The Channel Islands have the elements of a great national park: amazing scenery, abundant wildlife and wildflowers, fascinating historic sites, and a sea voyage besides. Thanks to that amazing scenery and flora and fauna, this national park is also a National Marine Sanctuary. And because you have to take a boat or plane trip to visit these islands, enjoying the park’s attributes is much more of an adventure than a typical national park visit.

A bonus of that limited access is that overcrowding doesn’t exist here. Visitation in 2012 was only about 250,000 people. That same year, Yosemite had 4 million visitors, about 16 times as many. Besides being a National Park and a National Marine Sanctuary, it’s also part of the International Man and the Biosphere Program. Channel Islands National Park consists of five islands, four islands that form a chain: San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, and Anacapa; and one separated from the others, Santa Barbara. The mainland of California and the four Channel Islands form the Santa Barbara Channel. Strange as it may seem, the island called “Santa Barbara” is not part of the Channel that bears that name.

Your starting point should be the park’s visitor center, which is on the mainland in the city of Ventura. You’ll find displays, an indoor tide pool, maps, books, and a simulated caliche (kah lee chee) ghost forest (more about that later). The telescope on top of the building enables you to get a closer look at the islands, on a clear day.

Island Packers Company, the park concessionaire, adjoins park headquarters in Ventura Harbor. As its name implies, Island Packers is an outfitter of pack trips, but their beasts of burden are boats. The guides for Island Packers are wildlife experts. If they catch sight of a blue whale or a pod of Pacific white-sided dolphins or a cluster of gulls circling and swarming while crossing the Channel, the skipper will steer toward them to get a closer look. Around the islands themselves, you’re likely to see harbor seals, California sea lions, and brown pelicans.

At fourteen miles from Ventura, Anacapa is the closest to the mainland. Anacapa is the smallest of the islands and is made up of three islets, East, Middle, and West Anacapa, the largest of the three. West Anacapa, protected as a Research Natural Area, is the world’s primary breeding area for the previously endangered Brown Pelican. Today the pelican has recovered so well it was removed from the endangered species list in 2009. Anacapa is also the largest breeding area for the Western Gull.

The crew takes you around Arch Rock, Anacapa’s iconic landmark, to view a hauling-out area popular with harbor seals. Then they circle back to the landing cove at the east end of East Anacapa. The guides take passengers to the landing area six at a time in skiffs, where they disembark directly onto a ladder at the pier. A stairway built into the side of a cliff leads 157 steps up to the island’s plateau. A large crane hauls up supplies for the rangers who live here.

Once on Anacapa, you can hike a 1-mile loop trail to circle the island. Western gulls and harbor seals are the most commonly seen animals. During the breeding season, you could see nesting gulls right up to the trail. The trail winds through stands of giant coreopsis, or tree sunflower. This 4-foot tall sunflower-with-a-tree-trunk grows on all the islands, and blooms in the spring. The aptly named Inspiration Point, at the western end of the islet, provides commanding views of the peaks of West Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island.

The Bureau of Lighthouses, which later became the Coast Guard, has operated a lighthouse on east Anacapa since 1932. It was the last permanently placed lighthouse built on the West Coast. The remains of a number of shipwrecks, mostly from before the construction of the lighthouse, but also afterward, lie scattered about Anacapa and the other Channel Islands. Remains of the sunken Winfield Scott and other wrecks can be explored by SCUBA divers.

You can camp on Anacapa Island, but in addition to your camping gear, you’ll have to bring all the water you’ll need, as well. The early lighthouse residents had a concrete water catchment basin to funnel rainfall into a cistern to supplement their water supply, but the gulls seemed to like landing here so much that the people rarely used the water it captured. You can see this catchment at the southeastern part of the island, not far from the campground.

The trip back to the mainland is often against the prevailing wind and current, making for a rougher ride. For those prone to sea-sickness, take along Dramamine or ginger, which may be more effective according to some medical research.

Not including Santa Barbara Island, which is about 54 miles southeast of Ventura, the Channel Islands can be thought of as the Santa Monica Mountain range with a shoreline. The geologic forces that created the Santa Monica Range were at work here, as well. In the geologic past, these islands were joined into one large island, called Santarosae. With the general warming of the Earth after the Ice Age, the rising sea separated them. The rocky shores provide a firm foundation for the kelp which in turn forms a foundation for the invertebrates, fish, birds, and marine mammals.

The islands are a special place to see rare species or relatively common species in greater than usual abundance. The Island fox inhabits the larger islands: Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel. It is a house cat-sized carnivore related to the gray fox of the mainland and lives on deer mice. San Miguel is known to have the greatest variety of seals and sea lions (pinnipeds, which means “feather-feet”) breeding on its shores. The California sea lion, Steller sea lion, northern elephant seal, northern fur seal, and harbor seal breed on the island. The Guadalupe fur seal doesn’t breed here, only visits. Many species of land and sea birds nest on all the islands. In fact, Santa Rosa has a freshwater marsh with blackbirds and other types of mainland birds nesting there.

The islands have a rich history. The Chumash, “island people,” inhabited the islands for about 6,000 years. Their signs are found at 3,000 archaeological sites. Artifacts such as hut debris, piled seashells called middens, and stone tools bear evidence of their past. In 1542, when the first European explorer visited here, there were 2,000 to 3,000 Chumash. In 1959, Phil Orr discovered a human femur at Arlington Springs on Santa Rosa Island. Using more advanced techniques for aging ancient material in 1999, scientists dated the bone at 13,000 years old, making this the oldest known occurrence of humans in the Americas. This finding lends support to the idea that the first inhabitants of North and South America arrived by boat. The first European to set foot in what is now California, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo wintered here but died from a fall. Though his grave has never been found, monuments honor him on San Miguel Island and in San Diego.

After the Chumash were removed to mainland missions around 1814, the land was owned by a variety of people. At one time, the islands produced livestock, orchard crops, and wine, with the Santa Cruz Island label. Starting in World War II, the U.S. Navy has used San Miguel Island for a bombing range. Today, it’s used for missile testing from Pt. Mugu Naval Air Missile Testing Center.

Though Anacapa is the most common destination, the concessionaire offers regular trips to the other islands. They offer sailing excursions aboard a schooner, too. In 1978, The Nature Conservancy acquired an interest in Santa Cruz Island from the Santa Cruz Island Company. With Island Packers, the Conservancy offers trips to the island from May to November. Trips to San Miguel are planned for autumn. Because this trip is infrequent, you’ll need to make reservations well in advance. One- and two-day trips are available. On both trips, you sleep aboard ship en route to awake in Cuyler Harbor the following morning. SCUBA diving in these islands is an unforgettable experience, with kelp forests and shipwrecks to explore.

A trip to Channel Islands National Park is much more adventurous than visiting many other national parks. The abundant wildlife, steep-sided bluffs, travel across the Pacific Ocean from the mainland, unique plant life, and historic artifacts make the experience like visiting another world. The heavily populated cities of southern California are less than 2 hours drive from Ventura. You have to go there to believe it’s real.

Channel Island National Park

mailing address: 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001, phone #: (805)658-5730

web site: http://www.nps.gov/chis

Island Packers

mailing address: 1691 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001, Phone #: (805)642-1393

web site: http://www.islandpackers.com

Channel Islands Aviation

mailing address: 305 Durley Avenue, Camarillo, CA 93010, Phone #: (805)987-1301

If you’re heading to central Florida anytime soon, you might be interested in going to SeaWorld. Compared to other theme parks in the area, it can be quite affordable. There are so many interesting things to do see and do. There is no limit to the fun you can have. SeaWorld Orlando serves as both an oceanarium and amusement park. There, you will find everything from seals to thrilling rides.

It’s a great place to go for families, couples, and singles alike. You’re never too old to learn about the animals. Sea animal educational programs are among the top reasons why people visit this park. Some of the programs even allow visitors to interact with the animals.

You can order tickets for everyone online. No matter how many you need, you should be able to get a deal. SeaWorld discount tickets are available for the whole family. If you think you will be able to visit more than once this year, you might be interested in an annual pass or fun card. Since Orlando is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, you can check out some combo tickets which include admission to not only SeaWorld, but other parks in the area as well, such as Aquatica as well as Busch Gardens in Tampa.

Once you’re at SeaWorld, you can go on many fun rides:

· Manta

· Journey to Atlantis

· Kraken

· Sky Tower

· Wild Arctic Ride

· Shamu’s Happy Harbor

Shamu’s Happy Harbor is exclusively for kid. If you’re going with your family, be sure to take the kids there. There are fun rides such as Swishy Fishies and Ocean Commotion.

Many people visit this park because they are interested in seeing the sea animals and learning about them. One popular animal attraction is TurtleTrek. There, you and your family can learn all about the life of a sea turtle. From the moment of their hatching, they become part of an incredible journey underwater.

Another interesting place to visit is Shark Encounter. This is a large underwater viewing tunnel. You will get an up-close look at amazing sharks and thousands of fish.

Other animal attractions at the Orlando park include Dolphin Cove, Pacific Point Preserve, and Manta Aquarium.

Even though SeaWorld Orlando is a family-friendly place, singles will find it to be a fun place as well. Sometimes children will go as part of a class trip for an educational experience. In short, this park is ideal for anybody of any age who loves animals and thrilling rides!

Durras, near Batemans Bay on the south coast of NSW, is a popular fishing destination for both the serious recreational fishermen or a family on holiday just wetting a line.

The most popular fishing spots can be broken down into three areas:

• Durras Lake. Just a short walk from the caravan parks in either Durras North or South Durras. Flathead and bream are mostly caught just off the boat ramps. If you have a small boat, kayak or canoe, there are four square kilometres of lake to fish in. Durras Lake is part of the Batemans Marine Park and there are two sanctuary zones. No fishing of any sort is allowed in these zones. Sometimes, Durras Lake is open to the ocean and catching prawns is a popular evening activity during summer.
• Durras Beach is 4km long stretching from Point Upright in the north to South Durras. Fish mostly caught include whiting, salmon, tailor, bream and snapper. Large beach rods are mostly used so the skill level required is generally higher than fishing in the lake. Beach worms can also be gathered in the sand by the receding shore line. A high level of skill and dexterity is required to catch them. When Durras Lake is open to the ocean, it is not possible to walk from the north to southern end of the beach.
• Point Upright Rock Platform fishing. This is located at the far end of Durras Beach. It is possible to catch snapper, salmon, drummer and many other species off the rock platform at the base of Point Upright. Rock fishing can be extremely dangerous and only experienced persons should indulge in this form of fishing. Proper footwear is essential along with an understanding of tides and weather.

Depending upon your skill level, different tackle and baits will be required for each of the different fishing spots described above. Fishing in the Durras area is generally very popular throughout the year.

It's your special day and you deserve the best. Beautiful Vancouver is the ideal place for your destination wedding.

Choose a luxuriant rainforest park or a coastal beach for your event.

The most popular and favorite outdoor places to get married are Stanley Park surrounded on three sides by water or the highest point in the center of the city, the hill top Queen Elizabeth Park.

Some of the picnic sites need to reserved ahead of time and you can do that through the Vancouver Parks Board but in general to host your nuptials in a park surrounded by blossoms or on an ideal ocean-side beach you are free to do so as long as you follow a few simple rules.

o first come, first served

o 50 people or less

o no chairs, tents, awnings or tables

o no alcohol

o no rice or confetti

A marriage license in Vancouver cost $ 100 and it is non-refundable. Only one of you needs to apply for a marriage license but you will need to know the full name, date of birth and place of birth of the other person. You both need to be 19 or older or you'll need parental consent. And, the ceremony must be witnessed by at least two other people as well as the marriage commissioner or religious representative. Our laws also allow same sex marriages.

After the ceremony take your wedding photos surrounded by stunning vistas and natural beauty. In this lush, green city you will not need to spend a lot of money on flowers maybe only a bouquet for the bride and a boutonnière for the groom.

If instead you prefer to be married in a hotel, restaurant or other at some other special venue or attraction there are plenty of alternatives and people to help you including wedding planners, decorators, florist, caterers and photographers.

A great day out for all the family when visiting Tenerife is the Siam Park Water Kingdom which is based on the ancient kingdom of Thailand. Opened in 2008, Siam Park is a fantastic theme park with great water attractions and is located in Playa de las Americas on the island of Tenerife. The park has a magnificent wave pool where the waves reach heights of over 3ft enabling you to ride the surf. The pool also has a lovely sandy beach with the water temperature at 24C.

Siam Beach offers wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean and the island of La Gomera. Here you will find The Beach Bar where you can enjoy a refreshing drink on the terrace and The Beach Club which offers a buffet with international cusine which you can eat on the terrace or on the beach.

The park has the Billabong Surf Shop and a floating market, built on a Thai Village theme, where you can enjoy a Thai massage and purchase souvenirs, refreshments, sun lotion, swimming attire and much much more.

ATTRACTIONS

The Tower of Power

In my opinion this is the best and most terrifying attraction here. After climbing to the top of the tower you plunge 92ft into an aquarium! A must for the thrill seekers.

The Dragon

Seated in a raft for up to 3 people, you will experience zero gravity when the raft enters a giant cone, spinning round and round until it is washed along to the end of the ride.

Mekong Rapids

This is a mad ride for all the family in family sized rafts along the rapids.

Naga Racer

Comprising of 6 lanes of running water, this is where all the family can grab a mat and have a race down to the bottom of the snakes.

Jungle Snakes

This consists of four entwinned snakes where you take a fast ride on a raft that slips and slides on the water through a mythical jungle.

The Giant

Another very popular ride where you will feel the force of gravity in a powerful twin cyclone.

The Volcano

Sitting in a dingy with 3 other people you will be transported through the darkened volcano as if you were caught in the lava flow until you reach the end.

The Lazy River (Mai Thai River)

For some relaxation you can take a ride on the long, gentle, lazy river which passes by an aquarium of tropical fish and magnificent waterfalls.

For younger children and babies there is:

The Lost City

The two towers here are joined by bridges, nets and slides where it is safe for younger children to enjoy some adventures and fun. The city also has fountains and waterfalls.

The Baby Zone

Tis is a special area with a pool and slides where parents can safely enjoy some fun with their babies.

This is just one of the attractions the whole family will enjoy whilst on their holidays to Tenerife.

If you are looking for cheap holidays to the Canary Islands, there are always great offers to be had on the internet.

Trip 1: North Kona and Kohala: Ancient History, Sumptuous Beaches

Approximate minimum time start to finish (to see every site) 11 hours

The tour begins at the Keauhou Historic District with ancient battlefields, heiau (stone temples), surfing beaches and shopping in Kailua Kona. 15 minutes north of town is Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park. See how Hawai’ians used aquaculture to create thriving communities in desolate areas. Among the many coastal sites, Hapuna Beach State Park, 30 minutes north, is rated in the Top 10 Best Beaches of the world, then stop 20 minutes further at Pu’u Kohala National Historic Park to visit an enormous heiau erected to the war god, Kuka’ilimoku. After several more sites, the road ends at Pololu Valley where wild ocean, cliffs, rainforest, waterfalls and a black sand beach make for stunning photographs plus a one hour hike. Looping back, Highway 250 cruises 45 minutes over Kohala Volcano to the lush pastures of Waimea for history of ranching in Hawaii as well as great shopping and dining. From Waimea it is one hour back to Kona.

Leg 1) In Kailua Kona, start at Keauhou Historic District, southern point. Drive Ali’i Drive north to Kahalu’u Beach, Keauhou Historic District (north terminus), La’aloa Beach and Ahu’ena Heiau.

Keauhou Historic District and Kona Coffee

For almost 400 years, temples and palaces along the Kona coastline served as a kind of “Rome of the Pacific”, a great political, religious and cultural center in Polynesia, until the capital was moved to Honolulu in 1850 by Kamehameha III. The most important, interesting and best preserved historical and cultural sites lie within the Keauhou Historic District, between Kahalu’u Beach Park in Kailua running south 6 miles to Kuamo’o Bay in Keauhou. The District contains perhaps a dozen fascinating sites that are easy to walk to, well maintained and quite interesting.

To see the numerous fascinating and important archaeological sites in the Keauhou Historic District, it is necessary to park your car in the free parking at either Kahalu’u Beach Park or the Keauhou Beach Resort and explore on foot.

Just uphill from the Historic District is the Kona Coffee District. Hawaii is the only state in the union which produces coffee, and Kona coffee is perhaps the finest in the world. Over 2 millions pounds of coffee a year are produced on about 600, 2-3 acre farms; tours of coffee farms and roasteries are available.

Kahalu’u Beach County Park

Loll in sand and sun under swaying palms, snorkel among rainbow-colored fish on a protected reef or ride surf where the Kings of Hawai’i defined the sport a thousand years ago! Kahalu’u is the crown jewel of Kona Coast County Beach Parks. This is the premiere snorkeling beach of the Island of Hawai’i; the snorkeling is in calm, shallow water. There is an abundance of fish of an enormous variety…perhaps the best display on the island. Go carefully into the water, being sure not to harass the endangered turtles, feed or harm the fish, nor touch or stand upon the corals.

There are numerous sites of historic importance around the park. It was here that the great queen, Ka’ahumanu, and her cousin Kuakini (later Territorial Governor) were raised. Abundant parking, disabled access, picnic tables, two shaded pavilions, two sets of public restrooms, showers and lifeguards round-out the facilities of this beautiful beach park.

La Aloa Beach County Park (White Sands/Magic Sands)

La Aloa Beach Park is a small, but fascinating, beach. The beach derives the name “Magic Sands” from the fact that for most of the summer and fall, it is a beautiful sandy beach. However, winter and spring storms wash the sand offshore, exposing a rocky terrace. With the onset of summer currents, the sands return. The surf is short, but spectacular, here, and many locals boogie board and body surf. Because of the violent, near shore nature of the break, it is not recommended for beginners. 

The La’aloa Heiau, makai of the parking lot, is very sacred to the native Hawai’ians and a hotly contested archeological site. Although not fenced off, visitors are asked not to wander the grounds of the heiau, disturb stones or walls. A county facility, it boasts showers, toilets and running water in addition to a volleyball court and lifeguards stationed throughout the day (except State Holidays).

Ahu’ena Heiau and Kamakahonu Beach

Centuries ago the inhabitants of this region built a series of sacred temples, or heiaus, which were originally used for the purpose of sacrificing human beings to their war god, Kuka’ilimoku. This particular archeological site is called Ahu’ena Heiau, which in Hawaiian means “Hill of Fire”.

 

Built originally in the 15th century and rededicated by Kamehameha the Great in the early 1800s as the main temple of his capital, the current structures seen at Ahu’ena Heiau were re-built in 1975 under the auspices of the Bishop Museum with financial help from the Hotel King Kamehameha and are constructed to 1/3 the original scale. There are restrooms and showers located on the pier near the beach. Adjacent Old Kailua Town is a treasure of shops, restaurants and aloha.

Leg 2) From Ahu’ena Heiau, drive Palani Road east to Hwy 19; go north on Hwy 19 to Kaloko Honokohau National Historic Park.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park

At Honokohau, ancient Hawai’ians took advantage of abundant freshwater springs to site a large community centered on fishing, fishponds and taro fields. The National Historic Park preserves a vast complex of important archeological sites, including heiaus, fishponds, a fish trap, house sites, burials, a holua (sledding track), a Queen’s Bath and abundant petroglyphs. The Information Center, which is near Highway 19, is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and has full facilities, restrooms and a small souvenir and bookshop.

Leg 3) Continue north on Hwy 19 to Kekaha Kai State Park, Kua Bay, Anaeho’omalu Bay, Waialea Beach and Hapuna Beach.

Kekaha Kai State Park

At Kekaha Kai, there are a wonderful set of beaches plunked down in one of Hawai’i Island’s gem parks. The northernmost and loveliest beach is Mahai’ula and the smaller, more southerly, less fine one is Ka’elehuluhulu Beach. The water is fine for swimming and boogey boarding but may be a little murky for ideal snorkeling.   There are numerous small springs along the entire beach making the near-shore water a little cold. Hidden in a little pocket of wilderness, perhaps the finest beach on the island, Makalawena Beach, is contained in this park. It is reached by a 20-30 minute hike over beaches and rough lava from the parking lot. Swimming and snorkeling on this uncrowded, indeed largely unknown, beach are beyond excellent. Facilities include public restrooms and picnic tables, but no drinking water.

Kua Bay

The site of Kona’s newest beach park, this is a lovely white sand beach. Although there is no shade to speak of, the swimming and boogey boarding in the crystalline waters is primo. Strong currents and large waves call for respect here, if the surf is up. Also, sometimes in winter the surf removes the sand to offshore, leaving a rocky shelf that is less fun to frolic on than the sandy beach.

Access is via a newly paved road recently opened to the public (on the ocean-side from the Veteran’s Cemetery). Park facilities include parking, picnic tables, restrooms and water. Wild goats are frequently seen in this area.

Anaeho’omalu Bay

The most photographed sunset view on the Island of Hawai’i, Anaeho’omalu Bay is the icon of what most visitors envision Hawai’i to be like before they get here…swaying palm trees, a clean beach fronting warm, safe, swimmable ocean and eager beach boys bearing large, tropical drinks with comical names like “Malahini Wahine Wahoo”. Here at the bay, one can rent snorkel or surfing gear, sign-up for sailing trips, snorkel tours, windsurfing lessons or scuba dives, order food and drinks, or just lounge pleasantly in the niumalu (shade of the coconut palms). Facilities and services are available at A-Bay and on the nearby resort grounds.

Waialea Beach (Beach 69)

A perfect crescent of golden sand backed by abundant shade at the edge of the beach makes this an ideal, though little known, family beach. A chain of tiny islands and pinnacles leads northward to crystalline water and a long coral reef for some of the most outrageous snorkeling and shore diving anywhere in the state. On windy days the water in the bay is a tad murkier than ideal for snorkeling, but most of the visitors to this beach don’t seem to mind. Restrooms, picnic tables, water and showers round out the facilities.

Hapuna Beach

Always rated in the Top 10 of American beaches, Hapuna Beach is the premiere beach destination on the Island of Hawai’i. Long, wide and phenomenally sandy, it has everything one dreams of in a Hawai’ian beach: abundant sun, surf, clean, clear and quiet snorkeling water, shade and well-maintained facilities.

There are lifeguards, several pavilions, barbecues, picnic tables, restrooms, showers and a small café. The center of the beach is for wave play and boogie boarding, the north and south coves are quieter, for snorkeling or gentle floating.   Although most patrons must walk about 100 yards down a path from the parking lot, Handicapped Parking exists right on the beach.

Leg 4) Continue North on 19 to jct with Hwy 270; north on 270 to Pu’u Kohola and Lapakahi State Park.

Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Park

A temple inspired by a god-sent vision of greatness, Kamehameha built Pu’ukohola in response to a prophecy by Kaua’i kahuna Kapoukahi that foretold if he built a great temple to his war god Ku in one day, Kamehameha would prevail in his wars of conquest and unite the Hawai’ian Islands. Perhaps as many as 20,000 people passing stones hand-to-hand from Pololu Valley raised this massive Heiau in a single day. 

Pu’ukohola is the largest stone structure in Polynesia, not counting the modern rock wall in front of the Kailua Lowe’s Hardware store. The National Historic Park has a very nice, new visitor’s Center and Book Shop, clean restrooms and picnic facilities. Adjacent to the Park is Spencer Beach Park which has a full range of facilities as well as wonderful, protected swimming and snorkeling.

Lapakahi State Historical Park

At Lapakahi State Historical Park you can walk through the partially -restored remains of a 600-year old Hawai’ian fishing village, Koai’e.

Bear in mind that Kohala was not always the barren wasteland seen today. Initially dryland forest, a thousand years ago or more the native Hawai’ians burned the forest to clear farmland for dryland crops such as sweet potato. Primitive farming techniques, overpopulation, overgrazing by cattle and climate changes caused this area to become desert like. Admission is free, self-guided tour takes about 45 minutes. There are portable toilets but no water available.

Leg 5) Continue north, north east on Hwy 270 to jct with Upolu Point Road (incorrectly spelled “Opolu Point Road” on Google Maps; sometimes also labeled “Upolu Airport Road”). Continue north on Upolu Point Road to Mo’okini Heiau.

Mo’okini Heiau

Have you ever seen anywhere as stark, impressive, primitive and ancient, yet still able to raise the hackles on your neck? Here, untold thousands of people were sacrificed to worship a new god, the war god Ku.   Mo’okini Heiau stands today at the north end of Hawai’i, the well preserved remains of a terrible luakini heiau built by the powerful Tahitian kahuna Pa’ao in the 11th or 12th century. This heiau was the first temple of human sacrifice in Hawai’i and the first site in Hawai’i to be preserved as a National Historic Landmark under the Historic Sites Act of 1935. Mo’okini Heiau is now part of Lapakahi State Historic Park; as Mo’okini is an active Heiau and visitors are reminded to stay away if religious observances are being celebrated. There are no facilities here.

Leg 6) Return Upolu Point Road to Hwy 270, continue north east to King Kamehameha Statue, Pololu Valley.

King Kamehameha Statue and North Kohala

The green and lush north end of Hawaii Island contains a treasure trove of interesting small towns, important historic sights and incredible scenery.

The dreamy mountain town of Hawi is one of the few remaining outposts of what locals call “old Hawai’i”. Several small shops, galleries and restaurants make this a pleasant place to visit and grab something to eat on the way to or from Pololu Valley.

At 5480 feet, Kohala Volcano is the northernmost and oldest volcano on the Island of Hawai’i still above sea level. Perhaps the most ecologically diverse area on the island, the Kohala Mountains are dissected by deep, lush tropical valleys, and the slopes are covered by dryland forest, lava deserts, lonely windswept steppes and end in some truly wild beaches. 

In the center of the tiny town of Kapa’au on the mauka side of the highway, stands a storied statue of King Kamehameha the Great.   There are a few charming restaurants, shops and galleries in Kapa’au, including the justly famous Kohala Book Shop-definitely worth spending some time poking around. Hawi and Kapa’au have the only food and gas available north of Highway 19.

Pololu Valley

Violent, lush, wild; the north end of Hawai’i Island is as varied and exciting as it is unexpected. At the end of the highway are the Pololu Valley Overlook and the trail leading down to Pololu Black Sand Beach. The trail down to the beach drops 400 feet in 20 minutes of hiking-be forewarned, the hike up is difficult for those not in good physical shape and shoes, rather than slippers, are best here. This is one of the most beautiful, untamed spots in the tropical Pacific and should not be missed. There are no facilities at the valley overlook or within the valley.

Leg 7) Return west on Hwy 270 to jct with Hwy 250; take Hwy 250 south to Waimea.

Waimea Town and Cowboy Country

Snuggled between Mauna Kea and Kohala Volcano in Hawaii’s scenic mountain heart, seemingly always shrouded in mist and chilly, Waimea is definitely Hawai’ian cowboy country. Although jeans and flannel shirts appear to be the town uniform, Waimea is very sophisticated, boasting some of the finest shopping and restaurants and the most modern hospital on the island.

From Waimea, Highway 250, the Kohala Mountain Road, spills beautifully through mountain, upland meadow and forest to the “Old Hawaii” town and artist community at Hawi.

Additionally, the cattle industry centers in Waimea. In 1793 British Navigator George Vancouver presented cows to King Kamehameha which were allowed to roam free and soon became a problem. Shortly after horses were brought to Hawaii in 1804, Kamehameha recruited California vaqueros, whom Hawai’ians called “paniolo”–a corruption of the word “espanol”–to control the wild herds, and the generations-old ranching lifestyle here was born.

The vaqueros also brought their guitars and their love of music. A deeply musical people, the Hawaiians were intensely interested in these, the first stringed instruments they had seen. They quickly learned to work-out their own tunings, called “slack key guitar”, which more suited the style of their indigenous music.

Leg 8) At Waimea, take Hwy 190 to return to Kailua Kona.

Situated between the Western Cape and Namibia, the Northern Cape Province, dominated by the Karoo Basin, is a land of arid landscape, sunshine and natural wonders. From the red dunes of the Kalahari to the wild coastline, South Africa’s largest and most sparsely populated province offers every traveller a rare experience.

Rent a car from First Car Rental and explore the vast expanses, diverse cultures and the fascinating array of natural features the Northern Cape has to offer.

Augrabies Falls National Park

Stretching along the Orange River lies a sanctuary for a variety of fauna and flora. The centerpiece of the National Park is the Place of Great Noise, Augrabies Falls; few sounds are as impressive as the Orange River thundering down a 56m granite ravine. With a moonscape-like landscape, strange vegetation and striking scenery, Augrabies Fall National Park is a photographer’s paradise.

Beaches

Rugged, unspoiled beaches and breathtaking sunsets, the Diamond Coast is where people come and go and fortunes are won and lost. The Diamond Coast, where the hot semi desert meets the icy Atlantic Ocean, is a destination of spectacular views and where swimming is only for the brave.

Golf

Characterised by arid plains and rocky outcrops, the Northern Cape offers every golfer a unique experience. Winding its way through a Camelthorn forest on the edge of the Kalahari Desert on the outskirts of Kathu, Sishen Golf Club is rated on of South Africa’s top 30 courses.

Namaqualand

For most of the year Namaqualand is dry and barren, but the landscape changes dramatically in spring, between July and October. After the winter rainfall, the arid plains are transformed into a land of beauty and wonder. Stretching from Garies in the south to the Orange River in the north, and from the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast to Pofadder in the east, Namaqualand is home to a botanical work of art second to none.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a vast wilderness of red dunes and semi-desert savannah, covers an expanse of over 3,6million hectares across the South African and Botswana borders, making it Africa’s largest game reserve. Visitors to Kgalagadi can expect to see some of South Africa’s well-known wildlife such as springbok, wildebeest, meerkats and the black-maned Kalahari lion.

Kimberly’s Big Hole

What was once a flat-topped hill is now The Big Hole in Kimberley. Enter the Visitor Centre and uncover the colonial history of South Africa and relive the captivating story of diamonds.

Orange River Wine Route

The Northern Cape is known for its vast open spaces, drought and blistering sunshine. Set on the banks of the Orange River, the Orange River Wine Route is one of the most unlikely wine routes. Stretching 350km along the Orange River, Orange River Wine Cellars offer an extensive range of dry wines, dessert wines and naturally sweet wines.

Riemvasmaak Hot Springs

In the heart of the 75000ha desert mountain reserve lies a sanctuary of peace and relaxation. Free your soul and wash off the dust of the Kalahari at Riemvasmaak Hot Springs.

Sutherland

Situated on the Roggeveld Plateau, Sutherland is known for its starry night skies and is said to be the coldest place in South Africa. The main attraction has to be SALT, the South African Large Telescope; the largest telescope in the southern hemisphere located 18km outside of Sutherland.

Wonderwerk Caves

This ancient solution cavity, stretching 139m into the Kuruman Hills, reveals a record of human and environmental history dating back hundreds of thousands of years. Archeological investigations have been ongoing since the 1940s and have revealed rock paintings, decorated ostrich eggs, and stone implements dating back over 2million years.

Camping is always a good way to see the beautiful outdoors and enjoy the wildlife. Chugach State Park is the first park that I read about, it is located in south central Alaska and it approximately a half million acres. South Central Alaska contains extensive ocean shoreline, abundant lakes, massive glaciers and ice fields. The park is located 7 miles east of downtown Anchorage and its western boundary lies in the western foothills of the Chugach Mountain Range. Chugach is the name of the indigenous people that used to inhabit the upper Cook Inlet.

Now there are many parks located in interior Alaska. A few of them caught my eye as I was reading about them. Tok Alaska looks beautiful; it is located near the upper Tanana River Valley, near the foot hills at the end of the Alaska Range. Tok is near historic gold mines, wildlife, woodlands and wide interior Alaskan rivers. The Tok area allows visitors entering Alaska via the Alaskan Highway their first opportunity to explore the Alaska Range. There are three recreation areas in Tok that will allow visitors to explore the area and enjoy the Alaskan wildlife.

Eagle Trail State Recreation Site is located 16 miles south of Tok and is frequented by campers traveling between Tok and Glennallen. While at Eagle trail there are a few historical places that you should check out. The Valdez-Eagle Trail, the Old Slana Highway, and the Washington-Alaska Military Cable and Telephone System (WAMCATS) are great historical places to see. Moon Lake State Recreation Site located 15 miles northwest of Tok and is a popular destination for local residents. Moon Lake has a few campsites to enjoy the lake and all it has to offer. You may even luck out see a few bush pilots land on the lake. Tok River State Recreation Site is very popular with travelers and is located 4.5 miles east of Tok. There are 43 campsites and group campfire area is provided on the sandy beach of the Tok River. This park is situated on the east bank of the Tok River and allows for boating and floating on the river.

The Upper Chatanika State Recreation Site is a 73 acre park that is located at mile 39 on Streese Highway. This recreation area is popular with travelers and campers from Fairbanks. Then there is The Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is approximately 400 acres and is located near mile 10.5 on the Elliot Highway. It is also a 10 mile canoe trip from Upper Chatanika. The Lower Chatanika offers a variety of things to do all year round. Such as opportunities including: Camping, Fishing, Picnicking, Hiking, Berry Picking, Boating/Floating, ATV/Snow machining, Ice Fishing, Dog Sledding, Night Sky Viewing, and Cross Country skiing to name a few.

Now I have only gone over a few places to camp. I will keep checking out Alaska and write about a few more places. These few that I have mentioned will be the first place I check out when I get to Alaska.

South Carolina Aquarium

This mega aquarium is not just the home to sea creatures. It is a perfect and beautiful mix of land creatures, reptiles, birds, plants, and sea creatures. The aquarium features a 385,000 gallon aquarium tank, in which daily shows are displayed. There are also shark shallows which allow you to touch the sharks and other sea creatures without fear or getting harmed. You should also check out the 2201b loggerhead sea turtle, Caretta, which lives in the great ocean tank

Waterfront Park

This 12acre park features a waterfront that stretches for more than a thousand feet. The views are ideal for a nice relaxation time, and here you would also find old fashioned park benches and double swings that face the water. When it gets dark, the pineapple fountain lights up and the seasonal flower gardens spice up the color to give it wonderful view.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Have you ever seen a large garden with a year round beauty? If not, the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a place for you to check. It is America’s oldest public access gardens, and was first opened to visitors in 1870. It also features one of the world’s largest romantic-styled garden, and would be an ideal place to have a romantic picnic.

Middleton Place Plantation

The beauty of the south is pronounced by the beauty of its plantations, and the south has a lot of plantations to boast of. The Middleton Place Plantation is also one of America’s oldest landscape gardens. Stretched with hedged galleries, pools, descending terraces, and even the ground has a lot of magnificence to show off.

USS Yorktown and Patriots Point

The USS Yorktown is located at Patriots Point just across Charleston Harbour, where it can be boarded. The enormous vessel was the tenth aircraft carrier to serve the U.S Navy. It received the presidential unit citation, 5 battle stars for serving in Vietnam, and also 11 battle stars for serving in the World War II. This special vessel was also the vessel selected to recover the astronauts of the Apollo 8 and was also used in the film debut of ‘The Fighting Lady’ in 1944.

Boone Hall Plantation

This plantation stretches over three-quarters of a mile, and it is popularly known for its moss-draped oak trees and preserving the original cabins of slaves. It started in 1681, and is one of America’s oldest working plantations. The trees have a beautiful appearance in photos despite their age; being planted as far back as 1743 by Major John Boone’s son. This is a site worth seeing, and the market is stocked with produce of the plantation.

Old Slave Mart Museum

This museum brings back the tales of history, a place set aside inside the building where auctioning of slaves took place before the Civil War. The eye catcher is the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon where pirates were imprisoned.

Drayton Hall

The Drayton Hall is the oldest plantation house unrestored in America and still open to the public. The enticing aspect of this hall is the fact that everything was left untouched to give a very good glimpse of the past. It is one of the few halls to survive the Civil War still intact. It contains one of the oldest African American cemeteries, dating as far back as 1790, which is still in use.

Fort Sumter National Monument

This is where the American Civil War began; April 12,1861. Its ruins are still well preserved, and its stories are told by National Park Rangers on how it shaped history.

Ravenel Bridge

Named after Arthur Ravenel Jr., running across the Cooper River and joining the Mount Pleasant to downtown Charleston, the bridge became a landmark after its completion in 2005. The design and capabilities of the bridge is enough to leave one in awe even aside from its beautiful design.

Namibia lies on the West coast of Africa between South Africa in the South and Angola in the North. A scarcely populated country where you can drive for 100’s of kilometers without seeing a town.

Swakopmund nestles between the sea and the dunes, a true oases in the desert. The German influence is still strongly visible in the architecture. Hotel Europahof is but one of the many examples of this European inheritance.

Even the old prison is a beautiful building.

Swakopmund is one of the most popular holiday towns for Namibians and quite busy over the Christmas holidays. Bordering the colder Atlantic ocean makes water temperatures relatively low. Early morning mist is a common appearance. The mist can stay the whole day and create a fairytale picture on the road between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. On the one side you have the ever changing dunes and on the other side the boats that look like something out of “Pirates on the Caribbean” far of in the haze over the ocean.

Accommodation can be found in one of the many hotels as well as self catering apartments and holiday homes. The Swakopmund Hotel and Entertainment centre use to be the Old Station Building, It was beautifully restored and now hosts a five star hotel with casino, restaurants, shops and a cinema.

There are enough restaurants to keep the hungry happy. Cafe Anton is popular for it’s typically German pastries and biscuits. The Lighthouse Pub & Restaurant has a nice outside area with views over the ocean. On a clear day sunsets over the ocean are spectacular.

The Naukluft Park just outside Swakopmund is one of the must see places in the area. You need to get a entry permit at the internal affairs office before you enter. It costs N$40 (less than $4) per person and N$10 per vehicle. The big attractions, apart from the desert dunes, are the moon landscape and the Welwitschia plants. While these plants are not particularly pretty, they definitely have a charm of their own. Some of them are over a 1 000 years old. They grow very close to the ground and have only two leaves. You won’t think this when you see them, as the leaves are torn from many years of exposure to the elements of nature. They are endemic to Namibia and a wonderful photo opportunity.

Dune 7 is the other must do when in Swakopmund. It is a few kilometers outside Swakopmund close to the Walvis Bay airport. Everybody that has been to Namibia is asked the same question ” Did you climb Dune 7″ From the bottom it looks relatively easy, until you start sliding back more than you go forward. If you don’t feel like climbing you can try sand boarding. You are taken up with a quad bike and then you just slide down, again and again. Sunscreen is a necessity for this activity if you don’t want to look like a prawn after a few minutes. It is said to be the highest sand dune in the world.

English is the official language of Namibia. Afrikaans and German are also heard a lot as well as the many local languages. The currency is the Namibian dollar which is equal in value to the South African Rand. Rands are accepted by most businesses in Namibia. Restaurants and hotels in tourist areas accept most credit cards for payment. Visa seemed to be the most widely accepted.

Swakopmund is just one of the places this beautiful desert country has to offer.