Caribbean Sailing Vacations

The best way to appreciate the immense beauty of the Caribbean islands is sailing. It can be said that the Caribbean islands were made expressly for the purpose of sailing vacations. The tiny Caribbean islands are within miles of each other. As you leave each island on your yacht, boat or catamaran, you can see the other island in the distance. The island grows from a speck on the horizon to a whole landmass as you approach it.

Caribbean islands have plenty of coves and small islands on which you can anchor during your sailing vacation. Hence, a sailing vacation in the Caribbean is not just about sailing; it is about discovering a whole new land. There are myriad possibilities on the islands - sailing, snorkeling, scuba-diving, sunbathing on its pristine beaches, reading with the sun overhead, etc. The list could go on.

Sailing also is the chief economy of the natives of the Caribbean islands. Local natives provide sailing packages such as boats and yachts. Catamarans and even the trimarans are available in good number. The natives also provide sailing instructions to those who wish to know. They also may work as skipper or crew on board.

The most popular destination in the Caribbean for a sailing vacation is the British Virgin Islands. These islands have good marine life as well as advanced facilities on their beaches. Tortola is the largest island in the British Virgin Islands and it also has a small airport. The British Virgin Islands are always crowded throughout the year and the population of sailors has increased here in the past decade.

The Grenadines are also extremely popular. These islands are inhabited by French-speaking people for whom boating is a way of life. In fact there is no other mode of transport among the Grenadines except boats. The Grenadines are also very crowded almost throughout the year.

People also throng other islands of the Caribbean like St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, etc. It is difficult to even find a mooring on most of these islands in the peak season. The best period to go to the Caribbean is before the onset of the winter, i.e. in November or in the season between March and May. The Caribbean Islands are relatively less crowded then.

Sailing vacations have become a big business along Caribbean beaches. Most resorts and hotels provide stay-sail facilities. There are many other attractions like folk dances, native food, etc. which becomes a part of the entire sailing package.

Caribbean Cruises - Visit the Beautiful Island of St Lucia

Visitors to the Caribbean island of St Lucia will confirm that the island is one of the most beautiful islands in the region- if not in the world. It's the kind of island that holidaymakers dream about: a small beautiful gem of an island which is still relatively unknown, unlike Jamaica and Barbados, its more famous cousins. It's in the middle of the islands of Eastern Caribbean; it's 24 miles long and 14 miles wide, and in terms of shape it looks a lot like an avocado.

St Lucia stands out among the islands of the Caribbean for its outstanding natural beauty: travelers to the island will see breathtaking rainforests teeming with wild orchids, giant ferns and beautiful birds of paradise. You can't help but notice and marvel at the grandeur of the Pitons, the 2000 feet high peaks that tower above their beautiful surroundings.

Another magnificent natural structure is the Soufriere volcano. The value of this attraction has not been ignored; it is the not just the first, but the only drive-in crater in the world.

As you would imagine, an island like St Lucia has a wide variety of exciting activities for visitors to Caribbean. It has very steep coastlines and reefs of magnificent beauty, which are enjoyed by thousands of divers and snorkelers every year. Keen hikers and birdwatchers can indulge in their favorite pastimes to their hearts' content, and of course there are excellent facilities for golfers and those who are passionate about sailing.

St Lucia has an enviable calendar of major events and festivals: in addition to the spectacular calypso and carnival celebrations, St Lucia also hosts international tennis tournaments and welcomes the cream of the jazz world to its annual St Lucia Jazz Festival, a four day celebration of emerging and established musical talent.

Whatever your tastes are, whether or not you visit the island as part of a Caribbean cruise vacation, your sure to find much to make your stay in St Lucia a memorable, pleasurable experience!

Caribbean Cruise Holidays - Experience the World of Exotic Surprises

If you are thinking of a perfect holiday or a special treat for yourself and your family, why not consider a cruise in the Caribbean? Cruise holidays will give you the opportunity to explore the exotic world of the many picturesque islands under 'one roof' of a luxury vessel. Combining the dining experience and entertainment on board with the beach life and cultural exploring of the variety of islands is a unique way of escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday working life. On a cruise holiday you can immerse yourself in the wonderful world of palm lined powdery sand beaches on land or discover the underwater life of the surrounding reefs. And, in the evenings, sail off to the amazing sunsets whilst sipping your favourite cocktail on the top deck. The morning on your cruise is sure to bring many more ports and exotic surprises...

While you cruise the Caribbean, you can enjoy the comforts of your well equipped luxury cabin, take walks on the well designed promenades, sample various international cuisines, watch variety shows, play tennis, swim and even experience the thrill of climbing walls. Travelling with kids? Many cruise ships will take care of them in the professionally run kids clubs where they can take part in competitions, parties and lots of creative activities on board of the ship. Being on board of a cruise ship is an excellent opportunity to socialize and meet new people. Whether you are in Barbados, St Lucia, Tobago, Antigua, Grenada or the Dominican Republic, you will get a chance to discover the unique traditions and varied cultural life of the islands representing a fusion of the English, French and Dutch influences. Cruise the Caribbean and combine it with stay at one of the exotic islands, this will only enhance your holiday or could be a great idea for a perfect honeymoon.

Booking your Caribbean holiday at the last minute will provide you with some amazing discounts and bargain holidays. The all inclusive concept on board of your cruise liner is an excellent way of giving you peace of mind and the extra saving. Just imagine the round-the-clock buffet style and a la carte dining whether it is fast food or more exclusive culinary delights. It is always great to have your glass constantly topped up and to experience superb world class service. A Caribbean cruise is a truly unique holiday experience which is likely to have you return for more. There are hundreds of imaginatively designed itineraries ready to satisfy all tastes and budgets.

Caribbean Calling - Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia is a lovely island located on the eastern edge of the Caribbean Sea. Located in the Lesser Antilles, the island Saint Lucia was formed by a volcano. But fear not, that volcano has long been dormant.

Volcanic activity also formed the long mountain range that runs the entire length of the island. That's where the twin Pitons are found. Some say that they are Saint Lucia's most famous landmark. The Gros Piton and Petit Piton are twin peaks along the southwest coast and they are a must-see for all tourists.

Saint Lucia has more mountains than most of the Caribbean islands. Its peaks rang well over 3000 feet. The mountainsides are covered with tropical rainforests and give the island a lush, green look.

Saint Lucia, one of the Windward Islands, was named for Saint Lucy of Syracuse. The first European visitors came in the year 1500 and first colonized successfully by France. France and England fought over the island often, changing rule 14 times. The British finally took complete control of the island in 1814. However the Frence influence is still apparent in the names of some places and culturally in their cooking.

St Lucia's top temperatures are quite consistent year-round, running between 81 and 85 degrees.December thru May is considered the dry season. From June to November you are more apt to see rain. Humidity ranges from 76% in February to 83% in November.

The sharp coastlines and beautiful reefs are great for snorkeling, scuba diving, water-skiing or para-sailing. The rainforest preserves of St. Lucia's mountains are one of the Caribbean's most beautiful areas for birdwatching. Of course, there are also excellent facilities for golf and tennis.

You can also go horseback riding along the coast or hiking in the Rainforest Reserve. A tour of the Botanical Gardens features a world of native plants and waterfalls. Don't forget your camera.

You must see Pigeon Island National Park to believe it. The heritage landmarks and amenities include:

* Ruins of military buildings used during the battles between the French and the British.
* An Interpretation Center describing the rich history of the island.
* Two beautiful beaches.
* A restaurant featuring local cuisine.
* A pub and restaurant with a historical theme.
* A lookout point at the top of the Fort which gives a panoramic view of the Northwest coastline.

The island of St. Lucia is for travelers seeking fun and enrichment. The wonder of the undiscovered, the adventure of the unfamiliar, the freshness of the unspoiled and the stimulation of the exotic. It is a tropical paradise. Don't miss it.

South African Buffalo Travel Information

Buffalo are regarding by many people as one of the most dangerous of Africa's big game. The Buffalo is a gregarious animal and can be found in groups numbering hundreds of animals. Young bull and old bulls are often kicked out of the herd and go on to form bachelor herds or, especially in the case of old bulls, go on to live alone. When a buffalo charges it keeps it head high until the last moment when it lowers it to meet the target. At this time it is only stopped by a fatal or disabling bullet. The buffalo is truly one of Africa's prize trophies and a large trophy has become the focal point of many trophy rooms.

Appearance:

A large and powerful bovine, the African Buffalo reaches shoulder heights of up to 1.5 m and a mass of 750 kg. Both sexes have horns, those of the bulls are characterised by a heavy boss and upward curved horns.

Diet:

Buffalo herds can have significant ecological impact on the veld. Being a bulk grazer, they are responsible for converting long grasslands into short grassy environments conducive to other browsers with more selective feeding habits.

Breeding:

Mating occurs between March and May. Gestation period is 330 days. Single calves are born between January and April, with a distinct peak in February. African Buffalo are strongly gregarious. Stable herds of up to several hundred are often observed, but which fragment into smaller herds in times of drought.

Behavior:

Mainly preyed upon by lions. When a herd member is attacked, others will rush to its defense. Collectively a number of buffalo are more than capable to stave off an attack by an entire pride of lions. A wounded buffalo bull is regarded as most dangerous by hunters, and is one of the reasons why this animal is included into the so-called 'big five'. This trait is the origin of many hunting adventures, myths and legends.

Where they are found:

An inhabitant of woodland savannas, large herds of African Buffalo are encountered in the Kruger National Park, with smaller herds in Zululand and the Eastern Cape.

African Buffalo featured in the following areas:

Addo Elephant Park, Andries Vosloo Kudu Reserve, Caprivi Reserve, Chizarira Park, Chobe Park, Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Gona-re-zhou Reserve, Gorongosa Reserve, Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park, Kaudom Reserve, Kruger Park, Loskopdam Reserve, Madikwe Game Reserve, Mahango Reserve, Mala Mala, Mamili Reserve, Manapools Park, Manyeleti Reserve, Marakele Reserve, Matetsi Reserve, Matusadona Park, Moremi Reserve, Mudumu Reserve, Ndumo Reserve, Nxaipan Reserve, PercyFyfe Reserve, Pilanesberg National Park, Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, Selati Reserve, St Lucia Wetlands Reserve, Thomas Baines Reserve, Timbavati Reserve, Vaalbos National Park, Waterberg Plato Reserve, Weenen Reserve, Willem Pretorius Reserve

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How to Find Discount Travel Packages For St Lucia Holidays

St. Lucia is very famous for being a volcanic island covered with lush vegetation and trees that beautify the roadsides. If you want to experience dazzling sunlight and white sandy beaches, then you should go to St. Lucia for a holiday this season. A lot of resorts and hotels in St. Lucia are made for the ease of holidaymakers and offer the best of services.

Different kinds of offers and discounts are available for holidays to St. Lucia, which you can avail when you go for your holiday. Hence, you can get the best value and experience without incurring too much expense. One can find many ways of discount travel packages for a perfect tropical Caribbean holiday.

If you are planning to spend a special holiday in St. Lucia to enjoy the sense of wonder and relaxation that seem natural to the island, then you should St.art looking for discount holiday packages. For this purpose, you can use the Internet and go to a travel agent as well. As it is the holiday season, there are many discount packages for several destinations and you can explore your options.

Many websites on the Internet can be of great help in this regard. You can browse through various discount holiday packages and then get the one that suits you the most. Other than that, you can also visit the travel agents in your city where you would be able to find out a lot about the packages and deals that are available.

The advantage of looking on the Internet is that you are directly able to see the various packages and find discounted rates for accommodation and many enjoyable activities. Various hotels and resorts offer packages for different durations around the year. As this is the holiday season, a few hotels in St. Lucia are offering discount packages for different durations.

Some of the hotels and resorts that offer discount packages for holidays include the Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa, which is an all-inclusive resort; The Body Holiday and LeSport; St. Lucian by Rex Resorts; Sandals Halcyon Beach, and several others.

If you did not have the chance to plan the holiday and you want to take a last minute holiday to St. Lucia, then you need not worry because there is a great range of discount deals and offers available for your ease and facility. While a holiday to the Caribbean may not be very cheap, but with the available discount packages and deals, you would be surprised by the difference that it makes.

There are many attractions and activities for you in St. Lucia and you can unwind, and indulge in various activities as well if you are the adventurous type. St. Lucia is like a gift of nature and holds a lot of appeal for the people who prefer greenery and natural landscape.

Great Family Caribbean Vacation - 3 Caribbean Spots That Will Blow Your Mind - I've Made My Decision

Choosing a great family caribbean vacation can be overwhelming. But you don't have to worry because I'm going to discuss the top 3 Caribbean itineraries so you you'll have a better idea on what each voyage has to offer.

Western Caribbean

If this is your first time cruising in the Caribbean, then you should try the seven-night cruise. You can leave from different ports and experience a mix of Central American and island ports, as well as days at sea.

Western Caribbean has attracted travelers that are interested in a unique mix of sun and surf, the history of civilizations, and eco-oriented adventures.

Activities:

Snorkeling and scuba diving
Exploring Mayan ruins in Mexico
Waterfall climb in Jamaica

Eastern Caribbean

The eastern Caribbean gives the most choice for cruising. Almost all of the major and minor cruise lines has a trip that focuses on the region. Trip schedules are very flexible and there's a package for every budget level.

Cruising the eastern Caribbean will take you to the British and American virgin islands, Puerto Rico and the island with two nations, St. Maarten & St. Martin.

Activities:

Shopping
Lying on the beach
Exploring rainforests
Rock climbing
Ice Skating
Boxing on floating resort

Southern Caribbean

Seasoned cruisers who already sailed the Caribbean before goes to the southern Caribbean for more exotic and less crowded islands.

The islands fall into different categories, and itineraries will basically include one from each. For example, the biggest attraction of places like Aruba and Antigua is their beaches. Scenic opportunities is for Martinique, St. Lucia and Guadeloupe.

St Lucia Vacations - Lush Landscapes and Exotic Rainforests

Visitors to St. Lucia will find a Caribbean island that is attractive for its lush landscape, exotic rainforests and beautiful beaches.

The semi-mountainous island is a popular stop for both cruise visitors and vacationers coming for a long-term stay at nearly 100 hotels, resorts and inns. It is located in the Eastern Caribbean, just south of Martinique and northwest of Barbados.

When visitors aren't spending time on the beach, they will find St. Lucia has the usual variety of Caribbean things to do, mainly water sports but also hiking, ATV rides and horseback rides. But it also has unique attractions that emphasize history, culture and the island's natural environment.

Major sightseeing attractions that focus on the island's history and culture include Pigeon Island National Landmark, Fond d'Or Nature Historic Park and Fond Doux Estate.

Nature activities include rainforest hikes such as the moderately difficult hike through the Des Cartiers Rainforest over a two-kilometer trail. Another hike can be found in a strenuous 3.5-hour trek through Edmund Forest Reserve. For the more adventurous hikers, there is Enbas Saut. This 4-kilometer trail can be found in the Central Rainforest Reserve, a 19,000 acre park at the foot of St. Lucia's highest mountain.

Shopping, nightlife and restaurants are available in the capitol city of Castries. Although the nation's currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, U.S. dollars are widely accepted on the island.

The best times to visit because of warmth and sunshine are December through June. The least attractive months to visit because of rainfall from the annual Caribbean hurricane season are September and October.

Like most Caribbean destinations, St. Lucia generally requires visitors to have a passport and proof of return visit before being allowed to visit the island. Visitors coming from cruise ships usually have to show their shipboard ID card to leave and return to the ship.

What the St Lucians Can Teach Us About Running a Successful Business

I am always amazed at how travel can improve your business and your life. Recently, my husband and I visited the beautiful Caribbean island of St. Lucia. It was a fantastic vacation by all accounts. The island is a marvel of nature with soaring peaks, an active volcano, lush rainforests, volcanic sand beaches, etc. We stayed at a really special place called Ti Kaye Village Resort and booked through a wonderful local company named Serenity Tours. I was able to unplug from my busy life back home, and truly enjoy a tropical escape. However, I did not turn my business brain off just because I was on vacation. To the contrary, I carefully observed and realized that travel in general, and the people of St. Lucia in particular, can teach us a lot about how to run successful businesses and live better lives. Here are the lessons learned.

Great Customer Service Gets Noticed

We all know how important good customer service is. But how many businesses truly excel at customer service? At Ti Kaye, the little touches made a big impact. The check-in procedure gave us a glimpse of how amazing the service is. You arrive and are given a complimentary drink (rum punch!), a banana leaf necklace is placed around your neck, you sit in the open air bar enjoying the view, and the manager comes over to introduce herself and tell you about the resort. You sign one piece of paper, give a credit card, and then are shown to your cottage, where your bags are already waiting for you. What got our attention was how personalized it was, and how it didn't feel like a traditional check-in. There's no lobby. You're sitting at an open-air bar with an amazing view of the Caribbean Sea. Another example of the excellent customer service is the complimentary neck and shoulder massages before dinner. (Don't even get me started on the spa!) It was the little things that made a big difference, and truly got our attention. From a business standpoint, customer service is not only still king, but gets noticed and creates true fans of your business.

Make Your Clients Feel Special by Personalizing the Service

Our tour guide from Serenity Tours, John, actually took the time before he met us to find out what we do for a living, and then weaved it into the conversation. For example, he saw that I do motivational speaking on my website, and commented how much he loves Tony Robbins and finds motivational speaking so inspirational. He found out that my husband is a veterinarian, and shared that his sister-in-law is also a veterinarian. He offered to arrange for us to tour her vet practice on the island. That type of personalized approach in going deep with your clients, researching them, and really taking the time to find out what makes them unique goes a long way. We truly felt special. I have no doubt that Serenity does that for all of its clients, as all service-based business owners should do.

Manners & Friendliness Count

St. Lucians are friendly, warm, and open people, and this makes visitors feel welcome and appreciated. This is something we can all benefit from in life and in our business with our clients. Manners and friendliness make a difference! For example, they call elder women "Mom" in the British tradition as a sign of respect. We noticed it and thought it was a nice touch. We were always greeted with a friendly salutation, thanked for our service, and were even treated to some warm, big hugs when saying good-bye. Treat your clients with respect, mind your manners, and engage them with warmth and affection.

Challenge Yourself

There are twin volcanic peaks on the island called The Pitons. You can hike Gros Piton, which is 2600 feet high. It is a serious physical challenge, but also a mental one. It took us 2 hours to reach the summit, and then 2 hours to hike back down. It is a difficult hike as the trail is very rocky so you have to really watch your footing, and it is steep. But, it is worth it! The views from the top are incredible! Doing something like that when you are traveling, or even in everyday life, can remind you of your own strength and resilience personally and professionally. Are there new business ideas that you are dying to implement but have been holding yourself back? Challenge yourself. The rewards may be amazing once you reach the "summit."

Be Authentic

We loved hearing about the history of the people that live near Gros Piton in the community called Fond Gens Libres (land of the free). The community was originally formed of Royalists escaping the guillotine during the French Revolution, and then slaves that had escaped or been freed (St. Lucia abolished slavery in 1834.) There are only about 100 descendants of those original ancestors living in the community of Fond Gens Libre today, and they are fiercely independent. They stand true to their beliefs and way of life. Their example serves as a powerful reminder to stand by your beliefs, your views, and be authentic to your true self personally and professionally.

Give Prospects a Free Taste

At the resort where we were staying, there is a lovely secluded beach called Anse Cochon. And there are some local "beach dudes," which is their official term according to the St. Lucians. One is known as the Fruit Man. He climbs trees every morning and fills up his kayak with coconuts, bananas, and a number of other delicious tropical fruit. He then kayaks out to the visiting catamarans that come to the cove for snorkeling excursions. We would watch him and think, "Do people really buy from him?" "How does he make a living as there are not that many tourists on this secluded beach?" We soon had our answer. While we were swimming one day, he kayaks over to us, cracks open a coconut and says, "Taste." So of course, what do we do? We taste. And it is this fresh, delicious coconut water, surrounded by fresh coconut meat. We are in heaven. He tells us that he will bring us another one later in the week, and if we really love it, then we can pay him for both. We get another one a day or two later, and then a third one on our final day, and we pay him for all three. That's when it dawns on me that Fruit Man is an amazing sales person. Why? Because he gave us a free irresistible taste of what he sells, and once we experienced it, we were hooked! This is a great example of giving your clients a free taste of your services and expertise.

Whether it is a free monthly e-zine, a preview teleclass, a free phone consultation, a free special report or article, a Facebook Fan Page where you post tips or provide extra value, etc. Don't be stingy with your expertise and content, as it will come back to you in sales and fans - at least three-fold if the Fruit Man is any lesson.

Rejuvenate & Refresh

Unplugging, decompressing, relaxing, and leaving the daily grind of your life is a great opportunity to rejuvenate and refresh so that you come back ready to face your life and work again. So make time for travel and vacations. They are an important part of staying fresh. Besides, you just may learn some fantastic business lessons too!

Condo - The Perfect Accommodation For You

It is really a good idea to spend a vacation with the whole family. Normally if you are going to spend your vacation, you will come up with an idea of having an out of town vacation.

And if you are going to think of the best place where you can spend your vacation you will surely love to spend it to Miami.

As you think of vacation in Miami, you will surely need an accommodation that will make your stay in Miami convenient and comfortable. Actually there are lots of property that can be your accommodation while temporary staying in the city. But of course you want something that is comfortable and convenient as you stay in. Picking the right property as your accommodation will depend on your taste and needs.

When planning to have an out of town vacation, it will be better if you are going to make plans ahead of time. In this way you can be sure that there will be no hassle as you move it. Proper planning is very important especially when looking for the right accommodation in the city.

One of the best accommodations in this city is the Miami Beach condo. Actually there are lots of condo units that are out in the market. It is important that you have to find the one that will perfectly fit with your needs and wants as you stay in the city. It is also important that you have to check on the interior of the condo. Make sure that it has enough space that will accommodate the rest of the household. Make sure that you can still move freely once you start to move in. Vacationer usually wants to be comfortable and convenient. If you will make plans ahead of time you will surely have the comfort and convenient that you want.

Miami Beach condos are designed with class and elegance. With this you can be sure to achieve the luxurious ambiance that you want. It is fully furnished and complete with all the high tech appliances that will make your stay comfortable and convenient. Miami Beach condo has a floor to ceiling window that lets you view the breathtaking view of the city. With this beautiful and elegant ambiance of the Miami Beach condo, for sure you will enjoy a lot.

But before you finally decide to rent the Miami Beach condo as your accommodation during your vacation it will be better if you are going to know all the details regarding the property. It is important that you have to know the rental fee of the property so that you will be able to include it with your budget. In this way you are avoiding future problems.