Ottawa Folk Festival ~ September 4th ~ 8th, 2013~!!

Neil Young & Crazy Horse * Vampire Weekend * Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell * Kendrick Lamar * Patti Smith & Her Band * The Avett Brothers * The Sheepdogs * Colin Meloy * The Wailers * World Party * Carolina Chocolate Drops * Hey Ocean! * Shad * David Lindley * Hayden * And Many More…

Tickets will be open to the public for purchase on Saturday, June 15. Wristbands are online-only, but other tickets will be available at outlets listed below, in addition to www.capitaltickets.ca.

Both wristbands provide general admission to 5 dates of music, including all headliners listed above, set amidst the stunning beauty of Hog's Back Park in autumn. A can't-miss experience!

The Adult Festival Wristband is transferable and can be shared with multiple individuals on separate dates. The YOUTH Festival Wristband is non-transferable and must be worn for the duration of the festival. Youths must be under 22 on opening night (Sept. 4, 2013) to be eligible for this pricing.

Visit the Panda's at the Toronto Zoo~!!

Join the Pandas at the Toronto Zoo via their family weekend programs throughout the summer before and after Zoo hours.

Each session includes up to 25 people for an exclusive and special viewing of our giant pandas!

Sunrise with the Pandas (Morning Program)
$10.00 per person (includes HST)
Sunday June 9, 2013, Sunday June 23, 2013
Sunday July 28, 2013, Sunday July 14, 2013
Sunday August 11, 2013, Sunday August 25, 2013
8:00 am - 9:30 am

Their specially designed morning program includes fun family games held as you are guided through our Giant Panda Interpretive Centre.  Then enjoy a special early viewing of Er Shun and Da Mao complete with refreshments including Chinese inspired snacks, coffee, tea and juice.

Please note: If you plan to stay at the Zoo following the program, general Zoo admission fees apply.

Panda Lantern Parade (Evening Program)
$12.00 per person (includes HST)
Saturday June 8, 2013, Saturday June 22, 2013
Saturday July 13, 2013, Saturday July 27, 2013
Saturday August 10, 2013, Saturday August 24, 2013
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Or you could investigate the evening program, which includes a guided tour of the Giant Panda Interpretive Centre and an exclusive after-hours viewing of Er Shun and Da Mao.  Plus, light up the evening with your very own handmade lantern to wish our giant pandas good night!  Program also serves evening refreshments including coffee, tea and juice.

Please note: If you plan to stay at the Zoo before the program, general Zoo admission fees apply.

For more information, visit the Toronto Zoo website

Find us on Facebook!

CURRENT ZOO HOURS
Open daily 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Last admission one hour before closing

Admission Fees
General Admission (13-64): $28
Seniors (65+): $23
Children (3-12): $18
Children (2 and under): FREE
Prices include tax as applicable
Parking is $10 year round

Toronto Zoo is accredited by CAZA (Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums).

Look for this logo whenever you visit a Canadian zoo as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things.

For more information, visit www.caza.ca.

Private Jet Charter Services ~ The Sky's The Limit~!!

I remember as a little girl being flown in a private jet that my father had chartered in order to show his children the world from above.  I recall seeing patchworks of land in various multitude of colours and the cars, that were teeny tiny in their scope.  It was the first and only time I have ever been in a plane.  The Private Jet Charter Service he rented even had paper bags in which we were encouraged to vomit in, if the turbulence was too much for our young, untrained stomachs.  

Air charter private jets are becoming more and more feasible for people to rent in order to fly the skies and see the views.  Whether it be for business or pleasure, private jets are being used for individuals, groups, cargo, air ambulance and even aerial photographers are taking advantage of private plane flights.

A good charter service will take care of all of your travel needs, including ground arrangements, meal planning and even event planning.  It is clear that as your life accelerates, your time is quite valuable, this gives charter services an advantage over commercial flights which can leave you waiting for delayed flights and sometimes dampen your commitments by missing events and meetings.  Private jets are able to better fly in and out of small airports, gaining an upper~hand on time commitments and travel issues by delivering you closer to your destination.

There are many things one should consider before hiring a private jet service.  You should know the company in which you are dealing with, are they credible, do they have impeccable business standards, do their pilots have the standard air time requirements, does the airplanes they advertise match the planes they actually use??  Each of these points should be taken into consideration as you investigate if this type of travel benefits you.  You wouldn't want to be in the air and then realize that the company isn't as reputable as they wanted you to believe.

If I could travel anywhere on a private jet, it would be visit all my online friends and take them for a flight, show them the world from above and delight in their smiles and laughter.  Where would you go if you could travel anywhere??

  **  This is a sponsored post for, Clear Jet, however, all points and views are my own.  **

Knowing Some of the Wonderful Temples of Bangkok

Bangkok's history can be traced back to the early part of the fifteenth century when Ayutthaya was its ruler. At that time, the name was then only applied to a small village located on the river's western side. Due to this very strategic location by the Chao Phraya River's mouth, gradually, this village began to increase in importance. It served as an outpost for customs, and was also the site of a 1688 siege when the French became expelled from the village of Siam.

As the city capital of Thailand, Bangkok plays a critical role in the history of the country. Renowned for its phenomenal Buddhist temples, this once named "Venice of the East" has witnessed a major metamorphosis over the past 50 years.

1.  Wat Arun- The Temple of Dawn



Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, is located on the Thonburi west side of the River Chao Phraya.

King Taksin renovated the temple, and also renamed the temple the Temple of the Dawn or Wat Chaeng. King Taksin ruled during the Thonburi Period, and it was during this time that the chief temple was Wat Chaeng, and this temple was once the home of the enshrined Emerald Buddha, in addition to the Phra Bang, yet another vital Buddha image, and the both of these were taken from Vientiane.

All through the Rattanakosin Period, the temple flourished. Its fine craftsmanship and beautiful architecture bear witness to the temple's status of being a first grade temple as well as one of Thailand's most outstanding temples.

The prang (spire) of the Temple of the Dawn along the Chao Phraya's riverbank is a landmark of world fame for Bangkok. This looming prang is over 229 feet tall (70 meters), and is incredibly decorated with small colored glass pieces in addition to delicately placed Chinese porcelain introduced into these intricate patterns. Even though the temple is referred to as the Temple of the Dawn, it is positively breathtaking at sunset especially when it is lit up during the night.

2.  The Temple of Wat Pho



Wat Pho is found in back of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is Bangkok's biggest temple and renowned for the massive and imperial reclining Buddha. The Buddha is covered by gold leaf and measures over an amazing 150 feet (46 meters) long.

To give you an idea of the proportion, the feet of the Buddha measure over 9 feet long (3 meters) and is adorned with illustrations of the Buddha's characteristics (laksanas) in mother of pearl. This temple is also known as the Temple of Reclining Buddha.

At Wat Pho, you can have a traditional Thai massage. This therapeutic massage is more of an invigorating massage instead of being relaxing in nature, as this form of massage incorporates for its stress relief and improved blood circulation a variety of yoga posture styles. The cost for a half hour is about 120 baht, whereas the per hour cost is 200 baht.

There are good English speaking tour guides available at Wat Pho that will also share some interesting information about the temple for approximately 200 - 400 baht. The cost will depend largely on your skill for negotiating as well as the number of people in your group. You can also consult with a few palm readers or astrologers. It may be possible to receive a monk's blessing if you make a small donation. The donated money will go to help maintain the temple (wat), and it will cost you 20 baht to enter.

3.  The Temple of the Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit)



In Chinatown, at the end of Yaowarat Road, near the Railway Station in Hualampong, the Temple of Golden Buddha is the home to the biggest seated Buddha in the world, measuring in at almost 16 feet high (5 meters) and weighing in at 5.5 tons. Artisans in the past, created the Buddhas in gold, and then disguised them by covering them in plaster and stucco to keep them safe from any invading armies.

The Wat Traimit Buddha was discovered accidentally when it was dropped while it was in the process of being moved to reveal under a plaster casing an incredible Sukhothai styled Buddha made of solid gold. There are pieces of the original plaster still on display. This makes Wat Traimit a must watch destination in Bangkok.

Tobias Carlson is a business writer based in Asia. He often visits Bangkok on his trips in connection with his Office Rental in Bangkok business. 

Most Dangerous Places To Drive

The most dangerous places in the world for driving after nightfall have several things in common: 

* Extreme political unrest
* Unpredicted episodes of violence
* Looting and other crimes of opportunity
* Never-ending poverty

Here they are in descending order with Number 1 being the most dangerous:

10. Conaeky, Guinea Republic:
Conaeky has a mortality rate for adults that is almost one third. Nighttime driving here is especially hazardous because of greater nighttime violence danger. 

9. Nairobi, Kenya:
Almost one quarter of Nairobi's citizens live on less than $1.00 per day, and poverty motivates kidnapping, violence, home-invasion burglaries and carjacking. Crime increases exponentially at night. Most violent crimes in Nairobi are fatal for victims. Americans are a target population.

8. Sana'a, Yemen:
Violence can break out anywhere at night. Sana'a has a very poor population, and the city is rapidly descending into anarchy. No one should be driving in this city unless it is to get out of the country. The State Department has an urgent appeal to Americans to get out of Yemen immediately.

7. Tbilisi, Georgia:
Georgia has one of Europe's most destitute populations. Tourists are targeted and should stay away from frequented tourist establishments. Gun-toting gangs are all over the city of Tbilisi and are well-hidden at night. This amounts to very dangerous driving at night and also in the daytime.

6. Karachi, Pakistan:
The dense population of Pakistan's largest city is targeted by suicide bombers. Americans have been attacked and kidnapped by Al-Qaida and its sympathizers. Tourists should not drive at night.

5. Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo:
Sixty percent of Kinasha's people live on less than $1.00 a day. It is in a state of complete anarchy. Violence breaks out with no notice, and nighttime is far too dangerous for travel. Men posing as soldiers often rob and murder unsuspecting foreigners.

4. Bangui, Central African Republic:
Extreme poverty is rampant, and the crime rate is sky high and doubles at night. Security forces often cordon off roads and require bribes from travelers.

3. Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire:
The mortality rate in Abidjan is 30 percent. One-quarter of its inhabitants live on less than $1.00 per day. Violence breaks out day and night. 

2. N’Djamena, Chad:
Of those N'Djamena residents who live to age 15, half of them will not live to age 60. No one should drive, or even travel, to this city. They have the second highest violence rate in the world. No one should be in N'Djamena at night.

1. Baghdad, Iraq:
One-quarter of Bagdad's population will die from violence that continually breaks out throughout the city, especially after dark. People who are in Baghdad with a specific mission should not travel at night.

Peter Wendt is a freelance article writer and researcher residing in the Austin TX area.   He loves taking his car out for a spin but tries to keep it a minimum after sunset.  He suggests learning more about drunk driving after dark from a Houston injury law firm.

PRODUCT REVIEW: ToiletTree Products ~ The Toiletry Bag

ARV ~ $25.00

ToiletTree Products first began with a simple holiday gift from Mom.  After receiving a fogless mirror set as a Christmas present in 2008, the innovative brain behind the company made it his mission to redesign the mirror so that it stood up to the heated pressures usually found in showers.  He wanted to create a mirror that was fog~free and had an unshakable wall adherence.  Steven, who was fed up with uneven shaves and just loved shaving in the shower, joined up with his father and brother to create the perfect shower mirror.

After many months of brainstorming and testing different prototypes, the three finally found a design worth manufacturing and in January, 2010, the ToiletTree Products were born.  

Today, ToiletTree have not only outsold their own dreams on the Fogless Shower Mirror, but they have since developed a Deluxe LED Mirror, an On~The~Go Mirror as well as nail clippers, face cleansers, oral irrigators and a beautiful collection of Bamboo bathroom acessories.  

ToiletTree Products is a family run company who take great pride in providing their customers with unique and innovative products of only the highest quality!

Now make travel even EASIER with this toiletry bag that is designed to organize all of your toiletries in one place while traveling.  This heavy duty bag has a large double zipper compartment for easy access, as well as a separate compartment on the bottom of the bag for storing.

Each toiletry bag comes with 3 TSA approved travel bottles ~ each are marked; Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Wash.  Also included is a toothbrush case and collapsible cup with pill holder making travel easier.  

The bag can also be used to hold makeup or medicine.  It is totally water resistant, easy to clean due to its nylon fabric interior and the exterior features reinforced double stitching with piping trim that is also easy to clean.

This is a really groovy toiletry bag~!!  It is very durable, looks great and there is more than enough room to carry everything I could ever need to travel with.  I love how everything is beautifully labelled and the collapsible cup is a wonderful idea and addition to a toiletry bag.  

I cannot say how much I dig the room that this bag gives you, you can fit a can of shaving lotion or hairspray and still have tons more room to add anything else you may wish.  I am impressed with quality and would recommend this to anyone who travels a lot and is looking for a bag that will encompass all of your needs, especially if your the type that finds it hard to travel light.

You could easily use this as a carry~on bag if your travelling by air or how about a gift for a mother~to~be as her hospital travel bag, you can even fit a book or some magazines in there for your bathroom reading material...;)

Now, we here at The Marsh and the wonderfully fine folks at ToiletTree Products would LOVE to give one of my readers the chance to win a bag of their very own Toiletry Bag...trust me...you WANT to own this bag~!!

All you have to do is enter the Rafflecopter giveaway from below...if you have a Facebook account or an e~mail, then you are able to enter...just answer the mandatory question and your in to WIN~!!  It REALLY is that simple~!!  Have fun and good luck~!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Vistaprint ~ 140 FREE Labels! ~ 2 days only!

2 Days Only! - 6-5 thru end of day 6-6! 

140 FREE Return Address Labels! 

Here’s one product that no mom should ever be without – FREE return address labels from Vistaprint! 

They’re perfect for labeling everything your child owns. From lunch boxes and diaper bags to sippy cups, our return address labels are not only bright, colorful and fun, but they’re also practical. 

Now moms can send their children off to school, camp or anywhere for that matter knowing that their child’s personal belongings are labeled clearly for all to see. 

Plus, they’re FREE. We pay the printing, you pay the shipping!
Shipping $3.50

Top 10 Most Visited Beach Resorts In the World

Some people might be satisfied with a bucket list item like "Go to a great beach resort." Others, the more adventurous, will want to hit the "top 10 most visited beach resorts in the world."

 To them we raise our glasses with a toast of "Cheers!" and offer them this list of the world's top beach resorts.

 1. Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas is a great place to start. It's virtually its own island. The hotel and grounds take up the entire island including two impressive towers connected by a bridge. By the way, if you have a few extra dollars—like maybe $25,000—you can spend a night in the Bridge Suite. Some say it's the most costly hotel suite in the world. When the sun's out, enjoy the beaches, water park and golf, among other activities. At night world-class entertainers perform, you can place a few bets in the casino, and the list of restaurants is almost endless.

2. Copacabana Beach in Rio De Janiero, Brazil, is probably the single most famous beach in the world. Across the promenade from the beach is an impressive row of hotels—you have lots of choices here. The beach is the stage for lots of activities, two of the most popular being soccer and watching the local ladies stretch their tanga bikinis to the limit. Ipanema Beach is just down the road.

3. Disney's Castaway Cay in the Bahamas is maybe one of our most unusual selections. To visit here you need to book a Disney cruise vacation so it may not be one of the most visited in terms of the number of feet that hit the sand each year, but it has to be the number one in the private island rankings. And, when you're with your family, the exclusivity of a private island can really add to the relaxation factor.

4. Cancun, Mexico, because of its proximity to much of the United States and its wonderful tropical climate, has long been a favorite of American travelers. Visitors have dozens of excellent resort hotels to choose from here and along with relaxing on the beach and snorkeling, side trips to impressive Mayan ruins are easily scheduled.

5. Waikiki Beach has to be mentioned on any list like this, especially with a landmark resort like the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Lovingly dubbed "The Pink Palace," this hotel has been hosting Hollywood stars, royalty and heads of states since 1927. And if you want to know what to do in Waikiki, rent "Gidget Goes Hawaiian"—which was filmed in part a the hotel—before you leave on your vacation.

6. Nha Trang on the South Central coast of Vietnam is quickly earning a spot on the list of the world's top beach resorts. With major chains like Sheraton developing properties in Nha Trang, you aren't going to feel like you're making your screen debut as an extra in a remake of "Apocalypse Now." Everything you could want is there, plus a beach area that is only now being truly discovered.

7. Phuket (the "h" is silent and the "u" sounds like "oo" in moo), Thailand has been a favorite of international travelers for quite some time now. The beaches are unbelievable and once you get there, lodging and meals can be quite inexpensive. If you like blending beach relaxation with nightlife and a cultural experience, this is the perfect place.

8. Montego Bay, Jamaica. The famous Bobby Bloom song declares "I thirst to be thirst in Montego Bay." That's the way a lot of visitors feel about this special place. Major resort chains are here, so doing the all-inclusive thing is definitely an option. If "E pluribus unum" is the original motto of the United States, the motto of Jamaica has to be "Hey mon, no problem!" We recommended a Gidget flick before heading to Wakiki. Watch "Cool Runnings" before you head to Jamaica.

9. Miami's South Beach has to be the U.S. version of Copacabana. This huge strand of sand has always been a people watcher's paradise, even back in the days before topless sunbathing became a generally accepted or tolerated activity. Great resort hotels line the beach, but one of the area's unique features is its Art Deco hotels. The nightlife here can't be topped and the international flavor is as strong as a cup of Cuban coffee.

10. Viña de Mar is the coastal resort city near Santiago, Chile. It's long beaches rival any in the world. It's enjoys a Mediterranean climate. After all, the name means vineyard by the sea and some of Chile's notable wineries make a good day trip from the beach. There's excellent surfing and it's the location for the famous Viña del Mar International Song Festival in February (their summer) and other important cultural events.

Carrie Thompson is a marketing strategist for Captain's Quarters Resort in Myrtle Beach, SC.

How to Survive a Bear Encounter

If you are out in the woods there are times when you may come in contact with a bear. Often times people will be enough to frighten a bear away. If they are noisy enough they will not even know that they were ever close to a bear. However this is not always the case, sometimes bears approach people, so here are some general guidelines if you encounter a bear.

First you should determine what kind of bear you are dealing with. Black bears and grizzly bears respond differently to different stimuli. If you can determine which type of bear you are dealing with it will help you to make the best decisions for how to proceed.

cc licensed ( BY ND ) flickr photo shared by Tambako the Jaguar

Black Bears
If you are dealing with a black bear and you have some space between you and him, and get a little loud. Say things like, “Get out of here. Go away bear.” You can also hit a couple of rocks or sticks together, or whatever else you find. If the bear starts to approach you further, use your bear spray, which you should carry with you when in bear country. If the bear comes even closer you might try throwing some of those rocks and sticks at him. If that does not work and the worst happens stand your ground. In the worst case scenario, if the bear attacks fight it back. You should punch the bear in the face and nose and claw and dig at the eyes. Kick, hit and fight for your life.


cc licensed ( BY NC ND ) flickr photo shared by Bruce McKay Yellow Snow Photography

Grizzly Bears
However this is not how you handle an encounter with a grizzly. Grizzlies are more aggressive and should be handled differently. If you encounter a grizzly you want to determine the distance between you and the bear first. If he is far enough away just talk in a calm voice and announce that you know he is there. If possible back slowly out of the area and make sure not to run or turn your back to the bear. If the bear comes within 25 feet of you, now is the time to use the bear spray. Bears do not like the smell and it should encourage them to leave. If that does not work then stand your ground. Stand up straight and look as big as you can, not challenging the bear, just big. If the bear comes toward you in a curious way stand your ground and the bear spray. If that does not work and you are attacked, then you should cover your neck and lay flat on your stomach or in the fetal position, as you want to protect your stomach and neck from the bear.

If you encounter either of these bears, remain calm, stand your ground, and handle the situation as it plays out.

Written by JustRopes.com, where climbing experts shop.

5 Essential Tools For Your Next Outdoor Adventure

cc licensed ( BY NC ) flickr photo shared by Al_HikesAZ

When planning any outdoor outing it is essential to always pack the right gear for whatever activity you are going to be doing. You would not go boating without a lifejacket or hiking without a canteen or pack for water. There are some essential tools that you should never be without if you are going to be outdoors. These tools can get you out of sticky situations and can be used for the most basic needs that anyone in a survival situation could need. And let’s just face it; whenever you are outdoors your adventure could turn into a survival situation relatively quickly.

Knife
So what five tools should you always have with you when you are on an outdoor adventure? I would always start with a knife. Pocket knives are great and convenient for everyday use and they will work if that is all that you have, but given the choice, survival knives are going to better to have with you than a plain old pocket knife or even a Swiss Army knife. A separate multi tool is always good to have, but a dedicated knife is essential.

cc licensed ( BY NC ) flickr photo shared by s_mac

Fire Starting Kit
A knife will cover protection, cleaning fish and food. Now we need to cover cooking and warmth. The next tool for that job would be a fire starting magnesium stick. There are many basic types on the market and most of them can start a fire even in slightly damp conditions. Choosing one that can work in wet conditions though your best bet. This will give you a better chance at starting a fire in case you get caught in a rain storm or your supplies get wet.

Water and Food
The next two tools go hand and hand because they tackle the same need. Everyone must have water to survive. You should always have water purification tablets with you. Boiling water will work in a pinch, but for the best results your water should always be purified if you are getting it from an unfamiliar source. A canteen or water carrying device is needed in order to carry water, so you will need one of these as well. The last essential that I would add to this list is pouched, prepared food. I know that may sound just a little weird to some, but it is always smart to have an energy bar or trail mix or something with you just in case.

Written by JustRopes.com, the online leader in climbing ropes and other safety equipment.

Kaikoura New Zealand

Kaikoura: A New Zealand Wildlife Paradise

Find new adventures in Kaikoura, New Zealand...
Kaikoura is a South Island New Zealand township that has a lot to offer tourists. There are wildlife adventures, water sports adventures, shopping adventures and hiking adventures waiting for you. When planning your next vacation, consider visiting Kaikoura, New Zealand.

If you are a wine lover then Kaikoura is a great New Zealand vacation destination for you. Here you are going to find yourself in the middle of the New Zealand wine country. Sign up for guided tours of local wineries, private wine cellars and complete the day with a wine tasting adventure set against a beautiful New Zealand sunset.

Wildlife enthusiasts can also find great adventures that fit their interests in Kaikoura. Your first option is to book a whale watching tour. These tours are offered aboard yachts, as well as aboard helicopters. Kaikoura whale watching tours provide you with the chance to see whales like blue whales and killer whales from above the waterline.

Sea bird adventures are also available. These tours will take you to where the local seabirds, including the amazing Albatross, call home. Marine adventures are your third option. These tours are great for people with all levels of diving skills. Book one of these tours to see sea turtles, fish, sharks and marine mammals.

Seal
For an experience unique to Kaikoura, you will want to visit the Point Sheep Shearing demonstration. See how wool is sheared and processed, and then spend some time with the sheep feeding them and petting their newly sheered coats. Another unique experience that you can have is to visit the Sealside Gallery. This gallery specializes in pieces created by local artists.

Now that you know what you can do in Kaikoura, your next step is to find a place to stay during your New Zealand vacation. Kaikoura accommodations come in several varieties including: inns designed for backpackers, bed & breakfasts, hotels, motels, vacation homes and resorts. To create a truly unique vacation experience, you may want to try a lodging option that you have never tried before, such as a B&B or a hostel.

View from Dolphin Park Backpacker's BBH

After visiting local tourist attractions and playing hard all day long, you are going to get hungry. Luckily there are a lot of great eateries available in Kaikoura. Your first option is to dine at a local restaurant like the Donegal House or the Hislops Wholefoods Cafe. If you want something quick and easy, then you will want to stop by a takeaway establishment and pick up a meal to go. Some of your takeaway options include Hine's Takeaways, Kaikoura Seafood BBQ or the Black Rabbit Pizza, Co.

Breathtaking Sunset in Kaikoura!

Visit our New Zealand website to learn more of our 6 month vacation travel through the beautiful country of New Zealand.

Glide Into Family Fun With Zip Lining Adventure Tours

Whether you're a seasoned thrill seeker or simply looking for a little bit of excitement, zip lining is an activity that is sure to get your blood pumping. There are numerous zip lining companies throughout the country, each with their own unique characteristics. Many places feature courses that allow the participants to slowly enjoy the surrounding beauty at a gentle pace, while others provide faster lines, which offer special challenges that are ideal for the adrenaline junkie. Whether you're looking to take it fast or slow, there are so many options available that you are certain to find a company that fits your needs.

Stand Tall & Fly High at Redwood Zip Line Canopy Tours at Mount Hermon, California
The Redwood Canopy Tours, which is located about seven miles outside of Santa Cruz, California, is a true nature lover's paradise. As the company name implies, a dense layer of stunning coastal redwood trees surrounds this extensive zip line course. Additionally, this beautifully designed tour will offer you a view of other flora, such as live oaks, bay laurel, and Douglas fir trees. The course itself is just as exciting as the surroundings and consists of a two hour guided tour through two sky bridges and six zip lines that reach heights of 150 feet. 

Bask in Nature’s Beauty With Cypress Valley Canopy Tours in Austin, Texas
There's no denying it: most of us have dreamed of rapidly gliding through the air, seeing the beautiful, nearly untouched earth below, as warmth beats down on us from a sun that suddenly seems just a little bit closer than before. If this is a long-held fantasy of yours, you may be in luck. Cypress Valley Canopy Tours provides exhilarating zip lining tours that cater to everyone in the family, from the adventure seeker to the nature lover. Located just east of great camping by Inks Lake, this earth-friendly company provides tours through a stunning creek ravine that's surrounded by majestic cypress trees. 

This company offers two options: the canopy tour, and the canopy challenge. The canopy tour offers six fantastic zip lines and three sky bridges. After completing the tour, those feeling extra adventurous can complete the canopy challenge, which consists of multiple events, and longer sky bridges and zip lines.

Good Times for All at Durango, Colorado’s Soaring Tree Top Adventures Canopy Tour
Have you always wanted to try zip lining, but could never convince your friends or family to join in? Taking part in the Soaring Tree Top Adventures Canopy Tour may be a solution to this problem, as this company offers extraordinary zip lining options, as well as some less heart pounding alternatives, like gentle walks through the majestic forest and alongside the river, friendly lunches with the zip lining group, and a fun ride in Soaring's First Class train. For those seeking more excitement, this company boasts the largest zip line tour in the world. This tour lasts for about five and half hours, and takes you through 34 platforms, and more than 27 spans that start from 56 and end at about 1,400 feet.

Whether you're looking to view the vast expanse of nature from a new vantage point or just want to feel the adrenaline rush of gliding through the air, challenge yourself by experiencing a memorable zip lining experience. This is truly an adventure that can be enjoyed with family and friends, and with so many options throughout the country, there's simply no reason not to give it a try.

Once upon a time, before mommyhood, Lynn Mastic took many adventerous trips that included things like zip lining and hiking Machu Picchu.  For now, she lives vicariously through others and promotes the Highland Lakes lodging for other adventure seeking travelers while working from home as her 7 month old climbs her pant legs. 

Rainforests of the World

Rainforest in the Blue Mountains, Australia

Provider of natural resources 
Rainforests are said to be the ecologically most important regions on the map. Home to half of the world's plants and animals, rainforests are a treasure chest of resources for humans. They provide food, clothing, fuel, medicinal herbs and industrial products, to name some. Their abundant renewable natural resources have been serving mankind throughout the ages, with some rainforests dating back hundreds of millions of years.

Facts about rainforests
Rainforests are so dense that sunlight do not penetrate the ground level. Rainforests can receive up to 78mm of rainfall during the rainy season. Peruvian rainforests are said to be more abundant of wildlife than the entire United States. Similarly, there are more species of fish in the Amazon River than in the entire Atlantic Ocean.

Where the rainforests are 
Tropical rainforests are located in South East Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, South America, Central America, and the Pacific Islands. Temperate rainforests are found in Australia, New Zealand, South America, North America, Europe, and East Asia. Based on the size and pattern of their trees, rainforests are divided into four layers. The emergent or top layer consists of extremely tall trees towering up to 80 meters, making a great home to large birds. Directly below is the canopy level, which is rich in flora and fauna with trees up to 45 meters tall. Next is the understory level where sunlight can penetrate, allowing shrubs and trees known for their large leaves to grow. This level is home to the rainforests' predatory animals. Finally, the lowest rainforest level is where you can find exotic colorful plants, carnivorous plants, crocodiles, snakes, and a whole slew of little critters and small animals.

Evergreen in danger
Extensive deforestation is endangering the existence of these evergreen rainforests. Recent reports say that the number of rainforests have consistently dwindled throughout the years. As a result, hundreds of plants and animals that play a critical role in the world's ecological balance are at risk.

Rainforests of Oz 
While it is hard to find a region on the planet that has not been touched by man, the Australian rainforests remain pristine. As a matter of fact, they have been proclaimed a World Heritage Site. Australia's Tropical North Queensland region is one of the oldest naturally preserved rainforests. It is a popular school trip destination to educate children on natural resources.

The Australian rainforests provides a great experience for those who wish to learn more about the natural wonders of thw world. There are guided tours of the region available for visitors.

Staying Down Under 
Many people who have visited Australia are easily captivated by its natural beauty. As a matter of fact, there have been a surge of people relocating to the region in the recent years. In addition to its rainforests, wildlife, stunning beaches and cascading waterfalls, Australia has plenty of things to offer. It has a mild climate and picturesque landscape, which are the ingredients for a laid-back lifestyle. Australia is also known for its stable economy, low cost of living, employment opportunities, excellent literacy rate and impeccable health care system.

Established professional moving companies are knowledgeable of the laws pertaining to shipping to Australia. Most, if not all, of them can even provide tips on how to transition smoothly into a new life in the Land Down Under. Hiring their services would definitely do a world of good.

International relocation is no easy feat, especially if you plan to haul all your belongings with you. When moving furniture, appliances and even your car from one country to another, ocean shipping is the best most of transportation.

Peru tours: A Handful Of Unique Experiences in Peru

Peru is a beautiful country offering stunning rainforests, historic and religious sites, museums, nightlife, and so much more. With so much to do in Peru it can seem overwhelming to decide where to go and what to try, especially if you only have limited time while visiting the country. If you're looking for a really memorable experience, here are some of the most unique and interesting things that you can do while in Peru:

1. A Cooking Tour in Lima
In South America, Peru is known for its good food, and this is especially true in Lima. The cuisine here combines both Spanish flavourings and techniques with old Peruvian cooking styles. You can spend a few hours with an expert in the kitchen, learning some of the signature dishes of Peru and how to make sure they are authentic and delicious. Lima is very popular for cooking classes and cooking tours, so you can also take a walk around the city with a guide, visiting some of the places best known for their food and learning all about the ingredients and how the dishes are made while sampling them as well!

2. Visit the Market
Shopping is a popular past time for many, but most people probably think of huge malls and designer clothes when they think of going shopping on vacation. Try something different by shopping in a traditional Peruvian market. You can find fun, handmade souvenirs, local foods and ingredients, and much more for great prices.

3. Hike through Machu Picchu
Considered one of the "New Seven Wonders of the World," Machu Picchu is a beautiful place to walk through if you want to see some history and culture. It was built in the 15th century by the Incans, and due to its location it remained almost completely untouched during the Spanish Conquest, making it one of the most preserved Incan sites left. 


4. Cruise the Galapagos Islands
You can easily take a cruise from Peru to visit the Galapagos Islands, where you can enjoy the scenery and especially the wildlife. See the famous giant tortoise, as well as other animals including iguanas, the blue footed booby bird, and lava lizards. Many of the animals living on these islands cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.


5. Visit Cusco
There are a number of places to visit in this city, so choose what interests you the most. Perhaps it is seeing the historic architecture and important buildings of the past, such as the Iglesia del Triunfo, a church, or Barrio de San Blas, a street where many artisans and workshops can be found. There are also places to go shopping, museums to visit, and places to get a bite to eat.

Find great deals on tours to Peru at Virgin Holidays Worldwide Journeys and start your worldwide journey today.

6 Great Places to See on Your Tour of Costa Rica

The Central American country of Costa Rica is a true tropical paradise, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The nation boasts incredible lush jungles, beautiful beaches, vibrant cities and lots of historical landmarks worth a visit. In order to experience all that Costa Rica has to offer, it is recommended that you join a tour of some of the best destinations in the country. When planning your tour itinerary, be sure to include these 6 great places found in Costa Rica. 

1. San Jose: The nation's capital is where many tours begin, thanks to modern amenities and a wide range of activities and attractions. A knowledgeable local tour guide is incredibly helpful when visiting San Jose, as they can share information about the history and heritage of this beautiful capital city. Be sure not to miss places like the National Museum, the Parque Morazan or the La Paz Waterfall Gardens.

 
2. La Fortuna de San Carlos: This small town may be famous, but it is actually so well-known thanks to being in close proximity to the nearby Arenal Volcano. This volcano, which erupts over 40 times each day, is a popular tourism destination in Costa Rica. A tour guide can help you get as close to the action as safely possible.

 

3. Cahuita National Park: Although Costa Rica has plenty of beautiful beaches, one of the most interesting environments is the lush tropical rainforest. Cahuita National Park boasts dense and diverse rainforests just next to the coast, making it a popular place to enjoy a day tour of this unique ecosystem.

4. Puerta Limon: This coastal city is one of the most interesting places in the country for those with a passion for history. Take a walking tour of the historical city centre and learn about the colonial style buildings and the early churches located there.

5. Playa Grande: To many tourists, the Playa Grande is simply a beautiful beach destination. However, with the help of a local tour guide it is possible to see the nearby Parque Nacional Marino Laus Baulas located along the beach. It is one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in the Americas, and if you time it right you can see thousands of baby turtles hatching and heading to the sea.

6. Guanacaste: This province is one of the best destinations for those travellers who are interested in nature, hiking or Eco-tourism. A wide variety of tours are available to tour the local area and experience the flora and fauna first hand. Consider paddling in outrigger canoes through pristine territory, snorkelling in a protected national park or just hiking through the lush and tropical rainforests of the region.

Book unique escorted tours and Costa Rica travel with Bales Worldwide to get the best experience of central America.