You are more than a series of experiences. You are the light that surrounds them.
And if you're too busy to stop and actually look at what it's all adding up to, then that's what you should be busy with.
How does one go about looking at what it's all adding up to? Here's hoping there is further light in the not too far away distance.
It's difficult at times to look forward without missing sunnier moments of past experience. And at present the distance feels so remarkably - distant.
Beautiful post. Maybe I should view the present in a positive light instead on this night; as a middle of sorts. You are my light in darkness.
It is beautiful and sad at the same time.
It's why I always smile regardless of how sleep deprived I am.
i cant function when sleep deprived. I learned that its a must to get some sleep. You should do that.
Where are you? with her? or me? or both?
Give your 100% attention to whoever you are with.
I am a product of everything I have gone through in the past. I hope that makes me good enough for today and tomorrow.
What if i broke in and stole you?
Today I was with Diablo. Now he is very sick and he will not be here tonight. I hope he comes home tomorrow. Diablo is my best friend and I love my dog.
But you will never know..
Cannot steal what belongs to you.
And because you told me to, today I will choose to stop being busy on unworthy things, get out of the office before the sun sets, find a peaceful place to find myself, and write all of it down, again after many months of suffering in silence.
That is a breathtaking picture.
Just another act up on the stage. A joke. Laughs on her. Not Me. Me.
Add it up baby I already made it there.


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My assignment was to travel to the city of Porto from my home in Portugal (a few hours away via bus) and to meet up with Francesca and her fiance, Darren, first-time visitors from the UK and winners of a trip giveaway sponsored in part by this travel blog, EcoTourLinQ. My trip took place a few months ago (October 2018).
Porto is Portugal's second largest city (approximately 215k residents). It is often overlooked by travelers in favor of Lisbon, the country's famous capital and largest city.
I walked through the downtown Porto neighborhood called Cedofeita in search of the Rosa et Al Townhouse, a boutique hotel and the second co-sponsor of this trip giveaway. When I arrived at the address my first impression was of the building façade. To me it appeared very discreet and nothing special. It gave absolutely no hint as to the beautiful interior I was about to see once I opened that white metal front door and entered.
What a unique find! What was once a private 3-story home, originally built in the mid-19th century, is today a small cozy hotel featuring 7 guest rooms in a modern minimalist style. The renovations are both creative and inspired. For example, big old doors left by the previous building owner were repurposed and now serve as table tops for the front reception desk and also for the side display table that awaits you in the dining area. You can read the menus and drool over the freshly baked cakes and breads.
Rosa et Al is one of several local properties owned by Portugal natives Emanuel and Patricia, they are brother and sister. Emanuel de Sousa is an architect who took this previously worn-down space and made it into something new and special. The hotel opened to the public in 2012. They own and manage the design store next door plus a café a few streets away. What stood out to me was their obvious love of design, food, and efficiency - what others might label sustainable and minimalist living. For example, they bake their own bread (sourdough), experiment with preserves, and change their menus seasonally. The hotel's furnishings include repaired or upcycled furniture with some pieces purchased and delivered from far away places including Germany and Eastern Europe.
There is a little private garden in the rear of the hotel where Fran and Darren waited for me. You could call it a small oasis of greenery in the middle of the city! Hotel guests can enjoy their morning coffee or a meal here, read a book, or play a game of cards, weather permitting of course. I noticed the table tops featured inlaid azulejos which are the typical Portuguese white and blue ceramic tiles.
After our greeting, I could feel the couple's excitement to finally be in Porto after so much anticipation. The first thing they told me was how delighted they were with the Rosa et Al Townhouse and their guest room and private bathroom.
They also raved about the hotel's delicious three-course breakfast (an optional extra charge; it was included in this trip package). Everything to eat is sourced locally and made onsite by the kitchen staff. On weekends a full brunch is also available for purchase by hotel guests and non-guests alike.
As visitors from the UK, Fran and Darren represent the 5th largest group of foreign travelers choosing Portugal for vacation escapes, according to the local tourism bureau.
Topping the list of leisure travelers are those from Spain, France, Brazil, and Germany. The fact is, Portugal has won top travel industry awards as best destination two years in a row, so it is no wonder arrival statistics are at an all-time high. But here's the thing: when you finally arrive in Portugal and get to spend time here, you come to realize this is not just typical PR hype. There are myriad reasons why the country is doing so well.
Here is a fun bit of trivia: did you know that "Harry Potter" book series author JK Rowling lived in Porto for two years back in the early '90s? (She taught English to support herself.) .
Fran and Darren told me they are big fans of all things Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter. So of course while touring Porto they would try to visit some of JK Rowling's favorite spots.
They also planned a visit to The Galleries to indulge in Porto's night life, a river cruise to see Porto's famous six bridges, and a game of miniature golf in the Foz neighborhood.
"Everyone has been so friendly, and we have found it is very easy to get around with just English" said Fran. Then she remarked with a smile, "But no one told us about the hills!" Whoops!
Indeed, downtown Porto is walkable as distances are short; however, the town is full of hills, and sometimes those hills are quite steep! So if you plan to visit, be sure you pack a good sturdy pair of walking shoes. Alternatively, you can use the local public bus service or hire a taxi to get around. The good news is that walking up and down hills is a great way to build up an appetite. Fran and Darren joined a local food tour one afternoon as guests of Taste Porto, the third co-sponsor of this trip. Rita, their energetic guide, spoke passionately about Porto's culture and history and shared interesting facts about Portuguese foods and wines as the group moved from one dining spot to another.
Which were their favorite places? Turns out one was a cave-like "hole-in-the-wall" restaurant (but with a piano at the entrance, go figure). They loved the double layered slow-roasted pork sandwich, the kind that melts in your mouth. They were also intrigued by a little square where you find a street bordered on either end by two historical statues. This particular street has no official name so the locals have taken it upon themselves to give it one: "The Street Between Two Bums!" That's Portuguese humor for you.
Fran and Darren were also captivated by Porto's visual appeal. "The city is a photographer's dream," Fran noted. "Darren could not put the camera down, he was taking pictures constantly!" I am not surprised. Porto is a city where you can enjoy looking at the art nouveau buildings, town houses with tile façades, statues, and winding streets. There are miraduros ("view points") along the way where you can stop for a few minutes and take in your surroundings.
Four days was just not enough time to see and do everything on their list, so the couple already plans a return trip to Porto sometime in the near future. The next visit will likely include a cable car ride, a port wine tasting, and a visit to Piscina das Marés (a popular attraction situated by the Atlantic Ocean featuring saltwater swimming pools that are fed by the tides).
Shahnaz Radjy is a writer based in Portugal and the co-founder of an ecotourism project. She describes herself as an adventurer, foodie, bookworm, and horse lover. You can read more about Shahnaz on her blog Farmaventure and follow her on Twitter @sradjy.
In search of eco-friendly items that are light in weight, easy to use, and great for travel? Well glad you asked! Here are my latest 6 picks. Take a look for yourself or consider this gift inspiration for the holidays!
#1 REUSABLE STRAWS. Plastic straws may be on their way out, and that is a good thing. We have way too much plastic garbage today in our landfills, our rivers, and, sadly, even in our Earth's oceans. It is killing wildlife everywhere. One good solution is to carry a reusable straw with you. Then you can slurp down your favorite smoothie or iced coffee with the bamboo straw instead of the throw-away plastic straw. Just clean it when you are done, keep it, and reuse it. Simple! A brand called Bambu makes and sells a 6-pack of bamboo straws, and it comes with a thin metal brush for cleaning the insides. Bamboo wood is very sustainable as it grows quickly, requires little water, and does not need fertilizer! While these bamboo straws are ultimately compostable, with good care they will last you a decent while. An eco-friendly and affordable gift item for everyone on your holiday list.
#2 REUSABLE UTENSILS. Here is another alternative to all those single-use plastics when you are on the go! It is a reusable utensil set. How about one that is easy to clean, is made from sustainable bamboo wood AND comes with its own storage case? Awesome! So check out these eco-friendly utensil sets for adults and children from To-Go Ware brand. The adult set includes a pair of bamboo wood chopsticks. They are perfect for travel, camping, kayaking, bicycling, or hiking adventures, a picnic outdoors, or simply to keep at your office desk for use at lunch time. Affordable and rated highly by customers. A thoughtful gift anytime for your friends and maybe for your own family too!
#3 FILTERING WATER BOTTLES. Safe and potable drinking water is a big problem in many countries you might visit, especially in regions like SE Asia or sub-Saharan Africa. The majority of hotels and tour guides in such places offer their customers bottled water. Once used, these bottles will likely end up buried in landfills where they will leech chemicals into the ground slowly over hundreds of years until they are fully decomposed. Millions of tons of these plastic water bottles that do not get recycled go into the ground every year. We can do better.
Whether you are traveling overseas or going hiking or camping near home, a good idea is to bring a reusable water bottle with you, one that is fitted with a filtering straw or similar device. These products remove dangerous bacteria, viruses, and other nasties from the water you pour into your bottle from the room tap or perhaps collected from an outdoor lake or stream. Any non-salt water source. A few minutes later, the water is safe to drink.
The filtering water bottles shown below are made by a company called Sagan Life. They are good for filtering up to 250 gallons of water before the filtering system needs to be replaced. Even better, they are on sale now for 25% off! Check them out!
#4 BIODEGRADABLE SUNSCREEN. Did you know that many popular sun lotions and sunscreen products contain lots of sythetic chemicals and that most are not biodegradable? It is one thing when you take a dip into the pool, which is man-made and full of chemicals itself. It is quite another thing to go swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving in a natural water habitat such as a lagoon or the ocean. Even though these products get absorbed into your skin, a bit remains on the skin surface. Once you are in the water, skin cells containing these chemicals slough off and eventually float downward, coating coral reefs and sea grasses that live on the sea floor, and contributing to die-offs. The marine creatures that depend on coral reefs and sea grasses for food and shelter are also negatively affected.
It is worth your while to learn more about available biodegradable products, preferably those made using only all-natural ingredients, that will protect you against harmful UV sun rays while also protecting marine life from harmful synthetic chemicals. Yes, these products do cost a bit more than the typical store brands because ingredients like organic essential oils do cost more than cheap laboratory made synthetic chemicals. But if you think about it, your body is also absorbing all those synthetic chemicals and fragrances each time you slather on the typical lotion or cream. If you care about personal health, the health of your kids and family, as well as the environment at large, consider a few extra dollars as money well spent.
It is also useful to know before traveling to certain places in the world, like the very popular Xcaret marine park in Mexico, that you will be turned away at the entrance if you do not have a biodegradable product to bring in to the park. They are serious about protecting their beautiful natural coral reefs! If you do come unprepared but still want to buy a ticket and go in, they are only too happy to sell you an acceptable sunscreen product right there - at a jacked-up price of course! Do not say I did not warn you.
So let me introduce you to this brand of biodegradable and reef-safe sunscreens called Stream2Sea. They are based in my home state of Florida in the USA. They sell several products for adults and children in both tinted and non-tinted formulas plus larger bottles for refills. A tube of sunscreen as a stocking stuffer or a wrapped gift this year? Why not?
#5 ECO-FRIENDLY POLARIZED SUNGLASSES. Everyone loves a new pair of polarized sunglasses especially if they are really cute, and these are really cute! Even better, the examples shown below are made with repurposed bamboo and recycled plastics. Now that is eco-friendly! The brand is called SOLO Eyewear. The company is known for ethical employment policies PLUS they donate 10 percent of their annual profits to help bring eye care to poor and underserved populations. Just click on the button below for the catalog and you will see different styles for either men or women. By the way, these sunglasses can be purchased with or without a prescription. Need a gift for a friend planning a winter trip to some far away tropical destination? Perfect timing.
#6 ECO-FRIENDLY CLOTHING. The apparel industry worldwide has gained a reputation for low wages for workers, sometimes operating in unsafe or illegal work spaces, contributing to environmental pollution, and more. It is hard but not impossible to find responsible and eco-friendly clothing brands that stand apart from the crowd. One such brand that made a good name for itself in the past decade or two is Patagonia. You are probably familiar with their line of outerwear like jackets or waterproofs. And now here is a new brand called Free Fly. They make clothing from sustainable bamboo viscose fibers and use only factories certified by a global auditing authority with rigorous modern standards for worker health and safety. In the image below you can see an example of short and long sleeve women's tops from Free Fly. They also sell bottoms and accessories for both men and women. Bamboo blended fabrics are great for travel because they are wrinkle-resistent, feel soft against your skin, have natural moisture-wicking properties, and do not retain odors. A fine travel gift indeed!
At this time of the year many of us have made our holiday gift list or plan to see what deals come forward on Black Friday (day after Thanksgiving in the USA), or online on Cyber Monday. If you have a friend or a relative or co-worker who travels frequently, you might want to search for a travel accessory or some other travel item that he or she will truly appreciate. Here are 8 great travel gift ideas for your consideration!
Lodis brand of Los Angeles makes a variety of leather and non-leather handbags and accessories. This one is an RFID blocking combo plane/train ticket and passport wallet. RFID blocking technology keeps your identity and other private information hidden and secure when passing through scanners at the airport or train station. Includes sleeves for your tickets and passport and 4 slots to hold credit or debit cards. Well-made, leather exterior with button flap to open and close, comes in your choice of 6 colors. From eBags online, retails for $68 or less.
A must for frequent fliers, this is a lightweight carry on piece by TravelPro brand. Durable handle pulls up and down for easy manuvering and 2 back wheels for rolling. Weighs only 6 lbs. by itself. Two nested expandable pockets for extra storage. Tough polyester fabric exterior has been treated with a water and stain-resistant coating. It will fit comfortably in the airplane upper bins. Comes in 3 colors. Great bag for weekenders. Best news? This item is now priced at about $75, that is more than 50% off the original retail price! You should seriously grab this one now! From eBags online.
Speaking of luggage, these days travelers absolutely need a durable TSA approved luggage locking device. Here is one from Lewis N. Clark brand, it is designed with a cable top loop for flexibility and a 3-tier combination lock. No keys needed! Keeps all your luggage locked safely when not in use during trips. At less than $18 each, why not purchase several in one order. From eBags online.
For the ladies. a sweet gift under $30. This is a set of 5 organic and vegan skincare products in trial size containers from Lily Farm brand. Includes a facial mask, facial cleanser, toner, serum, and lotion, all in one zippered see-through storage pouch. For travel or home use. Lily Farm products are all certified organic and made in small batches in the USA. From the Earth Hero online catalog.
Another gift item for her, comforable outerwear by Columbia brand. This single zippered medium weight hoodie has a heathered look in grey with 2 front hand pockets with nice black edging detail. A neutral color that goes with everything. The fabric blend is 60% cotton & 40% polyester. Adds a layer of warmth during plane flights when the cabin air turns cold or simply to throw on during chilly mornings or evenings. Comes in sizes XS to XL. Priced at $60. From Columbia Sportwear online.
From popular Reef brand, a pair of men's sturdy flip flops. Perfect for casual wear on a cruise or during a holiday spent on a tropical island, by the pool or at the beach. Water shoes like these also help to protect the feet against germs when using public bathrooms or shower stalls. Made without PVC, designed for excellent arch support, molded uppers provide comfort, and the straps will not pull apart from the bottoms like they do with cheap flip flops. Your choice of brown or black, men's foot sizes 6 to 14 (USA). See catalog page for UK, Europe, and Japan sizes. Priced at $50. From Reef Alliance online.
A toiletry bag is one of those must-have travel accessories to pack all personal care products into a single pouch and then to place that pouch into the luggage. This one from Briggs & Riley brand comes in 2 colors (an olive green or merlot wine) features two zippered sections, is well-constructed with a proprietary nylon weaved fabric made to resist moisture and wear and tear. Can sit on a table top or hang vertically from the loop at one end (hanger not included). A nice gift for either men or women Priced at $75. From Edwards Everything Travel online.
We are literally drowning in plastic waste. Some companies in the travel industry, such as certain airlines and hotels, have recently stepped up to ban use of all plastic straws. So it is an excellent time to buy reuseable straws for yourself and your friends. Here is a set of six 8.5 inch straws made of durable and sustainable certified organic bamboo by Bambu brand of the USA. Comes with a thin skewer brush for easy cleaning. These straws are biodegradable and compostable yet will last for a long time with proper care. Priced under $10, these 6-packs make great stocking stuffers. From the Earth Hero catalog online.
Q & A with Erik Taylor, Executive Director, Sustainable Bolivia and Pisatahua, Riberalta, Beni, Bolivia.
WHEN DID YOUR ORGANIZATION CHARTER AND WHAT WAS THE INITIAL INCENTIVE?
Sustainable Bolivia was created in 2007 in the US and has been working in Bolivia since then. In 2017 we relocated our offices to the city of Riberalta which is located in northeastern Bolivia with a population of about 100k residents. Bolivia established the Aquicuana Lake Reserve in 2016, it encompasses about 20k hectares of rainforest including Lake San Jose and the small communities of San Jose and Warnes. While our own projects are in support of the protection of this natural paradise, we continue to partner with local community organizations for selected health and education projects.
HOW FAR AWAY IS THE CITY OF RIBERALTA FROM THE AQUICUANA RESERVE? AND WHAT IS THE DISTANCE BETWEEN RIBERALTA AND THE BOLIVIAN CAPITAL CITY, LA PAZ?
Riberalta is only about 20 km away from the Reserve, so about a 15-minute ride by car or motorbike. The road distance between La Paz and Riberalta is more than 900 km. By bus it can take you 20-30 hours! We recommend that you take a 2-hour domestic flight instead. Riberalta has a local airport.
IS THE AQUICUANA RESERVE PART OF THE AMAZON RIVER SYSTEM?
Northern Bolivia is part of the Amazon Rainforest Basin which covers Brazil and Peru, but the Amazon River itself doesn't go through Bolivia. Riberalta is situated at the point where the Madres de Dios River joins the Beni River.
NAME A FEW ANIMALS AND BIRDS LIVING IN THIS REGION.
Your readers can click here - www.pisatahua.org/birds - to see a full list of some 300 local bird species. We are in the process of cataloging the biodiversity of the Reserve in order to better know it and preserve it. To this end, we are working with a local biologist and with international biology students. You might like to know that the Reserve is home to a bird that only exists in Riberalta and is endangered. It is called the masked antpitta or tororoi riberalteño. The Reserve is also home to monkeys, sloths, wild hogs, jaguars, caiman yacare, snakes, lizards, frogs and butterflies.
HOW DO THE VILLAGERS IN THE RESERVE COMMUNITIES EARN A LIVING?
Mostly by subsistance farming. They cultivate bananas, papayas, potatoes, beans, tomatoes, peppers.
WHAT ARE YOUR ORGANIZATION'S PLANS FOR BUILDING STRUCTURES AND SUPPORTING ECO TOURISM?
At the moment we have a fundraising campaign going with the goal of building a restaurant/tourist information point for one of the communities in the Reserve. We are making promotional outreach through online social media, such as our Facebook page as well as direct communication with interested tourists and other organizations.
PISATAHUA, YOUR "SISTER" ORGANIZATION, IS A PLANT-BASED MEDICINE AND WELLNESS RETREAT. WHAT TREATMENTS DO GUESTS RECEIVE THERE?
Our guests receive holistic health treatments including, but not limited to, healthy vegetarian meals (which are locally and sustainably sourced), medicinal drinks and salves made from local rainforest plants, ayahuasca ceremonies, daily yoga classes, guided meditation instruction, integration support and health-workshops.
WILL YOU BE ABLE TO MINIMIZE THE PHYSICAL IMPACT OF FUTURE TOURISM TO THE RESERVE?
We are just at the very beginning in the development of an ecotourism project. In promoting the Reserve, we also promote the city of Riberalta which is less frequented by tourists than other cities in Bolivia. We have to take into account that Riberalta can be difficult to reach and is more expensive than other destinations in Bolivia like Rurrenabaque. Government authorities are only now starting to think about developing strategies for local tourism. So in the short term we do not expect much change.
Our future plans include developing an ecological club at the local school in the Reserve to raise awareness about environmental conservation and ecological thinking. We also plan to create a technical training for potential ecotourism guides within the school. Meanwhile, we have created a charter for future tourists to sign stating the basic principles to follow while visiting the Reserve. We believe these measures will serve as a shield against development that is destructive and does little to improve the welfare of the local communities.
IN YOUR OPINION, IS BOLIVIA A STABLE COUNTRY AND SAFE TO VISIT?
I would say that Bolivia is more stable than it has ever been (in modern history). While still one of the poorest countries in the Americas, Bolivia has undergone many years of successful poverty reduction. It is one of the safest countries in the Americas for tourists.
IF I WAS CURRENTLY A COLLEGE STUDENT STUDYING WILDLIFE CONSERVATION, ECOTOURISM, OR LATIN AMERICAN CULTURE, WOULD I BE ABLE TO SPEND TIME WITH YOUR ORGANIZATION AS A VOLUNTEER?
Yes, we receive many interns and volunteers. Most of the opportunities are based in the city of Riberalta, with the chance to visit the Reserve regularly. Some positions have to do with communications or fundraising, some involve biodiversity research, and others are with local partners in education or health sectors. Sometimes there are also volunteer opportunities at the Pisatahua Medicinal Retreat. All available positions are described on our website.
Q & A with Joyce Kleen, Wildlife Biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Crystal River office, Florida/USA.
HOW LONG DO MANATEES LIVE IN THE WILD?
We have two manatees in our region, a female and a male, that are known to be 48 and 50 years of age, respectively.
ARE THE MANATEES OF FLORIDA A SUB-SPECIES?
Yes, the manatees you find here in Florida (Scientific name: Trichechus manatus latirostris) are all a subspecies of the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus).
AREN'T ALL MANATEES ARE RELATED TO ELEPHANTS?
Manatees and elephants do have a common ancestor.
WHY DO YOU THINK HUMANS FIND MANATEES SO APPEALING?
They are very charismatic animals, each having their own personalities. They really are gentle giants. It is rare to be able to interact with an endangered species that will not harm you!
WILL AN ADULT FEMALE GIVE BIRTH MORE THAN ONCE IN HER LIFETIME?
A female manatee will give birth to a single calf about once every other year.
HOW LONG BEFORE A MANATEE BECOMES AN ADULT? AND HOW BIG DO THEY GET?
Males become mature around 2 to 3 years old and females at around 5 years old. They average 10 feet in length and weigh an average of 2,200 lbs. The adults are very big animals!
CAN THEY LIVE IN BOTH FRESH WATER AND SALT WATER?
Yes, they can move freely between fresh and salt water, but they must drink fresh water to survive.
WHAT IS THEIR ROLE IN THEIR ENVIRONMENT?
Manatees eat approximately 10% of their body weight daily in vegetation. By consuming plants both on the surface and below, they help keep waterways open and not completely overtaken by this vegetation.
HOW OFTEN DO THEY NEED TO SURFACE TO BREATHE?
About once every 20 minutes and more often when they are active. They even surface to breathe while they are sleeping!
WHY IS THE CRYSTAL RIVER A GOOD PLACE TO SEE WILD MANATEES?
Manatees only have a thin layer of blubber so they must spend the winter in warm water or they can die from hypothermia. The natural waterways of north-central Florida are warmed by underground hot springs, and these keep the temperature at 72 degrees (F) year-round. When the Gulf water temperature drops below 68 degrees (F), the manatees move inland. You will find a large number of them in the Crystal River and Kings Bay.
WHAT ARE THE LAWS AND RESTRICTIONS THAT WE SHOULD KNOW REGARDING WILD MANATEES (AND HUMAN INTERACTION)?
Manatees are a threatened species and are protected under the Endangered Species Act. They are also protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA 1972). To read more about the MMPA, click HERE.
HOW LONG ARE VISITORS ALLOWED TO SWIM AND SNORKEL WITH MANATEES?
Tours are run by local dive shops based in Crystal Springs and run 3 - 4 hours (half days). These dive shops are required to have a Special Use Permit that is issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and to follow all regulations.
IS IT AGAINST THE LAW TO TOUCH A WILD MANATEE?
It is legal to touch a manatee with one open hand after a manatee has approached a person first. The local dive shops will give you a short educational presentation (video) about manatees and what to do and not do before you board their boats. The emphasis is on passive observation at a distance. At no time should you interfere with their normal behavior, and that includes chasing them or cornering them, grabbing at or poking them, feeding them, or attempting to separate a mother from her calf.
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST THREATS FACED BY FLORIDA'S MANATEE POPULATION?
Manatees continue to be at greatest risk of injury and death from from boat strikes. They also suffer from monofilament (fishing lines) or crab trap lines left in the water when these get wrapped around the animal's limbs or body. Manatees can also die from ingesting monofilament lines they mistake for food. Their natural habitat shrinks due to overdevelopment and the improper building of boating docks that block sun rays which cause sea grass to die off (an important food source for manatees). There are also natural mortality factors, such as unusually cold winters or red tide events (algae blooms), these can kill hundreds of manatees in a given year.
Visitors should abide by all federal and state regulations and be aware of speed regulations when operating boats around our marinas, canals, rivers, and bays. They can wear polarized glasses while boating to reduce sun glare and improve vision. They can properly dispose of their trash, especially fishing line. And they can educate others on how to protect manatees!
Many thanks to Joyce Kleen of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for participating in this blog post!
You can support the Save the Manatee non-profit conservation group, shop their online gift store, and watch their webcams!
I was born in South Korea, the land of the morning calm. At least that is what we called ourselves for generations. Today South Korea seems to have transitioned to a new identity - the home of KPop and Kdrama!
Visit Korea and you will see it is a country of many faces. To the north side of Seoul there is tradition and history. You will find museums, palaces and old style Korean homes called hanok. There are also unique and artsy shops, cafes and restaurants that give typical Korean asthetics a modern twist. Then go to the south side of Seoul, and you will experience the younger, hip, and vibrant face of Korea. Here is where all the Kpop entertainment companies exist along with modern and very trendy restaurants and cafes.
Then there are the rural areas which present yet another face. Away from the big cities there are mountains and farmlands with beautiful temples still existing.
Planning a trip to South Korea? Take my advice and be sure to try these the Korean dishes!
If you are meat lover, you must sample authentic Korean BBQ. Korean BBQ can be grouped into two different types based on flavor. The first group includes the most classic and traditional marinated dishes like Bulgogi (thin slices of ribeye steak) or Kalbi (short ribs). The second group includes un-marinated pork belly, short ribs and various other parts of the cow or pig with all the fixings which you can get from a Gui Jip (BBQ House). If you are limited to only one meal in Korea, I would say you need to have this one meat dish.
If you prefer seafood, not to worry, you will also have plenty of choices. You can order Gui (broiled fish) or Hwe (raw fish and seafood). The Koreans love eating raw squid, baby octopus, abalone, sea squirt, and fish. If you order a plate of sashimi, you get a whole table full of food including rice, side dishes and even a stew that's made from leftover fish bones.
This is a Korean pickled (fermented) vegetable dish that is made with Korean red chili pepper, garlic, fish sauce and other seasonings. It is uniquely Korean so you should definitely give this a try. It is most commonly made with napa cabbage but can be made with other vegetables like radish or cucumber. Korean restaurants almost always serve this side dish.
You might find kimchi a bit strong flavored and spicy if you are not used to such foods, so you may not like it at first. But after a few tries I hope you will develop a taste for Kimchi. It is a healthy dish that is loaded with probiotics - it is good for you!
Bibimbap is a rice bowl topped with mixed vegetables and meat. Dolsot Bibimbap means the dish is served sizzling in a hot stone bowl. I personally find the burnt rice at the bottom to be the best part of all – the rice tastes so crispy, nutty and delicious! Add some gochujang and sesame oil to the rice and then mix it all together to enjoy all the different vegetables Korea has to offer.
For a special treat, try a variation called SanNamul Bibimbap; this includes greens that come from all the beautiful mountains of Korea. It is not always available, but if you find yourself near the mountains there is likely to be a restaurant that specializes in this dish.
To make this version of chicken soup, Koreans boil a whole chicken along with various herbs and ginseng. This hot soup is especially popular during the hot summers because...maybe Koreans are crazy? Ha ha.
Actually, because the Korean summers are so hot, our ancestors made it a tradition to consume this famous chicken soup at the beginning, middle and end of the summer (based on the lunar calendar). Since you can easily lose an appetite and become weakened when the temperature rises, the periodic consumption of a protein filled soup like this helps you regain strength and endurance.
Similar to a Japanese sushi roll, Kimbap is a Korean rice roll. But instead of seafood, these rolls are filled with strips of vegetables and meat, usually beef. These rolls are typical lunchbox items or eaten as a snack.
This Korean spicy rice cake is the ultimate traditional Korean street food and snack. It is made from rice cake sticks that are cooked in gochujang sauce. They have a little bit of a spicy kick but, oh boy, this is such an addicting dish if you like chewy texture.
You can find these on the street or at a Bunsik restaurant that probably also serves Kimbap. These two items go wonderfully well together as a meal.
Fried chicken is not really a traditional Korean food. It only became popular in the late 1980s, and then it really took off after Korea's IMF crisis in 1997 when many office managers were forced into early retirement; they started selling fried chicken to make a living.
Korean Fried chicken is extra crispy because it has a light coating and is double fried. It is served either with no sauce or with sauce (yangnyeom chicken) and then sometimes with green onions (padak). Though you might say America is the place for fried chicken, in my opinion you should still give Korean Fried Chicken a try because there is something just really special about it. While crispy, it remains juicy with less fatty and oily residue. In Korea this dish is also usually served with some condiments like pickled radish which really helps to cut the greasiness from your palate.
I appreciate this opportunity to share my love of Korean cooking with you and hope you will have the chance to travel and visit South Korea soon!
JinJoo Lee lives with her husband in San Jose, California, USA. She gives instruction on how to make authentic Korean sauces and dishes on her blog Kimchimari.com. You can also follow JinJoo on Twitter @JJKimchimari.
Though it is early in September and the fall season does not officially start until the last week of this month, some of you are beginning to prepare your Christmas/holidays gift-giving list. If you are in need of gift inspiration for friends and loved ones who are world travelers, this post should offer help! Even better for those on a tight budget; most of the items shown here are priced below USD $50. Just click on each of the highlighted links to read more!
When you are away from home and enjoying outdoor activities, you should protect your mobile phone from damage caused by rain, snow, and dust. With the Mpow case you can even swim and dive below the water surface in a pool or the ocean down to 50 ft. There are several colors to choose from, and each case comes with a lanyard to wear around the neck. Fits most iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones. To read more, click HERE.
After a busy day of site-seeing and picture-taking, a traveler will want to recharge his or her mobile phone. This dual port travel charger from Anker makes that possible with Apple iPhones, iPads, and Samsung S4 phones and up. It works with 100 - 240 volt wall outlets, is lightweight and compact with a foldable plug for easy packing. For more info, click HERE.
Sometimes when you go on holiday, you have the chance to swim in a lake or the ocean, but first you may have to walk over pebbles or rocks with sharp edges. A good idea to protect your feet is to wear these water shoes! The rubber soles will keep you from slipping and the stretchable upper fabric will dry out quickly after use. These water shoes by WateLves comes in various color patterns and sizes to fit both men and women. Get more info, click HERE.
These compression socks are for everyone not just older adults. Helps with circulation in your lower legs and feet during lengthy flights, train or car rides. Provides support and eliminates pain. Comes in several colors and sizes to fit either men or women click HERE.
S'well is a highly regarded brand that makes reusable water bottles. All made with BPA-free stainless steel, rugged, easy to clean, does not retain odors. Eco-friendly, saves money with less reliance on plastics. Comes in a variety of patterns and colors. Great for hikes, picnics, and travel.
Waterproof yet breathable recycled nylon fibers women's rain jacket. Center front zipper, microfleece neck lining for comfort, adjustable hood. Comes in six colors.
Made from premium bamboo viscose fabric, this attractive and lightweight women's scarf can also serve as a shawl to cover head or shoulders when visiting churches or other religious or sacred sites. This is a must-have accessory for women traveling to Muslim countries in SE Asia or the Middle East. Easy to fold and pack, comes in several color choices. Take a look, click HERE.
Here is a great small electronics accessory for travel, these earbuds keep the audio cables neat and tangle-free when not in use. Rich stereo sound through the ear buds enables you to enjoy music, watch movies, or play video games on your mobile phone or laptop while seated on a train or airplane without disturbing your neighbors. Read more, click HERE.
This is a must-have gadget for campers, hikers, and international travelers who visit regions where the local tap or stream water is unsafe to drink without treatment. The SteriPEN uses UV light rays to kill some 99.9% of all bacteria in such water by the cup or jug. So easy to use; the pen turns itself off when the water is ready to drink. Only takes a few minutes and can be reused thousands of times! To read about the SteriPEN, click HERE.
Nap time can happen anytime with this sleep mask to block out light from your eyes. Very comfortable with adjustable straps that fit around your head. Lightweight and easy to fold and store in a pocket or purse. Use while in transit on long-haul flights or train rides. Dream Essentials also sells matching color inflatable travel neck pillows. Click HERE.
Another must-have electronics accessory for those traveling overseas to countries with different electric voltage standards and different electric wall outlets. Can be used throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and more. To purchase, click HERE.
For travelers heading to Europe, this SIM card offers an affordable phone use solution. It fits into your unlocked smart mobile phone and enables you to make phone calls or send text messages at local rates in countries throughout Europe. Saves a lot of money over international calling or texting data rates. click HERE.
This is a roundup post in which I ask four bloggers to share their knowledge about house and pet sitting gigs while traveling. Introducing Donna and Rick of Destinations Detours Dreams, Andrew and Emily of Along Dusty Roads, Terry and Maura McKenna of Travel Kiwis, and Nicola Rae of See Nic Wander.
HOW LONG AGO DID YOU JOIN THE TRUSTED HOUSESITTERS PROGRAM?
Donna: My husband and I joined the program just under a year ago. Over the two or three years prior to that, we had read a number of accounts about other people's experiences. A few months before we joined, we had the opportunity to housesit for a friend of a friend and this way get a flavour of what it might be like.
Terry: It was three years ago. We joined so we could use house sitting as a travel option in Europe after travelling Asia for 4 months.
Andrew: We joined four years ago.
Nicola: About one year ago.
WHERE WAS YOUR FIRST HOUSE SIT ASSIGNMENT AND HOW DID IT GO?
Donna: Our first house sit was over a five-week period in a rural village in England. The property was on the border of Hampshire and Surrey. It was great! We love England and have visited a number of times over the years. My husband lived in London for about six months as a young man, and the fellows he shared a flat with remain life-long friends. We enjoyed the village and experiencing the Christmas season in England. We had the opportunity to see nearby attractions and even visit with our friends.
We became quite attached to the two dogs in our care. Their personalities reminded us of the dogs we used to have. We did experience a temporary scare, though, when one of the dogs got loose and ran off outside. Fortunately a neighbour came over to help us, and we were able to track the dog down. The rest of the sit was splendid. The owners were happy with our care of the house and the dogs, but that one incident is a good reminder of the responsibility that comes with housesitting.
Terry: We stayed in a small medieval village in France called Fontenoy-le-Chateau. We were blessed with great hosts, two lovely dogs and a friendly village atmosphere. We became good friends with the home owners and have had several subsequent house sits with them as well as staying with them as we passed by. Their dogs are Misty, a spaniel, and Miki, a Border Collie / English Setter cross.
Nicola: My first house sit was in the UK. I enjoyed taking care of two beautiful dogs who definitely gave me my exercise! I also cared for two adorable rabbits and two sweet guinea pigs. It was a two-week assignment.
Andrew: Our first assignment was a six-week stay in Santiago de Chile, and it was a wonderful experience. We had been traveling non-stop for almost a year up to that point, so it was great to stay in one place for a while.
WHERE ELSE HAVE YOU STAYED?
Donna: We also traveled to a San Diego suburb, in the state of California, where we looked after a home as well as an 11-year-old Samoyed. That sit was quite enjoyable, and the dog was a delight. He was so beautiful to look at; he always attracted attention during our twice-daily walks!
Andrew: We have been lucky enough to house sit in locations that were in the centers of both Paris and London.
Terry: By now we have completed more than 20 house sits in six countries including the UK, Switzerland, France, Italy, Spain, and Germany.
Terry: We particularly enjoy smaller locations in less known places. Highlights include a small village in Italy; a month on the Devon coast of England; six weeks near Cadiz in Spain; Christmas in Zurich Switzerland; two house sits in the south of France; and twice we spent a month in London.
Nicola: I have stayed private homes in the UK, Belgium, and Germany.
ANY TIPS FOR SOMEONE CONSIDERING THE PROGRAM?
Donna: I recommend that you spend time reading about other people's experiences and looking through the types of sits available to decide if this is suitable for you. You should be open to a variety of locations and situations and also be patient and keep trying because you will likely apply for many sits before getting your first one.
The process is a bit like job-hunting. Be honest with yourself about the level of responsibilities you are able to take on. In our case, I am allergic to cats so we cannot apply for any sits with cats. In the application message highlight what you bring to the specific sit. Also be sure to mention any limitations. For example, my husband is a smoker. While he does not smoke indoors, I always ask the owners if they would be comfortable with him smoking in their yard. In some cases they say no, and the discussion ends there. If an owner responds positively to your application, be sure to ask anything about the sit and responsibilities that are not clear from the description.
Terry: Make sure you are very clear on expectations of home owners, so ask good questions and take plenty of notes during the interview process and hand over. Research the area so you are aware of what is available nearby, requirements for the pets, is the house sit suited to you, and so forth.
Nicola: When applying for house sits, make good use of your introductory message. Make sure to introduce yourself and ask lots of questions about the home and pets. Homeowners see dozens of applications for every listing. It is a competitive process. You want your application to stand out from the beginning.
DO YOU PREFER SHORT SITS OR LONGER SITS AND WHY?
Donna: We look for sits that go for at least 10 days or two to three weeks. That makes the travel worthwhile and also gives us time to get to know the dogs and settle into a daily rhythm. With more days in one spot we can do a bit of sightseeing here and there too. We might consider a longer assignment but only in certain circumstances based on location.
People who are digital nomads, like some travel bloggers, may look for those longer sits, but we have a home in Canada and have other responsibilities as well.
Terry: For us, two to six weeks is the right amount of time. We do not target short sits as we prefer to take the time to get to know an area. Much beyond six weeks is also not on our agenda as we like to move on and experience new places.
Nicola: I prefer long assignments because you really get the feel for a place better than you do on shorter assignments. And you save money by not traveling around so much. I prefer sits that last one month or more.
DO YOU HAVE TO BE A TRAVEL BLOGGER TO BE A HOUSESITTER?
Donna: Not at all. Housesitting is a great option for retirees and those with location-independent jobs who have flexibility with dates. It is open to anyone who is prepared to take on the responsibility of looking after someone's home and their pets while experiencing life in another place.
Andrew: Absolutely not. I would say that only a small percentage of house sitters are bloggers.
Nicola: Anyone who loves animals and is responsible can become a house and pet sitter.
Thanks to All My Contributors!
Donna and Rick are world travelers and experienced pet and house sitters. Donna is a member of several prestigious travel writer associations and blogs about the couple's travel adventures at Destinations Detours Dreams. When not on the road, they call Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada, home.
These two Londoners describe themselves as "travelling storytellers." They were named as "Best UK Travel Blog" in 2018. Andrew and Emily can tell you a lot about Latin America having spent two years there. To read their useful guides and to see their wonderful photography, visit Along Dusty Roads.
These empty-nesters spent many years at home in Wellington, New Zealand, managing two careers and raising three sons. Now that their children are grown and live on their own, Terry and Maura are enjoying many travel adventures in both western and eastern Europe and share their stories and photos on their blog site Travel Kiwis.
If you ever wondered about teaching English in another country and housesitting combined, Nicola Rae of See Nic Wander is your friendly expert. From middle school teacher to travel blogger and online English teacher, Nic knows the real in's and out's of this life-changing opportunity. Use the contact form on her site to send Nic your questions.
As I mentioned in my previous guest post, the concept of farm stays began in Italy after World War II. It was developed as a way for farmers to earn a secondary income while remaining on their land and producing cash crops and livestock.
Today farms that offer accommodations to travelers are quite diverse. Some offer playgrounds and mini-chores for guests with children such as feeding the chickens and gathering freshly laid eggs from the chicken coops. Some farms work the land in organic and sustainable ways and will teach their guests how to do the same at home. Other places cater more to adults seeking a yoga-type retreat or food-and-wine pairing courses. Prices are competitive with local hotels.
If you wish to search online, there are several platforms you can use, such as Farm Stay Planet or Reids Guides. Even Booking.com has a category for farm stays!
In this post I am presenting below a few farms and links where you can reserve a guest room and have your first "agriturismo" experience. These are located in the UK, Ireland, Canada, or the USA. Enjoy!
UK – Here farm stays range from working farms to the more traditional bed-and-breakfast model.
South Penquite Farm in Cornwall offers a campground for tents and also offers cabins and yurts; activities range from fishing to training on how to raise lambs and calves using organic methods.
Lower Shaw Farm in Wiltshire provides weekend activities for families as well as classes like cooking and yoga for adults.
Newton Farm, located in Scotland, is where you can have an Alpaca experience.
Ireland – In the Emerald Isle certain farms grant access to local golf courses. Others offer horseriding and fishing activities.
Muckross Riding Stables, found just inside the Killarney National Park, is a local horse-riding center doubling as a farm with sheep, goats, ducks, and pot-bellied pigs on the property.
Bunalun Farm B&B, located in County Cork offers a B&B guest house on a working farm property.
Rigney's Farm, with its rare-breed, pasture-fed animals, is located right next to Curraghchase Forest Park in West County Limerick. An ideal place for daily walks and bird-watching.
USA – Many American urban dwellers want to see where their food comes from. Both farmers markets and farm stays have gained in popularity over the past decade.
Green Mountain Girls Farm in Vermont offers various types of guest accommodations, a space for events, and numerous farm-to-table addresses within easy driving distance.
S&S Homestead Farm in Washington state is a biodynamic working farm that teaches aspiring farmers and offers guest quarters for overnight stays.
North Country Farms, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, sells organic produce directly to local residents. They offer wooden cabins to rent for visiting travelers.
Canada – This huge country offers great expanses of open wilderness and farm land.
Gordon's Beach Farm Stay B&B, located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, offers hiking, bicycling, and even whale-watching opportunities.
Peace Valley Guest Ranch, located in the province of Alberta, is a working cattle ranch with rugged cabins for guests on the property. You can play miniature golf, ride a horse, go fishing, or take a river cruise.
Cassis et Melisse, located in the province of Quebec, is a working goat farm and organic cheese factory not far from Quebec City. They offer a self-catering apartment and the opportunity to feed and milk the goats..
Have you ever stayed as a guest traveler on a farm? If yes, where? We would love to hear all about your farm stay experience, so please leave a comment in the section below.
Who Came Up with the Idea of a Farm Stay?
The concept first developed in Italy! The years following World War II were particularly hard for the Italians many of whom were rural farmers. When they began migrating into cities in search of work and a better life, there was great concern about who would produce food for the nation. The Italian government developed a new concept they called "agriturismo." Under this program farm families were incentivized to rent out vacant rooms. This new source of steady income gave farmers the reason to stay and work their fields.
Have you ever been to a real farm? Consider a farm stay as an alternative vacation. Working farms are fascinating microcosms where you are surrounded by nature. There is a daily buzz of activity. You might be surprised to learn that farms with rooms to rent can be as diverse as hotels in terms of pricing and features. Some especially cater to families with playgrounds, tractor rides, and small friendly animals to feed and pet. Other farms might focus on adults and offer specialized retreats. You could take yoga classes, learn about clean eating, or participate in writing or painting workshops. Some locations offer the chance to learn a new skill like cheese-making or organic cooking.
Did you know that some working farms accept volunteers? You can check out such online sites such as Workaway and WWOOF.
For your convenience, I have named a few farms below (with links) that offer guest rooms if you are planning a trip to Germany, Italy, or Portugal.
Germany – many farms are quite family friendly. These three are in the Bavaria region.
Italy – a dream destination for food and wine lovers. Some farms use organic methods.
Portugal – a budget friendly country with beaches, mountains, vineyards, and farms.
These are just a few examples. You will discover that farm facilities and recreational opportunities vary widely from place to place.
Next time: Farm Stays in the UK, Ireland, and North America!
Have you taken a holiday on a farm before? Let us know where and how it went! We would love to hear about your experiences – share by leaving a comment below.
Hello fellow travelers! I am Alessa, a travel blogger from northern Mexico; currently I am spending time in the beautiful city of Montreal in Canada! Mexico to me is an amazing country full of culture and diversity which you can see in everything from local folk dances to music to different ways of dressing. Naturally I am a big fan of the gastronomy of Mexico, there are so many different regions with their own specialties and flavors worth exploring.
Many people from the USA and Canada like to vacation in the Yucatan peninsula, to Cancun and all of the Rivera Maya. That is the Mexico they know. But Mexico is a huge country, and there are so many other places of interest to visit. For example, if you come to the city of Chihuahua, you can ride the train called "El Chepe" which makes a tour at the Sierra Tarahumara which is the famous and majestic Copper Canyon. If you enjoy more extreme adventures, I recommend Matacanes which is south of the city of Monterrey. There you can test your skills at deep canyon rappels and swims inside dark water-filled caves! You can learn more information about these places by reading my blog.
Now let's focus on food. Traditionally the northern Mexican cuisine emphasizes meat as the main protein. Tortillas will be on the table for every meal breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Here are five examples of traditional dishes you should try when visiting cities like Monterrey in Nuevo Leon state.
For your breakfast I recommend Chilaquiles. This dish is prepared by cutting tortillas into little triangle forms (called totopos) which are then fried in oil. Then they are topped with either a green or a red salsa. If you don't like very spicy foods, just request a less spicy salsa for your plate. Next comes a layer of cooked shredded chicken, crème, fresh cheese, and onion. Finally, the most important part, the beans and the cooked eggs. Such a delicious way to start your day!
Another choice you have probably heard of is huevos rancheros. This is a very common and popular breakfast. It is basically fried eggs with sliced tomato and a little spicy sauce. Some places will add refried beans, traditional Mexican rice, avocado slices and grated cheese to the plate.
Just a quick note, if you do not eat meat, there are cafes you can find that offer vegetarian dishes as an alternative to these traditional breakfasts.
For a main meal especially during the weekends you will find northern Mexicans eating Carne Asada. This is perfectly seasoned and charcoal-grilled beef. It will be served with melted cheese, guacamole, and roasted potato. On the table for all to share will be salsa and tortillas. In some cases you might also be offered a polish sausage wrapped with bacon and melted cheese on the inside. Enjoy your meal with a fresh Mexican beer!
Another very traditional dish to try is Cabrito. This is the roasted meat of a young goat. It is cooked slowly over hot coals then cut into individual portions. In fact, one of the most famous restaurants in northern Mexico is called El Rey del Cabrito ("The King of the Cabrito").
Finally, you must try some good authentic tacos! I would say anyplace in Mexico is a good place for tacos, they are so fresh, juicy and tasty! Whether you order steak, pork, or seafood tacos, they will come with a topping of salsa. If you are sensitive to spicy foods, you can request a less spicy salsa or just a very little bit of salsa. But for many people this extra "kick" is what adds to the pleasure of eating.
I hope you will enjoy every meal and have a wonderful time when you visit northern Mexico.
Alessa Bernal is a Millennial travel and lifestyle blogger from Mexico, she is the publisher of the Alessa Bernal blog which is written in both English and Spanish. Click here to visit the blog AlessaBernal and follow her on Twitter @alessaabernal.
Q & A with Cath Wright, Sales & Marketing Director, Speyside Wildlife, Granton-on-Spey, Scotland, UK.
An award-winning nature tour company with more than 25 years of experience.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR LOCATION.
We are based with the Cairngorms National Park, in the Speyside Region of the Highlands of Scotland. The name comes from the River Spey which starts at Loch Spey [freshwater inland lake] and makes its journey all the way through the region and ultimately reaches the Northern Sea. Our company offers wildlife and nature tours in destinations worldwide as well as the famous Cairngorms National Park. The Cairngorms National Park is the largest of all the UK National Parks and features ancient forests, important bird and animal species, and several of the highest mountains in the UK! The park authority says nearly 2 million people visit here annually.
HOW DO TRAVELERS GET TO YOU?
From London there are direct flights to Inverness from both Gatwick and Heathrow airports. Inverness is the major city of the Highlands. Alternatively, if you plan a visit to Glasgow or to Edinburgh, we are only approximately 2.5 hours away by car or train.
WHAT ARE DUSK WATCH TOURS?
These are very popular evening tours for small groups [up to 12 people]. After meeting our guide, our guests take a short walk to a "state of the art" warm and comfortable hide located in the Cairngorms Caledonian pine forest, where they can observe wildlife such as Pine Marten, Red Squirrels, Badgers, Deer, and owls. We request that you book well in advance because these fill up very quickly.
Guests without their own can hire (rent) such items from us.
WHERE DO YOU TAKE GUESTS ON THE SINGLE DAY TOURS?
The Cairngorms National Park is home to some of our most iconic but elusive species of wildlife. Finding them in this vast and spectacular landscape can be a real challenge, especially if you have limited time or are unfamiliar with the area. Our expert local guides know the area intimately, so can take you to the best locations to help you find the species you'd most like to see. We can provide an itinerary that matches your specific wildlife wishes. Alternatively, if you'd just like to see a diverse range of Highland species, then leave that to us. On the day, we'll judge the weather and decide where the wildlife can be found. In our comfortable 8-seater minibus we'll take you through different habitats, to find the best wildlife. The day can include as much, or as little walking as you'd like and days normally last 8 – 10 hours dependant on your own requirements.
ANY RECOMMENDATIONS ON WHAT TO WEAR?
We provide all our guests written information in advance of their tours to help them prepare. Foremost, the weather here is variable and can change rather quickly. If it rains, you will be better off wearing clothes made of quick-drying fabrics. Avoid jeans for that reason. But it can be warm and sunny too, so bring a good sunscreen! Insect repellent is useful in the summer months. Some of the mountain peaks retain snow year-round, so if you are heading to higher elevations, dress in light layers. Walking shoes with a grip or hiking boots are the most desirable. Do not bother with wellingtons.
YOU HAVE A NEW TOUR GOING TO THE HEBRIDES ISLANDS, THAT ONE WOULD INTEREST ME.
Actually we offer several different Hebridean experiences, and we are now opening our 2019 schedule. To read about all the options, please visit our website and contact us with your questions.
TRAVELERS ON LIMITED BUDGETS MIGHT VISIT THE CAIRNGORMS ON THEIR OWN. WHY SHOULD THEY CONSIDER A GUIDED TOUR WITH YOUR COMPANY?
Our guides are highly professional and very experienced; they really do know the best locations to see the species that visitors come here to see, and they will give you the most interesting insights about the environment and the animals and birds like the Capercaillie, Dotterel, or ptarmigans. Often visitors have limited time and want to get the most out of their holidays; having the right guide will spare you time wasted from walking around aimlessly.
Q & A with Baton Bijamin, General Manager, Borneo Eco Tours, Sabah, Malaysia.
The Sukau Rainforest Lodge is one of National Geographic's Lodges of the World.
HOW MANY GUESTS DO YOU RECEIVE?
Last year we received over 5,000 guests, and we have previously had more than 8k guests in a year.
WHERE DO YOUR GUESTS COME FROM?
Just to name a few places, Australia, China, the Philippines, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany.
DO YOU OFFER TOURS IN LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH?
Yes, sometimes we have tours in Chinese for our visitors from China.
In most parts of Borneo, the wetter period happens from October to February during the North East Monsoon, and the drier period is from March to September. However, there's no really sharp division between the two; we are well known for offering warm temperatures and sunshine most of the year with the occasional sudden rain shower in the afternoon.
ARE CERTAIN TOURS ESPECIALLY POPULAR?
TELL US ABOUT THE KINABATANGAN RIVER.
It is the longest river in Sabah, and the second longest in all of Malaysia. Some 26k hectares of the Lower Kinabatangan has been gazetted as a wildlife sanctuary and is home to a myriad of wild animals and birds, making it the highest concentrated area of wildlife anywhere on the island of Borneo. The river supports a large area rich in biodiversity; it is a vital natural resource. Famous conservation experts around the world, such as Sir David Attenborough of the UK, agree that this is one of the most varied and easily accessible wildlife regions in all of Southeast Asia.
WHAT ANIMALS LIVE IN THE RAINFOREST?
WHAT KINDS OF ENERGY DO YOU USE TO POWER THE LODGE?
We mainly rely on a generator though we do use crystal solar heaters to supply hot water to all our rooms. Presently it is not possible to depend entirely on solar panels because the high concentration of rainforest canopies makes it difficult to gain sufficient solar energy. However, we are mindful about energy usage and do what we can to conserve energy in the lodge. We are self-sufficient on water supplies as we have 67 storage tanks to hold all the rainwater we collect throughout the year. The water is filtered before it is used.
WHAT MAKES YOU A LEADER IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM?
A key factor is to set sustainable standards and then meet those standards. The Sukau Rainforest Lodge has recently been certified by Travellife and has received its Gold Certificate. We are also branded as a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. We are proud of these accomplishments but will continue to find ways to improve.
We also set the bar high for ourselves by being a member of The Long Run, a membership organization of nature-based tourism businesses committed to sustainability.
Community engagement is another key factor along with our economic support to local suppliers and agricultural concerns.
DO YOU RECEIVE SUPPORT FROM THE MALAYSIAN GOVERNMENT?
We receive a tax exemption through our non-profit division called Borneo Ecotourism Solutions and Technologies Society [BEST]. We have also received an incentive tax allowance for recent lodge renovations plus a low interest rate for the construction of 20 new villas.
WHAT DOES THE BEST SOCIETY DO?
This division carries out environmental and community projects in different parts of Sabah Borneo, especially in the rural areas. A few examples of projects would be tree plantings, setting up water tanks, and providing medical check-ups and treatment to rural villagers. There are also new opportunities for travelers to visit local organic farms. In the future we would like to establish a research centre to study the impacts of ecotourism on wildlife in Kinabatangan.
ANY OTHER MESSAGES FOR MY READERS?
We have been in this business for 27 years now, so guests can expect to receive the most competent and professional treatment from our team members from start to finish. Our guides are mostly specialists in nature and wildlife, and they are committed to ensuring that every guest, no matter which tour, will have an unforgettable holiday here in Borneo.
Consider these 7 must-have products that are eco-friendly and just right for the summer season! Click on the green button below each item for more information. You can find these and many more great products from the Earth Hero catalogue.
Nothing says summer quite like open-toe footwear. Here is a pair of men's flip flops that are vegan, eco-friendly, and quite comfortable! Perfect for lounging at home, walking around the pool, or wearing at the beach. Made with vegan faux suede lining over repurposed rubber tire soles and burlap straps. Made by Indosole, men's sizes 7 to 14.
Bring out your bicycle and go for a ride! Just don't get your pants caught in the bike spokes or gears. This handy ankle strap from Green Guru will spare you that grief. Repurposed materials and made with a reflective strip for night riding. Ankle strap comes in your choice of narrow or wide sizes.
You will enjoy the outdoors more when you keep the bugs at a distance. Here is a non-toxic anti-bug roll-on balm using organic ingredients and no chemicals like DEET. Simply rub on wrists, ankles, neck, and behind your ears. For adults and kids, from Badger brand of eco-friendly personal products.
Here is a higly recommended non-greasy and biodegradable tinted sunscreen from Stream2Sea brand! Formulated with natural anti-oxidant ingredients which are better for your skin and better for the planet. Offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, comes in two sizes - 3 oz. and 32 oz.
Protect your baby from harmful sun rays when spending time outdoors with this certified organic, cruelty-free, baby sunscreen with zinc made by California Pure Naturals. Chemical-free, SPF 30, perfect for baby's delicate skin.
A picnic in the park is a great way to enjoy a warm summer day. You can avoid depending on plastic straws for sipping your cold drinks if you use these stainless steel straws made by U Konserve. Easy to clean and dishwasher safe, won't tarnish. Less plastic going into the garbage and landfills, yay!
Another genius product for your picnic or backyard BBQ party, these sporks (combination spoon and fork) utensils from Bambu brand can be cleaned and resused or tossed into the compost bin. That is right, these sporks are fully compostible! Made from Earth-friendly sustainable bamboo. So ditch all those single-use plastics and don't look back. Comes in a set of 24 per package.
If you like this post please comment below and share it with your friends, thank you!
Q & A with Marinel de Jesus, Founder, Peak Explorations, Arlington, Virginia, USA.
DID YOUR FAMILY GO ON HIKES WHEN YOU WERE A CHILD?
No, not at all. I grew up in Manila, Philippines. My father was the only income earner for a family of four children, so we did not have the financial means to go on hiking trips or to travel in general. During that time hiking was not a common form of recreation for the locals as most travels were focused on visiting relatives outside of the city [Manila]. When I was 13 years old, my family left the Philippines for the USA as immigrants; we settled in the city of Seattle. We still did not have the financial ability to pursue leisure travel. It was only some years later, after I completed law school and moved to Washington, DC, that I discovered hiking and the outdoors.
HOW DID YOU LEARN THE BASICS OF MOUNTAIN HIKING?
I first took a trip to Guatemala and hiked up Volcan Pacaya with a group and a guide. The guide mainly showed us the way up to the top of that volcano, he did not offer any training. A few years after that, I discovered the outdoor scene in Washington, DC. I decided to hike more regularly, and this led me to an introductory backpacking class offered by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. Apart from that class, I have learned what I know about mountain trekking through my own experience, trial and error. Back then there was not as much information readily available as there is today for beginning hikers.
HOW DID YOU TRANSITION FROM EMPLOYMENT AS A GOVERNMENT LAWYER TO BECOMING A BUSINESS OWNER IN THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE INDUSTRY?
My job as a lawyer entailed advocating for abused and neglected children in the District of Columbia, and I did this for 15 years. It could be at times stressful and emotional. So I found hiking to be a good way to de-stress. I launched my social enterprise, Peak Explorations, at first purely out of passion. I enjoyed taking people with me to trek in various countries. Over time I began feeling less in tune with my profession as a prosecutor. I had to reflect on my career direction. Around then, also, my mother suddenly passed away, and the reality of mortality and our limited time on Earth really struck me. It was a time of personal growth for me. My transition was actually easy since I had already dedicated so many years to this hiking enterprise, so what started out as a hobby became my new professional focus.
YOU ARE QUOTED IN OTHER PUBLISHED INTERVIEWS THAT TREKKING BRINGS YOU JOY. PLEASE EXPLAIN.
Mountain trekking has been instrumental in my life as a way to connect with my authentic self and desires. Once I became acquainted with my true desires, I then discovered joy that emanates from the process of self-awareness and self-love. The joy that I now experience is not one that depends on external matters but one that flows from my capacity to appreciate and embrace myself fully.
I came from a very challenging childhood. I had a parent struggling with mental health issues, plus we all faced the additional hardships of being immigrants in a foreign country. You receive many forms of judgment and criticisms from other people. Once I discovered hiking, it became a major source of healing for me. It challenges you physically, mentally, and emotionally, in a good way, you become stronger. The wilderness is like a neutral zone, you are free to be yourself.
WITH PEAK EXPEDITIONS IT SEEMS YOU PLACE SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON FEMALE HIKERS, WHY?
There is no doubt that the outdoor adventure industry in general is still very male-dominated. The same can be said for mountain trekking. As a social entrepreneur, I feel a sense of purpose to promote women in the outdoors to send a clear message that women can be as adventurous and skilled in mountain trekking as men. My company offers women-only treks to Peru, India, and Tanzania for that reason. With more of that to come. On the other side, we also wish to empower the local women in these developing countries. Hence, we match our female clients with local female guides and porters. I have become an advocate for women empowerment in the outdoor adventure industry as a whole and in the world of mountain trekking more specifically. That means catering more to the female clients as well as the women working on the mountain trails.
YOU GO TO PERU OFTEN. WHAT IS IT ABOUT PERU THAT ATTRACTS YOU?
I find Peru to be quite diverse in terms of landscapes. Around the city of Cusco the environment has a lot of jungle-like features, but once you start climbing higher in the Andes Mountains the terrain changes dramatically, and eventually you are looking at the snow-capped mountains of Cordillera Blanca. Peru offers a range of trails, some are better for beginners and some appeal to more advanced hikers. If you are an avid hiker, you could spend years trekking around this part of the world.
WHY DO YOU SAY THE QUECHUA WOMEN OF PERU ARE AN INSPIRATION?
Because the Quechua women are breaking old molds and taking ownership of that decision. For such a long time, the trekking tourism industry there neglected the relevance and presence of these women. No one thought to include them as guides or porters even though they are strong physically and mentally. They just need to believe in their ability to be guides and porters in the same way they believe in themselves as farmers and textile weavers. Today these Quechua women are learning the guiding skills required to earn better pay and become role models for younger women in their villages and for women in other countries too.
ARE THERE OTHER WOMEN LEADERS IN THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE INDUSTRY THAT YOU FOLLOW?
Yes. There is one woman in particular that I admire, and her name is Thinlas Chorol. She is from Ladakh, India. She started the very first woman-owned trekking company that only hires women as guides and porters. Her story inspires me when I think about the challenges she had to face as a woman entrepreneur and the element of innovation that she brought to the industry. I feel my work is similar in many ways which is to stand up against the stereotype of women being incapable as mountain guides. I am also encouraging more minority women to become mountain hikers and join us.
SO WHAT CHARACTERISTICS DO YOU LOOK FOR WHEN HIRING GUIDES?
The guides who lead our trips must be naturally drawn to the mountains and enjoy the adventures that abound on the trails. They must have obtained the prerequisite qualifications and experience. We look for guides who will go above and beyond for our clients, and they must share our mission to empower indigenous communities and women in general.
AND WHAT MAKES YOUR TOUR COMPANY SUSTAINABLE?
Peak Explorations works with agencies that are locally owned and operated. We focus on inclusion and equity; we choose partners who share the same values. I believe sustainability is best achieved when these local partners can operate successfully without reliance on big foreign corporations.


text:
Stunning photos of SpaceX's rocket prepping for today's launch
Jessica Orwig
Jan. 17, 2016, 12:35 PM
On Sunday at 1:42 pm ET, SpaceX is scheduled to launch one of its Falcon 9 rockets out of Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Click here to watch it live.
Tucked away inside the cone of the rocket's head is precious cargo: the Jason-3 satellite, which is designed to measure ocean height across the globe and track sea level rise.
Here you can see the cone on the left as SpaceX rolled its rocket from the hangar toward the launch pad late last week:
The two-stage Falcon 9 rocket stands 224 feet tall— about 14 stories — with a reusable first stage, which SpaceX plans to land on a drone ship located off shore in the Pacific, 186 miles south of the launch site, shortly after the launch on Sunday.
You can clearly see the different sections of the rocket in the photo below, including the interstage module, which connects the first and second rocket stages. Take note of the human on the lower right in the image below for a sense of how big this rocket really is:
SpaceX on Flickr
To help guide the first stage toward its landing point, SpaceX engineers use grid fins located near the top of the reusable rocket.
During ascent, the grid fins stay tucked parallel to the side of the rocket, as shown below. It's only after the rocket starts to fall back to Earth that the fins fold outward:
As you can see here, SpaceX has already attached its rocket to the launch tower — all of that scaffolding beneath the rocket is the launch tower:
After rolling it toward the launch pad, all that's left for SpaceX engineers to do is orient the massive machine upright in preparation for fueling and launch.
The launch is scheduled to take place during a 30-second window starting at 1:42 pm ET on Sunday.
SpaceX told Business Insider that the launch and landing attempt will be broadcast live, so don't miss out! You can watch all of the action unfold here.
RELATED: SpaceX will attempt its most challenging feat today — here's how to watch live
SEE ALSO: SpaceX just released never-before-seen footage of its epic rocket landing last month
NOW WATCH: Incredible footage from SpaceX's nearly successful rocket-landing attempt
More: Science Tech SpaceX Space

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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I used to throw this kind of stuff up on Facebook…the little moments that I wanted to record, but now, they just seem too sad for Facebook, so I don't want them there.
It was a night at our house. Just a crappy night. Mac was in a tizzy. Several things set him off, and he was a flat bad mood, which led to him crying, which led to him going up to his room, and making a lot of noise, like the slamming of things and throwing things and all the stuff that makes a lot of noise in a little boy's bedroom when he is angry. He came downstairs jumping rope. It made a lot of noise as it slapped on the floor, and I knew that was the goal. If he had something to break, he would have broken it 20 times.
Mac was mad at Daddy.
He didn't have to say it. I'm his mama. I know.
He had a crappy day, and he wanted my daddy. He just wanted to tell him. He wanted his Charles to be near. He wanted to feel him. He wanted to hug him. He wanted to just say out loud to him all the things he can't say to his parents.
And it made me madder than Mac could ever think about being.
To see my baby so angry because he can't get to the one person he trusted the most in the world makes me angrier than I think I've been in a year and almost 5 months. My heart breaks. Angry tears are hitting my keyboard as I type. It just hurts and hurts and hurts and hurts and hurts and hurts some more.
The hurts just keep on coming.
The lessons my daddy taught him while he was here….I'm SO scared that his leaving has undone every ounce of that in Mac.
I'm scared it has undone every ounce of that in me.
Because what daddy who loved you with everything everything everything everything leaves you on purpose and expects you to carry on in the way he reared you?
It doesn't happen that way. It just doesn't.
The leaving changes everything about you. It changes who you are, what you know, what you believed, what you could count on.
After things quieted down, we all sat on the couch to watch The Voice. And some dude sang One More Day by Diamond Rio.
One More Day. One more time. One more sunset, maybe I'd be satisfied.
We all know I wouldn't, but I would sure take it. It is pretty much all I dream of, all I wish for.
And yet, if it was granted to me, I would give my day with Daddy to Mac. Because that is what a parent does.
I would give the one thing I want the most in my entire life to my son because he matters more than I.
And I am your daughter, but you couldn't even just keep breathing for me.
You were such a good daddy. You loved me in a way that taught me right from wrong, moral from immoral, good from bad. You taught me that you don't have to get anything in return to do something for someone else; you do it because you want to, because you should, because you must.
You showed me what loved looks like. You showed me every day you were alive.
And then, your last act showed me what it looks like to not give a damn about the people you love.
Your last act may have undone everything good you ever taught me.
Because at the end of the day, at the end of your life, you decided not to be a daddy….certainly not MY daddy.
It would have been better if you had just walked away…just left us. I wish you had done it a long time ago, because instead, you made us love you up until the minute you pulled that trigger.
And then, you left us with the after.
And we were still trying to deal with the love we had known our entire lives up until approximately 10:37 on June 22, 2017.
At 10:38, you changed the game. You changed the lessons. You changed the code.
You just left us trying to reconcile how we could still love the You who reared us with the You who left us. On purpose.
And now I'm watching Mac live with that conflict: I know how much Charles loved me because he showed me, but then, he left me on purpose, and that just doesn't equal anything that makes sense. And I tell my mama that talking about it won't change anything. That makes her cry. Because she knows it, too.
And she can't fix it.
This is what you have left me with, Daddy.
Just one more day, Daddy, Just one more day.
Which makes you not the daddy I knew.
It makes you not the Charles that Mac knew.
And you not being the Charles that Mac knew, the Daddy that I knew, made you become a person anyone who had ever met you, a stranger.
Because we all knew you.
And the you we knew would have given us the One More Day off your back. Every time.
You changed us by loving us, Daddy, and you changed us by leaving us, and we don't know who we are anymore.
Even and especially your boy.
So I know you can't give us one more day from Heaven….but I hope you can read blogs in Heaven.
I'm supposed to believe that, so let's just say I do.
I hope you can read blogs in Heaven, and I hope you read this one.
And I hope, on some heavenly level, you finally get it: We didn't want your things. We didn't expect you to take care of us forever. We didn't care about your money or anything associated with you that wasn't just, you.
All we wanted was One More Day, every single day.
All we ever wanted, Daddy, was you.
Ugh. The power of your thoughts you put into words. I admire you, Marsha, in this horrific pain and emptiness you are living with, I admire you sharing. Maybe ONE person who may have done what your daddy did, Mac's Charles, didn't, or won't, b/c they see the Ugly Real pain left for the loved ones to make some sort of sense of. You all are SO SO LOVED, and lifted in prayer.
Marsha, I totally understand every single word of this. No parent or child ever expects to bury their child or parent this way. One thing that I have come to believe is that neither Charles nor Stuart chose to leave us. The human brain is the most complicated and least understood organ in the human body. It's number one instinct is survival. When someone dies by suicide I do not think that, except in rare circumstances, that they have made a choice to do so. I think that their brain has had something go terribly wrong and that they are led to go in a manner that we can not possibly understand. Failure of the brain is the only organ failure that we blame people for and is the only organ failure that we think was a choice. Heart failure, lung failure, ect we say "he fought a tough battle and fought as long as he could." With brain failure we get made at the person for purposely leaving us and for purposely hurting us and everyone else. I no longer believe that they did so on purpose. Please accept my thoughts, words, and beliefs with the love, kindness, and gentleness that they are given with.


text:
Expect the Unexpected () is a 1998 Hong Kong action film directed by Patrick Yau and starring Lau Ching-wan and Simon Yam.

Cast and roles
 Simon Yam as Ken
 Lau Ching-wan as Sam
 Yoyo Mung as Mandy
 Ruby Wong as Macy
 Lam Suet as Collins
 Lester Chan as Head of Security Carrier Robbers
 Joe Cheng as Heavy-armed Robber in Apartment
 Hui Shiu-hung as Ben
 Park Ka-sin as Isabella
 Keiji Sato as Jewelry Shop Robber
 Raymond Wong Ho-yin as Jimmy

References

External links

 Hong Kong Cinemagic entry

1998 films
1990s crime action films
Hong Kong crime action films
Police detective films
Milkyway Image films
1990s Cantonese-language films
Films set in Hong Kong
Films shot in Hong Kong
1990s Hong Kong films

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


STAMFORD, Conn., May 2, 2018 – Texas was ranked as the No. 1 state for business for the 14th straight year in Chief Executive magazine's 14th annual Best & Worst States for Business survey, which was released today. The Chief Executive rankings reflect CEO perceptions of best and worst states based on a range of key measures.
Texas has held the No. 1 spot for each of the 14 years since the inception of the Chief Executive survey, thanks to its extremely business-friendly environment, high-quality workforce and attractive living opportunities. Florida (No. 2), North Carolina and South Carolina (tied at No. 3) and Indiana (No. 5) rounded out the top five states. Full results and additional information can be found on ChiefExecutive.net, and in the May/June issue of Chief Executive.
In addition to the overall state rankings, Chief Executive's 2018 Best & Worst States for Business survey also presents individual category rankings, including workforce, taxes/regulation and living environment.