World Environment eco-savvy with these gadgets
Environment-friendly PC
The Acer Aspire L310 desktop PC has a box capacity of three litres as opposed to the usual 10-litre desktop box CPU. It sports a sleek and portable form factor. Smarter component placement leads to better thermal management, resulting in efficient fan speed control for quiet operation (only 26 dB idle). In addition, it boasts a 3.5" SATA 3 Gb/s hard disk drive with up to 400 GB of storage space for speedy data access.
Sun-powered wristwatch
This Casio tough stainless steel men's watch (MTP1227E-5AV) is solar-powered, charging in either sunlight or indoor light. The stainless steel watchcase is topped by a raised bezel with elapsed time markings. The brown dial face is complemented by silver triangular markers, thin silver hands and a digital day/date function. (Approx $89.99)
EMW Reader
Long-term exposure to high-powered electromagnetic fields may be hazardous to your health. The Ban-Yu 026 EMW Reader is specifically designed to read the magnitude of electromagnetic field radiation generated by power lines, computer monitors, TV sets, video cassette recorders and home appliances.
Pollution monitor
SQUIRREL, a mobile device being developed at the University of California and the California Institute for Telecommunications and Information Technology, can sample pollutants with its on-chip sensor. It measures carbon monoxide and ozone, but eventually it will be able to sample nitrogen oxide and sulphur dioxide in the air, as well as temperature, barometric pressure and humidity. Using a Bluetooth wireless transmitter, it connects to the user's cell phone. A software programme called Acorn allows the user to see the current pollution alerts through a screensaver on the cell phone's display.
Solar phone
Japanese cell phone maker NTT DoCoMo is prototyping this hybrid mobile phone with solar panels. As this device is powered by the sun's rays, you can put an end to travel chargers and emergency batteries.
For more details on eco-savy gadgets visit www.halfvalue.com and www.halfvalue.co.uk
For more information on books visit www.Lookbookstores.com
About the Author
Subhash kumar
SEO Manager
Friday, August 31, 2007
Experience Guatemala
A tour of upland Guatemala will immerse the traveler in the archeology of the last aboriginal Maya of 900-1524, with unparalleled experiences in how archaeological knowledge about society, culture and astronomy is read in the ruins of the richest civilization of the Americas. The adventure travelers are guided by an archaeologist, who is author of many volumes. Our archaeologist tour director also deciphers the principal Mayan sites of the always climatically temperate highlands. The many Maya who live in the region today also provide keys in their lifeways to reconstructing the rich past. This incomparable experience of learning by doing archeology and anthropology is coupled observations of the incredibly rich flora and fauna under the guidance of an expert ornithologist.
Mayan Green Tours is offering a ten day expedition combining archeology, cultural anthropology and birding--to Guatemala during June 11-22, 2007. The four thousand– year-old Mayan culture still flourishes in highland Guatemala among millions of Mayan speakers today. While a glimpse of the aboriginal Maya is viewed in this year’s film Apocalypto our tour fully situates our members among still living Mayan communities with their colorful costumes, religious rituals and dance ballads, and more generally lifeways of the millennia. The discerning traveler thus experiences the ancient Maya in their archaeological cities situated on mountaintop as well as the living Maya at the foot of these mountain sites in their indigenous communities of today. This is the most authentic adventure and educational learning setting of the premier indigenous civilization of the Americas. In the achievements of writing, city building and the architecture of kings and high priests in palaces and temples, the Maya rank among the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans and Chinese. If one is to fully understand the Americas, understanding its civilization is a must.
The observation of the wildlife in its natural habitat is the second of our twin goals. The Mayan landscape is also a biotic treasure trove where wildlife abounds around every tree. The setting of highland Guatemala is also unparalleled in its natural beauty –lofty volcanoes ring highland lakes, a rich diversity in flora and fauna are set in a year round spring-like climate of temperate days and cool evenings. The different altitudes make excursion rich in an ever-changing biotic diversity each and every mile. Ecotourism thus multiplies the Maya experience in their natural settings.
We travel by van across the verdant highland valleys and mountains to see the Mayan cities in their natural settings as they were on the eve of the arrival of the Europeans immediately following Columbus. Our first stop outside of Central America’s metropolis of Guatemala City is to Iximche, the location of the first Guatemala City (called then “Cuauthemala”) where the Spanish Conquistadores garrisoned in 1524. At 7,000 feet elevation, the citadel of Iximche was capital to the Cakchiquel Maya with whom the Spanish conquistadors allied in their strategy to “divide and conquer” the major Mayan kingdoms. This strategy was an improbable one of succeeding – for the native population was in the millions and the Spanish military force was merely in the hundreds. But in the final analysis the plan defied the odds in victory. Yet the Maya have dealt with conquerors before and have endured to rise again. And they have, for they represent the only indigenous American civilization still intact in so many of its original practices
The marvelous palaces, temples, ancient ballcourts, and murals at Iximche have been brought to light by meticulous archaeological excavation so that the site is the best preserved in the highlands. The city is intact and all there for understanding of meanings ascribed by the Maya. At this highest site in altitude and all sites that the tour visits a variety of birds inhabit the ruins.
Day two will find the group on Lake Atitlan, which is incomparable for its pristine beauty, for birding within the Reserva Natural Atitlan where hundreds of species of birds have been sighted and recorded. Next, we boat 10 miles across the lake and tour the ruined Tzutuhil capital of Chuitinamit in one of the most picturesque spots in the world. The more avian minded adventurers may climb on the forest engulfed Volcano of San Pedro with rich vistas of the tropical birds and of the Pacific coastal plain below.
In cosmology, Lake Atitlan was the southernmost edge of the Mayan world and was conceived as the place of the famous creation of humanity dramatized in the Mayan book of the Popol Vuh. (This book is the single largest native American epic, and has been translated into every European language plus many more around the world). After an evening of birding in San Lucas Toliman, the group may participate in the continued mapping of the only known Mayan zodiac. The archaeological remains of the zodiac, with each of the constellations of the night sky carved on huge boulders, is where the assembled Mayan tribes would ignite the flame of the solar calendar during the last week of January each year. The Mayan chronicles detail the actual ceremony and dance; vestiges of the ancient ceremony were enacted until about 50 years ago and are still remembered.
While the zodiac was simply the ritual south point for a highland Maya, the political and cosmic center was Utatlan (K’umarcaaj). This city was seen as center of the Mayan ritual and political cosmos. The astronomical principles dictating the arrangement of temples, caves and palaces of this most revered of the highland Mayan ies to coincide with the equinoxes, solstices and the rising and setting of particular constellations, will be decoded on site by Dr. Fox, based on his three decades of research.
When the conquistadors burned Utatlan as bastion of Mayan resistance in 1524, its population was forcibly removed to nearby Chichicastenango. Members of the tour will have the opportunity to bargain with Mayan vendors for their handicrafts of textiles, dance masks, pottery and much more in the biweekly market of today in the central plaza of Chichicastenango in much the same way it was when held in the central plaza of Utatlan before.
The tour culminates in a flight to Tikal in the lowlands to see two hundred foot high temples loom above the jungle canopy and relish in the experiences of some of the richest birding locales in the world. Birding enthusiasts will probably note this as a highlight of the trip as do most visitors to Tikal. Tikal is testament to the grandeur and mettle of the Classic Maya. It is an enduring legacy in which the people of Guatemala take great pride.
The traveler will return with remembrances to fill a lifetime; the Maya will be known first hand in person and in their mighty archaeological achievements which have come to represent the indigenous civilization of the Americas. Flora and fauna will be observed and probably photographed in their native habitats in both the tropical highlands and lowlands –together comprising almost unparalleled species diversity.
Dr. John Fox together with Roy Smallwood formed Mayan Green Tours, Inc. to introduce tours to the rich archaeological and cultural labyrinth and ecosphere of Guatemala. Dr. Fox is a leading authority on the Maya and has published extensively having spent 30 years researching the highland Guatemala. Roy Smallwood joins the tour assisting in the identification of the avifauna of Guatemala.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Fox |
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Enjoy Ecotourism And Farming Activities In Chilean Patagonia
Tropical Vacations Introduce You to Nature's Glory
Patagonia is known for its beauty and tradition, flavour and amazing landscapes. Torres del Paine National Park is a very known place visited for more than 100.000 people each season. Patagonia has a lot of interesting things to do and wonderful treks and sights to enjoy. There is a lot of history around... Fernando de Magallanes discovered this lands years ago baptizing its channel as the Straits of Magellan.
Farming activities are common in these lands. There are places like Rio Verde, Skyring Sound, Tierra del Fuego and many others where they produce lamb wool to export. The farming activies have become more and more interesting and it is not easy to enjoy watching these activities unless you are a relative person to a farm.
But there are some "estancias" open to public so you can visit them and see how they work or a representation of how a typical estancia or farm works. I have bee in Skyring sound making some photography for a customer and it was really beautiful. Feeling the contact with the animals and the people, just great!
I have enjoyed from visiting El Galpón, a tourism center near Punta Arenas where they represent the typical farming activities like sheep shearing, short trekking trails to know native flora and tasting the exquisite flavour of the "in the stick" style roasted lamb. This is really the best meat i have ever tasted. We can cook lamb at home but the flavour of the traditional roasted lamb cooked in the fire with a stick throughout makes me feel like going again soon.
El Galpon was established in 1920 as the Dairy of Bellavista Farm. Tomás Dick impulsed it in the 50’ s and currently, keeping its original structure has been transformed it into “El Galpón”, a get together place to enjoy Patagonia’s traditional cooking.
Fine Chilean handicraft items such as sheep and llama woolen garments can be purchased and a regional music group which sings and dances shows the typical Chilean folklore and there is a video where you can learn how Magellan was colonised.
I also enjoyed a panoramic view of Punta Arenas, the Straits of Magellan, Tierra del Fuego and Darwin mountain range; and i have seen the most representative species of grass, bushes, flowers and trees of the Patagonia.
I reccomend all of you to think about going to these faraway lands... it is a magnificient experience. If you want more information about it visit www.elgalpon.cl
Welcome to Patagonia
Marcelo Kunstmann
Graphic Designer, photographer and lover of Patagonia. 32 years old, married. Lives in Punta Arenas, 300 kilometers to Torres del Paine National Park in souther chilean patagonia. Close relationships with tourism companies in this areas. Graphic service provider to many of them.
Visit us in http://www.welcomepatagonia.com for more information on travel to Patagonia.
http://www.welcomepatagonia.com/puntaarenas/hotels.html
All about hotels in Punta Arenas
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcelo_Kunstman
Patagonia is known for its beauty and tradition, flavour and amazing landscapes. Torres del Paine National Park is a very known place visited for more than 100.000 people each season. Patagonia has a lot of interesting things to do and wonderful treks and sights to enjoy. There is a lot of history around... Fernando de Magallanes discovered this lands years ago baptizing its channel as the Straits of Magellan.
Farming activities are common in these lands. There are places like Rio Verde, Skyring Sound, Tierra del Fuego and many others where they produce lamb wool to export. The farming activies have become more and more interesting and it is not easy to enjoy watching these activities unless you are a relative person to a farm.
But there are some "estancias" open to public so you can visit them and see how they work or a representation of how a typical estancia or farm works. I have bee in Skyring sound making some photography for a customer and it was really beautiful. Feeling the contact with the animals and the people, just great!
I have enjoyed from visiting El Galpón, a tourism center near Punta Arenas where they represent the typical farming activities like sheep shearing, short trekking trails to know native flora and tasting the exquisite flavour of the "in the stick" style roasted lamb. This is really the best meat i have ever tasted. We can cook lamb at home but the flavour of the traditional roasted lamb cooked in the fire with a stick throughout makes me feel like going again soon.
El Galpon was established in 1920 as the Dairy of Bellavista Farm. Tomás Dick impulsed it in the 50’ s and currently, keeping its original structure has been transformed it into “El Galpón”, a get together place to enjoy Patagonia’s traditional cooking.
Fine Chilean handicraft items such as sheep and llama woolen garments can be purchased and a regional music group which sings and dances shows the typical Chilean folklore and there is a video where you can learn how Magellan was colonised.
I also enjoyed a panoramic view of Punta Arenas, the Straits of Magellan, Tierra del Fuego and Darwin mountain range; and i have seen the most representative species of grass, bushes, flowers and trees of the Patagonia.
I reccomend all of you to think about going to these faraway lands... it is a magnificient experience. If you want more information about it visit www.elgalpon.cl
Welcome to Patagonia
Marcelo Kunstmann
Graphic Designer, photographer and lover of Patagonia. 32 years old, married. Lives in Punta Arenas, 300 kilometers to Torres del Paine National Park in souther chilean patagonia. Close relationships with tourism companies in this areas. Graphic service provider to many of them.
Visit us in http://www.welcomepatagonia.com for more information on travel to Patagonia.
http://www.welcomepatagonia.com/puntaarenas/hotels.html
All about hotels in Punta Arenas
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcelo_Kunstman
Tropical Vacations Introduce You to Nature's Glory
A tropical vacation usually evokes images of images of sultry summer days lounging on the beach and soft breezes caressing you in the evenings while you sip a drink in the evenings. There are so many wonderful tropical vacation packages that give you just that in Mexico, but if you'd like to take it to the next level, consider traveling to the interior as well and experience the full spectrum of nature's glory. Tropical also means exotic plants, gorgeous birds and chattering monkeys, mountain cliffs and amazing wildlife!
Jungle and Tropical Rainforest Vacations
Ecotourism is one of the most incredible adventures you can embark on in Mexico and other tropical areas of the world. These eco adventures give you the opportunity to see and hear things you would never be able to experience outside of a zoo or museum. In tropical regions of the world there are jungles and rain forests that shelter an amazing array of plants and animals that are colorful, unique and exotic.
Traveling with an experienced guide through the interior of a rainforest or jungle will bring you into a world where time has stood still for thousands of years. Imagine trekking along a stretch of sandy beach your first day, then heading spending the next few days in a rainforest where brilliantly plumed parrots fly overhead, calling to one another and flashing feathers of emerald, ruby and gold. The chatter of monkeys as they swing overhead will delight your group as your guide explains the delicate balance of Mexico's ecosystem.
There are coral reefs to explore, natural springs and underwater rivers with stunning rock formations and always the crystalline waters of the Caribbean Sea.
In the evenings you'll view glorious sunsets from atop majestic Mayan ruins or high natural ridges, all part of the protected heritage of the Mexican people. The warm breezes will sweep away the humidity of your jungle day as you relax with your small group of fellow travelers, suspended in time under a brilliant blanket of stars.
Challenge Yourself in the Tropics
If you're up to something a bit more physical, tropical vacations offer a vast range of topographies for every activity from mountain biking to scuba diving. The mountains of the Yucatan Peninsula offer extremely challenging mountain biking trails and hiking opportunities for solo or group trekking.
Check out some of the stunning vistas you can see from various mountain locations, including views of several of the largest volcanoes in Mexico like Pico De Orizaba, Iztaccihuatl and the still active Popcateptl (which erupted spectacularly less then ten years ago, causing the evacuation of two villages). Near Mexico City you can visit the Pyramids of Teotihuacan, another spectacular example of early Mayan culture.
If you're a fan of scuba diving, there's nothing more exhilarating than a tropical vacation for scuba. Cancun offers a variety of packages for exceptional open water diving and cave or cavern diving. Even experienced scuba divers agree that there's always something new to discover in the elaborate underwater caverns along the tropical beaches of the Mexican shore.
Did you know that the second largest coral reef in the world, the Great Belize Coral Reef, is in Mexico? This tropical reef system stretches from Playa del Carmen to the Gulf of Hondoras and is a paradise of stunning plants and fish that can be explored by scuba divers and snorkelers alike. Your whole family will be enchanted by the flashes of rainbow color darting through the diamond-clear waters of this vast expanse of one of the world's most beautiful ecosystems.
Soaking Up the Atmosphere
Tropical means warm days, warm nights and plenty of sunshine, and on tropical vacations you expect plenty of both. In Mexico you'll find them - the average temperature is 85º in the daytime and in the 70's at night, with warm rains of short duration only occasionally interrupting the mornings. Warm breezes keep things comfortable year-round and the sunsets are always spectacular!
And tropical means atmosphere…it's that special combination of warm weather, sandy beaches, exotic locale and that indefinable something extra that comes from the people. The Mexican people are friendly, generous and family oriented. You'll discover that shops are closed for lunch breaks and that Friday afternoons are made for relaxing.
Don't be afraid to strike up conversations and make new friends; the mood is relaxed when you take a tropical vacation. There's no fussy dress code and you'll never have to put on a necktie or suffer through an evening in stockings and high heels (unless you want to!). Casual is the standard when you're on a tropical vacation - even for dinner, you're fine in a polo shirt and sandals are encouraged. This is a vacation, after all! And kids are welcome everywhere!
It's a tropical pace that encourages taking full advantage of the simple joys of walking on the beach, sampling fresh seafood, bartering in the local marketplace and sipping a Sea Breeze in the evening with your spouse while the sun goes down over the waves in a blaze of oranges, reds and golds.
The beaches stretch for miles with the finest white sands in the world and new and unusual sea shells washing ashore with every wave that gently laps the shore. Palm trees stir in the breeze, adding the quiet rustle of their leaves to the winds and providing shade for the many hammocks you'll find strung between them.
Time loses meaning in the Tropics
The sound of pounding surf and the cry of seagulls overhead will lull you into a relaxing sense of peace as you realize there's nowhere you have to be, nowhere to rush off to, because in tropical Mexico, no one operates by their watches. It's free and easy, based purely on what you want to do and when you feel like doing it. Doesn't that sound good for a change?
So for the ultimate in relaxation or adventure, a tropical vacation has it all - sunsets, warm breezes, natural beauty, adventure, friendship, and incredible, lush beauty. Go somewhere tropical for your next family vacation - you'll never want to go anywhere else!
About the Author
Lori Wilkerson is a full-time freelance writer who loves her job because it gives her the opportunity to learn more about the world every day. Right now, she knows a little bit about almost everything, and a lot about tropical vacations, mexico vacations, and family vacations. Lori once led a Conga line to the tune, "Hot, Hot, Hot," throughout an entire cruise ship sailing to Nassau. Beach-Vacations-4u.com
Jungle and Tropical Rainforest Vacations
Ecotourism is one of the most incredible adventures you can embark on in Mexico and other tropical areas of the world. These eco adventures give you the opportunity to see and hear things you would never be able to experience outside of a zoo or museum. In tropical regions of the world there are jungles and rain forests that shelter an amazing array of plants and animals that are colorful, unique and exotic.
Traveling with an experienced guide through the interior of a rainforest or jungle will bring you into a world where time has stood still for thousands of years. Imagine trekking along a stretch of sandy beach your first day, then heading spending the next few days in a rainforest where brilliantly plumed parrots fly overhead, calling to one another and flashing feathers of emerald, ruby and gold. The chatter of monkeys as they swing overhead will delight your group as your guide explains the delicate balance of Mexico's ecosystem.
There are coral reefs to explore, natural springs and underwater rivers with stunning rock formations and always the crystalline waters of the Caribbean Sea.
In the evenings you'll view glorious sunsets from atop majestic Mayan ruins or high natural ridges, all part of the protected heritage of the Mexican people. The warm breezes will sweep away the humidity of your jungle day as you relax with your small group of fellow travelers, suspended in time under a brilliant blanket of stars.
Challenge Yourself in the Tropics
If you're up to something a bit more physical, tropical vacations offer a vast range of topographies for every activity from mountain biking to scuba diving. The mountains of the Yucatan Peninsula offer extremely challenging mountain biking trails and hiking opportunities for solo or group trekking.
Check out some of the stunning vistas you can see from various mountain locations, including views of several of the largest volcanoes in Mexico like Pico De Orizaba, Iztaccihuatl and the still active Popcateptl (which erupted spectacularly less then ten years ago, causing the evacuation of two villages). Near Mexico City you can visit the Pyramids of Teotihuacan, another spectacular example of early Mayan culture.
If you're a fan of scuba diving, there's nothing more exhilarating than a tropical vacation for scuba. Cancun offers a variety of packages for exceptional open water diving and cave or cavern diving. Even experienced scuba divers agree that there's always something new to discover in the elaborate underwater caverns along the tropical beaches of the Mexican shore.
Did you know that the second largest coral reef in the world, the Great Belize Coral Reef, is in Mexico? This tropical reef system stretches from Playa del Carmen to the Gulf of Hondoras and is a paradise of stunning plants and fish that can be explored by scuba divers and snorkelers alike. Your whole family will be enchanted by the flashes of rainbow color darting through the diamond-clear waters of this vast expanse of one of the world's most beautiful ecosystems.
Soaking Up the Atmosphere
Tropical means warm days, warm nights and plenty of sunshine, and on tropical vacations you expect plenty of both. In Mexico you'll find them - the average temperature is 85º in the daytime and in the 70's at night, with warm rains of short duration only occasionally interrupting the mornings. Warm breezes keep things comfortable year-round and the sunsets are always spectacular!
And tropical means atmosphere…it's that special combination of warm weather, sandy beaches, exotic locale and that indefinable something extra that comes from the people. The Mexican people are friendly, generous and family oriented. You'll discover that shops are closed for lunch breaks and that Friday afternoons are made for relaxing.
Don't be afraid to strike up conversations and make new friends; the mood is relaxed when you take a tropical vacation. There's no fussy dress code and you'll never have to put on a necktie or suffer through an evening in stockings and high heels (unless you want to!). Casual is the standard when you're on a tropical vacation - even for dinner, you're fine in a polo shirt and sandals are encouraged. This is a vacation, after all! And kids are welcome everywhere!
It's a tropical pace that encourages taking full advantage of the simple joys of walking on the beach, sampling fresh seafood, bartering in the local marketplace and sipping a Sea Breeze in the evening with your spouse while the sun goes down over the waves in a blaze of oranges, reds and golds.
The beaches stretch for miles with the finest white sands in the world and new and unusual sea shells washing ashore with every wave that gently laps the shore. Palm trees stir in the breeze, adding the quiet rustle of their leaves to the winds and providing shade for the many hammocks you'll find strung between them.
Time loses meaning in the Tropics
The sound of pounding surf and the cry of seagulls overhead will lull you into a relaxing sense of peace as you realize there's nowhere you have to be, nowhere to rush off to, because in tropical Mexico, no one operates by their watches. It's free and easy, based purely on what you want to do and when you feel like doing it. Doesn't that sound good for a change?
So for the ultimate in relaxation or adventure, a tropical vacation has it all - sunsets, warm breezes, natural beauty, adventure, friendship, and incredible, lush beauty. Go somewhere tropical for your next family vacation - you'll never want to go anywhere else!
About the Author
Lori Wilkerson is a full-time freelance writer who loves her job because it gives her the opportunity to learn more about the world every day. Right now, she knows a little bit about almost everything, and a lot about tropical vacations, mexico vacations, and family vacations. Lori once led a Conga line to the tune, "Hot, Hot, Hot," throughout an entire cruise ship sailing to Nassau. Beach-Vacations-4u.com
Mother Earth Hosts Our Travels
As conscious traveling Paupers we must always be concerned about our dear Mother Earth. If you think about it, you travel across her face, and She is the host to your journey; without Her we could not find the unfolding adventures that attract and feed our souls.
I have found some valuable resources for us to use and publisize, all of which are dedicated to responsible travel and care of our environment.
International Ecotourism Society 202-347-9203 www.ecotourism.org
A well-established nonprofit group which conducts research, publishes articles, provides consumer information, and has a directory of members around the world. With Rainforest Alliance, it recently started an ecotourism certification standards program.
Sustainable Travel International 720-273-2975 www.sustainabletravelinternational.org
Formed three years ago to bridge the gapbetween research and ocnsumer information and to promote sustainable development and eco-friendly travel. Offers a carbon offset program and last month started an eco-certification program that will follow standards laid out by the International Ecotourism Society.
Responsible Travel Handbook www.travelearning.com
Created this year for the Educational Travel Conference meeting, this lengthy guide has a wealth of contributors and information. (Click on responsible tourism to download).
Lonely Planet Code Green: Trips of a Lifetime That Won't Cost The Earth by Kelly Lorimer- Lonely pLanet Publications
The first "green travel" book to be published by Lonely Planet includes dozens of "responsible travel experiences" and provides traveler information on responsible and eco-travel. Lonely Planet also runs a discussion board on responsible travel at http://thorntree.lonelyplanet.com
Better World Club 866-238-1137 www.betterworldclub.com
The environmentally conscious alternative to the American Automobile Association, offering auto and bicycle road assistance, has resources on hybrid car rentals, green lodging, and carbon offsets.
Let us join and use these groups when planning our trips. By raising our level of consciousness and employing 'green' tactics and travel itineraries we will, each in our own small way, be contributing to a healthier world where we act as stewards to the environment while discovering the rich and breathtaking rewards of travel.
About the Author
Victor K. Pryles is the auhtor of "Travel Cheap- Travel Well!- Confessions Of A Traveling Pauper. His daily blog is at http://pauper-travel.blogspot.com/ His website also offers a free e-course: "The Top 100 Travel Planning Websites Visit: http://www.paupertravel.com
I have found some valuable resources for us to use and publisize, all of which are dedicated to responsible travel and care of our environment.
International Ecotourism Society 202-347-9203 www.ecotourism.org
A well-established nonprofit group which conducts research, publishes articles, provides consumer information, and has a directory of members around the world. With Rainforest Alliance, it recently started an ecotourism certification standards program.
Sustainable Travel International 720-273-2975 www.sustainabletravelinternational.org
Formed three years ago to bridge the gapbetween research and ocnsumer information and to promote sustainable development and eco-friendly travel. Offers a carbon offset program and last month started an eco-certification program that will follow standards laid out by the International Ecotourism Society.
Responsible Travel Handbook www.travelearning.com
Created this year for the Educational Travel Conference meeting, this lengthy guide has a wealth of contributors and information. (Click on responsible tourism to download).
Lonely Planet Code Green: Trips of a Lifetime That Won't Cost The Earth by Kelly Lorimer- Lonely pLanet Publications
The first "green travel" book to be published by Lonely Planet includes dozens of "responsible travel experiences" and provides traveler information on responsible and eco-travel. Lonely Planet also runs a discussion board on responsible travel at http://thorntree.lonelyplanet.com
Better World Club 866-238-1137 www.betterworldclub.com
The environmentally conscious alternative to the American Automobile Association, offering auto and bicycle road assistance, has resources on hybrid car rentals, green lodging, and carbon offsets.
Let us join and use these groups when planning our trips. By raising our level of consciousness and employing 'green' tactics and travel itineraries we will, each in our own small way, be contributing to a healthier world where we act as stewards to the environment while discovering the rich and breathtaking rewards of travel.
About the Author
Victor K. Pryles is the auhtor of "Travel Cheap- Travel Well!- Confessions Of A Traveling Pauper. His daily blog is at http://pauper-travel.blogspot.com/ His website also offers a free e-course: "The Top 100 Travel Planning Websites Visit: http://www.paupertravel.com
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Galapagos Island Vacations: An Ecotourist's Delight
The Galapagos Islands are the prefect ecotourist destination, as one gets the chance to encounter a huge variety of wildlife both on land and under water. Many of the animal species here are so rare or endangered that they can be seen nowhere else on the planet. Plus, with a number of endemic bird and mammal species, the Galapagos Islands are often nicknamed nature’s playground or the laboratory of evolution. Some 5 million years old, these volcanic islands are a fascinating place to vacation in.
Among the many birds that one can catch sight of on their Galapagos Island Vacations, the Waved Albatross is a sight to behold. A magnificent bird, the albatross is one of the largest birds in the world. Graceful and elegant fliers, these birds are a treat to watch during mating season, as they have the most fascinating courtship display, with bowing, swaying, honking and whistling rituals. Another marvelous bird to watch is the Flightless Cormorant, which is the world’s only non-flying seabird. An endemic bird species, the cormorant has small wings and powerful legs that help them to hunt better.
A popular bird in the Galapagos has to be the booby. Though not endemic, these birds are funny and amusing to watch with their clever antics. While scuba diving or snorkeling don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the Galapagos Penguin, the only penguin found near the equator. Indigenous to the region, these birds are clumsy looking on land, but superb swimmers once in the water. Of the most spectacular birds in the Galapagos, try and spot the red billed tropicbird with its beautiful tail streamers. On land, be on the look out for the 13 species of Darwin’s Finches that can be found on the various islands. These birds played a key role in the Theory of Evolution.
Walk along side giant Galapagos Tortoises and strikingly colored iguanas that live on land. If you enjoy the ocean more, Galapagos Island vacations let you take a scuba dive or snorkeling trip to discover the treasures that lie below. With hundreds of brightly colored fish, the waters of the Galapagos are some of the most marine rich in the world. Swim with dolphins, sharks, whales and rays or play with the ever friendly sea lions. Also watch the elegant sea turtles and marine iguanas as they serenely swim by.
With its unique animal life, Galapagos Island vacations are a treat for all ages. Both families as well as ecotourists can enjoy themselves taking in the interesting and fascinating sceneries that are to be found here. A great place, these islands let you get up close and personal with nature as it is evolving.
For more details visit http://www.govisitgalapagos.com/vacations . A fantastic ecotourism destination, the Galapagos Islands is home to some of the most rare and endangered wildlife on the planet. Dedicated solely to the Galapagos as a travel destination, http://www.GoVisitGalapagos.com has tons of information on this incredibly fascinating place. Island info, historical importance and tour and travel details can all be found on this website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J_Gonsalves
Experiencing Natural Wonders With Ecotourism
Ecotourism
Coined by Héctor Ceballos-Lascuràin in 1983 the term Ecotourism was used to describe nature centric travel to relatively undisturbed areas with an emphasis on education. Today ecotourism consists of cultural tourism, nature tourism, leisure tourism and a good dose of adventure. Sound ecotourism involves travel to natural destinations, minimizes impact, builds environmental awareness, provides direct financial benefits for conservation, provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people, respects local culture, and supports human rights and not exploitation. It is an enlightening, participatory travel experience to environments, both natural and cultural which produces viable economic opportunities for the tourism industry and host communities, and makes the use of these resources through conservation beneficial to all tourism role players.
Global Ecotourism
According to the World Tourism Organisation Ecotourism is the fastest growing market within the ever expanding global tourism industry. Eco-travel is a serious player within the global tourism market and is fast becoming the preferred option in vacationing. We are a society trademarked by a heightened environmental consciousness not known in past eras. This combined with easy accessibility to exotic locations is what has drawn so many to eco-travel. Countries have begun to promote their natural resources, unique locals and tourism facilities in a bid to capture the interest of intrepid eco-travellers. Businesses are constructing camps and lodges and trails and tours are being designed to facilitate the wants and needs of the eco-tourists.
Ecotourism in Africa
Africa is synonymous with the concept of ecotourism, its multitude of game parks and reserves conserve some of the world's most magnificent creatures. The bird life throughout the continent is remarkable, natural wonders are scattered throughout the continent and the cultures and traditions of past eras mystically intertwine with modern day. Each country on this diverse continent offers its own unique appeal to eco-travellers and no eco-traveller would be complete without a trip to Africa.
A Jewel at the Tip of Africa
When the path of tourism began to diverge to ecotourism; nature, heritage and recreational destinations became more important than before and South Africa is a haven for these three cornerstones of eco-tourism. Lying at the very tip of Africa, South Africa is home to some of the most magnificent vistas, sunsets and natural resources one could hope to encounter. It is near impossible to separate SA from a nature experience and the strongest motivations for overseas travellers seem to be the scenic beauty and rich wildlife.
SA Ecotourism Highlights
There are a never ending abundance of activities to keep eco-travellers busy on their journey through South Africa. One of the biggest draw cards are the impressive wildlife reserves scattered throughout the country. The Kruger National Park, by far South Africa's most internationally acclaimed, was established in 1898 to protect South African wildlife and is today an unrivalled leader in biodiversity and environmental management. Each park and reserve offers its visitors a unique experience. Watching a herd of elephants cooling off at a waterhole or a lioness and her cubs playfully taunting one another are truly some of the most amazing sights anyone can behold. The parks are extremely large which allows the wildlife to roam free and exist as they were created to without borders or unnatural threats. A safari drive is one of the best ways to experience nature up close and personal and it is highly recommended for any one interested in eco-travel.
It is not only the impressive wildlife on the ground that attracts visitors to South Africa; the marine life is spectacularly diverse. From Southern-Right Whale watching in Hermanus and watching schools of dolphins gliding through the waters on a boat trip to exploring the ecosystems in the rock pools along the coastline and scuba diving amongst various marine creatures.
South African is home to some of the most dramatic mountains and mountain ranges. Table Mountain, the Magaliesberg and the Drakensburg Mountain range offer amazing flora and fauna as well as some of the world's best hiking trails and breathtaking vistas. The various botanical gardens that are scattered throughout the country are home to hundreds of indigenous plants and the countries numerous forest regions are much celebrated by eco-enthusiasts.
The traditional villages are a highlight amongst eco-travellers to South Africa who have the opportunity to experience what life was like in years gone by. Apart from partaking in traditional customs such as meals and games visitors gain an insight as to how the tribes lived off and existed in harmony with nature.
Africa is a treasure trove of natural wonders and the jewel at the tip, South Africa, is a slice of paradise for anyone interested in ecotourism.
About the Author
Sarah Manners
Oasis Overland Adventure Travel is an overland adventure travel company offering unforgettable, once in a lifetime overland tours to some of the world's most fascinating cultural landscapes. Experience the natural wonders of South Africa with Oasis Overland.
Coined by Héctor Ceballos-Lascuràin in 1983 the term Ecotourism was used to describe nature centric travel to relatively undisturbed areas with an emphasis on education. Today ecotourism consists of cultural tourism, nature tourism, leisure tourism and a good dose of adventure. Sound ecotourism involves travel to natural destinations, minimizes impact, builds environmental awareness, provides direct financial benefits for conservation, provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people, respects local culture, and supports human rights and not exploitation. It is an enlightening, participatory travel experience to environments, both natural and cultural which produces viable economic opportunities for the tourism industry and host communities, and makes the use of these resources through conservation beneficial to all tourism role players.
Global Ecotourism
According to the World Tourism Organisation Ecotourism is the fastest growing market within the ever expanding global tourism industry. Eco-travel is a serious player within the global tourism market and is fast becoming the preferred option in vacationing. We are a society trademarked by a heightened environmental consciousness not known in past eras. This combined with easy accessibility to exotic locations is what has drawn so many to eco-travel. Countries have begun to promote their natural resources, unique locals and tourism facilities in a bid to capture the interest of intrepid eco-travellers. Businesses are constructing camps and lodges and trails and tours are being designed to facilitate the wants and needs of the eco-tourists.
Ecotourism in Africa
Africa is synonymous with the concept of ecotourism, its multitude of game parks and reserves conserve some of the world's most magnificent creatures. The bird life throughout the continent is remarkable, natural wonders are scattered throughout the continent and the cultures and traditions of past eras mystically intertwine with modern day. Each country on this diverse continent offers its own unique appeal to eco-travellers and no eco-traveller would be complete without a trip to Africa.
A Jewel at the Tip of Africa
When the path of tourism began to diverge to ecotourism; nature, heritage and recreational destinations became more important than before and South Africa is a haven for these three cornerstones of eco-tourism. Lying at the very tip of Africa, South Africa is home to some of the most magnificent vistas, sunsets and natural resources one could hope to encounter. It is near impossible to separate SA from a nature experience and the strongest motivations for overseas travellers seem to be the scenic beauty and rich wildlife.
SA Ecotourism Highlights
There are a never ending abundance of activities to keep eco-travellers busy on their journey through South Africa. One of the biggest draw cards are the impressive wildlife reserves scattered throughout the country. The Kruger National Park, by far South Africa's most internationally acclaimed, was established in 1898 to protect South African wildlife and is today an unrivalled leader in biodiversity and environmental management. Each park and reserve offers its visitors a unique experience. Watching a herd of elephants cooling off at a waterhole or a lioness and her cubs playfully taunting one another are truly some of the most amazing sights anyone can behold. The parks are extremely large which allows the wildlife to roam free and exist as they were created to without borders or unnatural threats. A safari drive is one of the best ways to experience nature up close and personal and it is highly recommended for any one interested in eco-travel.
It is not only the impressive wildlife on the ground that attracts visitors to South Africa; the marine life is spectacularly diverse. From Southern-Right Whale watching in Hermanus and watching schools of dolphins gliding through the waters on a boat trip to exploring the ecosystems in the rock pools along the coastline and scuba diving amongst various marine creatures.
South African is home to some of the most dramatic mountains and mountain ranges. Table Mountain, the Magaliesberg and the Drakensburg Mountain range offer amazing flora and fauna as well as some of the world's best hiking trails and breathtaking vistas. The various botanical gardens that are scattered throughout the country are home to hundreds of indigenous plants and the countries numerous forest regions are much celebrated by eco-enthusiasts.
The traditional villages are a highlight amongst eco-travellers to South Africa who have the opportunity to experience what life was like in years gone by. Apart from partaking in traditional customs such as meals and games visitors gain an insight as to how the tribes lived off and existed in harmony with nature.
Africa is a treasure trove of natural wonders and the jewel at the tip, South Africa, is a slice of paradise for anyone interested in ecotourism.
About the Author
Sarah Manners
Oasis Overland Adventure Travel is an overland adventure travel company offering unforgettable, once in a lifetime overland tours to some of the world's most fascinating cultural landscapes. Experience the natural wonders of South Africa with Oasis Overland.
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