Explore the Pantanal in Brazil

In the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, lies a vast expanse of tropical wetland, rich in flora and fauna; a world by itself, waiting to unravel its mysteries. Sprawling over an area of about 140,000 and 195,000 square kilometers, Pantanal is home to nature’s marvelous creatures whose unobtrusive presence startles nature lovers and ecologists who suddenly begin to realize the enormity of nature!

Known as one of the world’s largest wetland zones, Pantanal in Central America’s Brazil is indeed an ecosystem by itself. Being a wetland, the area is well-fed with saltwater, brackish and freshwater and is swampy and marshy. With an abundance of water and fertile soil, can life cease to exist?

Exploring Pantanal

Why Pantanal? A visit to Pantanal is sure to amaze you and relax you at the same time. The remarkable flora and fauna, their habits and their habitat and the serenity of their world is sure to make you feel one with the world, erasing every bit of your inconsequential inner turmoil. The biodiversity here is sure to enrich your experience and your wanderlust will be given a new meaning-the urge to seek greener pastures!

What to do in Pantanal

The best way to explore Pantanal is to saunter around taking in the sights and smell of the place. You have the option of straddling a steed too. Every new day and every new turn within the environs offers you spectacular sights as you spot a fleeting Hyacinthine Macaw, a Capybara beating a hasty retreat or the Jaguar. When after your eyes have grown weary of the thrills of spotting, relax by rowing a boat-you’d soon begin to believe life is nothing but a dream! Canoeing and fishing are other recreational activities that would set your adrenaline pumping!

There are many tour options to choose from and some unique tour thrills include night time observation, bird watching, observing the behavior of animals, livestock management and a photography safari. Tour costs vary according to the various ecological tours arranged. Ecological tours at Pantanal range from a day’s tour to a week’s. 

What to look out for?

Pantanal is an ecosystem, so needless to say its flora and fauna are going to be unique. Pantanal is home to a few rare species like the Marsh Deer and the Giant Otter.

1. The Hyacinthine Macaw and the Blue Macaw deserve a special mention, for their unique charm.  When you sight these birds in their striking blue bodies with yellow beaks nestling on the emerald green foliage, it does form a riot of remarkable colors! Little wonder then that the Kayapo Indians in South Central Brazil enjoy fashioning headdresses and other ornaments with these attractive blue feathers! Unfortunately, this bird is often hunted for food.

2. The Capybara which is the largest rodent on earth is yet another unique creature here, given that it enjoys the wetland. It’s regarded precious by pharmaceutical companies for the grease extracted from its fatty skin.

3. Marsh deer of Pantanal are avid swimmers and choose wetland because of their lush vegetation,

4. Majestic Jaguars form the ultimate surprise lending a meaning for your charting this territory!

5. If lucky, you may spot the rare Giant River Otter and its prey- the Red-Bellied Piranha.

6. Pantanal is a birdwatcher’s paradise with native birds cooing with migratory birds, thus busting the myth that birds of a feather flock together. Depending on the season of your visit, you’d spot numerous birds in myriad colors. Tiny hummingbirds hobnob with large Jabirus, parrots and parakeets hang out with macaws.

7. An experienced tour guide may help you in spying on an anaconda, thus giving a new twist to your trip. 

8. The peculiar shape of the Giant Anteater that feeds on termites and ants is sure to stun you.

9. The sight of Black Howler Monkeys perched on the branches of trees is sure to draw your attention, for their human like emotive faces often remind us of our origin, thus bridging the gaping gap between mankind and the animal kingdom.

10. Other endangered species that are found in Pantanal include the Maned Wolf, Crowned Solitary Eagle and bush dog.

Pantanal’s waters are many fisherman’s favorite cove, for there indeed are many a fish in the pond and they come in various hues and sizes too!

Caimans not to be outdone are aplenty here and Pantanal has the ??highest concentration in the world, where especially the Caiman Crocodiles abound.

Enchanting water lilies and green lily pads found floating on Pantanal’s ponds do cast an enchanting appeal to the wilderness. It’s nature at its pristine best!

If after a lull, you again crave human company, do take shelter in the town of Bonito, south of Pantanal. With Cerrado forests enveloping you, the hills of which are crisscrossed by gushing silver streams of waterfalls, its nature at its ravishing best.

A visit to Pantanal is a treat to your senses. Where a spa treatment’s sway would begin to pale in a few days, the memories of this memorable trip is sure to humble you; making you wonder of the wondrous creatures that Mother Earth juts out from her womb!

which serve to protect them from predators. Their impressive height of 1.2 meters, never fail to catch attention.

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5 Cool Waterfalls In Southeast Asia

Nature offers some of the best recreation features. Among such features, waterfalls offer great sceneries that anyone would love seeing. Southeast Asia offers some of the best waterfalls to view. Visitors thronging Southeast Asia get the chance of touring waterfalls across Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia and Laos. Here are the 5 coolest waterfalls in Southeast Asia:

Erawan Waterfall

Erawan Waterfall is located in western Thailand. It is situated in Erawan National Park in the Tenasserim Hills. Thailand boasts as having some of the best waterfalls in Southeast Asia. This waterfall boasts as the major tourist attraction in the 550 sq KM park. The park is named after erewan. Erewan is a white elephant believed to have three heads in Hindu myths. Erawan falls are arranged in tiers, totaling 7 in total. There are paths visitors can walk through and even go up the cliff. Visitors can also enjoy swimming in the pools of the fall. Tourists visiting Erawan falls also get the chance to see amazing limestone formations such as stalagmites and stalactites.

Kawasan Waterfalls

Kawasan Falls boasts as one of the best falls to visit in the Philippines. It is located southwest of Cebu City in Cebu Island. The waterfall is situated in Barangay Matutinao Mountains. The falls are three in number and are all walking distance from each other. The first Kawasan fall is the largest of the three falls.

Nine Level Waterfalls

Nine Level Waterfalls is located in North Bengkulu province of Indonesia. It is one of the most preferred sites for visiting by both local and international tourists in Indonesia. Its uniqueness makes it a major tourist attraction and one of the best waterfalls to visit in Southeast Asia. The falls offer an amazing scenario where water falls from the top of the hill that has nine levels downwards. This natural scenery is located in a protected forest and is an ideal place for outdoor adventure.

Chiling Falls

Chilling Falls, located in Kuala Kubu Baru, boats as the top preferred falls to visit in Malaysia, southeast Asia. Reaching the falls is an adventure whereby visitors ford through five rivers and take a hike through the jungle. The lowest part of the waterfall is awesome for a splash and has a large swimming hole. The toughness of accessing the falls makes them very favorable to tourists who love challenges and adventure. Tranquility can be realized by climbing to the upper falls but care should be taken during rainy seasons.

Jurong Falls

Jurong Falls boasts as one of the tallest artificial waterfalls globally. Jurong Falls are located in Jurong Bird Park, Singapore. The waterfall is 98 ft tall, with lots of water plunging over the cliff at high speed. The falling water circles through a stream which has amazing meanders. The water cascades down the stream over a number of levels. This creates an ideal natural environment for fish, water birds, and water plants. The waterfall is located in a rainforest environment, making it a major tourist attraction site in Singapore.

With such amazing waterfalls in Southeast Asia, nature lovers would always be lost for choice of the waterfalls to visit.

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Scuba Diving in Moalboal

Philippines, scuba dive, underwater is one of the most delightful activities that you can enjoy in your lifetime. This is an exceptional activity that you will always think of. Philippines is known as the Republic of the Philippines. This nation has more than seven thousand separate islands.

Philippines Scuba dive under water can be done at any time in a year. Experts however, ask the tourists not to have the sport during the monsoon months. These months run from July to September. Below are some of the great diving sites around Moalboal:

Pescador Island

The Pescador Island has more than just a single diving spot. It is a truly wonderful dive site. Most of the times, the dives starts from the south where the boat is completely protected from the Amihad wind. Depending on the flow of current, you can go in two separate directions from here. Towards the south is a slope which is about twelve meters deep, after which it becomes a straight drop to a height of thirty three meters after which it slopes downwards.

At seven meters in the north eastern part of the Island, there is a raised area with a wonderful garden of corals and an aquarium of fish. This area looks absolutely wonderful when you dive at night. You can spend a good amount of your time in this spot and check in the corals for shrimps. At twenty five meters towards the west, you will see the ancient cathedral with magnificent glowing beams of light.

This island is now well-known for the existence of the sardines bait. Diving with sardines is a truly unique experience you do not want to miss.

House Reef

The house reef dive spot begins with a twenty five meters deep wall, with a sandy slope at the base. Be careful with the tiny cave at 27 to 30meters because it can be dangerous. The ridge is extremely shallow during low tides and you should therefore be careful when entering or leaving the cave.

During Philippines, scuba dive, underwater, watch out during low tides because you may injure yourself on the sharp ends of the coral reefs. In many cases, you will see huge parrot fish and turtles all around

Whale sharks at Olsob, Cebu

You will find the whale shark experience just off shore from a beach in the small fishing village on Tan-awan, Olsob in the southern Cebu. This is about seventy seven kilometers from resort.

The best time to see the whale sharks is just after dawn when the sea is usually calm. If you want to encounter the whale sharks, you can either Scuba dive from a shore entry or take a ride on a small fishermen’s boat.

In summary, Philippines, scuba dive, underwater is always held as a water adventure sport of the highest standards. It caters for all principles of a hard core scuba diver. The place is also enjoyable and exciting for both learners and professionals. Philippines, scuba dive, underwater is a fantastic sport.

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7 Best Spas in Europe

There is time that one will want to break away from the normal and get a feeling that is new refreshing revitalizing and just appealing. No matter the kind of break you are looking for weather from the normal work stress, the daily business and hustle, or you are a youth aged or a pregnant woman. There is a place out there that you will find the tranquility and the comfort. There are many spas in Europe but here is a mention of just a few of them.

1. Arion Spa and Resort

This is a state of art spa that is located in the Astir Palace in Greece. These resorts offer top of the art services which include, signature and spa treatment, one can also opt for private sea and beach view. Not only that, but as well the spas offer luxurious and top of the bar services. This resort offers recreation and relaxation services that include sports and fitness exercises

2. Danubius Health Spa Resort

This is a romantic resort situated in a luxurious park, surrounded by old and sweet looking trees and the illuminating background of ancient ruins. The spa offers excellent cuisine with healthy menus and as such, offering state of the art conference facilities. The activities that one will find in this spa are suited for once relaxation and recreation. This includes a family bike ride, tennis, jogging path and plenty more.

For fitness purpose the spa offers indoor and outdoor pools a Jacuzzi and also a therapeutic thermal bath. There is also a wellness center and not to forget Cadio center, laser clinic and a dental clinic

3. Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

The spar combines both a spa and a hotel which makes a complete treatment and relaxation. The spa has treatment section, a fitness section and as well a wellness test section. The services they offer are affordable and classy. One can opt to spend time in the wellness and fitness section then later spend an afternoon at the Jacuzzi and the warm pools. The attendants will pamper you so much and this will without doubt give you the relaxation you ever want.

4. The Vigilius

It is a spa that will get you into a breathtaking and refreshing crispy mountain breath that will soothe you up and get you totally relaxed. With the cable cars travel to the spar and the dolomite view one will find this an amazing and refreshing place. The spar has been awarded the best designed title by a travel magazine Geo Saison for the second time. It takes much consideration on the healing power of water by offering great pools and innovative spar treatment.

5. Term DI Saturnia Spa and Golf Resort

This is one of the spas that is dedicated to maintaining once eternal youth. They offer services that are tailored to your health condition and your fitness. Once in the spa one will be carefully analyzed based on stress features, health, memory, and overall skin health. One the analysis is completed the dedicated attendant will attend to one with classic and state of the art treatment that is holistic and revertilising. The cost is absolutely affordable because a whole three day service will range at $350.

6. Zur Bleiche Resort & Spa

This world class resort and bar is found in Germany.
It is best suited for treatment services for children. Amongst the treatment offer they have included massages, therapeutic baths, cosmetic treatments and a number of steam rooms.

The spa and resort is located in the countryside thus offering an escape from the busy township and the noisy disturbing urban settlement.

7. Choupana Hills Resort & Spa,

It is a spa and a resort that is suited for both families and singles. Their services are amazing and their location is one that will just leave one relaxed. The spar offer bike riding services or just a time along the ocean. For one who wants to be totally relaxed then you may opt for the mud wrap.

This is just a mention of the amazing spas that are available in Europe. It goes without mention that they offer state of art services and their rates are affordable. Not forgetting that they are located at an accessible location. Therefore, for one looking for total relaxation and complete pampering then the options are all available.

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4 Reasons To Go To Argentina Now

There is no place in South America that beats Argentina when it comes to holiday or vacation experience. Traveling to Argentina will take you to a spectacular destination where you will enjoy a rich mixture of culture, heritage and cuisine. The Four reasons to go to Argentina are:

Latino dancing

Tango is the most popular dance style in Argentina. The dance originated in San Telmo neighborhood which is located in the scenic capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires. This sensual and elegant dance has a rich history which makes it the symbol of Argentinean culture. Tango has been declared by UNESCO as part of the World Cultural Heritage to be preserved for posterity. There are numerous dance schools which offer dancing lessons to tourists who would love to learn the beautiful choreographed moves. Other popular Latino dancing styles are the salsa and milonga. In the modern bars and clubs many party-goers enjoy dancing disco.

Culture

Argentine culture is an amalgam of European and African culture. This mixed culture is easily identifiable in the literature, lifestyles, music and architecture of the country. The beautiful romantic Tango dance which began 100 years ago is the chief cultural marker of Argentina. The music played in the clubs and restaurants is a mix of local Argentine melodies, strong African beats and European rhythm. The other cultural symbol is soccer which is more of a national obsession than a game. Buenos Aries basically reflects European culture. The city is dotted with many galleries, art museums and an active theater community.

Moreover, the Argentinians are deeply religious people and most of them belong to the Roman Catholic faith. The national language is Spanish but English and seventeen other native languages are spoken in many parts of the country.

Festivals

Make it part of your plan to stay in Buenos Aires during national events for the cool things to do. You will have a chance to watch the Buenos Aires Tango Festival held in February/March of every year and attracts around 200 top dancers in the world. During this festival, there dozens of shows, exhibits and tango lessons. In August you can participate in the World Dance Championship while in October you can indulge in the week-long World Tango Festival.

There are other festivals to enjoy in Salta city which is located at the foothills of the Andean mountains. When you visit in January you will be in for Fiesta Artesanal de los Valles Calchaquies, a memorable folklore festival. In the month of April the Founding Day is celebrated while in December, Salta is decorated and converted in to a Christmas city.

Food

Argentine food is heavily influenced by cuisines of the Italians, Spanish, French and other European countries. There is a huge variety of staple foods such as stuffed pastry, empanadas, intermixture of beans, corn, onion and gourd; and chorizo which is a sausage made from meat. Argentines love drinking mate and eating barbecue especially the asado.

Attending the local festivals, learning the Tango dance, indulging in the culture and eating delicious cuisine will guarantee an unforgettable vacation in Argentina.

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5 Reasons to Use Heathrow Express to London

Serving as one of the world’s demanding international airports and carrying more than five million passengers each year, HeathrowExpress is considered as the most successful high-speed mode of air transportation globally. Their travel service has the capacity to handle more than 160,000 passengers a day for 15 minute journey between the Heathrow Airport and Central London’s Station. 

Heathrow Express operates for 150 services every day with 5 terminals.  Heathrow Express reaches Heathrow central for 15 minutes and Terminal 5 for about 4 minutes. There is a free service promo if you have your departure in Terminal 4. Since there are a lot of competitors this day in terms of air transportation, considering these factors why Heathrow Express should be on your no. one.

Offers high speed travel

Heathrow Express has this minimum speed of 100 mph and considered as one of the fastest air express in the world. This top speed performance of Heathrow Express serves as their major strategy to attract clients and patronize them. This air transportation is the best way to travel from London to other places. Heathrow Express offers the following speed time frame for ultimate convenience of their clients:

Travel time is 15 minutes – 23 minutes 

London Heathrow to Paddington Station – every 15 minutes 

Paddington Station to London Heathrow – 15 minutes

Checking of luggage and other properties – up to 2 hours before the flight. This is to secure safety and protection of the passengers

Very convenient and expedient

We cannot deny the fact that getting tickets for air travel is definitely stressful and annoying because you have to fall in line first before you could go to cashier and have your tickets for your plane. But for Heathrow express, you can immediately have your tickets by just staying in your home as they have available e-tickets served for clients who don’t have time to have their tickets through walk-in directly at their office. You can print your ticket any time before your scheduled flight (image by 153306). 

Spacious place to relax

If you are bored and tired waiting for your flight, Heathrow Express has spacious place reserved to passengers that everyone can enter for you to relax yourself. You can leave your luggage and other bags in one of their comfortable and spacious seats while you are relaxing. If you have the budget, you can use the legroom and there’s a personal table in it that you can utilize if you will use your laptop or any items that need to laid down on a flat surface. There are free newspapers and magazines available inside Heathrow Express for your convenience. 

Has On-board TV

Another best feature of Heathrow Express why a lot of their passengers continue patronizing and trusting them is because of their potential in having on-board television. This innovative thing serves as the major source of the air express in gaining up-to-date news, weather and entertainment reports.

Accessible and always available

The level platform access of Heathrow Express means that you don’t have to struggle with your luggage and other important stuffs. They have security agents wandering around its vicinity for the welfare and protection of all passengers. 

Related post:     Business Breaks in the Big Smoke: Heathrow Hotels

Header image by lunaciel

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