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Hello From The Canadian Rockies: Skiing In Lake Louise
May 27th
Lake Louise strikes you for two reasons: the absolutely stunning scenery that surrounds it, and its huge size. Lake Louise is located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and in Canada’s first National Park. It has more than 4200 skiable acres (1700 hectares), which makes it one of the largest ski areas in all of North America. What’s nice about Lake Louise, it offers all sorts of terrain, from bunny hills and easy green runs, to manageable blue runs and more difficult single and double-black diamond runs.
The terrain is nicely divided into 25% beginner runs, 45% intermediate and 30% for advanced skiers, so there is truly something for everyone. For us who most enjoy blue and single-black diamond runs, Lake Louise was heaven since it offered such a huge selection.
Naturally, such a large area needs to be serviced by a highly efficient lift system, and Lake Louise offers Summit Platter t-bar (which whisks you up to summit area of Mount Whitehorn which clocks in with an altitude of 8,765 feet (2,675 m). There are 7 chairlifts, most of them high-speed, and the Top of the World Chairlift actually holds 6 passengers, this was the first time we saw a 6-passenger chairlift. Our favourite of course was the Grizzly Express Gondola which is more than 2900 m long (over 9500 feet) and in just about 10 minutes takes you up a vertical of more than 2400 feet (736 m). In our skiing experience (essentially East Coast skiing up until now), this was the highest vertical that we ever transcended in the shortest amount of time.
Naturally, Lake Louise Ski Area is a well-known stop on the World Cup Circuit: it hosts the Winterstart Men’s & Ladies World Cup Downhill & Super-G Races. Since 1991 Lake Louise has become the traditional venue for the years first Womens Speed event. We partook of the World Cup spirit by “racing” down the Men’s and Women’s Downhill Slopes. The steepness of this slopes is astounding, and it is hard to imagine that ski racers actually go down these mountains straight, searching for speed, without making a turn. These two runs, the Men’s and Ladies’ downhill actually became my favourite runs and they were quite doable (although I didn’t go straight down), especially since they were perfectly groomed.
We had a chance to go skiing twice: yesterday and today (after my exciting dog-sledding advanture) , and fortunately for us, today was a perfect winter day with crystal blue skies. The view at Lake Louise on a clear simply knocks your socks off. This mountain panorama is something else. Right when you come out of the gondola you are looking straight at a rugged mountain range whose center is highlighted by a frozen Lake Louise nestled into the Victoria Glacier.
For those who get hungry on the mountain, Lake Louise has a wide variety of choices: The Lodge of the Ten Peaks is located at the base of the gondola, and the place where I enjoyed another nourishing poutine (yes, I do feel guilty…) and a very tasty cream of asparagus. It holds a variety of eating, shopping and pub facilities. Temple Lodge is located in the valley between the Powderbowls and the Larch Area and Whitehorn Lodge is located half way up the south side of the mountain at 6750 ft (2057 m).
Lake Louise has 3 main ski areas: the Front Side or South Face which offers 1100 skiable acres. This area offers a variety of green, blue and single black diamond runs and is quite skiable for intermediate / advanced skiers. The grooming was great and we skied down some smooth mountain slopes, many of them quite steep, but nevertheless very skiable.
Our favourite runs were coming down from the Gondola and taking the Top of the World Express 6-Pack Express where you get to ski above the treeline and since you are on the edge of the mountain you get to see down into the gentler south side and the much more treacherous north side of the mountain.
The “Powderbowls” are located on the north side of the mountain and they are primarily intended for expert skiers. Most of the runs on the north side are single and double black diamond runs. The steepness and the moguls were quite intimidating for us, but nevertheless we found some green and blue runs to get us down safely. Riding up the Ptarmigan Quad Chair it’s an awesome sight to watch some of the expert level skiers and how they manage this terrain so skillfully. I have a feeling we’ll be sticking to blue and single black diamond runs for the foreseeable future.
Across the Powderbowls is another ski area called the “Larch Area” which offers a vertical drop of about 1230 feet (375 m). This area features mostly green and blue runs, although some of the blue runs (especially a run called the “Wolverine”) had some pretty pronounced bumps built into them too. Runs like the Larch and Larch Poma are wide expansive trails with excellent grooming where you can really enjoy gliding down the mountain at pretty high speeds.
For the last hour and a half of our skiing today we made our way back to the South Side, taking the older Ptarmigan Quad back up to the top station of the Gondola. We made it up to the Top of the World a few more times and just couldn’t get over the view.
I made sure at 3:50 pm today that I got another run in to the Top of the World and I really took my time going down.
The Best All Inclusive Honeymoon Package In Belize Is Coco
May 26th
The Best All Inclusive Honeymoon Package In Belize Is Coco Plum Island
Coco Plum Island is a 16 acre cay, and is situated just 8 miles off the coast of Belize.
We were planning our honeymoon, and we both love bare feet and casual and we found Coco Plum by accident when we were researching for a Caribbean Vacation, which then extended to Belize, and then the idea for a Belize Island Honeymoon came about.
We felt an all inclusive Belize honeymoon package would be our choice, a bit more research and the decision was made, and we have never regretted it.
We flew into Belize City from Newark, changed planes and flew to Dangriga, where we were met by one of the staff from Coco Plum, from their to the boat dock, and then 15 -20 minutes by small boat to the island. In fact from the moment we were picked up in the Coco Plum van we realised this was going to be special. Its weird how sometimes you just get that great feeling really quickly.
When we reached the island it was straight to the bar, whilst our bags were sorted. Looking around we realised how beautiful it was, sitting in the thatch roofed bar looking out over a crystal clear turquoise/blue sea.
Our Cabana was very comfortable, and we really felt the staff had only one concern, and that was our well being. There is an impression that there is no electricity, and in fact the island generates all its own power, and produces its own water. This is not 24 hour service, shopping mall, duplex five star comfort, but we felt that everyone on the island were kind of no shoes laid back like us.
Overall we had a great time, the food was absolutely delicious, something very important to me. The beach lovely, the water warm, and crystal clear. We dont scuba, but we do snorkel, and we were taken to some lovely places where the fish were just amazing.
We read a lot, and even went on an expedition into the interior of Belize, to the Mayan ruins tour, a must see. We couldnt go home and say we hadnt been and done anything!!
I will however especially remember the beauty of Coco Plum Island, the friendliness of the staff, and the effort they put in to make our stay memorable. The three great meals every day, and the people who we met who felt like we did.
This is just the best possible Belize honeymoon package we could have wished for.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
May 26th
What is it like to stand in the shadows of or with your hand on the oldest living non- clonal organisms ever known? Awe inspiring! Incredible experience! It definitely is something near impossible to put into words. Great Basin National Forest is one home to these living ancient wonders. Its remoteness assures a private connection.
If you are traveling east or west via U.S. 6 and 50, take Nevada State Highway 487 to Baker, Nevada. It will be a quick 5 miles and then another 5 miles on Highway 488 to the park.
From southern Utah travel north on Highway 21 and when you cross the Utah-Nevada border 21 becomes 487. Turn west on Highway 488 in Baker for the last 5 miles to the park.
From southern Nevada travel north on Highway 93 to the junction of U.S. Highway 6 and 50 and drive east to Nevada State Highway 487 and then it is 5 miles to Baker and another 5 miles to the park via Highway 488.
Just for reference, Ely, Nevada, is 68 miles distant, Delta Utah, is 106 miles, and Cedar City, Utah, is 142 miles. This area is off the beaten path! You wont have cell phone service or the Internet. Fill up the gas tank before you venture into this remote area.
So again, tell me, why are we are going to Great Basin National Park? Oh, thats right the bristlecone pine. Get directions at the Park Visitors Center to the Bristlecone Pine Trail. Take your hiking shoes, appropriate clothing depending upon the season, water and a lunch. Its only 2.8 miles round trip on a moderate, well-marked trail. If you have more time and energy, continue up the trail to see Nevadas only glacier at the foot of Mt. Wheeler (13,063 ft. elevation), Nevadas second highest peak.
The Lehman cave tours, either 60 minutes or 90 minutes, are well worth the fee of $8 and $10 respectively for adults and $4 and $5 respectively for youth 5-15 years of age. Infants and toddles are free but are not permitted on the 90 minute tour.
Limited camping is available during the summer and holidays, so make arrangements ahead of time.
The Best Accommodation In Barcelona
May 26th
You never have to worry again about where to stay when you come to Barcelona, Spain. Whether you are with your family, friends, or on a romantic getaway an apartment is just the place for you to stay. You can find one that suits any budget. From a classy four-star hotel style apartment to something for the travel who just wants the basics. So once you figure out your personal budget and needs then all you have to do is choose whether you want to be in the center of town or if you would like to be on the beach. You might also prefer a quieter neighborhood on the outskirts of town or in a suburb near the Sagrada Familia.
When you are traveling with a group of people an apartment is a great way for everyone to have a little more space without being crammed together in a tiny hotel room. You will also have more than one bathroom and space to put your clothing. You can choose how many bedrooms you want and who stay where. There are many options between double beds, singles, and bunk bed there should be something for everyone.
Youll never have to worry about missing out on hotel breakfast again, since you will be in charge of what time you wish to eat. All Barcelona apartments are equipped with their basic kitchen utensils and appliances. Its great to be able to cook at home or make a quick snack before you go out for the day. You can also enjoy breakfast on a terrace, which is a favorite activity of locals. You can order fritters with a cup of hot chocolate for dipping, a delicious treat. If you wanted something more breakfast like than try a Spanish omlette. Make sure to try some delicious Spanish coffee and a pastry too! You can save money by finding the best deals around your apartment. You dont need to pay high prices at restaraunts by being observant and by trying to use the supermarket or pack a picnic.
In the olden days, renting an apartment was a pain because of all the paperwork involved, but now it is simple. With the internet and through agents its really very easy. You dont need to just stay in the city you can rent a place out of town in Costa Brava as well. Try Stiges during Carnival time, then make your way to Girona or in nearby Figureres to check out the Dali Museum. You can also make your way into the foothills of the Pyrnees Mountains to enjoy the beauty. Here you can stay at an apartment in a ski resort. There are tons of winter sports to try so you may want to book your stay for a few weeks. If the weather is nice then try some mountain hiking.
So rent a nice apartment in Barcelona or around Barcelona for a marvelous holiday experience that will save you both time and money.
Why You Should Go On A Cruise: There’s More Than
May 25th
Why You Should Go On A Cruise: There’s More Than You Think For Less!
Well its obviously that time of year again. The kids keep looking at you expectantly. Your partner has that nervous, wary look in the eye. The house is buzzing with excited chatter that seems to erupt only when youre in the other room and tends to quiet down when your footsteps approach. There is talk of mutiny. You have heard the whispers around the dinner table when everyone thought you were out of range.
These are the times when it seems as if you hold the fate of the world in your hands. So what will it be? How can you possibly choose between tropical beaches and Mickey Mouse? Last year was a disaster and you know that you only have one more year to redeem yourself before the decision making is taken out of your hands forever. You can feel the weight of defeat pressing down on your shoulders. How can you possibly please everyone? Someone is bound to rebel; theres just no way around it.
Where in the world are you going to take your family on vacation? The choices are obvious. The kids want to go to Disney Land, and your partner is not opposed. There are golf courses nearby, right? You would really love to lounge on a brilliant, white tropical beach, cool drink in hand. Maybe tour ancient ruins and see a little bit of the world. There is always Vegas and the strip. And you have been talking about a casino vacation for quite sometime. The options are endless, but you cant possibly book the vacation of everyones dreams on your budget and during your timeframe; can you?
Actually there is a way that you can do everything on your familys vacation wish list without breaking the bank and taking the next six months off of work. The answer lies in a floating hotel paradise, otherwise called a cruise ship.
If you book a cruise vacation with a popular cruise line such as Princess Cruise Lines, you will be able to squeeze a whole lot of vacation into a small time frame. And theres no repacking and traveling from destination to destination as is required in many multi-faceted vacations. All you have to do is board, unpack, and let the vacation of a lifetime unfurl before your very eyes.
One of the main reasons that people decide to spend their vacation this way is that they can do so much in a small time amount of time. On just one, one-week trip, it is possible to enjoy fine dining and entertainment nightly, try your luck at casino gambling, lie on the beach for hours, tour great ancient ruins, golf on world-famous greens, shop in the open markets of the world, and give the kids an amazing vacation that will blow the amusement park right out of the water.
In addition to all of this, you never have to unpack. Your luxurious, floating palace will provide you with all of the amenities of a five-star hotel plus some. There will be several restaurants to choose from, (Plus 24 hour room service!) and on-board activities that will keep you entertained and make you wish that you never had to leave the ship. But you will be able to leave the ship if you choose, and believe me, you’ll want to. The shore excursions offer you fabulous adventures at exotic locales.
Maybe, just maybe, you will be able to rouse yourself from sunning on the decks just long enough to dip your toes into the sapphire waters of the Caribbean. Or you might trade an afternoon of on-board spa treatments for a breathtaking, underwater view of a nearby coral reef. Sounds tempting, doesnt it?
Cruises are also very affordable if you book in advance and know where to look for great deals. Granted, the price tag per head might seem a little hefty at first. But after you take into consideration the cost of flying to the numerous locations that your cruise will visit, hotel accommodations once you get there, money for food and entertainment, and added costs for each activity that you do, a cruise is a great deal.
When you book a cruise for the family, the only cost that you pay is the price of the cruise ticket. Meals and entertainment are included as well as many amenities aboard ship. In many cases, the cost of the cruise also includes excursions and scheduled activities at exotic ports. The truth of the matter is this: If you paid for each individual item that is included in a cruise package, you would have to cancel your next five vacations to pay for it.
Regardless of the latest media frenzy, cruises are also extremely safe. Sadly, many hot tourist locations all over the world are home to ruthless thieves that are just waiting to prey on an unsuspecting traveler. A cruise ship can shelter you from crime by providing you with a safe haven and vehicle of travel while at the same time providing you with a support group to travel with while docked. As you can imagine, touring the local markets with a large group of people is much safer than going it alone.
So why take a cruise? Because there is no other vacation that can encompass so many different activities and please the whole family like a voyage with Princess Cruise Lines can. Its inexpensive and it is safe. So, if you want to book a dream vacation that will please the whole family, maybe you should think about taking a cruise this year. I can hear the warm, pristine beaches calling, can you? Oh, and I think I saw a martini at the bar with your name on it.
