IT’S BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS

BAHAMAS,"700 ISLANDS"

BY CLAY LARROY

We lead such busy lives working, going to school, taking children to different activities that often we do not stop and talk to our children. We usually do not have time to sit around the dinner table and ask our children what they did today. Family vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Families that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Family vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience especially in the Caribbean. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

The quiet coves and crowd-free beaches of the Bahamas offer visitors the intimacy of a secluded retreat within a paradisiacal expanse of some 700 palm-fringed isles.

Christened baja mar (meaning 'shallow sea') by Columbus, these islands with their astonishing hues of sand and sea spanning the colour spectrum from twinkling turquoise to rose pink, the Bahamas is the Caribbean personified. Crystal clear waters secrete ancient shipwrecks and a rainbow of coral reefs, whilst pastel-coloured seashells and vibrant clapboard houses perch atop a tropical landscape laced with unspoilt coast and resonant with exotic birdsong. There’s the over-riding feeling the Bahamas has got tourism just right, too: lavish resorts cater to the world’s wealthy, but don’t infringe on the island’s natural beauty.

The full gauntlet of world-class watersports beckon, from diving and snorkelling to parasailing. Then there are the glitzy golf courses, designed by the game’s best, or simply exploring the clutch of beaches, caves and nature reserves, to keep the pulses racing.

Come sundown, Bahamian bars and clubs pulsate with island rhythms; discover riotous dance festivals that mix African slave-trade rituals with Bahamian tempo and American hip-hop twists, or head to one of the islands' bustling straw markets to haggle over spices, and ceramics. If it all gets too much, recharge your batteries at one of the wonderful seafood restaurants or with an infamous rum cocktail. Whatever you do, the vividness of the Bahamas never ceases to assault your senses.

Where to stay in Bahamas

Hotels

There are luxury hotels offering full porter, bell and room service, planned activities, sports, shops and beauty salons, swimming pools and entertainment; some have a private beach, golf course and tennis courts. The small hotels are more informal and while activities are less extensive, they usually offer a dining room and bar.

Honeymoon Hotels: Fulfilling its role as a romantic destination, there are ample honeymooning hotspots. Hotel chains like Sandals Luxury Included ® offer a wide variety of options for couples, including facilities for lavish and small-scale weddings, privacy and seclusion and often special rates and offers.

Boutique Hotels: Boutique is big on the Bahamas and several of the middle to top-end hotels have garnered a stylish reputation for themselves due to their cutting-edge design, with names as famed as Versace (who designed the Bridge Suite at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort) being involved. Boutique hotels have a particular exclusivity factor on the Bahamas, with many offering only limited rooms (1-30) although many of the larger hotel facilities are still available.

Apartment Hotels: These consist of apartment units with complete kitchen and maid service. Other hotel facilities (ie swimming pool, sporting activities, restaurant and bar, etc) are normally available on the premises.

Bed And Breakfast

Bahamian guest houses are less expensive than hotels, and offer better opportunities for getting to know Bahamians themselves. Many offer room-only board, but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. The Out Islands' hotels are small with a casual atmosphere. About 50 small hotels and guest houses are promoted as Small Treasures of the Bahamas by the Ministry of Tourism and are regularly inspected.

Camping Caravaning

Camping is not permitted on any of the islands of The Bahamas.

Other

Apartments: Apartment/cottage units have complete kitchen facilities and some have maid service. Generally, there are no restaurant facilities and guests are required to prepare their own meals. A few are situated in landscaped estates with their own beach, much like the cottage colonies but without the main clubhouse.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/blog/index.php/destination-guides/

I'm tanned from head to toe, and it looks like I've been in The Bahamas. 

Ian Ziering

 

Live Well, Laugh Often, and Travel Much!

BERMUDA,"THE ROCK"

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!

Things to see and do in Bermuda

Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo

Head to Hamilton Parish and investigate the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo (www.bamz.org), as well as the Crystal Caves of Bermuda, made up of sprawling underground systems and crystalline tidal pools.

Botanical Gardens

Sniff the heavenly scent of Bermuda and see the Double Fantasy flower that inspired John Lennon at the Botanical Gardens in Paget Parish. This impressive 14.5-hectare (36-acre) paradise is the best place to enjoy and identify the island's delightful flora.

Ferry trip

Enjoy a ferry trip round Hamilton Harbour, or a longer cruise through the Great Sound stopping at Somerset Bridge, the rural village of Somerset, and the Royal Naval Dockyard.

Fort Scaur

Visit Fort Scaur, a good place to picnic, swim and enjoy the panoramic view of the picturesque Great Sound.

Fort St. Catherine

Explore Fort St Catherine (built in 1614), the largest and one of the most fascinating of the island's fortifications.

Gates Fort

Walk to Gates Fort, which dates back to the 1620 and is built on a promontory overlooking Town Cut and the sea, offering a spectacular view of the ocean and harbour.

Gibbs' Hill Lighthouse

Marvel at the best view of the island from Gibbs' Hill Lighthouse, in Southampton parish, one of the only lighthouses in the world to be made completely from cast iron. Recharge your batteries afterwards with a spot of afternoon tea at the cafe based at the foot of the lighthouse which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Go fishing

Bermuda is one of the world's finest fishing centres, especially for light-tackle fishing. Equipment may be rented for shore fishing and there are charter boats for reef and deep-sea fishing. The best fishing is from May to November.

Hamilton

Explore the old buildings of the capital Hamilton, including The Cabinet Building and the Sessions House. Front Street is Hamilton's main street, which runs along the water's edge. Visit the restored 19th-century Fort Hamilton's ramparts for a spectacular view of the city.

REFERENCE SITES

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/blog/index.php/destination-guides/

There's definitely healing properties to being in proximity to the ocean and that breeze. There's something about that Caribbean climate and humidity. 

Johnny Depp 

Live a Better Life Travel Often!

BERMUDA, "THE ROCK"

BY CLAY LARROY

Do you feel like it is time for a short vacation? The Caribbean is a wonderful vacation destination. Once you decide to travel, how good you plan the trip will help you feel comfortable and be comfortable at your destination. Not only will you feel less anxiety before the trip, but you can rest assured that once you arrive where you're going you will have a good understanding of what's going on there.  When you need to plan a vacation contact me!

                                                     Overview of Bermuda

Bermuda is a land of pink sandy beaches, clear turquoise seas and picturesque old colonial towns. Britain's oldest colony was once known to fearful sailors as Devil's Island, its shallow waters and coral reefs claiming many shipwrecks. Today, these reefs and wrecks provide a wonderful playground for swimming, snorkeling and diving. The archipelago of Bermuda lies 650 miles (1,046km) off the east coast of America in the Atlantic Ocean, forming one corner of the legendary Bermuda Triangle. The seven main islands are linked by causeways and bridges, and stretch just 20 miles (32km) from tip to tail.

The majority of American visitors think of Bermuda fondly as being English in character. British visitors, by contrast, seem to feel that it has a strongly American flavor. The reality is somewhere in between. Bermuda has a unique culture that draws influence from both British and American traditions. Business attire on the island might constitute a jacket and tie with Bermuda shorts, while bikinis are banned further than 25 feet (7.6m) away from the water! Not just a coveted holiday destination, Bermuda has become a center of high finance thanks largely to generous tax advantages and advanced satellite communications. Major corporations have flocked to set up shop on the island, helping the country become one of the richest, per capita, in the world.

With its stunning natural beauty and close proximity to Florida, Bermuda has become a popular destination for cruise ships and yachts, with over 200,000 people visiting the islands from cruise ships every year.

Bermuda consists of around 180 islands and islets, lying just off the coast of Cape Hatterras, North Carolina, in the Atlantic Ocean. Its many coastlines are characterized by small bays with beaches of fine pale pink coral sand and surrounding vivid blue-green waters. Inland is an abundance of subtropical plants and flowers, interspersed with quaint pastel cottages.

 

Where to stay in Bermuda

Hotels

Club resorts are noted for privacy and luxury and are for members or by introduction only. There are club resorts on the main island. Hotels are generally of a high standard. Resort hotels offer a range of facilities and usually have their own beach and pool(s). Hotels offer a choice of meal plans. The Bermuda Department of Tourism provides an online accommodation guide (website:www.bermudatourism.com). Reduced rates are available during the Golf and Spa, or 'low' season, which runs from November to March, and there are many special package tours for special interest holidays. A government tax, called Hotel Occupancy Tax, of 7.25% is added to hotel bills on check-out, and a service or gratuity charge (10-15%) is also added to the final bill. 

Grading: There is no formal grading system for accommodation. There is a meal plan structure, which grades according to how many meals are included. Smaller hotels are normally less expensive than the resorts, have fewer facilities and are less formal.

Bed And Breakfast

Most of these properties are historical homes in lush garden settings, which have been modernized into comfortable guest rooms. Bed & breakfast offers an intimate and traditional setting. Inns offer informal accommodation; most include breakfast; several waterfront units feature swimming pools. Some provide kitchen facilities.

REFERENCE SITES
http://www.travelresearchonline.com/blog/index.php/destination-guides/

I really like the Caribbean. Anyplace in the Caribbean. I get there, and I feel like a monkey - the perfect state.
 Penelope Cruz

Live Life and Travel to create marvelous memories!

<a href="http://feedshark.brainbliss.com">Feed Shark</a>

THE CARIBBEAN, "A TROPICAL PARADISE"

CARIBBEAN

BY CLAY LARROY

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

Look at the article below for a mesmerizing viewpoint on travel.

 

Holidaying in the Caribbean - A Tropical Paradise

By Simon Johnson

The magic of Caribbean is appealing with an experience that cannot be elucidated in words. So, come and experience the warmth and friendly environment of the Caribbean.

Caribbean is famous for its beautiful weather, breathtaking beaches, lots of activities that you can enjoy, to give you the most luxurious vacation in the world. With beautiful locations and a fun filled aura, Caribbean has a lot more to offer than beautiful beaches and palm trees.

Places to visit:

Cayman Islands- It is surrounded by the turquoise waters in the West Caribbean. It has three islands from a distance of 480 miles from Miami Cayman Barc, Little Cayman, and Grand Cayman etc. The Seven Mile beach on Grand Cayman is very famous.

Grenada- It is a mountainous island with aromatic trees and some of the rarest tropical flowers. Grenada is surrounded by beautiful beaches and as you travel in the interior you are convened with flowing waterfalls, verdant rainforests, and some of the breathtaking mountain lakes.

Anguilla- It is a small territory that is located in the east of Puerto Rico. Anguilla is a group of small islands and it is a perfect destination for holidays. Here you will find the best hotels with facilities of spa and beaches and luxury rooms. It is perfect for the couples, for the families, and even if you are single and want to enjoy a perfect holiday Anguilla offers you the best.

Dominica- It is one of the most beautiful islands of the Caribbean. The reason is that the island is spread in 750 sq km and it is a home for the lush green surroundings and dense rainforests. The main population of the island comprises of Indians with majority of traditional homes and structures to visit. Visiting Dominica gives you a brief idea of how the people lead their lives.

Travel in Caribbean

If you have plans for a quick trip then choosing air travel is the best option. There are various regular airlines to the Caribbean. For ease and convenience, you can book your air travel with your lodging. Choosing ocean cruise is the best choice if you have all the time and want to experience the luxurious ride. You can find a variety of cruise lines offering attractive vacation packages. Getting around the island is very convenient as there are so many options available that suits to everybody.

Staying at Caribbean

You can choose from luxurious villas, beautifully built resorts, and hotels all offering something unique. As for the lodging it can differ from island to island. Before you make a decision of staying anywhere it would be better that you find out what are facilities you are getting.  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 If you found this information useful you can find out more at http://www.last-minute-holidays.me.uk. You will be able to watch holiday videos as well as find out more about holiday destinations and a Last Minute Holidays. Please feel free to republish this article provided a working hyperlink remains to our site - Simon Johnson

REFERENCE SITES:

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

 “Every island to a child is a treasure island.”   ― P.D. James

 

USA TRAVEL GUIDE, “THE WEST” HAWAII

HAWAII: THE ALOHA STATE

BY CLAY LARROY

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

Hawaii – “The Big Island”

About Hawaii Island

It’s easy to feel awed on Hawaii Island. From the molten magma flowing from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the snow-capped heights of Maunakea; from the green rainforests of the Hamakua Coast to the jet-black sands of Punaluu Beach; Hawaii Island is an unrivaled expression of the power of nature.

To avoid confusion with the name of the entire state, the Island of Hawaii is often called the “Big Island,” and what an appropriate name it is. Nearly twice as big as all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, its sheer size can be inspiring. You can travel through ten* of the world’s 14* different climate zones on Hawaii ranging from Wet Tropical to Polar Tundra, a result of the shielding effect and elevations of the massive volcanoes Maunakea and Maunaloa.

The dramatic size and scope of the largest Hawaiian Island create a microcosm of environments and activities. On this island’s vast tableau, you’ll find everything from extravagant resorts and incredible golf courses to modest local towns and sacred Hawaiian historical sites, from the birthplace of King Kamehameha I to Hawaii’s first missionary church in Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona). With so much to see, it’s best to experience the island in small pieces. There’s plenty of room on Hawaii Island for your return.

Hawaii Island History

It all began on Hawaii Island. The youngest island in the archipelago, Hawaii Island was believed to be the first island Polynesian voyagers from the Marquesas Islands set foot on 1,500 years ago at Ka Lae (South Point). You can explore early Hawaiian culture today at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park. This last place of refuge for kapu (taboo) breakers on the Kona Coast, is a 180-acre, completely restored compound offering an authentic look at Native Hawaiian temple ruins, royal grounds, fish ponds, sacred burial spots and petroglyphs from before western contact.

In 1778, Captain Cook arrived on Kauai, opening the door to an influx of westerners. Only a year later on Hawaii Island, warriors at Kealakekua Bay killed Cook after a contentious chain of events. Today, a monument stands in this marine life preserve in honor of Captain Cook.

During this time of discovery, Hawaii Island was divided into separate chiefdoms and war between factions was common. In 1790-1791, Kamehameha built the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site in North Kohala as a tribute to the war god Kukailimoku to help in his efforts to unite the Hawaiian Islands. This was the last major religious heiau (religious temple) built by early Hawaiians and the largest restored heiau in Hawaii. Soon after completion, the Kohala-born Kamehameha conquered Hawaii Island and went on to unify the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Hawaii Island was also the home to King Kamehameha’s court until it moved to Oahu in 1804. In 1812, Kamehameha the Great returned to his beloved Hawaii Island where he died in 1819. You can see the original King Kamehameha I statue in Kapaau, not far from where Hawaii’s greatest king was born. 

In 1820, the first missionaries arrived in Kailua-Kona. Mokuaikaua Church on Alii Drive in Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) still stands and is in use today. Other westerners followed, introducing cattle to the island. Sugar plantations also bloomed on the Hilo side in the 20th century.

Today, Hawaii Island remains a vital touchstone for Hawaiian culture. Throughout its modernization, one ancient Hawaiian god is believed to be alive and well here. Pele, the volcano goddess, has settled in Kilauea Volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park after moving south along the island chain. She continues to display her power today, keeping Kilauea in a constant state of eruption since 1983.

Featured Sites and Attractions

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Spanning the summit of Maunaloa to the sea and home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona), Kona

Historic Kailua Village is a lively seaside town in the heart of Kona home to shopping, dining and important historic sites.

Kamehameha Statue, Kapaau

The original King Kamehameha Statue can be found in Kapaau, near his birthplace in North Kohala. Kamehameha the Great unified the Hawaiian Islands in 1810.

Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

Visit Puuhonua o Honaunau and learn about early Hawaiian history at this National Historic Park, historic place of refuge and former royal grounds.

Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site

Part of the National Park System, this historic site is home to one of the largest and last heiau (temple) built in Hawaii.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

http://www.gohawaii.com

Hawaii is paradise. It sounds cheesy to say it, but there's music in the air there.

 Bruno Mars
 

Travel  and create magnificent memories for your family!

USA TRAVEL GUIDE, “THE WEST” HAWAII

HAWAII: THE ALOHA STATE

BY CLAY LARROY

Travel is so much more that simply hopping on a flight to a new destination. If you plan it correctly, it could be a thrilling time you'll never forget. Planning a trip is fun as there are tons of things to do and see. Do you know how to plan a trip effectively? Packing light is key to making your travels as easy and free of stress as possible. Bring one carryon bag that includes everything you need, not necessarily everything you want. Your smart packing will pay off when you are happily carrying one bag around on vacation instead of lugging around multiple bags. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 Lanai – “The Pineapple Isle”

About Lanai

You won’t find a single traffic light here and that’s exactly how the people of Lanai like it. Only nine miles from Maui yet a world away, Lanai can feel like two places. The first is found in luxurious resorts where visitors can indulge in world-class amenities and championship-level golf at the Manele Golf Course and Koele Golf Course. The other is found bouncing along the island’s rugged back-roads in a 4-wheel drive exploring off the beaten path treasures like Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods) and Polihua Beach. In fact, only 30 miles of Lanai’s roads are paved.

The smallest inhabited island in Hawaii, Lanai offers big enticements to its visitors. From the stunning views atop the pine-lined Munro Trail to watching the acrobatic spinner dolphins from romantic Hulopoe Bay, Lanai is a special place where you’re sure to find serenity, adventure and intimacy. If you want to get away from it all, get away to Lanai.

Lanai History

Uninhabited until the 1500’s, Lanai was always a place of mystery even to Native Hawaiians. Legends tell the story of a challenge between kahuna (priests) that scorched the earth of Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), explaining some of the otherworldly terrain of the island.

Lanai was a sovereign land until King Kamehameha I united the Hawaiian islands into one royal monarchy in 1810. The ruins of Kamehameha’s favorite summer fishing retreat can still be seen in South Lanai. Called Kaunolu, this sacred spot and fishing village has been registered as a National Historic Landmark. Home to Halulu heiau (religious temple) you can also find ancient petroglyphs carved into the stones here. This treasured cultural site can only be accessed by 4-wheel drive.

After contact with the west, Lanai was eventually purchased and converted into a cattle ranch. The Four Seasons Lanai, The Lodge at Koele now resides in the area that was once the center of the island’s ranching operations. As a former manager of this ranch, George Munro made an indelible mark on the landscape by planting the first of what became the island’s many Cook pine trees. The Munro Trail, named after Munro, leads to Lanaihale, Lanai’s highest point.

Later, under the leadership of James Dole, Lanai became the world’s foremost grower and exporter of pineapples – a title the former "Pineapple Isle," held for most of the 20th century. As the cost of business rose, pineapple production was moved overseas, but Dole’s legacy lives on today. Stay at the Hotel Lanai, a hotel Dole built for managers and VIPs who visited the island. This historic inn is conveniently located just above Dole Park in Lanai City.

Throughout its history, man’s impact on the island has been minimal. There are now two lavish resorts here yet only a scant 30 miles of paved road. The timeless landscape is largely as it was, offering a glimpse into the Lanai of another time, on an island unlike any other in Hawaii.

Featured Sites and Attractions

Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), Lanai

Keahiakawelo, also known as Garden of the Gods, is an otherworldly rock garden at the end of rocky Polihua Road.

Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach), Lanai

4-wheel drive about a half-hour north from Lanai City and you’ll discover Kaiolohia, also known as Shipwreck Beach.

Hulopoe Bay, Lanai

Fronting the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, this protected bay is home to incredible tide pools and is a great place to view dolphins.

Munro Trail, Lanai

The rustic Munro Trail begins just north of Lanai City.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

http://www.gohawaii.com

I grew up in Hawaii so I was outside a lot playing in the water.

Kelly Preston
 

Travel  and create magnificent memories for your family!