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Points To Consider Before Going On A South African Safari

August 31st, 2010 No comments

Since the 2010 World Cup, many people have added South Africa as a vacation destination. The wildlife in South Africa is a big attraction, and there are many national parks and private game farms that afford visitors the opportunity to see South Africa’s ‘Big Five’ in their natural habitat. There are, however, several things that you should consider before going.

Site of Soccer 2010 World Cup
Image by DanieVDM via Flickr

Budget

Although the exchange rate is generally in the international visitor’s favor, there are a variety of options available that can make your vacation more affordable. There are luxurious game lodges that offer elegant accommodation and five star service, generally on private game farms with organized game drives. These are for the people who want a nice place and have money to spare.

The national parks usually offer self-catering cottages and camping facilities, with stores and food available.

Hotels are usually going to be affordable and you can take day trips to the park. You may have to hire a car, but you will have more freedom to see around South Africa. South Africa has many well equipped camping sites.

The Season You Go

South Africa, being in the southern hemisphere, has its seasons reversed. The best game viewing time is in winter – June to September – where temperatures may reach 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit depending on which part of the country you are visiting.

The animals are in the midst of a dry season at this time and will be out at the watering holes. Vegetation isn’t super dense at this time, so you can see them more clearly.

Safety

The crime statistics in South Africa may deter some visitors, an alert tourist will have no problems. Being alert about what’s happening around you is crucial. In smaller towns, you really only need to look out for petty theft. Cameras, mobile phones, wallets and purses are popular items that may be snatched if left unattended in restaurants or shops. Lock cars up and lock all valuables in trunks.

The animals that you are going to look at are wild. Any rules that you are given, follow. An animal can get spooked from the smallest things.

Check and see if the area is prone to diseases like malaria. Whether you are visiting a malaria zone or not, take insect repellent and use it liberally, especially in the evenings and at night. You must wear sunscreen, too.

A South African safari will offer you views of wild animals you will never see outside of a zoo. The “Big Five” are lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and Cape buffalo, and are supplemented by other animals like antelope and giraffe. With beautiful landscapes, lovely beaches and many other attractions, make sure you don’t make your South African safari too short, as you will want some time to see what this diverse country has to offer.

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Kendal In Cumbria – A Base In The Lake District

May 26th, 2010 No comments

There are very few areas in the UK that can compare to the Lake District in beauty. If you are planning a vacation in this part of the country then the best town to base yourself in is Kendal in Cumbria. Here you will find accommodation that suits virtually very budget.

Usually described as the main south entrance to the Lake District National park, Kendal is located barely ten miles from the internationally famous Lake Windermere. If you have access to a car then you can also easily travel to other beautiful lakes that are slightly further afield. Lake Windermere itself can keep you occupied for many days. There is the opportunity to learn how to sail a small boat and at certain times you may be able to watch a few water based events and competitions.

Of course the main reason why people choose to come to Cumbria and Kendal specifically is to make full use of the many walking trails in the National Park. There are plenty of hikes that can lead you deep into the Lake District.

Before you set off on any trek, no matter how long, you need to plan carefully. Keep a close eye on the weather as the climate in this part of the country is known for its fluctuations. You may eat your breakfast in warm sunshine but by lunchtime it could be raining very heavy. It makes sense to always keep your lodge informed of your plans. If you are a novice at walking nature trails then choose a hotel that can help to arrange a guide or a tour.

The town has a population of nearly thirty thousand, though in the summer months this swells vastly with visitor numbers. There are various interesting sights within Kendal itself. This includes plenty of historical buildings including two castles, old public houses, fine restaurants, and a warm friendly ambience. Kendal is blessed with a fine location and views that can inspire even the coldest heart.

Up until the turn of the century the major industry in Kendal and Cumbria was wool. The surrounding hills made excellent grazing areas for large flocks of sheep and the many streams and rivers allowed for a source of energy to power the looms.

Though this industry has declined it is still possible to purchase a few items of homespun clothing as souvenirs or gifts. You should not leave without also getting hold of the traditional local delicacy – Kendal mint cake.

Look for hotels in Kendal.

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Attractions To See In Gloucester

February 15th, 2010 No comments

An important city in England’s history that is right along the Severn River is Gloucester near the Welsh border. The first settlers were Romans as many wall ruins and Roman coins have been found that were dated to 48 AD. Once the Romans left the Saxons took over rule in 577 and eventually constructed an abbey in 681. The layout of the core streets can be traced towards the end of Saxon rule.

One of the most notable and well known buildings in the city is the Cathedral. This cathedral was built on top of the foundations of that original abbey. The cathedral is of the Norman style though later additions were made in the Gothic design.

You can view many houses form the Tudor and medieval times. The only surviving public building is the New Inn found on Northgate Street, Thus is a timbered house that have courtyards and massive external galleries. Many of the half timbered and gabled houses are from the Tudor period.

Many Tudor houses and medieval buildings can be found when walking through town. These buildings are recognizable by their gables and usage of timber. There is only one public house still standing form this time period as the New Inn contains massive extensive galleries as well as several courtyards. This building can be found on Northgate Street.

Gloucester is fairly easy to reach as it is right on one of the main motorways as well as be in on the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal. While very large ships cannot travel the canal, coasters and other small craft can use the canal. This spot was very important for travelers as it is at the low point of the river. So if you were traveling from South Wales to London, or vice versa, you would pass through Gloucester.

Every third year you can attend the Three Choirs Festival which is one of the oldest musical festivals still being held in Europe. There are plenty of venues for music and entertaining and the Guidhall and Leisure Center have plenty of facilities. There is also an International Rhythm and Blues Festival held at the end of July/beginning of August.

One of the oldest musical festivals still held in Europe is in Gloucester every three years. There are a lot of venues for entertainment, music and theater and the Leisure Center and Guidhall being the two largest. You can also attend the International Rhythm and Blues festival held at the end of July and the beginning of August each year. The Tall Ships also have come into Gloucester several times.

To find a hotel in Gloucester just click here.

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Ayr – South Ayrshire Is Like Going Back In Time

January 4th, 2010 No comments

Situated in the firth of Clyde, to the southwest of Scotland, Ayr is the biggest county, port and a town in Ayrshire all told. Being also a centre of administration for southern Ayrshire council area this port town supports nearly 46,000 people.

The county of Ayr has a very rich history, shortly after the first castle was built by Ayr’s riverside, king William, the lion created a burgh here. The very first parliament for Scotland was also held here by Robert the Bruce.

Since the early ages, Ayr has remained a busy port county. Wool, fish and hide were the main exports whereas salt and wine were imported to be distributed throughout the Ayrshire. Textile as well as shoe making industry also prospered in the area for a while though they couldn’t hold out against the sands of time.

Ayr is a coastal county lying upon the mouth of the river Ayr. Most of the land in the area is flat and low. The climatic conditions in Ayr are very mild and pleasant, with cool summers and mild winters; the county of Ayr seldom experiences any snowfall. The outlying flat terrain also makes sure that any fog or mist is also a rarity here. Ayr lies at least 35 miles to the southwest of Glasgow.

Part of the historic port in Ayr still functions today, its main exports being coal and fish. Ayr has been a hub for shopping for all of south Scotland, having a port in times past and also being the first county to have a functioning departmental store since 1896.

Though in the early years, Ayr’s parish church was St John the Baptist, Ayr now has many churches for different denominations. It is served by 15 primary schools and five secondary schools, one in Ayr and four in outlying area serve t educate the young of Ayr. Ayr also has two university campuses.

The county of Ayr has 15 primary schools all told, access to 5 secondary schools and 2 each of colleges and universities. Ayr has a sandy beach with an esplanade, popular among joggers and day trippers. Many other leisure activities are also available, either upon the beach or in Ayr’s leisure centre. Of late many new tourist venues are being built, all contributing towards making Ayr one of the most favored tourism spots outside Glasgow.

For accommodation in Ayr check this list of Ayr hotels.

Dressing for the Mountain: A Beginner’s Guide to Snowboarding Clothing

December 18th, 2009 No comments

Dressing for success isn’t just for a first date or a job interview. It’s just as important out on the mountain, where the wrong outfit can mean a lot more than just looking silly. Whether you’ve been snowboarding forever or are just starting out, the most important thing to remember is that dressing for the elements is just as much a part of staying safe as having the right kind of board and staying off of runs that are too difficult for your skill level.

While choosing the right board and binding is important, no one, beginner or expert, should consider a day on the slopes without planning accordingly.

You should avoid cotton like the plague because, unlike other synthetic materials or even wool, cotton absorbs water, a potentially dangerous trait for your clothing to have in the middle of a snowstorm when it’s freezing outside. Trekkers and professional skiers all know that cotton kills, and it’s no laughing matter! Don’t put it on.

Layers are a crucial part of dressing for snowboarding because it’s much more convenient to be able to take something off or put something on at a moment’s notice than it is to unzip a one-piece ski suit and go from there. Sometimes, a drop in temperature will necessitate adding a layer, while other times, on a warmer spring day, three layers just won’t be necessary. Layers make adapting a whole lot easier.

Long underwear and non-cotton socks make up the first layer to any snowboarding outfit, known as the core or initial layer. The purpose of this layer is to wear material that clings closely, but comfortably, to your body, keeping the heat trapped in. The thinness also makes the layers that come afterwards feel and appear a lot less bulky.

The insulation layer of a snowboarding outfit goes on over the base layer, but does not need to protect from the elements like the outer layer. Also known as the middle layer, this is what provides extra warmth by keeping heat locked firmly in while allowing water to be wicked away. The middle layer consists of a sweater or zip-up, usually made of wool or fleece. Its purpose is to provide a little bit more warmth while not adding too much bulk to the outfit. Boots are also included in the middle layer.

The outer layer of any snowboarding outfit is the stuff that actually keeps you from getting snow in your clothing. It is important to make sure that even something as simple as a cap is not made of cotton, as it is just important for your body to be able to “breathe” while bundled up as it is for the heat to stay locked in. Hats should cover your ears as well as the top of your head, and as people lose almost all of their body heat through their heads, it’s important to find one that fits securely and keeps the heat locked in.

The outer layer of clothing for snowboarding also consists of gloves, which are particularly important given that most snowboarding falls put the most impact on the hands and wrists. Make sure to get a pair that has extra padding in the palm, as well as sufficient insulation. Sometimes, a thin wool glove is worn inside of the large waterproof glove, for extra warmth on particularly cold days.

One of the most important elements of outerwear are the goggles, which protect against just about everything, from ice and water to tree branches and too much sun. Goggles should fit snugly around the face and be attached with a secure band so that they don’t go flying off during a particularly invigorating run.

The most crucial part of your snowboarding outfit is the snowboarding jacket. A water and wind repelling jacket is a must for riders, as well as an inner-shell that fits a little more snugly and keeps water out in case you fall down at any point during the day. Once you’re all suited up, it’s time to hit the slopes!

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