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

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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.

5 Unusual Liquors from Around the World

Throughout human history, alcohol has had a variety of different functions. Historically, alcohol was a revered product that was used in religious ceremonies and used for its medicinal and antiseptic properties. Today, alcohol is still used in traditional religious ceremonies but is a common drink for social functions and to unwind during a long day. Alcohol is also a complement to gourmet food to enhance its taste.

Alcohol is prevalent in almost every culture in the world. And these cultural varieties have contributed to some of the strangest alcoholic beverages. Here is a look at five strange liquors from around the globe:

5. Baby Mouse Wine – Yes, you read right, that is baby mouse wine. Baby mouse wine is believed to have medicinal properties in Korean culture. This wine is made by drowning three-day old mice in rice moonshine. The brew is then allowed to ferment for up to one year before consumption. According to local belief, baby mouse wine is a cure-all for illnesses that involve the liver and the lungs. 

4. White Gold and Platinum Tequila – In 2006, tequila manufacturer Tequila Ley sold a single bottle of white gold and platinum tequila to a private collector in Mexico City. The price tag for this unusual bottle of tequila is a cool $225,000. The white gold and platinum tequila claimed the Guinness World Book of Records for most expensive alcoholic beverage. This tequila is made from six year-aged 100 percent agave liquid. For individuals who can’t plunk down the $225,000, Tequila Ley also offers the gold and platinum bottle for $150,000 and the silver and gold bottle for a mere $25,000. 

3. Bacon Vodka – We love vodka and we love bacon. But the two combined together makes for an unusual alcoholic beverage. Seattle-based company Black Rock Spirits came out with this porcine liquor which they call Bakon Vodka. Surprisingly, Bakon Vodka is quite good. This vodka captures the salty and peppery bacon profile while maintaining the crispness of a classic vodka. It seems Bakon Vodka would be interesting in a Bloody Mary. 

2. Pulque – This alcoholic beverage is one of the oldest in history. This ancient Aztec drink is made from the fermented sap of the maguey plant giving at a milky viscous consistency. In Mesoamerica, this was considered a sacred drink that was exclusive to only certain classes of people. Today, it is a secular drink that is enjoyed by most Mexicans. 

1. Yogurito – The Yogurito is truly a global drink. It is made in the Netherlands and bottled in France but it is marketed for Japanese tastes. This strange alcoholic beverage tastes, smells and looks like yogurt but is not made from yogurt. This sweet and thick beverage is either drunk alone or mixed with other tropical fruits such as mango or pineapple.

Guest post by ezCater.com. The easiest, most reliable way to find and order Portland catering.

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.

Take to the Centenary Trail

Octavia Hill was a co-founder of the National Trust, and in honour of the 100th anniversary of her death, ten miles of centenary trails have been created in her memory, following paths through the landscapes she would have walked in the late 1800s and passing by her resting place in Crockham Hill, Kent.

Octavia Hill was an artist, writer, environmentalist, social reformer, pioneer of affordable housing - and a radical campaigner for open spaces.

She spent the last years of her life living with the views she and her family had acquired for the trust towards the end of the 19th century, land she was determined that others should enjoy long after she would no longer be around to appreciate it.

This natural paradise in the Weald of Kent encompasses Chartwell House, home to Winston Churchill from 1922 until his death in 1965, and centres on Toys Hill, Ide Hill, Crockham Hill and Mariners Hill, to which Octavia’s mother and sisters donated large sums of money which allowed it to be preserved forever.




The Sight of Sky and Things Growing
It is largely thanks to the Hill family that this tract of countryside remains today what Octavia called ‘an open-air sitting room,’ dedicated to those who crave access to nature and beauty - “the need of quiet, the need of air, the need of exercise and the sight of sky and of things growing.”

The 16 kilometre centenary walk can be done in two separate stages, or together as one in the shape of a figure-of-eight.

The six-mile Centenary Trail West is a three-and-a-half hour walk across moderate ground which includes rough pathways through woodland. This pilgrimage to Octavia takes you through Crockham Hill, where she lived, to the churchyard where she is buried under a yew tree near the church porch, and goes on to pass by Churchill’s Chartwell, much of it preserved as it was in his lifetime.

The Centenary Trail East is a gentler, four-mile walk likely to take around two-and-a-half hours, and takes in equally spectacular views over Kent’s famous ‘Garden of England.’
Both walks start and finish at Toys Hill car park, Chart Lane, Brasted, near Westerham, KentTN16 1QG.

• During her lifetime, Octavia Hill helped save London’s Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill Fields for the nation, was a member of the Royal Commission on the Poor Laws, and was one of three founders of the National Trust in 1895 to preserve places of historical interest or natural beauty.

Nicki Williams is an outdoor enthusiast who loves walking and history - and adores combining the two.

She works for Gear-Zone, stockists of all the major outdoor brands including The North Face, Rab, Berghaus, Scarpa, Brasher and Thermarest.

Picture source: Compfight

Air Charter Services ~ Jet~Setting Made Affordable~!!

Air Charter Service is quickly becoming the choice for travellers as it is exclusive and pleasurable for all walks of life.  Patrons of air charter enjoy security, confidentiality, luxury as well as, hassle~free departures and arrivals using local airports or air terminals.

When you use charter services you will avoid the commercial airports as well as, security lines, baggage check lines and delayed flights.  It is, without a doubt, the future in aviation as more people are looking to travel without any of the hassles found on commercial flights.  

Special events and occasions deserve something unforgettable and what better way to spruce an event up than by hiring a charter plane service to get people to their destinations quickly and efficiently.  These days many charter services are making it affordable for people to travel in luxury and comfort, where once it was reserved for the elite group of people such as celebrities, politicians and the affluent.  

The expenses of renting an air charter service can be reasonable, depending on the distance and the number of people travelling.  Many companies offer group rates making the excursion even more affordable, especially over long distances.  It is very important to always check the safety rating of any air charter service that you would hire. As well, you may wish to take into consideration the experience and credentials of the pilot before you agree to board the airplane.  Yes, you will pay less for an inexperienced pilot however, why put your life at risk for monetary convenience?  

Why consider charter over commercial?  It gives you, the patron, more flexibility over your schedule, you avoid the long lines, the missed connections and the long drives to locations located far from the airports.  You will find that you will be offered security, safety and convenience by hiring a private plane to deliver you to your next event, truly, what more could you ask for?  

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

Drivers Needed ~ Are You A Truck Driver~??

In the early days of transport truck driving the ride wasn't as comfortable as it can be today.  Drivers needed comfort and stability to work hauling product across many miles of terrain and weather conditions could be dismal depending on where you were to take your wares.  In 1910, there were only an estimated 10,000 transport trucks in all of the United States, with most of them making deliveries around large populated areas only.  In the early days, tires were solid rubber, making the journey, long and tedious.    In the 1920's, when tires became pneumatic (air~filled), the hauling of goods began to pick up speed and retail growth boomed. 

When running lights were added to the trucks in 1912, it made it possible to run them at night, further opening doors to marketing venues across the country.  And to further promote distance and time, the fifth wheel  was added in the 1920's giving the semi~trailer more popularity in how the distribution of products was moved.  As more roads were paved allowing the semi's to travel unhindered to often unreached places, the popularity in the career grew and by the 1930's there were over 330,000 transport/cargo trucks gracing America's newly formed highways.

Today, approximately 3.2 million Americans drive transport trucks across the highways and byways of North America.  However, with the rules inacted with the 1935 Motor Carrier Act, drivers have rules and regulations that have to be adhered.  Drivers are only allowed to spend 60 hours per week behind the wheel or eleven hours per day.  

Driving truck can be a grueling and lonely experience often spending many hours on the road, away from family and loved ones.  The job can tax your health and your sanity and is often the result of a high turnover rate on employment.  A CDL ticket is a must have in the industry and one needs to pass both a written and driving skills test.  Anyone interested in obtaining a career in truck driving should take advantage of many of the truck driving schools that are located in almost every city.  Because driving long~haul trucks can be a dangerous job, proper training and knowledge is the key to a successful career.

  **  This is a sponsored post for MTS Driver Recruiters, however, all the points and views are my own.  **

Gogobot - travel planning is fun again!

Gogobot Plan a trip with great travel recommendations from friends and people who travel like you. 

Collect and share where you've been in your Gogobot passport.

Whether it is a week's vacation, a business trip or a weekend getaway, we believe planning your trip should be almost as fun as the trip itself. 

Clive Palmer wants to build the second Titanic

Clive Palmer is one of Australia's richest men. Having made his billions from mining he now wants to build a modern-day version of the Titanic. Naturally this will be called Titanic II. Mr. Palmer told waiting media representatives that his plans involve starting work on the ship around November 2013. Building work on the ship is expected to take around three years and it will set sail at some stage in the latter half of 2016.

Mr. Palmer wants the vessel to be as identical as possible to the original White Star Belfast-built original. The 58-year-old oligarch also owned Gold Coast United Football Club and his wealth is said to be around $600m Australian dollars. Building work will be complex but the Australian-born multi-millionaire has held talks with a ship building company, CSC Jinling Shipping with a view for them to build the ship.

Mr. Palmer says Titanic II will have every thing on board the original Titanic enjoyed with one major improvement. His Titanic will be fitted with all the latest technology and on-board computers. Its design and installation are said to be state-of-the-art and all the very latest up-to-date technologies and GPS systems are to be fitted. All rooms and cabins are likely to have Wi-Fi access and the major building project will come just a month or so after the 110-year commemoration of the original Titanic which sank in the North Atlantic in April 1912.

Titanic | Image CC Attribution Generic Commercial - Elsie esq

The maiden voyage was due to sail from Southampton, in the English Channel to New York. The vessel was the worlds biggest at the time and Mr. Palmer was asked by Australian media if his maritime building concept would sink like the last one. He angrily told media it would if someone "put a hole in it".

If all goes to plan then Mr. Palmer will launch his building project to end all building projects in 2016 when he will see it launch from London to New York. Mr. Palmer has been tight-lipped on the cost of construction and building of the second Titanic. The mining magnate is closely linked in the building and mining industries with the Chinese government.

Mr. Palmer already owns a luxury holiday resort on the Sunshine Coast and says he wants to build more ships in time. It is believed a series of luxury cruise liners are in the plans being drafted by Mr. Palmer's team.

Queensland Home Improvements is a builder in Brisbane, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Gladstone and Townsville. QHI office is at 320 Adelaide St, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.

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.

How To Avoid Dangers In Modern Airline Travel

It used to be that the prospect of boarding an aircraft, including all the steps that led up to it, from the time you stepped out of the taxi at the departure curb, to the point where you confirmed your seating and went through baggage check, was all a wonderful and magical experience. The thought of stepping into the belly of a plane that would defy gravity and raise you up to the heavens where you would miraculously look down below you and see a tiny Earth slowly moving by at hundreds of miles each minute was something that was altogether surreal and new to many people.

 Airline Travel
However, today, the opposite seems to be the case. The idea of boarding a plane now presents more fear overcome by the necessity of travel than anything else. Beginning a holiday or a business trip where the first thought is the long security lines and the harsh personal searches as well as the possibility that a fellow passenger's intention may be to not reach the plane's intended destinations, is something that makes commercial air travel a nightmare for many.

 Travel Risks
As planes get larger to satisfy the travel needs of larger numbers of people flying, the long lines at the airport are likely to increase. As the tensions between those in power and those who want more power increase, so will the threat of terrorism. As fanaticism increases with a corresponding decrease in value of human life, so will the threat to travel safety.

Private Air Travel
The remaining solution to these significant issues is to turn our collective attention to the private jet industry and the options they it offers. To think of this as a luxurious solution is only partially accurate. There is off course the luxurious side of taking a private jet just, where caviar and lobster replace chicken a’ la King, it is not these extremes that should be eyed. There is the option of private travel that most are beginning to learn of.

With private air travel, a person only has to make a booking for a time in advance or on the day of the  travel and a jet is then dispatched to any airport that is close to the person. If, for instance, one lived in Westchester county in Connecticut, the usual solution would be to take a limousines service to either JFK or LaGuardia, or maybe even Newark. However, a private jet would be able to land at Westchester  County airport and this would save about an hour's worth of drive time in addition to all the delays from the curb to the plane.

Pricing for such conveniences are not as lofty as one would suspect. Prices are more based on distances flown, and hours spent in the air, than they are about convenience. 

Your author Linda Evans enjoys her favorite hobbies which include travelling . Private jet charter service makes her entire flight experience pleasureable.

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. 

Five of the Greatest Waterfalls in the World

When we think of Waterfalls, most people in U.S. think of Niagara Falls. But while Niagara Falls might be the most famous waterfall in the U.S. there are plenty of other natural wonders that are more remote, beautiful, and left in an almost untouched state. 

The following are a list of five of the globes greatest waterfalls. This is just a starting point to discover some of the most beautiful natural wonders on earth:

1. Angel Falls is the world’s tallest waterfall. Located in a remote jungle in Venezuela the falls can only be reached by an airplane ride followed a river trip and a subsequent hike. With a high of 3,212 ft and a plunge of 2,648 ft it is the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall. It was named after an American adventurer named Jimmie Angel, who was the first to fly a plane over the now famed waterfall in 1933.
2. Iguazu Falls are one of the world’s most expansive system of waterfalls. Located in Argentina near the border of Brazil. This amazing landmark is home to 150-275 smaller waterfalls depending on the time of year. On average, 462,301 gallons of water flow from the Iguazu river down the falls per second. If you’ve ever watched Pixar’s film Up, you’ll recognize the falls instantly.  
3. Victoria Falls claims to be the largest waterfall in the world, not based on height or width, but on the fact that it is the largest single sheet of falling water not broken up by rocks or fed by different streams. Located between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is fed by the Zambezi River in southern Africa. A visit to the falls is relatively inexpensive, ranging between $20-50.00 USD, but you may need to buy a visa on both sides of the border. It is definitely worth a visit during the rainy or dry season.
4. Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America, coming in at 2,425ft. Located in Yosemite National Park in California the falls is made up of three sections. The upper, middle and lower falls are fed by Yosemite Creek and can be seen from various viewpoints around the park. This waterfall is considered the 6th highest waterfall worldwide. 
5. Niagara Falls is not the tallest or the largest waterfall by any means, but it is considered the most powerful in the world. Made of of three waterfalls, two in the US, one in Canada it is collectively known as Niagara Falls. The horseshoe-like shape forms a natural border between New York state and Ontario, Canada. It typically pours over 5.7 million liters of water over the edge per second depending on the elevation of Lake Erie’s water supply and is still a popular wedding destination. 

Avery Lane is a freelance writer from Portland, Oregon. When not writing about travel or lifestyles, she covers a wide spectrum of home improvement topics, such as guides to central air conditioner parts and Trane air conditioners.

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.

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