GUYANA, "LAND OF MANY WATERS"

BY Clay Larroy

In the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books, videos, and other resources available. By writing this blog I hope that I am providing valuable information about the wonderful vacation destinations in the Caribbean. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Guyana is an amazing blend of the Caribbean and South America. The name Guyana is an Amerindian word meaning "Land of Many Waters". Guyana offers a distinct tourism product, consisting of vast open spaces, savannahs, pristine rainforests, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, bountiful wildlife, numerous species of flora, a variety of fauna, spectacular birdlife and most of all the hospitality of the Guyanese people.

Our beautiful country is a tropical paradise and has much to offer; adventure, tranquility, history, beauty, nature and an inimitable blend of warm and friendly people with the richness of many cultures. Our interior is an eco-tourist's dream with multitude of immense and striking waterfalls, creeks and rivers; virgin rainforest; an abundance of wildlife that includes more than 800 species of birds and over 1000 tree species in its savannahs.

Tours in Guyana
Kaieteur Overland Tour
Envision 45, 000 gallons of lush black water thundering down a rock escarpment every second. Wonder in the sky dance of thousands upon thousands of scissor-tailed Swifts or soak in the culture of the prolific mountain hunters, the Patamonas. Take the overland journey through dense jungle for nights besides refreshing and scenic waterfalls, while pondering the language of the wildlife. Then take the 1,800 feet mountain hike to experience the magnificence of the 741-feet single drop waterfalls. We guarantee you'll say "Oh, my God" at both the adventure and the beauty that you behold. Contact us for more information or to book an overland tour contact: Rainforest Tours or  Wilderness Explorers
  

Essequibo River Tour
An early start to this day will take us by bus to the departure point of the small market town of Parika. From here we will take an open boat up the mighty Essequibo River. Our first stop will take us to an Old Dutch Fort where artifacts are still being found onto this day. After a tour of the fort we will head off for a visit to a “ River Beach” called Saxacalli. Further up the river we meet the junction of the Mazaruni River and visit the frontier town of Bartica. Bartica is the hub of activities and recreation of miners who work the many gold and diamond claims of the interior.

Then further up the river, we pass through both rapids and still waters to the site of our picnic lunch. We take some time for a short hike through the rainforest, to a wonderful (if chilly) inland waterfall where the adventurous may climb the falls for a refreshing dip in a natural pool, with howler monkeys and parrots chattering overhead. Then we take a leisurely trip down the river with the sun on our backs…a fine end to a fine day.

City Tour
Georgetown is the Capital and largest town in Guyana. The town was designed by the Dutch as an outpost to protect their settlement during the 17th century. Gerogetown is referred to as the 'garden city' and boosts a combination of wood work and concrete buildings dated back to the early 19th century. The St. Georges Cathedral purportedly the largest wooding building is found in Georgetown along with the famous Stabroek Market, the Kinsgton Seawall and Bourda Cricket Ground.


Guyana's El dorado Rum tour
Voted among the best Rum in the World and a winner of several medals, the El Dorado Rum is a line of production by the Demerara Distillery. Visitors will see how this unique blend of Eldorado 5, 10 or 15 years old rum is being produced. The very ancient techniques of rum making is alive in Guyana from Continuous Stills, Wooden Coffey and Wooden Pot Stills are all used to produce this rich blend of El dorado rum.

REFERENCE SITES

http://www.guyana-tourism.com

Live, Love and Travel to create memories that will last a lifetime!

CARTAGENA, "THE WALLED CITY"

BY CLAY LARROY

Travel in May and October to avoid crowds, save money and enjoy temperate weather. In those months, many families with children cannot travel due to school commitments, making many tourist attractions much less crowded. This may also result in lower costs for airfare and hotels. As an added bonus, the weather in May and October is usually perfect for traveling -- not too hot and not too cold.  When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!

Cartagena is a fantastic city that guards the secrets of history in its walls, balconies, buildings and narrow cobbled streets.

The magic of Cartagena lies in its massive fortifications, the warmth of the people, the richness of the architecture and the infinite range of cultural expression of a doughty and valiant people.

The city is full of romance, and there is the setting for many a tale of times past in every street and square, and along the walls that bound it, waiting for the sunset to evoke past struggles.

On a sunny day vibrates with color along the facades of the buildings and the sea breeze refreshes the visitor on his way along the narrow streets of the old city.

The monuments are there: sober, ancient monasteries, churches, battlements and the remains of bloody battles: a testimony to the invincible men and women who brought freedom to the “heroic city”.

Night falls, and is bathed in a light of its own, coming to life and transforming itself. It is a unique atmosphere that captivates the visitor and takes him back to times past and forgotten, in a horse and carriage.

From the walls there is a beautiful view of the sea. Then, euphoria grows and the tireless fiesta dances on until the first rays of the sun sweep away the mysteries of the night.

Yes, this is Cartagena. A city that tells its own past, its fascinating history and its rebirth in every age.

Things to do

SAN FELIPE CASTLE

The 17th century governor of Cartagena, Don Francisco de Murga ordered the construction of the city's principal fortification, the San Felipe de Barajas Castle in 1656. Spanish

PALACIO DE LA INQUISICION

The Spanish tickler, the guillotine, the rack and the witches' scale are just four of the friendly artifacts on display on this glorious palace built for the

THE ZENÚ GOLD MUSEUM

Housed in a charming colonial house on the Plaza Bolivar rescued by Colombia's central bank, the Zenú gold museum boasts a priceless insight into the pre-Colombian culture

THE CLOCK TOWER

Cartagena's most famous landmark, The Torre del Reloj, or Clock Tower, was once the main gateway to the walled city. It was originally called Boca del Puente

LAS BÓVEDAS

Las Bóvedas is a great place to go if you're looking to pick up some Colombian souvenirs, located along the city walls

CONTEMPORARY ART BIENNALE

Cartagena's most ambitious arts initiative, the city's first Contemporary Art Biennale, kicks of on February 7 with more than 100 artists from more than 50 countries  

ALEJANDRO FRIERI WORKSHOP

It can be disenchanting to walk past endless stands of mass-produced maracas, Panama hats and mochilas in Cartagena's Old City

NH GALERIA

The opening of Nohra Haime's gallery space in 2011 at a time when curators in London, New York and Paris were tuning in to Colombia's vibrant art

 

REFERENCE SITES

http://www.colombia.travel/en/international-tourist/vacations-holidays-where-to-go/cartagena-travel-guide

http://www.ticartagena.com/

Travel to create marvelous memories for you and your family or friends!

CARACAS,” THE CITY OF ETERNAL SPRING”

BY CLAY LARROY

Many people pass through Caracas, Venezuela on their way to other destinations, such as Angel Falls, Margarita Island or Los Roques. However, the sprawling city, a mix of modern highrises and development as well as a colonial and historic center around the Plaza Bolivar is well worth adding a day or two to your itinerary.

Take the usual safety precautions for any large city, using the city's efficient subway system during the day, but taxis at night.

1. El Teleferico - El Ávila National Park

Take the cable car up to the top of Mt Avila for spectacular views of Caracas and the mountains. On clear days, you can see the Caribbean. While there, enjoy the Avila Magica Park, a meal at one of the restaurant, ice skate at the rink or shop for handcrafted souvenirs. Take a sweater or a jacket, for it can be cool at 6000' plus.

2. Panteón Nacional

The Panteón Nacional, formerly a church, became the resting place for prominent Venezuelans in the 1870's. The central nave is dedicated to Simon Boliver, with paintings depicting his life and accomplishments. The ceremonial changing of the guard is worth seeing. 

3. Plaza Bolivar

The plaza marks the spot where Diego de Losada founded the city in 1567. Public buildings like Capitolio Nacional, the Catedral Metropolitana, the Foreign Office and the Palacio Municipal surround the square. But, the real meaning of Plaza Bolivar is found in its energy, which keeps Caracas alive. 

4. Cathedral Metropolitana and Museo Sacro de Caracas

With its original facade dating from the end of the 17th century, the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral grounds the Plaza Bolívar. The main altar is a magnificent Baroque creation gilded with more than 300 pounds of gold leaf.

The former sacristy and ecclesiastical prison adjoining the cathedral, is a museum displaying religious statues and colonial costumes. The silver canopy made to cover the statue of Our Lady of the Rosary is particularly ornate. 

5. Parque Los Chorros

"Located at the foot of Caracas' Avila Mountain, Parque Los Chorros consists of 4.5 hectares of exuberant nature including the only natural waterfall in a capital city park. The landscape spans several levels with a descent of more than 100 steps, tunnels, bridges and benches from which to contemplate large trees, mountain springs and lush vegetation."

6. Casa Natal and Museo Bolívar

"A memorial to Simon Bolivar, it’s no surprise that great care is taken over the maintenance of his birthplace. The visitor can feel the past in the walls, rooms, interior yards, plants and decor. Bolivar's great-grandfather built the house and it still holds family portraits and antique furniture. As an additional attraction, there are several magnificent epic paintings by Venezuelan artist Tito Salas."

7. Iglesia de San Francisco

A national monument and the site of Simón Bolívar's proclamation as El Libertador and of funeral 12 years after his 1830 death, the church is a marvelous example of colonial architecture with its richly gilded altars, this church is one of the oldest in the city.

8. La Casa Amarilla

"To enrich your visit to the historical center of Caracas, you may include the Casa Amarilla, a building that stands on the same grounds where the Caracas Royal Prison was located during colonial times, at the beginning of the 17th century. You will enjoy the traditional style in the construction and furniture, plus you will also have a first-hand encounter with the tireless activity of the Venezuelan Foreign Office. Guided tours are provided by the Protocol Department." 

9. Galeria de Arte Nacional

"Known around town as the "GAN," the interesting National Art Gallery, across the circular Plaza Morelos from the Museum of Natural Science, displays more than 4,000 works of art from Venezuela's proud past. It shares a building with the Museo de Bellas Artes, which exhibits a random selection of art from all around the globe. The top floor is a terrace offering views over Parque Los Caobos and much of Caracas." 

10. Jardin Botanico

"Created in 1944, Caracas Botanical Garden is a display of exuberant nature. It contains more than 2,000 native and non-indigenous species as well as more than 100 types of palms and four greenhouses for bromeliads, ferns, orchids and shade plants. In addition, 100,000 trees belonging to 80 species grow in the Arboretum and more than 100,000 types of plants are found in the herbarium."   

REFERENCE SITES

http://www.southamerica.cl/Venezuela/Caracas.htm

http://gosouthamerica.about.com/od/venregcaracas/tp/whattodoandsee.htm

Live, Love and Travel to create memories that will last a lifetime!

CARACAS,” THE CITY OF ETERNAL SPRING”

BY CLAY LARROY

When you choose to travel, whether it is for business or pleasure, it is important to plan your trip well before hand. Here are some tips to help you.

Don't be afraid to cash in your airline miles. Many travelers let their miles accumulate and never bother using them. Reap the rewards of your traveling and spend the miles you've earned! Miles have expiration dates, so be sure to use them before they expire. Travelling to the Caribbean is a great way to use your airline miles.  When you need to plan a vacation contact me!

Caracas, officially "Santiago de León de Caracas", is the Capital of Venezuela, as well as its administrative, financial, commercial and cultural center. Caracas officially has a total population estimated of more than three million people (2005), though unofficial sources indicate that the population is well over 5 million in the Metropolitan area.

The city is located in the center-north of the country about 15km from the Caribbean sea, separated from this by the El Ávila National Park. The Caracas Highway allows the connection of the capital with the Caribbean coast and the principal airports and maritime ports of the country in 20 minutes. The Guaire River runs across most of the city.

Caracas has impressive modern structures that intermingle with world heritage sites. It is a concrete jungle intertwined with beautiful parks and natural reserves with the cultural and commercial activity on a par with any capital city.

While the city itself is not high on most people's list of tourist destinations, it could be for this reason that you would want to visit. The city itself is a strange mixture of poor and rich living alongside one another. On one block you may find a 4-star restaurant but if you turn the corner you could end up in a dangerous neighborhood where a tourist with a lot of money will stick out like a sore thumb.

One of the greatest parts to the city though, it must be said, is the friendliness of the people; a rather helpful attribute considering that you will undoubtedly get lost at some point in your journey and will need to ask for directions. You can't generally expect to go by the numbers on the streets, as buildings are often out of order if they are even numbered at all. The city has grown quickly and haphazardly. There are some neighborhoods that still lack running water and basic sanitary needs. The population, like its buildings is a mixture of people coming from several different ethnic backgrounds. Caracas is a place that all every traveler should visit.

REFERENCE SITES

http://www.southamerica.cl/Venezuela/Caracas.htm

http://gosouthamerica.about.com/od/venregcaracas/tp/whattodoandsee.htm

Live life and travel often, the more you travel, the more memories you create!

SUPER WAYS TO ENJOY YOUR TRAVEL ENDEAVORS MORE

by Clay Larroy

There is both stress and excitement when it comes to traveling. The beneficial travel advice in the following article is here to help you have a successful trip.

Shopping

If you know that you are going to have a long layover in a city, check what there is to do beforehand. A 3 hour layover in Washington D.C. can easily turn into a quick tour of the Washington Mall or a long sit in Minneapolis can become a quick shopping trip to the Mall of America!

If you plan to go shopping for clothes while abroad, research that area's measurement system. Garment measurements vary greatly from country to country. They also vary greatly from brand to brand. However, a basic knowledge of their clothes sizes will help you get in the ballpark as far as finding a size that fits you, if possible try on clothes in a dressing room.  

A great tip for traveling is to go shopping for snacks and drinks for your lodging place in your hometown. This saves hundreds of dollars over the course of your travels because every time you stop to sleep in a hotel, the multiple trips to vending machines and the store located in the hotel that has frozen dinners and soups will leave you with a lighter wallet.

Protect your liquids from spilling when you travel with a homemade bottle stopper. Before screwing the cap on your travel-sized toiletries, cover the top with a small piece of plastic removed from a plastic shopping bag. This will both protect your clothes from the liquid and keep the liquid inside its container.

Shopping for airline tickets online isn't always the best deal. In general, you will find the same price by buying online as you will from the airline itself or from agencies. At times you can find great airline deals online but they are limited and contain restrictions. If you don't mind the limits, buying your tickets online may be for you.

From a trip of a few miles to a voyage around the world, travel offers many different possibilities. The tricks and tips provided here will help you have a safe trip which you'll remember forever.

“One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” 
― Henry Miller

Live Life and Travel to create marvelous memories!

RELAX AND ENJOY NATURE WITH THESE CAMPING TIPS

by Clay Larroy

It is hard to dispute the immense enjoyment people from so many walks of life derive from camping. To truly maximize your next camping adventure, you will need to possess a good number of valuable tricks and tips. The article that follows is chock full of useful information sure to help make your time in the great outdoors a huge success.

Children

When you are traveling with children, give them the opportunity to assist you when you get to the campground. They can carry gear, support you as you set up the tent and look for firewood. Not only will it keep them busy and out of trouble, it will be fun for them as well.

Particularly, if you have children, you need to consider what to do if you have inclement weather one day. Gather together a few supplies to have on hand in case you need to stay in your tent. Bring a board game, play doh and art supplies. Don't let your family members touch these items until it rains so that they don't lose their appeal.

If you are traveling with children, consider staying at a campground that is specifically designated for families. Campers in these areas know what to expect and will not have an issue if you have a cranky toddler or your children want to run around, scream and play. You will probably be more relaxed as a result and have a better time.

When you're going to take some kids with you on your camping trip, educate them on the dangers that camping can bring with it. Make sure they understand what poison ivy looks like, to stay away from wild animals and to carry a light if they are walking around at night.

The array of individuals who enjoy camping is surprisingly diverse. The common link that connects all experienced, skilled campers is their advanced level of knowledge on the topic. Heed the recommendations contained in the piece above, and you can join the ranks of seasoned campers who find the experience to be among the very best on earth.

“It always rains on tents. Rainstorms will travel thousands of miles, against prevailing winds for the opportunity to rain on a tent.” 
― Dave Barry

Live Well, Laugh Often, and Travel Much!

GOING ON VACATION? CHECK OUT THESE TIPS BEFORE BOOKING YOUR HOTEL!

by Clay Larroy

Are you anxious about your vacation? Do you have your destination picked out but not your hotel? If you are putting off making reservations because you aren't sure how to choose your accommodations, you need to keep reading. This article has advice that will help you pick your vacation hotel.

To accommodate a small family without having to pay for more than one hotel room, look for a location that offers suites. Often the rates are competitive with single-room rates at other hotels, but the addition of a living area (and a fold-out bed) means that more of you can sleep comfortably.

After you check prices for hotels online, call the hotel's direct number. Sometimes you can get a better price when you reserve directly through the hotel rather than through the company's website or toll-free number. In addition, you can make any special requests during this call, such as requesting a quiet room or a crib.

When planning a vacation, be sure to make all of your hotel reservations well in advance. In this way, you can lock in lower rates. If you have some flexibility regarding when you take your vacation, be sure to find out about off season rates. Very often, the rate you pay in non-peak times of year is significantly lower.

When going on a trip, it is a good idea to book a vacation package instead of booking each service separately. While it may seem like you are spending a lot more money at once, the reality is that you will be getting a cheaper hotel stay than you would otherwise.

If you are a member of a frequent flyer program or travel a lot, try joining a hotel loyalty program. You can earn points and use them toward your upcoming stays. You can also gain airline miles if the hotel is a partner of a frequent flier program. Check the airline or hotel website to see what you're qualified for.

Look into club-level rates. While these rooms are more expensive up front, they typically offer a great value. For example, included in the price could be breakfast or dessert, Wi-Fi service or other perks, like drinks and snacks. See what is offered and decide if the extra cost is worth it to you.

Now that you know something about choosing a hotel, go make your reservations. That will be one more thing you can cross off your list. This vacation may just be the best one you ever take. Enjoy it, and remember what you've just learned the next time you plan a vacation.

Live Life and Travel to create marvelous memories!

TIPS ON HOW TO PICK THE BEST LUGGAGE FOR YOUR VACATION

by Clay Larroy

Travel can be a lot of fun and there are so many ways you can improve upon your traveling plans. Whether you need cheaper transportation or better places to stay so that you can better enjoy your trip, take a look at the tips below to help you plan a better trip.

Cruise

If you're going on a cruise, pack a highlighter in your luggage! There are tons of activities that go on during the cruise and most of the time you'll get a nice little newsletter that details what's going on and where. You can use your highlighter to mark which ones you want to do, and save yourself some headaches.

If you're going on a cruise with your family, pack along some Walkie-talkies. Cruise ships are basically floating cities and it's very easy to get separated. Walkie-talkies can help everyone keep in touch, especially if you don't get cell phone reception or if you're out of the country and don't want to pay heavy international charges.

If you are planning a long cruise, consider selecting a cruise line that offers self-service laundry. This will reduce the amount of laundry you need to bring along when you pack, and is also significantly cheaper than asking the ship's crew to do your laundry for you. Longer cruises require more clothing, so a laundry is very useful.

When going on a cruise, wear your room key around your neck, on a lanyard or similar item. Losing your room key on a cruise ship can cost you greatly, not only in money, but in lost time. Keeping your key with you wherever you go can insure that you, and your belongings, will be safe.

One of my favorite ways to visit new places is to travel by cruise ship. I board the ship and settle into my cabin, leaving most of my stress and worries behind on dry land. On board a cruise ship you will have 24 hour access to some of the finest food you will ever taste. There are nightly shows and many shore excursions to choose from. If simple rest and relaxation is what you're looking for, you can opt to spend your day laying by the pool, sipping on your favorite drink, and reading.

Traveling can be a very exciting experience and you can see and learn about new places. You may already have some knowledge on how to plan a trip, but you can always improve your travel plans. No matter your reasons, hopefully the tips above gave you some ideas on what you can do to enjoy your trip even more.

Live a Better Life Travel Often!

DITCH EXPENSIVE TRAVEL AGENTS WITH THIS HOTEL ADVICE

by Clay Larroy

Every once in a while during your life, you may need to get a hotel. What should you look for in a hotel that's supposed to be good? Well, the answer is in this article. It will help you to understand this matter so it's a good idea to read along.

If you've left amenities at home, ask the front desk. Often you won't need to go out to buy things like toothpaste and toothbrushes. The front desk typically has the staples available to customers at no cost whatsoever. Sure it's only a few dollars saved, but every dollar counts.

To keep your drinking water clean in a hotel room, rinse out your drinking glasses, even if there is a paper cover or a plastic wrapping around it. Dust and debris from the plastic can settle in the glass, leading to an unpleasant first sip. Taking the time to rinse it out will make your experience better.

To help your family get into the hotel as comfortable as possible when you are pulling in for a late-night checking, pull the car under the porte cochere, and leave the engine running while you go inside to check in. Even if you don't get lucky enough to get to have a room close to the front and have to drive to another entrance, this minimizes the traipsing that they have to do.

To save a little bit of money on the cost of your hotel room, whether you are booking over the phone or online, see if there is a discount for paying at the time of booking rather than waiting to pay at checkout. Often this can make the difference between queen and king beds, or between a room and a suite.

Checking online is the best way to find a good price and get the information that you need about hotels. A lot of the time, when you book a room with someone, they'll tell you there aren't any online discounts. So, it's up personally to you to go searching for such discounts.

This article has now shown you what to look for when you're thinking of getting a hotel. Sometimes you will find that a few of the tips can help, or all of them are going to. Either way, you should know what you're doing when a hotel is what you need.

Travel and create wonderful memories for your family!