There are so many things to do in La Paz Mexico, but I confess I prefer the ones that keep me outside and on the go. When one talks about La Paz, they usually think of La Paz, Bolivia. I have never been there, but I can tell you that there are plenty of active things to do in La Paz Mexico!
[Read more…] about 5 Active Things to Do in La Paz MexicoHow Do You Decide Where You Will Travel in 2019?
How do you decide? Do you plan far in advance, or are you a spur of the moment type of person?
If I lean one way or another, it is to plan far in advance, but I’m always up for spontaneity! When you are an advance planner, you do tend to miss out on some of last minute trips!
[Read more…] about How Do You Decide Where You Will Travel in 2019?This is the Season when Giving is Good Any Day of the Week!
It is Giving Tuesday, everyone! Giving is a good thing! Generosity is always a positive. At this time in our history, I believe it is imperative to do something, whether it is for people, the environment, or our fellow creatures. These are all causes that need support, and are worthy of your generosity. Why not give to:
- Genesis Women’s Shelter, Dallas, Tx: Genesis is an important part of our fight against domestic violence, which still happens everywhere in the world. Genesis provides housing, training, and child care for those in need. Their Christmas program may be the only gifts these children, and mothers, receive. You can choose your family size by clicking on their website . Give a happy holiday to a family in need.
- REEF.org: REEF is an organization of divers and ocean enthusiasts who are dedicated to protecting our oceans. Ocean Conservation is one of the most important issues of our time. We need our oceans healthy and alive in order to breathe, eat, and live. I have donated and given time on one of their expeditions in St Lucia. REEF is a wonderful organization!
- Marine Megafauna Foundation: There are several ways to help Marine Megafauna save these giants for future generations! Become a Marine Guardian, Adopt something BIG, or become a Sponsor. You can also give back by participating in Citizen Science on their Ray of Hope Expeditions! I have done several of these trips and it benefits not only Ray of Hope, but one’s self!
- No matter your political affiliation, the separation of children from their parents is just plain wrong. There are still separated families and frightened children without their parents. You can give to www.rescue.org to help reunite families. What better gift to a child than to be reunited with her/his parents?
- I met Paul North of Meet the Ocean in Antarctica! Paul’s non-profit is educating the public on the importance of the saltwaters of our planet. Employing science, storytelling, and encounters from earth’s most remote locations, MTO combats environmental apathy and further understanding of how the ocean functions, in order to better protect it. Giving to Meet the Ocean helps educate kids!
There are so many organizations out there worthy of your time and money! What organizations do you routinely give to? Please leave a comment and tell us what charities you support!
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How I Learned to Plant and Save Our Coral in Cozumel!
I learned to plant and save coral during a trip to Cozumel in September 2018. Saving and replanting coral is more important now than ever as our oceans warm, chemicals from sunscreens abound, and acidification continues to threaten our ecosystems. I now have a Coral Reef Conservation Specialty from PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), and I am ready to travel to help save our reefs! [Read more…] about How I Learned to Plant and Save Our Coral in Cozumel!
Give a Gift for Our Planet this Holiday Season
Give a Gift for Our Planet this Holiday Season! I cannot believe it, but it’s that time of year, when the world falls in love! I love Christmas, and I love suggesting gifts for fellow travelers and their families…I also enjoy pointing out some wonderful gifts that benefit our planet and make the gift recipient very happy at the same time! So let’s give, give, give!
Consider these earth, ocean and animal friendly gifts:
WORLD WILDLIFE FUND: MAKE A SYMBOLIC ADOPTION OF A SPECIES AND HELP WWF FIGHT EXTINCTION!
Sea Turtles need our help! Elephant numbers are going down alarmingly as well, due to poaching.
ADOPT A MANATEE FROM SAVE THE MANATEE!
CHARITY SCIENCE FOUNDATION allows you to donate to a scientific cause of your choosing. Always remember, SCIENCE MATTERS. #ilovescience #sciencematters
Support MARINE MEGAFAUNA FOUNDATION by donating, or shopping!
Waterlust’s Leggings!
ALL FISH FACES is a great, green gift for children of all ages! Learn about common reef fish and learn how to reduce your plastic and carbon footprint at the same time!
Please give to OUR PLANET this holiday season! Merry Mazeltov!
Here is YOUR Chance to Experience Gray Whales and Whale Sharks!
Here is your chance to experience gray whales and whale sharks and other awesome wildlife!
Trip overview
Experience two of the Earth’s most charismatic marine species, gray whales, and whale sharks. From the majestic setting of RED’s gray whale eco camp in Magdalena Bay, you will observe up close the magnificent gray whales that come to these protected waters to mate and calve. Magdalena Bay is home to a staggering number of marine mammals, aviary species, lush mangrove canals and towering sand dunes. Across the narrow peninsula on the Gulf of California, named the “world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau, you’ll visit Espíritu Santo island, teeming with sea life and home to resident sea lions that you can observe up close from the water. You’ll also have the chance to snorkel with the mystical whale sharks, the gentle giants that gather just outside the Bay of La Paz. You will experience regional cuisine with gourmet flair, and You’ll be accompanied along the way by expert naturalist guides that will give you a local’s eye into the region’s culture and natural history.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival and Transfer to La Paz
Your driver will be waiting for you at Los Cabos International Airport to take you on the scenic drive from San Jose del Cabo to your hotel in La Paz (2.5 hours). RED staff AND TAM FROM TRAVELS WITH TAM, will be waiting to assist with your hotel check-in and to answer any questions you might have. You will meet the rest of your group and your naturalist guide at dinner, and receive a signed copy of ALL FISH FACES by Tam Warner Minton. Rest up for tomorrow because your adventure begins!
Meals included today: Dinner
Lodging: Hotel Catedral
Day 2 – Whale Sharks and Hidden Beaches of Balandra Bay
Your driver will pick you up at your hotel early in the morning and transport you to the marina to try on your snorkeling gear and wetsuit. We will then head out on the water for the short trip to the whale shark observation zone. On the way out of the bay, your guide will brief you on whale shark ecology and regulations for snorkeling. You’ll have the chance to get in the water accompanied by your guide to snorkel alongside these marvelous creatures. During peak holidays when observation activity increases, we will explore the surrounding area by boat as we wait for our turn to see these incredible animals.
The trip continues to Balandra Bay, a natural protected area and home to pristine beaches, mangroves, and stunning scenery. Here we’ll have a tasty lunch (dietary restrictions taken into account), explore the nature trails, snorkel in the crystal water and relax and unwind before heading back to La Paz.
La Paz is unique as a whale shark destination for its proximity to the observation zone and efforts undertaken by tour operators, regulatory agencies and civil society to responsibly manage this extraordinary experience. During peak holidays when boat activity increases, we may flip the itinerary and explore Balandra Bay and the surrounding area before entering into the whale shark observation zone.
Meals included today: Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging: Hotel Catedral
Day 3 – La Paz to Magdalena Bay
Depart from La Paz early in the morning en route to Magdalena Bay, jewel of the Pacific and home to a staggering number of migratory and marine birds, sea turtles, and marine mammals including the migratory gray whales. We will stop at one of our favorite local ranchos for a snack and a hearty cup of cowboy coffee. Arriving to Magdalena Bay we will head out on the water for the short trip to our secluded island camp, searching for whales along the way. After happy hour, chat with your guide to learn about the natural history of the region.
Day 4 – Gray Whale Observation and Exploration of Magdalena Bay
After a good night’s rest wake up and enjoy a delicious breakfast at camp. Wake up early to watch the fishermen conservationists prepare their sea turtle monitoring nets. Today we will learn more about the gray whales, their incredible migration, and the importance of Magdalena Bay for breeding and calving to these magnificent creatures. We will head out in pangas (outboard skiffs) to look for gray whales. Friendly whales often approach the boats, and the mothers are known to push the young calves closer, which can make for an incredible interaction between two species.
Meals included today: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: RED Basecamp
Day 5 – Gray whales, Magdalena to La Paz
In the morning wake up to take in the spectacular sunrise one more time. After breakfast we will bid farewell to our hosts and head out in the search for whales. Make sure your camera is handy to capture images of these magnificent giants. After a picnic lunch on a secluded barrier island, we start back for La Paz where the journey concludes. B/L
Meals included today: Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging: Hotel Catedral
Day 6 – Espíritu Santo Island
After breakfast we will head to RED´s office for the boat ride to
and a natural paradise that will amaze you with breathtaking island scenery and rich marine life. Jump in the water to snorkel with the sea lions and observe tropical fish. Afterwards, your captain will seek out a secluded beach for a tasty lunch and time to relax or explore this unique place before heading back to La Paz in time for dinner.
Meals included today: Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging: Hotel Catedral
Day 7 –Departure
After breakfast, your driver will be waiting outside the hotel lobby to transport you to the Los Cabos International Airport.
Meals included today: Breakfast
Cost per person $2,200.00 and Includes: round trip ground transportation between SJD airport and La Paz; round trip ground transportation between RED camp and La Paz; all meals and beverages as specified in itinerary; bilingual naturalist guide with WFR certification; double occupancy lodging in hotel (La Paz) and RED tent camp; 3 whale watching excursions; all park entrance fees; whale shark and Espíritu Santo activities as described in the itinerary; snorkeling equipment and wetsuits; all taxes. This is a custom trip designed by Red Travel Mexico and Travels with Tam.
Please contact me at [email protected] if interested!
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
Excludes: airline flights and any transportation not described in the itinerary; any meals and activities not described in the itinerary; gratuities.
Notes on itinerary: We make all efforts to adhere to the itinerary described above, but we may modify the itinerary due to wind, weather, and other factors. The safety and enjoyment of our travelers are our top priorities. Please see our terms and conditions for more information. We do not guarantee wildlife sightings, interaction or behavior. All travelers must comply with communicated protocols and regulations regarding activities within natural protected areas and interactions with wildlife.