tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-132774812815052462023-11-16T06:07:44.331-05:00TravelVisionTravel marketing, hotel marketing, restaurant marketing, marketing strategies, restaurants and attractions, hospitality marketing, tourism, trip advice, lodging, restaurantsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.comBlogger157125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-73592415387704297492015-09-07T12:43:00.000-04:002015-09-07T12:43:13.186-04:00Traveling the Highway<br />
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Movies glamorized the phrase "road trip" into a spontaneous exciting adventure, but those who've traveled the highways on vacation mostly dread it. Regardless of the impending dread, more and more of us are hitting the road rather than the airways, like our parents and grandparents use to do, for affordability. The cost of flying is just too high for an entire family. Making traveling from point A to point B; from home to our desired destination and back stuck in a vehicle a necessary evil.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0Do0i2twEBBmtOnzBR0_V-Ak7KI_aAgZYJzIJps2qXKml8mHDcG5eXPxHo0QvcC5Dh5akgj0_6BZGdP4y1tetShEwegs7VWF1Tbfxe47m0acHmEt8iXvwC3C3gaq6gg5iWN2u16jdg/s1600/iexit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0Do0i2twEBBmtOnzBR0_V-Ak7KI_aAgZYJzIJps2qXKml8mHDcG5eXPxHo0QvcC5Dh5akgj0_6BZGdP4y1tetShEwegs7VWF1Tbfxe47m0acHmEt8iXvwC3C3gaq6gg5iWN2u16jdg/s200/iexit.jpg" width="200" /></a>We don't utter an excited, "Road trip!" We envision "road weary." We just can't stand the idea of endless hours of highway, knowing at some hour everyone in the car will be miserable. Although planning ahead will help, no amount of games, books, music and scenery can thwart the inevitable fatigue and frustration. I know, from the countless trips we've taken from South Florida to North Florida (7-9hrs) or from South Florida to Upstate New York (more that 24hrs). I can't change the distance or the fatigue that comes with it, but as I have in the past I can recommend things that will make it a little easier.<br />
I can't stress enough the value of good books on CD, if the whole family can agree on one or two. You can pick them up at your local library or stop at a <a href="http://shop.crackerbarrel.com/Music-Movies-Books/b/2681838011" target="_blank">Cracker Barrel Store</a> and rent them. You can return it to any of their stores throughout the country when you're finished and you only pay around $3.50 per week. This tip has eased the distance for my family immeasurably. Trust me, time will fly. If you can't agree on a book, drivers take precedence. Children, depending on their ages, can use headphones with portable players. Of course, it goes without saying to have games and snacks at the ready and to take those stretch your legs breaks. Don't try to "drive straight through." Yes, we've all done it at least once. Miserable is the only way to describe it and you end up passing out from exhaustion when you arrive.<br />
When it comes to long trips, ideally I would recommend breaking your trip up and finding something exciting to check out along the way; a one or two day side adventure. However, with limited time a side trip is not always possible. If your goal is to get to point B as quickly as possible, <a href="https://iexitapp.com/" target="_blank">iExit</a> is for you.<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/i3O07CmxtKxZedlvlZTbNHwpmctgMWeb-OhRE4wxY_YUPMgRI3XNCj9Rzyfn4V_oOg=h900" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" class="irc_mi" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/i3O07CmxtKxZedlvlZTbNHwpmctgMWeb-OhRE4wxY_YUPMgRI3XNCj9Rzyfn4V_oOg=h900" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="180" /></a><a href="https://iexitapp.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="iExit Logo" border="0" class="herologo" src="https://iexitapp.com/assets/iExitLogo200-739539d1b13e988e07741b13b270f119a65ee9100d29b9ab7204c67008968079.png" /></a>My new favorite travel recommendation is the App, 'iExit'. Road travelers don't often plan their stops. We like to go as far as we can (especially that first day) before stopping for the night. That leads to searching for a place to crash for a few hours before moving forward. Obviously this is not the ideal time for trying to find affordable lodging or even sustenance; you're in brain fatigue. You can still search for hotels in the area ahead through various search engines and websites, but iExit had the foresight to make it a lot easier. Simply put, iExit tells you what's ahead when driving on the interstate. It's all about right off the road ahead and no further out. So you're not seeing what's six miles out or popular downtown, but rather what's <u>right around</u> the next few exits. iExit also claims their app, "contains over 2,500 nightly hotel deals with rates cheaper than you'll find anywhere online. Never overpay for a hotel off an exit again." I haven't tested this thoroughly, but I have found it to be true on the occasions I've used the app. The app also tells you what food, gas, banking, car repair, etc. are up ahead right around the exit. I love this app!<br />
<img src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/fd/a0/ce/fda0ce03774869d48dd7e009214c4ff2.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none; display: block; margin: auto;" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-88571566751058054642015-07-25T07:32:00.001-04:002015-07-25T07:32:17.559-04:00Beach Art - Therapy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2AOM6YU0NG9h-jlScMjCwjqxQcKIUWn-k7A9Uuk9x8V_wItM8kRJXFpK53xYGIeY-MRuvO7uJtqI9g-ukHTn2HagssxSjyo4tLFMDv5DgpaMSoAVarY5Gqk8MEvsl1S8nfomV8qsiA/s1600/shell-seahorse-400x596.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN2AOM6YU0NG9h-jlScMjCwjqxQcKIUWn-k7A9Uuk9x8V_wItM8kRJXFpK53xYGIeY-MRuvO7uJtqI9g-ukHTn2HagssxSjyo4tLFMDv5DgpaMSoAVarY5Gqk8MEvsl1S8nfomV8qsiA/s320/shell-seahorse-400x596.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWKTuZY7SpxKatho8rGsNRxIiuHJcw6DhEKamugVLVRUkbUL7p1CEEjf7BiRXbyZMALn0V3CoTydh-s9RlsqH_32JU48PaJCCYvKGY4u2xtM4KZlXDJK9w7chHhHC-fT3RAsVbgsMWQ/s1600/the-sand-packs-perfectly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWKTuZY7SpxKatho8rGsNRxIiuHJcw6DhEKamugVLVRUkbUL7p1CEEjf7BiRXbyZMALn0V3CoTydh-s9RlsqH_32JU48PaJCCYvKGY4u2xtM4KZlXDJK9w7chHhHC-fT3RAsVbgsMWQ/s320/the-sand-packs-perfectly.jpg" width="320" /></a>Nothing is more soothing for the soul than time spent on a beach, but if you still can't seem to unwind, try being creative with what's right in front of you. From the simple to the sublime, creating beach art will relax you - guaranteed.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-65494411201575582542015-07-19T10:19:00.002-04:002015-07-19T10:21:23.494-04:00Florida Sunsets - No Two Are Alike<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghjH6jjiyOKv3HwMw9UyGpq-WlVo8MwjiILovuICSzSMsPcgo9RPUBAw69pMB1Jem1YPfpEiJigr5_XFT0gsRyHVXJUw8IVjD3j0norPdm-xDXOTk1QJItNkBTaFrG8WxvhhJTq8BokA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-07-19+at+9.52.17+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghjH6jjiyOKv3HwMw9UyGpq-WlVo8MwjiILovuICSzSMsPcgo9RPUBAw69pMB1Jem1YPfpEiJigr5_XFT0gsRyHVXJUw8IVjD3j0norPdm-xDXOTk1QJItNkBTaFrG8WxvhhJTq8BokA/s640/Screen+Shot+2015-07-19+at+9.52.17+AM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ft Myers Beach photo by <a href="http://overyonderlust.com/fort-myers-beach-and-sanibel-island/" target="_blank">Over Yonderlust</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbVStw6nsukR4Ff6SswMsr01mHjB1nuoNSNCNORTyGNqY9hMnOVRsGHaKK5T1hQ_hfD6FqkSakDSt9x23YyOiJPnPHtMw3PlKbTwzkknYvrbwCbGY8Jw5OJVdchVpxVw5xc9HqOK97w/s1600/Post+It+by+Laurel+Egan+-+Downloaded+from+500px_jpg.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbVStw6nsukR4Ff6SswMsr01mHjB1nuoNSNCNORTyGNqY9hMnOVRsGHaKK5T1hQ_hfD6FqkSakDSt9x23YyOiJPnPHtMw3PlKbTwzkknYvrbwCbGY8Jw5OJVdchVpxVw5xc9HqOK97w/s640/Post+It+by+Laurel+Egan+-+Downloaded+from+500px_jpg.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine Island</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Key West Sunset Cruise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANkZFIaUTML9VrcdKNxJO-CeOTqjdrtuQrFtU68AHJwXOPf0iZ9vk3Gf-IBIbcEcHWyjKKNtxu_J5iSGhH-sGz2vPCKpdssuSownVVmGJhyphenhyphenNN1hKpP5j-JjbdLP95ticI0bqhwx4bWg/s1600/IMG_0193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANkZFIaUTML9VrcdKNxJO-CeOTqjdrtuQrFtU68AHJwXOPf0iZ9vk3Gf-IBIbcEcHWyjKKNtxu_J5iSGhH-sGz2vPCKpdssuSownVVmGJhyphenhyphenNN1hKpP5j-JjbdLP95ticI0bqhwx4bWg/s640/IMG_0193.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cape Coral</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carrabelle - Panhandle</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-26026625019409561602015-07-05T18:57:00.000-04:002015-07-05T18:57:07.792-04:00Paddling Florida's Natural Areas: Everglades<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllSDgRHmGcjV1Hzd5ZZjdwxS7p1XTLOpMCGqKF66LEpvjcyQ8a0XbkOMtAJ7gqmDWcWIDN-891n1oYDOzs6xyFKdjLc5vNbBkDDRqJuhzCmyAmhz7-e8ADeFSxFR3SILkWlC9easb0g/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-07+at+8.38.35+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllSDgRHmGcjV1Hzd5ZZjdwxS7p1XTLOpMCGqKF66LEpvjcyQ8a0XbkOMtAJ7gqmDWcWIDN-891n1oYDOzs6xyFKdjLc5vNbBkDDRqJuhzCmyAmhz7-e8ADeFSxFR3SILkWlC9easb0g/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-12-07+at+8.38.35+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2w6MBcf3Ld6PkF6XpGVntQPd69e8BAL1fkZXCMe35ByePhMYovWLe4nDAiH35H0JODoIAUwcUieVuQTDTmU7RCYciSQvU9b-AwSB4zK7xpR-7vGu6kwSr9UrIyHs0t3OWAqDcMgAqNA/s1600/GatorEye.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2w6MBcf3Ld6PkF6XpGVntQPd69e8BAL1fkZXCMe35ByePhMYovWLe4nDAiH35H0JODoIAUwcUieVuQTDTmU7RCYciSQvU9b-AwSB4zK7xpR-7vGu6kwSr9UrIyHs0t3OWAqDcMgAqNA/s1600/GatorEye.png" width="200" /></a><a href="http://crocodilian.com/cnhc/images/!potm-apr05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>When many people think of the Florida Everglades, they tend to think of an inhospitable swamp with alligators and snakes ready to pounce. The stigma originates from all those cheesy, over exaggerated movies touting giant gators and snakes, or worse, swamp creatures and creepy backwater people. I can almost hear the "Deliverance" music. To make things worse in 2014 an Outside Magazine adventure writer made it sound overly challenging, <i>"...</i><i>the Everglades are filled with mazes and monsters to challenge even the most seasoned paddlers. But if you can navigate the tides and the uncompromisingly flat terrain, avoid alligators and insects, and keep your GPS in good working order, you’ll be rewarded with a truly unique wetland adventure. </i>Wow! Before you say, "Mark that off my list," hear me out. It's simply not all Man-vs-Wild "as seen on TV" there. While the post was meant to be forewarning, it was too harsh. Perhaps, it just wasn't his cup of tea.<br />
I admit, the Everglades can be challenging to hike, kayak or canoe in certain areas, it is simply not the case in many other areas. The truth is the Everglades, as well as many other Florida waterways, are safe to explore with the proper preparations and precautions and what you'll experience is <i>"truly unique"</i>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DON'T be an IDIOT!</td></tr>
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Don't panic over the <i>"seasoned paddlers"</i> reference or inference to monsters. The writer has a flair for the dramatic. There is something for everyone, from beginners to the seasoned pros, and the <i>"monsters"</i>, alligators, don't eat kayaks and canoes or very many tourists (I'm kidding…really). Before you go, understanding each person’s abilities in your party will allow you to find activities that will suit their desires and capabilities, insuring everyone enjoys the adventure. If you're not comfortable planning this type of adventure for your party, there are plenty of guided tours. Know that very few humans have ever been attacked by an alligator. Alligators generally shy away from humans, but can get very defensive and aggressive when they feel threatened. Nearly every attack was a result of humans using bad judgement. Simply put. Don't be an idiot. Yes, alligators can be dangerous if provoked. (Note: breeding season, beginning in April, is perhaps the most dangerous time.) Enough said.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBqHYulRMynrHYSLddd5MxB0cxilA1MyPzLMyFlyo0O-PaqdqK8rPRgg5RJM8HLZI6yJMNwY6lhjp8aHi4Nlqzmrs9pJvkSowlQptqkazv0kvyeUt-WpHadtV1M1Bu1kBiFpo5M-fiQ/s1600/ENPkayakers.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBqHYulRMynrHYSLddd5MxB0cxilA1MyPzLMyFlyo0O-PaqdqK8rPRgg5RJM8HLZI6yJMNwY6lhjp8aHi4Nlqzmrs9pJvkSowlQptqkazv0kvyeUt-WpHadtV1M1Bu1kBiFpo5M-fiQ/s1600/ENPkayakers.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Larry Kay</td></tr>
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Everglades outings are fantastic! Having the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. to explore (1.5 million acres) leaves you with endless adventure possibilities. It's also the only place in the country to spot crocodiles (which should be treated with the same respect as alligators), and it's teaming with other incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.<br />
There are plenty of places to rent equipment or join a guided tour. Most of which can be found online. Winter in the Everglades is the best time to visit. It is crowded, but not like you might think. Migrating birds flood the area. These visitors make for some very spectacular settings. Although spectacularly impressive in numbers, these visitors may be out shined by the local color - birds with funky names like Purple Gallinule, Flamingo, Anhinga, Ibis and Rosette Spoon Bill. There's so much to see - otters, manatee, deer, bear and panthers. Some sightings may require patience and some may require good fortune, but all are found in this amazing backdrop, the Florida Everglades.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://www.miltonheiberg.com/images/01-Audubon-Contest-Winners-2007/01-Image_file_3_Purple_Gallinule-AUDUBON-Web-RES.jpg" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="601" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Gallinule by Jake Parades</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.miltonheiberg.com/images/01-Audubon-Contest-Winners-2007/Rosette-Spoonbill-AUDUBON-Web-RES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.miltonheiberg.com/images/01-Audubon-Contest-Winners-2007/Rosette-Spoonbill-AUDUBON-Web-RES.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roseate Spoonbill by Diane R Brannon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7138/7617885878_f9afb13744_z.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Otter</td></tr>
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<img src="http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/southflorida/everglades/images/sun.JPG" height="425" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Happy 239th Birthday America! </span></span><br />
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Whether you are attending a fireworks show, backyard barbecuing, heading to the beach, participating in a 5K or all of the above have a great time celebrating! If you get a chance thank someone who's served today. <br />
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Celebrate the 4th by experiencing a local park or one of our nation's parks is a great idea! Remember veterans get in free today. Whatever you do, be safe!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-3024149023310460162015-01-06T18:49:00.002-05:002015-01-06T18:54:30.617-05:00Camping in Florida's Natural Areas<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6tQE1EjnlGflqhSEaYhQS4FOkTuFqJxT_omvKyYNxYFMla6ROJqUtd-ktBLhLntFqJUXC8_oae6y2pUaxsGQIBCYxNgMxdrHqmUM39hmAx36wzLvU2sRBTQ5uSARtEPRtYXggjjgEFQ/s1600/DuskSharkPoint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6tQE1EjnlGflqhSEaYhQS4FOkTuFqJxT_omvKyYNxYFMla6ROJqUtd-ktBLhLntFqJUXC8_oae6y2pUaxsGQIBCYxNgMxdrHqmUM39hmAx36wzLvU2sRBTQ5uSARtEPRtYXggjjgEFQ/s1600/DuskSharkPoint.jpg" height="481" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dusk at Shark Bay Everglades Nat'l Park</td></tr>
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Camping in Florida is an awesome experience, <u>provided</u> you plan well.<br />
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A couple years ago I had a longing for a night counting stars beside a fire on the beach, so I invited my family to go camping at Cayo Costa State Park. C-a-m-p-i-n-g? In the "off" season?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOO_iAekxPguyX0SVwyve_e-vwV9mPFmpmKnd_1uNNlrYbHgBPktSh5Z7_SMjOMErZKduXn1CAGPgeySHXNxcVlbRwcgoxNsMZslm96WDaDIHWPX9w2jK50Y5uB0XuN13lKaHLFoeJw/s1600/mosquito.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOO_iAekxPguyX0SVwyve_e-vwV9mPFmpmKnd_1uNNlrYbHgBPktSh5Z7_SMjOMErZKduXn1CAGPgeySHXNxcVlbRwcgoxNsMZslm96WDaDIHWPX9w2jK50Y5uB0XuN13lKaHLFoeJw/s1600/mosquito.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>Resistance would have been prudent but I thought, It'll be ok. After all, there's a sea breeze. Foolish mistake! As a 4th generation Floridian I should have known better, but it had been sooooo long since we'd been camping. Well, I confess it was stupid. No amount of bug spray and fire smoke would dissuade the little !#&%* biting pests (mosquitos and no-see-ums). We left after one very memorable, miserable night.<br />
That's just how it is here in Florida, year in and year out. Remember rule #1 - 50 degrees or less (50 degrees is when the little suckers go into hibernation) and rule #2 - never break rule #1. It will, no doubt, be an eternity before my family stops ribbing me about it. My brothers claim torture. They say, they gave a pint of blood away the hard way. Lesson learned, but it has not stopped me from camping. As long as you plan well and <u>go at the right time of year</u>, it's a whole lot of fun.<br />
Camping is a great way to bring people together. The smell of a wood-burning fire while basking in its warmth under an inky blue endless night sky surrounded by the laughter of friends or family is irreplaceable. Stress drifts away and frivolity abounds. Far from the city lights, the brilliant stars are hypnotic. You'll undoubtedly forget what your doing, then laugh when you burn your skewered double marshmallows. You'll probably proclaim, It's just how you like them. S’more, please!<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Camping Options</b></span><br />
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Honestly, I love camping but, I hate setting up the tent and sleeping on the ground. That's why I often prefer a cabin. However, some campers say, Pitching a tent is the only true camping. It does allow for a more remote, unique locations. For others, RVs are the only way to go. The comforts of home on wheels. Cabins are available for rent in many Florida State Parks. They are even available in our theme parks, such as, Disney World's Frontier Land where they're not nearly as rustic as they are in natural area parks. I'll admit, camping in a tent these days isn't as primitive as it once was. If you can afford the good stuff, tent camping can be wonderfully modern. Some tents practically set themselves up since camping gear went high tech.<br />
Whatever your accommodation preference, choosing the right campground for your adventure is an equally important decision. Whether your goal is chilling out or more active pursuits, it’s important to find the right amenities and activities to suit you and your fellow campers. We once set up camp and the "campers" next to us pulled out a giant TV and plopped it on their picnic table. My thought was, "You've got to be kidding me!" Fortunately for us, they never turned it on or there would have been a park ranger involved! <i>Perhaps, it was my less than subtle chiding.</i> Before you book, contact the park and ask a lot of questions about what you want and what to expect from "neighbor" campers. They may get a lot of local weekenders (in our case college students) that bring everything but the kitchen sink. Know before you go.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Unique Opportunities</span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXT9V0ecXN_yi4tK6k5SyWA_P4xBIFdHsPePi1IDwmv0rhWf6penq_dywLBqQOl05_d3GVBkAi2_ik9Fh_xIxlhNq3SeQYZGrtowi8RF8gsbQk5s9S1SjxWzmYHG5GrzNEYej5H2VeQ/s1600/Chickee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: transparent; clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXT9V0ecXN_yi4tK6k5SyWA_P4xBIFdHsPePi1IDwmv0rhWf6penq_dywLBqQOl05_d3GVBkAi2_ik9Fh_xIxlhNq3SeQYZGrtowi8RF8gsbQk5s9S1SjxWzmYHG5GrzNEYej5H2VeQ/s1600/Chickee.jpg" height="209" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modern adaptation of a Seminole Chickee<br />
available for camping ENP</td></tr>
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<u>Chickee Camping</u>: In Everglades Nat'l Park (ENP) "Chickees" have become hugely popular. They are located along rivers and bays where dry land is inaccessible. How cool is that? They are elevated 10' x 12' wooden platforms with roofs where you can pitch a free standing tent. Definitely a hard surface to sleep on. Stakes and nails are prohibited, as well as, campfires, but it's well worth the trade off for the stellar location and the paddle in and out access. Imagine waking up to this view with a good cup of coffee and breakfast made on a camp stove.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiklwX0Tvskqh7mgcJvJA8qjMc4xJ9KZz-2t8DLqyCdFBVbYfuboqJ8gUHuApE7Vd3knKUmf1EVFnXw-OW1OaYVe5GQ4lgLYa0oUOSqSwbTdmQb_2_gneYfD74uErk8rJW-oro76SewKA/s1600/EquestrianCampingPottsPreserve.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiklwX0Tvskqh7mgcJvJA8qjMc4xJ9KZz-2t8DLqyCdFBVbYfuboqJ8gUHuApE7Vd3knKUmf1EVFnXw-OW1OaYVe5GQ4lgLYa0oUOSqSwbTdmQb_2_gneYfD74uErk8rJW-oro76SewKA/s1600/EquestrianCampingPottsPreserve.png" height="234" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Potts Preserve</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeGwser9gx2I2d7D_5eEj1RhH-yRt9YgiS8pixCCYcC4bbaQh3f7G7xuGAtMJNvgR_mPnX1FkvGkLId0Hmw4_WoCnFfVsmy9WgkwajS5gbsWY8ZimMV-Xn-WQrXaBw5DczucBucbJQ6g/s1600/Riding+Trails.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeGwser9gx2I2d7D_5eEj1RhH-yRt9YgiS8pixCCYcC4bbaQh3f7G7xuGAtMJNvgR_mPnX1FkvGkLId0Hmw4_WoCnFfVsmy9WgkwajS5gbsWY8ZimMV-Xn-WQrXaBw5DczucBucbJQ6g/s1600/Riding+Trails.png" height="135" width="200" /></a><u>Equestrian Camping</u>: If you’re more interested in horses than in boats or bikes, there are many places in Florida where you can camp with your horse. Very, very cool! These parks are filled with trails for riding. It almost makes me wish I had a horse, but then I remember mucking out the stalls on one or two occasions with my friend Lindy. <i>I don't even like cleaning out the cat litter box.</i> Still, it does look like a wonderful way to go camping. <i>Hmmmm. </i>I wonder if you rent a horse just for the camping trip?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tDO1AYwA2ItmyRrFm_xFplGLUhfYlXqWUscgYcY2P-6YCgmzJyXYJhE1PPQDyrDW638jOwvi3DXnVjmpbHXe9gLGa2WJjuWjUIfrZuL10lA6HIWYsX-_0ws4C7cODjDWRjQWaRO7qw/s1600/Rustic+Wedding.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tDO1AYwA2ItmyRrFm_xFplGLUhfYlXqWUscgYcY2P-6YCgmzJyXYJhE1PPQDyrDW638jOwvi3DXnVjmpbHXe9gLGa2WJjuWjUIfrZuL10lA6HIWYsX-_0ws4C7cODjDWRjQWaRO7qw/s1600/Rustic+Wedding.png" height="200" width="198" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFhXm0hKmjbrX8a4pxDfesaweOpA2dr2MRZx4WQpXzKIdzg25zN2ipaf3agchdSWm-lfEWUmwbL2_kn1rmAGJxL7U5tLnOx_9gaY712zeOFZRP40mN4A_kMNDFvNc619EtY0RLVukAw/s1600/VintageFLWedding.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFhXm0hKmjbrX8a4pxDfesaweOpA2dr2MRZx4WQpXzKIdzg25zN2ipaf3agchdSWm-lfEWUmwbL2_kn1rmAGJxL7U5tLnOx_9gaY712zeOFZRP40mN4A_kMNDFvNc619EtY0RLVukAw/s1600/VintageFLWedding.png" height="227" width="320" /></a><u>Rustic Wedding</u>: If you are really into camping, and are planning your big day, Ocala National Forest in central Northern Florida has a venue for a camping wedding. If a banquet room is not your cup of tea. Perhaps, whiskey barrels, farm tables, mismatched chairs, mason jars candles and bare rafters strung with lights are your idea of incredibly romantic. If so, this may be the perfect wedding venue for you. Yours will be the wedding they'll remember.<br />
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Whatever your reason for going, Florida has many great ways and places to camp.</div>
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z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdraft.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D13277481281505246%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D1978631535325512479%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dpostname&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F3.bp.blogspot.com%252F-mxSvam5Jj1U%252FVI2jsphk_KI%252FAAAAAAAACeA%252Fh85GipPUErQ%252Fs1600%252FRustic%25252BWedding.png%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 481px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1672px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com2Florida, USA27.6648274 -81.51575350000001720.4843744 -91.842902000000009 34.8452804 -71.188605000000024tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-19786315353255124792014-12-22T09:07:00.005-05:002014-12-22T09:10:11.834-05:00Welcome to Florida's Winter Wonderland<a href="http://coolings.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/camping2009-300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://coolings.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/camping2009-300x225.jpg" height="240" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a>It's not news that people love to visit Florida. They come here for the warm weather, the beaches and the theme parks, but did you know that winter is the perfect time to visit Florida's natural areas? Besides getting a break form the heat, it's a reprieve from the bloodsuckers. No, not your boss, the IRS or your lender, although you may consider that to be true as well, I'm talking about mosquitos and no-see-ums. Every Floridian can relate to this metaphor, "If you don't think a small thing can make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito." The good news is at 50 degrees, the tiny evil creatures shut down for the winter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhcHW97D0gCsgtCAEsxe165kFqwQZSTzilfx3RiOOLzYs5f7lSBJUma0lQXJEFY97vmAfBxd_IUkrsYfmZo3PUwZeTBfR687snJ6cRveANHEKS6yrWNGM-JyUz51Wxhh35D1-Zo-fL6iQPDHImaHLjLWKlv4Xzn4c4oYVcNh00j26F4kcxaXL8Aa89kulKSn8Y4i-QsfTiBiKQY0vk" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.tampabay.com/resources/images/dti/rendered/2009/06/LAT_CAMP060709E_70561a_8col.jpg" height="419" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Fireside chats can go on to nearly dawn</span></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhozXCs-1iRYm4v1npk_vvRBFfW2sRCw2eKFGJXesZ7qLKZ-KGeR_dLHYf4qC1JWGDB3CrJoIqU7fHoTx2vEkB_mcnBzhljdGAXzVmDjFwNa6ZRbtixyP84ynjOJ6r7UvYjdEQTg8ZN1UwdL11HvXhU4txGP14Qaqxxvaq4pVbPtXgYiK0DKQ" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2009/01/30/travel/kayak_600.11.jpg" height="326" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtT_OmZArWpBXo8uQXKT1amEZthUy9SvKsHOW04swcyGxHlR-v9wRk81tlkoIpNPpzo1me1HqlY1Y64KDLjTiIFljiSutz6ssiWTvRMzRXeh0Qd3HVLFFqwbguG5pc_PUlRmja3dAj9w/s1600/Osprey.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtT_OmZArWpBXo8uQXKT1amEZthUy9SvKsHOW04swcyGxHlR-v9wRk81tlkoIpNPpzo1me1HqlY1Y64KDLjTiIFljiSutz6ssiWTvRMzRXeh0Qd3HVLFFqwbguG5pc_PUlRmja3dAj9w/s1600/Osprey.png" height="184" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.authenticflorida.com/clientuploads/_photos/_34/_258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.authenticflorida.com/clientuploads/_photos/_34/_258.jpg" height="150" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="200" /></a><a href="http://buildafieldtrip.com/wp-content/uploads/2dbonevalleySharkTooth1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://buildafieldtrip.com/wp-content/uploads/2dbonevalleySharkTooth1.png" height="149" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.insidekeywest.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Dry-Tortugas-510x509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.insidekeywest.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Dry-Tortugas-510x509.jpg" height="199" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="200" /></a>Given the absence of the usual discomforts, suddenly hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing and camping are a lot more enticing. Gathering around a campfire and counting stars, once again, become romantic notions, rather than insane ones. It is absolutely the best time for visiting Florida's wonderful natural areas. Although, you will want to bring a long sleeve shirt and a hat, because the sun burns as bright as ever. Ask yourself, When was the last time you made S'mores, went hiking, sat around a bonfire, or gazed at a million stars in a clear night sky?<br />
Here are some great places for getting back out. The <a href="http://www.travelvision.com/Attraction/florida/miami/everglades-national-park/a2c0b1d9-6d3a-e211-866b-fe8c6c00adb1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Florida Everglades</span></a> and the Florida Keys parks, such as, <span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.travelvision.com/Attraction/florida/key-largo/john-pennekamp-coral-reef-state-park/eeb66de1-398c-de11-a77e-000c290e037e" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">John Pennekamp State Park</span></a>,</span> </span>are obvious choices, but there are plenty of wonderful, less than obvious places for your consideration. Here are a few of my recommendations. <a href="http://www.travelvision.com/Attraction/florida/captiva/cayo-costa-state-park/b87f15b0-7d39-e211-866b-fe8c6c00adb1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Cayo Costa State Park</span></a>, just north of Sanibel and Captiva islands, is accessible by boat or small plane. It is a beautiful, serene island park with camping, cabins and plenty of water activities. <span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.travelvision.com/Attraction/florida/lithia/alafia-river-state-park/c23c5a73-353a-e211-866b-fe8c6c00adb1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Alafia River State Park</span></a>, </span>near Tampa<span style="color: blue;">, </span>is<span style="color: blue;"> </span>known for mountain biking trails. <a href="http://www.travelvision.com/Attraction/-/-/sebastian-inlet-state-park/b029b0fe-3a8c-de11-a77e-000c290e037e" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sebastian Inlet State Park</span></a>, south of Melbourne, although a little chilly in winter, is popular for surfing, beach cast fishing and treasure hunting (a 1715 Spanish fleet wrecked just offshore). <a href="http://www.travelvision.com/Attraction/florida/sarasota/myakka-river-state-park/52db53d2-9539-e211-866b-fe8c6c00adb1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Myakka River State Park</span></a>, near Sarasota has 12 miles of river flowing through it and 15 miles of horse trails. <a href="http://www.drytortugas.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Dry Tortugas</span></a> camping is a bit more challenging due to its location, but more than worth the trip. Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West, it is accessible via Key West Ferry or your own boat.<span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;"> </span>A 10-site, primitive campground is located on Garden Key, the same island as <a href="http://www.nps.gov/drto/historyculture/fort-jefferson.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Fort Jefferson</span></a>, and is a short walk from the public dock. Nothing beats the view from here and you can explore the 19th Century Fort and snorkel crystal clear waters. An unforgettable experience. All of these parks have camping areas. My last recommendation is not a park but a journey; a <a href="http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/education/interactive/peaceriver/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Peace River</span></a> canoe camping trip. It's an experience your family will always remember. There are exceptional guides and <a href="http://www.canoeoutpost.com/peace/showpage.asp?page=overnight" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">group outings</span></a> available, so all you need worry about is having fun.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">January - North Captiva Island / Cayo Costa State Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<img src="http://jcruz661.wikispaces.com/file/view/Florida%20Winter.jpeg/412416048/650x510/Florida%20Winter.jpeg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhgBHlquImF4p7eFtcIBnPlDfYV_RJVbAbQBw_0d_j0XWtzxbs2XC8ZbUS2C78uBvSBPyDPg1960AEsplAEVbiIWzU84FquJ3ugd65TVygSa1FwtuGIhm8n7B_PALw9U6k3X1_KHDgzNqkHsAsbVfseTdgW1wVdJQNHh3d78oUEjLbTtXgNaMslnQoUsJij8GLHonA" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/93/51/3d/93513d300d53a0dc21577485c3efc8d6.jpg" height="200" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="149" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhw5zij1txGCjBq4oTLbZrX3LEtQHsTWXWxdtZbtz0a7BzidWN8E0V6wxSpI7T-8E60PVBySmG8pmwkE7NZPjFOe8PeG3ulMzVDUTu5RvwpHty9_G0Dc4rk0XR-WeEu6ARzQUY_mWHXUATrgOU1OsTxWNmQy6D6ZOG5bxd7o0KQTSQ78G8HHStLkOXO9_Za1qKaaux5fC9wnjeB" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://www.grandparentsofhomeschoolers.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/SandCastleSnowman.jpg" height="265" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="400" /></a><img src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/ca/01/d0/ca01d0450037951e2e37fac0882a2bef.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" /><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhtDGa89UpmX2F2a_siXUGC4SpTjrUyk8gvyLPvjEaflM8ri_YCYaxnLfQwi1g31lzhsAgSbV64PR_pv7ZpF8nPAt8Jq9gJ01spFImBcNS558BNdn7rregJVzF6RjJH6WV1_Qcn6eoiFRsYZi_ypqq5OO5L5JI3bLMKCmC-MMs_" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.static.flickr.com/7547/15684335088_955c8fb1d2_m.jpg" height="267" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhWzyO5tbQf2Ai4BCBsn7I-tvx1V3anMZgC-oVgKutlejW-zX35wmemNQgZJpBBIh_sG84hRZaGFYlN7K7eaz4BnqcsU3V3GNW-wjM9S4pzC4fRQjQjCIHRl6IJNXQCoJrrYjW0le9dNFNEWwtNnnfNzXBVHpi5BXlYovqgALYU" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://universe.byu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/byuhawaii.jpg" height="240" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXYzy5W6C836IJeoYkWLB31fMWgo9myfn-0uK-HYptGSkgewqHnbAY3utl_cb6tKsNjbzuliZgB0C8gzqFVEDuuCsQXlVblgevKDRB0UxY4H4eYmLMneLDOYIauKDIomRtJuo2mtKHCQ/s200/SandSnowman.jpg" height="200" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="150" /><br />
<img src="http://i.imgur.com/61AWACk.jpg" height="200" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="149" /> <img src="http://activerain.trulia.com/image_store/uploads/agents/americanbrokers/files/sandman.png" height="400" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="382" /><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilU3c07mBCGRvUj6cnicKAMkoiZikAIbimn_ODe4gk-qcCK5XvJO9mVtVQGe7LXU-kWwzn83YJKJOCTAIy_rpGkItt_U_cSIolpCWVD0oW6fVcwXaDRHu9vi-JOUKyFS9_kPp9QCDdw/s1600/FallingSnowman.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilU3c07mBCGRvUj6cnicKAMkoiZikAIbimn_ODe4gk-qcCK5XvJO9mVtVQGe7LXU-kWwzn83YJKJOCTAIy_rpGkItt_U_cSIolpCWVD0oW6fVcwXaDRHu9vi-JOUKyFS9_kPp9QCDdw/s1600/FallingSnowman.png" height="169" width="200" /></a><a href="http://static.neatorama.com/images/2014-02/snowman-hitchhiking-florida.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://static.neatorama.com/images/2014-02/snowman-hitchhiking-florida.jpg" height="400" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;">Wish </span></i></b><b><i><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;">you </span></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;">were </span></i></b><b><i><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;">here?</span></i></b></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhtDGa89UpmX2F2a_siXUGC4SpTjrUyk8gvyLPvjEaflM8ri_YCYaxnLfQwi1g31lzhsAgSbV64PR_pv7ZpF8nPAt8Jq9gJ01spFImBcNS558BNdn7rregJVzF6RjJH6WV1_Qcn6eoiFRsYZi_ypqq5OO5L5JI3bLMKCmC-MMs_" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhtDGa89UpmX2F2a_siXUGC4SpTjrUyk8gvyLPvjEaflM8ri_YCYaxnLfQwi1g31lzhsAgSbV64PR_pv7ZpF8nPAt8Jq9gJ01spFImBcNS558BNdn7rregJVzF6RjJH6WV1_Qcn6eoiFRsYZi_ypqq5OO5L5JI3bLMKCmC-MMs_" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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Instead you'll have to build a sandman, shed the coat, hat and scarf and use shells for the eyes, then falls asleep from warmth of the sun and gentle lapping of the water against the shore. Trust me, you won't miss the snow. Wish you were here?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com0South Florida - North America26.097023935643097 -81.07630037500001718.916570935643097 -91.403448875000009 33.277476935643094 -70.749151875000024tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-6600910448973527032014-10-28T19:21:00.000-04:002014-10-28T19:21:12.800-04:00Life Altering Adventure<h4>
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><i>...and so it begins, </i><i>a railway journey through Africa</i></span></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6AbsMJM43BB2xHejRHM2neDfuohx6jXlle-WwCg0lorfJ36REr1RReHtlt0gjgA7nhj3FVdlrZ55JvCUgBDUKLCXwgn9kD0LI46H2mdMmfCD8gXckYObWvt14zcdSBZMK323uDUwYg/s1600/PofA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6AbsMJM43BB2xHejRHM2neDfuohx6jXlle-WwCg0lorfJ36REr1RReHtlt0gjgA7nhj3FVdlrZ55JvCUgBDUKLCXwgn9kD0LI46H2mdMmfCD8gXckYObWvt14zcdSBZMK323uDUwYg/s1600/PofA.jpg" height="412" width="640" /></a></div>
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All the planning, all the stressing over which route to choose is over. Your life is about to change forever — <span style="color: #b45f06;">You will not return home the same person who left.</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihHck4H7h4-AONgGCWrb2KwWru5u9ZdHeARyKpxDKHqiJWv5NYRzsWvcNu52Lyd4hSBZrabQEbiNSm-u0wapYRWj2B9AvQBWJWHcQ2_rKiEzLLSJALzgsSo46797ED9E3Lr7I7JCe9jw/s1600/Bats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihHck4H7h4-AONgGCWrb2KwWru5u9ZdHeARyKpxDKHqiJWv5NYRzsWvcNu52Lyd4hSBZrabQEbiNSm-u0wapYRWj2B9AvQBWJWHcQ2_rKiEzLLSJALzgsSo46797ED9E3Lr7I7JCe9jw/s1600/Bats.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source:bbs.zhnews.net</td></tr>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5U0S_VVOCAGRKtYhujGYOwdZj4sTYfz_2ke9AvGYVNqrOfE2k8Z4YY2PfrW0-NxSJ0xXwGzmvaS2AWzt4zzyS0JViF9iPNx8udgJh9zxMfqEtxrfV44oaQQ2w0O5Bu9BL8uUgNnlCbA/s1600/Ngorongoro_Crater.jpg" height="198" style="text-align: center;" width="640" /></h3>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDTPQlSW7-oxucaprhFvPhh2IGrz9jYGQk90DJDLOiteO9HYjz0xYmgheU8dwaPmxL0QoMVPXY3o9X_m4fy-7kirgcEWutbWVWD621wPIZWvIJU27Yk9RqfUBmIWoBtlgpas18XGrxA/s1600/_42438092_01hippo_map300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDTPQlSW7-oxucaprhFvPhh2IGrz9jYGQk90DJDLOiteO9HYjz0xYmgheU8dwaPmxL0QoMVPXY3o9X_m4fy-7kirgcEWutbWVWD621wPIZWvIJU27Yk9RqfUBmIWoBtlgpas18XGrxA/s1600/_42438092_01hippo_map300.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a><br />
Once you feel the unmistakeable tug of the train leaving the station your already heightened adrenaline will swell to a restless excitement. The anticipation of things to come will be nearly irrepressible. Soon you'll want to run from window to window, but savor each moment. Tame your euphoria.<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>The route ahead is not a straight one; not a get there quick route. It's a twisted turning route over and around impenetrable obstacles. Although getting from point A to B may be how it started, the views form the train would not be ignored and word spread of an irresistible journey.<br />
At nearly every turn there are breathtaking views, along seemingly endless coastlines, past sweeping vistas, through mountain ranges, over deep gorges, or past the most magnificent waterfalls. You are on a journey that will imprint your life. At times you may feel like your in the middle of a new migration toward the Ark. The opportunities you'll have here will not present themselves again in any other land or on any other train. In the end you will know you have experienced extraordinary and nothing will ever be the same.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #741b47; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 25px;">“To see ten thousand animals untamed and not branded with the symbols of human commerce is like scaling an unconquered mountain for the first time, or like finding a forest without roads or footpaths, or the blemish of an axe. You know then what you had always been told -- that the world once lived and grew without adding machines and newsprint and brick-walled streets and the tyranny of clocks.” ~ Beryl Markham</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #191919; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 25px;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GrSsRnZQ1_zguo6jeNsVWRgmiwqAe8UgEKOVRbjw6kdyNZaA_4XgnPfAmE27qOhk3rpFkHDWcYBZLJihnR4N_1CHng-beTHJt_DU_jirVanLVvLIkEuTu3xLIfX2ygm0VUkXsXCSyw/s1600/zebras-migrating.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GrSsRnZQ1_zguo6jeNsVWRgmiwqAe8UgEKOVRbjw6kdyNZaA_4XgnPfAmE27qOhk3rpFkHDWcYBZLJihnR4N_1CHng-beTHJt_DU_jirVanLVvLIkEuTu3xLIfX2ygm0VUkXsXCSyw/s1600/zebras-migrating.png" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GrSsRnZQ1_zguo6jeNsVWRgmiwqAe8UgEKOVRbjw6kdyNZaA_4XgnPfAmE27qOhk3rpFkHDWcYBZLJihnR4N_1CHng-beTHJt_DU_jirVanLVvLIkEuTu3xLIfX2ygm0VUkXsXCSyw/s1600/zebras-migrating.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHykH45M8am_TwRD_TahtFGNMKopzEdEycHqmghRO164WGR6UIxP9JT8DMx1tPPT8yfQUP6UJFXgj80ZFdHmc4qlC4G6RqOwyxqaFgp4ndKU3fTdHxp9LrH9MCtnNOmwlauDGp628RTw/s1600/148-south-africa-safari-eastern-cape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHykH45M8am_TwRD_TahtFGNMKopzEdEycHqmghRO164WGR6UIxP9JT8DMx1tPPT8yfQUP6UJFXgj80ZFdHmc4qlC4G6RqOwyxqaFgp4ndKU3fTdHxp9LrH9MCtnNOmwlauDGp628RTw/s1600/148-south-africa-safari-eastern-cape.jpg" height="238" width="640" /></a></div>
Here are a couple options straight form the <a href="http://www.rovos.com/journeys"><span style="color: blue;">Rovos website</span></a>:<br />
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<u><i><span style="color: #741b47;"><b>CAPE TOWN and DURBAN SAFARI Package</b></span></i></u><br />
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<i>7 days</i><br />
This seven-day journey begins in Cape Town and ends in <a href="http://www.zulu.org.za/discover/destinations/durban-metro" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Durban</span></a>. Travel on our <a href="http://www.rovos.com/journeys/cape-town"><span style="color: blue;">Cape Town Journey</span></a> to Pretoria through the spectacular mountain ranges and scenic winelands of the Cape to the haunting barrenness of the Great Karoo and the goldfields of the Witwatersrand. Arrive in Pretoria and transfer to your hotel for the night. Enjoy the day at leisure or tour the city, Soweto, Johannesburg, Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum. The train departs the following morning on the <a href="http://www.rovos.com/journeys/durban-safari"><span style="color: blue;">Durban Safari</span></a> for two nights with visits to a Big Five bush retreat, an 11 000-acre nature reserve and a charming and influential ceramics gallery before travelling the Valley of a Thousand Hills to Durban. Available in reverse. These journeys can also be combined with own arrangements in Pretoria. See the itinerary and downloads below for more details.<br />
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<u><i><span style="color: #741b47;"><b>PRETORIA and VICTORIA FALLS</b></span> </i></u></div>
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<i>(+) the Stanley & Livingstone Private Game Reserve - </i><i>6 days</i></div>
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This five-night adventure begins in Pretoria with the <a href="http://www.rovos.com/journeys/victoria-falls"><span style="color: blue;">Victoria Falls Journey</span></a>. The train travels northwards across Botswana and the Tropic of Capricorn through Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park where a game-drive excursion is enjoyed. The sojourn ends at the incomparable Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River. Transfer to the Stanley & Livingstone Private Game Reserve (6000 acres) for a two-night stay on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis including a game drive. Available in reverse. Please note that depending upon railway capacity this journey could be routed northwards through Beitbridge and Zimbabwe.<i><br /></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhng3tnnaElwdAm_pJOGGWzG0pegdi07XKcQ885iUWZnjRbOQPElDRwC3WnjEdNRQwV-gJ3CAq2dnvmD1T0GaX2VEyQk9UuhKSA5NApfiORxgJ9KQaeviPVllwmeq_AQQL6CNuK_-_lgw/s1600/RovosRail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhng3tnnaElwdAm_pJOGGWzG0pegdi07XKcQ885iUWZnjRbOQPElDRwC3WnjEdNRQwV-gJ3CAq2dnvmD1T0GaX2VEyQk9UuhKSA5NApfiORxgJ9KQaeviPVllwmeq_AQQL6CNuK_-_lgw/s1600/RovosRail.jpg" height="232" width="640" /></a><u><i><span style="color: #741b47;"><b>DURBAN to VICTORIA FALLS </b></span></i></u></div>
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<i>(+) Fairmont Zimbali, Royal Elephant & Victoria Falls Hotel - </i>11 days<br />
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Embark on this 11-day adventure with a two-night stay at the Fairmont Zimbali, one of South Africa’s premier resorts on KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast. Board the Pride of Africa on our <a href="http://www.rovos.com/journeys/durban-safari"><span style="color: blue;">Durban Safari</span></a> to Pretoria for two nights. Arrive at Rovos Rail for an introduction to our beautifully appointed private station before spending the night at your hotel. Spend the following three nights on board the train on the<a href="http://www.rovos.com/journeys/victoria-falls"><span style="color: blue;">Victoria Falls Journey</span></a>. Arrive at the incomparable Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River and enjoy a two-night stay at the colonial-style Victoria Falls Hotel. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com0Cape Town, South Africa-33.9248685 18.424055299999964-34.7681915 17.133161799999964 -33.081545500000004 19.714948799999963tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-59980431359095287232014-10-05T09:02:00.001-04:002014-10-05T09:02:48.779-04:00The Right Track - Rovos Rail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.transsiberian-travel.com/files/121-der-rovos-rail-an-den-viktoriafaellen---lernidee---x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://www.transsiberian-travel.com/files/121-der-rovos-rail-an-den-viktoriafaellen---lernidee---x.jpg" height="201" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhSrNR_NP_IRVH4MILWq9MKVus7ILpATK_e6LKTXocoBp3g5dwI9VBepxRd8ETkx7koYZVNrOeJno3PzM-PkEoXhpBTNON7XwZmMPokk9i9sDu_x7dC4XnfWHRl8h1z-PGmhk2XEuhQ/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhSrNR_NP_IRVH4MILWq9MKVus7ILpATK_e6LKTXocoBp3g5dwI9VBepxRd8ETkx7koYZVNrOeJno3PzM-PkEoXhpBTNON7XwZmMPokk9i9sDu_x7dC4XnfWHRl8h1z-PGmhk2XEuhQ/s1600/images.jpeg" height="188" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">ALL ABOARD!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: white;">√ </span> Brochure read (several times)<br />
<span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: white;">√ </span> Scanned the website (every page)<br />
<span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: white;">√ </span> Google searched (every relatable image)<br />
<span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: white;">√ </span> Travel Blogs read (several)<br />
<span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: white;">√ </span> Files created (virtual and actual)<br />
<span style="background-color: #cc0000; color: white;">√ </span> Clothes packed (resisted the urge to buy khakis & pith helmet)<br />
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This trip clears a half dozen items from anyone's bucket list: scenery and wildlife, thrilling and exotic, decadent and luxurious. The mere thought of this adventure will leave you giddy as a school girl with anticipation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZtSebxS68uv7unCYNFvU_Uvv-tKkt2dJgWThCfj_QampaHE40Av1IC4xcFBXfanBicTD16TmYq0uAMPZxHSvkjYIWoXQ2FJ3rji7CuhgBSnt209SjKBfssRUQCvqPPHHUQ1wuUxOHw/s1600/Luxury_Trains_Blue_Train_Lounge_Cart1-960x350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZtSebxS68uv7unCYNFvU_Uvv-tKkt2dJgWThCfj_QampaHE40Av1IC4xcFBXfanBicTD16TmYq0uAMPZxHSvkjYIWoXQ2FJ3rji7CuhgBSnt209SjKBfssRUQCvqPPHHUQ1wuUxOHw/s1600/Luxury_Trains_Blue_Train_Lounge_Cart1-960x350.jpg" height="230" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJNWdk5IyscHQLS_kZR_IqQHRQjDdcetPRbq49Z2VhByUjfTZhxPpzuBA1fX0m3eBLT2_Pl98ZB-BDH6Lj1m3j3t-3zb1RMfbRcmg0M9iylR9Gda46PsTAlPIYIADoh6SAz2-YXYqbg/s1600/RovosAfrica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJNWdk5IyscHQLS_kZR_IqQHRQjDdcetPRbq49Z2VhByUjfTZhxPpzuBA1fX0m3eBLT2_Pl98ZB-BDH6Lj1m3j3t-3zb1RMfbRcmg0M9iylR9Gda46PsTAlPIYIADoh6SAz2-YXYqbg/s1600/RovosAfrica.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a>If you could choose only one train journey in your lifetime, it should be a Rovos Rail journey. It's the winning lottery ticket of train trips - beyond spectacular! And, it's not just the view from the train that's impressive, the accommodations are nearly as incredible.<br />
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The London Daily says,<br />
<h4>
<span style="color: #bf9000;">"Discover Africa </span><span style="color: #bf9000;">in the wood paneled, gleaming five-star luxury of a bygone era."</span></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlZjj9QK_fuWUZoQ1zsyuZfJSptEM0QwfwJsSDHn-wZhnUrZRkLulRAEJJeWvWBomPtIXkLhe4aGTrQF3_GjsdzW9nhZx7IBXelTXdWOt2sQ9Z3pxfRF4x4617yJdZd_sA-_-Q4a3nQ/s1600/Boomslang-Walkway-Cape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlZjj9QK_fuWUZoQ1zsyuZfJSptEM0QwfwJsSDHn-wZhnUrZRkLulRAEJJeWvWBomPtIXkLhe4aGTrQF3_GjsdzW9nhZx7IBXelTXdWOt2sQ9Z3pxfRF4x4617yJdZd_sA-_-Q4a3nQ/s1600/Boomslang-Walkway-Cape.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a><br />South Africas's Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Boomslang canopy walkway allows visitors to experience the magical gardens from a different perspective. A stunning, tranquil walk among the trees.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHIn0P2mz9ggRWm6Z21qSfjxcR9Sd_6IZpMF4jTR-i3eyDlSLgotJndapr1RM4Wi81iYgByOy3ppEurHvq1ZxcUDoHwE9VxPPZG0s6xx7ucQz6NPbhSBATxkrOW-eP7FShFEtxMOhBjQ/s1600/kirstenboschFallFlowersSA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHIn0P2mz9ggRWm6Z21qSfjxcR9Sd_6IZpMF4jTR-i3eyDlSLgotJndapr1RM4Wi81iYgByOy3ppEurHvq1ZxcUDoHwE9VxPPZG0s6xx7ucQz6NPbhSBATxkrOW-eP7FShFEtxMOhBjQ/s1600/kirstenboschFallFlowersSA.jpg" height="280" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sanbi.org/sites/default/files/images/sunbirdericavert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="color: #111111; font-family: Times; line-height: 1.2; text-transform: none;">Fall Foliage Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Does anyone remember the movie 'What Dreams May Come'? </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">During the film </span></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Robin Williams</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> character searches the afterlife </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">for his wife through some very surreal, color saturated gardens. I'm beginning to think it may have been filmed here. That, or we've stumbled upon one of Claude Monet's colorful canvases, only bigger, a whole lot bigger! </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">This </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">extraordinarily beautiful and unique </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">place was rightfully selected as a World Heritage Site. </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">From the unique and iconic Table Mountain to the truly dramatic coastlines, beautiful mountain passes and valleys further East, to the semi-arid regions to the North, each area is home to a diverse group of rare plants. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">You may find you'll pinch yourself while here because this place is truly a dream come true.</span></div>
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Good to <small style="color: #00b9ff; font-size: inherit; font-weight: 700;">KNOW</small></h3>
There are nearly a thousand nationally and international recognized World Heritage Sites across the globe. Ideally, protected to preserve and conserve their natural beauty or cultural and historical significance. Eight of these sites are in South Africa and were declared World Heritage Sites by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDG0QeqeFMJFZweShw-MzRSlxM7rx-A3Y5O8zmzWQGLlgJhLdubLeqs0YtQyNSDtsXAfN_qmUxvmgTiMhz1zerp96jPLc4CJFgp0h8ZU2LSal15ECMd_yDGaBkoi4T0ket4KpxezFAoQ/s1600/protea_cynaroides_flower_single_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDG0QeqeFMJFZweShw-MzRSlxM7rx-A3Y5O8zmzWQGLlgJhLdubLeqs0YtQyNSDtsXAfN_qmUxvmgTiMhz1zerp96jPLc4CJFgp0h8ZU2LSal15ECMd_yDGaBkoi4T0ket4KpxezFAoQ/s1600/protea_cynaroides_flower_single_1.jpg" height="240" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a>They are:<br />
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<li><a href="http://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/world-heritage-sites-south-africa#1">The Cape Floral Region</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/world-heritage-sites-south-africa#2">Robben Island</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/world-heritage-sites-south-africa#3">The Greater St Lucia Wetland</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/world-heritage-sites-south-africa#4">uKhahlamba - Drakensberg</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/world-heritage-sites-south-africa#5">The Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/world-heritage-sites-south-africa#6">The "Cradle of Humankind" (Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and Environs)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/world-heritage-sites-south-africa#7">Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landschape</a></li>
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<li><a href="http://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/world-heritage-sites-south-africa#8">Vredefort Dome</a></li>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b>The Cape Floral Region,</b></span> the fynbos vegetation region (indigenous flowering scrubland), of Western and Eastern Cape Province, South Africa is one of the richest and most diverse floral areas in the world. Recognized for its natural beauty and scientific importance, 70% of its floral species occur nowhere else on the planet. Table Mountain National Park, which is part of this remarkable wilderness area, has more plant species in its 22,000 hectares than Britain or New Zealand. In total, the site covers 553,000 hectares of land that are particularly rich in plant species, representing nearly 20% of Africa's flora. The unique flora of the region is of particular value to science as there is a huge diversity and density of Fynbos species within a relatively small area. The species density in the Cape Floral Region is also amongst the highest in the world and it has been identified as one of the world's 18 biodiversity hot spots.<br />
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more, good to KNOW <small style="color: #00b9ff; font-size: inherit; font-weight: 700;">Kirstenbosch botanical garden</small></h3>
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If you have limited time or just can't bare all that hiking you can see nearly every indigenous plant in South Africa at Kirstenbosch. Against the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain sits this amazing botanical garden. Established in 1913, it was the first botanic garden in the world to be devoted to a country’s indigenous flora. Set aside to promote, conserve and display the extraordinarily rich and diverse flora of southern Africa. It is time well spent.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Conebush Proteas Kogelberg Reserve SA</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJ5lyPttqH-yV_F3Lg5lG_-XdCx-iL-ViA4KhDDUhzLwAbZjHgNF6yatqWsyDl6TdmZynOzxwjWWCGLs-JyI0vFbixIf9ccCPCdf60c-q7FJxeLPpGLcLyFj9dsgqJ-oS3-_D4bdaxg/s1600/lonov0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJ5lyPttqH-yV_F3Lg5lG_-XdCx-iL-ViA4KhDDUhzLwAbZjHgNF6yatqWsyDl6TdmZynOzxwjWWCGLs-JyI0vFbixIf9ccCPCdf60c-q7FJxeLPpGLcLyFj9dsgqJ-oS3-_D4bdaxg/s1600/lonov0020.jpg" height="272" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Succulents are among South Africa's botanical wonders</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2685px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2685px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2685px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 2685px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 882px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 882px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1703px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1703px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1703px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1703px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1703px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1703px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com1Cape Floral Region Protected Areas, Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town, South Africa-34.1667 18.375-34.2720115 18.2136385 -34.0613885 18.5363615tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-62606329242162142902014-09-07T09:28:00.001-04:002014-09-07T09:50:03.025-04:00A Walk in the Clouds<a href="http://www.tablemountain.net/images/sized/images/uploads/YG7V2444-500x0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.tablemountain.net/images/sized/images/uploads/YG7V2444-500x0.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LTTXxXBvMTCSED7DC0anDe-SFD53DbSLNcoNVTDYCzLVPv9J7Pl6nL0Hk-JR-up9bW7Qm80oik2wQMjROczQgfz82OUM-Txi7GvV-ZArKJbJh64xe5Fe21QEuKqb9tZ7ZmN-FabRaw/s1600/DSC00896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LTTXxXBvMTCSED7DC0anDe-SFD53DbSLNcoNVTDYCzLVPv9J7Pl6nL0Hk-JR-up9bW7Qm80oik2wQMjROczQgfz82OUM-Txi7GvV-ZArKJbJh64xe5Fe21QEuKqb9tZ7ZmN-FabRaw/s320/DSC00896.JPG" height="400" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="300" /></a><br />
Rise early. Put on your walking shoes or hiking boots. <b><span style="color: #741b47;">Prepare to be amazed! </span></b>Just outside of Cape Town, looming large and inviting, is the crowning jewel of an amazing South African national park, Table Mountain. The park stretches roughly 60 km from Signal Hill around Cape Town then south to Cape Point, encompassing one of the most incredibly scenic mountain chains in the world. Fringed by beautiful valleys, forests, bays and beaches, it is a <a href="http://www.southafrica.net/za/en/articles/entry/article-business-tourism-unesco-world-heritage-sites"><span style="color: blue;">UNESCO World Heritage site</span></a>. South Africa has the rare claim of eight World Heritage sites, each an area of extraordinary beauty and importance. Table Mountain is also listed on the <a href="http://www.new7wonders.com/"><span style="color: blue;">New 7 Wonders</span></a> of Nature (a 2001 global pick initiative). <a href="http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/"><span style="color: blue;">Table Mountain</span></a> is South African's precious jewel among jewels. Recognized for its rich, diverse flora, it forms a partial border for the thriving, cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. <a href="http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/"><span style="color: blue;">Table Mountain National Park</span></a> is actually divided into three separate sections. The Table Mountain section includes <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Signal_Hill_(Cape_Town)"><span style="color: blue;">Signal Hill</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion%27s_Head_(Cape_Town)"><span style="color: blue;">Lion's Head</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_Mountain"><span style="color: blue;">Table Mountain</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devil%27s_Peak_(Cape_Town)"><span style="color: blue;">Devil's Peak</span></a>, the Twelve Apostles (actually 17 peaks), and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orange_Kloof"><span style="color: blue;">Orange Kloof</span></a>. There are a number of hiking trails accessible from Cape Town for exploration. If you are super fit, you can walk up Table Mountain in roughly three hours. Thankfully, the <a href="http://www.tablemountain.net/"><span style="color: blue;">Table Mountain Cableway</span></a> carries visitors from the Lower Cable Station to the top, allowing visitors to avoid the arduous walk up and offering spectacular views along the way.<br />
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"70% of its floral species here occur nowhere else in the world." Rich in floral biodiversity the park is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom World Heritage Site, said to be one of the most diverse floral areas in the world. Fynbos, an ancient type of vegetation developed over millions of years, is the most abundant plant which produces magnificent flowers in spring (September/October).<br />
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Although larger predators and large herbivores disappeared from the park at the hands of the European settlers long ago, smaller mammals are still found in the park and some large herbivores are being re-introduced. Sadly, the animals are gone, but the parks spectacular beauty and amazing views make up for the lack of wildlife.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">You may even get to walk among the clouds. </span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtdCZLyeWqwfDa-xEyHxl5jXHJHTKnNX124fbkrdJY_gyjazwCq6W6NNw600rMrfKs_aKSwzxux-sG7-4eoQ95FFoGfZ3XZtHB1ZLgKHeOugi3evZ8aUhKzE3EV62lVHoCpEf0le-9w/s1600/tablecloth_tablemountan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtdCZLyeWqwfDa-xEyHxl5jXHJHTKnNX124fbkrdJY_gyjazwCq6W6NNw600rMrfKs_aKSwzxux-sG7-4eoQ95FFoGfZ3XZtHB1ZLgKHeOugi3evZ8aUhKzE3EV62lVHoCpEf0le-9w/s1600/tablecloth_tablemountan.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table Mountain's "Table Cloth" </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Samantha Reinders for The New York Times</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Alice e Marco<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigynSF8rLYKkKKyUM4E1zMN34rO8LemvDNIwnc9avvHqEjWZ2wKdufwGO2E_9XfZnfPeMWNSWDiA-wTUKqrpnn9NQqwIsbtSP9s7BE7MsBpBo7X56K4PGAx_DhCo0vJNR6CrUqzgquQQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-20+at+6.54.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigynSF8rLYKkKKyUM4E1zMN34rO8LemvDNIwnc9avvHqEjWZ2wKdufwGO2E_9XfZnfPeMWNSWDiA-wTUKqrpnn9NQqwIsbtSP9s7BE7MsBpBo7X56K4PGAx_DhCo0vJNR6CrUqzgquQQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-07-20+at+6.54.27+PM.png" height="203" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-style: italic; line-height: 19px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photograph by Ande Truman</span></span></td></tr>
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Everything is possible, but where do possibilities begin...with a slumbering white lion and a train, of course. After all, the journey of a lifetime has to start with a BIG dream ~ Dream of Africa.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5AS9MWe5a3G45-sh-pElRjqoV3Fl_y39ato0DjXcqfCXXzlPQdVa-CkXpUYqnbvm0wIlW6iu1B2B4kKWCKkZWY0zlv4E8a8aOXowtTHOUflE5Qw0a-Bv3zGjycClPCfuCcahheTaxw/s1600/Cape+Point's%2Bcliffs%2BCape%2BTown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5AS9MWe5a3G45-sh-pElRjqoV3Fl_y39ato0DjXcqfCXXzlPQdVa-CkXpUYqnbvm0wIlW6iu1B2B4kKWCKkZWY0zlv4E8a8aOXowtTHOUflE5Qw0a-Bv3zGjycClPCfuCcahheTaxw/s1600/Cape+Point's%2Bcliffs%2BCape%2BTown.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a>While you're at it, why not start with its furthest edge. On the southernmost end of the African continent. Here mountain ranges mark the last stronghold, before this rugged land gives way to the sea. Cliffs rise like fortress walls, while enormous boulders stand sentry guarding the shoreline, unwavering against the thieving sea. Not one, but two oceans battle for more ground here. This vibrant land, South Africa, rises spectacularly, as if it were the last vestige of land at the edge of the world.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">South Africa: a land far, far away...</span></h3>
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<i>It should be said, while a visit to South Africa will be incredibly memorable for its beauty, this is a land deeply scarred. It is a country still trying to resolve its rocky past; a country riddled with controversy and upheaval, but through it all settlers and travelers continue to come for its spectacular beauty. The wounds of the past are glaringly evident in Cape Town, where we begin this journey. Here a huge percentage of South Africans still live in poverty. The road is long both behind, and ahead of this country, but the possibilities are great. I keep a favorite quote by Maya Angelou on the home page of this blog. It is perhaps no more suitable than here. It reads, "Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends."* South Africa will hopefully become a place where all its citizens are treated and cared for equally well. Awareness is key.</i><br />
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Arriving in Cape Town ~</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Groot Constantia Estate</td></tr>
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As you can imagine, at this point, after the long flight, anticipation for the spectacular train trip ahead will be almost unbearable. You'll eagerly await the call, "All aboard," like mice waiting for the Pavlov's bell to ring. However, before you hop the train, give yourself a day or two to rest and explore this bustling, colorful city; a day or two to get acquainted with this country and its people. After all, this is your once-in-a-lifetime journey, so, arrive early. Why not? It is your big dream.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden</td></tr>
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There are vineyards here and beautiful botanical gardens…museums, mountain ranges and oceans…penguins and, yes, even white lions. Bordered to the North by Table Bay, to the West by Signal Hill and the Atlantic, and to the South by Table Mountain National Park, it's not a place that is, "just as good as any," to start the trip of a lifetime, it is an extraordinary place to start.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Old Biscuit Mill Market</td></tr>
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<a href="http://capeheritage.co.za/"><span style="color: blue;">Cape Heritage Hotel</span></a> built in 1771 or the <span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.vineyard.co.za/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Vineyard Hotel</span></a>, </span>are both lovely places to choose as a base. South Africa's unique flavors can be found at any number of restaurants, but to truly experience an abundance of South African flavors and goods visit the markets: Greenmarket Square for traditional African arts and crafts, <a href="http://www.marketonthewharf.co.za/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">V&A Market on the Wharf</span></a> known for fresh, organic or homemade, or at Saturday's ritual the <a href="http://www.theoldbiscuitmill.co.za/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Old Biscuit Mill</span></a>. If flora is your thing don't miss <a href="http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden</span></a> which boasts over 22,000 indigenous plant species, and was the first botanical garden to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There's a one of a kind "steampunk" coffee shop called <a href="http://www.truthcoffee.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Truth</span></a> and more than one world class winery.<br />
Cape Town is said to be one of the most photogenic cities in the world, so of course exploring it should be included in a trip of a lifetime to Africa.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Truth Coffee Shop</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cape Heritage Hotel</td></tr>
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<i>*Tourism does help support South Africans, but it's not enough. </i><i>While visiting this amazing part of the world </i><i>consider finding other ways to help South African's in need.</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com0Cape Town, South Africa-33.9248685 18.424055299999964-34.7681915 17.133161799999964 -33.081545500000004 19.714948799999963tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-53003506139247259542014-07-18T23:33:00.000-04:002014-07-19T08:02:42.336-04:00Postcard Perfect<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>–Banff, Banff National Park and Lake Louise</b></span></h4>
Despite a plethora of altered photos on the internet, Banff, Banff Nat'l Park and Lake Louise do not need retouching. The trouble is, the areas immense beauty cannot be conveyed in a photograph. Flanked on all sides by the Rockies with the distinction of being the highest town in Canada, Banff sits smack dab in the heart of Banff National Park. A small extremely popular town known for it's access to incredible scenery and wildlife. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGhyouU45rzjYUTAxSqOP_lVnnvOAzECZ488FbSIKbgQb9NY1VqDrgMiMUaZ4qDcoxJDMaRzKtYVb7uYDWbxii2nmPquBTwzk2jK3LRhhGrX4wpN-mwWXkDwSLWXxDoOPqIxu6uHWUPg/s1600/Bow-Valley-Parkway-Elbow-Lake-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGhyouU45rzjYUTAxSqOP_lVnnvOAzECZ488FbSIKbgQb9NY1VqDrgMiMUaZ4qDcoxJDMaRzKtYVb7uYDWbxii2nmPquBTwzk2jK3LRhhGrX4wpN-mwWXkDwSLWXxDoOPqIxu6uHWUPg/s1600/Bow-Valley-Parkway-Elbow-Lake-L.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwpjxhrNDNu1Wgi3ECmz6cjAwAnVUbnbkFdbipT7HxjRgJyi5ru98UhFvt85p-ABXdOCJkOYhHLRQfq2zmEgsCvu33VVTuUoinx8msYyelKpcHmIPsETOExs4iA1y4tNvNcS5DK4KPA/s1600/bear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwpjxhrNDNu1Wgi3ECmz6cjAwAnVUbnbkFdbipT7HxjRgJyi5ru98UhFvt85p-ABXdOCJkOYhHLRQfq2zmEgsCvu33VVTuUoinx8msYyelKpcHmIPsETOExs4iA1y4tNvNcS5DK4KPA/s1600/bear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwpjxhrNDNu1Wgi3ECmz6cjAwAnVUbnbkFdbipT7HxjRgJyi5ru98UhFvt85p-ABXdOCJkOYhHLRQfq2zmEgsCvu33VVTuUoinx8msYyelKpcHmIPsETOExs4iA1y4tNvNcS5DK4KPA/s1600/bear.jpg" height="212" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxzgyHZiPosq5lDBT342LJFVspIXxWEfHmuyHb1TwNHZdxzGuWmJ2sKG4G_KYQBjrwW4RpcIYAu_j2VHRr2qSG5cNR2hHEGQ_bRdYbTCe5-xJRqoAnUa1qdFwQECICMB2rCu-iAlEGfg/s1600/Banff-National-Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxzgyHZiPosq5lDBT342LJFVspIXxWEfHmuyHb1TwNHZdxzGuWmJ2sKG4G_KYQBjrwW4RpcIYAu_j2VHRr2qSG5cNR2hHEGQ_bRdYbTCe5-xJRqoAnUa1qdFwQECICMB2rCu-iAlEGfg/s1600/Banff-National-Park.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a><br />
Each year, thousands of travelers make the incredible journey to take it all in. Of course, I recommend arriving by train. Although small in size, Banff's ever increasing popularity has spawned luxury accommodations, fine dining and nightlife. Luckily, its restricted footprint has protected it from over development and sprawl. A skier's dream in winter and outdoor adventure wonderland in summer. The park, all 1,641,027 acres, set aside in 1885, is the site of the first national park service. Banff National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A combination of valleys, mountains, glaciers, forests, meadows and rivers, it is one of the world's premier destination spots. Enjoy wildlife tours year round. Skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, dogsled rides and horse sleigh rides are popular in winter. Nearby Lake Louise is the largest ski area in Canada with 4200 skiable acres. And, although the summer months draw large crowds, there are enough wide open spaces for everyone to do just about every outdoor activity one could imagine-hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, wildlife viewing, rock climbing, canoeing, boating, backpacking, fishing, camping, even scuba diving. Many of these activities can also be enjoyed during the winter months. It's also good to come here and make time to be still. You'd have to spend a lifetime here to absorb everything the area has to offer, but a week or two will renew your spirit in ways you'd forgotten were possible.<br />
<img src="http://homepages.ucalgary.ca/~yshi/C6CT9096.jpg" />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Western Canada Train Trips</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">Travel for 3 hours or for 3, 4 or …12 days alongside glacier-fed lakes, majestic mountains and ferocious rivers. The never ending scene of virtually untouched wilderness, right out your window. This part of the world is ideal train travel. Mountain vistas, lake, roaring rivers, flowery meadows, waterfalls and wildlife all await discovery.</span></span></h3>
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<a href="http://kidfriendlyarea.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/canadian_train_adventures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://kidfriendlyarea.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/canadian_train_adventures.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" /></a><a href="http://www.rockymountaineer.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Rocky Mountaineer</span></a> offers over 65 train packages including on that goes from Vancouver to Alaska and from train to cruise ship. The scenery is so amazing that the train company guarantees the train windows are cleaned daily. These are not budget traveler experiences. Trips rage from a couple hundred dollars for a 1 day excursions to over $6000 per passenger for 12 days, but saving up for this experience is well worth it.<br />
A couple great examples are the <b>First Passage</b> from Vancouver to Banff (4 days $1,121 USD) traces the westward steps of 19th century explorers between Calgary and Vancouver and <b>Sea to Sky Climb</b> (1 day $274 USD) travels from the coastal city of <a href="http://www.rockymountaineer.com/en_US/destinations/vancouver">Vancouver</a> to the resort town of <a href="http://www.rockymountaineer.com/en_US/destinations/whistler">Whistler</a>, renowned for outstanding skiing and year-round outdoor activities. Highlights of the trip include spectacular views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains, Brandywine Falls, Mount Garibaldi and the impressive Cheakamus Canyon. Whatever you choose, you want be disappointed. Canadian train travel is a great way to go.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-rfaTKrwcgG90pJLnsOL7ty6J_aWioLfZGVXQVsB4smayAbzP1UsOIUQuIYMmX6LTvgwWlMrFegByjwrAiWCGT0zB5tpLqc06U7EjMB75Vx-3V4PsTGhFic0Y6SHNhytAV1Ucm69s2g/s1600/Cheakamus+Canyon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-rfaTKrwcgG90pJLnsOL7ty6J_aWioLfZGVXQVsB4smayAbzP1UsOIUQuIYMmX6LTvgwWlMrFegByjwrAiWCGT0zB5tpLqc06U7EjMB75Vx-3V4PsTGhFic0Y6SHNhytAV1Ucm69s2g/s1600/Cheakamus+Canyon.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cheakamus Canyon</span></span></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com0Kamloops, BC, Canada50.674522 -120.3272673999999850.352976000000005 -120.97271439999999 50.996068 -119.68182039999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-59641760099395612392014-07-05T16:21:00.000-04:002014-07-05T16:21:19.908-04:00Bridging the Gaps Along Ireland's Coast<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8KBUgbUe2QWFxF9buqZA5lTSxENtBEL-ih1zp7uegSYj6-iC2SworP0OBL1ogiYfMVhuJMArKZrZqVAyet4CqrmC9ybHkqk9VI-kDkPtIiL154EzmZ__BkxSy_-PIns0l8ZiDgDjMw/s1600/carrick-a-rede-ropebridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8KBUgbUe2QWFxF9buqZA5lTSxENtBEL-ih1zp7uegSYj6-iC2SworP0OBL1ogiYfMVhuJMArKZrZqVAyet4CqrmC9ybHkqk9VI-kDkPtIiL154EzmZ__BkxSy_-PIns0l8ZiDgDjMw/s1600/carrick-a-rede-ropebridge.jpg" height="264" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybKabbr9lZ2tg2ZgvYoWQehp4cQTnUE_Xx-rf1lcBO-PEY1DNN3Dx1XzBc_Dxw3-5Gkdyspr2WnrtFUf3mx6uA7tMw8uqaqDd-d42vmfUEBgqHY1MTSKi-nXI99VRcItn8bsVvud9Rg/s1600/Carrick-a-rede+ropeB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybKabbr9lZ2tg2ZgvYoWQehp4cQTnUE_Xx-rf1lcBO-PEY1DNN3Dx1XzBc_Dxw3-5Gkdyspr2WnrtFUf3mx6uA7tMw8uqaqDd-d42vmfUEBgqHY1MTSKi-nXI99VRcItn8bsVvud9Rg/s1600/Carrick-a-rede+ropeB.jpg" height="400" width="283" /></a>Carrick-a-Rede…say what? I believe it's Irish for scare the tourist, or terrifying rope bridge. Still, one <b>must</b> brave the 66 ft length of rope strung 98 ft above the rocks and sea because…well…it's incredibly alluring. Throngs of people have crossed it, thousands have been photographed on it, and Olympic torches have been carried over it (<i>pictured left</i>). It's a traveler's opiate!<br />
The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede <i>(from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irish_language">Irish</a>: Carraig a' Ráid, meaning "rock of the casting").</i> Originally a salmon fisherman's paradise (thus the original bridge), the huge rock is now more commonly known for its spectacular views.<br />
According to Wikipedia, "Although no one has fallen off the bridge, there have been many instances where visitors, unable to face the walk back across the bridge, have had to be taken off the island by boat." Well, that must have been embarrassing. Either that, or it was a great ruse to gain a boat ride around these spectacular cliffs. You can always take a picture and say you've been there. (Shhh…No one has to know you didn't cross.)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivs1vqiquUkQew7AseTijRjL_2KkN1AsTAO1Ub6x-TduauS_h9ezrHB-Q9lwxXOy76Xs3-b31_piNCMGmSZ6Cpg8tL4hPg46QOXhAlylX3ZRIJJT_LJv5sqRd3GZk2zKutg-9XTIs4EA/s1600/carrick-a-rede_bridge_hiking_northern_ireland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivs1vqiquUkQew7AseTijRjL_2KkN1AsTAO1Ub6x-TduauS_h9ezrHB-Q9lwxXOy76Xs3-b31_piNCMGmSZ6Cpg8tL4hPg46QOXhAlylX3ZRIJJT_LJv5sqRd3GZk2zKutg-9XTIs4EA/s1600/carrick-a-rede_bridge_hiking_northern_ireland.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>From the pictures (above and below), it's clear there have been some improvements to the bridge over the years. I'd cross it in a heartbeat (I think), after all, I've stood on the very top of the Golden Gate Bridge. I've climbed a glacier in New Zealand. I've stood in a clear glass box hanging on the side of one of the tallest buildings in the world. This is a mere 66 ft, right? Truth is: it looks a little imposing. Hey, those of you who snicker, the Golden Gate Bridge is solid and glaciers move really slowly. Maybe we could find out when it was last inspected and ask everyone else to wait their turn. OK, now I'm ready. Wait, how many people will it hold?<br />
I would seriously love to cross it, but, in all honesty, I would be a little nervous. What can I say, travel and adventure are my opiates, and, sometimes, "simply amazing" involves a little fear.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com0Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, 119a Whitepark Road, Ballintoy, County Antrim BT54 6LS, UK55.2394713 -6.3326704999999492-14.6490492 -171.56704549999995 90 158.90170450000005tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-31874184885044443532014-06-28T16:00:00.000-04:002014-07-03T07:48:22.992-04:00Ireland's Causeway Coast<span style="background-color: white; color: #b45f06; font-family: NorthernIrelandHeadlineRg, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 22px;">Walk in the footsteps of giants</span><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: NorthernIrelandHeadlineRg, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 22px;">…</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKmhGe-gZySQQTIQXwQZRTjCxjqQQw5HFXH4UkfRECwxSgKxCCXGQw2kDkpCAEDh3lPylO2OnXl8VObtdiBw3Pylmemx0KYZxXhN8SwxlUMhW46OCKRc-KspoRw72owFPfvYAlFZsNdg/s1600/NorthernCoast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKmhGe-gZySQQTIQXwQZRTjCxjqQQw5HFXH4UkfRECwxSgKxCCXGQw2kDkpCAEDh3lPylO2OnXl8VObtdiBw3Pylmemx0KYZxXhN8SwxlUMhW46OCKRc-KspoRw72owFPfvYAlFZsNdg/s1600/NorthernCoast.jpg" height="146" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRgXqI4pkfhLAfZENOdXb8orWU644lCfWBG5QWG35FBcbYQwC60u8oXUUZehZCqmXaDWXLn3PFcO54U0AlzsQtcotPXcgysQGcFwHAz3JqHvVHrrRPA8BUMDphIJ2g5tLTtLEDqDHkQ/s1600/Carrick-a-Rede.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRgXqI4pkfhLAfZENOdXb8orWU644lCfWBG5QWG35FBcbYQwC60u8oXUUZehZCqmXaDWXLn3PFcO54U0AlzsQtcotPXcgysQGcFwHAz3JqHvVHrrRPA8BUMDphIJ2g5tLTtLEDqDHkQ/s1600/Carrick-a-Rede.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>Our spectacular train ride from Derry along Ireland's northern coast has taken us the short 45 minutes to Coleraine. (<i>see previous post</i>). <a href="http://www.northcoastni.com/explore/coleraine/"><span style="color: blue;">Coleraine</span></a> is considered an ideal location for the lover of outdoors and, from here, you can use your integrated Translink bus and rail ticket to visit attractions, small towns and villages of The Causeway Coast and, as they say, walk in the footsteps of giants. The Causeway Coast is one of the most scenic regions and is home to some of Northern Ireland’s best known attractions including: <a href="http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/Old-Bushmills-Distillery-Bushmills-P1635"><span style="color: blue;">Bushmills Distillery</span></a>, <a href="http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/Dunluce-Castle-Medieval-Irish-Castle-on-the-Antrim-Coast-Bushmills-P2819"><span style="color: blue;">Dunluce Castle</span></a>, <span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/Carrick-a-Rede-Rope-Bridge-Antrim-Northern-Ireland-Ballintoy-Ballycastle-P2829"><span style="color: blue;">Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge</span></a></span>, <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway/"><span style="color: blue;">Giant’s Causeway</span></a>. The Causeway is a World Heritage Site and an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Giant's Causeway is an area of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption, but legend has it built by a 54 foot tall giant called Finn McCool. Regardless of whether you prefer science or legend, it's a remarkable area to explore. Besides, Giant's Causeway sounds so much better than Interlocking Basalt Columns site. A kid, or a kid at heart, could spend days exploring imagination…or just hoping around.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com0Coleraine, Co. Laois, Ireland52.94437 -7.660480000000006827.4223355 -48.969074000000006 78.4664045 33.648113999999993tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-434512944870174352014-06-26T13:46:00.000-04:002014-06-26T13:55:24.118-04:00Discover Northern Ireland's Most Beautiful Coast by Rail<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVFcoxNpfGsa6r1IbylE-Cd9uzzIzPWsolzH40g8isclcVLg-YwLBr5cCuz2k9qh-FSGeViHXk7V0ya6PxAHZsrPxON_Lrv3JT6OhEq3mMR_njSnWQDKE9HxF3cmA1Z9JnSMCJlDC1A/s1600/Mussenden+Temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVFcoxNpfGsa6r1IbylE-Cd9uzzIzPWsolzH40g8isclcVLg-YwLBr5cCuz2k9qh-FSGeViHXk7V0ya6PxAHZsrPxON_Lrv3JT6OhEq3mMR_njSnWQDKE9HxF3cmA1Z9JnSMCJlDC1A/s1600/Mussenden+Temple.jpg" height="443" width="640" /></a><br />
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I could have easily posted this image and left it at that. After all, the photograph undoubtedly triggers romantic notions, even for the non-traveler…but then you wouldn't have seen the train coming out the other side. Yep, that's right, the tracks run along the beach then through the cliff. I believe, whether it's from experience, a book, or a movie, nearly every one has fantasized about Ireland; imagined standing on the edge of such a cliff surveying the ocean, or wandering through the sea of green fields as often pictured. Nothing short of breathtaking can describe the scenery. Throw in a train ride, and a ruin or two, and it has all the elements of a fantastic story. What could be better?<br />
My daughter says, at the ripe old age of fifteen, it's disappointing that in her lifetime there aren't enough years for her to read all the good books (gotta love her). My reply, books are wonderful, fanciful, comforting, and inspiring, but you have to write your own incredible story! Create a life equally as impressive as anything you've ever read, so close the book, turn off the movie, and let's hop another train.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMiRFtftMNlB0FpExFSvDtZXp5PvGFOT406c2B5oPyJzpKOiRBAI6hldTH3IV2sCpYczppe3u3pAAHuy5eggH2JH2-BJoliOdVwAVtWcoBf2aUUfGf-BFYcqEH6IRoZbawU-RHT6p3g/s1600/PeadarODonnells.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMiRFtftMNlB0FpExFSvDtZXp5PvGFOT406c2B5oPyJzpKOiRBAI6hldTH3IV2sCpYczppe3u3pAAHuy5eggH2JH2-BJoliOdVwAVtWcoBf2aUUfGf-BFYcqEH6IRoZbawU-RHT6p3g/s1600/PeadarODonnells.jpeg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
Our journey begins along the Heritage Trial in the vibrant walled 16th century city of Derry, officially Londonderry, the fourth largest city in Ireland and the only completely walled city. Life here resonates centuries of culture mingled with modern vices and amenities. It certainly is a worthy launch point for another adventure. First order of business, a walk along the ancient city wall, followed by a pint at <a href="http://www.peadars.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Peadar O'Donnells</span></a>, before boarding for our short, spectacular journey. At Peadar O'Donnells they play traditional Irish music every day, all day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2B6EODWT870gKbweVmZyOpBdRtDajWzfQt7yRDXPA1sjIUkOZlOX7ddkynSk7AM4TRRGt8pTy2U3wc9lB7hEFvQDUikq-R2wcimrFx_aW2BJe6VXiEYuy9QNbHHU2brJRROJ-sRprHw/s1600/DownhillHostel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2B6EODWT870gKbweVmZyOpBdRtDajWzfQt7yRDXPA1sjIUkOZlOX7ddkynSk7AM4TRRGt8pTy2U3wc9lB7hEFvQDUikq-R2wcimrFx_aW2BJe6VXiEYuy9QNbHHU2brJRROJ-sRprHw/s1600/DownhillHostel.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
Upon departure, our train will follow the River Foyle and head into the lush green countryside. Before long we'll arrive at <a href="http://www.causewaycoastandglens.com/P2919-Benone-Strand-Limavady.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Benone Strand</span></a> where magnificent mountains and cliffs meet golden sands - miles of clean, firm, golden sands and no rocks. Perfect for a walk or a picnic, a great place to linger for a few hours or stay for a week.<br />
If the notion of staying on the beach suits you, this is the place. Stay at the <a href="http://www.downhillhostel.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Downhill Beachhouse & Hostel</span></a>. Unlike any hostel I've ever stayed in, Downhill looks utterly charming (more like a B&B). It's perfectly situated overlooking the longest beach in Northern Ireland with direct beach access. It neighbors the <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/downhill-demesne-and-hezlett-house/"><span style="color: blue;">Downhill Demense National Trust</span></a> with the famous <a href="http://www.wmf.org/project/mussenden-temple-0"><span style="color: blue;">Mussenden Temple monument</span></a> and the ruins of Downhill House which sit above on the cliff our train passes through. Mussenden Temple monument was built as a library in 1785. Now there's a good place to read a book, that is if you can keep your eyes on the pages.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #38761d; font-family: NorthernIrelandHeadlineRg, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 22px;">Under the cliff & over the river…</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgrfoxOCBC_5G3dYTAdf8cKnWfhP1jdMRn60CAt0IFdLCIRVcTnB-G9U1GgNoUXKOTj1M0WMzQuNYS0a4IkSyqn6FAvQvsoNtHMHmmTZFvq9MfWmNpRqhXxNzNlJGkAUhbrexYNCi0Q/s1600/Downhill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgrfoxOCBC_5G3dYTAdf8cKnWfhP1jdMRn60CAt0IFdLCIRVcTnB-G9U1GgNoUXKOTj1M0WMzQuNYS0a4IkSyqn6FAvQvsoNtHMHmmTZFvq9MfWmNpRqhXxNzNlJGkAUhbrexYNCi0Q/s1600/Downhill.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
We'll pass by and through the maritime cliffs of <a href="http://www.causewaycoastandglens.com/P2928-Mussenden-Temple-and-Downhill-Demesne-Castlerock-Coleraine.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Downhill</span></a> where the raged coast appears like the ripped edge of a velvety green fabric swirling 120 feet above the blue sea - a seemingly endless romantic landscape. The station of <a href="http://www.northcoastni.com/explore/castlerock-and-downhill/"><span style="color: blue;">Castlerock</span></a>, dating from 1875, is the stop for exploring this paradise. From here you can shop, dine, hike, picnic beachside, or catch a ride to Downhill Hostel. If wildlife viewing is your preference, there's an abundance in the area. Powerful and fast-flying Perigrin Falcons, among other birds, call this area home. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnf7V-O1tESWC0BkmfLDYvcGNqAec7gnMrhrwWWSYheo-A2be-EVXsipAmUQT4KtsA7giDpinqeLmZdSzVW6BghKhja8uevktghXGFK_H3vHRlbPMPmAXb_jodr-mLuBJYGKadMEFxg/s1600/Train-under-Mussenden-temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnf7V-O1tESWC0BkmfLDYvcGNqAec7gnMrhrwWWSYheo-A2be-EVXsipAmUQT4KtsA7giDpinqeLmZdSzVW6BghKhja8uevktghXGFK_H3vHRlbPMPmAXb_jodr-mLuBJYGKadMEFxg/s1600/Train-under-Mussenden-temple.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kdSS97S_l6w7wvxMb7DIxfX_gFY_gw0M7z6Ufs1e8i_FuNfQ-RlNnaoU56Dq81ATHIS2_4M5Og2aAHPSYJgZjb9zQaNbgBcop5KODLSD0ps8ObkuzVxFcBqX5QVw7vRcEok8IZqaTQ/s1600/River+Bann.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kdSS97S_l6w7wvxMb7DIxfX_gFY_gw0M7z6Ufs1e8i_FuNfQ-RlNnaoU56Dq81ATHIS2_4M5Og2aAHPSYJgZjb9zQaNbgBcop5KODLSD0ps8ObkuzVxFcBqX5QVw7vRcEok8IZqaTQ/s1600/River+Bann.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>On the last segment of our short journey, the rails turn inland for 4 miles as our train runs through the scenic valley of the River Bann, on it's way into Coleraine. Our “great railway journey” has taken just 45 minutes (without stops), but the impression it leaves will last a lifetime.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17056616026041380982noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13277481281505246.post-76313620503860653322014-06-21T07:39:00.001-04:002014-06-21T07:41:39.511-04:00A Love Affair with Train Travel<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bugaga.ru/uploads/posts/2013-06/thumbs/1370501212_marshruty-poezdov-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.bugaga.ru/uploads/posts/2013-06/thumbs/1370501212_marshruty-poezdov-2.jpg" height="640" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dudhsagar Falls, Goa India</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiEu3P38AiI8PNxOX6JcJiRv3OhiaWjF5u4AZwSo6HxLJtY1ABBr63FBA7zUleLgf2PNw9rHUtAfzEQvsUy6UwrWUUy6JOz7nINMi01SPP2BYu2YSY2GNQaSfqkoAYvQC2nGJb_0YepiZko_xd-nhSAL96DUbJ1WDPyl5okFWz1-w" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.desktopnexus.com/thumbnails/1323315-bigthumbnail.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" /></a><img src="http://travelgspots.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/traintracksmountainstrainbeautifulbridgerailway-14f856dad59eba5807dca40fd8c0fb19_h.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" /></div>
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<tr><td><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwI3i4FPNJd2tCqb_D7-qgUvO74uxFXnziI9elrDbjITJ2_m1ze5Qvgh8hUlXZCCA2PaM5VRKWgQAKxlw0XvF3-gaxZkPNIM_z2RkGFxaJHRvVDShencr-0miRCPbYZoUB7C98Dkk91w/s640/tunnel_of_love.jpg" height="529" style="-webkit-user-select: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /><br />
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Tunnel of Love is located in Kleven, Ukraine</div>
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It's not just a train station anymore! <a href="http://www.dentstation.co.uk/"><span style="color: blue;">Dent Station</span></a> is on the beautiful Carlisle to Settle Railway and is the highest railway station in England. The historic station was first opened for public use 1877 and after changing hands several times private owners restored the station to it's former glory and upgraded it's living accommodations to suit guests. Yes, you can actually stay at Dent Station. It has all the attributes of a warm comfortable English stone cottage with modern amenities.<br />
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<a href="http://www.dentstation.co.uk/img/dent_station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue;">By rail to Dent Station:</span></a><br />
Leeds 2 Hours<br />
Carlisle 1 ½ Hours<br />
London 4 ¼ Hours<br />
Glasgow 3 ½ Hours<br />
Manchester 3 Hours<br />
Birmingham 4 Hours<br />
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Not 5 miles down the road is the village of Dent. At the heart of Dentdale, the small village sits somewhat detached from the rest of the world. Historically part of the West Riding of Yorkshire and part of the <a href="http://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/"><span style="color: blue;">Yorkshire Dales National Park</span></a>, Dent is the only village in Dentdale. Its delightful, narrowed cobbled streets have authentic old world charm.<br />
<a href="http://www.sedbergh.org.uk/booktown/images/dlbc03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="The Dales & Lakes Book Centre" border="0" src="http://www.sedbergh.org.uk/booktown/images/dlbc03.jpg" height="150" title="The Dales & Lakes Book Centre" width="200" /></a>Not much farther north, but still within the boundaries of the Yorkshire Dales National Park is the area know as The <a href="http://www.visitcumbria.com/peaks/howgills/"><span style="color: blue;">Howgills</span></a>. The landscape here is a spattering of distinctive, bare, dome-shaped hills with steep sides, few crags and not many walls or fences. Frankly, it doesn't sound like much when you write it down. It's meant to be experienced. The Howgills are one of England’s forgotten walking areas.<br />
<a href="http://www.sedbergh.org.uk/"><span style="color: blue;">Sedbergh</span></a> lies at the foot of the Howgill Fells and at the northern end of Dentdale. Another town, with narrow cobbled streets and old world charm. Sedbergh is England’s official book town. There are over twenty towns throughout the World describing themselves as Book Towns or Book Villages and Britain has three of them, of course (<a href="http://www.hay-on-wye.co.uk/"><span style="color: blue;">Hay-on-Wye</span></a> in Wales and <a href="http://www.wigtown-booktown.co.uk/"><span style="color: blue;">Wigtown</span></a> in South West Scotland being the others). What is a Book Town? Well, it's a town, usually small and usually rural, which has brought together a number of bookshops and other businesses based on writing, reading and publishing. Many of the shops concentrate on selling second-hand books. There are thousands of book enthusiasts whose great joy is to find an out-of-print volume to add to their collections; for them a Book Town is a treasure chest just waiting to be opened. My daughter, I would guess, imagines herself finding a first edition by J.K. Rowling here.<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">This experience is a physical, visual, and perhaps, collectible feast for the senses. And, what could be better for the soul than a train ride, a walk, and a good book?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgA1KGLjqEwfa3bRGzCWWSWjVeLZ0EXMQ-ZYJl5UKS6Lh6bzinlIbGzkgaxAy6zjtp_rT1RnPyinahJ06vzWcSRUvSkc2AwU0-tp1uqtcQG-WYW_OcX2jU74nRXRdCrzSg-mrzcDY7PvQzOD1XbFSYCocTDyUdn2yV0hRL9wXSj8j8Q6s26gk0EKVhZXiTvhbzfOVy9l-1s" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Howgill Fells" border="0" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-286" src="http://www.cumbriacottages.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Howgills-A1-e1363260920378.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5l8bAkZVj2uOA-UOMkdNOIb92BumJMvNkl5kBTHBTShDK66N53GL7VtFxjEpCay04PgOprfMZIr41nYXrkmL6KUgSuElBopDw5xaFLqBNXVKt6Uf4OwJKQw-fzFWRlfaTGjOXOrU0WQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-04+at+5.33.26+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5l8bAkZVj2uOA-UOMkdNOIb92BumJMvNkl5kBTHBTShDK66N53GL7VtFxjEpCay04PgOprfMZIr41nYXrkmL6KUgSuElBopDw5xaFLqBNXVKt6Uf4OwJKQw-fzFWRlfaTGjOXOrU0WQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-04+at+5.33.26+PM.png" height="141" width="400" /></a>It has often been said, and fairly frequently repeated by me, we need to "stop and smell the roses". While it's become a cliché, the meaning is no less accurate and important. We live in a world where it seems the only thing we take the time to stop and smell, is our morning double shot of espresso, which we drink to keep up with our warp-speed schedules. We're all in such a hurry to get things done - anxious, really. We crave faster, <b>more</b> instantly accessible, and <b>more</b> direct. I understand. I also understand what's missing - the why. The answer is time with a purpose. Time spent smelling the roses; time spent taking it ALL in, slowly and deliberately. It is why (whenever possible) this traveller prefers the longer, slower, and more scenic route. Incidentally, how many of us can say that the last beautiful landscape we saw wasn't merely via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/travelvisions/"><span style="color: blue;">Pinterest</span></a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/travelvision"><span style="color: blue;">Facebook</span></a>? Get out there! Even a morning spent in a sunny park, at a local farmers market, or local gallery can renew the spirit.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>But, if you're really open for adventure, take the rail less traveled…</b></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kESobCtg82jU0B3Q7XlcFXnNp3JbqMjqlzTYD11hsRGnHQWOatI4KmNPFIhu7-PqGhJrfyKBbIZBa0kZyqz2i004f62591eGqxp1MksL38HIysjO_LQgDF5KxXN_d3DSXSO3y5B-ww/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-04+at+7.11.33+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kESobCtg82jU0B3Q7XlcFXnNp3JbqMjqlzTYD11hsRGnHQWOatI4KmNPFIhu7-PqGhJrfyKBbIZBa0kZyqz2i004f62591eGqxp1MksL38HIysjO_LQgDF5KxXN_d3DSXSO3y5B-ww/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-04+at+7.11.33+PM.png" height="130" width="400" /></a>You can keep your bullet trains, your commuter express, and your direct lines - I prefer the timeless route. It's a great way to let yourself feel the endorphin rush of being immersed in the sites, sounds and smells of our world. The kind you can't get from 30,000 feet above. The kind of journey where instant access devices should be shut down or primarily used to take photo's. And you'll want to take photos - lots of them! Among scenic railway journeys, the Settle to Carlisle line in England is such a route. Famous for its Victorian architecture, huge stone viaducts, long tunnels, and remote wayside stations, the line ventures through some of the most beautiful country in the UK. It won't get you there quickly, but it <b>will</b> make your journey worthwhile. From gently rolling pastures to a high valley with mountains rising on either side, the journey offers unparalleled views of the English countryside. These fields, marked and divided by dry stone walls, bordering small fields, define centuries old property claims and divided inheritances. This is an English heritage journey. Each field, each stone wall, each stop with a story beckoning the imagination…<br />
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Constructed in the 1870's the 73 mile long Settle and Carlisle Railway runs through the Yorkshire Dales and the Pennines. The railway links the industrial towns of Leeds and Carlsile. Traveling through its 14 tunnels and over its 22 viaducts (including the famous <a href="http://www.visitcumbria.com/carlset/ribblehead-viaduct/"><span style="color: blue;">Ribblehead Viaduct</span></a>) it's an awe inspiring journey with ever changing scenery.<br />
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<b style="color: #741b47; font-size: x-large;">Appleby -</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuJRMl53gzmFkuZQPVD3tIYO0ukWqMXkizxERd5b2-IF8-YZa3oq-EeU9YSSlaG0CDjuZi-8wr-1mJObwwztC-uOLNwO_6Us7hlykAma2V0tbkWTUeZchOoRrxfzXRB1zoe1jKzrr8w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-04+at+6.46.30+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtuJRMl53gzmFkuZQPVD3tIYO0ukWqMXkizxERd5b2-IF8-YZa3oq-EeU9YSSlaG0CDjuZi-8wr-1mJObwwztC-uOLNwO_6Us7hlykAma2V0tbkWTUeZchOoRrxfzXRB1zoe1jKzrr8w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-04-04+at+6.46.30+PM.png" height="226" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">If you arrive in Appleby, Westmorland, Cumbria, during the first week of June, you'll make it to the annual gathering of gypsies and travelers at the <a href="http://www.applebyfair.org/"><span style="color: blue;">Appleby Fair</span></a>. The fair has been going on since the 1600's and is one of the oldest horse fairs in Britain. </span><span style="font-size: small;">If this were a bullet train route, Appleby wouldn't even be a blip on the screen, and you'd surely miss this rare opportunity. Horse trading is the reason, but the beautiful horses </span><span style="font-size: small;">(the <a href="http://vanners.org/"><span style="color: blue;">Gypsy Vanner Breed</span></a></span><span style="font-size: small;">) </span><span style="font-size: small;">may be upstaged by the gathering of colorful carts and even more colorful characters. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">You'll fall in love with the horses, the people, and the countryside. </span></div>
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<b style="color: #bf9000; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;">Next Stop: Dent Station:</b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">The historic station was first opened for public use in 1877 and it is not just a train station anymore!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDqo3PTZufVZ54Wc0zTQ8Innb20AtU2fuTx8Xl5gnsP6MZumlXlA7F15dnwcAhR05v3UX5G1FLK-GrZ2TV5ya51MGppversfJRfKRmzpD3_0S-nSum0Xy-wN2hWW9sYBpM-bnT049Wpw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-23+at+11.37.36+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDqo3PTZufVZ54Wc0zTQ8Innb20AtU2fuTx8Xl5gnsP6MZumlXlA7F15dnwcAhR05v3UX5G1FLK-GrZ2TV5ya51MGppversfJRfKRmzpD3_0S-nSum0Xy-wN2hWW9sYBpM-bnT049Wpw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-23+at+11.37.36+AM.png" height="224" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rovos.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Rovos Rail - South Africa</span></a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jJ6OMbFRZj8/UOiXadkFSqI/AAAAAAAAAXY/cZOKge7krUw/s1600/panels_4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jJ6OMbFRZj8/UOiXadkFSqI/AAAAAAAAAXY/cZOKge7krUw/s320/panels_4.png" height="153" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTUpcTf9n5MEAtxWrZdsGW6IRMHunFzr48YEEEkwvrFt8RmhGmaUQmBup_xLI2hzIFcHe3eYI-c3w-Axh3AmphDoypRs9tTFsMZYhunQvHUci_vTs8kn5SGn9qnyUIkXYMQ1__8hU5A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-23+at+10.08.28+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTUpcTf9n5MEAtxWrZdsGW6IRMHunFzr48YEEEkwvrFt8RmhGmaUQmBup_xLI2hzIFcHe3eYI-c3w-Axh3AmphDoypRs9tTFsMZYhunQvHUci_vTs8kn5SGn9qnyUIkXYMQ1__8hU5A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-23+at+10.08.28+AM.png" height="137" width="200" /></a>Anyone who's ever seen, "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_on_the_Orient_Express_(1974_film)" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Murder on the Orient Express</span></a>", can't help but want to take a journey by rail. Even without the obvious movie theatrics, there's undeniable romance linked with train travel. Probably not since <a href="http://www.agathachristie.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Agatha Christie's</span></a> novel, turned movie, has there been a more alluring train, until the <a href="http://harrypotter.wikia.com/wiki/Hogwarts_Express" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Hogwart's Express</span></a>. Now adults and children alike want to pass through the barrier at platform 9 3/4's. Yet, despite the lack of 1934 adornments of white gloved waiters, mahogany panels, and lamp lit windows, or the possibility of magical mischief and candy carts, trains are a very enchanting way to travel. It's hard to explain, but even the constant motion is a part of it. Believe me when I say, even though the romance of either "Hollywood" story takes a lot of movie magic, it isn't necessary in the real world. Train trips are wonderful!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUn3ACvd1Hg93l-3BJBOh7ee1Lt-KB3LkySqcB4zyGn4xO8NpdZ_jU0TWNhNbhvKEGKicQI1iXWQUgc-xpCWAPmzp2kmhy7Yh2cxELDTF8lTUM0nfep6Kx0JVLCTsXH9FvlkqUI9DseA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-23+at+12.22.40+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUn3ACvd1Hg93l-3BJBOh7ee1Lt-KB3LkySqcB4zyGn4xO8NpdZ_jU0TWNhNbhvKEGKicQI1iXWQUgc-xpCWAPmzp2kmhy7Yh2cxELDTF8lTUM0nfep6Kx0JVLCTsXH9FvlkqUI9DseA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-23+at+12.22.40+PM.png" height="320" width="209" /></a><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/30/42/83/304283f0a07d9d049042fa5d69c7b6a5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/30/42/83/304283f0a07d9d049042fa5d69c7b6a5.jpg" height="320" style="cursor: move;" width="212" /></a>Once I hopped onboard for the first leg of my <a href="http://www.eurail.com/?gclid=CNvv6a2gqb0CFSwdOgodHQsAmw" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Eurail</span></a> journey abroad, I was hooked. Compared to now, most of the trains I traveled on had an old world feel (with compartments very much like the HP train's). There were a few, however, where the chickens rode with the people, and seating was impossible to find. In some countries, train rides were more like an <a href="http://www.indianajones.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Indiana Jones</span></a> adventure than one on the Orient Express, but even they had something of a romantic appeal. Suffice it to say, not all Eurail trains are pretty and comfortable. Although I wasn't on a "train trip" per se, Eurail was a very exciting way to get around Europe. My point is, once you've ridden the rails you're hooked. I can't wait to do it again, in Europe and elsewhere. Of course, as depicted in these few shots, the scenery speaks volumes!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://images.hellobc.com/mgen/tbccw/production/TBCCWDisplay.ms?img=/getmedia/e97e2c17-70c1-47ed-9029-3cde2a744360/3-RM-013-3-0290-Rocky-Mountaineer-Mt-Robson.jpg.aspx" height="342" style="-webkit-user-select: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rockymountaineer.com/en_US/routes_and_packages/canadian_rocky/coastal_passage?gclid=CMXr_v6fqb0CFS1eOgodLx0A5A&" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Rocky Mountaineer train - Mount Robson, British Columbia</span></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.imgur.com/haTdJMg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://i.imgur.com/haTdJMg.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">From "<a href="http://www.collector-modeltrains.com/dash/blog/20-unforgettable-photographs-of-trains/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">20 Unforgettable Images of Trains</span></a>" Swiss Alps</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b>Let's Explore Train Travel</b></span><br />
I'm not starting with the obvious, Eurail, simply because a small train station in England caught my eye and inspired these next few posts. Now I dream of going there, to Dent Station by train. So don't look for, or expect a pattern of logical sequence. There isn't one. We're about to look at train journeys and stops around the globe. It isn't the kind of ride that sees you squished between stranger side to side, and front to back, as you trudge home from the office, or the birds-eye view from the tiny window miles above. This is the kind of ride where you relax as you gaze out the window at the sweeping vista. As the train's rhythm warms you, stress falls away and you begin to relax as the journey unfolds.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amtrak.com/adirondack-train" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Amtrack - Adirondack Trip - New York to Montreal</span></a></td></tr>
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