Posts Tagged ‘environment’

3 Vacation Ideas

Wednesday, March 21st, 2012

If you’re looking for some good ideas on where to go on your next vacation, this article will definitely help you make the right choice. I’m going to share with you three good vacation spots from all over the world. Each of these places is very popular among tourists because of tourist facilities and attractions. Here they are:

1. Spain, Italy, Greece, Malta and Portugal

South European countries such as Spain, Italy, Greece, Malta and Portugal are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Maybe it’s because of great climate, maybe it’s because of many historic sites, maybe it’s because of great beaches. No matter what the reason is, you can be sure that Southern Europe is one of the top destinations and you’ll surely enjoy your vacations there.

Southern Europe isn’t as affordable as Mexico, Belize or some countries in Central, but it isn’t as expensive as most Pacific Ocean countries or countries in the Caribbean. If you want to spend your vacation in a developed, yet reasonably priced country, Southern Europe might be a good idea.

2. South East Asia

South East Asia is one of the most affordable regions in the world. It’s popular among all types of tourists: from backpackers and newlywed couples to families and retirees. South East Asia has something interesting for everyone. Most people who want to enjoy classic beach vacation usually choose Thai islands in the Andaman Sea.

In general, Thailand, Malaysia and Bali offer the best attractions and accommodation options in South East Asia. If you’re looking for a classic place designed for mass tourism, you’ll surely love Ko Samui or Phuket province (it includes some beautiful tropical islands) in Thailand or Bali in Indonesia.

3. Countries in the Caribbean Sea

Island countries in the Caribbean are one of the best choices for people who want to go on a short vacation. It’s very easy and cheap to get to most Caribbean countries which isn’t the case with some places in South East Asia or the Pacific Ocean. The Caribbean is a perfect destination for winter getaway.

The most popular destinations in the Caribbean include the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Jamaica. Each of these places is known for beautiful white sand beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. If you want to get away from it all, you can also choose smaller countries or overseas territories such as Dominica or Guadeloupe.

Each of these vacation spots is definitely a perfect idea for vacation. Please remember that before you make the final decision, you should ask other people for advice. You should always do some research before you make a decision regarding your destination.

Check out Good Vacation Spots to read more about good vacation spots from all over the world.

San Francisco’s Greening Of The America’s Cup

Sunday, March 18th, 2012

In the sailing world, nothing is bigger than the America’s Cup races. And so it’s no surprise that organizers of the 2013 event expect that more than 5 million race fans from around the world will flock to San Francisco, where the Cup will be fought over on scenic San Francisco Bay. The sleek boats in the race will be cutting edge, but the innovation won’t stop there. Both the city and Cup organizers also say that this event will be the greenest in its 100+ year history.

San Francisco is bracing for huge crowds along its waterfront, which will join the usual throngs of visitors to the city’s bayside attractions. Unlike past races, these will be easily viewed from the shore, and not just from helicopters and other boats. The city’s port authorities have already created a zero-waste standard for major events such as the America’s Cup. No longer will vendors be allowed to sell water or any other drink in plastic bottles on port property, nor use plastic bags or food utensils that are not compostable. Banned, too, is the “intentional release” of balloons, which can easily end up in the bay and harm marine life.

Race spectators will be encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles, and plans call for water refilling stations for free public use. Overall, says Jill Savery, who heads up sustainability efforts for the America’s Cup organizers, the goal is for a “model sustainable event.” She says she’s happy with the city’s new zero-waste regulations and other green initiatives that are “in line with the plans and strategies that we’ve been developing for the last year.”

Bicycle power may be the best way to travel along the waterfront during the races. A bike-share program, park-and-ride lots where visitors can park their cars and pedal the rest of the way, and secure valet bike parking lots are all under consideration. Local entrepreneurs will likely rent bikes to spectators, too. On race days, an existing traffic lane along the city’s main waterfront avenue will be designated as bicycle-only, and Bay Area bicycle activists are already calling for the city to make this change permanent. Says Leah Shahum of the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, “It’s a low-cost, easy way to reconnect people with the waterfront and offer an unparalleled biking experience.”

Another major green initiative is the America’s Cup Healthy Oceans Project, a massive educational outreach that aims to raise global awareness about the very real dangers threatening our oceans and to inspire action to address them. It focuses on marine pollution and sustainability issues.

In late January, 2012, the America’s Cup organizers released an impressively comprehensive sustainability plan for the races. It defines a “sustainable event” as one that minimizes “negative event impacts (such as air pollution from spectator travel or spectator waste) and maximizes event benefits (such as habitat preservation and promoting new green technologies) now and into the future.”

All in all, the 2013 America’s Cup promises to be history-making for the racers, fans and the environment.

Looking for the coolest green places to eat in the San Francisco Bay Area? How to know without a doubt which Bay Area hotels, inns and resorts are really serious about being green?

Three Best Vacation Destinations

Saturday, February 18th, 2012

If you are looking for some great vacation spots, this article is for you. Here I share with you three outstanding vacation destinations – places which are worldwide famous for interesting tourist attractions, well developed tourism infrastructure and which are frequently visited by tourists from all over the world.

1. Hawaii

Hawaii, a group of islands located in the Central Pacific Ocean, is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world (especially among Americans). You can get there from most airports in the West Coast of the mainland US in about six hours. Why Hawaii is one of the best tourist destinations in the world?

First and foremost, Hawaii enjoys perfect tropical weather – it’s very warm and sunny all year round. What’s more, Hawaii is renowned for incredibly beautiful diverse natural scenery, pristine tropical beaches and well preserved wilderness. Last but not least, each island provides numerous accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxurious big resorts and romantic villas for honeymooners.

2. French Republic

French Republic is a country located in the Western Europe. France is one of the most developed countries in the world. It’s the most frequently visited country in the world – in 2010, there were more than 76 million tourist arrivals. Why should you consider France?

First and foremost, French Republic is renowned for incredible museums such as the Louvre or Musee d’Orsay (they are one of the most frequently visited museums in the world). Moreover, Paris, the capital of the country, is worldwide famous for numerous landmarks (such as the Eiffel Tower) and historical sites. France is also famous for French Riviera (tourist area in the south of France) and the French Alps.

3. Diverse India

India is one of the biggest and most populous countries in the world. India is located in South Asia which is very well connected so it doesn’t cost a lot of money to get there. India is famous for incredible diversity, interesting culture, great cuisine and an endless list of unique tourist attractions.

Why should you visit India? Firstly, as mentioned before, it’s an extremely diverse country. It has outstanding biological diversity, diverse culture and diverse landscapes. Moreover, it offers all kinds of tourist attractions: from mountains to big cities to pristine beaches. Lastly, it’s a very affordable country and you can easily get a nice room for less than $15 a night.

Keep in mind that each of these places is very different because I wanted to show you three very diverse vacation destinations. Before you go on a vacation, read more about your potential destination and make sure that you’ll like it. Enjoy your vacations!

Check out this list of great vacation spots to read about the best vacation spots in the world.

Travelling by air in the future

Thursday, February 16th, 2012

Though no one can deny how vital air travel is today, no one can say it is fun. The inevitable delays, the long waits in airports, the lugging all you luggage around, the lack of leg room, and the jet lagged feeling afterward, all contribute to a distinct lack of fun. And even if it all goes well, the most you can say about it is that it wasn’t terrible.

If we look to the impact this has on the earth, as well, it seems too high a price to pay. When we reflect on situations like this, it often helps to reflect on the future, finding hope and solace in the fact that the technology will get better and social policy make sure it is directed in the right direction, sustainably. Southwest Airlines, however, recently revealed some plans that may dash any such hope.

The airline has announced that, in order to save money, and to make their company greener, they will be refitting all of their planes with more seats. The upshot of this is at least an inch less leg room for passengers, and an inch less in the recline of each seat. They claim that new ergonomic designs of the seats will make the journey more comfortable, but many are sceptical of this claim.

There is some hope, however. Finnair, the Finnish air company recently put on a big event to celebrate their 85th anniversary in which they invited professionals from all walks of life to put their heads together and paint a picture of what flying will be like in 2093. What they came up with was very optimistic and can only fill you with hope. They saw designs of sleek aircrafts that run on organic matter, giving off non harmful fumes, flying into space to take advantage of the Earth’s turning, so as to reduce flight time.

As science fiction as this sounds, there are certainly pressures acting on the air flight industry that will see drastic technological changes in the future. There is pressure to make sustainable, green technology, and there is, of course, the economic demand for short, comfortable flights.

For cheap Cyprus holidays, look no further.

Three Great Summer Vacation Ideas

Monday, February 13th, 2012

Would you like to get to know some great summer vacation ideas? If so, keep reading this article, because it’s for people like you. Here I’ll show you three wonderful vacation spots renowned for perfect climate, pristine beaches and well developed tourism infrastructure.

1. Aruba island

Aruba is a small island which lies in the Caribbean region, approximately 30 km north of the coast of Venezuela. The island belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Aruba features a semi-arid climate which means that it doesn’t get a lot of rain. As a result, it’s a great vacation destination all year round. No matter when you’ll go, you can be sure that it’ll be warm and sunny.

Aruba is renowned for picture-perfect white sandy beaches surrounded by crystal clear turquoise sea (beaches such as Eagle Beach or Baby Beach), unique natural bridges, rock formations and Arikok National Park which takes up approximately 18 percent of the island.

2. Islands of Thailand

Thailand is famous for picture-perfect tropical islands such as Ko Samui, Phuket, Koh Lanta or Phi Phi islands. The Ko Lanta National Park, which is located in Krabi Province (the province of Koh Lanta and Phi Phi islands), is renowned for world-class diving sites.

The most developed Thai islands are Ko Samui and Phuket. Although they are no longer “authentic” and undeveloped, they are still incredibly beautiful. What’s more, they offer a very wide choice of accommodation options and you’ll easily find something suitable for you. Thai islands are frequently visited by tourists from all over the world; they are also very popular with expatriates and retirees.

3. French Polynesian islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora

Tahiti and Bora Bora are located in the South Pacific Ocean in French Polynesia (which is an overseas country of the French Republic). They are famous for incredible natural beauty, one of the prettiest beaches in the world (both white sandy and black sandy beaches), great diving sites and lush tropical rainforests with waterfalls and rich fauna and flora.

French Polynesia is a very expensive country. As a result, mass-tourism is almost non-existent here. Most people who come here are either honeymooners or more affluent tourists looking for very high standard of service, tranquility and privacy. French Polynesia offers unquestionably one of the most beautiful overwater bungalows in the world as well as picturesque beach resorts.

These three vacation spots are definitely one of the best vacation destinations in the world. Where would you like to go? Before you make the final decision, read more about each of these places. Have fun and enjoy your time off!

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Affordable Honeymoon Destinations

Thursday, February 9th, 2012

Would you like to have a fabulous honeymoon but don’t spend thousands of dollars on it? You don’t have to break your bank to enjoy your honeymoon! In this article you’ll read about three inexpensive honeymoon destinations where you can easily get a very nice double room for less than 40 US dollars a night.

1. Diverse Thailand

Thailand is one of the most developed Southeast Asian countries very popular among tourists from all over the world: backpackers, families, retirees, expats and honeymooners. The country is renowned for its outstanding diversity, endless list of unique tourist attractions, interesting culture, great cuisine and hundreds of interesting places.

Now you ask me: “what can I do there?” Thailand is famous for a very wide choice of outstanding tourist attractions. First and foremost, it has one of the most beautiful tropical islands (and beaches in the world). It’s a paradise for beach lovers. Moreover, it has beautiful ancient temples (called wats). It’s also renowned for many national parks and world-class diving sites.

2. Bali island (Indonesia)

Bali, an Indonesian island located in the Java Sea, is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. And there should be no surprise. Bali offers a very wide variety of accommodation (including very affordable, yet comfortable bungalows), outstanding landscapes (make sure to visit rice terraces!), ancient Hindu temples and of course beautiful pristine tropical beaches.

What can you do there? Bali is a perfect place to relax at beautiful tropical beaches with your partner. It’s also a perfect place to discover a different way of life – rent a moped and drive through the island to escape tourist areas and get to know local people and authentic atmosphere of the island.

3. Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in the world. If you’re looking for a honeymoon destination where you can get a very nice double room for $20 a night, Vietnam is for you. It’s still not as popular as other Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand or the Philippines, which makes it an original honeymoon destination.

What about tourist attractions of Vietnam? First and foremost, it’s a very beautiful country renowned for outstanding natural scenery (such as Ha Long Bay), great beaches with dazzling turquoise or emerald waters, bustling chaotic cities and numerous fabulous ancient monasteries and temples. One of the best ways to enjoy Vietnam is to rent a motorbike.

Each of these places is a perfect honeymoon destination for couples who want to save money, yet still have a wonderful time. I’m sure that you won’t be disappointed (but remember to read more about each of these places). Enjoy your honeymoon!

Click here to get more information about best cheap honeymoon destinations.

Three Best Tropical Vacation Destinations

Sunday, February 5th, 2012

Would you like to read about the best tropical vacation spots in the world? If so, stay here, because in this article I share with you three very interesting tropical vacation destinations renowned for perfect weather, well developed tourism infrastructure and many tourist attractions to choose from.

1. The Caribbean

The Caribbean is a group of islands more than 2,000 miles long. It separates the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, to the west and south, from the Atlantic Ocean, to the east and north. Caribbean countries and territories are among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. They are famous for outstanding white sandy beaches and turquoise water.

Most Caribbean countries and territories are expensive, because the majority of things have to be imported from the mainland. Some cheaper destinations include: the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and some smaller islands such as Aruba or Guadeloupe. Caribbean is a great vacation destination all year round but you should avoid the hurricane season.

2. Fiji

Fiji is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the most affordable destinations in this expensive region. As a result, it’s a popular destination for tourists from all over the world and especially divers (because of country’s incredible diving sites) and newlywed couples (because of incredible white sandy beaches and picturesque resort islands).

Fiji offers a wide variety of accommodation options ranging from cheap and basic local hotels to more expensive classic beach resorts and very luxurious resort islands built on small private islands. Fiji has a tropical marine climate meaning that the weather is warm and pleasant all year round.

3. Vietnam

Vietnam is the easternmost country on the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by China, Laos, Cambodia and the South China Sea. It’s definitely one of the most affordable countries in the world, because 10-20 US dollars will get you a very nice room or a bungalow and 1-2 dollars will get you a nice meal. Vietnam is still an off the beaten path tourist destination, which makes it a nice alternative to more popular Thailand.

Thanks to very affordable prices, Vietnam is a perfect tropical vacation spot for all people who want to enjoy interesting vacation, yet don’t break their bank. Vietnam is famous for outstanding pristine beaches, beautiful diverse landscapes (such as Ha Long Bay) and interesting archaeological sites.

Each of these tropical vacation spots is a perfect place for vacation all year round (maybe except for the rainy season when it rains a lot). If you want to spend your time off in the tropics, these places are surely among the most interesting ideas. Enjoy your vacations!

Make sure to check out my blog about tropical vacation spots and read my article about vacation spots in Mexico and Belize.

Five Best Honeymoon Destinations

Monday, January 30th, 2012

In this article you’ll discover five best honeymoon spots in the world – places which are famous for many tourist attractions, well developed tourism infrastructure (with accommodation for honeymooners), good price/quality ratio and perfect weather all year round. Here they are!

1. Hawaii

Hawaii is a Mecca for tourists from all over the world. It’s a perfect place for honeymooners, surfers, hikers, biologists and people who simply enjoy beaches. Hawaii offers everything that you need to experience wonderful honeymoon: a wide choice of accommodation options for honeymooners, outstanding natural scenery, fabulous beaches, numerous tourist attractions to choose from and romantic tropical evenings. Choose less popular with tourists islands such as Lanai to enjoy more privacy and higher standard of service.

2. Bali island (Indonesia)

Bali has been one of the most popular tourist destinations in South East Asia for years. This unique island where the majority of population adhere to Buddhism (Indonesia is a Muslim country) offers beautiful landscapes, world-class paradise beaches, interesting local culture, great hiking and many luxurious hotels designed especially for newlywed couples. Since it’s a very inexpensive destination, it’s one of the top honeymoon spots in the world.

3. Bora Bora and Tahiti (French Polynesia)

French Polynesia is one of the most expensive, but also one of the most beautiful countries in the South Pacific Ocean. If you’re looking for a place with luxurious accommodation options such as bungalows built over a crystal clear turquoise lagoon or a luxurious villa with a private beach, French Polynesia is for you. Bora Bora and Tahiti are very popular islands among more affluent honeymooners. If you can afford it, French Polynesia will surely meet all your requirements.

4. Fiji

If you want to go on your honeymoon to a South Pacific Ocean island but can’t afford expensive French Polynesia, consider Fijian islands. Fiji is one of the most affordable countries in this region. It’s also very popular among honeymooners since it also offers outstanding natural scenery, beautiful tropical beaches, crystal clear turquoise water and great diving sites. Some Fijian resorts are even located on their own islands which makes them a perfect destination for newlywed couples looking for privacy.

5. United States Virgin Islands

United States Virgin Islands are among the most popular Caribbean honeymoon destinations. They are famous for beautiful tropical landscapes, great hiking trails and one of the most beautiful beaches in the world (such as Trunk Bay). And you don’t even need a passport to visit them!

Each of these tropical destinations is a perfect place for newlywed couples. I’m sure that if you decide to visit one of these beautiful spots, you’ll greatly enjoy your honeymoon and remember it forever. Have fun!

Click here to read more about honeymoon spots.

5 Best Affordable Vacation Spots

Friday, January 27th, 2012

In this article you’ll find the best cheap vacation destinations in the world – spots which are known for low prices of food and accommodation, interesting tourist attractions and well developed tourism infrastructure. If you want to go on budget-friendly vacation, visit one of these five places:

1. Exotic India

India is one of the most diverse countries in the world. Moreover, it’s a very affordable country and even in tourist regions you can easily get a decent double room for about 10-15 US dollars. Food is also very cheap – you can get a nice meal for a couple of dollars. India is famous for beautiful beaches (in Goa), great natural scenery (in Northern India), numerous historical sites such as Taj Mahal and many temples and of course great cuisine.

2. Multi-ethnic Indonesia

Indonesia is located in South East Asia. It’s a country comprising more than 18 000 islands. Some of the biggest and most famous Indonesian islands are: Bali, Celebes, Java and Sumatra. Indonesia is a very diverse multi-ethnic country. Bali, which is the most popular vacation spot in Indonesia, is the only place in Indonesia with so many Buddhists (more than 90% of Balinese population is Buddhist). Thanks to this, it’s one of the most culturally interesting places in the world.

3. The islands of Philippines

Philippines is one of the most affordable South East Asian countries famous for fabulous white sandy beaches, coral waters, tropical forests, active volcanoes, great diving sites and beautiful natural scenery. It’s one of the most inexpensive South East Asian countries. Boracay island, famous for picture-perfect tropical beaches, is the most popular vacation spots in the Philippines.

4. Malaysia

Malaysia, Thailand’s neighbor to the south, is famous for very high level of biodiversity, interesting multi-ethnic culture and numerous national parks. The country is also frequently visited by beach lovers (one of the most beautiful beaches in South East Asia are located in Malaysia) and divers (because Malaysia has world-class diving sites).

5. Cosmopolitan Thailand

Thailand is not only one of the most developed countries in South East Asia – it’s also extremely popular with tourists (both backpackers, families and more affluent tourists), retirees and expats. Thailand is famous for many historical sites such as wats (ancient Buddhist temples), outstanding natural scenery, picture-perfect beach vacation spots (island in the Andaman Sea) and great cuisine.

As you can see, each of these places is located in Asia. Asia, and more specifically South Asia and South East Asia, are one of the cheapest destinations in the world. Moreover, they offer numerous tourist attractions and have well developed tourism infrastructure. Why not visit one of these destinations this year?

Make sure to check out cheap vacation spots to get to know the best inexpensive destinations in the world.

Five Beautiful Tropical Places

Saturday, January 21st, 2012

Are you looking for beautiful tropical destinations great for vacation for you and your family? If so, you should continue reading this article, because here I share with you five tropical spots known for outstanding scenery.

1. Hawaii

Hawaii is unquestionably one of the most beautiful tropical places in the world. It’s famous for great tourism infrastructure, incredible hiking trails, volcanoes, a wide variety of beautiful public beaches to choose from, world-class diving spots and fabulous biodiversity. Hawaii is definitely one of the best places for family vacation, honeymoon and active vacation. It’s impossible to be bored on vacation in Hawaii!

2. Green Costa Rica

Since most tourist facilities in Costa Rica have a minimal impact on environment, the country is one of the most popular destinations for eco-tourists. If you want to hike through beautiful lush jungles, relax at untouched pristine tropical beaches and experience outstanding biodiversity, Costa Rica is the place for you. Since the country is geographically close to the United States, flights are relatively inexpensive which makes it a good place for short vacation.

3. Thailand

Thailand is one of the cheapest countries in the world. It’s very diverse and offers so many tourist attractions that it’s impossible to make a list of all of them. Here are just a few things that you can do in Thailand: visit wats (ancient temples), hike through beautiful green mountains, relax at paradise beaches located at the islands in the Andaman Sea, experience bustling cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai. It’s unquestionably one of the most affordable, yet extremely interesting tropical destinations in the world.

4. Mexico

Mexico is one of the most inexpensive and beautiful tropical destinations close to the United States. Mexican Caribbean coast is one of the most famous tropical vacation spots in the world. If you’re looking for a well developed tropical destination with one of the best beaches in the world, choose Mexico. Caribbean Coast is famous for white sand beaches surrounded by turquoise waters while Pacific Coast is famous for tranquil untouched beaches.

5. The Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are located in the South Pacific Ocean and are one of the most inexpensive locations in this region. If you’re looking for a tranquil tropical paradise which is still relatively undeveloped, consider Cook Islands. The country is famous for perfect beaches and crystal clear lagoons. English is the official language of this very safe and family-friendly country which are another great advantages of this place.

You can find many more beautiful tropical destinations. In this article I shared with you just a few of them. However, I hope that I gave you at least a few good ideas for your future tropical vacation!

Click here to get more information about tropical destinations.