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Guide to Chumbe Island Coral Park | Zanzibar, Tanzania

By Viola Woolcott

Chumbe Island Coral Park is one of the most spectacular ‘Coral Gardens’ to be found anywhere in the world. The whole Island is a nature reserve and you must explore its beauties under the competent guidance of the park rangers or maybe at your own leisure.

Bring enough time with you, as there are lots of activities waiting for you. You can snorkel through the unique shallow water “Reef Sanctuary” or discover the “Forest Reserve” and if historical monuments interest you, this is definitely for you. Allow yourself to laze around watching the boats go round or how about an excursion and go Scuba diving the close by reefs.

The Reef Sanctuary has been recognised for its outstanding beauty, its pristine state as well as for its bio-diversity. Fishing or un-authorised anchoring in the Chumbe Reef Sanctuary only happens on very rare occasions.

The reef crest is surrounded by a spectacular array of hard corals and as it only measures between 1-3m (according to tides) it is perfect for snorkelers to see all those wonders of the underwater world which is usually only accessible to divers. There is no reason why you can’t swim up to the reef ridge. The view opens up to a world of breathtaking sights. And if you get a chance, you may even be lucky enough to see the playful dolphins cruising in and out of the abyss. Every snorkelling excursion offers new discoveries and with each visit you are very unlikely to be disappointed!

Provided that the tide is very low, you would be able to walk the nature trails all the way around the island. There are many rock pools to explore, where juvenile fish and a myriad of crabs, shellfish, starfish, oysters and other invertebrates exist in the ever-changing environment. When you reach the north point of the island at spring tide, make sure you take the time to bask on the exposed sandbar providing over a km of pristine beach, but don‘t forget to return before the tide changes when the sandbar is absorbed back into the ocean. Discover the amazing variety of starfish at the south point and explore the small islets. It is possible that you may be fortunate enough to find Roseate Terns nesting and Fish Eagles battling for their territory.

Don’t miss out on the footpath that leads down into a large intertidal pool which is overgrown with mangroves and shaded by huge baobab trees, where you will find that the seawater rises and falls with the tides and where you may get a chance to observe many creatures which have adapted to these conditions.

The Forest Reserve covers a network of nature trails crisscross through the southern part of the virgin coral rag forest that covers just about 90% of Chumbe Island. The bedrock of the island consists of an impressive substrate of fossilized coral. You will be able to see the skeletal structures of corals and giant clams, which is a reminder of the passage of time. Still, even more amazing is the coral-rag forest. What can I say? I would forgive you for thinking it is a rainforest, as when you look closer it reveals that on Chumbe a highly specialised plant community has developed. This unusual plant community survives without any groundwater at all. Some of these remarkably trees have changed to meet the requirements. They depend on capturing moisture from the humidity in the air. And than there are some others that are able to store away months’ supply of water during the rainy season. Maybe you will notice that the leaves are either fleshy and waxy, or fold up during the heat during the day to reduce transpiration, and spiky euphorbia thrusts forth wherever it can get a stronghold.

If you are interested in Historical Monuments, climb the 131 steps to the top of the Chumbe Lighthouse, which was built in 1904 by the Sultan of Zanzibar and the British. Once you get to the top you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the turquoise seas between Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar, unchanged for a thousand years. For those who are early risers, climb to the top of the lighthouse at sunrise, as it is a spectacular way to start the day. The sun appears over the land mass of Zanzibar (Unguja) island. It turns the ocean to a deep orange and flecking the scenery with spectacular colours.

Wine and dine under the huge palm thatched roof stretching over the ruins of the historical lighthouse keeper’s house converted into a visitors’ centre after a day of exploration and discovery. This impressive structure has kept the enclosed ruins intact. Enjoy the tranquil, peaceful and amazing views across the ocean.

Accommodation on Chumbe Island:

www.chumbeisland.com/Accomodation/accomodation.html

Photo Gallery:

www.chumbeisland.com/Photo%20Gallery/gallarryframe.htm

Chumbe Island is what Robinson Crusoe could only have dreamt about!

You Stay In My House While I Stay In Yours

By Viola Woolcott

It wouldn’t really be for me, but if you don’t mind the “You stay in my house while I stay in yours”, this may be for you.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
Home Exchange is the vacation alternative where you stay in my house and I stay in yours.

HOW DO I MAKE AN EXCHANGE?
It’s as easy as 1-2-3

1. Click on a country or state where you want to go.

2. Click on an interesting Listing

3. Send a privacy protected email to that Listing directly from the site

Of course, with your own Listing posted, you will be getting inquiries from around the world.

IS IT SAFE?
In 14 years and tens of thousands of exchanges,we’ve never had a report of a theft, malicious vandalism, or a case of someone getting to their exchange home and finding a vacant lot.

Don’t be worried about “Having a Stranger in Your House” . Think of home exchange as Internet Dating for your home. Before you would actually go on a date with someone you met on the internet, you would exchange some emails, talk on the phone a few times, and swap recent photos. By the time you agreed to meet, it wouldn’t be with a “stranger”. You wouldn’t go on a date if you didn’t feel a connection, and the same goes for a home exchange.

Good Communication Minimizes Misplaced Expectations. Ask questions about the home and area, make sure you see photos.

Ask for referrals about prior exchanges.

Agree on the ground rules for your exchange, Sample Agreements are provided as guidelines www.homeexchange.com/gb_appendix.php#confirmation

WHAT DO YOU DO ABOUT VALUABLES?
It is prudent to put away really valuable items and jewelry, but usually just leave things where they are (…read more)

For more information click on the link below:
Home Exchange

Whatever your own idea of a perfect home for a special holiday, stop dreaming! Check out the hundreds of exchange offers and discover your own special home swap vacation base. It would be nice to hear your stories!

Soneva Fushi, Resort and Spa, Maldives

By Ina Woolcott

Soneva Fushi was opened in 1995 and resides on a private island. It is the largest given for tourism in the Maldives and is also the largest in the Baa Atoll territory. Here you can relax, letting your worries melt away in the sun, participate in water sports, use the wonderful Six Senses Spa which offers a variety of rejuvenating, pampering and holistic wellness treatments to calm mind and body, go on nature walks to tucked away picnic areas conveying a Robinson Crusoe atmosphere, wander through nature with discovery excursions on the resort island and neighbouring island villages with the soft white sand underfoot continuously. and much, much more. This place will fulfil your most romantic dreams.

When approaching Soneva Fushi by air, the unfolding view of your final destination will take your breath away. You will see atolls in the turquoise sea, fringed by sand giving way to amazing coral reefs guarded by lagoons.

The décor of the resort preserves the rustic theme of a designer tropical island. There are 65 rooms and villas, all with garden bathrooms, as well as 13 now having the additional delight of a private pool.

Dining is diverse, from barbeques on the beach to gourmet banquets combining a variety of cultural cuisines, and of course fine wines.

A little off the beaten track, the resort/spa is situated 61 nautical miles, or a half hour seaplane transfer from Male International Airport.

FACILITIES

- Six Senses Spa
- Diving School
- Fishing
- Snorkelling
- Water Sports
- Gym
- Tennis
- Cycling
- Jogging Trail

ATTRACTIONS

- Fishing and Diving Excursions
- Eydhafushi Fishing
- Maahlos Cultural Villages
- Private Picnic Islands
- Wine Tasting

Related link:
Soneva Fushi, Resort and Spa

Coastal Art For Inside and Out | Jan Guest

By Viola Woolcott

Jan, the Founder of www.JanGuest.com uses a variety of reclaimed products like coastal timber, diamond drilled pebbles as well as press moulded stoneware fired blue pottery.

Jan creates wall hangers, plaques, wind chimes and large freestanding garden pieces.

To check out Jan’s Events & Exhibitions click on the link below:
www.JanGuest.com - Events & Exhibitions

Peru, Land Of The Inca

By Ina Woolcott

Peru, a multicultural nation. This country has everything the planet has to offer, all the micro climates and all the regions - Stunning coastlines, Highlands, Jungle, Rainforest, Lakes, Green as well as Snow Covered Mountains, Canyons, Palm trees, Waterfalls, Swamps, Deserts, the Andes - Pacific beaches up to the snow line.

A diverse range of animals are to be found in Peru from Monkeys, Seals, Cheetahs and other big cats, butterflies, frogs, llamas, Exotic Birds, Butterflies and Frogs, Flamingos. A diverse food and drink menu is available traditional style. Partake in extreme sports, hiking, bike tours, skiing, white water rafting, horse riding. Steeped in rich history, tradition and customs. Visit Historical ruins shrouded in mystery and magic, witness tribal ceremonial dances to customary dances such as the Alcatraz. Vibrant city life with Casinos and a busy night life to more humble indigenous dwellings - In Peru you can find just about everything that takes your interest and that inspires you.

In fact, just watch the video to be inspired!

Related link:
Machu Picchu, Lost City of the Incas, Peru

Machu Picchu, Lost City of the Incas, Peru

By Ina Woolcott

Location, Awe Inspiring Beautiful Architecture and Surrounding Countryside

The ruins of Machu Picchu, sometimes referred to as the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, are one of the most beautiful, awe inspiring and enigmatic ancient sites in the world.

The city is 5 square miles big and is extraordinary, mysterious and inspiring to behold. Machu Picchu is located 2,430m (7,970 ft) above the rumbling Urubamba river in the Urubamba Valley on a mountain ridge, about 70 km (44 miles) northwest of Cusco. From below the city is not visible. The city is completely self contained, watered by natural springs and encircled by agricultural terraces adequate to supply food for the entire populace residing within.

The ruins found in the city are cloaked in clouds and mystery. There are temples, palaces, baths, storage rooms and around 150 houses to be found, all in an extraordinary form of preservation. The structures are carved from the gray granite of the mountain top. A lot of the building blocks weigh 50 tons plus, are sculpted and fit together without mortar and such precision a knife blade cant even be inserted in the joints. This is a true wonder for architects and visitors of Machu Picchu alike.

The roads of the Inca are some of the most interesting constructed by pre-Columbian cultures in South America. This network of roads intersected at Cusco, which is the capital of the Inca Empire, one of them leading to the city of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu is probably the most renowned symbol of the Inca Empire. The site has been designated a United Nations Educational World Heritage Site since 1983. It has also been the subject of concern regarding potential damage caused by tourism. In 2003 alone around 400,000 people visited Machu Picchu. Peruvian authorities insist that there is no problem.

In 1981, an area of 325.92 square kilometres surrounding Machu Picchu was made an ‘Historical Sanctuary’ of Peru. This area, not just limited to the ruins themselves, includes the regional landscape with its flora and fauna, emphasising the abundance of orchids found there.

History and Legends

The Inca are believed to have used the city of Machu Picchu for secret ceremonies from the 1400’s onwards. However, there are myths and legends that suggest the site was regarded, with awe, as a sacred place since a much earlier time.

It is believed the site was picked for its unique location and geological features. The silhouette of the mountain range behind Machu Picchu is meant to represent the face of the Inca looking skywards, and the largest peak, Huayna Picchu (meaning Young Peak), represents his nose.

One of Machu Picchu’s foremost uses was definitely astronomical observation. This is indicated by the Intihuatana stone (also known as the Saywa or Sukhanka stone), which means ‘Hitching Post of the Sun’ and has proved itself to be a precise indicator of the date of the two equinoxes and other prominent celestial periods. At midday on March 21st and September 21st, the sun, being almost directly above the pillar creates no shadow whatsoever. This is when the sun is momentarily ‘tied’ to the rock and is also a time when the Inca held sacred ceremonies.

Shamanic legends claims when a sensitive persons touches his or her forehead to the Intihuatana stone, it opens one’s vision to the spirit world.

The Inca believed that when the Intihuatana stone was broken at an Inca shrine the deities of the place departed or died.

Fortunately, the Spaniards who searched out the Incas sacred Intihuatana stones and destroyed them never discovered Machu Picchu and therefore the site was left intact, and so the Intihuatana stone and its resident spirits remain in their original position. The mountain top sanctuary was inhabited until the Spanish conquered Cusco in 1532. Supply lines that linked the Inca social centres were disrupted bringing the great empire to an end.

Travel

All visits at some point originate in Cusco. Cusco can be reached by a domestic flight from Lima, or international flight from La Paz, in Bolivia. The tourist train from Cusco, takes 3 and a half hours to get to Machu Picchu. Thence follow several options.

The most common option is - take the train to Machu Picchu in the morning, explore the ruins for a few hours returning to Cusco in the afternoon. The train stops at Puente Ruinas station, where buses take tourists up the mountain to Machu Picchu.

Today, annually thousands of tourists walk the Inca roads - in particular The Inca Trail getting used to the environment in Cusco before embarking on a two or four day journey, both of which are controlled by the government. This requires travellers to be reasonably fit. The trip involves sleeping in tents.

Another option is - stay overnight near the ruins of Machu Picchu, rather than returning on the same day. Many hotels are located at nearby Aguas Calientes. There is just one hotel at Machu Picchu itself. From Aguas Calientes buses commute to the ruins regularly during the day, an 8km ride up the mountain (roughly one and a half hours if walking).

There is also a helicopter service available that runs from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, although in the 1970’s helicopter flights directly into Machu Picchu stopped in due to concern about their damage to the ruins.

Related link:
Peru, Land Of The Inca
Machu Picchu

Western Australia | Unspoilt, Untouched and Full Of Adventure

By Viola Woolcott

Discover over 12,000 km of spectacular crystal clear coastline, unspoilt reefs, 19th century shipwrecks, impressive surf and sea creatures. Activities galore in this giant aquatic playground. Breathtaking amazing scenery, big blue skies, natural wonders, restaurants, wine, nightlife, local pubs, culture and it is well known that West Australians are renowned for their world-famous friendliness and penchant for play. It is all there and waiting for you! There is nowhere else in the world where you can experience and interact with such unique and natural attractions.

Go for a dive with the world’s largest fish, the whale shark. If you like snorkelling, go snorkel with manta rays or maybe you fancy a swim with wild dolphins. Sleep under the stars in the desert or walk amongst the tree tops of ancient trees or maybe with the help of an Aboriginal guide you like to explore the beehive-like formations of the Bungle Bungles. Miles of white sandy beaches. Go for a dip or how about a four-wheel drive off the beaten track? At the end of your day relax with a drink of world-class wine in one of the local pubs and try some succulent seafood. Maybe some freshly caught barramundi, pink snapper and huffish, which are the favourites in the restaurants. You can choose between posh nosh on the waterfront down to cheap and cheerful eateries. Whatever time of year you visit, sun, adventure, an awesome natural environment and friendly people, this is what you will find on a holiday to Western Australia, a destination that is unspoilt, untouched and full of adventure.

Whale Sharks, “Gentle Giants” in Exmouth, Western Australia
(music by Moby - Album “PLAY”)

The climate suits all occasions. There is a big variety of landscapes and climates in Western Australia. There is always plenty of sunshine, which makes it a perfect all year-round destination. Western Australia is a land blessed with spectacular diversity. The deep reds of ancient interior rock formations contrast with the sparkling blue of the Indian and Southern Oceans with brilliant beaches and the lush greenery of the stunning southern regions are absolutely amazing.

Did you know that up to 12,000 species of wildflowers are found within the borders of Western Australia? They have the biggest and most vivid range of wildflowers in the world. Many of them being unique to the state. The wildflower season draws visitors from all over the world to Western Australia.

Nice related link:
Western Australia

Ngala Private Game Reserve, Kruger National Park, South Africa

By Ina Woolcott

This private game reserve was the first to be incorporated into the globally renowned Kruger National Park. An incomparable, unforgettable experience of the Big 5 and lots of other African species awaits you. If you weren’t in the know, the big 5 are the lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - although it’s not easy to see them all - in particular the leopard as they are nocturnal, secretive and well camouflaged creatures. However, just being in the bush and seeing tiny animals like ants and frogs interact, and learning about the relationship between them, can be even more exciting than a procession of lions and elephants. This means that even if you miss out on one or two of the big guys, you’ll still have a great time.

There are 3 type of accommodation available for you to enjoy your preferred choice of exploring and discovering the area.

* The main lodge encompasses 20 romantic chalets and a Safari Suite with its own lounge and dining area, bathroom and glass walled shower which overlooks the river. On top of this, a large pool and a private 4×4 safari vehicle and ranger are at your service. Pan-African feasts are dished up in the candle or lantern lit boma or courtyard.

* 6 luxury tented suites with bathrooms, outdoor showers and lap pools reflecting the seasonal Timbavati River.

* To experience a rare intimacy with the wilderness, the Walking Safari Camp with its 4 roomy en suite tents is a truly amazing, awe-inspiring experience.

FACILITIES

- Swimming Pool
- Game Drives
- Luxury Accomodation and Facilities
- Child Friendly

ATTRACTIONS

- 2 Daily Game Drives
- African Big (and little) Game
- Bush walking

LOCATION

Location - set in 14,700 hectares in the Timbavati region of the Kruger National Park with self-drive and scheduled air access.

RELATED LINK:
Ngala Game Reserve — Kruger National Park, South Africa

Europe by Train | Tips For Travellers

By Viola Woolcott

What you need to know about travelling Europe on the train. Plan your trip from buying tickets to getting the most for your travel money.

Where Can I Inform Myself?

Most stations have an Information Desk. Use it to plan your trip. When there are impatient commuters waiting, do not expect the person on the ticket window to answer all of your question. This goes especially for crowded stations such as Venice. Departing train times you will find on the yellow posters at the stations.

What Do I Need To Know Before Buying My Ticket?

First you need to check if you need national or international tickets. When you have all the information like Train times and/or number, first or second class, one-way or round trip, and of course the date you want to travel, you go to the ticket window. In some countries you may even need to reserve a seat. Fast trains are usually more expensive and you may be charged a supplement.

What about Specials and Discounts?

By taking a slightly slower train that left almost at the same time, I was able to reduce the costs by 67% on a recent trip in Austria. So be sure to ask if there are any ‘specials’ when you plan your trip. And defiantly make good use of student and age discounts which will reduce costs as well.

Have You Checked the Facilities?

On long distance trains you often have restaurants or cafes.
On medium distance trains you may have to rely on a cart carrying sandwiches, snacks, drinks and coffee.
On regional trains you will find that they quite often don’t carry food or beverages.

So your best bet is to check out the stores in most large train stations beforehand. Besides, very often you can not only get a great variety of interesting food to take on the train. But it will probably be cheaper too.

What If You Have a Reservation?

At larger stations, each track or maybe on the wall of the station is a “COMPOSITION OF TRAINS” board which indicates where every numbered car will be as the train pulls in. In the event that you are late, you can just get on any car and walk through the train using the internal doors until you found your car.

What If You Don’t have a Reservation?

If you haven’t made a reservation, you can just sit anywhere, BUT check the outside of your compartment to see if anyone else has reserved it before you get comfortable. Newer trains show reservation info on an LCD screen above the seats.

What About Trains To and From Airports?

Most cities have airport service by train which usually takes you to the heart of the city (to the central train station) and that is also where you usually find B&B’s, hotels, Inns etc. You can also get to the airport from any city and there is no need for you to go back to the city the airport is in on your last day in Europe as long as the train into that city stops at the airport.

Do I Have To Validate My Ticket?

To prevent people from using their ticket more than once, many countries have you validate it before you get on the train especially if the ticket is regional and valid for 90 days. The ticket will have an arrow telling you which end to validate. The validation machines are normally yellow-orange in colour.

Ho Do I Know What’s Cheap?

As a general rule, trains in southern parts of Europe are cheaper than trains in the northern parts. Trains that are slower are also much cheaper than those modern, slick and fast once. You must also enquire if there are special passes available in the country you are travelling in.

Is There a Way I Can Save More Money?

Quite often you can save money by taking overnight trains for longer trips. When you purchase your ticket check if you can buy a couchette or bunk on the train from the conductor. Travelling at night will save you a hotel and of course a day of travel.