La Soufriere Volcano

It is the highest mountain situated in the middle of Basse-Terre and is a spectacular day trip! It can be done in half a day, however you need to be fit and we recommend wearing shoes and taking sufficient amount of water! If you ant a tour group, contact HazEco.

The volcano hike is a breathtaking experience, one of the great things to do in Guadeloupe – however it isn’t for the faint hearted. In 2004 the main parking lot was destroyed by a landslide so you are now obliged to park further down which means an extra 30 minute hike through the forest, which is somewhat longer and rockier. The sulphar smell is not very intoxicating at all. A bit of trivia: originally the steam was condensed and used as a medicinal drink.

Capesterre-Belle-Eau

Chutes du Carbet is the most popular destination in the region and also of Guadeloupe, comprising of three huge cascades, which is a must see! The first one is difficult to acces and reserved to specialists, the third one needs 2 hours of hiking and has an incredible 20 meter high water-fall. The second one is easier to access taking approximately 1 hour to get there and back, however it’s still a great walk with only the sounds of falling water in the mangroves. The view is simply breathtaking and was noted in Christopher Columbus’ log when he named Guadeloupe ‘Karukera’, which translates to “the island of beautiful waters. We recommend you take a raincoat and approximate wet weather gear as it rains a lot!

Kassavery of Capesterre-Belle-Eau is potentially one of the last places in the Lesser Antilles where you can taste the famous cake of Manioc made of coconut and banana.

Visit a Rhumerie – Rum distillery

Severin distillery in Sainte Rose (ph 28 91 86) is a little more industrial and cleaner than others. They’re very friendly and you’re able to freely taste rum, punch and anything else they’re brewing. They have a garden in the back and a guide to explain the numerous plants etc.

Isle de Pigeon

One of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving, Isle de Pigeon is a small island just off the West Coast of Basse Terre above Bouillante. The sea is not very deep and is perfect for snorkeling as you will see similar views as those who dive!

Reserve Cousteau situated at Isle de Pigeon is simply incredible and is one of the best places on Isle de Pigeon. There are boat trips here with glass bottoms so you can admire the coral reef and vast array of sea life. Some boats will stop after about an hour and you can borrow a mask, tuba and palms and jump in the sea to see up close what’s out there. The captain will then attract fish with bread, so they can swim right next to you. You may need to inquire about this before. Make sure to think about villas to rent for holidays in advance.

Iles des Saints – Islands of the Saints

Iles des Saints is a group of picturesque islands south of Basse-Terre. There are very few cars and the best way to visit is to rent a scooter or walk. There are a number of historical sites to visit. There is a number of beautiful beaches, in particular ‘Pain de sucre’, along with various shops, galleries, restaurants and the like. Try climbing the “Chameau” (309m), the magnificent circular view is well worth the effort!

Terre-de-Haut is the largest and most populated islands of Les Saintes. It is an incredible place with fabulous walking, snorkeling, and places to stay and eat. Many people take only day trips to this island, but its worth a few nights in its own right. If you’re looking for empty beaches, a quaint village, and the feeling of having an island all to yourself, this is the place for you.

To get there you can take a boat from either Trois rivieres, Pointe a pitre or St francois and potentially some other places.

P.S. Looking for the packing tips? Read more about the checklist for packing for vacation.

On the south coast of Lanzarote below a range of steep hills you will find Puerto Del Carmen the islands major resort. The main feature and why the area is so popular may have something to do with a spectacular two mile (3km) of golden beach backed by a main road. The beach is a favorite with families as the sheltered beach offers safe bathing, and there are several water-based activities available including pedalo, banana boat rides and plenty more.

t is alongside the beach that you will find the promenade of Avenida De Las Playas or more commonly known as ‘The Strip’ walking along here you will find electrical stores, duty-free and tourist stalls, don’t miss all of the fabulous boutiques and clothes shops in the Old Town. Those who like to take a stroll in the evening will find many fine restaurants near the harbor in the Old Town. Read more »

Fun is the keyword along the Grand Strand region of South Carolina. It’s a popular tourist spot along this bit of coastline and includes the city of Myrtle Beach, which receives more than 14 million visitors alone. A Myrtle Beach vacation is a gateway to all the great beaches and facilities.  Keen shoppers have plenty retail outlets and the restaurants are of a high standard, many of them specializing in local seafood.

The long standing Sun Fun Festival is designed to get everyone in holiday mood. It takes place at the start of June and includes beauty pageants, parades and human checker board games. It’s a favorite with tourists and locals and demonstrates the area’s sense of humor. Anyone not wearing shorts or swimwear during the festival gets a fine! Read more »

Malibu California

When one thinks of sunshine, golden sands and surfers riding the waves, Malibu California easily comes to mind. This Pacific coastal city in Los Angeles County is home to many movie stars and other celebrities. The area has been used as a location for numerous films and television shows, including drive-in surfer movies from the 1960s.

 Filming usually takes place on the beachfront or against the backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains. The beaches are very popular with tourists; two of the most frequented ones are Zuma and Leo Carrillo State Beach.

The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is a playground for people wanting to go hiking, biking or horseback riding. There are sites for camping and the area also attracts birdwatchers. Point Magu State Park extends for seventy miles and contains walking trails and camping spots. The Park is known for its sycamore trees and its scenic canyon.

Malibu Creek State Park is another favorite destination for these activities and for picnicking, rock climbing and fishing. The Park was opened to the public in 1980, having being previously owned by the film studio, 20th Century Fox. Several films had been shot there over the years, including Tarzan films, Viva Zapata and Masters of the Universe. The opening scene of the TV show, MASH was also filmed there. It’s a great place for Malibu California residents to experience a bit of wilderness and there is an abundance of wildlife here such as bobcats, mountain lions, steelhead fish, mule deer and golden eagles.

The area has an interesting history behind the glamour and show biz glitz. The old Malibu Pier, mostly fallen into ruin, can still be seen on the Pacific Coast Highway. It was originally constructed as a private railroad by a local businessman in 1906. Adamson House is another famous landmark in Malibu California. Built in 1929, it was designed after the fashion of Spanish houses and contains the famous Malibu tiles, renowned for their craftsmanship. A museum, adjacent to the house, has displays of artifacts relating to the local history.

Ancient history buffs will enjoy the J.Paul Getty Museum. It houses Greek and Roman art and has a magnificent landscaped garden. There is an outdoor amphitheatre, auditorium and a replica of a typical Roman villa. The museum has gone through a costly expansion and re-opened in 2006 after being closed for nine years. This unusual collection is just another reason to spend some time in Malibu California.

Doesn’t it seem like everyone likes fun in the sun? Well I’m not like everyone else. I have no interest in some beach spot with 9 months of warm weather. You can have Los Angeles, San Diego, and miami beach florida. However, you’d better get your wallet ready. It’s about to take a serious smack-down.

Ah ha, you didn’t expect me to go there, did you? How can I not bring up real estate and cost of living? These are significant aspects of our daily lives, regardless of where we reside. And if you’re going to head to one of those most-desirable high-end locations, then you’d better prepare yourself. It’s not going to be cheap.

I’ve always thought that the beach was a summer spot. You know, one of those fun and touristy places you visit on your vacation time. I have never had the desire to actually purchase real estate in miami beach florida.

Not only would it cost a fortune; it would also be unsecured. Now you’re probably wondering what in the world I mean by that. Well it’s simple really. It seems like most beach residences are in peril. When will that next storm hit? Will it take your home or will you be spared with just 10 grand worth the damage?

That’s what I’m getting at. In my opinion a home in miami beach florida equals disaster. On the other hand, I’m sure many individuals and family would not concur on this. There’s no doubt that people flock to sunny spots such as Laguna Beach and miami beach florida ever single year.

They want that dream life with sandy beaches and warm sun year-round. Fortunately I don’t prefer the summer heat or else it may cost me a fortune.

Check out some of the current real estate in miami beach florida just by logging onto the web. You may have to absorb it for a moment once you see it. Those real estate costs can leave you in utter shock. Also, you should take the time to sort through all areas of beach real estate across the country.

Maybe miami beach florida is a little too high, and maybe it’s not exactly what you’re looking for. There are other coastal states to investigate. See which real estate is the most reasonable.

Who knows? You may find your dream spot for the right price.

The beautiful state of California is a dream vacation site for many people. Laguna Beach is the ideal destination for those of us who want to visit the ultimate state. Finding a hotel in Laguna Beach California isn’t difficult but there is one that really stands out from the rest.

The Montage Resort and Spa offers every amenity that you could possibly imagine. This hotel in Laguna Beach California is the epitome of elegance and the essence of sophistication. This site offers the most relaxing stay while giving you formal treatment. You will feel like a star in this Laguna Beach hotel.

The Montage is close to airports so you don’t have to travel any more than you have to. Located just 18 miles from the John Wayne Airport in Orange County, the hotel in Laguna Beach, California is a convenient stop for weary travelers.

My husband is a big fan of the Duke and he liked the idea of choosing this hotel in Laguna Beach California just because he wanted to land at the John Wayne Airport. He couldn’t stop talking about making the arrangements to get to this dream vacation resort in California.

Those who land in Los Angeles can still travel to the Montage Resort and Spa but they can expect to travel a little further. However, this hotel in Laguna Beach California is so well known for its excellent atmosphere and endless amenities that many people who land at the Los Angeles International Airport will gladly travel the 60 miles it takes to get to the destination.

One of the most appealing features of this hotel in Laguna Beach California is that it is family friendly. There are programs developed specifically for children and pre-teens. These activities range for arts and crafts to activities on the beach. No matter who comes along, you are sure to enjoy your stay at the Montage.

The only drawback to the Montage Resort and Spa is that you may never see the rest of the state. This hotel in Laguna Beach California has direct access to the ocean so you don’t have to drive around looking for a great site.

There are also three restaurants on the property. Each caters to different tastes and each has a different atmosphere. You can enjoy formal dining or a casual family meal in one of these three onsite restaurants. The Montage is the ultimate hotel in Laguna Beach California.

Is it high time for a vacation or what? Summer is finally here again. It’s time to load up that car, folks. Fill up the trunk and toss in the kids, because it’s all about those adventurous beach vacations.

Okay, well I’m not sure how adventurous they are, but they’re certainly a blast. We’re talking about the warm sun on your face and soft, soothing sand between your tired toes. Ah, can’t you just already taste those margaritas? Now, the first thing you have to focus on is the big plan.

So, what is the big plan? You mean you don’t already have one? Oh, it’s no big deal. All you need to get started with contemporary beach vacations is your PC or Mac. Ah ha, and you thought it was sun block. Hop on your home computer and get a head start on your big summer getaway.

What kind of beach vacations sound ideal to you? Are you all into the east coast scene, or are you more of a California sands kind of guy? Or better yet, maybe you’re anxious to head off to the Bahamas or Hawaii. These are certainly ideal hot spots when it comes to summer beach vacations.

All I have to say is you’d better plan in advance. But that’s what the World-Wide-Web is for right? You can pop open your nifty Google search engine and find out what deals are cooking. This summer my family and I are headed to the east coast for a couple of weeks in the healing Carolina sun.

 Yeah, I can already feel that gentle breeze whipping at my hair as I lounge in total serenity. Okay, does that sound perfect or what? It all began with a surf through net-land. With the aid of my trusty laptop, I was sorting through a variety of deals on beach vacations and summer getaways.

They just make it so simple now days. I love the all-inclusive package deals. This way I can purchase my plane tickets and lodging far in advance. Why would I want to do this you ask? Well, for one, the package deals are typically cheaper and it’s nice to have everything taken care of before you actually get there.

Furthermore, if you plan your exciting beach vacations in advance, you’ll be certain to get that perfect lodging. Believe me; you definitely do not want to get stuck with some seedy motel room.

It always pays to plan ahead and get exactly what you desire. So, are you ready to plan your big summer getaway? Jump into cyberspace and start browsing through beach vacations now.

My husband and I decided to surround ourselves with things that we love. Our home is a mix of different places and items that we love. One of the places we love is the beach. We have many fond memories of vacations at our favorite spot. When we added the sun room to our home we knew that we had to develop some beach photos to decorate the spot.

The theme of the sunroom is our favorite vacation spot off the shores of New England. On our last trip we collected dozens of beach photos on our digital camera. Deciding which beach photos to use in the room proved to be quite a challenge but after consideration the choices seemed to present themselves.

The first thing to consider when adding beach photos to your décor is color. I found myself drawn to the red-orange sunsets and sunrises we witnessed on our trip. Fortunately, this worked right into our yellow sunroom’s color scheme. The warm, bright colors really put a spark of interest in the room.

On the other hand, we were also quite attracted to the blue waters and the crystal blue skies that boasted a few billowy clouds. These tranquil beach photos would also work well in the room’s overall color scheme. The pale-yellow sand and the sky blue background present a tranquil and calming atmosphere in this little getaway.

The dilemma was not easy to solve. We basically had two groups of beach photos; ones that were warm and red and ones that were tranquil blue. Choosing which group of beach photos to use in our sunroom was no easy task.

The furniture was no help at all with its natural fibers and neutral tones. The furniture paired extremely well with both sets of prints and my husband and I found ourselves hanging one group then replacing that group with the other. We thought that we would never come to a decision.

We decided to choose both. The winter months make the sunroom seem frigid even though it is well heated. Using blue hues during the winter months would add to the cool feeling. However, using the warm red-orange hues really seems to heat things up. In the winter, we use the sunset/sunrise beach pictures.

The summer months call for the blue collection of beach photos. The tranquil, cool sky is such a relaxing vision during the warm months and the white clouds are soft and flowing. They seem to almost blend into the summer sky.

We learned that when it comes to decorating, you can have it all. We get to see every aspect of our favorite vacation spot all year long through our beach photos.