Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Win a trip to Dominica by showing off your adventurous spirit]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/17/win-a-trip-to-dominica-by-showing-off-your-adventurous-spirit/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/17/win-a-trip-to-dominica-by-showing-off-your-adventurous-spirit/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/17/win-a-trip-to-dominica-by-showing-off-your-adventurous-spirit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As far as travel contests go, they don't come much easier than this one. Wend Magazine, Adventure Dominica, and Ahnu footwear are joining forces to send a lucky winner, and their guest, off on a tropical escape to the island paradise of Dominica. They're offering up airfare for two from the U.S. or Canada and five days/four nights stay at the Calibishie Cove Hotel, one of the top eco-lodges on the island, not to mention all the sun and surf you can take in while you're there.

To win, you simply need to submit a photo that best captures your adventurous spirit. The photo can be from practically any place or any activity, but it needs to show off your adventurous side in the best way possible. For instance, perhaps you'll need to dig up that photo of you hiking the Inca Trail or kayaking the Grand Canyon. What ever it is, find it, and send it to contest@adventuretodominica.com and if your image is selected, you'll be on your way to a vacation you won't soon forget.

Like the rest of the Caribbean, Dominica has plenty of beaches and sun to go around. But it is also an excellent destination for adventure travelers looking for a tropical location to explore. The island has miles of hiking trails that wind through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife and over a thousand species of flowering plants, while hundreds of beautiful rivers flow by, fed by the more than 300 inches of annual rainfall there. And when you grow tired of exploring above the surface, simply head below for something completely different. Dominica is a great diving and snorkeling destination too, with plenty of marine life and colorful coral reefs to explore.

So, dig up that photo and send it off today. It just might earn you that warm weather escape you've been dreaming of, and although spring is officially just around the corner, it never hurts to have a little fun in the tropical sun.

Continue reading Win a trip to Dominica by showing off your adventurous spirit

Win a trip to Dominica by showing off your adventurous spirit originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelcontestcontestshikingphotographphotographsscuba divingScubaDivingWed, 17 Mar 2010 08:38:00 EST<![CDATA[South by Southeast: Picking a beach in Thailand]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/15/south-by-southeast-picking-a-beach-in-thailand/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/15/south-by-southeast-picking-a-beach-in-thailand/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/15/south-by-southeast-picking-a-beach-in-thailand/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The allure of Thailand's islands and beaches is immense. Sugar white sand. A wealth of activities, from diving to rock climbing to sailing. Raucous beach parties. But all these pleasing options can actually cause a big headache. With literally hundreds of beach and island choices, spread between Thailand's west-facing Andaman Coast and the eastern-facing Gulf of Thailand, visitors will be hard-pressed to choose where lay their towels. Not to mention many of us have limited vacation time and budgets.

So how do you properly choose the right beach for your upcoming Thailand adventure? It was exactly the problem I faced last month as I began the last leg of my trip through Southeast Asia. Fortunately, I had the luxury of time on my side. I would check out as many beach spots as I could. From the upscale to the budget, from peaceful to packed, I was on a mission to uncover Thailand's perfect beach. It was truly a dreadful task, I assure you dear reader, but I suffered through my investigation as best I could.

So did I finally uncover the perfect beach in Thailand? If you've ever wanted to take a Thai beach vacation, keep reading below for South by Southeast's handy guide to picking the perfect stretch of sand.

Continue reading South by Southeast: Picking a beach in Thailand

South by Southeast: Picking a beach in Thailand originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beachbest islandBestIslandchoicedesert islandDesertIslandfire twirlingFireTwirlingislandpalm treePalmTreerobinson crusoeRobinsonCrusoerock climbingRockClimbingsandsang somSangSomscuba divingScubaDivingsnorkelingsouthbysoutheastsoutheast asiaSoutheastAsiaswimmingwhich beachwhich islandWhichBeachWhichIslandwhiskey bucketWhiskeyBucketMon, 15 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling TV's Travel Talk 004: Holi Festival, Travel Discouragement Act, Good & Bad Pilots, and Scuba Diving!]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/10/gadling-travel-talk-004/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/10/gadling-travel-talk-004/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/10/gadling-travel-talk-004/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Gadling TV's Travel Talk, episode 4 - Click above to watch video after the jump


Ready to go subterranean? Travel Talk takes you to Monterey, California this week for a special episode under the sea!

This week we discuss India's Festival of Colors, the United States' new Travel Promotion Act, frozen ferries in the Baltic Sea, and a pilot who managed to fool authorities and fly commercial planes unlicensed for 13 years! Also, we speak exclusively with cargo pilot & Video of the Week contributor Matt Wright!
Bruce is back to show you how to stay fit on the go; Sheila brings us a new segment on dating practices from around the world, and we take a look at California sea life from above and below the water.

Continue reading Gadling TV's Travel Talk 004: Holi Festival, Travel Discouragement Act, Good & Bad Pilots, and Scuba Diving!

Gadling TV's Travel Talk 004: Holi Festival, Travel Discouragement Act, Good & Bad Pilots, and Scuba Diving! originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>747Bell of the BeastBellOfTheBeastBruceCaliforniaContour HDContourHdDatingGoProMatt WrightMattWrightmontereyMonterey Baymonterey bay aquariumMontereyBayMontereyBayAquariumscuba divingScubaDivingTravel TipsTraveltalkTravelTipsWed, 10 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Only a few weeks left on Curtain Bluff Power of '10 package]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/04/only-a-few-weeks-left-on-curtain-bluff-power-of-10-package/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/04/only-a-few-weeks-left-on-curtain-bluff-power-of-10-package/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/04/only-a-few-weeks-left-on-curtain-bluff-power-of-10-package/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's only a month left on Curtain Bluff's "Power of '10" deal, and if you're feeling worn down by the fierce winter cold, here's your chance to win some relief. So, stay at this Antigua resort in the next few weeks, and you'll be able to add some interesting activities to the SCUBA diving, dep-sea fishing and reef snorkeling that are already available. You'll be able to take a cooking class with Chef Christophe Blatz, pick up a second spa treatment (of equal or lesse value), add an extra personal training session or enjoy a second tennis lesson.

These perks come at the rich cost of $10, as long as you pick them up by the end of March. The all-inclusive resort starts at $995 a night. I know there isn't much time, but if you need to get away, this is an excellent way to do it.

Gallery: Guestrooms at Curtain Bluff

This is the view from most guestrooms at Curtain BluffSuite living room at Curtain BluffThere are multiple bedrooms in the suitesA suite bedroom at Curtain BluffA suite bedroom at Curtain Bluff


Only a few weeks left on Curtain Bluff Power of '10 package originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beachbeachesCurtain BluffCurtainBluffluxuryreefreefsresortresortssnorkelingspaspa treatmentspa treatmentsSpaTreatmentSpaTreatmentsThu, 04 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 great destinations for outdoor adventure]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/11/10-great-destinations-for-outdoor-adventure/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/11/10-great-destinations-for-outdoor-adventure/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/11/10-great-destinations-for-outdoor-adventure/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

With the possible exception of beach-goers, very few people want to travel in order to sit. Travel is all about experiencing the best of what a destination has to offer, and in many cases, the best of what a destination can offer is adventure. From mountain climbing to snowshoeing to hill-walking -- yes, "hill-walking" is an adventure sport! -- here are ten of the world's best destinations for outdoor adventure.

Now get off your duff and get out there!

Squamish, British Columbia, Canada - Snowshoeing
Discover the outbacks of Garibaldi Provincial Park in Squamish, British Columbia at Elfin Lakes, where a cluster of little lakes reside at 5,446 ft (1,660 m), about 11 kilometers from the trailhead.

We threw on skins on skis and hiked up (and skiied down later, for a great powdery ride out!). For the less initiated, snowshoeing is a fun and easy way to enjoy this slice of paradise outdoors, where the immense expanse of snowy playground past Paul Ridge (the highest point) will turn your dreary winter into a delightful wonder.

The first four kilometers are the steepest, which lead to Red Heather Meadows at (4,757 ft) 1,450 m, but the remaining seven kilometers even out on the plateau of Paul Ridge, leading to Elfin Hut, which is surrounded by mountains on all sides. It's a glorious experience you wouldn't want to miss.

Bonus: You can also do this, as a hike, in the summer.

Continue reading 10 great destinations for outdoor adventure

10 great destinations for outdoor adventure originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureadventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelcitiesoutdoortenThu, 11 Feb 2010 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Create your own adventure with Gap!]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/09/create-your-own-adventure-with-gap/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/09/create-your-own-adventure-with-gap/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/09/create-your-own-adventure-with-gap/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Do you have a destination that you've always wanted to visit, but just couldn't quite find the right way to get there? if so, you're in luck, as Gap Adventures, one of the top adventure travel companies in the world, is inviting you to Create Your Own Adventure as part of a new contest that could send you, and two of your friends, off on your dream trip.

Designing your own adventure couldn't be easier. Simply go to the website and begin the process by selecting your destinations from a world map, adding countries to your planned itinerary. From there, decide the length of your trip and select possible places to visit from within your selected countries. Next, you'll decide how you want to travel, with everything from trains, boats, buses, and even your own two feet as options. You'll also get to choose your level of accommodations, ranging from overnight buses and home stays, up to boutique hotels and private lodges as options. Finally, you'll name your tour, and write a summary about what makes it so exceptional. After entering your personal contact info, you'll then submit your dream tour for consideration.

The travel company has put together an interesting group of judges who will turn their critical eye on your travel masterpiece, deciding if it is worthy of being called a Gap adventure. The panelists include the likes of Tony Wheeler, the co-founder of Lonely Planet, John Rasmus, the editor of National Geographic Adventure Magazine, and adventurer Alastair Humphreys, who has circled the globe by bike and paddled the Yukon River. These judges, amongst others, will help to whittle down all of the entries to the top 20 finalists, which will then be voted on by the public, to determine which tour is the best of the best.

You can enter the contest anytime between now and the end of March. The judges will then select the finalist in early April, with voting scheduled to run from April 8-25. The final prize winners will be announced on May 25, with the designer of the winning tour being sent on the trip with two of their closest friends. The tour will also be included in the 2011 Gap catalog as well.

Not feeling all that creative when it comes to designing your own adventure? Never fear, as Gap has you covered too. Five people will be randomly selected to join the trip as well, despite the fact that they have no idea at this point where they could be headed. Click here to enter to win one of these random slots.

So, if you've ever wanted to kayak down the Nile or cross the Gobi Desert on foot, this might be your chance. Perhaps a mountain biking tour of Ethiopia would be more your style, or camping in the Amazon Rainforest. Let Gap bring whatever trip you've been dreaming of to life and then send you on that adventure of a lifetime.

Create your own adventure with Gap! originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelcontestcontestscreate your own adventureCreateYourOwnAdventuregap adventuresGapAdventuresTue, 09 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Racy ad campaign raises eyebrows down under]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/racy-ad-campaign-raises-eyebrows-down-under/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/racy-ad-campaign-raises-eyebrows-down-under/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/07/racy-ad-campaign-raises-eyebrows-down-under/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A new ad campaign is causing quite a stir down under. Billboards have recently begun appearing along roadsides in Queensland, Australia inviting travelers to "Get High", Get Wet", and "Get Laid" in Mission Beach, a town that appeals to adventurous travelers looking to go kayaking or scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef.

Traditionally, Mission Beach isn't seen as a destination where backpackers make extended stays. But the three sponsors for the billboards, Scotty's Beach House, Skydive Mission Beach, and RnR White Water Rafting, hope to change that. The suggestive text found on the signs are accompanied by simple graphics depicting a skydiver, two people in a canoe, and a person sleeping in a bed.

Despite the fact that it has been off the radar for many travelers, Mission Beach does have a lot to offer those visiting Queensland. For instance, it is one of the few places in all of Australia where the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef come together. It has 8.5 miles of spectacular beach and the Dunk and Bedarra Islands are just minutes off shore. You'll also find an array of accommodations, ranging from upscale beach houses to hostels, with everything inbetween. Within a short distance you'll find canopy tours, crocodile parks, snorkeling and plenty of other adventure activities.

Whether or not you get high, get wet, or get laid while in Mission Beach is totally up to you.

Racy ad campaign raises eyebrows down under originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>great barrier reefGreatBarrierReefmission beachMissionBeachpaddlingqueenslandrainforestscuba diviingscuba divingScubaDiviingScubaDivingskydivingsnorkelingSun, 07 Feb 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Somaliland: the other Somalia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/05/somaliland-the-other-somalia/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/05/somaliland-the-other-somalia/http://www.gadling.com/2010/02/05/somaliland-the-other-somalia/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There are some places you just can't consider for a vacation. While even Iraq has recently opened up to carefully handled tours, Somalia remains out of bounds. What with an Islamist movement proudly proclaiming its ties to Al-Qaeda, and a decades-long civil war between rival clans, there's no chance of exploring the Somali culture and landscape, right?

Actually, that's only half true.

The Republic of Somaliland is the northern third of what most maps show as Somalia. Anyone paying attention to the news knows that Somalia hasn't been a unified nation for quite some time, but this one region, a little larger than England and home to 3.5 million, has managed to bring stability and a developing democracy to its people. Born out of the colony of British Somaliland, it gained independence in 1960 and immediately joined former Italian Somaliland to create what we now know as Somalia. A brutal dictatorship and a civil war later, it declared independence in 1991 and has quietly built a nation as the rest of Somalia disintegrated into chaos.

But no other country recognizes Somaliland as an independent state, which makes it very hard to get international investment and attention. Now Somaliland officials are hoping an increase in tourism will help to literally put their country on the map. It already has regular contact with its neighbors Ethiopia and Djibouti, and has representatives in several major capitals. The Tourism Ministry is busy making plans and there's a good website highlighting Somali Heritage and Archaeology.

Gallery: Somaliland: The Other Somalia

The flag of SoalilandMap of SomalilandA KuduHargeysa at duskHargeysa

Continue reading Somaliland: the other Somalia

Somaliland: the other Somalia originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelAl Qaedaal qaidaal-shababAlQaedaAlQaidaarchaeologyarcheologycave artcave paintingsCaveArtCavePaintingscoral reefCoral ReefsCoralReefCoralReefsHorn of AfricaHornOfAfricaSomalilandterrorterrorismterroristterrorist attackterrorist attacksTerroristAttackTerroristAttacksterroristsvideovideoswaryoutubeyoutube videosyoutube.comYoutubeVideosFri, 05 Feb 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Richard Branson's new toy: A submarine with twist]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/30/richard-bransons-new-toy-a-submarine-with-twist/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/30/richard-bransons-new-toy-a-submarine-with-twist/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/30/richard-bransons-new-toy-a-submarine-with-twist/#commentsFiled under: ,

Some people hop in the water with a rubber duckie or scuba mask, Sir Richard Branson goes down under in a submarine.

Virgin's founder and self-made billionaire Branson already owns an international airline company, record label, mobile phone company, a few Caribbean islands and toys that would make James Bond jealous, and now he's adding one more piece of fun to his flare: the Necker Nymph.

The UK's Daily Mail reports this submarine-turned-plane can "dive to depths of up to 130-feet," and is being rented out to the lucky guests who are visiting Branson's private home on Necker Island. The Nymph has enough room for one pilot and two guests. Before you hop in the tube, though, guests must undergo scuba training and few safety trainings. Once you've passed your required courses, get ready for a scene.

If you've never been underwater in the British Virgin Islands, here are a few things you can expect to see on your way to Necker:
  • Centuries-old shipwrecks, including those captained by Blackbeard himself
  • Schools of fish, surrounded by mile-long reefs and coral
  • Dolphins and whales, depending on the time of year you travel
  • Underwater caves and spectacular rock formations
The Nymph comes at a price. You can rent this wild ride for $25,000 a week, but only after you've shelled out the minimum £55,000 (approximately $88,000) for seven nights on the luxury catamaran, the Necker Belle. Of course, all this can be yours only after you rent out a private stay at Necker Island (prices vary, but start at around $50,000).

Side note: I was privileged to set foot on Necker Island and I can assure you the price is worth the journey.

Richard Branson's new toy: A submarine with twist originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 30 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>necker islandNeckerIslandRichard BransonRichardBransonvirginSat, 30 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 great destinations for scuba diving adventure (videos)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/26/10-great-destinations-for-scuba-diving-adventure-videos/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/26/10-great-destinations-for-scuba-diving-adventure-videos/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/26/10-great-destinations-for-scuba-diving-adventure-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dive in and explore the underwater landscapes of some of the world's most exotic and interesting locales. Whether you're a veteran scuba diver, or someone who's always wanted to test the waters, here's your chance to visit some of the world's top dive destinations. Experience what it's like to venture into the deep in this video roundup of 10 great destinations for scuba diving.


Bali, South Pacific
Long hailed as a crown jewel amongst scuba divers for its idyllic location, warm waters, underwater diversity, and plentiful wrecks, Bali beckons with its aquatic spell.

Continue reading 10 great destinations for scuba diving adventure (videos)

10 great destinations for scuba diving adventure (videos) originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurebaliblue holeBlueHolecabo san lucasCaboSanLucascocoscozumeldestinationsdivinggreat barrier reefGreatBarrierReefkonared seaRedSeascubaTue, 26 Jan 2010 10:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Big Island Hawaii: Get your adventure on]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/15/big-island-hawaii-get-your-adventure-on/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/15/big-island-hawaii-get-your-adventure-on/http://www.gadling.com/2010/01/15/big-island-hawaii-get-your-adventure-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


There's virtually no limit to the adventures you can have on the Big Island of Hawaii. SCUBA, snorkel, watch whales pass in season, take a helicopter flight over the island, or view lava up close from a boat, watching the fiery rivers pop and hiss as they land in the ocean. On the Kohala Coast, many of the resorts offer easy access to some of the island's most unique activities. For others, well...you'll need to get a bit more creative.

Stand-up paddleboarding
Kona Village resort offers guests several options for traditional Hawaiian water-sports, including stand-up paddleboarding, through its Alaka'i program. Alaka'i means "ambassadors of the waves" and the staff here really do try to fulfill that role by teaching guests not just about the logistics of each activity, but also about its historical and cultural significance to the islands. The Junior Alaka'i program is geared for kids 10-17 and includes three days of lessons in activities like paddleboarding, windsurfing, free diving, and outrigger canoeing. Guests at the Four Seasons Hualalai can also use the equipment at Kona Village.

Elsewhere on the Big Island, you can rent a board from Hilo's What Sup Big Island, where daily paddleboard rental is $65, or $75 for a half day with lunch and beginner lesson.

Continue reading Big Island Hawaii: Get your adventure on

Big Island Hawaii: Get your adventure on originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big islandBigIslandcanoecanoeingfairmont orchidFairmontOrchidfour seasonsfour seasons hualalaiFourSeasonsFourSeasonsHualalaihawaiihawaiianhilohorseback ridingHorsebackRidinghorseskohalakohala coastKohalaCoastkonakona villageKonaVillagemauna keaMaunaKeaoutrigger canoeingOutriggerCanoeingpaddle boardPaddleBoardskiingsnow skiingSnowSkiingvolcanovolcanoesFri, 15 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[In the Heart of Central America: Diving the Bay Islands of Honduras]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/16/the-bay-islands-of-honduras/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/16/the-bay-islands-of-honduras/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/16/the-bay-islands-of-honduras/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Honduras' Bay Islands - the large islands of Roatan, Utila and Guanaja, plus Cayos Cochinos and the Swan Islands - sit about 40 miles off the coast of the mainland in the Caribbean Sea. While the islands are as beautiful as any others in the Caribbean and offer long sandy white beaches, turquoise water, and lush jungle landscapes, the biggest draw for most visitors is the area's superb and low-cost diving.

Most visitors stay in Roatan, the largest and most developed of the islands. Home to about 35,000 people, it is the most-visited spot in Honduras. Flights take about 15 minutes from La Ceiba - as soon as the plane rises above the clouds, it starts its descent to the island - or an hour from San Pedro Sula (including a brief stop in La Ceiba). The flight on Taca Regional costs about $90 from La Ceiba or $250 from San Pedro Sula. There are other flight options, but for a fearful flyer, Taca's modern planes were the most attractive.

Direct flights from the US are offered by several airlines. Taca arrives from Miami on Saturday and Sunday and Continental arrives from Houston on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday and from Atlanta on Saturdays. Even if you are flying within Honduras, it's wise to know the large carrier schedules as lines at the airport can triple at times when flights to the US depart.

Continue reading In the Heart of Central America: Diving the Bay Islands of Honduras

In the Heart of Central America: Diving the Bay Islands of Honduras originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anthonys keyAnthonysKeybeachbeachesbudgetbudget travelbudget-travelbudgetsBudgetTravelcaribbeancheapdolphindolphinsheartofhondurashondurasislandislandsmanta raymanta raysMantaRayMantaRayspadireefreefsroatanscubascuba diverscuba divingscuba+divingScubaDiverScubaDivingsnorkelsnorkelersnorkelingswim with dolphinsSwimWithDolphinsTACATaca regionalTacaRegionalutilawhale sharkwhale sharksWhaleSharkWhaleSharksWed, 16 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[In the Heart of Central America: Planning a wedding or honeymoon in Honduras]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/14/in-the-heart-of-central-america-planning-a-wedding-or-honeymoon/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/14/in-the-heart-of-central-america-planning-a-wedding-or-honeymoon/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/14/in-the-heart-of-central-america-planning-a-wedding-or-honeymoon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Imagine walking down a lush green aisle to a small open-air wooden structure where billowy white curtains frame a view of a valley spread below and blueish mountains in the distance. An intimate group of family and friends has gathered to watch you say your vows on this hilltop and after the ceremony, they'll join you to celebrate as the sun sets and the lights of the village beneath you and the stars above begin to twinkle in the dark.

That fantasy, and several others, can come true in Honduras. Honduras is overlooked as a destination wedding or honeymoon spot, but the country offers just as many opportunities for romance as its Caribbean and Central American counterparts.

Whether you fancy yourself as a barefoot bride or want to go eco-chic, Honduras has a wedding locale for you. And because all-inclusive "wedding factory" resorts don't exist here, brides can take comfort in knowing that their special day will indeed be special and private.

Those looking for an adventurous honeymoon in Honduras will find plenty of activities, like zip-lining, diving, horseback riding and white-water rafting here as well. Here are three location options to get you started planning a wedding or honeymoon in Honduras.

Copan
Hacienda San Lucas is situated on a hill just outside of the town of Copan Ruin as. From the hotel's deck chairs, you can see the ruins of Copan and the town below. It's a long walk from the Hacienda into town, but owner Flavia will arrange for pick up and drop off for guests. You can also hop into a moto-taxi for the $1 ride home.

Continue reading In the Heart of Central America: Planning a wedding or honeymoon in Honduras

In the Heart of Central America: Planning a wedding or honeymoon in Honduras originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As the first iPod with a camera, the new Apple iPod Nano is surprisingly fun to play with. But until now, it wasn't the kind of gadget you'd take to the beach, as iPods and water don't tend to mix. H2O Audio can change that, thanks to their new "Capture" case.

This $79.99 case turns your iPod Nano (5th generation) into a full underwater sports camera. Plus, its waterproof headphone jack lets you listen to music without the risk of damaging your iPod. Best of all, all controls on the iPod can be fully accessed.

The integrated polycarbonate lens lets you take the case down to 12 feet of water. The package includes a sports armband and beltclip. The case is available for purchase right now, directly from the site of the manufacturer.

(Via: Gizmodo)

H2O Audio iPod Nano case turns your player into an underwater video camera originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th gen ipod5th Generation5thGeneration5thGenIpodh2oh2o audioH2oAudioiPodipod nanoIpodNanonanotravel-techSat, 12 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Coming Attractions: Panama]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/09/coming-attractions-panama/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/09/coming-attractions-panama/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/09/coming-attractions-panama/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Watch out world, 'cuz here comes Panama--that skinny little land-bridge of a country that's famous for straw hats, yellow-fever infestations and American meddling.

Just how skinny a country is it? From the time the pilot lowers the landing gear to the time your flight actually lands in Panama City, that's how much. One minute you're looking down at the turquoise Caribbean and exactly four and a half minutes later, you've landed on the other side of the country, where--if you can see past the skyscrapers--you'll observe mammoth cargo ships lining up in the Pacific Ocean to enter the canal.

Imagine a 13-year old mixed-race girl from a broken home who spends her childhood in a reform school later to discover that her abusive deadbeat father left her a massive trust fund. That's Panama: young and eager, a little messed up, filling out nicely . . . and ridiculously rich.

Now that Panama gets to keep the cash she earns from her famous canal, the country has gained the kind of newfound respectability that comes from having new clothes and holding democratic elections. Witnessing Panama's overnight transition from banana republic to middle-class retirement haven is like watching the Univision version of Extreme Makeover: it feels so tacky but you can't change channels because you just have to find out what happens next.

Continue reading Coming Attractions: Panama

Coming Attractions: Panama originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>American colonybirdwatchingcanalecotourismluxurymafiamoneynaturePanamaPanamanianrainforestRussianstropicalwildlifeWed, 09 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[In the Heart of Central America: Why now is the time to go to Honduras]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/04/what-to-do-honduras/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/04/what-to-do-honduras/http://www.gadling.com/2009/12/04/what-to-do-honduras/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

After a week in Honduras, ziplining through the canopy, drinking $1.50 beers on a deserted white sand beach, slaughtering my Spanish pronunciation as I bought a grilled pork skewer from a street vendor, horseback riding through coffee fields, and eating a few too many corn tortillas, I couldn't help feeling like I could just as easily be in Belize, Guatemala, or Costa Rica.....but with fewer crowds and lower prices. Suddenly, the country's new slogan "The Central America you know, the country you'll love" made perfect sense.

Just last year Honduras was on the fast track to becoming the next Costa Rica, the next hot destination for eco-tourism in Central America. While it was still mostly undiscovered by mass tourism (in a poll done by the Institute of Tourism, only 4% of Americans said they consider Central America for a vacation and only 1% said they even knew of Honduras), adventurous travelers, backpackers, dive-enthusiasts and lovers of Central America were coming in numbers close to half a million people per year.

From 2006 to 2007 arrivals from North America increased by 25%. The next year they grew by 19%. The tourism industry became the largest employer in the nation and brought in $630 million of revenue in 2008.

Continue reading In the Heart of Central America: Why now is the time to go to Honduras

In the Heart of Central America: Why now is the time to go to Honduras originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canopycanopy toursCanopyTourscaribbeancaribbean destinationscaribbean travelCaribbeanBeachesCaribbeanDestinationsCaribbeanTravelcentral americaCentralAmericacopancosta ricaCostaRicacoup detatCoupDetatdangerousecotourismheartofhondurashondurasHonduras electionHondurasElectionhorseback ridingHorsebackRidingHot SpringsHotSpringsislandsjungleMayamayanmayan ruinsMayanRuinsmayansmonkeysprotestprotestsroatanscubascuba diverscuba divingScubaDiverScubaDivingsnorkelsnorkelingUS state departmentUsStateDepartmentZelayaZipLinezipline toursZiplineToursFri, 04 Dec 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Underwater sculpture garden helps save Cancun's coral reefs]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/27/underwater-sculpture-garden-helps-save-cancuns-coral-reefs/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/27/underwater-sculpture-garden-helps-save-cancuns-coral-reefs/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/27/underwater-sculpture-garden-helps-save-cancuns-coral-reefs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Cancun's famous coral reefs have been hit hard lately by storms and pollution, and the Mexican government has come up with an interesting way to let the reefs heal while still attracting visitors. They're creating an underwater sculpture garden that will bring back the tourists and encourage growth of new coral.

It's the brainchild of the Mexican government and artist Jason de Caires Taylor, who specializes in the beautiful if rather rare art of underwater sculpture. Most of his figures are human forms cast from real people. They're made of inert, PH-neutral concrete. This concrete doesn't pollute the water and attracts sea life. The figures then become platforms for coral and various other marine life, making a strange mixture of the natural and man-made.

Mexican park officials hope the sculptures will draw snorkelers and scuba divers away from the coral reefs, allowing the reefs time to heal. Judging from the photos in this gallery, divers won't want to miss it. The scenes Mr. de Caires Taylor creates are spooky yet strangely alluring, like the plaster casts of Pompeii victims.

It takes only a couple of weeks for green algae to form on the surface of the sculptures, and coral and other sea creatures will start growing within a couple of months. So not only will the original coral reefs be allowed to regrow, but a new one will also start growing to add to the biodiversity on the sea floor.

Like his previous works in Granada, Chepstow and Canterbury (UK), the sculpture garden in Cancun is located in clear, shallow waters to allow easy viewing, although scuba divers will have the best view because they'll be able to swim around the art at leisure. The first figures have already been put into place off the shores of Cancun. Hundreds more are planned.

Gallery: Underwater Sculpture

Underwater sculpture garden helps save Cancun's coral reefs originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cancuncoralcoral reefcoral reefscoralreefcoralreefsenvironmentsculpturesculpture gardensSculptureGardenssculpturessnorkelingFri, 27 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Giant jellyfish cause boat to capsize]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/giant-jellyfish-cause-ship-boat-to-capsize/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/giant-jellyfish-cause-ship-boat-to-capsize/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/giant-jellyfish-cause-ship-boat-to-capsize/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A school of giant Nomura's jellyfish are being blamed for the sinking of a fishing boat earlier this week, sending the three man crew overboard, and the 10-ton ship to the bottom of the ocean just off the eastern coast of Japan.

According to this story from Sky News, the fishermen were attempting to pull in a net filled with the creatures, but the weight of the catch caused the boat to roll onto its side and begin taking on water. The species of jellyfish are known to weigh in excess of 450 pounds, and can be more than two meters in diameter, which gives you an indication of just how large these beasts can grow.

2009 seems to have been a banner year for the Nomura's jellyfish, as the waters between China and Japan have seen an unusual number of the creatures in recent months. Scientists believe it is due to near perfect weather and water conditions throughout the year, and the Japanese fishing industry is preparing for an onslaught of problems in the months ahead. In the past, the jellyfish have damaged fishing equipment, stung fish caught in the nets, and clogged commercial sea lanes.

I'm not sure about you, but a 6+ foot, 400 pound jellyfish sounds pretty frightening to me. The small ones are enough to keep most people out of the water, and I can't imagine what it must be like to come across one of these while scuba diving or snorkeling, let alone dozens of them in one area.

Giant jellyfish cause boat to capsize originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Here at the SkyMall Monday headquarters, the motto is "Be Prepared...Always" I considered copying the Boy Scouts' motto verbatim, but I just can't support any organization that places so much emphasis on neckerchiefs. That said, I like to be ready for any situation, and thankfully the SkyMall catalog anticipates every situation imaginable (and some that only a person on a tremendous amount of hallucinogens could possibly consider). So, while some people are content with put their faith in maps, GPS systems and charts, I require a Plan D. I need to know that, at any time, I can contact my SkyMall Monday support team for assistance. As I often find myself 40 meters underwater and completely lost, I can't be trying to read a soggy AAA TripTik with outdated notes about speed traps. No, I need real help. Thankfully, SkyMall anticipated this completely common and harrowing situation and responsibly chose to distribute a product that can help me when nothing else can. The next time I'm disoriented below sea level, I'm going to call the Gadling editors and ask for help on my Underwater Cell Phone System.

Continue reading SkyMall Monday: Underwater Cell Phone System

SkyMall Monday: Underwater Cell Phone System originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alpha UWCPAlphaUwcpcell phoneCellPhonegps-dayphoneSCUBASCUBA divingScubaDivingSkyMallSkyMall Mondayskymall-mondaySkymallMondaytelephoneunderwaterunderwater cell phone systemUnderwaterCellPhoneSystemMon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[25 great adventures for 2010]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/21/25-great-adventures-for-2010/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/21/25-great-adventures-for-2010/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/21/25-great-adventures-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The latest issue of National Geographic Adventure has just hit the newsstand with a special treat inside for adventure travelers looking for their next big trip. The magazine has listed its selection for the 25 best new trips for 2010, offering up suggestions of places to visit in nearly every corner of the globe.

The list is organized in alphabetical order by destination, starting with Bhutan and running through several U.S. locations as well. Each of the locations also has a tour operator associated with it, and clicking on the text will give you a more detailed description of what you can expect on your adventure.

No matter what draws you to adventure travel, you're sure to find something on the list that appeals to you. For instance, if you're up for a challenging kayaking adventure, head to Bhutan with Bio Bio Expeditions, where you get the opportunity to make the first descent on a previously unpaddled section of the Drangme Chhu River. Does an island adventure sound more enticing? Then plan a trip to Sri Lanka with Access Trips, where you can go surfing and mountain biking through that amazing setting. And for those who would prefer a little more rest and relaxation with their adventure, there is always the Muang La Resort in Laos which offers jungle escapes that includes luxury rooms and a deluxe spa. That trip is available through Asia Transpacific Journeys.

No one knows adventure like National Geographic, and you can bet that each of these trips will deliver in that category. With 2009 quickly coming to an end, it is never too early to start planning your own adventures for 2010, and this list is a great place to start.

25 great adventures for 2010 originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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