Keep Cool This Summer in Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina is known for its sizzling hot summers. Residents and visitors are often looking for ways to beat the heat. Visiting a nearby water park, taking the kids to one of the area's splash pads, or tubing down the Saluda River are fun ways to keep cool. These options are all inexpensive and family friendly.

The Palmetto Falls Water Park is located at 3381 Marion Avenue on the Fort Jackson Army Base, outside Columbia. The water park is primarily for use by military families, but is open to the public Tuesday-Friday, except for season pass holders. The water park is open only to military families on Saturday and Sunday. Palmetto Falls has a 10,000 square foot family pool, a 600 square foot splashdown pool, a kiddie pool, and a Lazy River. The park has three regular water slides and smaller slides for the little kids. The young ones will love the water jet splash area. A snack bar onsite sells refreshments. Civilians should enter Fort Jackson at the Forest Park Drive Gate. Drivers must produce a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance to enter the gate. Palmetto Falls Water Park is open from 11am-7pm. Non-military admission is $9.50 per person, with children age 2 and under admitted free.

Saluda Splash is an interactive water playground located at Saluda Shoals Park. Saluda Splash has misting circles, spray jets, and water cannons shaped like dragons. Large overhead buckets dump water on the splash park. When the kids need a break, they can go to the adjacent playground with its kid size climbing wall. Saluda Shoals Park also has picnic areas, walking and bike trails, and canoe and kayak rentals. Fishing is popular in the Saluda River. There are more than enough activities to provide an entire day of fun. Saluda Shoals Park is located at 5605 Bush Road. The park is open from 7am-8:30pm during the summer months. Saluda Splash is open from 9am-8pm from May-Labor Day. Admission to the park is $4 per car for residents and $5 per car for non-residents. Saluda Splash requires a separate admission of $3 per person.

The City of Columbia operates the Drew Splash Pad at Drew Park. The Splash Pad is designed for children age 14 and under, and admission is free. The splash pad operates Monday-Saturday from noon-8pm. The Drew Wellness Center at the park has an indoor swimming pool that is open year round. The park is located at 2100 Oak Street.

A tubing trip down the Saluda River is a great way to cool off. The water temperature is quite cold, as the water is pulled from the bottom of Lake Murray and released from the dam. Palmetto Outdoors, a Columbia outfitter, rents tubes and provides shuttle transportation. Tubers should park their vehicles near the amphitheater at the West Columbia Riverwalk. Pay for the tube at the outfitter's booth, and then take their shuttle bus to the launch site near Riverbanks Zoo. Tubers will drift down the river for two miles, through some mild Class I and Class II rapids. The take out point is just past the Gervais Street Bridge at the amphitheater landing. A standard tube rents for $15. Deluxe tubes with mesh bottoms are $20. Personal flotation devices are included. Hours are Sunday-Friday from noon-7pm and Saturday from 10am-7pm. Shuttles run hourly on the weekends.

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Is Traveling in Mexico Safe? Yes!

Is Mexico Safe?

The short answer is: YES. Pound for pound, Mexico is probably as safe as your own neighborhood. But, just like your own city, some areas are safer than others. Wherever you travel in the world, common sense is your guide to going to the right places. For example, there are some neighborhoods in your city you probably will never go to, or won't go to at night. There is a reason for that. The same applies in Mexico. I have walked around downtown Manzanillo by myself at 1 a.m. without fear or concern. However, I avoid the roads of Michoacan at night.

Is getting drunk and calling attention to yourself by doing crazy things a good idea in Mexico? No, of course not. Like anywhere else in the world, you make yourself a target, which is unsafe. But the same applies if you did that at home. Normal, cautious behavior is the key.

If you use the same common sense that you use at home when you are traveling in Mexico, you will be fine. But here's a word of advice: if you think you will travel in fear, stay home. The experience won't be positive and you will miss so much of the culture and camaraderie that Mexico has to offer.

Now go! Enjoy! World class waves, great food, and friendly people await!

A few tips on driving in Mainland Mexico:

Rule number 1: Don't drive at night. Rule number 2: See Rule number 1. Even at dawn, driving can be sketchy. As in Baja, the coastal roads are narrow, but there is one distinct difference: the foliage. Baja is a desert, so there aren't many trees or shrubs right at the road. The mainland is rich and lush. In the rural areas of coastal Michoacan, the bushes grow right up to the side of the road. It looks and feels tight compared to American roads and takes some getting use to.

That being said, on my last trip, the flight to Manzanillo was delayed for three hours, so we arrived after dark. We wanted to get to Tecoman, about 1 ½ hours away, to get an early start on surfing Boca de Pascuales. There is a good autopista (toll highway or "calle cuota") between the two and I was told that it would be fine. The first leg of the trip on Highway 200 is on the free road, but it was so well traveled at this time of the evening, that it was easy to see. Once on the toll road, it was empty, but well-lighted all the way to the Tecoman exit. Tecoman is big enough now (80,000 + inhabitants) that everything was well-lighted to the town square where we stayed.

Play it safe, drive slowly, and know where you are going and you'll see that Mexico can be a safe place to drive!

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Birdwatching in Cuba Is Truly Beyond Compare

For birders, the opportunity to see tropical species in their natural habitat, and more familiar birds in their wintering grounds, can be a once in a life-time experience. To add to their life lists, passionate birders travel to exotic locations around the world in the hopes of catching a glimpse of species that very few people have the chance to lay eyes on.

With recent reductions in the travel sanctions between the United States and Cuba, many birdwatchers currently have an opportunity that they have only been able to dream about for the last 50 years. Birdwatching in Cuba is an experience unlike any other, offering the chance to see 21 endemic species, 19 near-endemics (found only in a small number of Caribbean islands) and other tropical species in an area of the world that very few living Americans have ever seen in person.

What Birdwatchers Can Expect

If you are an avid naturalist you will have a once-in-a-lifetime experience while birding in Cuba. An expert Cuban guide will take you off the beaten path to see "life list" species like the threatened Bee Hummingbird, the vulnerable Fernandina's Flicker, and listen for the endangered Cuban Solitaire. You'll have an opportunity to see Cuban Parrots, Great Lizard Cuckoos, Cuban Pygmy Owls, and the country's national bird the Cuban Trogon, along with over 200 other species!

Of course, when you go birdwatching in Cuba, where you go can be as exciting as what you see while you are there. A comprehensive tour include visits to several UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, including Sierra del Rosario and it's fascinating Las Terrazas eco-community, and the Zapata Swamp. You'll also visit memorable sites like Soroa's Orchid Garden and Soroa Waterfall, La Guira National Park, and board Russian army jeeps to travel into the Las Escambray Mountains near Trinidad.

There are so many natural parks, nature reserves, and other locations in Cuba that lend themselves perfectly to birdwatching, and when you consider that the island has migrated hundreds of miles over the past 100 million years, it becomes easy to understand just how many unique species can be found on its soil.

A Truly Rare Opportunity

There are many reasons why the opportunity to go birdwatching in Cuba is so rare. Not only has travel from the US to Cuba been extremely limited in the past half century, but many current tours still do not travel far beyond Havana or the island's tourist resorts. In fact, there are many destinations in Cuba that are only available to sustainable tourism companies, which strive to help preserve the landscape as well as the habitats of the island wildlife. Cuba is incredibly biodiverse, and as the Greater Antilles island that has been the least spoiled by man, it certainly has the most to offer!

Where to Turn

If you are looking to go birdwatching in Cuba, choosing the right tour is important. You will certainly want to find a sustainable tour that can take you beyond Havana City and into reserves and environments in Trinidad, Las Terrazas, and Peninsula de Zapata as well. Taking the time to find a tour that is navigated by a well educated guide and that has received praise from others who have taken it will certainly prove to be worthwhile.

With the right tour and guide, you will have the opportunity to see birds and spectacular landscapes that have rarely been glimpsed by non-Cubans. Cuba is truly a nature lover's paradise, and if you qualify for professional travel, a birdwatching tour on the island is an experience you will not soon forget.

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Great Places to Visit on Italian Walking Holidays

The varied landscape of Italy makes for excellent walking holidays. Whether you are open to the challenge of hill climbing or want to have a gentle jaunt along the flat, there's a part of this stunning European country to suit you. You should schedule visits to the magnificent attractions outlined in this article as part of your hiking itinerary.

Lake Garda

If you're planning to spend your walking holidays in the northern part of Italy then a visit to this huge lake is a must. You'll be taken aback by the scale of the Gruppo Del Baldo mountains, which overlook the glistening waters. You might also be surprised by the abundance of wildlife to be seen in this picturesque area. There's a range of bird species including the Italian Sparrow and Great Weed Warbler that are definitely worth watching.

Ustica

The route around this small island is well trodden by European tourists on walking holidays. Some are so fascinated by the surroundings that they opt to stay a few days in local rented accommodation. You are encouraged to join the crowds on a tour along the cliffs and through the marine reserve, which was established way back in 1986.

Old Catania

It is easy to imagine the scenes that may have played out in Sicilian Italy as you walk through this fascinating old town. If you have a few hours to spare then it's worth visiting the Fountain of 10 Rivers and Cathedral, which is adorned with Corinthian columns, marble fascades and stone balustrades. The local guides will be happy to show you around and retell stories that have been passed down through the Catanian generations. And when you've learned enough for one day it may be tempting to stop off at one of the charming local cafés.

Valley Of The Temples

It would be a shame not to take a stroll through this historic valley as part of your walking holidays in Italy. The ancient Greek ruins along this path are equally as great an attraction as those to be seen on the Greek islands themselves. If you hike through this area during the spring then you'll be struck by the sweet smell of wildflowers. You might even be lucky enough to spot baby animals frolicking in their favoured environment.

Forest Of Giants

If you venture into this forest during Italian walking holidays then you can be sure of a great surprise. For here you may see gloriously coloured eagles and trees bigger than you might have imagined possible. Whatever time of year you choose to explore local routes, such as the Sentiero Cupone, you can be sure of having a delightful experience. Although you might return with slightly aching legs, the feeling of satisfaction will be immense.

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A Look At The Native Birds And Plants Of New Zealand

Without question, the thing that draws the most tourists to New Zealand for a holiday is its unique and varied natural environment: while there are cosmopolitan cities, world class art galleries and endless opportunities for adrenaline based tourist activities, the true draw card is that it is like no other place on earth.

New Zealand has one of the highest levels of endemism in the world: that is many of the plants and birds found in New Zealand are not found anywhere else, due to its long period of geographical isolation and subsequent unique evolutionary path. The absence of predators meant that flightless birds abounded. The arrival of people, and their mammalian companions decimated many of the native species.

However, as early as 1887 a National Park was formed in New Zealand with some 13 following, in the 1890's the Government established mustelid free sanctuaries for the protection of bird species and so a long tradition of conservation was established which continues to this day.

In particular, New Zealand has a greater diversity of seabirds on its shores and islands than any other country in the world. There are some 86 species of seabird that breed in New Zealand and a further 9 who breed elsewhere but visit New Zealand in their migratory cycle. Good places to see seabirds include the Otago Peninsula and Kaikoura, where you can see Albatross, Shearwater, Petrels, Prions and Shags. Many of those staying in holiday park accommodation in Kaikoura are there specifically to see bird life and of course, whale watching.

Another worthy mention is New Zealand's national bird, the Kiwi. This flightless bird generally lives in native forests, but because it is a nocturnal creature, only very few people have spotted it outside its natural habitat in the wild. The Kiwi grows to about the size of a chicken and has a long pointed bill to feed on grubs and other insects.

The flora of New Zealand is also an attraction in its own right. 80% of the trees, ferns and flowering plants in New Zealand are endemic. Some 15% of New Zealand is covered in native plants, from towering kauri forests to spinifex covered sand dunes. In fact the silver fern (cyathea dealbata) is often used as a symbol for New Zealand, notably on the jerseys of its sporting teams. The koru symbol is derived from the young fern frond, and is found on the national carrier Air New Zealand and is a motif in indigenous Maori art and ta moko (tattoos). These unique ecosystems are an integral part of what makes New Zealand such a unique and special destination for holiday makers.

Acadia National Park

Maine's Acadia National Park is more than 35,000 acres of pristine land located close to Bar Harbor. It has the distinction of being the first National Park East of the Mississippi. Acadia celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016.

Acadia is home to Cadillac Mountain, which is the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast at 1,530 feet and one of the first points in the United States to see the sunrise. Other attractions in Acadia include the nation's only fjord, and other well-known spots including Thunder Hole, Sand Beach and Otter Cliffs.

This area was originally inhabited by the Wabanaki indians, an Algonquian-speaking nation. The Wabanaki people trace their Maine roots back more than ten thousand years. During their history, Mount Desert Island was well known for plentiful hunting and fishing.

With more than 47,000 acres (73 square miles) of pristine land, Acadia National Park offers some of the best of Maine's attractions. Some of these attractions include the rocky coastline, gently rolling mountains, thriving forests, ponds, marshlands, and fields. Acacia National Park includes areas on Mount Desert Island, Isle au Haut and the Schoodic Peninsula.

Acadia is host to a diversity of wildlife, hosting everything from mollusks and mammals to raptors and reptiles. If you are watchful, you can count on crossing paths with a variety of wildlife intheir natural habitats.

Some 40 different species of wildlife can be found here, including both red and gray squirrels, chipmunks, white-tailed deer, moose, beaver, porcupine, muskrat, fox, coyote, bobcat, and even black bear. Beaver had been trapped to extinction on the island, then, in 1920, George B. Door released two pairs at the brook between Bubble Pond and Eagle Lake. These beavers have repopulated the area.

In the fall of 1947, wildfires consumed more than 10,000 acres of the park and cleared the eastern half of the island of its coniferous trees. The fires burned for days before being brought under control. Despite the short-term devastation, these fires actually enhanced the Park long-term. The regrowth was mostly allowed to occur naturally and this allowed the growth of deciduous trees such as aspen, birch, alder, and maple which helped to support the repopulation of beavers in the area.

In 1915, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. commissioned more than 50 miles of trails through the area. These trails were originally intended as a diversion for guests and dignitaries to provide carriage and horseback access to the island's remote beauty. With his visitors in mind, he spared no expense. These trails include 17 arched granite bridges and two gate lodges that were constructed to achieve his vision.

After waiting through nearly 20 years of construction to realize his dream for these trails, in 1930, he commissioned Beatrix Farrand for the planting and landscape plans for the carriage paths. Their remarkable foresight is still evident today. The beautiful, well-maintained trails and details such as the hand-cut granite coping stones, which were designed to protect travelers from steep roadside embankments, still stand. These trails provide visitors with options for an easy, peaceful exploration of the area by foot, bicycle and horseback.

Nearby towns of Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor and Northeast Harbor each offer a touch life in Main. Here you will find everything from fine restaurants, to shopping boutiques and lodging.

For those looking to camp, there is no backcountry camping in Acadia, although primitive camping is available at Duck Harbor Campground, on Isle au Haut. Firewood should not be brought into the area as it may contain non-native insects that could pose a serious threat to the park's resources. Firewood is available at local campgrounds.

Wine Trail of Malaga

Malaga is known throughout the world for its stunning beaches, sunny days and birthplace of Picasso. It is also known for bull fighting. Also, Malaga is synonymous with Flamenco dances. However, it is often one of the most underrated wine growing regions in Spain. Rich wines to complement your meal found in Malaga are among some of the best wines that the world can offer.

So this time around when you visit Malaga, be sure to follow a rich wine trail in Malaga. Malaga has been producing wine for centuries. Wines were produced by both, the Moors and the Phoenicians. Though liquor is forbidden in Arabic culture, they produced some of the best wines in Malaga and even enjoyed the fruit of their labour. In fact along with the fascinating Moorish architecture, wine is a legacy left by the Moors.

Generally wines found in Malaga are made from Muscat grape. However, there are some wines made from Pedro Ximenez grapes. These wines have a rich taste with an earthy flavour. Not limiting yourself to the wines found in hotels in Malaga, or bar for that matter, you can visit wineries in Malaga. You might be truly rewarded if you take a trip to Antigua Casa de Guardia, one of the best wineries in Malaga. It is an award-winning winery, surrounded by fig trees and is located high up in the mountains. The winery was founded in 1840 and had the patronage of Isabel II, the Queen of Spain. The Moscatel Isabel II wine was named after her, in honour of her visit to the winery. The Antigua Casa de Guardia is one of the oldest Bodega in Malaga and the wine here is stored in oak casks. There are also some other fine wine tasting locations in Sierra Nevada, if you thirst for more wine.

If you seek more knowledge about the production and wine culture in Malaga then head to Mijas Wine Museum. It is located in San Sebastián. There are many courses offering an introduction to wines in Malaga. Wine tasting sessions are held regularly.

There is also a Malaga Wine Museum in Ojen, which is close to Marbella, a small fishing village. Roughly more that 20,000 tourists visit the museum every year. Even in the surrounding areas you will find some of the best wines in tapas and hotels to be had in Malaga. So wish you luck on your wine trail in Malaga.

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