Vitamin Los

Taking a cruise for the first time can be one of the most exciting ventures you may take upon yourself. Cruises are a great time for fun, family, laughter and a care free lifestyle, but first-time cruisers are not advised to rush into the cruising thing very quickly. You may find yourself disappointed on a lot of levels.



The location of your cabin or sleeping quarters on the ship are a large part of whether or not you will enjoy yourself on your stay on the ship. It’s hard to have a cabin on the lower level of the ship under a veranda or walkway because people are constantly walking overhead, but if you have a cabin on sea level, you may have people outside your door at all times of the night. Having a cabin or state room under sea level can have its financial advantages, but sacrificing your cruising fun to save a little money may not be worth the extra dollars in your pocket if you are unhappy with your space. At that, state rooms are usually final after the cruise ship has ‘set sail.’



For those of you out there who are cruising for fun and want to get the most out of your voyage at sea, cabins at the rear of the ship may be your best bet. These areas do tend to be pricier than the standard two twin-bed cabins, but they are the most luxury rooms on the ship. These cabins are called aft cabins, or rear cabins and they usually feature some type of porch or balcony with a view of the ocean. The view is always breathtaking no matter what the weather, but take caution in the fact that these cabins don’t always take turbulence at sea very well. If you are inclined to sea sickness, a rear cabin may not be your best bet.



On the flip side, a bow cabin (a cabin at the front of the ship) also has an excellent view. Since it is so far above sea level, bow cabins usually take sea turbulence just as roughly, if not rougher than the rear cabins but they are excellent for the sailor at heart. Sometimes bow cabins feature balconies or verandas as well, and they certainly get an exhilarating spray of water from the ocean in these, more pricey living spaces.



While also an option to avoid if you are prone to sea sickness, higher deck cabins are also an option outside of the standard, lower level cabin quarters on the cruise ship. They are a lot closer to lounge areas, sun decks, the pool, and dance floors etc, which people are willing to pay extra money for. These cabins are usually a little above or at sea level, so the rock factor is also pretty high in these areas. Another down side to a higher deck cabin is the noise you may experience from passers by. No matter what the cost or level, cruise ship cabins generally do not offer a lot of privacy.



A mid-ship cabin is also an option available to you. A mid-ship cabin is the best choice for those prone to sea sickness but who are willing to pay a few extra dollars for a better living space. These cabins usually feature the same amenities as the rest (two twin beds or one large one, a nightstand or table, a dresser, a closet, a TV, and maybe a bathroom) but they are centrally located cutting down on walk time or elevator time; sometimes these quarters may offer a view of the ocean through a window or porthole as well.

1. MOUNT KILIMINJARO – TANZANIA

The highest mountain on the African continent, ‘Kili’ measures an astounding 19,340 feet at her highest point. The challenge to climb this majestic mountain has lured many to scale her heights, a demanding but worthwhile ascent by most accounts. Kili, which has five distinct ecological zones, is an extinct volcano.

2. OKAVANGO DELTA – BOTSWANA

The champagne-coloured waterways of this famous floodplain form the basis of a pristine Wetland of International Importance (RAMSAR). With some of the most fantastic birding globally and a wild dog population, the largest inland delta in the world is often called Africa’s most beautiful destination. The region can be explored by land, boat and air. Enjoy the spectacular diversity of flora and fauna species.

3. THE EGYPTIAN PYRAMIDS

Easily the most recognizable of the 7 Wonders of the World, the Egyptian Pyramids have long held fascination for thousands of people. Recent resurgence of interest Egyptology has made trips to this alluring destination more popular than ever. The majority of visitors view the pyramids at Giza. The origins of these majestic structures continue to be a source of lively debate, while the stories of ancient curses and grave robbers delight us all.

4. PONTA DO OURO – MOZAMBIQUE

With around 100 Bottlenose and Spinner dolphins making the sheltered waters of Ponta du Ouro their home, this region is definitely worth visiting. Dive the reefs to 40 metres in depth; they are teeming with a rainbow of marine life. Dolphin dives are a popular while in winter the haunting call of the humpback whale can be heard.

5. KRUGER NATIONAL PARK – SOUTH AFRICA

The oldest, most established reserve in Africa, the Kruger boasts an amazing variety of game and bird life throughout its numerous habitats. The fantastic opportunities to view the Big Five draw many visitors to the park, hoping to spot lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and black rhinoceros. Game drives and guided walking trails offer great animal watching opportunities in the African bush.

6. DJEMAA el FNAA SQUARE – MARRAKESH – MOROCCO

A tapestry of colours, smells, sites and wonderful local characters make a visit to this bustling marketplace an unforgettable experience. Be entertained by fortune tellers, street performers and henna women. The Municipal Market sells local fresh produce. Take a ride in a Horse-drawn carriage and enjoy the spectacular sunset. More performers come out in the evening and entertain till midnight. Enjoy the famous local orange juice or mint tea!

7. THE SERENGETI – TANZANIA

The Serengeti National Park, covering 14,763 sq. km, is named ‘endless plains’ in Masai. Here are 35 species of mammals, including wildebeest, zebra, lion, cheetah, leopard, elephant and giraffe, and over 200 species of birds.

The annual wildebeest migration is possibly the most spectacular natural event in Africa.

8. THE VICTORIA FALLS – ZIMBABWE

From either Zimbabwe or Zambia you can experience the world’s largest sheet of falling water. The spray can be seen up to 30 kilometres away – hence the local name ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ – “The smoke that thunders”.

Apart from the spectacular views including permanent rainbows arcing across the face of the falls, one can experience the waters along the river at closer quarters with white water rafting.

9. LAKE MALAWI

The 3rd largest lake in Africa is a tropical paradise. The tranquil waters lap against shores lined with palm, mango, banana and avocado trees. Here you can kayak, while snorkeling offers access to the colourful kaleidoscope of endemic cichlids found at this UNESCO world heritage site.

10. TABLE MOUNTAIN – SOUTH AFRICA

This iconic landmark stands in the centre of the beautiful city of Cape Town.

Climb, or experience the wonders of the revolving cable car. Either way a visit to one of the most recognizable mountains in the world is a must for your trip around the great African continent. And while you’re there, enjoy the wonders of Cape Town -beaches, winelands, Robben Island – each one a ‘Top 10′ in its own right!

Of the 3 Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman is by far the most well known but more and more people are discovering the sister islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. They too have become world famous for their diving, particularly their underwater walls and breathtaking marine life. These 2 small islands are perfect if you are looking for a place to truly get away from it all. They are less developed, less commercialized and have created a truly relaxed Caribbean lifestyle that is yours to discover. People have searched all over the world for the kind of elusive tranquility and island charm that is just naturally found on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.

Cayman Brac is the most easterly and smallest of the islands, just 14 square miles of natural wonder. With the charm and friendliness of a traditional seafaring community, it is here that you will find the country’s most dramatic scenery. The openness found among the residents (all 1600 of them!) on “The Brac,” as they call it, is one that will greet you with arms wide open and an infectiousness that you can’t help but feel and return. It is one of the safest and crime free islands found on the Caribbean; even locking one’s car has become a lost art!

In Cayman Brac, diving is what attracts most people, there are literally so many dive sites that you rarely have to travel for more than 100 ft to get from one site to the next! Whether you are looking for shallow or deep wall dives, all the ingredients for an incredible dive experience can be found here. The newest attraction for divers is the wreck of a Russian built Cuban naval frigate. The 330 ft. M/V Captain Keith Tibbetts, which was sunk off the island’s northwest coast in 1996 and is now the home of an incredible array of marine life. It is perfectly situated for divers of all skills. There are 2 other wrecks that can be found off the Brac’s coast, and the walls found here are literally pictures of perfection. The arches, swimthrus, cracks, gorgonia, sponges and fans will be unlike anything you have ever seen. Shine a light on the muted blue structures and the reds, yellows, oranges and purples will whirl all your color wheels at once.

The Brac’s most dominant attraction is a limestone ridge that rises from the west along to the center of the island standing at 140 ft at the eastern tip. It is a sheer cliff that drops dramatically into the blues of the Caribbean below, sculpting the landscape into vistas carved with caves and covered with a variety of trees and plant life. You can experience the incredible view on the bluff from the lighthouse, or go exploring through the inviting caves and sinkholes that are high above the water, or maybe you’d like to take a wander through the woodlands that are filled with exotic flowers, plants and wildlife.

Cayman Brac is also becoming known for its climbing and has even been listed in the Top 10 for Exotic Climbing Sites in the world. There are seven areas on the island which have been bolted and are all around the east end of the bluff. Getting to these climbing sites is almost as much fun as the climbs themselves which challenges climbers to go from sea level, to the top of the bluff.

Little Cayman is the least developed of the Cayman Islands, with a population of less than 170, and a landmass that is only 10 miles long and 1 mile wide; most of this island remains uninhabited. Little Cayman offers you miles of untouched tropical wilderness, secluded, white sparkling beaches and a place where rare birds and timid iguanas outnumber humans. It is blessed with stunning coastlines and incredible coral reefs that are teeming with over 500 different species of fish and over 150 kinds of coral.

Bloody Bay Wall and Jackson Point are the main attractions and are world renowned diving sites. Bloody Bay Wall is one of the most pristine underwater sites in the world with a sheer coral wall that begins at 20 ft that plunges to over 6000 ft. It has been rated as the best diving in the Caribbean by National Geographic photographers and is protected for future generations with its designation as a marine park. With more than 50 unique dive sites located on Little Cayman that feature colorful coral gardens, wavering sea plumes and exotic tropical fish, it is a true underwater paradise.

Fly, lake and deep sea fishing are also very popular on Little Cayman, not to mention the multitude of watersports available. Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, wind surfing, hobie-cat sailing and for avid kite boarders, Owen Island features the best launch site; for those who would prefer to be a spectator, you can enjoy watching from the beachfront hammocks! There is also plenty of hiking, cycling and bird watching to be found. Over 40% of Little Cayman is covered by pristine wetlands and raised viewing platforms around the island allowing observers excellent bird watching. Visitors who come to this island retreat, make a return to simpler times; enjoying the privacy, quiet and timeless beauty of this incredible natural world.

To get to the islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, there are numerous flights that are offered daily from Grand Cayman. If you’re looking for a different adventure, avid divers can even choose a live-a-board dive boat for a week and visit all three islands.

An enchanting world and an ecotourism paradise for divers and nature-lovers, there is something truly special that can only be found on the islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.

Whale watching is the biggest show on earth. With the ocean as their stage, the spellbinding and entertaining whales put on daily star performances for the whale watch cruises visiting their feeding grounds. In this article you’ll discover how to get the most out of your trip.

Picture this… a warm summer afternoon on a boat in a gentle rolling ocean. A cooling breeze softly massages your face where you sit, and you begin to close your eyes and drift away… the sound of the boat’s engine begins to fade and finally stops. The boat, like you, is drifting over the waves and following the breeze. It’s very peaceful and calm and after a stressful week at work you finally feel in harmony with the world.

Then something explodes… out of the water… and only a few feet from your nose! A 30-ton humpback… the length of a large house… it breaches… and in another second is gone. And you’re left in disbelief and wonder. And it’s just the start of your whale watching!

While whales are scattered throughout the world there’s only a handful of accessible locations to view them in their natural environment. The coastal waters of New England and the west coast of North America are prime locations for whale watching. Hawaii and South Africa are also superb locations to spot whales, as are the ocean waters around New Zealand. So if a vacation or trip takes you to any of these areas make sure you book a cruise and take in the biggest show on earth.

Here’s five things to remember to ensure you have an enjoyable whale watch.

PLAN YOUR WHALE WATCHING TRIP

It may seem obvious but book in advance for your trip to avoid long lines or even disappointment. Usually at least one week before the trip is recommended. Whale watching cruises can last anywhere from 3 hours to 41/2 hours, and the length depends on how long it takes to find the whales. If you’re easily bored staring at the open ocean then take along a novel or your iPod, or something to entertain young children if they’re part of your group. While most boats are equipped with a place to buy food and drink they don’t usually mind you taking your own pack lunch or snacks to keep the costs down.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A WHALE WATCH CRUISE

I’ve two criteria when I choose a whale watch cruise company. How long have they been in business and does it have whale experts on staff? You can usually uncover this information by checking out their web site or calling them.

Most whale watch boats use sophisticated sonar and communications equipment to find the whales, but as I’m not an expert in equipment I look to see if a company has a history of organizing whale watch trips. Good experience is usually a sign they’re doing something right and a safe bet. I also like to see at least one scientist or naturalist on the crew narrating the tour, as having a knowledgeable authority provides a better understanding of what you’re seeing.

CHECK FOR A WHALE SIGHTING GUARANTEE

It happens occasionally you don’t get to see a whale. These mammals are unpredictable, and while the captain will make every effort to uncover their location, some days they’re nowhere to be found. So make sure you book on a cruise that offers a guarantee sighting or you get to cruise again for free. Offering a guarantee is another good sign of a confident and experienced whale watch company.

WHALE WATCHING IS DONE ON THE OPEN OCEAN.

Experienced whale watch cruise companies do not go out in rough seas, but the whale feeding grounds are normally miles from land in the open ocean. Even at the height of summer the open sea can still be choppy, and so if you suffer with motion sickness then take something about an hour before you board the cruise.

QUICK CHECK OF WHALE WATCHING EQUIPMENT.

Recommended things to bring on your whale watch are a camera and plenty of film or memory cards. Take or borrow a pair of binoculars, as whales many times surface yards from the boat, and having binoculars will provide close up views other passengers just won’t get.

As for clothing, wear sneakers or something rubber-soled for good traction on a wet and slippery deck. And take sunscreen, sunglasses, and if it’s got a tie strap – a hat. Because of the breeze on open water take a sweatshirt just in case of temperature drop, especially for a late afternoon trip. The boats will go out in the rain, so if you’ve got a poncho pack it as well. I put most of my whale watch necessities in a small fanny pack.

Whales are mesmerizing mammals that’ve traveled thousands of miles to feed in their playground coastal waters. They don’t stay for long so go ahead and book your whale watch adventure and prepare for the biggest show on earth.