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Atacama Desert

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One of the driest areas in the world is the Atacama Desert in South America, covering much northern part of Chile, and continues north up the coast of Peru for hundreds of miles. It’s the second driest desert in the world, after the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica. 20 million years ago it became a desert, and the Andes mountains help keep it that way. A lot of people consider death Valley California the height of dry desert. But that area is 50 times wetter than the desert of Atacama.

It takes more than one mountain range to keep an area like the Atacama Desert so dry. A number of land features and weather factors converge in this unique location. The first, of course, is those Andes. Atacama is in this mountain range’s rainshadow, an area of a mountain downwind of the general prevailing winds. On the opposite side moist air drops a great deal of rainfall. However, all the moisture is gone when the air makes it to the other side. As if that’s not bad enough, the Chilean coast range is responsible for the same effect on the opposite side of the desert. The anticyclone in the Pacific, a reverse spin area of very dry air, contributes on top of the rain shielding mountains.

The results are startling. The Atacama Desert receives about 1 millimeter of rain a year. Some areas never receive rain. Meteorologists also believe that a complete drought, no rain at all, began in 1570 and lasted 400 years. Is that a drought? Is it even possible to have a drought where rain hardly ever falls in the first place? There are some river beds in the desert that haven’t held any water for at least 120,000 years.

The super dry dry does lend the Atacama Desert some fame and fortune. Scientists have compared conditions there, including soil conditions, to conditions on Mars. In fact, it’s been a stand in for Mars in many movies including documentaries and fiction. In fact some of the same tests that were conducted on Mars were repeated in this desert in 2003. The purpose of those tests was to detect life. What was the verdict? The Atacama Desert was bereft of life. Now this waterless desert is used for further research and even tests to prepare for future missions to Mars.

Whenever you need a drink, consider the Atacama Desert. Forget a lemonade stand. You would be hard-pressed to even find a sip.

Looking for Romance? Take a Hike!

Are you trying to put some romance back into your relationship? Are you looking for something original to do with your honey this spring? If you answered yes to either of these questions, I have an interesting suggestion for you. Take her for a hike. Once you try it, you’ll have a fun new activity for life.

First you’ll want to consider where you want to go hiking. You can pick a nice flat trail and make it more like a leisurely stroll or you can pick a mountain and make it into excellent exercise. State and National Parks make excellent hiking locations. Every state has them and you can learn all about them on the world wide web. Many places have wildlife refuges and nature preserves too. Here you can hike and have a chance to see plants and animals that you wouldn’t see near your home. Make sure you take your physical condition into consideration when deciding on your hiking place because if you don’t, you could end up turning a special day into a major nightmare.

Next you’ll need to think about clothing and equipment. I’d suggest that you wear loose clothing and not wear shorts. There are often plants with burrs and thorns on hiking trails and poison ivy is everywhere. You certainly don’t want to hurt yourself or get posion ivy. You will also want to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes. I’d suggest that you spend the money for quality pair of hiking shoes because they’ll be more comfortable than sneakers.

You also have to decide what to carry in your picnic backpack. You’re going to need to take a food break somewhere along the way and today’s picnic backpacks come with gear like lightweight plates, glasses and silverware. Once you have one you won’t have to deal with throwing out of paper plates and cups. This is good for you and part of living a green lifestyle. As for food, I’d suggest high carb foods like granola, trail mix and sandwiches to help keep your energy level up. Hiking and the Atkins Diet usually don’t mix. Regardless of your choice of food, make sure you bring plenty of water because no matter how clear the stream you’re hiking near appears to be, the water may not be safe to drink.

Now you’re ready to go on your hike. I hope you enjoy yourself and renew your romance. At worst, it’s another hobby for you to enjoy with your sweetie and at best, it could help save your relationship.

Best binoculars for bird watching and birdwatching binocular reviews

A pair of compact binoculars is a precious piece of outdoor tools for those periods when portability adds up. If you are a fervent nature lover, hiker or camper, you will appreciate the ease which comes from having the binoculars that are adequately compact to be kept in a pocket or taken for an extensive period without being extraordinarily heavy.
 
 Selecting Compact Binoculars
 
 When selecting binoculars, it is significant to assess which features would mundane a lot to you in your selected activity. For instance, if you are proximate a specific sport, would a pair of the compact zoom binoculars be very practical.

Remember the rating of models which you are thinking of purchasing. Binoculars are almost always rated according to 2o numbers, example 8×25. The initial number is magnification, second is the diameter or aperture of light collecting lenses.
 
 Bigger Telescope Binoculars cope larger lenses could, theoretically, gather better amounts of light rather than with the smaller lenses. This might be of special significance to those functioning in low light states, for instance while star gazing. The exchange is that bigger binoculars are heavier as well as might order require a tripod or a stand to be used at ease.
 
 Compact size binoculars might go with your intentions if your pastime calls for less focused equipment, like occasional hiking or bird-watching. There is a lot to be believed for selecting the equipment that could be easily carried particularly if you will be carrying lots of other kit. Travellers as well as theatre-goers would also find Birding Binoculars Review a helpful accessory.

Bird watching is a preferred pastime around the globe for a lot of centuries. The prehistoric Romans spent times in garden comparing the birds to each other. The kids of especially period will watch for hours as per to some text, at times evaluating the wingspans of various bird species. Dating back to start of time, bird watchers likely be found. There are keen bird watchers line up these days. With use of new technology you could spend hours waiting for American eagle then snap a picture remain firm your binoculars..

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Save Money this Summer – Go on a Picnic

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Remember the good old days before water parks and expensive resorts when your family used to go on picnics? In these difficult economic times, why not go back to these easier times by taking your family on a picnic? In this article we’ll help you figure out everything you’ll need to make your picnic an event that your entire family will remember.

First, let’s consider the picnic basket. Think about where you’re going to hold your picnic. Will you be able to park nearby? Will you have to walk or hike a distance to get there. If you’re going to be able to park near your picnic area, a traditional picnic basket will work. However, if you’re going to have to walk to your picnic area, you might want to consider a picnic backpack. Picnic backpacks are very light and have plenty of room to carry all your supplies.

One of the things I really like about carrying a fully stocked picnic basket is that it’s environmentally sound alternative to bringing paper cups, paper plates and plastic silverware. Today’s picnic backpacks and picnic baskets come complete with everything you need to make your picnic a success. You can get a picnic basket or backpack that’s complete with plates, silverware, glasses, salt and pepper shakers, napkins, a table cloth and even a cheese knife and cutting board.

Next you’ll need to decide whether you’re going to cook on your picnic or bring a selection of prepared food and snacks. If you want to cook, make sure the park you’re going to has grills to use or bring a portable grill of your own. Today you can even get portable gas grills if you don’t want to mess with charcoal and charcoal lighter. Whether you cook on gas or charcoal you’re going to need a set of quality barbecue tools.

I hope you agree with me that a picnic is an money saving alternative to a day at the local resort. Give it a try and I think you and you’re entire family will be happy that you did.
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Discovering the Seaway Trail Part 2

The Port of Rochester (also known as Charlotte & Ontario Beach) is located where the Genesee River empties into Lake Ontario. It is one of the outdoor recreation hubs in Rochester. There is a public beach with a large picnic area and ample playground equipment for the kids. The centerpiece is “The Dutchess”, an antique carousel built in 1905. Still in original condition, this Western New York landmark is one of only 14 antique menagerie carousels still operating in the United States. Ontario Beach also has a pier that extends about half a mile and divides the Genesee from Lake Ontario. It offers excellent pier fishing off the river side. Here’s an idea for you: While you’re at the Port of Rochester, make sure you stop for an Abbott’s Frozen Custard. In my opinion Abbott’s custard is the best dessert in the world. Abbott’s is located at the end of Lake Ave. right at the entrance to the park. If your in Charlotte, you can’t miss it.

Okay, it’s time to pack the family camping tent and leave Rochester and get back on the Seaway Trail. Our next destination will be at Sodus Point, about 40 miles east of Rochester. Two big attractions at Sodus Point are the Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum and the world class sport fishing. The lighthouse was originally opened in 1824, and after some deterioration, was rebuilt in 1870-1871. It was replaced by a less attractive but more practical beacon in 1900 and the original lighthouse became the residence for the lighthouse keeper until 1984. In 1984 it was leased to the Sodus Bay Historical Society which still maintains it today. Climb the circular staircase to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the view as you overlook beautiful Lake Ontario and the Sodus Point piers from 70 feet above. The museum also offers several displays, including one on the fantastic fishing in the Sodus area, a gift shop and a small library. The lighthouse grounds are a great place to unpack your wicker picnic basket and enjoy a great meal. There are plenty of tables and grills for your use so don’t forget your grill tools. If you’re lucky enough to be there on a Sunday in the summer, make sure you plan to stay for their entertaining Sunday concert series. Sodus Point is also the home of several charter fishing boats. Whether lake trout, brown trout or coho salmon are your fish of choice, you’re sure to be able to find a boat and captain who will take you to the fish.

From Sodus Point, we’ll continue to Chimney Bluffs State Park near Wolcott. Though it has fewer facilities than many of the other parks on our route, I chose this park because of the amazing geographic displays that mother nature has graced the landscape with. The clay cliffs were first formed by a glacier and are now eroded and re-shaped on a daily basis by the movement of Lake Ontario. The park has several hiking trails that offer many amazing views of the cliffs. Make sure you wear appropriate shoes when you hike the trails because theground can be treacherous. Climbing the cliffs themselves is extremely dangerous and is also prohibited. When you stop at Chimney Bluffs State Park, please don’t take anything but pictures and don’t leave anything but footprints.

In our next chapter we’ll continue our journey along the Seaway Trail and visit Fair Haven Beach State Park, Oswego, The Selkirk Lighthouse and end the day at Selkirk Shores State Park. I hope you’re enjoying this series highlighting some of the sites along New York’s Seaway Trail.

Driving The Seaway Trail Part 3

After viewing the cliffs at Chimney Bluff State Park, we’ll take a scenic 45 minute drive to Fair Haven Beach State Park. Fair Haven Beach is a family oriented park. It’s clean Lake Ontario beaches are some of the best in Upstate New York and the hilly woodlands above offer excellent hiking. Inland you’ll find Sterling Pond which is surrounded by campsites and cabins that are available for rent. Along with swimming, the pond offers very good fishing and has rowboats, canoes and paddle boats for rent. The park also has playground and picnic facilities as well as sports playing fields. Finally, duck hunting is allowed in specific places during the appropriate seasons.

Another 35 minute drive along the Seaway Trail will bring us to historic Oswego. Oswego is home to Fort Ontario. The original fort was built in 1755 and was a British stronghold during the French and Indian War. The first fort was destroyed by French forces in 1756 and rebuilt in 1759. The second Fort Ontario was destroyed by American forces during the American Revolution. The British reclaimed Oswego in 1782 and built the third fort which was given to the United States in 1796. The third fort was attacked and destroyed by British forces during the War of 1812. Between 1839 and 1844, the current Fort Ontario was built in response to the threat of a new war and a possible British attack from Canada. Between 1944 and 1946, Fort Ontario housed victims of the Nazi Holocaust. In 1949, New York State began developing the fort as a State Historic Site. Fort Ontario is now open for sightseers from early May until the middle of October on Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00 – 4:30. There is a minimal admission charge.

Today Oswego is among the most key ports on Lake Ontario. In the springtime, Oswego Harbor’s sheltered waters have some of the finest steelhead and brown trout fishing in the Great Lakes. In the summer, many anglers focus on the fine walleye and bass populations. In Oswego Harbor, fall means coho salmon. Large numbers of the hungry fish gather in the harbor to get ready for the fall run. The local charter captains can brag about their clients who have hooked gigantic fish including a 33 pound coho in 1998 and a 33 pound brown trout in 1997. What ever the season, pack your favorite spices in your picnic backpack don’t forget your barbecue tools because you will be catching and grilling some great fish in Oswego Harbor.

In our next installment we’ll spend a little longer in Oswego and then continue along the Seaway Trail to Pulaski. Stay tuned!

Booking Cruise Holidays : Great Times In The Mediterranean

In this part of our guide to cruise holidays we look at the Mediterranean…

If you’re looking for a cruise with a wide variety of locales you can do no better than a Mediterranean cruise. There are more than 120 seaports, and  17 different countries, around the Mediterranean coastline, offering numerous combinations of cruise vacations over one-week, two-week or longer trips.

Over 50 companies offer Mediterranean cruise packages with numerous cruise routes. Some companies specialize in providing Western Mediterranean cruises, concentrating on ports of call around Portugal, Spain, France, Italy and Morocco. Other companies will take you on an Eastern Mediterranean cruise to areas such as Greece, Turkey, Croatia and various Middle Eastern locations.

Some of the most popular specialized Mediterranean cruises focus on a tour of North Africa or focus on island cruises to places such as Malta, Cyprus or the Greek islands. If you want a longer vacation, you can get a cruise itinerary that goes through most or all of the Mediterranean countries.

Culture, history, ancient monuments, fabulous cities, breathtaking views and romantic islands are all close by on a Mediterranean cruise. In the Western Mediterranean you can discover the traditional white Andalucian villages of Southern Spain, sample the world-famous Manzanilla sherry in Cadiz and visit the cultural hub of Europe in the shape of Barcelona, before travelling onwards to the French Riviera.

A cruise taking in the fantastic coast of Italy brings you treasures like the dormant Mt. Vesuvius volcano, breathtaking Rome, and ancient Pompeii. On a Western Mediterranean cruise you’ll also be able to visit the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, which have their share of delights. In Eastern Mediterranean, passengers on a cruise can explore the beautiful coastline of Croatia and the city of Dubrovnik, before heading south east to discover classic Greece and surrounding islands. If you only visit the Palace of Knossos while in Crete, that one historical site is enough to make the entire trip.

A visit to the holy city of Jerusalem is a worthwhile excursion from both Israeli ports – Haifa and Ashdod – on a Mediterranean cruise of the Middle East. Port Said, in Egypt, is also a notable locale to visit on your cruise. Port Said has access to the world-renowned Suez Canal, where vessels travel into the Red Sea and on towards the Arabian Sea.

European Cruise Deals: Canary Islands Cruise

The Canary Islands are a haven for tourists year-round and while many choose to visit one of its seven islands, going on a Canary Islands cruise can be the best way to see the highlights of this sun-drenched region.

The Canaries are located right off of the west coast of Africa and are great for those people who love an average temperature of 22 degrees Celsius all year.

The Canary Islands offer plenty of adventure, even for those folks who are just looking to work on their tan! Islands such as Gran Canaria, Tenerife and Fuerteventura have much to offer holidaymakers wanting to sample the region’s history and food, as well as its breathtaking natural beauty, which includes sights such as volcanoes and caves.

The Canary Islands capital, Las Palmas, is located on Gran Canaria. The island is the perfect stop for those on a Canaries cruise as it offers a little bit of everything – great shopping, lively nightlife, historical sights, sports, festivals, leisure parks and – last but certainly not least – those famous beaches.

A Canary Islands cruise will also probably stop on Tenerife at Santa Cruz, the perfect place for people wanting to experience the area sporting facilities, clubs, and centers for health and beauty.

Other popular destinations in the Canaries include Lanzarote, which attracts young vacationers because of the top bars and clubs, and Fuereventura, generally considered to be the best stopping spot for people wanting a low-key excursion.

Most of the cruises you look at will include all of these stops which means you will get the full Canary Island experience which will include a wide variety of spots and sounds for the entirety of your vacation.

Depending on the cruise line you choose to go with, you should be able to choose from itineraries that cruise the Canaries as part of bigger packages incorporating destinations such as Morocco and Spain.

Next : Cruise Holidays

Instead Of Hawaii, Why Not Look for A Hawaiian Cruise Deal?

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Many people dream of vacationing in Hawaii. However, a Hawaiian vacation can be very expensive and very stressful. First of all, you need to book your flight to Hawaii, you need to find lodging in Hawaii, you need to worry about meals and such and on top of that you have to worry about what kind of entertainment you’ll want to take advantage of. You could do that, or you could book a Hawaii cruise deal. A Hawaii cruise deal gives you the experience of going to Hawaii, but it relieves all the other stressful aspects because everything’s taken care of. Not only can you find cheap cruise deals to Hawaii, but you’ll have a very relaxing time while also enjoying all that Hawaii has to offer.

The Open Sea

If you’ve never taken a cruise before, you’re going to love the time you have on a Hawaii cruise deal. There’s nothing like being in the middle of the ocean without a speck of land in sight. There’s music and dancing, more food than you could ever want, there are shows and entertainment galore and much, much more. You don’t have to worry about travel as the ship takes you wherever you need to go. You just lay in the sun as you work on your tan while the kids go off to do all the kid things they have available on the ship. Talk about stress free! Not only that, but you get to experience Hawaii when you finally arrive at your port.

Experience Hawaii

Along with your Hawaii cruise deal, you’ll want to book some excursions when you finally arrive at your port. Whenever you dock at a port of call on a cruise ship, you’ll be given a chance to experience snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking tours, biking tours and more. The excursions allow you to experience all that Hawaii has to offer. In fact, most excursions allow you to do more than you’d be able to do on a regular vacation to Hawaii. They’re supervised, you have great guides and it’s all paid through the cruise line.

A Hawaii cruise deal really is the ultimate vacation. So if you’re looking for a relaxing time in Hawaii for one, for two or for your entire family, a Hawaii cruise deal is definitely the way to go. You can book your cruise now by calling one of the cruise lines, by going online or by calling your travel agent. All of them will show you just how cheap cruises truly are.

About Author: Reinhard Hueber is the Managing Director of Self Drive New Zealand – a company that has been providing incredible self drive tours in New Zealand for over 10 years.
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Information On Maui Hawaii, What is so Great About it?

So you have surely head of Maui Hawaii before, and it is actually considered as being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, but are you actually aware of what it is that makes Maui Hawaii so great? Especially if you are considering Maui Hawaii travel or Hawaii cruises yourself, then you are going to want to learn more about this place first and about what it is that makes it so magical.

About Maui Hawaii

There are so many wonderful things to learn about Maui Hawaii. For one, Maui Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world that you will ever visit. When people say that the beauty of Hawaii is hard to describe, they are not kidding. Think open waters and beautiful lush gardens of flowers everywhere you look.

There are some of the most amazing tourist attractions that are located in Maui which is another of the main reasons that so many tourists flock here around the year. A quite popular place that is the Bailey House Museum and which you are surely going to desire to make a stop by on your travels.

Then there is also the Iao Valley which Wailuku is considered as being the gateway to. This is one of the most talked about features when you are talking about Hawaii with anyone.

There are also the volcanoes that are in Maui Hawaii and which are really spectacular. Although most of these are dormant now they are still splendid to look at.

There is definitely no other place in the world like it, and no one would ever regret traveling to Maui. Just make sure, so that you can really make the most of your time there, that you are willing to put the time into planning out your trip before going on it. This is going to be very important because you want to make sure that you know about all the fun things that you could do and attractions to go visit while you are there.

In general Hawaii is a wonderful place having a lot of natural beauty. You are never going to forget your time here and definitely don’t forget to bring your camera. You can even hire a tour guide if you want for your time there, so that you don’t have to worry about half the planning yourself and can have someone else there who is going to work to do all this for you.