a guest blog by Nick Ball
CÉSAR´S EMPIRE
For centuries philosophers and geographers have debated whether the Canary Islands are the remnants of the lost continent of Atlantis. According to Plato, civilization here was wiped out. The inhabitants had “fallen prey to the worst vices”, he said.
Today these seven islands off the coast of North West Africa still have a slightly uncivilized image. They are often regarded as just a cheap and chirpy holiday destination.
Four-hour flights, year-round minimum temperatures of 20C and tax-free prices attract huge flocks of migratory northern Europeans every year. Their nesting grounds are well established. Especially on Gran Canaria and Tenerife, the two largest and most populous islands. Here the full-English experience has long since eroded any remnants of authenticity. Much of the countryside wears more concrete than a Mafia victim.
But if that is enough to deter you from visiting the Canaries, think again. For these islands are not all birds of a feather.
Unlike its Canarian cousins the easternmost island of Lanzarote remains largely untouched and boasts a primeval natural beauty. The volcanic interior and lush palm-packed valleys in the north of the island are breathtaking. Rural tourism is growing and small chic hotels are taking root in the countryside.
But possibly the biggest surprise of all is this little island is earning a growing reputation for it’s cultural attractions. After all, this is the place Monty Python’s Michael Palin once dubbed “Lanzagrotty”.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
So which countries are you packing your bags for? Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2010 is out now and they’re naming the top 10 countries to visit next year.
Do you think they got it right? Have your say.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Exclusive Access to New Zealand’s Wildlife and Culture and the Chance to Make a Difference
Fiordland Crested Penguin, South Island, New ZealandTerra Incognita Ecotours, an adventure travel company that specializes in wildlife-focused ecotours that give travelers the chance to “make a difference” while vacationing is offering a new ecotour of New Zealand for 2010. This unique adventure takes visitors to both the North and South Islands of New Zealand for an up-close and personal exploration of the incredible wildlife, scenery, and culture of the region.
Travelers will experience things like newly-hatched penguins, the flightless kiwi, keas and kakapo, spectacular marine life, Maori culture, high altitude sheep farming, majestic fjords, seals, dolphins, rainforest, glaciers, and so much more. Travelers also have the opportunity to have a positive impact on the local community as Terra Incognita Ecotours donates part of the booking fee to the Tiritiri Matangi Conservation Project, a program that involves protecting indigenous plants and animals on a small island off the coast of New Zealand.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
The golden leaves of aspens aren’t the first to fall when autumn arrives in the Western mountains. The rates at Rocky Mountain dude ranches take a dip as early as mid-August. When kids return to school, and demand from families’ decreases, member ranches of the Dude Ranchers’ Association (DRA) typically offer lower rates, shorter stays, and special weeks. It’s a time for couples, singles, girlfriends, and parents looking for a break, a time to kick back with no meetings, no schedules, and no worries. Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
10 THINGS NOT TO DO IN VEGAS
Vegas is one of the few cities on Earth where you’re encouraged to do pretty much whatever…but with a few notable exceptions. Check out this list from Concierge.com of Vegas experiences to avoid at all costs. Finally!
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
The Sedona Arts Festival is recognized as one of the best festivals of its size in the nation and this year’s event will be no exception. The artists have been carefully chosen by an experienced jury to represent a wide variety of mediums and styles of the highest quality including excellence in ceramics, fiber art, jewelry, mixed media, photography, painting, sculpture and wood. Many new artists will be represented alongside the best and brightest from our own community. “It’s important to us that we support our local artists as well as bringing fresh talent from outside the area to inspire and delight the nearly 5000 visitors we attract each year. I’m very excited about the roster of visual artists we’re showcasing,” explained Executive Director of the not-for-profit Festival, Gayle Taylor. “In addition to keeping the Festival fresh and filled with breathtaking art, there will be something for every taste and budget.” Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".