so many visitors from far and wide. If you ever plan to visit, make time for all of these outdoor activities aside from the usual sightseeing.

About the author: Samantha Harper is a blogger by profession. She loves writing on technology and luxury. Beside this she is fond of gadgets. She recently bought an Android Mp3 Player for herself. These days she is busy in writing an article on teen health.

 

Cabo San Lucas Fishing Charters And Others

If you are looking for a good place to go and spend your vacation in, then you should definitely take a look at Cabo San Lucas, which is located in Mexico. Here, you can do all sorts of things such as explore the beautiful places there, and even go on some Cabo fishing charters to help you explore your inner sport fisher.

Cabo San Lucas is a town which has a lot to offer in terms of hotels, restaurants, and various other tourist attractions. It boasts its many sandy white beaches and a great scuba diving experience in the area.

On the other hand, it is also well known to be a great place to fish for Billfish and Marlin. In fact, if you know just where to go, you can even locate some extraordinary wonderful fishing grounds wherein you can do some great sport fishing. You can even charter any Cabo San Lucas Fishing Boat to help you get to those wonderful fishing spots which you will never be able to find anywhere else.

If you are already a sport fisher at heart, then you will surely appreciate this area with all that it can offer. You can surely hone and further improve your sport fishing skills here. Conversely, if you are a beginner, you can also start off with the great fishing grounds located near the area.

Cabo San Lucas is one of the many tourist attractions in the Baja area in California. If you choose to come here, you are surely not going to be disappointed with all that this wonderful place can offer. with activities such as swimming, scuba diving, strolling along the twon, sight seeing, and most of all – Cabo San Lucas sportfishing, you are sure to find yourself wanting to come back to this beautiful place over and over again.