Australia's Hidden River Gem
The Daintree River is located roughly 100 kilometers north of Cairns in far north Queensland. It is one of those hidden holiday destinations that most people don’t wont the world to know about. While Australia is famous for its fabulous beaches, coral reefs and red center, it is also home to some of the most diverse, and prehistoric, rain forests on earth.
In the Daintree region you can find both plant and animal life that dates back thousands of years, many of which are reaching a point of extinction with the rain forest their last known habitat. The Daintree River itself is a natural border that sits between 21st century man, and prehistoric times. In fact, there isn’t even a man made bridge that crosses this rain forest river. The only way to gain access to the Daintree rain forests is by vehicle ferry – but it’s certainly worth the trip.
You have two options. You can take a leisurely day trip from Cairns or Port Douglas. Visit the river and many of the sites; take in a river cruise and possibly catch site of some of the saltwater crocodiles that inhabit the region, or you can plan to stay awhile and really explore the region.
Daintree RiverThere is plenty to see in the area between the Daintree River crossing and Cape Tribulation – another hours drive north. Areas such as Cow Bay, Coconut Beach and the Cape Tribulation lookout are all worth visiting. You can dine at the Cafe by the Sea; visit the Insect Museum; or perhaps do a taste test at the Daintree Ice-Cream Company – said to be the best ice-cream north of the Daintree (hang on, it’s the only ice-cream north of the Daintree).
There are plenty of tourist lodges and resorts to stay in, or you take your own caravan – there are plenty of camping places available, all with great services to for an area so remote.
If you are looking for a holiday that’s different, consider the Daintree River and the rainforest national park to the north. You can spend a week exploring this region and never get bored. Check out the video on the Daintree River Wild Life Cruise.
Destination Guide - Kenya
Kenya is a beautiful country located on the East Coast of Africa. Her flora and fauna are quite breathtaking and ideal for a vacation during the Summer holidays.
The 'Big Five' as popularly known, exist in the various game parks including, the Nairobi national park and the Masai Mara. Wildlife comprise of the Rhino, the Lion, the Elephant, the Buffalo and the Giraffe. This guarantees the tourists' sense of sight is occupied for the better part of the nature trail.
Kenya consists of magnificent mountains, including, Mount Kenya in the highlands region. The Indian ocean to the east gazes over the warm sandy beaches. Without a doubt, there is much more to adventure in this awesome country, plenty to satisfy one's hunger for a memorable vacation.
The most popular city for vacation is the coastal city of Mombasa, located to the Southeast of the capital city of Nairobi. Tourists from all over the world prefer the coastal city due to its humid climate and the refreshing beaches.
To the North and South of Mombasa, accommodation in top-rated hotels is readily available on first-come, first served basis or by early booking especially during the high seasons of Christmas and Easter holidays.
To the North of Mombasa there exists, Neptune beach hotel, Travellers beach hotel, Bamburi beach hotel, Nyali beach hotel. To the South, accommodation is available at Two fishes beach hotel, Nomad beach hotel, Diani sea lodge, among others. Rates for accommodation adjacent to the salty waters are quite affordable ranging from $50 to $150 full board per person, per night. This however, depends on the season. Rates increase during high season and decrease during low season.
In summary, one can never go wrong in choosing Kenya as their preferred vacation hub. Tourists are always appreciated and given the courtesy they deserve.
As the locals always say in Swahili language, in Kenya, 'Hakuna Matata' meaning, 'There is no worry!'.
Yosemite National Park - Do It Now
Travel builds character. It defines who you are as a person. Being able to withstand rocky terrain physically and metaphorically shapes your decision making skills. It gives you confidence in your ability to navigate life. That’s why there’s no better time to travel than in your 20s. At what other age do you get to be gloriously selfish and adventurous?
There’s a quote by musician Henry Rollins that strikes a chord with young people. It urges them to get a passport, take a summer, and see other parts of the world. If you’re American, you may be unable to travel outside the country at first. That’s ok, there’s a world of adventure to be had in the U.S.A. You can start there and get the passport later.
Why Yosemite?
Yosemite National Park is a backpacker’s paradise. Stretching nearly 1,200 miles, it’s an outdoor treasure trove filled with natural beauty, photo opportunities, and experiences like none you’ve had before in your life. First protected in 1864, Yosemite sees its fair share of visitors each year and for good reason. Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, giant sequoias, and deep valleys, the Californian National Park offers the perfect setting for your first backpacking adventure.
Here are five reasons why backpacking in Yosemite National Park in your 20s is ideal:
• Over 95% of the land is designated Wilderness. What better way to experience the Great Outdoors than sleeping in the wild? In order to do so, you’ll need a wilderness permit. It’s free but in great demand so reserving one is highly recommended. The cost is $5 per confirmed reservation plus $5 per person if traveling in a group. Half Dome permits are now $8 per person. It’s a small price to pay for lodging on any trip you take.
• You’ll eat well and inexpensively. Running low on provisions is unheard of in Yosemite. In fact, stocking up on the foods you love and fuel your body while backpacking is easy. There are a number of places to buy food. The Village Store, the Ahwanee Sweet Shop, and Housekeeping Camp General Store are open during business hours as a convenience for visitors to the park. Purchase your favorite backpacking foods and enjoy them in one of the many picnic areas throughout Yosemite. You’re young so you know what it’s like to eat on a budget. Word to the wise: Don’t leave any scraps behind or you’ll attract bears at your campsite.
• You’ll gain a better understanding of what’s important in life. Void of many modern technologies, you’ll gain a healthy appreciation for the planet and its natural resources. You’ll see rock formations where glacier water slowly carved their surfaces for a period of over 3,000 years. You’ll stand beside ancient sequoias in Mariposa Grove and realize their significance for the first time. Rather than be distracted by electronic gadget, your focus is on the scenery ahead of you and the way it makes you feel. Make sure to document your experience with a digital camera (pack lots of batteries), a journal, and the writing tool of your choice. You won’t want to forget a moment spent in Yosemite. Cheryl Strayed built a career out of a solo hike down the Pacific Crest Trail.
• You’ll learn that earning a living and making a life for yourself are two very different things. Employment opportunities exist with or without you. It’s better to travel while you’re young, debt-free, and childless. Many people are under the assumption that entering the working world straight out of college is advantageous. They forget how hard it is to request time off. Money is almost always a factor. Once a person gets used to a certain type of lifestyle, they need a way to financially support themselves. Before buying a house, new car or designer suit, consider the value of a backpacking adventure. You’re likely to learn more than you did as a student, and this time around, your education is free.
• You’ll enjoy a variety of adventures that excite and amaze you. Yosemite offers plenty to do year round. Among the different activities promoted by the park is art and photography, auto touring, biking, birdwatching, camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding & stock use, picnicking, ranger and interpretive programs, rock climbing, tours, volunteering, water activities, and winter sports. You could honestly choose a different activity every day and still not do everything you set out to do in the park. Part of growing as a person is challenging yourself to try new activities. Fire up the neurons in your brain by stepping out of your comfort zone.
There are a number of compelling reasons to pack a rucksack and visit Yosemite. If anything, do it because you’re young and you can. You won’t regret the experience you have. In fact, you’ll create memories that you carry with you throughout your lifetime because of your adventure.