When traveling in Monterey Bay, California there are three things that you MUST do. Whale Watching, of course, is number one! Two is kayaking in the bay! Third is a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. On my October trip I went kayaking in the bay for the first time, and I cannot wait to do it again. I saw sea lions and otters, but sadly, no whales on kayak. Next time! Thank you to Monterey Bay Whale Watch for a wonderful trip!
No trip to the United States is complete without visiting one of their stunning National Parks where nature is allowed to flourish for all to see. These are my three picks for the best, and how to get the most out of your trips there.
3. Yosemite
California’s Yosemite National Park is home to towering peaks, epic glaciers, and some of the tallest waterfalls in the world, as well as the famous giant sequoia trees. It offers a wide variety of trails and activities for every kind of traveller, and it’s great for group trips like those offered by Trek America Travel. The absolute best way to view it requires a bus or car trip, though; the view of the whole park from Glacier Point at sunset is truly breathtaking.
2. Glacier Bay
Alaska is unlike anywhere else in America, which is why it’s such a popular destination with tourists from all over the world. You can see these majestic glaciers from the comfort of a cruise ship or get the thrill of exploration by venturing out in a kayak to find hidden coves. Home to amazing wildlife like bears, humpback whales, wolves, and sea otters, as well as spruce-hemlock rainforests, you’ll want to get a tour led by a park ranger for the best experience. That said, you could also arrange to view the snow-capped mountains from the air for a view that can’t be beaten.
1. The Grand Canyon
Possibly America’s most iconic spot, this steep-walled canyon is home to rich wildlife, fascinating Native American culture, and millions of years of natural history. You don’t want to stop with the view from the top, though. There’s so much more to see if you venture inside, and even beginners can handle the Bright Angel Trail down into an oasis of cottonwood. The real treat, though, is white water rafting down the grand Colorado River and stopping to camp at one of the secluded campgrounds where adventurous travellers can rest beneath the stars. Keep your eyes peeled for elks and cougars, and take some time to appreciate the diverse plant life for the best experience.
I am so excited to announce that Red Travel Mexico and Travels with Tam are offering a fantastic trip to the Mexican Baja! There is something for everyone: scuba, snorkeling on a reef that is 20,000 years old, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, snorkeling with whale sharks and sea lions, kayaking, and of course, just relaxing! Where does all this wonderful activity happen? In Cabo Pulmo, Mexico and La Paz, Mexico, about two hours from Cabo San Lucas. The dates are December 3-9, 2017. Let’s go on a travel adventure together, and you can learn about
Citizen Science if you would like to!
Cabo Pulmo is an exciting example of what a marine park can be. Ten years ago Cabo Pulmo became a National Marine Park, allowing no fishing. In ten years the ocean life has multiplied 463%! This sleepy place has not yet become a tourist haven, and one can enjoy quiet, unspoiled beauty. We will visit beautiful, protected locations with expert guides. Want to stay longer? You can extend your trip in La Paz, or head two hours west to Cabo San Lucas.
You can learn all about the trip at Red Travel Mexico with Tam Warner Minton! Hurry and book, the first 6 to sign up will receive a $250.00 discount!
Is The Scenic 17 Mile Drive along the California Coast Worth It? Oh, yes, it definitely is!
On our recent trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea, we were delighted to find that we were only a mile from the entrance to the Scenic 17 Mile Drive which winds through the Pebble Beach area. It truly is a magnificent drive, especially along the coast. We did the drive three times, and had very different experiences. The first time we drove by ourselves, and it was a sunny, perfect day with the bluest skies and sea you could ever hope for. The second time we went with friends, and it was very foggy, and had a different type of beauty…almost forlorn, I would say. Our third drive was to famous Spanish Bay, where the first rate golf course closes each night with a Bagpiper, walking from the 3rd Hole to the Club, at sunset. I will say it is absolutely the best way to spend a sunset in Pebble Beach! [Read more…] about Is The Scenic 17 Mile Drive along the California Coast Worth It?
Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most beautiful towns in the country, hands down, no question. I absolutely love Northern California, and Monterey, Carmel, and San Francisco are some of my favorite places on earth. The area is stunning and filled with life. Randy and I stayed in a cottage near the Carmel River State Park and Carmel Beach, with a view of Mission Ranch through the wetlands a few years back, and every day was a revelation of beauty, color, and change. I am ready to go back!
You would also enjoy:
Adventure holidays don’t have to mean uncomfortable sleeper trains, budget meals and backpacking for days on end. With a company like Exsus you can enjoy an exotic adventure with all of the luxuries you’d expect from a family holiday, too. Getting the balance between thrill seeking and relaxation can be tough but with these incredible destinations offering the perfect mix of both, there’s no reason to not be able to have your cake and eat it too:
Kenya
If your ideal type of holiday is an African Adventure through the savannah, then Kenya is the perfect destination for you. Complete with the opportunity to get up close and personal with lions, leopards, tigers and elephants, Kenya has everything from iconic wildlife to breath-taking scenery, incredible mountains and deserted beaches. With an array of luxury lodgings to choose from Kenya offers the ideal mix and is perfect for families thanks to its huge variety of different things to do.
Costa Rica
If you’re the type of family who loves impressing friends with the next new exotic destination they’ve visited then this one certainly is for you. Costa Rica is one of the less touristy adventure holiday destinations with a gorgeous natural rainforest just waiting to be explored. From zip wiring through the jungle to spotting rare animals like spider monkeys and bathing in stunning natural waterfalls, there’s so much to see and explore, with some very impressive luxury hotels to retire to after a long day.
Europe
Europe is the ideal continent for families who can’t decide between luxury and adventure. From cosmopolitan cities like Barcelona and Paris to whale spotting and hiking through Iceland to visit the Northern Lights, there’s so much to see and do that it provides the ideal balance of both. Traveling from country to country is quick and easy with amazing transport networks and with so many historic sites and world famous tourist attractions based there, it’s no wonder it’s such a popular holiday destination for those seeking adventure and luxury.
When booking a family holiday, finding a destination which suits all can be really difficult but with these destinations offering both exciting opportunities to experience on in a lifetime adventures. From bathing in tropical waters to abseiling and spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, plus some luscious accommodation choices and superb facilities to benefit from, these destinations have it all for the perfect mix.
Check out the fabulous vacations from Exsus!
