Fall - A Colorful Time Of Year

There are few things as beautiful as the trees and foliage of fall. Those wonderful earth tones hold a special fascination to most everyone.

The peak times to view these beautiful colors of fall vary, depending entirely on where you live. Knowing the approximate time when the colors will be at their best, allows you to plan your colorful field trip.

Northern Midwest/Great Lakes Region - The fall colors will peak in this region around the first week in October. This region includes the states of Wisconsin, northern Minnesota, the northern Michigan peninsula, and northern Michigan.

Northeastern United States - Normally the fall colors will reach their peak for most of this region early in October. New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, southern New York, and southern Massachusetts will peak in late October.

Southwestern U.S. - In the southwestern United States the fall colors will peak around the 15th of October. This region includes northern Arizona, New Mexico and southern Utah.

Pacific Northwest & California - Washington, Oregon, and northern California will generally peak in mid to late October. This includes Napa, Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park.

Midwestern United States - Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, southern Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia will strut their best colors around mid October.

Southern United States - Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina will generally display their best colors in late October. For Northern Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi and South Carolina the peak will be in early November. Usually just before Thanksgiving.

Fall is a great time to plan a family road trip. Not only are the colorful trees and foliage a spectacular sight, there are many other great activities to enjoy.

Many communities throughout the United States host Corn Mazes, Haunted Houses, Hay Rides or other fun family activities. Take time this, and every year, to enjoy the wonders of the fall season.

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Sightseeing in Barcelona With Bike Tours

Barcelona is a city of architectural wonder. The monumental historic places are feast to the art lovers. The best way to go about Barcelona for sightseeing is to take the famous half day bike tour around the city.

The tours are ideal for lone travelers and groups. The tour is guided and the guides speak different languages, so communication will not be a problem. Since there are not any tedious hills or slopes, the ride is very relaxed and informative.

Bike tour

The tour takes roughly 4 hours to complete and covers around 11 km. It starts from the Barri Gotic. At the end of the ride, bikers get to meet fellow bikers at beach side bars where the bikers can relax and have sip of relaxing cold beer.

People prefer the bike rides because bikers can take their own time to enjoy the places, take photos leisurely and not be hurried by the guides. The bikers will have all day to cycle through the city.

Sightseeing attractions covered during the bike ride

The Barri Gotic is the Gothic part of the city, where many medieval architectural buildings are seen.

Plaza Sant Jaume

This plaza was the power house of the Catalan government and the city hall. The place where this plaza is located was originally a roman settlement.

Plaza dei Rei

Plaza of the royal or the royal courtyard is one of the most preserved architecture in the city. This is believed to be the plaza at which Christopher Columbus was received after completing his journey.

La Cathedral

This Gothic cathedral is one of the revered religious places in the city and contains the tomb of Saint Eulalia, who was the first saint of Barcelona

La Sagrada Familia

This is a famous church built by Antoni Gaudi. This is also an important tourist attraction.

Barcelona zoo - Parc de la Ciutadella

This literally translates into the park of the citadel. This park was earlier a fort and was converted into a park containing a zoo, lake and a garden. Gaudi's artistic touch is seen in a fountain contained in this park.

Sightseeing not reached by bike

Port Vell: This was a port earlier, but is a hotspot for leisure activities, shopping center, and Barcelona aquarium.

La Barceloneta: Up north of port Vell is the Barceloneta, previously fisherman's living quarters. The point where Barceloneta meets the sea is the place where you will find some of the best sandy beaches of the world.

Montju?c: Montju?c is a small hill on the southwest of the city, overlooking the entire Barcelona. The trek up the hill is worthwhile for it gives a spectacular view as reward. In a courtyard here is the La Font Magica: The fountain of magic.

Barcelona is a city of beauty whose beauty is to be drunk in with eyes. Take a Barcelona bike tour to enjoy the city's sensuality.

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Red Rock Canyon - There's More To Las Vegas Than The Strip

There is much more to Las Vegas than simply gambling and shows. Most people never leave the Strip when they visit Vegas. As a Las Vegas local, I can tell you that there is much more to see than the inside of a casino. So, after you have won your fortune at the tables or the slots, head outside and take a short drive to Red Rock Canyon.

If you have a rental car or other transportation, you can see an extraordinary geological formation in the desert called Red Rock Canyon. The canyon is located just a short distance from the Las Vegas Strip and it is definitely worth a visit.

Red Rock Canyon is a stunningly beautiful park that showcases the exotic nature of the Mojave Desert and desert wildlife. I visit the park often and I always find something new to gaze at. If you are planning a visit to Las Vegas, make an effort to get out to Red Rock Canyon and take a look at the majestic desert views and scenery. You won't be disappointed.

The park has a 13 mile scenic loop that begins with a stop at the Visitor's Center. The Visitor's Center is staffed with knowledgeable rangers that can point out stops that you won't want to miss.

Your tour through the park takes you down an easy, paved, one-way road with numerous pull-off parking areas. Each parking area is strategically placed at a spectacular viewpoint or the head of a hiking trail. The hiking trails are rated by difficulty, from easy to strenuous by the park rangers.

There are over 15 hiking trails that are rated as 'day-trips'. One of my favorite trails is the Lost Creek - Children's Discovery trail. This trail is rated as easy to moderate and the trail ends at a waterfall. Of course, since this is the desert, the waterfall is a seasonal waterfall and not there all year long.

On your drive around the scenic loop, try to park the car and get out at every pull-off area. The views from each stop on the tour are really worth looking.

If you are in Vegas and you don't have a car, consider renting a car to make this excursion or jumping on one of the many tours offered to Red Rock Canyon. The tours are available from many different tour guide companies in Las Vegas and the tour guides generally do a great job of showing all of the highlights to the tour participants.

Red Rock Canyon is one of the reasons that I moved here to Las Vegas. I encourage all Vegas visitors out to see the park before they leave Vegas. This pak is truly something that every Vegas visitor should see.

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Religious Tour of Rajasthan Is Awe-Inspiring

The state Rajasthan has cities like Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and some parts of Jhunjhunu in the vicinity of the Thar Desert. The eastern region is bit fertile and capital city Jaipur fall in this area. As the Incredible India attracts tourists from world-wide, Rajasthan is one real hotspot. Rajasthan tour package are tailored to suit the fun and adventure together, for every modern traveler. Holidaying in Rajasthan has some exciting aspects. There are safaris and excursions, visit to monumental places and abundant scope of shopping. Whether the tour to Rajasthan lasts for few days or many weeks, one will never feel bored. One will get chance to enjoy leisurely moments and adventurous moments as well.

There are options for wildlife tours, temple tours and Desert Camel Safari Tour. The best is the Palace on Wheels Tour which is certainly the best ways of exploring Rajasthan with luxurious hospitality.

Hinduism, Jainism and Islam are all the major religions of Rajasthan. As one plans to take a religious tour to Rajasthan, the best time is the month of January as the auspicious Kartik Purnima comes at this time. For Hindu pilgrimage, Eklingji Temple and Govind Devji Temple are ideal places. The Eklingji temple located in Udaipur was built in 734 AD by Bappa Rawal to seek blessings of Hindu God Shiva. It has 108 shrines that symbolize the rudraksh which also has 108 beads in it. Another temple that draws pilgrims in huge number round the year is the Govind Devji temple located in Jaipur. The Hindu God Krishna is the deity of this beautiful temple which was carved by Vajranath and is extremely awe-inspiring.

The Dargah Sharif the most sacred of all Muslim pilgrimage site in Rajasthan. The vibrant and colorful Pushkar Fair held at Pushkar, Ajmer is another great attraction. One may enjoy dually as one may visit darbar of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, at Ajmer Sharif and the fair side by side. Pushkar is also widely known for its Brahma Temple, which is one of its types in India. There is a large cattle fair, world-wide famous one in Pushkar at the time of fair.

Dilwara Jain Temples of Mount Abu are the most famous Jain pilgrimage center in Rajasthan.

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Mayan Riviera Deep Sea Fishing

From February through September, Blue and White Marlin, Dorado, Sailfish and Yellowfin Tuna are to be found in fresh runs in Playa del Carmen. Internationally known as the top sailfish hot spot in the world, fishermen are drawn here by the thousands. If you're a serious angler, it doesn't get better than this.

It's because of the unusual topography-Playa del Carmen sits on the edge of an underwater valley. This brings the habitat of the huge game fish right to the shore. You can look down into the darkest blue water you've ever seen. The southern beaches of this area with Dorado, Wahoo, Barracuda, Jack Crevalle, Red Snapper, Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, and other fish in abundance draw sports fishermen from all over the world.

Some fishermen come exclusively for the seasonal Marlin runs. Even 500-pounders have been pulled out here. Given the 500 species that live in these waters, everyone can fish-the pros and the amateurs and the beginners.
You can fish inshore if that is your preference or you can fish offshore. Inshore, trophy Snapper, Grouper, Spanish Mackerel and Yellowtail Jacks are pulled out of the water all through the year. Offshore, Atlantic Sailfish, blue and Black Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, and Wahoo are caught on fly rods.
You can rent a boat if you feel up to managing one yourself or you can charter one. If you want to join others in a charter to reduce the cost, those opportunities are available also. Most rentals assure an experienced, English-speaking captain. Soft drinks and ice and water are commonly provided. However, if you want beer or liquor, you will need to bring it yourself. Tackle, bait, and fishing licenses are also typically provided.
Some boats require some experience; however, both men and women are welcome aboard and some providers encourage beginners to come along and even offer lessons. March, April, May, and June are the best months for fishing. You can expect your experienced captain to know the best spots for whatever fish you prefer to try to hook.


Some Suggestions for Conventional Tackle
For the months from May to October, for Dorado, Striped Marlin, and Sailfish, a couple of six- to seven-foot trolling rods are best. If you have roller guides, fighting the fish will be easier, but they are not absolutely necessary. For trolling, 30- to 50-pound monofilament on a Penn 4/0 (or equivalent) with a lever or a star drag will work just fine. However, for bait casting, a Penn 500 and 20-40 pound monofilament is good. You'll also want to bring a Penn 650ss or its equivalent with 10-20 pound monofilament. Three-hundred yards of line should be sufficient for any of the reels. Actually, you may be able to make do with no more than 200 yards but you'll be glad for the extra line if you have it.

Rapalas size CD11 to CD14 or greater lures in green or blue mackerel are said to work best. Also iron spoon-type lures in chrome or blue/chrome have been used. Another one: Yo-Zuri crystal minnow lures in blue mackerel or pink and silver. For tackle, 80- to 120-pount monofiliament and Mustad 6 to 7 hooks should be adequate. If you're experienced enough to experience with other tackle, your boat captain will probably go along. You should have a hard case container for your rods, which you can buy or you can make one with PVC.

These requirements may differ slightly if you're fishing from November to April. It would be best to call your boat provider for suggestions in that case.
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Traveling Tips and Tricks By Dialing A Number

Americans have a line they can call in Washington if they want info on travel vacations and it is toll free. Handy hints can also be found in the consumer brochures handed out by a particular US agency at no extra cost. Whether you are a first time or a frequent traveler chances are you will appreciate the nine brochures listing info you need to travel inexpensively and with less effort and time wasted.

People can also get their info via the agency toll free phone service as it provides details regarding sightseeing attractions in particular locations plus car rental availabilities or other transportation means along with lodging places nearby. Get all the info you need from the agency except for those concerning recommended facilities or pricing and it will also not fix the reservations for you. For further info however callers get referred elsewhere by the agency.
Preplanning holds the key to budget smart travels according to one of the brochures. Planning in advance allows you to investigate alternatives and select the one that fits your time and money budgets. There is another section of the brochure discussing ways to make meals along with accommodations and transportation cost effective. Accommodation rates for instance according to the brochure are steeper for hotels and motels located within the city hub than in those outside of it.
Although the information in the brochure does not contain much about getting great air fare bargains it does have something about rates of air fares. Special low cost fares can save air travelers a bundle so do ask around if there are some available prior to buying tickets at full price. Aside from the nuts and bolts of charters the brochure also discusses in easy to understand English various air fare markdown terms from OTC to TGC to open jaw circle fares to ABC to ITC.
Hopping into the minivan is how most ordinary American families picture a travel vacation. The brochure that talks about saving energy provides a number of tips on how to save fuel, time and money. It goes further to suggest using different modes of transportation. The cheaper route would be getting a tour package that already includes a car rental because you avoid having to spend on food and rest stops during the long drive using your car.

Many take for granted the type of services a travel agent can give them. One brochure discusses how travel agencies can assist travel planners for free regarding how to save on both money and time along with other benefits of travel agents. In other brochures tips are given for the older traveling set along with opportunities for group travel plus applicable discounts. The best way to prep for travels with a pet is to read the brochure written about it.
Aside from vacation tips the brochure for handicapped tourists also includes a discussion of the different ways traveling has become better for them. Travelers who have an issue can explore the options listed in one brochure and proceed with lodging a complaint in any of the designated institutions mentioned. Federal and state government agencies have a ton of info they can provide travelers and all of it is in brochure number nine.
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Best Hiking Boots To Wear

Best hiking boots is crucial if you plan on hiking for long distance or short distance in the country area. Not only comfortable to your feet, but your health is a critical factor in mind when choosing the best hiking boots for you.

Let me tell you a story. About 150 miles into my Pacific Crest Trail A section of C walk, I started a little pain in the ball of my left foot to go through my big toe. It soon spread to my left foot and began to crawl across the width of the foot. I noticed at the point and thought I bruised my first metatarsal (bone just behind the toes.) The more miles I walk how painful it was. I had two days of walking until I done to Idyllwild and was able to take a break.


I had planned to walk another 140 miles down to section B and C of the article, but it was clear that the boots I wore were not the best hiking boots for me. Because I was on vacation, I was only two weeks before my return to work.

So I decided to leave the road and my foot to heal. I was very disappointed.
If I would have bought the best shoes for me, I probably would not be in this situation. For my walk, I had a lot of emphasis on getting the big three (backpack, sleeping bag and shelter) and because of limited budget, I did not get the right shoes  for the hiking .

I love hiking so much and enjoying nature is my number one past time activities. . I have been walking since I'm barely able to walk. It started with popular trail in Netherland, family trips outdoors, the Boy Scouts of the United States Marine Corp Infantry. I literally walked in every climate and place, and have flat feet and bad knees because of hiking to very chalengging place.  It took me more than5 weeks for the pain to subside .

As you can see in my story, choosing the best hiking boots for you is important  if you want to walk in comfort and that's what this article, Best hiking boots, is all about. Not only is it essential to long distance walks, but also for short walks.

Best hiking boots will ensure you enjoy the overall hiking experience. Don't let a simple mistake affect you enjoy your hiking by not getting the best hiking boots.

Beaches to Travel Around the World

It do not matter what season it is of the year, beach vacations are always fascinating. When you plan for one of them, there are so many out there and we are going to highlight some of them so that when you think of such vacation, you may have an over view.

Polo Beach of Hawaii which is pretty sandy beach with clear water serves a great deal for swimming and snorkeling. This beach is located in South Maui and is famous with its luxurious sand beach resort on the island.
Seven Mile Beach of the Negril in Jamaica has the long stretching sand beach where you can find your favorite white sand beach spiced with palm tree on it vicinity, a great deal for relaxation and enjoying the view.
Atlantis beach in Bahamas at the Caribbean is another great place to spend your vacation.
This is a paradise you will not want to exclude when planning for such vacations. Here the tropical climate, great restaurants and one of the biggest casinos in the world are hosted just to make your vacation worthy staying.
Great Barrier Reef host the Heron Island at the Australian beaches. This spot offers you with clear water ideal for swimming, snorkeling and all the marine fun you may think of. This tropical island also offers scuba diving in over twenty different sites for diving. With all these, you can forget all the stressful life you had and get partying
Reid's palace beach in Portugal is another marvelous spot. This beach is of sharp rocks and one may decide to spend time appreciating what nature offered or just swim on the ocean as time wave by. The other good thing about this place is the weather which is favorable most of the times.
Another spot for stars and fashion models with great sand beach is the Miami Beach. Here a lot of restaurants and good night life is all what you can imagine.
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The Gunflint Trail - Where the Road Ends and Adventure Begins

One of the most eagerly stated things someone in Minnesota can say is "I just got back from the Gunflint Trail". To be able to say this, tells your audience that you know what Minnesota is all about and you have an appetite for adventure.

The Gunflint Trail meanders 57 miles through Cook County and is officially marked as Cook County Highway 12. It starts in Grand Marais, MN (about 110 miles Northeast of Duluth on Highway 61) and ends at Saganaga Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe and Wilderness Area - near the Canadian Border. When you reach the end of the trail, you have traveled 57 miles on one of the most scenic highways in the country.
The Gunflint Trail began as a footpath to connect the inland lakes with Lake Superior.. Over time, this path was widened to a paved road that now hosts lodges and outfitters and provides access to numerous lakes and trails.
When most people think of the Gunflint Trail, they mainly think of staying at one of the great lodges in the area or canoeing in the Boundary Waters. Another option deserving more consideration is hiking. This area boasts many great hiking options.

There are trails to suit everyone's abilities and interests. Some examples -
Eagle Mountain - Hike up to Minnesota's highest point at 2,301 feet above sea level and enjoy incredible vistas of the Boundary Waters Canoe and Wilderness AreaWild Flower Interpretive Hike - a mile hike along the Devil Track River displaying a variety of native and non-native wild flowers, trees, shrubs and grassesKimball Lake Fishing Trail - an easy 2 mile hike located just 11 miles up the Gunflint Trail that takes you to designated trout lakeSuperior Hiking Trail - the Supeior Hiking Trail and the Gunflint Trail cross just a couple of miles outside of Grand Marais. Border Route - 70 miles of moderate to difficult hiking through the BWCA. Many access point to the trail in the area.Kekekabic Trail - the trailhead to this 37 mile long distance hike through the BWCAW is located 48 miles up the Gunflint Trail from Grand Marais
All of these just scratch the surface of the outdoor activities and hiking options in the Gunflint Trail area.
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Superior National Forest - Minnesota's World Class Recreation Area

President Roosevelt established the Superior National Forest in 1909. In the same year, Ontario established the land adjacent to the Forest on the Canadian side of the border as Quetico National Park. These two adjacent landmasses combined total nearly 8,000 square miles of wilderness.

Occupying two-thirds of Minnesota's Arrowhead Region, Superior National Forest has nearly four million acres or 6,100 square miles of land. While most of this area is multiple-use, meaning for both logging and recreation, nearly a quarter of the Forest is the BWCA (Boundary Waters Canoe Area). But the Boundary Waters Canoe Area is not the only place for outdoor adventure in Superior National Forest.
Highlights include -
* BWCA the largest designated wilderness area in the eastern United States
* The Superior Hiking Trail - one of the top ten trails in the United States
* Border Route Trail - a hiking alternative to accessing the BWCA
* Kekekabic Trail - another hiking alternative to accessing the BWCA
* Three National Scenic Byways - Gunflint Trail, Superior National Forest Byway, and the North Shore Scenic Drive

* Eagle Mountain - Minnesota's highest point at 2,301 feet
* Sawtooth Mountains
* Over 2,000 rivers and lakes
* 1,300 miles of cold water stream
* 950 miles of warm water streams
* 2,000 miles of trails designated by use
* 77 public lakes accesses
* 10 swimming beaches

Simply stated, this area of Minnesota is an outdoor adventurist's 'dream come true'. Whether you want to hike, fish, camp, hike, hunt or any combination of these activities, the Superior National Forest has you covered.
For more information, check out the US Forest Service website - click here.
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4 Fun Autumn Outdoor Activities

When it comes to outdoor activities, most people think summer is the ideal season. Autumn however, is also a great time to get outside. The temperature isn't too hot and it's a beautiful time of year to be in nature.

1. Hiking:

Hiking is the perfect way to get exercise while enjoying the outdoors, and autumn is a great time to go. It is still warm enough to enjoy a nice long walk, yet cool enough that one doesn't feel exhausted by the heat. Moreover, all of the leaves from the trees are starting to change colour and fall off of their branches. There really isn't anything more stunning then standing at the top of a mountain and looking out onto a valley of colour. Grab a walking stick and go discover unknown trails.

2. Biking:

Weather you're in the mood for a road or mountain bike ride, autumn is the perfect time to go. Catch the end of summer adventure by exploring new trails and paths before the snow starts to fall. While the temperature does give one a little nip first thing in the morning, there is a freshness to the air that will give even the most bronzed cheeks a little bit of rose.

3. Horseback riding:

There is something about the autumn that makes going to the country so appealing. Even the most urban dwellers seem to get in the harvest spirit by the time September comes to an end. During the summer riding horses are taken out all of the time. They are worked hard and put back wet. Moreover, those riding them are bundled up in tall black boots, a helmut, and full-length trousers- talk about sweaty. But in the autumn one can go out and enjoy a gallop. The horse will enjoy being taken out for a ride in the cool air and riders can enjoy the freedom of riding into a new season.

4. Apple picking:

Apple picking tends to be a favourite activity amongst children. I certainly used to love going out with my mother when I was a little girl. We would pick all of the apples that we could find and then bring them home and make chutney, and jam, and apple pie. Another of my favourite activities was going to the neighbours and making homemade apple cider. We would squash the apples under our feet and then put them into a press that would squeeze out all of the juice. Afterwards everyone would get to take home a jug of fresh juice- yum!

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Ways To Enjoy The Great Outdoors

Millions of people across the globe share a passion for the great outdoors and the many different activities that that the outdoors offers. There are a wide variety of pursuits that can be enjoyed including hiking, fishing, camping and biking. And, of course, all of these activities are great for your physical and mental well being.
Take walking or hiking for example. Many people find going to the gym a chore and a bore.

Hiking has the health benefits of the treadmill but with magnificent scenery and also importantly its free! Its a great way to take a break from the stresses of daily life and feel the fresh air in your lungs. There are two excellent ways to get the best cardiovascular results from hiking. The first is to make sure you hike for at least one hour and the second is to choose a trail with a slight incline.


What could be more relaxing that spending a lazy day fishing, either by a lake or out at sea? There are many ways that fishing can aid your health and improve your family life. Fishing revitalizes your body and mind as some would say it has a meditative effect. Casting your rod helps to increase body circulation. Family fishing trips are a great way to spend time and bond together.

Camping is another great way to help rejuvenate your body and mind. Spending quality time with family and friends, in the great outdoors, has been proven to reduce stress levels. The clean fresh air, the beautiful green scenery, the quiet of the forest. How could you not feel better?

If you want to try a more rigorous form of exercise then give cycling a go. Cycling is one of the best methods to burn fat, increase muscle growth and improve circulation. Also, cycling has a low stress effect on the joints in your legs.

The outdoors has so much to offer. There are so many activities and pursuits to enjoy. These activities are relatively inexpensive and the health benefits can be unlimited. So what are you waiting for?
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Birdwatching - A Free And Fascinating Pastime For All And A Great Way To Spend Your Holiday

The Tropical North Queensland area of Australia is a region which is filled with all forms of natural beauty and some of the most wonderful natural wonders in the world. Properties like the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest will allow you to embrace nature in its purest and most untouched form. Australia is one of the only parts of the world that has sanctified its natural surroundings in such a way to keep them pure.

These properties are not merely spectacular but they are also World Heritage listed which essentially means that they are protected from humans. Everything that can be done is, to ensure that these properties maintain their natural beauty and that the ability of human beings to leave only a very limited mark on them. As a result there are many wonderful creatures and amazing birds that are living freely in these habitats. After all creatures love to live naturally in the beauty that the Earth possesses.

Birders and non-birders alike will take pleasure in the natural beauty of this area however for those who enjoy watching the birds this will be an absolutely delightful experience. Many rainforest birds flood the skies and the trees and just a few minutes within the rainforest is a great place to just take a seat to enjoy the amazing and colorful show. These creatures will delight you as you watch them freely congregating in an outdoor space that they rule without fear of humans or strict confinement.

The Little Kingfishers are one of the most pleasant birds to look at with a blue coloring that is like the richest blue sky and when contrast with the Yellow Oriole you will feel like you are looking at sunshine shining through. The Great Billed Heron is one that commands with its presence as it flies down the Daintree River and the Southern Cassowary can be observed waddling along the water line.

The Daintree Rainforest region is one that is filled with much natural beauty and whether you are a birder or just along for the trip you will love the peace that fills your soul as you are surrounded with land that is truly pure. And with the Great Barrier Reef located just on the end of this beautiful rainforest you are bound to find this the most perfect setting for a relaxing holiday or day trip.

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Kenmare in County Kerry Is a Real Delight for Visitors of All Ages

Kenmare in County Kerry, Ireland, is a haven of peace and tranquility, good food, superb accommodation and incredible scenery in one of the most natural, unspoilt environments in Europe. Situated at the mouth of the Roughty River as it flows into Kenmare Bay, the picturesque town of Kenmare is perfectly positioned for touring the South West of Ireland, being located on both the internationally famous Ring of Kerry with the rugged Ring of Beara.

The Irish Tourist Board, Bord Failte, officially recognised the historical, cultural and environmental importance of Kenmare by designating it Kerry's primary Heritage Town.

The Ring of Kerry, which is well-known all over the world, follows the coastline of the Iveragh peninsula. It is one of the most stunning scenic drives in Ireland and makes a most exciting day tour. Along the 175km route are some picturesque villages, numerous historical landmarks including castles, ogham stones and ring forts, as well as sandy coves and beaches.

To the north of Kenmare is the Killarney National Park, with its 10,000 hectares of forest and mountains, with truly spectacular views of the lakes of Killarney. The unspoiled Ring of Beara lies to the south of Kenmare. Its rugged beauty is legendary and it abounds in archeological sites and spectacular views many of which are remote and as yet untouched by commercial development. There are memorable views at places like Blackwater, Rossdohan Pier, Gleninchaquin, Clonee Lakes and the beaches at Allihies and Castlecove, to name but a few.

For the more energetic visitors, there is an abundance of activities. The surrounding countryside is dotted with many marked walking trails. Walking Festivals which take place on Easter and May and June offer walkers of all grades guided walks of various lengths. Watersports are in abundance with pleasure trips of Kenmare Bay to spot the seals, dolphins and other wildlife and there are many organised fishing trips where sea angling is available. Canoeing, windsurfing, sailing and water-skiing are available a short distance from the town. You can even charter a yacht tour the beautiful coastline of South-west Kerry and Cork. In the vicinity of Kenmare town there are a number of horse riding stables which have guided treks up the mountains, along the coast or through the woods. Treks of varying degrees of difficulty are available for both the novice or skilled rider. Both the Kenmare Golf Club and the Ring of Kerry Golf and Country Club are good class golf courses offering a challenging game over their 18 holes, and for the less experienced golfer there are numerous pitch and putt facilities in the Kenmare area.

The town itself is dotted with vivid coloured buildings, full of character, where there is genuine pride and concern for the immediate surroundings. The spotlessly clean streets boast a number of very artistic shopfronts with multi-coloured flower arrangements and hanging baskets adorning many of the buildings. Kenmare has won overall prize in the prestigious Tidy Towns competition in 2000 and 2008 and has retained the gold medal for tidiest small town in the intervening years.

There is a multinational feel to the town of Kenmare as it attracts visitors from all over the world and also very many people from Britain and Europe, attracted by its beauty and peacefulness, settled there throughout the past thirty years.

This small town has numerous excellent restaurants serving great quality food in Irish, French, Italian, Spanish and Chinese styles (to specify but a few) and it also hosts a weekly street market specializing in fresh fish, meat and vegetables as well as art, crafts and antiques. Traditional Irish music can be heard regularly on the streets and trad music sessions are a regular feature of night life in Kenmare.
Kenmare is a real delight for visitors of all ages.
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Multnomah Falls

Nothing is more beautiful that an amazing waterfall cascading through beautiful scenery. Multnomah Falls will not disappoint. This waterfall is the second highest waterfall in the United States. Each year, millions of people make their way to Oregon so they can see this stunning natural attraction.

Why is this waterfall so popular? Of course, the great beauty of the falls and the surrounding area plays a huge part. However, the biggest reason is the accessibility of Multnomah Falls. Often waterfalls are located in remote and difficult to access areas. This is not the case with this Oregon attraction. Whether you stay in the city of Portland or you choose to opt for Mt Hood lodging, you will find these falls only a short drive away.

A visit to Multnomah Falls makes the perfect family trip. Young, old and everyone in between will be able to appreciate the stunning beauty of the falls and of the Oregon landscape. At its longest drop, water plummets more than 500 feet down. That is a big drop for a waterfall.

As you visit this waterfall, you will find a long footbridge leading up to the falls. This bridge lets you truly experience the waterfall close up. Plus, it gives the perfect setting for some amazing pictures. You should also consider making the 1.2 mile hike to the top of the falls. While the waterfall is impressive from ground level, it is unbelievable from above.

If you will be in the Mt. Hood area, a visit to Multnomah Falls should be required. You will never have the opportunity to experience such a beautiful sight. Multnomah Falls will not disappoint. If you have time, see some of the other beautiful waterfalls in the Columbia Gorge like Bridal Veil Falls, Wahkeena Falls and Latourell Falls. Oregon is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls and scenery in the country.

Your visit to Mt. Hood will be more memorable if you pair it with a trip to see the amazing Multnomah Falls. This is one of the most stunning waterfalls that you will ever see. And you will be looking at your photos for many years to come.

For more information on Mt. Hood rentals, visit Whispering Woods Resort.

Nicklaus 'Nick' Bright is addicted to travel and loves writing almost as much as his wife. 'Where are you?' is a common refrain for most of his friends and family. Oregon, and the Mt. Hood Territory in particular, is a favorite destination with its rich history and endless opportunities for exploration. When he's not wrangling his kids, or his goats, Nick is plotting his next great travel adventure.

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