World Traveler's Delight

Are you tanning your tattoo?

2009-04-02T22:58:00.001-04:00

Tattoo on the beach by Gary Romin

It's getting warm and some of us have already started working on our base tans. I have two tattoos - a butterfly on my chest and a heart on my back. The heart is the oldest, about 15 years old. Yes, the color has faded and you can't make out my name in the middle. The 10 year butterfly is close to the tan color of my skin, so its ok. Until I have it re-done. If you love to tan, you better protect your artwork! Those colors will fade even faster. The best way to do this is to use the highest sunblock possible on the tattoo or cover it up. New Tattoo? Don't even think about tanning until it completely heals. At the very least, cover it up before going into the sun. The irritation isn't worth it.

Obama has Irish Heritage

2009-03-14T07:51:00.005-04:00

* The Guinness Museum in Dublin by Marc McGrath *

Did you know that about 40% of our Presidents have Irish ancestors?

And the biggest surprise of all is that President Barack Obama is one of them. I know what they've been saying, but his mother's great, great grandfather was an Irishman named Fulmuth Kearney. It's a small world after all. I found a very interesting site with useful information on tracing your ancestry called How to Find Your Roots. You'll find a variety of topics to use as reference and a starting point for beginners.

Add Smile Power to Your Life

2009-03-04T23:52:00.026-05:00

* Indian Lady by hagit *

People with a great smile radiate a warmth that draws others to them instantly. Several years ago I was in a San Diego restaurant with my mother. While I paid the check, we both noticed an elderly woman waiting to be seated. As we left the restaurant, Mom asked, "Did you notice that woman with the wonderful smile?" I most certainly did. Her smile lit up the room. It was a smile to die for^_one that would certainly win instant friends. It was a smile that you don't often see in a stranger. And maybe Mom and I smiled back, I don't remember. Mom later commented, "I wish I'd told her what a terrific smile she had." But neither of us had. We'd both received a gift without saying thank-you.

Later, on my long drive home, I stopped at a fast-food restaurant for a quick bite. A 70ish woman waited by the condiment bar while her husband ordered. She glanced my way and smiled brightly. It was one of those smiles that broadcast, "I love life!"

I wasn't going to let THIS opportunity pass^_I was going to say SOMETHING. As I approached this woman from 30 feet away, her smile melted into a rather startled look; as if asking, "Did I do something wrong?" I walked over to her and simply said, "You have a wonderful smile!" Wow, did her face light up! And she responded with an enthusiastic, "Thank You". My comment probably made her day, but it also made MY day. We truly exchanged gifts that afternoon.

* Dany Sabadini *

SMILES: INSTANT FACELIFTS

Life's lessons have taught me this: a smile is the number one feature that makes people attractive. It's a welcome mat. It's what makes folks approachable. People with a great smiles radiate a warmth that draws others to them instantly.

Some people naturally have a great smile. Others^_analytical types like me^_must work at it. One way to tell if you're in my category is to recall picking up your developed photos. As you flipped through the pictures, you didn't like the way you looked in most of them. But then...you discovered that one great picture of yourself. In it, you look friendly^_you're smiling broadly and your eyes twinkle. Now THAT picture looks like you!

I hate to say it, but ALL the pictures look like you^_even those you dislike. Unfortunately, those "bad" photos, where your face doesn't look its best, portray how you often appear. In fact, you might normally look even worse, since you were TRYING to look good for the camera. Usually you're not even making that effort, and may appear even less inviting than you do in "bad" photos. And if you're like me, you assume you're not particularly photogenic and that your smile needs work. When you've mastered your smile, you'll consistently look better in photos. Most important, though, you'll be more attractive and approachable every day.

* Happy to be skiing by Ned Horton *

When you're having a good time, does your face show it? You might be surprised. Years ago I dropped into a comedy club in Montgomery, Alabama. I was sitting in the front row, where one is typically fair game to be picked on by the comedian. But being the non-expressive, serious Norwegian that I am, I wasn't giving the comic the jovial feedback he needed. I was enjoying the show, but in a straight-faced manner. About halfway through the show, the comic interrupted his routine to ask me point-blank, "Are you having a good time?"

I responded, "I'm having a great time." His comeback: "Well then, tell your face!" I was enjoying the program, laughing inside, even studying the performer's humor and technique. BUT...not giving him any outward indication.

In everyday life the same concept applies. You might be enjoying your job, but fail to show it. You may want to meet someone, yet not give them a single, friendly clue. You can even be IN LOVE with somebody, and totally hide it. Your face should express what you feel when you wish to connect with others.

* Rainbow by Benjamin Earwicker *

SMILE AEROBICS FOR EMOTIONAL HEALTH

One way to become better at smiling is increasing your awareness. Take notice of those you find warm and inviting. Is it their smile? Make an effort to LOOK for great smiles. Notice the appeal of people who smile with their EYES, not just their mouth. The whole face gets involved. Consider these people your models. Study yourself in the mirror. How do you look in the rest room, when shopping, and while passing a reflective window? Do you look friendly? Approachable? Do you really LIKE the image you're projecting?

In fact, a mirror is ideal for your smile workout. Practice various smiles toward capturing that perfect look for the camera. Work on expressing your smile with your eyes. A tip: cut a paper rectangle that permits you to see only your eyes in the mirror. Practice smiling just with your eyes. Get used to the feel of your cheekbones as they lift to brighten your eyes. When you see how a great smile LOOKS, remember how it FEELS. When you can finally project your best smile, hold it. Turn away from the mirror. How does your face feel? What muscles are you using? Make an effort to develop muscle memory, so you can instantly recreate this smile at will.

* Smiling Vendor in Bali *

THE SMILING REMINDER

Sometimes it's life's little reminders that help us focus on making self-improvements. I set out to find a "smile" lapel pin as a permanent token of my smile's importance. After a fruitless one-year search, I commissioned the design and production of smile pins. Now when I encounter a total stranger with a million-dollar smile (not an everyday occurrence), I share the compliment, "You have a wonderful smile...thanks for brightening my day! I'd like you to have my golden smile pin." Then I might add, "And someday, when YOU see a total stranger with a fantastic smile, you can pass on the pin to them."

This little reminder has conditioned me to search out life's glowing smiles, and not to allow them to pass unnoticed. I always carry "golden smile" pins. And when I spot a show-stopper smile, I always express my appreciation.

* At a festival in France by Andre Bogaert *

Other strategic pluses:

The pin reminds me never to leave home half-dressed: without my smile. Even while I'm running routine errands, it keeps me focused on smiles as life's true blessings.
By shaping my focus, the pin increases awareness of my public appearance and attitude. For example, when in a grocery line, I don't want the checker to glance up and think, "Why in heaven's name is this sourpuss wearing a smile pin?" It forces me to wear a friendly face all day.
The pin encourages me to compliment others. When I fail to say a kind word about someone's beautiful smile, I feel guilty. Now, that's what I call constructive guilt! We've often been conditioned to feel shame because we've not lived up to what others expect, but isn't it more positive to suffer guilt for failing our OWN expectations?

You needn't search for a smile pin to remind you. You can choose another object, like a clown pin, that will program you to focus on smile power. Or consider something that nobody else sees, like whimsical underwear. In fact, you may discover that the sheer strength of just your awareness can create positive life changes. With practice you can focus on life's smiles; and create your own relaxed, naturally warm smile. And THEN when you get back a roll of photos, you'll like almost all of them! That's certainly been my pleasant experience. And when you encounter customers, strangers, or loved ones, you'll always be ready to pass on your award-winning smile!

"Copyright by John Kinde, who is a humor specialist in the training and speaking business for over 30 years specializing in teambuilding, customer service and stress management. Free Special Reports: Show Me The Funny -- Tips for Adding Humor to Your Presentations and When They Don't Laugh -- What To Do When the Laughter Doesn't Come. Humor Power Tips newsletter, articles and blog are available at www.humorpower.com."

Celebrating Fat Tuesday around the World

2009-02-23T17:00:00.002-05:00

* Mardi Gras by Tara Jenkins *

Did you know, they celebrate Mardi Gras in Venice, Italy? New Orleans isn't the only one kicking up her heels. Almost all of Europe celebrates Mardi Gras, except the U.K. Today I'm celebrating the inclusion of my favorite Mardi Gras photo in the newly released fifth edition of the Schmap New Orleans Guide. Schmap publishes over 200 digital travel guides to destinations all over the world complete with maps, travel suggestions, and plenty of reviews. Just download the Free Schmap Player and whatever cities you want to go to. Schmap Guides is a fun, interactive travel planner that will definately come in handy. The cool thing about these travel guides - you can browse without internet connection when you're traveling with your laptop. Extra Special Thanks to Emma Williams, Managing Editor at Schmap Guides.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T02:46:00.009-05:00

* Nongsa Resorts, Batam - Indonesia *

You can pay whatever you like in Singapore

2009-02-05T15:18:00.026-05:00

*Boat to Esplanade by Mark Normand*

Just wanted to share the latest promotion by the new Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen.

Posted using ShareThis

Paradise in Puerto Vallarta

2009-02-01T23:05:00.022-05:00

* Peacock by Simona Dumitru *

On the Pacific Coast of Mexico is a World Class Resort with the allure of Old Mexico and today's sophistication to match. Welcome to Puerto Vallarta! The Vallarta Travel Blog is a wonderful resource for deciding where to go and what to do before you arrive. Once you're here, you'll have no trouble finding your way around. People here are warm, friendly and happy for your to experience their culture.

* Beach in Puerto Vallarta by Alfonso Romero *

The horseshoe shaped coastline of Bandera Bay, with magnificent views of the Sierra Madre Mountains is a Traveler’s Delight. Breathtaking beaches, a tropical jungle, championship golf courses, gourmet dining, dolphin and whale watching - Young or old, Puerto Vallarta has something fun and exciting to experience.

*Julia Freeman *

Go snorkeling, take a paella cooking lesson, get a spa treatment or play golf. Velas Resorts have all of the amenities of a World Class Resort with exciting Eco-Tours, Romantic Cruises, and Adventure Packages. Staying at Velas Vallarta is the icing on the cake. It’s a good thing you’re just 5 minutes from the airport, you’ll want to enjoy every minute of your stay.

*Jan Willem Stad *

The hotel is beautiful and their staff is accommodating. I suggest booking one of their All-Inclusives – you’ll know how much you’re spending upfront and spend time doing what you love best. The food at Vella Vallarta is absolutely delicious. They even cater to kid’s appetites. Andre’s is famous for their different theme nights – Argentina, Italian, Mexican, and more. I love their suites – large kitchen with a daily stock of cereal, fruit, water, juice, bread and beer. I spent a lot of time on the balcony area – the view of the ocean has a way of seducing you.

* Ocean in Puerto Vallarta by Alfonso Romero *

* Malecon by Juan Manuel Navarro *

The Malecon is an oceanfront boardwalk on the Banderas Bay known for its unique sculptures from artists all over the world. Puerto Vallarta has a thriving art scene and you'll find many treasures to take home.

* Sunset on Banderas Bay by Jim Goodrich *

You can take a taxi from the hotel to downtown and venture out. I was impressed with how the local residents make you feel at home in Puerto Vallarta. I really enjoyed shopping in the flea markets. We ate at Bernardo's in Bucerias, Daiquiri Dicks in PV, The Jungle and Brasil Steakhouse in Nuevo and of course Pipi's.

* Esperando by Benjamin Earwicker *

* Kashfia Rahman *

* Tara with colorful parrots *

* Pirate Ship, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
By Matthew Schubert *

Can't find a Hotel for the Inauguration?

2009-01-08T17:25:00.008-05:00

White House by Craig Toocheck *

Happy New Years! Everyone is excited about the 44th Inauguration of Barack Obama, and I've been getting several requests. Problem is - many of the hotels in the Washington area are booked. Problem solved - It's not too late for Tara Travel Agency to help you find a Vacation Rental in Washington, Virginia, or Maryland. Be a part of history and start planning today!

A Holiday in Hawaii

2008-12-27T21:16:00.060-05:00

Diamond Head by Jenny W.

Hula Dance by Jenny W.

Sunset beauty by Caleb Manibog

Happy Holidays! Where in the world are you celebrating? I'm thinking about the vacation Obama is having in Hawaii. The lights went out Friday night in Oahu but who cares, you're in Hawaii. You may be thinking it doesn't feel like X-mas at the beach - maybe not, but I could get wake up to this view any day. A few years ago, I started doing the Island Girl Dance Fitness Workouts. Pop in the dvd and I'm on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii with Kili and friends.

Blue Christmas Star

2008-12-12T12:32:00.003-05:00

Blue Christmas Star by Duncan Harmon

Christmas in Venice

2008-12-02T20:39:00.008-05:00

Images © Roman's Travel Website

American Express Cancelling Credit Cards

2008-11-18T16:12:00.027-05:00

Photo by Sanja Gjenero

American Express used to be a reliable credit card company with a good reputation.

I was an affiliate with their credit card division as well as referring clients to their travel services. Just recently, they cancelled my client's Blue Cash card because they said he didn't provide financial documentation that they never requested. In addition to that, the Security Division kept calling on a regular basis to speak to him. He had trouble hearing on the phone and sent documentation from his Doctor on their letterhead. American Express requested - 1.Copy of his drivers license and social security card, 2.Proof of residence, and 3.His notarized signature from the bank. He went to his bank in person, acknowledged the account, and signed the paper American Express faxed over in front of the notary. By the way, I was there in person with him. American Express even asked the notary if he was there "in person" and she told them yes. After all this, American Express still keeps giving him the run around. I suspect they will cancel his American Express Green Card, since the account has been on hold for about three weeks. He is credit-worthy, and has a steady, reliable income. People are being cancelled for inappropriate reasons without notice.Warning! You might make reservations and then go to use your card and it doesn't work. Check out all the complaints at http://www.my3cents.com/

Autumn Leaves

2008-11-07T04:36:00.004-05:00

Fall by Claudia Meyer

Rock & Roll in Biloxi

2008-10-21T07:24:00.049-04:00

777 Beach Blvd / Biloxi MS 39530

I had a blast at Hard Rock Casino and Hotel in Biloxi, Mississippi.

I picked this hotel for two reasons - Pet Friendly and the Casino. Yes, small dogs are allowed. My Bichon - Tyson loved this place, and got more attention than Elvis. In true rock and roll tradition, you're greeted with music from your favorite groups as soon as you get out of the car. The valet are friendly, and someone will bring your luggage to your room. Check out the Starbucks, and Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Parlor on the way to the front desk.

"Hello, I love you. Won't you tell me your name."

At check-in, you get a complimentary CD to blast on the Bose Stereo in your room. Did I mention the 42" inch flatscreen tv with Hard Rock Concert Footage? If possible, stay during the week when the rates are least expensive. You can book a room with or without a view for less than $100. Get the view. On Friday and Saturday, the rates more than double. And it gets live ! Hard Rock has a few clubs that definately attract party - goers. If you're lucky you'll catch a concert.

My traveling companion Tyson

The "Sleep Like a Rock" Bed will not disappoint after a night of gambling. When you fall into those pillows , it's pure heaven. I love the little guitar on the pillow cases. Initially I didn't like the idea of having just a shower but the "three - headed shower at the Hard Rock is the best one yet. Need anything? There's a 24 hour Rock Line that you can call for whatever your heart desires.

Love by Kiel Latham - Sydney, Australia

The storm didn't stop fans from watching an outdoor concert.

Band YenHarley by Jannes Glas - Netherlands

I enjoyed eating at The Hard Rock Cafe & Ruth Chris but the Steak & Eggs at the 24/7 Grille (inside the Casino) are my favorite. When you're gambling, you're not hungry. Then all of a sudden you realize its 4 a.m. and you're starving. 24/7 Grille is the only place open and in the wee hours, they have some great specials. If you're on a budget, there's a Waffle House and McDonald's within walking distance of the hotel.

by Jean Scheijen, Netherlands

The famous Frank Zappa Quilt made from the bras and panties of groupies. I'm not kidding, look close and you'll see them! Be sure to take a tour of Hard Rock Biloxi's Top 12 Exhibits. It's difficult to get good pictures because of the bulbs in the display cases, but you'll enjoy the experience.

Fan in front of Steven Tyler's "Love in an Elevator" Outfit

Relax at the Aveda Salon inside the Hotel

Wheel of Fortune by Yvonne Stepanow

If you lose, they'll refund up to $100 of your money. How sweet is that? There are some stipulations on the time frame, so make sure you understand them before you get drunk. Bring a back up credit card. You can use your Player's Club Card to pay for food at the restaurants if you have enough points.

A Bob Mackie Original Design

King Tut Exhibit in Atlanta

2008-10-09T12:44:00.012-04:00

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo by Tamlyn Rhodes

The Boy King by Paul Porteous

For the first time in 30 years, King Tut is going on vacation! If you've always wanted to visit Egypt, here's your chance to see over 130 of the Cairo Museum's most prized possessions. In November 2008, Emory University's Carlos Museum will host the Tutankhamun Exhibit at The Atlanta Civic Center. Already on Exhibit in London, Tut will travel to Dallas and then to Atlanta this November. If you would like to book a King Tut Package for your group contact Tara Travel Agency.

Pharoe Tout Ankh Amoun Golden Face at

Egyptian Musuem near pyramids by M.A. Makky

Pyramids in Giza by Piotr Lapinski

Egypt does not need an introduction. It was the introduction to human civilization itself, and has all the evidence to show for it. Tour Egypt from the lively Nile Valley, to the solitary deserts, the diversity of the Sinai desert, the lush oasis, the exotic underwater life of the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean beaches.

"St. Anthony's monastery in Egypt's Eastern desert,

complete with the friendliest monk imaginable!" by Photographer Pete Shelley

Cairo, the capital is the place to start. It has the Pyramids, the Sphinxs, the Egyptian Museum, many more sights and more than ten million cairenes to share the experience. Alexandria , the second city of the country has its fair share of historicsights as well and with its location on the Mediterranean it is an ideal spot for yourholidays. The south of Egypt has many impressive temples and graves from Pharaonic times. Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel should all be on your to do list. The Red Sea has great scuba diving : Hurghada is famous for its under water world.

Red Sea Reef by Damien King

"Now, let me talk more of Egypt for it has a lot of admirable things and what one sees there is superior to any other country." - Herodotus, 500 BCE

See over there...

2008-09-25T13:23:00.005-04:00

Couple by John Evans

Mary Mac's Tea Room Review

2008-09-23T05:05:00.047-04:00

On the way to the Georgia Aquarium, we decided to try the famous Mary Mac's Tearoom for lunch. Known for it's authentic, southern cooking, Mary Mac's has been in Atlanta for over 60 years. Located on Ponce De Leon Avenue near the Fox Theater,you have to be careful not to pass it. As a way to make extra money during World War II, Mary McKinney put her cooking skills to work and created a food lovers' delight. It was called a "tearoom" at the time, because women couldn't open restaurants in 1945. Now for the juicy part. Mary Mac's is a casual restaurant with a Jazzy almost New Orleans feel to it. There are separate dining rooms with cool themes and plenty of room for groups to have meetings and parties.

The menu is full of traditional dishes - Fried and Smothered Chicken, Meatloaf, Seafood, and several mouthwatering sides like Macaroni and Cheese, Fried Green Tomatoes, Sweet Potatoes - It's fun just reading the menu. I ordered the Chicken and Dressing, Squash Souffle and Collard Greens. You have a choice of cornbread or rolls. Choose both. Don't be surprised when your waitress tells you to write down your own order. If you are with a group of three people, try the Southern Special Buffet for $16.95 per person. Includes: Fried and Baked Chicken, Country Fried Steak and Gravy, Cornbread Dressing, Three Fresh Vegetables, Hot Breads, and Coffee, Tea or Punch. The food is just like moms ! Seasoned just right, with more than enough to fill you up, you wonder why you haven't found this place sooner.

Midtown Atlanta

2008-09-18T05:33:00.009-04:00

by Diego Sinning

It's been an exciting week, and my summer is going out with a big bang. We spent five days in Biloxi, Mississippi at the Hard Rock Casino Hotel and today we're going to the Georgia Aquarium to view the Titanic Aquatic Exhibit. Its supposed to be a cool interactive journey that allows you to do things like, feel the temperature of the water the night the Titanic sank. I can't wait to see the artifacts they recovered and their present-day condition. Too bad you can't take pictures.

Sulky by Herman Brinkman

2008-09-03T07:46:00.002-04:00

Sulky on Noordzee Beach in the Netherlands

Hurricane Evacuation Route

2008-08-30T09:42:00.004-04:00

If the time comes by Jeff Jones

Best Friends

2008-08-28T16:50:00.005-04:00

Friends by Jose Fernando Carli

Race to the Great Wall of China

2008-08-10T19:30:00.017-04:00

Beijing Tiger by Bobby McGill

Forbidden City by Bobby McGill

Beijing means 'Northern Capital' and in many ways the name speaks for itself. It is the capital of the People's Republic of China and the capital of bureaucrats. The whole country supposedly runs on Beijing time and is supposed to speak the Beijing dialect. From here the Chinese Communist Party rules over its enormous empire while further to the south, you will find more and more free trading with new capitalists, having contributed to form the new face of China over the last decades.

Temple of Heaven by Sridar Vendala

Beijing has come a long way from the dusty communist capital of the seventies and eighties to a modern city with the usual high rising buildings and shopping malls. At the same time, hotel and restaurant standards have improved enormously. It may not yet be able to compete with Hong Kong or Shanghai, but in its runup to the 2008 Olympics, it is trying real hard. Naturally, Beijing has some of the most superb examples of Chinese architecture. No other place in China offers such a large number of old buildings as Bejing. On top of that, Beijing is one of the more convenient starting points for visiting The Great Wall.

The Great Wall by Grace Yang

Despite rain in Beijing, women cyclists competed by following a mind-blowing course that included the Temple of Heaven and The Great Wall of China as the finish line. They all deserve Olympic medals !

Sustainable Tourism in Panama

2008-08-07T07:25:00.011-04:00

"La Pollera is the national dress of Panama"

"The 100 Polleras Parade", Panama
Photography by Muriel Miralles

After running tours for other companies for 10 years, I decided to start my own tour company, Panama Breezes, here in Panama. Whether working in the wilds of Alaska or visiting pueblos in Latin America, I always felt the need for responsible tourism and practiced 3 simple guiding principles: realize that every destination is home for someone else, leave places as we would like to find them, and ensure the communities and the environment benefit from our visit.

Tourism is one of the most important and largest industries on the planet, employing millions and millions more rely on it. Starting a company from the ground up gives me the opportunity to design tours and operate in a way that gives the highest degree of long-term economic benefit to the host country, whilst maintaining and/or improving the environment and environmental awareness.

Chiara Guella

Being socially conscious, minimizing negative effects on the environment and contributing to local communities are all ways Panama Breezes will help keep Panama beautiful and insure it remains a destination in the future. We use local suppliers whenever possible, keep group sizes small so we don’t overload local infrastructure, and plan on long-term benefits for local communities. Panama Breezes will operate in a way that encourages positive cultural exchanges while practicing low and no impact tourism. I encourage my clients to gain an insight into the culture and way of life of the indigenous, to act in a socially responsible way and to learn about the history, flora and fauna of this dynamic country and its people. We visit the Comarca de Kuna Yala, home to the independent Kuna Indians and see how they have maintained their traditions. I have recently added a visit to integrate with the Ngobe-Bugle people in the Chiriqui Provence, to see how they are learning responsible farming methods and see how they make their own cloths and things to sell like straw/palm purses and dresses they wear.

Muriel Miralles

I am linked with the school, Spanish Panama, for people interested in learning the language and Peace Passers (a new charity organization started by a friend in the states) for people that want to bring new or used sporting equipment to donate to the less fortunate children in this developing country.

Panama Breezes is setting an example of sustainable tourism while providing clients with top quality adventure tours. For more information visit our website http://www.barefootpanama.com/

Article courtesy of your Tour Guide - Kevin O'Brien

2008-07-30T09:50:00.026-04:00

Summer Kiss by Michelle Spagnol

Some of my fondest memories are of falling in love during summer vacation. You have so many exciting things to do together and the days seem to last forever. I remember watching the movie Grease and singing, "Summer lovin, had me a blast...". Danny and Sandy fell head over heels while on vacation. Key West has always worked its magical charm whenever I visit. This year we wanted to rent a private beach house and found Little Gasparilla Island, in Placida, Florida. Stay tuned for pics of this private paradise.

Tales of a Tour Guide

2008-07-29T23:41:00.030-04:00

Tales of a Tour Guide
Central America Adventure Part 2

Granada, Nicaragua to Panama City, Panama

by Kevin O' Brien - Tour Guide

I pick up this half of the tour in Granada, Nicaragua. The city was founded in 1524 on the shore of Lake Nicaragua and it still maintains its colonial character. A walking tour will take you through the main square, Parque Colon, to see the cathedral and other beautiful colonial building that surround the park. Also worth a visit are the Convento y Iglesia de San Francisco and the Inglesia de La Merced (one of Granada’s most beautiful churches). A stroll down the recently renovated Calle La Calzada takes you past many different restaurants with outdoor dining areas down to the lake for views of the volcanic island Ometepe and Las Isletas (365 islands formed be the nearby erupting Volcan Mombacho). Tours to the top of Mombacho and around the Isletas are available by boat or kayak.

Xalteva Cathedral in Granada by Kevin O'Brien

The next day we head to San Juan del Sur, a wine glass shaped bay with cliffs marking both ends of the beach. Once a quiet fishing village, San Juan is becoming more and more popular. It is a gateway to beautiful, nearly deserted beaches to the north and south where turtles lay eggs and surfers catch the best waves in Nicaragua.

San Juan del Sur by Kevin O'Brien

After a few days in the mountains we head to the beach and the most visited of Costa Rica’s national parks, Manuel Antonio. It is the most visited for a reason, it is stunning! Beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife and the best of the many canopy tours fill our days before we head up to the capital, San Jose, for a night before we go back down the other side to the east coast.

Kissing Parrots by Gustavo Bueso Padgett

Costa Rica’s lowlands remind me of the Amazon! We take a little boat (lancha) 85 kilometers from a little marina near Limon all the way up to Tortugero. It is one of the best wildlife tours you will ever do!

Curious George by Dave Hiebert

We can spot 3 different types of monkeys, 2 types of sloth, turtles, iguanas, giant crocs, little caiman, maybe a river otter or snake and up to 500 species of bird!!! The trip takes about 4 hours to get to Tortugero and here we stay at a lodge nestled between the river and sea on the 250 meter wide spit of land. At night you can try your luck and venture out to the beach to go turtle watching, 4 of 8 species of sea turtle nest here! PS. It is one of the wettest places in the world, it rains a lot

View of Panama City by Carlos Ventura

We make our way back to the van the next day and head to Panama, only about a 2 hour drive to the border. We cross on an old banana bridge into the province Bocas del Toro, then out to the Archipelago of the same name. The nights are spent on Isla Colon but our days are spent sailing on a catamaran, snorkeling, visiting Dolphin Bay and Red Frog Beach. Isla Colon is 2nd in Panama for nightlife only to Panama City, but it has a much more laid back attitude and even made Discovery Channel’s Wild on Panama. Not big on nightlife, enjoy sea side dinning or a hammock on out hotels deck.

Crossing the continental divide brings us into the Chiriqui Provence and I know just the spot to pass a few hours on the Chiriqui River near some hot springs before we cruise up to Boquete. Boquete is nestled in a little valley at the base of Volcan Baru, the highest mountain in Panama (3478 meters). The cool climate makes it perfect for coffee growing, and some of Panama’s finest is grown here. Take a coffee plantation tour, hike the famous Quetzal Trail in Volcan Baru National Park and try spotting the splendid Quetzal or climb to the top of Panama for sunrise.

by hbarkan

The last day of the tour brings us into Panama City and to the Miraflores Locks to see boats transit the canal, learn about the history and watch a video about what the future holds for this industrial wonder of the world. After some time to freshen up I will take you to one of my favorite places to have dinner and see the city skyline at night. My tours run both ways and I also have tours of Panama, just Panama, that give us better insight to this wonderful country.

Visit http://www.barefootpanama.com/ for more information or email me at mailto:Kevin@barefootpanama.com.